bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comparison of single‐voxel clinical in vivo hepatic 31P MR spectra acquired at 1.5 and 3.0 Tesla in health and diseased states
Authors: Wylezinska Marzena , Cobbold Jeremy F.L. , Fitzpatrick Julie , McPhail Mark J.W. , Crossey Mary M.E. , Thomas Howard C. , Hajnal Joseph V. , Vennart William , Cox I. Jane , Taylor‐Robinson Simon D.
Published: October 2010

With the increasing availability of human MR scanners at various field strengths, the optimal field strength for in vivo clinical MR studies of the liver has become a focus of attention. Comparison between results at 3.0 and 1.5 T is of particular clinical interest, especially for multicentre studies. For MRS studies, higher field strengths should be advantageous, because improved sensitivity and chemical shift dispersion are expected. We report a comparison between single‐voxel hepatic proton‐decoupled 31P MRS performed at 1.5 and 3.0 T in the same subjects using similar methodologies. Twelve healthy volunteers and 15 patients with chronic liver disease were studied. Improved spectral resolution was achieved using proton decoupling, and there was an improvement (21%) in the signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) of the phosphomonoester (PME) resonance at 3.0 T relative to 1.5 T. There was no significant change in nuclear Overhauser effects for PME or phosphodiesters (PDEs) between the two field strengths. The T1 value of PDE was significantly longer at 3 T, although there was no significant change in the T1 value of PME. There was no significant difference in the mean PME/PDE ratios for either the control or patient groups at both 1.5 and 3.0 T, but there was a small positive mean difference in PME/PDE at 3.0 T on pairwise testing between field strengths (+ 0.05, p < 0.01). There were significant correlations between PME/PDE values at the two magnetic field strengths (r = 0.806, p < 0.001). The underlying broad resonance was reduced at 3.0 T relative to 1.5 T, related to line broadening of the phospholipid bilayer signal. In conclusion, there was an improvement in hepatic 31P MR signal quality at 3.0 T relative to 1.5 T. Broadly similar hepatic 31P MR parameters were obtained at 1.5 and 3.0 T. The modest difference noted in the PME/PDE ratio between field strengths for patients with chronic liver disease should inform multicentre study design involving these field strengths. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Filtering spam from bad neighborhoods
Authors: van Wanrooij Ward , Pras Aiko
Published: October 2010

One of the most annoying problems on the Internet is spam. To fight spam, many approaches have been proposed over the years. Most of these approaches involve scanning the entire contents of e‐mail messages in an attempt to detect suspicious keywords and patterns. Although such approaches are relatively effective, they also show some disadvantages. Therefore an interesting question is whether it would be possible to effectively detect spam without analyzing the entire contents of e‐mail messages. The contribution of this paper is to present an alternative spam detection approach, which relies solely on analyzing the origin (IP address) of e‐mail messages, as well as possible links within the e‐mail messages to websites (URIs). Compared to analyzing suspicious keywords and patterns, detection and analysis of URIs is relatively simple. The IP addresses and URIs are compared to various kinds of blacklists; a hit increases the probability of the message being spam. Although the idea of using blacklists is well known, the novel idea proposed within this paper is to introduce the concept of ‘bad neighborhoods’. To validate our approach, a prototype has been developed and tested on our university's mail server. The outcome was compared to SpamAssassin and mail server log files. The result of that comparison was that our prototype showed remarkably good detection capabilities (comparable to SpamAssassin), but puts only a small load on the mail server. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The complexity of pancreatic ductal cancers and multidimensional strategies for therapeutic targeting
Authors: Kern Scott E , Shi Chanjuan , Hruban Ralph H
Published: October 2010

The directions of differentiation and the molecular features of ductal pancreatic cancer have by now been explored in reasonable detail. Already, diagnoses and therapeutic strategies benefit from observations distinguishing the major variant types of pancreatic cancer and the differing stages of disease at presentation. Additionally, individual patients differ within each variant type. In certain high‐risk groups, this permits focused screening efforts. The tumorigenic influences that characterize individual patients are increasingly considered appropriate in defining clinical treatment plans. As a result, multiple variables affect success when individualizing screening or therapy. These competing variables often limit the potential for success: some variables dominate and should receive greater consideration than others. Simplistic expectations, often falsely optimistic, for individualized care may fail to ‘pan out’ in the real world. The development of individualized care will be efficient only when the full complexity of the disease is embraced. Copyright © 2010 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of secondary ultrasound markers in the first trimester before chorionic villus sampling
Authors: Molina García Francisca S. , Carrillo Badillo María Paz , Zaragoza García Edgar A. , Fernández de Santos Aránzazu Garrote , Montoya Ventoso Francisco
Published: October 2010

Objective

To evaluate detection and false‐positive rates of the ultrasound markers—nasal bone (NB), ductus venosus (DV) flow and tricuspid regurgitation (TR)—during the first trimester in a population at high genetic risk, and to study the influence of a two‐stage screening policy alter previous combined screening on the rate of invasive procedures.

Methods

A total of 333 chorionic villus samples were obtained in singleton pregnancies. Before biopsy, the ultrasound markers—NB, DV, and TR—were assessed, although the findings were not used to recalculate the previously determined risk for Down syndrome.

Results

Detection and false‐positive rates for Down syndrome were 63.2% and 3.4% for NB, 65% and 3.1% for DV, and 50% and 2.1% for TR. All three markers were normal in 30% [84/277, 95% confidence interval (CI) 25%–36%] of chorionic villus sampling (CVS) cases performed for abnormal findings at the first trimester genetic screen, with 0% (0/20, 95% CI 0%–17%) false‐negative rate for Down syndrome.

Conclusion

Assessment of secondary ultrasound markers is feasible in clinical practice and their use could reduce the number of unnecessary invasive procedures by 30%. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Molecular diagnosis of Down syndrome using quantitative APEX‐2 microarrays
Authors: Oitmaa Eneli , Peters Maire , Vaidla Kadri , Andreson Reidar , Mägi Reedik , Slavin Georgi , Velthut Agne , Tõnisson Neeme , Reimand Tiia , Remm Maido , Schneider Marion , Õunap Katrin , Salumets Andres , Metspalu Andres
Published: October 2010

Objective

To develop a new rapid and high‐throughput microarray‐based prenatal diagnostic test for the detection of trisomy 21 (T21).

Methods

The T21 arrayed primer extension‐2 (APEX‐2) assay discriminates between trisomy and euploid DNA samples by comparing the signal intensities of allelic fractions of heterozygous single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) after APEX reaction. After preliminary validation using DNA samples from Down syndrome patients, we analyzed DNA samples from cultured and uncultured amniocytes and chorionic villus for 90 SNPs with high heterozygosity from the 21(q21.1q22.2) region. Differences in allelic ratios of heterozygous SNPs in normal and T21 individuals were verified by t‐test.

Results

Analysis of the T21 APEX‐2 assay results revealed that 90 SNPs were sufficient for reliable discrimination between T21 and euploid DNA samples (P⩽0.05 for one or both strands). Using 134 clinical samples from cultured or uncultured fetal cells, both the sensitivity and the specificity of the assay were 100%.

Conclusion

Our study provides a proof of principle demonstration of the use of the modified APEX‐2 assay as a new, fast and reliable method for prenatal diagnosis of fetal T21. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The impact of ageing and changing utilization patterns on future cardiovascular drug expenditure: a pharmacoepidemiological projection approach
Authors: Kildemoes Helle Wallach , Andersen Morten , Støvring Henrik
Published: October 2010

Purpose

To develop a method for projecting the impact of ageing and changing drug utilization patterns on future drug expenditure.

Methods

Applying nationwide registries, prescriptions of three categories of cardiovascular drugs were followed for all Danish residents from 1 January 1996 until 2006. The official Danish population forecast 2006–2015 was applied for projecting the population composition.

A previously developed pharmacoepidemiological semi‐Markov model was extended to apply for projection of future drug utilization. We either assumed that past trends in model parameters (incidence, discontinuation and drug user mortality) would continue during 2006–2015, or that all model parameters would remain unchanged at their values in 2005. Yearly drug expenditure per user of a particular drug was assumed to remain unchanged. Scenarios of future treatment prevalence with different drug categories were modelled by extrapolating future age‐ and gender‐specific parameter values (treatment incidence, discontinuation and drug user mortality) from historic point estimates and their historic trend.

Results

Provided a continuance of past trends, increasing utilization of ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II antagonists and statins translates into a rise in annual expenditure of 176%, mainly explained by increases in treatment incidence. Due to pharmacoepidemiological disequilibrium, unchanged model parameters would imply an increase of 64%, ageing alone 14%.

Conclusion

Increasing cardiovascular drug utilization may pose a substantial burden on future health care resources. However, prescribing behaviour is likely to depend on changing clinical guidelines. Despite the limited impact as cost driver, population ageing remains a challenge for future health care services. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Intumescent flame retardation of melamine‐modified montmorillonite on polyamide 6: Enhancement of condense phase and flame retardance
Authors: Fang Keyi , Li Juan , Ke Chenhao , Zhu Qiliang , Tao Kang , Zhu Jin , Yan Qing
Published: October 2010

Melamine‐modified montmorillonite (MA‐MMT) was prepared via cation exchange. The intercalation behavior was investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FT‐IR), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). The results showed that the d‐spacing value increased from 1.25 nm for Na‐montmorillonite (Na+MMT) to 1.53 nm for MA‐MMT. Different kinds of montmorillonite combined with melamine pyrophosphate (MPP) were used to prepare flame‐retardant polyamide 6 (FR‐PA6). Flame retardance of FR‐PA6 samples was investigated by limiting oxygen index (LOI), UL‐94 vertical burning method, and cone calorimeter test. Morphology and component of char residues for FR‐PA6 were investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and XPS. It was found that MA‐MMT/MPP system contributed both excellent flame retardance and anti‐dripping ability for PA6. MA‐MMT particles can fill flaws of char residues and strengthen the char layer, leading to form more intumescent char layer. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2011. © 2010 Society of Plastics Engineers
Synthesis of amphiphilic temperature‐sensitive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide)‐block‐poly(tetramethylene carbonate) block copolymers and micellar characterization
Authors: Lee Ren‐Shen , Chen Wen‐Hsin
Published: October 2010

Amphiphilic thermally sensitive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide)‐block‐poly(tetramethylene carbonate) block copolymers were synthesized by ring‐opening polymerization of tetramethylene carbonate with hydroxyl‐terminated poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNiPAAm) as macro‐initiator in the presence of stannous octoate as catalyst. The synthesis involved PNiPAAm bearing a single terminal hydroxyl group prepared by telomerization using 2‐hydroxyethanethiol as a chain‐transfer agent. The copolymers were characterized using 1H NMR and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and gel permeation chromatography. Their solutions show reversible changes in optical properties: transparent below the lower critical solution temperature (LCST) and opaque above the LCST. The LCST depends on the polymer composition and the media. Owing to their amphiphilic characteristics, the block copolymers form micelles in the aqueous phase with critical micelle concentrations (CMCs) in the range 1.11–22.9 mg L−1. Increasing the hydrophobic segment length or decreasing the hydrophilic segment length in the amphiphilic diblock copolymers produces lower CMCs. A core‐shell structure of the micelles is evident from 1H NMR analyses of the micelles in D2O. Transmission electron microscopic analyses of micelle morphology show a spherical structure of both blank and drug‐loaded micelles. The blank and drug‐loaded micelles have an average size of less than 130 nm. Observations show high drug‐entrapment efficiency and drug‐loading content for the drug‐loaded micelles. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Proteomic changes in maize roots after short‐term adjustment to saline growth conditions
Authors: Zörb Christian , Schmitt Sigrid , Mühling Karl H.
Published: October 2010

It is of fundamental importance to understand adaptation processes leading to salt resistance. The initial effects on maize roots in the first hour after the adjustment to saline conditions were monitored to elucidate initial responses. The subsequent proteome change was monitored using a 2‐D proteomic approach. We found several new salt‐inducible proteins, whose expression has not been previously reported to be modulated by salt. A set of phosphoproteins in maize was detected but only ten proteins were phosphorylated and six proteins were dephosphorylated after the application of 25 mM NaCl for 1 h. Some of the phosphorylated maize proteins such as fructokinase, UDP‐glucosyl transferase BX9, and 2‐Cys‐peroxyredoxine were enhanced, whereas an isocitrate‐dehydrogenase, calmodulin, maturase, and a 40‐S‐ribosomal protein were dephosphorylated after adjustment to saline conditions. The initial reaction of the proteome and phosphoproteome of maize after adjustment to saline conditions reveals members of sugar signalling and cell signalling pathways such as calmodulin, and gave hint to a transduction chain which is involved in NaCl‐induced signalling. An alteration of 14‐3‐3 proteins as detected may change plasma membrane ATPase activity and cell wall growth regulators such as xyloglucane endotransglycosylase were also found to be changed immediately after the adjustment to salt stress.
Comparative proteomic profiling of culture filtrate proteins of less and highly virulent Francisella tularensis strains
Authors: Konecna Klara , Hernychova Lenka , Reichelova Marketa , Lenco Juraj , Klimentova Jana , Stulik Jiri , Macela Ales , Alefantis Tim , DelVecchio Vito G.
Published: October 2010

The facultative intracellular bacterium Francisella tularensis is the causal agent of the serious infectious disease tularemia. Despite the dynamic progress, which has been made in last few years, important questions regarding Francisella pathogenicity still remain to be answered. Generally, secreted proteins play an important role in pathogenicity of intracellular microbes. In this study, we investigated the protein composition of the culture filtrate proteins of highly virulent F. tularensis subsp. tularensis, strain SCHU S4 and attenuated F. tularensis subsp. holarctica, live vaccine strain using a comparative proteomic analysis. The majority of proteins identified in this study have been implicated in virulence mechanisms of other pathogens, and several have been categorized as having moonlighting properties; those that have more than one unrelated function. This profiling study of secreted proteins resulted in the unique detection of acid phosphatase (precursor) A (AcpA), β‐lactamase, and hypothetical protein FTT0484 in the highly virulent strain SCHU S4 secretome. The release of AcpA may be of importance for F. tularensis subsp. tularensis virulence due to the recently described AcpA role in the F. tularensis escape from phagosomes.
Comparative proteomic analysis of biofilm and planktonic cells of Neisseria meningitidis
Authors: van Alen Tessa , Claus Heike , Zahedi René P. , Groh Janos , Blazyca Heinrich , Lappann Martin , Sickmann Albert , Vogel Ulrich
Published: October 2010

Neisseria meningitidis is a commensal of the human nasopharynx occasionally causing invasive disease. In vitro biofilms have been employed to model meningococcal carriage. A proteomic analysis of meningococcal biofilms was conducted and metabolic changes related to oxygen and nutrient limitation and upregulation of proteins involved in ROS defense were observed. The upregulated MntC which protects against ROS was shown to be required for meningococcal biofilm formation, but not for planktonic growth. ROS‐induced proteomic changes might train the biofilm to cope with immune effectors.
Plasma profiles in active systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis: Biomarkers and biological implications
Authors: Ling Xuefeng B. , Park Jane L. , Carroll Tanya , Nguyen Khoa D. , Lau Kenneth , Macaubas Claudia , Chen Edward , Lee Tzielan , Sandborg Christy , Milojevic Diana , Kanegaye John T. , Gao Susanna , Burns Jane , Schilling James , Mellins Elizabeth D.
Published: October 2010

Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (SJIA) is a chronic arthritis of children characterized by a combination of arthritis and systemic inflammation. There is usually non‐specific laboratory evidence of inflammation at diagnosis but no diagnostic test. Normalized volumes from 89/889 2‐D protein spots representing 26 proteins revealed a plasma pattern that distinguishes SJIA flare from quiescence. Highly discriminating spots derived from 15 proteins constitute a robust SJIA flare signature and show specificity for SJIA flare in comparison to active polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis or acute febrile illness. We used 7 available ELISA assays, including one to the complex of S100A8/S100A9, to measure levels of 8 of the15 proteins. Validating our DIGE results, this ELISA panel correctly classified independent SJIA flare samples, and distinguished them from acute febrile illness. Notably, data using the panel suggest its ability to improve on erythrocyte sedimentation rate or C‐reactive protein or S100A8/S100A9, either alone or in combination in SJIA F/Q discriminations. Our results also support the panel's potential clinical utility as a predictor of incipient flare (within 9 wk) in SJIA subjects with clinically inactive disease. Pathway analyses of the 15 proteins in the SJIA flare versus quiescence signature corroborate growing evidence for a key role for IL‐1 at disease flare.
Electrochemical and optical studies of furan and thieno[3,2‐b]thiophene end capped benzotriazole derivatives
Authors: Akbaşoğlu Naime , Balan Abidin , Baran Derya , Cirpan Ali , Toppare Levent
Published: October 2010

Two new 2‐dodecyl benzotriazole (BTz) based donor‐acceptor‐donor (DAD) type polymers were synthesized and characterized in terms of their electrochemical and spectral properties. These DAD type polymers were synthesized electrochemically from furan or thieno[3,2‐b]thiophene (TT) end‐capped BTz monomers. Furan based and thieno[3,2‐b]thiophene based monomers showed monomer oxidations at 1.15 and 1.25 V, respectively, which eased the formation of conducting polymer films without overoxidation. Cyclic voltammetry and spectroelectrochemistry studies showed that both materials are multicolored electrochromic polymers. Results and comparison with properties of other BTz based DAD type polymers are highlighted in detail. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2010
Recognition of Smac‐mimetic compounds by the BIR domain of cIAP1
Authors: Cossu Federica , Malvezzi Francesca , Canevari Giulia , Mastrangelo Eloise , Lecis Daniele , Delia Domenico , Seneci Pierfausto , Scolastico Carlo , Bolognesi Martino , Milani Mario
Published: October 2010

Inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAPs) are negative regulators of apoptosis. As IAPs are overexpressed in many tumors, where they confer chemoresistance, small molecules inactivating IAPs have been proposed as anticancer agents. Accordingly, a number of IAP‐binding pro‐apoptotic compounds that mimic the sequence corresponding to the N‐terminal tetrapeptide of Smac/DIABLO, the natural endogenous IAPs inhibitor, have been developed. Here, we report the crystal structures of the BIR3 domain of cIAP1 in complex with Smac037, a Smac‐mimetic known to bind potently to the XIAP‐BIR3 domain and to induce degradation of cIAP1, and in complex with the novel Smac‐mimetic compound Smac066. Thermal stability and fluorescence polarization assays show the stabilizing effect and the high affinity of both Smac037 and Smac066 for cIAP1‐ and cIAP2‐BIR3 domains.
Enzyme–ligand interactions that drive active site rearrangements in the Helicobacter pylori 5′‐methylthioadenosine/S‐adenosylhomocysteine nucleosidase
Authors: Ronning Donald R. , Iacopelli Natalie M. , Mishra Vidhi
Published: October 2010

The bacterial enzyme 5′‐methylthioadenosine/S‐adenosylhomocysteine nucleosidase (MTAN) plays a central role in three essential metabolic pathways in bacteria: methionine salvage, purine salvage, and polyamine biosynthesis. Recently, its role in the pathway that leads to the production of autoinducer II, an important component in quorum‐sensing, has garnered much interest. Because of this variety of roles, MTAN is an attractive target for developing new classes of inhibitors that influence bacterial virulence and biofilm formation. To gain insight toward the development of new classes of MTAN inhibitors, the interactions between the Helicobacter pylori‐encoded MTAN and its substrates and substrate analogs were probed using X‐ray crystallography. The structures of MTAN, an MTAN‐Formycin A complex, and an adenine bound form were solved by molecular replacement and refined to 1.7, 1.8, and 1.6 Å, respectively. The ribose‐binding site in the MTAN and MTAN‐adenine cocrystal structures contain a tris[hydroxymethyl]aminomethane molecule that stabilizes the closed form of the enzyme and displaces a nucleophilic water molecule necessary for catalysis. This research gives insight to the interactions between MTAN and bound ligands that promote closing of the enzyme active site and highlights the potential for designing new classes of MTAN inhibitors using a link/grow or ligand assembly development strategy based on the described H. pylori MTAN crystal structures.
Homology modeling and deletion mutants of human nicotinamide mononucleotide adenylyltransferase isozyme 2: New insights on structure and function relationship
Authors: Brunetti Lucia , Di Stefano Michele , Ruggieri Silverio , Cimadamore Flavio , Magni Giulio
Published: October 2010

Nicotinamide mononucleotide adenylyltransferase (NMNAT) catalyzes the formation of NAD by means of nucleophilic attack by 5′‐phosphoryl of NMN on the α‐phosphoryl group of ATP. Humans possess three NMNAT isozymes (NMNAT1, NMNAT2, and NMNAT3) that differ in size and sequence, gene expression pattern, subcellular localization, oligomeric state and catalytic properties. Of these, NMNAT2, the least abundant isozyme, is the only one whose much‐needed crystal structure has not been solved as yet. To fill this gap, we used the crystal structures of human NMNAT1 and NMNAT3 as templates for homology‐based structural modeling of NMNAT2, and the resulting raw structure was then refined by molecular dynamics simulations in a water box to obtain a model of the final folded structure. We investigated the importance of NMNAT2's central domain, which we postulated to be dispensable for catalytic activity, instead representing an isozyme‐specific control domain within the overall architecture of NMNAT2. Indeed, we experimentally confirmed that removal of different‐length fragments from this central domain did not compromise the enzyme's catalytic activity or the overall tridimensional structure of the active site.
Protein folding pathways and state transitions described by classical equations of motion of an elastic network model
Authors: Williams Gareth , Toon Andrew J.
Published: October 2010

Protein topology defined by the matrix of residue contacts has proved to be a fruitful basis for the study of protein dynamics. The widely implemented coarse‐grained elastic network model of backbone fluctuations has been used to describe crystallographic temperature factors, allosteric couplings, and some aspects of the folding pathway. In the present study, we develop a model of protein dynamics based on the classical equations of motion of a damped network model (DNM) that describes the folding path from a completely unfolded state to the native conformation through a single‐well potential derived purely from the native conformation. The kinetic energy gained through the collapse of the protein chain is dissipated through a friction term in the equations of motion that models the water bath. This approach is completely general and sufficiently fast that it can be applied to large proteins. Folding pathways for various proteins of different classes are described and shown to correlate with experimental observations and molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo simulations. Allosteric transitions between alternative protein structures are also modeled within the DNM through an asymmetric double‐well potential.
Exploring the trigger sequence of the GCN4 coiled‐coil: Biased molecular dynamics resolves apparent inconsistencies in NMR measurements
Authors: Missimer John H. , Dolenc Jožica , Steinmetz Michel O. , van Gunsteren Wilfred F.
Published: October 2010

Trigger sequences are indispensable elements for coiled‐coil formation. The monomeric helical trigger sequence of the yeast transcriptional activator GCN4 has been investigated recently using several solution NMR observables including nuclear Overhauser enhancement (NOE) intensities and 3J(HN,HCα)‐coupling constants, and a set of 20 model structures was proposed. Constrained to satisfy the NOE‐derived distance bounds, the NMR model structures do not appear to reproduce all the measured 3J(HN‐HCα)‐coupling constant values, indicating that the α‐helical propensity is not uniform along the GCN4 trigger sequence. A recent methodological study of unrestrained and restrained molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of the GCN4 trigger sequence in solution showed that only MD simulations incorporating time‐averaged NOE distance restraints and instantaneous or local‐elevation 3J‐coupling restraints could satisfy the entire set of the experimental data. In this report, we assess by means of cluster analyses the model structures characteristic of the two simulations that are compatible with the measured data and compare them with the proposed 20 NMR model structures. Striking characteristics of the MD model structures are the variability of the simulated configurations and the indication of entropic stability mediated by the aromatic N‐terminal residues 17Tyr and 18His, which are absent in the set of NMR model structures.
Critical analysis of simultaneous blockage of histone deacetylase and multiple receptor tyrosine kinase in the treatment of prostate cancer
Authors: Wedel Steffen , Hudak Lukasz , Seibel Jens‐Michael , Juengel Eva , Oppermann Elsie , Haferkamp Axel , Blaheta Roman A.
Published: October 2010

BACKGROUND

The concept of molecular tumor targeting might be an innovative option to treat advanced prostate cancer. We analyzed the effect of combining the multiple receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor AEE788 and the histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor valproic acid (VPA) on adhesion and growth properties of prostate cancer cell lines.

METHODS

PC‐3, DU‐145, and LNCaP cells were treated with AEE788, VPA or with an AEE788–VPA combination, and cell cycle progression investigated. Furthermore, tumor cell adhesion to vascular endothelium or to immobilized extracellular matrix proteins was evaluated, and integrin α and β subtypes were analyzed. Finally, effects of drug treatment on cell signaling pathways were determined.

RESULTS

AEE788 moderately and VPA strongly reduced tumor cell adhesion and growth. VPA impaired cell cycle progression and altered the expression level of the cell cycle regulating proteins cdk1, cdk2, cdk4, cyclin B, D1, cyclin E, p21, and p27. VPA also acted on the membranous, cytoplasmic, and gene expression pattern of various integrin α and β subtypes. AEE788 acted likewise, but more moderately. Combining AEE788 and VPA did not result in an additive anti‐tumor effect. Signaling analysis revealed that the EGFr downstream target Akt was similarly modified in the presence of VPA or the VPA–AEE788 combination, but not influenced by AEE788 alone.

CONCLUSIONS

The AEE788–VPA combination has no advantage over VPA monotreatment in vitro. The non‐responsiveness of Akt towards AEE788 might be one reason for this phenomenon. Prostate 71:722–735, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Exposure risk assessment and evaluation of the best management practice for controlling pesticide runoff from paddy fields. Part 2: Model simulation for the herbicide pretilachlor
Authors: Phong Thai Khanh , Vu Son Hong , Ishihara Satoru , Hiramatsu Kazuaki , Watanabe Hirozumi
Published: October 2010

BACKGROUND: Monitoring studies revealed high concentrations of pesticides in the drainage canal of paddy fields. It is important to have a way to predict these concentrations in different management scenarios as an assessment tool. A simulation model for predicting the pesticide concentration in a paddy block (PCPF‐B) was evaluated and then used to assess the effect of water management practices for controlling pesticide runoff from paddy fields.

RESULTS: The PCPF‐B model achieved an acceptable performance. The model was applied to a constrained probabilistic approach using the Monte Carlo technique to evaluate the best management practices for reducing runoff of pretilachlor into the canal. The probabilistic model predictions using actual data of pesticide use and hydrological data in the canal showed that the water holding period (WHP) and the excess water storage depth (EWSD) effectively reduced the loss and concentration of pretilachlor from paddy fields to the drainage canal. The WHP also reduced the timespan of pesticide exposure in the drainage canal.

CONCLUSIONS: It is recommended that: (1) the WHP be applied for as long as possible, but for at least 7 days, depending on the pesticide and field conditions; (2) an EWSD greater than 2 cm be maintained to store substantial rainfall in order to prevent paddy runoff, especially during the WHP. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Responses of Rhynchophorus ferrugineus adults to selected synthetic palm esters: electroantennographic studies and trap catches in an urban environment
Authors: Guarino Salvatore , Bue Paolo Lo , Peri Ezio , Colazza Stefano
Published: October 2010

BACKGROUND: The red palm weevil (RPW), Rhynchophorus ferrugineus Olivier, accidentally introduced into the European countries facing the Mediterranean basin, is becoming the most serious pest for ornamental palms in the urban environment. In the present work, tests were conducted on the electroantennogram (EAG) and behavioural responses of RPW adults to five selected synthetic palm esters, ethyl propionate, ethyl butyrate, ethyl isobutyrate, ethyl lactate and ethyl acetate, to assess the application of a mass trapping technique in an urban environment.

RESULTS: In the laboratory, EAG bioassays on RPW adults with the synthetic palm esters showed: (1) positive dose‐dependent responses; (2) differences among the treatments; (3) a greater response to ethyl propionate; (4) a higher sensitivity of female antennae compared with male antennae. In the urban environment, RPW behavioural responses, evaluated over six biweekly observations on pheromone‐ and molasses‐ baited traps, showed that more adults were caught by traps supplemented with ethyl propionate and ethyl acetate than by traps supplemented with only ethyl propionate. Similar catches were recorded in the traps supplemented with ethyl propionate or ethyl acetate.

CONCLUSION: This study supports the application of the mass trapping implemented with synthetic palm esters as a potential tool for the management of RPW populations to protect ornamental palms in urban environments. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Transition towards homeownership among foreign‐born immigrants in Spain from a life‐course approach
Authors: Vono‐de‐Vilhena Daniela , Bayona‐Carrasco Jordi
Published: October 2010

The objective of this paper is to analyse immigrants' transition to homeownership in Spain from a life‐course approach, utilising homeownership as an indicator of the integration process. We use data from the National Immigrant Survey that allows for a longitudinal analysis of this transition in Spain. Results have shown strong differences in homeownership depending on immigrant's country of birth. The length of stay in Spain, marriage and transnational ties with the country of origin were also demonstrated to be relevant factors in the analysis. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Why return migrants return: survey evidence on motives for internal return migration in Sweden
Authors: Niedomysl Thomas , Amcoff Jan
Published: October 2010

Internal return migration has received limited attention in most western countries, despite studies attesting to its potential for helping understand population redistribution. This paper compares differences in self‐reported motives for migration between return and non‐return migrants. Particular attention is paid to differences in individual characteristics and in the types of places these two migrant groups seek. The large‐scale Swedish survey data employed in this study make it the most exhaustive on the subject to date, enabling the exploration of different perspectives on migrant motivations. The results indicate significant differences in motivation between return and non‐return migrants, even after controlling for differences in individual characteristics and migration patterns. In particular, return migrants are much more likely to move for social reasons and much less likely to move for educational reasons. The evidence is less clear‐cut regarding the other motives investigated in this study: although there are indications that employment factors may facilitate return migration, return migration is largely driven by social considerations. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel etch process to tune crater size on magnetron sputtered ZnO:Al
Authors: Owen Jorj I. , Hüpkes Jürgen , Zhu Hongbing , Bunte Eerke , Pust Sascha E.
Published: October 2010

Magnetron sputtered aluminum‐doped zinc oxide (ZnO:Al) is used as a window layer in silicon‐based thin‐film solar cells due to its high transparency, high conductivity, and ability to provide effective light trapping after etching in a dilute HCl solution. A challenge with this method is the strong influence of sputtering conditions on the density and shape of the ZnO:Al etch features. Here we present a novel chemical etch process based on HF that enables the modification of surface features through the etch process itself, thus allowing the separate optimization of ZnO:Al deposition and texturization. The different etch characteristics of HCl and HF are studied on single crystal ZnO. Using the different etch characteristics of HF we effectively texturize polycrystalline ZnO:Al films which previously exhibited only poor light trapping in silicon thin‐film solar cells. The light trapping improvement is seen by an 18% increase in short circuit current density when used in microcrystalline silicon solar cells. Additionally, using mixtures of HCl and HF we are able to tune the feature size and shape on a given ZnO:Al sample.

magnified image

Scanning electron microscope images of high‐rate deposited ZnO:Al etched in HCl and HF.
Fullerene sensitized silicon for near‐ to mid‐infrared light detection
Authors: Matt G. J. , Fromherz T. , Bednorz M. , Neugebauer H. , Sariciftci N. S. , Bauer G.
Published: October 2010

Here, we report on a novel light sensing scheme based on a silicon/fullerene‐derivative (methano‐fullerene [6,6] phenyl‐C61 butyric acid methyl ester – PCBM) heterojunction that allows the realization of optoelectronic devices for the detection of near‐ to mid‐IR light. Despite the absent absorption of silicon and the fullerene‐derivative in the IR a heterojunction of these materials absorbes and generates a photocurrentin the spectral range from 1.1 to 0.55 eV. Besides its scientific relevance, the simple fabrication process of the heterojunction (e.g., the fullerene‐derivative is deposited by spin coating on Si) as well as its compatibility with the established complementary metaloxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology makes the presented hybrid approach a promising candidate for widespread applications.
On the choice of the test structure for the electrical characterization of dielectrics for silicon solar cells
Authors: Loozen X. , O'Sullivan B. J. , Rothschild A. , Vermang B. , John J. , Gordon I.
Published: October 2010

Surface passivation of Si solar cells is typically achieved by deposition of a dielectric layer. Via the investigation of Al2O3 passivation layers, we show that care must be taken when performing capacitance–voltage (C –V) measurements in order to obtain results that are meaningful at solar cell level. The passivation properties of a dielectric are not only affected by post‐deposition treatments but also by the presence and the nature of a metal covering the dielectric. Consequently, this Letter emphasizes how important it is to perform C –V measurements on a device structure that resembles as closely as possible that of the finished solar cell, using the same metal, deposition technique and thermal budget. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Magnetism and electronic correlations in the iron aluminides R Fe2Al10 (R = Y, Yb)
Authors: Strydom A. M. , Peratheepan P.
Published: October 2010

YFe2Al10 and YbFe2Al10 are new additions to the currently investigated rare‐earth (R) series of compounds RT2Al10 in which T is Fe, Ru, or Os. Unusual physical properties are drawing considerable attention to this group of compounds. Intriguingly, very small moments order in CeRu2Al10 at as high as 27 K, whereas CeFe2Al10 is a Kondo insulator with very strong hybridization of the Ce magnetic moments and no magnetic ordering at all. Here we present the first results of two further iron‐based compounds YFe2Al10 and YbFe2Al10 as a timely contribution to the knowledge of the physics at work in this system. In YFe2Al10 we find signatures of correlated electrons and the low‐temperature results of specific heat, magnetic susceptibility and electrical resistivity are indicative of ferromagnetic quantum criticality. In YbFe2Al10 localized f‐electron spins of Yb become involved in correlations with a moderately enhanced electronic specific heat that classifies it as a non‐ordered heavy‐fermion compound. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Life cycle inventory of HDPE bottle‐based liquid milk packaging systems
Authors: Singh Jay , Krasowski Aric , Singh S. Paul
Published: October 2010

This study aims at providing a relatively straightforward methodology to serve as a decision‐making tool when more than one packaging solution could be available to a user. It involves a life cycle inventory (LCI) analysis and comparison of three currently available 3.79 l (1 gallon) packaging systems for liquid milk. Two of the primary container types studied use reusable plastic crates (RPCs) for stacking and shipping, while the third type is a heavier duty container that does not require secondary shipping containers. The three primary containers studied are identified as original, cube and stackable throughout this paper. The study shows that the use of RPCs for controlled environment distribution reduces the material requirements of the primary containers and therefore reduces the overall CO2 emissions. It was also found that though the transportation‐related emissions varied between the packaging systems for the two end‐of‐life scenarios considered, it had the lowest overall effect on the CO2 emissions and use of energy. The study concludes that transportation weight limits must be considered as a limiting factor in package design for liquid products, as trailers ‘weigh out’ before they ‘cube out.’ As related to the LCI impacts, this study found that the original and cube container‐based packaging systems have better overall per functional unit performance in comparison with the stackable design. It was also noted that scorecards based on the Wal‐Mart format do not accurately define the environmental impacts posed by packaging systems. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of composition on structure and barrier properties of active PET films for food packaging applications
Authors: Galdi Maria Rosaria , Incarnato Loredana
Published: October 2010

A very attractive solution in food packaging technology is the functionalization of packaging materials by incorporating an active phase into polymeric matrices. Nowadays, the applications of active substances into flexible packaging are very limited due to difficulties in realizing performing films by common manufactory processes.

This work is focused on the production and characterization of monolayer poly(ethylene terephtalate) (PET) active films at different concentrations of an oxygen scavenger by cast extrusion process.

Rheological, thermal, morphological analyses and oxygen absorption measurements were carried out on the produced samples to investigate the structure of active PET films and to determine their scavenging properties.

Overall migration analyses were performed on active films to asses their safety in use with foodstuff, and finally the produced films were used to package fresh banana slices for evaluating their capability in quality foods preservation. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
How to identify the thymus in the fetus: the thy‐box
Authors: Paladini D.
Published: October 2010

How do we do it?

Practical advice on imaging‐based techniques and investigations
Diagnostic accuracy of transvaginal ultrasound for non‐invasive diagnosis of bowel endometriosis: systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Hudelist G. , English J. , Thomas A. E. , Tinelli A. , Singer C. F. , Keckstein J.
Published: October 2010

Objective

To critically analyze the diagnostic value of transvaginal sonography (TVS) for non‐invasive, presurgical detection of bowel endometriosis.

Methods

MEDLINE (1966–2010) and EMBASE (1980–2010) databases were searched for relevant studies investigating the diagnostic accuracy of TVS for diagnosing deep infiltrating endometriosis involving the bowel. Diagnosis was established by laparoscopy and/or histopathological analysis. Likelihood ratios (LRs) were recalculated in addition to traditional measures of effectiveness.

Results

Out of 188 papers, a total of 10 studies fulfilled predefined inclusion criteria involving 1106 patients with suspected endometriosis. The prevalence of bowel endometriosis varied from 24 to 73.3%. LR+ ranged from 4.8 to 48.56 and LR− ranged from 0.02 to 0.36, with wide confidence intervals. Pooled estimates of sensitivities and specificities were 91 and 98%; LR+ and LR− were 30.36 and 0.09; and positive and negative predictive values were 98 and 95%, respectively. Three of the studies used bowel preparations to enhance the visibility of the rectal wall; one study directly compared the use of water contrast vs. no prior bowel enema, for which the LR− was 0.04 and 0.47, respectively.

Conclusions

TVS with or without the use of prior bowel preparation is an accurate test for non‐invasive, presurgical detection of deep infiltrating endometriosis of the rectosigmoid. Copyright © 2011 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On being aware and accepting: A one‐year longitudinal study into adolescent well‐being
Authors: Ciarrochi Joseph , Kashdan Todd B. , Leeson Peter , Heaven Patrick , Jordan Carlie
Published: October 2010

The nature and potential benefit of awareness and experiential acceptance in adolescence remains neglected and understudied. To address this gap in the literature, 776 students (50% female) in Grade 10 completed measures of mindfulness, emotional awareness, and experiential acceptance, as well as measures of major personality traits. To study prospective changes, assessments of emotional well‐being were completed across a 1‐year interval. Analyses revealed that “Acting with Awareness” (engaging fully in one's current activity with undivided attention), emotional awareness, and experiential acceptance where all linked to prosocial tendencies and uniquely predicted increases in well‐being across the year. Observing experience (noticing, observing, and attending to a variety of stimuli) was correlated with positive and negative aspects of personality and did not predict changes in well‐being. We discuss the implications for understanding awareness and acceptance in youth.
Feasibility of Robotic Partial Nephrectomy in a UK Cancer Centre
Authors: Alleemudder Adam , Dudderidge Tim , Rao Amrith Raj , Mayer Erik K. , Hrouda David , Vale Justin A. , Khoubehi Bijan
Published: October 2010

Objective:

To present our initial peri-operative and pathological outcome data of 23 patients to establish the feasibility of robotic partial nephrectomy (RPN) in a UK cancer centre.

Patient and methods:

Clinical data from 23 patients who underwent RPN in a single institution between April 2008 and January 2010 were analysed. The RENAL Nephrometry Scoring System was applied to our series.

Results:

Mean patient age was 54.6 years with a mean tumour size of 2.53 cm. The median operative time was 198 min and warm ischaemia time (WIT) 30 min. There were two conversions and four patients required transfusion, with no other major complications. Histology confirmed renal cell carcinoma in 17 cases. All surgical margins were negative and to date there have been no local or distant recurrences. A mean RENAL score of 5.56 suggested that all the lesions had a low—moderate complexity and were therefore suitable for partial nephrectomy.

Conclusion:

RPN achieved acceptable WITs, blood loss and complication rates and oncological outcomes. We conclude that this technique is a feasible alternative to open surgery and conventional laparoscopic partial nephrectomy. The urological community need to establish the place for each technique although surgeon preference is likely to be a significant factor.
Magnetic Resonance Arthrography of Glenohumeral Lesions: Anatomy and Arthroscopically Confirmed Pathology
Authors: Boulet Cedric , De Maeseneer Michel , Pouliart Nicole , De Mey Johan , Handelberg Frank , Shahabpour Maryam
Published: October 2010

Interpretation of magnetic resonance (MR) arthrography images of the glenohumeral ligaments is made difficult by anatomical variations and by the lack of descriptions of signs of pathology of the ligaments. In this review, we describe the normal and pathologic appearance of the glenohumeral ligaments of the shoulder. These ligaments play an important role in stabilization of the shoulder. Both 1.5 and 3 T MR units were used to acquire the MR images. The principal investigator reviewed the imaging reports and arthroscopic reports. All cases were correlated with arthroscopy. Lesions of the superior glenohumeral, middle glenohumeral, and inferior glenohumeral, including humeral avulsion of the glenoid ligament are discussed. Diagnosis of lesions of the glenohumeral ligaments remains a challenge.