bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Isolation and Structure Elucidation of Minor Isoflavonoids from Licorice of Glycyrrhiza glabra Origin.
Authors: Kinoshita Takeshi , Tamura Yukiyoshi , Mizutani Kenji
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Isolation and Structure Elucidation of a New Amphidinol with a Truncated Polyhydroxyl Chain from Amphidinium klebsii.
Authors: Morsy Nagy , Matsuoka Shigeru , Houdai Toshihiro , Matsumori Nobuaki , Adachi Seiji , Murata Michio , Iwashita Takashi , Fujita Tsuyoshi
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Total Synthesis of (+)‐Tanikolide, Using Regioselective Elimination of a Vicinal Dibromoalkane.
Authors: Ohgiya Tadaaki , Nakamura Kensuke , Nishiyama Shigeru
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Synthesis of Nanowire and Mesoporous Low‐Temperature LiCoO2 by a Post‐Templating Reaction.
Authors: Jiao Feng , Shaju Kuthanapillil , Bruce Peter G.
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Studies on Trichlorosilane Synthesis
Authors: Kuerschner U. , Paetzold U. , Hesse K. , Lieske H.
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Photochemistry of Alkenes, Alkynes and Related Compounds
Authors: Horspool William M.
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Anchoring Catalyst for High Selectivity
Authors: Brandts Jim , Donkervoort Johannes
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Asymmetric Synthesis of α,α‐Disubstituted α‐Amino Acid Derivatives Featuring Stereospecific Rearrangements
Authors: Matsushita Masayuki , Maeda Hana , Kodama Mitsuaki
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Recent Advances in the New Generation Taxane Anticancer Agents
Authors: Geney R. , Chen J. , Ojima I.
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Acyl Metal Functions
Authors: Tanoury G. J.
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Solid—Liquid Interactions and Functional Surface Wettability
Authors: Ralston John
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Usual Theoretical Methods Applied to Study Cyclodextrins and Their Complexes
Authors: Castro Eduardo A. , Barbiric Dora J.
Published: November 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
The impact of early resection of primary neuroblastoma on the survival of children older than 1 year of age with stage 4 disease
Authors: McGregor Lisa M. , Rao Bhaskar N. , Davidoff Andrew M. , Billups Catherine A. , Hongeng Suradej , Santana Victor M. , Hill D. Ashley , Fuller Christine , Furman Wayne L.
Published: November 2005

BACKGROUND

It remains unclear whether primary tumor resection benefits patients with metastatic neuroblastoma. The authors assessed the impact of extent and timing of resection on outcome in these patients.

METHODS

The authors reviewed the records of 124 patients > 1 year of age at diagnosis of International Neuroblastoma Staging System Stage 4 neuroblastoma. The survival estimates of those who did and did not have a gross total resection (GTR) and of those who had initial versus delayed GTR were compared. Surgical complications were reviewed.

RESULTS

The 5‐year survival estimates were comparable for the 90 patients who had a GTR and the 17 who underwent surgery but did not have a GTR (29.9% ± 5.1% [standard error] vs. 29.4% ± 10.1%). The 7 patients who underwent GTR at the time of diagnosis had a higher 5‐year survival estimate than the 83 patients who had a GTR after induction chemotherapy (83.3% ± 13.9% vs. 25.2% ± 5.0%) (P = 0.001). Five‐year event‐free survival estimates were similarly higher in the initial‐GTR group (57.1% ± 18.7% vs. 14.5% ± 4.2%) (P = 0.002). These two groups did not differ significantly in age at diagnosis (P = 0.118), site of primary tumor (P = 0.34), MYCN amplification status (P = 1), serum lactate dehydrogenase activity at diagnosis (P = 0.34), or treatment protocol (P = 0.22). Twenty‐two (21%) patients had a surgical complication.

CONCLUSIONS

In this small cohort of patients with metastatic neuroblastoma, GTR at the time of diagnosis offered a survival benefit. Further prospective studies are warranted before this approach can be applied to all patients with metastatic neuroblastoma. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
Neuron numbers in the sensory trigeminal nuclei of the rat: A GABA‐ and glycine‐immunocytochemical and stereological analysis
Authors: Avendaño Carlos , Machín Raquel , Bermejo Pedro E. , Lagares Alfonso
Published: November 2005

The volume, total neuron number, and number of GABA‐ and glycine‐expressing neurons in the sensory trigeminal nuclei of the adult rat were estimated by stereological methods. The mean volume is 1.38 ± 0.13 mm3(mean ± SD) for the principal nucleus (Vp), 1.59 ± 0.06 for the n. oralis (Vo), 2.63 ± 0.34 for the n. interpolaris (Vip), and 3.73 ± 0.11 for the n. caudalis (Vc). The total neuron numbers are 31,900 ± 2,200 (Vp), 21,100 ± 3,300 (Vo), 61,600 ± 8,300 (Vip), and 159,100 ± 25,300 (Vc). Immunoreactive (‐ir) neurons were classified asstronglystained orweaklystained, depending on qualitative criteria, cross‐checked by a densitometric analysis. GABA‐ir cells are most abundant in Vc, in an increasing rostrocaudal gradient within the nucleus. Lower densities are found in Vip and Vp. The mean total number of strongly labeled GABA‐ir neurons ranges between 1,800 in Vp to 7,800 in Vip and 22,900 in Vc, and varies notably between subjects. Glycine‐ir neurons are more numerous and display more homogeneous densities in all nuclei. Strongly labeled Gly‐ir cells predominate in all nuclei, their total number ranging between 9,400 in Vp to 24,300 in Vip and 34,200 in Vc. A substantial fraction of immunolabeled neurons in all nuclei coexpress GABA and glycine. In general, all neurons strongly immunoreactive for GABA are small, while weakly GABA‐ir cells which coexpress Gly are larger. In Vc, one‐third of all neurons are immunoreactive: 16.6% of them are single‐labeled for GABA and 31.6% are single‐labeled for glycine. The remaining 51.8% express GABA and glycine in different combinations, with those showing strong double labeling accounting for 22.6%. J. Comp. Neurol. 493:538–553, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Price‐sensitive resource brokering with the Hybrid Pricing Model and widely overlapping price domains
Authors: Piro Rosario M. , Guarise Andrea , Werbrouck Albert
Published: November 2005

The DGAS‐Sim(ulator) simulates the components of the Grid middleware that are involved in the job scheduling process, reflecting the architecture of the Workload Management System of the European DataGrid project. Its purpose is to study the impact of different resource pricing schemes and resource brokering strategies on workload balancing. In this paper we present further simulation results for a price‐sensitive utility function (the resource broker always chooses the most economic computing element) and the Hybrid Pricing Model (fixed base prices and linear price adjustments within fixed variation limits to reflect the current workload of the computing element). We specifically consider a Grid economy scenario with widely overlapping domains of the prices of the single resources and compare the outcome with our previously presented results. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Next‐generation Grids: requirements and knowledge‐based services
Authors: Cannataro Mario
Published: November 2005

To be effectively adopted in different application domains, next‐generation Grids need to address different issues such as: an increasing complexity and distribution of applications; different goals, skills and habits of Grid users; availability of different programming and deployment models; heterogeneous capabilities and performances of access networks and devices. Moreover, scientific and commercial applications, as well as Grid middleware, will increasingly produce an overwhelming quantity of application and usage data. Although the ongoing convergence between Grids, Web Services, and the Semantic Web constitutes a milestone towards a service‐oriented Grid architecture, which has the potential to face important issues such as application programming and business modelling, many other issues need research and development efforts. The great availability of data and information at the different layers of Grids, the maturity of data exploration techniques able to extract and synthesize knowledge, such as data mining, text summarization, semantic modelling, and knowledge management, and the demand for intelligent services in different phases of application life cycle are the driving forces towards novel knowledge‐based Grid services. Guided by those considerations, the paper first introduces main requirements of next‐generation Grids and then describes some representative knowledge‐based Grid services for both applications support and system management. Simple cases study showing how such services could be employed are discussed. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Resistance of regulatory T cells to glucocorticoid‐viduced TNFR family‐related protein (GITR) during Plasmodium yoelii infection
Authors: Hisaeda Hajime , Hamano Shinjiro , Mitoma‐Obata Chikage , Tetsutani Kohhei , Imai Takashi , Waldmann Herman , Himeno Kunisuke , Yasutomo Koji
Published: November 2005

CD4+ T cells are the major effector T cells against blood‐stage Plasmodium yoelii infection. On the other hand, the lethal strain of P. yoelii (PyL) has acquired an escape mechanism from host T cell immunity by activating CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells (Treg). Although the activation of Treg during PyL infection precludes the clearance of PyL from mice, it remains unclear whether activation of Treg is attributable to a specific response against PyL infection. Thus, we examined here whether Treg proliferate in an antigen‐dependent manner during PyL infection. We also investigated the effector and regulatory mechanisms of Treg. Infection with PyL increased the number of CD4+CD25+ T cells, in which expression of Foxp3 mRNA is up‐regulated. The Treg that were transferred into mice infected with PyL, but not with a non‐lethal strain of P. yoelii (PyNL), proliferated during the initial 5 days following infection. The Treg from PyL‐infected mice showed strong suppression compared with those from naive or PyNL‐infected mice, and could suppress T cell activation by recognizing PyL‐ but not PyNL‐derived antigens. Furthermore, the suppressive function of Treg activated in PyL‐infected but not in naive mice could not be inhibited by treatment with an anti‐glucocorticoid‐induced TNFR family‐related protein (GITR) mAb. These findings indicate that PyL infection specifically activates Treg that are specific for PyL‐derived antigens. The infection also induces resistance for Treg to GITR signaling, and this eventually contributes to the escape of parasites from host T cell immunity.
Selective expansion and engraftment of human CD16+ NK cells in NOD/SCID mice
Authors: Harada Hideki , Suzu Shinya , Ito Takaaki , Okada Seiji
Published: November 2005

NK cells are large granular lymphocytes that represent a critical component of the innate immunity. Investigations of human NK cell function are largely based on in vitro assays because of the lack of suitable animal models. Here we have established conditions leading to the development of human NK cells in NOD/SCID (severe combined immunodeficiency) mice receiving grafts of cord blood mononuclear cells (CBMC), and GFP‐transduced HFWT inducing NK cells (GHINK‐1), which have been shown to support the selective expansion of NK cells from human PBMC and CBMC in vitro. Significant numbers of CD56dimCD16+ cytotoxic and CD56–CD16+ immature NK cells appeared in peripheral blood (PB), peritoneal cavity, spleen, bone marrow and liver of the mice. The newly generated NK cells did not express activation markers such as CD25, CD69 and NKp44, the expression of which was augmented by IL‐2 in vitro. The NOD/SCID mice engrafted with human NK cells exhibited antitumor activity against K562 erythroleukemia in vitro and in vivo. Thus, we succeeded in developing a CD56dimCD16+ cytotoxic NK cell populations in NOD/SCID mice closely resembling the main NK fraction in human PB and CD56–CD16+ immature NK cells. Our model provides not only information about the development and dynamics of physiological human NK cells but also an important pre‐clinical system for immunotherapeutic strategies.
Activation of invariant NK T cells protects against experimental rheumatoid arthritis by an IL‐10‐dependent pathway
Authors: Miellot Aurore , Zhu Ren , Diem Séverine , Boissier Marie‐Christophe , Herbelin André , Bessis Natacha
Published: November 2005

Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are a unique lymphocyte subtype implicated in the regulation of autoimmunity and a good source of protective Th2 cytokines. Agonist α‐galactosylceramide (α‐GalCer) of iNKT cells exert a therapeutical effect in type 1 diabetes. We investigated whether iNKT activation with α‐GalCer was protective in collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA) in DBA/1 mice, a standard model of rheumatoid arthritis. Here, we have shown that in vivo iNKT cell function was altered in DBA/1 mice since stimulation with α‐GalCer led to decreased IL‐4 and IFN‐γ levels in sera, as compared with C57BL/6 mice. α‐GalCer induced a clear‐cut diminution of clinical and histological arthritides. An anti‐IL‐10 receptor antibody abrogated the protective effect of α‐GalCer, suggesting a key role for IL‐10 in the protection against CIA by activated iNKT cells. Confirming these data, disease protection conferred by α‐GalCer correlated with the ability of LN CD4+ cells to secrete larger amounts of IL‐10. These findings suggest that in CIA susceptibility to autoimmunity is associated with dysfunctions of iNKT cells. Our demonstration that iNKT cell activation by α‐GalCer remains efficient in CIA‐prone DBA/1 mice to provide protective IL‐10 suggests that this could be used therapeutically to treat autoimmune arthritis.
The Ligation Properties of some Reduced Schiff Base Selena/Telluraaza Macrocycles: Versatile Structural Trends
Authors: Panda Snigdha , Zade Sanjio S. , Singh Harakesh B. , Butcher Ray J.
Published: November 2005

The chalcogenaaza macrocycles 4, 5 and 6 show versatility in ligation properties towards various transition metal ions. The structure of the reduced 22‐membered selenaaza macrocycle 4 (C32H36N4Se2) has been determined. The NiII complex 7 exhibits coordination by the N4Se2 donor sites. The PdII complexes 8, 9, 10, and 14 have been structurally characterized. The molecular structures of these complexes reveal interesting versatile ligating behaviors of the ligands. The Pd complexes 8, 9, and 14 display coordination by hard nitrogen donor atoms only, whereas the complex 10 showed coordination by N2Te2 donor centers. The PtII complex 11 shows the formation of a cationic metallamacrocycle with C–Pt–Se linkage. The crystal structures suggest that the coordination of metal atoms to donors is determined by the geometrical arrangement around the metal and by the conformation of the macrocycle rather than by the HSAB (hard/soft acid/base) principle. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006)
Copper(I) Complexes with a Cu4S6‐ and CuS4‐Type Core Obtained from the Reaction of Copper(0) with HN(SPPh2)2·I2
Authors: Aragoni M. Carla , Arca Massimiliano , Carrea M. Bonaria , Demartin Francesco , Devillanova Francesco A. , Garau Alessandra , Hursthouse Michael B. , Huth Susanne L. , Isaia Francesco , Lippolis Vito , Ogilvie Helen R. , Verani Gaetano
Published: November 2005

The copper(I) compounds [CuI4(L)3]I3 (1) and [CuI(HL)2]I3·CH3CN (2) [HL = HN(SPPh2)2] have been obtained from the reaction of the adduct HL·I2 with copper(0) powder in diethyl ether solution. Compound 1 contains a tetrahedron of Cu atoms with three anionic L ligands coordinated to the coppers through the sulfur atoms to build a Cu4S6 core. The mean Cu–Cu and Cu–S bond lengths related to the Cu4S6 core in copper‐loaded transcription factors CuAce1 and CuMac1, and in the model compound [Cu4(SPh)6]2–, have been compared with those of the [Cu4(L)3]+ cation, and the geometric volumes of the Cu4 cores have been evaluated. The results suggest that the cation [Cu4(L)3]+ is a possible structural model compound for the metal site in Ace1 and Mac1 transcription factors. In compound 2, two neutral HL ligands bind a CuI ion in an S,S′‐isobidentate chelating fashion to form a slightly distorted tetrahedral CuS4 core. The 31P NMR spectroscopic data of compound 1 are consistent with the maintenance of its structure in solution. Moreover, phosphorus variable‐temperature measurements indicate a change from a two‐spin coupled AB system at 0 °C to an A2 spin system at 40 °C. The reaction of [Cu4(L)3]+ with HI, monitored by 31P NMR spectroscopy, leads to the protonation of the complexed ligands at the Cu4 core and formation of the cation [Cu4(HL)3]4+. The protonation reaction is reversible: increasing the amount of organic base 1,8‐bis(dimethylamino)naphthalene (DMAN) regenerates the starting cation [Cu4(L)3]+.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006)
Monophosphanylcalix[6]arene Ligands: Synthesis Characterization, Complexation, and Their Use in Catalysis
Authors: Obora Yasushi , Liu Yun Kui , Kubouchi Sho , Tokunaga Makoto , Tsuji Yasushi
Published: November 2005

Novel phosphanylcalix[6]arenes having mono‐O‐diphenylphosphanylmethyl (3) and mono‐O‐(4‐diphenylphosphanylphenyl)methyl substituents (5) have been synthesized. The structures of these monophosphanylcalix[6]arenes were determined by NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and X‐ray crystal structure analysis. The X‐ray structure reveals that 3 adopts a flattened 1,2,3‐alternate conformation in the crystalline state, while the NMR spectra show that 3 and 5 have a cone conformation in solution. Structure optimization and energy calculations for 3 and 5 at the B3LYP/LANL2DZ‐CONFLEX5/MMFF94s level of theory show that the cone conformation is slightly more stable than the 1,2,3‐alternate conformation by 0.36 kcal mol–1 for 3 and 0.96 kcal mol–1 for 5. Complexation of 3 with [PtCl2(COD)] and [Rh(COD)2]BF4 gives cis‐coordinated [PtCl2(3)2] and [Rh(COD)(3)2]BF4, respectively. The X‐ray analysis of [PtCl2(3)2] shows that 3 adopts a cone conformation upon complexation. Combination of 3 and 5 with [Rh(COD)2]BF4 provides an active catalyst for the hydroformylation of a variety of terminal alkenes.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006)
Variability in fecal water genotoxicity, determined using the Comet assay, is independent of endogenous N‐Nitroso compound formation attributed to red meat consumption
Authors: Cross Amanda J. , Greetham Hazel L. , Pollock Jim R.A. , Rowland Ian R. , Bingham Sheila A.
Published: November 2005

Red meat consumption causes a dose‐dependent increase in fecal apparent total N‐nitroso compounds (ATNC). The genotoxic effects of these ATNCs were investigated using two different Comet assay protocols to determine the genotoxicity of fecal water samples. Fecal water samples were obtained from two studies of a total of 21 individuals fed diets containing different amounts of red meat, protein, heme, and iron. The first protocol incubated the samples with HT‐29 cells for 5 min at 4°C, whereas the second protocol used a longer exposure time of 30 min and a higher incubation temperature of 37°C. DNA strand breaks were quantified by the tail moment (DNA in the comet tail multiplied by the comet tail length). The results of the two Comet assay protocols were significantly correlated (r = 0.35, P = 0.003), however, only the second protocol resulted in detectable levels of DNA damage. Inter‐individual effects were variable and there was no effect on fecal water genotoxicity by diet (P > 0.20), mean transit time (P = 0.588), or weight (P = 0.705). However, there was a highly significant effect of age (P = 0.019). There was no significant correlation between concentrations of ATNCs in fecal homogenates and fecal water genotoxicity (r = 0.04, P = 0.74). ATNC levels were lower in fecal water samples (272 μg/kg) compared to that of fecal homogenate samples (895 μg/kg) (P < 0.0001). Failure to find dietary effects on fecal water genotoxicity may therefore be attributed to individual variability and low levels of ATNCs in fecal water samples. Environ. Mol. Mutagen., 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The numerical study of roll‐waves in inclined open channels and solitary wave run‐up
Authors: Que Yin‐Tik , Xu Kun
Published: November 2005

In this paper, we introduce a finite‐volume kinetic BGK scheme and its applications to the study of roll and solitary waves. The current scheme is based on the numerical solution of the gas‐kinetic Bhatnagar–Gross–Krook model in the flux evaluation across each cell interface. An intrinsic connection between the BGK model and time‐dependent, non‐linear, non‐homogeneous shallow‐water equations enables us to solve shallow‐water equations automatically with our kinetic scheme. The analytical solution, experimental measurements, and numerical calculations for problems associated with roll‐waves down an inclined open channel and solitary waves incident on a sloped beach are also presented. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An improved MPS method for numerical simulations of convective heat transfer problems
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Morita Koji , Fukuda Kenji , Shirakawa Noriyuki
Published: November 2005

An improved moving‐particle semi‐implicit (MPS) method was developed for numerical simulations of convective heat transfer problems. The MPS method, which is based on particles and their interactions, is a fully Lagrangian particle method for incompressible flows. A new Laplacian model and a new method for treating boundary conditions were proposed to solve numerical difficulties resulting from the original MPS method. Results of several numerical tests show the validity of the improved MPS method with the proposed model and method.

The application of the present MPS method to Rayleigh–Benard convection phenomena demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed model and method on the numerical simulation of convective heat transfer problems. The dependence of the Nusselt number on the Rayleigh number was in good agreement with an empirical formula. The temperature contour and velocity distribution also agree well with the simulation results obtained with other methods. The roll pattern developed in the horizontal fluid layer as well as the convective heat transfer was successfully simulated with three‐dimensional MPS calculations. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Numerical prediction of a turbulent curved wake and comparison with experimental data
Authors: Mokhtarzadeh‐Dehghan M. R. , Piradeepan N.
Published: November 2005

Numerical studies of the curved wake of a NACA 0012 airfoil of chord length 0.150 m are presented. The airfoil is placed in air at 10 m/s in the straight section of a duct of 0.457 m × 0.457 m cross‐section followed by a 90° bend with a mean radius‐to‐height ratio of 1.17. The trailing edge is located at one chord length upstream of the bend entry plane. The authors' own measurements are used to define the boundary conditions and for comparison with the predicted results.

The numerical models are based on the time‐averaged, three‐dimensional conservation equations of fluid flow, incorporating the k–ε, RNG k–ε, realizable k–ε and the Reynolds stress turbulence models.

The results show that the models are capable of predicting the effects of curvature on the wake development. However, quantitative differences between prediction and experiment exist. The results obtained using the Reynolds stress model show better agreement with the experimental data, compared with the k–ε based models, but not consistently for all parameters. There are also better predictions by the RNG k–ε and realizable k–ε models compared with the standard k–ε model. The predicted results using the RNG k–ε are closer to experimental data than the realizable k–ε. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tumor metastasis in an orthotopic murine model of head and neck cancer: Possible role of TGF‐beta 1 secreted by the tumor cells
Authors: Dasgupta Santanu , Bhattacharya‐Chatterjee Malaya , O'Malley Bert W. , Chatterjee Sunil K.
Published: November 2005

In an orthotopic murine model of head and neck cancer, combined subcutaneous and intratumoral vaccination with recombinant vaccinia virus expressing interleukin‐2 (rvv‐IL‐2) induced significant tumor regression early on therapy. However, its efficacy was restricted by recurrent tumor growth and loco‐regional metastases. In this study, we explored the mechanism of tumor metastasis. We compared the levels of expression of a number of molecules involved in tumor metastasis, which included transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1), E‐cadherin, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs): MT1‐MMP, MMP‐2, MMP‐9, their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs): TIMP‐1/TIMP‐2, and pro‐angiogenic factors CD31, VEGF‐R2, and iNOS between primary and metastatic tumors by real‐time RT‐PCR and immunohistochemistry. We detected spontaneous lymph node and tongue metastasis. Metastasis was delayed in rvv‐IL‐2 treated mice. Cultured tumor cells expressed negligible amount of TGF‐β1. Untreated or metastatic tumors, on the other hand, expressed high levels of TGF‐β1 and secreted TGF‐β1 in the sera of tumor‐bearing mice. Levels of TGF‐β1 in the sera suddenly jumped at the time when tumor metastasis started. In the metastatic tumors, levels of MT1‐MMP, MMP‐2, and MMP‐9 were significantly elevated (P < 0.001), while levels of TIMP‐1/TIMP‐2 and E‐cadherin were decreased (P < 0.001) compared to control or primary tumors. Levels of CD31, VEGF‐R2, and iNOS were also significantly elevated in the metastatic lesions (P < 0.001). The concurrence of high levels of TGF‐β1 in the sera, expression of proteins involved in metastasis and initiation of metastasis suggested possible role of TGF‐β1 in on setting the metastatic cascade in this model. J. Cell. Biochem. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hippocalcin increases phospholipase D2 expression through extracellular signal‐regulated kinase activation and lysophosphatidic acid potentiates the hippocalcin‐induced phospholipase D2 expression
Authors: Oh Doo‐Yi , Yon Changsuek , Oh Kyoung‐Jin , Lee Ki Sung , Han Joong‐Soo
Published: November 2005

We have previously isolated a 22 kDa protein from a rat brain which was found to be involved in activating phospholipsae D (PLD), and identified the protein as hippocalcin through sequence analysis. Nevertheless, the function of hippocalcin for PLD activation still remains to be resolved. Here, we proposed that hippocalcin was involved in extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK)‐mediated PLD2 expression. To elucidate a role of hippocalcin, we made hippocalcin transfected NIH3T3 cells and showed that the expression of PLD2 and basal PLD activity were increased in hippocalcin transfected cells. We performed PLD assay with dominant negative PLD2 (DN‐PLD2) and hippocalcin co‐transfected cells. DN‐PLD2 suppressed increase of basal PLD activity in hippocalcin transfected cells, suggesting that increased basal PLD activity is due to PLD2 over‐expression. Hippocalcin is a Ca2+‐binding protein, which is expressed mainly in the hippocampus. Since it is known that lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) increases intracellular Ca2+, we investigated the possible role of hippocalcin in the LPA‐induced elevation of intracellular Ca2+. When the intracellular Ca2+ level was increased by LPA, hippocalcin was translocated to the membrane after LPA treatment in hippocalcin transfected cells. In addition, treatment with LPA in hippocalcin transfected cells markedly potentiated PLD2 expression and showed morphological changes of cell shape suggesting that increased PLD2 expression acts as one of the major factors to cause change of cell shape by making altered membrane lipid composition. Hippocalcin‐induced PLD2 expression potentiated by LPA in hippocalcin transfected cells was inhibited by a PI‐PLC inhibitor, U73122 and a chelator of intracellular Ca2+, BAPTA–AM suggesting that activation of hippocalcin caused by increased intracellular Ca2+ is important to induce over‐expression of PLD2. However, downregulation of PKC and treatment of a chelator of extracellular Ca2+, EGTA had little or no effect on the inhibition of hippocalcin‐induced PLD2 expression potentiated by LPA in the hippocalcin transfected cells. Interestingly, when we over‐express hippocalcin, ERK was activated, and treatment with LPA in hippocalcin transfected cells significantly potentiated ERK activation. Specific inhibition of ERK dramatically abolished hippocalcin‐induced PLD2 expression. Taken together, these results suggest for the first time that hippocalcin can induce PLD2 expression and LPA potentiates hippocalcin‐induced PLD2 expression, which is mediated by ERK activation. J. Cell. Biochem. 97: 1052–1065, 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Near‐critical carbon dioxide extraction and liquid chromatography determination of UV filters in solid cosmetic samples: A green analytical procedure
Authors: Salvador Amparo , Chisvert Alberto , Jaime Maria‐Angeles
Published: November 2005

Near‐critical carbon dioxide extraction of four UV filters used as sunscreens in lipsticks and makeup formulations is reported. Extraction parameters were optimized. Efficient recoveries were obtained after 15 min of dynamic extraction with a 80:20 CO2/ethanol mixture at 300 atm and 54°C, using a 1.8 mL/min flow rate. Extracts were collected in ethanol, and appropriately diluted with ethanol and 1% acetic acid to obtain a 70:30 v/v ethanol/1% acetic acid solution. The four UV filters were determined by LC with gradient elution using ethanol/1% acetic acid as mobile phase. The accuracy of the analytical procedure was estimated by comparing the results with those obtained by methods based on classical extraction. The proposed method only requires the use of CO2, ethanol and acetic acid avoiding the use of more toxic organic solvents, thus it could be considered as both operator and environment friendly.
HPLC isolation and NMR structure elucidation of the most prominent octabromo isomer in technical octabromo diphenyl ether
Authors: Gaul Simon , Lehnert Katja , Conrad Jürgen , Vetter Walter
Published: November 2005

The major octabromo isomer of technical octabromo diphenyl ether mixture (technical octaBDE) DE‐79 was isolated by RP‐HPLC. Three serially coupled columns (each 250 mm long) enabled a good separation of the target compound from other congeners using 100% ACN as eluent. Approximately 100 μg of the target compound was isolated with a purity of > 90% and investigated by MS for confirmation of the degree of bromination. 1H‐NMR and 2‐D 1H‐13C correlation NMR spectra unequivocally clarified that the octaBDE in question is 2,2′,3,3′,4,4′,6,6′‐octabromodiphenyl ether (BDE 197). Based on annual production rates of technical BDE products (1999/2001), ˜ 380 tons of BDE 197 were annually produced which, on the long term, may enter the environment. Compared with other individual BDE congeners, BDE 197 has the seventh highest application rate. Reductive debromination of BDE 197 can lead to four hepta‐, 15 hexa‐, 23 penta‐, and 28 tetra‐BDE isomers, respectively. This variety includes all known major BDEs of environmental concern (BDE 47, 85, 99, 100, 153, 154, and 183). The identification of BDE 197 in technical octaBDE DE‐79 strongly suggests that research on the environmental fate of BDEs should include this key‐BDE congener.
Two calculations concerning the critical aluminium content in Fe20Cr5Al alloys
Authors: Strehl G. , Beaven P. , Lesage B. , Borchardt G.
Published: November 2005

Alloys for high temperature applications rely on a protective oxide layer formed by selective oxidation. In Fe20Cr5Al type alloys the useful lifetime is governed by the depletion of aluminium by oxidation down to a critical aluminium content. Following spallation of the oxide scale the bare metal is exposed to air and catastrophic failure due to breakaway oxidation occurs if the aluminium content is too low. In this paper a model for the calculation of the critical aluminium content is presented. Based on Wagner's ideas on selective oxidation in ternary alloys, the critical aluminium content is calculated as that corresponding to the transition between external and internal oxidation. The resulting aluminium contents are temperature dependent and cover the range of values 0 to 3.5 wt.% reported in the literature.

In the second part of the paper aluminium depletion profiles in Fe20Cr5Al plates have been calculated assuming a parabolic growth law for the oxidation process. The solution of the differential equation is an extension of the one dimensional solution presented by Whittle and coworkers for chromium depletion in FeCr sheet material, to three dimensions. Because of the increased consumption of aluminium at the corners of the sample, the critical aluminium content is first reached there. Based on the calculation, the reduction in lifetime, due to premature breakaway oxidation at the corners can be estimated.
Life time prediction of old bridges
Authors: Peil U. , Mehdianpour M. , Frenz M. , Scharff R.
Published: November 2005

The prediction of a realistic lifetime and the prolongation of the service life of a structure is an important task to reduce costs of civil engineering structures. The usual theoretical predictions are not very reliable. The prediction model used consists of a load model, a system‐transfer model and a damage model. The results of these sequentially coupled models are usually unreliable, especially the influence of the uncertain load and damage models controls the reliability of the result. A method based on monitoring strategies is presented, which avoids these problems. Expected trends of future traffic are considered. If the remaining life time of existing structures should be assessed, information about the strain time history of the past is needed. It is shown how these data can be generated taking into account the estimated statistics of the load in the past, the dynamic behaviour and the bumpiness of the road. Synthetic time series of the local strains are generated which include the real statistics of the process and cluster effects induced by truck convoys.
Railway fatigue failures: an overview of a long standing problem
Authors: Smith R. A.
Published: November 2005

A wide ranging overview of fatigue problems in railway applications is presented. Concentration is focussed on fatigue problems specific to the railway industry, that is, those at or adjacent to the wheel‐rail interface. Consideration of wheels and rails leads to a discussion of the importance of dynamically induced loads. Problems with bearings, axles and suspension components are introduced, before attention is turned to components below rail level. Vehicle body shells and internal fittings and components are discussed, followed by a brief review of infrastructure problems including bridges, signals and electrical supply components. Some reasons why, despite its long history, fatigue is still a problem, are suggested.
Deformation and life assessment of high temperature materials under creep fatigue loading
Authors: Scholz A. , Berger C.
Published: November 2005

The knowledge of mechanical long term behaviour under static and cyclic loading for high temperature components requires methodologies for life assessment in order to employ the full potential of materials. A phenomenological life time prediction concept which was developed for multi‐stage creep fatigue loading demonstrates the applicability of rules for synthesis of stress strain path and relaxation including an internal stress concept, as well as mean stress effects. Further, a creep fatigue interaction concept which was also developed covers a wide range of creep dominant loading as well as fatigue dominant loading.

Service‐type experiments conducted at different strain rates and hold times for verification purposes demonstrate the acceptability of life prediction method for variation of conventional 1 %Cr‐steels as well as modern high chromium 9‐10 %Cr‐steels.

Generally, the service life of components is influenced by multi‐axial behaviour. Multi‐axial experiments with e.g. notched specimens and with cruciform specimens accompanied by advanced methods for calculation of stress strain path and life time prediction stress conditions are of future interest.
Muscarinic receptor transcript and protein density in hypertrophied and atrophied rat urinary bladder
Authors: Braverman Alan S. , Ruggieri Michael R.
Published: November 2005

Aims

Our previous studies showed that bladder hypertrophy shifts the muscarinic receptor subtype mediating contraction from M3 towards M2 along with increased M2 and decreased M3 protein concentration. We quantified mRNA for M1 through M5 receptors to determine whether the changes in M2 and M3 protein levels was due to changes in transcription.

Methods

Bladder hypertrophy was induced by bladder outlet obstruction (BOO), major pelvic ganglion electrocautery (DEN), and major pelvic ganglion decentralization (DEC). Bladder atrophy was induced by ureteral diversion (DIV). Additional groups included denervated and diverted (DEN‐DIV), sham operated (SHAM), and normal (NOR) controls. Transcripts were quantified using a multiplex ribonuclease protection assay (RPA) and receptor protein density was determined by immunoprecipitation. Receptor transcripts were expressed per unit total RNA.

Results

Although all five receptor subtype transcripts were detected in all experimental groups, the densities of M1, M4, and M5 were much lower than for the M2 and M3 subtype. There were more M2 receptor transcripts than all the others, consistent with M2 protein determinations. M2 transcripts were significantly increased in DEN and BOO bladders. Surprisingly, M3 transcripts were also significantly increased in BOO. There was a significant correlation (r = 0.98, P < 0.001) between protein density and transcript density for the M2 but not the M3 receptor among the different experimental groups.

Conclusions

Changes in mRNA concentration are reflected by changes in protein density for the M2 receptor but not for the M3 receptor. Extrapolation of functional effects from transcript density data is invalid for M3 mediated bladder contractions. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Establishment of a pediatric HSCT program in a public hospital in Chile
Authors: Palma Julia , Mosso Claudio , Paris Claudia , Campbell Myriam , Tong Xin , King Alejandra , Carrion Flavio , Rivera Gaston K.
Published: November 2005

Background

In Chile, survival estimates for pediatric patients with cancer are comparable to those in the United States and Western Europe. Approximately 80% of these patients are treated at government‐supported centers, and an estimated 65% are cured. We reasoned that cure rates could be further improved if transplantation with hematopoietic stem cells were available for patients with chemotherapy‐resistant malignancy.

Patients and Methods

Physicians and nurses were selected to be trained in international centers, and a transplantation unit was developed at Luis Calvo Mackenna Hospital in Santiago. Between October 1999 and December 2003, 59 patients received transplants. Of these, 42 were from HLA‐matched family members and 11 were autologous.

Results

The 3‐year event‐free survival estimate was 72 ± 10% overall, and it was 81 ± 10% for the subgroup treated with matched related transplants. Peritransplant mortality was 6.6%. The average cost for an allogeneic transplant in our unit was US $50,000.

Conclusions

We are encouraged by this experience as well as by the overall survival rates and hope to expand the program. Our goal is to extend treatment to all children in the country for whom HSCT is indicated, including those who do not have HLA‐identical family donors. Pediatr Blood Cancer © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Safety and efficacy of a continuous infusion, patient‐controlled antiemetic pump for children receiving emetogenic chemotherapy
Authors: Jones Emma , Koyama Tatsuki , Ho Richard H. , Kuttesch John , Shankar Sadhna , Whitlock James A. , Cartwright Julia , Frangoul Haydar
Published: November 2005

Background

Chemotherapy‐induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) is one of the most distressing side effects of moderately or highly emetogenic chemotherapy. Diphenhydramine, lorazepam, and dexamethasone have been used individually to treat CINV. The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety and potential efficacy of those drugs administered via a patient controlled pump (BAD pump) to control CINV.

Procedure

A retrospective chart review was conducted of all pediatric oncology patients who received the BAD pump. Emetic episodes, doses of rescue medications to treat breakthrough nausea or vomiting, and occurrence of adverse events were recorded. Complete response (CR) was defined as no emesis or rescue medications, partial response (PR) as emesis but no rescue medications, and failure (F) as rescue medications required.

Results

Thirty patients received a total of 141 courses. Adverse events occurred in 4.2% of the courses; confusion (n = 2), depressed mood (n = 1), dysphoria (n = 1), agitation (n = 1), and restlessness (n = 1). All side effects resolved after decreasing the infusion rate, and the pump was not discontinued in any patients. Eighteen patients failed conventional prophylaxis and received BAD pump for identical subsequent chemotherapy cycles; they spent more days in CR with BAD pump than without it, 21 versus 45 days (P = .003) respectively. Patients receiving BAD pump had significantly shorter hospital stay with BAD pump than those not receiving it, 68 days versus 76 (P = .046).

Conclusions

BAD pump is well tolerated in pediatric patients receiving chemotherapy and may be more effective than conventional prophylaxis in controlling CINV in some patients. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2007;48:330–332. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Proteomic analysis of fibrillin‐rich microfibrils
Authors: Cain Stuart A. , Morgan Amanda , Sherratt Michael J. , Ball Stephen G , Shuttleworth C. Adrian , Kielty Cay M.
Published: November 2005

MS has been used to investigate the composition of fibrillin‐rich microfibrils from non‐elastic and elastic tissues, and to compare fibrillin‐1 tryptic fingerprints derived from whole zonules, microfibrils and recombinant fibrillin‐1. In all microfibril preparations, fibrillin‐1 was abundant and the only fibrillin isoform. MAGP‐1 was the only other microfibril‐associated molecule. γ‐Crystallin co‐purified with zonular microfibrils, so this association may contribute to ciliary zonule anchorage to lens. Recombinant fibrillin‐1 tryptic peptides mapped throughout the molecule and included virtually all predicted peptides except for those larger than 4.5 kDa, smaller than 600 Da or post‐translationally modified. In contrast, fewer microfibril tryptic fibrillin‐1 peptides were detected, although they were derived from domains throughout the molecule and included two peptides after the C‐terminal furin processing site. Several microfibril‐derived N‐ and C‐terminal domains never yielded any peptides, while tryptic peptides from other domains yielded numerous peptides, suggesting that some tissue microfibril features are retained after trypsinisation. This first MS analysis of a purified extracellular matrix assembly has provided new insights into microfibril composition and fibrillin‐1 organisation within them.
Rapid protein identification using direct infusion nanoelectrospray ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Chen Sixue
Published: November 2005

Current protein identification techniques are largely based on MALDI‐TOF mass fingerprinting and LC‐ESI MS/MS sequence tag analysis. Here we describe an improved method for rapid protein identification that uses direct infusion nanoelectrospray quadrupole time‐of‐flight (nanoESI QTOF) MS. Protein digests were analyzed without LC separation using nanoESI on a QSTAR XL MS/MS system in information dependent data acquisition mode. The protein identification conditions and parameters were extensively evaluated with in‐solution and in‐gel digested protein samples. Rapid identification of proteins was achieved and compared directly to the results obtained on the same samples using nanoflow HPLC‐MS/MS on the QSTAR system. The increased throughput, reproducibility, the high data quality, and the ease of use make the direct infusion system an efficient and affordable technique for protein identification analysis.
Basics of M‐theory
Authors: Miemiec A. , Schnakenburg I.
Published: November 2005

This is a review article of eleven dimensional supergravity in which we present all necessary calculations, namely the Noether procedure, the equations of motion (without neglecting the fermions), the Killing spinor equation, as well as some simple and less simple supersymmetric solutions to this theory. All calculations are printed in much detail and with explicit comments as to how they were done. Also contained is a simple approach to Clifford algebras to prepare the grounds for the harder calculations in spin space and Fierz identities.
Establishing normal reference ranges for PSA change with age in a population‐based study: The Krimpen study
Authors: Bosch J.L.H.R. , Tilling K. , Bohnen A.M. , Donovan J.L.
Published: November 2005

BACKGROUND

We aim to establish the normal pattern of prostate specific antigen (PSA) change with age to provide a baseline from which disease progression might be identified in prostate cancer patients included in active surveillance programs.

METHODS

In a community‐based study, PSA values were determined at baseline and after 2.1 and 4.2 years in men without prostate cancer. A bivariate multilevel growth curve model was used to estimate the pattern of change of PSA with age.

RESULTS

The final model showed that PSA was related to age only. The future PSA of an individual can be predicted based on his age and known history of PSA. The model was also used to calculate PSA doubling time for men with different PSA values at different ages.

CONCLUSIONS

This method establishes normal PSA levels by age using PSA history in men without prostate cancer. The model provides baseline data from which disease progression might be detected. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Protein kinase G‐induced activation of KATPchannels reduces contractility of human prostate tissue
Authors: Haynes John M. , Cook Anna‐Louise M.
Published: November 2005

Background

Human cultured prostatic stromal cells respond to protein kinase G (PKG) activators and the nitric oxide donor, sodium nitroprusside (SNP) by opening ATP‐sensitive potassium channels (KATPchannels) to reduce nifedipine‐sensitive phorbol ester‐induced contractility.

Methods

PKG activators, SNP, diazoxide, nifedipine, isoprenaline, forskolin, and Sp‐8‐Br‐cAMP were used to inhibit α1‐adrenoceptor‐induced contractions in tissue from transurethral resections of the prostate (TURP). The selective KATPand large conductance Ca2+activated K+(BKCa) channel inhibitors, glibenclamide and charybdotoxin, respectively were used to inhibit responses to PKG activators. RT‐PCR identified the KATPchannel subunits present in TURP tissue and cultured cells.

Results

The PKG activators, APT‐cGMP (1 nM–100 µM) and PET‐cGMP (1 nM–100 µM), and also SNP (1 nM–100 µM), forskolin (10 µM), diazoxide (100 µM) and nifedipine (3 µM) inhibited phenylephrine (20 µM)‐induced contractions. The effect of APT‐cGMP (1 nM–100 µM) could be reversed by glibenclamide, but not by charybdotoxin. TURP tissue contained mRNA for PKG Iα, Iβ, and II and the KATPchannel subunits Kir6.1, Kir6.2, SUR2B, and SUR1. Cultured stromal cells contained only Kir6.1 and SUR2B subunit mRNA. SUR1 mRNA was detected in one of five cultured epithelial cell lines.

Conclusions

PKG activators reduce α1‐adrenoceptor‐induced contractility in TURP tissue via the activation of KATPchannels. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.