bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
S‐cone connections of the diffuse bipolar cell type DB6 in macaque monkey retina
Authors: Lee Sammy C.S. , Jusuf Patricia R. , Grünert Ulrike
Published: May 2004

Previous studies of primate retinae have shown that diffuse bipolar (DB) cells contact all the cones in their dendritic field, suggesting there is no spectral selectivity in the functional input to DB cells. However, since short‐wavelength sensitive (S) cones make up less than 10% of the total cone population, specialized connectivity with S‐cones is difficult to detect. In the present study, the S‐cone connectivity of a subtype of DB cells, the DB6 cell, was studied in macaque monkey retina. Pieces of macaque retina were processed with antibodies to CD15 to stain DB6 cells and antibodies to the S‐cone opsin to identify S‐cones. Immunoreactivity was visualized using immunoperoxidase or immunofluorescence. Some preparations were additionally processed with peanut agglutinin coupled to fluorescein to reveal medium‐ and long‐wavelength sensitive (M/L) cones. The preparations were analyzed using conventional and deconvolution light microscopy. The majority of DB6 cells had one or two S‐cones in their dendritic field and the majority of S‐cones were located in the dendritic field of DB6 cells. On average, 80% of the S‐cones and 81% of the M/L cones contacted DB6 cells. The average number of dendritic terminals at cone pedicles did not differ between the cone types. However, the total number of DB6 dendritic terminals receiving input from M/L‐cone pedicles was about eight times higher than the total number of dendritic terminals at S‐cone pedicles. In conclusion, DB6 cells make indiscriminate contact with all cone types, but receive their major input from M/L‐cones and thus carry a “Yellow‐ON” spectral signal. J. Comp. Neurol. 474:353–363, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Wood photography using light irradiation and heat treatment
Authors: Mitsui Katsuya , Murata Akihiro , Tsuchikawa Satoru , Kohara Mitsuhiro
Published: May 2004

To apply the coloring method using light irradiation and thermal treatment to print photographs on wood, the effect of the transmittance of negative films was investigated. ΔE* decreased with light irradiation when specimens covered with films with transmittances exceeding 20% were irradiated for 100 h. It was thought that this phenomenon was due to the decrease in Δb*. The color of light‐irradiated wood changed remarkably with thermal treatment; however, the change in the color of exposed specimens covered with films with transmittances exceeding roughly 20% became constant. Clear photographs could be printed on wood using negative films with transmittances less than approximately 20%. Furthermore, the difference between the maximum and minimum values of ΔE* after thermal treatment was about 22. Humans can distinguish four to seven colors that can be created by this method. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 29, 312–316, 2004; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/col.20027
Quantification of EGFP expression on Molt‐4 T cells using calibration standards
Authors: Gerena‐López Y. , Nolan J. , Wang L. , Gaigalas A. , Schwartz A. , Fernández‐Repollet E.
Published: May 2004

Background

Enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) is used extensively to assess gene expression on cells; however, quantification of this expression by flow cytometry has been limited by the unavailability of calibration standards. Thus, we characterized the response of an experimental set of EGFP calibration standards to environmental changes and then quantitate the expression of EGFP, in molecules of equivalent soluble fluorochrome (MESF) units, of a transfected Molt‐4 T cell line by flow cytometry.

Methods

Characterization of the EGFP standards: EGFP standards were equilibrated in suspension solutions having a pH range of 5.0–9.0, temperatures of 37–80°C, and osmolalities of 100–600 mOsm/kg. Quantification of EGFP on cells: For transfections, Molt‐4 T cells were incubated with two different concentrations (0.2 μg and 0.4 μg) of pEGFP‐N2 vector and the EGFP expression was quantified after 48 h by flow cytometry using the EGFP standards and by the cytofluor technique using a standard curve of known EGFP solutions.

Results

The fluorescence intensity of the EGFP standards increased from pH 5.0 to 9.0 and remained relatively constant from 37°C to 65°C, and from 100 to 600 mOsm/kg. After transfection, the expression of the populations with high and low EGFP expression averaged 8,098 ± 584 MESF and 3,808 ± 375 MESF respectively. No significant differences were observed after comparing the MESF values obtained by flow cytometry and the values obtained by Cytofluor technique (high: 8,791 ± 492 MESF; low: 4,082 ± 398 MESF).

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate the feasibility of using calibration standards to quantify EGFP expression on cells. Our results emphasize the importance of monitoring the effects of environmental changes in the fluorescence intensity of both standards and samples when quantifying the expression of EGFP on living cells. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Recent Advances in the Mitsunobu Reaction: Modified Reagents and the Quest for Chromatography‐Free Separation
Authors: Dembinski Roman
Published: May 2004

Recent progress in synthetic approaches to the Mitsunobu reaction are reviewed. Efforts that have focused on the phase‐switching modifications of phosphane, azodicarboxylate, and nucleophilic components are emphasized. An approach to product separation with fluorous compounds is reviewed in detail. Alternative reagents and recently introduced products are cited. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2004)
Volatile constituents of satsuma mandarins growing in Korea
Authors: Choi Hyang‐Sook
Published: May 2004

The volatile ﬂavour components from cold‐pressed peel oils (CPOs) of three varieties of Korean satsuma mandarin (Citrus unshiu Marcov. var. Miyamoto; C. unshiu Marcov. var. Miyagawa‐wase; and C. unshiu Marcov. var. Aoshima) were analysed by GC, GC–MS and GC–olfactometry (GC–O). One hundred and sixteen volatile components were identiﬁed in this study by instrumental analyses, and 51 components were detected by snifﬁng test using GC–O. Limonene (82.8–89.2%) was the most abundant component in these samples, followed by γ‐terpinene (4.2–5.1%) and myrcene (1.7%). β‐Caryophyllene was the principal sesquiterpene hydrocarbon, its content in C. unshiu Marcov. var. Miyamoto being higher than in other varieties. The CPOs of the three satsuma mandarin varieties can easily be distinguished by the percentages of aldehydes, alcohols, ketones, esters and oxides. The sweet and fruity ﬂavour was stronger in C. unshiu Marcov. var. Miyamoto, while the herbaceous ﬂavour was stronger in C. unshiu Marcov. var. Miygawa‐wase and var. Aoshima. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Epoxidation–cyclization of rosewood oxides
Authors: Bombarda Isabelle , Cezanne Lionel , Gaydou Emile M.
Published: May 2004

The epoxidation reaction of linalool by MCPBA led to two furanoid oxides (35.7 and 37.0%), known as rosewood oxides, two pyranoid oxides (2.4 and 1.9%) and four rosewood epoxide derivatives. Reaction with BF3‐MeOH of the epoxidized cis‐furanoid oxide allowed the isolation of a new bicyclic compound [2‐(methoxymethyl)‐1,4,4‐trimethyl‐3,8‐dioxabicyclo(3.2.1)octane], whereas the epoxidized trans‐furanoid oxide led to a new monocyclic diol methoxy ether [2‐(1‐hydroxy‐2‐methoxyethyl)‐5‐(1‐hydroxy‐1‐methylethyl)‐2‐methyltetrahydrofuran]. 2D‐NMR analyses were used for structure determination. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Composition of seeds and stems essential oils of Pituranthos scoparius (Coss. & Dur.) Schinz
Authors: Vérité P. , Nacer A. , Kabouche Z. , Seguin E.
Published: May 2004

The composition of the essential oils of stems and seeds of Pituranthos scoparius was determined by GC–MS. Almost 50 compounds were identiﬁed. In the seed oil, the main compounds were α‐pinene (8.2%), β‐pinene (4.6%), p‐cymene (7.5%), limonene (11.2%), thymol (5.9%), myristicin (11.1%) and dill apiole (12.2%); in the stem oil, the main compounds were α‐pinene (6.8%), α‐phellandrene (7.1%), limonene (9.8%), methyl eugenol (5.6%) germacrene D (12.7%), myristicin (7.2%), spathulenol (4.5%) and β‐eudesmol (4.1%). Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Solid phase microextraction/gas chromatographic and olfactory analysis of the scent and ﬁxative properties of the essential oil of Rosa damascena L. from China
Authors: Jirovetz Leopold , Buchbauer Gerhard , Stoyanova Albena , Balinova Anastasia , Guangjiun Zhang , Xihan Ma
Published: May 2004

The composition of the essential oil and the SPME‐headspace volatiles of Rosa damascena L. (Rosaceae) from China were investigated by gas chromatographic–spectroscopic (GC–FID and GC–MS) and olfactoric methods to identify those compounds responsible for the characteristic, pleasant ﬂoral odour of these valuable, high‐priced ﬂower oils. Monoterpenes especially were found to be fragrance target compounds, while additionally some aliphatic hydrocarbons will have ﬁxative effects and therefore are responsible for a longer‐lasting odour impression (tested by olfactory evaluation after application to human skin) of this rose oil. The main compounds [concentration higher than 3.0%; calculated as %‐peak area of GC–FID analyses using a polar (carbowax) column] of the 71 totally identiﬁed constituents of the two rose samples are as follows: Chinese rose oil: citronellol (30.71%), nonadecane (16.95%), geraniol (16.11%), nerol (7.57%), heneicosane (7.04%) and 9‐eicosene (4.71%); and SPME‐headspace of the Chinese rose oil: citronellol (37.05%), geraniol (18.62%), nerol (9.91%) and methyl eugenol (3.56%). A correlation of the identiﬁed constituents of the two rose oil samples with their single odour impressions is also given and the signiﬁcant change of the composition of the SPME‐headspace samples after rose oil application on human skin discussed. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Composition and antimicrobial activity of Achillea clavennae and Achillea holosericea essential oils
Authors: Stojanović G. , Asakawa Y. , Palić R. , Radulović N.
Published: May 2004

The composition of the essential oils of Achillea clavennae and Achillea holosericea were analyzed by GC/MS. The main constituting compounds of the A. clavennae essential oil were camphor (41.9%) and 1,8‐cineole (22.5%), while the most abundant compounds in the A. holosericea oil were borneol (30.2%) and camphor (14.8%). The antibacterial activity of the oil of A. clavennae was tested for the ﬁrst time. Both examined oils showed strong activity against all tested microorganisms (Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger). Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Expression of the low‐affinity neurotrophin receptor, p75NTR, is upregulated by oligodendroglial progenitors adjacent to the subventricular zone in response to demyelination
Authors: Petratos Steven , Gonzales Michael F. , Azari Michael F. , Marriott Mark , Minichiello Rebecca A. , Shipham Kylie A , Profyris Christos , Nicolaou Antonis , Boyle Kristy , Cheema Surindar S. , Kilpatrick Trevor J.
Published: May 2004

Precursor cells have the capacity to repopulate the demyelinated brain, but the molecular mechanisms that facilitate their recruitment are largely unknown. The low‐affinity neurotrophin receptor, p75NTR, may be one of these regulators; however, its expression profile by oligodendroglia within the multiple sclerosis (MS) brain remains uncertain. We therefore assessed the expression profile of this receptor within 8 MS and 4 control brains. We found no evidence of expression of p75NTR by mature oligodendrocytes. Instead, we demonstrated the presence of p75NTR on a subgroup of NG2‐positive oligodendroglial progenitors in a periventricular plaque in one MS sample. Notably, p75NTR‐expressing cells were also detected within the subventricular zone (SVZ) of this brain, adjacent to the periventricular plaque. In animals with experimental demyelination we observed similar patterns of p75NTR expression, initially confined to precursor cells within the SVZ, followed at later stages in the disease course by its expression amongst a subset of oligodendroglial progenitors within the corpus callosum. These data suggest that a population of precursor cells within the SVZ can be induced to express p75NTR and to subsequently assume an oligodendroglial progenitor phenotype in response to demyelination in the adjacent white matter. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Evaluation of an image‐guided, robotically positioned transcranial magnetic stimulation system
Authors: Lancaster Jack L. , Narayana Shalini , Wenzel Dennis , Luckemeyer James , Roby John , Fox Peter
Published: May 2004

The emergence of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) as a tool for investigating the brain has been remarkable over the past decade. While many centers are now using TMS, little has been done to automate the delivery of planned TMS stimulation for research and/or clinical use. We report on an image‐guided robotically positioned TMS system (irTMS) developed for this purpose. Stimulation sites are selected from functional images overlaid onto anatomical MR images, and the system calculates a treatment plan and robotically positions the TMS coil following that plan. A new theory, stating that cortical response to TMS is highest when the induced E‐field is oriented parallel to cortical columns, is used by the irTMS system for planning the position and orientation of the TMS coil. This automated approach to TMS planning and delivery provides a consistent and optimized method for TMS stimulation of cortical regions of the brain. We evaluated the positional accuracy and utility of the irTMS system with a B‐shaped TMS coil. Treatment plans were evaluated for sites widely distributed about a head phantom with well‐defined landmarks. The overall accuracy in positioning the planned site of the TMS coil was approximately 2 mm, similar to that reported for the robot alone. The estimated maximum range of error in planned vs. delivered E‐field strength was +4%, suggesting a high degree of accuracy and reproducibility in the planned use of the irTMS system. Hum. Brain Mapping 22:329–340, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Distinct LIM domains of Hic‐5/ARA55 are required for nuclear matrix targeting and glucocorticoid receptor binding and coactivation
Authors: Guerrero‐Santoro Jennifer , Yang Lan , Stallcup Michael R. , DeFranco Donald B.
Published: May 2004

Hydrogen peroxide‐inducible clone‐5 (Hic‐5), belongs to the group III LIM domain protein family and contains four carboxyl‐terminal LIM domains (LIM1–LIM4). In addition to its role in focal adhesion signaling, Hic‐5 acts in the nucleus as a coactivator for some steroid hormone receptors such as the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and androgen receptor (AR). Based upon its effect on AR transactivation, Hic‐5 has also been designated as ARA55. Here, we report mapping studies of Hic‐5/ARA55 functional domains and establish that LIM3 and LIM4 are necessary for maximal effects on GR transactivation. However, results from yeast two‐hybrid assays demonstrated that these two LIM domains together, while necessary, are not sufficient to interact with the tau2 transactivation domain of GR. LIM4 also functions as a nuclear matrix targeting sequence (NMTS) for Hic‐5/ARA55, as it is both necessary and sufficient to target a heterologous protein to the nuclear matrix. Thus, as suggested from previous analysis of LIM domain‐containing proteins, separate but highly related LIM domains serve distinct functions. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Structural and functional characteristics of S1P receptors
Authors: Sanchez Teresa , Hla Timothy
Published: May 2004

The sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P) family of G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCR) regulates essential cellular processes such as proliferation, migration, cytoskeletal organization, adherens junction assembly, and morphogenesis. S1P, a product from the breakdown of sphingomyelin, binds to the five members of this receptor family, S1P1, S1P2, S1P3, S1P4, and S1P5, previously referred to as endothelial differentiation gene (EDG)‐1, ‐5, ‐3, ‐6, and ‐8. S1P receptors are widely expressed in different tissues, so it is not surprising that the S1P receptor family regulates many physiological processes, such as vascular maturation, cardiac development, lymphocyte trafficking, and vascular permeability. FTY720, a new S1P receptor agonist, is undergoing clinical trials as an immunosuppressor. Understanding the physiological role of these receptors and the basics of the ligand‐receptor interaction will potentially provide new therapies to control a variety of diseases. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A 32 kDa protein—whose phosphorylation correlates with oncogenic Ras‐induced cell cycle arrest in activated Xenopus egg extracts—is identified as ribosomal protein S6
Authors: Pian Jerry Pinghwa , Huang Tun‐Lan , Tsai Pei‐Chi , Shi Jian‐Peng , Cu Hong , Pan Bin‐Tao
Published: May 2004

Oncogenic Ras induces cell‐cycle arrest in mammalian cells and in fertilized Xenopus eggs. How oncogenic Ras induces cell‐cycle arrest remains unclear. We previously showed that oncogenic Ras induces cell‐cycle arrest in activated Xenopus egg extracts (cycling extracts) and that the induced cell‐cycle arrest correlates with hyperphosphorylation of a 32 kDa protein. However, the identity of the 32 kDa protein was not known. By using a sucrose density‐gradient centrifugation, Triton X‐100–acetic acid–urea (TAU)‐gel electrophoresis, composite agarose‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (CAPAGE), SDS–PAGE, and partial tryptic peptide sequence analysis, the 32 kDa protein has now been identified as S6, a 40S subunit ribosomal protein. Hence, our results indicate that the oncogenic Ras‐induced cell‐cycle arrest is correlated with hyperphosphorylation of S6, suggesting that phosphorylation of S6 plays an important role in the induced cell‐cycle arrest. It has been shown that conditional deletion of gene encoding S6 in mammalian cells prevents proliferation, demonstrating the importance of S6 in cell proliferation. The exact role S6 plays in cell proliferation is unclear. However, phosphorylation of S6 has been implicated in the regulation of protein synthesis. Thus, our results are consistent with the concept that oncogenic Ras induces S6 phosphorylation to influence protein synthesis, thereby contributing to the cell‐cycle arrest. In addition, our results also demonstrate that composite agarose‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis is suitable for the separation of large molecular complexes. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hepatitis C virus replication in stably transfected HepG2 cells promotes hepatocellular growth and tumorigenesis
Authors: Sun Bill S. , Pan Jingbo , Clayton Marcy M. , Liu Jie , Yan Xiaoping , Matskevich Alexey A. , Strayer David S. , Gerber Michael , Feitelson Mark A.
Published: May 2004

HepG2 cells stably transfected with a full‐length, infectious hepatitis C virus (HCV) cDNA demonstrated consistent replication of HCV for more than 3 years. Intracellular minus strand HCV RNA was present. Minus strand synthesis was NS5B dependent, and was sensitive to interferon alpha (IFNα) treatment. NS5B and HCV core protein were detectable. HCV stimulated HepG2 cell growth and survival in culture, in soft agar, and accelerated tumor growth in SCID mice. These mice became HCV RNA positive in blood, where the virus was also sensitive to IFNα. The RNA banded at the density of HCV, and was resistant to RNase prior to extraction. Hence, HCV stably replicates in HepG2 cells, stimulates hepatocellular growth and tumorigenesis, and is susceptible to IFNα both in vitro and in vivo. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Adenosine stimulation of proliferation of breast carcinoma cell lines: Evaluation of the [3H]thymidine assay system and modulatory effects of the cellular microenvironment in vitro
Authors: Mujoomdar Michelle , Bennett Amy , Hoskin David , Blay Jonathan
Published: May 2004

The purine nucleoside adenosine is produced at increased levels in the tissues of solid cancers as a result of local hypoxia. Adenosine inhibits the cell‐mediated anti‐tumor immune response, promotes tumor cell migration and angiogenesis, and stimulates the proliferation of tumor cells. We examined the stimulatory effect of adenosine on DNA synthesis, cell cycle progression, and cell proliferation in MCF7 and T‐47D breast carcinoma cell lines in culture, and identified factors that modulate the growth response. The ability of adenosine to stimulate DNA synthesis, as measured by the incorporation of [3H]thymidine, was independent of the total radioactivity of the [3H]thymidine up to 10 μCi/ml, total thymidine concentrations up to 100 μM, and the labeling interval. It was also not affected by the presence of low‐molecular‐weight compounds (such as thymidine and adenosine) in the serum used to supplement the medium. Adenosine stimulated DNA synthesis and cell proliferation with an EC50 of 4–6 μM and a maximum response at 30–100 μM, when given as a single addition. The stimulatory effect of adenosine involved progression through the cell cycle and a genuine increase in cell number, in the absence of significant apoptotic or necrotic cell death. The mitogenic effect of adenosine was dependent upon the culture cell density, with an optimum adenosine response at around 50% of confluent density. The response was also highly dependent upon the form of the serum addition to the growth medium, with the best response elicited in the presence of low concentrations of nonfetal bovine serum, although adenosine was mitogenic under standard culture conditions. The effects of serum supplementation and cell density were not due to differences in the rate of adenosine metabolism by either serum or cellular enzymes, but appeared to result from changes in the sensitivity to adenosine of the cell population in response to environmental cues. We, therefore, find that adenosine is consistently mitogenic for human breast carcinoma cells, and that the [3H]thymidine incorporation assay is a valid measure of this response. The data are consistent with the stimulatory effect of adenosine on cell proliferation being modulated by the local cellular environment. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Margins in extra‐abdominal desmoid tumors: A comparative analysis
Authors: Leithner Andreas , Gapp Markus , Leithner Katharina , Radl Roman , Krippl Peter , Beham Alfred , Windhager Reinhard
Published: May 2004

Background and Objectives

The main treatment of extra‐abdominal desmoid tumors remains surgery, but recurrence rates up to 80% are reported. The impact of microscopic surgical margin status according to the Enneking classification system is discussed controversially.

Methods

Therefore, the authors screened the published literature for reliable data on the importance of a wide or radical excision of extra‐abdominal desmoid tumors. All studies with more than ten patients, a surgical treatment only, and margin status stated were included.

Results

Only 12 out of 49 identified studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. One hundred fifty‐two primary tumors were excised with wide or radical microscopic surgical margins, while in 260 cases a marginal or intralesional excision was performed. In the first group 41 patients (27%) and in the second one 187 patients (72%) developed a recurrence. Therefore, microscopic surgical margin status according to the Enneking classification system is a significant prognostic factor (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The data of this review underline the strategy of a wide or radical local excision as the treatment of choice. Furthermore, as a large number of studies had to be excluded from this analysis, exact microscopic surgical margin status should be provided in future studies in order to allow comparability. J. Surg. Oncol. 2004;86:152–156. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Groin soft tissue tumors—a challenge for local control and reconstruction: A prospective cohort analysis
Authors: Mack L.A. , Temple Walley J. , DeHaas W.G. , Schachar N. , Morris D.G. , Kurien E.
Published: May 2004

Background and Objectives

Groin soft tissue tumors are associated with high local recurrence rates of 16–48% and postoperative complications in 40–68%. Neoadjuvant chemoradiation and aggressive reconstructive techniques were utilized to improve local control and complication rates in this challenging area.

Methods

Nine patients in this prospective series were treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiation (30 mg IV doxorubicin × 3d followed by 300 cGy/d × 10d) followed by surgery and two patients received radiation (5,000 cGy with tissue spacer) followed by surgery for tumors with a pelvic/retroperitoneal component. Surgery included resection plus reconstruction of the abdominal wall, myocutaneous flaps for large defects, and vascular reconstruction as necessary.

Results

The 11 consecutive patients presented with Stage I (30%), II (40%), or III (30%) disease. Four patients (36%) were operated on for possible incarcerated hernia prior to referral and two (18%) presented with recurrent tumors. Pathology included 10 sarcomas and 1 desmoid tumor; tumor grade was low (30%), moderate (40%), or high (30%). Local control (mean follow‐up 55 months; minimum follow‐up 36 months) and limb salvage rate was 100%. Minor wound complications not requiring re‐operation occurred in three patients, lymphedema in two, and there were no postoperative hernias.

Conclusions

Preoperative therapy provides excellent local control of groin soft tissue tumors. Current surgical techniques allow extensive resection with limb salvage, dependable primary wound healing and long‐term integrity of the abdominal wall. J. Surg. Oncol. 2004;86:147–151. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Improving the physical status and quality of life of women treated for breast cancer: A pilot study of a structured exercise intervention
Authors: Turner Jane , Hayes Sandi , Reul‐Hirche Hildegard
Published: May 2004

Background and Objectives

This pilot project assessed the acceptability of a mixed‐type, moderate‐intensity exercise programme following breast cancer treatment, and the impact on presence of lymphoedema, fitness, body composition, fatigue, mood and quality of life.

Methods

Ten women completed the programme and measures of fitness (sub‐maximal ergometer test), body composition (bio‐electrical impedance), lympoedema (bio‐electrical impedance and arm circumferences), fatigue (revised Piper Fatigue Scale), mood (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), quality of life (FACT‐B) and general well‐being, at baseline, completion of the programme, and 6‐week and 3‐month follow‐up.

Results

Participation in the programme caused no adverse effect on the presence of lymphoedema. There was a trend towards reduction in fatigue and improved quality of life across the testing phases. Women rated the programme extremely favourably, citing benefits of the support of other women, trained guidance, and the opportunity to experience different types of exercise.

Conclusions

A mixed‐type, moderate‐intensity exercise program in a group format is acceptable to women following breast cancer treatment, with the potential to reduce fatigue and improve quality of life, without exacerbating or precipitating lymphoedema. This pilot work needs to be confirmed in larger randomised studies. J. Surg. Oncol. 2004;86:141–146. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Kinetics and mechanism of the pyridinolysis of aryl dithiobenzoates in acetonitrile
Authors: Oh Hyuck Keun , Lee Jae Myon , Lee Hai Whang , Lee Ikchoon
Published: May 2004

The kinetics and mechanism of the aminolysis of aryl dithiobenzoates (RC(S)SC6H4Z; R = Ph) with pyridines (XC5H4N) in acetonitrile at 60.0°C have been studied. A biphasic Brönsted plot is obtained with a change in slope from a large value (βX ≅ 0.7–0.8) to a small value (βX ≅ 0.2) at pKa° = 5.2, which is interpreted to indicate a change of the rate‐determining step from breakdown to formation of the zwitterionic tetrahedral intermediate, T±, at pKa = 5.2 as the pyridine basicity is increased. Rates are compared with those corresponding values for aryl dithioacetates (R = Me). The faster rates for R = Me than for R = Ph, for the rate‐limiting formation of T±, can be attributed to the hyperconjugative charge transfer effect of the Me group, pseudo‐πMe → π*C=S. Clear‐cut change in the cross‐interaction constants, ρXZ, from +1.47 to −0.20 supports the proposed mechanistic change. The breakpoint at pKa° = 5.2 for R = Ph in the present work is in agreement with those for the pyridinolysis of R = Me and 2‐furyl, and attests to the insignificant effect of acyl group, R, on the breakpoint. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 36: 434–440, 2004
Planning ability in Parkinson's disease is influenced by the COMT val158met polymorphism
Authors: Foltynie Thomas , Goldberg Terry E. , Lewis Simon G.J. , Blackwell Andrew D. , Kolachana Bhaskar S. , Weinberger Daniel R. , Robbins Trevor W. , Barker Roger A.
Published: May 2004

Parkinson's disease (PD) patients show a range of executive deficits involving dopaminergic transmission in the prefrontal cortex. In this study, we have investigated the impact of catechol‐O‐methyl‐transferase (COMT) val158met polymorphisms on performance of the Tower of London (TOL) test of planning by PD patients. Motor and cognitive assessments were performed on 288 patients as part of a population‐based study of PD. These patients were subsequently genotyped for the COMT val158met polymorphism. Patients with high activity COMT genotypes performed significantly better at the TOL task than those with low activity genotypes. Subgroup analyses suggest that this effect is greatest in patients exposed to dopaminergic agents. We hypothesise that the inferior performance in patients with the low activity COMT genotype is attributable to a state of relative hyperdopaminergic activity in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex compared with that in the striatum. We suggest that polymorphisms of common genes, which regulate central nervous system dopaminergic transmission, can influence some of the phenotypic manifestations of PD. © 2004 Movement Disorder Society
Alien limb syndrome and moya–moya disease
Authors: Rabbani Omid , Bowen Lennon E. , Watson Robert T. , Valenstein Edward , Okun Michael S.
Published: May 2004

We present the case of a 29‐year‐old woman with an alien limb and callosal disconnection syndrome who was diagnosed with moya–moya disease. We discuss the potential mechanisms responsible for the alien limb syndrome. © 2004 Movement Disorder Society
Myositis in a patient with large granular leukocyte leukemia
Authors: Rosche Berit , Jacobsen Marc , Cepok Sabine , Barth Peter , Sommer Norbert , Hemmer Bernhard
Published: May 2004

We describe the case of a 58‐year‐old patient with subacute progressive weakness in both legs accompanied by recurrent opportunistic infections. White cell count was normal, but immunophenotyping revealed an increased number of CD8+ T cells and deficiency of natural killer cells, B cells, and CD4+ T cells in the peripheral blood. Large granular leukocyte (LGL) leukemia was diagnosed based on a clonal T‐cell receptor rearrangement. Muscle biopsy demonstrated severe myositis with extensive CD8+ T‐cell infiltrates. Since no evidence of microbial muscle infection was found, autoimmune myositis was diagnosed. Immunosuppressive treatment resulted in clinical improvement and normalization of creatine kinase (CK) serum levels. The immunological phenotype of the patient and the positive response to treatment adds further to the concept that CD8+ T cells mediate disease in autoimmune myositis. Muscle Nerve 29: 873–877, 2004
Functional activity and expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in muscle of the isolated distal colon of mdx mice
Authors: Vannucchi Maria Giuliana , Corsani Letizia , Azzena Gian Battista , Faussone‐Pellegrini Maria Simonetta , Mancinelli Rino
Published: May 2004

The inducible isoform of nitric oxide (NO) synthase (iNOS), expressed in endothelium, epithelium, and inflammatory cells, produces a large amount of NO. Previous studies on mouse intestine indicate that a muscular iNOS may have a role in the storage of intraluminal content. In this study we investigated the presence and function of iNOS in the colonic smooth muscle cells of 2‐ and 12‐month‐old dystrophic (mdx) mice. By using an in vitro isovolumic technique, and immunohistochemical and Western blot analysis, we demonstrated that iNOS is expressed and active in the smooth muscle cells of normal mouse and defective in young adult (2‐month‐old) mdx mice. Therefore, an altered activity of the muscle iNOS might explain the motility disorders observed in the colon of mdx mice and, from a clinical point of view, the impairment of intestinal function in dystrophic patients. Muscle Nerve 29: 795–803, 2004
A novel central motor conduction abnormality in D90A‐homozygous patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Osei‐Lah Abena D. , Turner Martin R. , Andersen Peter M. , Leigh P. Nigel , Mills Kerry R.
Published: May 2004

Patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) who are homozygous for the D90A SOD1 mutation have been noted to have central motor abnormalities distinct from those of patients with idiopathic ALS. We stimulated the motor cortex of ten patients homozygous for the D90A SOD1 mutation, using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and recorded the response evoked in the right first dorsal interosseous muscle when the muscle was at rest and when voluntarily active. A subgroup of patients had two distinct evoked responses when the cortex was stimulated at high intensity with the muscle at rest. When the muscle was modestly contracted, the first of these responses disappeared, whereas the second response was facilitated. Both fast and slow components of the corticospinal tract were usually intact and excited by TMS in these patients. We propose that there is an abnormality of intracortical or intraspinal inhibition in a subgroup of D90A SOD1 ALS patients, which suppresses fast‐conducted activity when the muscle is active. Apart from further defining the phenotype of familial ALS, these findings may have importance in understanding the pathogenesis of central motor abnormalities in these patients. Muscle Nerve 29: 790–794, 2004
Influence of repetitive hand movements on intracortical inhibition
Authors: Schubert Margot , Kretzschmar Elke , Waldmann Guido , Hummelsheim Horst
Published: May 2004

Repetitive movements have been reported to induce task‐specific changes of intracortical inhibition and facilitation, but the mechanism operating shortly after hand movement is unclear. Transcranial magnetic single and paired stimuli (2 ms) were applied to 15 healthy subjects at rest and 1 s after repetitive (every 6 s) active and passive hand extensions. Motor evoked potentials (MEPs) were recorded from hand extensors (agonists) and flexors (antagonists). A strong overall inhibitory effect was observed after applying paired stimuli. In agonists only, active movements produced significantly larger MEPs. Inhibition, however, did not differ between active or passive movements and rest. This suggests that MEP increases produced by active movements in agonists are not caused by disinhibition, but are rather due to excitation (facilitation). This finding may also have implications for future studies evaluating the preferential activation of target muscles in physiotherapy. Muscle Nerve 29: 804–811, 2004
Functional relationships of central and peripheral muscle alterations in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Ng A. V. , Miller R. G. , Gelinas D. , Kent‐Braun J. A.
Published: May 2004

The functional implications of central motor impairment and peripheral muscle alterations in multiple sclerosis are unclear. Muscle strength, central and peripheral activation, and symptomatic fatigue were investigated in 16 patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and 18 control subjects. Voluntary and electrically stimulated isometric contractions were obtained from the ankle dorsiflexor muscles. Maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) was 27% lower in MS patients than controls, although electrically stimulated force was similar. Muscle fat‐free cross‐sectional area (CSA) was similar in both groups. These data indicate central activation impairment in MS. Such impairment in MS was further demonstrated by decreased foot‐tap speed, rate of voluntary force development, and central activation ratio. Peripheral activation changes in MS patients were modest. Although stimulated tetanic force was similar, force relaxation was slower in MS patients compared to controls, resulting in a left‐shifted force–frequency relationship in MS. Motor function changes were not associated with fatigue but were associated with impaired ambulation. Thus, weakness and walking impairment, but not fatigue, were related to impaired central activation in MS. These findings may help optimize rehabilitation strategies designed to improve function in persons with MS. Muscle Nerve 29: 843–852, 2004
Receptor for advanced glycation endproduct (RAGE)–mediated nuclear factor‐κB activation in vasculitic neuropathy
Authors: Haslbeck Karl‐Matthias , Bierhaus Angelika , Erwin Schliecher , Kirchner Annette , Nawroth Peter , Schlötzer Ursula , Neundörfer Bernhard , Heuss Dieter
Published: May 2004

Binding of ligands to the receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (RAGE) results in activation of the proinflammatory transcription factor nuclear factor‐kappaB (NF‐κB) and subsequent expression of NF‐κB–regulated cytokines. In order to determine whether engagement of RAGE contributes to the pathogenesis of vasculitic neuropathy, we studied the presence of the RAGE ligand Nϵ‐(carboxymethyl)lysine (CML), the receptor itself, NF‐κB, and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) in sural nerve biopsies of 12 patients with vasculitic neuropathies and 12 controls. In the patients, CML, RAGE, NF‐κB, and IL‐6 were localized in mononuclear cells, epineurial and endoneurial vessels and the perineurium. CML, RAGE, NF‐κB, and IL‐6 were expressed by CD4+, CD8+, and CD68+ cells invading the nerves. Controls showed only weak staining. These data suggest that the RAGE pathway plays a critical proinflammatory role in vasculitic neuropathy. Muscle Nerve 29: 853–860, 2004
Effect of early cold stress on the maturation of rice anthers
Authors: Imin Nijat , Kerim Tursun , Rolfe Barry G. , Weinman Jeremy J.
Published: May 2004

Male reproductive development in rice (Oryza sativa Linnaeus is very sensitive to various forms of environmental stresses including low temperature. Here, we present our findings on the proteomic analysis of the later developmental consequences of low temperature treatment on rice anthers. Anther proteins at the trinucleate stage, with or without cold treatment for four days at 12°C at the young microspore stage, were extracted, separated by two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis (2‐DE) and compared. More than 3000 rice anther proteins of cold‐sensitive cultivar Doongara plants at the trinucleate stage were resolved on 2‐DE gels over a pH range of 4–7 and detected by silver‐staining. Seventy protein spots were differentially displayed after four days of cold treatment at the young microspore stage. Of these, 12 protein spots were newly‐induced, 47 were up‐regulated, and 11 were down‐regulated by cold treatment at the early microspore stage. We identified 18 by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry time of flight (MALDI‐TOF) analysis. Of the identified proteins, seven were observed as breakdown (cleavage) products by a combination of 2‐DE and MALDI‐TOF analysis, thus demonstrating for the first time that cold temperature stress at the young microspore stage enhances and induces partial degradation of proteins in the rice anthers at the trinucleate stage.
Hepatoprotective effect of New Livﬁt®, a polyherbal formulation, is mediated through its free radical scavenging activity
Authors: Gupta Y. K. , Sharma Monisha , Chaudhary Geeta , Katiyar C. K.
Published: May 2004

The effect of New Livﬁt®, a polyherbal formulation, was studied on pyrogallol‐induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Administration of pyrogallol 100 mg/kg, i.p. caused a signiﬁcant increase in liver enzymes as well as a signiﬁcant increase in lipid peroxidation. Simultaneous administration of oral New Livﬁt® and pyrogallol prevented these changes in hepatic damage. The results of the study showed that New Livﬁt® exerted a hepatoprotective effect against pyrogallol induced liver toxicity, which was mediated through its free radical scavenging property. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of Amirkabiria odorastissima mozaffarian on the development and progression of fatty streaks in hypercholesterolemic rabbits
Authors: Asgary S. , Naderi Gh. , Dashti Gh. , Paknahad Z.
Published: May 2004

New studies have introduced atherosclerosis as an inﬂammatory disease. Different factors affect the development of inﬂammation that can be linked to free radicals, hypertention, diabetes mellitus, genetic changes, hypercholesterolemia and some of the microorganisms. Using anti‐inﬂammatory drugs can be useful in preventing atherosclerosis. Finding drugs from natural sources and without side‐effects can be useful. Amirkabiria odoratissima (umbelliferae) is from Iranian ﬂora and is used traditionally as an anti‐inﬂammatory drug. This study was designed to assess the effects of this plant on the development and progression of fatty streaks. Male rabbits were fed: (a) rabbit chow; (b) 1% cholesterol diet; (c) cholesterol diet supplemented with the plant; (d) normal diet supplemented with the plant. After 12 weeks, the animals were sacriﬁced and the aorta, right and left branches of coronary arteries were dissected and histologically processed. Before and after the end of the study, biochemical factors were measured. The amounts of cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglyceride and fasting blood sugar (FBS) were determined by enzymatic methods, quantitative CRP was determined by turbidimetric methods, malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidant capacity were determined by speceterophotometric methods. The results indicate that there is a signiﬁcant difference between the groups supplemented with herbal medicine and others (p < 0.05) in the mean grade of fatty streak of right and left coronary artery and aorta. At the end of the 12‐week period cholesterol, LDL and CRP were signiﬁcantly reduced in the groups which received herbal medicine (p < 0.05). The data suggests that Amirkabiria odoratissima Mozaffarian has beneﬁcial effects to prevent development of fatty streak; however, further studies are needed to understand the mechanisms whereby this plant exerts its anti‐atherosclerotic effects. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hypoglycaemic effect of stigmast‐4‐en‐3‐one and its corresponding alcohol from the bark of Anacardium occidentale (cashew)
Authors: Alexander‐Lindo Ruby Lisa , Morrison E.Y. St. A. , Nair Muraleedharan G.
Published: May 2004

Intravenous administration of the hexane extract of the bark of Anacardium occidentale (cashew) in normal, healthy dogs produced a signiﬁcant lowering of the blood glucose levels. Pursuit of the hypoglycaemic principle(s) in the hexane extract resulted in the isolation and characterization of two compounds, stigmast‐4‐en‐3‐ol (1) and stigmast‐4‐en‐3‐one (2). These compounds were puriﬁed by chromatographic methods and the structures were characterized by spectroscopic methods. Both compounds produced signiﬁcant hypoglycaemic activity after intravenous administration at a dose of 1.3 mg/kg body weight. The bark of the cashew plant, A. occidentale, exhibited a hypoglycaemic effect probably due to the presence of these compounds. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hepatoprotective activity of Centaurium erythraea on acetaminophen‐induced hepatotoxicity in rats
Authors: Mroueh Mohamad , Saab Yolande , Rizkallah Raed
Published: May 2004

The methanol extract of the leaves of Centaurium erythraea L. (Gentianaceae) was evaluated for hepatoprotective activity against acetaminophen‐induced liver toxicity in rats. An oral dose of 300 mg/kg/day for 6 days or a single dose of 900 mg/kg for 1 day exhibited a signiﬁcant protective effect by lowering serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT), glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). The activity of the extract was supported by histopathological examination of liver sections. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reproducible product‐ion tandem mass spectra on various liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry instruments for the development of spectral libraries
Authors: Bristow Anthony W. T. , Webb Kenneth S. , Lubben Anneke T. , Halket John
Published: May 2004

The results of the comparison of product‐ion tandem mass (MS/MS) spectra recorded on three ion trap mass spectrometers, a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer and a Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer are reported. The spectra were recorded in accordance with a simple experimental protocol, which involved the collision‐induced dissociation (CID) attenuation of the abundance of the [M+H]+ ion to between 10 and 50% of its original abundance.

The degree of similarity between the spectra from four of the mass spectrometers was calculated off‐line by comparing the five most abundant ions from the spectrum on each instrument. A percentage fit value (20% for each ion that matches) was calculated by comparing each spectrum against the spectra recorded for the same compound on each instrument. The percentage of the inter‐library pairwise comparisons (total = 434) that matched to ≥60% ranged from 64–89%, depending on the instrument pair. A blind trial was also undertaken using five unknown compounds resulting in 1670 pairwise comparisons with the library entries. The blind trial produced no false positives and correct identifications in all cases. The results of the study have established the basis for the construction of a transferable product‐ion MS/MS library. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Using sol–gel/crown ether hybrid materials as desalting substrates for matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization analysis of oligonucleotides
Authors: Weng Mao‐Feng , Chen Yu‐Chie
Published: May 2004

This study demonstrates the feasibility of using sol–gel/crown ether hybrid materials as sample substrates that reduce the intensity of the signals of sodium ion adducts of oligonucleotides during matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) analysis. 2‐Hydroxymethyl[15]crown‐5 and 2‐hydroxymethyl[18]crown‐6 were added as dopants during the sol–gel process to generate desalting substrates for MALDI sample deposition. The results demonstrate that the sol–gel/crown ether hybrid materials effectively suppress the formation of sodiated oligonucleotides during MALDI analysis. The largest detectable molecular size for an oligonucleotide was a 100‐mer, and the detection limit for an oligonucleotide 36‐mer was ca. 20 fmol. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ultrasound imaging of the pelvic floor. Part II: three‐dimensional or volume imaging
Authors: Dietz H. P.
Published: May 2004

In this second part of a review of pelvic floor ultrasound imaging, current three‐dimensional (3D) ultrasound technology and its use for imaging pelvic floor structure and function is described. Recent technical developments enable rapid automated volume acquisition in real time, and currently available transducers designed for abdominal use are well suited for translabial/transperineal imaging. To date, such systems have been used to image the urethra, the levator ani and paravaginal supports, prolapse and implants used in pelvic floor reconstruction and anti‐incontinence surgery. While 3D pelvic floor imaging is a field that is still in its infancy, it is already clear that the method has opened up entirely new opportunities for the observation of functional anatomy. Copyright © 2004 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.