bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Friendship's Future: Derrida's Promising Thought
Authors: McDonald Blair
Published: November 2009

This paper will address the political and ethical ramifications of Derrida's concern for friendship in relation to his concerns with the future of democracy, rights of hospitality and cosmopolitics. The questions addressed read as follows: Is there a way we can get beyond this stance which not only consolidates a friendship of the ‘perhaps’ with a friendship of the promise, but also implicates their consolidation with the very future of what we today call democracy? Is there a way in which we can substantiate something more than a romanticized call for a future integration of friendship and democracy while avoiding the pitfalls of on one hand, substantiating a model of friendship for politics or, on the other, offering a disguised and naïve return to a metaphysics of friendship as the saving grace of social unity? Through a close reading of the conclusion to Politics of Friendship as well as his concerns with friendship in Spectres of Marx and Rogues: Two Essays on Reason it will be argued that Derrida's insistence on the future of friendship is bound up with the notion of an ethical promise to the thought of friendship as the condition for its political and ethical relevance.
Obsessive-Compulsive and Post Traumatic Avoidance Symptoms Influence the Response to Antihypertensive Therapy: Relevance in Uncontrolled Hypertension
Authors: Realdi Anna , Favaro Angela , Santonastaso Paolo , Nuti Marco , Parotto Emanuela , Inverso Giulia , Leoni Matteo , Macchini Luisa , Vettore Francesca , Calo Lorenzo , Semplicini Andrea
Published: November 2009

Aim: To investigate the association of uncontrolled hypertension with psychological factors associated with high cardiovascular morbidity and mortality (type D personality, depression, posttraumatic stress-related symptoms). Methods: 205 consecutive outpatient hypertensives completed three questionnaires evaluating Type D personality (DS 16), post traumatic symptoms (revised Impact of Events Scale), symptoms of anxiety, hostility, depression and obsessive-compulsive traits (subscales of the Symptom Checklist). Uncontrolled hypertension was diagnosed when clinic sitting blood pressure was above 140/90 mmHg (130/80 in the presence of diabetes or nephropathy), despite reported adherence to treatment with at least three antihypertensive medications, including a diuretic. Results: Uncontrolled hypertension (39%), was predicted by lower scores at Symptom Checklist obsessive-compulsive subscale and higher number of post traumatic avoidance symptoms, older age, diabetes, higher systolic pressure at first visit and longstanding hypertension. Type D personality correlated with depression, hostility, anxiety, compulsiveness, history of malignancy, and older age, but not with uncontrolled hypertension. Conclusions: Uncontrolled hypertension is associated with low obsessionality and avoidance symptoms, which reduce compliance to treatment. On the contrary, type D personality is not correlated with uncontrolled hypertension, as it includes compulsiveness, which improves compliance. A multidisciplinary approach to the hypertensive patient is mandatory to establish if the psychological profile affects compliance.
Perceived Functioning Has Ethnic-specific Associations in Systemic Sclerosis: Another Dimension of Personalized Medicine
Authors: McNEARNEY TERRY A. , HUNNICUTT SONYA E. , FISCHBACH MICHAEL , FRIEDMAN ALAN W. , AGUILAR MARTHA , AHN CHUL W. , REVEILLE JOHN D. , LISSE JEFFREY R. , BAETHGE BRUCE A. , GOEL NITI , MAYES MAUREEN D.
Published: November 2009

Objective.

To measure self-reported physical and mental functioning and associated clinical features at study entry in 3 ethnic groups with systemic sclerosis (SSc).

Methods.

Sixty Hispanic, 39 African American, and 104 Caucasian patients with recent-onset SSc (< 5 yrs) were assessed for perceived physical and mental functioning, using the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36 (SF-36) and Scleroderma-Health Assessment Questionnaire (Scleroderma-HAQ). Socioeconomic, demographic, clinical, immunologic, immunogenetic, behavioral, and psychological variables (Interpersonal Support Evaluation List, ISEL; Illness Behavior Questionnaire, IBQ; and Arthritis Helplessness Index, AHI) were analyzed by linear regression models for associations with SF-36 and mHAQ scores as dependent variables.

Results.

Perceived physical functioning scores had ethnic-specific associations with AHI > fatigue scores > IBQ > clinical variables (hypertension, skin score, and percentage predicted DLCO). Scleroderma-HAQ scores had ethnic-specific associations with IBQ > AHI scores > most clinical and laboratory variables. Decreased mental component summary (MCS) scores associated with AHI > ISEL. Ethnic-specific immunogenetic variables HLA-DQB1*0202 (Caucasian) and HLA-DRB 1*11 (African American), and HLA-DQA1*0501 (Hispanic) also associated with MCS. Antinuclear autoantibodies, anti-topoisomerase I, and RNA polymerases I and III also demonstrated associations with functioning in African American and Hispanic groups.

Conclusion.

Clinical, psychosocial, and immunogenetic variables had ethnic-specific associations with perceived physical and mental functioning. Consideration of ethnic-specific psychological and behavioral support in designing more personalized, relevant therapeutic interventions for the patient may improve therapeutic efficacy in SSc.
Diagnostic Application of IS900PCR Using Blood as a Source Sample for the Detection ofMycobacterium aviumSubspeciesParatuberculosisin Early and Subclinical Cases of Caprine Paratuberculosis
Authors: Singh P. K. , Singh S. V. , Kumar H. , Sohal J. S. , Singh A. V.
Published: November 2009

Efficacy of IS900blood PCR was evaluated for the presence of MAP infection. Serum, fecal, and blood samples of kids, young, and adult goats from farm and farmer's herds in Mathura district were also screened by ELISA, microscopy and culture. Of 111 goats (kids: 40, young: 14, adults: 57) screened, 77.5% were positive by blood PCR. Of 76 goats, 90.8% (kids: 87.5% and adults: 94.4%) were positive by PCR. From 21 kids and 14 young goats, 42.8 and 57.1% were positive. gDNA from goats was genotyped as MAP “Indian Bison type”. Of 21 fecal samples of kids examined by microscopy, 66.7% were positive. In ELISA, 9.5 and 57.1% kids were positives as “type I” and “type II” reactors, respectively. Screening 14 young goats by culture of blood clots, 28.6% were positive. Agreement was substantial between PCR and microscopy. It was fair and moderate when PCR and microscopy were compared with type I and type II reactors, respectively. Presence of MAP in non-clinical kids and young goats indicate early or subclinical infection. Blood PCR was rapid, sensitive, and specific assay for detection of MAP in any stage (early, subclinical, and clinical) and age (kids, young, and adult) of goats.
Experimental Investigation of Flange and Web Crippling of Blade Stiffened Composite Panels
Authors: Gavazzi Amauri , Arakaki Francisco K.
Published: November 2009

Stiffened composite panels are widely used in aeronautical applications. The crippling failure of blade stiffened composite panels has not been clearly understood. Often, semi-empirical equations are used in the preliminary design of these panels. Valid tests shall be undertaken to qualify new composite materials for their use in aircrafts. In this paper, experimental investigations are presented to predict the crippling strength of carbon-epoxy blade stiffened panels. To undertake the crippling tests for flange and web sections, two experimental setups were presented. These test results are validated using linear and non-linear finite element analyses for a static compression loading. Crippling design curves similar to the composite material handbook (CMH17) were computed using non-dimensional parameters. For both the flange and web specimen test results, the design curves are slightly higher than the CMH17 data. It is concluded that the composite material handbook design curves are conservative to use.
Parametric Study of Suspension Elements for Ride Index Analysis of an Indian Railway Freight Vehicle
Authors: Shukla Sanjay , Gupta Rajive , Vyas Nalinaksh S.
Published: November 2009

Approximately three hundred thousand three-piece bogie freight vehicles presently operate under Indian Railways. The dynamic behavior of a vehicle depends on primary and secondary suspension elements. In the present work, a parametric study of suspension elements has been performed at various operating speeds to analyze the ride index of vehicle. The freight vehicle model considered in the present work comprises 70 degrees of freedom (DOF). Spring indices of various springs used as suspension elements and damping coefficients of wedge block as well as elastomeric pad have been obtained experimentally. These values have been used along with actual recorded track irregularities data to solve a vehicle model using ADAMS/Rail. The behavior of vertical acceleration and ride index of the vehicle for different speeds limits have been observed. The parameters of suspensions elements have been sequentially varied and their effects on vertical acceleration and ride index have been studied for vehicle speeds up to 110 kmph. A new set of parameters for suspension elements which gives improved ride index has been suggested on the basis of results obtained.
Crystalline γ‐Alumina Deposited in an Industrial Coating Unit for Demanding Turning Operations
Authors: Bobzin Kirsten , Bagcivan Nazlim , Ewering Mara
Published: November 2009

Crystalline PVD γ‐Al2O3‐ coatings offer great potential for their use in high‐speed cutting operations. They promise high hot hardness and high oxidation resistance at elevated temperatures. This is important for coatings that are used for machining of materials with low thermal conductivity such as stainless steel or Inconel 718 because heat generated during cutting can barely be dissipated by the chip. Because of the prevailing bonding forces of alumina, adhesion‐related sticking can be reduced even for dry cutting. Furthermore, the high formation enthalpy of alumina prevents chemical reactions with frictional partners. The present work gives an overview of the deposition of γ‐Al2O3 thin films on WC/Co‐cutting inserts by using pulsed MSIP (magnetron sputter ion plating) PVD technology. To improve adhesion, a (Ti,Al)N bond coat was employed. The samples were analyzed using common thin film test equipment. Cutting tests and pin‐on‐disk examinations were carried out to test the coating's performance. For turning operations, the difficult‐to‐machine austenitic steel 1.4301 (X5CrNi18‐10) was used. In comparison to a state‐of‐the‐art (Ti,Al)N coating, (Ti,Al)N/γ‐Al2O3 showed a longer tool life.
[Ru(0)]@SiO2 and [RuO2]@SiO2 Hybrid Nanomaterials: From Their Synthesis to Their Application as Catalytic Filters for Gas Sensors
Authors: Matsura Victor , Guari Yannick , Reyé Catherine , Corriu Robert J. P. , Tristany Mar , Jansat Susanna , Philippot Karine , Maisonnat André , Chaudret Bruno
Published: November 2009

[Ru(0)]@SiO2 and [RuO2]@SiO2 hybrid nanomaterials are produced following a facile method consisting of the synthesis of size‐controlled ruthenium nanoparticles as elemental bricks. This route takes advantage of the organometallic approach and the use of a bifunctional ligand for the synthesis of ruthenium nanoparticles from [Ru(COD)(COT)](COD = 1,3‐cyclooctadiene, COT = 1,3,5‐cyclooctatriene) as metal precursor and (PhCH2)2N(CH2)11O(CH2)3Si(OEt)3 (benzenemethanamine) as stabilizer. Hydrolysis and polycondensation steps via a sol–gel approach lead to the formation of the silica materials containing the metal nanoparticles. A final calcination step in air at 400 °C yields the [RuO2]@SiO2 nanocomposites. Such hybrid nanomaterials display a good dispersion of the nanoparticles inside the silica matrix and interesting porosity properties making them attractive materials for catalytic applications. This is shown by using [RuO2]@SiO2 hybrid nanomaterials as catalytic filters for gas sensors.
Enhanced Optical Properties and Opaline Self‐Assembly of PPV Encapsulated in Mesoporous Silica Spheres
Authors: Kelly Timothy L. , Yamada Yuri , Schneider Celine , Yano Kazuhisa , Wolf Michael O.
Published: November 2009

A new poly(p‐phenylenevinylene) (PPV) composite material has been developed by the incorporation of insoluble PPV polymer chains in the pores of monodisperse mesoporous silica spheres through an ion‐exchange and in situ polymerization method. The polymer distribution within the resultant colloidal particles is characterized by electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray microanalysis, powder X‐ray diffraction, and nitrogen adsorption. It was found that the polymer was selectively incorporated into the mesopores of the silica host and was well distributed throughout the body of the particles. This confinement of the polymer influences the optical properties of the composite; these were examined by UV–vis and fluorescence spectroscopy and time‐correlated single‐photon counting. The results show a material that exhibits an extremely high fluorescence quantum yield (approaching 85%), and an improved resistance to oxidative photobleaching compared to PPV. These enhanced optical properties are further complemented by the overall processability of the colloidal material. In marked contrast to the insolubility of PPV, the material can be processed as a stable colloidal dispersion, and the individual composite spheres can be self‐assembled into opaline films using the vertical deposition method. The bandgap of the opal can be engineered to overlap with the emission band of the polymer, which has significant ramifications for lasing.
Nanoscale Conducting Channels at the Surface of Organic Semiconductors Formed by Decoration of Molecular Steps with Self‐Assembled Molecules
Authors: Lee Bumsu , Choi Taekjib , Cheong Sang‐Wook , Podzorov Vitaly
Published: November 2009

Under certain conditions, self‐assembling molecules preferentially bind to molecular steps at the surface of crystalline organic semiconductors, inducing a strong local doping effect. This creates macroscopically long conducting paths of nanoscale width (a single crystalline analogue of organic nanowires) that can span distances of up to 1 cm between electrical contacts. The observed effect of molecular step decoration opens intriguing possibilities for visualization, passivation, and selective doping of surface and interfacial defects in organic electronic devices and provides a novel system for research on nanoscale charge transport in organic semiconductors. In addition, this effect sheds light on the microscopic origin of nucleation and growth of self‐assembled monolayers at organic surfaces. It can also have implications in electronic patterning, nanoscale chemical sensors, integrated interconnects and charge‐transfer interfaces in organic transistors and solar cells.
Liquid‐Phase Exfoliation of Nanotubes and Graphene
Authors: Coleman Jonathan N.
Published: November 2009

Many applications of carbon nanotubes require the exfoliation of the nanotubes to give individual tubes in the liquid phase. This requires the dispersion, exfoliation, and stabilization of nanotubes in a variety of liquids. In this paper recent work in this area is reviewed, focusing on results from the author's group. It begins by reviewing stabilization mechanisms before exploring research into the exfoliation of nanotubes in solvents, by using surfactants or biomolecules and by covalent attachment of molecules. The concentration dependence of the degree of exfoliation in each case will be highlighted. In addition research into the dispersion mechanism for each dispersant type is discussed. Most importantly, dispersion quality metrics for all dispersants are compared. From this analysis, it is concluded that functionalized nanotubes can be exfoliated to the greatest degree. Finally, the extension of this work to the liquid phase exfoliation of graphite to give graphene is reviewed.
Psychological symptoms correlate with reduced hippocampal volume in fragile X premutation carriers
Authors: Adams P.E. , Adams J.S. , Nguyen D.V. , Hessl D. , Brunberg J.A. , Tassone F. , Zhang W. , Koldewyn K. , Rivera S.M. , Grigsby J. , Zhang L. , DeCarli C. , Hagerman P.J. , Hagerman R.J.
Published: November 2009

Fragile X‐associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) is a neurodegenerative disorder occurring in male and occasional female carriers of a premutation expansion (55–200 CGG repeats) of the fragile X mental retardation 1 gene (FMR1). This study assessed the relationship between hippocampal volume and psychological symptoms in carriers, both with and without FXTAS, and controls. Volumetric MRI measures, clinical staging, cognitive testing, molecular analysis, and measures of psychological symptoms were performed for female premutation carriers both with FXTAS (n = 16, age: 57.50 ± 12.46) and without FXTAS (n = 17, age: 44.94 ± 11.23), in genetically normal female controls (n = 8, age: 50.63 ± 11.43), male carriers with FXTAS (n = 34, age: 66.44 ± 6.77) and without FXTAS (n = 21, age: 52.38 ± 12.11), and genetically normal male controls (n = 30, age: 57.20 ± 14.12). We examined the relationship between psychological symptom severity and hippocampal volume, as well as correlations with molecular data. We found a significant negative correlation between total hippocampal volume and anxiety in female carriers, with and without FXTAS. This finding was mainly driven by the significant negative correlation between right hippocampal volume and anxiety. Other anxiety‐related subscales also correlated with the right hippocampus in females. In male carriers with and without FXTAS, only paranoid ideation negatively correlated with hippocampal volume. Female premutation carriers demonstrated a negative association between hippocampal volume and the severity of anxiety‐related psychological symptoms. Though the presentation of FXTAS symptoms is less common in females, anxiety‐related problems are common both prior to and after the onset of FXTAS, and may be related to hippocampal changes. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sustaining biofuels
Authors: Evans Jon
Published: November 2009

Until last year, biofuels seemed to promise a greener future and a solution to the problems of fossil fuels. Suddenly in 2008, things appeared to be less certain when biofuels became the subject of debate as to whether they were as environmentally friendly as originally thought. Jon Evans reports on the new race worldwide to establish appropriate sustainability criteria. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Structure–pharmacokinetic relationship ofin vivorat biliary excretion
Authors: Chen Yue , Cameron Kimberly , Guzman‐Perez Angel , Perry David , Li Dong , Gao Hua
Published: November 2009

Accurately measuring and predicting biliary excretion would be extremely valuable in evaluating the contribution of biliary excretion to the total systemic clearance, understanding potential mechanisms of hepatobiliary toxicity as well as potentials for drug–drug interactions in drug discovery. In this study,in vivorat biliary excretion of drug‐like molecules was measured using bile duct cannulated rats. Literature biliary excretion data with similar experimental conditions were collected. A predictive quantitative structure–pharmacokinetic relationship (QSPR) model was developed using genetic algorithm guided principal component regression analysis and 2D molecular descriptors. In the derived model, hydrophobicity expressed with calculated distribution coefficients (cLogD) is the most important molecular property correlating biliary excretion. The derived model has been validated using literature data, and should be useful in estimating biliary excretion potentials of molecules in drug discovery. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Anticancer activity of a new gonadotropin releasing hormone analogue
Authors: Saleh‐Abady Mohammad Mirzaei , Naderi‐Manesh Hossein , Alizadeh Abdolali , Shamsipour Fereshteh , Balalaie Saeed , Arabanian Armin
Published: November 2009

Gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) has a pivotal role in the biology of reproduction processes. In extrapituitary compartments GnRH and its receptor act as a part of the autocrin regulatory system of cell proliferation, resulting in its anticancer activity. Here the anticancer activity of a new analogue of GnRH has been investigated. Results indicate that proliferation of human breast and ovarian cancer cell lines is dose‐dependently inhibited. The inhibitory efficiency of this new analogue is proved to be higher than the original triptorelin. In addition to its antimitogenic activity, evidence was found for the involvement of the apoptotic mechanism in the action of the new analogue. Furthermore the presence of chemical groups in the peptide sequence is thought to increase the protease stability of the new analogue in comparison with triptorelin. Consequently our new analogue can be considered as a good pharmaceutical candidate. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 94: 292–297, 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
A simple, selective and rapid validated method for estimation of anastrazole in human plasma by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry and its application to bioequivalence study
Authors: Jangid Arvind G. , Pudage Ashutosh M. , Joshi Santosh S. , Pabrekar Pramod N. , Tale Rajesh H. , Vaidya Vikas V.
Published: November 2009

A rapid, simple and specific method for estimation of anastrazole in human plasma was validated using letrozole as internal standard. The analyte and internal standard were extracted from plasma using simple solid‐phase extraction. The compound were separated on a reverse‐phase column with an isocratic mobile phase consisting of 0.1% formic acid in water and acetonitrile (12 : 88, v/v) and detected by tandem mass spectrometry in positive ion mode. The ion transitions recorded in multiple reaction monitoring mode were m/z 294.1 → 225.1 for anastrazole and m/z 286.1 → 217.1 for internal standard. Linearity in plasma was observed over the concentration range 0.3–30 ng/mL for anastrazole. The mean recovery for anastrazole was 83.7% with a lower limit of quantification of 0.3 ng/mL. The coefficient of variation of the assay was less than 6.8% and the accuracy was 96.1–102.2%. The validated method was applied to a bioequivalence study of 1 mg anastrazole tablet in healthy human volunteers. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry methods for urinary biomarker detection in metabonomic studies with application to nutritional studies
Authors: Legido‐Quigley Cristina , Stella Cinzia , Perez‐Jimenez Francisco , Lopez‐Miranda Jose , Ordovas Jose , Powell Jonathan , van‐der‐Ouderaa Frans , Ware Lisa , Lindon John C. , Nicholson Jeremy K. , Holmes Elaine
Published: November 2009

The effects of sample preparation and chromatographic method differences on the classification and recovery of metabolic biomarkers from UPLC‐MS measurements on urine samples of humans exposed to different dietary interventions have been investigated. Eight volunteers consumed three high‐fat meals (rich in saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, respectively) in randomized order with a washout period in between. For each participant, urine samples were obtained prior to and at three timed intervals after each meal. Samples were processed either by dilution (1 : 4) or by liquid–liquid extraction and then run under two different gradient conditions. For each analysis method, a total of 96 observations (eight participants, four time points, three diets) were measured. The total ion count chromatograms were analyzed using partial‐least‐squares discriminant analysis. All three dietary classes could be discriminated irrespective of sample preparation and chromatographic method. However, the main discriminating metabolites varied according to sample preparation, indicating that sample treatment and chromatographic conditions influence the ability to extract biomolecular information. Diluted samples showed higher m/z compounds (ca 400 u) while liquid–liquid extraction samples showed low m/z at the same retention time span. Optimized methods for metabolite identification (e.g. organic acids) were statistically inferior to global screening for mixed compound identification, confirming that multiple compound class‐based metabolic profiles are likely to give superior metabonomic (diagnostic) classification, although great care has to be taken in the interpretation in relation to matrix effects. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitative sphingosine measurement as a surrogate for total ceramide concentration—preclinical and potential translational applications
Authors: Kindt Erick , Wetterau John , Mueller Sandra Bak , Castle Christine , Boustany‐Kari Carine M.
Published: November 2009

Biomarkers are an increasingly important constituent of the drug development process, offering the potential of increased efficiency through reduced compound attrition and earlier proof of mechanism and/or efficacy. Assays developed for compound screening that can be directly translated for clinical trials are especially valuable, but their successful adoption requires a careful balance between assay performance and implementation costs. One such ‘fit‐for‐purpose’ biomarker assay, the indirect measurement of pharmacological modulation of sphingolipid biosynthesis and disposition, is presented here. Among spingolipids, numerous ceramide species are readily detectable in different lipoprotein fractions of mammalian plasma, but their parallel quantification can be prohibitively expensive and time consuming. Ceramides differ in their fatty acid moiety, which is readily removed by hydrolysis, yielding a common sphingosine derivative, the measurement of which serves as an indicator of total ceramide. When followed by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) for detection, robust analyte quantification becomes relatively straightforward. The practical utility of a method developed to be fit for the purpose of rapidly and quantitatively measuring treatment‐induced variations in total ceramide from hamster plasma and individual lipoprotein fractions is described. With a linear calibration range from 0.003 to 33.4 μm sphingosine, precision and accuracy error in plasma‐based quality controls spiked with ceramides was less than 15%. The specificity of the assay for ceramides was also assessed. The simplicity of the method would allow for its potential translation to other preclinical species, as well as for clinical applications in later‐stage drug development. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Risk communication in sexually violent predator hearings
Authors: Scott Sarah , Gilcrist Brett , Thurston Nicole , Huss Matthew T.
Published: November 2009

Sexually violent predator (SVP) laws use the civil commitment process to confine mentally disordered and dangerous offenders who are at high risk to reoffend. Few studies have examined how jurors decide SVP cases. As a result, a pilot study and three experimental studies were conducted, in which victim type, risk communication, and juror education were manipulated to assess juror response. Results continually illustrated that victim type was the most salient manipulation across studies and that the manner of risk communication and juror education had little impact on jurors. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Apoptosis‐inducing effects of Morinda citrifolia L. and doxorubicin on the Ehrlich ascites tumor in Balb‐c mice
Authors: Taşkın Elif İlkay , Akgün‐Dar Kadriye , Kapucu Ayşegül , Osanç Esma , Doğruman Hüsniye , Eraltan Hakan , Ulukaya Engin
Published: November 2009

Morinda citrifolia L. (Noni) is a herbal remedy with promising anti‐cancer properties. However, its effects on various cancers are to be investigated to make a firm conclusion before implementing it into the clinical practice. Therefore, we investigated the cytotoxic potential of noni on Ehrlich ascites tumor grown in female Balb‐c mice and also combined it with a potent anti‐cancer agent, doxorubicin. One group received noni only (n = 8), another one doxorubicin (n = 8), and the other one noni + doxorubicin (n = 8) for 14 days after the inoculation of cells. The control group (n = 7) received 0.9% NaCl only. We found that short and long diameters of the tumor tissues were about 40–50% smaller, compared to those in control group. This anti‐growth effect resulted from the induction of apoptosis, which was confirmed by the positive results from the Terminal Deoxynucleotidyl Transferase dUTP Nick End Labeling (TUNEL) analysis and the active caspase‐3 cells in tissues. Apoptosis also confirmed by caspase‐cleaved cytokeratin 18 elevation in serum of the treated groups. Further, the proliferation was decreased, which was immunohistochemically shown by the PCNA staining. We conclude that noni may be useful in the treatment of breast cancer either on its own or in combination with doxorubicin. Further studies are warranted to assess the dosage and safety of using noni fruit juice in conjuction with anti‐cancer drugs against breast cancer. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role of postoperative radiotherapy for the treatment of gangliogliomas
Authors: Rades Dirk , Zwick Lena , Leppert Jan , Bonsanto Matteo M , Tronnier Volker , Dunst Juergen , Schild Steven E.
Published: November 2009

BACKGROUND:

Because of their rarity, no prospective studies have been performed regarding gangliogliomas. The optimal treatment regimen is unclear. In this study, the authors compared 4 therapies for local control (LC) and overall survival (OS) in patients with ganglioglioma.

METHODS:

In 402 patients with ganglioglioma, outcomes were compared for patients who underwent gross total resection alone (GTR) (n = 188), GTR plus radiotherapy (GTR + RT) (n = 21), subtotal resection alone (STR) (n = 113), and STR plus RT (STR + RT (n = 80). Age, sex, tumor site, and histologic grade also were investigated. Subgroup analyses were performed for both low‐grade and high‐grade tumors.

RESULTS:

The 10‐year LC rates were 89% after GTR, 90% after GTR + RT, 52% after STR, and 65% after STR + RT (P < .001); and the 10‐year OS rates were 95%, 95%, 62%, and 74%, respectively (P < .001). After STR, irradiation significantly improved LC (P = .004) but not OS (P = .22). After GTR, irradiation did not significantly improve LC (P = .23) or OS (P = .29). On multivariate analyses, LC and OS were associated with therapy and pathologic grade, and OS also was associated with tumor site. In low‐grade tumors, STR + RT resulted in better LC (P = .016) but not better OS (P = .18); and, after GTR, LC (P = .28) and OS (P = 1.0) were not improved with postoperative radiotherapy. In high‐grade tumors, STR + RT resulted in better LC (P = .016) but not better OS (P = .41); after GTR, LC (P = .56) and OS (P = .61) were not improved with irradiation.

CONCLUSIONS:

According to this review, GTR should be performed whenever safely possible and does not require postoperative irradiation. If only STR is achieved, then RT improves LC of both low‐grade and high‐grade tumors and, thus, should be considered seriously. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Treatment patterns of aging Americans with differentiated thyroid cancer
Authors: Park Henry S. , Roman Sanziana A. , Sosa Julie Ann
Published: November 2009

BACKGROUND:

The incidence of differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) increases with age. Total thyroidectomy, often followed by radioactive iodine (RAI), is recommended for patients who have tumors that measure ≥1 cm in greatest dimension. In the current study, the authors assessed the use of thyroidectomy and RAI among elderly patients with DTC and the effects on survival.

METHODS:

Adults aged ≥45 years with DTC ≥1 cm in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database from 1988 to 2003 were included. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were used to measure associations between demographic, clinical, and pathologic characteristics and the likelihood of receiving treatment according to current practice guidelines.

RESULTS:

Of 8899 patients who were identified, 26% were ages 65 years to 79 years, and 5% were aged ≥80 years. Compared with younger patients, patients aged ≥ 65 years were more likely to have larger tumors, stage IV disease, extrathyroid extension, and nonpapillary histology. Elderly patients were less likely to undergo total thyroidectomy (74% vs 80%; P < .001) or to receive RAI (47% vs 54%; P < .001). These trends were most pronounced among those aged ≥80 years. Among the patients who did not undergo surgery, elderly patients did not report higher rates of contraindications to surgery. In multivariate analysis, the groups ages 65 years to 79 years and aged ≥80 years were associated with lower rates of total thyroidectomy (odds ratio, 0.77 and 0.43, respectively; P < .001) and RAI (odds ratio, 0.85 [P < .01] and 0.39 [P < .001], respectively). Among elderly patients, predictors of worse survival included no surgery (hazard ratio, 5.51; P < .001) and no RAI (hazard ratio, 1.36; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS:

Elderly patients with DTC received less aggressive surgical and RAI treatment than younger patients despite having more advanced disease and the improved survival associated with these treatments among elderly patients. Long‐term outcomes should be measured to determine the impact of this apparent discrepancy in care. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Health status of the oldest adult survivors of cancer during childhood
Authors: Kenney Lisa B , Nancarrow Cheryl Medeiros , Najita Julie , Vrooman Lynda M. , Rothwell Monica , Recklitis Christopher , Li Frederick P. , Diller Lisa
Published: November 2009

BACKGROUND:

Young adult survivors of childhood cancer have an increased risk for treatment‐related morbidity and mortality. In this study, the authors assessed how treatment for childhood cancer affects older‐adult health and health practices.

METHODS:

One hundred seven adults treated for childhood cancer between 1947 and 1968, known to have survived past age 50 years, were identified from a single‐institution cohort established in 1975. Updated vital status on eligible cases was obtained from public records. Survivors and a control group of their age‐matched siblings and cousins completed a mailed survey to assess physical and social function, healthcare practices, and the prevalence of common adult illnesses.

RESULTS:

Of the 107 survivors known to be alive at age 50 years, 16 were deceased at follow‐up; 7 deaths could be associated with prior treatment (second malignancy in radiation field [3], small bowel obstruction after abdominal radiation [2], and cardiac disease after chest irradiation [2]). The 55 survivors (median age, 56 years; range, 51‐71 years), and 32 family controls (median age, 58 years; range, 48‐70 years), reported similar health practices, health‐related quality of life, and social function. However, survivors reported more frequent visits to healthcare providers (P < .05), more physical impairments (P < .05), fatigue (P = .02), hypertension (P = .001), and coronary artery disease (P = .01). An increased risk of hypertension was associated with nephrectomy during childhood (odds ratio, 18.9; 95% confidence interval, 3.0‐118.8).

CONCLUSIONS:

The oldest adult survivors of childhood cancer continue to be at risk for treatment‐related complications that potentially decrease their life expectancy and compromise their quality of life. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Cytoplasmic mislocalization of the orphan nuclear receptor Nurr1 is a prognostic factor in bladder cancer
Authors: Inamoto Teruo , Czerniak Bogdan A. , Dinney Colin P. , Kamat Ashish M.
Published: November 2009

BACKGROUND:

Nurr1 belongs to a novel class of orphan nuclear receptors (the NR4A family). The authors have previously shown that Nurr1 is important in carcinogenesis. In the current study, they examined the clinicopathologic relevance of expression patterns of Nurr1 in bladder tumors.

METHODS:

Nurr1 expression was determined using immunohistochemical staining in a bladder cancer tissue array (145 tumors). Tumors were classified according to Nurr1 protein levels in both cytoplasm and nucleus. Disease‐specific survival and recurrence‐free survival were investigated by Kaplan‐Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazards analysis in multivariate models and correlated with variables such as tumor stage, growth pattern, and clinical outcome (recurrence and survival). In vitro, Nurr1 was examined for its role in bladder cancer cell proliferation and migration using small interfering RNA silencing.

RESULTS:

Nurr1 expression in tumor cells correlated with increasing tumor stage and invasive growth pattern. Disease‐specific survival was significantly shorter in patients whose tumors demonstrated a high level of cytoplasmic Nurr1 compared with those with lower levels of cytoplasmic Nurr1 expression. Furthermore, cytoplasmic Nurr1 expression level was found to be an independent predictor of disease‐specific survival (odds ratio, 4.894; P < .001). In vitro, silencing of endogenous Nurr1 attenuated the migration of bladder cancer cells.

CONCLUSIONS:

The expression of Nurr1 in the cytoplasm correlates with adverse outcome and is an independent prognostic marker for tumor progression and survival in patients with bladder cancer. This might represent a novel target in bladder cancer therapy. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Development of monitoring system for FTTH‐PON using combined ACS and SANTAD
Authors: Ng Boonchuan , Ab‐Rahman Mohammad Syuhaimi , Premadi Aswir
Published: November 2009

This paper proposes a design of Access Control System (ACS) for fiber‐to‐the‐home passive optical network (FTTH‐PON). Our design works on a standard local area network using a specially designed hardware interfaced with a microcontroller integrated Ethernet to monitor the status of optical signals flow and provides the restoration against fiber failures/faults in FTTH‐PON. We also introduce the centralized troubleshooting system by means of Smart Access Network Testing, Analyzing, and Database (SANTAD). ACS is the subsystem that controls the troubleshooting mechanism carried out by SANTAD. This design will be implemented together with optical line terminal (OLT) at central office (CO) to centralized monitoring and for controlling each optical fiber line's status as well as detecting any failure that occurs in the network system downwardly from CO toward multiple optical network units at different customer residential locations. The scope of this discussion highlighted only the monitoring and controlling instead of the restoration scheme offered. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Legal issues arising out of blood testing for human growth hormone
Authors: Mitten Matthew J.
Published: November 2009

Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Photoluminescent Porous Modular Lanthanide–Vanadium–Organic Frameworks (Eur. J. Inorg. Chem. 33/2009)
Authors: Rocha João , Almeida Paz Filipe A. , Shi Fa‐Nian , Ferreira Rute A. S. , Trindade Tito , Carlos Luís D.
Published: November 2009

The cover picture shows the porous mixed‐metal anionic MOF isolated from the self‐assembly of cyclic trinuclear vanadium‐based anionic units with aqua‐based lanthanide complexes. The structure contains a three‐dimensional channel system filled with water molecules and charge‐balancing cations, in which the most prominent channels run parallel to the c axis. The material containing V4+ and Eu3+ permits the fine‐tuning of the photoluminescence emission from white to purple‐blue. Details are discussed in the article by J. Rocha, F. A. Almeida Paz et al. on p. 4931 ff.
Supramolecular Photochirogenesis with Carbenes Entrapped in Cyclodextrins (Eur. J. Org. Chem. 34/2009)
Authors: Mieusset Jean‐Luc , Wagner Gerald , Su Kuan‐Jen , Steurer Marianne , Pacar Mirjana , Abraham Michael , Brinker Udo H.
Published: November 2009

The cover picture shows the photochemical reaction of a diazirine encapsulated in the inherently chiral cavity of a cyclodextrin. The generated carbene affords intramolecular insertion products. For the first time for carbene reactions, products are imprinted, though modestly, with handedness derived from the cyclodextrins. Details are discussed in the article by U. H. Brinker et al. on page 5907 ff. The authors thank Mr. Michael Abraham for the photograph in the cover picture. The background shows the Vorderer Gosausee, Salzkammergut, Upper Austria. Large parts of the region were listed as a World Heritage Site in 1997.
Modeling interactions between leukemia‐specific chromosomal changes, somatic mutations, and gene expression patterns during progression of core‐binding factor leukemias
Authors: Jones Dan , Yao Hui , Romans Angela , Dando Caroline , Pierce Sherry , Borthakur Gautam , Hamilton Amy , Bueso‐Ramos Carlos , Ravandi Farhad , Garcia‐Manero Guillermo , Kantarjian Hagop
Published: November 2009

In cancer genomes, changes observed during tumor progression can be difficult to separate from nonspecific accumulation of cytogenetic changes due to cancer‐associated genetic instability. We studied genetic changes occurring over time in cancers presenting with a relatively simple karyotype, namely two related core‐binding factor (CBF) acute myeloid leukemias (AMLs), to assess how specific chromosomal changes are selected based on tumor subtype and acquired somatic mutations. Expression profiles for DNA replication/repair genes and the mutation status of KRAS, NRAS, FLT3, and KIT were compared with the karyotypic changes at diagnosis and relapse(s) in 94 cases of inv(16)(p13.1q22)‐AML and 82 cases of t(8;21)(q22;q22)‐AML. The majority of both AML types demonstrated a simple aneuploid pattern of cytogenetic progression, with highly distinctive patterns of chromosome copy number changes, such as +22 and +13 exclusively in inv(16)‐AML and −Y and −X in t(8;21)‐AML. Selection of certain cytogenetic changes correlated with particular somatic mutations, such as +8 with RAS mutation, and absence of kinase pathway mutations in t(8;21)‐AML with localized deletions at chromosome band 9q22. Alterations in transcript levels of mitotic spindle kinases such as CHEK1, AURKA, and AURKB were associated with the aneuploid progression pattern, particularly in t(8;21) cases. Despite the similarity in the initiating genetics of the two CBF AML types, highly tumor‐specific patterns of limited aneuploidy are noted that persist and continue to accumulate at relapse. Thus, activation of genetic instability, possibly through mitotic spindle dysregulation, leads rapidly to the selection of advantageous single chromosome aneuploidy. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Glial cells promote dendrite formation and the reception of synaptic input in Purkinje cells from postnatal mice
Authors: Buard Isabelle , Steinmetz Celine C. , Claudepierre Thomas , Pfrieger Frank W.
Published: November 2009

Previous studies suggest that glial cells contribute to synaptogenesis in specific neurons from the postnatal CNS. Here, we studied whether this is true for Purkinje cells (PCs), which represent a unique neuronal cell type due to their large size, massive synaptic input, and high vulnerability. Using new glia‐free cultures enriched in PCs from postnatal mice we show that these neurons survived and grew, but displayed only low levels of excitatory and inhibitory synaptic activity. Coculture with glial cells strongly enhanced the frequency and size of spontaneous and miniature excitatory synaptic currents as well as neurite growth and branching. Immunocytochemical staining for microtubule‐associated protein 2‐ (MAP2‐) positive neurites revealed impaired dendrite formation in PCs under glia‐free conditions, which can explain the absence of synaptic activity. Glial signals strongly enhanced dendritogenesis in PCs and thus their ability to receive excitatory synaptic input from granule cells (GCs). The enhancement of dendrite formation was mimicked by glia‐conditioned medium (GCM), whereas the increase in synaptic activity required physical presence of glia. This indicated that dendrite development is necessary but not sufficient for PCs to receive excitatory synaptic input and that synaptogenesis requires additional signals. The level of inhibitory synaptic activity was low even in cocultures due to a low incidence of inhibitory interneurons. Taken together, our results reinforce the idea that glial cells promote synaptogenesis in specific neuronal cell types. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reversibly immortalized human olfactory ensheathing glia from an elderly donor maintain neuroregenerative capacity
Authors: Lim Filip , Martín‐Bermejo M. Jesús , García‐Escudero Vega , Gallego‐Hernández M. Teresa , García‐Gómez Ana , Rábano Alberto , Díaz‐Nido Javier , Ávila Jesús , Moreno‐Flores M. Teresa
Published: November 2009

A continuous normal function of olfactory ensheathing glia (OEG) is to promote axonal regeneration from the olfactory neuroepithelium to the brain, and their neuroregenerative potential in other CNS sites such as the injured spinal cord has been studied for over a decade. However, human OEG are difficult to obtain in large amounts directly from tissues, and the derived primary cultures have a limited duplication capacity. Thus, although auto‐transplantation may be an obvious option for initial proof‐of‐concept trials, alternatives must be explored to obtain large quantities of homogeneous, pre‐characterized OEG for wide‐scale therapeutic use. We have cultured primary human OEG derived from olfactory bulbs (OB) obtained by necropsy and successfully extended the replicative lifespan of these cells using lentivectors encoding Bmi‐1 and TERT transgenes flanked by loxP sites. In contrast to the primary cells which could only be expanded for a limited number of passages (∼12), adult human OEG immortalized Bmi‐1/TERT divided indefinitely in culture. Clonal lines were isolated and the floxed transgenes could be excised by lentivector‐mediated Cre recombinase delivery. Primary, immortalized, and deimmortalized human OEG all expressed typical markers of this cell type and importantly, were all able to promote axonal regeneration of adult rat retinal ganglion neurons (RGN) in co‐culture assays. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.