bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early growth responsive gene 3 in human breast carcinoma: a regulator of estrogen-meditated invasion and a potent prognostic factor
Authors: Suzuki Takashi , Inoue Akio , Miki Yasuhiro , Moriya Takuya , Akahira Jun-ichi , Ishida Takanori , Hirakawa Hisashi , Yamaguchi Yuri , Hayashi Shin-ichi , Sasano Hironobu
Published: July 2007

Early growth responsive gene 3 (EGR3) is a zinc-finger transcription factor and plays important roles in cellular growth and differentiation. We recently demonstrated estrogen-mediated induction of EGR3 in breast carcinoma cells. However, EGR3 has not yet been examined in breast carcinoma tissues and its significance remains unknown. Therefore, in this study, we examined biological functions of EGR3 in the breast carcinoma by immunohistochemistry, in vitro study, and nude mouse xenograft model. EGR3 immunoreactivity was detected in carcinoma cells in 99 (52%) out of 190 breast carcinoma tissues and was associated with the mRNA level. EGR3 immunoreactivity was positively associated with lymph node status, distant metastasis into other organs, estrogen receptor α, or EGR3 immunoreactivity in asynchronous recurrent lesions in the same patients, and was negatively correlated with tubule formation. EGR3 immunoreactivity was significantly associated with an increased risk of recurrence and adverse clinical outcome by both uni- and multivariate analyses. Egr3-expressing transformant cell lines derived from MCF-7 Tet-Off cells (Eg-10 and Eg-11) significantly enhanced the migration and invasion properties according to the treatment of doxycyclin, but did not significantly change the cell proliferation. Moreover, Eg-11 cells injected into athymic mice irregularly invaded into the adjacent peritumoral tissues, although Clt-7, which was stably transfected with empty vector as a control, demonstrated a well-circumscribed tumor. Eg-11 cells were significantly associated with invasive components and less tubule formation in the xenograft model. These results suggest that EGR3 plays an important role in estrogen-meditated invasion and is an independent prognostic factor in breast carcinoma.
A transplantable human medullary thyroid carcinoma as a model for RET tyrosine kinase-driven tumorigenesis
Authors: Johanson Viktor , Ahlman Håkan , Bernhardt Peter , Jansson Svante , Kölby Lars , Persson Fredrik , Stenman Göran , Swärd Christina , Wängberg Bo , Stridsberg Mats , Nilsson Ola
Published: July 2007

Hereditary medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is caused by germline mutations in the RET proto-oncogene, resulting in constitutive activation of the RET tyrosine kinase. A substantial proportion of sporadic MTCs also have RET mutations, making the RET tyrosine kinase a potential therapeutic target in MTC. We have established a transplantable MTC in nude mice from a sporadic human MTC carrying a RET C634R mutation. Transplanted tumors had an exponential growth rate with an approximate doubling time of about 3 weeks, and expressed a neuroendocrine phenotype characteristic of MTC, e.g., expression of calcitonin, chromogranin A (CgA), synaptophysin, synaptic vesicle protein 2 (SV2), vesicular monoamine transporter-1 and -2, carcinoembryonic antigen, cytokeratin 8/18, epithelial cadherin, and neural cell adhesion molecule. Plasma calcitonin and CgA levels were elevated in tumor-bearing mice and correlated with tumor size. Cytogenetic analysis, including spectral karyotyping, confirmed the human origin of the xenografted tumors and demonstrated an abnormal, near triploid karyotype. Treatment of tumor-bearing nude mice with the tyrosine kinase inhibitor ZD6474, which specifically inhibits RET, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and vascular endothelium growth factor receptor (VEGFR) tyrosine kinases, resulted in a dose-dependent inhibition of tumor growth. Oral ZD6474 given once daily (250 mg/kg, 5 days/week) reduced tumor volume to 11% when compared with controls after 4 weeks. Our results show that this transplantable MTC, designated GOT2, represents a novel and useful model for studies of MTC and RET tyrosine kinase-dependent tumor growth.
Proteomic profiling of von Hippel–Lindau syndrome and multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 pheochromocytomas reveals different expression of chromogranin B
Authors: Brouwers Frederieke M , Gläsker Sven , Nave Amanda F , Vortmeyer Alexander O , Lubensky Irina , Huang Steven , Abu-Asab Mones S , Eisenhofer Graeme , Weil Robert J , Park Deric M , Linehan W Marston , Pacak Karel , Zhuang Zhengping
Published: July 2007

Pheochromocytomas are catecholamine-producing tumors that can occur in the context of von Hippel–Lindau syndrome (VHL) and multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN2). Pheochromocytomas in these two syndromes differ in histopathological features, catecholamine metabolism, and clinical phenotype. To further investigate the nature of these differences, we compared the global protein expressions of 8 MEN2A-associated pheochromocytomas with 11 VHL-associated pheochromocytomas by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis proteomic profiling followed by sequencing and identification of differentially expressed proteins. Although both types of pheochromocytoma shared similarities in their protein expression patterns, the expression of several proteins was distinctly different between VHL- and MEN2A-associated pheochromocytomas. We identified several of these differentially expressed proteins. One of the proteins with higher expression in MEN2-associated tumors was chromogranin B, of which the differential expression was confirmed by western blot analysis. Our results expand the evidence for proteomic differences between these two tumor entities, and suggest that VHL-associated pheochromocytomas may be deficient in fundamental machinery for catecholamine storage. In light of these new findings, as well as existing evidence for differences between both types of pheochromocytomas, we propose that these tumors may have different developmental origins.
Gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors: a role for targeted therapies?
Authors: Kulke Matthew H
Published: July 2007

Traditional therapies have offered patients with advanced gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors limited benefit. Selected patients with hepatic metastases may benefit from surgical debulking, embolization, or other ablative therapies. While somatostatin analogs are highly effective in controlling symptoms of hormonal secretion, they are only rarely associated with tumor regression. The clinical benefit associated with the administration of systemic agents such as interferon-α or cytotoxic chemotherapy is less clear, and the widespread use of such regimens has been limited by their relatively modest anti-tumor activity, as well as concerns regarding their potential toxicity. The mixed clinical results seen with these agents in neuroendocrine tumors have led to great interest in the development of novel treatment approaches for patients with advanced disease. Recent clinical studies of novel agents, particularly those targeting the vascular endothelial growth factor pathway and mammalian target of rapamycin, have demonstrated promising activity in patients with advanced neuroendocrine tumors. Ongoing randomized studies should help better define the role these and other targeted agents will play in the future treatment of patients with this disease.
Chemotherapy and role of the proliferation marker Ki-67 in digestive neuroendocrine tumors
Authors: Vilar Eduardo , Salazar Ramón , Pérez-García Jose , Cortes Javier , Öberg Kjell , Tabernero Josep
Published: July 2007

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) of the digestive tract are a heterogeneous group of rare malignancies. Three major subgroups can be defined: pancreatic endocrine tumors, carcinoid tumors, and poorly differentiated gastroenteropancreatic NETs. Classically, digestive NETS have been considered to have an indolent course characterized for prolonged stabilizations or slow progressions, but there are clear differences in terms of aggressiveness, clinical course, and response to treatment among them. Retrospective studies have identified several clinicopathological and immunohistochemical factors as angioinvasion and proliferative index assessed by Ki-67 expression, which predict biological behavior and correlate with survival. Chemotherapy regimens based on the combination of several active drugs such as streptozocin, doxorubicin, 5-fluorouracil, dacarbazine, and temozolomide show low response rates, which sets the need to improve the results of the medical treatment of these malignancies. This review will analyze the role of Ki-67 in digestive NETs under a clinical perspective and will suggest future fields for development of this approach that enable a better patient selection for chemotherapy. Also a comprehensive review of the literature about chemotherapy in NETs is presented.
Ishikawa cells exhibit differential gene expression profiles in response to oestradiol or 4-hydroxytamoxifen
Authors: Johnson Suzanne M , Maleki-Dizaji Manijeh , Styles Jerry A , White Ian N H
Published: July 2007

In this study, the oestrogen agonist/antagonist action of 4-hydroxytamoxifen (OHT; 1 × 10−6 M) and 17β-oestradiol (E2; 1 × 10−8 M) were assessed on the oestrogen receptor (ER)-positive epithelial cell line (Ishikawa) with respect to cell proliferation, and to gene and protein expression. qRT-PCR and western blotting confirmed that Ishikawa cells expressed both ER isoforms and that there was no change in transcript levels in response to either ligand. Gene expression profiles, using oligonucleotide arrays representing ~19 000 human genes, showed that the expression of 716 and 534 genes were changed differentially by treatment with either OHT or E2 respectively, at the 24-h time point, with modulation of 46 genes common to both ligands, whereas 335 (OHT) and 240 (E2) genes showed expression changes unique to ligand, with 13 common alterations at 48 h. Both OHT and E2 had demonstrable oestrogen agonist actions on Ishikawa cells, exemplified by increased proliferation and expression of known oestrogen-responsive genes, such as creatine kinase B and by the induction of alkaline phosphatase activity. Additionally, the data indicate that the two oestrogen agonists generated not only common gene expression changes but also unique ligand-specific profiles, raising the intriguing possibility that tamoxifen has E2-independent effects on the uterine epithelium.
The oestrogen metabolite 2-methoxyoestradiol alone or in combination with tumour necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand mediates apoptosis in cancerous but not healthy cells of the human endometrium
Authors: Kato Sumie , Sadarangani Anil , Lange Soledad , Villalón Manuel , Brañes Jorge , Brosens Jan J , Owen Gareth I , Cuello Mauricio
Published: July 2007

Cancers of the reproductive tract account for 12% of all malignancies in women. As previous studies have shown that oestrogen metabolites can cause apoptosis, we characterised the effect of oestrogen and oestrogen metabolites on non-cancerous and cancerous human endometrial cells. Herein, we demonstrate that 2-methoxyoestradiol (2ME), but not 17β-oestradiol, induces apoptosis in cancer cell lines and primary cultured tumours of endometrial origin. In contrast, 2ME had no effect on cell viability of corresponding normal tissue. This ability of 2ME to induce apoptosis does not require oestrogen receptor activation, but is associated with increased entry into the G2/M phases of the cell cycle and the activation of both the intrinsic and the extrinsic apoptotic pathways. The selective behaviour of 2ME on cancerous as opposed to normal tissue may be due to a reduction in 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type II levels in cancer cells and to a differential down-regulation of superoxide dismutase. Furthermore, we demonstrate that pre-treatment with 2ME enhances the sensitivity of reproductive tract cancer cells to the apoptotic drug tumour necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL), without the loss in cell viability to normal cells incurred by currently chemotherapeutic drugs. In conclusion, 2ME, alone or in combination with TRAIL, may be an effective treatment for cancers of uterine origin with minimal toxicity to corresponding healthy female reproductive tissue.
A Low Phytic Acid Barley Mutation Alters Seed Gene Expression
Authors: Bowen David E. , Souza Edward J. , Guttieri Mary J. , Raboy Victor , Fu Jianming
Published: July 2007

Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) low phytic acid (lpa) mutants have reduced levels of seed phytate and increased concentrations of seed inorganic phosphorus. To understand how lpa mutations affect metabolic and developmental processes during seed growth, gene expression experiments were performed using oligonucleotide microarrays. Differential gene expression was assayed at 7 d after anthesis in developing seeds homozygous either for the lpa mutation M955, or for its corresponding nonmutant, wild‐type allele. Homozygosity for M955 blocks phytate accumulation throughout seed development, resulting in a ∼90% reduction in mature seed phytate. Consistent and substantial differential expression was observed for 38 genes (probesets) representing various cellular processes and unknown functions. The majority of differentially expressed genes showed decreased expression with a much smaller proportion of upregulated genes. No changes in expression of genes thought to be directly involved in the synthesis of phytate were observed. Reduced expression was observed for functions important to carbohydrate and cell wall metabolism, cytokinin and ethylene signaling, and transport functions. These results reflect the interconnection of phosphorus, inositol phosphate, and sugar metabolism, and signaling networks regulating these metabolic and developmental pathways. The M955 lpa mutation appears to affect seed development and function through carbon transport and starch synthesis and may account for yield reductions previously reported for this mutation.
Development of SNP Assays for Marker‐Assisted Selection of Two Southern Root‐Knot Nematode Resistance QTL in Soybean
Authors: Ha Bo‐Keun , Hussey Richard S. , Boerma H. Roger
Published: July 2007

The identification of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers tightly linked to soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] quantitative trait loci (QTL) conditioning resistance to southern root‐knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) (Mi) would enhance the efficiency and cost effectiveness of marker‐assisted selection (MAS) for this trait. Bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) ends and simple sequence repeat (SSR)‐containing genomic DNA clones were used to develop SNP markers linked to two soybean Mi resistance QTL on Linkage Group O (LG‐O) and LG‐G. A total of 14 BAC‐end sequences and seven SSR flanking regions were used to design primers to amplify genomic fragments of PI 96354 (Mi resistant) and ‘Bossier’ (Mi susceptible). We discovered three SNPs in Satt358 source‐sequences located near a major Mi‐resistant QTL on LG‐O and three SNPs in Satt199 source‐sequences located near a minor Mi‐resistant QTL on LG‐G. Using a direct hybridization SNP assay detected on a Luminex 100 flow cytometer, the SNP358 genotypes of 94 F2:3 lines from a cross of PI 96354 × Bossier were congruent with the genotypes of the SSR marker Satt358. The genotypes of SNP199 marker which targets a SNP in Satt199 source‐sequence also showed 100% congruence with the genotypes of the SSR marker Satt199. SNP genotyping of 24 known Mi‐resistant or Mi‐susceptible cultivars showed that SNP358 and SNP199 markers should be highly effective in MAS for the Mi‐resistance QTL on LG‐O and LG‐G.
Hypercoiling of the Umbilical Cord and Placental Maturation Defect: Associated Pathology?
Authors: de Laat Monique W.M. , van der Meij Jacqueline J.C. , Visser Gerard H.A. , Franx Arie , Nikkels Peter G.J.
Published: July 2007

Our objective was to determine whether there is an association between hypercoiling of the umbilical cord and placental maturation defect. From a database comprising 1147 cases, containing data on all placentas examined at our institution during the study period we selected all cases with a gestational age of at least 37 weeks that exhibited hypercoiling of the umbilical cord (coiling density above the 90th percentile, n = 42); we also examined 2 matched controls for each case, one with hypocoiling and one with normocoiling. The mean number of syncytiocapillary membranes (SCM) per terminal villus was calculated. Presence of a placental maturation defect was defined as the mean number of SCM below the 10th percentile. Correlations were assessed using Spearman's rho. Relations between dichotomous variables were tested using logistic regression. Mean number of SCM per terminal villus (±standard deviation) was 1.25 ± 0.65. Difference in mean between hypo- and hypercoiled cords was 0.37 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.07 to 0.67). The correlation coefficient between mean number of SCM and umbilical coiling index (UCI, coils/cm) was −0.28 ( P = 0.002). The odds ratio (OR) for placental maturation defect in presence of hypercoiling was 2.61 (95% CI, 0.75 to 9.12). The OR for fetal death was 132 (95% CI, 13.2 to 1315) in the presence of a placental maturation defect and 5.49 (95% CI, 1.02 to 29.6) in the presence of hypercoiling. The OR for indication of fetal hypoxia/ischemia was 12.3 (95% CI, 3.0 to 50.3) in the presence of a placental maturation defect and 3.2 (95% CI, 0.95 to 10.9) in the presence of hypercoiling. We found a trend toward placental maturation defect in the presence of hypercoiling and an inverse relationship between the mean number of SCM in the terminal villi and the UCI. We confirmed associations between fetal death and both a maturation defect and hypercoiling and found an association between histological indication of fetal hypoxia/ischemia and a placental maturation defect.
Congenital Cytomegalovirus Infection: A Cause of Renal Dysplasia?
Authors: Chan Maren , Hecht Jonathan L. , Boyd Theonia , Rosen Seymour
Published: July 2007

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is one of the most frequently encountered viral infections of the fetus and induces a wide range of histologic and clinical manifestations. Congenital abnormalities are typically restricted to the central nervous system despite evidence of CMV inclusions occurring in most epithelial cells. Although tissue injury and even glomerulonephritis have been observed in congenital CMV infections, renal multicystic dysplasia has not been reported. Herein, we describe a case of unilateral renal dysplasia in a 19-week fetus with concurrent CMV infection. We believe the present case to be the first description of a virus apparently inducing renal multicystic dysplasia.
Achondrogenesis Type IA (Houston-Harris): A Still-Unresolved Molecular Phenotype
Authors: Aigner Thomas , Rau Tilman , Niederhagen Manuel , Zaucke Frank , Schmitz Markus , Pöhls Uwe , Stöss Helmut , Rauch Anita , Thiel Christian T.
Published: July 2007

Achondrogenesis type IA (Houston-Harris) is an extremely rare lethal chondrodysplasia with a characteristic severe disarrangement of endochondral ossification. The growth plate cartilage completely lacks columnar-zone formation and shows chondrocyte expansion due to intracellular vacuoles. This article on a new case of achondrogenesis type IA confirms these findings and demonstrates, on the ultrastructural level, the retention of fine fibrillar material within the rough endoplasmic reticulum (rER). Molecular analysis in the presented case of achondrogenesis type IA did not reveal mutations in the COL2A1 and SLC26A2 genes, which are known to cause achondrogenesis types IB and type II. Although the extracellular cartilage matrix was severely altered, all of the investigated matrix molecules (collagens, aggrecan, matrilins, cartilage oligomeric protein [COMP]) showed a normal distribution pattern. The only exception was type-X collagen, which was significantly reduced. Overall, our study suggests a disturbance in cartilage matrix assembly in the present case due to the retention of some sort of matrix component within the rER. Presumably, as a consequence of this event, processes of chondrocyte maturation and differentiation and endochondral bone formation are severely affected in this case of achondrogenesis type IA.
An Eyelid Sialoblastoma-Like Tumor with a Sarcomatoid Myoepithelial Component
Authors: Shet Tanuja , Ramadwar Mukta , Sharma Suash , Laskar Siddhartha , Arora Brijesh , Kurkure Purna
Published: July 2007

Nonround cell tumors are rare in children and often difficult to diagnose. This article describes an 18-month-old child who presented with a mass on the outer aspect of the left eyelid. This mass was incompletely excised. Histologically, the tumor had nests of basaloid and relatively round cells with immature acinar or ductular structures similar to those seen in a conventional sialoblastoma, but these nests were embedded in a malignant spindle cell stroma. This stroma on immunohistochemistry was marked with S-100 and cytokeratin, which, in combination with the pertinent ultrastructural evidence, indicated a myoepithelial differentiation. Overall histologic features suggested a tumor similar to a sialoblastoma with sarcomatoid transformation of the myoepithelial component, hitherto not described in literature. This tumor probably arose from the palpebral lobe of the lacrimal gland. Postsurgery, the patient received chemotherapy (6 cycles of ifosfamide, vincristine, and doxorubicin hydrochloride [Adriamycin]) and local radiotherapy in view of residual disease. Three months after completion of the treatment (1 year after surgery), the patient is well, without any local disease. Awareness of this unusual histology of sialoblastoma will help in avoiding misdiagnosis and also refine treatment-related issues on this rare tumor.
Fetal Gonadoblastoid Testicular Dysplasia: A Focal Failure of Testicular Development
Authors: Nistal Manuel , Rodríguez José I. , García-Fernández Eugenia , Cajaiba Mariana M. , Reyes-Múgica Miguel
Published: July 2007

Fetal gonadoblastoid testicular dysplasia (FGTD) is an extremely rare lesion, which, in its original description, appeared in association with hydrops fetalis and other malformations. Its phenotype strongly resembles gonadoblastoma, although in contrast with that rare tumor, FGTD is not associated with the intersexual states or gonadal dysgenesis that accompany such neoplasm. Two reports described an association of FGTD and a morphologically similar lesion with Walker-Warburg syndrome. However, we have not confirmed such an observation, although a nonspecific muscle disorder was found in one of the examples we describe in this article. Here we study 2 additional cases, providing a detailed topographical, histomorphological, and immunophenotypical analysis. A review of all 5 previously described cases is conducted. The features of this lesion support the notion that a focal defect in testicular development is its most likely pathogenesis.
Tailgut Cyst (Retrorectal Hamartoma): Report of a Pediatric Case
Authors: Galluzzo M. Laura , Bailez Marcela , Reusmann Aixa , Gonzalez Roberto , de Dávila M.T.G.
Published: July 2007

Tailgut cyst (TGC) is an uncommon congenital lesion, located in the retrorectal/presacral space. We report a 12-year-old girl with lumbar pain and a retrorectal mass. She had mental retardation, hypothyroidism, didelphus uterus, sacrum vertebrae, and coccyx agenesis, without chromosomic anomalies. Three surgeries were performed for the complete excision of the tumor. Microscopically, the mass consisted of cystic spaces lined by a wide variety of epithelia and a stroma composed of fibrous tissue containing bundles of smooth muscle fibers. According to these findings, the diagnosis was TGC. This is a rare congenital lesion that usually presents as a multiloculated cyst in the retrorectal space of young women; TGC requires complete surgical excision to prevent recurrences, infections, and malignant transformation. This case was unique because of the association of TGC with other malformative features and concomitant disease in a pediatric patient.
Immunosuppression-Related Fibroproliferative Polyps of the Tongue
Authors: Vargas Sara O. , Perez-Atayde Antonio R. , Padwa Bonnie L. , Springer Kimberley M.
Published: July 2007

Polypoid tongue lesions arising after bone marrow transplantation have been described. Their etiopathogenesis has been unclear, as has their relationship to similar lesions arising in other settings of chronic immunodeficiency. We identified 12 polypoid lesions (from 8 immunosuppressed patients aged 6 months to 13 years) among all tongue lesions biopsied over the course of 13 years at our institution. Clinical history, histologic and ultrastructural features, special stains (Gram, Grocott methenamine silver, acid-fast bacilli, CD34, actin, desmin, human herpesvirus-8), in situ hybridization for Epstein-Barr virus, and cytogenetic features were studied. Immunocompromise was from bone marrow transplantation for severe combined immunodeficiency ( n = 1) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia ( n = 3), hypogammaglobulinemia ( n = 2), 22q11 deletion syndrome ( n = 1), and asthma therapy ( n = 1). Histologic examination revealed fibrous stromal cores with squamous epithelial covering and various degrees of ulceration and accompanying inflammation and granulation tissue. In 2 patients lesions were multiple in number. Fibroblasts were variably positive for smooth muscle actin and desmin and negative for CD34. Special stains, immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization, and ultrastructural examination identified no organisms except occasional surface bacteria. The tongue lesion from 1 patient with Down's syndrome showed t(2;9)(p11;q34)+21 (translocation not seen in peripheral blood). Another patient had constitutional del 22q11. All transplant patients had Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) (translocations involving 9q34 and 22q11). Patients with congenital immunosuppression had polyps arise at significantly younger ages than did patients with acquired immunosuppression. Immunosuppression-related lingual polyps are a fibroproliferative process occurring in patients with bone marrow transplantation and other immune-deficient conditions. Our findings indicate that these polyps are driven by both immunosuppression and chromosomal rearrangement.
Placental Lesions as Predictors of Cerebral Palsy and Abnormal Neurocognitive Function at School Age in Extremely Low Birth Weight Infants (<1 kg)
Authors: Redline Raymond W. , Minich Nori , Taylor H. Gerry , Hack Maureen
Published: July 2007

Extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants (<1 kg) have high rates of neurodisability. Although previous studies have implicated placental lesions in adverse short-term neurologic outcomes in this population, none have assessed their effects in these children once they reach school age. We conducted a secondary analysis of placental pathology in a cohort study of inborn singleton ELBW infants born between 1992 and 1995 and evaluated for cerebral palsy (CP) and abnormal neurocognitive testing at 8 years of age ( N = 129). The neurocognitive tests were the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children (K-ABC) and 6 subtests of the NEPSY: A Developmental Neuropsychological Assessment. We found that placental lesions associated with maternal vascular underperfusion (increased syncytial knots and acute atherosis) were risk factors for CP, while villous edema was associated with low scores on both neurocognitive tests. Histologic chorioamnionitis (HCA) was not predictive of outcome in the population as a whole, but a severe fetal vascular response was associated with a lower NEPSY score in the subpopulation with HCA ( N = 69). Placentas with increased syncytial knots, villous edema, and those with neither finding constituted nonoverlapping subgroups with distinct pathologic and perinatal characteristics. Among infants with villous edema ( N = 25), those with neurologic impairment had lower gestational ages and more severe degrees of HCA. However, by logistic regression these other factors were not independent risk factors for abnormal neurocognitive testing, and only HCA with a severe fetal vascular response decreased the association of villous edema with low test scores for NEPSY, but not K-ABC.
Quantitative determination of hexavalent chromium in aqueous solutions by UV-Vis spectrophotometer
Authors: Fournier-Salaün Marie-Christine , Salaün Philippe
Published: July 2007

In the last decade, different methods have been developed for the determination of chromium(VI) concentration in water. These methods use high cost equipment or they require a long preparation time. Because of their drawbacks, this paper describes an on-line, rapid and sensitive procedure for the determination of Cr(VI) concentrations in aqueous solutions via pH and absorption measurements. Only four Cr(VI) species are considered. The effects of pH and of total amount of chromium on the Cr(VI) speciation are investigated. The molar absorptivities of four chromium species at 371 nm are determined by minimising an objective function. The knowledge of these molar absorptivities and the measurements of pH and absorption at 371 nm lead to a rapid determination of total Cr(VI) concentration. The reliability and applicability of the method were confirmed using synthetic water samples.
A new perspective on the role of CuZn superoxide dismutase (SOD1)
Authors: Mondola Paolo , Seru Rosalba , Damiano Simona , Santillo Mariarosaria
Published: July 2007

The CuZn superoxide dismutase (SOD1), a member of a group of isoenzymes involved in the scavenger of superoxide anions, is a dimeric carbohydrate free protein, mainly localized in the cytosol. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) are involved in many pathophysiological events correlated with mutagenesis, cancer, degenerative processes and aging. In the first part of this mini-review the well known role of SOD1 and ROS are briefly summarized. Following, a potential novel biological action that SOD1 could exert is described, based on the recent researches demonstrating the secretion of this enzyme in many cellular lines. Moreover, the role of impaired mutant SOD1 secretion, associated with cytoplasmic toxic inclusion, which occurs in familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), is summarized. In addition, a depolarization-dependent release of SOD1 in pituitary GH3 cells and in rat synaptosomes through a calcium and SNARE-dependent mechanism is reported.
Asymmetric Hydrosilylation of Prochiral Ketones Catalyzed by Nanocrystalline Copper(II) Oxide
Authors: Kantam M. Lakshmi , Laha Soumi , Yadav Jagjit , Likhar Pravin R. , Sreedhar B. , Choudary B. M.
Published: July 2007

Asymmetric hydrosilylation of aryl alkyl ketones to afford chiral secondary alcohols with good yields and excellent enantioselectivity is realized by using nanocrystalline copper(II) oxide and BINAP in the presence of organosilanes as the stoichiometric reducing agents.
Asymmetric Friedel–Crafts Alkylations of Indoles with Ethyl Glyoxylate Catalyzed by (S)‐BINOL‐Titanium(IV) Complex: Direct Access to Enantiomerically Enriched 3‐Indolyl(hydroxy)acetates
Authors: Dong Hong‐Ming , Lu Hai‐Hua , Lu Liang‐Qiu , Chen Cai‐Bao , Xiao Wen‐Jing
Published: July 2007

Enantioselective Friedel–Crafts alkylation reactions of a variety of indoles with ethyl glyoxylate, catalyzed by a chiral (S)‐BINOL‐Ti(IV) complex (10 mol %), are reported. The corresponding ethyl 3‐indolyl(hydroxy)acetates were formed in good yields and with high enantiomeric excess (up to 96 %). When methyl pyruvate or p‐chlorophenylglyoxal was used, the bisindole compound was obtained in excellent yield. A possible mechanism is proposed.
An Efficient and Practical Method for Highly Chemoselective Hydrogenation of Nitrobenzylamines to Aminobenzylamine Hydrochlorides
Authors: Cheng Chuanjie , Wang Xinyan , Xing Lixin , Liu Bo , Zhu Rui , Hu Yuefei
Published: July 2007

Aqueous hydrochloric acid proved to be a very reliable modulator for adjusting the reactivity of palladium on carbon. Thus an efficient and practical method for the highly chemoselective hydrogenation of N,N‐dialkylnitrobenzylamines to amino‐N,N‐dialkylbenzylamine hydrochlorides was established. The method features convenient performance, easy work‐up and high efficiency.
An Efficient Synthesis of Organic Carbonates using Nanocrystalline Magnesium Oxide
Authors: Kantam M. Lakshmi , Pal Ujjwal , Sreedhar B. , Choudary B. M.
Published: July 2007

An efficient and selective synthesis of organic carbonates using nanocrystalline magnesium oxide has been realized by the direct condensation of alcohols and diethyl carbonate. The catalyst is quantitatively recovered by simple centrifugation and can be reused for four cycles with almost consistent activity.
Gold(I)‐ and Brønsted Acid‐Catalyzed Ring‐Opening of Unactivated Vinylcyclopropanes with Sulfonamides
Authors: Shi Wen‐Jian , Liu Yanyun , Butti Pietro , Togni Antonio
Published: July 2007

The gold(I)‐ or Brønsted acid‐catalyzed reaction of unactivated vinylcyclopropanes (VCPs) with sulfonamides affords useful homoallylic amine derivatives. This ring‐opening reaction occurs in a highly selective manner affording in the case of α‐phenyl‐substituted VCPs products with the E‐configuration exclusively.
Retaining Catalyst Performance at High Temperature: The Use of a Tetraphosphine Ligand in the Highly Regioselective Hydroformylation of Terminal Olefins
Authors: Yan Yongjun , Zhang Xiaowei , Zhang Xumu
Published: July 2007

A new tetraphosphine ligand has been developed and applied in the highly regioselective hydroformylation of terminal olefins. The ligand retains high performance at high temperature when compared with its bisphosphine analogue.
Efficient Whole‐Cell Biocatalytic Synthesis of N‐Acetyl‐D‐neuraminic Acid
Authors: Xu Ping , Qiu Jian Hua , Zhang Yi Nan , Chen Jing , Wang Peng George , Yan Bing , Song Jing , Xi Ri Mo , Deng Zi Xin , Ma Cui Qing
Published: July 2007

N‐Acetyl‐D‐neuraminic acid (Neu5Ac) was efficiently synthesized from lactate and a mixture of N‐acetyl‐D‐glucosamine (GlcNAc) and N‐acetyl‐D‐mannosamine (ManNAc) by whole cells. The biotransformation utilized Escherichia coli cells (Neu5Ac aldolase), Pseudomonas stutzeri cells (lactate oxidase components), GlcNAc/ManNAc and lactate. By this process, 18.32±0.56 g/liter Neu5Ac were obtained from 65.61±2.70 g/liter lactate as an initial substrate input. Neu5Ac (98.4±0.4 % purity, 80.87±0.79 % recovery yield) was purified by anionic exchange chromatography. Our results demonstrate that the reported Neu5Ac biosynthetic process can compare favorably with natural product extraction or chemical synthesis processes.
Noels’ vs. Grubbs’ Catalysts: Evidence for One Unique Active Species for Two Different Systems!
Authors: Ahr Mathieu , Thieuleux Chloé , Copéret Christophe , Fenet Bernard , Basset Jean‐Marie
Published: July 2007

The catalytically active propagating species involved in the self‐metathesis of ethyl oleate obtained from the multi‐component Noels’ catalytic system {[RuCl2(p‐cymene)(PCy3)]+Me3SiCHN2} are probably the same as those of the single‐component well‐defined Grubbs’ 1st generation catalyst, [Cl2RuCHPh(PCy3)2] (1‐Ph). In the case of the Noels’ catalyst, it involves the de‐coordination of p‐cymene, and the redistribution of PCy3 ligands to generate only 5–10 % of [Cl2RuCHR(PCy3)2], where R=CH(CH2)6CH3 (1‐Oct) and R=CH(CH2)6COOEt (1‐E), while 1‐Ph can generate 100 % of these species.
Highly Regio‐ and Stereoselective Iodohydroxylation of Non‐ Heteroatom‐Substituted Allenes: An Efficient Synthesis of 4‐[3′‐Hydroxy‐2′‐iodoalk‐1′(Z)‐enyl]‐2(5H)‐furanone Derivatives
Authors: Gu Zhenhua , Deng Youqian , Shu Wei , Ma Shengming
Published: July 2007

An efficient protocol for the highly regio‐ and stereoselective synthesis of 4‐(3′‐hydroxy‐2′‐iodoalk‐1′(Z)‐enyl)furan‐2(5H)‐one derivatives via selective iodohydroxylation of non‐heteroatom‐substituted allenes, i.e., 4‐allenyl‐2(5H)furanones, has been developed. The regio‐ and stereoselectivity of this reaction may be controlled by the electronic and steric effects of the furanone ring.
Dynamic Kinetic Resolution of Primary Alcohols with an Unfunctionalized Stereogenic Center in the β‐Position
Authors: Strübing Dirk , Krumlinde Patrik , Piera Julio , Bäckvall Jan‐E.
Published: July 2007

Primary alcohols with an unfunctionalized stereogenic center in the β‐position undergo an enzyme‐ and metal‐catalyzed dynamic kinetic resolution (DKR). The in situ racemization of the primary alcohol, required for the DKR, takes place via: (i) ruthenium‐catalyzed dehydrogenation of the alcohol, (ii) enolization of the aldehyde formed, and (iii) ruthenium‐catalyzed readdition of hydrogen to the aldehyde. The present method widens the scope of metal‐ and enzyme‐catalyzed DKR, which has so far been limited to α‐chiral alcohol and amine derivatives.
Solid flow rate prediction in silo discharge of aerated cohesive powders
Authors: Barletta Diego , Donsì Giorgio , Ferrari Giovanna , Poletto Massimo , Russo Paola
Published: July 2007

Aerated discharge of six cohesive powders differing in particle size, density and flow properties is presented. These samples were characterized by means of fluidization experiments and rheology shear tests carried out in a ring shear tester. In the silo discharge experiments the measurements of the discharge rates and the mass of residual solids as a function of the aeration rate were carried out. In addition, photographic techniques highlighted the aggregative behavior of these powders. Solids aggregates, in fact, were visible within the aerated beds of solids during the fluidization experiments and in the streams of the discharging solids. Experimental data on powder flow properties and on fluidization were analyzed in order to evaluate aggregate diameters. These values compared fairly well with the aggregate diameters observed and allowed evaluation of the voidage values external to the aggregates. These results were used in a modified form of the De Jong and Hoelen equation to predict the solid discharge rate with reasonable accuracy. A modified version of this procedure has been proposed to evaluate the aggregate density and diameter starting from the vibrated density of the powder. This makes preliminary powder fluidization experiments unnecessary in the estimation of the solid discharge rates. © 2007 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2007
Developmental origins of life history: Growth, productivity, and reproduction
Authors: Kuzawa Christopher W.
Published: July 2007

There is now much evidence that early life undernutrition elevates risk of diseases like cardiovascular disease. Less clear is whether the underlying developmental plasticity in metabolism and physiology evolved to serve an adaptive function, beyond these effects on pathophysiology. This review builds from principles of life history theory to propose a functional model linking early environments with adult biology. An organism has metabolic potential in excess of survival requirements, called productivity, that supports growth before being shunted into reproduction after growth ceases. This concept from inter‐specific studies leads to the prediction that plasticity in growth rate will be positively correlated with components of future adult reproductive expenditure. Consistent with this idea, evidence is reviewed that early nutrition or growth rate predict offspring size in females, and increased somatic investment related to reproductive strategy in males. Thus, population birth weight and sexual size dimorphism are predicted to increase in response to improvements in early nutrition. A striking feature of the continuity of metabolic production is its perpetuation not merely during the lifecycle but across generations: in females, growth rate predicts future nutritional investment in reproduction, which in turn determines fetal growth rate in the next generation. Growth and reproduction serve as mutually‐defining templates, thus creating a phenotypic bridge allowing ecologic information to be maintained during ontogeny and transmitted to offspring. Resetting of metabolic production in response to maternal nutritional cues may serve a broader goal of integrating nutritional information within the matriline, thus providing a more reliable basis for adjusting long‐term strategy. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Genetic and environmental influences on infant weight and weight change: The Fels longitudinal study
Authors: Demerath Ellen W. , Choh Audrey C. , Czerwinski Stefan A. , Lee Miryoung , Sun Shumei S. , Chumlea WM. Cameron , Duren Dana , Sherwood Richard J. , Blangero John , Towne Bradford , Siervogel Roger M.
Published: July 2007

Despite significant progress in understanding the mechanisms by which the prenatal/maternal environment can alter development and adult health, genetic influences on normal variation in growth are little understood. This work examines genetic and nongenetic contributions to body weight and weight change during infancy and the relationships between weight change and adult body composition. The dataset included 501 white infants in 164 nuclear and extended families in the Fels Longitudinal Study, each with 10 serial measures of weight from birth to age 3 years and 232 with body composition data in mid‐adulthood. Heritability and covariate effects on weight and weight z‐score change from birth to 2 years of age were estimated using a maximum likelihood variance decomposition method. Additive genetic effects explained a high proportion of the variance in infant weight status (h2 = 0.61–0.95), and change in weight z‐score (h2 = 0.56–0.82). Covariate effects explained 27% of the phenotypic variance at 0–1 month of age and declined in effect to 6.9% of phenotypic variance by 36 months. Significant sex, gestational age, birth order, birth year, and maternal body mass index effects were also identified. For both sexes, a significant increase in weight z‐score (≫2 SD units) (upward centile crossing) was associated with greater adulthood stature, fat mass, and percent body fat than decrease or stability in weight z‐score. Understanding genetic influences on growth rate in a well‐nourished, nutritionally stable population may help us interpret the causes and consequences of centile crossing in nutritionally compromised contexts. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Child growth as a measure of livelihood security: The case of the Gwembe Tonga
Authors: Crooks Deborah L. , Cliggett Lisa , Cole Steven M.
Published: July 2007

This article outlines an approach to the study of child growth and development in adverse environments that utilizes growth to measure the success of the human/environment interaction. This type of biocultural, human adaptability perspective focuses on within group variation to gain an understanding of the differential ability of households to negotiate opportunities and constraints in the ecological/social/cultural environment. As an example, we report preliminary findings of on‐going research in a migrant Gwembe Tonga community in Zambia. Our analysis indicates that average height‐for‐age and weight‐for‐heightz‐scores of school children are below international references, representing compromised community well‐being in context of new and shifting environments. We report variation in average household child height‐for‐agez‐scores that is linked to differential livelihood strategies in the community. We conclude that in the context of shared circumstances that focus risk for poor health on this community as a whole, the ability of households to adapt to their circumstances varies as evidenced by differential growth outcomes. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Properties and behavior of CTBN‐modified epoxy with IPN structure
Authors: Hsu Ying‐Gev , Liang Chin‐Wei
Published: July 2007

CTBN‐modified epoxy resins (CMEs) with an interpenetrating‐network (IPN) structure and a nanometer‐sized morphology were prepared. Two systems of CMEs, called CNE/DDS/I‐CTBN‐B and CNE/DDS/I‐CTBN‐D, with IPN structures, were synthesized by heat‐curing a homogeneous resin, CNE/DDS/CTBN/2‐MI, obtained by mixing a carboxyl‐terminated butadiene–acrylonitrile liquid rubber (CTBN) with a solution of polyglycidyl ether of o‐cresol‐formaldehyde novolac (CNE), 4,4′‐diamino diphenyl sulfone (DDS), and 2‐methyl imidazole (2‐MI), in the presence of benzoyl peroxide and dicumyl peroxide, respectively. The IPN morphologies of the two systems of CMEs were identified by small‐angle X‐ray scattering by measuring the value of the specific interfacial surface area Ssp between the cured CNE/DDS matrix and the vulcanized CTBN. Properties such as fracture toughness, internal stress, and thermal and dynamic mechanical properties of these IPN‐structured CMEs were studied in detail, and were compared with those of a conventional CME, CNE/DDS/CTBN, obtained by dispersing CTBN particles in a crosslinked CNE/DDS matrix. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2007
Retention volumes of organic substances on ester phases
Authors: Bazylyak L. I. , Rohovyk V. I. , Makitra R. G. , Palchykova E. A. , Zaikov G. E.
Published: July 2007

Reliable methods of agreement does not exist between the chromatographic retention volumes of substances and their physicochemical properties. That is why it is impossible to predict these characteristics for unstudied substances. Well‐known works in this field have either qualitative character or give the results suitable only for homologous series. That is why it was very interesting to consider the available arrays of experimental data of gas‐liquid chromatography by means of Koppel‐Palm multi‐parameter equations. The individual characteristics of this equation are determined experimentally. The final multi‐parameter equation proposed by us was adequate for generalizing the retention‐time data for the polyester phase of substances with different structures and also for calculating this value for other (unstudied) substances on the basis their physicochemical characteristics. The generalizing equations permit us to draw conclusions about the nature of the processes taking place during the adsorption‐desorption of the substances in the stationary phase. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2007
Matrimid polyimide membranes for the separation of carbon dioxide from methane
Authors: Sridhar S. , Veerapur R. S. , Patil M. B. , Gudasi K. B. , Aminabhavi T. M.
Published: July 2007

Three types of polyimide membranes viz., Matrimid, Kapton and P84, were prepared by solution casting and solvent evaporation method to study the permeation of CO2 and CH4 gases. Barrier properties were investigated as a function of feed pressure for pure gases and feed composition for the binary mixtures of CO2 and CH4. Kapton polyimide, prepared by imidization of polyamic acid, showed an increase in permeability, but reduction in selectivity, due to the occurrence of plasticization at higher feed CO2 concentrations. Matrimid was found to exhibit the highest permeability and was studied in greater detail, due to the feasibility in its scale‐up into a hollow fiber modular configuration for commercial application. Matrimid was characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and X‐ray diffractometry (XRD) to assess the intermolecular interactions and to understand the separation profiles. The effect of feed flow was evaluated by studying the permeation behavior of flat sheet membrane in dead‐end operation mode with the hollow fiber module operated in crossflow feed mode. For pure gases, Matrimid hollow fiber membrane exhibited a CO2 permeability of 12.7 Barrers with a CO2/CH4 selectivity of 40 at the feed pressure of 20 bar. At the same pressure, for binary mixture feed of 5 mol % CO2 in methane, the module gave a permeability of 7.4 Barrers with a selectivity of 21. The total binary mixture permeability was determined at the feed CO2 concentrations varying from 0 to 20 mol % to demonstrate the preferential sorption of CO2 in Matrimid membrane. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2007