bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A modified method for purifying amelanotic melanocytes from human hair follicles
Authors: MA Hui‐Jun , YUE Xue‐Zhuang , WANG Da‐Guang , LI Cheng‐Rang , ZHU Wen‐Yuan
Published: April 2006

We describe a modified method for establishing long‐term pure cultures of amelanotic melanocytes (AMMC) derived from human hair follicles. Normal human corpse scalp (just after death, 1 h) was transected 1 mm below the epidermis, and hair follicles in the remaining dermis were isolated by a two‐step enzyme treatment. Hair follicle cell suspensions were prepared by 0.50% trypsin treatment for 30 min and cultured in an optimized melanoblast proliferation nature mitogen medium. Cells attached to the substratum were mostly amelanotic melanocytic in character with small, bipolar shapes in the early stage; only a few keratinocytes and rare fibroblasts were observed. Keratinocytes were easily removed by differential trypsinization. After the third passage, the proliferating cells were all amelanotic melanocytes as confirmed by immunostaining with polyclonal antibodies to αPEP7h, which recognized the tyrosinase protein located on melanosomes and NKI/beteb, which is a pre‐melanosomal antigen against synthetic peptides corresponding to the carboxyl termini of human melanosomal protein GP100. Cultured AMMC were highly positive to L‐dopa reactivity after the addition of IBMX to the culture medium for 7 days. Many stage I and II melanosomes and occasional stage III melanosomes without stage IV melanosomes were found in the cytoplasm by transmission electron microscope. This modified technique is potentially more suitable for cultivating amelanotic melanocytes. The availability of pure cultures of hair‐follicle amelanotic melanocytes will facilitate investigations of the roles of those cells in migration and differentiation during treatment of vitiligo.
Non‐anogenital (ectopic) hidradenoma papilliferum with sebaceous differentiation: A case report and review of reported cases
Authors: MINAMI Shoichiro , SADANOBU Naoya , ITO Takaaki , NATSUAKI Masaru , YAMANISHI Kiyofumi
Published: April 2006

Hidradenoma papilliferum is a benign tumor that usually occurs in the female anogenital region. We present a 52‐year‐old male with a non‐anogenital (ectopic) hidradenoma papilliferum on his face. He had had a subcutaneous tumor on his right eyebrow for 30 years. The histological findings included variously shaped cystic and tubular structures in the tumor. The lumina were surrounded by a double layer of cells and showed active decapitation secretion. The lesion contained sebaceous differentiation, which has not been previously documented in the histopathology of hidradenoma papilliferum. We review the published work of non‐anogenital (ectopic) hidradenoma papilliferum tumors on the head and neck.
A case of the hyperkeratotic variant of porokeratosis Mibelli
Authors: YU Hee‐Joon , PARK Kyoung‐Tae , OH Dae‐Heon , KIM Jeong‐Soo , PARK Yong‐Wook
Published: April 2006

Herein, we report a case of the hyperkeratotic variant of porokeratosis Mibelli. A 58‐year‐old woman presented with two brownish verrucous plaques on the buttock for 20 years, and extremely hyperkeratotic verrucous nodules and brownish macules on the right foot for 1 year. Histopathological findings of the buttock were typical of porokeratosis. However, histopathological findings of the right foot were atypical for porokeratosis, including extreme hyperkeratosis and an increased number of and unusual sized cornoid lamellae.
Toxoplasma gondii and Chlamydophila abortus in Caprine Abortions in Tobago: a Sero‐Epidemiological Study
Authors: Borde G. , Lowhar G. , Adesiyun A. A.
Published: April 2006

A sero‐epidemiological study was conducted on a goat farm that experienced an abortion epidemic in the 2005 breeding season in Tobago. Serum samples of goats (aborting and non‐aborting) and cats were collected, in addition to the use of stored sera from the farm sampled in 2003 and 2004. Farm records on the reproductive and mortality rates for year 2003, 2004 and 2005 were also reviewed. The sera were screened for Toxoplasma gondii antibodies using the latex agglutination test (LAT), Chlamydophila abortus with an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Brucella abortus using the buffered plate agglutination test (BPAT). Farm records revealed that for the period 2003–2005, the average kid per doe rate decreased from 2.1 to 1.5, the mortality rate increased from 6.3% in 2002 to 19.4% in 2004 and the fertility rate decreased from 98–99% (2002–2004) to 89% (2005). There was a dramatic increase in the abortion rate from <1% (2002, 2003 and 2004) to 29.2% (2005). Of a total of 161 sera tested comprising 12 from 2003, 89 from 2004 and 70 from 2005, 0 (0.0%), 21 (23.6%) and 45 (64.3%) were positive for T. gondii agglutinins (i.e. titres ≥1 : 64) and the differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05; χ2). Of all serum samples tested, only 1 (1.1%) of 89 from 2004 was positive for C. abortus while all the sera tested were negative for B. abortus. Amongst the 24 does which aborted in 2005 and were available for testing in mid‐2005, 15 (62.5%) had reciprocal titres of ≥1 : 2048, three (12.5%) each had titres of 1 : 1024, 1 : 256 and ≤1 : 16 i.e. negative. The seroprevalence and titres of does that aborted, 20 (87.0%) of 23, all with titres ≥1 : 256 suggesting current infection, were statistically significantly (P < 0.05; χ2) higher than was detected amongst does that delivered normal kids, 25 (53.25) of 47 with 22 (48.8%) having titres of ≥1 : 256. One (50.0%) of two cats caught and tested was seropositive with a reciprocal titre of 128. This is considered the first documentation of T. gondii agglutinins in caprine abortion as well the detection of C. abortus antibodies from livestock in Trinidad. It is concluded that of the three zoonotic abortifacient pathogens tested for, T. gondii appeared to have played some aetiological role in the abortion epidemic investigated.
Stability of the EasyOne ultrasonic spirometer for use in general practice
Authors: WALTERS Julia A.E. , WOOD‐BAKER Richard , WALLS Justin , JOHNS David P.
Published: April 2006

Objective and background:  Spirometry is recommended for the diagnosis and management of chronic respiratory diseases in the community. Spirometer accuracy is critical, but few general practitioners meet the American Thoracic Society and European Respiratory Society (ATS/ERS) recommendation for daily calibration. The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy and stability of a portable ultrasonic spirometer (EasyOne) that the manufacturer claims does not require regular calibration.

Methods:  Six EasyOne spirometers were used in a practice‐based spirometry study. Inspiratory and expiratory accuracy was checked periodically using a certified 3‐L syringe. Paired calibration checks were performed using a dedicated mouthpiece assembly (spirette) and randomly selected spirettes.

Results:  The six spirometers were used for up to 26 weeks (mean 23.9 weeks) and a total of 1041 spirometry tests and 75 syringe calibrations were performed. All inspiratory and expiratory calibration checks using a dedicated or randomly selected spirette met the ATS/ERS accuracy criterion (3.00 ± 0.105 L). The mean (range) expiratory volume deviation from target volume (3.00 L) was 0.011 L (−0.06–0.09 L) using a dedicated spirette and 0.046 L (−0.09–0.10 L) using randomly selected spirettes. The deviation from target was not affected by the mean flow generated during the calibration procedure. There was no change in calibration during the study.

Conclusions:  This study supports the manufacturer's claim that the EasyOne spirometer maintains its calibration during routine clinical use in general practice and does not require daily calibration as specified in international spirometry guidelines.
Elevated serum surfactant protein A and D in pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis
Authors: TAKAHASHI Hiroki , CHIBA Hirofumi , SHIRATORI Masanori , TACHIBANA Teruo , ABE Shosaku
Published: April 2006

Abstract:  Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis (PAM) is a rare disease characterized by widespread localization of calcispherites in the alveolar spaces. The authors report two cases of PAM, with markedly elevated sera concentrations of surfactant protein‐A and surfactant protein‐D, which showed a tendency to increase as the disease progressed. Therefore, surfactant protein‐A and surfactant protein‐D may function as serum markers to monitor the disease activity and progression of PAM.
Multifocal mesenchymal hamartoma of the chest wall
Authors: ALTANER Semsi , YORUK Yener , BILGI Selcuk , PUYAN Fulya Oz , DOGANAY Latife , KUTLU Kemal
Published: April 2006

Abstract: Chest wall hamartomas are extremely rare. Frequently mesenchymal hamartomas are presented as a single mass and contain some primitive mesenchymal elements such as chondroid and trabecular bone structures. A 60‐year‐old man presented to hospital with chest pain. Thirteen years earlier, his CXR and thoracic CT showed three masses on the right and two masses on the left, but he had not received any treatment thereafter. His CT showed the same masses present 13 years earlier, but they were bigger and right thoracotomy was undertaken. At thoracotomy, two sections of the mass in the right posterior mediastinum and one section of the mass in the right apex were excised. They had an occasional bloody appearance and contained small cystic areas, and some areas were extremely hard. Microscopic examination showed that the lesions consisted of mature adipose tissue, a large number of veins of different diameters and collagen tissue. Besides, primitive mesenchymal elements, lymphoid cell accumulations and trabecular bone structures were seen focally. Bilateral chest wall hamartomas are extremely rare and may be confused with malignancy.
Efficacy and safety of high‐dose budesonide/formoterol (Symbicort®) compared with budesonide administered either concomitantly with formoterol or alone in patients with persistent symptomatic asthma
Authors: JENKINS Christine , KOLARIKOVA Renata , KUNA Piotr , CAILLAUD Denis , SANCHIS Joaquin , POPP Wolfgang , PETTERSSON Eva
Published: April 2006

Objective and background:  Budesonide/formoterol 160/4.5 µg, two inhalations bd, is an effective and well‐tolerated maintenance therapy for patients not controlled on inhaled corticosteroids alone. The authors assessed the efficacy and safety of a higher dose of budesonide/formoterol in patients with persistent symptomatic asthma.

Methods:  This was a 24‐week, double‐blind, double‐dummy randomized study. Budesonide/formoterol 320/9 µg, two inhalations bd (1280/36 µg/day), was compared with corresponding doses of budesonide during weeks 1–12 and budesonide plus formoterol via separate inhalers during weeks 1–24. Efficacy was assessed during weeks 1–12; the primary variable was morning PEF. Safety was assessed over weeks 1–24.

Results:  Patients (n = 456; aged 12–79 years) had a mean reversibility in FEV1 of 28% and mean pre‐study inhaled corticosteroid dose of 1038 µg/day. Mean morning PEF increased by 37 L/min and 36 L/min with budesonide/formoterol and budesonide plus formoterol, respectively, versus an increase of 5 L/min with budesonide (P < 0.001 for both vs. budesonide). Budesonide/formoterol increased time to first mild exacerbation (P < 0.005) versus budesonide. Budesonide/formoterol and budesonide plus formoterol had similar efficacy. All treatments were well tolerated and the incidence of class‐related adverse events was similarly low in all groups. Changes in serum potassium and plasma cortisol were comparable across treatments.

Conclusions:  High‐dose budesonide/formoterol (320/9 µg, two inhalations bd) is effective and well tolerated in patients with persistent symptomatic asthma. The findings also support the safety of regular high‐dose formoterol (36 µg/day).
Intermittent exotropia: comparison of treatments
Authors: Figueira Edwin C , Hing Stephen
Published: April 2006

Abstract

Purpose:  To identify the best treatment option for intermittent exotropia.

Methods:  A retrospective analysis of the progress of 150 treated intermittent exotropia patients was performed. Treatment forms considered are: (i) surgery combined with orthoptic/occlusion therapy; (ii) surgery; (iii) orthoptic/occlusion therapy; and (iv) observation. Pearson's χ2‐analysis of association of therapy form with success was performed. Reduction of exodeviation in prism dioptres between groups and subgroups were compared at 6 months, 1, 2 and 5 years follow up and the ‘within group’ variations were compared. Exodeviation reduction in prism dioptres per millimetre of horizontal rectus surgery performed in the ‘surgery with orthoptic/occlusion therapy’ and ‘surgery only’ groups were compared.

Results:  χ2‐Analysis revealed a significantly highest (P < 0.001) association with success in the ‘surgery with orthoptic/occlusion therapy’ group at follow up. anova analysis revealed that surgery with orthoptic/occlusion therapy resulted significantly (P < 0.001) in the highest reduction of exodeviation as compared with the other three treatment modalities at each follow up. Reduction of exodeviation in prism dioptres per millimetre of horizontal rectus surgery performed was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in the surgery with orthoptic/occlusion therapy group as compared with surgery only at all follow ups. χ2‐Test revealed no significant association of success with the magnitude of initial exodeviation (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:  Surgery with preoperative orthoptic/occlusion therapy had the highest success rates. Surgery with orthoptic/occlusion therapy was more effective in reducing exodeviation (prism dioptres per millimetre of horizontal rectus surgery), compared with surgery only.
The F test for Comparing Two Normal Variances: Correct and Incorrect Calculation of the Two‐Sided p‐value?
Authors: Gallagher James
Published: April 2006

This article illustrates that not all statistical software packages are correctly calculating a p‐value for the classical F test comparison of two independent Normal variances. This is illustrated with a simple example, and the reasons why are discussed. Eight different software packages are considered.
Characterisation of the interaction between cryptochromes and phytochromes in blue light‐induced coiling and prehaustoria development of dodder (Cuscuta campestris) seedlings
Authors: HAIDAR M A
Published: April 2006

Previous studies demonstrated that blue, near far‐red and a mixture of red and far‐red light stimulate, while red light inhibits coiling and prehaustoria development in young excised de‐etiolated dodder seedlings. In this study, evidence was obtained for the involvement of cryptochromes in the mediation of coiling and prehaustoria development in response to blue light. The results indicated that coiling and prehaustoria are affected by the addition of red or far‐red light and therefore are dependent on the state of phytochromes. Results also suggest the occurrence of a synergistic interaction between phytochromes (Pr) and cryptochromes and an antagonistic interaction between phytochromes (Pfr) and cryptochromes in mediating coiling and prehaustoria development. Gabaculine significantly reduced coiling and prehaustoria development under far‐red or a mixture of red and far‐red light but not under blue or a mixture of blue and far‐red light, indicating that cryptochromes are involved in blue‐induced coiling and prehaustoria development.
AN ISING MODEL SIMULATION OF MOBILE COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
Authors: CARAM L. F. , CAIAFA C. F. , PROTO A. N.
Published: April 2006

We studied the dynamical behavior of a mobile communication network through a traditional Ising model. In the mobile communication network, each cell has N channels to process the calls, and they arrive with a given rate, having different lengths. In our Ising model we introduce cooperation among cells. This mechanism is considered in the normal commercial operation today. Through our simulation we evaluate the (virtual) temperature, magnetization, and the critical parameters of the network. The description of a mobile communication network, using a well-known theoretical model, is an important tool to improve the performance of these networks.
AN ATTEMPT TO OBSERVE ECONOMY GLOBALIZATION: THE CROSS CORRELATION DISTANCE EVOLUTION OF THE TOP 19 GDP'S
Authors: MIŚKIEWICZ J. , AUSLOOS M.
Published: April 2006

Economy correlations between the 19 richest countries are investigated through their Gross Domestic Product increments. A distance is defined between increment correlation matrix elements and their evolution studied as a function of time and time window size. Unidirectional and Bidirectional Minimal Length Paths are generated and analyzed for different time windows. A sort of critical correlation time window is found indicating a transition for best observations. The mean length path decreases with time, indicating stronger correlations. A new method for estimating a realistic minimal time window to observe correlations and deduce macroeconomy conclusions from such features is thus suggested.
EQUILIBRIUM CONFIGURATIONS OF ADHERING TUBULAR VESICLES UNDER EXTERNAL LOADS
Authors: NI DONG , SHI HUIJI , YIN YAJUN
Published: April 2006

A theoretical model is developed to describe the influence of external loads on the equilibrium shapes of adhering tubular lipid vesicles. In the case of nonspecific adhesion, the equilibrium shape equations and boundary conditions are derived through the method analogous to previous research. For a range of applied forces, locally stable bound shapes are simulated. Along with the increase or decrease the external force, the process for adhering vesicle disengaging from or sprawling to the substrate is predicted and analyzed.
Urothelial lesion formation is mediated by TNFR1 during neurogenic cystitis
Authors: Chen Michael C. , Mudge Christopher S. , Klumpp David J.
Published: April 2006

Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a chronic bladder inflammatory disease of unknown etiology that shares similarities with Crohn's disease and psoriasis. IC, often regarded as a neurogenic cystitis, is associated with urothelial lesions that likely compromise the bladder permeability barrier and thereby contribute to patient morbidity. Here, we use a murine model of neurogenic cystitis to investigate the mechanism of urothelial lesion formation and find that urothelial apoptosis induces formation of lesions. Lesions formed in wild-type mice but not in mice deficient in TNF, TNF receptors, or mast cells. In urothelial cultures, only siRNAs targeting TNFR1, but not TNFR2, blocked TNF-induced apoptosis, indicating a primary role for TNFR1. Trans-epithelial resistance, a measure of bladder barrier function, decreased during neurogenic cystitis in wild-type and TNFR2−/−mice but was stabilized in TNF−/−mice. Anti-TNF antibodies both altered bladder mast cell localization and stabilized barrier function. Based on these findings, we conclude that mast cell activation and release of TNF drive urothelial apoptosis and lesion formation in a murine neurogenic cystitis model, and we hypothesize that anti-TNF therapy may stabilize bladder barrier function in IC patients.
What Stories and Fables Can Teach Us
Authors: Bunkers Sandra Schmidt
Published: April 2006

This column describes the influence of narrative on individuals and societies. More importantly, it describes the importance of story in dealing with health and quality of life issues. The idea of story as an epistemology is discussed. Individual stories which were created in seminars on writing for publication are presented along with stories and fables that lend further understanding to lived experiences of health. Ideas for teaching-learning in nursing regarding the issues in the stories are presented. Parse’s human becoming theory is used to further explicate understanding of these ideas.
A Unitary Healing Praxis Model for Women in Despair
Authors: Cowling W. Richard
Published: April 2006

The evolution of a unitary healing praxis model derived from three unitary appreciative inquiries of despair is described. Explication of unitary appreciative inquiry and how it informed and contributed to the development of the model is provided. The model is based on a conceptualization of healing as appreciating the inherent wholeness of life and provides knowledge specific to the individual lives of women in despair. The process of generative theorizing that led to the creation of the model is explicated. Unitary, appreciative, and participatory responses to despair are integrated in the model, praxis modalities are delineated, key concerns and perspectives of women in despair are addressed, and potentialities for healing are illustrated.
The Lived Experience of Sacrificing Something Important
Authors: Florczak Kristine L.
Published: April 2006

The purposes of this research, using the Parse method, were to discover the structure of sacrificing something important and to expand the theory of human becoming. The core concepts of relinquishing the cherished, shifting preferred options, and fortifying affiliations were discovered during the process of extraction-synthesis using synopses of dialogues from 10 church parishioners. The structure, sacrificing something important is relinquishing the cherished while shifting preferred options amid fortifying affiliations is the central finding of this study, adding to the theory of human becoming, stimulating further research, and informing nurses about this universal lived experience of health.
The Meaning of Being Supportive for Family Caregivers as Narrated by Registered Nurses Working in Palliative Homecare
Authors: Stoltz Peter , Lindholm Maud , Udén Giggi , Willman Ania
Published: April 2006

The aim of this study was to illuminate the meaning of being supportive to family caregivers who care for a relative at home as narrated by registered nurses. The context used to allow for the meaning of being supportive to be illuminated was palliative home care. The study uses a phenomenological-hermeneutical method inspired by the philosophy of Ricoeur. Data consisted of narrative interviews, which were analyzed in three recurring phases: naive reading, structural analyses and interpreted whole. Twenty nurses from the hospitals in Sweden participated in the study. Two core themes were found: forming a relationship and keeping caregiving at home.
Delayed functional maturation of natural regulatory T cells in the medulla of postnatal thymus: role of TSLP
Authors: Jiang Qi , Su Hua , Knudsen Geoffry , Helms Whitney , Su Lishan
Published: April 2006

Background

Generation of functional CD4+CD8-CD25+regulatory T cells (Treg) in the murine thymus depends on FoxP3. Removal of the thymus from neonatal mice has been shown to result in a multiple organ autoimmune disease phenotype that can be prevented by introducing the FoxP3+Treg population to the animal. It has therefore, been proposed that functional FoxP3+Treg cells are not made in the neonatal thymus; however, it remains unclear when and where functional FoxP3+CD4+CD8-CD25+thymocytes are generated in postnatal thymus.

Results

We report that neither FoxP3 mRNA nor protein is expressed in CD4+CD8-CD25+, or CD4+CD8-CD25-thymocytes until 3–4 days post birth, despite the presence of mature CD4+CD8-CD25+/-thymocytes in the thymus by 1–2 days after birth. FoxP3-CD4+CD8-CD25+thymocytes from day 2 newborn mice show no Treg activity. Interestingly, we are able to detect low numbers of FoxP3+thymocytes dispersed throughout the medullary region of the thymus as early as 3–4 days post birth. Expression of FoxP3 is induced in embryonic day 17 fetal thymus organ culture (FTOC) after 4–6 days of in vitro culture. Treatment of FTOCs with thymic stromal derived lymphopoietin (TSLP) enhanced expression of FoxP3, and blocking the TSLP receptor reduces FoxP3 expression in FTOC. Furthermore, TSLP stimulates FoxP3 expression in purified CD4+CD8-thymocytes, but not in CD4+CD8+, CD4-CD8+and CD4-CD8-thymocytes.

Conclusion

Expression of FoxP3 or Treg maturation is ontogenically distinct and kinetically delayed from the generation of CD4+CD8-CD25+or CD4+CD8-CD25-thymocytes in the postnatal thymus. TSLP produced from medullary thymic epithelia cells (mTEC) contributes to the expression of FoxP3 and the maturation of natural regulatory T cells. Overall, these results suggest that the development of Treg cells requires paracrine signaling during late stages of thymocyte maturation that is distinct from signaling during positive or negative selection.
Reversion of the ELISPOT test after treatment in Gambian tuberculosis cases
Authors: Aiken Alexander M , Hill Philip C , Fox Annette , McAdam Keith PWJ , Jackson-Sillah Dolly , Lugos Moses D , Donkor Simon A , Adegbola Richard A , Brookes Roger H
Published: April 2006

Background

New tools are required to improve tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis and treatment, including enhanced ability to compare new treatment strategies. The ELISPOT assay uses Mycobacterium tuberculosis-specific antigens to produce a precise quantitative readout of the immune response to pathogen. We hypothesized that TB patients in The Gambia would have reduced ELISPOT counts after successful treatment.

Methods

We recruited Gambian adults with sputum smear and culture positive tuberculosis for ELISPOT assay and HIV test, and followed them up one year later to repeat testing and document treatment outcome. We used ESAT-6, CFP-10 and Purified Protein Derivative (PPD) as stimulatory antigens. We confirmed the reliability of our assay in 23 volunteers through 2 tests one week apart, comparing within and between subject variation.

Results

We performed an ELISPOT test at diagnosis and 12 months later in 89 patients. At recruitment, 70/85 HIV-negative patients (82%) were ESAT-6 or CFP-10 (EC) ELISPOT positive, 77 (90%) were PPD ELISPOT positive. Eighty-two cases (96%) successfully completed treatment: 44 (55%; p < 0.001) were EC ELISPOT negative at 12 months, 17 (21%; p = 0.051) were PPD ELISPOT negative. Sixty (73%) cured cases had a CFP-10 ELISPOT count decrease, 64 (78%) had an ESAT-6 ELISPOT count decrease, 58 (70%) had a PPD ELISPOT count decrease. There was a mean decline of 25, 44 and 47 SFU/2 × 105 cells for CFP-10, ESAT-6 and PPD respectively (p < 0.001 for all). Three of 4 HIV positive patients were cured, all 3 underwent ELISPOT reversion; all 4 not cured subjects (3 HIV-negative, 1 HIV positive) were ESAT-6, CFP-10 and PPD ELISPOT positive at 12 months.

Conclusion

Successful tuberculosis treatment is accompanied by a significant reduction in the M. tuberculosis-specific antigen ELISPOT count. The ELISPOT has potential as a proxy measure of TB treatment outcome. Further investigation into the decay kinetics of T-cells with treatment is warranted.
Effect of N-arachidonoyl-(2-methyl-4-hydroxyphenyl) amine (VDM11), an anandamide transporter inhibitor, on capsaicin-induced cough in mice
Authors: Kamei Junzo , Yoshikawa Yuji , Saitoh Akiyoshi
Published: April 2006

Background

Several observations have suggested that anandamide, an endogenous cannabinoid ligand, plays an important role in the modulation of cough sensitivity. However, it is unknown whether the anandamide membrane transporter plays a role in this modulation. To test this hypothesis, we investigated the effects of VDM11, an anandamide membrane transporter inhibitor, on capsaicin- and anandamide-induced cough.

Methods

The effect of VDM11, an anandamide membrane transporter inhibitor, on capsaicin- and anandamide-induced cough in mice was examined.

Results

VDM11, at doses of 3–10 mg/kg subcutaneously, produced a dose-dependent antitussive effect. This antitussive effect was antagonized by pretreatment with either intraperitoneal administration (3 mg/kg) or inhalation (1 mg/ml) of SR141716A, a cannabinoid receptor (CB1) antagonist. However, intracerebroventricular injection of SR141716A (0.03 mg/mouse) did not alter the effect of VDM11. Exposure of mice to a nebulized solution of 10% DMSO, a vehicle of anandamide, induced a cough response (7.7 ± 0.6 coughs/3 min; n = 10). Exposure of mice to a nebulized solution of anandamide, at concentrations of 0.03, 0.3 and 3 mg/ml, also produced a cough response in a concentration-dependent manner. The number of coughs induced by low dose (0.03 mg/ml) anandamide was significantly less than that of 10% DMSO. On the other hand, the number of coughs induced by high dose (3 mg/ml) anandamide was significantly greater than that of 10% DMSO. When AM251 (1.8 mM), a selective CB1 receptor antagonist, was given by aerosol for 4 min before inhalation of 0.03 mg/ml of anandamide, the number of coughs was significantly increased to the level observed with 10% DMSO alone. When capsazepine (0.3 mM), a selective TRPV1 receptor antagonist, was given via aerosol for 4 min before inhalation of 3 mg/ml of anandamide, the number of coughs was significantly decreased to the levels observed with 10% DMSO alone. The number of coughs induced by high dose (3 mg/ml) anandamide was significantly and dose-dependently reduced by the pretreatment with VDM11.

Conclusion

These results suggest that anandamide, an endogenous cannabinoid ligand, may modulate cough sensitivity and that anandamide transporters play an important role in this modulation. Furthermore, these findings indicate that inhibition of the uptake of anandamide produced a potent antitussive effect and suggests that the anandamide transporter may be a potential target for peripherally acting antitussive drugs.
An unconventional dileucine-based motif and a novel cytosolic motif are required for the lysosomal and melanosomal targeting of OA1
Authors: Piccirillo Rosanna , Palmisano Ilaria , Innamorati Giulio , Bagnato Paola , Altimare Domenico , Schiaffino Maria Vittoria
Published: April 2006

The protein product of the gene responsible for ocular albinism type 1, named OA1, is a pigment-cell-specific membrane glycoprotein, displaying features of G-protein-coupled receptors, yet exclusively localized to late endosomes, lysosomes and melanosomes. To dissect the signals responsible for the intracellular localization of OA1, we generated chimeric proteins consisting of the cytosolic domains of OA1 fused to the lumenal and transmembrane domains of LAMP1; in addition, we generated missense and deletion mutants of full-length OA1. Using this approach, we identified two separate sorting signals that are both necessary and sufficient for intracellular retention, as well as lysosomal and melanosomal localization, in melanocytic and non-melanocytic cells. These sorting signals are an unconventional dileucine motif within the third cytosolic loop and a novel motif, characterized by a tryptophan-glutamic acid doublet, within the C-terminal tail. Both motifs must be mutated to promote the plasma membrane localization of OA1, suggesting that they can independently drive its intracellular targeting. In addition, both motifs act similarly as lysosomal sorting signals in non-melanocytic cells, but appear to carry different specificities in melanocytic cells. Our findings indicate that OA1 contains multiple unconventional signals responsible for its lysosomal and melanosomal localization, and reveal a remarkable and unforeseen complexity in the regulation of polytopic protein sorting to specialized secretory organelles.
Novel Cyclization Reaction by Tandem Michael Addition -Dieckmann Condensation Using Stannyl Anion Generated from Bu3SnSiMe3 and F−
Authors: Honda Takahiro , Mori Miwako
Published: April 2006

A novel cyclization reaction was developed using stannyl anion generated from Bu3SnSiMe3 and TASF (Et3S+Me3SiF2−). The reaction product was converted to the allylstannane, which was a useful intermediate for the synthesis of biologically active substances.
DNA Intercalators Bearing Metal Chelating Moiety. Ternary Complexes of Polyamine Containing Anthraquinone Derivative-DNA-Cu(II) and Its DNA Cleavage Activity
Authors: Ihara Toshihiro , Inenaga Akiko , Takagi Makoto
Published: April 2006

Polyamine-linked DNA-intercalators formed stable ternary complexes with Cu(II) and ds-DNA, some of which induced the chain cleavage of ds-DNA. The reactivity was related to the stereochemical features of the complexes.
Enzyme Electrode for Hydrogen Peroxide Using a New Enzyme-Immobilization “Polymer-Enzyme Aggregate”
Authors: Ohki Akira , Naka Kensuke , Ito Osamu , Maeda Shigeru
Published: April 2006

An enzyme electrode for hydrogen peroxide was developed with the aid of an easy and effective enzyme-immobilization. The enzyme electrode was made by holding an aggregate of a self-assembled amphiphilic block copolymer 1 and catalase on an oxygen electrode by use of microporous acetylcellulose membranes. The response of the electrode was linear between 4 × 10−6 – 4 × 10−4 M of hydrogen peroxide and remained unchanged after 50 days with over 150 measurements.
Fluoride Ion-Promoted Reaction of Polyfluoro-1-propenyl p-Toluenesulfonate with Amines. Highly Efficient and General Access to (Z)-α-Fluoro-β-amino Acrylaldehydes
Authors: Funabiki Kazumasa , Ohtsuki Tetsuya , Ishihara Takashi , Yamanaka Hiroki
Published: April 2006

2,3,3-Trifluoro-1-propenyl p-toluenesulfonate, readily available by dehydrofluorination of 2,2,3,3-tetrafluoropropyl p-toluenesulfonate, reacted smoothly with various primary or secondary amines in the presence of triethylamine and a catalytic amount of fluoride ion at ambient temperature for 3 h or at 70 °C for 1–2 h to afford the corresponding (Z)-α-fluoro-β-(alkylamino- or -dialkylamino)acrylaldehydes in good to excellent yields, together with the formation of p-toluenesulfonyl fluoride.
Enantioselective Hydrogenation of (E)-α-Phenylcinnamic Acid over Cinchonidine-Modified Palladium Catalysts
Authors: Nitta Yuriko , Ueda Yoshiyuki , Imanaka Toshinobu
Published: April 2006

Prochiral (E)-α-phenylcinnamic acid was hydrogenated enantioselectively over alumina- and titania-supported Pd catalysts modified with cinchonidine giving optical yields of 36.9% and 44.4%, respectively, in favor of (S)-(+)-2,3-diphenylpropionic acid. The influence of solvent on the optical yield was significant; a water containing solvent gave the best result.
Reversal of Stereoselectivity in the Aldol Reaction of Boron Enolate Derived from Oppolzer’s Sultam with α,α-Difluoro and α,α,α-Trifluoro Carbonyl Compounds
Authors: Iseki Katsuhiko , Oishi Satoshi , Kobayashi Yoshiro
Published: April 2006

Hexafluoroacetone causes the complete reversal of stereochemistry in the aldol reaction of boron enolate derived from Oppolzer’s sultam in the absence of Lewis acids such as TiCl4. Trifluoroacetaldehyde and 2,2-difluoro-5-phenyl-1-pentanal cause partial reversal, giving a mixture of syn- and anti-aldols. This finding was extended to reactions of the boron enolate with phenylglyoxal and ethyl glyoxylate.
Relationship between Spectral Hole Burning and Stokes Shift of Organic Dyes in Polymer Systems
Authors: Suzuki Taro , Ikemoto Makoto , Machida Shinjiro , Vacha Martin , Horie Kazuyuki , Yamashita Takashi
Published: April 2006

Several organic dyes were studied both by fluorescence spectroscopy and by persistent spectral hole burning spectroscopy. The chromophores realizing spectral hole formation at 20 K have small Stokes shift approximately less than 103 cm−1. It ascertains that the small Stokes shift related to the existence of appreciable zero-phonon line would be a requisite for the spectral hole formation of the chromophore. The realization of hole formation by using poly(vinyl alcohol) or photoreactive matrices for the chromophores which have appreciable zero-phonon line but don’t undergo light-induced chemical or conformational change is also discussed.
Confirmation of Anaerobic Poly(2-oxepanone) Degrading Microorganisms in Environments
Authors: Nishida Haruo , Tokiwa Yutaka
Published: April 2006

Anaerobic and ecological biodegradability of poly(2-oxepanone):poly(ε-caprolactone)(PCL) in different environments was estimated by the clear-zone method with anaerobic roll tube containing emulsified PCL. It was ascertained that PCL is degraded by anaerobic microorganisms and that anaerobic PCL-degrading microorganisms distribute considerably over natural environments.
Synthesis of a Common Main Skeleton of Thiostrepton Peptide Antibiotics, A10255G and J
Authors: Shin Chung-gi , Okumura Kazuo , Ito Akio , Nakamura Yutaka
Published: April 2006

The synthesis of a common main skeleton of thiostrepton peptides, A10255G and J, containing a few kinds of unusual amino acids is described.
Highly Stereocontrolled Construction of 3-Alkoxyazetidin-2-ones Using Ester Enolate-Imine Condensation
Authors: Shimizu Makoto , Ishida Takenori , Fujisawa Tamotsu
Published: April 2006

Diastereoselective addition reaction of the enolate of α-alkoxyacetates to a chiral imine possessing (4S,5S)-4,5-dimethoxymethyl-2-methyl-1,3-dioxolane ring as a chiral auxiliary could be controlled by the enolate metals, the ester parts, and the alkoxy groups. Addition of the titanium enolate provided (3R,4S)-3-alkoxyazetidin-2-one exclusively, while the corresponding (3R,4R)-isomer was obtained predominantly by the condensation using the zinc enolate of t-butyl α-benzyloxy-, phenoxy-, or t-butoxyacetate with the chiral imine.
Effects of Synthetic Polyanions on 3T3-L1 Fibroblast Proliferation Stimulated by Fibroblast Growth Factors
Authors: Hatanaka Kenichi , Ohtsuki Takashi , Kunou Megumi
Published: April 2006

Effects of synthetic polyanions on the mitogenic activity of fibroblast growth factors were investigated. Poly(vinylsulfonate) contributed to potentiate the activity of the acidic fibroblast growth factor, while the carboxyl group was quite effective for basic fibroblast growth factor.
A Total Synthesis of (±)-Sativene via High-Pressure Diels-Alder Route
Authors: Hatsui Toshihide , Hashiguchi Tomokazu , Takeshita Hitoshi
Published: April 2006

Sativene, a metabolite of Helminthosporium sativum or Abies magnifica, was synthesized in the racemic form from 2,3-dimethyl-1,3-cyclohexadiene and methyl coumalate via an inversely-electron-demanded high-pressure Diels-Alder reaction in five steps.
Simultaneous Multielement Analysis of Rock Samples by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry Using Discrete Microsampling Technique
Authors: Fujimori Eiji , Sawatari Hideyuki , Hirose Akio , Haraguchi Hiroki
Published: April 2006

Simultaneous multielement analysis of geological standard rock samples (JG-1 and JB-2) has been successfully performed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry using a discrete microsampling technique. In this technique only 100 μl sample solution was used for simultaneous determination of 5–10 elements in solution.
Characterization of High Valent Iron Porphyrin in Catalytic Reaction by Iron(III) Tetrapentafluorophenylporphyrin
Authors: Fujii Hiroshi
Published: April 2006

High valent species formed from iron(III) meso-tetra-(pentafluorophenyl)porphyrin was first prepared in dichloromethane and characterized by low-temperature UV-vis absorption spectra, proton NMR and ESR. These measurements showed the formation of oxo iron(IV) porphyrin π-cation radical, not iron(V) porphyrin.
27Al NMR Study of Coordination States of Aluminum-tri-sec-butoxide Dissolved in Diacetone Alcohol
Authors: Tadanaga Kiyoharu , Minami Tsutomu , Tohge Noboru
Published: April 2006

27Al NMR spectra of aluminum-tri-sec-butoxide (Al(O-sec-Bu)3) dissolved in several molar ratios of diacetone alcohol were measured. The spectrum of Al(O-sec-Bu)3 dissolved in diacetone alcohol showed the formation of five-coordinated structural units from original four-coordinated ones. This structural change revealed that diacetone alcohol chemically modified the Al-alkoxide and reduced the reactivity of the alkoxide.
Conjugated Molecular System of Photochromism and Electrochromism. Photoelectrochemical Behavior of Nitrospirobenzopyran at Low Temperature
Authors: Zhi Jin-Fang , Baba Ryo , Hashimoto Kazuhito , Fujishima Akira
Published: April 2006

1,3,3-trimethyl-6-nitrospiro(2H-1-benzopyran-2,2′-indoline) in DMF at −42 °C was found to constitute a new “three state” photoelectrochemical molecular system. This behavior is attributed to having a common species produced from either photoinduced open-ring or closed-ring isomers by electron transfer, namely, a radical anion of the closed-ring by reduction and an open-ring isomer by oxidation.
New Method for the Preparation of Alkoxycarbene Complexes of Chromium, Molybdenum, and Tungsten Using Sulfonium Salts
Authors: Nakamura Takako , Matsuyama Haruo , Iyoda Masahiko
Published: April 2006

Alkylation of tetramethylammonium acylate complexes of chromium, molybdenum, and tungsten with alkyldiphenylsulfonium salts readily proceeds under mild conditions to afford alkoxycarbene complexes containing a variety of functional groups in good yields.
Formation of Dithioacetals by Treatment of Sulfoxides Carrying α-Hydrogens with Magnesium Amides
Authors: Kobayashi Kazuhiro , Kawakita Masataka , Mannami Tohru , Morikawa Osamu , Konishi Hisatoshi
Published: April 2006

Sulfoxides carrying α-hydrogens were allowed to react with magnesium amides generated in situ by the treatment of ethylmagnesium bromide with secondary amines such as 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine or diisopropylamine in diethyl ether to give the corresponding dithioacetals in moderate to good yields.
Isomerization of the (Z)-Enyne Unit to the (E)-Enyne Unit. Conversion of Laureatin to (E)-Isolaureatin
Authors: Ishihara Jun , Kanoh Naoki , Fukuzawa Akio , Murai Akio
Published: April 2006

The (Z)-enyne compound bearing the acetylene part protected with dicobalt octacarbonyl, derived from laureatin, was reacted with trifluoromethanesulfonic acid to afford exclusively the corresponding (E)-derivative related to (E)-isolaureatin.
Chiral Lattice-Controlled Asymmetric Photoisomerization of (2-Cyanoethyl)cobaloximes in the Solid State
Authors: Ohgo Yoshiaki , Arai Yoshifusa , Hagiwara Mieko , Takeuchi Seiji , Kogo Hidenori , Sekine Akiko , Uekusa Hidehiro , Ohashi Yuji
Published: April 2006

Solid-state asymmetric photoisomerization of 2-cyanoethylcobaloxime complexes occurred to afford optically active 1-cyanoethylcobaloxime complexes with moderate to high enantioselectivities (∼82%ee). The X-ray crystal structure analysis of (R)-2-phenylglycinol-coordinated complex revealed that the 2-cyanoethyl group is forced to take a chiral conformation by chiral crystal lattice. The enantioselection mechanism is also discussed based on the X-ray results.
Atomic Force Microscopy of Glass Surface Modified with Silane Coupling Agent Containing Fluorocarbon Chain
Authors: Yoshino Norio
Published: April 2006

Atomic force microscopic (AFM) data of glass surface modified with silane coupling agent containing fluorocarbon chain, (1H,1H,2H,2H-henicosafluorododecyl)trimethoxysilane, were obtained. Fluorocarbon chains on the modified glass surface were found to stand close together. Double- or triple-layer of the silane on the modified surface was observed mainly near the border between modified- and unmodified-area.
Fulgenates. A New Class of Fulgide-Related Thermally Irreversible Photochromic System
Authors: Yokoyama Yasushi , Sugiyama Kazuhiro , Yamada Shintaro , Takimoto Hitoshi , Kurita Yukio
Published: April 2006

Thermally irreversible photochromic properties of indolylfulgenates, i.e. 2-alkylidene-3-[1-(1,2-dimethyl-3-indolyl)alkylidene]succinate esters were examined. A large indolylalkylidene group reduced the relative ratio of the colored species at the photostationary state of UV irradiation. Introduction of an adamantylidene group increased the bleaching quantum yield. The absorption maximum wavelengths of the colorless and colored species were shorter than those of the corresponding indolylfulgide.
Synthesis and Properties of 1,2:5,6-Bis(ethylenedithio)pyracylene
Authors: Tani Hiroyuki , Masumoto Kazunori , Azuma Nagao , Ono Noboru
Published: April 2006

A novel π-donor, 1,2:5,6-bis(ethylenedithio)pyracylene (2), was prepared by dithioacetalization of 1,5-pyracenedione with 1,2-ethanedithiol followed by ring expansion on treatment with tellurium tetrachloride. 2 showed two reversible low oxidation potentials by cyclic voltammetry. Single crystal X-ray analysis of 2 revealed unique three dimensional donor networks.
Brodioside B, a Novel (20R,22S)-Spirostanol Tetrasaccharide from Brodiaea californica Tubers
Authors: Nakamura Osamu , Mimaki Yoshihiro , Sashida Yutaka , Nikaido Tamotsu , Ohmoto Taichi
Published: April 2006

A novel (20R,22S)-spirostanol tetrasaccharide, named brodioside B, was isolated from Brodiaea californica together with a new (25S)-ruscogenin tetrasaccharide, named brodioside A. Their structures were determined by extensive 2D NMR analysis and hydrolysis. Brodiosides A and B were active as a cyclic AMP phosphodiesterase inhibitor.
Correlation between Regiospecific Dioxygen Incorporation into 2,6-Di-tert-butylphenols and Their Redox Potential
Authors: Nishinaga Akira , Yano Masafumi , Kuwashige Tomoyoshi , Maruyama Kazushige , Mashino Takahiro
Published: April 2006

The position of O2 incorporation into 2,6-di-tert-butylphenols in the presence of Co(salpr) is correlated to redox potential Eo (mV) of phenolate anion/phenoxy radical couple: Eo > −645, ortho position; Eo < −650, para position. No phenoxy radical intermediate is involved for the oxygenation of the phenolate anion with Eo > −645 Å mV.
The Formation of 1,4-Quinones by Oxovanadium(IV)-Complexes Catalyzed Aerobic Oxygenation of Fused Aromatic Compounds
Authors: Takai Toshihiro , Hata Eiichiro , Mukaiyama Teruaki
Published: April 2006

In the presence of a catalytic amount of oxovanadium(IV) complexes coordinated with 1,3-diketone ligands, fused aromatic compounds such as naphthalenes and naphthol derivatives are smoothly oxygenated into the corresponding 1,4-naphthoquinones by combined use of molecular oxygen and crotonaldehyde under an atmospheric pressure.
Flocculation of Egg-Phosphatidylcholine Liposomes under Drift Flow Brought on Gravity
Authors: Matsumura Hideo
Published: April 2006

Flocculation behavior of large egg-phosphatidylcholine liposomes caused by Ca2+ under the influence of gravitational force due to the density difference between liposomes and medium has been studied. The greater the difference in density, the more closely packed are the structures or the flocs obtained.
An Efficient Epoxidation with Molecular Oxygen Catalyzed by Iron Complex of Multidentate N-Heterocyclic Podand Ligand. Additive Effect of 4-Ethoxycarbonyl-3-methyl-2-cyclohexen-1-one
Authors: Moriuchi Toshiyuki , Hirao Toshikazu , Ohshiro Yoshiki , Ikeda Isao
Published: April 2006

Coexistence of 4-ethoxycarbonyl-3-methyl-2-cyclohexen-1-one facilitated the epoxidation reaction of styrenes with molecular oxygen catalyzed by FeCl2 and the multidentate N-heterocyclic podand ligand, N,N′-bis{2-(4-imidazolyl)ethyl}-2,6-pyridinedicarboxamide.
A New Family of Liquid Crystals with Low Melting Points. 4-(trans-4-Alkylcyclohexyl)-alkylbenzenes
Authors: Sugita Nami , Araya Kotaro
Published: April 2006

Four homologues of 4-(trans-4-alkylcyclohexyl)-alkylbenzene were prepared and their liquid crystal properties were investigated. These homologues comprise an interesting and useful family of nematic liquid crystals with melting points below 0 °C. Eutectic mixture of these four compounds gave a stable nematic phase at temperatures between −22.8 and −50.2 °C.
Linkages between Solar Activity and Climatic Responses
Authors: Alexander William J. R. , Emeritus William J. R.
Published: April 2006

Statistically significant 21-year periodicity is present concurrently in South African annual rainfall, river flow, flood peak maxima, groundwater levels, lake levels and the Southern Oscillation Index. This is directly related to the double sunspot cycle. The first years of the periodic sequences are characterised by sudden, regular and therefore predictable, reversals from sequences of well below average rainfall and river flow (droughts) that are suddenly broken by sequences of well above average events (floods). These reversals are directly related to corresponding six-fold increases in sunspot activity at this time. The two sunspot cycles that comprise the double sunspot cycle also have fundamentally different effects on the hydrometeorological responses. These observations are solidly based and will require a re-assessment of the nature of the solar activity that gives rise to them.