bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Pharmacological Screening of Several Aroyl and Heteroaroyl Selenylacetic Acid Derivatives as Cytotoxic and Antiproliferative Agents
Authors: Sanmartín Carmen , Plano Daniel , Domínguez Enrique , Font María , Calvo Alfonso , Prior Celia , Encío Ignacio , Palop Juan  Antonio
Published: September 2009

The synthesis and cytotoxic activity of a series of twenty six aroyl and heteroaroyl selenylacetic acid derivatives of general formula Ar-CO-Se-CH2-COOH or Heterar-CO-Se-CH2-COOH are reported. The synthesis was carried out by reaction of acyl chlorides with sodium hydrogen selenide, prepared in situ, and this led to the formation of sodium aroylselenides that subsequently reacted with α-bromoacetic acid to produce the corresponding selenylacetic acid derivatives. All of the compounds were tested against a prostate cancer cell line (PC-3) and some of the more active compounds were assessed against a panel of four human cancer cell lines (CCRF-CEM, HTB-54, HT-29, MCF-7) and one mammary gland-derived non-malignant cell line (184B5). Some of the compounds exhibited remarkable cytotoxic and antiproliferative activities against MCF-7 and PC-3 that were higher than those of the reference compounds doxorubicin and etoposide, respectively. For example, in MCF-7 when Ar = phenyl, 3,5-dimethoxyphenyl or benzyl the TGI values were 3.69, 4.18 and 6.19 μM. On the other hand, in PC-3 these compounds showed values of 6.8, 4.0 and 2.9 μM. Furthermore, benzoylselenylacetic acid did not provoke apoptosis nor did it perturb the cell cycle in MCF-7.
A New 4α-Methylated Sterol from a Nephthea sp. (Nephtheidae) Bornean Soft Coral
Authors: Ishii Takahiro , Matsuura Hiroshi , Zhaoqi Zhan , Vairappan Charles  Santhanaraju
Published: September 2009

A new 4α-methyl sterol, 4α-methyl-ergosta-6,8(14),22E-triene-3β-ol (1), was isolated along with cholesterol from a Nephthea sp. Bornean soft coral The structure of compound 1 was elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic analysis and comparison of the data with those of the related compounds.
Cesium Carbonate-Catalyzed α-Phenylchalcogenation of Carbonyl Compounds with Diphenyl Dichalcogenide
Authors: Nishiyama Yutaka , Koguma Yuya , Tanaka Toshimasa , Umeda Rui
Published: September 2009

It was found that cesium carbonate has a unique catalytic ability on the reaction of carbonyl compounds with diphenyl diselenide to give the corresponding α-phenylseleno carbonyl compounds in moderate to good yields. Similarly, the α-phenylthiolation of carbonyl compounds with diphenyl disulfide was promoted by the cesium carbonate catalyst.
Gram-Negative Bacterial Sensors for Eukaryotic Signal Molecules
Authors: Lesouhaitier Olivier , Veron Wilfried , Chapalain Annelise , Madi Amar , Blier Anne-Sophie , Dagorn Audrey , Connil Nathalie , Chevalier Sylvie , Orange Nicole , Feuilloley Marc
Published: September 2009

Ample evidence exists showing that eukaryotic signal molecules synthesized and released by the host can activate the virulence of opportunistic pathogens. The sensitivity of prokaryotes to host signal molecules requires the presence of bacterial sensors. These prokaryotic sensors, or receptors, have a double function: stereospecific recognition in a complex environment and transduction of the message in order to initiate bacterial physiological modifications. As messengers are generally unable to freely cross the bacterial membrane, they require either the presence of sensors anchored in the membrane or transporters allowing direct recognition inside the bacterial cytoplasm. Since the discovery of quorum sensing, it was established that the production of virulence factors by bacteria is tightly growth-phase regulated. It is now obvious that expression of bacterial virulence is also controlled by detection of the eukaryotic messengers released in the micro-environment as endocrine or neuro-endocrine modulators. In the presence of host physiological stress many eukaryotic factors are released and detected by Gram-negative bacteria which in return rapidly adapt their physiology. For instance, Pseudomonas aeruginosa can bind elements of the host immune system such as interferon-γ and dynorphin and then through quorum sensing circuitry enhance its virulence. Escherichia coli sensitivity to the neurohormones of the catecholamines family appears relayed by a recently identified bacterial adrenergic receptor. In the present review, we will describe the mechanisms by which various eukaryotic signal molecules produced by host may activate Gram-negative bacteria virulence. Particular attention will be paid to Pseudomonas, a genus whose representative species, P. aeruginosa, is a common opportunistic pathogen. The discussion will be particularly focused on the pivotal role played by these new types of pathogen sensors from the sensing to the transduction mechanism involved in virulence factors regulation. Finally, we will discuss the consequence of the impact of host signal molecules on commensally or opportunistic pathogens associated with different human tissue.
HBV Life Cycle: Entry and Morphogenesis
Authors: Schädler Stephanie , Hildt Eberhard
Published: September 2009

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major cause of liver disease. HBV primarily infects hepatocytes by a still poorly understood mechanism. After an endocytotic process, the nucleocapsids are released into the cytoplasm and the relaxed circular rcDNA genome is transported towards the nucleus where it is converted into covalently closed circular cccDNA. Replication of the viral genome occurs via an RNA pregenome (pgRNA) that binds to HBV polymerase (P). P initiates pgRNA encapsidation and reverse transcription inside the capsid. Matured, rcDNA containing nucleocapsids can re-deliver the RC-DNA to the nucleus, or be secreted via interaction with the envelope proteins as progeny virions.
HCV Animal Models: A Journey of More than 30 Years
Authors: Meuleman Philip , Leroux-Roels Geert
Published: September 2009

In the 1970s and 1980s it became increasingly clear that blood transfusions could induce a form of chronic hepatitis that could not be ascribed to any of the viruses known to cause liver inflammation. In 1989, the hepatitis C virus (HCV) was discovered and found to be the major causative agent of these infections. Because of its narrow ropism, the in vivo study of this virus was, especially in the early days, limited to the chimpanzee. In the past decade, several alternative animal models have been created. In this review we review these novel animal models and their contribution to our current understanding of the biology of HCV.
Self-medication with antibiotics by the community of Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates
Authors: Abasaeed Abobakr , Vlcek Jiri , Abuelkhair Mohammed , Kubena Ales
Published: September 2009

Background: Self-medication with antibiotics may increase the risk of inappropriate use and the selection of resistant bacteria. The objective of the study was to estimate the prevalence of self-medication with antibiotics in Abu Dhabi.
Methodology: A validated, self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, and the chi-square test when applicable. One thousand subjects were invited to participate in the study.
Results: Eight hundred sixty questionnaires were completed, with a respondent rate of 86%, consisting of 66% males and 34% females. Among the 860 participants, 485 (56%) reported the use of antibiotics within the last year. Amoxicillin was the antibiotic most commonly used (46.3%). The survey showed a significant association between antibiotics used and age group (p
Antimicrobial resistance of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from the intensive care unit of a general hospital in southern Brazil
Authors: Hoerlle Jairo L. , Brandelli Adriano
Published: September 2009

Background: Staphylococcus aureus is recognized as a major cause of nosocomial infections worldwide. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial resistance of S. aureus isolates and the possible changes of the resistance patterns after the implementation of norms of hospital infection control.
Methodology: During the period of 2001 to 2004, antimicrobial resistance of S. aureus (n = 104) isolated from patients in the intensive care unit of the Hospital Divina Providencia (Porto Alegre, Brazil) was determined. The progress of S. aureus control in this hospital through 2002, after the implementation of norms for infection control, was also evaluated.
Results: The glycopeptides presented larger in vitro activity against the isolates of S. aureus (100% of susceptibility for vancomycin and teicoplanin). The percentage of samples showing resistance to at least one drug was 96%, 97% and 100% for the years 2001, 2003 and 2004, respectively. Except for ampicillin and penicillin, antimicrobial resistance decreased from 2001 to 2004. A total of 26 phenotypic profiles were identified; among them a single profile (phenotype B) was identified in all three years of investigation, corresponding to 50% of the isolates. The number of isolated S. aureus decreased the following years, totaling 50 in 2001, 34 in 2003, and 20 in 2004.
Conclusions: A reduction in the number of isolates and antimicrobial resistance of S. aureus from the intensive care unit was observed after the implementation of norms for infection control.
Human immunonodeficiency virus, hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus: sero-prevalence, co-infection and risk factors among prison inmates in Nasarawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Adoga Moses P. , Banwat Edmund B. , Forbi Joseph C. , Nimzing Lohya , Pam Christopher R. , Gyar Silas D. , Agabi Yusuf A. , Agwale Simon M.
Published: September 2009

Background: Published data on HIV, HBV, and HCV in correctional facilities in Nigeria is scarce. We set out to establish the seroprevalence, co-infection, and risk factors for these infections for the first time among prison inmates in Nasarawa State, Nigeria.
Methodology: In a cross-sectional study conducted between April and May, 2007, blood samples were collected from 300 male prisoners of a mean age of 29.2 years, in the state’s four medium-security prisons (overall population: 587). Prior to the study, ethical clearance and informed consent were obtained and structured questionnaires were administered. Samples were analyzed for HIV, HBsAg, and HCV using anti-HIV 1+2-EIA-avicenna, ShantestTM-HBsAg ELISA, and anti-HCV-EIA-avicenna, respectively. Specimens initially reactive for HIV were retested with vironostika microelisa. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 13.0. P values ≤ 0.05 were considered significant.
Results: Of the 300 subjects, 54 (18.0 %), 69 (23.0 %), and 37 (12.3 %) tested positive for HIV, HBV, and HCV, respectively. Co-infections were eight (2.7 %) for HIV/HBV and two (0.7 %) for HBV/HCV. Those aged 21-26 years were more likely to be infected with HIV and HBV, while those aged 33-38 years had the highest HCV infection. Associated risk factors included duration in prison, previous incarceration (for HIV, HBV and HCV), intra-prison anal sex, multiple sex partners (for HIV and HBV), ignorance of transmission modes, blood transfusion, and alcohol consumption (for HBV and HCV). No inmate injected drugs.
Conclusions: The overall outcome represents the need for prison-focused intervention initiatives in Nigeria. Injected drug use is an unlikely major transmission mode among Nigerian inmates.
Preparing for the threat of a pandemic: a Canadian student’s perspective
Authors: Ng Derek CK
Published: September 2009

Emerging infectious diseases, such as a pandemic influenza outbreak, pose a threat to humans and economies worldwide. A novel course at Shantou University's Medical College in China has provided me and nine other Canadian students with a unique opportunity to learn with experts in infectious disease. We are taught in a small group setting and our lecture material is supplemented with hands-on experience in the laboratory. Being placed in China offers us a distinct perspective on culture and social factors and their role in disease transmission mechanisms. This training course has offered me and the other students a deeper understanding of infectious disease in general and is likely to be an experience that we will carry with us in our future careers. This program is a step in a positive direction towards promoting interest in this field of scientific study in Canada.
Longterm Survival Among Patients with Scleroderma-associated Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Treated with Intravenous Epoprostenol
Authors: BADESCH DAVID B. , McGOON MICHAEL D. , BARST ROBIN J. , TAPSON VICTOR F. , RUBIN LEWIS J. , WIGLEY FREDRICK M. , KRAL KENNETH M. , RAPHIOU IBRAHIM H. , CRATER GLENN D.
Published: September 2009

Objective.

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) remains challenging to treat, especially in association with scleroderma. We examined survival rates among patients with PAH in association with scleroderma who received epoprostenol (Flolan®) through continuous intravenous (IV) infusion in an uncontrolled open-label 3-year extension study following an initial randomized, controlled 12-week study.

Methods.

One hundred two patients diagnosed with PAH in association with scleroderma who received epoprostenol were included in the analyses. This included 51 PAH patients from a subject population of 56 who received epoprostenol in the randomized controlled study, and 46 patients from an initial population of 55 subjects on conventional therapy in the randomized controlled study, who received epoprostenol in the extension study. All patients in this extension study received open-label epoprostenol. Adverse events, survival, and dosing information were collected throughout the study.

Results.

The probabilities of survival during the first and second years for all subjects who received epoprostenol during the initial randomized controlled study or during the extension study were 0.71 and 0.52, respectively. This measure remained constant at 0.48 during the third and fourth years.

Conclusion.

This study reports longterm survival rates for patients with scleroderma-associated PAH treated with IV epoprostenol. Although comparisons to historical data should be made with caution, this study reports a better survival outcome than natural history data on patients with scleroderma-associated PAH.
The Reason for Discontinuation of the First Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) Blocking Agent Does Not Influence the Effect of a Second TNF Blocking Agent in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: BLOM MARLIES , KIEVIT WIETSKE , FRANSEN JAAP , KUPER INA H. , den BROEDER ALFONS A. , De GENDT CARLA M.A. , JANSEN TIM L. , BRUS HERMAN L.M. , van de LAAR MART A.F.J. , van RIEL PIET L.C.M.
Published: September 2009

Objective.

To investigate whether the reason for discontinuation of the first tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocking agent influences the effect of a second TNF blocking agent.

Methods.

Data were used from 2 Dutch registries including patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treated with TNF blocking agents. Patients were divided into 3 groups based on reason for discontinuation of the first: nonresponse, loss of response, or adverse events. The primary outcome was the change from baseline of the disease activity (by DAS28) at 6 months, corrected for the baseline DAS28 score. Secondary outcomes were the change from baseline at 3 months, EULAR response rates, and the percentages of patients who reached a DAS28 score ≤ 3.2 at 3 and at 6 months.

Results.

In total, 49 patients who failed due to nonresponse, 75 due to loss of response, and 73 due to adverse events were included. At 6 months, the change of DAS28 score from baseline did not differ significantly between the groups (−0.6 to −1.3; p ≥ 0.173) and similar good and moderate response rates were found (12% to 18%, p ≥ 0.523, and 34% to 55%, p ≥ 0.078, respectively). The secondary outcomes were also comparable between the 3 groups.

Conclusion.

The results of our observational study suggest that a second TNF blocking agent may be effective after failure of the first, regardless of the reason for discontinuation of the first TNF blocking agent.
Primary Biliary Cirrhosis (PBC), PBC Autoantibodies, and Hepatic Parameter Abnormalities in a Large Population of Systemic Sclerosis Patients
Authors: ASSASSI SHERVIN , FRITZLER MARVIN J. , ARNETT FRANK C. , NORMAN GARY L. , SHAH KAIRAV R. , GOURH PRAVITT , MANEK NEIL , PERRY MARILYN , GANESH DEVI , RAHBAR MOHAMMAD H. , MAYES MAUREEN D.
Published: September 2009

Objective.

To investigate the diagnostic accuracy of antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA), sp100, and gp210 antibodies for primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) in a large population of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc); to examine concordance of these antibodies with subsets of SSc. Further, to assess the association of SSc-related antibodies with hepatic parameter abnormalities.

Methods.

We obtained medical records to verify the diagnoses of SSc and PBC. Sera from all participants were examined for the presence of SSc- and PBC-related antibodies, as well as for abnormalities in hepatic parameters.

Results.

We examined 817 patients with SSc, of whom 16 (2%) had confirmed PBC. The sensitivity and specificity of AMA by a MIT3 ELISA for PBC were 81.3% and 94.6%, respectively. Sp100 had a sensitivity and specificity of 31.3% and 97.4%, respectively, while gp210 had an even lower sensitivity. We were able to detect all PBC cases using AMA(MIT3) and sp100 as a combined marker, resulting in a significantly improved sensitivity of 100% (p = 0.042) with an incremental decrease in specificity to 92.6%. Independent of AMA or sp100 status, there was an association of anticentromere B (CENP-B) and anti-topoisomerase antibodies (ATA) with higher alkaline phosphatase levels (p = 0.051 and p = 0.003, respectively) while anti-RNA polymerase III (anti-RNAP) was associated with lower alkaline phosphatase levels (p = 0.019) among the patients with SSc.

Conclusion.

Utilization of AMA(MIT3) and sp100 antibodies as a combined diagnostic marker leads to an improved detection of PBC in patients with SSc. CENP-B and ATA are associated with alkaline phosphatase elevation.
B Cell Receptor and BAFF Receptor Signaling Regulation of B Cell Homeostasis
Authors: Khan Wasif N.
Published: September 2009

B lymphocyte homeostasis depends on tonic and induced BCR signaling and receptors sensitive to trophic factors, such as B cell-activating factor receptor (BAFF-R or BR3) during development and maintenance. This review will discuss growing evidence suggesting that the signaling mechanisms that maintain B cell survival and metabolic fitness during selection at transitional stages and survival after maturation rely on cross-talk between BCR and BR3 signaling. Recent findings have also begun to unravel the molecular mechanisms underlying this crosstalk. In this review I also propose a model for regulating the amplitude of BCR signaling by a signal amplification loop downstream of the BCR involving Btk and NF-κB that may facilitate BCR-dependent B cell survival as well as its functional coupling to BR3 for the growth and survival of B lymphocytes.
Tuberculosis-Associated Immune Restoration Syndrome in HIV-1-Infected Patients Involves Tuberculin-Specific CD4 Th1 Cells and KIR-Negative γδ T Cells
Authors: Bourgarit Anne , Carcelain Guislaine , Samri Assia , Parizot Christophe , Lafaurie Matthieu , Abgrall Sophie , Delcey Veronique , Vicaut Eric , Sereni Daniel , Autran Brigitte ,   the PARADOX Study Group
Published: September 2009

Tuberculosis (TB)-associated immune restoration syndrome (IRS) is a frequent event (10 to 30%) in HIV-1-infected patients receiving antiretroviral treatment and is associated with an increased number of IFN-γ-producing tuberculin-specific cells. To further understand the immune mechanisms of TB-IRS and to identify predictive factors, we prospectively analyzed the Th1 and TCRγδ T cells known to be involved in mycobacterial defenses and dendritic cells at baseline and after antiretroviral and TB treatment in 24 HIV-1+ patients, 11 with and 13 without IRS. At baseline, these two groups differed by significantly lower proportions of TCRγδ and Vδ2+ T cells displaying the inhibitory receptors CD94/NKG2 and CD158ah,b in IRS patients. The two groups did not differ in the baseline characteristics of CD8 or CD4 T cells or TLR-2 expression on monocytes or myeloid/plasmacytoid dendritic cells. During IRS, the increase in tuberculin-specific IFN-γ-producing cells involved only highly activated effector memory multifunctional (IFN-γ+TNF-α+IL-2−) CD4 T cells, whereas activated HLA-DR+ CD4+ T cells also increased during IRS. In contrast, dendritic cells decreased significantly during IRS and there were no changes in TLR-2 expression. Finally, the Vδ2+ T cells, mostly killer Ig-related receptor (KIR) (CD94/NKG2− and CD158−), significantly peaked during IRS but not in non-IRS patients. In conclusion, IRS is associated with an increase in the number of activated tuberculin-specific effector memory CD4 T cells and of KIR−Vδ2+ TCRγδ+ T cells. Higher proportions of Vδ2+TCRγδ+ T cells lacking KIR expression are present as baseline and distinguish patients who will develop IRS from those who will not.
Comparison of three school feeding strategies for primary school children in an informal settlement in Gauteng, South Africa
Authors: Napier Carin , Oldewage-Theron Wilna , Kearney Jeanette
Published: September 2009

The aim of this study was to compare the impact of three school feeding strategies on the nutritional status of primary school children aged six to 13 in an informal settlement in Gauteng.The methods included dietary surveys and anthropometric and biochemical measurements of a sample of 160 primary school children allocated to three different school feeding intervention groups. One group (n=60) received a whole wheat pilchard and spinach vetkoek, a second received food according to the Government Primary School Nutrition Programme (PSNP)(n=60), and a third (n=40) received fruit. The children were given these items every day for seven months, except during school holidays and weekends. The baseline anthropometric measurements indicated that 13.6%, 20.9% and 10.8% of the children in the vetkoek, PSNP and fruit groups respectively were underweight (lesser than 5th percentile for weight-for-age) and 17.3%, 23.6% and 5.2% were stunted (lesser than 5th percentile for height-for-age).The post-intervention results indicated that the children in all three groups had improved significantly in weight and height, and in dietary intakes of zinc and iron.The results of this study indicated that all three feeding strategies contributed to an improved nutritional status. Providing fruit as a school feeding strategy may be the most affordable and easy to implement. More research is recommended to measure the impact of these strategies on a long- term basis.OpsommingDie doel van die studie was om die impak van drie skoolvoedingstrategieë op die voedingstatus van ses tot dertien jaar oue laerskoolkinders in 'n informele nedersetting in Gauteng te bepaal.Die metodes het die volgende ingesluit: dieetopnames, antropometriese en biochemiese metings in 'n steekproef van 160 laerskoolkinders, wat ewekansig in drie skoolvoedingintervensiegroepe verdeel is. Die groepe het bestaan uit 'n volkoring sardyn-en-spinasie-vetkoek groep (n=60), die Government Primary School Nutrition Programme (PSNP) groep (n=60), en 'n vrugtegroep (n=40) wat hierdie items elke dag vir sewe maande, behalwe vir skoolvakansies en naweke, ontvang het. Die antropometriese metings voor die intervensie het bevind dat 13.6%, 20.9% en 10.8% van die kinders ondergewig (kleiner as 5de persentiel vir gewig-vir-ouderdom) was in die vetkoek-, PSNP- en vrugtegroep, respektiewelik, en 17.3%, 23.6% en 5.2% se groei is belemmer (kleiner as 5de persentiel vir lengte-vir-ouderdom).Die na-intervensieresultate het aangedui dat die kinders in al drie die groepe se gewig, lengte, sowel as sink en ysterinname betekenisvol verbeter het.Die resultate van hierdie studie het aangetoon dat al drie die voedingstrategieë bygedra het tot ’n verbeterde voedingstatus. Die voorsiening van vrugte as ’n skoolvoedingstrategie is egter bekostigbaar en maklik om te implementeer. Meer navorsing om die impak op die langtermyn te toets, word aanbeveel.
In‐court versus out‐of‐court testimonies: Children's experiences and adults' assessments
Authors: Landström Sara , Granhag Pär Anders
Published: September 2009

The study examined the effects of different presentation modes on child witnesses' experiences and adults' perception and assessments of the same witnesses. Child witnesses (N = 108) were interviewed about an event that they had either experienced or imagined. Adult mock jurors (N = 240) watched the children's testimonies live, via two‐way closed‐circuit television (CCTV), or via a pre‐recorded video. The results showed that the live observers perceived the children in more positive terms than did the two‐way CCTV observers, who in turn perceived the children in more positive terms than did the video observers. Briefly, it seems as the more proximal the presentation mode, the more positive the observers' perception. Somewhat in contrast to these results, a significantly smaller proportion of the children who testified on video stated that they were nervous, compared to the children who testified live or via two‐way CCTV. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Production of ultrapure hydrogen in a PdAg membrane reactor using noble metal supported on La‐based oxides. Modeling for the dry reforming of methane reaction
Authors: Múnera J. F. , Coronel L. , Faroldi B. , Carrara C. , Lombardo E. A. , Cornaglia L. M.
Published: September 2009

A review is presented here of our previous contributions concerning the production of ultrapure hydrogen through the dry reforming of methane conducted in a membrane reactor. The reaction equilibration ratio is the criterion to compare the catalytic performance of the La‐based catalysts used in these studies. The solids were characterized by Laser Raman, X‐ ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction and temperature‐programmed reduction. The different behaviors are discussed taking into account the characterization results. To predict the influence of key process variables on conversion and product composition, a mathematical model is proposed to simulate the membrane reactor built around a palladium–silver membrane with 100% hydrogen selectivity. This study uses the kinetic equations developed for the dry reforming reaction on a Rh/La2O3 catalyst. Copyright © 2009 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Muscle Fiber Population and Biochemical Properties of Whole Body Muscles in Thoroughbred Horses
Authors: Kawai Minako , Minami Yoshio , Sayama Yukiko , Kuwano Atsutoshi , Hiraga Atsushi , Miyata Hirofumi
Published: September 2009

We examine the muscle fiber population and metabolic properties of skeletal muscles from the whole body in Thoroughbred horses. Postmortem samples were taken from 46 sites in six Thoroughbred horses aged between 3 and 6 years. Fiber type population was determined on muscle fibers stained with monoclonal antibody to each myosin heavy chain isoform and metabolic enzyme activities were determined spectrophotometrically. Histochemical analysis demonstrated that most of the muscles had a high percentage of Type IIa fibers. In terms of the muscle characteristic in several parts of the horse body, the forelimb muscles had a higher percentage of Type IIa fiber and a significantly lower percentage of Type IIx fiber than the hindlimb muscles. The muscle fiber type populations in the thoracic and trunk portion were similar to those in the hindlimb portion. Biochemical analysis indicated high succinate dehydrogenase activity in respiratory‐related muscle and high phosphofructokinase activity in hindlimbs. We suggested that the higher percentage of Type IIa fibers in Thoroughbred racehorses is attributed to training effects. To consider further the physiological significance of each part of the body, data for the recruitment pattern of each muscle fiber type during exercise are needed. The muscle fiber properties in this study combined with the recruitment data would provide fundamental information for physiological and pathological studies in Thoroughbred horses. Anat Rec, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
FK506 Protects Against Various Immune Responses and Secondary Degeneration Following Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Brecht Stephan , Waetzig Vicki , Hidding Ute , Hanisch Uwe‐Karsten , Walther Michael , Herdegen Thomas , Neiss Wolfram F.
Published: September 2009

The immunsuppressant FK506 (1 mg/kg, i.p.) reduces the infarct size following 90 min occlusion of the middle cerebral artery (MCAo) in adult rat brain. Here we have investigated the effect of FK506 on cerebral immune cells that are considered to contribute to neurodegeneration. FK506 substantially attenuated the response of resident and peripheral immune cells following transient ischemia. Between 24 hr and 5 days after MCAo, FK506 reduced the T‐cell infiltration in the infarct area as well as the presence of activated and/or phagocytic OX‐18, OX‐42, GSA‐IB4, Iba1, and ED1 positive microglia/macrophages. FK506 also lowered the protein levels of TNFα and IL‐2 in ischemic brain areas. Repetitive application of FK506 over 20 days attenuated the activation of microglia in the substantia nigra (SN), an area of secondary degeneration. Importantly, FK506 conferred also lasting protection of the neurons of SN; these neurons degenerate by withdrawal of neurotrophic factors from the striatum that undergoes necrotic death as part of the ischemic core. To understand the molecular basis of FK506 effects in cerebral immune cells, we determined in primary postnatal day 0/1 (P0/P1) microglia (i) the expression of the FK506 binding proteins FKBP12, FKBP52, and FKPB65 and (ii) that FK506 (1–100 ng/mL) lowered the number of resting or lipopolysaccharide stimulated microglia as well as we induced the lipopolysaccharide release of TNFα in a dose‐dependent manner. In summary, FK506 confers rescue of brain tissue following cerebral ischemia not only by neuronal protection, but also by suppression of microglial activation and peripheral immune responses. Anat Rec, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Remodeling Patterns of Occipital Growth: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Kranioti Elena F. , Rosas Antonio , GarcÍA‐Vargas Samuel , Estalrrich Almudena , Bastir Markus , PeÑA‐MeliÁN ÁNgel
Published: September 2009

Occipital growth depends on coordinated deposition and resorption on the external and internal surface and includes interrelated processes of movement: cortical drift, displacement, and relocation. The current work aspires to map patterns of remodeling activity on the endocranial surface of the occipital bone from childhood to adulthood using a larger study sample compared with previous studies. The study sample consists of 5 adult and 10 immature (2¼ to 8 years old) occipital bones from skeletal remains from the eighteenth and nineteenth century. Preparation of the samples includes the elaboration of negative impressions, positive replicas coated with gold, and observed with the reflected light microscope. Cerebellar fossae are typically resorptive in both immature and adult specimens. Cerebral fossae, on the other hand, exhibit a resorptive surface in early childhood and turn into depository around the age of 7 years, which places this transition within the age interval of the completion of cerebral development. Depository fields are also observed in adult cerebral fossae. The remodeling map presented here is consistent with the results of Mowbray (Anat Rec B New Anat 2005;283B:14–22) and differs from cellular patterns described by Enlow. Future research implicating more elements of the neurocapsule can shed light on the factors affecting and driving occipital growth. Anat Rec, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The wider importance of cadavers: Educational and research diversity from a body bequest program
Authors: Cornwall Jon , Stringer Mark D.
Published: September 2009

The debate surrounding the use of cadavers in teaching anatomy has focused almost exclusively on the pedagogic role of cadaver dissection in medical education. The aim of this study was to explore the wider aspects of a body bequest program for teaching and research into gross anatomy in a University setting. A retrospective audit was undertaken on body donation and the use of cadaver specimens for teaching and research at our institution between 1876 and 2009. The body bequest program, first established in 1943, now receives more than 40 donations per year. In addition to the medical course, nine other University degrees and courses currently use cadaver specimens for gross anatomy; four of these are research degrees and the remainder undergraduate degrees and courses. The use of cadaver specimens by non‐University groups has also increased, particularly during the past decade, such that there are now 16 different groups using cadaver specimens for instructional courses; most of these are professional medical courses. The use of cadavers for both research and teaching may encourage a more evidence‐based approach to clinical anatomy. This unique audit, spanning more than a century of anatomy education within a single University Medical School, highlights the utility of a robust body bequest program and the wide range of students and health professionals who interact with this precious resource. Anat Sci Educ 2:234–237, 2009 © 2009 American Association of Anatomists.
A GFP‐based method facilitates clonal selection of transfected CHO cells
Authors: Freimark Denise , Jèrôme Valèrie , Freitag Ruth
Published: September 2009

The identification of highly expressing clones is a crucial step in the development of cell lines for production of recombinant proteins. Here we present a method based on the co‐expression of enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) that allows clonal selection in standard 96‐well cell culture plates. The genes encoding the EGFP protein and the protein of interest are linked by an internal ribosome entry site and thus are transcribed into the same mRNA but are translated independently. Since both proteins arise from a common mRNA, the EGFP expression level correlates with the expression level of the therapeutic protein for each clone. By expressing recombinant growth factors in CHO cells, we demonstrate the robustness and performance of this technique. The method is an alternative to the identification of high‐producer clones using various cell sorting methods, as it can be performed with standard laboratory equipment.
Direct real‐time imaging of protein adsorption onto hydrophilic and hydrophobic surfaces
Authors: Haward Simon J. , Shewry Peter R. , Miles Mervyn J. , Mcmaster Terence J.
Published: September 2009

Atomic force microscopy has been used to follow in real time the adsorption from solution of two of the gliadin group of wheat seed storage proteins onto hydrophilic (mica) and hydrophobic (graphite) surfaces. The liquid cell of the microscope was used initially to acquire images of the substrate under a small quantity of pure solvent (1% acetic acid). Continuous imaging as an injection of gliadin solution entered the liquid cell enabled the adsorption process to be followed in situ from zero time. For ω‐gliadin, a monolayer was formed on the mica substrate during a period of ∼2000 s, with the protein molecules oriented in parallel to the mica surface. In contrast, the ω‐gliadin had a relatively low affinity for the graphite substrate, as demonstrated by slow and weak adsorption to the surface. With γ‐gliadin, random deposition onto the mica surface was observed forming monodispersed structures, whereas on the graphite surface, monolayer islands of protein were formed with the protein molecules in a perpendicular orientation. Sequential adsorption experiments indicated strong interactions between the two proteins that, under certain circumstances, caused alterations to the surface morphologies of preadsorbed species. The results are relevant to our understanding of the interactions of proteins within the hydrated protein bodies of wheat grain and how these determine the processing properties of wheat gluten and dough. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 93: 74–84, 2010.

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
Kinetic limitations of a bioelectrochemical electrode using carbon nanotube‐attached glucose oxidase for biofuel cells
Authors: Zhao Xueyan , Jia Hongfei , Kim Jungbae , Wang Ping
Published: September 2009

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been used for various bioelectrochemical applications, presumably for substantial improvement in performance. However, often only moderate results observed, with many governing factors have been considered and suggested yet without much systematic evaluation and verification. In this study, CNT‐supported glucose oxidase (CNT–GOx) was examined in the presence of 1,4‐benzoquinone (BQ). The intrinsic Michaelis parameters of the reaction catalyzed by CNT–GOx were found very close to those of native GOx. However, the Nafion entrapment of CNT–GOx for an electrode resulted in a much lower activity due to the limited availability of the embedded enzyme. Interestingly, kinetic studies revealed that the biofuel cell employing such an enzyme electrode only generated a power density equivalent to <40% of the reaction capability of the enzyme on electrode. It appeared to us that factors such as electron and proton transfer resistances can be more overwhelming than the heterogeneous reaction kinetics in limiting the power generation of such biofuel cells. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2009; 104: 1068–1074. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Reassessing culture media and critical metabolites that affect adenovirus production
Authors: Shen Chun Fang , Voyer Robert , Tom Roseanne , Kamen Amine
Published: September 2009

Adenovirus production is currently operated at low cell density because infection at high cell densities still results in reduced cell‐specific productivity. To better understand nutrient limitation and inhibitory metabolites causing the reduction of specific yields at high cell densities, adenovirus production in HEK 293 cultures using NSFM 13 and CD 293 media were evaluated. For cultures using NSFM 13 medium, the cell‐specific productivity decreased from 3,400 to 150 vp/cell (or 96% reduction) when the cell density at infection was increased from 1 to 3 × 106 cells/mL. In comparison, only 50% of reduction in the cell‐specific productivity was observed under the same conditions for cultures using CD 293 medium. The effect of medium osmolality was found critical on viral production. Media were adjusted to an optimal osmolality of 290 mOsm/kg to facilitate comparison. Amino acids were not critical limiting factors. Potential limiting nutrients including vitamins, energy metabolites, bases and nucleotides, or inhibitory metabolites (lactate and ammonia) were supplemented to infected cultures to further investigate their effect on the adenovirus production. Accumulation of lactate and ammonia in a culture infected at 3 × 106 cells/mL contributed to about 20% reduction of the adenovirus production yield, whereas nutrient limitation appeared primarily responsible for the decline in the viral production when NSFM 13 medium was used. Overall, the results indicate that multiple factors contribute to limiting the specific production yield at cell densities beyond 1 × 106 cells/mL and underline the need to further investigate and develop media for better adenoviral vector productions. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2010
CFD als Werkzeug zum Kolonnendesign – Möglichkeiten, Grenzen und Perspektiven
Authors: Rix A. , Meier R. , Bruckmann Ch. , Skillas G.
Published: September 2009

Publizierte CFD‐Anwendungen aus der Destillation behandeln vor allem Kapazitätssteigerungen. Hier führt die Erhöhung der hydraulischen Belastungen in vorgegebenem Raum zu komplexen strömungstechnischen Fragestellungen. Diese können heute mit CFD‐Simulationen effizient beantwortet werden. Zukunftsweisende Anwendungen analysieren die Benetzung und Strömung in Packungen. Damit ist CFD ein wirkungsvolles Werkzeug zur Analyse elementarer Strömungen in Kolonnen.
Wilhelm Ostwald: 100 Jahre Nobelpreis
Authors: Fratzscher W.
Published: September 2009

Wilhelm Ostwald gilt als einer der Begründer der Physikalischen Chemie. Seinerzeit galt sein Institut in Leipzig als das Weltzentrum der Physikalischen Chemie. Er war eine faszinierende Persönlichkeit und außerordentlich vielseitig wirksam. In der vorliegenden Arbeit wird nicht versucht, diese Vielseitigkeit nachzuvollziehen, sondern vielmehr ausgehend von der Begründung des Nobelpreises, den er 1909 erhalten hatte, Spuren aufzuzeigen, die von Ostwalds Ansätzen und Überlegungen zu heutigen Positionen führen.
Charakterisierung einer konischen Geometrie für einen Ultraschalldurchflussreaktor
Authors: Pohl B. , Özyilmaz N. , Brenner G. , Peuker U. A.
Published: September 2009

Ultraschalldurchflussreaktoren können als Alternative zu Rührkesseln bei der Fällung angesehen werden. Um die Abläufe in Ultraschalldurchflussreaktoren besser verstehen zu können, wurde die Mikromischung im Reaktor näher untersucht. Hierzu wurde die Iodid‐Iodat‐Reaktion nach Villermaux verwendet. Als verfahrenstechnische Anwendung ist die Bariumsulfatfällung als Modellsystem gewählt worden. Weiterhin ist die entstehende Morphologie der Partikel betrachtet worden.
The impact of Medicaid coverage and reimbursement on access to diagnostic mammography
Authors: Schuur Jeremiah D. , Shah Akash , Wu Zheyang , Forman Howard P. , Gross Cary P.
Published: September 2009

BACKGROUND:

Women of low socioeconomic status are at risk for delayed evaluation of abnormal mammograms and later stage presentations of breast cancer. Medicaid reimbursement for clinical services is lower than Medicare reimbursement, yet it is unclear whether low Medicaid reimbursement is a barrier to accessing mammography. The objective of the current study was to determine the association between reported insurance type (Medicaid vs Medicare), Medicaid reimbursement rate, and access to diagnostic mammography (DM).

METHODS:

Standardized patients (SPs) called 521 mammography facilities in defined geographic regions of 11 states in 2005. Facilities were divided between high, middle, and low reimbursing states based on the state's relative Medicaid‐to‐Medicare reimbursement rate for DM. SPs contacted each facility twice to schedule a DM using the same clinical vignette but switching insurance status (Medicaid vs Medicare). The authors measured the proportion of SPs who were offered 1) any appointment and 2) a timely appointment, defined as a third available appointment within 20 business days.

RESULTS:

SPs with Medicaid were less likely to receive an appointment than SPs with Medicare (91% vs 99.1%; difference, 8.1%; 95% confidence interval, 5.3%‐10.9% [P< .001]). Among facilities that offered appointments to both callers, the proportion of timely appointments did not differ between Medicaid (93.7%) and Medicare (92.9%;P= .51). States' Medicaid reimbursement rates for DM were not associated with the percentage of SPs with Medicaid who were offered any appointment (P= .50) or a timely appointment (P= .69).

CONCLUSIONS:

Callers with Medicaid were offered appointments for DM less frequently than callers with Medicare, although both were widely accepted. State Medicaid reimbursement rates did not affect access to mammography. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
The role of shame and self‐critical thinking in the development and maintenance of current threat in post‐traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Harman Rachel , Lee Deborah
Published: September 2009

There is increasing recognition of emotions other than fear in post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and recent research has looked at the role of shame. Cognitive theory suggests that PTSD is caused by traumatic experiences being processed in a way that causes ongoing current threat. In this paper we suggest that shame might contribute to the creation/maintenance of ongoing current threat as it attacks an individual's psychological integrity. A correlational design was used to investigate some of the factors that might contribute to a shame response within a PTSD sample. It was hypothesized that individuals with PTSD who report higher levels of shame would be more prone to engage in self‐critical thinking and less prone to engage in self‐reassuring thinking than individuals with PTSD who report lower levels of shame. Data were gathered using self‐report questionnaires, and results supported the hypotheses. It is suggested therapy for shame‐based PTSD needs to incorporate strategies to help individuals develop inner caring, compassion and self‐reassurance. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message:

• Some individuals with PTSD report high levels of shame.

• High levels of shame are associated with high levels of self‐critical thinking and low levels of self‐reassuring thinking.

• Therapy for shame‐based PTSD needs to incorporate strategies that help individuals develop inner caring, compassion and self‐reassurance.
Catalytic Partial Oxidation of Methanol and Ethanol for Hydrogen Generation
Authors: Hohn Keith L. , Lin Yu‐Chuan
Published: September 2009

Hydrogen‐powered fuel cell vehicles feature high energy efficiency and minor environmental impact. Liquid fuels are ideal hydrogen carriers, which can catalytically be converted into syngas or hydrogen to power vehicles. Among the potential liquid fuels, alcohols have several advantages. The hydrogen/carbon ratio is higher than that of other liquid hydrocarbons or oxygenates, especially in the case of methanol. In addition, alcohols can be derived from renewable biomass resources. Catalytic partial oxidation of methanol or ethanol offers immense potential for onboard hydrogen generation due to its rapid reaction rate and exothermic nature. These benefits stimulate a burgeoning research community in catalyst design, reaction engineering, and mechanistic investigation. The purpose of this Minireview is to provide insight into syngas and hydrogen production from methanol and ethanol partial oxidation, particularly highlighting catalytic chemistry.
Genetic effects on infant handedness under spatial constraint conditions
Authors: Suzuki Kunitake , Ando Juko , Satou Naho
Published: September 2009

Previous studies have reported a genetic influence on the individual differences in adult handedness; however, relatively little is known about genetic influences on the development of infant hand selection. In the current study, we examined whether genetic influences on handedness are expressed in various spatial locations in infants aged 18 months using the twin method. Infants were asked to respond to targets positioned in left, middle, and right locations using grasping movements. Results showed that similarities in hand selection within monozygotic twin pairs was more than two times higher than that of the dizygotic twin pairs in the middle location. In the left location, similarities in hand selection within monozygotic and dizygotic twin pairs were low. In addition, low individual differences in hand selection in the right location were also observed. These results suggest a non‐additive genetic influence on handedness, and that spatial constraint is a crucial factor for the expression of genetic effects on handedness in infants. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 51: 605–615, 2009