bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A newborn with overlapping features of AEC and EEC syndromes
Authors: Celik Tolga Hasan , Buyukcam Ayse , Simsek‐Kiper Pelin Ozlem , Utine Gulen Eda , Ersoy‐Evans Sibel , Korkmaz Ayse , Yntema Helger G. , Bodugroglu Koray , Yurdakok Murat
Published: November 2011

Ectrodactyly, ectodermal dysplasia, clefting (EEC) syndrome is the prototype of several p63 conditions, which include ankyloblepharon, ectodermal dysplasia, clefting (AEC) syndrome, limb‐mammary syndrome (LMS), Rapp‐Hodgkin syndrome (RHS), ADULT syndrome, and others. All these disorders include combinations of ectodermal dysplasia, orofacial clefting and limb malformations in variable severity. A newborn patient is presented with diffuse erythematous and desquamating skin lesions and anal atresia. She also had sparse and lightly colored thin hair, deeply set eyes, hypoplastic alae nasi, and a short philtrum. Cleft lip/palate and ankyloblepharon were not present. Complete cutaneous syndactyly was present on both hands in between the third and fourth fingers. Mild ectrodactyly was evident on all four extremities in between first and second digits. There was post‐axial polydactyly on both feet. Anal atresia was present and defecation occurred through a rectovaginal fistula. The patient represented an interesting overlapping clinical condition between AEC and EEC syndromes. Diffuse skin lesions with excoriation and desquamation suggest AEC syndrome, despite the absence of ankyloblepharon, however; ectrodactyly and polydactyly strongly suggest the EEC syndrome. C308Y mutation in exon 8 of TP63 gene was detected, which was previously described to lead only to EEC syndrome and not to any of the other allelic conditions. These data emphasize the large degree of clinical variability that may be seen for specific TP63 mutations. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Coronary artery disease in a Werner syndrome‐like form of progeria characterized by low levels of progerin, a splice variant of lamin A
Authors: Hisama Fuki M. , Lessel Davor , Leistritz Dru , Friedrich Katrin , McBride Kim L. , Pastore Matthew T. , Gottesman Gary S. , Saha Bidisha , Martin George M. , Kubisch Christian , Oshima Junko
Published: November 2011

Classical Hutchinson–Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) is caused by LMNA mutations that generate an alternatively spliced form of lamin A, termed progerin. HGPS patients present in early childhood with atherosclerosis and striking features of accelerated aging. We report on two pedigrees of adult‐onset coronary artery disease with progeroid features, who were referred to our International Registry of Werner Syndrome (WS) because of clinical features consistent with the diagnosis. No mutations were identified in the WRN gene that is responsible for WS, among these patients. Instead, we found two novel heterozygous mutations at the junction of exon 10 and intron 11 of the LMNA gene. These mutations resulted in the production of progerin at a level substantially lower than that of HGPS. Our findings indicate that LMNA mutations may result in coronary artery disease presenting in the fourth to sixth decades along with short stature and a progeroid appearance resembling WS. The absence of early‐onset cataracts in this setting should suggest the diagnosis of progeroid laminopathy. This study illustrates the evolving genotype–phenotype relationship between the amount of progerin produced and the age of onset among the spectrum of restrictive dermopathy, HGPS, and atypical forms of WS. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Split hand‐split foot‐ectodermal dysplasia and amelogenesis imperfecta with a TP63 mutation
Authors: Kantaputra Piranit N. , Matangkasombut Oranart , Sripathomsawat Warissara
Published: November 2011

We report on a mother and son who were affected with split hand‐split foot (formerly described as ectrodactyly), ectodermal dysplasia, hyperpigmentation of skin, and dystrophic nails. Their hair was wiry, brownish, and slow‐growing. Scanning electron micrography of their scalp hair showed hypoplastic hair bulbs, partial loss of hair cuticles, and frayed hair shafts. The son was affected with amelogenesis Imperfecta (hypocalcification, hypoplasia, and hypomaturation types), in the primary and permanent dentition. An unerupted supernumerary maxillary second premolar and fusion of mandibular incisors were observed in the primary dentition and their permanent successors. Mutation analysis showed a c.588‐2A > C mutation in TP63 in the mother and her son. It is predicted that an alternative splice site was used, specifically the AG located just three nucleotides upstream. Use of this site is predicted to include three extra nucleotides in the transcript and thus incorporation of a single extra amino acid (p.Thr195_Tyr196insPro). This is the first time that amelogenesis imperfecta, fusion of teeth, and a supernumerary premolar have been shown to be associated with a TP63 mutation. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of knowledge complementation grouping strategy for cooperative learning on online performance and learning achievement
Authors: Jong Bin‐Shyan , Chen Chien‐Ming , Chan Te‐Yi , Lin Tsong‐Wuu , Hsia Yen‐Teh
Published: November 2011

One of the major goals of learning is to obtain knowledge and skills. It is therefore of importance to study the following issues: how the online performances of learners may be extracted from their learning portfolios, how their learning motivations can be improved, and whether their learning achievements can be improved as a result. This study extracts online performances from portfolios and shows that there is a positive correlation between online performance and learning achievement. Subjects of the experimental group were teamed by complementation of knowledge, whereas subjects of the control group were teamed by random. Final ANOVA tests showed that there was a significant difference in both online performances and learning achievements. Subjects of the experimental group were better motivated due to complementation of knowledge; this in turn resulted in better online performances and learning achievements for these subjects.Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 22:541–550, 2014; View this article online atwileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/cae; DOI10.1002/cae.10.1002/cae.20579
Copper(II)‐Catalyzed Hydrosilylation of Ketones Using Chiral Dipyridylphosphane Ligands: Highly Enantioselective Synthesis of Valuable Alcohols
Authors: Yu Feng , Zhou Ji‐Ning , Zhang Xi‐Chang , Sui Yao‐Zong , Wu Fei‐Fei , Xie Lin‐Jie , S. C. Chan Albert , Wu Jing
Published: November 2011

In the presence of PhSiH3 as the reductant, the combination of enantiomeric dipyridylphosphane ligands and Cu(OAc)2⋅H2O, which is an easy‐to‐handle and inexpensive copper salt, led to a remarkably practical and versatile chiral catalyst system. The stereoselective formation of a selection of synthetically interesting β‐, γ‐ or δ‐halo alcohols bearing high degrees of enantiopurity (up to 99.9 % enantiomeric excess (ee)) was realized with a substrate‐to‐ligand molar ratio (S/L) of up to 10 000. The present protocol also allowed the hydrosilylation of a diverse spectrum of alkyl aryl ketones with excellent enantioselectivities (up to 98 % ee) and exceedingly high turn‐over rates (up to 50 000 S/L molar ratio in 50 min reaction time) in air, under very mild conditions, which offers great opportunities for the preparation of various physiologically active targets. The synthetic utility of the chiral products obtained was highlighted by the efficient conversion of optically enriched β‐halo alcohols into the corresponding styrene oxide, β‐amino alcohol, and β‐azido alcohol, respectively.
Computational Study of Bond Dissociation Enthalpies for Substituted β‐O‐4 Lignin Model Compounds
Authors: Younker Jarod M. , Beste Ariana , Buchanan A. C.
Published: November 2011

The biopolymer lignin is a potential source of valuable chemicals. Phenethyl phenyl ether (PPE) is representative of the dominant β‐O‐4 ether linkage. DFT is used to calculate the Boltzmann‐weighted carbon–oxygen and carbon–carbon bond dissociation enthalpies (BDEs) of substituted PPE. These values are important for understanding lignin decomposition. Exclusion of all conformers that have distributions of less than 5 % at 298 K impacts the BDE by less than 1 kcal mol−1. We find that aliphatic hydroxyl/methylhydroxyl substituents introduce only small changes to the BDEs (0–3 kcal mol−1). Substitution on the phenyl ring at the ortho position substantially lowers the CO BDE, except in combination with the hydroxyl/methylhydroxyl substituents, for which the effect of methoxy substitution is reduced by hydrogen bonding. Hydrogen bonding between the aliphatic substituents and the ether oxygen in the PPE derivatives has a significant influence on the BDE. CCSD(T)‐calculated BDEs and hydrogen‐bond strengths of ortho‐substituted anisoles, when compared with M06‐2X values, confirm that the latter method is sufficient to describe the molecules studied and provide an important benchmark for lignin model compounds.
OTX2 and CRX rescue overlapping and photoreceptor‐specific functions in the Drosophila eye
Authors: Terrell David , Xie Baotong , Workman Michael , Mahato Simpla , Zelhof Andrew , Gebelein Brian , Cook Tiffany
Published: November 2011

Background: Otd‐related transcription factors are evolutionarily conserved to control anterior patterning and neurogenesis. In humans, two such factors, OTX2 and CRX, are expressed in all photoreceptors from early specification through adulthood and associate with several photoreceptor‐specific retinopathies. It is not well understood how these factors function independently vs. redundantly, or how specific mutations lead to different disease outcomes. It is also unclear how OTX1 and OTX2 functionally overlap during other aspects of neurogenesis and ocular development. Drosophila encodes a single Otd factor that has multiple functions during eye development. Using the Drosophila eye as a model, we tested the ability of the human OTX1, OTX2, and CRX genes, as well as several disease‐associated CRX alleles, to rescue the different functions of Otd. Results: Our results indicate the following: OTX2 and CRX display overlapping, yet distinct subfunctions of Otd during photoreceptor differentiation; CRX disease alleles can be functionally distinguished based on their rescue properties; and all three factors are able to rescue rhabdomeric photoreceptor morphogenesis. Conclusions: Our findings have important implications for understanding how Otx proteins have subfunctionalized during evolution, and cement Drosophila as an effective tool to unravel the molecular bases of photoreceptor pathogenesis. Developmental Dynamics 241:215–228, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) acts as a potent mucosal adjuvant for HIV‐1 gp140 vaccination in mice
Authors: Van Roey Griet A. , Arias Mauricio A. , Tregoning John S. , Rowe George , Shattock Robin J.
Published: November 2011

The development of a successful vaccine against HIV is likely to require the induction of strong and long‐lasting humoral immune responses at the mucosal portal of virus entry. Hence, the design of a vaccine strategy able to induce mucosal antibodies and in particular specific IgA, may be crucial to providing immune protection. Nasal immunisation is known to induce specific IgG and IgA responses in the cervicovaginal mucosa; however, there is an urgent need for the development of safe, effective and accessible mucosal adjuvants for nasal application in humans. To reduce the potential for adverse events associated with some nasal adjuvants, we have assessed whether the B‐cell‐activating cytokines APRIL, BAFF and TSLP enhance humoral immune responses to HIV‐1 gp140. Following intranasal immunisation, TSLP but not APRIL or BAFF induced strong humoral responses both in serum and mucosa. The adjuvant effect of TSLP on humoral responses was similar to that of cholera toxin (CT). The use of TSLP as an adjuvant skewed both the cellular and humoral immune responses towards Th2 cells. This is the first time that TSLP has been demonstrated to have a positive effect as a mucosal adjuvant, and specifically to promote mucosal and systemic responses to HIV gp140.
Constraints for monocyte‐derived dendritic cell functions under inflammatory conditions
Authors: Fekete Tünde , Szabo Attila , Beltrame Luca , Vivar Nancy , Pivarcsi Andor , Lanyi Arpad , Cavalieri Duccio , Rajnavölgyi Eva , Rethi Bence
Published: November 2011

The activation of TLRs expressed by macrophages or DCs, in the long run, leads to persistently impaired functionality. TLR signals activate a wide range of negative feedback mechanisms; it is not known, however, which of these can lead to long‐lasting tolerance for further stimulatory signals. In addition, it is not yet understood how the functionality of monocyte‐derived DCs (MoDCs) is influenced in inflamed tissues by the continuous presence of stimulatory signals during their differentiation. Here we studied the role of a wide range of DC‐inhibitory mechanisms in a simple and robust model of MoDC inactivation induced by early TLR signals during differentiation. We show that the activation‐induced suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 (SOCS1), IL‐10, STAT3, miR146a and CD150 (SLAM) molecules possessed short‐term inhibitory effects on cytokine production but did not induce persistent DC inactivation. On the contrary, the LPS‐induced IRAK‐1 downregulation could alone lead to persistent MoDC inactivation. Studying cellular functions in line with the activation‐induced negative feedback mechanisms, we show that early activation of developing MoDCs allowed only a transient cytokine production that was followed by the downregulation of effector functions and the preservation of a tissue‐resident non‐migratory phenotype.
Immunization induces activation of bone marrow eosinophils required for plasma cell survival
Authors: Chu Van T. , Berek Claudia
Published: November 2011

Eosinophils not only have multiple functions as effector cells of the innate immune system but also as modulators of immune responses. As producers of cytokines required for plasma cell survival, they are essential for the long‐term maintenance of plasma cells in the BM. Here we show that the activation of eosinophils both in vitro and in vivo enhances the expression of the plasma cell survival factors APRIL, IL‐6, IL‐4, IL‐10 and TNF‐α. The in vivo activation of eosinophils was independent of the type of adjuvant used for primary immunization. Although eosinophils were activated by adjuvant itself, a stable activation and a constant increase in BM eosinophils were observed only in the presence of antigen. Thus, the numbers and the quality of eosinophils were dependent on priming the adaptive immune system. With secondary immunization and re‐activation of antigen‐dependent memory cells, the ability of eosinophils to promote plasma cell survival was further increased. These findings suggest that in T‐cell‐dependent immune responses eosinophils are conditioned to support the long‐term survival of plasma cells in the BM, and furthermore imply that through accelerated numbers of eosinophils, stable plasma cell survival niches are established and the long‐term survival of plasma cells is ensured.
Virus‐like particles induce robust human T‐helper cell responses
Authors: Braun Marion , Jandus Camilla , Maurer Patrik , Hammann‐Haenni Anya , Schwarz Katrin , Bachmann Martin F. , Speiser Daniel E. , Romero Pedro
Published: November 2011

Among synthetic vaccines, virus‐like particles (VLPs) are used for their ability to induce strong humoral responses. Very little is reported on VLP‐based‐vaccine‐induced CD4+ T‐cell responses, despite the requirement of helper T cells for antibody isotype switching. Further knowledge on helper T cells is also needed for optimization of CD8+ T‐cell vaccination. Here, we analysed human CD4+ T‐cell responses to vaccination with MelQbG10, which is a Qβ‐VLP covalently linked to a long peptide derived from the melanoma self‐antigen Melan‐A. In all analysed patients, we found strong antibody responses of mainly IgG1 and IgG3 isotypes, and concomitant Th1‐biased CD4+ T‐cell responses specific for Qβ. Although less strong, comparable B‐ and CD4+ T‐cell responses were also found specific for the Melan‐A cargo peptide. Further optimization is required to shift the response more towards the cargo peptide. Nevertheless, the data demonstrate the high potential of VLPs for inducing humoral and cellular immune responses by mounting powerful CD4+ T‐cell help.
Structural Studies and Cytotoxicity of Trimethyl(ferrocenylmethyl)ammonium Iodide Encapsulated in β‐Cyclodextrin (Eur. J. Inorg. Chem. 32/2011)
Authors: Bruno Sofia M. , Fernandes José A. , Marques Joana , Neto Sara C. , Ribeiro‐Claro Paulo J. , Pillinger Martyn , Paz Filipe A. Almeida , Marques Maria Paula M. , Braga Susana S. , Gonçalves Isabel S.
Published: November 2011

The cover picture shows the structural model of an inclusion complex isolated after co‐dissolution of β‐cyclodextrin and trimethyl(ferrocenylmethyl)ammonium iodide in ethanol/water. A combination of crystallography and theoretical calculations showed that β‐cyclodextrin molecules form dimers stacked into infinite channels that accommodate the guest cations inside. The pure guest and the inclusion compound are cytotoxic against the breast adenocarcinoma cell line MDA‐MB‐231 but exhibit negligible activity on the osteosarcoma MG‐63 cell line. Details are discussed in the article by S. S. Braga, I. S. Gonçalves et al. on p. 4955 ff.
Rapid microparticle patterning by enhanced dielectrophoresis effect on a double‐layer electrode substrate
Authors: Cheng Wei , Li Si‐Zhe , Zeng Qian , Yu Xiao‐Lei , Wang Yu , Chan Helen Lai Wah , Liu Wei , Guo Shi‐Shang , Zhao Xing‐Zhong
Published: November 2011

We present a feasible dielectrophoresis (DEP) approach for rapid patterning of microparticles on a reusable double‐layer electrode substrate in microfluidics. Simulation analysis demonstrated that the DEP force was dramatically enhanced by the induced electric field on top interdigitated electrodes. By adjusting electric field intensity through the bottom electrodes on thin glass substrate (100 μm), polystyrene particles (10 μm) were effectively patterned by top electrodes within several seconds (<5 s). The particle average velocity can reach a maximum value of about 20.0±3.0 μm/s at 1 MHz with the strongest DEP force of 1.68 pN. This approach implements integration of functional electrodes into one substrate and avoids direct electrical connection to biological objects, providing a potential lab‐on‐chip system for biological applications.
Dynamic Thermal, Transport and Mechanical Model of Fuel Cell Membrane Swelling
Authors: Silverman T. J. , Meyers J. P. , Beaman J. J.
Published: November 2011

When polymer electrolyte membrane materials are exposed to liquid water, they swell and distort. This frustrates the process of depositing liquid catalyst ink directly onto the membrane. We present a model predicting the transient compositional, thermal, and mechanical response of a membrane undergoing changes in water content. The model describes coupled heat and mass transfer and solid mechanics and is capable of describing the large changes in size and shape exhibited by a swelling membrane. Simulation results are presented for sorption and desorption and for the process of drying a saturated piece of membrane with an aqueous coating applied. We suggest that the well‐established discrepancy in the rate of sorption and desorption may be partially due to pressure‐driven diffusion effects absent in other models but present in ours. We also demonstrate that the model can represent the transient curling behavior of a membrane undergoing nonuniform changes in water content. The model will later be used to predict manufacturing defects caused by swelling‐induced wrinkling.
XIAP protects oligodendrocytes against cell death in vitro but has no functional role in toxic demyelination
Authors: Rena Hesse Amke , Hagemeier Karin , Lürbke Alexander , Held Jasmin , Friedman Hana , Peterson Alan , Brück Wolfgang , Kuhlmann Tanja
Published: November 2011

Oligodendroglial damage and loss are typical characteristics of demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS) and the leukodystrophies. Axonal loss is the underlying cause of permanent neurological deficits in MS and it is thought to arise from a combination of immune‐mediated axonal damage and the loss of trophic support to axons from myelin sheaths after demyelination. Prevention of oligodendroglial damage or death and demyelination are therefore attractive neuroprotective treatment strategies. However, a better understanding of mechanisms leading to oligodendroglial damage and demyelination is a prerequisite for the development of such treatment options. Here, we demonstrate that X‐linked inhibitor of apoptosis (XIAP), the most potent member of the inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAP) family is expressed in oligodendrocytes in vivo and in vitro. Increased expression of XIAP is associated with protection against selected cell death pathways, whereas decreased expression increases oligodendroglial cell death in vitro. However, lack of XIAP does not modulate oligodendroglial cell death in toxic demyelination in vivo. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Magnetic field‐induced acceleration of the accumulation of magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles by cultured brain astrocytes
Authors: Lamkowsky Marie‐Christin , Geppert Mark , Schmidt Maike M. , Dringen Ralf
Published: November 2011

Magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe‐NPs) are considered for various biomedical and neurobiological applications that involve the presence of external magnetic fields. However, little is known on the effects of a magnetic field on the uptake of such particles by brain cells. Cultured brain astrocytes accumulated dimercaptosuccinate‐coated Fe‐NP in a time‐, temperature‐, and concentration‐dependent manner. This accumulation was strongly enhanced by the presence of the magnetic field generated by a permanent neodymium iron boron magnet that had been positioned below the cells. The magnetic field‐induced acceleration of the accumulation of Fe‐NP increased almost proportional to the strength of the magnetic field applied, increasing the cellular‐specific iron content from an initial 10 nmol/mg protein within 4 h of incubation at 37°C to up to 12,000 nmol/mg protein. However, presence of a magnetic field also increased the amounts of iron that attached to the cells during incubation with Fe‐NP at 4°C. These results suggest that the presence of an external magnetic field promotes in cultured astrocytes both the binding of Fe‐NP to the cell membrane and the internalization of Fe‐NP. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2012.
Blood platelet adhesion to printed von Willebrand factor
Authors: Davydovskaya Polina , Janko Marek , Gaertner Florian , Ahmad Zerkah , Simsek Özlem , Maßberg Steffen , Stark Robert W.
Published: November 2011

Von Willebrand factor (vWF), a glycoprotein in blood, mediates the adhesion of blood platelets and thus plays a crucial role in hemostasis and thrombosis. Functional coating of surfaces with vWF allows the investigation of in vitro adhesion of blood platelet. We used soft lithography to create a functional patterned substrate. vWF was printed on plasma‐treated glass and mica surfaces, producing elongated network‐like fibril structures. A minimum layer thickness of 3 nm was observed, corresponding to the height of a monolayer of vWF. The stability of the patterns was verified in a laminar fluid flow, and the bioactivity of the structures was tested with platelet adhesion experiments. Platelets adhered to and spread on printed vWF. These results indicate that printed vWF substrates are stable and functional in typical perfusion experiments, and thus provide a useful tool for studying thrombus formation in vitro. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2012.
Micropatterned agarose scaffolds covalently modified with collagen for culture of normal and neoplastic hepatocytes
Authors: Au Angela Y. , Hasenwinkel Julie M. , Frondoza Carmelita G.
Published: November 2011

Anchorage‐dependent cells including hepatocytes, the main functional cellular constituent comprising liver tissue, require a substrate for cell adhesion when cultured outside their native tissue. The challenge with hepatocyte culture is that material substrates and designs supporting hepatocyte attachment, phenotype, and function are not readily available. Our laboratory previously published that type I collagen found in the liver extracellular matrix supports hepatocyte culture. We hypothesized that micropatterned agarose with a coating of collagen covalently bound to the surface would facilitate hepatocyte adhesion and phenotype. To test this hypothesis, primary canine hepatocytes and neoplastic human HepG2 hepatocellular carcinoma cells were cultured on these substrates. Hepatocyte adhesion was dependent on the cell type and also the micropattern design. Viable normal and neoplastic hepatocytes attached to the microchannel troughs rather than on the ridges. In contrast, hepatocyte adhesion on the microcircular patterns was similar to control agarose as cells did not sense differences in surface topology on these substrates. Neoplastic cells exhibited a distinct difference in growth behavior following 7 days in culture on the microchannel patterns, exhibiting aberrant proliferation relative to normal hepatocytes which did not proliferate. Our results suggest that patterned microchannel agarose may be useful to evaluate hepatoprotective and noxious agents. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2012.
Optimization of poly(ε‐caprolactone) surface properties for apatite formation and improved osteogenic stimulation
Authors: Choong Cleo , Yuan Shaojun , Thian Eng San , Oyane Ayako , Triffitt James
Published: November 2011

A biodegradable polymer with surface properties that promotes cell attachment and host integration is widely recognized as a useful three‐dimensional construct for bone tissue engineering applications. In this work, studies were carried out to correlate surface properties of modified polycaprolactone (PCL) films with cell‐material interactions. PCL film substrates were subjected to various degrees of chemical hydrolysis using different pretreatment solutions to introduce different densities of carboxylate groups onto the surfaces. The extent of hydrolysis on the films was optimized to allow the deposition of a dense and uniform bone‐like apatite layer by an alternate soak treatment, followed by subsequent incubation in simulated body fluid (SBF). The hydrolyzed and apatite‐coated PCL films were investigated using scanning electron microscopy, thin film X‐ray diffractometer (TF‐XRD), water contact angle, and Alizarin red staining. Surface wettability, roughness, and chemistry of various PCL substrates were correlated with cell attachment, proliferation, viability, and alkaline phosphatase activity. Results demonstrated that cell attachment increased with increasing surface hydrophilicity and roughness. The apatite‐coated films showed significantly improved surface wettability and enhanced surface roughness, which subsequently led to better cell attachment potential, high‐cell viability, and enhanced bone formation capability. Thus, surface modification with an apatite coating layer is a promising approach for enhancing the efficacy of the polymeric scaffold for bone tissue engineering applications. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2012.
Fabrication of protein micropatterns using a functional substrate with convertible protein‐adsorption surface properties
Authors: Yamazoe Hironori
Published: November 2011

A functional substrate capable of regulating protein adsorption was prepared using a crosslinked albumin (cl‐albumin) film for use in the fabrication of protein micropatterns. The adsorption of proteins with different characteristics onto cl‐albumin film, including serum proteins, serum albumin, and lysozyme, was investigated using a quartz crystal microbalance. The results showed that surfaces coated with cl‐albumin film are highly resistant to protein adsorption, regardless of protein charge and rigidity. In addition, this adsorption‐resistance property can be easily converted to promote protein adsorption by exposing the cl‐albumin film to a charged polymer solution. By combining the convertible surface property of cl‐albumin film and inkjet printing techniques, a precise protein micropattern was successfully fabricated on the substrate. Protein adsorption onto the wall surface of microchannels could also be suppressed or promoted by coating the surface with cl‐albumin film. This approach will aid in the development of biomaterials carrying protein micropatterns, such as biosensors, biochips, and cellular scaffolds. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2012.
In vivo magnetic resonance imaging tracking of SPIO‐labeled human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Hu Sheng‐Li , Lu Pei‐Gang , Zhang Li‐Jun , Li Fei , Chen Zhi , Wu Nan , Meng Hui , Lin Jiang‐Kai , Feng Hua
Published: November 2011

Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC‐MSCs) can be efficiently labeled by superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) nanoparticles, which produces low signal intensity on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in vitro. This study was to evaluate the feasibility of in vivo tracking for hUC‐MSCs labeled by SPIO with noninvasive MRI. SPIO was added to cultures at concentrations equivalent to 0, 7, 14, 28, and 56 µg Fe/ml (diluted with DMEM/F12) and incubated for 16 h. Prussian Blue staining was used to determinate the labeling efficiency. Rats were randomly divided into three groups, control group, hUC‐MSCs group, and SPIO‐labeled hUC‐MSCs group. All groups were subjected to spinal cord injury (SCI) by weight drop device. Rats were examined for neurological function. In vivo MRI was used to track SPIO‐labeled hUC‐MSCs transplanted in rats spinal cord. Survival and migration of hUC‐MSCs were also explored using immunofluorescence. Significant improvements in locomotion were observed in the hUC‐MSCs groups. There was statistical significance compared with control group. In vivo MRI 1 and 3 weeks after injection showed a large reduction in signal intensity in the region transplanted with SPIO‐labeled hUC‐MSCs. The images from unlabeled hUC‐MSCs showed a smaller reduction in signal intensity. Transplanted hUC‐MSCs engrafted within the injured rats spinal cord and survived for at least 8 weeks. In conclusion, hUC‐MSCs can survive and migrate in the host spinal cord after transplantation, which promote functional recovery after SCI. Noninvasive imaging of transplanted SPIO‐labeled hUC‐MSCs is feasible. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 1005–1012, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Triptolide attenuate the oxidative stress induced by LPS/D‐GalN in mice
Authors: Lu Yan , Bao Xiaofeng , Sun Tingzhe , Xu Jiafa , Zheng Wei , Shen Pingping
Published: November 2011

Triptolide, a diterpene triepoxide, is one of the major components of most functional extracts of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook f, which is known to have various biological effects, including immunosuppressive, anti‐inflammatory and anti‐tumor functions. We studied the inhibitory effect of triptolide on endotoxemia (ETM)‐induced oxidative stress, which was induced in C57BL/6 mice by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and D‐galactosamine (D‐GalN). Pretreatment with triptolide decreased the reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, mortality rate and liver injury after LPS/D‐GalN injection. We utilized comprehensive proteomics to identify alterations in liver protein expression during pretreatment with triptolide or N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) after LPS/D‐GalN injection, 44 proteins were found to be related to oxidative stress, mitochondria, metabolism and signal transduction, and 23 proteins of them seemed to be significantly up‐ or down‐regulated. Furthermore, both triptolide and NAC inhibited activation of c‐jun NH2‐terminal kinases (JNK) and mitogen‐activated protein kinase p38 (p38), phosphorylation of inhibitor of nuclear factor‐kappa B (IκB) and activation of nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB). These results demonstrated that triptolide inhibited the activation of JNK and p38 by decreasing ROS levels, which in turn inhibited the hepatic injury. In addition, we set and validated the phosphorylation model of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) and proposed that triptolide probably induced ERK phosphorylation through inhibiting its dephosphorylation rates. These results showed that triptolide can effectively reduce the oxidative stress and partially rescue the damage in the liver induced by LPS/D‐GalN. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 1022–1033, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Characterization and optimization of a simple, repeatable system for the long term in vitro culture of aligned myotubes in 3D
Authors: Smith A.S.T. , Passey S. , Greensmith L. , Mudera V. , Lewis M.P.
Published: November 2011

Increased recent research activity in exercise physiology has dramatically improved our understanding of skeletal muscle development and physiology in both health and disease. Advances in bioengineering have enabled the development of biomimetic 3D in vitro models of skeletal muscle which have the potential to further advance our understanding of the fundamental processes that underpin muscle physiology. As the principle structural protein of the extracellular matrix, collagen‐based matrices are popular tools for the creation of such 3D models but the custom nature of many reported systems has precluded their more widespread adoption. Here we present a simple, reproducible iteration of an established 3D in vitro model of skeletal muscle, demonstrating both the high levels of reproducibility possible in this system and the improved cellular architecture of such constructs over standard 2D cell culture techniques. We have used primary rat muscle cells to validate this simple model and generate comparable data to conventional established cell culture techniques. We have optimized culture parameters for these cells which should provide a template in this 3D system for using muscle cells derived from other donor species and cell lines. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 1044–1053, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Microarray‐based identification of aminopeptidase N target genes in keratinocyte conditioned medium‐stimulated dermal fibroblasts
Authors: Lai Amy , Ghaffari Abdi , Li Yunyuan , Ghahary Aziz
Published: November 2011

Of the many processes that affect the outcome of wound repair, epidermal–dermal interactions are essential to extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and in particular, soluble factors released by keratinocytes are known to have a direct impact on the production of ECM by dermal fibroblasts. Aminopeptidase N (APN) has recently been proposed as a cell‐surface receptor for stratifin and is responsible for the stratifin‐mediated matrix metalloproteinase‐1 (MMP‐1) upregulation in fibroblasts. The present study examines whether modulation of APN gene expression has any impact on the fibroblast ECM gene expression profile. The result reveals that in the presence of keratinocyte‐derived soluble factors, transient knockdown of APN in dermal fibroblasts affects the expression of key ECM components such as fibronectin, tenascin‐C, MMP‐1, MMP‐3, and MMP‐12. The regulatory effects of APN on fibronectin and selective MMPs appear to be associated with receptor‐mediated signal transduction independently of its peptidase activity. On the contrary, inhibition of the APN enzymatic activity by bestatin significantly reduces the tenascin‐C expression and enhances the contraction of fibroblast‐populated collagen gel, suggesting an activity‐dependent regulation of fibroblast contractility by APN. The overall effects of APN on the expression of fibronectin, tenascin‐C, and MMPs in fibroblasts propose an important role for APN in the regulation of keratinocyte‐mediated ECM remodeling and fibroblast contractile activity. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 1061–1068, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Simultaneous nitrification and denitrification with electricity generation in dual‐cathode microbial fuel cells
Authors: Zhang Fei , He Zhen
Published: November 2011

BACKGROUND: Nitrogen removal using microbial fuel cells (MFCs) is of great interest owing to the potential benefits of bioenergy production. In this study, simultaneous nitrification and denitrification in dual‐cathode MFCs was investigated.

RESULTS: The dual‐cathode MFCs investigated were capable of generating electricity and removing nitrogen, influenced by operating methods, nitrogen loading rates and external resistance. Depending on the ammonium concentration in the anode chamber, 84–97% of the ammonium nitrogen was removed via nitrification in the aerobic cathode. The removals of nitrate and total nitrogen were relatively low (∼50%) at the influent ammonium concentration of 80 mg NH4+‐N L−1, but were significantly improved to more than 90% at a lower ammonium input (40 and 20 mg NH4+‐N L−1). When the electrode couples were electrically connected for different purposes, with high power output from the anode/aerobic cathode and high current generation from the anode/anoxic cathode, nitrogen removal was also improved. An investigation of aeration suggested that factors other than carbon supply, possibly inefficient reactor configuration, also limited the performance of the developed MFC.

CONCLUSION: The experimental results demonstrated that the proposed pathway was feasible with effective nitrogen and organic removal. This study provided valuable information for the further development of a continuously operated dual‐cathode MFC system. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Analysis of the interface and bond strength of resin‐based endodontic cements to root dentin
Authors: Haragushiku Gisele Aihara , Teixeira Cleonice Silveira , Furuse Adilson Yoshio , Sousa Yara Terezinha Silva , De Sousa Neto Manoel Damião , Silva Ricardo Gariba
Published: November 2011

This study evaluated by scanning electron microscopy the interface between root dentin and resin cements, with or without additional application of a dual‐cured one‐step self‐etching dentin adhesive. In addition, the push‐out bond strength of these materials to dentin was evaluated. Root canals of 50 maxillary human canines were subjected to biomechanical preparation and randomly assigned into five groups (n = 10) according to the obturation employed: I. AH Plus/gutta‐percha; II. Endo‐REZ/gutta‐percha; III. Epiphany SE/Resilon; IV. Endo‐REZ/gutta‐percha + adhesive; and V. Epiphany SE/Resilon + adhesive. After obturation, two cross sections of 1.0 mm of each third of the root were obtained and analyzed by SEM and push‐out. Data were analyzed by Kruskal–Wallis, Two‐way ANOVA and Tukey's HSD tests (α = 5%). Significant differences occurred between scores for gap parameters and tags; greater tag formation resulted for Epiphany SE (P < 0.05). There were also significant differences between groups for the bond strength. AH Plus (1.24 ± 0.70) showed higher values (P < 0.05) compared to groups II (0,17 ± 0.19), III (0.10 ± 0.06), IV (0.09 ± 0.08), and V (0.06 ± 0.03), which were statistically similar (P > 0.05). There was no significant difference between the root thirds (P > 0.05). It was concluded that the use of a self‐etching adhesive system did not improve the adhesion of resin‐based sealers to dentin and that AH Plus showed better bond strength when compared to other cements. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Quantitative 3D imaging of yeast by hard X‐ray tomography
Authors: Zheng Ting , Li Wenjie , Guan Yong , Song Xiangxia , Xiong Ying , Liu Gang , Tian Yangchao
Published: November 2011

Full‐field hard X‐ray tomography could be used to obtain three‐dimensional (3D) nanoscale structures of biological samples. The image of the fission yeast, Schizosaccharomyces pombe, was clearly visualized based on Zernike phase contrast imaging technique and heavy metal staining method at a spatial resolution better than 50 nm at the energy of 8 keV. The distributions and shapes of the organelles during the cell cycle were clearly visualized and two types of organelle were distinguished. The results for cells during various phases were compared and the ratios of organelle volume to cell volume can be analyzed quantitatively. It showed that the ratios remained constant between growth and division phase and increased strongly in stationary phase, following the shape and size of two types of organelles changes. Our results demonstrated that hard X‐ray microscopy was a complementary method for imaging and revealing structural information for biological samples. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Peri‐operative chemotherapy for resectable colorectal liver metastasis: Does timing of systemic therapy matter?
Authors: Pinto Marques Hugo , Barroso Eduardo , de Jong Mechteld C. , Choti Michael A. , Ribeiro Vasco , Nobre Ana Marta , Carvalho Carlos , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: November 2011

Background

The benefit of pre‐operative chemotherapy in patients with resectable colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) remains ill defined. We sought to evaluate the impact of peri‐operative systemic chemotherapy timing on outcome following resection of CRLM.

Methods

676 patients who underwent surgery for CRLM were identified from two hepatobiliary center databases. Data were collected and analyzed utilizing multivariate, matched, and propensity‐score analyses.

Results

Median number of metastases was 2 and median tumor size was 3.3 cm. 334 patients (49.4%) received pre‐operative chemotherapy while 342(50.6%) did not. Surgical treatment was resection only (n = 555; 82.1%; minor hepatectomy, n = 399; 59.1%). While there was no difference in morbidity following minor liver resection (pre‐operative chemotherapy: 17.9% versus no pre‐operative chemotherapy: 16.5%; P = 0.72), morbidity was higher after major hepatic resection (pre‐operative chemotherapy: 23.1% versus no pre‐operative chemotherapy: 14.2%; P = 0.06). Patients treated with pre‐operative chemotherapy had worse 5‐year survival (43%) as compared to patients not treated with pre‐operative chemotherapy (55%)(P = 0.009). Controlling for baseline characteristics, pre‐operative chemotherapy was not associated with outcome on multivariate (HR = 1.04, P = 0.87) or propensity‐score analysis (HR = 1.40, P = 0.12).

Conclusion

Pre‐operative chemotherapy was associated with a trend toward increased morbidity among patients undergoing a major hepatic resection. Receipt of pre‐operative chemotherapy was associated with neither an advantage nor disadvantage in terms of long‐term survival. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012; 105:511–519. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Clinical efficacy of paclitaxel/cisplatin as an adjuvant chemotherapy for patients with cervical cancer who underwent radical hysterectomy and systematic lymphadenectomy
Authors: Hosaka Masayoshi , Watari Hidemichi , Kato Tatsuya , Odagiri Tetsuji , Konno Yousuke , Endo Daisuke , Mitamura Takashi , Kikawa Satomi , Suzuki Yoshihiro , Sakuragi Noriaki
Published: November 2011

Background and Objectives

The aim of this study was to compare the clinical efficacy of paclitaxel/cisplatin (TP) as an adjuvant chemotherapy to adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) after radical hysterectomy and systematic lymphadenectomy for patients with cervical cancer.

Methods

A total of 125 patients with early‐stage cervical cancer, who underwent radical hysterectomy, and received adjuvant therapy due to recurrent risk factors were retrospectively analyzed. Forty‐nine patients were treated with RT, and 32 received paclitaxel/cisplatin (TP) for three to six cycles at 4‐week interval. Survival and postoperative complications were compared between two modalities.

Results

There was no significant difference of 3‐year disease‐free survival between two groups (P = 0.23), while significantly better 3‐year overall survival in TP group than RT group (P = 0.02). Seven of 32 patients (21.9%) treated with adjuvant TP, 16 of 49 patients (32.7%) treated with RT showed disease recurrence. Median of survival time after recurrence in RT group and TP group was 8.5 months, 12.0 months, respectively. Postoperative bowel obstruction was significantly more frequent in the RT group compared to the TP group (P = 0.01).

Conclusions

Postoperative chemotherapy using TP might be more beneficial for survival than adjuvant RT and can reduce postoperative complications for cervical cancer patients treated with radical hysterectomy. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012; 105:612–616. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A retrospective analysis of sea turtle nest depredation patterns
Authors: Welicky Rachel L. , Wyneken Jeanette , Noonburg Erik G.
Published: November 2011

Nest predation can significantly reduce hatchling recruitment in sea turtle populations. We examined 20 yr of data from Canaveral National Seashore, Florida, which has pristine and altered beaches. We used chi‐squared test to determine if secondary predation events were related to the nests' primary predation events, and proportional hazard regression analysis to determine the relative risk of individual nest predation. To determine if human beach use and nest predation risk were spatially or temporally linked, we ranked human beach use and examined predation frequency across all screened and marked nests. We found that once a nest has experienced predation it has an increased likelihood of experiencing a subsequent predation event when compared to other nests on the beach. Primary and multiple predation events occurred with greater frequency in limited beach use areas and with lowest frequency in moderate use areas. Predation risk decreased by an average of 29.5% from 2000 to 2008, relative to the initial year of study. Nests deposited mid‐season were 9.8% more likely to be predated than early or late season nests. We conclude that where anti‐nest predator management efforts are required but restricted (e.g., by funds, available personnel, or multiple management goals) resources should be concentrated to protect mid‐season nests and those in limited access areas, if enhancing hatchling numbers is a management goal. © 2012 The Wildlife Society.
Variation in spring harvest rates of male wild turkeys in New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania
Authors: Diefenbach Duane R. , Casalena Mary Jo , Schiavone Michael V. , Reynolds Michael , Eriksen Robert , Vreeland Wendy C. , Swift Bryan , Boyd Robert C.
Published: November 2011

Spring harvest rates of male wild turkeys (Meleagris gallapavo) influence the number and proportion of adult males in the population and turkey population models have treated harvest as additive to other sources of mortality. Therefore, hunting regulations and their effect on spring harvest rates have direct implications for hunter satisfaction. We used tag recovery models to estimate survival rates, investigate spatial, temporal, and demographic variability in harvest rates, and assess how harvest rates may be related to management strategies and landscape characteristics. We banded 3,266 male wild turkeys throughout New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania during 2006–2009. We found little evidence that harvest rates varied by year or management zone. The proportion of the landscape that was forested within 6.5 km of the capture location was negatively related to harvest rates; however, even though the proportion forested ranged from 0.008 to 0.96 across our study area, this corresponded to differences in harvest rates of only 2–5%. Annual survival was approximately twice as high for juveniles $({\hat {S}} = 0.64- 0.87)$ as adults $({\hat {S}} = 0.30- 0.41)$. In turn, spring harvest rates for adult turkeys were greater for adults $({\hat {H}} = 0.35- 0.39)$ than juveniles $({\hat {H}} = 0.17- 0.27)$. We estimated the population of male turkeys in New York and Pennsylvania ranged from 104,000 to 132,000 in all years and ranged from 63,000 to 75,000 in Ohio. Because of greater harvest rates for adult males, the proportion of adult males in the population was less than in the harvest and ranged from 0.40 to 0.81 among all states and years. The high harvest rates observed for adults may be offset by greater recruitment of juveniles into the adult age class the following year such that these states can sustain high harvest rates yet still maintain a relative high proportion of adult males in the harvest and population. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.