bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Information content of volatility spreads
Authors: Kang Byung Jin , Kim Tong Suk , Yoon Sun‐Joong
Published: August 2009

This study reexamines the determinants of volatility spreads and suggests a new forecast of future volatilities. Contrary to earlier volatility forecasts, the newly introduced forecast is applicable when investors are not risk‐neutral or when underlying returns do not follow a Gaussian probability distribution. This implies that the method is consistent with the presence of risk premia for other risks such as volatility risk. Using S&P 500 index options, we show that the new volatility forecast outperforms other volatility forecasts including risk‐neutral implied volatility and historical volatility in two aspects. First, the new forecast is superior to other estimates in terms of forecasting errors for future realized volatilities. Second, it is an unbiased estimator of future realized volatilities. This is shown using an encompassing regression analysis. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 30:533–558, 2010
Neural decoding of goal locations in spatial navigation in humans with fMRI
Authors: Rodriguez Paul F.
Published: August 2009

We demonstrate that multivoxel pattern analysis can be used to decode place‐related information in fMRI. Subjects performed a working memory version of the Morris water maze task in a virtual environment with a single wall cue. The voxel data that corresponds to when subjects were located at the goal was extracted for seven regions implicated in spatial navigation, and then used to train a pattern classifier based on partial least squares. Using a leave‐one‐out (LOO) test procedure, goal locations at E, W, N positions (relative to the cue as S) were predicted significantly better than a naïve classifier for voxels in medial prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and inferior parietal cortex. Prediction with voxels from other regions involved in navigation was also better than a naïve classifier, which raises the possibility that goal‐location information is widely disseminated among the navigation network. It turns out that predictive capability of all regions combined significantly decreases, relative to no change, only when voxel data from the hippocampus is left out. This implies that the hippocampus contains some unique information that identifies goal locations, whereas other regions contain information that also identifies goal locations but is more redundant. Classification of goal locations is an important step toward decoding a variety of place‐related information in spatial navigation with fMRI. Hum Brain Mapp, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Neuroanatomy of creativity
Authors: Jung Rex E. , Segall Judith M. , Jeremy Bockholt H. , Flores Ranee A. , Smith Shirley M. , Chavez Robert S. , Haier Richard J.
Published: August 2009

Creativity has long been a construct of interest to philosophers, psychologists and, more recently, neuroscientists. Recent efforts have focused on cognitive processes likely to be important to the manifestation of novelty and usefulness within a given social context. One such cognitive process – divergent thinking – is the process by which one extrapolates many possible answers to an initial stimulus or target data set. We sought to link well established measures of divergent thinking and creative achievement (Creative Achievement Questionnaire – CAQ) to cortical thickness in a cohort of young (23.7 ± 4.2 years), healthy subjects. Three independent judges ranked the creative products of each subject using the consensual assessment technique (Amabile, 1982) from which a “composite creativity index” (CCI) was derived. Structural magnetic resonance imaging was obtained at 1.5 Tesla Siemens scanner. Cortical reconstruction and volumetric segmentation were performed with the FreeSurfer image analysis suite. A region within the lingual gyrus was negatively correlated with CCI; the right posterior cingulate correlated positively with the CCI. For the CAQ, lower left lateral orbitofrontal volume correlated with higher creative achievement; higher cortical thickness was related to higher scores on the CAQ in the right angular gyrus. This is the first study to link cortical thickness measures to psychometric measures of creativity. The distribution of brain regions, associated with both divergent thinking and creative achievement, suggests that cognitive control of information flow among brain areas may be critical to understanding creative cognition. Hum Brain Mapp, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Acute Portal Vein Thrombosis Unrelated to Cirrhosis: A Prospective Multicenter Follow-Up Study
Authors: Plessier Aurelie , Darwish-Murad Sarwa , Hernandez-Guerra Manuel , Consigny Yann , Fabris Federica , Trebicka Jonel , Heller Jorg , Morard Isabelle , Lasser Luc , Langlet Philippe , Denninger Marie-Hélène , Vidaud Dominique , Condat Bertrand , Hadengue Antoine , Primignani Massimo , Garcia-Pagan Juan-Carlos , Janssen Harry L. A. , Valla Dominique
Published: August 2009

Current recommendations for early anticoagulation in acute portal vein thrombosis unrelated to cirrhosis or malignancy are based on limited evidence. The aim of this study was to prospectively assess the risk factors, outcome, and prognosis in patients managed according to these recommendations. We enrolled 102 patients with acute thrombosis of the portal vein, or its left or right branch. Laboratory investigations for prothrombotic factors were centralized. Thrombus extension and recanalization were assessed by expert radiologists. A local risk factor was identified in 21% of patients, and one or several general prothrombotic conditions in 52%. Anticoagulation was given to 95 patients. After a median of 234 days, the portal vein and its left or right branch were patent in 39% of anticoagulated patients (versus 13% initially), the splenic vein in 80% (versus 57% initially), and the superior mesenteric vein in 73% (versus 42% initially). Failure to recanalize the portal vein was independently related to the presence of ascites (hazard ratio 3.8, 95% confidence interval 1.3-11.1) and an occluded splenic vein (hazard ratio 3.5, 95% confidence interval 1.4–8.9). Gastrointestinal bleeding and intestinal infarction occurred in nine and two patients, respectively. Two patients died from causes unrelated to thrombosis or anticoagulation therapy.

Conclusion:

Recanalization occurs in one-third of patients receiving early anticoagulation for acute portal vein thrombosis, whereas thrombus extension, intestinal infarction, severe bleeding, and death are rare. Alternative therapy should be considered when ascites and splenic vein obstruction are present. (Hepatology 2009.)
Use of Sorafenib in Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma Before Liver Transplantation: A Cost-Benefit Analysis While Awaiting Data on Sorafenib Safety
Authors: Vitale Alessandro , Volk Michael L. , Pastorelli Davide , Lonardi Sara , Farinati Fabio , Burra Patrizia , Angeli Paolo , Cillo Umberto
Published: August 2009

The role of bridging therapies for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) on the waiting list for liver transplantation (LT) remains controversial. There is strong evidence to support the effectiveness of sorafenib in extending the time to progression of HCC. Using a Markov model, we compared two strategies: one using sorafenib as neoadjuvant therapy before LT (Strategy A), and the other using no bridging therapy in the first 6 months (Strategy B). Reference case: T2 HCC patient with compensated cirrhosis. The benefit of sorafenib in delaying time to HCC progression was expressed as the hazard ratio (HR) and taken from recently published randomized trials. The endpoints considered were: survival benefit measured in quality-adjusted life days (QALDs), transplant probability, costs (C) in €, willingness to pay (WTP), and net health benefit (NHB), where NHB = survival benefit − C/WTP. The calculated WTP of sorafenib in Italy was 346 € per QALD. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis showed a median survival benefit of 94 QALDs (10% percentile = 38, 90% percentile = 210). In the base-case scenario (HR = 0.47, monthly dropout probability = 5%, median time to LT = 3 months), the gain in LT probability due to sorafenib was 5% and it increased proportionally with increasing median times to LT and decreasing HR. In the cost-benefit analysis, the incremental NHB of Strategy A versus Strategy B was 37 QALDs; it increased as sorafenib HR decreased and when median times to LT were shorter than 6 months, whereas for longer times it gradually dropped, particularly when Strategy B included effective locoregional treatments.

Conclusion:

Sorafenib neoadjuvant therapy is cost-effective by comparison with no therapy for T2-HCC patients waiting for LT, particularly for median times to LT under 6 months. (Hepatology 2009.)
Role of Acid Sphingomyelinase of Kupffer Cells in Cholestatic Liver Injury in Mice
Authors: Osawa Yosuke , Seki Ekihiro , Adachi Masayuki , Suetsugu Atsushi , Ito Hiroyasu , Moriwaki Hisataka , Seishima Mitsuru , Nagaki Masahito
Published: August 2009

Kupffer cells, resident tissue macrophages of the liver, play a key role in the regulation of hepatic inflammation, hepatocyte death, and fibrosis that characterize liver diseases. However, it is controversial whether Kupffer cells promote or protect from liver injury. To explore this issue we examined the role of Kupffer cells in liver injury, cell death, regeneration, and fibrosis on cholestatic liver injury in C57BL/6 mice using a model of partial bile duct ligation (BDL), in which animals do not die and the effects of BDL can be compared between injured ligated lobes and nonligated lobes. In cholestatic liver injury, the remaining viable cells represented tolerance for tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α)-induced hepatocyte apoptosis and regenerative features along with AKT activation. Inhibition of AKT by adenovirus expressing dominant-negative AKT abolished the survival and regenerative properties in hepatocytes. Moreover, Kupffer cell depletion by alendronate liposomes increased hepatocyte damage and the sensitivity of TNF-α-induced hepatocyte apoptosis in ligated lobes. Kupffer cell depletion decreased hepatocyte regeneration and liver fibrosis with reduced AKT activation. To investigate the impact of acid sphingomyelinase (ASMase) in Kupffer cells, we generated chimeric mice that contained ASMase-deficient Kupffer cells and -sufficient hepatocytes using a combination of Kupffer cell depletion, irradiation, and the transplantation of ASMase-deficient bone marrow cells. In these mice, AKT activation, the tolerance for TNF-α-induced apoptosis, and the regenerative responses were attenuated in hepatocytes after BDL.

Conclusion:

Kupffer cells have a protective role for hepatocyte damage and promote cell survival, liver regeneration, and fibrosis in cholestatic liver disease. Kupffer cell-derived ASMase is crucial for AKT activation of hepatocytes that is required for the survival and regenerative responses. (Hepatology 2009.)
Project management: The task of holistic systems thinking
Authors: Aramo‐Immonen Heli , Vanharanta Hannu
Published: September 2009

Large national and international mega‐projects are often structured around a hierarchy of a number of interrelated projects and subprojects. This construction of a complicated and fragmented project organization forms a multiproject environment. The networked structure of a mega‐project, such as in shipbuilding or in the offshore industry, with its significant amount of boundaries between subprojects, poses a demanding task for project management. The purpose of the method designed in this research is to assist a company's management in the process of forming a comprehensive view of projects in a multiproject environment. The holistic overview of the project is formed by looking at individual subprojects from a variety of qualitative angles. This article introduces a method for the collection and analysis of qualitative information from a project organization. The application used converts the results of the operative project‐level analysis into explicit system‐level information for management guidance purposes. The method of a new qualitative project analysis uses fuzzy logic and emulation. The conceptual part of this article discusses the theoretical framework behind the application. Next, the empirical results of the implementation of the new analysis method in a project‐based enterprise are illustrated. Finally, an example of revised project guidance proposals is presented. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Electrospun scaffolds from silk fibroin and their cellular compatibility
Authors: Zhang Kuihua , Mo Xiumei , Huang Chen , He Chuanglong , Wang Hongsheng
Published: August 2009

Electrospinning offers an attractive opportunity for producing silk fibroin (SF) nano/micro fibrous scaffolds with potential for tissue regeneration and repair. Electrospun scaffolds of silk fibroin were fabricated as a biomimetic scaffold for tissue engineering. The morphology of the electrospun scaffolds was investigated with SEM and AFM. The SEM images indicated that electrospun SF fibers were ribbon‐shaped and the average width increased with increasing SF concentrations. The AFM images revealed that, after treated with methanol, there was a groove on the surface of fiber, which is conducive to cell attachment. The structure of electrospun SF fibers was characterized by NMR, WAXD, and DSC. The results displayed that SF in electrospun fibers was present in a random coil conformation, SF conformation transformed from random coil to β‐sheet when treated with methanol. Cell attachment and proliferation studies with pig iliac endothelial cells (PIECs) demonstrated that electrospun SF scaffolds significantly promoted cell attachment and proliferation in comparison with cast SF films. These results suggest electrospun SF scaffolds may be potential candidates for cardiovascular tissue engineering. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Regenerative behavior of biomineral/agarose composite gels as bone grafting materials in rat cranial defects
Authors: Suzawa Yoshika , Funaki Takafumi , Watanabe Junji , Iwai Soichi , Yura Yoshiaki , Nakano Takayoshi , Umakoshi Yukichi , Akashi Mitsuru
Published: August 2009

The main objective of this study was to evaluate the biological behavior of Hydroxyapatite (HAp)/agarose and calcium carbonate (CaCO3)/agarose composite gels by an alternate soaking process used for the treatment of surgically produced bone defects in rat cranium. We designed the following four groups: (i) HAp (HAp/agarose composite gel), (ii) CaCO3 (CaCO3/agarose composite gel), (iii) Agarose (bare agarose gel), and (iv) Defect (no filling materials). We subdivided (i) (ii) (iii) into two application types as a (I) Homogenized Group (homogenized materials) and a (II) Disk Group (disk shaped materials). We assessed samples by radiological and histological analyses 0, 4, and 8 weeks after implantation. The results indicated that the composite gels showed higher radiopacity in microfocus‐computed tomography (μCT) images and showed higher volume in quantitative analyses using Dual Energy X‐ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) and Peripheral Quantitative Computed Tomography (pQCT) than the Agarose and Defect groups. The histological examination showed characteristic images due to each application form. Consequently, HAp and CaCO3/agarose composite gels can be expected to accelerate the speed of producing more new bone associated with osteogenesis. These novel biomaterials play an important role as an alternative biocompatible and biodegradable bone grafting filler material for autogenous bone. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
The effects of BMP6 overexpression on adipose stem cell chondrogenesis: Interactions with dexamethasone and exogenous growth factors
Authors: Diekman Brian O. , Estes Bradley T. , Guilak Farshid
Published: August 2009

Adipose‐derived stem cells (ASCs) are multipotent progenitors that can be chondrogenically induced by growth factors such as bone morphogenetic protein 6 (BMP‐6). We hypothesized that nonviral transfection of a BMP‐6 construct (pcDNA3‐BMP6) would induce chondrogenic differentiation of ASCs encapsulated in alginate beads and that differentiation would be enhanced by the presence of the synthetic glucocorticoid dexamethasone (DEX) or the combination of epidermal growth factor (EGF), fibroblast growth factor‐2 (FGF‐2), and transforming growth factor beta‐1 (TGF‐β1), collectively termed expansion factors (EFs). Chondrogenesis was assessed using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction for types I, II, and X collagen, aggrecan, and BMP6. Immunohistochemistry was performed with antibodies for types I, II, and X collagen and chondroitin‐4‐sulfate. BMP6 overexpression alone induced a moderate chondrogenic response. The inclusion of EFs promoted robust type II collagen expression but also increased type I and X collagen deposition, consistent with a hypertrophic chondrocyte phenotype. Early gene expression data indicated that DEX was synergistic with BMP‐6 for chondrogenesis, but immunohistochemistry at 28 days showed that DEX reduced glycosaminoglycan accumulation. These results suggest that chondrogenic differentiation of ASCs depends on complex interactions among various growth factors and media supplements, as well as the concentration and duration of growth factor exposure. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Tissue harmonic sonography in the diagnosis of common bile duct stones: A comparison with endoscopic retrograde cholangiography
Authors: Ripollés Tomás , Ramírez‐Fuentes Cristina , Martínez‐Pérez María J. , Delgado Fructuoso , Blanc Esther , López Antonio
Published: August 2009

Purpose

To revisit the diagnostic accuracy of sonography in the detection of choledocholithiasis using modern equipment with tissue harmonic imaging (THI) and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) with sphincterotomy as the gold standard.

Methods

A total of 107 patients with clinically suspected choledocholithiasis were examined with THI before undergoing ERCP. The sonographic findings that were prospectively evaluated included the presence of choledocholithiasis, size of common bile duct, sonographic view and patient position that best visualized the stone(s), visualization of the distal common duct, and duration of examination. The accuracy of sonography compared with ERCP and sphincterotomy was calculated.

Results

Sonography correctly detected stones in 65 of 76 patients (sensitivity of 86%). The specificity and the overall accuracy were 87% and 86%, respectively. The sensitivity of sonography was higher with dilated extrahepatic duct (44% in patients with common bile duct measuring less than 6 mm in diameter, 82% between 6 and 10 mm, and 100% with common bile duct larger than 10 mm). The lateral approach with the patient in left lateral decubitus position of the patient was the most effective in 47% of the cases.

Conclusion

Sonography with THI is an accurate technique for the detection of choledocholithiasis that may be used as the first‐choice technique to avoid unnecessary procedures in a high percentage of patients, especially those with dilated biliary tree. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2009
The olfactory organ of the trout Salmo trutta fario: A novel localization for a progestin receptor
Authors: Varricchio Ettore , Coccia Elena , Putti Rosalba , Paolucci Marina
Published: September 2009

A progestin receptor (PR) has been detected in the olfactory organ of the trout Salmo trutta fario. The specificity of this receptor was high for 17α,20β‐dihydroxy‐4‐pregnen‐3‐one (17α,20β‐DP), but it also bound 17α‐hydroxy‐progesterone (17α‐OHP) and 21‐hydroxyprogesterone (21‐OHP), even when present at low concentrations (10‐fold in relative binding affinity assay). Progesterone (P) competed effectively at much higher concentrations (1,000‐fold in relative binding affinity assay). Immunohistochemical studies carried out with three different monoclonal antibodies against human progesterone receptor (hPR), chicken progesterone receptor hinge region (cPR), and chicken progesterone receptor A/B domain (PR22), revealed that immunoreactivity was present in the epithelium of the olfactory organ of females and males of the trout Salmo trutta fario only against hPR. Western blotting showed two hPR immunoreactive bands of about 62 and 66 kDa. Finally, a portion of the cDNA of about 300 nucleotides extending over the DNA binding domain and the ligand binding domain was cloned and sequenced, revealing a high degree of sequence homology of the PR in Salmo trutta fario with the PR in other teleosts. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Implication of PKC isozymes in the release of biogenic amines by mussel hemocytes: effect of PDGF, IL‐2, and LPS
Authors: Gonzalez‐Riopedre M. , Barcia R. , Ramos‐Martínez J.I.
Published: August 2009

The innate immune system of marine mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) is operated by phagocytic cells termed hemocytes. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), interleukin‐2 (IL‐2), or platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF) increase biogenic amine synthesis in these cells, and the enzymes Ca2+‐independent protein kinase C (PKC) (p105/108) and Ca2+‐dependent PKC (p60) are involved in these processes. Stimulation by PDGF induces a down‐regulation process affecting the form p108 of the Ca2+‐independent PKC. In addition, PDGF produces the increase of expression of p60 in the membrane fraction. IL‐2 induces the disappearance of p108 from the membrane but does not affect the presence of p60 in cytosol or membrane. For its part, LPS activates exclusively p60 by a down‐regulation mechanism. The ensemble of results suggests that each agonist starts a pathway that implicates the PKC isoenzymes that mediate the regulation of the activities dopa decarboxylase, dopamine β‐hydroxilase, and phenyletanolamine N‐methyltranferase, which lead to different actions related to biogenic amine synthesis. J. Exp. Zool. 311A: 727–734, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Androgen receptor of the frog Rana rugosa: molecular cloning and its characterization
Authors: Yokoyama Satoshi , Oshima Yuki , Tokita Junpei , Suda Mari , Shinozuka Takuma , Nakamura Masahisa
Published: August 2009

The androgen receptor(AR) gene is located on the Z and W sex chromosomes in the frog Rana rugosa, designated Z‐ and W‐AR, respectively. Among various tissues of an adult frog, AR expression levels were highest in the testis and brain. In the testis, AR was expressed in germ cells. AR expression occured in developing embryos from stage 21 and was very high in the gonad of a male tadpole before the onset of sex determination. When Z‐ and W‐AR were expressed in Xenopus A6 cells, they activated androgen‐dependent transcription of a luciferase reporter gene. By contrast, estrogen receptor (ER) α and β showed no sexually dimorphic expression during sex determination, but their expressions became much higher in the gonad of a female tadpole after sex determination. In addition, AR transcripts in the ZZ‐tadpoles were twice as abundant as in the ZW genotype. In contrast, W‐AR expression was extremely low although when W‐AR was expressed in A6 cells, it activated transcription in the luciferase assay. In this regard it is worth noting that the promoter regions of Z‐ and W‐AR are not identical. The results suggest that Z‐AR plays an important role in the testis formation in a R. rugosa tadpole, whereas ERβ is involved in ovary differentiation. Very low expression of W‐AR may be due to its promoter region having mutations in key transcription factor binding sites, although these remain to be identified. Thus, it is proposed that AR could be a candidate for a male‐determining gene in R. rugosa. J. Exp. Zool. 311A:796–812, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. [This article was published online on 23 June 2009. An error was subsequently identified and the article was corrected on 8 September 2009.]
Sublethal effects of invasive fire ant venom on a native lizard
Authors: Boronow Katherine E. , Langkilde Tracy
Published: August 2009

Invasive species can impose novel selection pressures on natives, such as toxins to which native taxa are not adapted. Native species may survive such invasions by evolving mechanisms to avoid toxin exposure or increase toxin tolerance. Red imported fire ants (Solenopsis invicta) employ an alkaloid‐based venom to defend their colonies and capture prey. In this study we aim to characterize the sublethal effects of invasive fire ant venom on a native vertebrate, the eastern fence lizard (Sceloporus undulatus), and to determine whether lizard populations that have been exposed to these fire ants for ∼35 generations have increased physiological resistance to the venom. We documented the sublethal impact of fire ant venom on fence lizard performance by naturally exposing lizards to fire ant stings and recording changes in three fitness‐relevant measures: bite force, righting ability, and sprint speed. We also measured blood hemolysis induced by the venom. To test for the development of physiological resistance to fire ant venom we compared whole‐body performance and hemolysis for two populations of lizards with different fire ant invasion histories. Fire ant venom showed no dosage‐dependent sublethal effects on performance. In addition, there is no evidence that lizards have evolved increased physiological resistance: the impact of fire ant venom on whole‐body performance and hemolysis did not differ between the naïve and experienced populations. Lizards may instead rely on adaptive shifts in escape behavior and morphology following invasion to survive fire ant attack.J. Exp. Zool. 313A:17–23, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Induction of diploid gynogenesis in Wels catfish (Silurus glanis) using UV‐irradiated grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) sperm
Authors: Fopp‐Bayat Dorota
Published: August 2009

This article describes the first successful induction of meiotic gynogenesis in Wels catfish (Silurus glanis) using heterologous sperm of grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) with DNA inactivated by means of UV‐irradiation at 4800 J/m2. The cold shock at 6°C (duration of 20 min) started in the nineth minute after fertilization was found as efficient in retaining the second polar body and producing meiotic diploids. Successful induction of meiotic gynogenesis was confirmed by the microsatellite DNA analysis, which revealed only maternal inheritance in gynogenetic offspring. Ploidy of gynogenetic offspring was verified by the application of active nucleoli counting analysis. J. Exp. Zool. 313A:24–27, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The usual and the unusual suspects: level of suspicion and counter‐interrogation tactics
Authors: Granhag Pär Anders , Clemens Franziska , Strömwall Leif A.
Published: August 2009

The present study investigated guilty mock‐suspects' counter‐interrogation tactics with respect to the disclosure of possibly self‐incriminating information, specifically, to what extent the disclosure of this information was moderated by (1) the suspects' criminal experience (naïve versus experienced) and (2) the degree of suspicion directed towards the suspects (low versus high). We found that experienced (versus naïve) suspects volunteered less self‐incriminating information in an initial free recall phase. In a similar vein, when asked crime‐specific questions, naïve (versus experienced) suspects admitted having committed more actions fitting with the crime under investigation. Furthermore, experienced suspects' willingness to report information was not affected by the degree of suspicion, whereas naïve suspects in a high‐suspicion (versus low‐suspicion) condition were more willing to report information. The results were discussed in the light of the psychology of guilt, the Strategic Use of Evidence technique for detecting deception, and the (over)use of naïve suspects as mock‐suspects in psycho‐legal research. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Uniforms affect the accuracy of children's eyewitness identification decisions
Authors: Lowenstein Joseph A. , Blank Hartmut , Sauer James D.
Published: August 2009

A substantial proportion of line‐up identifications involving child eyewitnesses in the UK are conducted by police officers wearing uniform. This study examined the possibility that wearing a uniform constitutes an authority cue that adversely affects a child's ability to make accurate eyewitness identifications. Sixty participants aged 9–10 years old witnessed a staged crime and were later asked to identify a ‘burglar’ from a simultaneous line‐up using a 2 (uniform: present vs. absent) × 2 (target: present vs. absent) design. Children in the uniform present conditions made significantly more choices than children in the uniform absent conditions. More importantly, in the presence of a uniform, children made significantly more false identifications in target‐absent line‐ups. Analysis of supplementary, identification‐related variables (identification time and confidence, state anxiety) suggested that (1) the children experienced uncertainty if the target was absent from the line‐up, but (2) this uncertainty was not expressed when the line‐up administrator wore a uniform, leading to an increase in false identifications. Implications for line‐up administration procedures for children are discussed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sperm ultrastructure in Bathypolypus bairdii and B. sponsalis (Cephalopoda: Octopoda)
Authors: Roura Álvaro , Guerra Ángel , González Ángel F. , Pascual Santiago
Published: August 2009

A morphological comparison of the spermatozoa of the octopods Bathypolypus bairdii and B. sponsalis has been carried out by electron microscopy. Although the mature spermatozoon of B. bairdii is longer and thinner than that of B. sponsalis, its general ultrastructure is similar except for some minor differences. Their characteristic acrosomes, described here for the first time, consist of a periodically banded cone surrounded by a double helix whose arrangement has been defined by a numeric expression. The plasma membrane of sponsalis that surrounds the acrosome has many projections filled with abundant granular cytoplasm, which appears as a star‐shaped acrosome in cross‐section. The mitochondrial sheath contains 9–11 mitochondria in bairdii but only 9 in sponsalis. A comparison with other Octopodidae shows that the nucleus of both species is the largest ever seen. Our results support the capability of sperm morphology to discriminate between species and could even discern at higher taxonomic levels. J. Morphol., 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Structural adaptation and intracortical bone turnover in an ovine model of osteoporosis
Authors: Healy Claragh , Kennedy Oran D. , Brennan Orlaith , Rackard Sue M. , O'Brien Fergal J. , Lee Thomas Clive
Published: September 2009

Compact bone makes up approximately 80% of the human skeletal mass. This study examines the effect of estrogen deficiency on compact bone turnover and associated geometrical structural adaptation over a 31‐month period in a large animal model. Twenty‐seven skeletally mature sheep were divided into control (n = 16) and ovariectomy group (OVX, n = 11). Animals were administered five different fluorochrome dyes to label intracortical bone turnover, and sacrificed at 31 months. Compact bone samples were analyzed for cortical geometry, intracortical turnover at five time points, resorption cavities, porosity, and compressive strength. Intracortical bone turnover was significantly increased in OVX, which demonstrated seasonal variation. Cross‐sectional area in OVX was significantly greater than control and was associated with an increased section modulus. Intracortical porosity was significantly increased in OVX, however, there was no significant difference in ultimate compressive strength between the groups. Our results demonstrate increased intracortical bone turnover, resportion spaces, and porosity in OVX, without adversely affecting compressive strength. Our results also support the hypothesis of geometrical adaptation of compact bone in response to estrogen deficiency. These results suggest an early structural compensatory response in compact bone, despite increased intracortical turnover. © 2009 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 28:248–251, 2010
Enhanced healing of goat femur‐defect using BMP7 gene‐modified BMSCs and load‐bearing tissue‐engineered bone
Authors: Zhu Lian , Chuanchang Dai , Wei Liu , Yilin Cao , Jiasheng Dong
Published: September 2009

Segmental defect regeneration is still a clinical challenge. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) infected with adenoviral vector containing the bone morphogenetic protein 7 gene (AdBMP7) and load‐bearing to enhance bone regeneration in a critically sized femoral defect in the goat model. The defects were implanted with AdBMP7‐infected BMSCs/coral (BMP7 group) or noninfected BMSCs/coral (control group), respectively, stabilized with an internal fixation rod and interlocking nails. Bridging of the segmental defects was evaluated by radiographs monthly, and confirmed by biomechanical tests. Much callus was found in the BMP7 group, and nails were taken off after 3 months of implantation, indicating that regenerated bone in the defect can be remodeled by load‐bearing, whereas after 6 months in control group. After load‐bearing, it is about 5 months; the mechanical property of newly formed bone in the BMP7 group was restored, but 8 months in control group. Our data suggested that the BMP7 gene‐modified BMSCs and load‐bearing can promote bone regeneration in segmental defects. © 2009 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 28:412–418, 2010
Role of surgery in the treatment of ovarian metastases from colorectal cancer
Authors: Chung Tae‐Sung , Chang Hee Jin , Jung Kyung Hae , Park Sang‐Yoon , Lim Seok‐Byung , Choi Hyo Seong , Jeong Seung‐Yong
Published: August 2009

Background and Objectives

The role of surgical resection in the treatment of metastatic ovarian tumors originating from colorectal cancer (CRC) remains uncertain. We sought to identify a subgroup of patients who would benefit from surgical resection.

Methods

We analyzed the clinicopathological and follow‐up data on 34 patients who underwent surgical resection of metastatic ovarian tumors originating from CRC.

Results

Synchronous ovarian metastasis was detected in 27 patients (79.4%) and metachronous metastasis in 7 (20.6%). The histologic type of the primary CRC was adenocarcinoma in 26 patients (76.5%), mucinous carcinoma in 7 (20.6%), and signet ring cell carcinoma in 1 (2.9%). Complete cytoreduction was possible in 11 patients (32.4%). The 3‐year overall survival (OS) rate was 25.1%. The median OS time was 19 months (range, 2–64 months) in all patients, and 36 months (range, 10–64 months) in patients who underwent complete cytoreduction. Cox's proportional hazards analysis showed that unilateral ovarian metastasis (relative risk [RR], 0.405; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.171–0.959) and metastasis confined to the pelvic cavity (RR, 0.165; 95% CI, 0.031–0.878) were significantly associated with favorable prognosis.

Conclusions

Surgical resection may be beneficial in selected patients with ovarian metastasis arising from CRC, when metastasis is limited to the pelvis. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;100:570–574. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparative analysis of thymidylate synthase at the protein, mRNA, and DNA levels as prognostic markers in colorectal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Ren Dan‐Ni , Kim Ik‐Yong , Koh Sang Baek , Chang Sei Jin , Eom Minseob , Yi Sang Yeop , Seong Seung Hoon , Kim Mi‐Dong , Bronner Mary P. , Cho Mee‐Yon
Published: August 2009

Background and Objectives

To determine the best routinely available molecular methodology for assessing thymidylate synthase (TS) as a prognostic marker in colorectal adenocarcinoma, TS was examined at the protein, mRNA, and DNA levels. Direct comparison of these routinely available assays has not been systematically studied across a large colon cancer patient cohort with long‐term follow‐up.

Methods

We studied 150 surgically resected colorectal adenocarcinoma patients who received postoperative 5‐Fluorouracil (5‐FU) chemotherapy. TS immuunohistochemistry and real‐time quantitative RT‐PCR and PCR genotyping on patient‐matched tumor and normal tissues were performed.

Results

Surprisingly, mRNA values in normal tissue varied from 0.11 to 62.0 and significantly correlated with mRNA values of matched tumor tissues. Although higher tumor/normal ratios of mRNA expression trended toward poorer patient survival, neither this nor TS immunohistochemistry results were statistically significant predictors. TS tumor genotype was generally concordant with matched normal tissues. Further, the 2R/3R genotype of 5′‐TSER was significantly correlated with poorer patient survival (P = 0.0249) and was also an independent prognostic marker on multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

TS genotyping on paraffin‐embedded fixed tissues proved to be the most useful method for prediction of outcome of 5‐FU treatment in patients with colorectal adenocarcinoma. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;100:546–552. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for radiation‐induced brain necrosis in a patient with primary central nervous system lymphoma
Authors: Cihan Yasemin Benderli , Uzun Günalp , Yildiz Şenol , Dönmez Halil
Published: August 2009

A 45‐year‐old man who developed brain radionecrosis in the right frontal and left temporoparietal lobes after receiving whole brain radiotherapy and stereotactic radiosurgery for primary central nervous system lymphoma. Since high dose steroid treatment failed and he declined to undergo surgery, he was referred to hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy. Both clinical and radiological findings improved after HBO therapy. Steroid requirements were also reduced. HBO therapy may have a potential value in treatment of brain radionecrosis. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;100:732–735. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Survival analysis after pancreatic resection for ampullary and pancreatic head carcinoma: An analysis of clinicopathological factors
Authors: Sommerville C.A.M. , Limongelli P. , Pai M. , Ahmad R. , Stamp G. , Habib N.A. , Williamson R.C.N. , Jiao L.R.
Published: August 2009

Background and Objectives

Surgery remains the only curative option for the treatment of pancreatic and ampullary carcinomas. To examine the survival differences between ampullary and pancreatic head carcinomas after pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Methods

A retrospective review of patients with ampullary or pancreatic head adenocarcinoma undergoing curative resection during a 6‐year period prior to 2000.

Results

A total of 104 patients underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy for pancreatic head and ampullary carcinomas (n = 65 and n = 39, respectively). Histologically, pancreatic cancer was worse, with more lymph node involvement and more positive resection margins and vascular and perineural invasions than found in ampullary carcinoma. The median disease‐free and overall survival rates were significantly better for ampullary cancer when compared with pancreatic cancer (17 vs. 9 months [P = 0.001] and 35 vs. 24 months [P = 0.006], respectively). The actuarial 5‐year disease‐free and overall survival rates were 4.4% and 10.5%, respectively, for pancreatic carcinoma and 27.9% and 31.8%, respectively, for ampullary carcinoma. Multivariate analysis showed that microscopic resection margin involvement (P = 0.02) and involvement of over three nodes (P < 0.001) were significant factors affecting the overall survival for pancreatic and ampullary carcinomas, respectively.

Conclusions

In this study, patients with ampullary carcinoma have a better prognosis and survival than those with pancreatic carcinoma. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;100:651–656. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) increases the invasive ability of pancreatic cancer cells through the TLR4/MyD88 signaling pathway
Authors: Ikebe Mio , Kitaura Yoshiki , Nakamura Masafumi , Tanaka Haruo , Yamasaki Akio , Nagai Shuntaro , Wada Junji , Yanai Kosuke , Koga Kenichiro , Sato Norihiro , Kubo Makoto , Tanaka Masao , Onishi Hideya , Katano Mitsuo
Published: August 2009

Background

Inflammation plays a multifaceted role in cancer progression, and NF‐κB is one of the key factors connecting inflammation with cancer progression. We have shown that lipopolysaccharide (LPS) promotes NF‐κB activation in colon cancer cells and pancreatic cancer cells. However, it is unclear why inflammatory stimuli can induce NF‐κB activation in cancer cells.

Methods

We used two human pancreatic cancer cells, Panc‐1 and AsPC‐1, as target cells. LPS was used as an inflammatory stimulus. To confirm the participation of TLR4/NF‐κB signaling pathway, we used three different NF‐κB inhibitors (PDTC, IκBα mutant, and NF‐κB decoy ODN) and siRNAs (against TLR4, MyD88, and MMP‐9). Effect of LPS on pancreatic cancer cell invasive ability was determined by Matrigel invasion assay.

Results

LPS increased the invasive ability of pancreatic cancer cells, while blockade of NF‐κB pathway decreased the LPS‐dependent increased invasive ability. Blockade of TLR4 or MyD88 by siRNA also decreased the LPS‐dependent increased invasive ability.

Conclusion

These results suggest that TLR/MyD88/NF‐κB signaling pathway plays a significant role in connecting inflammation and cancer invasion and progression. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;100:725–731. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Role of the surgeon as a variable in long‐term survival after liver resection for colorectal metastases
Authors: Giuliante Felice , Ardito Francesco , Vellone Maria , Ranucci Giuseppina , Federico Bruno , Giovannini Ivo , Nuzzo Gennaro
Published: August 2009

Background and Objectives

Survival analyses after hepatectomy for colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) mostly address tumor‐related factors; this study has simultaneously evaluated interventional factors which may be influenced by the surgeon.

Methods

Operative and long‐term results of 251 consecutive patients undergoing hepatectomy for CRLM between 1992 and 2007 were analyzed.

Results

Mortality was 0.8%, morbidity 22.9%, intraoperative blood transfusion rate 23.1% (19.4% with pedicle clamping, 35.0% without clamping, P = 0.01), R0‐resection 93.6% (2/3 with tumor‐free margin >5 mm). The 3‐, 5‐, 10‐year overall and disease‐free survival rates were 55.2%, 38.9%, 24.2%, and 37.1%, 28.2%, 25.4%. Univariate analysis: lower survival was related to transfusion requirement, tumor size >5 cm, tumor‐free margin ≤5 mm, major hepatectomy, R1‐resection, multiplicity of CRLM, preoperative CEA ≥50 ng/ml. Multivariate analysis: intraoperative transfusion remained the only independent predictor of survival; tumor‐free margin ≤5 mm and multiplicity of CRLM remained independent predictors of disease‐free survival within 12 months from hepatectomy; intraoperative transfusion became again the prominent predictor for later recurrences.

Conclusions

Two factors may be influenced by the surgeon: bleeding with requirement for blood transfusion (through the protective effect of pedicle clamping) and width of tumor‐free surgical margin. These factors have prominent roles on long‐term outcomes after hepatectomy for CRLM. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;100:538–545. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Determination of banned Sudan dyes in food samples by molecularly imprinted solid phase extraction‐high performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Baggiani Claudio , Anfossi Laura , Baravalle Patrizia , Giovannoli Cristina , Giraudi Gianfranco , Barolo Claudia , Viscardi Guido
Published: August 2009

A method for molecularly imprinted SPE of banned Sudan azo‐dyes from food samples was investigated. The molecularly imprinted polymer was obtained by suspension polymerization using 1‐(4‐chlorophenyl)azonaphthalen‐2‐ol as the mimic template. The molecular recognition properties of imprinted beads were evaluated for use as a SPE sorbent, in order to develop a selective extraction protocol for the Sudan class of dyes. The optimized extraction protocol resulted in a reliable molecularly imprinted SPE (MISPE) method suitable for HPLC analysis. It was selective for the main analyte, Sudan I, and the related azo‐dyes Sudan II, III, IV, Sudan Red B, and Sudan Red 7B, while the permitted azo‐dyes Allura Red AC, Neococcin, and Sunset Yellow FCF were not extracted. The method was tested for Sudan I, II, III, and IV in five different food samples (hot chilli pepper, hot chilli tomato sauce, sausage, tomato sauce, and hard boiled egg yolk) at three concentration levels (15, 100, and 300 μg/g). It demonstrated itself to be insensitive to the presence of different complex matrices, precise, accurate, and with good recovery rates (85–101%). The LOD and LOQ were satisfactory for most analytical determinations.
Quartz crystal microbalance for the detection of carbaryl using molecularly imprinted polymers as recognition element
Authors: Yao Wei , Gao Zhixian , Cheng Yiyong
Published: August 2009

A new piezoelectric quartz crystal sensor using molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) as recognition element has been prepared for the fast detection of carbaryl. The MIPs were prepared by precipitation polymerization in ACN, and then the polymer particles were fixed on the surface of the electrode. Computer simulation technology was employed to investigate the interaction between carbaryl and methacrylic acid (MAA) for elucidating the recognition mechanism. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were employed to evaluate the obtained imprinted polymer particles and the MIP sensitive film coated on the electrode. The sensor developed exhibits a liner relationship between the frequency shift and carbaryl concentration in the range of 10–1000 ng/mL (y = 0.139 x + 2.99, r = 0.9981), and the detection limit was 12.5 ng/mL (S/N = 3). Furthermore, the influencing factors were investigated, and the experiments indicated that the obtained sensor has high sensitivity, excellent selectivity, good reproducibility, and reusable property.
Molecularly imprinted solid‐phase extraction of cephalexin from water‐based matrices
Authors: Beltran Antoni , Fontanals Núria , Marcé Rosa M. , Cormack Peter A. G. , Borrull Francesc
Published: August 2009

In the present paper, we describe the synthesis of a cephalexin (CFX) molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP), the direct application of the MIP to SPE for the determination of CFX (which is a β‐lactam antibiotic) in human urine and the use of the MIP in a tandem SPE system to determine CFX in river water. The molecularly imprinted polymers (MIP) showed cross‐selectivity for amoxicillin (AMX; also a β‐lactam antibiotic). This allowed both CFX and AMX to be quantified in acidified human urine, with recoveries of 78 and 60% for CFX and AMX, respectively, when the urine samples were spiked with CFX and AMX at 4 mg/L. These analyses were facile because the molecularly imprinted solid‐phase extraction (MISPE) extracts were clear compared to the nonpurified samples. In order to increase the sample volume for river water analyses, a tandem SPE system incorporating a commercially available sorbent was implemented. With this set‐up, CFX was determined with recoveries in excess of 50% when 200 mL of acidified river water samples spiked at 10 μg/L with CFX were percolated through the tandem system.
Hybrid molecularly imprinted membranes for targeted tocopherol: Uses of cross‐linked copolymer particles prepared by surfactant‐free dispersion technique
Authors: Kobayashi Takaomi , Faizal Che ku M. , Son Le Trung
Published: August 2009

α‐Tocopherol (α‐Toc) targeted membrane adsorbents were prepared by mixing α‐Toc imprinted particles in polysulfone (PSf) scaffold. The α‐Toc imprinted particles were prepared with high‐shear dispersion copolymerization of α‐Toc methacrylate (α‐TMA) and divinylbenzene (DVB) in toluene and water in the agitation range of 300–13 500 rpm. The α‐Toc groups in resultant imprinted particles were hydrolyzed with 2 M HCl and then the polymers were embedded in PSf membranes by phase inversion technique. The membrane exhibited good selective binding of α‐Toc with high separation factors to its analogs.