bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wax ester‐like compounds as biosurfactants produced by Dietzia maris from n ‐alkane as a sole carbon source
Authors: Nakano Miyo , Kihara Masaki , Iehata Shunpei , Tanaka Reiji , Maeda Hiroto , Yoshikawa Takeshi
Published: March 2011

The hydrocarbon‐degrading bacterium Dietzia maris WR‐3 was isolated from a consortium comprising ammonia‐oxidizing and denitrifying bacteria derived from marine sediments. Here, we examined biosurfactant production by strain WR‐3 when cultured using several different carbon (D‐glucose, n ‐decane, n ‐hexadecane, motor oil, olive oil, and rapeseed oil) and nitrogen (NH4)2SO4, NaNO3, yeast extract, and polypeptone) sources as growth substrates. Strain WR‐3 was able to grow and reduce the surface tension of culture broth to 31±1.0 mN m–1 when cultured using n ‐hexadecane and nitrate ions. The surface‐active compounds produced by strain WR‐3 were extracted and analyzed by thin layer chromatography. Moreover, the main components in the extract were further purified and subjected to gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). From the analysis, the surface‐active compounds were tentatively identified as wax ester‐like compounds, which were synthesized from the degradation process of n ‐alkane. The production of surface‐active compounds by strain WR‐3 promoted attachment of cells to hydrocarbon droplets via increased cell hydrophobicity, thus allowing enhanced degradation of water immiscible substrates. As Dietzia spp. can grow and produce wax esters from the degradation process of hydrocarbons, these marine bacteria are potentially useful for the bioremediation of hydrocarbon‐contaminated environments. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Fatty acid and hydrocarbon composition in tropical marine Shewanella amazonensis strain SB2BT
Authors: Motoigi Taro , Okuyama Hidetoshi
Published: March 2011

Shewanella amazonensis strain SB2BT is an isolate from shallow‐water marine sediments derived from the Amazon River delta. This bacterium contained a long‐chain polyunsaturated hydrocarbon, all‐cis ‐3,6,9,12,16,19,22,25,28 hentriacontanonaene (C31:9), constituting 1–2% of the total fatty acid methyl ester and hydrocarbon fraction, which was produced dependently of decreased growth temperature. Analysis of its cellular fatty acid composition demonstrated that isopentadecanoic acid was the major fatty acid component and that all the main monounsaturated fatty acids had straight chains with a cis configuration. However, monoenoic cyclopropyl fatty acids, which were previously reported to be present in this bacterium, were not detected by mass spectrometric analysis. The growth temperature affected the content of Δ9‐cis ‐hexadecenoic [16:1(Δ9c)], palmitic, and heptadecanoic acids. These results suggest that C31:9, as well as 16:1(Δ9c) might be involved in adaptation to low temperature in S. amazonensis strain SB2BT. Our result suggests that polyunsaturated fatty acid synthase protein complex may be involved in synthesis of C31:9 but not in production of eicosapentaenoic acid. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A role for CD95 signaling in ischemia/reperfusion‐induced invasion and outgrowth of colorectal micrometastases in mouse liver
Authors: Nijkamp Maarten W. , Hoogwater Frederik J.H. , Govaert Klaas M. , Steller Ernst J.A. , Verheem Andre , Kranenburg Onno , Borel Rinkes Inne H.M.
Published: March 2011

Background

Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in the liver is associated with accelerated outgrowth of micrometastases. The aim of the study was to test the role of CD95 signaling in accelerated outgrowth of colorectal liver metastases following I/R.

Methods

Mice underwent vascular clamping 5 days after induction of colorectal liver metastases. Invasion and outgrowth of micrometastases following I/R were analyzed by post‐mortem confocal microscopy (36 hr post‐I/R) and by morphometric assessment of tumor load (5 days post‐I/R), respectively. Tumor cell CD95 was suppressed by lentiviral RNA interference. The contribution of host CD95L was assessed by using gld‐mice lacking functional CD95L.

Results

CD95‐knockdown in tumor cells strongly reduced perinecrotic invasion (tumor diameter from ∼830 to ∼470 µm) and largely prevented outgrowth acceleration of perinecrotic liver metastases following I/R (from ∼8‐ to ∼4.5‐fold). In gld‐mice, the relative hepatic area with necrosis was markedly reduced. Perinecrotic tumor cell clusters still displayed an invasive phenotype (tumor diameter of ∼980 µm). However, I/R‐induced acceleration of tumor outgrowth was reduced in gld‐mice from ∼8‐ to ∼5‐fold.

Conclusions

I/R induces invasion and accelerated outgrowth of preestablished metastases in a CD95‐dependent manner. Activation of the CD95 system following I/R not only contributes to liver injury, but may also promote aggressive tumor recurrence. J. Surg. Oncol. 2011;104:198–204. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Psychophysiological characteristics of PTSD in children and adolescents: A review of the literature
Authors: Kirsch Veronica , Wilhelm Frank H. , Goldbeck Lutz
Published: March 2011

This review summarizes studies investigating psychophysiological alterations associated with pediatric posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The authors conducted a computer‐based search in the databases PsycINFO, PSYNDEXplus, and Medline. Additional studies were retrieved using a pyramid scheme. The literature search identified 29 articles. Most studies measured alterations shortly after exposure. Differences from controls emerged mainly in the sympathoadrenal system and the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis. Elevated acute heart rate immediately after traumatization was associated with increased risk for PTSD. The literature on psychophysiological characteristics of pediatric PTSD is relatively small and diverse. Nevertheless, findings indicate exaggerated baseline activation across various measures. Studies examining the course and reversibility of psychophysiological alterations are lacking.
Testing a DSM‐5 reformulation of posttraumatic stress disorder: Impact on prevalence and comorbidity among treatment‐seeking civilian trauma survivors
Authors: van Emmerik Arnold A. P. , Kamphuis Jan H.
Published: March 2011

The authors investigated a recent reformulation (Brewin, Lanius, Novac, Schnyder, & Galea, 2009) of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in treatment‐seeking civilian trauma survivors. Diagnostic data from a randomized controlled trial (N = 170) were subjected to the criteria according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM‐IV; American Psychiatric Association, 1994) and the Brewin criteria for PTSD. Results revealed no change in PTSD prevalence, though substantial but equal (13%) proportions of participants lost or gained a PTSD diagnosis under the Brewin criteria. Rates of comorbid depression and other anxiety disorders were consistently marginally lower under the Brewin criteria, but these differences did not reach significance in the authors' sample. It was concluded that the 8‐item Brewin criteria for PTSD altered the diagnostic status of a substantial number of participants without influencing overall PTSD prevalence or comorbidity.
Topical antibiotic treatment reduces tympanostomy tube biofilm formation
Authors: Thomas Robert G. , Ojano‐Dirain Carolyn , Antonelli Patrick J.
Published: March 2011

Objectives:

Single doses of different ototopical antibiotic preparations (OAPs) have been shown to have an unequal reduction of post tympanostomy tube otorrhea (PTTO). Microbial biofilm formation on the tympanostomy tube (TT) has been implicated as one cause of PTTO. The goal of this study was to determine if TT exposure to a single dose of OAP reduces biofilm formation by Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Study Design:

Prospective and controlled.

Methods:

Fluoroplastic TTs were briefly exposed to plasma, followed by one of three OAPs (ofloxacin, neomycin/polymyxin B/hydrocortisone, or ciprofloxacin/dexamethasone) or saline (20 TT per group). TTs were placed in growth media with P. aeruginosa and incubated for 4 days, during which total bacterial growth was monitored by media turbidity. At 4 days, planktonic organisms were killed and biofilm development was measured with microbial counts.

Results:

Bacterial growth was significantly delayed by OAPs, with the least growth seen with ciprofloxacin/dexamethasone followed by ofloxacin and neomycin/polymyxin B/hydrocortisone (P ≤ .0001). At day 4, bacterial growth was less with ciprofloxacin/dexamethasone than ofloxacin and neomycin/polymyxin B/hydrocortisone (P < .05). After 4 days, biofilm counts were lower on OAP‐treated than saline‐treated TTs (P = .0015) with both ciprofloxacin/dexamethasone and ofloxacin significantly less than saline (P < .05). Biofilm counts were not significantly different between OAPs (P > .05).

Conclusions:

Treatment of TTs with ototopical antibiotic preparations reduces P. aeruginosa growth and biofilm formation in vitro. This may, in part, explain the reduction of PTTO rates observed with single doses of OAPs.
Electrochemical, quantum chemical, and molecular dynamics studies on the interaction of 4‐amino‐4H,3,5‐di(methoxy)‐1,2,4‐triazole (ATD), BATD, and DBATD on copper metal in 1N H2SO4
Authors: John S. , Joy J. , Prajila M. , Joseph A.
Published: March 2011

The interaction of 4‐amino‐4H,3,5‐di(methoxy)‐1,2,4‐triazole (ATD), (4‐(benzylideneamino)‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazole‐3,5‐diyl) dimethanol (BATD), and (4‐(4‐(dimethylamino) benzylideneamino))‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazole‐3,5‐diyl) dimethanol (DBATD) on copper in 1 N sulfuric acid was investigated by potentiodynamic polarization (Tafel), ac impedance (EIS), molecular dynamic (MD) studies, and quantum chemical calculations at 300 K. Polarization studies clearly showed that ATD, BATD, and DBATD act as mixed type inhibitors. As the electron density around the inhibitor molecule increases due to substitution, the inhibition efficiency also increases correspondingly. Quantum chemical approach was used to calculate some electronic properties of these molecules to ascertain the correlation between inhibitive effect and molecular structure. Both the experimental and theoretical studies agree well in this regard and confirm that DBATD is having a better interaction with the metal surface in 1 N sulfuric acid than BATD and ATD. The adsorption behaviors of these molecules on the copper surface have been studied using MDs method and density functional theory.
Generation of nanocrystalline NiO particles by solution combustion method and its ZnNiO composite coating for corrosion protection
Authors: Chandrappa K. G. , Venkatesha T. V. , Nayana K.O. , Punithkumar M. K.
Published: March 2011

The nanocrystalline nickel oxide (NiO) particles have been successfully prepared by a simple, fast, economical, and eco‐friendly solution‐combustion method using Ni(NO3)2 · 6H2O (oxidizer) and sugar (dextrose as fuel). The as‐prepared compound was calcined for an hour at different temperatures. The synthesized NiO was characterized by XRD, TGA, SEM/EDX, TEM, XPS, FT‐IR, and UV–Vis spectral methods. The crystallite sizes of the NiO particles were measured. Rietveld refinement of X‐ray data matches the cubic structure with space group of Fm3m (No. 225). The thermal behavior of as‐prepared compound was examined. Scanning electron micrographs show uniform cubic like morphology of NiO and its chemical composition was measured. The TEM results reveal that the particle sizes were in the order of 70–80 nm. The red shift was noticed in UV–Vis absorption spectra. As an application part the ZnNiO composite coating was prepared by electrodeposition method and its corrosion behavior was analyzed by Tafel, impedance and anodic polarization in aggressive medium.
Corrosion rate of construction materials in hot phosphoric acid with the contribution of anodic polarization
Authors: Kouřil M. , Christensen E. , Eriksen S. , Gillesberg B.
Published: March 2011

The paper is focused on selection of a proper material for construction elements of water electrolysers, which make use of a 85% phosphoric acid as an electrolyte at temperature of 150 °C and which might be loaded with anodic polarization up to 2.5 V versus a saturated Ag/AgCl electrode (SSCE). Several grades of stainless steels were tested as well as tantalum, niobium, titanium, nickel alloys and silicon carbide. The corrosion rate was evaluated by means of mass loss at free corrosion potential as well as under various levels of polarization. The only corrosion resistant material in 85% phosphoric acid at 150 °C and at polarization of 2.5 V/SSCE is tantalum. In that case, even a gentle cathodic polarization is harmful in such an acidic environment. Hydrogen reduction leads to tantalum hydride formation, to loss of mechanical properties and to complete disintegration of the metal. Contrary to tantalum, titanium is free of any corrosion resistance in hot phosphoric acid. Its corrosion rate ranges from tens of millimetres to metres per year depending on temperature of the acid. Alloy bonded tantalum coating was recognized as an effective corrosion protection for both titanium and stainless steel. Its serviceability might be limited by slow dissolution of tantalum that is in order of units of mm/year.
Influence of MWCNT dispersion on corrosion behaviour of their Mg composites
Authors: Li Q. , Turhan M. C. , Rottmair C. A. , Singer R. F. , Virtanen S.
Published: March 2011

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been demonstrated as good reinforcements to improve mechanical properties of magnesium alloys. This study reports on the influence of CNT dispersion on corrosion behaviour of their Mg composites. Experiments revealed that the corrosion rate is drastically increased by adding CNTs to the magnesium alloy due to galvanic coupling. Moreover, a homogeneous CNT dispersion leads to reduced corrosion resistivity. Surface pre‐treatment is also found to be critical for the corrosion performance for both 1 and 5 wt% CNT composites.
Study of criterion for assuring the effectiveness of cathodic protection of buried steel pipelines being interfered with alternative current
Authors: He X. , Jiang G. , Qiu Y. , Zhang G. , Jin X. , Xiang Z. , Zhang Z. , Tang H.
Published: March 2011

Interference of alternative current (AC) on corrosion of X65 steel was investigated in soil. It was observed that the unfavorable effect of interfering AC was able to be effectively inhibited by increasing the direct current density of the cathodic protection (CP) system. A clear correlation was established between the CP current density and the tolerable AC current density. This led to a new criterion for assuring the effectiveness of CP of buried pipelines being interfered with AC. Field experimental results on a buried pipeline running below a 500 kV transmission line showed that the criterion could satisfactorily predict the risk of AC interfering on the CP system.
Clinical application of inside‐out vein grafts for the treatment of sensory nerve segmental defect
Authors: Jeon Woo Joo , Kang Jong Woo , Park Jung Ho , Suh Dong Hun , Bae Ji Hoon , Hong Jae Young , Park Jong Woong
Published: March 2011

Purpose:

The gold standard for the treatment of segmental nerve defect is an autogenous nerve graft. However, donor site morbidity is an inevitable complication. We substituted an autogenous nerve graft with an inside‐out vein graft for the treatment of segmental sensory nerve defect and the clinical results were evaluated retrospectively.

Patients and methods:

Eleven patients of sensory nerve defects have undertaken inside‐out vein grafts for the recovery of sensation. The involved nerves were digital nerves in three cases, peroneal nerves in two cases, saphenous nerve intwo cases, and superficial radial nerves in four cases. The average length of defects was 2.71 cm (1–6 cm). Donor veins were harvested4 mm longer than nerve defects and everted to promote nerve regeneration. Patients' objective satisfactions and two‐point discriminations were determined, the Semmes‐Weinstein monofilament test was performed, and British Medical Council sensory functional scores were evaluated.

Results:

Sensory functional scores recovered to over S3 in all cases. No donor site morbidity was caused by vein harvesting, and all patients achieved satisfactory results with protective sensation at involved sites.

Conclusion:

The inside‐out vein graft offers a good surgical alternative to an autogenous nerve graft for the reconstruction of sensory nerve defects without donor site morbidity. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2011.
Secondary ectopic transfer for replantation salvage after severe wound infection
Authors: Cavadas Pedro C. , Landin Luis , Thione Alessandro
Published: March 2011

Background:

Ectopic transfer has been described as a salvage procedure in failing replants. The experience in three cases of infected failing replantations treated with secondary temporary ectopic transfer of the replanted part is presented.

Methods:

Three patients with replanted traumatic amputations (one transhumeral, one transmetacarpal, and one transtibial) that developed severe wound infections and thrombosis of the anastomoses were treated with urgent ectopic transfer of the replanted part. The ectopic recipient vessels were the femoral, posterior tibial, and the descending branch of the lateral femoral circumflex arteries. The stumps were surgically cleansed and the ectopically replanted parts were retransferred some days later.

Results:

The infection reccurred in one case and the replant (transmetacarpal) was lost. The two other cases were successfully retransferred orthotopically, 9 and 20 days later, respectively. In one case (transtibial) multiple additional surgical procedures were necessary. Functional results in these two cases were acceptable.

Conclusions:

Delayed ectopic transfer is a useful, yet demanding technique for the salvage of complicated replants in the context of severe wound infection and vascular thrombosis or impending failure. Given the complexity of the procedure it should only be considered in selected cases. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2011.
Rosmarinic acid, major phenolic constituent of Greek sage herbal tea, modulates rat intestinal SGLT1 levels with effects on blood glucose
Authors: Azevedo Marisa F. , Lima Cristovao F. , Fernandes‐Ferreira Manuel , Almeida Maria Judite , Wilson Jonathan M. , Pereira‐Wilson Cristina
Published: March 2011

Scope: Previous results suggested that the effects of Salvia fruticosa tea (SFT) drinking on glucose regulation might be at the intestinal level. Here we aim to characterize the effects of SFT treatment and of its main phenolic constituent – rosmarinic acid (RA) – on the levels and localization of the intestinal Na+/glucose cotransporter‐1 (SGLT1), the facilitative glucose transporter 2 and glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1).

Methods and results: Two models of SGLT1 induction in rats were used: through diabetes induction with streptozotocin (STZ) and through dietary carbohydrate manipulation. Drinking water was replaced with SFT or RA and blood parameters, liver glycogen and the levels of different proteins in enterocytes quantified. Two weeks of SFT treatment stabilized fasting blood glucose levels in STZ‐diabetic animals. The increase in SGLT1 localized to the enterocyte brush‐border membrane (BBM) induced by STZ treatment was significantly abrogated by treatment with SFT, without significant changes in total cellular transporter protein levels. No effects were observed on glucose transporter 2, Na+/K+‐ATPase or glucagon‐like peptide‐1 levels by SFT. Additionally, SFT and RA for 4 days significantly inhibited the carbohydrate‐induced adaptive increase of SGLT1 in BBM.

Conclusion: SFT and RA modulate the trafficking of SGLT1 to the BBM and may contribute to the control of plasma glucose.
Antiadhesion as a functional concept for prevention of pathogens: N‐Phenylpropenoyl‐L‐amino acid amides as inhibitors of the Helicobacter pylori BabA outer membrane protein
Authors: Niehues Michael , Stark Timo , Keller Daniela , Hofmann Thomas , Hensel Andreas
Published: March 2011

Scope: Besides flavan‐3‐ols, a family of N‐phenylpropenoyl‐L‐amino acids (NPAs) has been recently identified as polyphenol/amino acid conjugates in the seeds of Theobroma cacao as well as in a variety of herbal drugs. NPAs were shown to exhibit antiadhesive activities against Helicobacter pylori.

Methods and results: For structure/activity relationship 24 homologous NPAs (2 mM) were investigated in a flow cytometric assay on potential antiadhesive effects against H. pylori adhesion to human gastric AGS cells. Dihydroxylation of the aromatic molecule part was shown to be necessary for activity; methoxylation decreases activity. High polarity of the amino acid is a prerequisite for activity. The model compound N‐(E)‐caffeoyl‐L‐glutamic acid 11 exerted a concentration‐dependent inhibition of bacterial adhesion with saturation at 30% inhibition level. The antiadhesive effect was additionally confirmed by in situ adhesion assay on intact human gastric tissue. NPAs exhibited no cytotoxicity. Using immobilized ligands interaction 11 with bacterial adhesin BabA was demonstrated. RT‐PCR indicated that the inhibition of BabA is not correlated with subsequent feed back regulations to express more adhesins or virulence factors (vacA, cagA, cagL, cagα, fucT, ureI, ureA, OMPs). The interaction of bacterial adhesins with the respective ligands does not automatically lead to a subsequent signal transduction towards induction of virulence processes.

Conclusion: The nutritional use of NPA‐containing food may justify a positive antiadhesive effect against the recurrence of H. pylori infections.
Blood as a surrogate marker for tissue‐specific DNA methylation and changes due to folate depletion in post‐partum female mice
Authors: McKay Jill A. , Xie Long , Harris Sarah , Wong Yi K. , Ford Dianne , Mathers John C.
Published: March 2011

Scope: DNA methylation patterns are tissue specific and may influence tissue‐specific gene regulation. Human studies investigating DNA methylation in relation to environmental factors primarily use blood‐derived DNA as a surrogate for DNA from target tissues. It is therefore important to know if DNA methylation changes in blood in response to environmental changes reflect those in target tissues. Folate intake can influence DNA methylation, via altered methyl donor supply. Previously, manipulations of maternal folate intake during pregnancy altered the patterns of DNA methylation in offspring but, to our knowledge, the consequences for maternal DNA methylation are unknown. Given the increased requirement for folate during pregnancy, mothers may be susceptible to aberrant DNA methylation due to folate depletion. Methods and results: Female mice were fed folate‐adequate (2 mg folic acid/kg diet) or folate‐deplete (0.4 mg folic acid/kg diet) diets prior to mating and during pregnancy and lactation. Following weaning, dams were killed and DNA methylation was assessed by pyrosequencing® in blood, liver, and kidney at the Esr1, Igf2 differentially methylated region (DMR)1, Igf2 DMR2, Slc39a4CGI1, and Slc39a4CGI2 loci. We observed tissue‐specific differences in methylation at all loci. Folate depletion reduced Igf2 DMR1 and Slc39a4CGI1 methylation across all tissues and altered Igf2 DMR2 methylation in a tissue‐specific manner (p<0.05). Conclusion: Blood‐derived DNA methylation measurements may not always reflect methylation within other tissues. Further measurements of blood‐derived and tissue‐specific methylation patterns are warranted to understand the complexity of tissue‐specific responses to altered nutritional exposure.
Update of the toxicological assessment of furanocoumarins in foodstuffs (Update of the SKLM statement of 23/24 September 2004) – Opinion of the Senate Commission on Food Safety (SKLM) of the German Research Foundation (DFG)
Authors: Guth Sabine , Habermeyer Michael , Schrenk Dieter , Eisenbrand Gerhard
Published: March 2011

The DFG Senate Commission on Food Safety (SKLM) has discussed the toxicological assessment of furanocoumarins in foodstuffs and adopted an opinion on 23/24 September 2004 [SKLM, English version: Toxicological assessment of furanocumarins in foodstuffs, 2006; Mol. Nutr. Food Res. 2007, 51, 367–373]. At that time, no analytical data were available on the occurrence and content of furanocoumarins in citrus oils, especially in lime oil and the foodstuffs produced from it. According to the SKLM, the highest levels were likely to be found in products containing lime or bergamot oil. Distilled and cold pressed oils differ in their levels of furanocoumarins; in distilled oils, no furanocoumarins were found. The original estimate of the average daily intake of furanocoumarins in Germany made by the SKLM is based on the assumption that flavoured foods contain cold‐pressed citrus oils exclusively (worst case scenario). Recent data, however, indicate that distilled citrus oils are mainly used in flavoured soft drinks. The SKLM has therefore decided to update the assessment of the average intake of furanocoumarins from flavoured food. The following opinion was released in German on 25 January 2010, the English version was agreed on 27/28 September 2010.
Carica papaya increases regulatory T cells and reduces IFN‐γ+CD4+ T cells in healthy human subjects
Authors: Abdullah Maha , Chai Pei‐Shin , Loh Chiew‐Yee , Chong Mun‐Yee , Quay Huai‐Wei , Vidyadaran Sharmili , Seman Zainina , Kandiah Mirnalini , Seow Heng‐Fong
Published: March 2011

Fruit and vegetables have therapeutic potential as they dampen inflammation, have no known side‐effects and as whole foods have prospective additive and synergistic benefits. Th1 (IFN‐γ+CD4+)/Th2 (IL‐4+CD4+) T cells play a vital role in mediating inflammatory responses and may be regulated by regulatory T cells (Tregs). Effects of Carica papaya on cells of healthy individuals were determined using flow cytometry methods. Significant down‐regulation of IFN‐γ+CD4+ (p=0.03, n=13), up‐regulation of IL‐4+CD4+ (p=0.04, n=13) T cells and up‐regulation of CD3+CD4+CD25+CD127− (p=0.001, n=15) Tregs were observed after papaya consumption. In vitro cultures showed up‐regulation of Tregs in male subjects and was significantly associated with levels of IL‐1β in culture supernatants (R2=0.608, p=0.04, n=12). Other inflammatory cytokines were significantly suppressed. Papaya consumption may exert an anti‐inflammatory response mediated through Tregs and have potential in alleviating inflammatory conditions.
Transmit B1‐field correction at 7T using actively tuned coupled inner elements
Authors: Merkle Hellmut , Murphy‐Boesch Joseph , Gelderen Peter van , Wang Shumin , Li Tie‐Qiang , Koretsky Alan P. , Duyn Josef H.
Published: March 2011

When volume coils are used for 1H imaging of the human head at 7T, wavelength effects in tissue cause a variation in intensity, that is typically brighter at the center of the head and darker in the periphery. Much of this image nonuniformity can be attributed to variation in the effective transmit B1 field, which falls by ∼ 50% to the left and right of center at mid‐elevation in the brain. Because most of this B1 loss occurs in the periphery of the brain, we have explored use of actively controlled, off‐resonant loop elements to locally enhance the transmit B1 field in these regions. When tuned to frequencies above the NMR frequency, these elements provide strong local enhancement of the B1 field of the transmit coil. Because they are tuned off‐resonance, some volume coil detuning results, but resistive loading of the coil mode remains dominated by the sample. By digitally controlling their frequency offsets, the field enhancement of each inner element can be placed under active control. Using an array of eight digitally controlled elements placed around a custom‐built head phantom, we demonstrate the feasibility of improving the B1 homogeneity of a transmit/receive volume coil without the need for multiple radio frequency transmit channels. Magn Reson Med, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Enhancing pancreatic adenocarcinoma delineation in diffusion derived intravoxel incoherent motion f‐maps through automatic vessel and duct segmentation
Authors: Re Thomas J. , Lemke Andreas , Klauss Miriam , Laun Fredrik B. , Simon Dirk , Grünberg Katharina , Delorme Stefan , Grenacher Lars , Manfredi Riccardo , Mucelli Roberto Pozzi , Stieltjes Bram
Published: March 2011

Diffusion‐based intravoxel incoherent motion imaging has recently gained interest as a method to detect and characterize pancreatic lesions, especially as it could provide a radiation‐ and contrast agent‐free alternative to existing diagnostic methods. However, tumor delineation on intravoxel incoherent motion‐derived parameter maps is impeded by poor lesion‐to‐pancreatic duct contrast in the f‐maps and poor lesion‐to‐vessel contrast in the D‐maps. The distribution of the diffusion and perfusion parameters within vessels, ducts, and tumors were extracted from a group of 42 patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Clearly separable combinations of f and D were observed, and receiver operating characteristic analysis was used to determine the optimal cutoff values for an automated segmentation of vessels and ducts to improve lesion detection and delineation on the individual intravoxel incoherent motion‐derived maps. Receiver operating characteristic analysis identified f = 0.28 as the cutoff for vessels (Area under the curve (AUC) = 0.901) versus tumor/duct and D = 1.85 μm2/ms for separating duct from tumor tissue (AUC = 0.988). These values were incorporated in an automatic segmentation algorithm and then applied to 42 patients. This yielded clearly improved tumor delineation compared to individual intravoxel incoherent motion‐derived maps. Furthermore, previous findings that indicated that the f value in pancreatic cancer is strongly reduced compared to healthy pancreatic tissue were reconfirmed. Magn Reson Med, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Preclinical study of treatment response in HCT‐116 cells and xenografts with 1H‐decoupled 31P MRS
Authors: Darpolor Moses M. , Kennealey Peter T. , Le H. Carl , Zakian Kristen L. , Ackerstaff Ellen , Rizwan Asif , Chen Jin‐Hong , Sambol Elliot B. , Schwartz Gary K. , Singer Samuel , Koutcher Jason A.
Published: March 2011

The topoisomerase I inhibitor, irinotecan, and its active metabolite SN‐38 have been shown to induce G2/M cell cycle arrest without significant cell death in human colon carcinoma cells (HCT‐116). Subsequent treatment of these G2/M‐arrested cells with the cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitor, flavopiridol, induced these cells to undergo apoptosis. The goal of this study was to develop a noninvasive metabolic biomarker for early tumor response and target inhibition of irinotecan followed by flavopiridol treatment in a longitudinal study. A total of eleven mice bearing HCT‐116 xenografts were separated into two cohorts where one cohort was administered saline and the other treated with a sequential course of irinotecan followed by flavopiridol. Each mouse xenograft was longitudinally monitored with proton (1H)‐decoupled phosphorus (31P) magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) before and after treatment. A statistically significant decrease in phosphocholine (p = 0.0004) and inorganic phosphate (p = 0.0103) levels were observed in HCT‐116 xenografts following treatment, which were evidenced within twenty‐four hours of treatment completion. Also, a significant growth delay was found in treated xenografts. To discern the underlying mechanism for the treatment response of the xenografts, in vitro HCT‐116 cell cultures were investigated with enzymatic assays, cell cycle analysis, and apoptotic assays. Flavopiridol had a direct effect on choline kinase as measured by a 67% reduction in the phosphorylation of choline to phosphocholine. Cells treated with SN‐38 alone underwent 83 ± 5% G2/M cell cycle arrest compared to untreated cells. In cells, flavopiridol alone induced 5 ± 1% apoptosis while the sequential treatment (SN‐38 then flavopiridol) resulted in 39 ± 10% apoptosis. In vivo 1H‐decoupled 31P MRS indirectly measures choline kinase activity. The decrease in phosphocholine may be a potential indicator of early tumor response to the sequential treatment of irinotecan followed by flavopiridol in noninvasive and/or longitudinal studies. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gadolinium diethylenetriaminepentaacetate enhancement kinetics in the menisci of asymptomatic subjects: a first step towards a dedicated dGEMRIC (delayed gadolinium‐enhanced MRI of cartilage)‐like protocol for biochemical imaging of the menisci
Authors: Mayerhoefer Marius E. , Mamisch Tallal C. , Riegler Georg , Welsch Goetz H. , Dobrocky Tomas , Weber Michael , Apprich Sebastian , Scheurecker Georg , Szomolanyi Pavol , Puchner Stefan , Trattnig Siegfried
Published: March 2011

It was our aim to investigate the gadolinium diethylenetriaminepentaacetate (Gd‐DTPA2−) enhancement kinetics in the menisci of the knee joint over a prolonged period of time. Six asymptomatic volunteers (four men and two women; mean age, 25 ± 2.4 years) were enrolled. Sagittal, T1‐weighted, spin‐echo MR sequences of the right knee joint were obtained at 3 T. Imaging was performed before (baseline), 1 h after and in half‐hour intervals up to 9 h after the intravenous administration of 0.2 mmol/kg of Gd‐DTPA2−. To measure the rates of contrast enhancement relative to the baseline, regions of interest that covered the anterior and posterior horns of the medial and lateral meniscus were defined on each of two adjacent sections, and enhancement curves were constructed. An enhancement peak between 2.5 and 4.5 h after Gd‐DTPA2− administration was observed, and analysis of variance also revealed no significant difference (p = 0.94), in terms of enhancement, within this time interval. Pair‐wise, post hoc testing also revealed no significant differences between 2.5 and 3, 3 and 3.5, 3.5 and 4, and 4 and 4.5 h post Gd‐DTPA2− application. Our preliminary data therefore suggest that the time window suitable for a dGEMRIC (delayed gadolinium‐enhanced MRI of cartilage)‐like T1 mapping of the menisci is relatively short, and lies between 2.5 and 4.5 h after Gd‐DTPA2− injection. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Longitudinal study of tumor‐associated macrophages during tumor expansion using MRI
Authors: Shih Yen‐Yu I. , Hsu Yi‐Hua , Duong Timothy Q. , Lin Sui‐Shan , Chow Kai‐Ping N. , Chang Chen
Published: March 2011

MRI is being used increasingly for the noninvasive longitudinal monitoring of cellular processes in various pathophysiological conditions. Macrophages are the main stromal cells in neoplasms and have been suggested to be the major cell type ingesting superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) nanoparticles. However, no MRI study has described longitudinally the presence of tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) during tumorigenesis with histological confirmation. To address this, we injected SPIO nanoparticles into the circulation of tumor‐bearing mice and used MRI and post‐mortem histology to monitor TAMs at different time points. The MRI results demonstrated that TAMs, as hypointense signals, appeared continually with the expansion of the tumor. The histological findings also revealed that SPIO‐labeled TAMs tended to deposit closer to the vessel lumen with time prior to rapid tumor growth. The present study demonstrates the potential of using MRI to assess longitudinally TAM accumulation during tumorigenesis, and provides the first in vivo insight into the topographical arrangement of TAMs in relation to the progression of tumors. In vivo monitoring of the presence of TAMs could be useful for the development of tumor treatments that target TAM functions. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐resolution diffusion tensor imaging of fixed brain in a mouse model of Pelizaeus–Merzbacher disease: comparison with quantitative measures of white matter pathology
Authors: Ruest Torsten , Holmes William M. , Barrie Jennifer A. , Griffiths Ian R. , Anderson Thomas J. , Dewar Deborah , Edgar Julia M.
Published: March 2011

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is a powerful technique for the noninvasive assessment of the central nervous system. To facilitate the application of this technique to in vivo studies, we characterised a mouse model of the leukodystrophy, Pelizaeus–Merzbacher disease (PMD), comparing high‐resolution ex vivo DTI findings with quantitative histological analysis of selected areas of the brain. The mice used in this study (Plp1‐transgenic) carry transgenic copies of the Plp1 gene and are models for PMD as a result of gene duplication. Plp1 transgenic mice display a mild ataxia and experience frequent seizures around the time at which they were imaged. Axial (λ1) and radial (RD) diffusivities and fractional anisotropy (FA) data were analysed using an exploratory whole‐brain voxel‐based method, a voxel‐based approach using tract‐based spatial statistics (TBSS), and by application of conventional region of interest (ROI) analyses to selected white matter tracts. Raw t value maps and TBSS analyses indicated widespread changes throughout the brain of Plp1‐transgenic mice compared with the wild‐type. ROI analyses of the corpus callosum, anterior commissure and hippocampal fimbria showed that FA was reduced significantly, whereas λ1 and RD were increased significantly, in Plp1‐transgenic mice compared with the wild‐type. The DTI data derived from ROI analyses were subsequently compared with histological measures taken in the same regions. These revealed an almost complete absence of myelin, preservation of axons, marked astrocytosis and increased or unchanged cell densities. These data contribute to our growing understanding of the basis of anisotropic water diffusion in the normal and diseased nervous system. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The public at a time of crisis: some notes on the Italian case
Authors: Bifulco Lavinia
Published: March 2011

The article focuses on some dynamics affecting the public in Italy in connection with the financial and economic crisis. The hypothesis is that, faced with a growing desire for state, processes of institutional mediation underway are further weakening. The analysis goes into depth in some Italian policy cases: university and secondary school on a national level and vocational training policies in a regional context. These cases show rather critical phenomena as far as the public is concerned: the debate on research and knowledge is impoverishing; the change in the structure of the state is teetering between the possibility of solving secular problems and the risk of further endangering a collective service; and there are many signals of privatisation of citizenship. In the conclusions, some interpretive points on the themes of public, future and democracy are developed. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Local control of metastatic sites with radiation therapy in metastatic Ewing sarcoma and rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Liu Arthur K. , Stinauer Michelle , Albano Edythe , Greffe Brian , Tello Tiffany , Maloney Kelly
Published: March 2011

Approximately 20% of children with Ewing sarcoma (EWS) and rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) present with metastatic disease at initial diagnosis. Overall, the outcome is poor, with an event‐free survival of <20%. Local control at metastatic sites has not been previously reported. We reviewed control of metastatic sites in children with EWS and RMS that received curative intent radiation therapy to each metastatic site. In 13 children, at a median follow‐up of 18 months, a single local failure was seen. Toxicity was minimal. Our data suggest that radiation therapy is effective and tolerable in children with metastatic EWS and RMS. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011;57:169–171. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Rapid Isolation and Purification of Inotodiol and Trametenolic Acid from Inonotus obliquus by High‐speed Counter‐current Chromatography with Evaporative Light Scatting Detection
Authors: Du Deyao , Zhu Feng , Chen Xianhui , Ju Xiuyun , Feng Youjian , Qi Lian‐Wen , Jiang Jihong
Published: March 2011

Introduction

In Eastern Europe, especially Russia, the fruiting body of Inonotus obliquus has been used as a folk medicine for cancer since the sixteenth or seventeenth century. Inotodiol and trametenolic acid are considered to be the main bioactive compounds of the fruiting body of the mushroom. These compounds show various biological activities, including anti‐tumour, anti‐viral, hypoglycaemic, anti‐oxidant and cyto‐protective. However, effective methods for isolating and purifying inotodiol and trametenolic acid from the fruiting body of Inonotus obliquus are not currently available.

Objective

To develop a suitable preparative method in order to isolate inotodiol and trametenolic acid from a complex Inonotus obliquus extract by preparative high‐speed counter‐current chromatography (HSCCC).

Methodology

Inotodiol and trametenolic acid were rapidly isolated and purified from the chloroform extract of Inonotus obliquus (Fr.) by HSCCC with evaporative light scatting detection (ELSD). The purity of the obtained target compounds was analysed by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with ELSD. The structures of the two compounds were identified by 1 H NMR and 13 C NMR.

Result

The target compounds were finally isolated and purified with a solvent system of hexane:ethyl acetate:methanol:water (1:0.4:1:0.4, v/v/v/v). In a single operation, 100 mg of the I. obliquus extracts yielded 13.0 mg of inotodiol and 7.0 mg of trametenolic acid. The entire separation and purification process took less than 5 h. The purities of obtained inotodiol and trametenolic acid were 97.51 and 94.04%, respectively.

Conclusion

HSCCC‐ELSD was an efficient and rapid method for the separation and purification of inotodiol and trametenolic acid from I. obliquus. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Improved Thin‐layer Chromatography Bioautographic Assay for the Detection of Actylcholinesterase Inhibitors in Plants
Authors: Yang Zhong‐Duo , Song Zhu‐Wen , Ren Jin , Yang Ming‐Jun , Li Shuo
Published: March 2011

Introduction

Thin‐layer chromatography (TLC) bioautographic method is a simple and rapid method to screen acetylcholinesterase inhibitors from plant extracts. However, the high consumption of enzyme (6 U/mL) in current methods makes the procedure expensive, which is an obstacle to scientific research centers lacking funding.

Objective

To develop a new low‐cost TLC bioautographic method.

Methodology

A series of compounds, as substrates, were synthesised and their ability to be hydrolysed by acetylcholinesterase was evaluated by the HPLC method.

Results

4‐Methoxyphenyl acetate (14) was proved to be an appropriate substrate for TLC bioautographic assay. Therefore a new and cheap TLC bioautographic assay was set up. The mechanism of this new method is that the enzyme converts 4‐methoxylphenyl acetate into 4‐methoxyphenol, which reacts with a solution of potassium ferricyanide ([K3(FeCN)6]) and iron chloride hexahydrate (FeCl3.6H2O) to make an aquamarine blue coloured background on the TLC plates. Regions of the TLC plate which contain acetylcholinesterase inhibitors show up as light yellow spots against the background. The consumption of enzyme (1 U/mL) in the new method is low and the detection limit of two known acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, huperzine A (0.0001 μg) and physostigmine (0.001 μg), for this assay are close to published values.

Conclusion

A low‐cost TLC bioautographic method was developed, which will benefit research groups pursuing natural acetylcholinesterase inhibitors. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Extraction of Antioxidants from Spruce (Picea abies) Bark using Eco‐friendly Solvents
Authors: Co Michelle , Fagerlund Amelie , Engman Lars , Sunnerheim Kerstin , Sjöberg Per J.R. , Turner Charlotta
Published: March 2011

Introduction

Antioxidants are known to avert oxidation processes and they are found in trees and other plant materials. Tree bark is a major waste product from paper pulp industries; hence it is worthwhile to develop an extraction technique to extract the antioxidants.

Objective

To develop a fast and environmentally sustainable extraction technique for the extraction of antioxidants from bark of spruce (Picea abies) and also to identify the extracted antioxidants that are abundant in spruce bark.

Methodology

A screening experiment that involved three different techniques was conducted to determine the best technique to extract antioxidants. The antioxidant capacity of the extracts was determined with DPPH (2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl) assay. Pressurised fluid extraction (PFE) turned out to be the best technique and a response surface design was therefore utilised to optimise PFE. Furthermore, NMR and HPLC‐DAD‐MS/MS were applied to identify the extracted antioxidants.

Results

PFE using water and ethanol as solvent at 160 and 180°C, respectively, gave extracts of the highest antioxidant capacity. Stilbene glucosides such as isorhapontin, piceid and astringin were identified in the extracts.

Conclusion

The study has shown that PFE is a fast and environmentally sustainable technique, using water and ethanol as solvent for the extraction of antioxidants from spruce bark. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of Eleven Phenolic Compounds Including Novel p‐Coumaroyl Derivatives in Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) by Ultra‐high‐performance Liquid Chromatography with Photodiode Array and Mass Spectrometry Detection
Authors: Ribas‐Agustí Albert , Gratacós‐Cubarsí Marta , Sárraga Carmen , García‐Regueiro José‐Antonio , Castellari Massimo
Published: March 2011

Introduction

Lettuce is a widely consumed vegetable and a good source of phenolic compounds. Several factors (genetic, agronomical and environmental) can influence the lettuce composition; their effects are not completely defined and more studies are needed on this topic.

Objective

To develop an improved ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) method to quantify the main target intact phenolic compounds in lettuce.

Methodology

UHPLC identification of the compounds was supported by PAD spectra and MSn analyses. Quantification was carried out by PAD, by creating matrix‐matched calibration curves at the specific wavelength for each compound.

Results

Sample pretreatment was simplified, with neither purification nor hydrolysis steps. Chromatographic conditions were chosen to minimise matrix interferences and to give a suitable separation of the major phenolic compounds within 27 min. The method allowed the quantification of 11 intact phenolic compounds in Romaine lettuces, including phenolic acids (caffeoyl and p‐coumaroyl esters) and flavonoids (quercetin glycosides). Four p‐coumaroyl esters were tentatively identified and quantified for the first time in lettuce.

Conclusion

The main intact phenolic compounds, including four novel p‐coumaroyl esters, were simultaneously quantified in lettuce with optimal performances and a reduced total time of analysis. These findings make headway in the understanding of the lettuce phytochemicals with potential nutritional relevance.