bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of recombinant neurotoxins on single Na+ channels in isolated rat hippocampal neurons
Authors: Xiang Hui , Wang Lei , Cui Jihong , Du Jianyang , Wang Ke , Xu Anlong
Published: August 2009

Four recombinant neurotoxins Hk2a, Hk7a, Hk8a, Hk16a, originally from a sea anemone species Anthopleura sp., were obtained by fusion expression of their genes in Escherichia coli. These neurotoxins were composed of 47 amino acid residues, among which the differences were found at positions 14, 22, 25, and 37, respectively. The effects of the four neurotoxins on single‐channel current of sodium in rat hippocampal neurons were studied by cell‐attached patch clamp. Each neurotoxin 2 μM could modulate the sodium channel by prolonging the opening dwell time and increasing the open probability, but did not change the amplitude of sodium channel currents. Based on the studies of the structure–function relationship, we found that Hk7a displayed the biggest increase of the open probability because His14 (from Arg14) makes its structure seem more compact in comparison with the other three toxins and Ap‐A. Phe25 (Hk8a, Hk16a), which varied from Ala25 (Hk2a, Hk7a), showed that phenyl group might interfere with other key amino acid residue to decrease the activity of toxins. Arg37 (from His37) in Hk8a contributed to decrease of open probability. In our work, it was shown that these important amino acid sites might provide a reliable proof for the future pharmaceutical design. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 23:244–255, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/jbt.20285
Chicken α‐globin switching depends on autonomous silencing of the embryonic π globin gene by epigenetics mechanisms
Authors: Rincón‐Arano Héctor , Guerrero Georgina , Valdes‐Quezada Christian , Recillas‐Targa Félix
Published: August 2009

Switching in hemoglobin gene expression is an informative paradigm for studying transcriptional regulation. Here we determined the patterns of chicken α‐globin gene expression during development and erythroid differentiation. Previously published data suggested that the promoter regions of α‐globin genes contain the complete information for proper developmental regulation. However, our data show a preferential trans‐activation of the embryonic α‐globin gene independent of the developmental or differentiation stage. We also found that DNA methylation and histone deacetylation play key roles in silencing the expression of the embryonic π gene in definitive erythrocytes. However, drug‐mediated reactivation of the embryonic gene during definitive erythropoiesis dramatically impaired the expression of the adult genes, suggesting gene competition or interference for enhancer elements. Our results also support a model in which the lack of open chromatin marks and localized recruitment of chicken MeCP2 contribute to autonomous gene silencing of the embryonic α‐globin gene in a developmentally specific manner. We propose that epigenetic mechanisms are necessary for in vivo chicken α‐globin gene switching through differential gene silencing of the embryonic α‐globin gene in order to allow proper activation of adult α‐globin genes. J. Cell. Biochem. 108: 675–687, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Estradiol decreases xanthine dehydrogenase enzyme activity and protein expression in non‐tumorigenic and malignant human mammary epithelial cells
Authors: Taibi Gennaro , Carruba Giuseppe , Miceli Vitale , Cocciadiferro Letizia , Nicotra Concetta M.A.
Published: August 2009

The retinoic acid deficiency in breast tumour epithelial cells has been ascribed to an insufficient expression of either the enzyme(s) involved in its biosynthesis or the cellular retinol binding protein (CRBP) or both. In an attempt to define the mechanisms underpinning retinoic acid deficiency in these cell model systems, we have investigated the potential regulatory effect of oestrogen (17β‐estradiol) on one key player in retinoic acid biosynthesis, the xanthine dehydrogenase (XDH). This enzyme is consistently expressed and very active in non‐malignant human mammary epithelial cells (HMEC), as opposed to tumour MDA‐MB231 and MCF7 cells. In these latter two cell lines, as opposed to HMEC cells, we observe a residual ability of XDH to produce retinoic acid from retinaldehyde and the inability to use retinol, as a consequence of a deficit in CRBP. In addition, estradiol treatment of MDA‐MB231 and MCF7 cells decreases protein expression and activity of the enzyme, with no modification of the mRNA transcript levels, eventually leading to deteriorate further retinoic acid production. J. Cell. Biochem. 108: 688–692, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Clonal mesenchymal stem cells derived from human bone marrow can differentiate into hepatocyte‐like cells in injured livers of SCID mice
Authors: Tao Xin‐Rong , Li Wen‐Lin , Su Juan , Jin Cai‐Xia , Wang Xin‐Min , Li Jian‐Xiu , Hu Jun‐Kai , Xiang Zhen‐Hua , Lau Joseph T.Y. , Hu Yi‐Ping
Published: August 2009

There is increasing evidence that human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) can be a valuable, transplantable source of hepatocytes. Most of the hMSCs preparations used in these studies were likely heterogeneous cell populations, isolated by adherence to plastic surfaces or by density gradient centrifugation. Therefore, the participation of other unknown trace cell populations cannot be rigorously discounted. Here we report the isolation and establishment of a cloned human MSC line (chMSC) from human bone marrow primary culture, through which we confirmed the hepatic differentiation capability of authentic hMSCs. chMSCs expressed markers of mesenchymal cells, but not markers of hematopoietic stem cells. In vitro, chMSCs can differentiate into either mesenchymal cells or cells exhibiting hepatocyte‐like phenotypes. When transplanted intrasplentically into carbon tetrachloride‐injured livers of SCID mice, EGFP‐tagged chMSCs engrafted into the host liver parenchyma, exhibited typical hepatocyte morphology, form a three‐dimensional architecture, and differentiate into hepatocyte‐like cells expressing human albumin and α‐1‐anti‐trypsin. By confocal microscopy, ultrafine intercellular nanotubular structures were visible between adjacent transplanted and host hepatocytes. We postulate that these structures may assist in the phenotype conversion of chMSCs, possibly by exchange of cytoplasmic components between native hepatocytes and transplanted cells. Thus, a clonal pure population of hMSCs, which can be expanded in culture, may have potential as a cellular source for substitution damaged cells in hepatic injury. J. Cell. Biochem. 108: 693–704, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Swiprosin‐1 is expressed in mast cells and up‐regulated through the protein kinase CβI/η pathway
Authors: Thylur Ramesh P. , Kim Young‐Dae , Kwon Min‐Sung , Oh Hyun‐Mee , Kwon Ho‐Keun , Kim Sang‐Hyun , Im Sin‐Hyeog , Chun Jang‐Soo , Park Zee‐Yong , Jun Chang‐Duk
Published: August 2009

Swiprosin‐1 exhibits the highest expression in CD8+ T cells and immature B cells and has been thought to play a role in lymphocyte physiology. Here we report that swiprosin‐1 is also expressed in mast cells and up‐regulated in both in vitro cultured mast cells by phorbol ester and in vivo model tissues of passive cutaneous anaphylaxis and atopic dermatitis. Targeted inhibition of the specific protein kinase C (PKC) isotypes by siRNA revealed that PKC‐βI/η are involved in the expression of swiprosin‐1 in the human mast cell line HMC‐1. In contrast, down‐regulation of swiprosin‐1 by A23187 or ionomycin suggests that calcium‐signaling plays a negative role. The ectopic expression of swiprosin‐1 augmented PMA/A23187‐induced NF‐κB promoter activity, and resulted in increased expression of cytokines. Moreover, knock‐down of swiprosin‐1 attenuated PMA/A23187‐induced cytokine expression. Collectively, these results suggest that swiprosin‐1 is a PKC‐βI/η‐inducible gene and it modulates mast cell activation through NF‐κB‐dependent pathway. J. Cell. Biochem. 108: 705–715, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hemoglobin induces the expression of indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase in dendritic cells through the activation of PI3K, PKC, and NF‐κB and the generation of reactive oxygen species
Authors: Ogasawara Nanako , Oguro Takashi , Sakabe Toshitsugu , Matsushima Miyoko , Takikawa Osamu , Isobe Ken‐ichi , Nagase Fumihiko
Published: August 2009

Indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase (IDO) is the rate‐limiting enzyme in the kynurenine (Kyn) pathway of tryptophan (Trp) metabolism. IDO is immunosuppressive and is induced by inflammation in macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs). Previous studies have shown the serum Kyn/Trp levels in patients with hemolytic anemia to be notably high. In the present study, we demonstrated that hemoglobin (Hb), but not hemin or heme‐free globin (Apo Hb), induced IDO expression in bone marrow‐derived myeloid DCs (BMDCs). Hb induced the phosphorylation and degradation of IκBα. Hb‐induced IDO expression was inhibited by inhibitors of PI3‐kinase (PI3K), PKC and nuclear factor (NF)‐κB. Hb translocated both RelA and p52 from the cytosol to the nucleus and induced the intracellular generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Hb‐induced IDO expression was inhibited by anti‐oxidant N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine (NAC) or mixtures of SOD and catalase, however, IDO expression was enhanced by 3‐amino‐1,2,4‐triazole, an inhibitor of catalase, suggesting that the generation of ROS such as O, H2O2, and hydroxyl radical is required for the induction of IDO expression. The generation of ROS was inhibited by a PKC inhibitor, and this action was further enhanced by addition of a PI3K inhibitor. Hb induced Akt phosphorylation, which was inhibited by a PI3K inhibitor and enhanced by a PKC inhibitor. These results suggest that the activation of NF‐κB through the PI3K‐PKC‐ROS and PI3K‐Akt pathways is required for the Hb‐induced IDO expression in BMDCs. J. Cell. Biochem. 108: 716–725, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
N‐glycosylation of ATF6β is essential for its proteolytic cleavage and transcriptional repressor function to ATF6α
Authors: Guan Dongyin , Wang Hao , Li Veronica E. , Xu Yingying , Yang Min , Shen Zonghou
Published: August 2009

Activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6), a member of the ATF/CREB family of transcription factors, has two isoforms of 90‐kDa (p90ATF6α) and 110‐kDa (p110 ATF6β) as endoplasmic reticulum (ER) transmembrane glycoprotein. ATF6β contains five evolutionarily conserved N‐linked glycosylation sites and is a key transcriptional repressor of ATF6α, which contribute to regulating the strength and duration of ATF6‐dependent ER stress response (ERSR) gene induction. Although it is well established that p110ATF6β can be cleaved and generate a nuclear form of 60‐kDa (p60ATF6β) that inhibits ATF6α‐mediated ERSR genes activation, the functional significance of p110 ATF6β N‐linked glycosylation is unknown. Herein, we found that the fully unglycosylated ATF6β cannot be proteolytic cleaved, be detectable in nucleus after dithiothreitol treatment, and repress the transcriptional activity of ATF6α. These results provide the first evidence that unglycosylated ATF6β may directly facilitate the expression of ERSR genes by losing its repressor function to ATF6α. J. Cell. Biochem. 108: 825–831, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Involvement of the JNK activation in terbinafine‐induced p21 up‐regulation and DNA synthesis inhibition in human vascular endothelial cells
Authors: Hsu Sung‐Po , Ho Pei‐Yin , Liang Yu‐Chih , Ho Yuan‐Soon , Lee Wen‐Sen
Published: August 2009

Previously, we demonstrated that the extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK)‐mediated pathway contributes to the terbinafine (TB)‐induced increases of p21 and p53 protein level as well as decrease of DNA synthesis in human umbilical venous endothelial cells (HUVEC). The aim of this study is to examine the involvement of c‐Jun NH2‐terminal kinase (JNK) in the TB‐induced increase of p21 protein level and DNA synthesis inhibition. Western blot analysis and kinase assay demonstrated that TB treatment increased both the protein level and the kinase activity of JNK1/2 in HUVEC. Transfection of HUVEC with JNK1 dominant negative (DN‐JNK1) prevented the TB‐induced increases of p21 and p53 protein level and decrease of DNA synthesis, suggesting that JNK1/2 activation is involved in the TB‐induced cell cycle arrest in HUVEC. Moreover, over‐expression of mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MEK)‐1 prevented the TB‐induced increase of JNK1/2 protein levels, suggesting that MEK‐1 is an upstream inhibitor of JNK. Transfection of HUVEC with DN‐JNK1 prevented the TB‐induced inhibition of ERK phosphorylation, suggesting that JNK1/2 might serve as a negative regulator of ERK. Taken together, our results suggest that JNK activation is involved in the TB‐induced inhibition of ERK phosphorylation, p53 and p21 up‐regulation and DNA synthesis inhibition in HUVEC. J. Cell. Biochem. 108: 860–866, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reliability and validity of the youth outcome questionnaire self‐report
Authors: Ridge Nathanael W. , Warren Jared S. , Burlingame Gary M. , Wells M. Gawain , Tumblin Katherine M.
Published: August 2009

The psychometric properties of an adolescent mental health outcome instrument (Youth Outcome Questionnaire Self‐Report version [Y‐OQ‐SR]) were examined. Participants were 206 adolescents (ages 12–18; mean age=15). The Y‐OQ‐SR was evaluated in terms of its internal consistency, test‐retest reliability, and concurrent validity. Criterion measures included the Behavior Assessment System for Children, Self‐Report of Personality—Adolescent Version (SRP), and the Child Behavior Checklist Youth Self Report (YSR). Analyses revealed very good internal consistency and test‐retest reliability of the Y‐OQ‐SR total score and subscales, and moderate to good concurrent validity with the SRP and YSR. The Y‐OQ‐SR appears to be a valid and reliable self‐report measure of psychosocial distress that warrants further study in youth psychotherapy research. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 65:1–12, 2009.
An efficient method for synthesis of pyrano[3,2‐c]pyridine derivatives under microwave irradiation
Authors: Wang Shu‐Liang , Han Zheng‐Guo , Tu Shu‐Jiang , Zhang Xiao‐Hong , Yan Shu , Hao Wen‐Juan , Shi Feng , Cao Xu‐Dong , Wu Shan‐Shan
Published: August 2009

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A series of pyrano[3,2‐c]pyridine derivatives were synthesized via reactions of 3,5‐dibenzylidene‐piperidin‐4‐one and malononitrile in N,N‐dimethylformamide under microwave irradiation. It is a simple, efficient, and promising synthetic method to construct pyrano[3,2‐c]pyridine skeleton. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2009).
Homology modeling and molecular dynamics simulations of Dengue virus NS2B/NS3 protease: insight into molecular interaction
Authors: Wichapong Kanin , Pianwanit Somsak , Sippl Wolfgang , Kokpol Sirirat
Published: August 2009

The pathogenic West Nile virus (WNV) and Dengue virus (DV) are growing global threats for which there are no specific treatments. Both viruses possess a two component NS2B/NS3 protease which cleaves viral precursor proteins. Whereas for the WNV protease two crystal structures in complex with an inhibitor have been solved recently, no such information is available for the DV protease. Here, we report the generation of a homology model of DV NS2B/NS3 protease. Since it is known from the related WNV protease that it adopts a distinct conformation in free and in inhibitor‐complexed form, a special emphasis was given to the analysis of the protease flexibility. Therefore, several models of DV NS2B/NS3 protease complexed with the peptidic inhibitor (Bz‐Nle(P4)‐Lys(P3)‐Arg(P2)‐Arg(P1)‐H) were generated. The first DV protease model (DV‐1) was constructed using the available crystal structure of the apo DV NS2B/NS3 protease. The second model (DV‐2) was built taking the WNV NS3/NS2B protease in the inhibitor‐complexed form as the template structure. Molecular dynamics simulations which were carried out for the WNV crystal structures as well as for the DV models provided an understanding of the role of NS2B for maintaining the protease in the active conformation. It was also demonstrated that NS2B is not only important for maintaining NS3 in the active form, but is also essential for establishing the interaction between residues from the S2 pocket and the peptidic inhibitor. The DV NS2B/NS3 model in the productive conformation can now be used for structure‐based design purposes. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A loop in the N‐lobe of human serum transferrin is critical for binding to the transferrin receptor as revealed by mutagenesis, isothermal titration calorimetry, and epitope mapping
Authors: Mason Anne B. , Byrne Shaina L. , Everse Stephen J. , Roberts Samantha E. , Chasteen N. Dennis , Smith Valerie C. , MacGillivray Ross T. A. , Kandemir Banu , Bou‐Abdallah Fadi
Published: August 2009

Transferrin (TF) is a bilobal transport protein that acquires ferric iron from the diet and holds it tightly within the cleft of each lobe (thereby preventing its hydrolysis). The iron is delivered to actively dividing cells by receptor mediated endocytosis in which diferric TF preferentially binds to TF receptors (TFRs) on the cell surface and the entire complex is taken into an acidic endosome. A combination of lower pH, a chelator, inorganic anions, and the TFR leads to the efficient release of iron from each lobe. Identification of residues/regions within both TF and TFR required for high affinity binding has been an ongoing goal in the field. In the current study, we created human TF (hTF) mutants to identify a region critical to the interaction with the TFR which also constitutes part of an overlapping epitope for two monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) to the N‐lobe, one of which was previously shown to block binding of hTF to the TFR. Four single point mutants, P142A, R143A, K144A, and P145A in the N‐lobe, were placed into diferric hTF. Isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) revealed that three of the four residues (Pro142, Lys144, and Pro145) in this loop are essential to TFR binding. Additionally, Lys144 is common to the recognition of both mAbs which show different sensitivities to the three other residues. Taken together these studies prove that this loop is required for binding of the N‐lobe of hTF to the TFR, provide a more precise description of the role of each residue in the loop in the interaction with the TFR, and confirm that the N‐lobe is essential to high affinity binding of diferric hTF to TFR. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Raman spectroscopy of conducting poly (methyl methacrylate)/polyaniline dodecylbenzenesulfonate blends
Authors: Shakoor Abdul , Rizvi Tasneem Zahra
Published: August 2009

Polyaniline soluble in organic solvents was prepared using dodecylbenzenesulphonic acid (DBSA) as functional dopant. The solubility parameter was calculated and the most suitable solvent chloroform was checked for the solubility and the most compatible polymer PMMA was selected for blending. Miscibility was maximized with 1% by weight of hydroquinone. Blending of doped polyaniline with dodecylbenzenesulphonic acid (PAni.DBSA) in poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) was explained by a change in the conformation of the polymeric chains leading to an increase in the conductivity. The electrical conductivity increased as the weight percent of PAni.DBSA increased, showing a percolation threshold as low as 3.0% by weight and the highest conductivity was achieved at 20% by wt of PAni.DBSA. Scanning electron micrographs showed lowest level of phase separation. Raman spectroscopy is used to characterize the blending process of two polymers aiming to understand the transformations in different types of charged segments. Raman results give complementary data about the blending process showing that together with the structural change of the polymeric chains, there is also a chemical transformation of these polymers. Analysis of Raman spectra was done investigating the relative intensities of the bands at 574 cm−1 and 607 cm−1. A relationship between conductivity and Raman was also proposed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Research on the Raman spectral character and diagnostic value of squamous cell carcinoma of oral mucosa
Authors: Li Yi , Wen Zhi‐Ning , Li Long‐Jiang , Li Meng‐Long , Gao Ning , Guo Yan‐Zhi
Published: August 2009

Early diagnosis of oral carcinomas is essential for successful treatment. The purpose of the present study is to apply near‐infrared Raman spectroscopy to detect oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and leukoplakia (OLK), in order to establish the diagnostic model of the Raman spectra of oral diseases. We collected Raman spectra of normal, OLK and SCC by near‐infrared Fourier transform Raman spectroscopy. The biochemical variations between different lesions were analyzed by the characteristic bands in the subtracted mean spectra. Gaussian radial basis function support vector machines (SVM) were used to classify spectra and establish the diagnostic models. Major differences were observed in the range between 800 and 1800 cm−1. Compared with normal mucosa, high contents of protein, DNA and lipid in SCC and OLK were observed, but the difference between OLK and normal tissue was not as much as that between normal and SCC. SVM displayed a powerful ability in the classifying of normal and SCC, and the specificity, sensitivity and accuracy were 100, 97.56 and 98.75%, respectively. In discriminating between the OLK and normal groups, the three parameters were 85, 68 and 72.5%. The algorithm showed good ability in grouping and modeling of OLK and SCC, and the three parameters were 95, 97.43 and 96.25%. Combined with SVM, near‐infrared Raman spectroscopy can detect biochemical variations in oral normal mucosa, OLK and SCC, and establish diagnostic models accurately. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cochlear implantation following treatment for medulloblastoma
Authors: Roland J. Thomas , Cosetti Maura , Liebman Tracey , Waltzman Susan , Allen Jeffrey C.
Published: August 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Medulloblastoma is the most common pediatric malignant tumor of the central nervous system in children. Treatment includes surgical excision, external beam radiation, and multiagent chemotherapy. Otologic sequelae are common and may result from radiation and/or chemotherapy. Profound sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is a known complication of neuro‐oncologic treatment and may render these patients eligible for cochlear implantation (CI). Issues of CI in this population, including diagnosis, treatment of preoperative middle ear disease, operative and postoperative course, performance data, and long‐term tumor surveillance are highlighted and reviewed.

Study Design:

Retrospective chart review.

Methods:

Three patients treated for pediatric medulloblastoma with surgical resection, postoperative hyperfractioned craniospinal radiotherapy, and multiagent adjuvant chemotherapy who underwent cochlear implantation were identified. Details of neuro‐oncologic treatment and associated otologic complications are presented and analyzed. Primary outcome assessment includes treatment of middle ear pathology, perioperative cochlear implant course, and postimplantation performance data.

Results:

Each patient required surgical treatment of chronic ear disease 4 to 16 years after chemoradiation. All progressed to profound SNHL and were implanted 8 to 17 years post–neuro‐oncologic treatment. There were no intraoperative complications, and full insertion of the cochlear implant electrode array was achieved in each patient. One patient developed postoperative wound dehiscence requiring operative closure. Postimplantation performance data support significant benefit in all patients.

Conclusions:

Patients treated for pediatric medulloblastoma develop otologic sequelae, including profound SNHL, and may require cochlear implantation. Successful management of middle ear and mastoid pathology involves consideration of potential future cochlear implantation. Postoperative performance data supports cochlear implantation in this population. Laryngoscope, 2010
A free vein graft cap influences neuroma formation after nerve transection
Authors: Galeano Mariarosaria , Manasseri Benedetto , Risitano Giovanni , Geuna Stefano , Di Scipio Federica , La Rosa Paola , Delia Gabriele , D'Alcontres Francesco Stagno , Colonna Michele R.
Published: August 2009

Introduction:

Neuroma formation is a major problem in nerve surgery and consensus about its prevention has not been reached. It has been suggested that vein covering can reduce neuroma formation in transected nerves. In this article, the Authors propose an easy and novel method of covering by nerve stump capping with a free vein graft.

Methods:

Neuroma‐like lesions were created on the rat thigh sectioning the femoral nerve above its division in 16 animals. The proximal nerve stump was invaginated into the lumen of a 1.5 cm long femoral free vein graft on the right side, and the vein was closed on itself by microsurgical sutures to form a cap for the nerve stump. On the left side acting as the control neuroma, the nerve was cut and left uncovered. Histological and immunohistochemical assessment was used to quantify the degree of neuroma formation.

Results:

Significant differences were found in both neuroma size and axon‐glia organization between the treated and control sides indicating that free vein graft capping reduced neuroma formation in comparison to uncovered nerve stumps.

Conclusions:

Our results confirm that vein‐covering of a transected nerve stump can be effective in reducing neuroma formation. Moreover, unlike previous works that buried the nerve into an adjacent vein left in place, our experiments showed that also the use of a free vein graft cap can hinder neuroma formation. Although translation of rat experiments to the clinics should be dealt with caution, our data suggest a careful clinical use of the technique. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2009.
Muscle after spinal cord injury
Authors: Biering‐Sørensen Bo , Kristensen Ida Bruun , Kjær Michael , Biering‐Sørensen Fin
Published: August 2009

The morphological and contractile changes of muscles below the level of the lesion after spinal cord injury (SCI) are dramatic. In humans with SCI, a fiber‐type transformation away from type I begins 4–7 months post‐SCI and reaches a new steady state with predominantly fast glycolytic IIX fibers years after the injury. There is a progressive drop in the proportion of slow myosin heavy chain (MHC) isoform fibers and a rise in the proportion of fibers that coexpress both the fast and slow MHC isoforms. The oxidative enzymatic activity starts to decline after the first few months post‐SCI. Muscles from individuals with chronic SCI show less resistance to fatigue, and the speed‐related contractile properties change, becoming faster. These findings are also present in animals. Future studies should longitudinally examine changes in muscles from early SCI until steady state is reached in order to determine optimal training protocols for maintaining skeletal muscle after paralysis. Muscle Nerve, 2009
Executive Summary: The International Consultation on Incontinence 2008—Committee on: “Dynamic Testing”; for urinary incontinence and for fecal incontinence. part 1: Innovations in Urodynamic Techniques and Urodynamic Testing for signs and symptoms of urinary incontinence in female patients
Authors: Rosier Peter F.W.M. , GaJewski Jerzy B. , Sand Peter K. , Szabó László , Capewell Ann , Hosker Gordon L.
Published: August 2009

Aims

The members of The International Consultation on Incontinence 2008 (Paris) Committee on Dynamic Testing' provide an executive summary of the chapter ‘Dynamic Testing’ that discusses (urodynamic) testing methods for patients with signs and or symptoms of urinary incontinence. Testing of patients with signs and or symptoms of faecal incontinence is also discussed.

Methods

Evidence based and consensus committee report.

Results

The chapter ‘Dynamic Testing’ is a continuation of previous Consultation‐reports added with a new systematic literature search and expert discussion. Conclusions, based on the published evidence and recommendations, based on the integration of evidence with expert experience and discussion are provided separately, for transparency.

Conclusion

This first part of a series of three articles summarizes the committees recommendations about the innovations in urodynamic study techniques ‘in general’, about the test characteristics and normal values of urodynamic studies as well as the assessment of female with signs and or symptoms of incontinence and includes only the most recent and relevant literature references. Neurourol. Urodynam. 29: 140–145, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Development and testing of a vaginal pressure sensor to measure intra‐abdominal pressure in women
Authors: Rosenbluth Evan M. , Johnson Paul J. , Hitchcock Robert W. , Nygaard Ingrid E.
Published: August 2009

Aims

Elevated intra‐abdominal pressure (IAP) may be a potentially modifiable risk factor for pelvic floor disorders. However, limited evidence exists due to the lack of instruments suitable to measure abdominal pressures in real world settings. The aim of this study was to develop and test a vaginal sensor prototype to measure intra‐abdominal pressure in women.

Methods

We developed a non‐directional vaginal sensor by housing pressure‐sensing circuit boards in 1.2 × 3 cm radially symmetric silicon capsules. We characterized the response in a standardized pressure chamber. Eight women wore a sensor intra‐vaginally while undergoing filling cystometry. We compared peak pressures during coughing, valsalva, squatting, and jumping to those obtained using a #10 French rectal balloon urodynamics catheter. We calculated Pearson's correlation coefficients between rectal and vaginal sensors for each event.

Results

The vaginal sensors exhibited linear responses during initial bench testing. Each transducer correlated well with the rectal balloon catheter during coughing, valsalva, and squatting (r = 0.97, 0.94, and 0.97, respectively). However, the rectal balloon catheter recorded higher peak and lower, often negative, trough pressures during jumping. The vaginal sensor showed no such artifact.

Conclusions

This vaginal pressure sensor can be used as a surrogate for measuring intra‐abdominal pressure in women without advanced prolapse. By measuring pressure at the physiological source, the vaginal sensor is less prone to extraneous noise and error than current transducers. Using this prototype, we will next develop a remote wireless version to capture a range of abdominal pressures experienced outside of the laboratory setting. Neurourol. Urodynam. 29:532–535, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The presence of transurethral cystometry catheter and type of stress test affect the measurement of abdominal leak point pressure (ALPP) in women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI)
Authors: Türker Polat , Kilic Gulcan , Tarcan Tufan
Published: August 2009

Aims

Abdominal leak point pressure (ALPP) measurements in female SUI may show variability because of the variations in measurement protocols. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of cystometry catheter on ALPP measurement and compare the sensitivity of Valsalva and cough maneuvers in demonstrating urinary leakage in women complaining of SUI.

Methods

In this prospective study, 194 female patients complaining of SUI underwent urodynamic studies using a 8‐fr urethral cystometry and 10‐fr rectal catheter. At the cystometric capacity, Valsalva and then cough ALPP was measured in semi‐supine position. The same procedure was repeated after removing the cystometry catheter. The results were analyzed with Chi‐square and student's t‐test where appropriate.

Results

In the whole study group, more patients lost urine when coughing than with Valsalva (122 vs. 93, P = 0.0013). One hundred thirty‐seven (71%) women revealed a positive stress test both with and without catheter where the presence of the catheter was associated with significantly higher cough and Valsalva ALPP. In this subgroup of 137 patients, cough‐induced ALPP values were significantly higher than Valsalva ALPP. Another 29 (15%) women leaked only after the removal of the catheter. Urine leakage could not be demonstrated in the rest of 28 patients (14%) with any maneuver even without catheter in the semi‐supine position.

Conclusion

Cough‐induced stress test is significantly more sensitive than Valsalva to demonstrate urinary leakage. Cystometry catheter significantly increases cough and Valsalva ALPP whereas stress test can be false negative due obstructive effect of cystometry catheter in a group of patients. Stress test may be negative in the semi‐supine position in about 14% of women complaining of SUI. Neurourol. Urodynam. 29:536–539, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A monolithic three‐terminal GaInAsP/GaInAs tandem solar cell
Authors: Steiner M. A. , Wanlass M. W. , Carapella J. J. , Duda A. , Ward J. S. , Moriarty T. E. , Emery K. A.
Published: August 2009

We describe the design and performance of a three‐terminal tandem solar cell for low‐concentration terrestrial applications. Designed for operation under a GaAs filter, the tandem demonstrates cumulative conversion efficiencies of 10.2 and 11.9% at 1 sun and 45 suns, respectively, under the concentrated direct spectrum. The middle terminal is shared between the two subcells and allows them to be operated independently at their respective maximum power points. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Kinetics and mechanism of the reactions of O‐aryl S‐(4‐nitrophenyl) dithiocarbonates with anilines in aqueous ethanol
Authors: Castro Enrique A. , Gazitúa Marcela , Santos José G.
Published: August 2009

The reactions of O‐(4‐methylphenyl) S‐(4‐nitrophenyl) dithiocarbonate and O‐(4‐chlorophenyl) S‐(4‐nitrophenyl) dithiocarbonate with a series of anilines are subjected to a kinetic investigation in 44 wt% ethanol–water, at 25.0 °C and an ionic strength of 0.2 M. The reactions are followed spectrophotometrically at 420 nm (appearance of 4‐nitrobenzenethiolate anion). Under excess amine, pseudo‐first‐order rate coefficients (kobs) are found. For the reactions of both substrates with anilines, plots of kobs versus free amine concentration at constant pH are nonlinear upwards, according to a second‐order polynomial equation. This kinetic behavior is in agreement with a stepwise mechanism consisting of two tetrahedral intermediates, one zwitterionic (T±) and the other anionic (T−), with a kinetically significant proton transfer from T± to an aniline to yield T−. The rate equation was derived from the proposed mechanism. By nonlinear least‐squares fitting of the rate equation to the experimental data, values of the rate micro‐coefficients involved in both steps were determined. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Premicellar and micelle formation behavior of aqueous anionic surfactants in the presence of triphenylmethane dyes: protonation of dye in ion pair micelles
Authors: Gohain Biren , Boruah Bornali , Saikia Palash M. , Dutta Robin K.
Published: August 2009

The premicellar and micelle formation behaviors of four cationic triphenylmethane dyes, viz, Pararosaniline (RN), Crystal violet (CV), Ethyl violet (EV), and Malachite green (MG), in aqueous anionic surfactant solutions of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate (SDBS), and sodium dodecyl sulfonate (SDSN) have been studied by spectral and surface tension measurements. The study was carried out within a pH range where the dyes are stable in their quinoid forms. The dyes have been found to form dye–surfactant ion pairs (DSIPs) with the surfactants, at the surfactant concentrations well below their critical micelle concentration, CMC*. The DSIPs behave like nonionic surfactants and form an air–water interfacial monolayer. The DSIPs have a lower critical micelle concentration (CMCIP), greater efficiency, and lower effectiveness than the corresponding pure surfactants. As the surfactant concentration is increased below the CMC*, the DSIPs start forming micelles of their own where the dye gets protonated and exists as a protonated dye–surfactant ion pair (PDSIP) in the ion pair micelles. As the concentration of the surfactant exceeds the CMC* of the pure surfactant, the protonation reverses gradually with the dye remaining in the micelles in solubilized form and the DSIPs in the air–water interfacial monolayer are replaced by pure surfactants. The distorted helical isomeric form (isomer B) of the dyes is favored in the PDSIPs. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enhanced dispersion of nanotubes in organic solvents by donor–acceptor interaction between functionalized poly(phenylacetylene) chains and carbon nanotube walls
Authors: Zhao Hui , Yuan Wang Zhang , Mei Ju , Tang Li , Liu Xiao Qing , Yan Ji Ming , Shen Xiao Yuan , Sun Jing Zhi , Qin Anjun , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: August 2009

Phenylacetylene derivatives containing carbazole (1) and fluorene (2) moieties were polymerized by [Rh(nbd)Cl]2 into corresponding polymers P1 and P2 of high molecular weights (Mw ∼ 150 × 103–465 × 103) in high yields (up to 98%). The polymers were characterized by NMR, IR, UV, PL, and CV techniques. Hybrids of the polymers with multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) were prepared by simply mixing the two components in common organic solvents such as dichloromethane. The solvating power of the polymer carrying the electron‐donating carbazolyl pendant (P1) is stronger than that of its counterpart carrying fluorenyl pendant (P2), due to the stronger donor–acceptor (D–A) interaction between the P1 chains and the MWNT walls. This work clearly manifests that D–A effect plays an important role in the polymer‐aided MWNT dispersion in organic solvents. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 4995–5005, 2009
Polyiodized‐PCL as multisite transfer agent: Towards an enlarged library of degradable graft copolymers
Authors: Nottelet Benjamin , Darcos Vincent , Coudane Jean
Published: August 2009

Poly(ε‐caprolactone)‐based graft copolymers were prepared via a “grafting from” technique derived from iodine transfer polymerization. This copolymerization was done thanks to a poly(ε‐caprolactone‐co‐α‐iodo‐ε‐caprolactone) (PCL‐I), which was used as a multisite transfer agent. Styrene (Sty) and n‐butyl acrylate (n‐BuA) were firstly used as model monomers to establish the feasibility of using PCL‐I as multisite transfer agent, and investigate some general properties of the polymerization. The formation of PCL‐g‐PSty and PCL‐g‐P(n‐BuA) copolymers was confirmed by SEC and NMR analyzes of the copolymers before and after degradation of the PCL backbone. This method was extended to an acrylamide monomer, namely (N,N‐dimethyl) acrylamide (DMA), to prepare original amphiphilic copolymers with PCL as hydrophobic backbone and amido‐functionalized hydrophilic grafted chains. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 5006–5016, 2009
Linear‐dendritic block copolymer hosts for the encapsulation of electro‐optic chromophores via H‐Bonding
Authors: Leolukman Melvina , Paoprasert Peerasak , Mandel Ian , Diaz Solimar J. , Mcgee David J. , Gopalan Padma
Published: August 2009

Linear‐dendritic block copolymer hosts were synthesized by end‐functionalizing poly(methylmethacrylate) with dendrons that acted as hydrogen‐bonding acceptors for nonlinear optical chromophores. Second harmonic generation experiments indicate that the d33 coefficients and maximum chromophore loading are increased in linear‐dendritic block copolymer hosts over comparable homopolymer hosts. Transmission electron microscopy shows 5–10 nm chromophore domains, confirming the effective spatial dispersion of the chromophores. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 5017–5026, 2009
Charge‐transfer piperazine‐containing polymeric systems via ring‐opening metathesis polymerization
Authors: Chance Brandon S. , Mostafa Adel , Nair Anjali , Hongfa Chayanant , Bazzi Hassan S.
Published: August 2009

This article describes the synthesis of piperazine‐containing homopolymer systems via ring‐opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP). These systems were subsequently used as electron donors in the formation of charge‐transfer (CT) complexes. Using exo‐N‐(6‐bromohexyl)‐7‐oxabicyclo[2.2.1]hept‐5‐ene‐2,3‐dicarboxamide as a starting material, monomers were synthesized to act as electron donors. The amine group at the “open” end of the piperazine was either left open or alkylated with various alkyl groups. The monomers' ability to act as electron donors and their polymerization rates were studied. After initial photometric titration studies using 2,3‐dichloro‐5,6‐dicyanobenzoquinone (DDQ) as an electron acceptor proved that these monomers would act as electron donors, they were subsequently polymerized into homopolymers via ROMP. The experimental results showed that a methanol:chloroform mixed solvent system enhanced the rate of polymerization over a single solvent (chloroform) system. Studies also showed that the alkylated piperazine‐containing monomer had a faster rate of polymerization than the secondary piperazine monomer. These monomers were used to make piperazine‐containing homopolymers via ROMP and the resulting polymers, like the monomers, also functioned as electron donors. Potential functions of these polymers include electronics, solar cells, optical systems, and biological applications. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 5034–5043, 2009
Synthesis and characterization of low bandgap copolymers based on indenofluorene and thiophene derivative
Authors: Yen Wei‐Che , Pal Bikash , Yang Jye‐Shane , Hung Ying‐Chieh , Lin Shiang‐Tai , Chao Chi‐Yang , Su Wei‐Fang
Published: August 2009

A series of low band gap, highly soluble alternating conjugated copolymers, comprised of 11,11,12,12‐tetrahexylindenofluorene and thiophene derivatives (P1‐P4), were synthesized via Pd‐catalyzed Suzuki coupling reaction with very good yields. Described here are the synthesis, thermal, optical, and electrochemical properties of these new copolymers as potential new active materials for electronic and optoelectronic device applications. P1 and P2 have electron donating non‐π‐substituents with ethylenedioxy and propylenedioxy bridging the 3,3 positions of the cyclopentadithiophene groups; whereas P3 and P4 have electron withdrawing π‐substituents (carbonyl and pyrazine groups on P3 and P4, respectively). For the main absorptions in UV‐vis spectrum, P1 and P2 displayed more red absorptions in comparison with P3 and P4. Nevertheless, much suppressed quantum yields are exhibited by P3 and P4. The behaviors of P3 can be attributed to the significant charge transfer interactions between the π‐substituents and the conjugated polymer backbone that leads to a less allowed optical transition between the ground and the lowest excited state. For P4, the weak fluoresence might associate with energy transfer from indenofluorene to the low band gap thiophene‐pyrazinethiophene‐thiophene (T‐PT‐T) unit. In comparison with the corresponding polymers containing fluorene instead of indenofluorene, the use of indenofluorene exhibited mixed effects on the optical properties and improved solubility. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 5044–5056, 2009
Synthesis of novel conjugated polymer based on cyclopenta[def]phenanthrene and vinylene with strong interchain interaction
Authors: Jin Youngeup , Lee Minjung , Kim Sun Hee , Song Suhee , Kim Il , Woo Han Young , Lee Kwanghee , Suh Hongsuk
Published: August 2009

In this study, a novel conjugated polymer, poly(4,4‐bis(2‐ethylhexyl)‐4H‐cyclopenta[def]phenanthrene‐2,6‐vinylene) (PCPPV) has been synthesized and characterized. For the polymerization, Gilch's reaction was applied for the first time with the cyclopenta[def]phenanthrene system. The absorption and emission spectra of PCPPV are red‐shifted about 40–50 nm due to the vinylene units when compared with those of poly(2,6‐(4,4‐bis(2‐ethylhex‐yl)‐4H‐cyclopenta[def]phenanthrene)) (PCPP). The solid‐state fluorescence is significantly broadened, possibly due to π–π interactions introduced by the phenanthrene and vinylene moieties. In solution, as the concentration of polar solvent increased, the photoluminescence (PL) intensity decreased due to quenching and aggregation by the interchain interactions between the conjugated backbones. After annealing the film at 80 °C, the PL and electroluminescence (EL) emission spectra exhibited also the quenching and aggregation effects indicating the interchain interactions of PCPPV. The large number of aromatic rings in a unit and the increased planarity achieved through introduction of vinylene units are able to give interchain interactions stronger than fluorene or phenylene units. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 5068–5077, 2009
Preparation and characterization of high‐molecular‐weight atactic poly(vinyl alcohol)/sodium alginate/silver nanocomposite by electrospinning
Authors: Lee Young Jae , Lyoo Won Seok
Published: August 2009

High‐molecular‐weight poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/sodium alginate (SA)/ silver nanocomposite was successfully prepared via electrospinning technique. Water‐based colloidal silver in a PVA/SA blend solution was directly mixing without any chemical and structural modifications into PVA/SA matrix to form an organic‐metallic nanocomposite. The effect of the addition of silver colloidal solution on the PVA/SA/silver nanocomposite was investigated through a series of experiments varying molecular weight of PVA and electrospinning processing parameters such as concentration of PVA solution, PVA/SA blend ratio, applied voltage, and tip‐to‐collector distance. In the case of PVA with number‐average degree of polymerization of 1700, by increasing the amount of SA in spinning solution, the morphology was changed from fine uniform fiber to beaded fiber or bead‐on‐string fiber structure. Increase of the amount of silver colloidal solution resulted in higher charge density on the surface of ejected jet during spinning, thus more electric charges carried by the electrospinning jet. As the charge density increased, the diameter of the nanocomposites became smaller. Transmission electron microscopy images showed that the dense silver nanoparticles were well separately dispersed in PVA/SA matrix. Energy‐disperse X‐ray analysis indicated that carbon, oxygen, natrium, and silver were the principle element of PVA/SA/silver nanocomposite. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 47: 1916–1926, 2009