bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of interleukin‐23 receptor variants with ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: Rahman Proton , Inman Robert D. , Gladman Dafna D. , Reeve Jeff P. , Peddle Lynette , Maksymowych Walter P.
Published: March 2008

Objective

Recent studies have shown that a nonsynonymous single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) (Arg381Gln; rs11209026) in the interleukin‐23 receptor (IL‐23R) gene on chromosome 1p31 is associated with Crohn's disease and psoriasis. Given the clinical and immunologic overlap between ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and these diseases, and the potential function of this candidate SNP, this study was undertaken to examine the association of IL‐23R variants with AS in multiple Canadian populations.

Methods

We examined 3 cohorts of AS patients from established rheumatic disease centers in Canada. The majority of AS patients were Caucasians of northern European descent, and all patients satisfied the modified New York classification criteria for AS or for juvenile spondylarthritis. We examined 424 AS probands and 401 controls from Alberta, 251 AS probands and 122 controls from Toronto, and 121 AS probands and 219 controls from Newfoundland. Ten IL‐23R SNPs were genotyped, 9 of which were incorporated in the haplotype analysis. Allele and haplotype associations were calculated using the WHAP software package.Pvalues for haplotype associations were calculated using a permutation test.

Results

The primary SNP of interest in a previous study of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) (Arg381Gln; rs11209026) was found to be protective against AS in the Newfoundland population (P= 0.04) and in the Toronto population (P= 0.04) in single‐marker univariate analysis. The strongest association, however, was with SNP rs11465804 (P= 0.007 for the Newfoundland population andP= 0.0007 for the Toronto population). A 3‐marker sliding window omnibus test revealed a significant association with markers rs10489629, rs2201841, and rs11465804 in both the Newfoundland population (P= 0.04) and the Alberta population (P= 0.034). Our results were independent of the IBD and psoriasis status of the AS patients.

Conclusion

This concurrent analysis of 3 distinct AS populations and their regional controls demonstrates a disease association with the IL‐23R locus and implicates the same polymorphisms associated with IBD and psoriasis.
Genetic association of vasoactive intestinal peptide receptor with rheumatoid arthritis: Altered expression and signal in immune cells
Authors: Delgado Mario , Robledo Gema , Rueda Blanca , Varela Nieves , O'Valle Francisco , Hernandez‐Cortes Pedro , Caro Marta , Orozco Gisela , Gonzalez‐Rey Elena , Martin Javier
Published: March 2008

Objective

Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) has been shown to be one of the endogenous factors involved in the maintenance of immune tolerance. Administration of VIP ameliorates clinical signs in various experimental autoimmune disorders. This study was undertaken to investigate whether the exacerbated inflammatory autoimmune response in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) might result directly from altered expression and/or signaling of VIP receptors in immune cells.

Methods

The effect of specific agonists of different VIP receptors on collagen‐induced arthritis in mice was investigated by clinical and histologic assessment and measurement of cytokine and chemokine production. Expression of VIP receptor type 1 (VPAC1) in synovial cells and monocytes from RA patients was determined by flow cytometry. Potential associations of VPAC1 genetic polymorphisms with RA susceptibility were investigated.

Results

A VPAC1 agonist was very efficient in the treatment of experimental arthritis, and deficient expression of VPAC1 in immune cells of RA patients was associated with the predominant proinflammatory Th1 milieu found in this disease. Immune cells derived from RA patients were less responsive to VIP signaling than were cells from healthy individuals and showed reduced VIP‐mediated immunosuppressive activity, rendering leukocytes and synovial cells more proinflammatory in RA. A significant association between multiple‐marker haplotypes of VPAC1 and susceptibility to RA was found, suggesting that the reduced VPAC1 expression in RA‐derived immune cells is associated with the described VPAC1 genetic polymorphism.

Conclusion

These findings are highly relevant to the understanding of RA pathogenesis. They suggest that VIP signaling through VPAC1 is critical to maintaining immune tolerance in RA. In addition, the results indicate that VPAC1 may be a novel therapeutic target in RA.
Changes in surgical loads and economic burden of hip and knee replacements in the US: 1997–2004
Authors: Kim Sunny
Published: March 2008

Objective

A major component of the economic burden associated with the treatment of arthritis relates to surgical joint replacements of the hips/knees. The purpose of this study was to describe the recent trend of hip/knee replacements and the associated economic burden.

Methods

The Nationwide Inpatient Survey from 1997 to 2004 was analyzed. The International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification procedure coding was used to identify joint replacement cases.

Results

During 2004, ∼225,900 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 201,782–250,018) primary hip replacements and 431,485 (95% CI 397,454–465,516) primary knee replacements were performed. This was a 37% increase in primary hip replacements and a 53% increase in primary knee replacements compared with 2000. The number of primary replacement procedures increased equally for males and females; however, the number of procedures increased excessively among persons age 45–64 years. While Medicare remained the major source of payment (55.4% for primary hip replacements, 59.3% for primary knee replacements), private insurance payment experienced a steeper increase. In 2004, the national bill of hospital charges for hip/knee replacements was $26.0 billion, the hospital cost was $9.1 billion, and the amount of reimbursement was $7.2 billion (28% of hospital charges or 79% of hospital cost). Nearly 600,000 hip replacements and 1.4 million knee replacements will be performed in the year 2015.

Conclusion

The number of joint replacement procedures performed is growing faster than ever. The health care community should consider and prepare for this upcoming demand of surgical loads and its associated economical burden.
Prescribing pattern of drugs in the treatment of osteoarthritis in italian general practice: The effect of rofecoxib withdrawal
Authors: Alacqua Marianna , Trifirò Gianluca , Cavagna Lorenzo , Caporali Roberto , Montecucco Carlo Maurizio , Moretti Salvatore , Tari Domenico Ugo , Galdo Mariella , Caputi Achille P. , Arcoraci Vincenzo
Published: March 2008

Objective

In October 2004, rofecoxib was removed from the world market because of an increased risk of myocardial infarction. The aim of the present study was to compare the trend of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use and other analgesics in osteoarthritis (OA) treatment before and after rofecoxib withdrawal in Italian general practice.

Methods

From the Caserta‐1 Local Health Service database, 97 general practitioners were recruited. Prevalence and incidence of use of any study drug were calculated within 1 year before and after rofecoxib withdrawal.

Results

One‐year prevalence of nonselective and preferential NSAID use did not change after rofecoxib withdrawal, whereas coxib use fell from 4.4% (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 4.2–4.5%) in the period before rofecoxib withdrawal (period I) to 1.6% (95% CI 1.5–1.7%) in the period after withdrawal (period II). Weak opioids were used in no more than 0.4% (95% CI 0.3–0.5%) in period II, after their introduction to reimbursement in December 2004. Also, 1‐year incidence of coxib decreased from 31.3 per 1,000 (95% CI 30.2–32.4%) in period I to 8.7 per 1,000 (95% CI 8.1–9.2%) in period II. The disappearance of rofecoxib was associated with replacement drugs such as newly marketed dexibuprofen and aceclofenac, whereas nimesulide use coincidentally decreased.

Conclusion

Rofecoxib withdrawal has markedly changed the prescribing pattern of drugs that are used in OA‐related pain treatment, with a striking decrease of coxib use in Italian general practice. Education strategies addressed to health professionals should be planned to improve the management of pain treatment, particularly in degenerative joint diseases.
High titer of serum antiphospholipid antibody levels in adult Henoch‐Schönlein purpura and cutaneous leukocytoclastic angiitis
Authors: Kawakami Tamihiro , Yamazaki Masahide , Mizoguchi Masako , Soma Yoshinao
Published: March 2008

Objective

To investigate a possible role of antiphospholipid (aPL) antibodies in adult Henoch‐Schönlein purpura (HSP) and cutaneous leukocytoclastic angiitis (CLA).

Methods

We reviewed the records of 30 HSP and 8 CLA adults with an initial cutaneous manifestation of palpable purpura on their lower extremities between 2003 and 2007. Eight microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) patients and 30 healthy persons were recruited as controls. Serum anticardiolipin (aCL), anti–phosphatidylserine‐prothrombin complex (anti‐PS/PT), and anti–β2‐glycoprotein I (anti‐β2GPI) antibody levels in HSP, CLA, MPA patients, and healthy controls were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Twenty‐two HSP patients (73%) were positive for serum IgA aCL antibodies. Nineteen (63%) had IgA anti‐PS/PT antibodies and 4 (13%) had IgA anti‐β2GPI antibodies. IgA aCL and anti‐PS/PT antibodies showed a significant correlation (P = 0.007). Twenty (67%) HSP patients had IgM anti‐PS/PT antibodies and 6 (20%) had IgG anti‐PS/PT antibodies. Six (75%) CLA patients had IgM anti‐PS/PT antibodies and 2 (25%) had IgG anti‐PS/PT antibodies. In contrast, aPL antibodies were not found in any MPA patients or normal controls. Serum IgA aCL antibody levels in HSP patients showed a significant correlation with serum IgA and C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels (P = 0.030 and 0.039, respectively). A positive correlation between CRP and serum IgA anti‐PS/PT antibody levels was observed in HSP patients (P = 0.023). Serum IgA aCL antibody levels were also significantly associated with proteinuria according to urinalysis (P = 0.024).

Conclusion

Serum levels of IgA aCL and anti‐PS/PT antibodies were elevated in adult HSP, suggesting that serum IgA antibodies may play some role in adult HSP. IgA aCL and/or anti‐PS/PT antibodies could serve as markers for adult HSP and should be monitored as an indicator of adult HSP activity. Small‐vessel vasculitis could be dependently associated with the presence of IgM anti‐PS/PT antibodies. These findings suggest that aPL antibodies are closely related to the pathogenic factors that trigger the development of vasculitis.
Impaired arterial function associated with thinning of cortical bone in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Roldán José F. , Escalante Agustín , del Rincón Inmaculada
Published: March 2008

Objective

To evaluate the association between peripheral arterial function and cortical bone thickness in rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

In a cross‐sectional study, we measured the combined cortical thickness (CCT) of the second metacarpal bone from hand radiographs, and the ankle‐to‐arm systolic blood pressure ratio, also known as ankle–brachial index (ABI), in RA patients. We evaluated the association between the 2 using multinomial logistic regression.

Results

We obtained CCT and ABI measurements in 588 RA patients. The mean ± SD CCT was 3.62 ± 1.16 mm. The proportion of patients with ≥1 ABI value ≤0.9, indicating obstructed lower limb arteries, increased from 18 (9.2%) of 191 patients in the highest CCT tertile to 25 (12.5%) of 200 in the middle CCT tertile to 38 (19.2%) of 198 in the lowest CCT tertile (P for trend 0.005). We noted a similar pattern for ABI values >1.3, indicative of arterial incompressibility (frequencies in high, middle, and low CCT tertiles were 4.7%, 9.5%, and 19.9%, respectively; P for trend ≤0.001). These trends remained significant after multivariable adjustment for potential confounders. After adjustment for the manifestations of RA and cumulative glucocorticoid dose, the association between CCT and arterial obstruction remained significant, but that with arterial incompressibility weakened considerably.

Conclusion

There is an association between metacarpal cortical bone thinning and obstruction or incompressibility of the peripheral arteries in RA. The association with incompressibility may be mediated by systemic inflammation and/or glucocorticoids, but that with obstruction is independent of a wide array of potential confounders. Clinicians should be alert to the possibility of impaired arterial function RA patients with thinned metacarpal cortical bone.
Prepared patients: Internet information seeking by new rheumatology patients
Authors: Hay M. Cameron , Cadigan R. Jean , Khanna Dinesh , Strathmann Cynthia , Lieber Eli , Altman Roy , McMahon Maureen , Kokhab Morris , Furst Daniel E.
Published: March 2008

Objective

To investigate to what extent and why new rheumatology patients access medical information online prior to first appointments and secondarily to ask whether they discuss information gained from the Internet with physicians.

Methods

Research was conducted in a teaching rheumatology clinic with a nonrandom sample of 120 English‐speaking adults presenting for first appointments in rheumatology. Quantitative and qualitative data were gained in pre‐ and postappointment patient surveys and interviews, including online information gathering prior to first appointment, demographics, health status, information usage in patient‐physician interactions, and satisfaction. Data were analyzed for significant relationships across variables and for qualitative insights into quantitative outcome measures.

Results

Of all patients, 87.5% looked up their symptoms or suspected condition prior to their first appointment and 62.5% of all patients sought that information on the Internet. Only 20% of online information seekers discussed that information with their physicians. Age and sex were significant predictors of Internet information seeking. Physician and patient appointment satisfaction was significantly higher when Internet information was discussed; however, most patients did not discuss their information seeking because they primarily feared being perceived as challenging their physician.

Conclusion

The majority of patients research their conditions online prior to initial appointments, but are unlikely to discuss that research with physicians even though discussion is related to higher satisfaction. Physicians may want to consider strategies for enabling communication about online research.
Disability in valued life activities among individuals with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Katz Patricia , Morris Anne , Trupin Laura , Yazdany Jinoos , Yelin Edward
Published: March 2008

Objective

To identify the prevalence of disability in a wide range of valued life activities (VLAs) among individuals with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), 1‐year changes in such disability, and predictors of and changes in VLA disability.

Methods

Data were from 2 waves of a cohort of 829 individuals with SLE interviewed annually by telephone. VLA disability was assessed using a scale rating the difficulty of performing 21 activities. Scores were also calculated for subscales corresponding to obligatory, committed, and discretionary activities. Changes in VLA disability from baseline to 1‐year followup were assessed. Sociodemographic and disease status measures were examined as predictors of and changes in VLA disability using multiple regression analyses.

Results

Almost half of the subjects were unable to perform ≥1 VLA at baseline. Almost all (91%) reported ≥1 VLA affected by SLE. One‐quarter of the subjects experienced a significant increase in the number of activities they were unable to perform; approximately half experienced significant increases in the number of activities affected and in difficulty scores. Proportions of individuals whose disability increased and whose disability decreased were roughly equivalent. Disease status measures accounted for 62–72% of the variation in VLA difficulty. More severe disease status was predictive of increases in VLA difficulty; few predictors of improvements were identified.

Conclusion

VLA disability was common, with more disability noted in committed and discretionary activities than in obligatory activities. Because VLA disability has been linked to psychological well‐being in previous studies, identification of factors that may protect against such disability is important.
Prognostic factors in short‐term disability due to musculoskeletal disorders
Authors: Abásolo Lydia , Carmona Loreto , Lajas Cristina , Candelas Gloria , Blanco Margarita , Loza Estibaliz , Hernández‐García César , Jover Juan A.
Published: March 2008

Objective

To identify factors associated with poor outcome in temporary work disability (TWD) due to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).

Methods

We conducted a secondary data analysis of a 2‐year randomized controlled trial in which all patients with TWD due to MSDs in 3 health districts of Madrid (Spain) were included. Analyses refer to the patients in the intervention group. Primary outcome variables were duration of TWD and recurrence. Diagnoses, sociodemographic, work‐related administrative, and occupational factors were analyzed by Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

We studied 3,311 patients with 4,424 TWD episodes. The following were independently associated with slower return to work: age (hazard ratio [HR] 0.99, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.98–0.99), female sex (HR 0.84, 95% CI 0.78–0.90), married (HR 0.90, 95% CI 0.83–0.97), peripheral osteoarthritis (HR 0.77, 95% CI 0.6–0.9), sciatica (HR 0.59, 95% CI 0.54–0.65), self‐employment (HR 0.56, 95% CI 0.48–0.65), unemployment (HR 0.41, 95% CI 0.28–0.58), manual worker (HR 0.86, 95% CI 0.79–0.94), and work position covered during sick leave (HR 0.84, 95% CI 0.77–0.92). The factors that better predicted recurrence were peripheral osteoarthritis (HR 1.75, 95% CI 1.14–2.6), inflammatory diseases (HR 1.66, 95% CI 1.009–2.72), sciatica (HR 1.30, 95% CI 1.08–1.56), indefinite work contract (HR 1.43, 95% CI 1.14–1.75), frequent kneeling (HR 1.39, 95% CI 1.15–1.69), manual worker (HR 1.19, 95% CI 1.003–1.42), and duration of previous episodes (HR 1.003, 95% CI 1.001–1.005).

Conclusion

Sociodemographic, work‐related administrative factors, diagnosis, and, to a lesser extent, occupational factors may explain the duration and recurrence of TWD related to MSD.
Enhancement of permeability in endothelial cells for the development of an antithrombogenic bioartificial hemofilter
Authors: Vu Duc M. , Yokoyama Tun A. , Sawada Kaichiro , Inagaki Miho , Kanai Genta , Lu Jianxin , Kakuta Takatoshi , Adler Stephen , Nangaku Masaomi , Saito Akira
Published: April 2008

For the development of an antithrombogenic bioartificial hemofilter, in which the inner surface of hollow fibers is lined by endothelial cells, it is essential to increase the permeability of the cells in order to achieve a sufficient ultrafiltrate. We tried to increase it by using an actin microfilament polymerization inhibitor, cytochalasin B (CyB). Fifty µg/mL CyB was added for 2 h to the culture medium of confluent rat glomerular endothelial cells (RGEC) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). Under the 130 mmHg hydrostatic pressure, the CyB‐treated group produced significantly more ultrafiltration than the non‐treated control group and this increase was maintained for at least 7 days. Horseradish peroxidase (HRP) permeability acutely and reversibly increased in the CyB‐treated group compared with the non‐treated control group. Scanning electron microscopy revealed a larger average diameter and increased number of fenestrae on the CyB‐treated endothelial cells, compared with the non‐treated cells. This phenomenon also lasted for at least 7 days. The platelet adherence test showed that CyB did not deteriorate the antithrombogenic property of endothelial cells. These results indicate that CyB is potentially applicable for the enhancement of endothelial cell permeability in an antithrombogenic bioartificial hemofilter. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2008;101: 634–641. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Encapsulation of Ferrocene and Peripheral Electrostatic Attachment of Viologens to Dimeric Molecular Capsules Formed by an Octaacid, Deep‐Cavity Cavitand
Authors: Podkoscielny Dagmara , Philip Ivy , Gibb Corinne L. D. , Gibb Bruce C. , Kaifer Angel E.
Published: March 2008

In aqueous media the deep‐cavity cavitand octaacid 1 forms stable dimeric molecular capsules 12, which are stabilized by hydrophobic effects. In this work we investigate the binding interactions in aqueous solution between these capsules and the redox active guests, ferrocene (Fc) and three 4,4′‐bipyridinium (viologen) dications: methyl viologen (MV2+), ethyl viologen (EV2+), and butyl viologen (BV2+). Using NMR spectroscopic and electrochemical techniques we clearly show that the hydrophobic Fc guest is encapsulated inside 12. An interesting effect of this encapsulation is that the reversible voltammetric response of Fc is completely eliminated when it resides inside the 12 capsular assembly, a finding that is attributed to very slow electrochemical kinetics for the oxidation of Fc@12. Diffusion coefficient measurements (PGSE NMR spectroscopy) reveal that all three viologen guests are strongly bound to the dimeric capsules. However, the 1H NMR spectroscopic data are not consistent with encapsulation and the measured diffusion coefficients indicate that two viologen guests can strongly associate with a single dimeric capsule. Furthermore, the (V2+)2⋅ 12 complex is capable of encapsulating ferrocene, clearly suggesting that the viologen guests are bound externally, via coulombic interactions, to the anionic polar ends of the capsule. The electrochemical kinetic rate constants for the reduction of the viologen residue in the V2+⋅12 complexes were measured and found to be substantially lower than those for the free viologen guests.
The transient response study of CO, CO2, and O2 adsorption and CO oxidation over La0.4Sr0.6Co0.4Mn0.6O3
Authors: Li Rong , Yu Shui‐Xian , Wang Fu‐Shan , Sun Sheng‐Lian , Ma Jian‐Tai
Published: March 2008

The transient behaviour caused by the change of the component concentration for CO oxidation on the perovskite‐type catalyst La0.4Sr0.6Co0.4Mn0.6O3 was investigated. Results showed that CO was not adsorbed on the catalyst surface and CO oxidation was carried out between the surface oxygen species and gas phase CO. On the other hand, CO2 can be adsorbed on the catalyst surface but its adsorption site was different from the forming site.
Heat transfer to a moving packed bed of nickel pellets
Authors: Baird M. H. I. , Rama Rao N. V. , Tackie E. , Vahed A.
Published: March 2008

Heat transfer between a bed of nickel pellets and a vertical section of electrically heated steel pipe has been measured, with the pellet bed inside the vertical pipe. Most of the data are for a 20.27 cm diameter pipe but some data were also obtained for a 10.23 cm diameter pipe. The effective thermal conductivity of the stationary pellet bed has been estimated approximately from the results of unsteady heating tests. Tests have been carried out with a downwardly moving bed, including the effect of air flowing upwards through the bed. Average values of the pellet‐side heat transfer coefficient are between 72 and 135 W/(m2°C) depending on the mass fluxes of air and pellets, and have been expressed as an empirical correlation.
Corrosion inhibition of carbon steel under two‐phase flow (water‐petroleum) simulated by turbulently agitated system
Authors: Slaiman Qasim J. M. , Hasan Basim O. , Mahmood Hussein A.
Published: March 2008

The corrosion of carbon steel in single‐phase (water with 0.1N NaCl) and two immiscible phases (kerosene‐water) using turbulently agitated system was investigated. The experiments were carried out for Reynolds number (Re) range of 38 000 to 95 000 using circular disc turbine agitator at 40°C. In two‐phase system, test runs were carried out in aqueous phase (water) concentrations of 1% vol, 5% vol, 8% vol, and 16.4% vol mixed with kerosene at various Re. The effect of Re, percent of dispersed phase, dispersed droplet diameter, and number of droplets per unit volume on the corrosion rate were investigated and discussed. Test runs were carried out using two types of inhibitors: sodium nitrite of concentrations 20, 40, and 60 ppm and sodium hexapolyphosphate of concentrations 485, 970, and 1940 ppm in a solution containing 8% vol aqueous phase (water) mixed with kerosene (continuous phase) at 40°C for the whole range of Re. It was found that increasing Re increased the corrosion rate and the presence of water enhanced the corrosion rate by increasing the solution electrical conductivity. For two‐phase solution containing 8% vol and 16% vol of water, the corrosion rate was higher than single phase (100% vol water). The main parameters that play the major role in determining the corrosion rate in two phases were concentration of oxygen, solution electrical conductivity, and the interfacial area between the two phases (dispersed and continuous). Sodium nitrite and sodium hexapolyphosphate were found to be efficient inhibitors in two‐phase solution for the investigated range of Re.
Liquid flow in impeller region of an unbaffled agitated vessel with an angularly oscillating impeller
Authors: Yoshida Masanori , Hiura Tomoko , Yamagiwa Kazuaki , Ohkawa Akira , Tezura Shuichi
Published: March 2008

The characteristics of a liquid flow were studied in the impeller region of an unbaffled agitated vessel with an angularly oscillating impeller whose unsteady rotation proceeds while periodically reversing its direction at a set angle. The measurement of the velocity of the liquid flow was performed by particle tracking velocimetry (PTV), abreast of that of the torque of the shaft to which the impeller was attached. When a disk turbine impeller with six flat blades was used with variations in operating conditions, such as the frequency and amplitude of impeller angular oscillation, a series of images obtained during one oscillation cycle were analyzed to characterize the internal and discharge streams inside and outside the impeller rotational region. Energy data were inferred on the basis of the circumferential and radial velocities of an internal flow. Results showed that although the total head provided to the liquid by the impeller blades is almost similar, independent of the amplitude of impeller angular oscillation, namely, the acceleration of its movement, the transformation of energy from the pressure head to the velocity head is more efficient at a larger amplitude. In addition, the discharge flow was characterized in terms of volumetric flow rates calculated from the radial and axial velocities. The operation at a smaller amplitude was shown to transform the flow more successfully from the radial direction to the upward and downward axial directions near the vessel wall.
Is the increase in orchiectomy for prostate cancer patients appropriate?
Authors: Chodak Gerald W.
Published: April 2008

An increase in the use of bilateral orchiectomy has been observed coinciding with a decrease in the use of lutenizing hormone‐releasing hormone therapy for men who require castration for their prostate cancer. This finding has raised 2 questions: 1) is this good or bad for patients? and 2) are economic factors driving this decision? Currently, it is not possible to conclude that patient care is being compromised without knowing more regarding the clinical factors resulting in this change; however, compromised care is 1 possibility. The other question also cannot be answered; however, changes in reimbursement may contribute partially to this change. Regardless of the reason, the author believes that optimal care of patients dictates an honest and open discussion of the pros and cons for the various options available for castration.
A cadherin‐based code for the divisions of the mouse basal ganglia
Authors: Hertel Nicole , Krishna‐K  , Nuernberger Monique , Redies Christoph
Published: March 2008

The expression of 12 different classic cadherins and δ‐protocadherins was mapped in consecutive series of sections through the basal ganglia of the postnatal and adult mouse by in situ hybridization. A particular focus was the caudoputamen, which consists of patches (striosomes) and a surrounding matrix that is histologically uniform. The different areas within the caudoputamen are connected specifically to other parts of the basal ganglia and to other brain regions, for example, the substantia nigra. The molecules regulating the morphogenesis and functional connectivity of the basal ganglia are largely unknown. Previous studies suggested that cadherins, a large family of adhesion molecules, are involved in basal ganglia development. In the present work, we study the expression of 12 cadherins and show that the patch and matrix compartments of the caudoputamen express the cadherins differentially, although partial overlap is observed. Moreover, the cadherins are expressed in multiple and diverse gradients within the caudoputamen and other parts of the basal ganglia. The persistence of the expression patterns in the adult basal ganglia suggests the possibility that cadherins also play a role at adult stages. Our results suggest that cadherins provide a code of potentially adhesive cues that specify not only patch and matrix compartments but also multiple molecular gradients within the basal ganglia. This code may relate to patterns of connectivity. J. Comp. Neurol. 508:511–528, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Exact integration of polynomial–exponential products with application to wave‐based numerical methods
Authors: Gabard G.
Published: March 2008

Wave‐based numerical methods often require to integrate products of polynomials and exponentials. With quadrature methods, this task can be particularly expensive at high frequencies as large numbers of integration points are required. This paper presents a set of closed‐form solutions for the integrals of polynomial–exponential products in two and three dimensions. These results apply to arbitrary polygons in two dimensions, and for arbitrary polygonal surfaces or polyhedral volumes in three dimensions. Quadrature methods are therefore not required for this class of integrals that can be evaluated quickly and exactly. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Theoretical Study on the Complexes of Benzene with Isoelectronic Nitrogen‐Containing Heterocycles
Authors: Wang Weizhou , Hobza Pavel
Published: April 2008

The π–π interactions between benzene and the aromatic nitrogen heterocycles pyridine, pyrimidine, 1,3,5‐triazine, 1,2,3‐triazine, 1,2,4,5‐tetrazine, and 1,2,3,4,5‐pentazine are systematically investigated. The T‐shaped structures of all complexes studied exhibit a contraction of the CH bond accompanied by a rather large blue shift (40–52 cm−1) of its stretching frequency, and they are almost isoenergetic with the corresponding displaced‐parallel structures at reliable levels of theory. With increasing number of nitrogen atoms in the heterocycle, the geometries, frequencies, energies, percentage of s character at C, and the electron density in the CH σ antibonding orbital of the complexes all increase or decrease systematically. Decomposition analysis of the total binding energy showed that for all the complexes, the dispersion energy is the dominant attractive contribution, and a rather large attraction originating from electrostatic contribution is compensated by its exchange counterpart.
Intrachain versus Interchain Electron Transport in Poly(fluorene‐alt‐benzothiadiazole): A Quantum‐Chemical Insight
Authors: Van Vooren Antoine , Kim Ji‐Seon , Cornil Jérôme
Published: April 2008

Poly(9,9‐di‐n‐octylfluorene‐alt‐benzothiadiazole) [F8BT], displays very different charge‐transport properties for holes versus electrons when comparing annealed and pristine thin films and transport parallel (intrachain) and perpendicular (interchain) to the polymer axes. The present theoretical contribution focuses on the electron‐transport properties of F8BT chains and compares the efficiency of intrachain versus interchain transport in the hopping regime. The theoretical results rationalize significantly lowered electron mobility in annealed F8BT thin films and the smaller mobility anisotropy (μ∥/μ⊥) measured for electrons in aligned films (i.e. 5–7 compared to 10–15 for holes).
The influence of N2 flow rate and substrate temperature on Ti1‐xAlxN thin films
Authors: Irudayaraj A. Albert , Kalainathan S.
Published: March 2008

Titanium aluminium nitride (Ti1‐xAlxN) films have been deposited on silicon (111) substrate at a N2 flow rate of 2 sccm and 20 sccm and at a substrate temperature of 773 K and at a N2 flow rate of 2 sccm and at a substrate temperature of 873 K by reactive DC magnetron sputtering technique. The effect of N2 flow rate and substrate temperature on the grain size and surface roughness of the deposited films have been investigated. The films have been analysed by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The films were found to be nanocrystalline. While the grain size of the films decreases with increasing N2 flow rate and decreases with increasing substrate temperature, the surface roughness of the films decreases with increasing N2 flow rate and increases with increasing temperature. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
CD28 ligation in the absence of TCR promotes RelA/NF‐κB recruitment and trans‐activation of the HIV‐1 LTR
Authors: Annibaldi Alessandro , Sajeva Angela , Muscolini Michela , Ciccosanti Fabiola , Corazzari Marco , Piacentini Mauro , Tuosto Loretta
Published: April 2008

CD28 is one of the most important co‐stimulatory receptors necessary for full T lymphocyte activation. CD28 can act as a TCR‐independent signalling unit by delivering specific signals which may induce HIV transcription and replication. However, the mechanisms by which CD28 regulates HIV expression remain largely unknown. Here we show that the TCR‐independent CD28 signals lead to the trans‐activation of HIV‐1 LTR in an NF‐κB‐dependent manner. In particular, we found that CD28 engagement by B7 induces the specific recruitment of RelA/NF‐κB subunit to the HIV‐1 LTR promoter both in vitro and in ex vivo infected cells. The results obtained by mutating specific tyrosine residues within the CD28 cytoplasmic tail as well as by using LY294002 inhibitory drug evidenced that the recruitment and activation of the phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase/Akt signalling pathway is crucial in mediating CD28‐induced HIV transcription through RelA/NF‐κB.
Synthesis, Structures and Ion‐Association Properties of a Series of Schiff Base Oxidovanadium(V) Complexes with 4‐Substituted Long Alkoxy Chains
Authors: Abe Yuriko , Iyoda Ayako , Seto Kanako , Moriguchi Ayano , Tanase Tomoaki , Yokoyama Haruhiko
Published: March 2008

Schiff base VO2V and VOV complexes with long 4‐substituted alkoxy chains have been synthesised from the corresponding VOIV complexes, [VO{(4‐CnH2n+1O)xsalen}] [x = 1, 2, n = 3–16 and salen = N,N′‐ethylenebis(salicylideneiminato)], in solutions in the absence or presence of HClO4 under aerobic conditions. The green single‐crystals of the VOIV complexes (x = 2, n = 3, 4, 6) coexisting with solutions without HClO4 turned slowly to the yellow single‐crystals of the species with n = 3 (1) and 4 (2), a process which took several months. An X‐ray crystallographic analysis revealed that the VOIV complexes are transformed into the dimeric VO2V complexes with the tridentate sal‐en (sal‐en = N‐salicylideneethylenediamine) ligand from the tetradentate salen moieties. However, the single crystals of the VOIV complexes with longer alkoxy chains of n ≥ 8 did not yield the corresponding yellow crystals of the VO2V complexes. This crystal‐to‐crystal transformation is discussed in relation to the crystal packing structures of the VOIV complexes. In contrast, addition of HClO4 solution to two series with one and two alkoxy chains in the 4‐positions immediately afforded the corresponding blue VOV perchlorate complexes, [VO{(4‐CnH2n+1O)xsalen}]ClO4 (x = 1, 2) without transformation of the salen moieties. The structure of 8·MeOH·0.5H2O determined from an X‐ray crystallographic analysis was a unique dimeric structure supported by electrostatic stacking and CH–π interactions in an octahedral environment. The DFT calculations were studied to obtain the stabilisation energy for the dimerisation. Furthermore, in methanol solution, the effects of the alkoxy chain lengths on the ion association were investigated by conductivity measurements. The ion‐association state in methanol solution is discussed with the solid‐state structure.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Synthesis and Structural Characterization of a Tetrameric Ammonium Chloride Cluster
Authors: Schulenberg Nikola , Hübner Olaf , Kaifer Elisabeth , Himmel Hans‐Jörg
Published: March 2008

Herein we report the synthesis and structural characterization of a derivative of the molecular cluster [NH4Cl]4. The N and Cl atoms in this compound are located at alternating corners of a slightly distorted cube in the crystal phase and are bound together through N–H···Cl bridges. This structure is in good agreement with quantum chemical calculations carried out for the [NH4Cl]4 tetramer. ESI mass spectra recorded for the compound dissolved in different solvents indicate that the cluster is stable in relatively apolar solvents such as CH2Cl2. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Surprising Coordination Geometry Differences in CeIV‐ and PuIV‐Maltol Complexes
Authors: Szigethy Géza , Xu Jide , Gorden Anne E. V. , Teat Simon J. , Shuh David K. , Raymond Kenneth N.
Published: March 2008

As part of a study to characterize the detailed coordination behavior of PuIV, single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction structures have been determined for PuIV and CeIV complexes with the naturally occurring ligand maltol (3‐hydroxy‐2‐methylpyran‐4‐one) and its derivative bromomaltol (5‐bromo‐3‐hydroxy‐2‐methylpyran‐4‐one). Although CeIV is generally accepted as a structural analog for PuIV, and the maltol complexes of these two metals are isostructural, the corresponding bromomaltol complexes are strikingly different with respect to ligand orientation about the metal ion: All complexes exhibit trigonal dodecahedral coordination geometry but the CeIV–bromomaltol complex displays an uncommon ligand arrangement not found in the PuIV complex.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
H‐Ras increases urokinase expression and cell invasion in genetically modified human astrocytes through Ras/Raf/MEK signaling pathway
Authors: Zhao Yunge , Xiao Aizhen , Dipierro Charles G. , Abdel‐Fattah Rana , Amos Samson , Redpath Gerard T. , Carpenter Joan E. , Pieper Russell O. , Hussaini Isa M.
Published: March 2008

Previous study reported that the activation of Ras pathway cooperated with E6/E7‐mediated inactivation of p53/pRb to transform immortalized normal human astrocytes (NHA/hTERT) into intracranial tumors strongly resembling human astrocytomas. The mechanism of how H‐Ras contributes to astrocytoma formation is unclear. Using genetically modified NHA cells (E6/E7/hTERT and E6/E7/hTERT/Ras cells) as models, we investigated the mechanism of Ras‐induced tumorigenesis. The overexpression of constitutively active H‐RasV12 in E6/E7/hTERT cells robustly increased the levels of urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) mRNA, protein, activity and invasive capacity of the E6/E7/hTERT/Ras cells. However, the expressions of MMP‐9 and MMP‐2 did not significantly change in the E6/E7/hTERT and E6/E7/hTERT/Ras cells. Furthermore, E6/E7/hTERT/Ras cells also displayed higher level of uPA activity and were more invasive than E6/E7/hTERT cells in 3D culture, and formed an intracranial tumor mass in a NOD‐SCID mouse model. uPA specific inhibitor (B428) and uPA neutralizing antibody decreased uPA activity and invasion in E6/E7/hTERT/Ras cells. uPA‐deficient U‐1242 glioblastoma cells were less invasive in vitro and exhibited reduced tumor growth and infiltration into normal brain in xenograft mouse model. Inhibitors of Ras (FTA), Raf (Bay 54‐9085) and MEK (UO126), but not of phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K) (LY294002) and of protein kinase C (BIM) pathways, inhibited uPA activity and cell invasion. Our results suggest that H‐Ras increased uPA expression and activity via the Ras/Raf/MEK signaling pathway leading to enhanced cell invasion and this may contribute to increased invasive growth properties of astrocytomas. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Statin treatment of adult human glial progenitors induces PPARγ‐mediated oligodendrocytic differentiation
Authors: Sim Fraser J. , Lang Jennifer K. , Ali Tracy A. , Roy Neeta S. , Vates G. Edward , Pilcher Webster H. , Goldman Steven A.
Published: March 2008

The statins have been proposed as possible therapeutic agents for a variety of autoimmune disorders, including multiple sclerosis. In a genomic screen, we found that glial progenitor cells (GPCs) of the adult human white matter expressed significant levels of the principal statin target, HMG‐CoA reductase, as well as additional downstream members of the sterol synthesis pathway. We therefore asked if statin treatment might influence the differentiated fate of adult glial progenitor cells. To assess the functional importance of the sterol synthesis pathway to adult human glial progenitors, we used simvastatin or pravastatin to inhibit HMG‐CoA reductase, and then assessed the phenotypic differentiation of the progenitors, as well as the molecular concomitants thereof. We found that both statins induced a dose‐dependent induction of oligodendrocyte phenotype, and concomitant reduction in progenitor number. Oligodendrocyte commitment was associated with induction of the sterol‐regulated nuclear co‐receptor PPARγ, and could be blocked by the specific PPARγ antagonist GW9662. Thus, statins may promote oligodendrocyte lineage commitment by parenchymal glial progenitor cells; this might reduce the available progenitor pool, and hence degrade the long‐term regenerative competence of the adult white matter. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Facile synthesis of phosphorylated azides in ionic liquids and their use in the preparation of 1,2,3‐triazoles
Authors: Artyushin Oleg I. , Vorob'eva Daria V. , Vasil'eva Tamara P. , Osipov Sergey N. , Röschenthaler Gerd‐Volker , Odinets Irina L.
Published: April 2008

The facile general synthetic route to azidoalkylphosphonates by the nucleophilic substitution reaction in a series of bromoalkylphosphonates was elaborated, using 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate ([bmim][PF6]) as a recyclable reaction medium. These azidoalkylphosphonates were used as intermediates for copper(I)‐catalyzed regioselective 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition with a variety of alkynes to afford 4‐substituted (1H‐1,2,3‐triazol‐1‐yl)alkylphosphonates as potential drug candidates. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 19:293–300, 2008; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/hc.20420
Runoff generation mechanisms in pastures of the Sand Mountain region of Alabama—a field investigation
Authors: Sen Sumit , Srivastava Puneet , Yoo Kyung H. , Dane Jacob H. , Shaw Joey N. , Kang Moon S.
Published: April 2008

Excessive application of poultry litter to pastures in the Sand Mountain region of north Alabama has resulted in phosphorus (P) contamination of surface water bodies and buildup of P in soils of this region. Since surface runoff is recognized as the primary mechanism of P transport, understanding surface runoff generation mechanisms are crucial for alleviating water quality problems in this region. Identification of surface runoff generation mechanisms is also important for delineation of hydrologically active areas (HAAs). Therefore, the specific objective of this study was to identify surface runoff generation mechanisms (infiltration excess versus saturation excess) using distributed surface and subsurface sensors and rain gauge. Results from three rainfall events (2·13–3·43 cm) of differing characteristics, and sensor data at four locations with differing soil hydraulic properties along the hillslope showed that the main surface runoff generation mechanism in this region is infiltration excess. Because of this, rainfall intensity and soil hydraulic conductivity were found to play dominant roles in surface runoff generation in this region. Further, only short periods of a few rainfall events during which the rainfall intensity is high produce surface runoff. This study indicates that perhaps subsurface flows and transport of P in subsurface flows need to be quantified to reduce P contamination of surface water bodies in this region. Current studies at this location are identifying spatial and temporal distribution of HAAs, quantifying rainfall characteristics that generate runoff, and estimating runoff volume that results from connected HAAs. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
β‐Ionone suppresses mammary carcinogenesis, proliferative activity and induces apoptosis in the mammary gland of the Sprague‐Dawley rat
Authors: Liu Jia‐Ren , Sun Xiang‐Rong , Dong Hong‐Wei , Sun Chang‐Hao , Sun Wen‐Guang , Chen Bing‐Qing , Song You‐Qiang , Yang Bao‐Feng
Published: April 2008

β‐Ionone demonstrates potent anticancer activity both in vitro and in vivo. We determined tumor incidence and the number of rats bearing tumors as well as cell proliferation and apoptosis in a rat mammary cancer model induced by 7, 12‐dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA). Rats were fed an AIN‐76A diet containing β‐ionone (0, 9, 18 or 36 mmol/kg), starting 2 weeks before DMBA administration and continuing for 24 weeks. A dose‐dependent inhibition of mammary carcinogenesis by dietary β‐ionone was observed. Corresponding tumor incidence values were 82.1, 53.3, 25.9 and 10.0% (p < 0.01 or 0.05). Time to tumor appearance increased and tumor multiplicity decreased with increasing dietary β‐ionone. Histopathological and immunohistochemical evaluations of tumors were performed on the 64, 31, 15 and 3 tumors, respectively, identified in rats from the respective groups of 30. The proportions of adenocarcinomas, adenomas and benign masses were equally distributed in the latter group. In proportions within the other groups, the proportions of adenocarcinomas and benign masses decreased and increased with increasing dietary β‐ionone. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), cyclin D1 and Bcl‐2 expression decreased, and Bax expression and nuclear fragmentation increased with increasing dietary β‐ionone. These results demonstrate the potent capacity of dietary β‐ionone to suppress DMBA‐initiated mammary cancer in rats. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.