bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Marginal mandibular nerve injury during neck dissection and its impact on patient perception of appearance
Authors: Batstone Martin D. , Scott Barry , Lowe Derek , Rogers Simon N.
Published: March 2009

Background.

Neck dissection to remove cervical lymph nodes is common practice in head and neck cancer management. The marginal mandibular nerve may be injured during neck dissection, particularly of level 1. The rate of injury to this nerve is underreported in the literature and its impact on patients is not well defined.

Methods.

An observational study was undertaken on patients who had undergone neck dissection over a 5‐year period. The patients were examined for weakness and given a questionnaire related their perception of their appearance and their function.

Results.

Sixty‐six patients were identified who had undergone 85 neck dissections. The rate of House Brackmann injury was 18% when analyzed by patient and 23% by neck. There were moderate correlations between observed injury and subjective responses to questions relating to ability to smile and weakness of the lower lip.

Discussion.

The rate of smile asymmetry following neck dissection is relatively high; however, severe injuries to the marginal mandibular nerve are uncommon. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009
Diferentially expressed adenylyl cyclase isoforms mediate secretory functions in cholangiocyte subpopulation #
Authors: Strazzabosco Mario , Fiorotto Romina , Melero Saida , Glaser Shannon , Francis Heather , Spirli Carlo , Alpini Gianfranco
Published: March 2009

Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) is generated by adenylyl cyclases (ACs), a group of enzymes with different tissue specificity and regulation. We hypothesized that AC isoforms are heterogeneously expressed along the biliary tree, are associated with specific secretory stimuli, and are differentially modulated in cholestasis. Small duct and large duct cholangiocytes were isolated from controls and from lipopolysaccharide-treated or α-naphthylisothiocyanate–treated rats. AC isoform expression was assessed via real-time polymerase chain reaction. Secretion and cAMP levels were measured in intrahepatic bile duct units after stimulation with secretin, forskolin, HCO3
−/CO2, cholinergic agonists, and β-adrenergic agonists, with or without selected inhibitors or after silencing of AC8 or soluble adenylyl cyclase (sAC) with small interfering RNA. Gene expression of the Ca2+-insensitive isoforms (AC4, AC7) was higher in small duct cholangiocytes, whereas that of the Ca2+-inhibitable (AC5, AC6, AC9), the Ca2+/calmodulin-stimulated AC8, and the soluble sAC was higher in large duct cholangiocytes. Ca2+/calmodulin inhibitors and AC8 gene silencing inhibited choleresis and cAMP production stimulated by secretin and acetylcholine, but not by forskolin. Secretion stimulated by isoproterenol and calcineurin inibitors was cAMP-dependent and γ-aminobutyric acid–inhibitable, consistent with activation of AC9. Cholangiocyte secretion stimulated by isohydric changes in [HCO3
−]i was cAMP-dependent and inhibited by sAC inhibitor and sAC gene silencing. Treatment with lipopolysaccharide or α-naphthylisothiocyanate increased expression of AC7 and sAC but decreased expression of the other ACs. Conclusion: These studies demonstrate a previously unrecognized role of ACs in biliary pathophysiology. In fact: (1) AC isoforms are differentially expressed in cholangiocyte subpopulations; (2) AC8, AC9, and sAC mediate cholangiocyte secretion in response to secretin, β-adrenergic agonists, or changes in [HCO3
−]i, respectively; and (3) AC gene expression is modulated in experimental cholestasis. (Hepatology 2009)
Hypoxia-inducible factor 1α is up-regulated by oncostatin M and participates in oncostatin M signaling #
Authors: Vollmer Stefan , Kappler Valérie , Kaczor Jakub , Flügel Daniela , Rolvering Catherine , Kato Nobuyuki , Kietzmann Thomas , Behrmann Iris , Haan Claude
Published: March 2009

The interleukin-6–type cytokine oncostatin M (OSM) acts via the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription pathway as well as via activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases and is known to critically regulate processes such as liver development and regeneration, hematopoiesis, and angiogenesis, which are also determined by hypoxia with the hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF1α) as a key component. Here we show that treatment of hepatocytes and hepatoma cells with OSM leads to an increased protein level of HIF1α under normoxic and hypoxic conditions. Furthermore, the OSM-dependent HIF1α increase is mediated via Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 and mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 pathways. OSM-mediated HIF1α up-regulation did not result from an increase in HIF1α protein stability but from increased transcription from the HIF1α gene. In addition, we show that the OSM-induced HIF1α gene transcription and the resulting enhanced HIF1α protein levels are important for the OSM-dependent vascular endothelial growth factor and plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 gene induction associated with several diseases. Conclusion: HIF1α levels increase significantly after treatment of hepatocytes and hepatoma cells with OSM, and HIF1α contributes to OSM downstream signaling events, pointing to a cross-talk between cytokine and hypoxia signaling in processes such as liver development and regeneration. (Hepatology 2009.)
Chromodomain helicase/adenosine triphosphatase DNA binding protein 1–like (CHD1l) gene suppresses the nucleus-to-mitochondria translocation of nur77 to sustain hepatocellular carcinoma cell survival #
Authors: Chen Leilei , Hu Liang , Chan Tim Hon Man , Tsao George Sai-Wah , Xie Dan , Huo Ke-Ke , Fu Li , Ma Stephanie , Zheng Bo-Jian , Guan Xin-Yuan
Published: March 2009

Amplification of 1q21 has been detected in 58% to 78% of primary hepatocellular carcinoma cases, suggesting that one or more oncogenes within the amplicon play a critical role in the development of this disease. The chromodomain helicase/adenosine triphosphatase DNA binding protein 1–like gene (CHD1L) is a recently identified oncogene localized at 1q21. Our previous studies have demonstrated that CHD1L has strong tumorigenic ability and confers high susceptibility to spontaneous tumors in a CHD1L-transgenic mouse model. In this study, we demonstrate that the antiapoptotic ability of CHD1L is associated with its interaction with Nur77, a critical member of a p53-independent apoptotic pathway. As the first cellular protein identified to bind Nur77, CHD1L is able to inhibit the nucleus-to-mitochondria translocation of Nur77, which is the key step of Nur77-mediated apoptosis, resulting in the hindrance of the release of cytochrome c and the initiation of apoptosis. Knock-down of CHD1L expression by RNA interference could rescue the mitochondrial targeting of Nur77 and the subsequent apoptosis. Further studies found that the C-terminal Macro domain of CHD1L is responsible for the interaction with Nur77, and a CHD1L mutant lacking residues 600-897 failed to interact with Nur77 and prevented Nur77-mediated apoptosis. More importantly, we found that the inhibition of Nur77-mediated apoptosis by endogenous CHD1L is a critical biological cellular process in hepatocarcinogenesis. Conclusion: We demonstrate in this study that overexpression of CHD1L could sustain tumor cell survival by preventing Nur77-mediated apoptosis. (Hepatology 2009.)
Tumor microvasculature supports proliferation and expansion of glioma‐propagating cells
Authors: Borovski Tijana , Verhoeff Joost J.C. , ten Cate Rosemarie , Cameron Kate , de Vries Nienke A. , van Tellingen Olaf , Richel Dirk J. , van Furth Wouter R. , Medema Jan Paul , Sprick Martin R.
Published: March 2009

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common and aggressive primary brain tumor. The identification of ‘cancer stem cells’ (CSC) has shed new light on the potential mechanism of therapy resistance of these tumors. Because these cells appear to be more resistant to conventional treatments, they are thought to drive tumor regrowth after therapy. Therefore, novel therapeutic approaches that target these cells are needed. Tumor cells interact with their microenvironment. It has been reported that close contact between CSCs and tumor microvascular endothelium in GBM is important for CSCs to preserve their undifferentiated state and self‐renewal ability. However, our understanding of this interaction is still rudimentary. This is in part due to a lack of suitable in vitro models that accurately represent the in vivo situation. Therefore, we set up a co‐culture system consisting of primary brain tumor microvascular endothelial cells (tMVECs) and glioma propagating cells (GPCs) derived from biopsies of GBM patients. We found that tMVECs support the growth of GPCs resulting in higher proliferation rates comparing to GPCs cultured alone. This effect was dependent on direct contact between the 2 cell types. In contrast to GPCs, the FCS‐cultured cell line U87 was stimulated by culturing on tMVEC‐derived ECM alone, suggesting that both cell types interact different with their microenvironment. Together, these results demonstrate the feasibility and utility of our system to model the interaction of GPCs with their microenvironment. Identification of molecules that mediate this interaction could provide novel targets for directed therapy for GBM. © 2009 UICC
Systemic inflammation increases cancer cell adhesion to hepatic sinusoids by neutrophil mediated mechanisms
Authors: McDonald Braedon , Spicer Jonathan , Giannais Betty , Fallavollita Lucia , Brodt Pnina , Ferri Lorenzo E.
Published: March 2009

Interactions between endothelial selectins and selectin ligands expressed on tumor cells have been implicated in the binding of circulating metastatic cancer cells to the vascular endothelium during extravasation. Moreover, there is mounting evidence that inflammatory environments can accelerate the progression of metastasis by neutrophil mediated mechanisms. In this study, a physiologically relevant in vivo model of early metastasis coupled with intravital microscopy was used to visualize the trafficking of tumor cells within the liver vasculature in real time. Using GFP‐labeled Lewis lung carcinoma subline H‐59 cells, we show here that disrupting the interactions between endothelial selectins and tumor cell selectin ligands diminished tumor cell recruitment to the liver. Furthermore, systemic inflammation induced by intravenous injection of lipopolysaccharide significantly enhanced the metastatic potential of these lung carcinoma cells by increasing their propensity to adhere to the liver sinusoidal endothelium. Confocal microscopy revealed frequent colocalization of cancer cells with neutrophils and neutrophil depletion in vivo significantly attenuated the lipopolysaccharide‐induced increase in H‐59 cell adhesion. Although direct selectin–selectin ligand interactions contributed significantly to tumor cell adhesion to sinusoidal endothelial cells, we show here that in addition, interactions between adherent neutrophils within the inflamed sinusoids and circulating tumor cells may further increase tumor cell arrest in the liver. © 2009 UICC
Spatial Distribution of Algal Assemblages in a Temperate Lowland Peat Bog
Authors: Machová‐Černá Kateřina , Neustupa Jiří
Published: March 2009

Samples of phytobenthos were collected during three different seasons in 2005 along a linear transect of a lowland peat bog at various spatial scales (10 cm, 1 m, 10 m) to investigate the seasonal dynamics, diversity, and factors influencing the spatial patterns of microalgal communities. Non‐metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS), similarity percentage (SIMPER) analyses, ANOSIM, Mantel tests and diversity indices were used to analyze the data. Seasonal dynamics were exhibited by an increase in diversity, and a decrease in dominance from May to October, with significant differences in species composition. Mantel tests showed the significant influence of distance, microhabitat type, and conductivity on maintaining the similarity of species composition on scales of 1 m and 10 m. The small‐scale processes (colonization and niche differentiation), microhabitat type, geographic distance and conductivity were found to be the main factors influencing the distribution of algal assemblages. We conclude that these factors are related to winter disturbance, and the consequent colonization and subsequent niche differentiation. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Limnology of the Crater Lake Cuicocha, Ecuador, a Cold Water Tropical Lake
Authors: Gunkel Günter , Beulker Camilla
Published: March 2009

Cuicocha (3380 m a.s.l.) is a young, a few hundred years old volcanic lake in the western cordilleras of the Ecuadorian Andes with some post‐volcanic activities, such as emission of volcanic gases and input of hydrothermal water. Water chemistry is influenced by the emission of CO2 and weathering of the young andesitic rocks in the water shed. A calcium cycle exists in the lake with intensive biological Ca precipitation at the flanks and formation of travertine crusts, while in the hypolimnion dissolution of Ca carbonate occurs. The crater lake is oligotrophic, biodiversity is low; the littoral flora and fauna is more important than the pelagic species. In the littoral zone, a small Totora zone occurs, followed by submerged macrophytes down to 35 m water depth. Phyto‐ and zooplankton occur down into the hypolimnion. Phytoplankton is strongly influenced by down‐welling of water (atelomixis) and by coprecipitation with detritial flocs (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Hydroacoustic Estimates of Fish Population Depths and Densities at Increasingly Longer Time Scales
Authors: Busch Susan , Mehner Thomas
Published: March 2009

To assess the reliability of depth and density estimates of vertically migrating fish (Coregonus spp.), repeated hydroacoustic surveys were conducted in a stratified lake during the same day, during subsequent nights within a week, and over four months of a year. The reliability of the hydroacoustic method, determined by the coefficient of variance of population depth of fish, was high within nights, but decreased with increasingly longer time scales. Volumetric fish densities were likewise more variable between surveys at longer temporal distances than at short‐term scales. Night‐time population depths of fish were highly correlated to the vertical position of the thermocline. Over the diel cycle, the depth distribution of the coregonids was also correlated to light intensities at the surface. We conclude that single hydroacoustic surveys reliably reflect the depth distribution and volumetric density of the fish populations in a deep lake at temporal scales of up to a week. At longer scales, physical forcing may change the depth distribution of fish, and population dynamics may alter the density estimates substantially (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
ATP and Ergosterol as Indicators of Fungal Biomass during Leaf Decomposition in Streams: a Comparative Study
Authors: Abelho Manuela
Published: March 2009

Ergosterol and ATP concentrations, microbial respiration and sporulation rates of aquatic hyphomycetes associated with leaves of Castanea sativa decomposing in a 5th order stream were determined periodically over a period of 102 days in order to compare ergosterol and ATP as indicators of fungal biomass. ATP and ergosterol concentrations exhibited a significant positive correlation (F = 4.459, DF = 28, P < 0.001) during the first stages of leaf breakdown (until day 39), i.e., during periods of increasing fungal biomass. No correlation was found between ATP and ergosterol concentrations during later stages of decomposition (days 39 to 102). Respiration rates increased rapidly up to 0.525 mg O2 h–1 g–1 AFDM during the first month and remained high until the end of the experiment. Sporulation rates peaked at day 9 (1069 conidia day–1 mg–1 AFDM) and decreased during later stages of decomposition. ATP‐to‐biomass conversion factors were determined for both fungi (0.59 μmol ATP g–1 dry mass) and bacteria (1.30 μmol ATP g–1 dry mass) collected from the stream and grown in the laboratory. Estimates of fungal biomass based on ATP concentrations were similar to those calculated from ergosterol concentrations during the first 39 days of breakdown. The results here presented suggest that ATP is a reliable method to quantify microbial biomass in streams and that the relative importance of bacteria increases at later stages of decomposition. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Life History of a Population of Protonemura intricata (Ris, 1902) (Insecta, Plecoptera) in a Constant Temperature Stream in Central Europe
Authors: Kozáčeková Zuzana , de Figueroa José Manuel Tierno , López‐Rodríguez Manuel Jesús , Beracko Pavel , Derka Tomas
Published: March 2009

The nymphal biology (life cycle, secondary production and feeding) of a population of Protonemura intricata was studied in a calcareous stream with almost constant temperature (7–8 °C) through the year at Prosiek valley (Chočské Vrchy Mts., West Carpathians, Slovakia). The results were compared with those previously known for this species in other areas. According to our data, the species has a complicated life cycle consisting of two cohorts with different duration (probably a cohort splitting). This life cycle seems to be uncommon among the Plecoptera, which usually has simple univoltine or semivoltine life cycles, and could be probably attributed to the constant temperature regime similar to that of tropical environments. One factor, the photoperiod length, was positively correlated with monthly growth rates. The nymphal growth varied throughout the year, but the highest growth was in late spring and summer, and the lowest was in winter. The annual secondary production was very high (909.4 mg · m–2) despite not being the most frequent taxon in the stream. The highest monthly production values were observed in the autumnal‐winter period (November–December) due to massive hatching of nymphs. The lowest production values were observed in late summer and early autumn. Analyses of gut contents showed that this species behaves mainly as gatherer‐collector, but also as shredder and, occasionally, as scraper. Changes in the gut content composition were detected in relation to the size. Comparing our results with those of the literature, it can be inferred that different populations of P. intricata can show notable differences in their life history when inhabiting places with different thermal conditions. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The price consideration model of brand choice
Authors: Ching Andrew , Erdem Tülin , Keane Michael
Published: March 2009

The workhorse brand choice models in marketing are the multinomial logit (MNL) and nested multinomial logit (NMNL). These models place strong restrictions on how brand share and purchase incidence price elasticities are related. In this paper, we propose a new model of brand choice, the “price consideration” (PC) model, that allows more flexibility in this relationship. In the PC model, consumers do not observe prices in each period. Every week, a consumer decides whether to consider a category. Only then does he/she look at prices and decide whether and what to buy. Using scanner data, we show the PC model fits much better than MNL or NMNL. Simulations reveal the reason: the PC model provides a vastly superior fit to inter‐purchase spells. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bayesian estimation of random‐coefficients choice models using aggregate data
Authors: Musalem Andrés , Bradlow Eric T. , Raju Jagmohan S.
Published: March 2009

This article discusses the use of Bayesian methods for estimating logit demand models usingaggregatedata. We analyze two different demand systems: independent samples and consumer panel. Under the first system, there is a different and independent random sample ofNconsumers in each period and each consumer makes only a single purchase decision. Under the second system, the sameNconsumers make a purchase decision in each ofTperiods. Interestingly, there exists an asymptotic link between these two systems, which has important implications for the estimation of these demand models. The proposed methods are illustrated using simulated and real data. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Consumer price evaluations through choice experiments
Authors: Sándor Zsolt , Franses Philip Hans
Published: March 2009

We collect experimental choice data and estimate preferences for mobile phones with a special focus on measuring consumer price evaluations when consumers face difficult choice tasks. For this purpose we employ a heteroskedastic random coefficient logit model in which the variance of the extreme value error term depends on variables that affect the consistency (with rational behavior) of choice. We specify the price of some products in the choice experiment with discount and seek to answer the question how consumers evaluate these. We find evidence in our data that the prices specified with discount significantly compromise the consistency of choice. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
IL‐12 stimulates the osteoclast inhibitory peptide‐1 (OIP‐1/hSca) gene expression in CD4+ T cells
Authors: Shanmugarajan Srinivasan , Kawanabe Noriaki , Koide Masanori , Tsuruga Eichi , Arroyo Jazmine E. , Key Lyndon L. , Reddy Sakamuri V.
Published: March 2009

Immune cell products such as interferon (IFN)‐γ and interleukin (IL)‐12 are potent inhibitors of osteoclast formation. We previously characterized the human osteoclast inhibitory peptide‐1 (OIP‐1/hSca), a Ly‐6 gene family member and showed IFN‐γ modulation of OIP‐1 expression in bone marrow cells. Whether, IL‐12 regulates OIP‐1 expression in the bone microenvironment is unclear. Real‐time PCR analysis revealed that IL‐12 treatment significantly enhanced OIP‐1 mRNA expression in human bone marrow mononuclear cells. Because IL‐12 induces IFN‐γ production by T cells, we tested whether IFN‐γ participates in IL‐12 stimulation of OIP‐1 gene expression in these cells. IL‐12 treatment in the presence of IFN‐γ neutralizing antibody significantly increased OIP‐1 mRNA expression, suggesting that IL‐12 directly regulates OIP‐1 gene expression. Interestingly, real‐time PCR analysis demonstrated that IL‐12 induces OIP‐1 expression (3.2‐fold) in CD4+ T cells; however, there was no significant change in CD8+ T cells. Also, IL‐12 (10 ng/ml) treatment of Jurkat cells transfected with OIP‐1 gene (−1 to −1,988 bp) promoter‐luciferase reporter plasmid demonstrated a 5‐fold and 2.7‐fold increase in OIP‐1 gene promoter activity in the presence and absence of antibody against IFN‐γ, respectively. We showed that STAT‐1,3 inhibitors treatment significantly decreased IL‐12 stimulated OIP‐1 promoter activity. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay confirmed STAT‐3, but not STAT‐1 binding to the OIP‐1 gene promoter in response to IL‐12 stimulation. These results suggest that IL‐12 stimulates the OIP‐1 gene expression through STAT‐3 activation in CD4+ T cells. J. Cell. Biochem. 107: 104–111, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The osteogenic transcription factor Runx2 regulates components of the fibroblast growth factor/proteoglycan signaling axis in osteoblasts
Authors: Teplyuk Nadiya M. , Haupt Larisa M. , Ling Ling , Dombrowski Christian , Mun Foong Kin , Nathan Saminathan S. , Lian Jane B. , Stein Janet L. , Stein Gary S. , Cool Simon M. , van Wijnen Andre J.
Published: March 2009

Heparan sulfate proteoglycans cooperate with basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF/FGF2) signaling to control osteoblast growth and differentiation, as well as metabolic functions of osteoblasts. FGF2 signaling modulates the expression and activity of Runt‐related transcription factor 2 (Runx2/Cbfa1), a key regulator of osteoblast proliferation and maturation. Here, we have characterized novel Runx2 target genes in osteoprogenitors under conditions that promote growth arrest while not yet permitting sustained phenotypic maturation. Runx2 enhances expression of genes related to proteoglycan‐mediated signaling, including FGF receptors (e.g., FGFR2 and FGFR3) and proteoglycans (e.g., syndecans [Sdc1, Sdc2, Sdc3], glypicans [Gpc1], versican [Vcan]). Runx2 increases expression of the glycosyltransferase Exostosin‐1 (Ext1) and heparanase, as well as alters the relative expression of N‐linked sulfotransferases (Ndst1 = Ndst2 > Ndst3) and enzymes mediating O‐linked sulfation of heparan sulfate (Hs2st > Hs6st) or chondroitin sulfate (Cs4st > Cs6st). Runx2 cooperates with FGF2 to induce expression of Sdc4 and the sulfatase Galns, but Runx2 and FGF2 suppress Gpc6, thus suggesting intricate Runx2 and FGF2 dependent changes in proteoglycan utilization. One functional consequence of Runx2 mediated modulations in proteoglycan‐related gene expression is a change in the responsiveness of bone markers to FGF2 stimulation. Runx2 and FGF2 synergistically enhance osteopontin expression (>100 fold), while FGF2 blocks Runx2 induction of alkaline phosphatase. Our data suggest that Runx2 and the FGF/proteoglycan axis may form an extracellular matrix (ECM)‐related regulatory feed‐back loop that controls osteoblast proliferation and execution of the osteogenic program. J. Cell. Biochem. 107: 144–154, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hydrostatic pressures promote initial osteodifferentiation with ERK1/2 not p38 MAPK signaling involved
Authors: Liu Jun , Zhao Zhihe , Li Juan , Zou Ling , Shuler Charles , Zou Yuanwen , Huang Xuejin , Li Mingli , Wang Jun
Published: March 2009

Mechanical stress has been considered to be an important factor in bone remodeling and recent publications have shown that mechanical stress can regulate the direction of stem cell differentiation. The exact mechanobiological effects of pressure on initial osteodifferentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have not been determined. These mechanobiological mechanisms may be important both in biological responses during orthodontic tooth movement and in the development of new mechanobiological strategies for bone tissue engineering. We investigated the effects of static (23 kPa) or dynamic (10–36 kPa and at 0.25 Hz frequency) pressure on MSCs during the initial process of osteoblastic differentiation following treatment with dexamethasone, β‐glycerophosphate and ascorbic acid (for 0, 3, and 7 days, respectively). The following parameters were analyzed in the ALPase activity, mRNA level of osteogenesis‐related transcription factors (Runx2, Osterix, Msx2, and Dlx5), and phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK. The results showed that exposure to either dynamic or static pressure induced initial osteodifferentiation of MSCs. Particularly both types of pressure strongly stimulated the expression of osteogenesis‐related factors of totally undifferentiated MSCs. ERK signaling participated in early osteodifferentiation and played a positive but non‐critical role in mechanotransduction, whereas p38 MAPK was not involved in this process. Furthermore, the undifferentiated MSCs were highly sensitive to pressure exposure; whereas after osteoinduction MSCs reacted to pressure in a lower response state. The findings should lead to further studies to unveil the complex initial biological mechanisms of bone remodeling and regeneration upon mechanical stimuli. J. Cell. Biochem. 107: 224–232, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The MTSOCS: A multidimensional sense of community scale for local communities
Authors: Prezza Miretta , Pacilli Maria Giuseppina , Barbaranelli Claudio , Zampatti Emanuela
Published: March 2009

The aim of this study was to validate the Multidimensional Territorial Sense of Community Scale (MTSOCS), a new theory‐driven sense of community scale referred to the geographical community. Starting from McMillan and Chavis' theoretical dimensions, five subscales (Membership, Shared Influence, Social Climate and Bonds, Help in Case of Need, and Needs Fulfillment) were proposed. The MTSOCS, a sociodemographic questionnaire, and several other instruments were administered to three groups of adults (for a total of 781 participants). Confirmatory factor analysis of all participants' data showed that the five subscales were good from a statistical point of view. Tests of factorial invariance showed that the five‐factor model of the MTSOCS is basically the same across different‐sized territorial communities: small towns, cities and metropolis neighborhoods. The total score of the scale and the five subscales showed good construct validity. A positive relationship emerged between total MTSOCS score and participation in groups/associations, cohabitation, community identification, life satisfaction, perceived social support, interpersonal trust and trust in local government. More complex relationships emerged between the five subscales and the other variables, confirming the usefulness of also having the single subscale scores. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Helping the soul: the relationship between connectivity and well‐being within a church community
Authors: Obst Patricia , Tham Naomi
Published: March 2009

Although previous research attests to the importance of psychological sense of community (PSOC) to individuals' well‐being, little research has examined this relationship for the four proposed dimensions of PSOC: membership, influence, integration and fulfillment of needs, and shared emotional connection (McMillan & Chavis, 1986). Further, little research has explored multiple aspects of community connectivity in the one study. The current research investigated the relationship between participants' (N=127) religiosity, PSOC, social support, and identification within a church community context and their well‐being. Results indicated that the PSOC dimensions of shared emotional connection and influence were particularly important in the prediction of well‐being in this context. Further, individuals' perception of social support mediated the relationship between PSOC and well‐being and the strength of individuals' identification as a church member enhanced the relationships of both PSOC and religiosity with well‐being. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Housing stability among homeless individuals with serious mental illness participating in housing first programs
Authors: Pearson Carol , Montgomery Ann Elizabeth , Locke Gretchen
Published: March 2009

This article presents findings from an exploratory study of three programs using the Housing First approach to provide permanent supportive housing for single, homeless adults with serious mental illness and often co‐occurring substance‐related disorders. This approach provides direct, or nearly direct, access to housing that is intended to be permanent without requiring sobriety or psychiatric treatment. Findings from the three programs examined for this study indicate that the Housing First approach may help the hardest‐to‐serve chronically homeless population achieve housing stability. Of the 80 participants tracked over 12 months, 84% remained enrolled in the Housing First program for 1 year following program entry. One half of those spent every night in their Housing First unit, while the others spent some time in other living environments. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Assembling heterochromatin in the appropriate places: A boost is needed
Authors: Rusche Laura N. , Lynch Patrick J.
Published: March 2009

Heterochromatin, or condensed chromatin, has the potential to encroach into what ordinarily would be euchromatin and repress resident genes. We explore how heterochromatin is restricted to the appropriate regions of the genome, using Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a case study and emphasizing two under‐appreciated aspects of silenced chromatin. First, the capacity of silenced chromatin to propagate along a chromosome is limited by the intrinsic instability of the structure. We argue that this limited potential to spread is an important factor restricting silenced chromatin to the vicinity of recruitment sites (silencers). Second, this limited capacity to spread creates the need for additional mechanisms to stabilize silenced chromatin at the required locations. Such mechanisms include the use of multiple silencers and higher‐order arrangements of the chromatin fiber. Therefore, to understand how silenced chromatin is restricted to the appropriate genomic locations, researchers must take into account the mechanisms by which silenced chromatin is stabilized in appropriate locations. J. Cell. Physiol. 219: 525–528, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fine structure and formation of the eggshell in scorpionfly Panorpa liui Hua (Mecoptera: Panorpidae)
Authors: Ma Na , Hua Baozhen
Published: March 2009

The morphology and formation of the eggshell in the scorpionfly Panorpa liui Hua were examined with light microscopy and scanning and transmission electron microscopy. During oogenesis of the scorpionfly, the follicle cells multiply by mitotic divisions and diversify into four morphologically distinct subpopulations, three of which are engaged in the eggshell formation and mold various parts of chorion. The eggshell consists of three layers: An inner vitelline membrane, an outer chorion, and a precursor extrachorion. The chorion constitutes a very compact endochorion, a rough fibrillar exochorion, and a polygonal meshwork of elevated ridges. At proximal end of ovarioles the chorion of matured oocyte is covered with a loose membrane, which might be the remnant of follicle cells. The jelly substance, which acts as lubricant to protect the oviducts and ovulated eggs during ovulation, might add to the top of polygonal ridges as the outermost extrachorion after oviposition. The eggshell formation process in Panorpa is tentatively proposed. Microsc. Res. Tech. 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A cineradiographic study of lung ventilation in Alligator mississippiensis
Authors: Claessens Leon P.A.M.
Published: March 2009

The skeletal and visceral kinematics of lung ventilation of the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) was examined using cineradiography, pneumotachometry, and intrapulmonary pressure recording. The respiratory pattern of A. mississippiensis is intermittent and diphasic. The inspiratory lung volume is retained during the non‐ventilatory period through closure of the glottis. The aspiration pump of A. mississippiensis consists of multiple components: visceral movement, pubic rotation, gastralial movement, and costosternal movement, which vary independently in their contribution to lung ventilation. Vertebral flexion and extension is also observed, and may be a passive artifact of costal displacement. The amount of craniocaudal visceral movement during lung ventilation is variable, and can produce as much as 60% of the tidal volume. Pubic rotation is not directly coupled to visceral movement and contributes a relatively small percentage of the tidal volume, approximately 4% on average, as does vertebral flexion, which contributes less than 3%. Costosternal movement contributes the remaining majority of tidal volume, generally over 40%. The gastralia stiffen the abdominal wall and likely facilitate unified displacement of the abdominal wall. Tripartite ribs facilitate thoracic movement, allowing substantial excursion of the body wall. A relatively abrupt change in position of the vertebral parapophysis in the anterior thorax results in an increase in lateral rib movement in the posterior half of the thorax. The crocodylian aspiration pump appears to consist of a derived pelvic and diaphragmatic breathing pump combined with a basal costosternal and gastralial aspiration pump. J. Exp. Zool. 311A:563–585, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Alkaline degradation of tetraazahomoadamantane derivatives
Authors: Kang J. B. , Sen G. , Thyagarajan B. S.
Published: March 2009

Alkaline degradation of 1,3‐6,8‐tetraazatricyclo [4,4,1,13,8)dodecane (V) and 11‐Thia‐1,3,5,7‐tetraazatricyclo[3,3,1,13,7 ]undecane‐11,11‐dioxide (VIII) are shown to generate readily formaldehyde and the respective amines, followed by resynthesis of imidazolidines in the presence of acylating or sulfonylating agents.
Natural coumarins. Part XIV. synthesis of some isoprenyl ethers of psoralene hydroquinone and related products
Authors: Abu‐Mustafa E. A. , El‐Bay F. K. A. , El‐Khrisy E. A. M. , Fayez M. B. E.
Published: March 2009

Partial demethylation of isopimpinellin and methylation of psoralene hydroquinone afforded 5‐methoxy‐9‐hydroxypsoralene. The corresponding 5‐isoprenyloxy derivative was used in the synthesis of cnidilin and its epoxy and glycol derivatives, which are all biogenetically feasible; the fatter two having as yet not been isolated from natural sources.
Studies on the syntheses of heterocyclie compounds. Part DXXVII.. the absolute configuration of 1,2,3,4‐tetrahydro‐1‐phenylisoquinolines
Authors: Kametani Tetsuji , Shibuya Shiroshi , Sugi Hideo , Fukumoto Keiichiro
Published: March 2009

The absolute configuraiton at the C1‐position of 1,2,3,4‐tetrahydro‐1‐phenylisoquinolines can be deduced from the CD curves of either the free base or its methiodide. Furthermore, the absolute con figuration of (+)‐2‐amino‐1‐(3‐hydroxyphenyl)ethanol (V) was revised and found to have R‐configuration at the C1 ‐position.
Intramolecular ring opening in 3‐aminoalkyl hydantoins
Authors: Spencer Claude F.
Published: March 2009

Certain hydantoins substituted in the 3‐position with aminoalkyl groups have been found to undergo hydrolytie ring‐opening under very mild conditions. The effects of varying the side chain have been studied and an intramolecular mechanism is suggested.
Synthesis of isomeric N‐substituted 5‐methyl‐2H‐1,2,6‐thiadiazin‐3(6H)one 1,1‐dioxides from sulfamides and diketene
Authors: Diez J. , García‐Muñoz G. , Madroñero R. , Stud M.
Published: March 2009

The reaction of N‐n‐butyl and N‐benzylsulfamides with diketene in acetic acid solution in the presence of mercuric cyanide as a catalyst, afforded the corresponding 5‐methyl‐2‐substituted‐2H‐1,2,6‐thiadiazin‐3(6H)one 1,1‐dioxides. The reaction of the above mentioned sulfamides with diketene in an aqueous alkaline medium resulted in the isolation of the corresponding N‐aceto‐acetyl‐N' ‐substituted‐sulfamides, which were then converted into 5‐methyl‐6‐substituted‐2H‐1,2,6‐thiadiazin‐3(6H)one 1,1‐dioxides. Catalytic hydrogenation of the 5‐methyl‐2‐ and 6‐n‐butyl‐2H‐1,2,6‐thiadiazin‐3(6H)one 1,1‐dioxides furnished the corresponding dihydro‐derivatives. The structures of the isomeric 1,2,6‐thiadiazine 1,1‐dioxide derivatives obtained were assigned on the basis of nmr spectroscopic studies.
Quinazolines and 1,4‐benzodiazepines LVII. 1H‐1,4‐benzodiazepines
Authors: Fryer R. Ian , Coffen D. L. , Earley J. V. , Walser A.
Published: March 2009

The preparation of the title compounds 3 and 4 using two different methods of synthesis is described. These compounds are readily reduced to 2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐derivatives 5. Oxidation of 2‐alkylthio‐1H‐1,4‐benzodiazepines leads to the corresponding sulfoxides and sulfones. The oxidative rearrangement of sulfones 9 to a 2H‐1,4‐benzodiazepin‐2‐one derivative 10 is also given. The “normal” addition of azodicarboxylate together with an unusual addition of two moles of acetylenedicarboxylate to the enamine double bond of 1H compounds is discussed.
Mesoionic purinone analogs. II. A PPP π‐SCF variable integral study of mesoionie analogs based upon six‐membered ring mesoionie systems
Authors: Coburn R. A. , Crapellotti R. A. , Glennon R. A.
Published: March 2009

A large virtually unknown class of mesoionic structures which are isoconjugate to the purinones may be formulated as bicyclie derivatives of known six‐membered ring mesoionie compounds. These mesoionic purinone analogs have been investigated via variable‐electronegativity PPP‐SCF treatments of their π‐electron systems. The electronic structures of these analogs are compared with those of their covalent isomers and with other mesoionie purinone analogs.
CNDO/2 calculations of some polyazaindenes
Authors: Paudler William W. , Chasman Jonathan N.
Published: March 2009

The theoretically estimated dipole moments of indolizine, imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine, imidazo‐[1,5‐a]pyridine and of pyrazolo[ 1,5‐a]pyridine obtained by the CNDO/2 approximation have been compared with the experimental values. The bond angles and bond distances for these polyazaindenes have been estimated.
Heterocyclic N‐glycosyl derivatives. XIV. Preparation of some N‐(2,3‐dideoxyglycopyranosyl)benzotriazoles by hydrogenation of N‐(pent‐ and hex‐2‐enopyranosyl)benzotriazoles
Authors: Fuertes M. , García‐Muñoz G. , de las Heras F. G. , Madronero R. , Stud M. , Rico M.
Published: March 2009

Catalytic hydrogenation of a series of N‐(pent‐ and hex‐2‐enopyranosyl)benzotriazoles afforded the corresponding saturated N‐glycosyl derivatives having the same anomeric configuration as the starting compounds. The conformations of all compounds obtained were determined by nmr spectroscopy. The hexopyranosyl nucleosides in solution adopt the Cl conformation. On the other hand, pentopyranosyl nucleosides exist as a mixture of the two chair conformers in equilibrium, with the IC or CI (L) form predominating.
Etude cinétique comparée de la substitution nucléophile de quelques chloro‐2 pyridines condensées
Authors: Bourzat Jean‐Dominique , Bisagni El éMile
Published: March 2009

Une étude cinétique comparée de la substitution nucléophile de quelques chloro‐2 pyridines condensées à d'autres hétérocycles met en évidence certains phénomènes d'autocatalyse et montre que la vitesse des réactions en cause est accélerée dans les solvants acides.

Les constantes de vitesse concernant les substitutions nucléophiles en question permettent de donner une classification de la réactivité des dilférents dérivés chlorés des hétérocycles étudiés avec la pipéridine, ceci par rapport à la chloro‐2 pyridine.
Synthesis and rearrangements of 2,3,4,5‐tetrahydro‐3‐benzazocin‐6(1H)ones
Authors: Comer William T. , Call John D. , Matier W. Lesley , Combs Charles M. , Dykstra Stanley J.
Published: March 2009

The preparation of 3‐benzenesulfonyl‐ and 3‐benzoyl‐2,3,4,5‐tetrahydro‐3‐benzazoein‐6(1H)‐ones by intramolecular acylation is described. Acid catalyzed rearrangements of these 3‐benzazocin‐6‐ones occurs by 3,4‐bond cleavage, which is followed by intramolecular or intermolecular alkylation, to produce indanones (i.e. XIV) or a 3,4‐dihydroisoquinoline (II), respectively. In addition to spectral support for these structures, an independent synthesis of II is described from a known 3,4‐dihydroisoquinoline. Two rearrangements of 3‐benzazocin‐6‐ones under alkaline conditions are also described, and the products are again evidence for 3,4‐bond cleavage to vinylphenones. These beuzazocine rearrangements have been observed only with the 6‐keto compounds.
The crystal steueture of phenoxatellurine, C12H8OTe
Authors: Smith M. R. , Mangion M. M. , Zingaro R. A. , Meyers E. A.
Published: March 2009

The crystal structure of phenoxatellurine, C12H8OTe, was determined by X‐ray diffracto‐meter methods. The crystals are orthorhorhorhombic, P21 21 21, a = 6.036(1), b = 8.160(1), c = 20.717(5) Å at t = 22°. The positions of all atoms, including hydrogen, were found. The central ring is folded along the Te‐O axis (138°). Average bond distances are Te‐C = 2.098, C‐O = 1.397, C‐C = 1.382 Å. The phenyl rings are planar with a dihedral angle of 145°; C‐Te‐C = 89.4(3)°, C‐O‐C = 121.2(5)°. The structure is compared to those of phenoxathionine and pheuothiazine.
The crystal structure of phenoxatellurine dinitrate, C12H8O7N2Te
Authors: Mangion M. M. , Smith M. R. , Meyers E. A.
Published: March 2009

The crystal structure of phenoxatellurine dinitrate, C12H8O7N2Te, has been determined by x‐ray diffractometer methods. The crystals are monoclinic, C2/c, a = 12.916(3), b = 14.050(5), c = 7.532(2) Å; β = 96.65(3)° at t = 22°. The molecule is nearly planar (175°), with the Te and O atoms of the central ring in special positions on the twofold symmetry axis. The bond distances for the central ring are: Te‐C = 2.068(4) Å, C‐O = 1.366(5), C‐C = 1.388(6) with C‐Te‐C = 93.5(2)° and C‐O‐C = 128.2(5). The bond distances and angles in the phenyl rings do not differ significantly from the normally accepted values of 1.40 Å and 120°. The two nitrate groups are close to Te and are related by the twofold axis of symmetry. The independent distances and angles are: Te‐O1 = 2.201(3), O1‐N = 1.325(5), N‐02 = 1.229(6), N‐O3 = 1.204(6) Å, O2‐N‐O3 = 126.3(4), O1‐N‐02 = 117.1(4), O1‐N‐03 = 116.6(4)°. All hydrogen atoms were located at or near their calculated positions. The final R value for 1679 independent reflections was 0.031.

The planarity of the molecule is discussed qualitatively in terms of simple molecular orbital theory.
Zur thermolyse von methantriearbon‐bzw‐tetraearbonsäure‐(N‐α‐naphthylamiden)
Authors: Melallidis Andreas , Theodoropoulos Dimitrios
Published: March 2009

Die Thermolysem von Methantricarbon‐bzw‐tetraearbonsäure‐(N‐α‐naphthylamiden) bei ver‐mindertem Druck führt in guten Ausbenten zu in 3 bzw. 1,3‐Stellung substit. 4‐Hydroxy‐2‐oxo‐1,2‐dihydrobenzo[h] chinolinderivaten.
Unsymmetrically substituted furoxans. IIII. Methylnitrofuroxan: Its structure and behavior toward nucleophilie substitution
Authors: Gasco A. , Mortarini V. , Ruà G. , Serafino A.
Published: March 2009

A series of unsymmetrically substituted furoxans have been prepared from methyinitro‐furoxan and a variety of nucleophilic reagents. The nmr study of these compounds and of their parent furazans suggested the structure of 3‐methyl derivatives for all the furoxans synthesized: on this ground the 3‐methyl structure for methylnitrofuroxan was proposed. On heating some 3‐methylfuroxan derivatives, a partial isomerization into the corresponding 4‐methyl isomers occurred.
Nucleosides LXXXII. Synthetic studies on nucleoside antibioties. 12. Synthesis of 1‐[3,4‐didoxy‐4‐(sarcosyl‐D‐seryl)amino‐β‐D‐ribohexopyranosyl]cytosine, and analog of gougerotin
Authors: Chin T. M. K. , Warnock D. H. , Watanabc K. A. , Fox J. J.
Published: March 2009

1‐[3,4Dideoxy‐4(sarcosyl‐D‐seryl)amino‐β‐Dribohexopyranosyl]cytosine (3), a 3′‐dcoxy‐5′‐hydroxymethyl analog of gougerotin, was synthesized from 3dexoy‐βxylohexopyranose (3‐dexoy‐D‐galactos)tetraacetate (4.
Iodinated contrast prior to evaluation for thyrotoxicosis
Authors: Phillips Brian D. , Hennessey James V.
Published: March 2009

BACKGROUND:

Radioactive iodine is useful in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with newly diagnosed thyrotoxicosis. However, in many patients these tests are not possible to obtain due to recent administration of iodinated contrast for other types of diagnostic studies, most frequently computed tomography (CT) scans.

OBJECTIVE:

To determine the frequency of iodinated contrast use in hospital inpatients newly diagnosed with thyrotoxicosis and the utility of these studies.

DESIGN:

Retrospective chart review.

SETTING:

Academic medical center.

INTERVENTION:

None.

PATIENTS:

Inpatients with newly diagnosed thyrotoxicosis who were seen in consultation by the endocrinology service.

MEASUREMENTS:

The records of inpatient endocrinology consultations (n = 1171) performed by our service over a 4‐year period were reviewed. Records of patients with newly diagnosed thyrotoxicosis were identified and reviewed to determine if iodinated contrast had been recently administered, the types of studies it was used for, and the results of those studies.

RESULTS:

Forty‐five patients (45%) had been given iodinated contrast within 2 weeks prior to endocrinology evaluation, 43 for CT scanning, and 2 for angiography. Of the patients who underwent CT scanning, 7 (16%) had a finding that potentially changed their inpatient management. Only 1 of these patients required emergent treatment of a condition diagnosed by CT scan before further diagnostic studies could have been performed.

CONCLUSIONS:

A substantial number of inpatients with thyrotoxicosis receive iodinated contrast prior to endocrinologic evaluation. Acute findings from these studies that change patient management are uncommon. Awareness of this issue may facilitate care of hospitalized patients with thyrotoxicosis. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2009;4:285–288. © 2009 Society of Hospital Medicine.