bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phase 2 trial of epothilone B analog BMS‐247550 (ixabepilone) in advanced carcinoma of the urothelium (E3800)
Authors: Dreicer Robert , Li Shuli , Manola Judith , Haas Naomi B. , Roth Bruce J. , Wilding George
Published: June 2007

BACKGROUND.

Paclitaxel and docetaxel are active agents in advanced urothelial cancer. BMS‐247550 (ixabepilone) has activity in preclinical models in paclitaxel resistant models. A phase 2 trial of this epothilone was performed to determine the activity and toxicity of this agent in a multi‐institutional setting in patients previously treated with 1 prior chemotherapy regimen.

METHODS.

Forty‐five patients with advanced urothelial carcinoma were treated with BMS‐247550 40 mg/m2 over 3 hours intravenously on Day 1 of a 21‐day cycle and continued therapy until progression or unacceptable toxicity.

RESULTS.

Five patients obtained an objective partial response (PR) among the 42 eligible patients for an overall response rate of 11.9% (90% confidence interval [5.3%, 26.5%]). Median overall survival of the group was 8 months. Toxicity was moderate with granulocytopenia, fatigue, and sensory neuropathy being the most common side effects noted.

CONCLUSIONS.

BMS‐247550 (ixabepilone) has very modest activity as a second‐line therapy for advanced urothelial cancer. Responses in visceral, nodal, and soft tissues sites were observed. Granulocytopenia without fever, fatigue, and sensory neuropathy was common. Cancer 2007. © 2007 American Cancer Society.
IFN‐γ regulates Fas ligand expression in human CD4+ T lymphocytes and controls their anti‐mycobacterial cytotoxic functions
Authors: Boselli Daniela , Losana Giuliana , Bernabei Paola , Bosisio Daniela , Drysdale Pamela , Kiessling Rolf , Gaston John. S. H. , Lammas David , Casanova Jean‐Laurent , Kumararatne Dinakantha S. , Novelli Francesco
Published: June 2007

Fas and Fas Ligand (FasL) expression, activation‐induced cell death (AICD) and mycobacterial antigen‐specific cytotoxicity of peripheral T cells from patients with complete inherited IFN‐γ receptor 1 binding chain deficiency (IFN‐γR1–/–) were investigated. Fas was equally expressed in both normal and deficient T lymphoblasts and they underwent apoptosis when stimulated with agonist anti‐Fas mAb. By contrast, T lymphoblasts and CD4+ T cell clones (TCC) from deficient patients displayed a reduced surface FasL expression and resistance to AICD. CD8+ TCC from healthy and deficient patients displayed similar high level of FasL and susceptibility to AICD. In Jurkat CD4+ T cells competent to transduce IFN‐γ signaling, IFN‐γ induced surface FasL export and their Fas‐dependent apoptosis. Effector T cells generated from a patient with a dominant negative mutation of IFN‐γR1 (IFN‐γR1DN) following stimulation with mycobacterial antigens were unable to kill MHC class II‐matched, mycobacterial antigen‐pulsed macrophages. Normal Fas expression in T cells and FasL in CD8+ cells may account for the absence of autoimmune disorders in these patients. Conversely, defective FasL expression on IFN‐γR1DN CD4+ T cells impairs their cytotoxic functions and highlights a novel role for IFN‐γ signaling in the control of mycobacterial infection in humans.
Silicomolybdate‐Doped PEDOT Modified Electrode: Electrocatalytic Reduction of Bromate and Oxidation of Ascorbic Acid
Authors: Balamurugan A. , Chen Shen‐Ming
Published: June 2007

Electrically conducting poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) film doped with silicomolybdate (SiMo12O404− or SiMo12) was synthesized by electrochemical polymerization. The synthesized film is capable of fast charge propagation during redox reactions in strong acid medium 0.2 M H2SO4 solution. The modified electrode was used towards reduction of bromate and successfully employed as an amperometric sensor for bromate and also above modified electrode was investigated for ascorbic acid oxidation.
On the Initial Stages of Electrooxidation of Aqueous Maleic Acid on Bi‐Doped PbO2
Authors: Borras Carlos , Monroy Anginel , Mostany Jorge , Scharifker Benjamin R.
Published: June 2007

Oxidation of maleic acid in aqueous solution on bismuth‐doped lead oxide has been studied. The effects of hydrodynamic conditions on the oxidation rate have been identified. The number of electrons transferred during the initial stages of oxidation as well as the apparent heterogeneous rate constant was obtained from the combined analysis of rotating ring‐disk currents and the decrease of concentration at constant potential, determined from UV‐vis measurements. The number of electrons involved during electrochemical oxidation was found to be 12, indicating full mineralization to CO2, and the heterogeneous rate constant for oxidation at 1.6 V was 9.8×105 cm s−1.
Essential oil variation among Brazilian accessions of Salvia guaranitica L.
Authors: Carrer R. P. , Vanderlinde R. , Dutra S. , Marcon A. , Echeverrigaray S.
Published: June 2007

The oil from leaves of Salvia guaranitica Benth. accessions from southern Brazil obtained by hydrodistillation is reported. GC–MS analyses revealed sesquiterpene‐rich oils characterized by high concentrations of germacrene D, β‐caryophyllene and δ‐cadinene. Qualitative and quantitative differences were observed among the accessions, enabling them to be assigned to three clusters. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Data assimilation of forecasted errors in hydrodynamic models using inter‐model correlations
Authors: Mancarella D. , Babovic V. , Keijzer M. , Simeone V.
Published: June 2007

Data‐assimilation techniques of the Kalman filter type are considered to be the state‐of‐the‐art approach for combining data information and deterministic numerical models with the objective of operational forecasting. This paper introduces, as an alternative, a faster and simpler data‐assimilation technique that exploits inter‐model correlations to distribute predicted errors. This scheme is performed in two steps: (i) prediction of the deterministic model errors at observation points using so‐called local linear models and (ii) distribution of the forecasted errors over the computational domain employing a scheme based on deterministic inter‐model correlations which describe the spatial nature of error structure. The method's advantage is that systematic error can be predicted by the error correction scheme, while the dynamics remain described by the deterministic model, which also establishes a basis for the spatial error distribution scheme. This relatively simple approach is inspired by original Kalman filter techniques but distinguishes error prediction and distribution in two different stages, hence allowing for data‐driven error forecasting and off‐line correction. In order to test the scheme's performance, a deterministic model of an artificial bay was constructed and run. The system was driven by specific forcing conditions and characterized by physical parameters that, in subsequent simulations, were deliberately manipulated to introduce errors into the model and test the scheme's capability. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
If it ain't broke, don't price fix it: the OFT and the PPRS
Authors: Towse Adrian
Published: June 2007

The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) Report on the UK Pharmaceutical Price Regulation Scheme (PPRS) recommends that when the current five‐year PPRS expires in 2010 it be replaced with ‘value‐based pricing’ which involves pre‐launch centralised government price setting based on a cost‐per‐QALY threshold plus periodic ex post reviews. I examine the validity of the OFTs criticisms of the existing PPRS, review its proposals and propose an alternative way forward. I conclude that PPRS has performed well as a procurement bargain between industry and the UK government. It does not, however, incentivise efficient relative prices. That is not its job. I identify a number of problems with the OFT proposals. I recommend that key elements of a reformed UK pharmaceutical environment for 2010 should include an expanded role for HTA but with companies retaining freedom to set prices at launch; HTA use targeted via a contingent value of information approach; a retained backstop PPRS, perhaps moving to an RPI‐X type control; the use of risk sharing and non‐linear pricing arrangements; measures to ensure more effective therapeutic switching at local level; and measures to improve the take up of cost‐effective treatments. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Triphasic decline of hepatitis C virus RNA during antiviral therapy
Authors: Dahari Harel , Ribeiro Ruy M. , Perelson Alan S.
Published: June 2007

When patients chronically infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) are placed on antiviral therapy with pegylated interferon (IFN)-α or IFN-α plus ribavirin (RBV), HCV RNA generally declines in a biphasic manner. However, a triphasic decline has been reported in a subset of patients. A triphasic decline consists of a first phase (1-2 days) with rapid virus load decline, followed by a “shoulder phase” (4-28 days) in which virus load decays slowly or remains constant, and a third phase of renewed viral decay. We show that by including the proliferation of both uninfected and infected cells, a viral kinetic model can account for a triphasic HCV RNA decay. The model predicts that a triphasic decline occurs only in patients in which a majority of hepatocytes are infected before therapy. The shoulder phase does not represent the intrinsic death rate of infected cells, but rather the third phase slope is close to the intrinsic death rate of infected cells when overall drug efficacy is close to 1.

Conclusion:

Triphasic responses can be predicted from a generalization of existent viral kinetic models through the inclusion of homeostatic proliferation of hepatocytes. This generalized model can also explain the viral kinetics seen in flat partial responders. Finally, the enhanced third phase in patients treated with IFN-α in combination with RBV versus patients treated with IFN-α alone can be explained by a mutagenic effect of RBV against HCV. (HEPATOLOGY 2007;46:16–21.)
Lentivirus-mediated RNA interference targeting enhancer of zeste homolog 2 inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma growth through down-regulation of stathmin
Authors: Chen Yangchao , Lin Marie C. , Yao Hong , Wang Hua , Zhang Ai-Qun , Yu Jun , Hui Chee-kin , Lau George K. , He Ming-liang , Sung Joseph , Kung Hsiang-fu
Published: June 2007

Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) has been shown to be overexpressed in hepatocellular (HCC). We investigated the potential role of EZH2 in HCC tumorigenesis and examined the usefulness of RNA interference (RNAi) targeting EZH2 as a form of HCC treatment. Lentivirus-mediated RNAi was employed to knock-down EZH2 expression in human hepatoma cells to study the function of EZH2 in tumorigenesis and evaluate the treatment efficacy. Lentivirus-mediated RNAi effectively reduced EZH2 expression. Suppression of EZH2 in HCC cells significantly reduced their growth rate in vitro and markedly diminished their tumorigenicity in vivo. Moreover, in a mice model of established large-sized HCC, we showed that intratumor injection of lentiviral (Lenti)-shRNA (short hairpin RNA) or siRNA (small interfering RNA) targeting EZH2 produced significant tumor regression. To understand its molecular mechanism of action, we employed proteomic profiling technique and found that stathmin 1 is the downstream target of EZH2, as Lenti-shEZH2 treatment decreased stathmin protein expression, and ectopic overexpression of stathmin prevented Lenti-shEZH2 mediated tumor growth inhibition.

Conclusion:

Results from our study suggested for the first time that EZH2 plays a key role in HCC tumorigenesis, and is a novel therapeutic target for HCC. (HEPATOLOGY 2007;46:200–208.)
A systems biology approach to the pathogenesis of obesity-related nonalcoholic fatty liver disease using reverse phase protein microarrays for multiplexed cell signaling analysis
Authors: Calvert Valerie S. , Collantes Rochelle , Elariny Hazem , Afendy Arian , Baranova Ancha , Mendoza Michael , Goodman Zachary , Liotta Lance A. , Petricoin Emanuel F. , Younossi Zobair M.
Published: June 2007

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common cause of chronic liver disease. Omental adipose tissue, a biologically active organ secreting adipokines and cytokines, may play a role in the development of NAFLD. We tested this hypothesis with reverse-phase protein microarrays (RPA) for multiplexed cell signaling analysis of adipose tissue from patients with NAFLD. Omental adipose tissue was obtained from 99 obese patients. Liver biopsies obtained at the time of surgery were all read by the same hepatopathologist. Adipose tissue was exposed to rapid pressure cycles to extract protein lysates. RPA was used to investigate intracellular signaling. Analysis of 54 different kinase substrates and cell signaling endpoints showed that an insulin signaling pathway is deranged in different locations in NAFLD patients. Furthermore, components of insulin receptor–mediated signaling differentiate most of the conditions on the NAFLD spectrum. For example, PKA (protein kinase A) and AKT/mTOR (protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin) pathway derangement accurately discriminates patients with NASH from those with the non-progressive forms of NAFLD. PKC (protein kinase C) delta, AKT, and SHC phosphorylation changes occur in patients with simple steatosis. Amounts of the FKHR (forkhead factor Foxo1)phosphorylated at S256 residue were significantly correlated with AST/ALT ratio in all morbidly obese patients. Furthermore, amounts of cleaved caspase 9 and pp90RSK S380 were positively correlated in patients with NASH. Specific insulin pathway signaling events are altered in the adipose tissue of patients with NASH compared with patients with nonprogressive forms of NAFLD.

Conclusion:

These findings provide evidence for the role of omental fat in the pathogenesis, and potentially, the progression of NAFLD. (HEPATOLOGY 2007;46:166–172.)
Antiviral drug-resistant HBV
Authors: Lok Anna S. , Zoulim Fabien , Locarnini Stephen , Bartholomeusz Angeline , Ghany Marc G. , Pawlotsky Jean-Michel , Liaw Yun-Fan , Mizokami Masashi , Kuiken Carla
Published: June 2007

Substantial advances have been made in the treatment of chronic hepatitis B in the past decade. Approved treatments for chronic hepatitis B include 2 formulations of interferon and 4 nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs). Sustained viral suppression is rarely achieved after withdrawal of a 48-week course of NA therapy, necessitating long, and in many cases, indefinite treatment with increasing risk of development of drug resistance. Antiviral resistance and poor adherence are the most important factors in treatment failure of hepatitis B. Thus, there is a need to standardize nomenclature relating to hepatitis B antiviral resistance, and to define genotypic, phenotypic, and clinical resistance to NA therapy. (HEPATOLOGY 2007;46:254–265.)
Adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells as a source of human hepatocytes
Authors: Banas Agnieszka , Teratani Takumi , Yamamoto Yusuke , Tokuhara Makoto , Takeshita Fumitaka , Quinn Gary , Okochi Hitoshi , Ochiya Takahiro
Published: June 2007

Recent observations indicate that several stem cells can differentiate into hepatocytes; thus, cell-based therapy is a potential alternative to liver transplantation. The goal of the present study was to examine the

in vitro

hepatic differentiation potential of adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AT-MSCs). We used AT-MSCs from different age patients and found that, after incubation with specific growth factors (hepatocyte growth factor [HGF], fibroblast growth factor [FGF1], FGF4) the CD105+ fraction of AT-MSCs exhibited high hepatic differentiation ability in an adherent monoculture condition. CD105+ AT-MSC-derived hepatocyte-like cells revealed several liver-specific markers and functions, such as albumin production, low-density lipoprotein uptake, and ammonia detoxification. More importantly, CD105+ AT-MSC-derived hepatocyte-like cells, after transplantation into mice incorporated into the parenchyma of the liver.

Conclusion:

Adipose tissue is a source of multipotent stem cells that can be easily isolated, selected, and induced into mature, transplantable hepatocytes. The fact that they are easy to procure

ex vivo

in large numbers makes them an attractive tool for clinical studies in the context of establishing an alternative therapy for liver dysfunction. (HEPATOLOGY 2007;46:219–228.)
Learning in a geometric model of place cell firing
Authors: Barry Caswell , Burgess Neil
Published: June 2007

Following Hartley et al. (Hartley et al. (2000) Hippocampus 10:369–379), we present a simple feed‐forward model of place cell (PC) firing predicated on neocortical information regarding the environmental geometry surrounding the animal. Incorporating the idea of boundaries with distinct sensory qualities, we show that synaptic plasticity mediated by a BCM‐like rule (Bienenstock et al. (1982) J Neurosci 2:32–48) produces PCs that encode position relative to specific extended landmarks. In an unchanging environment the model is shown to undergo an initial phase of learning, resulting in the formation of stable place fields. In familiar environments, perturbation of environmental cues produces graded changes in the firing rate and position of place fields. Model simulations are compared favorably with three sets of experimental data: (1) Results published by Barry et al. (Barry et al. (2006) Rev Neurosci 17:71–97) showing the slow disappearance of duplicate place fields produced when a barrier is placed into a familiar environment. (2) Rivard et al.'s (Rivard et al. (2004) J Gen Physiol 124:9–25) study showing a graded response in PC firing such that fields near to a centrally placed object encode space relative to the object, whereas more distant fields respond to the surrounding environment. (3) Fenton et al.'s (Fenton et al. (2000a) J Gen Physiol 116:191–209) observation that inconsistent rotation of cue cards produces parametric changes in place field positions. The merits of the model are discussed in terms of its extensibility and biological plausibility. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
An investigation on stream temperature analysis based on evolutionary computing
Authors: Doglioni A. , Giustolisi O. , Savic D. A. , Webb B. W.
Published: June 2007

The data‐driven technique, evolutionary polynomial regression, has been tested and used for the study of water temperature behaviour in the River Barle (south‐west England). The study aimed to produce multiple models for forecasting water temperature, using air temperature as input. In addition, river discharge data were used to describe the hydrological regime of the study stream, even if they are not involved in the modelling phase. The availability of data sampled at hourly intervals allowed behaviour to be studied at several time scales, including short‐term lags between air temperature and water temperature. The approach to model building differs from previous studies in that the relationship between air temperature and water temperature is not evaluated on the basis of a multi‐parameter regression, nor does it identify particular structures; rather the evolutionary technique identifies the model by itself. In fact, the non‐linear relationship between air temperature and water temperature is investigated by an evolutionary search in the space of particular pseudo‐polynomials structures. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In vivo stability and biocompatibility of implanted calcium alginate disks
Authors: Nunamaker Elizabeth A. , Purcell Erin K. , Kipke Daryl R.
Published: June 2007

Alginate is a commonly used biomedical hydrogel whose in vivo degradation behavior is only beginning to be understood. The use of alginate in the central nervous system is gaining popularity as an electrode coating, cell encapsulation matrix, and for duraplasty. However, it is necessary to understand how the hydrogel will behave in vivo to aid in the development of alginate for use as a neural interface material. The goal of the current study was to compare the rheological behavior of explanted alginate disks and the inflammatory response to subcutaneously implanted alginate hydrogels over a 3‐month period. Specifically, the effects due to (1) in situ gelling, (2) diffusion gelling, and (3) use of a poly‐l‐lysine (PLL) coating were investigated. While all samples' complex moduli decreased 80% in the first day, in situ gelled alginate was more stable for the first week of implantation. The PLL coating offered some stability increases for diffusion gelled alginate, but the stability in both conditions remained significantly lower than that in in situ gelled alginate. There were no differences in biocompatibility that clearly suggested one gelation method over another. These results indicate that in situ gelation is the preferred method in neural interface applications where stability is the primary concern. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 2007
Pasty injectable biodegradable polymers derived from natural acids
Authors: Krasko Michal Y. , Domb Abraham J.
Published: June 2007

Pasty biodegradable polymers that can be mixed with drugs at room temperature and injected to tissue as neat composition are advantageous as they allow simple preparation and delivery of drugs, particularly for heat sensitive drugs. A series of biodegradable pasty poly (ester‐anhydride)s were prepared from alkanedicarboxylic acids and ricinoleic acid and its oligomers by transesterification‐repolymerization method. The polymers were characterized by common spectroscopic, chromatography, and thermal methods. Polymers containing 70% ricinoleic acid and 30% linear dicarboxylic acids with 4‐10 methylene groups were synthesized. The melting point of these poly (ester‐anhydride)s increased as the number of methylenes in the alkanedicarboxylic acid increased. Use of short oligomers of ricinoleic acid instead of ricinoleic acid itself increased the melting point and decreased the softness of the resulting polymers. The polymers released model drugs for a few weeks while being degraded to their fatty acid counterparts. Copolymerization of alkanedicarboxylic acids with ricinoleic acid resulted in pasty biodegradable polymers useful as injectable carriers for drugs. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 2007
Bisphosphonates incorporated in a poly(D,L‐lactide) implant coating inhibit osteoclast like cells in vitro
Authors: Greiner Stefan , Kadow‐Romacker Anke , Wildemann Britt , Schwabe Philipp , Schmidmaier Gerhard
Published: June 2007

Nitrogen containing bisphosphonates such as zoledronic acid (ZOL) are clinically used to prevent osteoclast induced bone loss. Previous studies indicated that bisphosphonates prevent osteoclast formation, decreases their resorption activity and lead to osteoclast apoptosis. Aim of the study was to investigate the effect of ZOL on fusion and resorption activity of osteoclast like cells (OLC) derived from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNC) in vitro. For application of ZOL a local drug delivery system based on a coating for medical devices was used. ZOL was incorporated in the coating based on Poly(D,L‐Lactide) (PDLLA) in different concentrations (10–50 μM). Control groups were treated without ZOL or ZOL pure substance in corresponding concentrations. Human PBMNCs were isolated and stimulated to form OLCs. After an experimental period of 144 h, TRAP staining of polynucleated cells was performed and TRAP positive cells were counted. A pit formation assay was performed and resorption lacunas on dentin chips were counted. Results showed a significant dose dependent decrease in the number of TRAP positive cells after exposure to ZOL incorporated in the drug delivery system or applied as pure substance. The amount of resorption lacunas was also dose dependent decreased using both application methods. In conclusion, exposure to specific concentrations of ZOL incorporated in a drug delivery system showed a significant decrease in OLC formation and activity comparable to the effect of pure substance. The effect on osteoclasts might be of clinical benefit to reduce orthopedic implant loosening and to support fracture healing. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 2007
Validation and quantification of an in vitro model of continuous infusion of submicron‐sized particles
Authors: Ortiz Steven G. , Ma Ting , Epstein Noah J. , Smith R. Lane , Goodman Stuart B.
Published: June 2007

Wear particles produced from total joint replacements have been shown to stimulate a foreign body and chronic inflammatory reaction that results in periprosthetic osteolysis. Most animal models that simulate these events have used a single injection of particles, which is not representative of the clinical scenario, in which particles are continuously generated. The goal of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of an osmotic pump for the continuous delivery of clinically relevant submicron‐sized particles over an extended period of time. Blue‐dyed polystyrene particles and retrieved ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) particles, both suspended in mouse serum, were loaded into an Alzet mini‐osmotic pump. Pumps were attached to vinyl tubing that ended with hollow titanium rods, simulating a metal implant, which was suspended in a collection vessel. The number of particles collected was evaluated over 2‐ and 4‐week time periods. Delivery of both the polystyrene and UHMWPE particles was feasible over pump concentrations of 109 to 1011 particles per pump. Furthermore, delivery efficiency of polystyrene particles decreased with increasing initial particle concentration, whereas delivery efficiency of UHMWPE particles increased slightly with increasing initial particle concentration. For UHMWPE, approximately one‐third of the particles in the pump were collected at 4 weeks. This in vitro study has quantified the efficiency of a unique particle pumping system that may be used in future in vivo investigations to develop a murine model of continuous particle infusion. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 2008
Phase conversion of tricalcium phosphate into Ca‐deficient apatite during sintering of hydroxyapatite–tricalcium phosphate biphasic ceramics
Authors: Kong Young‐Min , Kim Hyoun‐Ee , Kim Hae‐Won
Published: June 2007

In this study, we report a new observation on the phase conversion that occurs during the sintering of hydroxyapatite (HA)–tricalcium phosphate (TCP) biphasic ceramics. During the sintering of the HA‐TCP mixture powders, a large amount of TCP was converted into HA, as detected by X‐ray diffraction. The amount of TCP transformed into HA was ∼10–90% of that initially added. From the electron probe microscopy analysis, the HA transformed from TCP was found to be Ca‐deficient with Ca/P ratios of 1.62–1.64. The dissolution behavior and osteoblastic responses in a series of HA‐TCP biphasic ceramics (10–90% TCP) were assessed. The solubility of the HA‐TCP biphasic ceramics was intermediate between that of the HA and TCP pure ceramics. However, in the case of the HA‐90% TCP biphasic ceramic, the solubility was even higher than that of pure TCP. The cell proliferation and alkaline phosphatase activity of the cells on the biphasic ceramics were lower than those on pure HA, but higher than those on pure TCP. However, particularly in the HA‐50% TCP biphasic composition, the cellular responses were significantly higher than those on pure HA. It is considered that the Ca‐deficient apatite newly formed from the TCP may affect in some way the solubility and biological properties of the HA‐TCP biphasic ceramics. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 2008
Effects of anodic oxidation parameters on a modified titanium surface
Authors: Park Il Song , Lee Min Ho , Bae Tae Sung , Seol Kyeong Won
Published: June 2007

Anodic oxidation is an electrochemical treatment that can be used to control the thickness of an oxide layer formed on a titanium surface. This procedure has the advantage of allowing the ions contained in an electrolyte to deposit onto the oxide layer. The characteristics of a layer treated with anodic oxidation can vary according to the type and concentration of the electrolytes as well as the processing variables used during anodic oxidation. In this study, the constant electrolyte for anodic oxidation was a mixed solution containing 0.02M DL‐α‐glycerophosphate disodium salt and 0.2M calcium acetate. Anodic oxidation was carried out at different voltages, current densities, and duration of anodic oxidation. The results showed that the current density and variation in the duration of anodic oxidation did not have a large effect on the change in the characteristics of the layer. On the other hand, the size of the micropores was increased with increasing voltage of anodic oxidation, and anatase and rutile phases were found to co‐exist in the porous titanium dioxide layer. In addition, the thickness of the oxide layer on titanium and the characteristic of corrosion resistance increased with increasing voltage. The MTT test showed that the cell viability was increased considerably as a result of anodic oxidation. The anodizing voltage is an important parameter that determines the characteristics of the anodic oxide layer of titanium. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 2008
Influence of endodontic sealers on the bond strength of carbon fiber posts
Authors: Teixeira C.S. , Pasternak‐Junior B. , Borges A.H. , Paulino S.M. , Sousa‐Neto M.D.
Published: June 2007

Objective:

The aim of this study was to verify the influence of endodontic sealers on the bond strength of an adhesive system and a resin cement used for carbon posts cementation.

Methods:

Thirty extracted human premolars were instrumented and randomly divided into three groups according to the tested sealer: EndoFill, Sealapex, or EndoREZ. Specimens were stored at 37°C. After 48 h, half of specimens were prepared to receive the post and the others after 7 days. The posts were cemented with Adper Single Bond/Rely X ARC and stored in distilled water at 37°C for 7 days. After this period, the specimens were sectioned in three slices (coronal, middle, and apical). The push‐out test was performed in a universal machine and the debonded area was examined in a stereomicroscope.

Results:

Data were submitted ANOVA and Tukey test (α = 0.05). The EndoFill showed lower bond strength than other sealers (p < 0.01). The EndoREZ sealer was statistically greater than other groups for coronal and middle portions and similar for apical portion (p > 0.05). Coronal and middle portions showed the best results for all groups, mainly when the canal preparation was performed after 48 h (p < 0.01). Mixed failure occurs with more frequency (55.6%) followed by failure in adhesive‐dentin interface (34.4%) and adhesive‐post interface (10.0%).

Conclusion:

The use of EndoREZ sealer promoted higher bond strength in root coronal and middle portions when carbon post was fixed with a resin cement. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 2008
Agitation requirements for complete solid suspension in an unbaffled agitated vessel with an unsteadily forward–reverse rotating impeller
Authors: Tezura Shuichi , Kimura Akihiro , Yoshida Masanori , Yamagiwa Kazuaki , Ohkawa Akira
Published: June 2007

Background: To develop a new type of solid–liquid apparatus, we have proposed the application of an agitation system with an impeller whose rotation alternates direction unsteadily, i.e., a forward–reverse rotating impeller. For an unbaffled agitated vessel fitted with this system, the suspension of solid particles in a liquid was studied using a disk turbine impeller with six flat blades.

Results: The effects of the solid–liquid conditions and geometrical conditions of the apparatus on the minimum rotation rate and the corresponding impeller power consumption were evaluated experimentally for a completely suspended solid. The power consumption for a just suspended solid with this type of vessel was comparable with that for a baffled vessel with a unidirectionally rotating impeller, taking the liquid flow along the vessel bottom into consideration.

Conclusion: Empirical relationships to predict the parameters of agitation requirements were found. A comparative investigation demonstrated the usefulness of the forward–reverse rotation mode of the impeller for off‐bottom suspension of solid particles. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Distribution patterns of β‐ and γ‐herpesviruses within Waldeyer's ring organs
Authors: Berger Christoph , Hug Martina , Gysin Claudine , Molinari Luciano , Frei Martina , Bossart Walter , Nadal David
Published: June 2007

The Waldeyer's ring designates a functional unit of lymphoid tissue within the pharynx including the adenoids and tonsils. To gain insight into distribution patterns of β‐ and γ‐human herpesviruses (HHVs) and their potential mutual influences at their natural portal of entry, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assays were applied to adenoids and tonsils obtained from 30 children. DNA of Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), HHV‐6, HHV‐7, and HHV‐8 was detected in adenoids, tonsils, or both of 24 (80%), 19 (63%), 23 (77%), 23 (77%), and 0 (0%) children, respectively. EBV, CMV, HHV‐6, and ‐7 localized in both adenoids and tonsils from 92%, 37%, 52%, and 70% of children, respectively, with the virus detectable by qPCR. The amount of EBV was 2–10‐fold higher than of other HHVs and correlated in autologous organs (P = 0.01) as did the amount of HHV‐7 (P = 0.002). The amount of CMV correlated with the HHV‐6 amount in adenoids (P = 0.028) and tonsils (P = 0.007), and with the amount of HHV‐7 in adenoids (P < 0.01). Levels of HHV‐6 DNA were lower in adenoids with detectable CMV DNA than in adenoids without detectable CMV DNA (P = 0.0062). Inversely, CMV and HHV‐7 levels were higher in adenoids with than in adenoids without detectable EBV DNA (P = 0.019 and P = 0.039, respectively).Thus, β‐ and γ‐HHV exhibit distinct distribution behaviors in Waldeyer's ring organs and seem to interact. This may be of medical importance in immunocompromised hosts who are likely to reactivate HHVs causing severe morbidity and death. J. Med. Virol. 79: 1147–1152, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Surface‐enhanced Raman scattering study of the red dye laccaic acid
Authors: Cañamares M. V. , Leona M.
Published: June 2007

FT‐Raman and surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy were applied to the study of lac dye, a highly fluorescent anthraquinone red dye. The SERS spectra were obtained at different pH values, on Ag nanoparticles prepared by chemical reduction with citrate and hydroxylamine, and at several excitation wavelengths, in order to find the best experimental conditions for the detection of the lac dye. The lower detection limit was achieved using nanoparticles prepared by reduction with hydroxylamine, excitation at 514.5 nm, and slightly acidic pH conditions, thus exploiting a combination of factors including lower electrostatic repulsion between dye and nanoparticles and resonance Raman enhancement. A comparison between the adsorption of laccaic acid (LA) and carminic acid (CA), another anthraquinone red dye, was also done, based on the SERS spectra of both dyes. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Raman scattering studies on nanocrystalline BaTiO3 Part I—isolated particles and aggregates
Authors: Shiratori Y. , Pithan C. , Dornseiffer J. , Waser R.
Published: June 2007

BaTiO3 powders with various crystallite sizes, which were prepared through microemulsion‐mediated synthesis, were thoroughly studied by Raman spectroscopy. Clear evidence for the presence of the tetragonal phase was found for ultrafine powders with an average crystallite size above 30 nm. The lifetime of phonons that are specifically assigned to the tetragonal phase decreased with decreasing crystallite size below a critical size of 100 nm. In particles as fine as 100 nm, the short mean free path of phonons, mainly due to internal pressure, causes decoupling of the coupled A1 (TO) phonons and a diffuse phase transition behaviour (TC = 115 °C). Coupled A1(TO) phonons, which give a spectral dip at around 180 cm−1 and a lesser extent of diffuseness, were revealed for powders consisting of particles as large as 0.17 µm (TC = 123 °C). Further coarsening upon annealing induced the formation of aggregates, resulting in the shift of phase transition points to higher temperatures for the rhombohedral to orthorhombic and the orthorhombic to tetragonal transitions and to lower temperatures for the tetragonal to cubic transition, respectively. Phase stability in powders is discussed by considering possible factors such as internal pressure in isolated particles and internal stress in aggregates. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Three fabricated pigments (Han purple, indigo and emerald green) in ancient Chinese artifacts studied by Raman microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectrometry and polarized light microscopy
Authors: Cheng Xiaolin , Xia Yin , Ma Yanru , Lei Yong
Published: June 2007

In this study, we analyzed three fabricated pigments from ancient artifacts in China. The purple pigment was obtained from a painted pottery figurine unearthed from the Chu Tombs group of the Western Han dynasty in Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province. The dark blue dye was from silk textiles in the Palace Museum. The green pigment was from decorative paintings on ancient architectures in the Palace Museum. These pigments were analyzed with Raman microscopy (RM), energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX) analytic spectroscopy and polarized light microscopy (PLM). By comparing their Raman spectra with standard samples, the primary ingredients of the purple pigment and the dark blue dye were found to be Han purple and indigo, respectively. However, the green pigment could not be identified by RM because of strong fluorescence. It was then confirmed to be emerald green by using EDX analytic microscopy and PLM. We also describe the traditional manufacturing methods of these pigments and their applications on artifacts in Chinese history. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Raman spectroscopy of the BC3 phase obtained under high pressure and high temperature
Authors: Zinin P. V. , Ming L. C. , Kudryashov I. , Konishi N. , Sharma S. K.
Published: June 2007

A direct transformation of the g‐BC3 phase to a new diamond‐like d‐BC3 phase was observed in a diamond‐anvil cell (DAC) at high temperature, 2033 ± 241 K, and high pressure, 50 GPa. Analysis of the peak positions of the d‐BC3, B4C, α‐boron, and the boron‐doped diamond leads to the conclusion that the positions of the peaks of the d‐BC3 are more similar to the peak pattern of the boron‐doped diamond rather than that of boron carbide, α‐boron. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
PTSD symptoms in children and adolescents 28 months after a flood: Age and gender differences
Authors: Bokszczanin Anna
Published: June 2007

The present study examined the prevalence and predictors of posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms (PTSD) in a sample of 533 students (aged 11 to 21), 28 months after the 1997 Flood in southwestern Poland. The results show that 18% of the participants met all diagnostic criteria for PTSD. Based on hierarchical multiple regression analyses, PTSD criteria symptoms were positively correlated with the degree of exposure to trauma experienced during the disaster. A three‐way interaction of trauma, age, and gender showed that more PTSD symptoms were observed among the younger participants and girls than among the older boys. The results confirm the need of research testing culturally sensitive implementation of mental health programs for young victims of disasters, taking into account their age and gender.
Postural sway and falls in Parkinson's disease: A regression approach
Authors: Matinolli Maarit , Korpelainen Juha T. , Korpelainen Raija , Sotaniemi Kyösti A. , Virranniemi Minna , Myllylä Vilho V.
Published: June 2007

A population‐based study was designed to evaluate the clinical associates of postural sway and to identify the risk factors for falls in Parkinson's disease (PD). From a total population of 205,000 inhabitants, 215 PD patients were identified of which 120 home‐dwelling cases were finally included in the study. Medical data were collected and patients were clinically examined and tested for static balance using an inclinometric device. Recent falls occurred in 40 (33%) of the subjects and 27 (23%) subjects were recurrent fallers. The fallers had a significantly larger sway area (P = 0.021) and a larger maximum deflection in anterior–posterior (P = 0.016) and lateral directions (P = 0.006) than the nonfallers. A significant correlation was found between the sway measures and the UPDRS total score, motor subcore and UPDRS “bradykinesia” item. A higher UPDRS total score (OR: 1.04, 95% CI: 1.01–1.07) and an increased sway area (OR: 1.25, 95% CI: 1.02–1.54) were independent risk factors for recent falling in PD. In addition, the duration and severity of PD, antiparkinsonian medication, recent falling and the use of a walking aid were associated with increased sway measures. The results can be used to identify PD patients who are at a risk of falling. Both antiparkinsonian medication and nonmedical treatment should be optimized to reduce falls in PD. © 2007 Movement Disorder Society
Paroxysmal kinesigenic segmental myoclonus due to a spinal cord glioma
Authors: Marrufo Manuel , Politsky Jeffrey , Mehta Shyamal , Morgan John C. , Sethi Kapil D.
Published: June 2007

We report an 18‐year‐old man with paroxysmal jerking movements of the left arm since age 7 years. These were invariably precipitated by startle or sudden movements. He was subsequently diagnosed with a cervical cord anaplastic astrocytoma on MRI. We could not identify previous reports of paroxysmal myoclonus secondary to a spinal cord neoplasm. We have coined the term Paroxysmal Kinesigenic Segmental Myoclonus to describe this entity. © 2007 Movement Disorder Society
Effects of thiol compounds on in vitro maturation of canine oocytes collected from different reproductive stages
Authors: Hossein Mohammad Shamim , Kim Min Kyu , Jang Goo , Oh Hyun Joo , Koo OkJae , Kim Jeong Joo , Kang Sung Keun , Lee Byeong Chun , Hwang Woo Suk
Published: June 2007

Various thiol compounds are known to improve cytoplasmic and/or nuclear maturation of oocytes in vitro. The present study examined the effects of two thiol compounds, cysteine (0.1, 0.5, and 1.0 mM) and cysteamine (50, 100, and 200 µM), on cytoplasmic and nuclear maturation of canine oocytes. Oocytes collected from different reproductive stages were cultured in TCM‐199 supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum, 2.2 mg/ml sodium carbonate, 2.0 µg/ml estrogen, 0.5 µg/ml FSH, 0.03 IU/ml hCG, and 1% penicillin–streptomycin solution for 72 h. Data were analyzed by two‐way ANOVA after arcscine transformation and protected by Bonferroni post hoc test. The effects of cysteine and cysteamine on canine IVM were varied depending on the reproductive stage of oocyte donor bitches. In the follicular stage, significantly more oocytes reached the metaphase II (M II) stage when cultured with 0.5 or 1.0 mM cysteine (16.7% and 16.9%, respectively) compared to the control (6.2%). In the follicular stage, cysteamine increased oocyte maturation rate upto the M II stage (15.1% to 17.0%) compared to the control (4.4%). Both the 0.5 mM cysteine and 100 µM cysteamine, alone or together, increased the intracellular GSH level of canine oocytes compared to the control. Irrespective of reproductive stage, no further beneficial effects on nuclear or cytoplasmic maturation were observed when 0.5 mM cysteine and 100 µM cysteamine were supplemented together. In conclusion, addition of 0.5 mM cysteine and 100 µM cysteamine to the maturation medium improved IVM of canine oocytes. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 74: 1213–1220, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Association of the prion protein and its expression with ovarian follicle development in cattle
Authors: Forde N. , Rogers M. , Canty M.J. , Lonergan P. , Smith G.W. , Coussens P.M. , Ireland J.J. , Evans A.C.O.
Published: June 2007

The cellular form of the prion protein (PrPC) has been detected in many tissues including reproductive tissues. While its function is unclear, it has been suggested to act as a receptor for an unidentified ligand and/or as an antioxidant agent. We tested the hypothesis that PrPCis differentially expressed in dominant, growing, compared to subordinate bovine ovarian follicles. Using both microarray analysis and quantitative real‐time PCR, the level of prion protein mRNA (Prnp) in both theca and granulosa cells was measured. We found that levels of Prnp were significantly higher in the theca cells of dominant compared to subordinate follicles but similar among granulosa cells from different follicles. This difference was apparent immediately after selection of the dominant follicle and continued to the dominance stage of the follicle wave. Levels of the protein for PrPCwere also higher (P < 0.05) in theca cells of dominant compared to subordinate follicles. In conclusion, elevated PrPCwas associated with ovarian follicle growth and development and we suggest that it may play a role in the success of follicle development. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 75: 243–249, 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The extent of excessive or insufficient fundraising among US arts organizations and the effect of organizational efficiency on donations to US arts organizations
Authors: Marudas Nicholas P. , Jacobs Fred A.
Published: June 2007

We estimate, for each nonprofit organization (NPO) in a sample of 606 US arts NPOs, whether the NPO's level of fundraising is ‘excessive,’ ‘insufficient,’ or neither, relative to the level that maximizes net donations. We find that the effect of a 1% increase in fundraising on net donations varies widely across the arts NPOs in our sample—from an increase in net donations of 8.91% of gross donations to a decrease of 3.82% of gross donations. Of the 100 NPOs in our sample with the highest donations, the estimated effect of a 1% increase in fundraising on net donations varies more narrowly—from an increase in net donations of 0.27% of gross donations to a decrease of 0.32% of gross donations. Of these 100 NPOs, we estimate that only 3 engaged in ‘excessive’ fundraising, but 83 engaged in ‘insufficient’ fundraising, and 14 did not engage in ‘excessive’ or ‘insufficient’ fundraising.We also provide evidence that reported organizational efficiency does not affect donations to arts NPOs. This finding may be useful to managers and directors of US arts NPOs who believe that organizational efficiency does impact donations and who, therefore, incorporate the effect on efficiency in their decisions to allocate resources across fundraising, administration, and program objectives.

Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Building relationships across the Timor Sea: an evaluation of the Australian/Timorese friendship agreements
Authors: Spence Rebecca , Ninnes Fiona
Published: June 2007

This article explores the concept and dynamics of the newly formed, and increasingly popular, Friendship Agreements, between local councils in Australia, and their counterpart district administrations in Timor Leste. The history and purpose of international municipal links are explored and contrasted with current Friendship Agreement policy and practice. The key elements of making international municipal links a success are examined and the main impediments to forging and maintaining sustainable partnerships are discussed and contrasted with the Australian/Timorese experience. The article offers suggestions for creating sustainable, vibrant links. It argues that those Agreements built on notions of paternalism are less likely to succeed than those that are committed to relationship and trust building between and within communities in Australia and Timor Leste. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.