bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Depressive symptoms in late life: associations with apathy, resilience and disability vary between young‐old and old‐old
Authors: Mehta Mona , Whyte Ellen , Lenze Eric , Hardy Susan , Roumani Yazan , Subashan Perera , Huang Wennie , Studenski Stephanie
Published: August 2007

Objective

Prior research has found that disability and apathy are associated with late‐life depression. However, the effect of age on these associations in “late‐life,” an ambiguous term encompassing all individuals typically older than 60 years, has not been examined. We investigated the association of depression with disability, apathy and resilience across the age range of late‐life.

Methods

One hundred and five community‐dwelling elderly with moderate levels of disability were assessed using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), Hardy‐Gill Resilience Scale, Starkstein Apathy Scale and IADL/ADL questionnaire. Multiple regression analysis was used to assess relationships between depression, disability, apathy and resilience, stratified by age (<80 vs. >80).

Results

In the <80 year old subject group, resilience, apathy and disability scores (partial type III R2 = 11.1%, 10.4% and 12.8%, respectively) equally contributed to the variability of GDS score. In contrast, in the >80 year old subject group, apathy (partial type III R2 = 18.7%) had the greatest contribution to GDS score.

Conclusions

In elderly persons under age 80, resilience, apathy and disability all have relatively equal contributions to depression scores, whereas in those over age 80, depression is most highly correlated with apathy. These data suggest that depressive symptoms in elderly persons have different clinical features along the age spectrum from young‐old to old‐old. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
HFE C282Y mutations are associated with advanced hepatic fibrosis in Caucasians with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Nelson James E. , Bhattacharya Renuka , Lindor Keith D. , Chalasani Naga , Raaka Stuart , Heathcote Jenny E. , Miskovsky Emil , Shaffer Eldon , Rulyak Stephen J. , Kowdley Kris V.
Published: August 2007

Previous studies examining the relationship between

HFE

mutations and severity of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) have been limited by small sample size or ascertainment bias. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between

HFE

mutations and histological severity in a large North American multicenter cohort with NASH. Data from 126 NASH patients were collected from 6 North American centers. Liver biopsy and genotyping for the C282Y and H63D

HFE

mutations were performed in all subjects. Serum transferrin–iron saturation and ferritin levels as well as hepatic iron content were recorded whenever available. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with advanced hepatic fibrosis. The prevalence of heterozygous C282Y and H63D

HFE

mutations was 14.3% and 21.4%, respectively, in the overall cohort. Among Caucasians, C282Y heterozygotes were more likely to have bridging fibrosis or cirrhosis (44% versus 21% [

P

= 0.05]) and stainable hepatic iron (50% versus 16% [

P

= 0.011]) compared with patients with other genotypes. Diabetes mellitus was the only independent predictor of advanced hepatic fibrosis (OR 4.37, 95% CI 1.41-13.54 [

P

= 0.010]) using multiple logistic regression analysis adjusting for age, sex, ethnicity, body mass index, and

HFE

genotype status.

Conclusion:

The

HFE

C282Y heterozygous mutation is associated with advanced fibrosis among Caucasians with NASH. Additional studies are warranted to examine the possible mechanisms for this relationship. (Hepatology 2007.)
Sustained disease remission after spontaneous HBeAg seroconversion is associated with reduction in fibrosis progression in chronic hepatitis B Chinese patients
Authors: Hui Chee-Kin , Leung Nancy , Shek Tony W.H. , Yao Hung , Lee Wai-Ki , Lai Jak-Yiu , Lai Sik-To , Wong Wai-Man , Lai Lawrence SW. , Poon Ronnie T.P. , Lo Chung-Mau , Fan Sheung-Tat , Lau George K.K.
Published: August 2007

Recently, controversies have arisen about whether hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) seroconversion can result in regression of fibrosis, thus improving the clinical outcome of Chinese patients with chronic hepatitis B. In this study, we determined if spontaneous HBeAg seroconversion is associated with regression of fibrosis in Chinese chronic hepatitis B patients. We evaluated the histology of liver samples from 128 HBeAg-positive treatment-naive Chinese patients who had undergone 2 liver biopsies over the years. Regression of fibrosis was defined as a decrease in fibrosis stage of at least 1 point. Sustained disease remission was defined as HBeAg seroconversion and hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA < 104 copies/ml at follow-up liver biopsy. The mean duration (± standard error of the mean) between the initial and follow-up liver biopsies was 43.9 ± 3.4 months. Regression of fibrosis was higher in patients with sustained disease remission (5 of 13 [38.5%] versus 22 of 115 [19.1%],

P

< 0.00005), patients who were younger (20-29 years old) at initial liver biopsy (17of 54 [31.5%] versus 10 of 74 [13.5%],

P

= 0.0004), and patients with genotype B (17of 43 [39.5%] versus 10 of 85 [11.8%],

P

= 0.004). On multivariate analysis, sustained disease remission (relative risk [RR] 3.00, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.29-7.01,

P

= 0.01) and being 20-29 years old at initial liver biopsy (RR 2.94, 95% CI 1.01-8.62,

P

= 0.04) were independently associated with regression of fibrosis. The rate of fibrosis progression was lower in patients with sustained disease remission than in those who remained HBeAg positive (median 0 fibrosis units/year, range −2.00 to −0.70 fibrosis units/year, versus median 0.51 fibrosis units/year, range 0 to +2.03 fibrosis units/year,

P

= 0.02).

Conclusion:

Spontaneous sustained remission of disease is associated not only with little progression of fibrosis but also with regression of fibrosis. (Hepatology 2007.)
Effect of conditioning methods on the microtensile bond strength of phosphate monomer‐based cement on zirconia ceramic in dry and aged conditions
Authors: Amaral Regina , Özcan Mutlu , Valandro Luiz Felipe , Balducci Ivan , Bottino Marco Antonio
Published: August 2007

The objective of this study was to evaluate the durability of bond strength between a resin cement and aluminous ceramic submitted to various surface conditioning methods. Twenty‐four blocks (5 × 5 × 4 mm3) of a glass‐infiltrated zirconia–alumina ceramic (In‐Ceram Zirconia Classic) were randomly divided into three surface treatment groups: ST1—Air‐abrasion with 110‐μm Al2O3 particles + silanization; ST2—Laboratory tribochemical silica coating method (110‐μm Al2O3, 110‐μm silica) (Rocatec) + silanization; ST3—Chairside tribochemical silica coating method (30‐μm SiOx) (CoJet) + silanization. Each treated ceramic block was placed in its silicone mold with the treated surface exposed. The resin cement (Panavia F) was prepared and injected into the mold over the treated surface. Specimens were sectioned to achieve nontrimmed bar specimens (14 sp/block) that were randomly divided into two conditions: (a) Dry—microtensile test after sectioning; (b) Thermocycling (TC)—(6,000×, 5–55°C) and water storage (150 days). Thus, six experimental groups were obtained (n = 50): Gr1—ST1 + dry; Gr2—ST1 + TC; Gr3—ST2 + dry; Gr4—ST2 + TC; Gr5—ST3 + dry; Gr6—ST3 + TC. After microtensile testing, the failure types were noted. ST2 (25.1 ± 11) and ST3 (24.1 ± 7.4) presented statistically higher bond strength (MPa) than that of ST1 (17.5 ± 8) regardless of aging conditions (p < 0.0001). While Gr2 revealed the lowest results (13.3 ± 6.4), the other groups (21.7 ± 7.4–25. 9 ± 9.1) showed statistically no significant differences (two‐way ANOVA and Tukey's test, α = 0.05). The majority of the failures were mixed (82%) followed by adhesive failures (18%). Gr2 presented significantly higher incidence of ADHESIVE failures (54%) than those of other groups (p = 0.0001). Both laboratory and chairside silica coating plus silanization showed durable bond strength. After aging, air‐abrasion with 110‐μm Al2O3 + silanization showed the largest decrease indicating that aging is fundamental for bond strength testing for acid‐resistant zirconia ceramics in order to estimate their long‐term performance in the mouth. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2008
Negative modulation of presynaptic activity by zinc released from schaffer collaterals
Authors: Takeda Atsushi , Fuke Sayuri , Tsutsumi Wataru , Oku Naoto
Published: August 2007

The role of zinc in excitation of Schaffer collateral‐CA1 pyramidal cell synapses is poorly understood. Schaffer collaterals stained with ZnAF‐2 or ZnAF‐2DA, a membrane‐impermeable or a membrane‐permeable zinc indicator, respectively, were treated by tetanic stimulation (200 Hz, 1 sec). Extracellular and intracellular ZnAF‐2 signals were increased in the stratum radiatum of the CA1, in which Schaffer collateral synapses exist. Both the increases were completely blocked in the presence of 1 mM CaEDAT, a membrane‐impermeable zinc chelator, suggesting that 1 mM CaEDTA is effective for chelating zinc released from Schaffer collaterals. The role of Schaffer collateral zinc in presynaptic activity was examined by using FM4‐64, a fluorescent indicator for vesicular exocytosis. The decrease in FM4‐64 signal during tetanic stimulation (10 Hz, 180 sec) was enhanced in Schaffer collaterals in the presence of 1 mM CaEDTA but suppressed in the presence of 5 μM ZnC12, suggesting that zinc released from Schaffer collaterals suppresses presynaptic activity during tetanic stimulation. When Schaffer collateral synapses stained with calcium orange AM, a membrane‐permeable calcium indicator, were regionally stimulated with 1 mM glutamate, calcium orange signal was increased in the CA1 pyramidal cell layer. This increase was enhanced in the presence of CaEDTA and attenuated in the presence of zinc. These results suggest that zinc attenuates excitation of Schaffer collateral synapses elicited with glutamate via suppression of presynaptic activity. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Renewable Resources as Reinforcement of Polymeric Matrices: Composites Based on Phenolic Thermosets and Chemically Modified Sisal Fibers
Authors: Megiatto Jackson D. , Oliveira Franciéli B. , Rosa Derval S. , Gardrat Christian , Castellan Alain , Frollini Elisabete
Published: August 2007

Lignocellulosic materials can significantly contribute to the development of composites, since it is possible to chemically and/or physically modify their main components, cellulose, hemicelluloses and lignin. This may result in materials more stable and with more uniform properties. It has previously been shown that chemically modified sisal fibers by ClO2 oxidation and reaction with FA and PFA presented a thin coating layer of PFA on their surface. FA and PFA were chosen as reagents because these alcohols can be obtained from renewable sources. In the present work, the effects of the polymeric coating layer as coupling agent in phenolic/sisal fibers composites were studied. For a more detailed characterization of the fibers, IGC was used to evaluate the changes that occurred at the sisal fibers surface after the chemical modifications. The dispersive and acid‐base properties of untreated and treated sisal fibers surfaces were determined. Biodegradation experiments were also carried out. In a complementary study, another PFA modification was made on sisal fibers, using K2Cr2O7 as oxidizing agent. In this case the oxidation effects involve mainly the cellulose polymer instead of lignin, as observed when the oxidation was carried out with ClO2. The SEM images showed that the oxidation of sisal fibers followed by reaction with FA or PFA favored the fiber/phenolic matrix interaction at the interface. However, because the fibers were partially degraded by the chemical treatment, the impact strength of the sisal‐reinforced composites decreased. By contrast, the chemical modification of fibers led to an increase of the water diffusion coefficient and to a decrease of the water absorption of the composites reinforced with modified fibers. The latter property is very important for certain applications, such as in the automotive industry.

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Macromol. Mater. Eng. 8/2007
Authors: Mori Noriko , Horikawa Haruna , Furukawa Hidemitsu , Watanabe Toshiyuki
Published: August 2007

Cover: The two photo images of water droplets on the cover show the contact angles of SBR + PNIPA film at 25 and 45°C. As the graph shows, the surface wettability of the SBR + PNIPA film changes drastically at 41°C. Further details can be found in the article by N. Mori,* H. Horikawa, H. Furukawa, and T. Watanabe on page 917.
Coadsorption and Support‐Mediated Interaction of Ti Species with Ethyl Benzoate in MgCl2‐Supported Heterogeneous Ziegler‐Natta Catalysts Studied by Density Functional Calculations
Authors: Taniike Toshiaki , Terano Minoru
Published: August 2007

We have firstly examined how the presence of ethyl benzoate (EB) close to the Ti species affects its stability and charge density on single crystal MgCl2 (110) and (100) surfaces by periodic density functional calculations. The energetic modification upon the coadsorption of EB and the Ti species was quite slight on both the (110) and (100) surfaces, which implies the random placement of these adsorbents on the support. The electron transfer from EB to the support enhanced the electron negativity of the Ti species on the (110) surface. In contrast, the electron that was donated from EB to the support never moved into the Ti species on the (100) surface. These results suggest that the addition of EB into the catalyst system introduces coadsorption‐induced active sites selectively on the (110) surface.

magnified image
Expression analysis of pluripotency factors in the undifferentiated porcine inner cell mass and epiblast during in vitro culture
Authors: Blomberg Le Ann , Schreier Lori L. , Talbot Neil C.
Published: August 2007

Limited understanding of the importance of known pluripotency factors in pig embryonic stem cells (ESC) impedes the establishment and validation of porcine ESC lines. This study evaluated the expression of known mouse ESC and human ESC (hESC) pluripotency markers in in vivo inner cell mass (ICM) and in vitro‐cultured undifferentiated porcine epiblast cells isolated from 8‐day porcine blastocysts, primary cultures of epiblast‐derived neuroprogenitor cells, and endoderm cells. The expression profile of common pluripotency markers (POU domain 5 transcript factor 1, SRY‐box containing gene 2, and Nanog homeobox), species‐specific markers, ESC‐associated factors, and differentiation markers was evaluated. The mRNA of uncultured ICMs, cultured epiblast cells, epiblast‐derived neuroprogenitor cells, and endoderm cells was amplified prior to expression analysis of candidate genes by real‐time RT‐PCR. ESC factors whose expression correlated best with the undifferentiated epiblast state were identified by comparative mRNA expression analysis between porcine epiblast‐derived somatic cell lines, fetal fibroblasts, and adult tissues. Across tissue types Nanog homeobox exhibited ubiquitous expression, whereas POU domain 5 transcript factor 1, teratocarcinoma‐derived growth factor 1, and RNA exonuclease homolog 1 transcript expression was restricted primarily to undifferentiated epiblasts. Our results suggested that expression of pluripotency markers in undifferentiated pig epiblast cells more closely resembled that observed in hESC. Expression alterations of ESC‐associated factors in epiblast cells were also observed during in vitro culture. Our data demonstrate the potential use of some pluripotency factors as markers of porcine epiblast stem cells and indicate that the in vitro environment may influence the cultured epiblast's developmental state. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 75: 450–463, 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Social inhibition and treatment‐resistant depression
Authors: Crawford Joanna G. , Parker Gordon B. , Malhi Gin S. , Mitchell Philip B. , Wilhelm Kay , Proudfoot Judy
Published: August 2007

Background A personality trait of introversion/social inhibition is increasingly recognized as relevant to the phenomenology and course of depression. We sought to examine the relationship between social inhibition and treatment resistance in depressed patients.

Method Data on depression history and severity, self‐reported social inhibition and social support, anxiety disorders, treatments trialled and psychiatrist‐rated ‘treatment resistance’ were collected from a sample of 177 depressed patients referred to a tertiary referral Mood Disorders Unit.

Results Depressed patients in the ‘high’ social inhibition group had significantly higher psychiatrist‐rated levels of ‘treatment resistance’, lower perceived social support and had higher rates of social phobia preceding their depression.

Conclusion Clinicians managing difficult‐to‐treat depression should remain aware of the potential role of high social inhibition and low perceived social support in maintaining depression. Further, clinicians should consider the possibility of primary social phobia, as failure to provide specific treatments may be one of the many contributors to the overall category of ‘treatment‐resistant depression’. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Integrated analytical approach in veal calves administered the anabolic androgenic steroids boldenone and boldione: urine and plasma kinetic profile and changes in plasma protein expression
Authors: Draisci Rosa , Montesissa Clara , Santamaria Barbara , D'Ambrosio Chiara , Ferretti Giovanni , Merlanti Roberta , Ferranti Carolina , De Liguoro Marco , Cartoni Claudia , Pistarino Erika , Ferrara Lino , Tiso Micaela , Scaloni Andrea , Cosulich M. Elisabetta
Published: August 2007

Surveillance of illegal use of steroids hormones in cattle breeding is a key issue to preserve human health. To this purpose, an integrated approach has been developed for the analysis of plasma and urine from calves treated orally with a single dose of a combination of the androgenic steroids boldenone and boldione. A quantitative estimation of steroid hormones was obtained by LC‐APCI‐Q‐MS/MS analysis of plasma and urine samples obtained at various times up to 36 and 24 h after treatment, respectively. These experiments demonstrated that boldione was never found, while boldenone α‐ and β‐epimers were detected in plasma and urine only within 2 and 24 h after drug administration, respectively. Parallel proteomic analysis of plasma samples was obtained by combined 2‐DE, MALDI‐TOF‐MS and μLC‐ESI‐IT‐MS/MS procedures. A specific protein, poorly represented in normal plasma samples collected before treatment, was found upregulated even 36 h after hormone treatment. Extensive mass mapping experiments proved this component as an N‐terminal truncated form of apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1), a protein involved in cholesterol transport. The expression profile of ApoA1 analysed by Western blot analysis confirmed a significant and time dependent increase of this ApoA1 fragment. Then, provided that further experiments performed with a growth‐promoting schedule will confirm these preliminary findings, truncated ApoA1 may be proposed as a candidate biomarker for steroid boldenone and possibly other anabolic androgens misuse in cattle veal calves, when no traces of hormones are detectable in plasma or urine.
Proteomic analysis of the cellular responses induced in uninfected immune cells by cell‐expressed X4 HIV‐1 envelope
Authors: Molina Laurence , Grimaldi Marina , Robert‐Hebmann Véronique , Espert Lucile , Varbanov Mihayl , Devaux Christian , Granier Claude , Biard‐Piechaczyk Martine
Published: August 2007

HIV‐1 envelope gp120 and gp41 glycoproteins (Env), expressed at the cell surface, induce uninfected CD4 T‐cell death, but the molecular mechanisms leading to this demise are still largely unknown. To better understand these events, we analyzed by a proteomic approach the differential protein expression profile of two types of uninfected immune cells after their coculture for 1–3 days with cells that express, or not, Env. First, umbilical cord blood mononuclear cells (UCBMCs) were used to approach the in vivo situation, i.e., blood uninfected naive cells that encounter infected cells. Second, we used the A2.01/CD4.403 T‐cell line expressing wild type CXCR4 and a truncated form of CD4 that still undergoes Env‐mediated apoptosis, independently of CD4 signaling. After coculture with cells expressing Env, 35 and 39 proteins presenting an altered expression in UCBMCs and the A2.01/CD4.403 T‐cell line, respectively, were identified by mass‐spectrometry. Whatever the cell type analyzed, the majority of these proteins are involved in degradation processes, redox homeostasis, metabolism and cytoskeleton dynamics, and linked to mitochondrial functions. This study provides new insights into the events that sequentially occur in bystander T lymphocytes after contact with HIV‐infected cells and leading, finally, to apoptotic cell death.
Targeted protein quantitation and profiling using PVDF affinity probe and MALDI‐TOF MS
Authors: Chen Shu‐Hua , Liao Hsin‐Kai , Chang Chih‐Yang , Juo Chiun‐Gung , Chen Jenn‐Han , Chan Sunney I. , Chen Yu‐Ju
Published: August 2007

Development of a rapid, effective, and highly specific platform for target identification in complex biofluids is one of the most important tasks in proteomic research. Taking advantage of the natural hydrophobic interaction of PVDF with probe protein, a simple and effective method was developed for protein quantitation and profiling. Using antibody–antigen interactions as a proof‐of‐concept system, the targeted plasma proteins, serum amyloid P (SAP), serum amyloid A (SAA), and C‐reactive protein (CRP), could be selectively isolated and enriched from human plasma by antibody‐immobilized PVDF membrane and directly identified by MALDI‐TOF MS without additional elution step. The approach was successfully applied to human plasma for rapid quantitation and variant screening of SAP, SAA, and CRP in healthy individuals and patients with gastric cancer. The triplexed on‐probe quantitative analysis revealed significant overexpression of CRP and SAA in gastric cancer group, consistent with parallel ELISA measurements and pathological progression and prognostic significance reported in previous literatures. Furthermore, the variant mass profiling of the post‐translationally modified forms revealed a high occurrence of de‐sialic acid SAP in patients with gastric cancer. Due to the versatile assay design, ease of probe preparation without chemical synthesis, and compatibility with MALDI‐TOF MS analysis, the methodology may be useful for target protein characterization, functional proteomics, and screening in clinical proteomics.
Starch‐graft‐(synthetic copolymer) latexes initiated with Ce4+ and stabilized by amylopectin
Authors: De Bruyn Hank , Sprong Ewan , Gaborieau Marianne , Roper John A. , Gilbert Robert G.
Published: August 2007

A method is presented for synthesizing surfactant‐free latexes comprising starch‐graft‐(vinyl polymer) starting with a suspension of amylopectin, either native or modified, then using cerium(IV) with either potassium persulfate or glucose to create grafting sites on the starch. Latex particles comprising polystyrene, poly(styrene‐co‐(n‐butyl acrylate)) and poly(vinyl acetate) grafted onto high molecular weight amylopectin were developed, with up to 80% of the starch effectively grafted to the particles. These latexes were colloidally stable against electrolyte (several months in 4 M NaCl). Reaction rates of Ce4+ with simple sugars and polysaccharides were investigated, as well as the gelation mechanism of the latex. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 4185–4192, 2007
Morphological development and rheological changes of phenoxy/SAN blends during in‐situ polymerization
Authors: Guo Qipeng , Arends Peter , Thomann Ralf , Spontak Richard J. , Gronski Wolfram
Published: August 2007

This article reports the results of an investigation into the time‐dependent morphological and rheological changes that accompany the in‐situ polymerization of blends composed of poly(hydroxyether of bisphenol A) (phenoxy) and poly(styrene‐co‐acrylonitrile) (SAN). The rheological behavior was monitored continuously during the in‐situ polymerization, whereas the miscibility and phase structure of blends formed in situ were examined at discrete stages of polymerization by differential scanning calorimetry and transmission electron microscopy. In the blend with 30 wt % SAN, a co‐continuous blend morphology was associated with gradual changes in the dynamic moduli, suggesting that phase separation proceeded by spinodal decomposition (SD). In contrast, phenoxy‐rich dispersions were uniformly dispersed in a continuous SAN‐rich matrix in the blend with 50 wt % SAN, and the corresponding rheological signature revealed a sharp initial increase in the dynamic moduli, followed by slower growth after long times, indicative of phase separation via nucleation and growth (NG). The rheological property changes are closely related to morphology development and mechanisms of phase separation induced duringin‐situ polymerization. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 45: 2614–2619, 2007
S179D prolactin sensitizes human prostate cancer cells such that physiological concentrations of 1, 25 dihydroxy vitamin D3 result in growth inhibition and cell death
Authors: Wu Wei , Zanello Laura , Walker Ameae M.
Published: August 2007

BACKGROUND

S179D Prolactin (PRL) is a molecular mimic of naturally phosphorylated human PRL which has been shown to inhibit the growth of human prostate cancer cells both in vitro and when grown as tumors in nude mice.

METHODS

In the current study, we have investigated the potential interplay between S179D PRL and 1,25 dihydroxy vitamin D3 (1,25D) in the inhibition of prostate cancer cell growth by incubating cells under circumstances where each hormone alone has no effect.

RESULTS

Incubation of DU145 or PC3 cells in 100 pM 1,25D or 10 nM S179D PRL for 3 days showed no effect of each alone on expression of the vitamin D receptor (VDR), or the cell cycle regulatory protein p21, or on cell number. Incubation in both together increased expression of the VDR and p21 two to threefold. This co‐operative effect was reproduced when activation of the p21 promoter was analyzed using a p21‐luciferase (p21‐luc) construct. Elimination of the VDR response element from p21‐luc eliminated response to the hormone combination, showing that the effect on p21 was through the VDR. Most importantly, S179D PRL sensitized the cells to 1,25D such that there was a concentration‐related reduction in cell number versus controls between 40 and 160 pM. At least part of this effect was via the induction of cell death.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that combined anti‐tumor therapy may be very efficacious and that the dose of 1,25D required may be below the range that results in hypercalcemia. Prostate 67: 1498–1506, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
RCC1‐like repeat proteins: A pangenomic, structurally diverse new superfamily of β‐propeller domains
Authors: Stevens Tim J. , Paoli Max
Published: August 2007

The β‐propeller fold is a phylogenetically widespread, common protein architecture able to support a range of different functions such as catalysis, ligand binding and transport, regulation and protein binding. Interestingly, it appears that the β‐propeller topology is also compatible with strikingly diverse sequences. Amongst this diversity, there are three large groups of proteins with related sequences and very important cellular and intercellular regulatory functions: WD, kelch, and YWTD proteins. A common characteristic between these protein families is that their sequences, while distinct, all contain internal repeats 40–45 residues long. Through a pangenomic analysis using internal repeat profiles derived from the structurally known propeller modules of the eukaryotic protein RCC1 and the related prokaryotic protein BLIP‐II, we have defined a new superfamily of propeller repeats, the RCC1‐like repeats (RLRs). These sequences turn out to be more phylogenetically widespread than other large groups of propeller proteins, occurring in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic genomes. Interestingly, our research showed that RLR domains with different numbers of repeats exist, ranging from 3 to 7, and possibly more. A novel, intriguing finding is the discovery of sequences with 3 repeats, as well as proteins with 10 modular units, though in the latter case it is not clear whether these are made of two 5‐bladed domains or a single, novel 10‐bladed propeller. In addition, the results indicate that circular permutation events may have taken place in the evolution of these proteins. It is now established that the group of RLR proteins is extremely numerous and is characterized by unique, remarkable features which place it in a position of special interest as an important superfamily of proteins in nature. Proteins 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Role of the individual domains of translation termination factor eRF1 in GTP binding to eRF3
Authors: Kononenko Artem V. , Mitkevich Vladimir A. , Dubovaya Vera I. , Kolosov Peter M. , Makarov Alexander A. , Kisselev Lev L.
Published: August 2007

Eukaryotic translational termination is triggered by polypeptide release factors eRF1, eRF3, and one of the three stop codons at the ribosomal A‐site. Isothermal titration calorimetry shows that (i) the separated MC, M, and C domains of human eRF1 bind to eRF3; (ii) GTP binding to eRF3 requires complex formation with either the MC or M + C domains; (iii) the M domain interacts with the N and C domains; (iv) the MC domain and Mg2+ induce GTPase activity of eRF3 in the ribosome. We suggest that GDP binding site of eRF3 acquires an ability to bind γ‐phosphate of GTP if altered by cooperative action of the M and C domains of eRF1. Thus, the stop‐codon decoding is associated with the N domain of eRF1 while the GTPase activity of eRF3 is controlled by the MC domain of eRF1 demonstrating a substantial structural uncoupling of these two activities though functionally they are interrelated. Proteins 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The photoassociation and photodissociation in laser‐assisted collision reaction H + Cl+
Authors: Niu Ying‐Yu , Wang Rong , Su Qian‐Zhen , Cong Shu‐Lin
Published: August 2007

The collision reaction H + Cl+ assisted by the ultra‐short laser pulse is investigated using the time‐dependent quantum wave packet method. The probability of dissociation depends on the yield ratio of association product HCl+. The greater the laser frequency is, the lower the vibrational level of HCl+ is. With lowering laser frequency, the probabilities of photoassociation and photodissociation increase, and the ratio of products H+ + Cl(2P0) to H(2S) + Cl+(1D) also increases. The kinetic energy spectra of the dissociated fragments at low frequency are wider than those at high frequency. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2008
Structures and properties of π Br‐bond in complexes C2H4−nFnBrF (n = 0–2)
Authors: Li Rui‐Yan , Wang Bing‐Qiang , Li Zhi‐Ru , Wu Di , Li Ying
Published: August 2007

Using the counterpoise‐corrected potential energy surface method, the stationary structures of the π Br‐bond complexes C2H4‐nFnBrF (n = 0–2) with all real frequencies have been obtained at MP2/aug‐cc‐pVDZ level. The order of the π Br‐bond length is 2.625 Å (C2H4BrF) < 2.714 Å (C2H3FBrF) < 2.751 Å (g‐C2H2F2BrF) < 2.771 Å (trans‐C2H2F2BrF) < 2.778 Å (cis‐C2H2F2BrF). The interaction energies (Eint) are, respectively,‐5.9 (C2H4BrF),‐4.4 (C2H3FBrF),‐3.7 (g‐C2H2F2BrF),‐3.1 (cis‐C2H2F2BrF),‐2.8 kcal/mol (trans‐C2H2F2BrF), at the CCSD (T)/aug‐cc‐pVDZ level, which include larger electron correlation contributions (Ecorre). The order of Ecorre is‐3.40 (C2H4BrF),‐3.60 (C2H3FBrF),‐3.85 (g‐C2H2F2BrF),‐3.86 (cis‐C2H2F2BrF),‐3.88 kcal/mol (trans‐C2H2F2BrF). The earlier results show above that the F substituent effect elongates the π Br‐bond, reduces the Eint, and increases the Ecorre contribution of the interaction energy. Interestingly, the interaction energy of the cis‐C2H2F2BrF structure with longer interaction distance is larger than that of the corresponding trans‐C2H2F2BrF structure with shorter interaction distance. This reason comes from a special secondary interaction between lone pairs of Br atom with positive charge and some atoms (H, C) with positive charges of C2H2F2 in the cis‐C2H2F2BrF structure. Comparing with corresponding C2H4‐nFnClF and C2H4‐nFnHF, the C2H4‐nFnBrF system has the larger Eint in which main contribution comes from the larger Ecorre, representing the larger dispersion interaction. The larger Ecorre contribution of the Eint of π Br‐bond can be used to understand that the π Br‐bond is shorter and stronger than corresponding π Cl‐bond. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2008
Spin–orbit interaction with nonlinear wave functions
Authors: Brozell Scott R. , Shepard Ron , Zhang Zhiyong
Published: August 2007

The computation of the spin–orbit interaction is discussed for electronic wave functions expressed in the new nonlinear expansion form. This form is based on spin eigenfunctions using the graphical unitary group approach (GUGA). The nodes of a Shavitt graph in GUGA are connected by arcs, and a Configuration State Function (CSF) is represented as a walk along arcs from the vacuum node to a head node. The wave function is a linear combination of product functions each of which is a linear combination of all CSFs, wherein each CSF coefficient is a product of nonlinear arc factors. When the spin–orbit interaction is included the Shavitt graph is a union of single‐headed Shavitt graphs each with the same total number of electrons and orbitals. Thus spin–orbit Shavitt graphs are multiheaded. For full‐CI multiheaded Shavitt graphs, analytic expressions are presented for the number of walks, the number of nodes, the number of arcs, and the number of node pairs in the associated auxiliary pair graph. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2007
Linear response formalism for the Douglas–Kroll–Hess approach to the Dirac–Kohn–Sham problem: First‐ and second‐order nuclear displacement derivatives of the energy
Authors: Matveev Alexei V. , Nasluzov Vladimir A. , Rösch Notker
Published: August 2007

Starting from a matrix representation of the modified Dirac equation, we offer an alternative approach to the Douglas–Kroll–Hess (DKH) protocol, specifically for the popular decoupling of electronic and positronic degrees of freedom to second‐order in the potential. Then we use that approach for a convenient analysis of response properties. We discuss details of the linear and quadratic response of the DKH Hamiltonian to a geometric distortion encountered in calculations of first‐ and second‐order derivatives of the energy. We present an implementation of analytic force constants in a quasi‐relativistic (scalar) model constructed by the commonly used DKH transformation of second order in the nuclear potential only. We demonstrate the performance of the method by a comparison to the effective core potential method, using two isomers of the cluster Ir4 and aqua complexes of the uranyl dication, UO(H2O)n (n = 3,…6) as examples. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2007
The S phase of the cell cycle and its perturbation by human cytomegalovirus
Authors: Bain Mark , Sinclair John
Published: August 2007

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a complex human herpesvirus that is known to productively infect a wide range of cell types. In addition, it has been suggested to contribute to some proliferative disorders, particularly atherosclerosis. Consistent with this, a number of studies have shown that HCMV profoundly affects normal cell cycle control. Specifically, the virus can stimulate early entry into S phase thus ensuring adequate resources for viral DNA replication. Importantly, however, the virus concomitantly inhibits potentially competing cellular DNA synthesis allowing cellular precursors to be used for viral but not cellular DNA replication. The mechanisms by which HCMV perturbs S phase entry involve interactions between the virus and the cellular replication machinery such that formation of competent pre‐replication complexes (Pre‐RC) at cellular origins of replication is restricted in infected cells. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Markov regression random‐effects model for remission of functional disability in patients following a first stroke: A Bayesian approach
Authors: Pan Shin‐Liang , Wu Hui‐Min , Yen Amy Ming‐Fang , Chen Tony Hsiu‐Hsi
Published: August 2007

Few attempts have been made to model the dynamics of stroke‐related disability. It is possible though, using panel data and multi‐state Markov regression models that incorporate measured covariates and latent variables (random effects). This study aimed to model a series of functional transitions (following a first stroke) using a three‐state Markov model with or without considering random effects. Several proportional hazards parameterizations were considered. A Bayesian approach that utilizes the Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) and Gibbs sampling functionality of WinBUGS (a Windows‐based Bayesian software package) was developed to generate the marginal posterior distributions of the various transition parameters (e.g. the transition rates and transition probabilities). Model building and comparisons was guided by reference to the deviance information criteria (DIC). Of the four proportional hazards models considered, exponential regression was preferred because it led to the smallest deviances. Adding random effects further improved the model fit. Of the covariates considered, only age, infarct size, and baseline functional status were significant. By using our final model we were able to make individual predictions about functional recovery in stroke patients. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Discrete‐time survival models with long‐term survivors
Authors: Zhao Xiaobing , Zhou Xian
Published: August 2007

Discrete‐time survival data typically possess three features: discreteness, ties, and concomitant information, which require appropriate discrete‐time models to analyze. In this paper, we first review some existing discrete‐time survival models and then extend them to discrete‐timecure survival models, which account for the presence oflong‐term survivors(cured individuals). The maximum likelihood estimation as well as approximate partial likelihood approaches are used to estimate the model parameters. Simulation results are shown to support the suitability of such models for discrete‐time survival data with long‐term survivors. An example of applications on a set of bladder tumor recurrence data is also presented. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Students' mathematical modeling of motion
Authors: Marshall Jill A. , Carrejo David J.
Published: August 2007

We present results of an investigation of university students' development of mathematical models of motion in a physical science course for preservice teachers and graduate students in science and mathematics education. Although some students were familiar with the standard concepts of position, velocity, and acceleration from physics classes, most students had difficulty using these concepts to characterize actual or hypothetical motions. Furthermore, some students developed their own nonstandard method of describing accelerated motion in terms of changes in the average velocity, from the start of the motion up to a given time. This is in contrast to the physics community's use of the acceleration construct, defined in terms of changes in the instantaneous velocity, to describe such motion. Although the change in average velocity is not typically identified as an important construct in traditional physics texts, some students found it intuitively appealing, and were able to use it successfully to describe and predict motion. We conclude that by focusing on standard constructs, and ignoring possible intuitive ways that students might view motion, standard kinematics instruction may miss an opportunity to maximize student understanding. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Res. Sci. Teach 45: 153–173, 2008.
Coordination of theory and evidence: Effect of epistemological theories on students' laboratory practice
Authors: Havdala Rachel , Ashkenazi Guy
Published: August 2007

Students' views about science were correlated with their approaches to lab practice. Three distinct cases are discussed in detail: empiricist‐oriented, rationalist‐oriented, and constructivist‐oriented students. A coherent epistemological theory was constructed for each case, by considering the different degrees of certainty and confidence each student attributed to theoretical versus experimental knowledge in science. These theories could explain the difference between the students' methods of preparation for the lab session and their approaches to writing the lab report. It was shown that overconfidence in one type of knowledge led to oversimplification of the relation between theory and evidence. Findings suggest that epistemological theories play a crucial role in determining whether and how students coordinate theory and empirical evidence in their lab practice. Inspecting and correcting students' lab reports in accordance with these findings can offer an easy way to identify students' epistemological theories and to provide appropriate feedback. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 44: 1134–1159, 2007
Functional and Radiological Evaluation of Free Jejunal Transplant Reconstructions After Radical Resection of Hypopharyngeal or Proximal Esophageal Cancer
Authors: Bergquist H. , Andersson M. , Ejnell H. , Hellström M. , Lundell L. , Ruth M.
Published: August 2007

Cancer of the pharyngoesophageal junction (PEJ) is associated with late onset of symptoms, high morbidity, and a dismal prognosis. Radical surgery with pharyngolaryngectomy and reconstruction with a free vascularized jejunal transplant has been increasingly practiced in the treatment of these patients. This strategy is not devoid of challenges, and the present study is aimed at evaluating the long‐term functional outcome among patients who have undergone such surgical treatment. Ten patients (mean age 59 years) with a mean follow‐up time of 54 months were included. Clinical assessment, health‐related quality of life (HRQL) questionnaires, and a standardized radiography examination were used for evaluation. The Karnofsky index ranged from 60 to 90 (mean 82). Global QL scores (EORTC QLQ‐C30) had a mean value of 74, and the mean scores for dysphagia‐related items of the EORTC QLQ OES‐18 questionnaire were within the lower range. Radiographic signs of disturbed bolus transport through the jejunal transplant were found in all patients examined despite the grading of dysphagia from 0 to 1. The Watson dysphagia score varied between 0.5 and 45.0 (mean 16.2). No correlations were found between radiographic findings and the clinical evaluations or the outcomes assessed by the HRQL questionnaires. HRQL was found to be generally good after cancer of the PEJ and jejunal transplant insertion. Most patients reported mild dysphagia. Radiologic signs of disturbed bolus passage were common, but their clinical impact seemed questionable.
Shaping of fiction studies in the pre-Tang period
Authors: Fan TAN
Published: August 2007

The paper examines the evolutionary process of xiaoshuoxue 小说学, or Fiction Studies, in the pre-Tang period, and its ideological and cultural backgrounds. It holds that Xiaoshuoxue has developed its most important concepts by adopting the ideologies of traditional Chinese philosophy and historical science. The most important of them are xiaodao keguan 小道可观 (minor Tao has its values), cheng’e quanshan 惩恶劝善 (to punish the evil and to encourage the good), and chuanwen yici 传闻异辞 (hearsays with different versions). And fiction writers in the Six Dynasties made their contributions by summarizing the main characteristics of fiction as recording “hearsays”, seeking for “wonders” and satisfying both eyes and minds, which laid a foundation for later xiaoshuoxue and had far-reaching influences over the creation of fiction creation.
Reconsideration of the origin of the Yongming style and its relationship to the translation of Buddhist sutras
Authors: Xiangzhou WU
Published: August 2007

For several decades, scholars have expressed different opinions since Chen Yinque 陈寅恪 brought forward the viewpoint that the creation of Yongming style was influenced by the translation of Buddhist scriptures. People usually pay attention only to the source of sisheng, “the four tones” (四声), but this paper tries to take a leave from this practice and make a concrete survey of the two principal activities, the translation of Buddhist scriptures and the origin of the Yongming style. This paper will then illustrate the obvious connection between the two. Both are related to music and the problems they were meant to solve are similar. Moreover, they both have similar syntatical and phonological characteristics, which are the most important evidence linking the two.
On dramas in Yuan Dynasty and Buddhism
Authors: Hong CHEN
Published: August 2007

The profound spiritual and cultural implications involved in the dramas of the Yuan Dynasty (Yuan Chao 元朝 CE 1271–1368) are related to the existential formation of Buddhism in a special way. For a long time, researchers have paid little attention to this essence. This article attempts to have an insight into the relationship between Yuan dramas and Buddhism
Evolution of Ci Poetry of the dynasties of Tang and Song in the perspective of dissociation and integration of Shi and Ci
Authors: Zhaopeng WANG
Published: August 2007

The development of Chinese literary genres is largely a history of dissociation and integration. Ci and Shi are closely associated at all times, separated at one time, and fused with each other at others. A brief survey of dissociation and integration of Ci and Shi falls into four periods: 1) starting from the early to the mid-late Tang Dynasty (Tang Chao 唐朝 CE 618–907), when Ci was derived from Shi and no distinction existed between the two; 2) the late Tang Dynasty and the following Five Dynasties (Wu Dai 五代 CE 907–960), during which Ci was separated and known from shi; 3) the Northern Song Dynasty (Bei Song 北宋 CE 960–1127), when Ci developed and experienced a transform and took an initial inosculation into shi; and 4) the Southern Song Dynasty (Nan Song 南宋 CE 1127–1279), when Ci was shifted completely to Shi (poetry) and the two were thoroughly merged.
Ricinus communis Contains an Acyl‐CoA Synthetase that Preferentially Activates Ricinoleate to Its CoA Thioester
Authors: He Xiaohua , Chen Grace Q. , Kang Sung T. , McKeon Thomas A.
Published: August 2007

As part of our effort to identify enzymes that are critical for producing large amounts of ricinoleate in castor oil, we have isolated three cDNAs encoding acyl‐CoA synthetase (ACS) in the castor plant. Analysis of the cDNA sequences reveals that two of them, designated RcACS 2 and RcACS 4, contain complete coding regions corresponding to 694 and 690 amino acids, respectively. The third cDNA, RcACS 1, encodes a truncated gene sequence. The RcACS 2 and RcACS 4 share 77% identity at the amino acid sequence level. Complementation tests showed that both RcACS 2 and RcACS 4 successfully restored growth of a yeast mutant strain (YB525) deficient in ACS. Lysates from yeast cells expressing RcACS 2 and 4 were enzymatically active when using 14C‐labeled oleic acid as a substrate. A cell fractionation study indicates that RcACS 2 and 4 are mainly associated with membranes. Substrate specificity assays indicate that the RcACS 2 preferentially activates ricinoleate, while the RcACS 4 has a preference for nonhydroxy fatty acids.