bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Topical Salmeterol Reduces Protein Content of Nasal Lavage Fluid in Response to Allergen and Histamine Challenge: Double-Blind Cross-over Placebo-Controlled Studies in Adults
Authors: Birchall Martin A. , O'Connell Finbarr , Henderson Jane , Moorat Alison , Jacques Loretta , Pride Neil B. , Fuller Rick W.
Published: October 2007

We have studied the effects of topical intranasal β-2-adrenoceptor agonists on nasal airflow resistance (Rnaw) and secretions. Pretreatment with salmeterol (SM) and salbutamol (SB) was given in two double-blind, placebo-controlled studies. In Protocol 1, 15 patients with allergic rhinitis were challenged with a threshold dose of allergen. Rnaw and lavage fluid total protein, albumin, mucin, lysozyme, tryptase, histamine, and eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) were measured. In Protocol 2, 20 normal subjects were challenged with ascending doses of histamine and Rnaw and lavage fluid total protein and albumin were measured. After allergen challenge, there was a significant, increase in Rnaw total protein, albumin, and tryptase. SM significantly attenuated the rise in total protein (post-allergen challenge mean 218 mcg/mL, 95% c.i. 16–447; SB 344, 45–641; placebo 365, 105–725: P = 0.036). SM significantly reduced albumin concentration at 30 minutes post-drug (post-histamine challenge geometric mean 17.1 mcg/mL, interquartile range 8.2–29.4; SB 25.1, 15.2–43.0; placebo 24.2, 16.6–37.8: P = 0.027). SM has acute effects on the nasal response to allergen in allergic rhinitis and to histamine in normal subjects. These results imply an effect on glands and blood vessels in vivo that may represent part of the drug's clinical activity.
Sinonasal T-cell Lymphoma and Wegener's Granulomatosis: Aspects in Early Differential Diagnosis
Authors: Cervin Anders , Dictor Michael , Kalm Olof
Published: October 2007

The clinical course of 12 patients with sinonasal T-cell lymphoma retrospectively diagnosed using in situ hybridization for Epstein-Barr virus RNA was compared with that of 10 recently treated patients with Wegener's granulomatosis (WG) in the upper airways. In particular, we studied the presenting signs and symptoms of both diseases, which commonly offer a problem in differential diagnosis at the clinical and pathological level. A bimodal age distribution was suggested in both T-cell lymphoma and WG; five patients with T-cell lymphoma developed disease prior to 40 years of age. Four of the 12 lymphoma patients had a history of “chronic rhinitis” for several years before developing mucosal ulcerations, which were initially unilateral, as opposed to the bilateral ulcerations in early sinonasal WG. Two lymphoma patients had swelling of the nasal dorsum and cheek. In contrast to the WG patients, cases of T-cell lymphoma did not exhibit associated clinical signs of arthritis, conjunctivitis, pulmonary lesions, or nephritis in the early stage of the disease. Nine of the patients with T-cell lymphoma presenting as a sinonasal lesion developed disseminated disease, variably including infiltrates in intestine, lung, CNS, and skin. Four of these patients died from gastrointestinal complications of their disease. We conclude that unilateral ulcerative or hemorrhagic polypoid mucosal lesions in the sinonasal area are suggestive of lymphoma rather than WG, and nonspecific symptoms, at least in Western patients, may be present as early as the second or third decade of life. A biopsy specimen containing T lymphocytes positive for the EBV ribonucleoprotein EBER1 on in situ hybridization offers reliable confirmation of T-cell lymphoma and is of differential diagnostic value against WG.
Nanostructured Titanium Oxynitride Porous Thin Films as Efficient Visible‐Active Photocatalysts
Authors: Martínez‐Ferrero E. , Sakatani Y. , Boissière C. , Grosso D. , Fuertes A. , Fraxedas J. , Sanchez C.
Published: October 2007

Nanocrystalline mesoporous N‐doped titania films have been prepared for the first time. The introduction of nitrogen into the anatase structure starts at 500 °C, with N bonding to titanium via oxygen substitution. Increasing the treatment temperature leads to the formation of TiN (TiN1–xOx) and N‐doped rutile showing mixed‐valence Ti states. Microstructural characterization shows that the ordered mesoporosity is maintained until 700 °C, where TiN (TiN1–xOx) begins to form. Optical characterization shows that the discrete introduction of N is able to shift the titania absorption edge. The photocatalytic tests give the best results under visible light excitation for the film nitrided at 500 °C. At this temperature the concentration of nitrogen in the structure is optimal since oxygen vacancies are still not important enough to promote the recombination of the photogenerated electrons and holes.
Polymer Microstructure Control in Catalytic Polymerization Exclusively by Electronic Effects of Remote Substituents
Authors: Bastero Amaia , Göttker‐Schnetmann Inigo , Röhr Caroline , Mecking Stefan
Published: October 2007

A series of (κ2‐N,O)salicylaldiminato nickel methyl pyridine complexes 8a–h‐pyr bearing 2,6‐di‐(4‐R′‐phenyl)phenyl groups on the imine nitrogen and varying in the remote substituents [R′=C8F17 (a), CF3 (b), F (7c), H (d), Me (e), tert.‐butyl (f), OMe (g), and NMe2 (h)] were studied as precatalysts for ethylene polymerization. Complexes 8a–h‐pyr catalyze the polymerization of ethylene to low molecular weight polyethylene. Decreasing molecular weight and increasing degrees of branching are observed in the order R′=C8F17≈CF3>F>H>Me>MeO>tert‐butyl>NMe2. X‐Ray diffraction analysis of complex 8c‐pyr and polymerization results obtained with complexes 8‐pyr indicate that it is not the sterics but the electronics of the R′ group that control the polymer microstructure. This is a rare example of a polymerization catalyst in which substituents effects can clearly be traced to electronics exclusively.
Creation of a Monomeric Ruthenium Species on the Surface of Micro‐Size Copper Hydrogen Phosphate: An Active Heterogeneous Catalyst for Selective Aerobic Oxidation of Alcohols
Authors: Liu Junhua , Wang Fang , Sun Kunpeng , Xu Xianlun
Published: October 2007

A new micro‐size copper hydrogen phosphate (CHP) synthesized by the emulsion method combined with a monomeric ruthenium species was found to be a very effective catalyst for the selective oxidation of alcohols. Several kinds of alcohols were transformed into the corresponding aldehydes or ketones over the RuCHP catalyst by oxygen under very mild conditions. The results showed that the CHP material was perfect as a catalyst support due to its high ion‐exchange ability and adsorption capacity.
Aerobic, Chemoselective Oxidation of Alcohols to Carbonyl Compounds Catalyzed by a DABCO‐Copper Complex under Mild Conditions
Authors: Mannam Sreedevi , Alamsetti S. Kumar , Sekar G.
Published: October 2007

A DABCO‐copper(I) chloride complex (5 mol %) together with TEMPO (5 mol %) in nitromethane as solvent has been used as an efficient catalytic system for the selective oxidation of benzylic and allylic alcohols into the corresponding carbonyl compounds at room temperature where molecular oxygen acts as an ultimate, stoichiometric oxidant and water is the only by‐product. The solid‐state structure determination of the DABCO‐copper complex shows that the copper is in the +II oxidation state with trigonal bipyramidal geometry and exists in a linear polymeric structure due to strong hydrogen bonding.
Highly Selective Synthetic Method for 1,6‐Diols Bearing Enyne Functions: Development of 3,6‐Dianion Reagent of 1,2‐Hexadien‐4‐yne Using 1,6‐Dibromo‐2,4‐hexadiyne and Indium
Authors: Kim Sundae , Lee Kooyeon , Seomoon Dong , Lee Phil Ho
Published: October 2007

The reaction of aldehydes and ketones with an organoindium reagent generated in situ from indium and 1,6‐dibromo‐2,4‐hexadiyne in the presence of lithium iodide in tetrahydrofuran (THF) selectively produced 1,6‐diols linked to an allenyne unit with complete regioselectivity and chemoselectivity through 1,2‐hexadien‐4‐yn‐3,6‐ylation, indicating that the organoindium acted as the 3,6‐dianion reagent of 1,2‐hexadien‐4‐yne.
Economic evaluation of shelf‐space management in grocery stores
Authors: Chung Chanjin , Schmit Todd M. , Dong Diansheng , Kaiser Harry M.
Published: October 2007

Recently, many commodity groups have shifted promotion expenditures from generic advertising to non‐advertising activities such as in‐store promotion programs. Accordingly, corresponding evaluation methods need to be developed to identify the benefits of these non‐advertising programs. We develop a general framework to assess product sales performance of in‐store shelf‐space management programs in retail stores. The framework was applied to the evaluation of dairy case management programs in the Northwestern Hudson Valley market, New York. Simulation results on fluid milk product sales indicate that preferred product locations vary between smaller convenience stores and larger supermarket retailers. On average, the dairy case management program was estimated to improve product sales 6 to 10% at the retailer level. [Econlit subject codes: M300, Q130] © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Agribusiness 23: 583–597, 2007.
Soluble TWEAK is markedly elevated in hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis
Authors: Nagasawa Masayuki , Yi Zhu , Imashuku Shinsaku , Nonoyama Shigeaki , Ogawa Kazuyuki , Okumura Ko , Mizutani Shuki
Published: October 2007

Tumor necrosis factor‐like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) is a newly identified monocyte derived cytokine, which has weak apoptosis inducing function against sensitive tumor cell lines in vitro. Also, TWEAK has been reported to have proangiogenic and proinflammatory activities in vivo. However, its functions in pathological situation remain to be elucidated. Here, we analyzed soluble TWEAK in serum of 24 patients with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) in combination with interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) and killer‐specific secretory protein of 37 kDa (Ksp37). Soluble TWEAK was not detected in serum of healthy individuals. Soluble TWEAK was markedly elevated in all six primary HLH patients and 12 of 18 secondary HLH patients. Serum IFN‐γ, which is an only known mediator to stimulate TWEAK production in monocyte in vitro, was not elevated despite elevated serum TWEAK in three of six primary HLH patients, although IFN‐γ was markedly elevated in other cases. Ksp37 was only slightly increased in HLH patients. These results indicate that TWEAK may be involved in pathogenesis of HLH and is useful as a clinical marker. Am. J. Hematol., 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Superficial venous thrombosis associated with congenital absence of the inferior vena cava and previous episode of deep venous thrombosis
Authors: Evanchuk Darren M. , Von Gehr Ann , Zehnder James L.
Published: October 2007

Congenital malformations of the inferior vena cava (IVC) are uncommon and may be associated with an increased risk of venous thrombosis. We report the case of a man with congenital absence of the IVC and remote history of deep venous thrombosis who now presents with severe abdominal wall superficial thrombophlebitis. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a patient with IVC absence who has developed both deep and superficial venous thromboses. Am. J. Hematol., 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mortality among workers at the Savannah River Site
Authors: Richardson David B. , Wing Steve , Wolf Susanne
Published: October 2007

Background

Workers employed at the Savannah River Site (SRS) were potentially exposed to a range of chemical and physical hazards, many of which are poorly characterized. We therefore compared the observed deaths among workers to expectations based upon death rates for referent populations.

Methods

The cohort included 18,883 SRS workers hired between 1950 and 1986. Vital status and cause of death information were ascertained through 2002. Sex‐specific standardized mortality ratios (SMR) were computed using U.S. and South Carolina mortality rates. SMRs were tabulated separately for monthly‐, weekly‐, and hourly‐paid men.

Results

Males had fewer deaths from all causes [SMR = 0.80, 90% confidence interval (CI): 0.78, 0.82], all cancers (SMR = 0.85, 90% CI: 0.81, 0.89), and lung cancer (SMR = 0.88, 90% CI: 0.82, 0.95) than expected based upon US mortality rates. The SMR for cancer of the pleura was 4.25 (90% CI: 1.99, 7.97) for men. The SMR for leukemia was greater than unity for monthly‐paid (SMR = 1.33, 90% CI: 0.88, 1.93) and hourly‐paid (SMR=1.36, 90% CI: 1.02, 1.78) men. Female workers had fewer deaths from all causes (SMR = 0.75, 90% CI: 0.69, 0.82) than expected, but more deaths than expected from cancer of the kidney (SMR = 2.58, 90% CI: 1.21, 4.84) and skin (SMR = 3.90, 90% CI: 2.11, 6.61).

Conclusions

While the observed numbers of deaths in most categories of cause of death were less than expected, there are greater than expected numbers of deaths due to cancer of the pleura and leukemia, particularly among hourly‐paid male workers. It is plausible that occupational hazards, including asbestos and ionizing radiation, contribute to these excesses. Am. J. Ind. Med. 50:881–891, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Neuropsychological testing for the assessment of manganese neurotoxicity: A review and a proposal
Authors: Zoni Silvia , Albini Elisa , Lucchini Roberto
Published: October 2007

Background

Manganese exposure can cause neurobehavioral and neurological signs and symptoms. A review of the literature was carried out in order to identify the most sensitive and effective methods to assess these outcomes.

Methods

Studies on manganese exposure performed with neuropsychological tests were reviewed using Medline. Test methods, obtained outcomes, and dose‐response relationships were considered. Based on the review and additional considerations, a testing battery for adult and children was identified.

Results

A total number of 31 studies were reviewed and divided in 18 occupational, 7 environmental, and 6 on children. A large variety of tests exploring motor and cognitive functions and mood were applied. Neurobehavioral effects were dose‐dependent in several studies and determined by much lower exposure levels compared to 1 mg Mn/m3 in total dust which is considered to be the minimum concentration able to induce the classical clinical features of “manganism.” Although through a wide variety of tests, the observed outcomes support the knowledge that manganese exposure can cause neurobehavioral effects. Motor functions are mainly affected in adults, and cognitive functions and behavior are more affected in children.

Conclusions

Literature on manganese neurobehavioral effect is quite consistent, however, further improvement may be achieved by using better structured and more comparable evaluation methods. Based on the analysis of the existing experiences a test battery including tests of motor functions, response speed, cognitive functions, intellectual abilities, mood, and symptom questionnaires is suggested. We recommend that the tests indicated should always be included in future studies as a core battery. Am. J. Ind. Med. 50:812–830, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Niobium‐ and Tantalum‐Based Ethylene Polymerisation Catalysts Bearing Methylene‐ or Dimethyleneoxa‐Bridged Calixarene Ligands
Authors: Redshaw Carl , Rowan Michael , Homden Damien M. , Elsegood Mark R. J. , Yamato Takehiko , Pérez‐Casas Carol
Published: October 2007

Treatment of p‐tert‐butylcalix[6]areneH6 (H6tBu‐L) or p‐tert‐butylcalix[8]areneH8 (H8tBu‐L1) with [MCl5] (M=Nb, Ta) in refluxing toluene or dichloromethane affords, after work‐up, the complexes [{M(NCMe)Cl2}2(tBu‐L)] (M=Nb (1), Ta (2)) and [(MCl2)2(tBu‐L1H2)] (M=Nb (4), Ta (5)), respectively. Complex 1, as well as [{Nb2(μ‐O)2(μ‐Cl)(tBu‐LH)}2] (3), is also available from [NbOCl3] and H6tBu‐L. Reaction of [MOCl3] (M=Nb, Ta) with Li3(tBu‐L2) in diethyl ether, where H3tBu‐L2 is p‐tert‐butylhexahomotrioxacalix[3]areneH3, affords, after work‐up, the trimeric complexes [{M(tBu‐L2)(μ‐O)}3] (M=Nb (6), Ta (7)). The behaviour of 1 to 7 (not 3), as well as the known complexes [{(MCl)p‐tert‐butylcalix[4]arene}2] (M=Nb (8), Ta (9)) and [(MCl2)p‐tert‐butylcalix[4]arene(OMe)] (M=Nb (10), Ta (11)), as pro‐catalysts for the polymerisation of ethylene has been investigated. In the presence of dimethyl (or diethyl)aluminium chloride, methylaluminoxane or trimethylaluminium, these niobium and tantalum procatalysts are all active (<35 g mmol−1 h−1 bar−1), for the polymerisation of ethylene affording high‐molecular‐weight linear polyethylene. The dimethyleneoxa‐bridged systems (derived from 6 and 7) are more active (84 and 46 g mmol−1 h−1 bar−1, respectively) than the methylene‐bridged systems. The molecular structures of 1–6 and 10 (acetonitrile solvate) are reported.
Highly Enantioselective Decarboxylative Protonation of α‐Aminomalonates Mediated by Thiourea Cinchona Alkaloid Derivatives: Access to Both Enantiomers of Cyclic and Acyclic α‐Aminoacids.
Authors: Amere Mukkanti , Lasne Marie‐Claire , Rouden Jacques
Published: October 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
A Catalytic Method for the Reduction of Secondary and Tertiary Phosphine Oxides.
Authors: Berthod Mikael , Favre‐Reguillon Alain , Mohamad Jahjah , Mignani Gerard , Docherty Gordon , Lemaire Marc
Published: October 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
High‐Yield Synthesis of Rhombohedral Boron Nitride Triangular Nanoplates.
Authors: Xu Liqiang , Zhan Jinhua , Hu Junqing , Bando Yoshio , Yuan Xiaoli , Sekiguchi Takashi , Mitome Masanori , Golberg Dmitri
Published: October 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Radiation therapy is associated with improved survival in patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma: Results of a study from the surveillance, epidemiology, and end results (SEER) registry data
Authors: Hazard Lisa , Tward Jonathan D , Szabo Aniko , Shrieve Dennis C
Published: October 2007

BACKGROUND.

The role of adjuvant radiation therapy in pancreatic cancer is controversial. For the current study, the authors evaluated the effect of preoperative and postoperative radiation therapy on survival in patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma.

METHODS.

The analysis included 3008 patients who were reported to the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results registry of the National Cancer Institute from 1988 to 2002 who had adenocarcinoma of the pancreas and who underwent cancer‐directed surgery. A retrospective analysis of overall survival and cancer‐specific survival for these patients was performed using the Kaplan‐Meier method. Comparative risks of mortality were evaluated by using multivariate‐adjusted Cox regression models.

RESULTS.

Of 3008 patients, 1267 (42%) received radiation therapy. Overall survival improved significantly in patients who received radiation therapy, with a median survival of 17 months and a 5‐year overall survival rate of 13% in patients who received radiation compared with 12 months and 9.7%, respectively, for patients who did not receive radiation therapy (P < .0001). On multivariate analysis, radiation therapy was associated with improvement in overall survival in patients who had direct extension beyond the pancreas and/or regional lymph node involvement (P < .01) but not in patients with T1‐T2N0M0 disease (P > .05). Radiation therapy was associated with improvement in cause‐specific survival in patients who had regional lymph node involvement (P < .02) but not in patients who had T1‐2N0M0 disease or direct extension beyond the pancreas without lymph node involvement (P > .05). Differences in overall and cause‐specific survival among patients who received preoperative versus postoperative radiation therapy did not reach statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS.

Radiation therapy was associated with improved survival compared with cancer‐directed surgery without radiation in patients with adenocarcinoma of the pancreas. Cancer 2007 © 2007 American Cancer Society.
Arachidonic acid as a retrograde signal controlling growth and dynamics of retinotectal arbors
Authors: Leu B.H. , Schmidt J.T.
Published: October 2007

In the developing visual system, correlated presynaptic activity between neighboring retinal ganglion cells (RGC) stabilizes retinotopic synapses via a postsynaptic NMDAR (N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor)‐dependent mechanism. Blocking NMDARs makes individual axonal arbors larger, which underlies an unsharpened map, and also increases branch turnover, as if a stabilizing factor from the postsynaptic partner is no longer released. Arachidonic acid (AA), a candidate retrograde stabilizing factor, is released by cytoplasmic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) after Ca2+ entry through activated NMDARs, and can activate presynaptic protein kinase C to phosphorylate various substrates such as GAP43 to regulate cytoskeletal dynamics. To test the role of cPLA2 in the retinotectal system of developing zebrafish, we first used PED6, a fluorescent reporter of cPLA2 activity, to show that 1–3 min of strobe flashes activated tectal cPLA2 by an NMDAR‐dependent mechanism. Second, we imaged the dynamic growth of retinal arbors during both local inhibition of tectal cPLA2 by a pharmacological inhibitor, arachidonic tri‐fluoromethylketone, and its suppression by antisense oligonucleotides (both injected intraventricularly). Both methods produced larger arbors and faster branch dynamics as occurs with blocking NMDARs. In contrast, intraocular suppression of retinal cPLA2 with large doses of antisense oligos produced none of the effects of tectal cPLA2 inhibition. Finally, if AA is the retrograde messenger, the application of exogenous AA to the tectum should reverse the increased branch turnover caused by blocking either NMDARs or cPLA2. In both cases, intraventricular injection of AA stabilized the overall branch dynamics, bringing rates down below the normal values. The results suggest that AA generated postsynaptically by cPLA2 downstream of Ca2+ entry through NMDARs acts as a retrograde signal to regulate the dynamic growth of retinal arbors. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2008.
Overexpression of IL‐21 promotes massive CD8+ memory T cell accumulation
Authors: Allard Eve‐Line , Hardy Marie‐Pierre , Leignadier Julie , Marquis Miriam , Rooney Julie , Lehoux Dario , Labrecque Nathalie
Published: October 2007

The ability of IL‐21 to promote in vitro T cell survival led us to investigate its biological activity in vivo. We report that overexpression of IL‐21 in transgenic mice drives CD8+ memory T cell accumulation with a concomitant reduction in naive T cell numbers. These memory T cells are functional, given their ability to rapidly produce IFN‐γ and proliferate following stimulation. Since the homeostasis of naive and memory T cells is controlled by cytokines, we evaluated whether IL‐21 influences cytokine receptor expression. We show that IL‐21 inhibits IL‐7R expression on naive T cells in vitro, suggesting impaired IL‐7‐mediated naive T cell survival in IL‐21‐transgenic mice. In contrast, IL‐7R expression on CD4+ memory T cells is not affected, allowing their IL‐7‐dependent survival in IL‐21‐transgenic mice. Although IL‐21 decreases IL‐7R expression on CD8+ memory T cells, this has no impact on their survival since their maintenance in the T cell pool is IL‐7‐independent. Rather, we demonstrate that CD8+ memory T cells are receptive to IL‐21 survival signals allowing for their accumulation in IL‐21‐transgenic mice. This study identifies new roles for IL‐21 in T cell homeostasis and in the regulation of T cell responses to cytokines.
A critical lineage‐nonspecific role for pTα in mediating allelic and isotypic exclusion in TCRβ‐transgenic mice
Authors: Ferrero Isabel , Grosjean Frederic , Fiorini Emma , MacDonald H. Robson
Published: October 2007

Although it is well established that early expression of TCRβ transgenes in the thymus leads to efficient inhibition of both endogenous TCRβ and TCRγ rearrangement (also known as allelic and “isotypic” exclusion, respectively) the role of pTα in these processes remains controversial. Here, we have systematically re‐evaluated this issue using three independent strains of TCRβ‐transgenic mice that differ widely in transgene expression levels, and a sensitive intracellular staining assay that detects endogenous TCRVβ expression in individual immature thymocytes. In the absence of pTα, both allelic and isotypic exclusion were reversed in all three TCRβ‐transgenic strains, clearly demonstrating a general requirement for pre‐TCR signaling in the inhibition of endogenous TCRβ and TCRγ rearrangement. Both allelic and isotypic exclusion were pTα dose dependent when transgenic TCRβ levels were subphysiological. Moreover, pTα‐dependent allelic and isotypic exclusion occurred in both αβ and γδ T cell lineages, indicating that pre‐TCR signaling can potentially be functional in γδ precursors. Finally, levels of endogenous RAG1 and RAG2 were not down‐regulated in TCRβ‐transgenic immature thymocytes undergoing allelic or isotypic exclusion. Collectively, our data reveal a critical but lineage‐nonspecific role for pTα in mediating both allelic and isotypic exclusion in TCRβ‐transgenic mice.
Deletion of the LIME adaptor protein minimally affects T and B cell development and function
Authors: Grégoire Claude , Simova Sarka , Wang Ying , Sansoni Amandine , Richelme Sylvie , Schmidt‐Giese Anja , Simeoni Luca , Angelisova Pavla , Reinhold Dirk , Schraven Burkhart , Horejsi Vaclav , Malissen Bernard , Malissen Marie
Published: October 2007

LIME (Lck‐interacting membrane protein) is a transmembrane adaptor that associates with the Lck and Fyn protein tyrosine kinases and with the C‐terminal Src kinase (Csk). To delineate the role of LIME in vivo, LIME‐deficient mice were generated. Although Lime transcripts were expressed in immature and mature B and T cells, the absence of LIME impeded neither the development nor the function of B and T cells. TCR transgenic mice deprived of LIME showed, however, a 1.8‐fold enhancement in positive selection. Since B cells and activated T cells express LIME and the related adaptor NTAL, mice lacking both adaptors were generated. Double‐deficient mice showed no defect in the development and function of B and T cells, and the lack of LIME had no effect on the autoimmune syndrome that develops in aged NTAL‐deficient mice. In contrast to a previous report, we further showed that this autoimmune syndrome develops in the absence of T cells. Therefore, our in vivo results refute all the previous roles postulated for LIME on the basis of studies of transformed B and T cells and demonstrate that LIME has no seminal role in the signaling cassette operated by antigen receptors and coreceptors.
Exfoliated Graphite Oxide Modified Electrode for the Selective Determination of Picomolar Concentration of Lead
Authors: Ramesha G. K. , Sampath S.
Published: October 2007

We report the selective, picomolar determination of lead(II) ions using exfoliated graphite oxide (EGO) modified glassy carbon electrode. Exfoliated graphite oxide is the oxidized form of exfoliated graphite containing a variety of functional groups such as hydroxyl, phenolic and carboxyl groups. The EGO can be dispersed as a stable colloid in a wide range of pH, from 2 to 11. This leads to the flexibility of film formation on substrates and use of a variety of functional groups to complex lead ions. The analyte is preconcentrated and subsequently determined using differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry. The factors influencing the determination of lead such as the pH of the analyte solution, preconcentration time and the thickness of EGO layer on the electrode surface have been optimized. Two linear ranges are observed between 1 mM and 10 μm and 0.1 μM and 1 pM for a 5 minute preconcentration time. The lowest detection limit is found to be 1 pM. The main advantages of the electrode are the ease of preparation of the modified electrode, low cost, sensitivity and selectivity. The analytical utility of the EGO modified electrode in the determination of lead is demonstrated by application to several water samples.
Novel NO2 Gas Sensor Based on Cr(III) Complex Thin Film
Authors: Fu Tiexiang
Published: October 2007

The results concerning the gas‐sensing characteristics of novel NO2 gas sensors, fabricated from complex [Cr(bipyO2)Cl2]Cl thin films, were first presented. The sensors exhibited high response to NO2 gas in the concentration range from 1.97% to 6.67% at relative low temperatures (from room temperature to 348 K). No response to H2S and SO2 was observed. The maximum response for 6.03% NO2 was approximately 11.7 at 338 K and 10 V operating voltage. The response time of the sensors was about 4.5 min for NO2 and the recovery time about 40 s. The effect of the electrical resistance change of the sensors in the presence of NO2 could be used for gas sensing measurements. The performance and reliability of the sensors showed their potential applications for monitoring and controlling NO2 component continuously in chemical production.
Estimating evapotranspiration from small watersheds using a water and energy balance approach
Authors: Rim Chang‐Soo
Published: October 2007

Meteorological and environmental data measured in semiarid watersheds during the summer monsoon and winter periods were used to study the interrelationships among flux, meteorological and soil water variables, and to evaluate the effects of these variables on the daily estimation of actual evapotranspiration (AET). The relationship between AET and potential evapotranspiration (PET) as a function of soil water content, as suggested by Thornthwaite–Mather and by Morton, was studied to determine its applicability to the study area. Furthermore, multiple linear regression (MLR) analysis was employed to evaluate the order of importance of the meteorological and soil water factors involved.

The results of MLR analysis showed that the combined effects of available energy, soil water content and wind speed were responsible for more than 70% of the observed variations in AET during the summer monsoon period. The analyses also indicate that the combined effects of available energy, vapour pressure deficit and wind speed were responsible for more than 70% of the observed variations in AET during the winter period. However, the test results of two different approaches, using the relationships between AET and PET as a function of soil water content, indicated some inadequacy. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hydrochemical appraisal of ice‐ and rock‐glacier meltwater in the hyperarid Agua Negra drainage basin, Andes of Argentina
Authors: Lecomte Karina L. , Milana Juan Pablo , Formica Stella M. , Depetris Pedro J.
Published: October 2007

The Agua Negra drainage system (30 12′S, 69 50′ W), in the Argentine Andes holds several ice‐ and rock‐glaciers, which are distributed from 4200 up to 6300 m a.s.l. The geochemical study of meltwaters reveals that ice‐glaciers deliver a HCO3−Ca2+ solution and rock‐glaciers a SO42−HCO3−Ca2+ solution. The site is presumably strongly influenced by sublimation and dry deposition. The main processes supplying solutes to meltwater are sulphide oxidation (i.e. abundant hydrothermal manifestations), and hydrolysis and dissolution of carbonates and silicates. Marine aerosols are the main source of NaCl. The fine‐grained products of glacial comminution play a significant role in the control of dissolved minor and trace elements: transition metals (e.g. Mn, Zr, Cu, and Co) appear to be selectively removed from solution, whereas some LIL (large ion lithophile) elements, such as Sr, Cs, and major cations, are more concentrated in the lowermost reach. Daily concentration variation of dissolved rare earth elements (REE) tends to increase with discharge. Through PHREEQC inverse modelling, it is shown that gypsum dissolution (i.e. sulphide oxidation) is the most important geochemical mechanism delivering solutes to the Agua Negra drainage system, particularly in rock‐glaciers. At the lowermost reach, the chemical signature appears to change depending on the relative significance of different meltwater sources: silicate weathering seems to be more important when meltwater has a longer residence time, and calcite and gypsum dissolution is more conspicuous in recently melted waters. A comparison with a non‐glacierized semiarid drainage of comparable size shows that the glacierized basin has a higher specific denudation, but it is mostly accounted for by relatively soluble phases (i.e. gypsum and calcite). Meltwater chemistry in glacierized arid areas appears strongly influenced by sublimation/evaporation, in contrast with its humid counterparts. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tumor‐selective vessel occlusions by platelets after vascular targeting chemotherapy using paclitaxel encapsulated in cationic liposomes
Authors: Strieth Sebastian , Nussbaum Claudia F. , Eichhorn Martin E. , Fuhrmann Martin , Teifel Michael , Michaelis Uwe , Berghaus Alexander , Dellian Marc
Published: October 2007

Paclitaxel encapsulated in cationic liposomes (EndoTAG‐1) significantly impairs tumor growth by a significant reduction of functional tumor microcirculation and induction of endothelial cell apoptosis. The aim of the study was to analyze whether platelet activation within the tumor microcirculation contributes to the antivascular effects of vascular targeting chemotherapy using EndoTAG‐1. In vitro, FACS analysis revealed a significant activation of platelets upon treatment with EndoTAG‐1. In vivo, using A‐Mel‐3 tumors in Syrian Golden hamsters equipped with dorsal skinfold chamber preparations, the contribution of platelets to the antivascular effects of EndoTAG‐1 was evaluated by fluorescence and laser‐scanning microscopy. Immediately after a single treatment with EndoTAG‐1 or cationic liposomes devoid of paclitaxel, an increase of platelet adherence in tumor microvessels was observed. This was accompanied by an acute impairment of the microcirculation within the treated tumors leading to reduced tumor perfusion. After repetitive therapy, an increase of platelet adherence and subsequent tumor microvessel occlusions occurred only after treatment with EndoTAG‐1. Comparing to “tumor free” normal tissue controls these microthromboses were tumor selective. Significantly disbalancing the coagulation system within tumors by targeted induction of microthromboses within the tumor microcirculation appears to be an important mechanism of EndoTAG‐1 therapy. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Germline mutations in the CHEK2 kinase gene are associated with an increased risk of bladder cancer
Authors: Złowocka Elżbieta , Cybulski Cezary , Górski Bohdan , Dębniak Tadeusz , Słojewski Marcin , Wokołorczyk Dominika , Serrano‐Fernández Pablo , Matyjasik Joanna , van de Wetering Thierry , Sikorski Andrzej , Scott Rodney J. , Lubiński Jan
Published: October 2007

Germline mutations in CHEK2 have been associated with a range of cancer types but little is known about disease risks conveyed by CHEK2 mutations outside of the context of breast and prostate cancer. To investigate whether CHEK2 mutations confer an increased risk of bladder cancer, we genotyped 416 unselected cases of bladder cancer and 3,313 controls from Poland for 4 founder alleles in the CHEK2 gene, each of which has been associated with an increased risk of cancer at other sites. A CHEK2 mutation (all variants combined) was found in 10.6% of the cancer cases and in 5.9% of the controls (OR = 1.9; 95%CI 1.3–2.7; p = 0.0003). We conclude that CHEK2 mutations increase the risk of bladder cancer in the population. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Meta‐analysis in model implementation: choice sets and the valuation of air quality improvements
Authors: Banzhaf H. Spencer , Smith V. Kerry
Published: October 2007

This research illustrates how the methods developed for meta‐analysis can serve to document and summarize voluminous information derived from repeated sensitivity analyses. Our application is to the sensitivity of welfare estimates derived from discrete choice models to assumptions about the choice set. These assumptions affect welfare estimates through both the estimated parameters of the model and, conditional on the parameters, the substitution among alternatives. In our specific application, the evaluation is in terms of estimated benefits of air quality improvements in Los Angeles based on discrete choices of neighborhood and housing. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Efficiency of the California electricity reserves market
Authors: Metaxoglou Konstantinos , Smith Aaron
Published: October 2007

We test the efficiency of the California electricity reserves market by examining systematic differences between its day‐ and hour‐ahead prices. We uncover significant day‐ahead premia, which we attribute to market design characteristics. On the demand side, the market design established a principal–agent relationship between the markets' buyers (principal) and their supervisory authority (agent). The agent had very limited incentives to shift reserve purchases to the lower priced hour‐ahead markets. On the supply side, the market design raised substantial entry barriers by precluding purely speculative trading and by introducing a complicated code of conduct that induced uncertainty about which actions were subject to regulatory scrutiny. We use a high‐dimensional vector moving average model to estimate the premia and conduct correct inferences. To obtain exact maximum likelihood estimates of the model, we develop a new EM algorithm that seamlessly incorporates missing data and applies directly to general moving average time series models. Our algorithm uses only analytical expressions: the Kalman filter and a fixed interval smoother in the E step and least squares‐type regressions in the M step. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Is garlic a promising food for benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer?
Authors: Devrim Erdinç , Durak Ilker
Published: October 2007

Prostate cancer is one of the most common male malignancies worldwide, and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common cause of lower urinary tract symptoms in elderly men. Garlic (Allium sativum) has been known to have anti‐inflammatory, anti‐cancer and antioxidant effects. Owing to these effects, garlic and its preparations have been used for the treatment of prostate cancer and relief of BPH symptoms for decades. It is thought that the mechanism(s) through which garlic may show anti‐cancer and anti‐inflammatory effects should be investigated further. Several researchers are attempting to demonstrate the useful properties of garlic and its mechanism(s) of action. This review aims to present the current studies related with the effects of garlic in prostate diseases, namely prostate cancer and BPH.
Garlic (Allium sativum L.): Adverse effects and drug interactions in humans
Authors: Borrelli Francesca , Capasso Raffaele , Izzo Angelo A.
Published: October 2007

Garlic (Alllium sativum L., Fam Liliaceae) is used medicinally mainly for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia and prevention of arteriosclerosis. Clinical trials have consistently shown that “garlic breath” and body odor are the most common (and well‐documented) complaints associated to garlic intake. Case reports have highlighted the possibility that garlic use may cause allergic reactions (allergic contact dermatitis, generalized urticaria, angiedema, pemphigus, anaphylaxis and photoallergy), alteration of platelet function and coagulation (with a possible risk of bleeding), and burns (when fresh garlic is applied on the skin, particularly under occlusive dressings). Consumption of garlic by nursing mothers modifies their infant's behavior during breast‐feeding. Finally, garlic may enhance the pharmacological effect of anticoagulants (e. g. warfarin, fluindione) and reduce the efficacy of anti‐AIDS drugs (i. e. saquinavir).
Fumonisin B1 alters cell cycle progression and interleukin‐2 synthesis in swine peripheral blood mononuclear cells
Authors: Marin Daniela E. , Gouze Marie‐Estelle , Taranu Ionelia , Oswald Isabelle P.
Published: October 2007

Fumonisin B1 (FB1) is a mycotoxin produced by Fusarium verticillioides, a fungus that commonly contaminates maize. In the present study, we investigated the effects of FB1 on swine peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) by measuring cell proliferation, cell cycle progression and interleukin (IL)‐2 production. Forty‐eight hours after treatment in vitro, FB1 induced a decrease of PBMC proliferation as measured by cell counting and dehydrogenase enzyme activity. This effect was observed starting with 10 μM FB1. The effect of FB1 on cell cycle progression was analyzed by flow cytometry. Incubation of PBMC with FB1 increased the percentage of cells blocked in G0/G1 phase of the cell cycle. Treatment with 200 μM FB1 induces a high blockade of the cell cycle, with 92.4% of cells in G0/G1 phase. This blockade was observed in all lymphocyte subsets tested (CD2+, CD4+, CD8+ and Ig+) as evidenced by dual staining for DNA and membrane surface molecules. A significant decrease of IL2 production was also observed in the supernatants of ConA stimulated PBMC treated with 100 or 200 μM FB1. In conclusion, these data suggest that FB1 may affect immune functions by inhibiting lymphocyte proliferation and IL2 production, suggesting a possible role of FB1 exposure during infectious disease and cancer.
Preventive effects of diallyl sulfide on 7,12‐dimethylbenz[a]anthracene induced DNA alkylation damage in mouse skin
Authors: Nigam Nidhi , Shukla Yogeshwer
Published: October 2007

Mutations that occur through DNA strand breaks are the prerequisites for the development of tumors, which ultimately leads to various genetic disorders including cancer. A number of naturally occurring compounds including certain dietary constituents play an important role in causation and prevention of a number of genetic diseases. Diallyl sulfide (DAS), a volatile organosulfur compound present in garlic has been shown to possess various pharmacological effects including cancer preventive properties. Now we are reporting the antimutagenic properties of DAS on 7,12‐ dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA), a carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, induced DNA strand breaks in mouse skin, using an alkaline unwinding assay. DAS (2.5–10 mg/kg body‐weight) was applied topically, prior and post to DMBA (5 mg/kg body‐weight) at the sampling time of 24, 48, 72 and 96 h. DAS application resulted in a significant (p < 0.001) protection in DMBA‐induced DNA strand breaks. The pre‐treatment of DAS (10 mg/kg body‐weight) showed 68.35% protection and post‐treatment showed 59.49% protection, at an intermittent period of 48 h, against DMBA‐induced DNA strand breakage. These findings suggest that DAS can effectively check the mutations induced by environmental toxicants.
Polarization transfer for sensitivity‐enhanced MRS using a single radio frequency transmit channel
Authors: Klomp D. W. J. , Kentgens A. P. M. , Heerschap A.
Published: October 2007

Polarization transfer techniques are used to enhance sensitivity and improve localization in multinuclear MRS, by transferring polarization from highly polarized or even hyperpolarized nuclei to less sensitive spin systems. Clinical MR scanners are in general not equipped with a second radio frequency (RF) transmit channel, making the conventional implementation of polarization transfer techniques such as distortionless enhanced polarization transfer (DEPT) impossible. Here we present a DEPT sequence using pulses sequentially that can be used on a single RF transmit channel (SC‐DEPT). Theoretical simulations, phantom measurements, and in vivo results from human brain at 3 T show that the SC‐DEPT method performs as well as the conventional DEPT method. The results indicate that an independent second RF transmit channel for simultaneous pulsing at different nuclear frequencies is not needed for polarization transfer, facilitating the use of these methods with common clinical systems with minor modifications in the RF architecture. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of concomitant treatment with a CYP3A4 inhibitor and a calcium channel blocker
Authors: Yoshida Masanori , Matsumoto Takuyuki , Suzuki Tatsuo , Kitamura Shigeto , Mayama Takashi
Published: October 2007

Purpose

Grapefruit juice has been found to interact with calcium channel blockers (CCB). This interaction is due to certain nutrients found in grapefruit juice that block the activity of cytochrome P‐450 (CYP) 3A4 in the small intestine and liver. Inhibition of CYP3A4 markedly increases bioavailability and increases the risk of an adverse drug reaction (ADR). Many drugs are known to have CYP3A4‐blocking activity. This study was performed to investigate whether the concomitant use of a CYP3A4 inhibitor and a CCB in hypertensive patients results in an elevated incidence of ADRs.

Methods

The study included data on 17 430 patients receiving a CCB. Data were obtained from an anti‐hypertensive drug database developed by the RAD‐AR Council, Japan. A nested case‐control design was employed for this study. Cases are defined as patients experiencing an ADR during the follow‐up period of 12 weeks. Four controls per case, matched for CCB use, were selected via incidence density sampling. An estimate of the association between the CYP3A4 inhibitor and the ADR was obtained via multivariate conditional logistic regression.

Results

Univariate analysis revealed that the odds ratio for experiencing an ADR for the group treated concomitantly with a CCB and a CYP3A4 inhibitor was 1.35 (95% confidence intervals (95%CI), 1.02–1.78), compared with CCB monotherapy. The odds ratio based on multivariate analysis using the 1:4 matched dataset was 1.53 (95%CI, 0.95–2.47) after adjusting for possible confounding factors.

Conclusions

The concomitant treatment with a CYP3A4 inhibitor and a CCB increases the risk of an ADR by 53%, compared with CCB monotherapy. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ethylene polymerization and copolymerization with 10‐undecen‐1‐ol using the catalyst system DADNi(NCS)2/MAO
Authors: Carone Carlos L. P. , Crossetti Geraldo L. , Basso Nara R. S. , Moraes Álvaro G. O. , dos Santos João H. Z. , Bisatto Rubens , Galland Griselda B.
Published: October 2007

The catalyst DADNi(NCS)2 (DAD = (ArNC(Me)C(Me)ArN); Ar = 2,6‐C6H3), activated by methylaluminoxane, was tested in ethylene polymerization at temperatures above 25 °C and variable Al/Ni ratio. The system was shown to be active even at 80 °C and when supported on silica. However, catalyst activity decreased. The catalyst system was also tested in ethylene and 10‐undecen‐1‐ol copolymerization at different ethylene pressures. The best activities were obtained at low polar monomer concentration (0.017 mol/L), using triisopropylaluminum (Al‐i‐Pr3) to protect the polar monomer. The incorporation of the comonomer increased with the increase of polar monomer concentration. According to 13C NMR analyses, all the resulting polyethylenes were highly branched and the polar monomer incorporation decreased as ethylene pressure increased. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 5199–5208, 2007
Stroke: treatment and secondary prevention in older people
Authors: Elmarimi Abdul , Rudd Anthony
Published: October 2007

Our series Prescribing in older people gives practical advice for successful management of the special problems experienced by this patient group. Here the authors describe acute treatment and secondary prevention of stroke. Copyright © 2007 Wiley Interface Ltd