bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neither human hephaestin nor ceruloplasmin forms a stable complex with transferrin
Authors: Hudson David M. , Krisinger Michael J. , Griffiths Tanya A.M. , MacGillivray Ross T.A.
Published: November 2007

Iron homeostasis is essential for maintaining the physiological requirement for iron while preventing iron overload. Cell toxicity is caused by the generation of hydroxyl‐free radicals that result from redox reactions involving Fe(II). Multicopper ferroxidases regulate the oxidation of Fe(II) to Fe(III), circumventing the generation of these harmful by‐products. Ceruloplasmin (Cp) is the major multicopper ferroxidase in blood; however, hephaestin (Hp), a membrane‐bound Cp homolog, was recently discovered and has been implicated in the export of iron from duodenal enterocytes into blood. In the intracellular milieu, it is likely that iron exists as reduced Fe(II), yet transferrin (Tf), the plasma iron transporter, is only capable of binding oxidized Fe(III). Due to the insoluble and reactive nature of free Fe(III), the oxidation of Fe(II) upon exiting the duodenal enterocyte may require an interaction between a ferroxidase and the iron transporter. As such, it has been suggested that as a means of preventing the release of unbound Fe(III), a direct protein–protein interaction may occur between Tf and Hp during intestinal iron export. In the present study, the putative interaction between Tf and both Cp and a soluble form of recombinant human Hp was investigated. Utilizing native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, covalent cross‐linking and surface plasmon resonance (SPR), a stable interaction between the two proteins was not detected. We conclude that a stable complex between these ferroxidases and Tf does not occur under the experimental conditions used. We suggest alternative models for loading Tf with Fe(III) during intestinal iron export. J. Cell. Biochem. 103: 1849–1855, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Regulation of Fgf10 gene expression in murine mesenchymal cells
Authors: Jean Jyh‐Chang , Lü Jining , Joyce‐Brady Martin , Cardoso Wellington V.
Published: November 2007

Fgf10 has a prominent role in organogenesis. In the developing lung, Fgf10 is dynamically expressed in the distal mesenchyme from where it diffuses and activates its epithelial receptor, Fgfr2b, to trigger budding. Little is known about how Fgf10 expression is regulated. Here we have identified a mouse lung‐specific mesenchymal cell line, MLg, which expresses endogenous Fgf10 and responds to known regulators of Fgf10 in a way that is reminiscent of the early lung. To gain insights into the mechanisms involved in the transcriptional regulation of Fgf10 in these cells, we have cloned and analyzed approximately a 4.5 kb region of the mouse Fgf10 promoter. Promoter deletion analysis and Luciferase reporter assays revealed an upstream region of the Fgf10 promoter with selective enhancer activity in the MLg, but not in the non‐lung‐derived cell line NIH3T3. Our data suggest that a potential lung mesenchyme‐specific enhancer may exist within this region of the Fgf10 promoter. J. Cell. Biochem. 103: 1886–1894, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Functional expression of organic anion transporters in hepatic organoids reconstructed by rat small hepatocytes
Authors: Oshima Hideki , Kon Junko , Ooe Hidekazu , Hirata Koichi , Mitaka Toshihiro
Published: November 2007

Small hepatocytes (SHs) are hepatic progenitor cells with hepatic characteristics. They can proliferate to form colonies in culture and change their morphology from flat to rising/piled‐up with bile canaliculi (BC), which results in maturation. In this study, we examined whether SHs could express hepatic transporters with polarity, whether the transporters could transport organic anion substrates into BC, and whether the secreted substances could be recovered from BC. Immunocytochemistry and RT‐PCR were carried out. [3H]‐labeled estrogen derivatives were used to measure the functions of the transporters in SHs isolated from normal and multidrug resistance‐associated protein (Mrp) 2‐deficient rats. The results showed that organic anion‐transporting proteins (Oatps) 1 and 2, Na+‐dependent taurocholate co‐transporting polypeptide (Ntcp), Mrp2, and bile‐salt export pump (Bsep) were well expressed in rising/piled‐up cells and that their expression was correlated to that of hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α. Although small SHs expressed not Oatps and Mrp2 but Mrp3, rising/piled‐up SHs expressed Oatp1 and 2 and Mrp2 proteins in the sinusoidal and BC membranes, respectively. On the other hand, breast cancer resistant protein (Bcrp) and Mrp3 expression decreased as SHs matured. The substrate transported via Oatps and Mrp2 was secreted into BC and it accumulated in both BC and cyst‐like structures. The secreted substrate could be efficiently recovered from BC reconstructed by SHs derived from a normal rat, but not from an Mrp2‐deficient rat. In conclusion, SHs can reconstitute hepatic organoids expressing functional organic anion transporters in culture. This culture system may be useful to analyze the metabolism and excretion mechanisms of drugs. J. Cell. Biochem. 104: 68–81, 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A combined treatment of HeLa cells with the farnesyl protein transferase inhibitor L‐744,832 and cisplatin significantly increases the therapeutic effect as compared to cisplatin monotherapy
Authors: Węsierska‐Gądek Józefa , Kramer Matthias P. , Schmid Gerald
Published: November 2007

Activating mutations of Ras that frequently occur during malignant transformation, enhance growth‐promoting signal transduction, allowing cells to bypass stringent control of cell cycle progression, thereby rendering them highly proliferative. Abundantly expressed c‐Ha‐ras protein in human cervical HeLa cells is farnesylated and attached to the plasma membrane, inducing enhanced signal transduction. Exposure of HeLa cells to cisplatin very efficiently inhibits cell proliferation and induces apoptosis. Unfortunately, high doses of cisplatin are strongly cytotoxic, therefore, an alternative therapeutic strategy allowing dose reduction of cisplatin by inhibition of farnesylation could increase the curative effects of cisplatin, thereby benefiting cancer patients. We used two inhibitors of farnesyl protein transferase (FPTase), FTI, and L‐744,832, to sensitize HeLa cells to the action of cisplatin. The combined administration of cisplatin and inhibitors of FPTase increased the cytostatic potency of cisplatin. L‐744,832 exhibited a stronger synergistic effect in combination with cisplatin than FTI. Moreover, the efficiency of the combined therapy strongly depended on the treatment regimen: The highest efficiency was achieved after combined treatment for 24 h and post‐incubation with an inhibitor of FPTase for 48 h. Following this optimized treatment, apoptosis was induced in approximately 50% of HeLa cells treated with 1 µM cisplatin, representing approximately a threefold increase as compared to cisplatin monotherapy. Combined treatment of HeLa cells with cisplatin and inhibitors of FPTase significantly increases the efficacy of the therapy and allows to reduce the dose of cisplatin. Importantly, best therapeutic effects can be achieved by post‐treatment with inhibitors of FPTase. J. Cell. Biochem. 104: 189–201, 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Strategies for an efficient implementation of the Gauss–Bessel quadrature for the evaluation of multicenter integral over STFs
Authors: Duret Stefan , Bouferguene Ahmed , Safouhi Hassan
Published: November 2007

In a previous work, a new Gauss quadrature was introduced with a view to evaluate multicenter integrals over Slater‐type functions efficiently. The complexity analysis of the new approach, carried out using the three‐center nuclear integral as a case study, has shown that for low‐order polynomials its efficiency is comparable to the SD. The latter was developed in connection with multi‐center integrals evaluated by means of the Fourier transform of B functions. In this work we investigate the numerical properties of the Gauss–Bessel quadrature and devise strategies for an efficient implementation of the numerical algorithms for the evaluation of multi‐center integrals in the framework of the Gaussian transform/Gauss–Bessel approach. The success of these strategies are essential to elaborate a fast and reliable algorithm for the evaluation of multi‐center integrals over STFs. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2008
Molecular mechanisms of p21 and p27 induction by 3‐methylcholanthrene, an aryl‐hydrocarbon receptor agonist, involved in antiproliferation of human umbilical vascular endothelial cells
Authors: Pang Pai‐Huei , Lin Ying‐Hsi , Lee Yi‐Hsuan , Hou Hsing‐Han , Hsu Sung‐Po , Juan Shu‐Hui
Published: November 2007

We previously reported that 3‐methylcholanthrene (3MC), an aryl‐hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) agonist, inhibits the proliferation of human umbilical vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs; Juan et al., 2006, Eur J Pharmacol 530: 1–8). Herein, pretreatment of HUVECs with p21 or p27 small interfering (si)RNA reduced 3MC‐induced elimination of [3H]thymidine incorporation, demonstrating their essential roles in the antiproliferation of HUVECs. The molecular mechanisms of p21 and p27 involved in the antiproliferative effects of 3MC were elucidated in this study. 3MC time‐ and concentration‐dependently increased p21 and p27 levels, and decreased the protein level of CDK2 with no apparent alteration of p53. Interestingly, 3MC‐mediated p21 and p27 inductions were eliminated by resveratrol, an AhR antagonist, suggesting their AhR dependency, further confirmed by AhR siRNA. Among the relevant pathways, p38MAPK activation sustained the levels of p21 and p27 induced by 3MC, which was eliminated by AhR antagonists and N‐acetylcysteine (NAC), an antioxidant. 3MC concentration‐dependently enhanced not only the consensus dioxin‐responsive element (DRE)‐driven luciferase activity, but also the binding activity of the AhR to the putative DRE derived from the p21 and p27 promoters. A deletion of the DRE (−285/−270) in p21 (−2,300/+8) only partially alleviated the 3MC‐induced luciferase activity unless NAC was added, suggesting that there may be a DRE‐independent mechanism associated with oxidative stress. However, a deletion of the DRE (−660/−645) in p27 (−1,358/−100) almost completely abrogated the activation. Our study demonstrated that both the functional DRE and the phosphorylation of p38MAPK are essential for the induction of p21 and p27, resulting in the antiproliferative action of 3MC in HUVECs. J. Cell. Physiol. 215: 161–171, 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Immobilization of Pycnoporus sanguineus laccase by metal affinity adsorption on magnetic chelator particles
Authors: Wang Feng , Guo Chen , Liu Hui‐Zhou , Liu Chun‐Zhao
Published: November 2007

BACKGROUND: Immobilized enzymes provide many advantages over free enzymes including repeated or continuous reuse, easy separation of the product from reaction media, easy recovery of the enzyme, and improvement in enzyme stability. In order to improve catalytic activity of laccase and increase its industrial application, there is great interest in developing novel technologies on laccase immobilization.

RESULTS: Magnetic Cu2+‐chelated particles, prepared by cerium‐initiated graft polymerization of tentacle‐type polymer chains with iminodiacetic acid (IDA) as chelating ligand, were employed for Pycnoporus sanguineus laccase immobilization. The particles showed an obvious high adsorption capacity of laccase (94.1 mg g−1 support) with an activity recovery of 68.0% after immobilization. The laccase exhibited improved stability in reaction conditions over a broad temperature range between 45 °C and 70 °C and an optimal pH value of 3.0 after being adsorbed on the magnetic metal‐chelated particles. The value of the Michaelis constant (Km) of the immobilized laccase (1.597 mmol L−1) was higher than that of the free one (0.761 mmol L−1), whereas the maximum velocity (Vmax) was lower for the adsorbed laccase. Storage stability and temperature endurance of the immobilized laccase were found to increase greatly, and the immobilized laccase retained 87.8% of its initial activity after 10 successive batch reactions.

CONCLUSION: The immobilized laccase not only can be operated magnetically, but also exhibits remarkably improved catalytic capacity and stability properties for various parameters, such as pH, temperature, reuse, and storage time, which can provide economic advantages for large‐scale biotechnological applications of laccase. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Small cycle double covers of products I: Lexicographic product with paths and cycles
Authors: Nowakowski R. J. , Seyffarth K.
Published: November 2007

Bondy conjectured that every simple bridgeless graph has a small cycle double cover (SCDC). We show that this is the case for the lexicographic products of certain graphs and along the way for the Cartesian product as well. Specifically, if G does not have an isolated vertex then G □ P2 and G □ C2k have SCDCs. If G has an SCDC then so does G □ Pk, k > 2 and G □ C2k + 1. We use these Cartesian results to show that P2j[G] (j ≥ 1) and Ck[G] (k ≠ 3, 5, 7) have SCDCs. Also, if G has an SCDC then so does P2j + 1[G] (j ≥ 4). The results for the lexicographic product are harder and, in addition to the Cartesian results, require certain decompositions of Kn,n into perfect matchings. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory 57: 99–123, 2008
Plaques in the descending aorta: A new risk factor for stroke? Visualization of potential embolization pathways by 4D MRI
Authors: Harloff Andreas , Strecker Christoph , Frydrychowicz Alex P. , Dudler Patrick , Hetzel Andreas , Geibel Annette , Kollum Marc , Weiller Cornelius , Hennig Jürgen , Markl Michael
Published: November 2007

The combination of morphologic and hemodynamic information can help in assessing the risk of embolic stroke associated with thrombi and plaques in the descending aorta. For two acute stroke patients, the determination of individual embolic pathways using flow‐sensitive four‐dimensional (4D) MRI are reported. 3D visualization of local flow patterns, i.e., retrograde flow channels originating at the site of the atheroma, in conjunction with exact plaque localization, suggested potential embolization of high‐risk plaques in the descending aorta although they are located downstream from the supraaortic arteries. Our findings indicate that taking plaques of the descending aorta into consideration may help improve the spectrum of pathologies considered as high‐risk sources for brain ischemia. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Diffusion‐weighted imaging of inflammatory myopathies: Polymyositis and dermatomyositis
Authors: Qi Jing , Olsen Nancy J. , Price Ronald R. , Winston Jason A. , Park Jane H.
Published: November 2007

Muscles of myositis patients examined with MRI demonstrate heterogeneous pathology ranging from unaffected muscle groups to severe inflammation, fat infiltration, and eventually, more serious fat replacement. The purpose of this investigation was to characterize myositic thigh muscles using diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) and to examine fluid motion at various disease stages. We chose to characterize total fluid motion within the muscle using the model proposed by Le Bihan et al (6,7) in which the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), diffusion in the extra‐ and intracellular muscle compartments (D), perfusion in capillaries (pseudodiffusion) (D*), and volume fraction of capillary perfusion (f) are determined. Unaffected patient muscles have DWI coefficients equivalent to those of normal muscles. Inflamed muscles show elevated ADC and D values compared to normal muscles (P < 0.0005), and fat‐infiltrated muscles have lower values than control muscles (P < 0.001). Inflamed muscles have lower f values than unaffected muscles (P < 0.009), suggesting decreased fractional volume of capillary perfusion. DWI provides quantitative data on molecular fluid motion in diseased muscles and affords the potential for longitudinal monitoring of myositic patients. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
RP‐HPTLC densitometric determination and validation of vanillin and related phenolic compounds in accelerated solvent extract of Vanilla planifolia*
Authors: Sharma Upendra Kumar , Sharma Nandini , Gupta Ajai Prakash , Kumar Vinod , Kumar Sinha Arun
Published: November 2007

A simple, fast and sensitive RP‐HPTLC method is developed for simultaneous quantitative determination of vanillin and related phenolic compounds in ethanolic extracts of Vanilla planifolia pods. In addition to this, the applicability of accelerated solvent extraction (ASE) as an alternative to microwave‐assisted extraction (MAE), ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE) and Soxhlet extraction was also explored for the rapid extraction of phenolic compounds in vanilla pods. Good separation was achieved on aluminium plates precoated with silica gel RP‐18 F254S in the mobile phase of methanol/water/isopropanol/acetic acid (30:65:2:3, by volume). The method showed good linearity, high precision and good recovery of compounds of interest. ASE showed good extraction efficiency in less time as compared to other techniques for all the phenolic compounds. The present method would be useful for analytical research and for routine analysis of vanilla extracts for their quality control.
Regulation of cAMP on the first mitotic cell cycle of mouse embryos
Authors: Yu Aiming , Zhang Zhe , Bi Qiang , Sun Bingqi , Su Wenhui , Guan Yifu , Mu Runqing , Miao Changsheng , Zhang Jie , Yu Bingzhi
Published: November 2007

Mitosis promoting factor (MPF) plays a central role during the first mitosis of mouse embryo. We demonstrated that MPF activity increased when one‐cell stage mouse embryo initiated G2/M transition following the decrease of cyclic adenosine 3′, 5′‐monophosphate (cAMP) and cAMP‐dependent protein kinase (PKA) activity. When cAMP and PKA activity increases again, MPF activity decreases and mouse embryo starts metaphase–anaphase transition. In the downstream of cAMP/PKA, there are some effectors such as polo‐like kinase 1 (Plk1), Cdc25, Mos (mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase kinase), MEK (mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase), mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK), Wee1, anaphase‐promoting complex (APC), and phosphoprotein phosphatase that are involved in the regulation of MPF activity. Here, we demonstrated that following activation of MPF, MAPK activity was steady, whereas Plk1 activity fluctuated during the first cell cycle. Plk1 activity was the highest at metaphase and decreased at metaphase–anaphase transition. Further, we established a mathematical model using Gepasi algorithm and the simulation was in agreement with the experimental data. Above all the evidences, we suggested that cAMP and PKA might be the upstream factors which were included in the regulation of the first cell cycle development of mouse embryo. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 75: 489–495, 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fear and pulmonary stress behaviors to an asphyxial threat across cognitive states
Authors: Campbell Margaret L.
Published: November 2007

The purpose of this exploratory study was to identify behaviors that may signify respiratory distress across cognitive states in response to an asphyxial threat. Patients undergoing a ventilator weaning trial were assessed and observed at baseline and during weaning with a capnograph/oximeter and video camera. Cognitive state was categorized at baseline, and an emotion report was elicited after the trial. Pulmonary stress and fear behaviors were similar across cognitive states. Hypercarbia predicted activation of fear behaviors. Gender differences characterized emotion reporting. An asphyxial threat may induce an innate array of behaviors that cannot be volitionally controlled and that may have the same appearance across cognitive states. Recognizing respiratory distress behaviors may improve nursing care of patients who are cognitively impaired. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 30:572–583, 2007
Health literacy and health outcomes in HIV seropositive persons
Authors: Nokes Kathleen M. , Coleman Christopher Lance , Cashen Margaret , Dole Pamela , Sefcik Elizabeth , Hamilton Mary Jane , Kirksey Kenn M. , Huang Emily Hai , Apinya Jumpamool , Holzemer William
Published: November 2007

Inadequate health literacy has been associated with worse health status and more hospitalizations. We examined the influence of personal characteristics and health literacy on body change distress, depressive symptoms, and HIV symptom intensity in a convenience sample of 489 HIV‐seropositive adults throughout the United States. Health literacy was measured with the Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine (REALM) instrument. Those with higher health literacy scores reported more body change distress, depressive symptoms, and HIV symptom intensity. Being Latino and having higher health literacy scores were associated with poorer health outcomes. These results challenge the utility of the REALM to examine the relationship between health literacy and adverse health status. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 30:620–627, 2007
“It's not just about MOMMAS”: African‐American non‐resident fathers' views of paternal involvement
Authors: Julion Wrenetha , Gross Deborah , Barclay‐McLaughlin Gina , Fogg Louis
Published: November 2007

Many social and economic policies have been developed to increase fathers' involvement with their children. Yet, we know little about the meaning of involvement for African‐American non‐resident fathers. The purpose of this study was to obtain African‐American non‐resident fathers' perspectives on involvement and perceptions of their involvement. Seven focus groups were conducted with 69 fathers. Fathers' views of involvement were grouped into four major areas of importance, including sharing and caring, providing guidance, providing support, and serving in culturally specific roles. Fathers described many impediments to, and expressed dissatisfaction with, their level of involvement. The findings support the need for father‐focused interventions. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 30:595–610, 2007
In vitro biocompatibility of three‐dimensional chitosan scaffolds immobilized with chondroitin‐6‐sulfate
Authors: Jou Chi‐Hsiung , Chen Wei‐Chun , Yang Ming‐Chien , Hwang Mou‐Chen , Chou Wen‐Li , Lin Shang‐Ming , Hsu Cheng‐Yi
Published: November 2007

Cellular‐compatible scaffolds were prepared using a three‐dimensional micro‐porous chitosan (CS) non‐woven fabric immobilized by glutaraldehyde (GA), followed by the immobilization of chondroitin‐6‐sulfate (ChS). To characterize the immobilizing process, tensile analysis, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were performed. The cell seeding efficiency and proliferation test were evaluated using L929 fibroblasts. The chitosan scaffolds showed high water vapor transmission rate and antibacterial activity. In addition, ChS‐immobilized scaffolds exhibited higher cell seeding efficiency and fibroblasts proliferation. These results demonstrated that the CS non‐woven fabrics grafted with GA and immobilized with ChS could be an appropriate candidate for wound healing and artificial scaffolds in the clinical applications. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Peripheral T‐cell lymphoma in childhood: Population‐based experience in the United Kingdom over 20 years
Authors: Windsor Rachael , Stiller Charles , Webb David
Published: November 2007

Background

Peripheral T‐cell lymphomas (PTCL) are very rare in children and this has prevented assessment of best treatment and prognosis.

Procedure

Registry‐based experience in England, Scotland and Wales over a 20‐year period was studied to address these shortfalls. Anaplastic large cell lymphoma and mycosis fungoides were excluded due to recent publications describing UK experience with these disorders.

Results

Twenty‐five cases were identified, comprising 1.6% of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) registrations; 17 (68%) children with PTCL‐unspecified (PTCL‐u), 3 (12%) with angiocentric PTCL, 3 (12%) with angioimmunoblastic PTCL, and 2 (8%) with subcutaneous panniculitis‐like T‐cell lymphoma. Eighteen children were male, with a male/female ratio of 2.6:1. Median age was 7 (range 1–14) years. Eleven children (44%) died and actuarial survival was 76% at 1 year, 64% at 3 years and 59% at 5 years. Treatments given were subdivided between group T (regimens for T NHL or acute lymphoblastic leukaemia) or group B (regimens for B NHL). Amongst the 17 children with PTCL‐u, 9/12 children in group T survived compared with 1/5 group B.

Conclusions

The Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group recommendation that children with PTCL‐u receive group T therapy is supported by this series. The numbers of children with other types of PTCL were too small to allow conclusions on best therapy. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2008;50:784–787. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Proteome analysis of metastatic colorectal cancer cells recognized by the lectin Helix pomatia agglutinin (HPA)
Authors: Saint‐Guirons Julien , Zeqiraj Elton , Schumacher Udo , Greenwell Pamela , Dwek Miriam
Published: November 2007

The lectin from Helix pomatia (HPA) binds to adenocarcinomas with a metastatic phenotype but the glycoconjugates of cancer cells that bind to the lectin have yet to be characterized in detail. We used a model of metastatic (HT29) and nonmetastatic (SW480) human colorectal cancer cells and a proteomic approach to identify HPA binding glycoproteins. Cell membrane proteins purified by HPA affinity chromatography, were separated by 2‐DE and analyzed by MS. Competitive inhibition experiments with N‐acetylgalactosamine, N‐acetylglucosamine, and sialic acid confirmed that HPA binding was via a glycan‐mediated interaction. Western blot analysis showed that HPA binds to proteins not recognized by an antibody against blood group A epitope. The proteomic study showed the main HPA binding partners include integrin αv/α6 and annexin A2/A4. These proteins were found complexed with microfilament proteins α and β tubulin, actin, and cytokeratins 8 and 18. HPA also bound to Hsp70, Hsp90, TRAP‐1, and tumor rejection factor 1. This study revealed that the prognostic utility of HPA lies in its ability to bind simultaneously to many glycoproteins involved in cell migration and signaling, in addition, the proteins recognized by HPA are glycosylated with structures distinct from the blood group A epitope.
Evidence for a protective response by the gill proteome of rainbow trout exposed to X‐ray induced bystander signals
Authors: Smith Richard W. , Wang Jiaxi , Bucking Carol P. , Mothersill Carmel E. , Seymour Colin B.
Published: November 2007

The bystander effect occurs when cells which are not directly exposed to radiation, but which receive signals from irradiated cells, respond as though they were irradiated. An X‐ray induced bystander effect has been demonstrated in rainbow trout gills. Therefore, a proteomic comparison was made of gills from X‐ray treated trout and trout exposed to X‐ray induced bystander signals. 2‐D gel analysis revealed X‐ray exposure increased the expression of the cancer related protein annexin II. The proteomic changes associated with the bystander effect differed from those associated with direct radiation exposure. Expression of a hemopexin‐like protein, Rho GDP dissociation inhibitor (RhoGDI) and pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) were increased. These proteins possess protective properties against reactive oxygen damage (a component of the bystander signal), regulate epithelial polarity and prevent lactate acidosis, respectively. There was also evidence for an increase in chromosome 1 SR‐like CTD‐associated factor (SCAF) protein turnover, which could suggest the protective response is transcriptionally regulated. The freshwater fish gill is a polarised barrier, separating against an external hypotonic environment. Since the maintenance of epithelial polarity is vital to gill function, these bystander effect proteomic changes could collectively protect the structural, functional and intracellular integrity of gill epithelia.
Overexpression of annexin a1 induced by terephthalic acid calculi in rat bladder cancer
Authors: Cui Lunbiao , Wang Yubang , Shi Yuan , Zhang Zhengdong , Xia Yankai , Sun Hong , Wang Shouling , Chen Jianfeng , Zhang Wei , Lu Qiang , Song Ling , Wei Qingyi , Zhang Ruiwen , Wang Xinru
Published: November 2007

Prolonged cell proliferation in response to irritation by bladder calculi can evoke malignant transformation of the urothelium. However, the molecular mechanisms responsible for calculi‐associated bladder carcinogenesis are unknown. We compared the protein expression pattern of rat bladder transitional cell carcinomas (TCCs) induced by terephthalic acid with that of normal bladder tissues using 2‐DE. Comparative analysis of the respective spot patterns on 2‐DE showed 146 spots that were markedly changed in TCC samples. Subsequently, 56 of the variant protein spots were identified by MALDI‐TOF MS. Among them, overexpression of annexin a1 (ANNA1) in rat TCCs was confirmed by Western blotting and real‐time RT‐PCR analysis. Immunohistochemical staining revealed that ANNA1, usually a cytoplasmic protein in normal urothelium, was translocated to the nucleus in rat bladder cancer cells. In contrast to the animal studies, examination of human clinical specimens showed that ANNA1 expression was reduced in TCC compared to normal urothelium. The expression of ANNA1 was inversely related to the level of differentiation of TCC. Our data suggest that overexpression of ANNA1 is involved in bladder carcinogenesis induced by bladder calculi and that translocation of the protein may be partly responsible for the effect. ANNA1 may serve as a new marker of differentiation for the histopathological grading of human TCC.
A–B–A stereoblock copolymers of N‐isopropylacrylamide
Authors: Nuopponen Markus , Kalliomäki Katriina , Laukkanen Antti , Hietala Sami , Tenhu Heikki
Published: November 2007

A–B–A stereoblock polymers with atactic poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) as a hydrophilic block (either A or B) and a non‐water‐soluble block consisting of isotactic PNIPAM were synthesized using reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerizations. Yttrium trifluoromethanesulfonate was used in the tacticity control, and bifunctional S,S′‐bis(α,α′‐dimethyl‐α″‐acetic acid)‐trithiocarbonate (BDAT) was utilized as a RAFT agent. Chain structures of the A–B–A stereoblock copolymers were determined using 1H NMR, SEC, and MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry. BDAT proved to be an efficient RAFT agent in the controlled synthesis of stereoregular PNIPAM, and both atactic and isotactic PNIPAM were successfully used as macro RAFT agents. The glass transition temperatures (Tg) of the resulting polymers were measured by differential scanning calorimetry. We found that the Tg of isotactic PNIPAM is molecular weight dependent and varies in the present case between 115 and 158 °C. Stereoblock copolymers show only one Tg, indicating the miscibility of the blocks. Correspondingly, the Tg may be varied by varying the mutual lengths of the A and B blocks. The phase separation of aqueous solutions upon increasing temperature is strongly affected by the isotactic blocks. At a fixed concentration (5 mg/mL), an increase of the isotacticity of the stereoblock copolymers decreases the demixing temperature. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 46: 38–46, 2008
Enhancement of photocurrent of polymer‐gelled dye‐sensitized solar cell by incorporation of exfoliated montmorillonite nanoplatelets
Authors: Tu Chi‐Wei , Liu Ken‐Yen , Chien An‐Ting , Yen Ming‐Huei , Weng Ting Hsiang , Ho Kuo‐Chuan , Lin King‐Fu
Published: November 2007

Poly(n‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm) and its nanocomposite with exfoliated montmorillonite (MMT) were prepared by soap‐free emulsion polymerization and individually applied to gel the electrolyte systems for the dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Each exfoliated MMT nanoplatelet had a thickness of ∼ 1 nm, carried ∼ 1.8 cation/nm2, and acted like a two‐dimensional electrolyte. The DSSC with the LiI/I2/tertiary butylpyridine electrolyte system gelled by this polymer nanocomposite had higher short‐circuit current density (Jsc) compared to that gelled by the neat PNIPAAm. The former has a Jsc of 12.6 mA/cm2, an open circuit voltage (Voc) of 0.73 V, and a fill factor (FF) of 0.59, which harvested 5.4% electricity conversion efficiency (η) under AM 1.5 irradiation at 100 mW/cm2, whereas the latter has Jsc = 7.28 mA/cm2, Voc = 0.72 V, FF = 0.60, and η = 3.17%. IPCE of the nanocomposite‐gelled DSSC were also improved. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy of the DSSCs revealed that the nanocomposite‐gelled electrolytes significantly decreased the impedances in three major electric current paths of DSSCs, that is, the resistance of electrolytes and electric contacts, impedance across the electrolytes/dye‐coated TiO2 interface, and Nernstian diffusion within the electrolytes. The results were also consistent with the increased molar conductivity of nanocomposite‐gelled electrolytes. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 46: 47–53, 2008
Highly stereo‐efficient synthesis and luminescence properties of novel trans‐regular vinylene– silylene–thiophene polymers
Authors: Majchrzak Mariusz , Ludwiczak Monika , Bayda Malgorzata , Marciniak Bronislaw , Marciniec Bogdan
Published: November 2007

The novel trans‐stereo‐regular silylene–thiophene derivatives (4, 5) with perfect consecutive silylene–arylene–silylene–vinylene linkage were synthesized via silylative coupling polycondensation of 2,5‐bis(vinyldimethylsilyl)thiophene (2) or 5,5′‐bis(vinyldimethylsilyl)‐2,2′‐bithiophene (3) catalyzed by ruthenium‐hydride complex [RuHCl(CO)(PCy3)2] (1). Their spectroscopic, absorption, and luminescence properties were characterized and compared with those of model compounds containing thiophene or bithiophene chromophores. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 46: 127–137, 2008
Analysis of thermal degradation process of Nafion‐117 with age‐momentum correlation method
Authors: Shibahara Yuji , Akiyama Yoko , Izumi Yoshinobu , Nishijima Shigehiro , Honda Yoshihide , Kimura Norio , Tagawa Seiichi , Isoyama Goro
Published: November 2007

The thermal degradation of Nafion membrane was analyzed with age‐momentum correlation (AMOC) measurement and four‐electrode AC impedance measurement. In the heated sample, the decrease in proton conductivity was observed. The lifetimes and corresponding relative intensities showed fairly good agreement between heated and nonheated samples within the experimental error. In the analysis of the photopeak of annihilation γ‐ray, on the other hand, the difference between those two kinds of samples was observed, and this difference was found to be caused by the annihilation of free positrons with low energy electrons by using AMOC method. The decrease in proton conductivity was caused by the low energy electrons, namely sulfonic radicals. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 46: 1–7, 2008
Structure and properties for transparent polypropylene containing sorbitol‐based clarifier
Authors: Tenma Miwa , Mieda Naoya , Takamatsu Shinya , Yamaguchi Masayuki
Published: November 2007

Relation between structure and properties is studied for polypropylene (PP) containing 1,3:2,4‐di‐benzylidene sorbitol (DBS) that forms network structure composed of nanofibrils in a molten PP. It is found that the aggregation state of DBS, which can be controlled by the applied flow field and thermal history, affects the spherulite texture of PP and thus the transparency. When injection‐molded products, in which the nanofibrils of DBS orient to the flow direction, are reprocessed at 180 °C, that is, lower temperature than the melting point of DBS, the obtained material shows high level of transparency, although it has been believed that sorbitol‐derivatives have to be melted and dissolved into the molten PP at high temperature, for example, 240 °C. Further, it is found that the particle flow occurs in the blend at 180 °C. The applied shear force generates the particles, that is, flow units, by the fragmentation of the network structure. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 46: 41–47, 2008
Sustaining hope when communicating with terminally ill patients and their families: a systematic review
Authors: Clayton Josephine M. , Hancock Karen , Parker Sharon , Butow Phyllis N. , Walder Sharon , Carrick Sue , Currow David , Ghersi Davina , Glare Paul , Hagerty Rebecca , Olver Ian N. , Tattersall Martin H. N.
Published: November 2007

The aim of this systematic review was to examine studies that have investigated sustaining hope during prognostic and end‐of‐life issues discussions with terminally ill patients and their families. A comprehensive search of databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsychINFO, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) and handsearching, from 1985 to June 2006, identified 27 studies.

This review suggests that the issues surrounding hope in this context are complex. Despite the lack of unanimity among researchers regarding the definition of hope, findings suggest that balancing hope with honesty is an important skill for health professionals (HPs). Many patients seem to be able to maintain a sense of hope despite acknowledging the terminal nature of their illness. Patients and caregivers mostly preferred honest and accurate information, provided with empathy and understanding. Many different sources of hope were identified in this context in broad aspects of life, not just the medical situation. HPs need to recognize this spectrum of hope and appreciate that patients may simultaneously hope for ‘cure’ while acknowledging the terminal nature of their illness. HPs may help patients to cope with their terminal prognosis by exploring and fostering realistic forms of hope that are meaningful for the particular patient and their family. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The development of multiple reaction monitoring assays for liver‐derived plasma proteins
Authors: McKay Matthew J. , Sherman Jamie , Laver Matthew T. , Baker Mark S. , Clarke Stephen J. , Molloy Mark P.
Published: November 2007

There is wide interpatient variability in toxicity to chemotherapeutic drugs and a lack of routine clinical tests for prospectively identifying patients at risk of developing toxicity from chemotherapy. An empirically driven MS strategy has been developed to monitor liver‐derived plasma proteins as potential biomarkers of early toxicity. Multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) has been used to assess 46 candidate peptides from 18 liver‐derived proteins. Following an iterative process of assay design, optimisation and assessment we selected 29 MRM assays (median CV 4.6%, range 1.2–11.6%) and monitored changes in levels of plasma proteins from a small number of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients undergoing chemotherapy. We demonstrated MRM assay robustness, and show that patients undergo minor elevation in plasma proteins when profiled on Day 3 of the chemotherapeutic regime. The MRM assays were in general agreement with 2‐D DIGE‐based quantitation from the same patient samples. The data supports the application of MRM‐based methods as facile, highly reproducible, medium‐throughput techniques that warrant expanded investigation for clinical utility in identifying patients at risk of developing chemotoxicity.
Salivary biomarkers associated with perceived satiety and body mass in humans
Authors: Harthoorn Lucien F. , Schipper Raymond G. , Loof Arnoud , Vereijken Pieter F. G. , Van Heerde Waander L. , Dransfield Eric
Published: November 2007

Regulation of food intake and energy homeostasis is controlled by a delicate balancing of numerous central and peripheral factors, including circulating peptide hormones. This study investigated the proteome of saliva using SELDI‐TOF‐MS in relation to satiety and body mass index (BMI) in humans. Within a longitudinal test session, 18 subjects were exposed to a lunch‐induced hunger‐satiety shift, while every 15 min collecting their whole saliva and rating their hunger and satiety. Saliva was analysed by SELDI‐TOF‐MS using IMAC arrays with a chromatographic copper surface (IMAC‐Cu). From all subjects and time points measured, peptide and protein profiles showed 190 common peaks. Their interrelationships show that 37% of the variation was accounted for in one dimension. About 30 means had a strong association (0.70<|r|<0.95) with all subjective satiety ratings across time during the test session, and seven peaks were significantly correlated to BMI. Database MS searches indicated characterisation of some relevant metabolic peptide hormones. In conclusion, SELDI‐TOF‐MS on human saliva provides a valuable and noninvasive way of profiling that enables characterisation of novel and differently expressed peptides and proteins which can be used as biomarkers of satiety and overweight.
Electron paramagnetic resonance and non‐resonant microwave absorption of single wall carbon nanotubes
Authors: Corzilius B. , Agarwal S. , Dinse K.‐P. , Hata K.
Published: November 2007

Single wall carbon nanotubes (SWNT) prepared by the “super growth” method exhibit electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) signals, which originate from temperature activated detrapping of spins. Non‐resonant microwave absorption in the temperature range below 20 K is indicative for the opening of a small gap at the Fermi level for tubes of metallic character, which might indicate a transition into a superconducting (SC) state. The expected concurrent microwave field inhomogeneity has been detected by a transient nutation experiment. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The fundamental aspects of carbon nanotube metrology
Authors: Jorio Ado , Maciel Indhira O. , Araujo Paulo T. , Pesce Pedro B. C. , Pimenta Marcos A.
Published: November 2007

The accurate and reproducible measurement of the properties and performance characteristics of nanoscale materials, devices and systems are essential for quality and process control, commercial transactions and effective regulations. Scientists, manufacturers, governments, regulators and health and environmental protection agencies, will need measurement systems and evaluation protocols supported by well founded and robust standards, both physical and documentary. In this paper we discuss some fundamental aspects of the use of the resonance Raman spectroscopy of the radial breathing mode (RBM) of single wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) for metrological purposes. The achievements and problems are pointed, hoping for the development of procedures capable of making the promised nanotechnology revolution to become a reality. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Suspended carbon nanotube double quantum dots
Authors: Hüttel A. K. , Witkamp B. , van der Zant H. S. J.
Published: November 2007

We present fabrication of and the first measurements on partially suspended double quantum dots in a carbon nanotube. Our objective is to enhance the energy resolution for spectroscopy of the vibronic modes of a suspended nanotube. When fabricating our devices, nanotubes grown on‐chip are localized by AFM scanning, and subsequently contacted and gated with customized electrode geometries. First low‐temperature transport measurement results are discussed, where the double quantum dot characteristics are clearly recognizable in the measured current. In addition, we address current technological challenges and future plans. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Molecularly and atomically thin semiconductor and carbon nanoshells
Authors: Prinz V. Ya. , Seleznev V. A.
Published: November 2007

Approaches to the formation of molecularly and atomically thin solid shells based on the transformation of thin planar films into more functional 3D precise shells are outlined. In the overview part of the present work several examples are given illustrating the possibility to obtain in bent films new effects never observed in planar films and to fabricate new nanomaterials from highly – ordered systems of interacting hybrid shells. In the original part of the article, we demonstrate the formation of nanoshells from monoatomic graphite layers, graphene, and also show the possibility of controllable detachment of graphene from graphite substrates with the help of AFM. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Preface: phys. stat. sol. (b) 244/11
Authors: Kuzmany Hans , Dinse Peter , Roth Siegmar , Thomsen Christian
Published: November 2007

The 21st Winterschool on Electronic Properties of Novel Materials (IWEPNM 2007) took place from 10 March to 17 March 2007. It continued the tradition of winterschools of this type in Kirchberg/Tirol in its well‐known atmosphere of collegiality and emphasis on scientific exchange between young and experienced scientists.

The sessions at the IWEPNM 2007 focused on quantum information, carbon nanostructure synthesis, purification and separation, the characterization and properties of carbon nanostructures, fullerenes, endohedrals, and fullerides, excitons in carbon nanotubes, the chemical treatment of carbon nanotubes, nanotube filling and double‐walled nanotubes, graphite and graphene, non‐carbonaceous nanostructures, electron and heat transport in carbon nanostructures, composites with carbon nanotubes, and on theory and applications of these materials. This proceedings volume is divided into according sections.

The program of the Winterschool was composed of invited oral presentations, poster presentations and mini‐workshops. The oral presentations were scheduled in morning and evening sessions, the mini‐workshops took place during the afternoons, and the posters were presented and discussed in two late‐evening sessions.

In 2007 the Winterschool celebrated an anniversary: It had been of taking place for the 20th time at the Hotel Sonnenalp, a hotel ideally suited for the close interactions of international participants from many countries. We are grateful to the manager of Hotel Sonnenalp, Frau Edith Mayer, and her staff for the local arrangements as well as for her patience with many special requests during the meeting. We owe special thanks to the hotel staff for their careful organization of the celebration.

The event benefited substantially from support of the Universität Wien and the Verein zur Förderung der Winterschulen in Kirchberg, as well as from numerous industrial sponsors. We greatly appreciate their financial contribution without which the meeting would have hardly become possible.

Finally, special acknowledgments go to all contributors of the IWEPNM 2007 and to the authors of this volume, the proceedings of the Winterschool. Viera Skákalová was instrumental in compiling and editing the proceedings.

In the name of all participants who have enjoyed the Winterschools since 1985 we express special thanks to Hans Kuzmany for his outstanding engagement in organizing the IWEP for so many years. His experience and advice will be needed for future Winterschools. The next Winterschool in this series will take place from 1 March to 8 March 2008, again in Kirchberg/Tirol, and will be organized by Christian Thomsen from Berlin.

Wien, Darmstadt, Stuttgart, Berlin, 2007