bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Centriole separation in DNA damage‐induced centrosome amplification
Authors: Saladino Chiara , Bourke Emer , Conroy Pauline C. , Morrison Ciaran G.
Published: March 2009

Altered centrosome numbers are seen in tumor cells in response to DNA damaging treatments and are hypothesised to contribute to cancer development. The mechanism by which the centrosome and chromosome cycles become disconnected after DNA damage is not yet clear. Here, we show that centrosome amplification occurs after ionising radiation (IR) in chicken DT40 cells that lack DNA‐PK, Ku70, H2AX, Xpa, and Scc1, demonstrating that these activities are not required for centrosome amplification. We show that inhibition of topoisomerase II induces Chk1‐dependent centrosome amplification, a similar response to that seen after IR. In the immortalised, nontransformed hTERT‐RPE1 line, we observed centriole splitting, followed by dose‐dependent centrosome amplification, after IR. We found that IR results in the formation of single, not multiple, daughter centrioles during centrosome amplification in U2OS osteosarcoma cells. Analysis of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutant tumor cells showed high levels of centriole splitting in the absence of any treatment. IR caused pronounced levels of centrosome amplification in BRCA1 mutant breast cancer cells. These data show that centrosome amplification occurs after different forms of DNA damage in chicken cells, in nontransformed human cells and in human tumor cell lines, indicating that this is a general response to DNA damaging treatments. Together, our data suggest that centriole splitting is a key step in potentiation of the centrosome amplification that is a general response to DNA damage. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A missing values imputation method for time series data: an efficient method to investigate the health effects of sulphur dioxide levels
Authors: Weerasinghe Swarna
Published: March 2009

Environmental data contains lengthy records of sequential missing values. Practical problem arose in the analysis of adverse health effects of sulphur dioxide (SO2) levels and asthma hospital admissions for Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada. Reliable missing values imputation techniques are required to obtain valid estimates of the associations with sparse health outcomes such as asthma hospital admissions. In this paper, a new method that incorporates prediction errors to impute missing values is described using mean daily average sulphur dioxide levels following a stationary time series with a random error. Existing imputation methods failed to incorporate the prediction errors. An optimal method is developed by extending a between forecast method to include prediction errors. Validity and efficacy are demonstrated comparing the performances with the values that do not include prediction errors. The performances of the optimal method are demonstrated by increased validity and accuracy of the β coefficient of the Poisson regression model for the association with asthma hospital admissions. Visual inspection of the imputed values of sulphur dioxide levels with prediction errors demonstrated that the variation is better captured. The method is computationally simple and can be incorporated into the existing statistical software. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Performance evaluation of a nonlinear Winkler‐based shallow foundation model using centrifuge test results
Authors: Raychowdhury Prishati , Hutchinson Tara C.
Published: March 2009

When a structure supported on shallow foundations is subjected to inertial loading due to earthquake motions, the foundation may undergo sliding, settling and rocking movements. Even if the capacity of the foundation is mobilized, the soil–foundation interface may dissipate significant amounts of vibrational energy, resulting in reduced force demands to the superstructure. If the capacity is not mobilized, these movements introduce additional flexibility to the system, which may shift its period away from the potentially hazardous zone of response spectra for most earthquake ground motions. In either case, transient and permanent deformations will need to be accounted for.

To consider the aforementioned benefits and consequences in performance‐based seismic design, robust and reliable numerical modeling tools are needed. In this article, a Winkler‐based modeling framework is proposed to address this issue. The model includes a distributed array of mechanistic nonlinear inelastic springs, dashpots, and gap elements, with backbone curves of the nonlinear springs calibrated against shallow foundation experiments. Model evaluation is conducted by simulating the response of a number of centrifuge experiments. Experiments considered include square and strip footings, bridge and building models, static and dynamic loading, footings on sand and clay, a range of static vertical factors of safety, and a range of aspect ratios. It is observed that the model can reasonably predict measured footing response in terms of moment, shear, settlement and rotational demands. In addition, the general hysteresis shape of the moment–rotation, settlement–rotation and shear–sliding curves is reasonably captured. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of memantine on cognition in patients with moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease: post‐hoc analyses of ADAS‐cog and SIB total and single‐item scores from six randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled studies
Authors: Mecocci Patrizia , Bladström Anna , Stender Karina
Published: March 2009

Objectives

The post‐hoc analyses reported here evaluate the specific effects of memantine treatment on ADAS‐cog single‐items or SIB subscales for patients with moderate to severe AD.

Methods

Data from six multicentre, randomised, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group, double‐blind, 6‐month studies were used as the basis for these post‐hoc analyses. All patients with a Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) score of less than 20 were included. Analyses of patients with moderate AD (MMSE: 10–19), evaluated with the Alzheimer's disease Assessment Scale (ADAS‐cog) and analyses of patients with moderate to severe AD (MMSE: 3–14), evaluated using the Severe Impairment Battery (SIB), were performed separately.

Results

The mean change from baseline showed a significant benefit of memantine treatment on both the ADAS‐cog (p < 0.01) and the SIB (p < 0.001) total score at study end. The ADAS‐cog single‐item analyses showed significant benefits of memantine treatment, compared to placebo, for mean change from baseline for commands (p < 0.001), ideational praxis (p < 0.05), orientation (p < 0.01), comprehension (p < 0.05), and remembering test instructions (p < 0.05) for observed cases (OC). The SIB subscale analyses showed significant benefits of memantine, compared to placebo, for mean change from baseline for language (p < 0.05), memory (p < 0.05), orientation (p < 0.01), praxis (p < 0.001), and visuospatial ability (p < 0.01) for OC.

Conclusion

Memantine shows significant benefits on overall cognitive abilities as well as on specific key cognitive domains for patients with moderate to severe AD. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Increased C‐reactive protein is not associated with apathy: the Leiden 85‐Plus Study
Authors: Maas D. W. , van der Mast R. C. , de Craen A. J. M.
Published: March 2009

Background

Apathy has recently been recognized as a distinct clinical syndrome although it is difficult to differentiate from late life depression. In old age, apathy as a syndrome in itself and depression may have different etiologies. Inflammatory markers have been associated with depression in the elderly, but the relation with apathy is unknown.

Objective

To assess the relation between C‐reactive protein (CRP) and apathy as a syndrome in itself, apart from depression, in subjects aged 85 and older.

Methods

All data come from the Leiden 85‐Plus Study, a prospective, population‐based study of 599 elderly subjects. CRP was measured at baseline. In all subjects with a Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) ≥19 points (n = 500), apathy and depression were assessed annually from age 85 to 90 using the three apathy and twelve depression questions of the 15‐item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS‐15). The association between CRP and apathy or depressive symptoms was assessed both at baseline and longitudinally.

Results

At baseline, no association was found between CRP‐concentration and apathy or depression. In subjects free of apathy and depression at baseline, subjects in the highest CRP‐tertile at baseline had significantly more increase in depressive symptoms but not in apathy symptoms during follow‐up.

Conclusion

Higher CRP concentrations increased the risk of depression but not apathy in a community‐based cohort of 85 years old subjects. This suggests that apathy and depression in old age have different etiologies. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comorbidities and FLT3‐ITD abnormalities as independent prognostic indicators of survival in Elderly acute myeloid leukaemia patients
Authors: Breccia Massimo , Frustaci Anna Maria , Cannella Laura , Stefanizzi Caterina , Latagliata Roberto , Cartoni Claudio , Diverio Daniela , Guarini Anna , Nanni Mauro , Rago Angela , Cimino Giuseppe , Alimena Giuliana
Published: March 2009

Elderly acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) patients have a dismal prognosis due to biological features of disease in itself and to presence of comorbidities. Aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic impact of comorbidity prognostic score systems applied in our population of patients. as well as other clinical‐biological features. We retrospectively considered the outcome of 120 patients aged >65 years diagnosed as having AML between January 2001 and December 2005. Comorbidities were evaluated by using Charlson comorbidity index (CCI), Hematopoietic cell transplantation comorbidity index (HCTCI) and a score proposed by Dombret et al. in 2007. Median patient age was 67 years. Forty‐six patients were treated with intensive chemotherapy and 23 reached a complete remission. Seventy‐four patients received only supportive therapies or low‐dose chemotherapy. Multivariate analysis showed the effects of leukocytosis (p = 0.0013), antecedent Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) (p = 0.011), FLT3 abnormalities (p = 0.032), CCI (p = 0.0037) and Dombret et al. score (p = 0.045) as independent prognostic parameters for survival. Based on these variables we were able to stratify patients in low and high risk, with different median overall survival: patients were considered as low risk if they had none or only one of the above mentioned adverse factors for survival, with a median overall survival of 447 days. Patients with two or more adverse factors were categorized as high risk: this subgroup had a median overall survival of 227 days (p = 0.001). Comorbidities are independent factors that influence survival. Application of CCI and Dombret score may help to better identify patients at diagnosis who can benefit from intensive chemotherapy. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A multicentre phase II trial of gemcitabine for the treatment of patients with newly diagnosed, relapsed or chemotherapy resistant mantle cell lymphoma: SAKK 36/03
Authors: Hitz F. , Martinelli G. , Zucca E. , von Moos R. , Mingrone W. , Simcock M. , Peterson J. , Cogliatti S. B. , Bertoni F. , Zimmermann D. R. , Ghielmini M.
Published: March 2009

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) has a poor prognosis with often short and incomplete remissions. We aimed to test the efficacy and tolerability of gemcitabine in treating MCL. Gemcitabine was given in doses of 1000 mg/m2 as a 30 min infusion on days 1 and 8 of each 3 week cycle for a maximum of nine cycles. Eighteen patients with a median age of 70 years were recruited. MCL was newly diagnosed in half of patients and relapsed in the remainder. Fifteen patients had Ann Arbor stage IV. The best‐recorded responses were 1 CR (complete remission), 4 PRs (partial responses), 8 SDs (stable diseases) and 4 PDs (diseases progression). The response rate (RR) (CR + PR) was 5 (28%; 95% confidence interval: 7.1, 48.5). The patient achieving a CR had stage IV disease. Most haematological adverse events occurred during the first chemotherapy cycle. Three patients developed non‐haematological serious adverse events: dyspnea, glomerular microangiopathy with haemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) and hyperglycaemia. The median time‐to‐progression and treatment response duration (TRD) was 8.0 (95% confidence interval: 5.5, 9.3) and 10.6 (95% confidence interval: 5.5, 10.9) months, respectively. We conclude that Gemcitabine is well tolerated, moderately active and can induce disease stabilization in patients with MCL. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of Bcr‐Abl kinase domain mutations in Korean chronic myeloid leukaemia patients: poor clinical outcome of P‐loop and T315I mutation is disease phase dependent
Authors: Kim Soo‐Hyun , Kim Dongho , Kim Dong‐Wook , Goh Hyun‐Gyung , Jang Se‐Eun , Lee Jeong , Kim Wan‐Seok , Kweon Il‐Young , Park Sa‐Hee
Published: March 2009

Despite durable responses to imatinib in chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML), mutations in Bcr‐Abl kinase domain (KD) are known to induce imatinib resistance and cause poor clinical outcome. We characterized Bcr‐Abl KD mutations in 137 Korean CML patients with imatinib resistance (n = 111) or intolerance (n = 26) using allele specific oligonucleotide polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and direct sequencing. Seventy (51%) patients harboured 81 mutations of 20 different types with increasing prevalence in advanced phase. Nine (13%) patients had multiple mutations. No mutation was found in intolerant patients. T315I was the most common mutation and P‐loop was the hottest spot in Bcr‐Abl KD. Patients harbouring P‐loop mutation, T315I, or multiple mutations showed poor overall survival and progression free survival compared with patients harbouring other mutations. Survival analysis according to disease phase of mutation being detected and type of mutations provided correlation between P‐loop or T315I mutation and poor overall survival in blast crisis, but not in accelerated phase (AP) or chronic phase (CP), indicating poor clinical outcome of particular mutations depends on disease phase. CML patients with imatinib resistance showed high rate (63%) of mutations in Bcr‐Abl KD and therefore CML patients who do not respond to imatinib should be the candidates for mutation screening as molecular monitoring. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
MPL W515L/K mutations in 343 Chinese adults with JAK2V617F mutation‐negative chronic myeloproliferative disorders detected by a newly developed RQ‐PCR based on TaqMan MGB probes
Authors: Ruan Guo‐Rui , Jiang Bin , Li Ling‐Di , Niu Ji‐Hong , Li Jin‐Lan , Xie Min , Qin Ya‐Zhen , Liu Yan‐Rong , Huang Xiao‐Jun , Chen Shan‐Shan
Published: March 2009

Acquired mutations in the juxtamembrane region of MPL (W515L or W515K), the receptor for thrombopoietin, have been reported in patients with primary essential thrombocythemia (ET) or primary myelofibrosis (PMF). The mutations were detected by the newly developed real‐time quantitative PCR (RQ‐PCR) with TaqMan MGB probes and followed by the sequencing analysis. DNA samples were from 343 Chinese adults with JAK2V617F mutation‐negative chronic myeloproliferative disorders (cMPDs). Reference curves were obtained using cloned fragments of MPL containing either the wild‐type or MPL W515L or MPL W515K mutated sequence; the predicted sensitivity level was at least 0.5%(0.1–0.5%) for MPL W515L and 0.5%(0.2–0.5%) for MPL W515K mutant allele in a wild‐type background. The detection rates of MPL W515 mutations were 3.5% in 199 ET patients (7/199), 12.5% in 24 PMF patients (3/24) and 5.6% in 36 cMPD‐unclassed patients (2/36), respectively. No MPL W515 mutations were detected in 32 polycythemia vera (PV) patients, 40 chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) patients, 12 hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) patients and 29 normal volunteers. The mean calculated burden of MPL mutant alleles using RQ‐PCR for MPL W515L/K was 24.88 ± 14.80% (range, 1.10–56.32%). MPL W515L/K patients presented lower haemoglobin levels, compared with the patients with JAK2V617F mutation‐positive cMPDs (p < 0.01). The results demonstrated that RQ‐PCR was a reliable and sensitive method for large‐scale screening of the MPL W515L/K mutation in patients suspected to have a cMPD. It can also provide a quantitative estimate of mutant allele burden that might be useful for both patient prognosis and monitoring response to therapy. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis, characterization, and cyclic stress‐influenced degradation of a poly(ethylene glycol)‐based poly(beta‐amino ester)
Authors: Keim Terra , Gall Ken
Published: March 2009

This study aims to fundamentally understand the polymer network formed by poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) MW 700 and 3‐methoxypropylamine (3MOPA) as well as to characterize the degradation response of this material with and without applied cyclic stress. Macromer reaction chemistry was confirmed by1H NMR measurements. UV calorimetry analysis revealed conditions of network formation were dependent on molecular weight of the PEGDA monomer and light intensity. The glass transition temperature of all networks PEGDA MW 258, 575, and 700 were measured and found to be in the range of −40 to −30°C with a rubbery moduli ranging from 4 to 10 MPa by DMA. Degradation studies were performed with and without applied cyclical stress, and in most cases, elastic modulus decrease and mass loss occurred steadily over a 24‐h period. Unexpected partial crystallization was discovered to occur in the networks containing higher molecular weight PEGDA in the presence of humidity and high frequency cyclic loading. In all materials, high frequency applied cyclic loading duringin situdegradation resulted in catastrophic fracture of the material prior to an appreciable decrease in modulus. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
The application of type II collagen and chondroitin sulfate grafted PCL porous scaffold in cartilage tissue engineering
Authors: Chang Kuo‐Yung , Hung Li‐Han , Chu I‐Ming , Ko Chih‐Shen , Lee Yu‐Der
Published: March 2009

This study investigates a poly(ϵ‐caprolactone)‐graft‐type II collagen‐graft‐chondroitin sulfate (PCL‐g‐COL‐g‐CS) biomaterial as a scaffold for cartilage tissue engineering. Biodegradable polyester, PCL, was utilized to fabricate three‐dimensional (3D) porous scaffolds by particulate leaching. The PCL scaffold was then surface modified by chemical bonding of 1,6‐hexanediamine and the grafting of a bioactive polymer layer of COL and CS with the help of 1‐ethyl‐3‐(3‐dimethyl‐ aminopropyl) carbodiimide (EDC)/N‐hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) on the modified PCL surface to produce PCL‐g‐COL and PCL‐g‐COL‐g‐CS, respectively. The characteristics of these modified and grafted matrices were examined by ESCA, aminolysis, collagen and CS assay, porosity and water‐binding capacity. Grafted COL and CS markedly increased water‐binding capacity, and promoted the spreading and growth of chondrocytes. During a 4‐week culture period, PCL‐g‐COL and PCL‐g‐COL‐g‐CS matrices both provided more cell proliferation, as determined by measuring the DNA assay. Additionally, a larger amount of secreted collagen and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) appeared in the PCL‐g‐COL‐g‐CS matrices than in the control (PCL) as indicated by the histochemical sections via Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stain, Masson trichrome stain and Safranin‐O stain. The chondrocytes were induced to function normally; the cell phenotype was maintained, and the GAGs and collagen in the PCL‐g‐COL‐g‐CS scaffold were secreted in vitro. These results serve as a basis for future studies of the fabrication process and reveal the potential biocompatibility of the biomimetic matrix for regenerating articular cartilage or other organs. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Heterotypic interaction of fibroblasts and endothelial cells on restricted area
Authors: Lamponi S. , Di Canio C. , Forbicioni M. , Barbucci R.
Published: March 2009

The polysaccharide hyaluronic acid (Hyal) was photoimmobilized on glass surfaces to obtain a pattern with squares and rectangles of different dimensions and chemistry. The microstructured surfaces were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), Attenuated Total Reflection Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR FT‐IR), and Time‐of‐Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (ToF‐SIMS). Surface analysis revealed the presence of a pattern consisting of alternating glass and Hyal microstructures whose dimensions decreased from the center to the edge of the sample. The behavior of Human Coronary Artery Endothelial Cells (HCAEC) and human tumoral dermal fibroblasts (C54) was studied on these micropatterned surfaces. Neither HCAEC nor C54 adhered to the immobilized Hyal but both adapted their shape to the different sizes of the glass squares and rectangles. The number of adherent HCAEC and C54 depended on the dimensions of both the glass domains and the nuclei of the cells. Co‐cultured C54 on HCAEC patterned surfaces showed a heterotypic cell‐cell interaction in the same chemical and topographic domain for the first time. In comparison to other techniques for patterning two different cell types, our approach was non cytotoxic and allowed arbitrary geometric patterns to form on different biocompatible substrata. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Improving endothelial cell adhesion and proliferation on titanium by sol–gel derived oxide coating
Authors: Chai Feng , Ochsenbein Anne , Traisnel Michel , Busch Ralf , Breme Jürgen , Hildebrand Hartmut F.
Published: March 2009

In‐stent restenosis becomes increasingly prevalent as a difficult‐to‐treat disease. An alternative therapeutic strategy is enhancing endothelialization on metallic stent surfaces. This study attempted to modify surface chemistry and topography of commercial pure titanium (cp‐Ti) by different sol–gel derived oxide coatings (TiO2, SiO2, SiO2/TiO2, and Nb2O5) to improve endothelialization. The physiochemical properties of the modified surfaces were characterized by ellipsometry, atomic force microscope, and sessile‐drop method. The cell adhesion/proliferation quantity, cell adhesion morphology, and focal adhesion protein expression were evaluated with human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cell line. The thickness of oxide coatings approximates to 100 nm; significantly rougher nanoporous structure was found in the TiO2 and Nb2O5 coatings than that of cp‐Ti. SiO2 coating possesses the highest surface energy (75.1 mJ/m2) and the lowest was for cp‐Ti (45.7 mJ/m2). TiO2 coating showed significantly higher endothelial cell adhesion rate than others; TiO2, Nb2O5, and TiO2/SiO2 coatings exhibited higher endothelial proliferation in 3‐day assays than noncoated Ti. In hemocompatible test, they also showed good hemocompatibility. These results offer the insight into that certain oxide coatings on titanium could significantly improve endothelial cell adhesion and proliferation especially in early period, which will favor reaching the endothelialization rapidly and suitable as matrix for “endothelial seeding” stent. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Comparative characterization of cultures of primary human macrophages or dendritic cells relevant to biomaterial studies
Authors: Shankar Sucharita P. , Babensee Julia E.
Published: March 2009

Macrophages are central mediators of biomaterial‐associated wound healing. Dendritic cells (DCs) link innate and adaptive immunity and are important in the context of the host response to combination products. Starting with human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), DCs were derived from monocytes upon culture with granulocyte macrophage colony‐stimulating factor and interleukin‐4; macrophages were derived from monocytes upon culture without cytokines. Macrophage or DC cultures were characterized at relevant timepoints in both adherent and nonadherent fractions on control Primaria™ surfaces to characterize and define these inflammatory/immune cells as a prequel to their use in in vitro test biomaterial‐host response studies. At day 10 (typical time for harvesting macrophages for subsequent treatment with test biomaterials), macrophages were CD11c+, macrophage mannose receptor (MMR)+, CD14+, and CD64+. At day 6 (typical time for harvesting of DCs after 24‐h treatment with test biomaterials), DCs were CD1c+, CD11c+, CD123+, MMR+, CD14+, and CD64−. Furthermore, CD3+ and CD4+ T lymphocytes and CD19+ and CD24+ B lymphocytes were present in both cultures at all timepoints, although to different extents. Immature DCs (∼15 μm), were rounded but presented extensive dendritic processes upon maturation with lipopolysaccharide. Alternatively, adherent macrophages (∼15–20 μm) displayed internalized lipids and exhibited few membrane processes. The characterization and comparison of existing techniques to establish reliable, reproducible primary cultures of DCs or macrophages provides an important basis for examining and interpreting complex macrophage/DC‐lymphocyte‐orchestrated host responses in future studies with equivalent cell populations on test biomaterials. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Improvement of dye electrochemical treatment by combination with ultrasound technique
Authors: Rivera M. , Pazos M. , Sanromán M. A.
Published: March 2009

BACKGROUND: Currently, the combination of conventional physicochemical techniques appears to be an attractive option to apply to wastewater treatment. In this work, a hybrid technique, called sonoelectrochemistry as a result of the combination of electrochemical and ultrasound technology, was undertaken in order to increase the efficiency of textile wastewater remediation.

RESULTS: Results have demonstrated the superiority of the sonoelectrochemical process over each treatment alone. Although in the sonoelectrochemical treatment, the decolourisation rate of di‐azo dyes was lower than mono‐azo or diphenylnaphthylmethane dyes, in all cases a first‐order kinetic behaviour was detected. In addition, the influence of inert electrolyte concentration (Na2SO4) was assayed. On the other hand, colour removal was considerably faster than the decrease in chemical oxygen demand (COD), which was attributed to the ease of chromophore destruction. Hence, for example for Lissamine Green B the efficiency of sonoelectrochemical decolourisation was 95% compared with 60% of COD removal after 1 h treatment. Additionally, a flow system with total reflux by the electrochemical and the sonoelectrochemical treatment was considered and a similar behaviour to previous experiments was found.

CONCLUSIONS: Based on the results obtained, the feasibility of this hybrid technique was demonstrated. Furthermore, an efficient flow system was devised for dye decolourisation, which could be extrapolated to develop a continuous process. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
The effect of environmental change and price policies on livelihoods in tropical agroforestry systems
Authors: Pascual Unai , Martínez‐Espiñeira Roberto
Published: March 2009

Shifting cultivation is one of the most widely distributed forms of agroforestry in the tropics. This paper assesses the potential of using price policies prompting labour mobility to break the fallow crisis typical of such systems leading to the well‐known vicious circle of land degradation and increased poverty. Given changing environmental conditions and endogeneity of household choices, a numerical bio‐economic model is used, based on data from Mexico, to simulate possible scenarios. Results suggest that reducing staple prices can achieve a win‐win outcome when farmers are not constrained to exit and enter the shifting cultivation system. This provides support for the ‘spontaneous reforestation’ hypothesis due to out‐migration when the correct economic policies are in place. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Between ‘senior brother’ and ‘overlord’: Competing versions of horizontal inequalities and ethnic conflict in Calabar and Warri, Nigeria
Authors: Ukiwo Ukoha
Published: March 2009

Through a comparative analysis of ethnic relations in two multi‐ethnic cities in southern Nigeria, this article seeks to isolate factors that might explain why some countries manage to avoid violence in the midst of longstanding ethnic conflicts while ethnic relations in other countries are characterised by periodic violence. The factors isolated include the persistence of horizontal inequalities, absence of mediating social capital, institutionalisation of politics of non‐inclusion and construction of indigeneity and homeland discourses. The article explores the interconnections between the different factors. Its main contribution lies in its specification of the contexts in which horizontal inequalities are likely to result in violent ethnic conflicts. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Abdominal muscle function in ventilation and locomotion in new world opossums and basal eutherians: Breathing and running with and without epipubic bones
Authors: Reilly Stephen M. , McElroy Eric J. , White Thomas D.
Published: March 2009

All tetrapods have the same four basic abdominal hypaxial muscle layers that wrap around the abdomen between the pelvis, ribcage, and spine. However, the marsupials and our immediate mammalian ancestors have epipubic bones extending anteriorly into the ventral hypaxial layers with two additional muscles connecting them to the ventral midline and femur. Studies of two marsupials have shown that all of the abdominal hypaxials play a part bilaterally in resting ventilation and during locomotion there is an asymmetrical pattern of activity as the hypaxial muscles form a cross‐couplet linkage that uses the epipubic bone as a lever to provide long‐axis support of the body between diagonal limb couplets during each step. The cross‐couplet epipubic lever system defines the earliest mammals and is lost in placental mammals. To expand our understanding of the evolution of mammalian abdominal muscle function and loco‐ventilatory integration we tested the generality of the cross‐couplet system in marsupials and conducted the first formal studies of hypaxial abdominal motor patterns in generalized placental mammals focusing on a representative rodent and insectivore. These new data reveal 1) that continuous abdominal muscle tonus during resting ventilation and a 1:1 breath to step cycle during locomotion appear to be the basal condition for mammals, 2) that the loss of epipubic bones in eutherians is associated with a shift from the cross‐couplet dominated motor pattern of marsupials to a shoulder‐to‐pelvis system with unilateral activation of abdominal muscles during locomotion and 3) that hypaxial function in generalized eutherians is more similar to marsupials than cursorial mammals. J. Morphol. 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Embryonic development of the scorpionfly Panorpa emarginata Cheng with special reference to external morphology (Mecoptera: Panorpidae)
Authors: Du Xiaoliang , Yue Chao , Hua Baozhen
Published: March 2009

The Mecoptera are thought to be one of the most primitive groups in the Holometabola, but their embryology is rarely studied. By means of scanning electron microscopy, we studied the external features of the embryo of the scorpionfly Panorpa emarginata in middle and late development. The embryo remains in the superficial position until hatching. Embryonic development can be divided into 10 stages along with the first‐instar larva. The external features are described from the germ band to the first‐instar larva, with special reference to the components and segmentation of the head, the segmentation of abdomen and the formation of abdominal prolegs. Our results confirm that the head consists of an anterior‐most acron and six trunk segments: the labral, antennal, intercalary, mandibular, maxillary, and labial segments. The labrum is confirmed to derive from the paired appendages. Our observations also provide additional direct evidence that the abdominal prolegs are not serially homologous with the thoracic legs. The presence of the eleventh abdominal segment is clarified. J. Morphol. 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression and activity of COX‐1 and 2 and 5‐LOX in joint tissues from dogs with naturally occurring coxofemoral joint osteoarthritis
Authors: Lascelles B. Duncan X. , King Stephanie , Roe Simon , Marcellin‐Little Denis J. , Jones Samuel
Published: March 2009

Understanding the neurobiology of pain in naturally occurring models of osteoarthritis (OA) may improve the understanding of human OA pain. Both COX and LOX have been associated with joint pain. This study evaluated COX‐1, COX‐2, and 5‐LOX expression and activity in a naturally occurring canine model of secondary OA. Hip joint capsule with synovial tissue (HJC) and femoral head subchondral bone (FH) was collected from normal dogs and dogs undergoing total hip replacement for coxofemoral joint OA. Tissues were analyzed for COX‐1, COX‐2, and LOX protein, and PGE2and LTB4. Significantly more COX‐2 protein was present in OA HJC than normal joints (p = 0.0009). There was no significant difference in COX‐1 or LOX protein, although LOX protein was increased (p = 0.069). PGE2concentration in normal and OA HJC was similar (p = 1.0). LTB4concentration in OA HJC was significantly greater than normal HJC (p = 0.028). Significantly more COX‐1 (p = 0.0098), COX‐2 (p = 0.0028), and LOX (p = 0.0095) protein was present in OA FH tissue compared to normal FH tissue. There were no differences in PGE2or LTB4concentration in normal and OA FH tissue (p = 0.77 andp = 0.11). Together, these data suggest both COX‐2 and 5‐LOX are appropriate targets for the management of pain associated with naturally occurring OA. © 2009 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res
Paracrine effect of transplanted rib chondrocyte spheroids supports formation of secondary cartilage repair tissue
Authors: Gelse Kolja , Brem Matthias , Klinger Patricia , Hess Andreas , Swoboda Bernd , Hennig Friedrich , Olk Alexander
Published: March 2009

The study's objective was to investigate if transplanted chondrocyte or periosteal cell spheroids have influence on ingrowing bone marrow‐derived cells in a novel cartilage repair approach in miniature pigs. Autologous rib chondrocytes or periosteal cells were cultured as spheroids and press‐fitted into cavities that were milled into large, superficial chondral lesions of the patellar joint surface. Within the milled cavities, the subchondral bone plate was either penetrated or left intact (full‐thickness or partial‐thickness cavities). The transplantation of chondrocyte spheroids into full‐thickness cavities induced the formation of additional secondary repair cartilage that exceeded the original volume of the transplanted spheroids. The resulting continuous tissue was rich in proteoglycans and stained positive for type II collagen. Cell labeling revealed that secondarily invading repair cells did not originate from transplanted spheroids, but rather from arroded bone marrow. However, secondary invasion of repair cells was less pronounced following transplantation of periosteal cells and absent in partial‐thickness cavities. According to in vitro analyses, these observations could be ascribed to the ability of chondrocyte spheroids to secrete relevant amounts of bone morphogenetic protein‐2, which was not detected for periosteal cells. Transplanted chondrocyte spheroids exert a dual function: they provide cells for the repair tissue and have a stimulatory paracrine activity, which promotes ingrowth and chondrogenesis of bone marrow‐derived cells. © 2009 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res
Root size and nitrogen‐uptake activity in two maize (Zea mays) inbred lines differing in nitrogen‐use efficiency
Authors: Liu Jinxin , Chen Fanjun , Olokhnuud Chunliang , Glass A. D. M. , Tong Yiping , Zhang Fusuo , Mi Guohua
Published: March 2009

Considerable differences in response to nitrogen (N) availability among plant species and cultivars have been well documented. Focusing on the uptake of N, it is not clear which factor or factors determine efficient N acquisition. Two maize (Zea maysL.) inbred lines (478, N‐efficient; W312, N‐inefficient) were used to compare the relative contribution of root uptake activity and root size to N acquisition. Nitrogen‐efficient inbred 478 had higher yields and accumulated more N under field conditions than W312 under both high‐ (135 kg N ha–1) and low‐N (no N supplied) conditions. The root system of 478, as indicated by total root length, root biomass, and root‐to‐shoot ratio, was larger and more responsive to low N stress. Especially, 478 developed more and longer axial roots at low N stress. On the contrary, the average N‐accumulation rate in 478 was lower than that of Wu312. In solution culture,13NO3–influx in 478 was lower than in W312 after 8 h of nitrate provision. The expression of nitrate‐transporter genesZmNRT1.1, ZmNRT2.1, ZmNRT2.2,andZmNAR2.1was stronger and lasted for a longer time after NO$ _3^- $induction in W312. It is concluded that the efficient N acquisition in 478 is due to (1) a larger root system and (2) a stronger response of root growth to low N induction.
The tumor suppressor NPRL2 in hepatocellular carcinoma plays an important role in progression and can be served as an independent prognostic factor
Authors: Otani Satoshi , Takeda Shin , Yamada Suguru , Sakakima Yoshikazu , Sugimoto Hiroyuki , Nomoto Shuji , Kasuya Hideki , Kanazumi Naohito , Nagasaka Tetsurou , Nakao Akimasa
Published: March 2009

Background/Aims

Hepatocarcinogenesis is a multifactorial, multistep process that involves the activation of oncogenes or the inactivation of tumor suppressor genes throughout the different stages of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression. NPRL2 is one of the candidate tumor suppressor genes identified on chromosome 3p21.3, a region which frequently contains genetic abnormalities found in the early stages of the development of various human cancers. In the current study, we aimed to evaluate NPRL2 expression in HCC and to explore the prognostic significance of NPRL2.

Method

We investigated NPRL2 mRNA expression in 70 HCC specimens, using quantitative real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis, and the correlation between NPRL2 expression and clinicopathologic parameters.

Results

NPRL2 mRNA was found to be expressed equally in both HCC tissues and corresponding non‐cancerous liver tissues. However, higher NPRL2 expression correlated significantly with tumor size (P = 0.0062) and serum PIVKA‐II levels (P = 0.0002). Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that higher NPRL2 mRNA expression was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival (risk ratio 0.39; P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that NPRL2 mRNA expression has prognostic significance for the survival of patients with HCC. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;100:358–363. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Non‐travel by Hong Kong residents
Authors: McKercher Bob
Published: March 2009

The study examined non‐travel by Hong Kong residents. Cluster analysis was used to segment the non‐travelling population into five groups. Overall, two‐thirds of non‐travellers indicated that taking a pleasure trip each year is unimportant to them. Yet, when asked to identify barriers to travel, lack of interest is cited rarely. Instead, intrapersonal barriers were identified as the most critical barriers by elderly singles and couples with low incomes. Affordability, work and family commitments were identified by all other groups. Non‐travellers simply do not have the travel bug and often have to rely on socially acceptable barriers to rationalise their lack of interest. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mutations in the first MyTH4 domain of MYO15A are a common cause of DFNB3 hearing loss
Authors: Shearer A. Eliot , Hildebrand Michael S. , Webster Jennifer A. , Kahrizi Kimia , Meyer Nicole C. , Jalalvand Khadijeh , Arzhanginy Sanaz , Kimberling William J. , Stephan Dietrich , Bahlo Melanie , Smith Richard J. H. , Najmabadi Hossein
Published: March 2009

Objectives.

To use clinical and genetic analyses to determine the mutation causing autosomal recessive nonsyndromic hearing loss (ARNSHL) segregating in two consanguineous Iranian families.

Study Design.

Family study.

Methods.

Members of each family received otologic and audiometric examination for the type and extent of hearing loss. Linkage mapping using Affymetrix 50K GeneChips and short tandem repeat (STRP) analysis localized the hearing loss in both families to the DFNB3 locus. Direct sequencing of the MYO15A gene was completed on affected members of both families.

Results.

Family L‐3165 segregated a novel homozygous missense mutation (c.6371G>A) that results in a p.R2124Q amino acid substitution in the myosin XVa protein, while family L‐896 segregated a novel homozygous missense (c.6555C>T) mutation resulting in a p.P2073S amino acid change.

Conclusions.

These are the first MYO15A mutations reported to cause DFNB3 sensorineural hearing loss in the Iranian population. Like other mutations located in the myosin tail homology 4 (MyTH4) domain, the p.R2124Q and p.P2073S mutations are predicted to disrupt the function of the myosin XVa protein, which is integral to the mechanosensory activity of hair cells in the inner ear. Laryngoscope, 2009
Water Transport Properties of pH‐Responsive Hydrogels Based on Poly(methacrylic acid) with Polyether Side Chains by Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Quijada‐Garrido Isabel , Prior‐Cabanillas Alberto , París Rodrigo , Frutos Gloria , Barrales‐Rienda José M.
Published: March 2009

Three pH‐responsive hydrogel families have been synthesized through the photopolymerization of methacrylic acid (MAA) with: i) a poly(ethylene glycol) macromonomer, P(MAA‐co‐PEGMEMA), ii) a poly(propylene glycol) macromonomer, P(MAA‐co‐PPGMEMA), and iii) the two above‐mentioned macromonomers, to give a terpolymer P(MAA‐co‐PEGMEMA‐co‐PPGMEMA). Their swelling properties at pH 7 have been investigated by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Equimolecular compositions of both P(MAA‐co‐PEGMEMA) and P(MAA‐co‐PPGMEMA) hydrogels showed the lowest swelling kinetics rates. For P(MAA‐co‐PEGMEMA‐co‐PPGMEMA) hydrogels, the different structure of the side chains established an antagonist effect on the swelling. In addition, from the MRI intensity profiles and taking into account the first stage of the swelling, water diffusion coefficients (D) have been estimated.

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Extending logistic regression to provide full‐probability‐distribution MOS forecasts
Authors: Wilks Daniel S.
Published: March 2009

Statistical post‐processing of dynamical forecasts, using the Model Output Statistics (MOS) approach, continues to be an essential component of weather forecasting. Even in the current era of ensemble forecasting, ensemble‐MOS methods are used to transform raw ensemble forecasts into well‐calibrated probability forecasts. Logistic regression has been found to be an especially useful method for this purpose for predictands, such as precipitation amounts, that are distinctly non‐Gaussian. However, the usual implementation of logistic regression fits separate forecast equations for different predictand thresholds, yielding finite sets of threshold probabilities rather than full forecast probability distributions. Furthermore, these individual threshold probabilities are not constrained to be mutually consistent, so that negative probabilities may be implied for some ranges of the predictand. In this paper, logistic regressions are extended to yield full continuous, and coherent, probability distribution forecasts by including the predictand threshold itself as an additional predictor in the forecast equation. The procedure is illustrated using 6–10 day precipitation forecasts for a sample of locations in the U.S., drawn from the GFS reforecast dataset. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Microvascular anastomotic aneurysms in the clinical setting: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Lykoudis Efstathios G. , Papanikolaou George E. , Katsikeris Nick F.
Published: March 2009

Microvascular anastomotic aneurysms are an uncommon complication in reconstructive surgery, which can lead to free flap failure or even threaten the life of the patient. The literature referring to microvascular anastomotic aneurysms was reviewed in order to highlight their clinical presentation, diagnostic work‐up, and therapeutic management. Also, a case of a ruptured aneurysm following free transfer of a fibula flap to the lower face is presented. No prospective studies were found. Only few case reports and some sporadic cases in retrospective studies referring to free flap complications were identified. All the aneurysms were false, the main etiologic factor was assumed to be infection, and the presenting signs were either arterial bleeding, as a result of rupture, or the presence of a pulsating mass. No widely accepted therapeutic guidelines were found, and the treatment was tailored to the specific clinical presentation of each case. Regarding the reported case, excision of the ruptured aneurysm and restoration of vascular continuity with a vein graft ensured complete survival of the flap. In conclusion, microvascular anastomotic aneurysms, although uncommon, represent a complication that every reconstructive surgeon should be aware of. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are crucial for a successful outcome. Selection of the appropriate treatment should be based on the presenting sign, the location, the degree of flap neovascularization as well as the condition and quality of the recipient bed; and comprises either ligation of the nutrient artery or excision of the aneurysm and restoration of arterial continuity. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery 2009.
Vein grafting in fingertip replantations
Authors: Yan Hede , Jackson William D. , Songcharoen Somjade , Akdemir Ovunc , Li Zhijie , Chen Xinglong , Jiang Liangfu , Gao Weiyang
Published: March 2009

In this retrospective study, the survival rates of fingertip replantation with and without vein grafting were evaluated along with their postoperative functional and cosmetic results. One hundred twenty‐one‐fingertip amputations were performed in 103 patients between September 2002 and July 2007. Thirty‐four amputated fingertips were replanted without vein grafting, while 87 amputated fingertips were replanted with vein grafting for arterial and/or venous repairs. The overall survival rates of the replantations with and without vein grafting were 90% (78/87) and 85% (29/34), respectively. The survival rates were 88% (36/41) with venous repair, 93% (25/27) with arterial repair, and 89% (17/19) with both. Nineteen patients without vein grafting and 48 patients with vein grafting had a follow‐up period of more than one year. Good cosmetic and functional outcomes were observed in both groups of patients. The results show that vein grafting is a reliable technique in fingertip replantations, showing no significant difference (P > 0.05) in survival between those with and without vein grafting. Furthermore, no significant difference (P > 0.05) in survival was found between cases with vein grafts for arterial and/or venous repairs. In fingertip replantations with vein grafting, favorable functional and esthetic results can be achieved without sacrificing replantation survival. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery 2009.