bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adenosine produced by neurons is metabolized to hypoxanthine by astrocytes
Authors: Zamzow Christina R. , Xiong Wei , Parkinson Fiona E.
Published: July 2008

Adenosine (ADO) is an important neuromodulator in brain. During pathophysiological events such as stroke or brain trauma, ADO levels can increase up to 100‐fold. We tested the hypothesis that astrocytes are important for the removal of ADO produced by neurons and for the metabolism of ADO to inosine (INO) and hypoxanthine (HX). We used four different cell culture preparations: cortical neurons, cortical astrocytes, cocultures of neurons and astrocytes, and neurons transiently cocultured with astrocytes on transwell filters. These cultures were treated with N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA), because NMDA receptor activation is a common factor among many causes of neurotoxicity. NMDA significantly increased extracellular ADO, INO, and HX levels from cultured cortical neurons by 3‐, 3.5‐, and 2‐fold, respectively. In cocultures, NMDA significantly increased INO, by 4.5‐fold, and HX, by 3‐fold, but did not increase ADO levels. There was no NMDA‐evoked purine production from astrocytes. Inhibition of purine nucleoside phosphorylase (PNP) significantly decreased HX production from both neurons and cocultures to less than 30% of control levels. The transient addition of astrocytes to neurons during NMDA treatment significantly increased HX and decreased ADO levels compared with neurons alone. In addition, increasing the number of astrocytes was directly correlated with an increased capacity of ADO metabolism to INO and HX. In conclusion, NMDA evoked the production of ADO, INO, and HX from neurons. In the presence of astrocytes, there was significantly less ADO and more HX produced. Thus, ADO produced by neurons is subject to metabolism by astrocytes, a process that may limit its neuromodulatory actions. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Palaeoenvironment and biogeography of a late MIS 3 fossil beetle fauna from South Taranaki, New Zealand
Authors: Marra M. J. , Crozier M. , Goff J.
Published: July 2008

Fossil beetles from a last glacial landslide‐generated lake‐forest sequence aged 33 480–34 410 cal. yr BP (late Marine Isotope Stage 3 (MIS 3)) are identified from the Waitotara Valley in South Taranaki, North Island, New Zealand. The stratigraphy indicates that the landslide caused changes to local hydrology, resulting in the formation of a lake‐swamp environment and subsequent transition to forest. Fossil leaves suggest a forest dominated by Nothofagus menziesii, and radiocarbon ages indicate the site was forested for around 4000 yr. A fossil beetle‐based temperature estimate using the maximum likelihood envelope method indicates the climate was cooler than present day. The distributions of the fossil beetle taxa are examined and compared with the modern ecological patterns. The fossil fauna is very typical of a modern‐day Nelson (northern South Island) fauna. None of the beetle species is present in the modern South Taranaki fauna and many taxa such as Platypus caviceps, Alema paradoxa, Rhyzobius consors, Syrphetodes ater, Cyclaxyra impressa and species of Grynoma and Pycnomerus are now absent from part or all of the lower North Island. This is important because the lower North Island is currently an area of low diversity and endemism and these results suggest this biogeographical pattern stems from the last glaciation. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sub‐millennial climate shifts in the western Mediterranean during the last glacial period recorded in a speleothem from Mallorca, Spain
Authors: Hodge Edward J. , Richards David A. , Smart Peter L. , Ginés Angel , Mattey David P.
Published: July 2008

Very few high‐resolution and directly dated terrestrial archives of the last glacial period exist for the western Mediterranean region, yet this is a key locality for recording sub‐millennial North Atlantic and Mediterranean climate change. Here, we present evidence of effective precipitation changes based on growth history and δ13C of calcite in a Mallorcan stalagmite that grew between 112 and 48 ka. Effective precipitation in Mallorca appears to have been sensitive to proximal sea surface temperature variations and at certain times, ca. 76 ka for example, changed rapidly from moist to arid conditions in only a few centuries. A sea‐level highstand during Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) 5a interrupted growth. Regrowth started promptly after this, but effective precipitation decreased markedly for much of the later part of MIS 5a, and also for shorter periods correlative with Heinrich events H8 (ca. 90 ka) and H6 (ca. 65 ka), with growth ceasing during H5 (ca. 48 ka). Arid episodes in Mallorca appear to be expressions of extremely cold periods recorded further north in Europe and occur contemporaneously with rapid decreases in Greenland temperature. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Changes in flour gelatinisation of trifoliate yam (Dioscorea dumetorum) tubers after harvest
Authors: Medoua Gabriel Nama , Mbofung Carl MF
Published: July 2008

BACKGROUND: Changes in the properties of starch during postharvest hardening of trifoliate yam (Dioscorea dumetorum) tubers need to be investigated. In this work the starch gelatinisation kinetics of D. dumetorum cv. Yellow stored under prevailing tropical ambient conditions (0.98–2.32 kg vapour per 100 m3 airflow) for 0, 2, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days was studied using a 3 × 5 factorial experiment with three cooking temperature (75, 85 and 95 °C) and five cooking times (0, 5, 10, 20 and 40 min). Samples were also evaluated for starch properties and gelatinisation temperature.

RESULTS: Storage of D. dumetorum tubers caused starch damage. However, the starch gelatinisation temperature was between 70 and 75 °C irrespective of the tuber storage duration. The starch gelatinisation reaction followed first‐order kinetics defined by the relationship ln(1 − α) = − kGt. The gelatinisation rate was significantly influenced (P≤0.05) by cooking temperature and increased with tuber storage duration. The activation energy also increased with tuber storage duration.

CONCLUSION: Although the gelatinisation temperature of D. dumetorum starch was not influenced by tuber storage, the starch gelatinisation process was affected by tuber storage duration, since tuber storage involved a greater need of energy for starch gelatinisation, which may be an effect of the postharvest hardening phenomenon. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of pyruvic acid and ascorbic acid on stability of 3‐deoxyanthocyanidins
Authors: Ojwang Leonnard , Awika Joseph M
Published: July 2008

BACKGROUND: 3‐Deoxyanthocyanins are a rare class of plant pigments primarily found in sorghum and known to possess distinct chemical and bioactive properties. They have potential as natural food colourants. This work investigates how 3‐deoxyanthocyanin pigments react with pyruvic acid and their stability in the presence of ascorbic acid.

RESULTS: Substitution at C‐5 was the major determinant of the mechanism of 3‐deoxyanthocyanidin complexation with pyruvic acid: hydroxyl substitution favoured cyclic condensation, whereas methoxyl substitution favoured oxidative ring contraction. Pure 3‐deoxyanthocyanidins generally showed poor stability in the presence of 500 mg L−1 ascorbic acid at pH 2.0 and 3.2 but were stable at pH 5.0; pyruvic acid improved their stability at pH 2.0 and 3.2 and enhanced their colour intensity at pH 5.0. Crude sorghum pigment extract was very stable in the presence of ascorbic acid: 31% colour loss at pH 2.0; 1.9‐ and 1.3‐fold increases in colour intensity at pH 3.2 and 5.0 respectively. In contrast, red cabbage pigment lost 30–85% of its colour in the presence of ascorbic acid under the conditions used in the study.

CONCLUSION: Crude sorghum pigments are very stable in the presence of ascorbic acid and may be useful as natural food colourants. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Influences of weather, cultivar and fertiliser rate on grain protein polymer accumulation in field‐grown winter wheat, and relations to grain water content and falling number
Authors: Johansson Eva , Prieto‐Linde Maria Luisa , Gissén Charlott
Published: July 2008

BACKGROUND: The reasons for variations in the amount and size distribution of polymeric protein in mature wheat, related to bread‐making quality, are not fully understood and can be sought during the protein polymer formation period of grain maturation. The present study was aimed at investigating the accumulation and polymerisation of grain storage proteins during grain maturation and their relations to changes in falling number and grain water content in four cultivars of field‐grown winter wheat.

RESULTS: Proteins were accumulated and polymerised similarly during grain development independently of cultivation environment, cultivar and fertiliser rate. A 3–6 day delay in maturity among cultivars led to a 3–12 day delay in protein accumulation during early grain development. An increase in nitrogen fertiliser rate from 160 to 200 kg N ha−1 resulted in a 20% increase in the amount of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)‐unextractable protein. Precipitation just before grain harvesting led to 40–50% increases in grain water content and 8–34% decreases in the amount of SDS‐unextractable monomeric protein. At increased grain water contents the fertiliser rate was negatively related to the amount of grain SDS‐unextractable protein.

CONCLUSION: Accumulation and polymerisation of grain storage proteins are predetermined events in wheat. Grain moisture content is negatively related to grain storage protein polymerisation, although the rate of decrease is influenced by the fertiliser regime. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma: Clinical factors associated with recurrence, and proposal of a staging system
Authors: Carrillo J.F. , Maldonado F. , Albores O. , Ramírez‐Ortega M.C. , Oñate‐Ocaña L.F.
Published: July 2008

Background

Juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma (JNA) is a vascular tumor of the nasopharynx. Our aim is to analyze prognostic factors, report results obtained with radiation therapy and propose a staging system.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective study of patients with JNA. Clinical, radiological and therapeutic data were assessed for recurrence‐ and disease free survival‐associated prognostic factors. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed.

Results

Fifty‐four males were analyzed. Invasion to anterior infratemporal fossae (ITF) +/or to pterygomaxillary fossae, to posterior infratemporal fossae, or intracranial extension were associated with recurrences in 2 of 15, in 8 of 18, and in 8 of 12 cases, respectively. Tumors < or ≥6 cm were associated with zero and with 18 recurrences, respectively (P = 0.006). A staging system is constructed considering extension patterns and size. Multivariate analyses conferred significance (P = 0.002) to a model including this staging system and surgical margins.

Conclusion

Our system stratifies recurrence risk and disease‐free survival efficiently. Since radiotherapy at young age has potential to induce malignancies, it should be used with caution. It could be considered as primary treatment in stage IV cases with major invasion to cavernous sinus or orbital apex. Therapy design may be improved. J. Surg. Oncol. 2008;98:75–80. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A modified grading system for post‐hepatectomy metastatic liver cancer originating from colorectal carcinoma
Authors: Nanashima Atsushi , Sumida Yorihisa , Abo Takafumi , Tobinaga Syuuichi , Takeshita Hiroaki , Hidaka Shigekazu , Yasutake Toru , Nagayasu Takeshi , Mine Mariko , Sawai Terumitsu
Published: July 2008

Background and Objectives

There is no appropriate grading system for prediction of survival of patients with metastatic liver cancer (MLC) from colorectal carcinoma. We propose the modified grading system for MLC from the present Japanese system.

Methods

We compared predictive accuracies of survival of 121 Japanese MLC patients of five systems, including clinical risk score (CRS) proposed by Memorial‐Sloan‐Kettering‐Cancer‐Center, original H‐number (OHN) by Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum, revised H‐number (RHN) and Grade by the same society (GJSCCR), and our modified Grade (MGJSCCR) based on OHN and presence of primary lymph node metastasis.

Results

Univariate analysis showed that discrimination of both disease‐free and overall survival rates was significant for CRS, OHN and MGJSCCR (P < 0.05) but not for RHN and GJSCCR. Multivariate analysis showed CRS and MGJSCCR as the best systems for predicting disease‐free and overall survival according to disease stage, for which Akaike information criteria (AIC) value was the lowest (423.7 and 313.9, hazard ratio 1.73 and 1.47, respectively for CRS, 423.9 and 313.5, hazard ratio 1.75 and 1.69, respectively for MGJSCCR; P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The simpler system of MGJSCCR is a better predictive grading system of prognosis of MLC patients who had undergone hepatic resection. J. Surg. Oncol. 2008;98:363–370. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Social impacts of tourism: an Australian regional case study
Authors: Tovar Cesar , Lockwood Michael
Published: July 2008

As the support of host communities is a precondition for a sustainable industry, regional social impact studies are a crucial input to tourism planning and decision‐making. This study assessed the social impacts of tourism in a rural region of Australia where tourism is an important sector of the economy. As well as providing data to aid regional tourism planning, this study identifies differences in personal and community‐wide impacts; advances understanding of the factors that influence residents' perceptions of tourism impacts; and assesses the degree to which tourism activity associated with protected areas contributes to the identified social impacts. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The process of 4‐hydroxybiphenyl synthesis from 4‐isopropylbiphenyl
Authors: Stec Zbigniew , Orlińska Beata , Jakubowski Bartłomiej , Zawadiak Jan
Published: July 2008

The kinetics of the oxidation of 4‐isopropylbiphenyl (1) in the liquid phase by oxygen to 1‐(1,1′‐biphenyl‐4‐yl)‐1‐methylethyl hydroperoxide (2) was investigated. The oxidizability of 1 in the temperature range from 60°C to 120°C and the overall energy activation of oxidation were determined. Long‐term oxidation of 1 to 2 in the temperature range of 80–120°C was investigated, and the yield and selectivity of the process were determined. Pure 2 was obtained, and its properties were defined. 4‐Hydroxybiphenyl was obtained as a result of the acidic decomposition of 2. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 40: 527–532, 2008
Kinetics and mechanism for oxime formation from benzoylformic acid: Electrostatic interactions in the dehydration of carbinolamines
Authors: Malpica A. , Calzadilla M. , Mejias I.
Published: July 2008

The evidence establishes that oxime formation from benzoylformic acid in the pH range from 0.25 to 5.5 occurs with acid‐catalyzed dehydration of carbinolamines derived from the acid and its anion. The pH‐rate profile shows in order of decreasing pH in two regions: (1) In the pH range from 5.5 to ∼2.2 the second‐order rate constants are linearly dependent on the concentration of hydronium ion and (2) from pH ∼2.2 to 0.25 the rate constants deviate slightly from the line of slope = −1. This slight deviation is a consequence of the very similar values of limiting rate constants of the two forms of the substrate. Electrostatic interactions between charged carbinolamines and hydronium ions are analyzed. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 40: 554–558, 2008
Inorganic‐Organic Hybrid Polymers Based on Surface‐Modified Metal Oxide Clusters
Authors: Schubert Ulrich
Published: July 2008

Transition metal oxide clusters with unsaturated carboxylate ligands bonded to their surface were polymerized in the presence of organic co‐monomers by various polymerization techniques to form cluster‐reinforced polymers. The properties of the cluster‐crosslinked hybrid polymers are distinctly different to those of the parent polymers and originate from both crosslinking and filler effects. Variation of the cluster proportion, the kind of employed cluster, the ratio of functional and non‐functional capping ligands and the polymerization conditions allows modifying the materials properties of the hybrid materials. The most important changes in materials properties compared with the cluster‐free polymers relate to the swelling behavior, thermal stability and mechanical properties. Furthermore, cluster‐specific properties can be introduced into the polymers, such as magnetic properties.
Microphase Separation of Bulk and Ultrathin Films of Polyurethane Elastomers
Authors: Furukawa Mutsuhisa , Kojio Ken , Kugumiya So , Uchiba Yusuke , Mitsui Yoshitaka
Published: July 2008

Surmmary: Polyurethane elastomers (PUEs) were synthesized with poly(oxytetramethylene) glycol (PTMG), 4,4′‐diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI) and 1,4‐butanediol (BD)/1,1,1‐trimethylol propane (TMP) by a prepolymer method. The degree of microphase separation of bulk and ultrathin films for these PUEs was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). In the bulk films, FT‐IR and DSC measurements revealed that the degree of micro‐phase separation strengthened with increasing BD content. AFM observation of the BD‐PUE showed hard segment domains surrounded by a soft segment matrix. The domains ranged in size from 10‐20 nm, while BD/TMP‐ and TMP PUEs did not have clear domains. On the other hand, AFM observation was carried out on thin films (200 mm in thickness) and ultrathin films (approximately 8‐5 nm) prepared by spin‐coating the different concentrations of PUE solutions. The microphase separated strucuture under 10 nm in thickness showed marked decreases in the size of the microphase‐separated domain.
Synthesis and Self‐Assembly of 2nd Generation Dendritic Homopolymers and Copolymers of Polydienes with Different Isomeric Microstructures
Authors: Avgeropoulos Apostolos , Rangou Sofia , Krikorian Vahik , Thomas Edwin L.
Published: July 2008

Synthesis of 2nd generation dendritic polymeric materials via anionic polymerization procedures in combination with chlorosilane chemistry, consisting either from one polydienic segment (homopolymers) or from two chemically different polydienic components (copolymers), is described. The polydienes used were poly(butadiene) (PB) with ∼90% 1,4‐isomerism and poly(isoprene) (PI) with increased 3,4‐isomerism (∼60%). Molecular characterization of intermediate products and the final dendritic materials was made with Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC), Membrane and Vapour Pressure Osmometry (MO and VPO respectively), Gas Chromatography –Mass Spectroscopy (GC‐MS) and 1H‐Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (1H‐NMR) Spectroscopy, leading to the conclusion that they can be considered model polymers. Morphological studies solely with Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) have been conducted on two of the four synthesized copolymer samples exhibiting microphase separation between the two polydiene segments.
Quantitative Characterization of the Structure of PP/Layered Silicate Nanocomposites at Various Length Scales
Authors: Dominkovics Zita , Renner Károly , Pukánszky Béla , Pukánszky Béla
Published: July 2008

The structure and rheological properties of a large number of layered silicate polypropylene nanocomposites were studied with widely varying compositions. Unlike general practice, morphology was characterized at different length scales covering several decades by SEM, TEM, and XRD. Rheological measurements supplied additional information about structure. The results showed that these materials possess a very complex structural architecture. The introduction of a functionalized polymer decreases the size of the original clay particles. However, relatively large silicate particles were found also in composite samples yielding XRD traces without silicate reflection. We found that not only two (individual layers, intercalated stacks), but four morphological entities, i.e. also particles and a silicate network, may be present simultaneously in the composites. An attempt was made to characterize morphology quantitatively, wherever possible. SEM and TEM micrographs were evaluated by image analysis, XRD traces by curve fitting, while a model was developed to determine relaxation time from rheological measurements, but only XRD and SEM results are reported here.
Mechanism of Thermal Degradation of an Inorganic‐Organic Hybrid Based on an Epoxy‐POSS
Authors: Montero Belén , Ramírez Carmen , Rico Maite , Torres Araceli , Cano Jesús , López Joaquín
Published: July 2008

A novel inorganic‐organic hybrid material, belonging to the family of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS), was used to reduce the trend of a conventional epoxy‐amine system to undergo combustion. The mixtures with different percentages in weight of POSS, and equal number of equivalents between of epoxy and amino groups were tested by thermogravimetic analysis (TGA) in both, argon and oxygen atmospheres. The results indicated that the char/ceramic yield values increase with the content of POSS and therefore, fire resistance is enhanced. Activation energies of degradation processes were obtained by Kissinger‐Akahira‐Sunose method. An empirical kinetic model satisfactorily explained the degradation mechanism of different blends.
Correlation between Functionated Structure and Nanomechanical Property Profiles of Silsesquioxane Films and Bulks
Authors: Hu Lijiang , Wang Di , Lu Zushun , Song Yanwei , Song Changmei
Published: July 2008

Three silsesquioxane (SSO) building blocks based on [3‐(methacryloxy)propyl]trimethoxysilane (MPMS), [(3‐glycidoxy)propyl] trimethoxysilane (GPMS), (vinyl)trimethoxysilane (VMS) and modified with 15 wt‐% tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) were prepared using hydrolytic condensation. The hardness, elastic modulus and harmonic contact stiffness for three films [f‐MTSSO (film‐MPMS‐TEOS‐SSO), f‐GTSSO and f‐VTSSO] and bulks (b‐MTSSO, b‐GTSSO and b‐VTSSO) derived from the three SSOs were tested by instrument‐indentation testing. Different profiles of nanomechanical properties of the films can be attributed to a different functionality and the functionated structure of the different SSOs. The f‐MTSSO shows better mechanical properties which are higher than the other two films containing more OH or OCH3 groups. For the f‐GTSSO with a bulky organic substituent, the unsatisfactory properties resulting from ring opening during hydrolytic condensation and an incomplete crosslinking network are discussed. However, the nanomechanical properties of the three bulks are very different from the corresponding nanomechanical properties of their films: b‐VTSSO possesses the best nanomechanical properties (note: not b‐MTSSO) among three bulks due to the differences in reaction conditions and chain less flexibility which are also discussed.
Influence of Titanium Tetrabutoxide on Nanoindentation and Nanoscratch Profiles of Silsesquioxane Films
Authors: Hu Lijiang , Wang Di , Lu Zushun , Song Yanwei , Song Changmei
Published: July 2008

Based on silsesquioxanes (SSO) derived from the hydrolytic condensation of [3‐(glacildoxy)propyl]trimethoxysilane (GPMS), 20 wt‐% tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) and titanium tetrabutoxide (TTB), two‐layer SSO films were prepared for nanoindentation and nanoscratch tests. The tests were carried out to study the influence of different amounts of TTB in the two‐layer hybrid films on hardness (H), elastic modulus (E) and scratch (S) testing profiles. The H profiles of the modified films showed two kinds of H corresponding to the two–layer structure. In the S testing profiles, all final–scan profiles did not absolutely coincide or overlap with the first–scan profiles. All S profiles revealed a fluctuanting characteristic and all S profiles can be divided into two regions in the horizontal displacement, because of the two‐layer structure. The film containing an adequate amount of TTB (20 wt‐%) was found to possess the largest H and E, as well as the best S resistance.
Double‐Layered Metal Mesh Film With Limited Viewing Angle Prepared by Electroless Plating of Self‐Organized Honeycomb Film
Authors: Yabu Hiroshi , Hirai Yuji , Matsuo Yasutaka , Ijiro Kuniharu , Shimomura Masatsugu
Published: July 2008

We have reported that honeycomb‐like porous polymer films, which were spontaneously formed in the casting of polymer solutions under humid conditions, were converted into honeycomb‐like metal meshes by electroless plating. In this report, the unique optical properties of these meshes will be discussed. Silver‐coated honeycomb mesh films were prepared by selforganization and electroless plating methods. The incident angle dependence of their transparency, and their electrical conductivity were measured. The metallized film had limited viewing angle.
Formation of Polymer Nanolayers with Special Properties at Polymer Surfaces
Authors: Samaryk Volodymyr , Varvarenko Sergiy , Tarnavchyk Ihor , Nosova Nataliya , Puzko Nataliia , Voronov Stanislav
Published: July 2008

A principal possibility of the utilization of polymer peroxides for the modification of polymer surfaces that provides an immobilization of the tailored quantity of peroxide groups at them has been established. The processes of polymer surface activation with following “grafting from” or “grafting to” utilizing immobilized peroxide groups has been studied using a FTIR‐ATR spectroscopy, ellipsometry and measurements of contact angles. The proposed technique of polymer surface activation is based on the universal ability of carbon chain polymer to participate the free radical reactions.
Endothelin‐1 enhances the expression of the androgen receptor via activation of the c‐myc pathway in prostate cancer cells
Authors: Lee June G. , Zheng Rong , McCafferty‐Cepero Jennifer M. , Burnstein Kerry L. , Nanus David M. , Shen Ruoqian
Published: July 2008

Increasing evidence suggests that androgen independent prostate cancer (PC) maintains a functional androgen receptor (AR) pathway despite the low levels of circulating androgen following androgen withdrawal, the molecular mechanisms of which are not well defined yet. To address this question, we investigated the effects of endothelin‐1 (ET‐1) on AR expression. Western analysis and RT‐PCR revealed that in the presence of ET‐1, levels of AR significantly increased in a time‐ and dose‐dependent manner in LNCaP cells. Pretreatments with inhibitors of Src and phosphoinositide kinase 3 (PI‐3K) suppressed ET‐1‐induced AR expression. As ET‐1 was reported to cause a transient increase in c‐myc mRNA levels, we examined the involvement of c‐myc in ET‐1‐mediated AR expression. Transient transfection of c‐myc siRNA neutralized ET‐1‐induced AR expression, suggesting that AR induction by ET‐1 is c‐myc dependent. AR can regulate the transcription of its own gene via a mechanism in which c‐myc plays a crucial role. Therefore, we assessed if ET‐1‐induced‐c‐myc leads to the enhancement of AR transcription. Reporter gene assays using the previously identified AR gene enhancer containing a c‐myc binding site were conducted in LNCaP cells. We found that ET‐1 induced reporter gene activity from the construct containing the wild‐type but not mutant c‐myc binding site. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays confirmed that ET‐1 increased interaction between c‐myc and c‐myc binding sites in AR enhancer, suggesting that ET‐1‐induced AR transcription occurs via c‐myc‐mediated AR transcription. Together, these data support the notion that ET‐1, via Src/PI‐3K signaling, augments c‐myc expression leading to enhanced AR expression in PC. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Subtype selective kainic acid receptor agonists: Discovery and approaches to rational design
Authors: Bunch Lennart , Krogsgaard‐Larsen Povl
Published: July 2008

(S)‐Glutamic acid (Glu) is the major excitatory neurotransmitter in the mammalian central nervous system, activating the plethora of glutamate receptors (GluRs). In broad lines, the GluRs are divided into two major classes: the ionotropic Glu receptors (iGluRs) and the metabotropic Glu receptors (mGluRs). Within the iGluRs, five subtypes (KA1, KA2, iGluR5‐7) show high affinity and express full agonist activity upon binding of the naturally occurring amino acid kainic acid (KA). Thus these receptors have been named the KA receptors. This review describes all—to our knowledge—published KA receptor agonists. In total, over 100 compounds are described by means of chemical structure and available pharmacological data. With this perspective review, it is our intention to ignite and stimulate inspiration for future design and synthesis of novel subtype selective KA receptor agonists. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Med Res Rev, 29, No. 1, 3–28, 2009
Reconstruction of reflex pathways to the atonic bladder after conus medullaris injury: Preliminary clinical results
Authors: Lin Haodong , Hou Chun‐Lin , Zhong Guibin , Xie Qingpin , Wang Shibo
Published: July 2008

Neurogenic bladder dysfunction following spinal cord injury is a major medical and social problem for which there is no ideal treatment strategy. In this study, spinal root anastomoses were performed in 10 paraplegic patients with traumatic lesions of the conus medullaris, in an attempt to reinnervate the paralyzed bladder. For the operation, the functional T11 ventral root (VR) above the lesion was transected and anastomosed to the S2 ventral roots unilaterally through a nerve graft. The T11 dorsal root was left intact as the trigger for micturition after axonal regeneration. All patients underwent urodynamic evaluation before surgery and at follow‐up. The mean follow‐up duration was 2 years. Of the 10 patients, 7 (70%) regained satisfactory bladder control within 18–24 months after VR microanastomosis. In these seven patients, the average bladder capacity decreased from 508 ± 83 (mean ± SD) to 370 ± 59 ml, residual urine decreased from 477 ± 98 to 35 ± 11 ml, and urinary infections were not observed. Patients with impaired renal function experienced a full recovery. Three patients failed to show any improvement after the operation. These results suggest that a restitutive process occurs in the bladder following reinnervation from new T11 VR connections to the bladder nerves. Spinal cord lesions that may benefit from such a nerve crossover surgery are those located at the conus, whereby a functional suprasacral nerve can be connected to the sacral roots to bypass the injury in an attempt to restore central connections to the bladder. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2008.
A critical evaluation of the concomitant use of the implantable Doppler probe and the Vacuum Assisted Closure system in free tissue transfer
Authors: Bannasch H. , Iblher N. , Penna V. , Torio N. , Felmerer G. , Stark G. B. , Momeni A.
Published: July 2008

Introduction of the Vacuum‐Assisted Closure (V.A.C.) system has revolutionized the approach to a multitude of clinical settings. Yet, its use precludes adequate clinical monitoring of skin‐grafted free flaps, thus, making a reliable monitoring system essential if broad clinical application is aspired. In a clinical study, the usefulness of the combination of the V.A.C. and implantable Doppler probe was critically evaluated in patients with microsurgical lower extremity reconstruction. We retrospectively analyzed the usefulness of the implantable Doppler probe in five consecutive patients treated in our department from January to July 2007. Inclusion criteria were lower extremity reconstruction by means of skin‐grafted free tissue transfers with subsequent application of the V.A.C. device. Five consecutive patients (four males, one female) with a mean age of 37.8 years (range, 8–58 years) matched the criteria mentioned above. Of note, the two pediatric patients (8‐year‐old male and 12‐year‐old female) suffered from significant posttraumatic stress disorder necessitating concomitant psychological care by the Department of Psychiatry. All flaps healed uneventfully displaying no signs of vascular compromise. Interpretation of the Doppler signal was simple and well received by the nursing staff. The combination of V.A.C. and the implantable Doppler probe enhances patient comfort due to a reduction of the number of dressing changes while still allowing continuous free flap monitoring. Interpretation of the signal transmitted by the probe is simple and potentially reduces misinterpretations due to different levels of experience. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2008.
A massive arterial thrombosis of a free anterolateral thigh flap in a patient with antiphospholipid syndrome
Authors: Salgarello M. , Cervelli D. , Barone‐Adesi L.
Published: July 2008

The antiphospholipid syndrome is a pathological condition characterized by recurrent thrombotic manifestations in venous and/or arterial vascular systems and by peculiar laboratory findings as anticardiolipin antibodies and/or positive lupus anticoagulant. We present a case of massive pedicle thrombosis of a free anterolateral thigh perforator flap used for tongue reconstruction following hemiglossectomy in a patient with antiphospholipid syndrome, which compelled us to an immediate second reconstruction choice with a radial forearm free flap. This case is an example of how this syndrome, especially if unknown before surgery, can influence the outcome of microsurgical transfer of flaps. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2008.
Effect of adrenergic stimulation on cutaneous microcirculation immediately after surgical adventitiectomy in a rat skin flap model
Authors: Lecoq Jean‐Pierre H. , Joris Jean L. , Nelissen Xavier P. , Lamy Maurice L. , Heymans Olivier Y.
Published: July 2008

Chronic sympathetic denervation leads to the development of supersentivity to adrenergic agents. Free flap surgery results in the disruption of the autonomic nerve fibers running along the anastomosed vessels. We therefore investigated the early effect of surgical sympathectomy on the reactivity of cutaneous microcirculation challenged to adrenergic agents. Two epigastric flaps were elevated and exposed in 15 rats. On the right flap (Side A), a circular adventitiectomy of the feeder vessels was realized to provide surgical sympathectomy. On the left flap (Side N), vessels were kept intact. The following drugs were then given intravenously successively: phenylephrine (10 and 15 μg kg−1), norepinephrine (10 μg kg−1), prazocin (1 mg kg−1) followed by norepinephrine (10 μg kg−1). Cutaneous microcirculation was assessed using Laser‐Doppler Flowmeters simultaneously on the two flaps after each drug administration. Mean arterial pressure was also measured. On side N, phenylephrine and norepinephrine resulted in a transient increase in cutaneous microcirculation followed by a more prolonged reduction. On side A, only the initial increase was observed, which was greater and longer as compared with side N, and paralleled the increase in mean arterial pressure. After prazocin pre‐treatment, norepinephrine produced a transient increase in cutaneous microcirculation similar on both sides, and parallel to the changes in arterial pressure. No decrease in cutaneous microcirculation was observed. Immediately after surgical adventitiectomy, the vasoconstriction produced by α‐adrenergic agents is prevented. No denervation‐induced hypersentivity is observed. Surgical sympathectomy might protect cutaneous flaps from vasoconstriction induced by endogenous catecholamines release. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2008.
Extended left colon interposition for pharyngoesophageal reconstruction using distal‐end arterial enhancement
Authors: Lu Hung‐I , Kuo Yur‐Ren , Chien Chin‐Yen
Published: July 2008

In pharyngoesophageal reconstruction with colon interposition, the oral segment of colon graft suffers from high incidence of ischemia necrosis. This leads to increased rate of fistula formation and hence increased mortality. This study described an arterial enhancement procedure for uncomplicated colon interposition. Five patients who had undergone pharyngoesophageal reconstruction with extended left colon interposition were reviewed, all of whom had advanced hypopharyngeal cancer with cervical esophagus invasion. Insufficient blood supply of the distal colon was noted following pharyngocolostomy. Arterial enhancement from the distal end of the sigmoid artery branch to the superior thyroid artery (four cases) or facial artery (one case) was performed. All patients displayed good circulation and peristalsis of colon interposition graft perioperatively. The pharyngocolostomy junction was free of leakage and colon graft necrosis. Barium study revealed a wide patent anastomosis postoperatively. Patients tolerated regular diet without problems following discharge. This demonstrated distal arterial enhancement procedure during extended colon interposition is a feasible technique for preventing serious complications for pharyngoesophageal reconstruction. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2008.
Simple and reliable way in sternum wound coverage—Tripedicle pectoralis major musculocutaneous flap
Authors: Chou Erh‐Kang , Tai Yu‐Tzu , Chen Hung‐Chi , Chen Kuang‐Te
Published: July 2008

Objective: Sternotomy wound infection requires radically debridements and need secondary reconstruction of the resulting defect. Pectoralis major muscular or musculocutaneous flap is quite common in sternal wound closure. We modified the pectoralis major musculocutaneous flap design: bipedicle advancement cutaneous flap combined with thoracoacromial myocutaneous perforators, as a “tripedicle” fashion. We tried to utilize the cutaneous pedicle to provide a reliable skin coverage and decrease the wound dehiscence rate in lower one third sternal wound. Methods: Four patients undergoing median sternotomy surgery between 2004 and 2007 suffered from sternal wound infection and received tri‐pedicle pectoralis major musculocutaneous flaps transfer. Results: No skin paddle necrosis or wound dehiscence occurred in the postoperative course. Cosmetically and chest stability were satisfactory without complains about the daily activity. Conclusions: Tripedicle pectoralis major musculocutaneous flap is a simple and reliable technique to cover sternal wound defect necessitating resurfacing surgery. The blood supply to the skin paddle can be enriched by the superior and inferior cutaneous pedicle and the wound dehiscence rate is decreased with this technique. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2008.
Medication‐induced mitochondrial damage and disease
Authors: Neustadt John , Pieczenik Steve R.
Published: July 2008

Since the first mitochondrial dysfunction was described in the 1960s, the medicine has advanced in its understanding the role mitochondria play in health and disease. Damage to mitochondria is now understood to play a role in the pathogenesis of a wide range of seemingly unrelated disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disease, dementia, Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, migraine headaches, strokes, neuropathic pain, Parkinson's disease, ataxia, transient ischemic attack, cardiomyopathy, coronary artery disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, retinitis pigmentosa, diabetes, hepatitis C, and primary biliary cirrhosis. Medications have now emerged as a major cause of mitochondrial damage, which may explain many adverse effects. All classes of psychotropic drugs have been documented to damage mitochondria, as have stain medications, analgesics such as acetaminophen, and many others. While targeted nutrient therapies using antioxidants or their prescursors (e. g.,N‐acetylcysteine) hold promise for improving mitochondrial function, there are large gaps in our knowledge. The most rational approach is to understand the mechanisms underlying mitochondrial damage for specific medications and attempt to counteract their deleterious effects with nutritional therapies. This article reviews our basic understanding of how mitochondria function and how medications damage mitochondria to create their occasionally fatal adverse effects.
Design and implementation of Anycast communication model in IPv6
Authors: Wang Xiaonan , Qian Huanyan
Published: July 2008

The existing designs for providing Anycast services are either to confine each Anycast group to a preconfigured topological region or to distribute members of Anycast groups over global regions. The former brings an Anycast scalability problem and the latter causes the routing tables to grow proportionally to the number of all global Anycast groups in the entire Internet. Therefore, both of the above designs restrict and hinder the application and development of Anycast services. A new kind of Anycast communication model is proposed in this paper which solves some existing problems, such as scalability and communication errors between clients and servers. In this paper, the Anycast communication model is analyzed in depth and discussed, and the experimental data of this Anycast communication model demonstrate its feasibility and validity.
Security management of mutually trusted domains through cooperation of defensive technologies
Authors: Kao Shang‐Juh , Shiue Lai‐Ming
Published: July 2008

A number of defensive technologies have been proposed for the prevention of security threats. However, these defensive technologies are implemented independently without cooperation among various network domains. In this paper, different administrative networks are leagued to form a federative network environment called a trusted domain. From the perspective of a network manager, there is a need to integrate diverse technologies into an effective defensive system among mutually trusted domains. An imperative task for security management is to put in place a shared defensive mechanism, or protective shield, for multiple domains. A cooperative approach to provide such a shared defensive system is presented with integration of both intra‐domain and inter‐domain defensive mechanisms. The simulation results show that, through sharing the defensive information, the firewall system can successfully detect and filter the repeated intrusions. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chebyshev polynomial approximation for high‐order partial differential equations with complicated conditions
Authors: Akyüz‐Dascioglu Aysegül
Published: July 2008

In this article, a new method is presented for the solution of high‐order linear partial differential equations (PDEs) with variable coefficients under the most general conditions. The method is based on the approximation by the truncated double Chebyshev series. PDE and conditions are transformed into the matrix equations, which corresponds to a system of linear algebraic equations with the unknown Chebyshev coefficients, via Chebyshev collocation points. Combining these matrix equations and then solving the system yields the Chebyshev coefficients of the solution function. Some numerical results are included to demonstrate the validity and applicability of the method. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq, 2009
A taphonomic study of bone modification and of tooth‐mark patterns on long limb bone portions by suids
Authors: Domínguez‐Solera S. D. , Domínguez‐Rodrigo M.
Published: July 2008

This work presents new taphonomic data on bone modification by suids, including domestic pig, wild and hybrid boars. The intense modification undergone by bones from animals smaller than 100 kg is shown, together with a more moderate modification on bones from larger animals. Both the ravaging pattern (with preferential deletion of cancellous tissue) and the tooth‐marking frequencies are similar to those documented among hyenas and dogs when having primary access to complete bones. A dual‐patterned experimental model consisting of the interaction of humans and suids was also considered. Here it is shown how suid modification of hammerstone‐broken bone assemblages is different from that documented among canids and hyaenids, as experimentally replicated. These results increase the number of non‐anthropogenic bone‐modifying agents and posit new issues on equifinality processes. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Genomic alterations and gene expression in primary diffuse large B‐cell lymphomas of immune‐privileged sites: the importance of apoptosis and immunomodulatory pathways
Authors: Booman M , Szuhai K , Rosenwald A , Hartmann E , Kluin‐Nelemans HC , de Jong D , Schuuring E , Kluin PM
Published: July 2008

Primary diffuse large B‐cell lymphomas of different immune‐privileged sites (IP‐DLBCLs) share many clinical and biological features, such as a relatively poor prognosis, preferential dissemination to other immune‐privileged sites, and deletion of the HLA region, which suggests that IP‐DLBCL represents a separate entity. To further investigate the nature of IP‐DLBCL, we investigated site‐specific genomic aberrations in 16 testicular, nine central nervous system (CNS), and 15 nodal DLBCLs using array CGH. We also determined minimal common regions of gain and loss. Using robust algorithms including multiple testing procedures and the ACE‐it script, which is specifically designed for this task, the array CGH data were combined with gene expression data to explore pathways deregulated by chromosomal aberrations. Loss of 6p21.32–p25.3, including the HLA genes, was associated with both types of IP‐DLBCL, whereas gain of 2p16.1–p25.3 was associated with nodal DLBCL. Gain of 12q15–q21.1 and 12q24.32–q24.33 was associated with CNS DLBCL and gain of 19q13.12–q13.43 with testicular DLBCL. Analysis of candidate genes in site‐specific regions and minimal common regions revealed two major groups of genes: one involved in the immune response, including regulation of HLA expression, and the other involved in apoptosis, including the p53 pathway. Many of these genes were also involved in homozygous deletions or high‐level gains. The presence of both shared and site‐specific aberrations in CNS and testicular DLBCLs underlines the concept of IP‐DLBCL but also indicates that IP‐DLBCLs of the CNS and testis do not form a single entity. The observed aberrations emphasize the importance of the deregulation of anti‐tumour immune response and apoptosis pathways. Copyright © 2008 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dynamics of immune granuloma formation in a Leishmania braziliensis‐induced self‐limiting cutaneous infection in the primate Macaca mulatta
Authors: Souza‐Lemos C , de‐Campos SN , Teva A , Côrte‐Real S , Fonseca EC , Porrozzi R , Grimaldi Jr G
Published: July 2008

In order to unravel the physiopathology of leishmaniasis in humans, it is necessary to better understand how Leismania are able to survive for years within immunologically active granulomas. In the present study, we used a macaque (Macaca mulatta) model of infection with Leishmania braziliensis as a means of assessing the usefulness of this primate system. This model more closely mirrors human protective immunity to Leishmania than the murine model; therefore, we used it to study the host inflammatory granulomatous response involved in the control of cutaneous leishmaniasis. Infected primates developed localized long‐term skin ulcerations, but complete spontaneous clinical healing occurred in all infected animals. The infection induced the recruitment and activation of inflammatory mast cells, granulocytes, mononuclear phagocytes, and lymphocytes at the site of infection. During the acute reaction, polymorphonuclear leukocytes were more prominent than other cell types and apparently destroyed many parasites; macrophages then rapidly engulfed dying neutrophils together with their parasitic cargo. In the chronic phase, persisting parasites induced a typical T helper (Th) cytokine, type 1‐mediated, immunity‐induced granulomatous reaction. By this time, more or less differentiated macrophage accumulations were found, and these evolved to become mature tissue granulomas consisting of all the specific cell types found within human granulomas. In the healing stage, fibroblasts proliferated at the periphery and finally invaded the granulomas with fibrotic substitution. These findings point to the feasibility of using this model to elucidate the potentially disabling Th1‐cell mechanisms that may eventually render the host granulomatous response inadequate for fighting L. braziliensis infections. Copyright © 2008 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.