bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Histogenesis of sarcomatoid urothelial carcinoma of the urinary bladder: evidence for a common clonal origin with divergent differentiation
Authors: Sung M‐T , Wang M , MacLennan GT , Eble JN , Tan P‐H , Lopez‐Beltran A , Montironi R , Harris JJ , Kuhar M , Cheng L
Published: January 2007

The histogenesis of sarcomatoid urothelial carcinoma, a rare neoplasm with bidirectional epithelial and mesenchymal differentiation, has been a matter of controversy. To clarify its origin, we analysed the status of X‐chromosome inactivation in sarcomatoid urothelial carcinomas from 10 female patients and examined losses of heterozygosity (LOH) in these specimens and in additional 20 tumours from male patients. Six polymorphic microsatellite markers where genetic alterations occur frequently in early or advanced stages of urothelial carcinomas, including D3S3050, D8S261, IFNA, D9S177, D11S569 and TP53, were investigated in the current study. The identical pattern of non‐random X‐chromosome inactivation in both carcinomatous and sarcomatous components was identified in five of eight informative female patients, and the remaining three informative cases showed a random, but concordant, pattern of X‐chromosome inactivation. The concordant X‐chromosome inactivation results in all eight informative cases support the concept of a monoclonal origin of both components of this biphasic neoplasm. Among the tumours demonstrating loss of heterozygosity, high incidences of an identical pattern of allelic loss between carcinomatous and sarcomatous components were identified in genetic alterations associated with early carcinogenesis: 86% at D8S261, 78% at D11S569, 75% at D9S177 and 57% at IFNA. In contrast, concordant LOH patterns were less frequently observed for microsatellites related to advanced carcinogenesis: only 40% at D3S3050 and 40% at TP53. The significant overlap of loss of heterozygosity supports a monoclonal cell origin and suggests that clonal divergence may occur during tumour progression and differentiation. Divergent patterns of discordant allelic loss of microsatellite markers imply that heterogeneous pathogenetic pathways may exist in the evolution of this enigmatic neoplasm. Copyright © 2007 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
New perspectives into the biological and clinical relevance of oestrogen receptors in the human breast
Authors: Speirs V , Walker RA
Published: January 2007

Oestrogen receptor (ER) is arguably the single most important biological predictive factor that exists today. In the last 10 years or so, however, our understanding of ER biology has undergone a paradigm shift following the identification of a second ER, ERβ, with the original ER being renamed ERα. A number of isoforms have additionally been described, especially for ERβ. Our knowledge of ER signalling has also increased with the recognition of accessory co‐regulatory proteins, which help direct the transcriptional cascade. Here we outline these changes and discuss what biological and clinical implications these could have in the mammary gland. Copyright © 2007 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cagelike polymer microspheres with hollow core/porous shell structures
Authors: He Xiaodong , Ge Xuewu , Liu Huarong , Wang Mozhen , Zhang Zhicheng
Published: January 2007

Submicron‐scaled cagelike polymer microspheres with hollow core/porous shell were synthesized by self‐assembling of sulfonated polystyrene (PS) latex particles at monomer droplets interface. The swelling of the PS latex particles by the oil phase provided a driving force to develop the hollow core. The latex particles also served as porogen that would disengage automatically during polymerization. Influential factors that control the morphology of the microspheres, including the reserving time of emulsions, polymerization rate, and the Hildebrand solubility parameter and polarity of the oil phase, were studied. A variety of monomers were polymerized into microspheres with hollow core/porous shell structure and microspheres with different diameters and pore sizes were obtained. The polymer microspheres were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, optical microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 933–941, 2007
Clinical proteomics: A need to define the field and to begin to set adequate standards
Authors: Mischak Harald , Apweiler Rolf , Banks Rosamonde E. , Conaway Mark , Coon Joshua , Dominiczak Anna , Ehrich Jochen H. H. , Fliser Danilo , Girolami Mark , Hermjakob Henning , Hochstrasser Denis , Jankowski Joachim , Julian Bruce A. , Kolch Walter , Massy Ziad A. , Neusuess Christian , Novak Jan , Peter Karlheinz , Rossing Kasper , Schanstra Joost , Semmes O. John , Theodorescu Dan , Thongboonkerd Visith , Weissinger Eva M. , Van Eyk Jennifer E. , Yamamoto Tadashi
Published: January 2007

The aim of this manuscript is to initiate a constructive discussion about the definition of clinical proteomics, study requirements, pitfalls and (potential) use. Furthermore, we hope to stimulate proposals for the optimal use of future opportunities and seek unification of the approaches in clinical proteomic studies. We have outlined our collective views about the basic principles that should be considered in clinical proteomic studies, including sample selection, choice of technology and appropriate quality control, and the need for collaborative interdisciplinary efforts involving clinicians and scientists. Furthermore, we propose guidelines for the critical aspects that should be included in published reports. Our hope is that, as a result of stimulating discussion, a consensus will be reached amongst the scientific community leading to guidelines for the studies, similar to those already published for mass spectrometric sequencing data. We contend that clinical proteomics is not just a collection of studies dealing with analysis of clinical samples. Rather, the essence of clinical proteomics should be to address clinically relevant questions and to improve the state‐of‐the‐art, both in diagnosis and in therapy of diseases.
The maximal axial parameters in equivalent parametrizations of high symmetry crystal‐field Hamiltonians
Authors: Mulak Jacek , Mulak Maciej , Gonczarek Ryszard
Published: January 2007

The cover picture represents a fingerprint of crystal‐field parametrization, that is a map of the normalized crystal‐field parameter B40 for the Pr3+ ion in Pr2CuO4 of C4v point symmetry according to the reference frame orientation (based on the data by Riou et al. [2]). This map is equivalent to the angle dependence of the k = 4 component of the crystal‐field Hamiltonian. The contour lines are the equipotential lines.

The picture relates to the work by Jacek Mulak, Maciej Mulak, and Ryszard Gonczarek [1]. The first author is a graduate in Chemistry (Wroclaw University of Technology, 1962) and Mathematics (University of Wroclaw, 1968), now holding the position of a professor at the Institute of Low Temperature and Structure Research, Polish Academy of Sciences in Wroclaw, Poland. He specializes in the crystal‐field theory and its application to magnetism and spectroscopy. He embarked on his scientific career as an assistant professor to Professor Włodzimierz Trzebiatowski (1906–1982). The paper is then a tribute to Professor Włodzimierz Trzebiatowski, the founder of the physico‐chemical school at Wroclaw's Academic Center. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of the essential oil of Cryptomeria japonica
Authors: Cha Jeong‐Dan , Jeong Mi‐Ran , Jeong Seung‐Il , Moon Sang‐Eun , Kil Bong‐Seop , Yun Soon‐Il , Lee Kyung‐Yeol , Song Yo‐Han
Published: January 2007

The composition and the antibacterial activity of the essential oil obtained from Cryptomeria japonica D. Don on oral bacteria were studied. The chemical composition of the essential oil was analysed by GC and GC‐MS. Sixty‐eight compounds accounting for 95.82% of the oil were identified. The main compounds in the oil were α‐pinene (6.07%), sabinene (8.86%), terpinen‐4‐ol (9.77%), α‐terpineol (6.13%), elemol (11.17%) and 10(15)‐cadinen‐4‐ol (7.16%). The essential oil and some of its major compounds were tested for antimicrobial activity against 15 different genera of oral bacteria. The essential oil of C. japonica exhibited considerable inhibitory effects against all bacteria tested (MICs, 0.025–0.05 mg/mL; MBCs, 0.025–0.1 mg/mL), while its major compounds demonstrated various degrees of growth inhibition. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Neuropharmacological activity of Eupatorium buniifolium aqueous extract in mice
Authors: Miño Jorge , Muschietti Liliana , Ferraro Graciela , Martino Virginia , Acevedo Cristina
Published: January 2007

The aim of this study was to evaluate the neuropharmacological profile of the Eupatorium buniifolium aqueous extract (EB) in mice. EB at doses up to 1.5 g/kg p.o. of the lyophilized material produced a dose dependent sleep induction and potentiation of sub‐hypnotic and hypnotic doses of pentobarbital, respectively. However, EB neither modified the spontaneous motor activity nor produced a myorelaxant effect. Moreover, EB 1.5 g/kg in a nose‐poke habituation task, produced a disruption of the normal patterns of habituation, and in a step‐down inhibitory avoidance task, induced an amnesic effect similar to diazepam. These results suggest that the activity of EB may be a CNS‐depressant. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of Alchemilla vulgaris and glycerine on epithelial and myofibroblast cell growth and cutaneous lesion healing in rats
Authors: Shrivastava Ravi , Cucuat Nathalie , John Gareth W.
Published: January 2007

Wound‐healing properties have been suggested for Alchemilla vulgaris. Since epithelial and myofibroblast cell growth is required for wound healing, the effects of A. vulgaris on cell growth were investigated in Chang liver and Madin Darby Bovine Kidney (MDBK) epithelial cell lines and rat aortic myofibroblast cultures. Putative healing properties were investigated on dorsal circular 8 mm excisional skin lesions in adult male rats. Cell numbers increased with 0.1–1% A. vulgaris, attaining 21.3 ± 2.1%, 15.5 ± 2.25% and 10.6 ± 0.6% in MDBK, myofibroblast and Chang liver cells, respectively (p < 0.005). No morphological changes or cytotoxicity were noted. In rats A. vulgaris (3%)‐treated lesions were significantly decreased in diameter by 10.0 ± 0.7% (p < 0.005) after 2 days of treatment. On day 3 of treatment, the lesion diameter was significantly reduced by 15.9 ± 1.1% in glycerine vehicle‐treated rats compared with distilled water (p < 0.005), whereas that in A. vulgaris‐treated rats was reduced further by 23.2 ± 1.4% (p < 0.005). Glycerine alone significantly reduced the lesion diameter between days 3 and 5 but complete healing occurred a day earlier in A. vulgaris‐treated rats. The results demonstrate wound‐healing properties of A. vulgaris associated with promitotic activity in epithelial cells and myofibroblasts. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Protective activity of Bacopa monniera Linn. on nicotine‐induced toxicity in mice
Authors: Vijayan Viji , Helen A.
Published: January 2007

Nicotine, a pharmacologically active component of cigarettes smoke causes devastating effects in important biomolecules of the cell through generation of free radicals leading to genomic instability. Bacopa monniera is a reputed drug in Ayurveda known for its hepatoprotective and DNA protective effects. In this study, an aqueous extract of Bacopa monniera (BAE, 50 mg/kg i.p.) was investigated for its ability to reduce nicotine‐induced lipid peroxidation (LPO) and confer genoprotection in Swiss mice. Genoprotective effect was assayed using micronucleus (MN) assay. LPO status was studied by evaluating MDA levels and antioxidant status. Nicotine altered hepatic function as evident by increased ALP and GST levels and decreased SOD, catalase and GPx activities. BAE treatment restored antioxidant enzymes such as SOD, catalase and GPx in liver. BAE treatment also significantly reduced the frequency of micronuclei induced by nicotine by decreasing the incidence of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (MN‐PCE). Hepatic GSH, ALP and GST levels were brought to normal values indicating protection. The results of the present study suggest that BAE exerts protective effects by modulating the extent of lipid peroxidation and enhancing the antioxidant status. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bioassay‐guided isolation of antifungal alkaloids from Melochia odorata
Authors: Emile Aurélie , Waikedre Jean , Herrenknecht Christine , Fourneau Christophe , Gantier Jean‐Charles , Hnawia Edouard , Cabalion Pierre , Hocquemiller Reynald , Fournet Alain
Published: January 2007

An alkaloidal extract of the leaves of Melochia odorata exhibited antifungal activity against Candida albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae using a TLC bioautographic method. Bioassay‐guided fractionation of this extract using separation by normal and reverse high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) resulted in the isolation of two active compounds identified as frangulanine, a cyclic peptide alkaloid, and waltherione‐A, a quinolinone alkaloid. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modulation of P‐glycoprotein activity by acridones and coumarins from Citrus sinensis
Authors: Bayet C. , Fazio C. , Darbour N. , Berger O. , Raad I. , Chaboud A. , Dumontet C. , Guilet D.
Published: January 2007

Bioguided fractionation of the roots of Citrus sinensis (Rutaceae) led to the isolation and identification of five coumarins, namely, clausarin, suberosin, poncitrin, xanthyletin and thamnosmonin, seven acridones, namely, acrimarine B, 2‐methoxycitpressine I, citpressine I, buntanine, acrimarine E, honyumine and acrimarine C, and one terpenoid, namely, limonin. Among these compounds, clausarin, 2‐methoxycitpressine I and acrimarine E inhibited P‐glycoprotein‐mediated drug efflux in K562/R7 human leukemic cells over‐expressing P‐glycoprotein. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Isolation of coumarins and ferulate from the roots of Angelica purpuraefolia and the antitumor activity of khellactone
Authors: Lee Hyeong‐Kyu , Oh Sei‐Ryang , Kwon Ok‐Kyoung , Ahn Kyoung‐Seop , Lee Joongku , Kim Jin‐Cheol , Min Byung‐Sun , Joung Hyouk
Published: January 2007

A new coumarin, hydroxylomatin (1), was isolated from the CHCl3‐soluble fraction of the roots of Angelica purpuraefolia, along with one ferulate (2) and three other known coumarins (3–5) including khellactone (3). The structure of hydroxylomatin (1) was determined to be 3′β,5′‐dihydroxy‐3′,4′‐dihydroseselin (1) by spectroscopic means including 2D‐NMR. The modified Mosher's method was used to determine the chiral center at C‐1 of compound 2. Khellactone (3) is a major compound of the roots of A. purpuraefolia. This study also examined the antitumor activity of khellactone (3) using a LLC mouse lung carcinoma in the BDF‐1 mice and a NCI‐H460 human lung carcinoma in a human tumor xenograft model in nude mice. This compound (3) inhibited LLC tumor growth with a T/C (mean value of treated group/mean value of control group) value of 12.9% at a dose of 5 mg/kg and 33.2% at a dose of 10 mg/kg, respectively, in a dose‐dependent manner. In addition, it suppressed the growth of NCI‐H460 tumor cells, accounting for 81.4% at a dose of 10 mg/kg in nude mice. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thymoquinone supplementation attenuates hypertension and renal damage in nitric oxide deficient hypertensive rats
Authors: Khattab Mahmoud M. , Nagi Mahmoud N.
Published: January 2007

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the protective effect of thymoquinone (TQ), the main constituent of the volatile oil from Nigella sativa seeds, in rats after chronic inhibition of nitric oxide synthesis with Nω‐nitro‐l‐arginine methyl esters (l‐NAME). Rats were divided randomly into different treatment groups: control, l‐NAME, TQ and l‐NAME + TQ. Hypertension was induced by 4 weeks administration of l‐NAME (50 mg/kg/day p.o.). TQ was administered alone or in combination with l‐NAME and continued for 4 weeks. The animals were killed, and the serum and kidney tissues were isolated for the determination of creatinine and glutathione (GSH), respectively. Rats receiving l‐NAME showed a progressive increase in systolic blood pressure compared with control rats. Concomitant treatment with TQ (0.5 and 1 mg/kg/day p.o.) reduced the increase in systolic blood pressure induced by l‐NAME in a dose dependent manner. Kidney injury was demonstrated by a significant increase in serum creatinine and a decrease in GSH in kidney tissue from l‐NAME treated rats. Treatment of rats with TQ decreased the elevated creatinine and increased GSH to normal levels. TQ inhibited the in vitro production of superoxide radical in enzymatic and non‐enzymatic systems. In conclusion, TQ is effective in protecting rats against l‐NAME‐induced hypertension and renal damage possibly via antioxidant activity. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of piper cubeba extract, (‐)‐cubebin and its semi‐synthetic derivatives against oral pathogens
Authors: Silva M. L. A. , Coímbra H. S. , Pereira A. C. , Almeida V. A. , Lima T. C. , Costa E. S. , Vinhólis A. H. C. , Royo V. A. , Silva R. , Filho A. A. S. , Cunha W. R. , Furtado N. A. J. C. , Martins Carlos H. G. , Carvalho T. C. , Bastos J. K.
Published: January 2007

The activities of the crude ethanol extract from Piper cubeba seeds, (‐)‐cubebin and its semi‐synthetic derivatives were evaluated against oral pathogens. The crude ethanol extract was more active against Streptococcus salivarius (MIC value of 80 µg/mL). (‐)‐Cubebin displayed MIC values ranging from 0.20 mm for Streptococcus mitis to 0.35 mm for Enterococcus faecalis. The natural product (‐)‐cubebin and its semi‐synthetic derivative (‐)‐hinokinin displayed bacteriostatic activity at all evaluated concentrations, as well as fungicidal activity against Candida albicans at 0.28 mm. The O‐benzyl cubebin derivative showed fungistatic and fungicidal effects against C. albicans at 0.28 mm and 0.35 mm, respectively. Also, the other dibenzylbutyrolactone derivatives [(‐)‐6,6′‐dinitrohinokinin and (‐)‐O‐(N,N‐dimethylaminoethyl)‐cubebin] displayed bacteriostatic and fungistatic effects at the evaluated concentrations. Moreover, the semi‐synthetic derivative (‐)‐6,6′‐dinitrohinokinin was the most active compound against all the evaluated microorganisms. Therefore, it may be suggested that the presence of the carbonyl group at C‐9 plus the introduction of polar groups in the aromatic rings improve the antimicrobial activity of dibenzylbutyrolactone compounds. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Anticholinesterase activity of plastoquinones from Sargassum sagamianum: lead compounds for alzheimer's disease therapy
Authors: Choi Byoung Wook , Ryu Geonseek , Park Soo Hee , Kim Eun Sook , Shin Jongheon , Roh Seok Seon , Shin Hyeon Cheol , Lee Bong Ho
Published: January 2007

During the search for anticholinesterase compounds from marine organisms, two known plastoquinones, sargaquinoic acid (1) and sargachromenol (2), were isolated from Sargassum sagamianum. Both compounds showed moderate acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory activity in a micromole range (IC50 23.2 and 32.7 µm, respectively). However, for butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE), a new target for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD), compound 1 showed particularly potent inhibitory activity (IC50 26 nm), which is 1000‐fold greater than for AChE. Hence, sargaquinoic acid represents an effective and selective inhibitor of BuChE with a potency similar to or greater than the anticholinesterases in current clinical use, making it an interesting potential drug candidate for AD. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In vivo mapping of substance P receptors in brains of laboratory animals by high‐resolution imaging systems
Authors: Haneda Eisuke , Higuchi Makoto , Maeda Jun , Inaji Motoki , Okauchi Takashi , Ando Kiyoshi , Obayashi Shigeru , Nagai Yuji , Narazaki Michiko , Ikehira Hiroo , Nakao Ryuji , Zhang Ming‐Rong , Suzuki Kazutoshi , Suzuki Hidenori , Suhara Tetsuya
Published: January 2007

Neurotransmission mediated by substance P (SP) and NK1receptor has been implicated in the pathophysiology of analgesia, emesis and diverse neuropsychiatric conditions including depression and anxiety disorder. Several lines of clinical trials using NK1receptor antagonists have been conducted to date, and the efficiency of preclinical assessments for proof of concept and dose optimization could be greatly increased by configuring an in vivo analytical system that permits quantitative mapping of NK1receptors in the brains of small‐size laboratory animals expressing “human‐like” NK1receptors. Hence, we investigated the applicability of experimental animals, ranging from rodents to primates, to positron emission tomographic (PET) measurements with [18F]fluoroethyl‐SPA‐RQ, a modification of a recently established radioligand for NK1receptors. A pharmacokinetic assay could be performed for a rhesus monkey in an awake condition, which allows the circumvention of influences of anesthesia on SP neurotransmission. Coregistration of PET and magnetic resonance images acquired by small‐animal‐dedicated devices enabled detailed localization of NK1receptors in the gerbil and marmoset brains. The present study also revealed the potentials of SDZ NKT 343 as an antagonist for central NK1receptors. In conjunction with additional in vitro and ex vivo autoradiographic observations, our in vivo results have demonstrated a similarity in the binding pattern among the animals examined, justifying cross‐species extrapolation of PET findings on the SP‐NK1pathway. Synapse 61:205–215, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Waved‐1 mutant mice are hypersensitive to the locomotor actions of cocaine
Authors: Stanwood Gregg D. , Levitt Pat
Published: January 2007

Transforming growth factor‐α (TGFα) is a well‐known regulator of many developmental processes, and is expressed heavily in basal forebrain and striatal regions. When TGFα is reduced in Waved‐1 (Wa‐1) mutant mice, brain anatomy, biogenic amines, stress response, and behavior are normal prior to, but altered following puberty. As an initial screen for possible alterations in nigrostriatal and mesolimbic dopamine (DA) systems, we tested adult Wa‐1 mutant mice in an open field, following acute injection with cocaine (15 mg/kg). Wa‐1 mice exhibited significantly greater ambulatory distance, number of ambulatory episodes, and cocaine‐induced motor stereotypies than do controls. These data indicate that adult Wa‐1 mice are hypersensitive to the locomotor effects of cocaine and provide a new potential link between neurodevelopmental processes and adult psychostimulant responsiveness. Synapse 61:259–262, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dopamine activity in the occipital and temporal cortices of rats: Dissociating effects of sensory but not pharmacological stimulation
Authors: Müller Christian P. , Huston Joseph P.
Published: January 2007

Little is known about the functional role of DA in other cortical areas than in the prefrontal cortex. Here we demonstrate that visual stimulation increases DA activity as measured by in vivo microdialysis in the occipital, but not in the temporal cortex of freely moving rats. Auditory stimulation neither acutely affected DA in the occipital nor in the temporal cortex. A pharmacological challenge with cocaine (0, 5, 10, 20 mg/kg; i.p.) increased DA levels in both areas dose‐dependently. These data suggest that DA might play a role in visual processing selectively in the occipital cortex. Furthermore, the results indicate that DA in both regions may contribute to cocaine's behavioral effects. Synapse 61:254–258, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mass spectrometric identification of covalently bound cell wall proteins from the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe
Authors: de Groot Piet W. J. , Yin Qing Yuan , Weig Michael , Sosinska Grazyna J. , Klis Frans M. , de Koster Chris G.
Published: January 2007

The cell wall of Schizosaccharomyces pombe is bilayered, consisting of an inner layer of mainly polysaccharides and an outer layer of galactomannoproteins. We present a detailed analysis of the cell wall proteome. Six covalently‐bound cell wall proteins (CWPs) were identified using tandem mass spectrometry, including four predicted GPI‐dependent CWPs (Gas1p, Gas5p, Ecm33p and Pwp1p) and two alkali‐sensitive CWPs (Psu1p and Asl1p). Gas1p and Gas5p belong to glycoside hydrolase family 72, and are believed to be involved in 1,3‐β‐glucan elongation. Ecm33p belongs to a ubiquitous fungal protein family with an unknown but crucial function in cell wall integrity. Pwp1p is an abundant protein with an unknown but probably non‐enzymatic function. All four CWPs were present in HF‐pyridine extracts, indicating that they are linked via a phosphodiester bridge to the glucan network. Psu1p is a homologue of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae Sun family, whereas Asl1p has no homologues in S. cerevisiae but is related to Aspergillus fumigatus and Ustilago maydis proteins. Finally, although the protein content of Sz. pombe cell walls is only slightly less than in S. cerevisiae and Candida albicans, the amount of carbohydrate added to the proteins was found to be two‐ to three‐fold decreased, consistent with earlier reported differences in outer chain N‐glycosylation. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tuning of the Cloud Point of Promethazine Hydrochloride with Surfactants and Polymers
Authors: Sayem Alam Md. , Naqvi Andleeb Z. , Kabir‐ud‐Din
Published: January 2007

The effect of additives (surfactants and polymers) and pH on the clouding behavior of promethazine hydrochloride (PMT, a phenothiazine drug) was investigated. Cloud point (CP) decreases with increase in pH due to deprotonation of drug molecules. The same trend occurs in the presence of surfactants. However, at constant pH, and depending on their structure and nature, these additives behave differently. Anionic surfactants show peaked behavior, whereas cationic (conventional as well as geminis) and non‐ionic surfactants increase the CP, although the mechanisms differ. Cationic surfactants hinder drug association (due to interaggregate repulsion) resulting in an increase in CP, while non‐ionic surfactants form mixed micelles with the drug, increasing micelle hydration and CP. Polymers can cause both a decrease as well as an increase in CP, depending on their molecular weight. A large CP increase (with the increase in surfactant concentration) for gemini surfactants suggests they are excellent candidates for drug delivery.
Highly Sensitive Determination of Diverse Ceramides in Human Hair Using Reversed‐Phase High‐Performance Liquid Chromatography–Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Masukawa Yoshinori , Tsujimura Hisashi
Published: January 2007

Since ceramides (CERs) play roles in signal transduction and cell regulation, CERs of human hair might be responsible for apoptosis during keratinization, in addition to their structural barrier and water‐holding functions. Although, we previously developed a method for comprehensive profiling of the CERs in hair, that method was too insensitive to quantitatively characterize the CERs in a small amount of hair samples. The aim of this study was to develop a novel method for the highly sensitive determination of the diverse CERs. The method developed is negative ion electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS) coupled to reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography (RP‐HPLC) using methanol containing 10 mM ammonium acetate as a mobile phase. By this method, 48 peaks derived from 73 kinds of CERs were simultaneously determined in selected ion monitoring measurement using one calibration line of the standard N‐palmitoyl dihydrosphigosine, based on extremely small differences in the molar responses among different species of CERs, followed by the calculation of the actual levels using corrections for 13C and 2H effects. This method had extremely high sensitivity as indicated in the limit of quantification being in the femtomolar range. Other quantitative validation data, such as reproducibility, linearity and recoveries, were all sufficient. The quantitative levels of CERs determined by RP‐HPLC–ESI‐MS were comparable with those determined by thin‐layer chromatography. This method was successfully applied to the characterization of levels of CERs in only 1‐mm pieces derived from a single hair fiber and revealed the presence of interindividual and intraindividual variations of the CER composition. This RP‐HPLC–ESI‐MS method can be a powerful tool for future research on physicochemical and physiological roles of CERs in hair.
Mechanisms of adrenosensitivity in capsaicin induced hyperalgesia
Authors: Schattschneider Jörn , zum Buttel Insa , Binder Andreas , Wasner Gunnar , Hedderich Jürgen , Baron Ralf
Published: January 2007

It is well known that iontophoresis of norepinephrine in capsaicin treated skin is followed by an increase in thermal hyperalgesia. It is unclear if this action on nocicepitive afferents involves the release of prostaglandins. The aim of the present study was to determine: (1) the effect of norepinephrine iontophoresis on spontaneous and evoked pain in the human skin after topical application of capsaicin; (2) the effect of cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibition on changes in pain perception induced by norepinephrine application.

Methods: Ten volunteers were included in the study. Iontophoresis of norepinephrine or saline was performed in a randomized cross over design on the volar aspect of the forearm after topical application of capsaicin. In the second part of the study single iv. injections of saline or acetylsalicylic acid were performed in a randomized double blind cross over design. After the injection norepinephrine iontophoresis was performed on the skin treated with topical capsaicin. Spontaneous pain, mechanical hyperalgesia as well as warm and heat pain thresholds were measured before and after each iontophoresis.

Results: Norepinephrine did enhance spontaneous pain and mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia in capsaicin treated skin. Inhibition of COX I and II had no effect on the norepinephrine induced changes in pain perception.

Conclusion: The results do not support the assumption that in human skin sensitized by topical capsaicin application of norepinephrine acts on nociceptive afferents via the release of prostaglandins. Thus, a direct action of norepinephrine on adrenergic receptors in the membrane of the afferent fibers is most likely.
Gelsolin segment 5 inhibits HIV‐induced T‐cell apoptosis via Vpr‐binding to VDAC
Authors: Qiao Hongjiang , McMillan James R.
Published: January 2007

Viral protein R (Vpr) from the human immunodeficiency virus induces cell cycle arrest in proliferating cells, stimulates virus transcription, and regulates activation and apoptosis of infected T‐lymphocytes. We report that Jurkat cells overexpressing full‐length gelsolin show resistance to Vpr‐induced T‐cell apoptosis with abrogation of mitochondrial membrane potential loss and the release of cytochrome c. Co‐immunoprecipitation assays in HEK293T cells demonstrated that overexpression of full‐length or segment 5 (G5) but not G5‐deleted gelsolin (ΔG5) bound to the voltage‐dependent anion channel (VDAC), and that the G5 subunit can inhibit HIV‐1‐Vpr‐binding to VDAC. We also confirmed that full‐length gelsolin has the same effect in Jurkat cells. Clonogenic analysis showed that transfection of G5 but not ΔG5 cDNA protects Jurkat T cells from HIV‐Vpr‐Tet induced T‐cell apoptosis and promoted cell survival, as did full‐length gelsolin. These results suggest that the gelsolin G5 domain inhibits HIV‐Vpr‐induced T‐cell apoptosis by blocking the interaction between Vpr and VDAC, and might be used as a protective treatment against HIV‐Vpr‐induced T‐cell apoptosis.
Mitochondrial alterations and tendency to apoptosis in peripheral blood cells from children with Down syndrome
Authors: Roat Erika , Prada Nicole , Ferraresi Roberta , Giovenzana Chiara , Nasi Milena , Troiano Leonarda , Pinti Marcello , Nemes Elisa , Lugli Enrico , Biagioni Ornella , Mariotti Mauro , Ciacci Luigi , Consolo Ugo , Balli Fiorella , Cossarizza Andrea
Published: January 2007

Different types of cells from subjects with Down syndrome (DS) have an increased susceptibility to cell death. We have studied apoptosis and mitochondrial (mt) membrane potential (ΔΨm) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from DS children and age‐matched healthy donors after in vitro treatment with apoptogenic molecules, along with mtDNA content. We found that PBMC from DS and healthy controls had a similar tendency to undergo apoptosis and a similar amount of mtDNA. However, in cells from DS subjects, mitochondria showed a higher loss of ΔΨm, underlying the presence of an increasing susceptibility of these organelles to damaging agents.
sBAFF mutants induce neutralizing antibodies against BAFF
Authors: Gao Huiguang , Bian Aina , Zheng Yingru , Li Rongfen , Ji Qing , Huang Gang , Hu Daqiang , Zhang Li , Gong Wei , Hu Ying , He Fengtian
Published: January 2007

B cell activating factor belonging to the TNF family (BAFF) is a novel member of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) ligand family and plays an important role in B lymphocyte maturation and survival. Overexpression of BAFF is closely involved in the pathogenesis and progression of many kinds of autoimmune disorders; therefore, BAFF has been considered as an ideal therapeutic target for these conditions. In this study, we generated several candidate immune inhibitors of human BAFF by conjugating foreign immunodominant T‐helper cell (Th) epitopes to the N‐ or C‐terminus of five BAFF mutants. The recombined proteins were successfully expressed in Escherichia coli (E. coli) and purified by Ni‐NTA chromatography. BALB/c mice immunized with the recombinant proteins produced high levels of anti‐BAFF antibodies, and their sera inhibited the lymphocyte proliferation‐inducing activity of recombinant soluble BAFF and natural soluble BAFF. Moreover, antibodies cross‐reactive with BAFF were detected in sera from hu‐SCID mice immunized with the recombinant proteins. These results indicated that the recombinant BAFF mutants modified with Th epitopes could induce neutralizing antibodies against BAFF in vivo. This study may provide a valuable strategy for treating BAFF‐associated autoimmune diseases.
Small molecule inhibitors of type III secretion in Yersinia block the Chlamydia pneumoniae infection cycle
Authors: Bailey Leslie , Gylfe Åsa , Sundin Charlotta , Muschiol Sandra , Elofsson Mikael , Nordström Peter , Henriques-Normark Birgitta , Lugert Raimond , Waldenström Anders , Wolf-Watz Hans , Bergström Sven
Published: January 2007

Intracellular parasitism by Chlamydiales is a complex process involving transmission of metabolically inactive particles that differentiate, replicate, and re‐differentiate within the host cell. A type three secretion system (T3SS) has been implicated in this process. We have here identified small molecules of a chemical class of acylated hydrazones of salicylaldehydes that specifically blocks the T3SS of Chlamydia. These compounds also affect the developmental cycle showing that the T3SS has a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of Chlamydia. Our results suggest a previously unexplored avenue for development of novel anti‐chlamydial drugs.
Downregulation of angiotensin converting enzyme II is associated with pacing‐induced sustained atrial fibrillation
Authors: Pan Chun-Hsu , Lin Jiunn-Lee , Lai Ling-Ping , Chen Chien-Lung , Stephen Huang Shoei K. , Lin Chih-Sheng
Published: January 2007

Atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common cardiac arrhythmia, is frequently accompanied by atrial interstitial fibrosis. Angiotensin II (Ang II) dependent signaling pathways have been implicated in interstitial fibrosis during the development of AF. However, Ang II could be further degraded by angiotensin converting enzyme II (ACE2). We examined expression of ACE2 in the fibrillating atria of pigs and its involvement in fibrotic pathogenesis during AF. Nine adult pigs underwent continuous rapid atrial pacing to induce sustained AF and six pigs were sham controls (i.e., sinus rhythm; SR). In the histological examinations, extensive accumulation of extracellular matrix in the interstitial space of the atria, as evidenced by Masson's trichrome stain, were found in fibrillating atria. The relative amount of collagen type I in the atria with AF was significantly increased as compared with that in the SR. Local ACE activity in the fibrillating atria was also markedly higher than that in the SR subjects. ACE2 gene and protein expression in the AF subjects were significantly decreased compared with those in the SR subjects, whereas expression of mitogen‐activated/ERK kinase 1/2 (MEK1/2), extracellular signal‐regulated protein kinase 2 (ERK2), and activated ERK2 were significantly greater in the AF subjects. We propose that decreasing ACE2 expression during AF may affect the Ang II‐dependent signaling pathway. In addition, our results suggest that atrial fibrosis in AF may be induced by antagonistic regulation between ACE and ACE2 expression.
A case of feline leprosy caused by Mycobacterium lepraemurium originating from the island of Kythira (Greece): diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Courtin Francois , Huerre Michel , Fyfe Janet , Dumas Paul , Boschiroli Maria L.
Published: January 2007

A 2-year-old, 4 kg, healthy, domestic shorthair female cat presented with ulcerated subcutaneous nodules on the commissures of its mouth. The cat was negative for feline leukaemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus. Skin mycobacteriosis was diagnosed after detection of numerous acid-fast bacilli in Ziehl Neelsen-stained smears from the ulcers. Feline leprosy was suspected following preliminary polymerase chain reaction results: positive for Mycobacterium genus but negative for Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Mycobacterium avium complexes. Mycobacterium lepraemurium was later identified following DNA sequence analysis of the 5′ end of the 16S rRNA gene and the 16S–23S internal transcribed spacer region. Microscopic lesions consisted of pyogranulomas containing mainly large foamy macrophages with 10–100 intra-cellular acid-fast bacilli per field. The cat was cured after surgery and a 14-week course of clofazimine (30 mg daily) and clarithromycin (50 mg twice daily).
Impact of eBusiness technologies on operational performance: The role of production information integration in the supply chain
Authors: Devaraj Sarv , Krajewski Lee , Wei Jerry C.
Published: January 2007

While the information technology (IT) literature is mixed regarding the direct benefits of eBusiness technologies on performance, the impact of such technologies on supply chain practices remains largely an unexplored area of research. We hypothesize that while there may be no direct benefit of eBusiness technologies on performance, these technologies might support customer integration and supplier integration in the supply chain, which in turn might impact operating performance.

To examine our hypotheses, we collected data from respondents who focused their responses to a single major product the process that manufactures it, a significant customer, and an important supplier. Our analyses showed that there was no direct benefit of eBusiness technologies on performance; however these technologies supported customer integration and supplier integration. Further, supplier integration was found to positively impact cost, quality, flexibility, and delivery performance; however there was no relationship between customer integration and performance. Consequently, there is a relationship between eBusiness technologies and supplier integration that leads to better performance. Further, there is an interactive effect between customer integration and supplier integration that supports the notion that firms that have both forms of integration, supported by eBusiness technologies, significantly outperform the others.
Antecedents of supply chain visibility in retail supply chains: A resource‐based theory perspective
Authors: Barratt Mark , Oke Adegoke
Published: January 2007

Although visibility has become a popular buzzword in the supply chain literature it remains an ill‐defined and poorly understood concept. It is assumed that if companies across supply chains have visibility of demand, inventory levels, processes, etc., that organizational performance improves. This research explores the antecedents of high levels of supply chain visibility from a resource‐based theory perspective across five different external supply chain linkages. We find that the level of visibility across these linkages differs considerably based on various contributing factors which are both technology and non‐technology based. Using resource‐based theory, we identify those factors that can give a sustainable competitive advantage to a supply chain linkage through a “distinctive” or high level of visibility.
Utilizing e‐business technologies in supply chains: The impact of firm characteristics and teams
Authors: Johnson P. Fraser , Klassen Robert D. , Leenders Michiel R. , Awaysheh Amrou
Published: January 2007

This paper presents findings from an exploratory study that analyzes the drivers and outcomes of e‐business technology use in the supply chain. Using a combination of case studies and survey data from a diverse sample of industries, the research examines how industry context, firm characteristics and firm‐level strategic resources, such as purchasing teams, influence the exploitation of e‐business technologies and the relationship between e‐business technology use and firm performance. Based on a synthesis of related literatures from transaction cost economics and the relational view of the supply chain, a two‐dimensional framework for e‐business technology is proposed with transactional and relational dimensions. However, empirical analysis indicated that transactional technologies can be further subdivided into two factors: dyadic cooperation and price determination. Significant differences were found between the two dimensions in terms of their overall levels of adoption, with dyadic coordination being the most widely adopted. In addition, the development of strategic resources expanded, in particular internal and customer teams, the use of e‐business technologies expanded. Purchasing organizational structure and firm size also were positively related to the adoption of transactional e‐business technologies. Finally, of particular importance to practitioners, e‐business technologies targeted at reducing dyadic coordination costs lead to improved financial performance.
B2B seller competence: Construct development and measurement using a supply chain strategy lens
Authors: Rosenzweig Eve D. , Roth Aleda V.
Published: January 2007

In less than a decade, Internet‐enabled business‐to‐business (B2B) commerce has become central to supply chain management. But little is known about the infrastructural competencies required for manufacturers engaged in Internet‐enabled activities with downstream business customers. This paper aims to take a first step in operationalizing a set of new, multi‐item measures that tap into infrastructural (or “soft”) competencies required for leveraging B2B commerce.

We use a structured, two‐stage approach to develop and refine a set of constructs, items, and new multi‐item measurement scales in order to rigorously evaluate their measurement properties. By drawing upon the literature as well as extensive interviews with expert practitioners, we define and measure the salient infrastructural competencies – termedB2B seller competence(B2B‐SC) – associated with the seller‐side of Internet‐enabled commerce. We find that the conceptual domain of B2B‐SC comprises seven theoretically important dimensions: (1) technical skills, (2) change disposition, (3) conflict management, (4) market acuity, (5) coordinated logistics, (6) knowledge channels, and (7) fluid partnering. Operational indicators that tap into constructs pertaining to each B2B‐SC dimension are developed through an iterative process.

In the second stage, we conduct a field study to more fully assess the measurement properties of item and scale reliability and validity using a covariance structure framework. The results indicate that our new scales exhibit sufficient psychometric properties, which make them useful for theory building, testing, and the refinement of supply chain strategy paradigms in the emerging area of B2B commerce.
Supply chain practice and information sharing
Authors: Zhou Honggeng , Benton W.C.
Published: January 2007

Effective supply chain practice and information sharing enhances the current supply chain management environment. The purpose of this study is to investigate the integration of information sharing and supply chain practice in supply chain management. Data from 125 North American manufacturing firms were collected. The results show that (1) effective information sharing significantly enhances effective supply chain practice; (2) supply chain dynamism has significant positive influence on effective information sharing as well as effective supply chain practice. Supply chain dynamism has more influence on information sharing than supply chain practice; (3) and effective supply chain practice becomes more important when the level of information sharing increases. The findings show that both effective information sharing and effective supply chain practice are critical in achieving good supply chain performance.
Sustainable supply chains: An introduction
Authors: Linton Jonathan D. , Klassen Robert , Jayaraman Vaidyanathan
Published: January 2007

Consideration is given to the convergence of supply chains and sustainability. In doing so, the focus on environmental management and operations is moved from local optimization of environmental factors to consideration of the entire supply chain during the production, consumption, customer service and post‐disposal disposition of products. This is a critical and timely topic that captures increasing concerns over sustainability, whether driven by current legislation, public interest, or competitive opportunity. As such, sustainable development is a rich area for academic research that is still in its infancy and has the potential to affect future government policy, current production operations, and identify new business models. This paper provides a background to better understand current trends in this multidisciplinary field that intersect with operations management, and the research opportunities and challenges it presents.
Integrating sustainable development in the supply chain: The case of life cycle assessment in oil and gas and agricultural biotechnology
Authors: Matos Stelvia , Hall Jeremy
Published: January 2007

It is widely accepted that firms play an important stewardship role in addressing sustainable development concerns. A key challenge in this role is to balance the often conflicting pressures created by sustainable development—firm‐level economic performance versus environmental degradation and social disruption. Drawing on complexity theory, risk management, stakeholder theory and the innovation dynamics literature, we discuss the problems of integrating sustainable development concerns in the supply chain, specifically the applicability of life cycle assessment (LCA). Many authors have emphasized the importance of the “cradle to grave” approach of LCA in optimizing closed‐loop supply chains, improving product design and stewardship. Based on two case studies (an agricultural biotechnology and an oil and gas company) with supporting data collected from key stakeholders, we argue that sustainable development pressures have increased complexities and presented ambiguous challenges that many current environmental management techniques cannot adequately address. We provide a framework that addresses these deficiencies and discuss implications for practitioners and management theory.