bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis, Characterization, and Cytotoxic Activity of New Lanthanum(III) Complexes of Bis‐Coumarins
Authors: Kostova Irena , Momekov Georgi , Tzanova Tzvetomira , Karaivanova Margarita
Published: April 2006

Complexes of lanthanum(III) with bis‐coumarins: 3,3′‐benzylidene‐bis(4‐hydroxy‐2H‐1‐benzopyran‐2‐one)
(H2L1) and
bis(4‐hydroxy‐2‐oxo‐2H‐chromen‐3‐yl)‐(1H‐pyrazol‐3‐yl)‐methane
(H2L2) were synthesized by reaction of lanthanum(III)
salt and the ligands, in amounts equal to metal: ligand molar
ratio of 1 : 2. The complexes were prepared by adding an aqueous
solution of lanthanum(III) salt to an aqueous solution of the
ligand subsequently raising the pH of the mixture gradually to
circa 5.0 by adding dilute solution of sodium hydroxide.
The lanthanum(III) complexes with bis‐coumarins were characterized
by different physicochemical methods—elemental analysis, IR‐,
1H‐, and 13C‐NMR‐spectroscopies, and mass
spectral data. The spectral data of lanthanum(III) complexes were
interpreted on the basis of comparison with the spectra of the
free ligands. This analysis showed that in the La(III)
complexes, the ligands coordinated to the metal ion through both
deprotonated hydroxyl groups. On the basis of the
ν(C = O) red shift observed, participation of the
carbonyl groups in the coordination with the metal ion was also
suggested. In the present study, we performed a cytotoxic‐effects
screening of the lanthanum complexes with H2L1 and
H2L2 in a panel of human tumor cell lines, using the
standard MTT‐dye reduction assay for cell viability. The panel
consisted of the acute myeloid leukemia‐derived HL‐60 and the
chronic myeloid leukemia‐derived BV‐173. Following a 24‐ hour
treatment of BV‐173 cells with lanthanum complex of H2L1
at 100 or 200 μM led to a DNA‐laddering. The findings
suggest that the observed cytotoxicity of the lanthanum complex of
H2L1 on BV‐173 is at least partly mediated through
induction of programmed cell death.
Antihuman Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 (HIV‐1) Activity of Rare Earth Metal Complexes of 4‐Hydroxycoumarins in Cell Culture
Authors: Manolov Ilia , Raleva Sevda , Genova Petya , Savov Alexey , Froloshka Liliana , Dundarova Daniela , Argirova Radka
Published: April 2006

The cerium Ce(III), lanthanum La(III), and neodymium Nd(III) complexes with
4‐hydroxy‐3‐(3‐oxo‐1‐phenylbutyl)‐2H‐1‐benzopyran‐2‐one (warfarin)
(W) and 3,3′‐benzylidenebis[4‐hydroxycoumarin]
(1) were synthesized and studied for the first time
for cytotoxicity (on MT‐2 cells) and as anti‐HIV agents under
acute and chronic infection. The complexes were characterized by different physicochemical methods:
mass spectrometry, ¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR, and IR
spectroscopy. The spectra of the complexes were interpreted on the
basis of comparison with the spectrum of the free ligands.
Anti‐HIV effect of the complexes/ligands was measured in MT‐2
cells by microtiter infection assay. Detection of endogenous
reverse transcriptase (RT) activity and RT processivity by PCR
indicative for proviral DNA synthesis demonstrated that anti‐HIV
activity has not been linked to early stages of viral replication.
No effect on late steps of viral replication has been found using
cells chronically producing HIV‐1LAI virus. La(W) demonstrated anti‐HIV
activity (IC50=21.4μM) close to maximal
nontoxic concentration. Nd(W), Ce(1), and Nd(1) demonstrated
limited anti‐HIV potency, so none of the complexes seems
appropriate to be used in clinic. Further targeting of HIV‐1
inhibition by La(W) is under progress.
Lanthanide(III) and Yttrium(III) Complexes ofBenzimidazole‐2‐Acetic Acid: Synthesis, Characterisation and Effect of La(III) Complex on Germination of Wheat
Authors: Gudasi Kalagouda B. , Shenoy Rashmi V. , Vadavi Ramesh S. , Patil Manjula S. , Patil Siddappa A. , Hanchinal Rayappa R. , Desai Srinivas A. , Lohithaswa H.
Published: April 2006

The synthesis and characterisation of lanthanide(III) and
yttrium(III) nitrate complexes of benzimidazole‐2‐acetic acid
(HBIA) are reported. The complexes have been characterised by
elemental analysis, molar conductance, magnetic studies, IR,
1H NMR, UV‐visible, EPR, and TG/DTA studies. They have
the stoichiometry where Ln=La(III), Pr(III), Nd(II), Sm(III), Eu(III), Gd(III),
Tb(III), Dy(III), and Y(III). The effect of La(III) complex on
germination, coleoptile, and root length of two local varieties of
wheat DWR‐195 and GW‐349 for different treatment periods has been
investigated. The complex was found to exhibit enhanced activity,
compared to HBIA or metal salt alone at lower treatment periods.
Investigation of a spatial double pendulum: an engineering approach
Authors: Bendersky S. , Sandler B.
Published: April 2006

The behavior of a spatial double pendulum (SDP), comprising two
pendulums that swing in different planes, was investigated.
Movement equations (i.e., mathematical model) were derived for
this SDP, and oscillations of the system were computed and
compared with experimental results. Matlab computer programs were
used for solving the nonlinear differential equations by the
Runge‐Kutta method. Fourier transformation was used to obtain the
frequency spectra for analyses of the oscillations of the two
pendulums. Solutions for free oscillations of the pendulums and
graphic descriptions of changes in the frequency spectra were used
for the dynamic investigation of the pendulums for different
initial conditions of motion. The value of the friction constant
was estimated experimentally and incorporated into the equations
of motion of the pendulums. This step facilitated the comparison
between the computed and measured oscillations.
Horseshoe in a class of planar mappings
Authors: Huang Yan , Yang Xiao-Song
Published: April 2006

Bursting dynamics of mappings is investigated in this paper. We
first present stability analysis of the mappings′ equilibria with
various parameters. Then for three mappings P, , and with different parameters, we study their powers P4, , and . We show that the mappings thus
obtained are chaotic by giving a rigorous verification of
existence of horseshoes in these mappings. Precisely, we prove
that the mapping is semiconjugate to the 3‐shift mapping; the mappings P4 and are semiconjugate to the 4‐shift mapping.
Duan's fixed point theorem: Proof and generalization
Authors: Arkowitz Martin
Published: April 2006

Let "Equation missing" be an H-space of the homotopy type of a connected, finite CW-complex, "Equation missing" any map and "Equation missing" the "Equation missing"th power map. Duan proved that "Equation missing" has a fixed point if "Equation missing". We give a new, short and elementary proof of this. We then use rational homotopy to generalize to spaces "Equation missing" whose rational cohomology is the tensor product of an exterior algebra on odd dimensional generators with the tensor product of truncated polynomial algebras on even dimensional generators. The role of the power map is played by a "Equation missing"-structure "Equation missing" as defined by Hemmi-Morisugi-Ooshima. The conclusion is that "Equation missing" and "Equation missing" each has a fixed point.
Epsilon Nielsen fixed point theory
Authors: Brown Robert F
Published: April 2006

Let "Equation missing" be a map of a compact, connected Riemannian manifold, with or without boundary. For "Equation missing" sufficiently small, we introduce an "Equation missing"-Nielsen number "Equation missing" that is a lower bound for the number of fixed points of all self-maps of "Equation missing" that are "Equation missing"-homotopic to "Equation missing". We prove that there is always a map "Equation missing" that is "Equation missing"-homotopic to "Equation missing" such that "Equation missing" has exactly "Equation missing" fixed points. We describe procedures for calculating "Equation missing" for maps of "Equation missing"-manifolds.
A base-point-free definition of the Lefschetz invariant
Authors: Coufal Vesta
Published: April 2006

In classical Lefschetz-Nielsen theory, one defines the Lefschetz invariant "Equation missing" of an endomorphism "Equation missing" of a manifold "Equation missing". The definition depends on the fundamental group of "Equation missing", and hence on choosing a base point "Equation missing" and a base path from "Equation missing" to "Equation missing". At times, it is inconvenient or impossible to make these choices. In this paper, we use the fundamental groupoid to define a base-point-free version of the Lefschetz invariant.
Nielsen number of a covering map
Authors: Jezierski Jerzy
Published: April 2006

We consider a finite regular covering "Equation missing" over a compact polyhedron and a map "Equation missing" admitting a lift "Equation missing". We show some formulae expressing the Nielsen number "Equation missing" as a linear combination of the Nielsen numbers of its lifts.
Note on KKM maps and applications
Authors: Chen YQ , Cho YJ , Kim JK , Lee BS
Published: April 2006

We apply the KKM technique to study fixed point theory, minimax inequality and coincidence theorem. Some new results on Fan-Browder fixed point theorem, Fan's minimax theorem and coincidence theorem are obtained.
Fixed point variational solutions for uniformly continuous pseudocontractions in Banach spaces
Authors: Udomene Aniefiok
Published: April 2006

Let "Equation missing" be a reflexive Banach space with a uniformly Gâteaux differentiable norm, let "Equation missing" be a nonempty closed convex subset of "Equation missing", and let "Equation missing" be a uniformly continuous pseudocontraction. If "Equation missing" is any contraction map on "Equation missing" and if every nonempty closed convex and bounded subset of "Equation missing" has the fixed point property for nonexpansive self-mappings, then it is shown, under appropriate conditions on the sequences of real numbers "Equation missing", "Equation missing", that the iteration process "Equation missing", "Equation missing", "Equation missing", strongly converges to the fixed point of "Equation missing", which is the unique solution of some variational inequality, provided that "Equation missing" is bounded.
Algebraic periods of self-maps of a rational exterior space of rank 2
Authors: Graff Grzegorz
Published: April 2006

The paper presents a complete description of the set of algebraic periods for self-maps of a rational exterior space which has rank 2.
Photodegradation of lincomycin in aqueous solution
Authors: Paola Agatino Di , Addamo Maurizio , Augugliaro Vincenzo , García-López Elisa , Loddo Vittorio , Marcì Giuseppe , Palmisano Leonardo
Published: April 2006

Aqueous solutions of lincomycin were irradiated with UV light in
homogeneous and heterogeneous systems. Lincomycin disappeared in
both systems but the presence of TiO2 noticeably accelerated the degradation of the antibiotic in comparison with
direct photolysis. The rate of decomposition was dependent on the
concentration of lincomycin and followed a pseudo‐first‐order
kinetics. Photolysis involved only the oxidation of lincomycin
without mineralization. Differently, the treatment with
TiO2 and UV light resulted in a complete mineralization
of the antibiotic. The degradation pathways involved S‐ and
N‐demethylation and propyldealkylation. The mineralization of the
molecule led to the formation of sulfate, ammonium, and nitrate
ions.
Scanning near‐field optical microscopy on rough surfaces: Applications in chemistry, biology, and medicine
Authors: Kaupp Gerd
Published: April 2006

Shear‐force apertureless scanning near‐field optical microscopy
(SNOM) with very sharp uncoated tapered waveguides relies on the
unexpected enhancement of reflection in the shear‐force gap. It is
the technique for obtaining chemical (materials) contrast in the
optical image of “real world” surfaces that are rough and very
rough without topographical artifacts, and it is by far less
complicated than other SNOM techniques that can only be used for
very flat surfaces. The experimental use of the new photophysical
effect is described. The applications of the new technique are
manifold. Important mechanistic questions in solid‐state chemistry
(oxidation, diazotization, photodimerization, surface hydration,
hydrolysis) are answered with respect to simultaneous AFM (atomic
force microscopy) and detailed crystal packing. Prehistoric
petrified bacteria and concomitant pyrite inclusions are also
investigated with local RAMAN SNOM. Polymer beads and unstained
biological objects (rabbit heart, shrimp eye) allow for nanoscopic
analysis of cell organelles. Similarly, human teeth and a
cancerous tissue are analyzed. Bladder cancer tissue is clearly
differentiated from healthy tissue without staining and this opens
a new highly promising diagnostic tool for precancer diagnosis.
Industrial applications are demonstrated at the corrosion behavior
of dental alloys (withdrawal of a widely used alloy, harmless
substitutes), improvement of paper glazing, behavior of blood bags
upon storage, quality assessment of metal particle preparations
for surface enhanced RAMAN spectroscopy, and determination of
diffusion coefficient and light fastness in textile fiber dyeing.
The latter applications include fluorescence SNOM. Local
fluorescence SNOM is also used in the study of partly aggregating
dye nanoparticles within resin/varnish preparations. Unexpected
new insights are obtained in all of the various fields that cannot
be obtained by other techniques.
Mechanism of deactivation processes of excited iron(III) thiocyanato complexes with benacen‐type ligands
Authors: Šima Jozef , Izakovič Mário , Žitňanský Marián
Published: April 2006

The complexes [Fe(4‐R‐benacen)(CH3OH)(NCS)], where 4‐R‐benacen2− are tetradentate open‐chain N,N′‐ethylenebis(4‐R‐benzoylacetoneiminato) N2O2‐ligands (R=H, Cl, Br, OCH3), are redox stable in the dark in
methanolic solutions. Irradiation of the complexes into
intraligand and/or ligand‐to‐metal charge‐transfer bands induces a
series of photophysical and photochemical deactivation processes
leading to Fe(II) and CH2O as final products in a 2 : 1 molar ratio. Formation of polystyrene containing bonded NCS
group when irradiating the complexes in the presence of styrene
monomer used as a radical scavenger indicates that the primary
photoreduction of Fe(III) to Fe(II) is accompanied
by the oxidation of NCS− ligand to •NCS radical. 4‐R‐benacen‐ligands behave as an innocent moiety
virtually not participating in the photoinduced redox processes.
The quantum yield of Fe(II) formation ΦFe(II) decreases significantly with increased wavelength of the incident
radiation, and is slightly influenced by the peripheral groups R
of the 4‐R‐benacen‐ligands.
Understanding the Influence of Pressure and Radial Loads on Stress and Displacement Response of a Rotating Body: The Automobile Wheel
Authors: Stearns J. , Srivatsan T. S. , Gao X. , Lam P. C.
Published: April 2006

This paper highlights the use of the finite element technique for
analyzing stress and displacement distributions in wheels of
automotive vehicles when subject to the conjoint influence of
inflation pressure and radial load. The most commonly used
considerations in the design of the rotating body are elucidated.
A potentially viable technique for finite element modeling of
radial wheel, subjected to loading, is highlighted. The extrinsic
influence of inflation pressure on performance of the rotating
body, that is, the wheel, is rationalized.
The smoothness criterion as a trend diagnostic
Authors: Fogarty P. , Weber N. C.
Published: April 2006

The smoothness criterion is used in the design of symmetric moving
average trend filters in time series and in graduation in
actuarial studies. This measure of smoothness is used to motivate
a diagnostic for determining the order of local polynomial trend.
An evolutionary recursive algorithm in selecting statistical subset neural network/VDL filtering
Authors: Chen Andrew H. , Penm Jack H. , Terrell R. D.
Published: April 2006

We propose an evolutionary recursive algorithm, for the exact
windowed case, to estimate subset vector discrete lag (SVDL)
filters with a forgetting factor and an intercept variable. SVDL
filtering is demonstrated as a basis for constructing a
multi-layered polynomial neural network by Penm et al.
(2000) The new proposed time update recursions allow users to
update SVDL filters at consecutive time instants, and can show
evolutionary changes detected in filter structures. With this new
approach we are able to more effectively analyse complex
relationships where the relevant financial time series have been
generated from structures subject to evolutionary changes in their
environment. An illustration of these procedures is presented to
examine the integration between the Australian and the Japanese
bond markets, and the USA and the UK bond markets, changed over
the period. The proposed algorithms are also applicable to
full-order vector discrete lag (VDL) filtering with a forgetting
factor and an intercept.
Analyzing linear recursive projects as an absorbing chain
Authors: Minh Do L. , Bhaskar R.
Published: April 2006

Hardie (2001) used general Markov chains to study the linear
“recursive projects” in which some activities may be revisited
after a later activity is completed. In this paper, we propose
that it is better to treat the project as an absorbing chain. This
allows us to calculate the expected value and the variance of the
project duration.
Central limit theorem for solutions of random initialized differential equations: a simple proof
Authors: Iribarren Ileana , León José R.
Published: April 2006

We study the central and noncentral limit theorems for the
convolution of a certain kernel h with F(ξ(⋅)), where ξ is a stationary Gaussian process and F is a square integrable function with respect to the standard Gaussian measure.
Our method consists in showing that in the weak dependence case,
we can use the Lindeberg method, approaching the
initial Gaussian process by an m‐dependent process. We could say
that only variance computations are needed to get the two types of
limits. Then we apply the obtained results to the solutions of the
certain differential equations.
Chover‐type laws of the iterated logarithm for weightedsums of ρ∗‐mixing sequences
Authors: Cai Guang-hui
Published: April 2006

To derive a Baum‐Katz‐type result, we establish a Chover‐type law
of the iterated logarithm for the weighted sums of
ρ∗‐mixing and identically distributed random variables
with a distribution in the domain of a stable law. Our result
obtained not only generalizes the main results of Peng and Qi
(2003) and Qi and Cheng (1996) to ρ∗‐mixing sequences
of random variables, but also improves them.
Backward stochastic differential equations with two distinct reflecting barriers and quadratic growth generator
Authors: Hamadène S. , Hdhiri I.
Published: April 2006

We show the existence of a solution for the double‐barrier
reflected BSDE when the barriers are completely separate and the
generator is continuous with quadratic growth. As an application,
we solve the risk‐sensitive mixed zero‐sum stochastic differential
game. In addition we deal with recallable options under
Knightian uncertainty.
Interplay Between Oxidative Damage, Protein Synthesis, and ProteinDegradation in Alzheimer′s Disease
Authors: Keller Jeffrey N.
Published: April 2006

Protein synthesis and protein degradation are highly regulated
cellular processes that are essential to maintaining cell
viability. Numerous studies now indicate that protein synthesis
and protein degradation are significantly altered in Alzheimer′s
disease (AD), with impairments in these two processes potentially
contributing to AD pathogenesis. Alterations in steady state
protein regulation may be a particularly important factor in
regulating whether cells maintain homeostasis in response to
oxidative damage, or conversely whether oxidative stress is
induced by oxidative damage. The focus of this review is to
discuss recent findings on each of these topics, and to discuss
their importance to the onset and progression of AD.
The Mutational Consequences of Plant Transformation
Authors: Latham Jonathan R. , Wilson Allison K. , Steinbrecher Ricarda A.
Published: April 2006

Plant transformation is a genetic engineering tool for introducing
transgenes into plant genomes. It is now being used for the
breeding of commercial crops. A central feature of transformation
is insertion of the transgene into plant chromosomal DNA.
Transgene insertion is infrequently, if ever, a precise event.
Mutations found at transgene insertion sites include deletions and
rearrangements of host chromosomal DNA and introduction of
superfluous DNA. Insertion sites introduced using
Agrobacterium tumefaciens tend to have simpler structures
but can be associated with extensive chromosomal rearrangements,
while those of particle bombardment appear invariably to be
associated with deletion and extensive scrambling of inserted and
chromosomal DNA. Ancillary procedures associated with plant
transformation, including tissue culture and infection with
A tumefaciens, can also introduce mutations. These
genome‐wide mutations can number from hundreds to many thousands
per diploid genome. Despite the fact that confidence in the safety
and dependability of crop species rests significantly on their
genetic integrity, the frequency of transformation‐induced
mutations and their importance as potential biosafety hazards are
poorly understood.
The Creatine Kinase/Creatine Connection to Alzheimer′s Disease: CK Inactivation, APP‐CK Complexes and Focal Creatine Deposits
Authors: Bürklen Tanja S. , Schlattner Uwe , Homayouni Ramin , Gough Kathleen , Rak Margaret , Szeghalmi Adriana , Wallimann Theo
Published: April 2006

Cytosolic brain‐type creatine kinase (BB‐CK), which is coexpressed
with ubiquitous mitochondrial uMtCK, is significantly inactivated
by oxidation, in Alzheimer′s disease (AD) patients. Since CK has
been shown to play a fundamental role in cellular energetics of
the brain, any disturbance of this enzyme may exasperate the AD
disease process. Mutations in amyloid precursor protein (APP) are
associated with early onset AD and result in abnormal processing
of APP, and accumulation of Aβ peptide, the main
constituent of amyloid plaques in AD brain. Recent data on a
direct interaction between APP and the precursor of uMtCK support
an emerging relationship between AD, cellular energy levels and
mitochondrial function. In addition, recently discovered creatine
(Cr) deposits in the brain of transgenic AD mice, as well as in
the hippocampus from AD patients, indicate a direct link between
perturbed energy state, Cr metabolism and AD. Here, we review the
roles of Cr and Cr‐related enzymes and consider the potential
value of supplementation with Cr, a potent neuroprotective
substance. As a hypothesis, we consider whether Cr, if given at an
early time point of the disease, may prevent or delay the course
of AD‐related neurodegeneration.
Do LINEs Have a Role in X‐Chromosome Inactivation?
Authors: Lyon Mary F.
Published: April 2006

There is longstanding evidence that X‐chromosome inactivation
(XCI) travels less successfully in autosomal than in
X‐chromosomal chromatin. The interspersed repeat
elements LINE1s (L1s) have been suggested as candidates for
“boosters” which promote the spread of XCI in the X‐chromosome.
The present paper reviews the current evidence concerning the
possible role of L1s in XCI. Recent evidence, accruing from the
human genome sequencing project and other sources, confirms that
mammalian X‐chromosomes are indeed rich in L1s, except in regions
where there are many genes escaping XCI. The density of L1s is the
highest in the evolutionarily oldest regions. Recent work on X;
autosome translocations in human and mouse suggested failure of
stabilization of XCI in autosomal material, so that genes are
reactivated, but resistance of autosomal genes to the original
silencing is not excluded. The accumulation of L1s on the
X‐chromosome may have resulted from reduced recombination or late
replication. Whether L1s are part of the mechanism of XCI or a
result of it remains enigmatic.
Tau Phosphorylation, Aggregation, and Cell Toxicity
Authors: Avila J. , Santa-María I. , Pérez M. , Hernández F. , Moreno F.
Published: April 2006

Protein aggregation takes place in many neurodegenerative
disorders. However, there is a controversy about the possible
toxicity of these protein aggregates. In this review, this
controversy is discussed, focussing on the tau aggregation that
takes place in those disorders known as tauopathies.
Determination of DNA Damage in Floriculturists Exposed to Mixturesof Pesticides
Authors: Castillo-Cadena J. , Tenorio-Vieyra L. E. , Quintana-Carabia A. I. , García-Fabila M. M. , Juan E. Ramírez-San , Madrigal-Bujaidar E.
Published: April 2006

The aim of the study was to determine possible DNA damage in
floriculturists chronically exposed to pesticides. Leukocytes from
52 workers, 46 environmentally exposed, and 38 control individuals
were evaluated with the comet assay. Serum from all individuals
was also analyzed for pesticides using gas chromatography coupled
to mass spectrometry. A statistically significant difference in
DNA fragmentation in the pesticide exposed group compared to the
other two groups (P <.001) was found. No differences between
environmentally exposed and control individuals were detected. The
statistical analysis showed no significant correlation between DNA
damage and sex, age, drinking or smoking habits, as well as years
of exposure. One or more pesticides were detected in 50%
of the
floriculturists, while in the rest of the individuals, a chemical
related with the preparation of pesticides, such as additives,
plasticizers, or solvents, was found. Our study shows that chronic
exposure to pesticides produces DNA damage in floriculturists. It
also suggests that this type of monitoring could be valuable in
recommending preventive measures.
The Energy Spectrum of Carriers between Two Concentric Spheres of Kane‐Type Semiconductors
Authors: Babayev Arif , Cakmaktepe Sukru , Turkoz Deniz
Published: April 2006

The electronic states of carriers between two concentric spheres of Kane‐type semiconductor are theoretically investigated and compared with the results of the parabolic band approximation. Calculations are performed for a hard‐wall confinement potential and the eigenstates and the eigenvalues of the Kane Hamiltonian are obtained. Taking into account the real band structure (strong spin‐orbital interaction, narrow band gap), the size dependence of the energy of electrons, light holes, and spin‐orbital splitting holes in InSb semiconductor concentric spheres are calculated. According to the obtained results both in parabolic and nonparabolic (Kane model) cases, the electron energy levels come close to each other with the increasing of the radius.
Expression of TNF‐α and Related Signaling Molecules in the Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells of Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Authors: Raghav Sunil Kumar , Gupta Bhawna , Agrawal Charu , Chaturvedi Ved P. , Das Hasi R.
Published: April 2006

We examined the role of tumor necrosis factor (TNF‐α) and its related signaling intermediates leading to apoptosis/proliferation in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of RA patients. The constitutive expression of mRNA for TNF‐α receptors (TNFR‐I and TNFR‐II) and the adapter
molecules, such as the TNF receptor‐associated death domain protein (TRADD), Fas‐associated death domain protein (FADD), receptor interacting protein (RIP), and TNF receptor‐associated factor 2 (TRAF‐2) were analyzed by reverse transcriptase‐PCR (RT‐PCR) in PBMCs from control and RA cases. PBMCs of RA patients showed a significant increase in TNF‐α and TNFR‐I expression as compared with that from control subjects along with significantly increased constitutive expression of TRADD, RIP, and TRAF‐2 mRNA. There was a decrease in expression of FADD in RA patients, but the difference was not significant as compared to controls. These data suggested enhanced signaling by the TNFR‐I‐TRADD‐RIP‐TRAF‐2 pathway and suppressed signaling by the TNFR‐I‐TRADD‐FADD pathway in PBMCs of RA patients. However, the regulatory mechanisms for TNF‐α
induced signaling may not be explained only by these pathways.
Tubulointerstitial Macrophage Accumulation is Regulated by Sequentially Expressed Osteopontin and Macrophage Colony‐Stimulating Factor: Implication for the Role of Atorvastatin
Authors: Tian Shaojiang , Ding Guohua , Jia Ruhan , Chu Guili
Published: April 2006

Infiltration and local proliferation are known factors that contribute to tubulointerstitial macrophage accumulation. This study explored the time course of these two contributors′ roles as tubulointerstitial inflammation and fibrosis progressing, and evaluated the mechanisms of the protective effect of atorvastatin. Unilateral ureteral obstructive (UUO) rats were treated with atorvastatin (10 mg/Kg) or vehicle. Expression of osteopontin (OPN) and macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (M‐CSF) was evaluated by RT‐PCR and immunohistochemistry. Immunohistochemistry staining of ED1 was used to assess macrophage accumulation in interstitium. Histological evaluation was performed to semiquantify tubulointerstitial fibrosis. The results showed that on day 3 after UUO operation, OPN expression significantly increased and positively correlated with the number of the
interstitial ED1+ cells, while on day 10, M‐CSF expression upregulated and correlated with interstitial ED1+ cells. In atorvastatin treatment group, the increments of these two factors were attenuated significantly at the two time points, respectively. ED1+ cell accumulation and fibrosis also ameliorated in the treatment group. For all the samples of UUO and treatment group on day 10, ED1+ cells also correlated with interstitial fibrosis scores. The results suggest that OPN may induce the early macrophage/monocyte infiltration and M‐CSF may play an important role in regulating macrophage accumulation in later stage of UUO nephropathy. Statin treatment decreases interstitial inflammation and fibrosis, and this renoprotective effect may be mediated by downregulating the expression of OPN and M‐CSF.
Evaluation of Tumour Necrosis Factor Alpha, Interleukin‐2 Soluble Receptor, Nitric Oxide Metabolites, and Lipids as Inflammatory Markers in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Pereira Flávia Ozorio , Frode Tânia Silvia , Medeiros Yara Santos
Published: April 2006

This study compared the results of tumour necrosis factor alpha
(TNF‐α), interleukin‐2 soluble receptor (sIL‐2R), nitric
oxide metabolites (NO x), C‐reactive protein (CRP), and
lipids (total cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein
(HDL‐cholesterol), low‐density lipoprotein (LDL‐cholesterol), and
triglycerides) between control group (nondiabetic subjects) and
overweight type 2 DM subjects. To restrict the influence of
variables that could interfere in the interpretation of data,
subjects with obesity and/or acute or chronic inflammatory
disease, haemoglobinopathies, recent use of antibiotics,
antiinflammatory drugs, and trauma were excluded. Type 2 DM
patients (n = 39; age 53.3 ± 9.0 years; median glycated
haemoglobin A1c < 8%) presented higher levels of TNF‐α, triglycerides (P < .01), NO x and sIL‐2R (P < .05) than control group (n = 28; age 39.7 ± 14.1 years). CRP, LDL‐cholesterol, total cholesterol, and HDL‐cholesterol did not differ among groups.
Diabetic women (n = 21) had higher levels of TNF‐α, total cholesterol, LDL‐cholesterol, and HDL‐cholesterol than diabetic men
(n = 18) (P < .05), but there were no differences among sexes in
the control group. This study indicates that increased level of
proinflammatory markers occurs in type 2 DM even in the absence
of obesity and marked hyperglycaemia, confirming that the
inflammation course of the atherosclerotic process is more severe
in diabetic patients than in nondiabetic subjects.
Genetic Analysis of MEFV Gene Pyrin Domain in Patients With Behçet′s Disease
Authors: Dursun Ahmet , Durakbasi-Dursun Hatice Gul , Zamani Ayse Gul , Gulbahar Zerrin Gülin , Dursun Recep , Yakicier Cengiz
Published: April 2006

Objectives. Behçet′s disease (BD) is a systemic vasculitis with recurrent oral and genital ulcers and uveitis. MEFV gene, which is the main factor in familial Mediterranean fever (FMF), is also reported to be a susceptibility gene for BD. The pyrin domain of MEFV gene is a member of
death‐domain superfamily and has been proposed to regulate inflammatory signaling in myeloid cells. This study was designed to determine if mutations in pyrin domain of MEFV gene are involved in BD. Methods. We analyzed the pyrin domain of MEFV gene in 54 Turkish patients with BD by PCR‐analysis and direct sequencing. Results. Neither deletion or insertion mutations nor point mutations in pyrin domain were found in any patient. Conclusion. Although pyrin gene mutations have been reported in patients with BD, pyrin domain is not mutated. However, alterations in other regions of MEFV gene and interaction
between pyrin domains are needed to be further investigated.
Suppression of Carrageenan‐ and Collagen II‐Induced Inflammation in Mice by Geranium Oil
Authors: Maruyama Naho , Ishibashi Hiroko , Hu Weimin , Morofuji Shinichiro , Inouye Shigeharu , Yamaguchi Hideyo , Abe Shigeru
Published: April 2006

To obtain experimental evidence on the therapeutic efficacy of essential oils in aromatherapy for inflammatory diseases, we examined the effects of geranium oil on carrageenan‐induced and collagen II‐induced inflammation in mice, to assess acute and chronic anti‐inflammatory activities of the oil. Single intraperitoneal injection of 5 μL of geranium oil clearly suppressed the carrageenan‐induced footpaw edema and increase in tissue myeloperoxidase activity, and repeated administration of the oil suppressed collagen‐induced arthritis. These results revealed that geranium oil suppressed both acute and chronic inflammatory responses in mice.
Expression and Secretion of CXCL‐8 and CXCL‐10 From Mycobacterium Bovis BCG‐Infected Human Epithelial Cells: Role of IL‐4
Authors: Méndez-Samperio Patricia , Miranda Elena , Vázquez Abraham
Published: April 2006

CXC chemokine release can be modulated by Th2‐derived
cytokines. Interleukin(IL)‐4 is one of the cytokines that are the
hallmark of the Th‐2 response, and plays an important role in
human tuberculosis. In the current study, we investigated the
effect of IL‐4 on chemokine production by human epithelial cells
infected with Mycobacterium bovis bacillus
calmette‐guérin (BCG). Gene expression of CXCL‐8 and
CXCL‐10 was determined by the reverse transcription
(RT)‐polymerase chain reaction method. The levels of
immunoreactive CXCL‐8 and CXCL‐10 were determined by enzyme‐linked
immunosorbent assay. We found that, although M.
bovis BCG induced gene expression of CXCL‐8 and CXCL‐10 in
M. bovis BCG‐infected human epithelial cells, CXCL‐8 mRNA
level was significantly reduced by IL‐4, whereas no significant
effect of IL‐4 was observed on CXCL10 mRNA level. In addition,
IL‐4 decreased CXCL‐8 (in a graded and significant manner) but not
CXCL‐10 secretion. These results were further confirmed, since a
significant reversion was obtained with a neutralizing antibody to
human IL‐4, whereas an isotype‐matched control antibody had no
significant effect on CXCL‐8 secretion. Furthermore, we found a
similar effect of IL‐4 on M. bovis BCG‐induced CXCL‐8 and
CXCL‐10 secretion by using other human epithelial A549 cell line.
Collectively, these data demonstrate that M.
bovis BCG‐infected human epithelial cells can have an active role
in a local inflammatory immune response via the secretion of CXC
chemokines which can be selectively regulated by Th2‐derived
cytokines.
Regulation of Annexin I in Rheumatoid Synovial Cells by Glucocorticoids and Interleukin‐1
Authors: Morand Eric F. , Hall Pam , Hutchinson Paul , Yang Yuan H.
Published: April 2006

The glucocorticoid (GC)‐induced antiinflammatory
molecule annexin I is expressed in leukocytes and has
antiinflammatory effects in animal models of arthritis, but the
expression of annexin I in rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
fibroblast‐like synoviocytes (FLS) is unknown. We report the
constitutive and dexamethasone (DEX)‐inducible expression of
annexin I in RA FLS. DEX increased FLS annexin I protein
translocation and mRNA expression. Interleukin (IL)‐1β also induced annexin I translocation and mRNA but also increased
intracellular protein. DEX and IL‐1 had additive effects on
annexin I mRNA, but DEX inhibited the inducing effect of
IL‐1β on cell surface annexin I. These results indicate that
glucocorticoids and IL‐1β upregulate the synthesis and
translocation of annexin I in RA FLS, but interdependent
signalling pathways are involved.
A Subgroup of First‐Degree Relatives of Crohn′s Disease Patients Shows a Profile of Inflammatory Markers in the Blood Which Is More Typical of Crohn′s Disease Patients Than of Normal Individuals
Authors: Efrat Broide , Iris Goren , Wang Hongbin , Eitan Scapa , Yona Keisari
Published: April 2006

Introduction. Family member with IBD is the greatest risk factor for developing the disease. The hematological profileof first‐degree relatives (FDRs) of Crohn′s disease (CD) patients was studied in order to identify healthy FDRs at risk to develop disease. Materials and methods. Thirty CD
patients, 90 FDRs, and 28 non‐related individuals (controls) were enrolled. Hematological profile and C‐reactive protein were determined. Results. All hematological parameters were significantly different in CD patients compared to controls, with significantly higher levels of CRP, WBC, PMN, MONO, and PLT and
lower Hb and lymphocyte count. The hematological profile of FDRs showed values between the controls and CD patients with ten FDRs that their parameters matched those of CD patients and significantly different from other FDRs. This group was defined as high‐risk relatives (HRRs). Conclusions. Analysis of the hematological profile and CRP level might be proven as a fast,
reliable, and less money‐consuming tool to identify FDRs with a probable increased risk to develop the disease.
Glutamate Receptors in Neuroinflammatory Demyelinating Disease
Authors: Bolton Christopher , Paul Carolyn
Published: April 2006

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic demyelinating disease of the human central nervous system (CNS). The condition predominantly affects young adults and is characterised by immunological and inflammatory changes in the periphery and CNS that contribute to neurovascular disruption, haemopoietic cell invasion of target tissues, and demyelination of nerve fibres which culminate in neurological deficits that relapse and remit or are progressive.
The main features of MS can be reproduced in the inducible animal counterpart, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). The search for new MS treatments invariably employs EAE to determine
drug activity and provide a rationale for exploring clinical efficacy. The preclinical development of compounds for MS has generally followed a conventional, immunotherapeutic route. However, over the past decade, a group of compounds that suppress EAE but have no apparent immunomodulatory activity have emerged. These drugs interact with the N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) and α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA)/kainate family of glutamate receptors reported to control neurovascular permeability, inflammatory mediator synthesis, and resident glial
cell functions including CNS myelination. The review considers the importance of the glutamate receptors in EAE and MS pathogenesis. The use of receptor antagonists to control EAE is also discussed
together with the possibility of therapeutic application in demyelinating disease.
Nonlinear normal modes and their application in structural dynamics
Authors: Pierre Christophe , Jiang Dongying , Shaw Steven
Published: April 2006

Recent progress in the area of nonlinear modal analysis for
structural systems is reported. Systematic methods are developed
for generating minimally sized reduced‐order models that
accurately describe the vibrations of large‐scale nonlinear
engineering structures. The general approach makes use of
nonlinear normal modes that are defined in terms of invariant
manifolds in the phase space of the system model. An efficient
Galerkin projection method is developed, which allows for the
construction of nonlinear modes that are accurate out to large
amplitudes of vibration. This approach is successfully extended to
the generation of nonlinear modes for systems that are internally
resonant and for systems subject to external excitation. The
effectiveness of the Galerkin‐based construction of the nonlinear
normal modes is also demonstrated for a realistic model of a
rotating beam.
Dynamics and statics of flexible axially symmetric shallow shells
Authors: Awrejcewicz J. , Krysko V. A. , Kravtsova I. V.
Published: April 2006

In this work, we propose the method for the investigation of
stochastic vibrations of deterministic mechanical systems
represented by axially symmetric spherical shells. These structure
members are widely used as sensitive elements of pressure
measuring devices in various branches of measuring and control
industry, machine design, and so forth. The proposed method can be
easily extended for the investigation of shallow spherical shells,
goffer‐type membranes, and so on. The so‐called charts of control
parameters for a shell subjected to a transversal uniformly
distributed and local harmonic loading force and resistance moment
are constructed. The scenarios of the transition of vibration of
shallow‐type system into chaotic state are investigated with the
use of the theory of differential equations and the theory of
nonlinear dynamics. The method of the control of chaotic
vibrations of flexible spherical shells subjected to a transversal
harmonic load through a synchronized action of either harmonic
resistance moment or force is proposed, illustrated, and
discussed.
Mathematical model of dissipative parametric vibrations of flexible plates with nonhomogeneous boundary conditions
Authors: Awrejcewicz J. , Krysko V. A. , Moldenkova T.
Published: April 2006

In this work, parametric vibrations of flexible squared plates with changeable boundary conditions along their contours are
studied. The known T. von Kármán equations serve as a mathematical model. This continuous system is reduced to a discrete one through the method of finite approximations of O(h4) order, which is solved further by the fourth‐order Runge‐Kutta technique. New scenarios of transition from harmonic
to chaotic vibrations are reported.
Epidemiological Characterization of Congenital Heart Disease in São Miguel Island, Azores, Portugal
Authors: Cymbron Teresa , Anjos Rui , Cabral Rita , Macedo Clara , Pereira Duarte Carlos , Mota-Vieira Luisa
Published: April 2006

Objectives: This study aimed to characterize the prevalence of congenital heart disease (CHD) in children born alive in São Miguel island from January 1992 to December 2001. Methods: Based on the Azorean Registry of CHD, which includes complete clinical and personal information, 189 patients were diagnosed. Results: During this 10-year period, the average prevalence of CHD is 9.16 per 1,000 live births (range 4.77–12.75). The most frequent cardiac malformations found were: ventricular septal defect (38.1%), atrial septal defect (12.2%) and patent ductus arteriosus (11.6%). Until now, four familial clusters were identified, representing a total of 13 patients. Conclusions: This first epidemiological study of CHD in the Azorean population reveals evidence for familial aggregation, which is of great interest for understanding the genes involved in these complex pathologies.
Relationship of the Sickle Cell Gene to the Ethnic and Geographic Groups Populating the Sudan
Authors: Mohammed Abdelrahim O. , Attalla Bekhieta , Bashir Fathya M.K. , Ahmed Fatima E. , El Hassan Ahmed M. , Ibnauf Gafar , Jiang Weiying , Cavalli-Sforza Luigi L. , Karrar Zein Al Abdin , Ibrahim Muntaser E.
Published: April 2006

The presence of a geographical pattern in the distribution of the sickle cell gene (S gene) and its association with malaria is well documented. To study the distribution of the S gene among various ethnic and linguistic groups in the Sudan we analyzed a hospital-based sample of 189 sickle cell anemia (SCA) patients who reported to the Khartoum Teaching Hospital between June 1996 and March 2000 and 118 controls with other complaints, against their ethnic and linguistic affiliations and geographic origin. Electrophoresis for hemoglobin S and sickling tests were carried out on all patients and controls as a prerequisite for inclusion. The majority of patients (93.7%) belonged to families of single ethnic descent, indicating the high degree of within-group marriages and thus the higher risk of augmenting the gene. SCA was found to be predominant among the Afro-Asiatic-speaking groups (68.4%) including nomadic groups of Arab and non- Arab descent that migrated to the Sudan in various historical epochs. Those patients clustered in western Sudan (Kordofan and Darfur) from where 73% of all cases originate. The proportion of patients reporting from other geographic areas like the south (3.1%), which is primarily inhabited by Nilo-Saharan-speaking groups (19% of the whole sample) who populated the country in previous times, is disproportionate to their total population in the country (χ2 = 71.6; p = 0.0001). Analysis of the haplotypes associated with the S gene indicated that the most abundant haplotypes are the Cameroon, Benin, Bantu and Senegal haplotypes, respectively. No relationship was seen between haplotypes and the various hematological parameters in the sub-sample analyzed for such association. These results provide an insight into the distribution of the sickle cell gene in the Sudan, and highlight the strong link of the middle Nile Valley with West Africa through the open plateau of the Sahel and the nomadic cattle herders and also probably the relatively young age of the S gene.
Hemoglobinopathy Control Program in Turkey
Authors: Canatan Duran , Kose M. Rıfat , Ustundag Munip , Haznedaroglu Dilek , Ozbas Sema
Published: April 2006

Hemoglobinopathies are a very important health problem in Turkey. To date many studies have been performed but there has been no national hemoglobinopathy control program (HCP). After the Turkish National Hemoglobinopathy Council (TNHC) was created all centers, foundations, and associations were combined into one organization controlled by the Ministry of Health (MOH). The MOH and the TNHC have started to register the results of the screening of 377,339 healthy subjects from 16 different cities and the recorded average frequency of the β-thalassemia trait was 4.3%. The highest prevalence of theβ-thalassemia trait (13.1%) was found in the Antalya region and of the HbS trait (10%) in the Çukurova region. Next, written regulations for the Fight against Hereditary Blood Disease were published especially for preventing and treating hemoglobinopathies. The MOH and the TNHC selected 33 provinces situated in the Thrace, Marmara, Aegean, Mediterranean and South Eastern regions with a high birth prevalence of severe hemoglobinopathies. The hemoglobinopathy scientific committee was set up, a guidebook was published and a national HCP was started in these high-risk provinces.