bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular analysis of RANKL‐independent cell fusion of osteoclast‐like cells induced by TNF‐α, lipopolysaccharide, or peptidoglycan
Authors: Hotokezaka Hitoshi , Sakai Eiko , Ohara Naoya , Hotokezaka Yuka , Gonzales Carmen , Matsuo Ken‐ichiro , Fujimura Yuji , Yoshida Noriaki , Nakayama Koji
Published: December 2006

Focusing on the final step of osteoclastogenesis, we studied cell fusion from tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)‐positive mononuclear cells into multinuclear cells. TRAP‐positive mononuclear cells before generation of multinuclear cells by cell fusion were differentiated from RAW264.7 cells by treatment with receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B ligand (RANKL), and then the cells were treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), followed by culturing for further 12 h. LPS‐induced cell fusion even in the absence of RANKL. Similarly, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α and peptidoglycan (PGN) induced cell fusion, but M‐CSF did not. The cell fusion induced by RANKL, TNF‐α, and LPS was specifically blocked by osteoprotegerin (OPG), anti‐TNF‐α antibody, and polymyxin B, respectively. LPS‐ and PGN‐induced cell fusion was partly inhibited by anti‐TNF‐α antibody but not by OPG. When TRAP‐positive mononuclear cells fused to yield multinuclear cells, phosphorylation of Akt, Src, extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK), p38MAPK (p38), and c‐Jun NH2‐terminal kinase (JNK) was observed. The specific chemical inhibitors LY294002 (PI3K), PP2 (Src), U0126 (MAPK‐ERK kinase (MEK)/ERK), and SP600125 (JNK) effectively suppressed cell fusion, although SB203580 (p38) did not. mRNA of nuclear factor of activated T‐cells c1 (NFATc1) and dendritic cell‐specific transmembrane protein (DC‐STAMP) during the cell fusion was quantified, however, there was no obvious difference among the TRAP‐positive mononuclear cells treated with or without M‐CSF, RANKL, TNF‐α, LPS, or PGN. Collectively, RANKL, TNF‐α, LPS, and PGN induced cell fusion of osteoclasts through their own receptors. Subsequent activation of signaling pathways involving PI3K, Src, ERK, and JNK molecules was required for the cell fusion. Although DC‐STAMP is considered to be a requisite for cell fusion of osteoclasts, cell fusion‐inducing factors other than DC‐STAMP might be necessary for the cell fusion. J. Cell. Biochem. 101: 122–134, 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Induction of abnormal nuclear shapes in two distinct modes by overexpression of serine/threonine protein phosphatase 5 in Hela cells
Authors: Fukuda Hirokazu , Tsuchiya Naoto , Hara‐Fujita Kaori , Takagi Sachiyo , Nagao Minako , Nakagama Hitoshi
Published: December 2006

Okadaic acid‐sensitve serine/threonine protein phosphatase 5 (PP5) is expressed ubiquitously in various tissues and is considered to participate in many cellular processes. PP5 has a catalytic domain in the C‐terminal region and three tetratricopeptide repeat (TPR) motifs in the N‐terminal region, which are suspected to function as a protein–protein interaction domain. Physiological roles of PP5 are still largely unknown, although several PP5‐binding proteins were reported and a few in vivo functions of PP5 were suggested. In the present study, the effects of expression of the full‐length wild‐type PP5 fused with EGFP (EGFP‐PP5WT) and its phosphatase‐dead mutant EGFP‐PP5H304A were investigated. Transient expression of either EGFP‐PP5WT or EGFP‐PP5H304A in HeLa cells induced deformed nuclei with a 10‐fold frequency compared to that of EGFP. Abnormal‐shaped nuclei were also substantially increased by induced moderate expression of PP5 in tet‐on HeLa cells. Many HeLa cells expressing EGFP‐PP5WT possessed multi‐nuclei separated from each other by nuclear membrane, while expression of EGFP‐PP5H304A induced deformed nuclei which were multiple‐like in shape, but not separated completely and were surrounded by one nuclear membrane. These results suggest that PP5 plays important roles at the M‐phase of the cell cycle, especially in separation of chromosomes and formation of nuclear membrane. J. Cell. Biochem. 101: 321–330, 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Curcumin‐induced GADD153 upregulation: Modulation by glutathione
Authors: Scott David W. , Loo George
Published: December 2006

As we reported previously, GADD153 is upregulated in colon cancer cells exposed to curcumin. In the present study, we ascertained the involvement of glutathione and certain sulfhydryl enzymes associated with signal transduction in mediating the effect of curcumin on GADD153. Curcumin‐induced GADD153 gene upregulation was attenuated by reduced glutathione (GSH) or N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) and potentiated by the glutathione synthesis inhibitor, L‐buthionine‐(S,R)‐sulfoximine (BSO). Additionally, GSH and NAC decreased the intracellular content of curcumin. Conversely, curcumin decreased intracellular glutathione and also increased the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cells, but either GSH or NAC prevented both of these effects of curcumin. In affecting the thiol redox status, curcumin caused activation of certain sulfhydryl enzymes involved in signal transduction linked to GADD153 expression. Curcumin increased the expression of the phosphorylated forms of PTK, PDK1, and PKC‐δ, which was attenuated by either GSH or NAC and potentiated by BSO. Furthermore, selective inhibitors of PI3K and PKC‐δ attenuated curcumin‐induced GADD153 upregulation. Collectively, these findings suggest that a regulatory thiol redox‐sensitive signaling cascade exists in the molecular pathway leading to induction of GADD153 expression as caused by curcumin. J. Cell. Biochem. 101: 307–320, 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Centrosomal localization of DNA damage checkpoint proteins
Authors: Zhang Suisheng , Hemmerich Peter , Grosse Frank
Published: December 2006

During mitosis, the phosphatidylinositol‐3 (PI‐3) family‐related DNA damage checkpoint kinases ATM and ATR were found on the centrosomes of human cells. ATRIP, an interaction partner of ATR, as well as Chk1 and Chk2, the downstream targets of ATR or ATM, were also localized to the centrosomes. Surprisingly, the DNA‐PK inhibitor vanillin enhanced the level of ATM on centrosomes. Accordingly, DNA‐PKcs, the catalytic subunit of DNA‐PK, was also found on the centrosomes. Vanillin altered the phosphorylation of Chk2 in the centrosomes and in whole cell extracts. Nucleoplasmic ATM co‐immunoprecipitated with Ku70/86, the DNA binding subunits of DNA‐PK, while vanillin diminished this association. Vanillin did not affect microtubule polymerization at the centrosomes but, surprisingly, caused a transient enhancement of α‐tubulin foci in the nucleus. Interestingly, γ‐tubulin was also present in the nucleus and co‐immunoprecipitated with ATR or BRCA1. DNA damage led to a reduction of the mentioned checkpoint proteins on the centrosomes but increased the level of γ‐tubulin at this organelle. Taken together, these results indicate that DNA damage checkpoint proteins may control the formation of γ‐tubulin and/or the kinetics of microtubule formation at the centrosomes, and thereby couple them to the DNA damage response. J. Cell. Biochem. 101: 451–465, 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Proliferation of human breast cancer cells and anti‐cancer action of doxorubicin and vinblastine are independent of PKC‐α
Authors: Liu Daniel SD , Krebs Chad E. , Liu Shi J.
Published: December 2006

Protein kinase C (PKC) has been considered for a potential target of anticancer chemotherapy. PKC‐α has been associated with growth and metastasis of some cancer cells. However, the role of PKC‐α in human breast cancer cell proliferation and anticancer chemotherapy remains unclear. In this study, we examined whether alterations of PKC‐α by phorbol esters and PKC inhibitors could affect proliferation of human breast cancer MCF‐7 cells and the cytotoxic effect of chemotherapeutic agents. Exposure for 24 h to doxorubicin (DOX) and vinblastine (VIN) caused a concentration‐dependent reduction in proliferation of MCF‐7 cells. However, these two anticancer drugs altered cellular morphology and growth pattern in distinct manners. Phorbol 12,13‐dibutyrate (PDBu, 100 nM), which enhanced activities of PKC‐α, increased cancer cell proliferation and attenuated VIN (1 µM)‐induced cytotoxicity. These effects were not affected in the presence of 10 nM staurosporine. Phorbol myristate acetate (PMA, 100 nM) that completely depleted PKC‐α also enhanced cancer cell proliferation and attenuated VIN‐induced cytotoxicity. Three potent PKC inhibitors, staurosporine (10 nM), chelerythrine (5 µM) and bisindolylmaleimide‐I (100 nM), had no significant effect on MCF‐7 cell proliferation; staurosporine and chelerythrine, but not bisindolylmaleimide‐I, attenuated VIN‐induced cytotoxicity. Moreover, neither phorbol esters nor PKC inhibitors had an effect on cytotoxic effects of DOX (1 µM) on MCF‐7 cell proliferation. Thus, these data suggest that MCF‐7 cell proliferation or the anti‐cancer action of DOX and VIN on breast cancer cells is independent of PKC‐α. J. Cell. Biochem. 101: 517–528, 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Prosaposin is a novel androgen‐regulated gene in prostate cancer cell line LNCaP
Authors: Koochekpour S. , Lee T.‐J. , Wang R. , Sun Y. , Delorme N. , Hiraiwa M. , Grabowski G.A. , Culig Z. , Minokadeh A.
Published: December 2006

Androgen‐regulated genes (ARG) are implicated in normal and neoplastic growth of the prostate. Recently, we reported genomic amplification and/or overexpression of a previously known neurotrophic factor, prosaposin, in androgen‐independent (AI) or metastatic prostate cancer (PCa) cells and tissues. Prosaposin and/or its known active molecular derivatives (e.g., saposin C) function as a pluripotent growth factor with diverse biological activities that favor malignant phenotypes in PCa cells. In addition, prosaposin or saposin C upregulates androgen receptor (AR) and AR‐target genes (i.e., prostate‐specific antigen, Probasin) expression and activity in LNCaP cells. Here, we examined prosaposin as an ARG. We report that DHT treatment of LNCaP cells increases prosaposin expression. In addition, we demonstrate androgen‐responsiveness of prosaposin promoter and AR occupancy to a hormone‐responsive element located in the proximal region of the prosaposin promoter. Our data for the first time identify prosaposin as an ARG. This observation, together with the pleiotropic growth factor activity of prosaposin, might suggest a role for this molecule in AR‐dependent progression of prostate cancer at its early or late AI‐state. J. Cell. Biochem. 101: 631–641, 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Baculovirus transduction of rat articular chondrocytes: roles of cell cycle
Authors: Lee Hsiao‐Ping , Chen Yen‐Lin , Shen Heng‐Chun , Lo Wen‐Hsin , Hu Yu‐Chen
Published: December 2006

Background

We have previously demonstrated highly efficient baculovirus transduction of primary rat articular chondrocytes, thus implicating the possible applications of baculovirus in gene‐based cartilage tissue engineering. However, baculovirus‐mediated gene expression in the chondrocytes is transient.

Methods

In this study, we attempted to prolong the expression by supertransduction, but uncovered that after long‐term culture the chondrocytes became more refractory to baculovirus transduction. Therefore, the correlation between baculovirus‐mediated enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) expression and cell cycle was investigated by comparing the cycling chondrocytes and chondrocytes rich in quiescent cells, in terms of EGFP expression, virus uptake, cell cycle distribution, nuclear import and methylation of viral DNA.

Results

We demonstrated, for the first time, that baculovirus‐mediated transduction of chondrocytes is correlated with the cell cycle. The chondrocytes predominantly in G2/M phase were approximately twice as efficient in EGFP expression as the cycling cells, while the cells in S and G1 phases expressed EGFP as efficiently as the cycling cells. Notably, the chondrocyte populations rich in quiescent cells resulted in efficient virus uptake, but less effective nuclear transport of baculoviral DNA and higher degree of methylation, and hence poorer transgene expression.

Conclusions

These findings unravel the practical limitations when employing baculovirus in cartilage tissue engineering. The implications and possible solutions are discussed. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Solvation structure of magnesium, zinc, and alkaline earth metal ions in N,N‐dimethylformamide, N,N‐dimethylacetamide, and their mixtures studied by means of Raman spectroscopy and DFT calculations—Ionic size and electronic effects on steric congestion
Authors: Asada Mitsunori , Fujimori Takao , Fujii Kenta , Kanzaki Ryo , Umebayashi Yasuhiro , Ishiguro Shin‐ichi
Published: December 2006

The solvation structure of magnesium, zinc(II), and alkaline earth metal ions in N,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF) and N,N‐dimethylacetamide (DMA), and their mixtures has been studied by means of Raman spectroscopy and DFT calculations. The solvation number is revealed to be 6, 7, 8, and 8 for Mg2+, Ca2+, Sr2+, and Ba2+, respectively, in both DMF and DMA. The δ (OCN) vibration of DMF shifts to a higher wavenumber upon binding to the metal ions and the shift Δν(= νbound − νfree) becomes larger, when the ionic radius of the metal ion becomes smaller. The ν (NCH3) vibration of DMA also shifts to a higher wavenumber upon binding to the metal ions. However, the shift Δν saturates for small ions, as well as the transition‐metal (II) ions, implying that steric congestion among solvent molecules takes place in the coordination sphere. It is also indicated that, despite the magnesium ion having practically the same ionic radius as the zinc(II) ion of six‐coordination, their solvation numbers in DMA are significantly different. DFT calculations for these metalsolvate clusters of varying solvation numbers revealed that not only solvent–solvent interaction through space but also the bonding nature of the metal ion plays an essential role in the steric congestion. The individual solvation number and the Raman shift Δν in DMF–DMA mixtures indicate that steric congestion is significant for the magnesium ion, but not appreciable for calcium, strontium, and barium ions, despite the solvation number of these metal ions being large. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Retention of carotenoids in cassava roots submitted to different processing methods
Authors: Chávez AL , Sánchez T , Ceballos H , Rodriguez‐Amaya DB , Nestel P , Tohme J , Ishitani M
Published: December 2006

Large genetic variation in carotenoid content has been reported after screening roots from thousands of cassava genotypes. Moreover, these pigments have to withstand different processing methods before cassava is consumed. True retention of β‐carotene from cassava roots that had been boiled, oven‐dried, sun‐dried, shadow‐dried, or used for gari preparation was measured. True retention was also measured after storing for 2 or 4 weeks some of the products of these processing methods. Oven‐drying, shadow drying and boiling retained the highest levels of β‐carotene (71.9, 59.2 and 55.7%, respectively) and gari the lowest (about 34.1%). Higher retention was observed when dried roots were kept as chips rather than as flour. Storage of flour packed in plastic bags under vacuum unexpectedly resulted in higher losses than storage of flour packed in plastic bags without the application of vacuum. Losses were higher during the first 2 weeks and tended to be considerably lower during the second 2 weeks of storage. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Evaluation of different varieties of cauliflower for minimal processing
Authors: Sanz Susana , Olarte Carmen , Echávarri J Federico , Ayala Fernando
Published: December 2006

The impact of minimal processing technology on the sensory quality and the growth of micro‐organisms in eight varieties of cauliflower packaged in four different films (one PVC and three P‐Plus) was measured and quantified during more than 25 days of storage at 4 °C. Other important parameters such as weight loss and gas concentration in the packages were also determined. The composition of the atmosphere in the packages of minimally processed cauliflower depended on both the permeability of the film used for the packaging and the variety of cauliflower. When establishing shelf‐life, loss of sensory quality was the deciding factor rather than loss of microbiological quality. The initial microbial load proved more important than the composition of the atmosphere inside the packages. In sensory evaluation the most important aspect was colour. In instrumental evaluation, coordinate b* was the main means of estimating shelf‐life. The combination of P‐Plus 120 film and varieties of cauliflower of large size and great vigour allowed the atmosphere inside the packages to have an O2 level below 10% and a CO2 level above 10%. That atmosphere composition proved essential for maintaining the sensory quality of minimally processed cauliflower. In these conditions, samples attained a shelf‐life of more than 25 days. However, the different behaviours of the cauliflower varieties make it necessary to establish particular packaging conditions. The use of less permeable films than those used in this study, or the use of actively modified atmospheres, could be an alternative for those varieties that require special packaging conditions when processed using this technology. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
In vitrostudy on antioxidant activities of peanut protein hydrolysate
Authors: Chen Gui‐tang , Zhao Lin , Zhao Li‐yan , Cong Tao , Bao Shan‐fen
Published: December 2006

Peanut protein was hydrolysed with a commercial protease, Alcalase 2.4L, and the resulting hydrolysate was investigated for its antioxidant activities, including the ability to inhibit the autoxidation of linoleic acid, the scavenging effect on the 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical, the reducing power and the inhibition of liver lipid oxidation. As compared with the peanut protein, peanut protein hydrolysate showed strong inhibition of the autoxidation of linoleic acid, to scavenge DPPH free radical and showed strong reducing power. Moreover, peanut protein hydrolysate also displayed noticeable inhibition of liver lipid autoxidation and lipid oxidation induced by H2O2or Fe2+in vitro. All these effects of the sample were concentration‐dependent. These results suggest that peanut protein hydrolysate could be a suitable natural antioxidant and may be a health food for humans. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of calcium propionate on the microstructure and pectin methy‐ lesterase activity in the parenchyma of fresh‐cut Fuji apples
Authors: Quiles Amparo , Hernando Isabel , Pérez‐Munuera Isabel , Lluch Ma Ángeles
Published: December 2006

There is an increasing demand for fresh‐cut fruits. One of the main problems with these products is their short shelf life. The use of additives such as calcium propionate may increase their shelf life, because calcium preserves the structural integrity of the cells and propionate acts as food preservative. This work analyses the microstructure of Fuji apple parenchyma treated with calcium propionate immediately after treatment and after storage for 1 and 2 weeks at 4 °C by using light microscopy (LM) and low‐temperature scanning electron microscopy (cryo‐SEM). This work also studies the effects of treatment and storage time on the enzymatic activity of pectin methylesterase (PME) by measuring the amount of acid released per unit of time at pH 7 and at 63 °C. The results show that calcium propionate treatment has consolidating and structuring effects on the parenchyma and partially minimises the degrading effects of fresh‐cut apples. In addition, treatment with calcium propionate decreases the activity of the PME both in non‐stored apples and in those stored for 1 and 2 weeks probably due to the inhibiting effect of propionate. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Lower low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels are associated with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Huang Xuemei , Chen Honglei , Miller William C. , Mailman Richard B. , Woodard Jennifer L. , Chen Peter C. , Xiang Dong , Murrow Richard W. , Wang Yi‐Zhe , Poole Charles
Published: December 2006

The apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε2 allele has been associated with both Parkinson's disease (PD) and lower low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C). We tested the hypothesis that lower LDL‐C may be associated with PD. This case–control study used fasting lipid profiles obtained from 124 PD cases and 112 controls. The PD cases were recruited from consecutive cases presenting at our tertiary Movement Disorder Clinic, and the controls were recruited from the spouse populations of the same clinic. Multivariate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated from unconditional logistic regressions, adjusting for age, gender, smoking status, and use of cholesterol‐lowering agents. Lower LDL‐C concentrations were associated with a higher occurrence of PD. Compared with participants with the highest LDL‐C (≥138 mg/dL), the OR was 2.2 (95% CI = 0.9–5.1) for participants with LDL‐C of 115 to 137, 3.5 (95% CI = 1.6–8.1) for LDL‐C of 93 to 114, and 2.6 (95% CI = 1.1–5.9) for LDL‐C of ≤ 92. Interestingly, use of either cholesterol‐lowering drugs, or statins alone, was related to lower PD occurrence. Thus, our data provide preliminary evidence that low LDL‐C may be associated with higher occurrence of PD, and/or that statin use may lower PD occurrence, either of which finding warrants further investigation. © 2007 Movement Disorder Society
Planar ultra‐wideband antenna with a frequency notch characteristic
Authors: Huang Chih‐Yu , Hsia Wei‐Chun
Published: December 2006

A novel and simple design of a printed circular patch antenna for ultra‐wideband application with a band‐notched characteristic is presented. By cutting a pie‐shaped slot on the circular radiating patch, a frequency band notch will be created. The cutting pie depth contributes to the notch center frequency and notch bandwidth while the pie flare angle contributes to the notch bandwidth. It is easy to design a specific notch band range by adjusting the cutting pie size. The position of cutting pie is also investigated. Details of the proposed designs and experimental results of the constructed prototypes are presented. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 49: 316–320, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.22113
Double annular‐ring dielectric resonator antenna for ultra‐wideband application
Authors: Ruan Yu‐Feng , Guo Yong‐Xin , Shi Xiang‐Quan
Published: December 2006

A new dielectric resonator antenna (DRA) is proposed in this article for ultra‐wideband (UWB) application. A larger annular‐ring DRA is placed concentrically outside a smaller one to form a double annular‐ring DRA. The antenna is operating at the end‐fire mode. The effects of antenna parameters, such as the radiuses and heights of the dielectric resonators as well as the probe length are investigated. The proposed double annular‐ring DRA can offer an impedance bandwidth up to 3–11.2 GHz for a return loss less than −10 dB. The radiation patterns are stable in the passband. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 49: 362–366, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.22140
Miniaturized tri‐band equilateral triangular microstrip antennas for wireless communication applications
Authors: Elsadek Hala
Published: December 2006

Novel designs for compact multi‐band single feed triangular microstrip antenna are presented. Shorting wall is introduced for 50% size reduction while inserted slits are added for tri‐band operation. Triangular shorting capacitive plate is inserted to reach 75% size reduction from conventional λ0/2 triangular microstrip antenna. Gain greater than 8 dBi is achieved. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 49: 487–491, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.22143
An automated quantitation of short echo time MRS spectra in an open source software environment: AQSES
Authors: Poullet Jean‐Baptiste , Sima Diana M. , Simonetti Arjan W. , De Neuter Bart , Vanhamme Leentje , Lemmerling Philippe , Van Huffel Sabine
Published: December 2006

This paper describes a new quantitation method called AQSES for short echo time magnetic resonance spectra. This method is embedded in a software package available online from www.esat.kuleuven.be/sista/members/biomed/new/ with a graphical user interface, under an open source license, which means that the source code is freely available and easy to adapt to specific needs of the user. The quantitation problem is mathematically formulated as a separable nonlinear least‐squares fitting problem, which is numerically solved using a modified variable‐projection procedure. A macromolecular baseline is incorporated into the fit via nonparametric modelling, efficiently implemented using penalized splines. Unwanted components such as residual water are removed with a maximum‐phase FIR filter. Constraints on the phases, dampings and frequencies of the metabolites can be imposed. AQSES has been tested on simulated MR spectra with several types of disturbance and on short echo time in vivo proton MR spectra. Results show that AQSES is robust, easy to use and very flexible. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Differential response to H. pylori eradication therapy of co‐existing diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma and MALT lymphoma of stomach—significance of tumour cell clonality and BCL10 expression
Authors: Kuo S‐H , Chen L‐T , Wu M‐S , Kuo K‐T , Yeh K‐H , Doong S‐L , Yeh P‐Y , Hsu H‐C , Tzeng Y‐S , Lin C‐W , Lin J‐T , Cheng A‐L
Published: December 2006

We recently reported that low‐grade mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma (MALToma) and diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) with MALToma (DLBCL[MALT]) of stomach are equally responsive to H. pylori eradication therapy (HPET) and that H. pylori‐independent status is closely associated with nuclear translocation of BCL10. However, co‐existing MALToma and DLBCL components of gastric DLBCL(MALT) may respond differentially to HPET and the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Tumour tissue samples from 18 patients with microdissectable co‐existing MALToma and DLBCL cells were studied. The clonality of lymphoma cells was examined by polymerase chain reaction‐based amplification of the CDR3 region of the IgH gene and confirmed by DNA sequence analysis. BCL10 expression was determined by immunohistochemistry. Differential response of co‐existing MALToma and DLBCL to HPET was defined as complete eradication of one component while the other component remained. Five (27.8%) of the 18 patients showed different IgH gene rearrangements in the two components and three (60%) of these five patients had differential response of MALToma and DLBCL to HPET. By contrast, 13 patients showed identical IgH gene rearrangements and only one (8%) of them had differential response of the two components to HPET (p = 0.044). Further, all four patients with differential response of MALToma and DLBCL to HPET showed nuclear expression of BCL10 in the H. pylori‐independent component and cytoplasmic expression of BCL10 in the H. pylori‐dependent component while the expression patterns of BCL10 were identical in both of these components in the 14 patients who had similar tumour response to HPET. We conclude that different clonality is a common reason for the differential response of co‐existing MALToma and DLBCL of gastric DLBCL(MALT) to HPET and that immunohistochemical examination of BCL10 expression may help to identify the co‐existence of these components. Copyright © 2006 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
H2‐Blocker und Antazida bei gastrointestinalen Erkrankungen. Erfolgreiche Therapie von Ulcusleiden?
Authors: Stein Jürgen , Rösch Wolfgang
Published: December 2006

Kaum ein gastroenterologisches Krankheitsbild hat in den vergangenen 30 Jahren einen derartigen Wandel hinsichtlich der medikamentösen Therapie erfahren wie das Ulcusleiden.
Neues In‐vitro‐Modell für HIV‐Infektionen
Authors: Winckler Thomas
Published: December 2006

Ein Spiel mit den Restriktionsfaktoren, die natürlicherweise die Replikation des Retrovirus unterdrücken.
Latices of poly(fluoroalkyl mathacrylate)‐b‐poly(butyl methacrylate) copolymers prepared via reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer polymerization
Authors: Zhou Xiaodong , Ni Peihong , Yu Zhangqing , Zhang Feng
Published: December 2006

Poly(fluoroalkyl mathacrylate)‐block‐poly(butyl methacrylate) diblock copolymer latices were synthesized by a two‐step process. In the first step, a homopolymer end‐capped with a dithiobenzoyl group [poly(fluoroalkyl mathacrylate) (PFAMA) or poly(butyl methacrylate) (PBMA)] was prepared in bulk via reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization with 2‐cyanoprop‐2‐yl dithiobenzoate as a RAFT agent. In the second step, the homopolymer chain‐transfer agent (macro‐CTA) was dissolved in the second monomer, mixed with a water phase containing a surfactant, and then ultrasonicated to form a miniemulsion. Subsequently, the RAFT‐mediated miniemulsion polymerization of the second monomer (butyl methacrylate or fluoroalkyl mathacrylate) was carried out in the presence of the first block macro‐CTA. The influence of the polymerization sequence of the two kinds of monomers on the colloidal stability and molecular weight distribution was investigated. Gel permeation chromatography analyses and particle size results indicated that using the PFAMA macro‐CTA as the first block was better than using the PBMA RAFT agent with respect to the colloidal stability and the narrow molecular weight distribution of the F‐copolymer latices. The F‐copolymers were characterized with 1H NMR, 19F NMR, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Comparing the contact angle of a water droplet on a thin film formed by the fluorinated copolymer with that of PBMA, we found that for the diblock copolymers containing a fluorinated block, the surface energy decreased greatly, and the hydrophobicity increased. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 471–484, 2007
Resilience and well‐being in palliative care staff: a qualitative study of hospice nurses' experience of work
Authors: Ablett Janice R. , Jones R. S. P.
Published: December 2006

Although working with cancer patients is considered stressful, palliative care staff experience similar levels of psychological distress and lower levels of burnout than staff working in other specialties. There are few empirical studies in palliative care to explain this. Since working in a stressful job does not inevitably lead to psychological distress, the antecedent factors that promote resilience and maintain a sense of well‐being are worthy of study.

This qualitative study used interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) to describe hospice nurses' experiences of work. During the analysis, themes emerged relating to the underlying interpersonal factors that influenced the nurses' decisions to begin and continue working in palliative care, and their attitudes towards life and work.

The emergent themes were compared with the theoretical personality constructs of hardiness and sense of coherence, and this comparison highlighted many similarities. The nurses showed high levels of commitment, and imputed a sense of meaning and purpose to their work. An area of divergence was their response to change, and this is discussed in relation to hardiness and sense of coherence. The implications for staff well‐being, and for staff training and support, which, in turn, may impact on the quality of patient care, are discussed. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Familial social support and depression in breast cancer: an exploratory study on a Pakistani sample
Authors: Nausheen Bina , Kamal Anila
Published: December 2006

This exploratory study investigated the relationship between familial social support and depression in a Pakistani sample of 80 female breast cancer patients, and whether the groups of demographic and medical variables differ on the levels of familial social support and depression. Familial social support and depression were measured by indigenous scales administered in Urdu language and found to be significantly inversely correlated. The groups based on age, number of children, financial sources of treatment, and disease stage differed significantly on familial social support and depression. No significant group differences were found on familial social support and depression between the groups of patients living in joint and nuclear families, and those who had and had not undergone mastectomy. Results are discussed in the respective social and cultural context. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Design of ship loading chutes to reduce dust emissions
Authors: Wheeler Craig , Krull Tobias , Roberts Alan , Wiche Stephen
Published: December 2006

This article presents an industrial case study to reduce dust emissions from a grain handling ship loader. The primary objective of the study was to reduce dust emissions to within acceptable environmental levels during ship loading. Several constraints were imposed on the solution as the result of time and budgetary restrictions, and the inability to add a dust suppression agent to the grain for quality reasons. Although this article specifically deals with grain, application of this technology is also equally suitable for reducing dust emissions while handling other particulate commodities.

A number of alternative loading chute configurations and delivery spoon (a discharge device) profiles were examined in a pilot‐scale test facility. This article discusses a number of alternative solutions that were investigated during the course of the study and the critical parameters of the final design. Tests showed that it was not beneficial to decelerate the product stream to keep the relative velocity of the air stream over the grain below the minimum pickup velocity. Instead, it was found that concentrating the product stream and keeping the product velocity high proved to be more beneficial in reducing dust emissions. A reduction of 50% in dust emission was achieved through the use of specifically designed constant‐radius and parabolic‐profile loading spoons. The product stream exiting the curved spoons was found to be concentrated and streamlined, resulting in the dust being contained within the product stream. © 2006 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog 26: 229–234, 2007
Performance of potential non‐crop or wild species under OECD 208 testing guideline study conditions for terrestrial non‐target plants
Authors: Pallett Ken , Cole Jon , Oberwalder Christian , Porch John
Published: December 2006

The inclusion of 52 potential non‐crop or wild species in new OECD guidelines for terrestrial non‐target plant (TNTP) testing led to a ring test conducted by four laboratories experienced in regulatory testing. Species selected had shown potential to meet validity criteria of emergence for TNTP studies in a previous evaluation of the 52 species. OECD 208 guideline conditions were applied, with and without seed pretreatments recommended to enhance germination. These species were Abutilon theophrasti (L.) Medic., Avena fatua L., Fallopia convolvulus (L.) Adans., Galium aparine L., Ipomoea hederacea (L.) Jacq. and Veronica persica Poir. Only I. hederacea met the validity criterion of 70% emergence in all laboratories and showed a low variability in biomass. Of the other species, none led to 70% emergence in all four laboratories. The recommended pretreatments did not have a major impact on emergence. Biomass was also investigated with A. theophrasti, A. fatua, Centaurea cyanus L., I. hederacea and Rumex crispus L. Variability of biomass, a key parameter in TNTP regulatory studies, exceeded normal biomass variability of crop species used for TNTP studies. The addition of a thin layer of quartz sand to the soil surface resulted in improved emergence of C. cyanus, G. aparine and V. persica; however, such a procedure, while routine in screening studies to improve germination, is a deviation from the TNTP guidelines. These initial studies indicate that some species could meet the emergence criteria for TNTP testing. However, there is a need for further studies on seed source, seed quality and conditions for uniform emergence before their use in routine regulatory testing. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Soft magnetic performance improvement of Fe‐filled carbon nanotubes by water‐assisted pyrolysis route
Authors: Lv Ruitao , Kang Feiyu , Wang Wenxiang , Wei Jinquan , Zhang Xianfeng , Huang Zhenghong , Gu Jialin , Wang Kunlin , Wu Dehai
Published: December 2006

We prepared α‐Fe filled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) by introduction of appropriate water vapours during the growth process and found that the walls of carbon nanotubes are reduced effectively. It is also found that soft magnetic performances of Fe‐filled CNTs (Fe@CNTs) are improved remarkably compared with that without water assistance. When the flow of water was 0.04 mL/min, the saturation magnetization (Ms) value of Fe@CNTs reaches to 112.40 emu/g, which is about 3 times as high as that without water assistance. While the coercivity (Hc) value is 97.01 Oe, which is reduced to about 1/4 of that. These are favourable to their applications in magnetic fluid and electromagnetic wave absorbing in the future. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
FMR linewidths of YIG films fabricated by ex situ post‐annealing of amorphous films deposited by rf magnetron sputtering
Authors: Kang Young‐Min , Ulyanov Alexander N. , Yoo Sang‐Im
Published: December 2006

FMR linewidths of Y3Fe5O12 (YIG) films fabricated by ex situ post‐annealing of amorphous films deposited by radio frequency magnetron sputtering are reported. Amorphous YIG films were deposited on both thermally oxidized Si(100) and Gd3Ga5O12 (GGG) (111) substrates and subsequently crystallized by ex situ post‐annealing (600–900 °C) in two different oxygen atmospheres (air and 500 ppm O2). The compositions of as‐deposited films were very sensitive to the oxygen partial pressure (P) of the sputtering gas. During the post‐annealing process, crystalline YIG phase started to grow upward on the substrates. High‐quality YIG films showing narrow FMR linewidths (ΔH) of 5.3 and 70 Oe for GGG and thermally oxidized Si substrates, respectively, could be grown from the amorphous films deposited in pure Ar gas, composed of the cation ratio (Y:Fe = 3.04:4.96) close to the stoichiometric YIG. A reduced oxygen annealing atmosphere was found more effective than air for obtaining narrower FMR linewidths. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Crystallization of Indium Tin Oxide Nanoparticles: From Cooperative Behavior to Individuality
Authors: Ba Jianhua , Feldhoff Armin , Fattakhova Rohlfing Dina , Wark Michael , Antonietti Markus , Niederberger Markus
Published: December 2006

The crystallization pathway of indium tin oxide nanoparticles during solvothermal synthesis in benzyl alcohol was investigated. The synthesis was stopped after different reaction times in the range of 1–24 h, and the structural and morphological characteristics of the products were analyzed by powder X‐ray diffraction, electron microscopy, and UV/Vis spectroscopy. Interestingly, the crystallization mechanism does not proceed along a simple nucleation and growth pathway, but involves a two‐step process. In the first 12 h an intermediate phase is formed, which consists of nanocrystallites 3–6 nm in size stabilized by an organic matrix. In this organic–inorganic network the nanoparticles are aligned into superstructures, but without any crystallographic orientation. After 12 h the intermediate phase is abruptly transformed into indium tin oxide nanoparticles with the bixbyite structure and with crystallite sizes of about 10–12 nm. This step is accompanied by the disappearance of the organic phase and the loss of the superstructure.
Nonscience majors learning science: A theoretical model of motivation
Authors: Glynn Shawn M. , Taasoobshirazi Gita , Brickman Peggy
Published: December 2006

A theoretical model of nonscience majors' motivation to learn science was tested by surveying 369 students in a large‐enrollment college science course that satisfies a core curriculum requirement. Based on a social‐cognitive framework, motivation to learn science was conceptualized as having both cognitive and affective influences that foster science achievement. Structural equation modeling was used to examine the hypothesized relationships among the variables. The students' motivation, as measured by the Science Motivation Questionnaire (SMQ), had a strong direct influence on their achievement, as measured by their science grade point average. The students' motivation was influenced by their belief in the relevance of science to their careers. This belief was slightly stronger in women than men. Essays by the students and interviews with them provided insight into their motivation. The model suggests that instructors should strategically connect science concepts to the careers of nonscience majors through such means as case studies to increase motivation and achievement. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 44: 1088–1107, 2007
Complete extirpation of benign breast lesions with an ultrasound‐guided vacuum biopsy system
Authors: Krainick‐Strobel U. , Huber B. , Majer I. , Bergmann A. , Gall C. , Gruber I. , Hoffmann J. , Paepke S. , Peisker U. , Walz‐Mattmüller R. , Siegmann K. , Wallwiener D. , Hahn M.
Published: December 2006

Objectives

To investigate whether ultrasound‐guided vacuum biopsy (VB) with curative intent is suitable for the complete extirpation of selected sonographically detectable benign lesions of the breast, and to establish the limitations of the method with regard to lesion size and complications, the extent of scar formation and the prognostic value.

Methods

One hundred and nine patients underwent hand‐held, ultrasound‐guided VB (8G or 11G needle) between June 2000 and September 2003. Of these, 45 (41%) women underwent ultrasound‐guided extirpation of 46 lesions, and 42 women with 43 lesions were followed up clinically and sonographically for an average of 5.9 months. The complete extirpation rate, residual lesions, and patient satisfaction with the intervention were evaluated.

Results

Removal of all sonographic evidence of lesions (median diameter, 13 mm) was achieved in 86% of cases (8G needle, 80%; 11G needle, 89%). 19% of the patients had suspected scar formation at the biopsy site. A palpable lesion in the breast could be removed by VB in 90% of cases. None of the patients developed infections and there were no hemorrhages requiring intervention, or damage to the skin or chest wall. A total of 95% of the patients stated that they would prefer this approach to open excision for possible future intervention.

Conclusions

VB is an ambulatory procedure associated with a low degree of pain. It has a high degree of patient acceptance and, as a minimally invasive biopsy technique for benign lesions, is a good alternative to open excision. The rate of complications is low and is similar to that observed with conventional microbiopsy. Copyright © 2006 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nomograms of the axial fetal cerebellar hemisphere circumference and area throughout gestation
Authors: Sherer D. M. , Sokolovski M. , Dalloul M. , Pezzullo J. C. , Osho J. A. , Abulafia O.
Published: December 2006

Objective

The widely applied transcerebellar diameter (TCD) obtained at axial cranial imaging, measures the distance between the lateral aspects of the cerebellum and incorporates the width of the cerebellar vermis. Our objective was to create reference ranges of axial fetal cerebellar hemisphere circumference (CHC) and area (CHA), independent of the cerebellar vermis, throughout gestation.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study involved pregnant patients between 14 and 41 weeks of gestation. Inclusion criteria consisted of well‐established dates (confirmed by early ultrasound), non‐anomalous singleton fetuses and intact amniotic membranes. Sonographic measurements included biparietal diameter (BPD), head circumference (HC), abdominal circumference (AC), femur length (FL), humerus length (HL), TCD, and estimated fetal weight (EFW). Values of axial fetal CHC and CHA were each calculated as the mean of three separate measurements. The 5th, 50thand 95thcentiles were estimated at each week of gestational age (GA) by least‐squares regression for the mean and standard deviation (SD) of the CHC and CHA as functions of GA.r2and associated P‐values for the relationships of CHC and CHA with other sonographic biometric measurements were calculated.

Results

The study included 651 consecutive patients. All attempts at obtaining axial fetal CHC and CHA were successful. Mean maternal age was 27.3 ± 6.7 years, median gravidity was 1 (range 1–16), and median parity was 1 (range 0–6). Mean CHC (cm) throughout gestation was modeled as − 2.091 + 0.2563 ×GA(weeks) (SD = − 0.075 + 0.0164 ×GA), and mean CHA (cm2) was modeled as 0.245–0.0765 ×GA+ 0.00506 ×GA2(SD = 1.167 − 0.1565 ×GA+ 0.006785 ×GA2− 0.00008028 ×GA3). Fetal axial CHC and CHA correlated significantly and strongly with BPD, HC, AC, HL, FL, TCD and EFW (all R2values were ≥ 0.95, and allP‐values were < 0.001).

Conclusion

Nomograms of axial fetal cerebellar hemisphere circumference and area throughout gestation, independent of the cerebellar vermis, have been provided. Copyright © 2006 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Histomorphometric features of hydatidiform moles in early pregnancy: relationship to detectability by ultrasound examination
Authors: Fowler D. J. , Lindsay I. , Seckl M. J. , Sebire N. J.
Published: December 2006

Objective

The majority of partial (PHM) and complete (CHM) hydatidiform moles are diagnosed in early pregnancy. About half are identified as molar on ultrasonographic examination prior to evacuation. It is uncertain whether unsuspected cases represent an intrinsically different molar phenotype or are simply dependant on sonographer expertise. We measured a microscopic parameter, average villus diameter, of evacuated PHMs and CHMs to ascertain the cause of non‐detection on ultrasound.

Methods

Fifty‐four molar pregnancies were examined from the files of the Trophoblastic Disease Unit, in which results of an ultrasound examination prior to evacuation were known. In each, the average cross‐sectional diameter of the largest 10 villi was recorded. Maximum villus diameters were compared between gestational age groups (<14 weeks and ≥14 weeks), and ultrasound detection groups (detected (d) and not detected (nd)).

Results

The average maximum villus diameter of the largest hydropic villi was significantly less in the first trimester for both PHMs and CHMs that were undetected by ultrasound examination compared to those identified as molar sonographically (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001, respectively). There was no significant difference in the maximum villus diameter between PHMs and CHMs that were not detected sonographically in the first trimester (P = 0.44). Beyond 14 weeks of gestation, there was no significant difference between PHMs detected and undetected sonographically (P = 0.88).

Conclusion

The average diameter of the largest, most hydropic villi, is significantly greater in cases of PHMs and CHMs detected by ultrasound examination in the first trimester compared to that of those not detected sonographically, but beyond 14 weeks such differences are minimal. These findings suggest that, although sonographer expertise could potentially increase ultrasound detection rates somewhat for PHMs and CHMs, a significant proportion of cases demonstrate minimal hydropic change in the first trimester and are therefore likely to remain unidentifiable by ultrasound examination prior to evacuation, even with improved sonographer expertise. Copyright © 2006 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.