bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐throughput discovery and characterization of fetal protein trafficking in the blood of pregnant women
Authors: Maron Jill L. , Alterovitz Gil , Ramoni Marco , Johnson Kirby L. , Bianchi Diana W.
Published: October 2009

Although the measurement of fetal proteins in maternal serum is part of standard prenatal screening for aneuploidy and neural tube defects, attempts to better understand the extent of feto‐maternal protein trafficking and its clinical and biological significance have been hindered by the presence of abundant maternal proteins. The objective of this study was to circumvent maternal protein interference by using a computational predictive approach for the development of a noninvasive, comprehensive, protein network analysis of the developing fetus in maternal whole blood. From a set of 157 previously identified fetal gene transcripts, 46 were classified into known protein networks, and 222 downstream proteins were predicted. Statistically significantly over‐represented pathways were diverse and included T‐cell biology, neurodevelopment and cancer biology. Western blot analyses validated the computational predictive model and confirmed the presence of specific downstream fetal proteins in the whole blood of pregnant women and their newborns, with absence or reduced detection of the protein in the maternal postpartum samples. This work demonstrates that extensive feto‐maternal protein trafficking occurs during pregnancy, and can be predicted and verified to develop novel noninvasive biomarkers. This study raises important questions regarding the biological effects of fetal proteins on the pregnant woman.
The structure and peroxidase activity of a 33‐kDa catalase‐related protein from Mycobacterium avium ssp. paratuberculosis
Authors: Pakhomova Svetlana , Gao Benlian , Boeglin William E. , Brash Alan R. , Newcomer Marcia E.
Published: October 2009

True catalases are tyrosine‐liganded, usually tetrameric, hemoproteins with subunit sizes of ∼55–84 kDa. Recently characterized hemoproteins with a catalase‐related structure, yet lacking in catalatic activity, include the 40–43 kDa allene oxide synthases of marine invertebrates and cyanobacteria. Herein, we describe the 1.8 Å X‐ray crystal structure of a 33 kDa subunit hemoprotein from Mycobacterium avium ssp. paratuberculosis (annotated as MAP‐2744c), that retains the core elements of the catalase fold and exhibits an organic peroxide‐dependent peroxidase activity. MAP‐2744c exhibits negligible catalatic activity, weak peroxidatic activity using hydrogen peroxide (20/s) and strong peroxidase activity (∼300/s) using organic hydroperoxides as co‐substrate. Key amino acid differences significantly impact prosthetic group conformation and placement and confer a distinct activity to this prototypical member of a group of conserved bacterial “minicatalases”. Its structural features and the result of the enzyme assays support a role for MAP‐2744c and its close homologues in mitigating challenge by a variety of reactive oxygen species.
Evaluating non‐independent protection layers
Authors: Stack R.J.
Published: October 2009

The overall performance of a system that shares inputs and outputs between the BPCS and SIS can be better than the performance of a BPCS system and SIS system with dedicated inputs and outputs. Layer of Protection Analysis (LOPA) assumes that independent protection layers (IPLs) are independent of the initiating event (IE) components and any components of any other IPL in the LOPA scenario. This paper first focuses on those situations where protection layers all have separate components but are not independent solely because they:

share common utilities such as plant air, electricity, or cooling water,

share components in instrumented loops with other instrumented IPLs or the IE,

be in the same location and share vulnerability to a common failure such as a fire, or extreme weather

Second, this paper demonstrates each of these situations using simple examples and a fault tree model of the LOPA scenarios to address the impact of sharing components or subsystems. Third, this paper, shows the difference between analyzing sharing at the order of magnitude LOPA level and using the best estimate component reliability data with fault tree models.

Fourth, this paper provides examples showing the overall performance of a system that shares inputs and outputs between the IPLs or between the BPCS and SIS can be better than the performance of a BPCS system and SIS system with dedicated inputs and outputs. The maintenance and operational management issues involved with linking formerly “independent” systems can be managed to maintain the shared system performance advantage.

Fifth, this paper suggests some general guidelines addressing sharing issues in LOPA. Finally, this paper discusses the potential benefits of selected sharing and the costs associated with assuring that the related complexities are controlled. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog, 2009
The cytotoxic effects of the anti‐bacterial peptides on leukocytes
Authors: Catrina Sergiu‐Bogdan , Refai Essam , Andersson Mats
Published: October 2009

Antimicrobial peptides are small molecular weight proteins with a large antibacterial spectrum. They can reach high local concentrations in tissues with active inflammation, being largely produced by immunocompetent cells. However, their effect on eukaryotic cells is still unclear. We have, therefore, studied three structurally different antimicrobial peptides (cecropin P1, PR‐39 and NK‐lysin) for their cytotoxic effects on blood mononuclear cells. None of the antimicrobial peptides tested exhibited significant cytotoxic effect on resting lymphocytes isolated either from peripheral blood or from the spleen with the exception of high concentrations (ten times higher than IC100 for Escherichia coli) of NK‐lysin. Activated lymphocytes were, however, more sensitive to the cytotoxic effect of the antimicrobial peptides. Both activated T‐cells and B‐cells were dose dependent sensitive to NK‐lysin while only activated B‐cells but not activated T‐cells were sensitive to PR‐39. Cecropin did not exhibit any cytotoxic effect on activated lymphocytes either. By using several cell lines (3B6, K562, U932 and EL‐4) we were able to show that NK‐lysin has a broad necrotic effect while PR‐39 has a cell specific apoptotic effect dependent on the specifically cellular uptake. In conclusion we show here that antimicrobial peptides are not cytotoxic for the resting eukaryotic cells but can be cytotoxic on activated immune cells through distinct mechanisms of cell death. Copyright © 2009 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Petasites extract Ze 339 (PET) inhibits allergen‐induced Th2 responses, airway inflammation and airway hyperreactivity in mice
Authors: Brattström A. , Schapowal A. , Maillet I. , Schnyder B. , Ryffel B. , Moser R.
Published: October 2009

Background: The herbal Petasites hybridus (butterbur) extract (Ze 339, PET) is known to have leukotriene inhibiting properties, and therefore might inhibit allergic diseases.

Methods: The effect of PET was investigated in ovalbumin (OVA) immunized BALB/c mice given intranasally together with antigen challenge in the murine model of allergic airway disease (asthma) with the analysis of the inflammatory and immune parameters in the lung.

Results: PET given with the antigen challenge inhibited the allergic response. PET inhibited airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) and eosinophil recruitment into the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid upon allergen challenge, but had no effect in the saline control mice. Eosinophil recruitment was further assessed in the lung by eosinophil peroxidase (EPO) activity at a concentration of 100 µg PET. Microscopic investigations revealed less inflammation, eosinophil recruitment and mucus hyperproduction in the lung with 100 µg PET. Diminution of AHR and inflammation was associated with reduced IL‐4, IL‐5 and RANTES production in the BAL fluid with 30 µg PET, while OVA specific IgE and eotaxin serum levels remained unchanged.

Conclusion: PET, which has been reported to inhibit leukotriene activity, reduced allergic airway inflammation and AHR by inhibiting the production of the Th2 cytokines IL‐4 and IL‐5, and RANTES. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Activity of Scottish Plant, Lichen and Fungal Endophyte Extracts against Mycobacterium aurum and Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Gordien Andréa Y. , Gray Alexander I. , Ingleby Kevin , Franzblau Scott G. , Seidel Véronique
Published: October 2009

With tuberculosis the leading bacterial killer worldwide and other mycobacterial diseases on the increase, the search for new antimycobacterial agents is timely. In this study, extracts from plants, lichens and fungal endophytes of Scottish provenance were screened for activity against Mycobacterium aurum and M. tuberculosis H37Rv. The best activity against M. aurum was observed for extracts of Juniperus communis roots and Cladonia arbuscula (MIC = 4 µg/mL), and a fungal endophyte isolated from Vaccinium myrtillus (MIC = 8 µg/mL). The best activity against M. tuberculosis was observed for extracts of C. arbuscula, Empetrum nigrum, J. communis roots, Calluna vulgaris aerial parts, Myrica gale roots and stems (93 to 99% inhibition at 100 µg/mL). Potent antitubercular activity (90 to 96% inhibition at 100 µg/mL) was also observed for the ethanol extracts of Xerocomus badius, Chalciporus piperatus, Suillus luteus and of endophytes isolated from C. vulgaris, E. nigrum, Vaccinium vitis‐idaea and V. myrtillus. The results obtained this study provide, in part, some scientific basis for the traditional use of some of the selected plants in the treatment of tuberculosis. They also indicate that fungal endophytes recovered from Scottish plants are a source of antimycobacterial agents worthy of further investigation. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Recovery of oral glucose tolerance by wistar rats after treatment with Coreopsis tinctoria infusion
Authors: Dias Teresa , Mota‐Filipe Hélder , Liu Bo , Jones Peter , Houghton Peter J. , Paulo Alexandra
Published: October 2009

Infusions of Coreopsis tinctoria flowering tops have traditionally been used in Portugal to control hyperglycaemia but no pharmacological or toxicological studies have been reported until now. The chalcones marein and okanin were isolated from the aqueous extract, together with the 2S‐3′,4′,7,8‐tetrahydroxyflavanone. The content of marein in extracts was determined by HPLC‐UV and the radical scavenging capacity evaluated by the DPPH method (EC50 = 21 µg/mL). Glucose intolerance was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin in saline (40 mg/Kg). After three weeks of oral treatment with C. tinctoria extract (500 mg/Kg/day) the animals were no longer glucose‐intolerant (p > 0.05). Additionally, this oral treatment caused no hepatotoxicity in the rats, as determined by blood alanine and aspartate transaminases. A single administration of extract had no effect on oral glucose tolerance in normal Wistar rats. The extract also had no effect on insulin secretion by MIN6 cells. In conclusion, C. tinctoria infusion is able to abolish the streptozotocin‐induced glucose‐intolerance in rats after three weeks of oral treatment by a mechanism other than induction of insulin secretion. The recovery of β‐pancreatic function mediated by an antioxidant mechanism is a possibility that deserves further investigation. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The anti‐inflammatory effect of baicalin on hypoxia/reoxygenation and TNF‐α induced injury in cultural rat cardiomyocytes
Authors: Lin Lin , Wu Xiao‐dong , Davey Andrew K , Wang Jiping
Published: October 2009

The aim of present study was to investigate the effect of baicalin on hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injury in cardiomyocytes and the mechanisms involved, particularly in relation to cytokines. The cardiomyocytes for the H/R groups were placed into a hypoxic chamber for 12 h and then underwent reoxygenation for 1 h. The cells in the TNF‐α groups were administered 100 ng/mL rrTNF‐α and incubated for 13 h under normal conditions. The cells in the baicalin pretreatment groups were administered 10 μM baicalin 30 min prior to exposure to H/R or TNF‐α. It was observed that pretreatment with baicalin (10 μM) significantly reduced the cell damage and death induced by H/R or TNF‐α. In the culture medium of the H/R cells, the SOD activity increased, while TNF‐α was decreased by baicalin. The levels of IL‐6 in culture medium for H/R or TNF‐α treated cells were suppressed by baicalin pretreatment. In contrast, the levels of IL‐10 in culture medium for H/R or TNF‐α treated cells were significantly elevated by baicalin. Moreover, baicalin inhibited the nuclear translocation of NF‐κB induced by H/R or TNF‐α. In conclusion, baicalin may protect cardiomyocytes from H/R injury through an anti‐inflammatory mechanism. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of crocus sativus L. (saffron) stigma and its constituents, crocin and safranal, on morphine withdrawal syndrome in mice
Authors: Hosseinzadeh Hossein , Jahanian Zahra
Published: October 2009

Crocus sativus L. has been shown to interact with the opioid system. Thus, the effects of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of stigma and its constituents were evaluated on morphine‐withdrawal syndrome in mice. Dependence was induced using subcutaneous (s.c.) injections of morphine for 3 days. On day 4, morphine was injected 0.5 h prior the interaperitoneal (i.p.) injections of the extracts, crocin, safranal, clonidine (0.3 mg/kg) or normal saline. Naloxone was injected (5 mg/kg i.p.) 2 h after the final dose of morphine and the number of episodes of jumping during 30 mm was considered as the intensity of the withdrawal syndrome. Clonidine, the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of saffron reduced the jumping activity. Safranal was injected (s.c.) 30 mm prior and 1 and 2 h after the injection of morphine. It potentiated some signs of withdrawal syndrome. The aqueous extract decreased the movement in all of the doses (80, 160, 320 mg/kg) and the ethanolic extract decreased it in the dose of 800 mg/kg in open field test. But crocin and the dose of 400 mg/kg ethanolic extract showed no effect on activity in this test. It is concluded that the extracts and crocin may have interaction with the opioid system to reduce withdrawal syndrome. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Theoretical study on the structures and aromaticity of N‐confused porphyrazine isomers
Authors: Hu H. Z. , Ma S. Y.
Published: October 2009

The energy and nucleus‐independent chemical shift (NICS) of 95 isomers of N‐confused porphyrazine (NCPz), including normal porphyrazine (N0CPz), N‐confused porphyrazine (N1CPz), doubly N‐confused porphyrazine (N2CPz), triply N‐confused porphyrazine (N3CPz), and fully N‐confused porphyrazine (N4CPz), have been calculated by the density‐functional theory (DFT) method. The stability of NCPz decreased by increasing the number of confused pyrrole rings and the macrocycle tend to be destabilized stepwise by approximately +21 kcal/mol. The relative energies of the most stable isomers in confusion level are 0 kcal/mol (N0CPz‐1), +23.481 (N1CPz‐5), +41.849 (N2CPz‐a4), +61.738 (N3CPz‐b3), and +84.596 (N4CPz‐b13), respectively. The most stable isomers of N2CPz, N3CPz, and N4CPz are not necessarily the most aromatic but rather nonaromatic, especially in the case of N3CPz and N4CPz. On the other hand, the magnitude of the aromaticity estimated by NICS for these isomers does not differ largely. The NICS values of the most aromatic isomers are −15.5411 (N0CPz‐1), −14.0458 (N1CPz‐2), −12.8171 (N2CPz‐d1), −11.5961 (N3CPz‐b6), and −12.8012 ppm (N4CPz‐a6), respectively. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2010
An atomic charge study of highly ionic diatomic molecular systems
Authors: Nakazato Daniel T. I. , De Sá Eduardo L. , Haiduke Roberto L. A.
Published: October 2009

Four atomic charge formalisms are compared using highly ionic diatomic molecules, such as LiF, NaF, KF, LiCl, NaCl, KCl, BF, AlF, GaF, BeO, and MgO. All calculations were done at the QCISD/6‐311G(2df) level. The only formalism consistent with the characteristics of all these systems is Quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM). Absolute Mulliken charge values are small. ChelpG charges are not reliable for systems in which the atoms are largely anisotropic. Generalized atomic polar tensor values are contaminated with charge fluxes and atomic dipole fluxes and fail when these contributions are important and do not cancel each other. Finally, the charge–charge flux–dipole flux model was applied to dipole moment derivatives with QTAIM. This analysis shows that charge flux and atomic dipole flux contributions during bond stretching are almost null, except for oxides. There are also evidences that the lone electron pair at Group 13 elements in fluorides becomes less localized as the bond is stretched. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2010
Bounds for the Kirchhoff index of regular graphs via the spectra of their random walks
Authors: Palacios José Luis , Renom José Miguel
Published: October 2009

Using probabilistic tools, we give tight upper and lower bounds for the Kirchhoff index of any d‐regular N‐vertex graph in terms of d, N, and the spectral gap of the transition probability matrix associated to the random walk on the graph. We then use bounds of the spectral gap of more specialized graphs, available in the literature, in order to obtain upper bounds for the Kirchhoff index of these specialized graphs. As a byproduct, we obtain a closed‐form formula for the Kirchhoff index of the d‐dimensional cube in terms of the first inverse moment of a positive binomial variable. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2010
The Wigner function of the rotating Kratzer oscillator mapped onto the Morse oscillator
Authors: Stanek Jerzy
Published: October 2009

In this article, the rotating Kratzer oscillator in quantum phase space is studied. The Langer transformation is used to map the Kratzer oscillator with centrifugal term onto a one‐dimensional Morse oscillator. As a result, the Wigner distribution functions for the Morse oscillator are obtained. The quantum states of the system are visualized in the phase space for a few vibrational and rotational quantum numbers. The results obtained in the phase space correspond to those derived in the standard quantum theory. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2010
The O···H intramolecular hydrogen bond in 4‐X‐2‐hydroxybenzaldehydes: The relationships between geometrical parameters, estimated binding energies, and NMR data
Authors: Ebrahimi A. , Khorasani S. M. Habibi , Neyband R. S.
Published: October 2009

The relationships among geometrical parameters, estimated binding energies, and nuclear magnetic resonance data in –CO···HO intramolecular H‐bond of some substituted 2‐hydroxybenzaldehyde have theoretically been studied by B3LYP and MP2 methods with 6‐311++G** and AUG‐cc‐PVTZ basis sets. All substituents increase estimated hydrogen bond energiesEHBs (with the exception of NO2and C2H5), which are in good correlation with geometrical parameters, topological properties of electron density calculated at O···H bond critical points and ring critical points by using atoms in molecules method, the results of natural bond orbital analysis, and calculated nuclear magnetic resonance data. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2010
A new approach to molecular phylogeny of H5N1 avian influenza viruses in Asia
Authors: Wang Huiling , Zhang Yusen
Published: October 2009

In this article, we introduce a new method to analysis avian influenza virus (AIV) of subtype H5N1 and study the similarity of these sequences. We make a comparison for some nucleic acid sequences of H5N1 AIV in Asia by using the 2D and 3D graphic representation. Comparing these sequences, we structured a phylogenetic tree and discussed the evolutional relationship among these viruses. The sequences analysis shows that there are some obvious traits depending on different areas, periods, and hosts. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2010
Quantum molecular dynamics
Authors: Ritchie Burke
Published: October 2009

Electron or ion dynamics are treated using spin‐dependent quantum trajectories. These trajectories are inferred from the Dirac current, which contributes Schroedinger's current and additional spin‐dependent terms, all of which are of order c0 in the nonrelativistic regime of particle velocity, where c is the speed of light. The many‐body problem is treated precisely as in classical dynamics. Each electron or ion has its own equation of motion, which is the time‐dependent Dirac or the time‐dependent Schroedinger equation in the relativistic or nonrelativistic regime of particle velocity, respectively. As an example the theory is applied to the electronic structure of the helium atom, in which two electrons with opposite spin states are shown to correlate such that their quantum trajectories keep them on average on opposite sides of the nucleus. As the theory is time dependent, excited states are also generated. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2011
Dynamic optimization ofN‐joint robotic limb deployments
Authors: Fink Wolfgang , Huntsberger Terrance L. , Aghazarian Hrand
Published: October 2009

We describe an approach using a stochastic optimization framework (SOF) for operating complex mobile systems with several degrees of freedom (DOFs), such as robotic limbs withNjoints, in environments that can contain obstacles. As part of the SOF, we have employed an efficient simulated annealing algorithm normally used in computationally highly expensive optimization and search problems such as the traveling salesman problem and protein design. This algorithm is particularly suited to run onboard industrial robots, robots in telemedicine, remote spacecraft, planetary landers, and rovers, i.e., robotic platforms with limited computational capabilities. The robotic limb deployment optimization approach presented here offers an alternative to time‐intensive robotic arm deployment path planning algorithms in general and in particular for robotic limb systems in which closed‐form solutions do not exist. Application examples for a (N= 4)‐DOF arm on a planetary exploration rover are presented. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The simultaneous use of weighted logrank and weighted Kaplan–Meier statistics with clustered right‐censored data
Authors: Chi Yunchan , Su Pei‐Fang
Published: October 2009

Clustered right‐censored data often arise from tumorigenicity experiments and clinical trials. For testing the equality of two survival functions, Jung and Jeong extended weighted logrank (WLR) tests to two independent samples of clustered right‐censored data, while the weighted Kaplan–Meier (WKM) test can be derived from the work of O'Gorman and Akritas. The weight functions in both classes of tests (WLR and WKM) can be selected to be more sensitive to detect a certain alternative; however, since the exact alternative is unknown, it is difficult to specify the selected weights in advance. Since WLR is rank‐based, it is not sensitive to the magnitude of the difference in survival times. Although WKM is constructed to be more sensitive to the magnitude of the difference in survival times, it is not sensitive to late hazard differences. Therefore, in order to combine the advantages of these two classes of tests, this paper developed a class of versatile tests based on simultaneously using WLR and WKM for two independent samples of clustered right‐censored data. The comparative results from a simulation study are presented and the implementation of the versatile tests to two real data sets is illustrated. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impact of integrative restoration (iRest) meditation on perceived stress levels in multiple sclerosis and cancer outpatients
Authors: Pritchard Mary , Elison‐Bowers Patt , Birdsall Bobbie
Published: October 2009

Stress is a common occurrence in many chronically ill patients, and researchers are calling for cost‐effective stress‐reduction interventions. Meditation techniques have demonstrated a host of benefits for chronically ill patients. The present study examined the effects of a 6‐week Yoga Nidra meditation programme on perceived stress in multiple sclerosis and cancer patients. Overall stress was significantly reduced over the course of the programme. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pacific earthquake engineering research/seismic safety commission tall building design case study 2
Authors: Ghodsi Tony , Ruiz Jose A. Flores
Published: October 2009

The results from two methodologies for the structural design of a 42 story building located in Los Angeles, California, and a description of the properties used to model the structure for both cases are summarized. The building is laterally braced by a concrete shear wall core and two four‐

bay concrete special moment resisting frames (SMRF) in each direction. The first design is based on a modal response spectrum analysis as prescribed by the International Building Code (ICC 2006). The second design, as prescribed by Los Angeles Tall Building Design Council ‘An Alternative Design Approach for Tall buildings’ (LATBSDC 2008), with some exceptions, requires the building to satisfy service level criteria using a modal response spectrum analysis and a collapse prevention evaluation using 7 time‐history non‐linear analyses. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Advisability of X‐ray fluorescence analysis of dry residue of cow milk applied to monitor environment
Authors: Gunicheva T. N.
Published: October 2009

The paper reports application of X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) procedure to determine the contents of 17 elements (Na, Mg, Al, Si, P, S, Cl, K, Ca, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Rb, Sr, and Zr) in a dry residue of cow milk. The main advantages of this procedure imply: preparation of samples without having them destructed, use of plant reference samples (RS) to calibrate, no need for milk defatting, and, as a consequence, no limitations for the milk fatness. The tendencies identified with the XRF results on the dry residue of cow milk do not contradict the features recognized in environmental biogeochemistry. They designate a satisfactory quality of XRF results and prove them promising for multipurpose interpretations. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
“Knowing the ledge”: Participatory action research as legal studies for urban high school youth
Authors: Stovall David , Delgado Natalia
Published: October 2009

Zero‐tolerance discipline policies, harsh sentencing laws, and the gentrification of communities of color have devastating effects for the lives of young people. Coupled with the fact that urban schools can devalue their views, values, and understandings of the world, this article examines an effort to challenge deficit theories that permeate discussions on urban youth. Through the setting of a street law class at a high school with a social justice focus, two facilitators (an African American male and a Latina of Puerto Rican descent, one a qualitative sociologist and the other a lawyer, both trained as qualitative researchers) and a group of high school freshmen analyze the processes of the judicial system to analyze their lives through the tenets of participatory action research.
Chicana feminist strategies in a participatory action research project with transnational Latina youth
Authors: Sánchez Patricia
Published: October 2009

This article discusses a participatory action research (PAR) project carried out with three transnational Latina youth in northern California and how the university researcher incorporated Chicana feminist strategies in the study. PAR and Chicana feminism place at the heart of research the knowledge that ordinary people produce, referring to this knowledge asconocimientos, or “homemade theory.” The author discusses the project, the collaborative writing of a children's book based on two years of data collection, the challenges in being both an insider and an outsider to the community, how the youth created a counterstory based on their transnational immigrant lifestyle, and how an out‐of‐school setting promoted engaged research with urban teens.
Structural Systematics for Lanthanide(III) Systems: Lattice Interactions in Salts [CoL3][Ln(dipic)3]·nH2O (L = N,N′‐Aromatic Bidentate Ligand; dipic = Dipicolinate = pyridine‐2,6‐dicarboxylate) Containing Complex Ions of D3 Symmetry
Authors: Harrowfield Jack M. , Koutsantonis George A. , Skelton Brian W. , Strong Adam J. , White Allan H.
Published: October 2009

Structural characterisation of a number of hydrated solids containing chiral, kinetically inert [Co(A–A)3]3+ cations (A–A = 2,2′‐bipyridine, 1,10‐phenanthroline, 4,4′‐dimethyl‐2,2′‐bipyridine) and chiral, kinetically labile [Ln(dipic)3]3– anions (Ln = La, Eu, Tb, Ho, Er, Lu, Y, though not for all cobalt cations; dipic = dipicolinate = pyridine‐2,6‐dicarboxylate) show a remarkable range of associations between the lattice components, though all are racemic arrays. Analysis of the structures in terms of short interatomic contacts between the components shows that, whereas numerous contacts of the heteroaromatic ligands do occur, very few define an arrangement which could be truly termed “π‐stacking” where the rings are closely parallel and atom overlaps in projection are substantial. Water is important in the highly hydrated lattice structures, not only because of hydrogen‐bonding interactions with itself and carboxylate‐O atoms but also because of its interactions with the aromatic units. The family [Co(bipy)3][Ln(dipic)3]·~13H2O are essentially isomorphous for the full range of Ln plus Y (triclinic, P\bar{1}, a = 12.3, b = 14.3, c = 16.5 Å, α = 94, β = 94, γ = 108 ˚, Z = 2). Among the heavier lanthanides, the potential symmetry of the anion/cation combination is realised in the trigonal space group P\bar{3}, both species lying together as an ion‐pair, disposed on the trigonal axis for [Co(phen)3][Ln(dipic)3]·22H2O (Ln = Eu, Er; a = 15.2, c = 16.8 Å, Z = 2).
Evaluation of nutrient digestibility and fecal characteristics of exotic felids fed horse‐ or beef‐based diets: use of the domestic cat as a model for exotic felids
Authors: Vester Brittany M. , Beloshapka Alison N. , Middelbos Ingmar S. , Burke Sarah L. , Dikeman Cheryl L. , Simmons Lee G. , Swanson Kelly S.
Published: October 2009

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of feeding commercially available beef‐ and horse‐based diets on nutrient digestibility and fecal characteristics of large captive exotic felids and domestic cats. Four species of large exotic felids including cheetahs, Malayan tigers, jaguars, and Amur tigers, and domestic cats were utilized in a crossover design. Raw meat diets included a beef‐based diet (57% protein; 28% fat) and a horse‐based diet (51% protein; 30% fat). All cats were acclimated to the diet for 16 days followed by a 4 day collection period, where total feces, including one fresh sample, were collected. All feces were scored on collection. Intake did not differ due to diet, but fecal output was greater when cats consumed the horse‐based diet. Total tract apparent dry matter (DM) digestibility was higher (P<0.05) and organic matter (OM) and crude protein (CP) digestibilities were lower (P<0.05) when cats were fed the beef‐based diet compared with the horse‐based diet. CP digestibility was similar in domestic cats and cheetahs, and greater (P<0.05) than Amur tigers. Fecal scores were lower and fecal DM was greater (P<0.05) when cats consumed the horse‐based diet compared with the beef‐based diet. Domestic cats had lower (P<0.05) fecal ammonia concentrations compared with all other species. Fecal ammonia concentrations were lowest (P<0.05) when cats were fed the horse‐based diet. Fecal total short‐chain fatty acid (SCFA), branched‐chain fatty acid (BCFA), and butyrate concentrations were higher (P<0.05) when cats consumed the beef‐based diet. Our results suggest that the domestic cat serves as an appropriate model for large exotic felid species, but differences among the species exist. Decreased nutrient digestibility by tigers and jaguars should be considered when developing feeding recommendations for these species based on domestic cat data. Zoo Biol 29:432–448, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Management and Surgical Resection for Tumors of the Trachea and Carina: Experience with 32 Patients
Authors: Liu Xiang‐Yan , Liu Fan‐Ying , Wang Zhou , Chen Gang
Published: October 2009

Background

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the complications, long‐term survival, and management lessons learned after surgical resection for patients with primary tumors of the trachea and carina and locally advanced lung cancer directly infiltrating the carina.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed by our department on 32 patients undergoing surgical resection for primary tumors of the trachea and carina and locally advanced lung cancer directly infiltrating the carina between June 1986 and June 2003.

Results

Various surgical modalities were performed according to the tumor location and extent: tracheal resection in 10 cases, carinal resection and reconstruction in 4 cases, carinal right upper lobectomy in 8 cases, carinal pneumonectomy in 4 cases, and partial tangential resection of the tracheal wall in 6 cases. Cardiopulmonary bypass was required in two patients for nearly complete obstruction of the trachea. Resected tumors included six distinct histologic types. Perioperative mortality was 9.4% (3/32). Major complications occurred in 31.3% (10/32) of the patients. The overall 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year survival rates were 87.5%, 56.3%, and 40.6%, respectively. Patients with primary tracheal and carinal tumors experienced a 5‐year survival of 55.0% compared to 16.7% for those with locally advanced lung cancer directly infiltrating the carina (P< 0.05).

Conclusions

Surgical resection is the most effective treatment of choice for primary tumors of the trachea and carina. With careful patient selection and meticulous surgical and anesthesia techniques, the operative mortality and complications are acceptable, and long‐term survival can be achieved.
Novel mutation affecting the pterin‐binding site of PTS gene and review of PTS mutations in Thai patients with 6‐pyruvoyltetrahydropterin synthase deficiency
Authors: Vatanavicharn N. , Kuptanon C. , Liammongkolkul S. , Liu T.‐T. , Hsiao K.‐J. , Ratanarak P. , Blau N. , Wasant P.
Published: October 2009

Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) deficiency comprises heterogeneous disorders resulting in hyperphenylalaninaemia (HPA) and lack of monoamine neurotransmitters. Among these, 6‐pyruvoyl‐tetrahydropterin synthase (PTPS) deficiency is the most common disorder. We report a female Thai patient with PTPS deficiency who was initially detected by newborn screening for HPA, and later treated by supplements of BH4, l‐dopa/carbidopa, and 5‐hydroxytryptophan. Monitoring of serum prolactin representing dopamine sufficiency is used for optimizing the dosage of l‐dopa. She showed a remarkable progress of development despite delayed treatment at 5 months of age. Mutation analysis revealed two heterozygous missense mutations of the PTS gene: c.259C>T (p.P87S) inherited from the father; and c.147T>G (p.H49Q) inherited from the mother. The latter is a novel mutation that affects the pterin‐binding site of the PTPS enzyme. This novel mutation expands the mutation spectrum of PTPS deficiency. Notably, some PTS mutations have been reported in both Thai and Chinese patients. Whether these common mutations are the result of a founder effect with common ancestors of Thai and Chinese people or intermarriage between Thai and Chinese descents in Thailand remain unclear. In conclusion, severe neurological impairment from BH4 deficiency could be prevented by newborn screening for HPA and proper metabolic management. However, pterin analysis for early diagnosis of BH4 deficiency is still not available in most developing countries.
The Evolution of the Pedicled Radial Forearm Flap
Authors: Megerle Kai , Sauerbier Michael , Germann Günter
Published: October 2009

Because of the thin skin envelope of the hand, especially at the dorsum, flaps are frequently required for defect reconstruction in the hand. The pedicled radial forearm flap is a time proven procedure that offers reliable coverage in this area without the need of advanced microsurgical expertise. Despite several alternatives and an increasing acceptance of free tissue transfers, the pedicled radial forearm flap can still be the procedure of choice under special circumstances. Variations of the original technique address the two main disadvantages, the conspicuous donor site and the sacrifice of the radial artery. Indications, anatomy, surgical technique, and limitations of this classic workhorse flap are presented.
Stress Response Versus Stress Tolerance: A Transcriptome Analysis of Two Rice Lines Contrasting in Tolerance to Phosphorus Deficiency
Authors: Pariasca-Tanaka Juan , Satoh Kouji , Rose Terry , Mauleon Ramil , Wissuwa Matthias
Published: October 2009

Transcriptional profiling has identified genes associated with adaptive responses to phosphorus (P) deficiency; however, distinguishing stress response from tolerance has been difficult. We report gene expression patterns in two rice genotypes (Nipponbare and NIL6-4 which carries a major QTL for P deficiency tolerance (Pup1)) grown in soil with/without P fertilizer. We tested the hypotheses that tolerance of NIL6-4 is associated with (1) internal P remobilization/redistribution; (2) enhanced P solubilization and/or acquisition; and (3) root growth modifications that maximize P interception. Genes responding to P supply far exceeded those differing between genotypes. Genes associated with internal P remobilization/redistribution and soil P solubilization/uptake were stress responsive but often more so in intolerant Nipponbare. However, genes putatively associated with root cell wall loosening and root hair extension (xyloglucan endotransglycosylases/hydrolases and NAD(P)H-dependent oxidoreductase) showed higher expression in roots of tolerant NIL6-4. This was supported by phenotypic data showing higher root biomass and hair length in NIL6-4.
Polo‐like kinase‐1 phosphorylates MDM2 at Ser260 and stimulates MDM2‐mediated p53 turnover
Authors: Dias Sylvia S. , Hogan Carol , Ochocka Anna-Maria , Meek David W.
Published: October 2009

MINT‐7266231, MINT‐7266805, MINT‐7266264, MINT‐7266299: PLK1 (uniprotkb:P53350) phosphorylates (MI:0217) MDM2 (uniprotkb:Q00987) by protein kinase assay (MI:0424)
Prolonged cigarette smoke exposure decreases heme oxygenase‐1 and alters Nrf2 and Bach1 expression in human macrophages: Roles of the MAP kinases ERK1/2 and JNK
Authors: Goven D. , Boutten A. , Leçon-Malas V. , Boczkowski J. , Bonay M.
Published: October 2009

Tobacco may be involved in the decreased macrophage heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) expression described in smoking‐induced severe emphysema, via the nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2)/Kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein 1 (Keap1)–BTB and CNC homology 1, basic leucine zipper transcription factor 1 (Bach1) pathway. We assessed in vitro effects of cigarette smoke condensate (CS) in the human monocyte/macrophage cell line (THP‐1). CS exposure led to increased HO‐1 and nuclear Nrf2 expression (6 h) followed by decreased HO‐1 expression concomitantly with nuclear Nrf2/Bach1 ratio decrease (72 h). CS‐induced mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation. Extracellular‐signal‐regulated kinase1/2 (ERK1/2) and c‐Jun NH2‐terminal kinase (JNK) inhibition completely abrogated CS effects on HO‐1 expression and nuclear Nrf2/Bach1 translocation. These results suggest that ERK1/2 and JNK are involved in CS‐induced biphasic HO‐1 expression by a specific regulation of Nrf2/Keap1–Bach1.
Interplay of CCR2 signaling and local shear force determines vein graft neointimal hyperplasia in vivo
Authors: Jiang Zhihua , Yu Peng , Tao Ming , Ifantides Cristos , Ozaki C. Keith , Berceli Scott A.
Published: October 2009

Leukocytes play a central role in vein graft neointimal hyperplasia, which is significantly augmented under low shear conditions. The current concept is that shear force regulates leukocyte adhesion predominately through up‐regulation of chemokines and growth factors within the graft wall. Using rabbit and murine vein graft models, we demonstrate that CC chemokine receptor 2/monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 mediated monocyte recruitment and a low shear environment act synergistically to augment neointimal hyperplasia development and removal of either of the conditions leads to a significant reduction in neointimal thickening. We propose a novel concept that the shear stress response element phenotypically stems from the complex interplay of the biological and physical microenvironments.
Nitric oxide and dihydrolipoic acid modulate the activity of caspase 3 in HepG2 cells
Authors: Sengupta Rajib , Billiar Timothy R. , Atkins James L. , Kagan Valerian E. , Stoyanovsky Detcho A.
Published: October 2009

Herein, we report that dihydrolipoic acid and lipoic acid (LA) plus lipoamide dehydrogenase and NADH denitrosate S‐nitrosocaspase 3 (CASP‐SNO). In HepG2 cells, S‐nitroso‐l‐cysteine ethyl ester (SNCEE) impeded the activity of caspase 3 (CASP‐SH), while a subsequent incubation of the cells in SNCEE‐free medium resulted in endogenous denitrosation and reactivation of CASP‐SH. The latter process was inhibited in thioredoxin reductase‐deficient HepG2 cells, in which, however, LA markedly reactivated CASP‐SH. The data obtained are discussed with focus on low molecular mass dithiols that mimic the activity of thioredoxin in reactions of protein S‐denitrosation.
The direction of actin polymerization for vesicle fission suggested from membranes tubulated by the EFC/F‐BAR domain protein FBP17
Authors: Suetsugu Shiro
Published: October 2009

Actin polymerization mediated by the Arp2/3 complex is essential for membrane tubulation, vesicle formation and fission during clathrin‐dependent endocytosis. However, the mechanism by which the polymerizing actin filaments participate in vesicle formation and fission has remained unclear. Our analyses revealed that actin polymerization occurs toward FBP17‐induced membrane tubules, which are considered to be generated during endocytic vesicle formation. The tubulated membrane between the future endocytic vesicle and the plasma membrane is proposed to form an arc upon scission of the endocytic vesicle. Therefore, the actin polymerization toward the tubulated membrane may be gradually converted to those toward both the vesicles and the plasma membrane.
Protective effect of apricot (Prunus armeniacaL.) on hepatic steatosis and damage induced by carbon tetrachloride in Wistar rats
Authors: Ozturk Feral , Gul Mehmet , Ates Burhan , Ozturk I. Cetin , Cetin Asli , Vardi Nigar , Otlu Ali , Yilmaz Ismet
Published: October 2009

The present study was planned to investigate the protective effect of 10 % and 20 % apricot-containing feed on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatic steatosis and damage. Adult male Wistar rats (n42) were divided into six groups of seven each, as follows: control group; CCl4group; CCl4+10 % apricot group; CCl4+20 % apricot group; 10 % apricot group; 20 % apricot group. All apricot groups were fed with 10 % or 20 % apricot-containing feed for 5 months. CCl4injections were applied to the CCl4groups at the dose of 1 mg/kg for 3 d at the end of 5 months. In the CCl4group, vacuolated hepatocytes and hepatic necrosis were seen, especially in the centrilobular area. Hepatocytes showed an oedematous cytoplasmic matrix, large lipid globules and degenerated organelles. The area of liver injury was found significantly decreased with apricot feeding. Malondialdehyde and total glutathione levels and catalase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities were significantly changed in the CCl4group and indicated increased oxidative stress. Apricot feeding decreased this oxidative stress and ameliorated histological damage. We concluded that apricot feeding had beneficial effects on CCl4-induced liver steatosis and damage probably due to its antioxidant nutrient (β-carotene and vitamin) contents and high radical-scavenging capacity. Dietary intake of apricot can reduce the risk of liver steatosis and damage caused by free radicals.
Disodium ascorbyl phytostanol phosphate (FM-VP4), a modified phytostanol, is a highly active hypocholesterolaemic agent that affects the enterohepatic circulation of both cholesterol and bile acids in mice
Authors: Méndez-González J. , Süren-Castillo S. , Calpe-Berdiel L. , Rotllan N. , Vázquez-Carrera M. , Escolà-Gil J. C. , Blanco-Vaca F.
Published: October 2009

Disodium ascorbyl phytostanol phosphate (FM-VP4) is a synthetic compound derived from sitostanol and campestanol that has proved to be efficient as a cholesterol-lowering therapy in mice and human subjects. However, the mechanism of action of FM-VP4 remains unknown. The present study tests the ability of FM-VP4 to alter intestinal and liver cholesterol homeostasis in mice. Female C57BL/6J mice were fed either a control chow or a 2 % FM-VP4-enriched diet for 4 weeks. FM-VP4 reduced thein vivonet intestinal cholesterol absorption and plasma and liver cholesterol concentrations by 2·2-, 1·5- and 1·6-fold, respectively, compared with control mice. Furthermore, FM-VP4 also showed an impact on bile acid homeostasis. In FM-VP4 mice, liver and intestinal bile acid content was increased by 1·3- and 2·3-fold, respectively, whereas faecal bile acid output was 3·3-fold lower. FM-VP4 also increased the intestinal absorption of orally administered [3H]taurocholic acid to small intestine in vivo. Inhibition of intestinal cholesterol absorption by FM-VP4 was not mediated via transcriptional increases in intestine liver X receptor (LXR)-α, adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette transporter (ABC)-A1, ABCG5/G8 nor to decreases in intestinal Niemann-Pick C1-like 1 (NPC1L1) expression. In contrast, FM-VP4 up-regulated liver LXRα, ABCA1, ABCG5, scavenger receptor class BI (SR-BI) and hydroxymethylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMGCoA-R) gene expression, whereas it down-regulated several farnesoid X receptor (FXR)-target genes such as cytochrome P450 family 7 subfamily A polypeptide 1 (CYP7A1) and Na+/taurocholate co-transporter polypeptide (NTCP). In conclusion, FM-VP4 reduced intestinal cholesterol absorption, plasma and liver cholesterol and affected bile acid homeostasis by inducing bile acid intestinal reabsorption and changed the liver expression of genes that play an essential role in cholesterol homeostasis. This is the first phytosterol or stanol that affects bile acid metabolism and lowers plasma cholesterol levels in normocholesterolaemic mice.