bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deciphering the genome's regulatory code: The many languages of DNA
Authors: Rister Jens , Desplan Claude
Published: April 2010

The generation of patterns and the diversity of cell types in a multicellular organism require differential gene regulation. At the heart of this process are enhancers or cis‐regulatory modules (CRMs), genomic regions that are bound by transcription factors (TFs) that control spatio‐temporal gene expression in developmental networks. To date, only a few CRMs have been studied in detail and the underlying cis‐regulatory code is not well understood. Here, we review recent progress on the genome‐wide identification of CRMs with chromatin immunoprecipitation of TF‐DNA complexes followed by microarrays (ChIP‐on‐chip). We focus on two computational approaches that have succeeded in predicting the expression pattern driven by a CRM either based on TF binding site preferences and their expression levels, or quantitative analysis of CRM occupancy by key TFs. We also discuss the current limits of these methods and highlight some of the key problems that have to be solved to gain a more complete understanding of the structure and function of CRMs.
AID in reprogramming: Quick and efficient
Authors: Deng Wenbin
Published: April 2010

Current methods of reprogramming differentiated cells into induced pluripotent stem cells remain slow and inefficient. In a recent report published online in Nature, Bhutani et al.1 developed a cell fusion strategy, achieving quick and efficient reprogramming toward pluripotency. Using this assay, they identified an immune system protein called activation‐induced cytidine deaminase, or AID, which unexpectedly is actually able to “aid” in reprogramming due to its involvement in DNA demethylation that is required for induction of the two key pluripotency genes, Oct4 and Nanog. More recently, Popp et al. 2 also reported online in Nature that AID is important for complete cell reprogramming in mammals. Together, these findings provide new insights into how cells are reprogrammed, identify the specific role of AID in cell fate reversal, and advance the field of regenerative medicine.
Boycott or buycott? Understanding political consumerism
Authors: Neilson Lisa A.
Published: April 2010

This research addresses the question of how boycotting (punishing business for unfavorable behavior) differs from buycotting (rewarding business for favorable behavior). This analysis of 21 535 adults from the 2002/2003 European Social Survey (ESS) compares the effects of social capital, altruism, and gender on different categories of political consumers. Logistic regression analyses reveal that boycotters do indeed differ from buycotters. Specifically, women and people who are more trusting, involved in more voluntary associations, or more altruistic are more likely to buycott than boycott. These differences support the inclusion of both boycott and buycott measures in future studies of political consumerism.

Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optische Speichermedien. Phasenwechselmaterialien
Authors: Bensch Wolfgang , Wuttig Matthias
Published: April 2010

In den gängigen DVDs und Blu‐Ray‐Disks sind die Informationen in eine dünne Schicht tellurbasierter Verbindungen geschrieben, welche im Nanosekundenbereich mit Laserpulsen geeigneter Energie zwischen dem kristallinen und amorphen Zustand hin‐ und hergeschaltet werden können. Diese beiden Zustände weisen einen signifikanten optischen und elektrischen Kontrast auf, was diese Verbindungsklasse, die als Phasenwechselmaterialien bezeichnet werden, nahezu einmalig macht.
Semisynthese. Chemie mit den Molekülen der Natur
Authors: Arndt Hans‐Dieter , Hackenberger Christian , Schwarzer Dirk
Published: April 2010

In der Semisynthese müssen komplexe Moleküle chemoselektiv, regioselektiv und stereoselektiv manipuliert werden, was pfiffige Schutzgruppenoperationen und innovative Syntheseentwicklung erforderlich macht. Entscheidend sind in jedem Fall leicht zugängliche und geeignete Ausgangsmaterialien, insbesondere biotechnologisch unbegrenzt herstellbare Zwischenstufen. Da eine möglichst weitreichende synthetische Bearbeitung von Wirkstoffkandidaten das größte Innovations‐ und Patentschutzpotenzial hat, sind auch vielstufige Semi‐ und sogar Totalsynthesen Bestandteil moderner industrieller Forschung und Wirkstoffentwicklung. Die dabei realisierte Komplexität wäre vor noch gar nicht langer Zeit undenkbar gewesen, was den Fortschritt in der Synthesemethodik eindrucksvoll verdeutlicht. Die Semisynthese zielt vornehmlich auf konkrete Anwendungen ab, wobei der forscherisch‐innovative Aspekt in der Klärung molekularer Zusammenhänge besteht. Gerade für das Studium zellulärer Prozesse und ihrer Quantifizierung sind in Zukunft wichtige Impulse zu erwarten. Die Semisynthese wird so auch weiterhin eine tragfähige Brücke zwischen den Zukunftsfeldern Syntheseforschung und Chemischer Biologie bilden.
Wem der Tabak blüht
Authors: Feil Sylvia
Published: April 2010

Nach Waldbränden blüht wilder Tabak massenhaft in den Abendstunden auf. Er zählt zu den ersten Siedlern der freien Flächen. Der reichlich zuckerhaltige Nektar der Blüten verströmt Benzylaceton als Lockstoff für Motten. Drohen jedoch die Raupen der Motten zuviel Blattmasse zu fressen, stellt sich die Pflanze um: Sie blüht morgens.
Designing a solenoid coil of high sensitivity for a cryogenic probe of a novel split magnet
Authors: Park Minseok , Kawasaki Kenji , Okada Michiya , Kitaguchi Hitoshi
Published: April 2010

This article reports a method for computer‐based coil design and results of the designed coils. The method predicts signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) of a coil by means of computer simulation. Paying special attention to a solenoid coil with few turns, we developed an expression of B1 inhomogeneity factor and incorporated the expression into an SNR formula. For a cryogenic probe coil, a test using the method was 40 times faster than an experimental test. By using the developed method, we designed a two‐turn solenoid coil made out of tape of nonuniform width (named TS coil). An experiment on the TS coil using a split magnet of 14 T yielded SNR = 5,755 for 0.1% ethylbenzene after SNR had been predicted to be 8,381. Peak broadening (linewidth = 2.2 Hz) due to the residual coil magnetization caused the difference between the measured and the predicted SNR. By reducing linewidth to 1 Hz, SNR = 8,122 will be achievable with the designed TS coil. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Concepts Magn Reson Part B (Magn Reson Engineering) 37B: 92–101, 2010
A very fast switched‐attenuator circuit for microwave and RF applications
Authors: Quine Richard W. , Tseytlin Mark , Eaton Sandra S. , Eaton Gareth R.
Published: April 2010

An electronic circuit was designed and constructed that can switch an RF signal between two amplitude levels at very fast speed (<10 ns). The circuit incorporates a TTL control for convenient interfacing of the existing equipment. The attenuation of the more attenuated state can be adjusted to be up to 12 dB more than for the less attenuated state. The initial application was in pulsed electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy to produce a π/2−π pulse sequence with pulses of equal time duration and 6 dB difference in amplitude. A new method for measuring electron spin echoes fornarrow, homogeneously broadened lines is described. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Concepts Magn Reson Part B (Magn Reson Engineering) 37B: 39–44, 2010
Quantitative comparison of minimum inductance and minimum power algorithms for the design of shim coils for small animal imaging
Authors: Hudson Parisa , Hudson Stephen D. , Handler William B. , Scholl Timothy J. , Chronik Blaine A.
Published: April 2010

High‐performance shim coils are required for high‐field magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy. Complete sets of high‐power and high‐performance shim coils were designed using two different methods: the minimum inductance and the minimum power target field methods. A quantitative comparison of shim performance in terms of merit of inductance (ML) and merit of resistance (MR) was made for shim coils designed using the minimum inductance and the minimum power design algorithms. In each design case, the difference in ML and the difference in MR given by the two design methods was <15%. Comparison of wire patterns obtained using the two design algorithms show that minimum inductance designs tend to feature oscillations within the current density; while minimum power designs tend to feature less rapidly varying current densities and lower power dissipation. Overall, the differences in coil performance obtained by the two methods are relatively small. For the specific case of shim systems customized for small animal imaging, the reduced power dissipation obtained when using the minimum power method is judged to be more significant than the improvements in switching speed obtained from the minimum inductance method. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Concepts Magn Reson Part B (Magn Reson Engineering) 37B: 65–74, 2010
Incidence and time course of bleeding after long‐term amenorrhea after breast cancer treatment
Authors: Sukumvanich Paniti , Case L. Doug , Van Zee Kimberly , Singletary S. Eva , Paskett Electra D. , Petrek Jeanne A. , Naftalis Elizabeth , Naughton Michelle J.
Published: April 2010

BACKGROUND:

The incidence of chemotherapy‐induced amenorrhea (CIA) and the time to subsequent menstrual bleeding in premenopausal breast cancer patients treated with current standard chemotherapy regimens was examined.

METHODS:

Four hundred sixty‐six women ages 20 to 45 years at the time of diagnosis of a stage I to III breast cancer were recruited between January 1998 and July 2002. Patients completed monthly bleeding calendars from the time of study recruitment. Updated medical history data were obtained at 6‐month intervals.

RESULTS:

Most women received doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide (AC); doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, and paclitaxel (ACT); or cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, and 5‐fluorouracil (CMF). Approximately 41% of women experienced an initial 6 months of CIA, and an additional 29% had at least 1 year of CIA. Approximately half of the women with 6 months of CIA and 29% of those with 1 year of CIA resumed bleeding within the subsequent 3 years, usually in the year after their amenorrheic episode. Resumption of bleeding differed significantly by treatment regimen after 6 months of CIA (P = .002; 68% with AC, 57% with ACT, and 23% with CMF), but not after 1 year of CIA (P = .5). Of the 23% of women who experienced an initial 2‐year period of CIA, 10% resumed bleeding within the ensuing 3 years after their amenorrheic episode, but none had regular menses.

CONCLUSIONS:

A considerable proportion of women treated with chemotherapy will experience periods of CIA, but many will resume bleeding. Newer treatment regimens such as ACT appear to have a higher resumption of bleeding compared with CMF. This finding may have implications for choice of anti‐estrogen treatment and for future potential pregnancies/fertility. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Informed consent for pediatric phase 1 cancer trials: Physicians' perspectives
Authors: Yap Tsiao Yi , Yamokoski Amy D. , Hizlan Sabahat , Zyzanski Stephen J. , Angiolillo Anne L. , Rheingold Susan R. , Baker Justin N. , Kodish Eric D.
Published: April 2010

BACKGROUND.

This study was conducted to gather pediatric oncologists' opinions about and suggestions for improvement of informed consent (IC) in pediatric phase 1 cancer trials.

METHODS.

A questionnaire designed to elicit perspectives was distributed to 146 physicians at 6 participating institutions. A total of 103 completed surveys were returned for a 71% response rate.

RESULTS.

Pediatric oncologists believe providing information so families can decide about phase 1 study entry is the most important goal of the IC process (ICP). The majority of physicians (64%) report that they describe the phase 1 study without any attempt to influence parents' decisions. Several answers provided by physicians were associated with their gender and prior IC training. Male physicians were significantly more likely to endorse the no‐attempt‐to‐influence approach, whereas female physicians were more likely to suggest to parents that other children will benefit from what is learned in phase 1 studies. Responses to an open‐ended question provided 63 suggestions for improvement of the ICP, including document and training changes and tools to enhance physician‐family communication.

CONCLUSIONS.

Pediatric oncologists tended to present phase 1 trials as an option rather than a strong recommendation and were reluctant to influence decisions of families about these studies. They believe most but not all parents understand key concepts involved in consent to this type of research, and had ample suggestions for how to improve the ICP. Future research and education efforts around this ethically challenging topic were warranted. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
On‐demand data co‐allocation with user‐level cache for grids
Authors: Chen Po‐Cheng , Chang Jyh‐Biau , Su Yen‐Liang , Shieh Ce‐Kuen
Published: April 2010

Conventional remote data access middlewares usually provide client applications with either a pre‐staging scheme or an on‐demand access scheme to fetch data. The pre‐staging scheme uses parallel downloads to fetch a completed input file from multiple data sources, even when only a tiny file fragment is required. Such a transfer scheme consumes unnecessary data transmission time and storage space. In contrast, the on‐demand scheme downloads only the required data blocks from a single data source and does not fully utilize the downstream bandwidth of the computing nodes. This paper presents a middleware called ‘Spigot’ that facilitates legacy (grid‐unaware) applications to transparently access remote data by using native I/O function calls. Spigot uses the on‐demand concept to avoid unnecessary data transfer and adopts a co‐allocation download algorithm to improve the data transfer performance. Moreover, it uses the pre‐fetching strategy to reduce the data waiting time by overlapping data acquisition and data processing. It also provides the client application with its own user‐level cache, which is advantageous since a larger cache space is available in comparison with the kernel‐level cache. Further, it is easy to maintain data consistency between Spigot nodes. The experimental results indicate that Spigot achieves superior performance in reducing the data waiting time than the pre‐staging and the on‐demand access schemes. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cardiac fibroblast to myofibroblast differentiation in vivo and in vitro: Expression of focal adhesion components in neonatal and adult rat ventricular myofibroblasts
Authors: Santiago Jon‐Jon , Dangerfield Aran L. , Rattan Sunil G. , Bathe Krista L. , Cunnington Ryan H. , Raizman Joshua E. , Bedosky Kristen M. , Freed Darren H. , Kardami Elissavet , Dixon Ian M.C.
Published: April 2010

In fibrosing hearts, myofibroblasts are associated with cardiac extracellular matrix remodeling. Expression of key genes in the transition of cardiac fibroblast to myofibroblast phenotype in post‐myocardial infarction heart and in vitro has not been well addressed. Contractile, focal adhesion‐associated, receptor proteins, fibroblast growth factor‐2 (FGF‐2) expression, and motility were compared to assess phenotype in adult and neonatal rat cardiac fibroblasts and myofibroblasts. Neonatal and adult fibroblasts undergo phenotypic transition to myofibroblastic cells, marked by increased α‐smooth muscle actin (αSMA), smooth muscle myosin heavy chain (SMemb), extra domain‐A (ED‐A) fibronectin, paxillin, tensin, FGF‐2, and TβRII receptor. Elevated ED‐A fibronectin confirmed fibroblast to supermature myofibroblastic phenotype transition. Presence of myofibroblasts in vivo was noted in sections of healed infarct scar after myocardial infarction, and their expression is similar to that in culture. Thus, cultured neonatal and adult cardiac fibroblasts transition to myofibroblasts in vitro and share expression profiles of cardiac myofibroblasts in vivo. Reduced motility with in vitro passage reflects enhanced production of focal adhesions. Developmental Dynamics 239:1573–1584, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression ofstrawberry notchfamily genes during zebrafish embryogenesis
Authors: Takano Ai , Zochi Riyo , Hibi Masahiko , Terashima Toshio , Katsuyama Yu
Published: April 2010

Our previous study suggested a possible role forSbno1, a mouse homologue ofstrawberry notchgene during brain development. In this report, we cloned the zebrafish homologues ofsbno, and examined their expression pattern during embryogenesis by whole‐mount in situ hybridization. Zebrafish have threesbnogenes: oneSbno1homologue and twoSbno2homologues,sbno2aandsbno2b. We observed that the expression ofsbno1andsbno2awas initially ubiquitous and gradually became predominant in the central nervous system as development progressed. The expression ofsbno2bwas observed in non‐neural tissues in contrast to the other two genes.sbno1andsbno2aexhibited higher expression in distinct regions within the nervous system of pharyngula‐stage embryos, suggesting possible differing roles forsbno1andsbno2aduring later stages of embryogenesis. Together, the observed gene expression patterns suggest an important role ofsbno‐family genes during development of the vertebrate central nervous system. Developmental Dynamics 239:1789–1796, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Non‐core subunit eIF3h of translation initiation factor eIF3 regulates zebrafish embryonic development
Authors: Choudhuri Avik , Evans Todd , Maitra Umadas
Published: April 2010

Eukaryotic translation initiation factor eIF3, which plays a central role in translation initiation, consists of five core subunits that are present in both the budding yeast and higher eukaryotes. However, higher eukaryotic eIF3 contains additional (non‐core) subunits that are absent in the budding yeast. We investigated the role of one such non‐core eIF3 subunit eIF3h, encoded by two distinct genes—eif3ha and eif3hb, as a regulator of embryonic development in zebrafish. Both eif3h genes are expressed during early embryogenesis, and display overlapping yet distinct and highly dynamic spatial expression patterns. Loss of function analysis using specific morpholino oligomers indicates that each isoform has specific as well as redundant functions during early development. The morphant phenotypes correlate with their spatial expression patterns, indicating that eif3h regulates development of the brain, heart, vasculature, and lateral line. These results indicate that the non‐core subunits of eIF3 regulate specific developmental programs during vertebrate embryogenesis. Developmental Dynamics 239:1632–1644, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Stress‐activated dendritic cells interact with CD4+ T cells to elicit homeostatic memory
Authors: Wang Yufei , Seidl Thomas , Whittall Trevor , Babaahmady Kaboutar , Lehner Thomas
Published: April 2010

Evidence is presented that thermal or oxidizing stress‐activated DC interact with CD4+ T cells to induce and maintain a TCR‐independent homeostatic memory circuit. Stress‐activated DC expressed endogenous intra‐cellular and cell surface HSP70. The NF‐κB signalling pathway was activated and led to the expression of membrane‐associated IL‐15 molecules. These interacted with the IL‐15 receptor complex on CD4+ T cells, thus activating the Jak3 and STAT5 phosphorylation signalling pathway to induce CD40 ligand expression, T‐cell proliferation and IFN‐γ production. CD40 ligand on CD4+ T cells in turn re‐activated CD40 molecules on DC, inducing DC maturation and IL‐15 expression thereby maintaining the feedback circuit. The proliferating CD4+ T cells were characterized as CD45RA− CD62L+ central memory cells, which underwent homeostatic proliferation. The circuit is independent of antigen and MHC‐class‐II‐TCR interaction as demonstrated by resistance to TCR inhibition by ZAP70 inhibitor or MHC‐class II antibodies. These findings suggest that stress can activate a DC‐CD4+ T‐cell interacting circuit, which may be responsible for maintaining a homeostatic antigen‐independent memory.
Flower‐Like Nickel Nanocrystals: Facile Synthesis, Shape Evolution, and Their Magnetic Properties
Authors: Li Pengwei , Wang Ning , Wang Rongming
Published: April 2010

In this paper, flower‐, star‐, and chain‐like hierarchically nanostructured nickel crystals as well as [Ni(N2H4)2]Cl2 nanorods were first synthesized by a simple reduction method. This method is template‐free, environmentally benign, and can be carried out at low temperature (60 °C) with high efficiency on a large scale. Investigation of the growth kinetics has proved that the crystal sizes are sensitive to the reaction temperature and reaction time. Various nickel nanostructures can be achieved by the oriented growth of preferred nickel crystal planes. The magnetic properties of the flower‐like nickel nanocrystals were also characterized with the results of much enhanced coercivity (Hc) and decreased saturation magnetization (Ms).
Formation of Pentaorganostannates from Bis(2‐bromo‐2′‐biphenyl)stannanes and tert‐Butyllithium upon Substitution of Alkyl and Aryl Groups on Tin Atoms
Authors: Saito Masaichi , Imaizumi Sanae , Tajima Tomoyuki
Published: April 2010

The reaction of bis(2‐bromo‐2′‐biphenyl)stannanes 1 with tert‐butyllithium in the presence of diaryl‐ and dialkyldichlorostannanes leads to the extrusion of aryl and alkyl groups on the tin atom, affording 9‐stannafluorene derivatives bearing biphenyl groups. The intermediates of the reactions were assigned to the corresponding pentaorganostannates, which were characterized by NMR spectroscopy. Unexpectedly, the dissociation of the aryl and alkyl groups from the tin atoms in intramolecular nucleophilic substitution reactions was preferable to that of chloride ions in intermolecular nucleophilic substitution reactions.
Disruption of transient receptor potential canonical channel 1 causes incomplete cytokinesis and slows the growth of human malignant gliomas
Authors: Bomben Valerie C. , Sontheimer Harald
Published: April 2010

Despite decades of research, primary brain tumors, gliomas, lack effective treatment options and present a huge clinical challenge. Particularly, the most malignant subtype, Glioblastoma multiforme, proliferates extensively and cells often undergo incomplete cell divisions, resulting in multinucleated cells. We now present evidence that multinucleated glioma cells result from the functional loss of transient receptor potential canonical 1 (TRPC1) channels, plasma membrane proteins involved in agonist‐induced calcium entry and reloading of intracellular Ca2+ stores. Pharmacological inhibition or shRNA mediated suppression of TRPC1 causes loss of functional channels and store‐operated calcium entry in D54MG glioma cells. This is associated with reduced cell proliferation and, frequently, with incomplete cell division. The resulting multinucleated cells are reminiscent of those found in patient biopsies. In a flank tumor model, tumor size was significantly decreased when TRPC1 expression was disrupted using a doxycycline inducible shRNA knockdown approach. These results suggest that TRPC1 channels play an important role in glioma cell division most likely by regulating calcium signaling during cytokinesis. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Phosphorylation status of pyruvate dehydrogenase distinguishes metabolic phenotypes of cultured rat brain astrocytes and neurons
Authors: Halim Nader D. , Mcfate Thomas , Mohyeldin Ahmed , Okagaki Peter , Korotchkina Lioubov G. , Patel Mulchand S. , Jeoung Nam Ho , Harris Robert A. , Schell Michael J. , Verma Ajay
Published: April 2010

Glucose metabolism in nervous tissue has been proposed to occur in a compartmentalized manner with astrocytes contributing largely to glycolysis and neurons being the primary site of glucose oxidation. However, mammalian astrocytes and neurons both contain mitochondria, and it remains unclear why in culture neurons oxidize glucose, lactate, and pyruvate to a much larger extent than astrocytes. The objective of this study was to determine whether pyruvate metabolism is differentially regulated in cultured neurons versus astrocytes. Expression of all components of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC), the rate‐limiting step for pyruvate entry into the Krebs cycle, was determined in cultured astrocytes and neurons. In addition, regulation of PDC enzymatic activity in the two cell types via protein phosphorylation was examined. We show that all components of the PDC are expressed in both cell types in culture, but that PDC activity is kept strongly inhibited in astrocytes through phosphorylation of the pyruvate dehydrogenase alpha subunit (PDHα). In contrast, neuronal PDC operates close to maximal levels with much lower levels of phosphorlyated PDHα. Dephosphorylation of astrocytic PDHα restores PDC activity and lowers lactate production. Our findings suggest that the glucose metabolism of astrocytes and neurons may be far more flexible than previously believed. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Tracheostomaplasty: A surgical method for improving retention of an intraluminal stoma button for hands‐free tracheoesophageal speech
Authors: Moreno Mauricio A. , Lewin Jan S. , Hutcheson Katherine A. , Bishop Leone Julie K. , Barringer Denise A. , Reece Gregory P.
Published: April 2010

Background.

We describe a minimally invasive surgical technique, tracheostomaplasty, to overcome anatomical deformities of the stoma that preclude successful retention of a stoma button for hands free tracheoesophageal (TE) speech.

Methods.

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 21 patients who underwent tracheostomaplasty after laryngectomy to accommodate an intraluminal valve attachment for hands‐free TE speech.

Results.

Sixteen men and 5 women (median age, 65 years; median follow‐up, 27.7 months) underwent tracheostomaplasty; 6 patients developed a mild cellulitis that required therapy and 5 patients required a minor revision surgery. At last follow‐up, 15 (71%) patients successfully achieved hands‐free TE speech using an intraluminal stoma button. Three patients only retained the intraluminal device to facilitate digital occlusion. Tracheostomaplasty failed in 3 patients because of granulation tissue formation or stomal stenosis.

Conclusions.

Tracheostomaplasty is a successful technique to improve intraluminal retention of a stoma button for hands‐free TE speech in laryngectomy patients. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2010
Expression of Cyr61 (CCN1) in human oral squamous cell carcinoma: An independent marker for poor prognosis
Authors: Kok Sang‐Heng , Chang Hao‐Hueng , Tsai Ju‐Yi , Hung Hsin‐Chia , Lin Chiao‐Ying , Chiang Chun‐Pin , Liu Cheing‐Meei , Kuo Mark Yen‐Ping
Published: April 2010

Background.

Cysteine‐rich 61 (Cyr61 [CCN1]) has disparate functions in tumorigenesis that are dependent on the cell types. The aim of the study was to investigate its role in the growth of oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

Methods.

The study used immunohistochemistry to examine Cyr61 expression in 93 oral SCC specimens and assessed the effect of Cyr61 overexpression on proliferation and migration of oral SCC cells in vitro and xenograft growth in severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice.

Results.

High expression of Cyr61 significantly correlated with large tumor size (p = .009) and advanced tumor stage (p = .036). Multivariate analysis revealed that high Cyr61 (relative risk [RR] 2.44, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.209–4.95, p = .010) significantly correlated with mortality. Forced expression of Cyr61 stimulated the motility and growth of Ca9‐22 cells in vitro and enhanced xenograft growth in SCID mice.

Conclusions.

Cyr61 is a positive growth modulator of oral SCC and Cyr61 overexpression is an independent prognostic indicator for patients with oral SCC. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2010
Analysis of snow cover variability and change in Québec, 1948–2005
Authors: Brown Ross D.
Published: April 2010

The spatial and temporal characteristics of annual maximum snow water equivalent (SWEmax) and fall and spring snow cover duration (SCD) were analysed over Québec and adjacent area for snow seasons 1948/1949–2004/2005 using reconstructed daily snow depth and SWE. Snow cover variability in Québec was found to be significantly correlated with most of the major atmospheric circulation patterns affecting the climate of eastern North America but the influence was characterized by strong multidecadal‐scale variability. The strongest and most consistent relationship was observed between the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) and fall SCD variability over western Québec. El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO) was found to have a limited impact on Québec snow cover. Evidence was found for a shift in circulation over the study region around 1980 associated with an abrupt increase in sea level pressure (SLP) and decreases in winter precipitation, snow depth and SWE over much of southern Québec, as well as changes in the atmospheric patterns with significant links to snow cover variability. Trend analysis of the reconstructed snow cover over 1948–2005 provided evidence of a clear north–south gradient in SWEmax and spring SCD with significant local decreases over southern Québec and significant local increases over north‐central Québec. The increase in SWEmax over northern Québec is consistent with proxy data (lake levels, tree growth forms, permafrost temperatures), with hemispheric‐wide trends of increasing precipitation over higher latitudes, and with projections of global climate models (GCMs). Copyright © 2010 Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada. Published by John Wiley & Sons. Ltd
Did annual run‐off and low flow decrease with reduced forestry practices in Japan?
Authors: Komatsu Hikaru , Kume Tomonori , Shinohara Yoshinori , Miyazawa Yoshiyuki , Otsuki Kyoichi
Published: April 2010

Japan developed large areas of coniferous plantations for timber production between the 1950s and 1970s; however, forestry practices such as thinning, pruning, and harvesting in most of the plantations have declined since the 1980s. Researchers speculated that reduced forestry practices could reduce run‐off and therefore available water resources. As a countermeasure to this potential risk, many local governments have introduced local taxes to stimulate forestry practices in the plantations. However, no studies have presented evidence for decreased annual run‐off and/or low flow in watersheds where forestry practices have declined. As a starting point for assessing this risk, this study examined potential changes in the annual run‐off and low flow in the Terauchi watershed. A large area of this watershed was covered with coniferous plantations. We first surveyed the annual investment in forestry operations and the number of forest owners in the city of Amagi. (Note that Amagi includes the Terauchi watershed.) Both decreased during the period 1979–2007, indicating reduced forestry practices. The frequency distribution of plantation tree ages in the watershed also suggested reduced forestry practices. After excluding the effect of precipitation, we examined potential changes in the annual run‐off and low flow during the period 1979–2007. We did not observe significant decreases in the annual run‐off and low flow during the period. Thus, the risk of decreased water resources might be less than expected, and countermeasures to the risk should be reconsidered. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A review of mercury concentration and deposition in snow in eastern temperate North America
Authors: Nelson S. J. , Fernandez I. J. , Kahl J. S.
Published: April 2010

Most published research evaluating total (wet + dry) mercury (Hg) deposition in eastern North America has been conducted during the growing season. However, recent research indicates that winter throughfall Hg deposition can be significant. We reviewed and synthesized published and unpublished snow Hg concentration and deposition data collected at forested and open sites from 1989 to 2005 (14 studies) using various field methods. Mean snow Hg concentrations across years and locations ranged from 0·66 to 22·7 ng l−1 [standard deviation (SD): 15–99%]. Snow Hg deposition and concentration were consistently highest in conifer throughfall and lowest at open sites (no vegetation cover). These results suggest that the range of snow Hg deposition can be bracketed by sampling at two extremes: under conifer canopies and in open sites. Ratios of Hg in snowpack under tree canopies versus open sites were 3·4:1 (conifers) and 2·1:1 (all forest types). Ratios of event throughfall to wet‐only collections were 5·0:1 (conifers) and 3·8:1 (all forest types), exceeding the previously reported overall average of throughfall to wet‐only for the growing season. Future research should standardize snow Hg sampling methods to address volatilization and dry deposition. Mechanisms contributing to variability in snow Hg deposition could be assessed by measuring particulate Hg and examining interannual and spatial patterns. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modelling the hydrologic effects of dynamic land‐use change using a distributed hydrologic model and a spatial land‐use allocation model
Authors: Chu Hone‐Jay , Lin Yu‐Pin , Huang Chun‐Wei , Hsu Cheng‐Yu , Chen Horng‐Yng
Published: April 2010

This study develops a novel approach for modelling and examining the impacts of time–space land‐use changes on hydrological components. The approach uses an empirical land‐use change allocation model (CLUE‐s) and a distributed hydrological model (DHSVM) to examine various land‐use change scenarios in the Wu‐Tu watershed in northern Taiwan. The study also uses a generalized likelihood uncertainty estimation approach to quantify the parameter uncertainty of the distributed hydrological model. The results indicate that various land‐use policies—such as no change, dynamic change and simultaneous change—have different levels of impact on simulating the spatial distributions of hydrological components in the watershed study. Peak flow rates under simultaneous and dynamic land‐use changes are 5·71% and 2·77%, respectively, greater than the rate under the no land‐use change scenario. Using dynamic land‐use changes to assess the effect of land‐use changes on hydrological components is more practical and feasible than using simultaneous land‐use change and no land‐use change scenarios. Furthermore, land‐use change is a spatial dynamic process that can lead to significant changes in the distributions of ground water and soil moisture. The spatial distributions of land‐use changes influence hydrological processes, such as the ground water level of whole areas, particularly in the downstream watershed. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Large‐scale climatic influences on precipitation and discharge for a British river basin
Authors: Lavers David , Prudhomme Christel , Hannah David M.
Published: April 2010

This article aims to identify the large‐scale climate variables that yield significant statistical relationships with precipitation and discharge for a British river basin (Dyfi). Ranked correlation analysis was performed between gridded ERA‐40 atmospheric data and Dyfi precipitation and discharge for individual months. Precipitation and discharge demonstrate significant negative correlation with mean sea level pressure (MSLP). Strongest MSLP correlation areas move from north of Britain in winter to central Britain in summer; this shift is associated with a displacement of geopotential (Z) and zonal wind (U). Movement of significant correlation regions (not captured by the North Atlantic Oscillation Index) highlights the dynamic nature of precipitation and river flow generating weather systems throughout the year. Existence of strong significant correlation shows potential for exploiting large‐scale climate variables in forecasting precipitation and river flow in Britain. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
DDR1 regulates the stabilization of cell surface E‐cadherin and E‐cadherin‐mediated cell aggregation
Authors: Eswaramoorthy Rajalakshmanan , Wang Chih‐Kuang , Chen Wen‐Cheng , Tang Ming‐Jer , Ho Mei‐Ling , Hwang Chi‐Ching , Wang Hui‐Min , Wang Chau‐Zen
Published: April 2010

The stabilization of cell surface E‐cadherin is important for the maintenance of apical junction complexes and epithelial polarity. Previously, we reported that discoidin domain receptor 1 (DDR1) forms a complex with E‐cadherin at adhesive contacts; however, the regulatory role of DDR1 in the stabilization of cell surface E‐cadherin and E‐cadherin‐mediated cell behaviors remained undefined. To gain insight into these questions, we utilized two stable clones depleted for DDR1 via the small interfering RNA (siRNA) technique, and we over‐expressed DDR1 in MDCK cells. We performed Western blotting, immunofluorescence analysis, flow cytometry, and cell aggregation studies to investigate the effect of DDR1 on cell surface E‐cadherin. The results showed that both DDR1/2 and E‐cadherin use their extracellular domains to form DDR/E‐cadherin complexes. Neither the depletion nor the over‐expression of DDR1 changed the expression level of E‐cadherin in MDCK cells. Collagen disrupted the formation of E‐cadherin complexes and caused E‐cadherin to accumulate in the cytoplasm; however, over‐expression of DDR1 stabilized E‐cadherin on the cell surface and decreased its cytoplasmic accumulation. Furthermore, independently of collagen stimulation, the depletion of DDR1 resulted in a decrease in the level of cell surface E‐cadherin, which consequently caused its cytoplasmic accumulation and decreased E‐cadherin‐mediated cell aggregation. These results indicate that DDR1 can increase the stability of cell surface E‐cadherin and promote MDCK cell aggregation, which may be mediated through the formation of DDR1/E‐cadherin complexes. Overall, these findings have implications for the physiological roles of DDR1 in association with the maintenance of both the adhesion junction and epithelial polarity. J. Cell. Physiol. 224: 387–397, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Glucocorticoids: Extensive physiological actions modulated through multiple mechanisms of gene regulation
Authors: Zanchi Nelo Eidy , Filho Mário Alves de Siqueira , Felitti Vitor , Nicastro Humberto , Lorenzeti Fábio Medici , Lancha Antonio Herbert
Published: April 2010

Glucocorticoid hormones are important regulators of several physiological processes. Despite having been initially named based on their role in glucose metabolism, glucocorticoids are also fundamental in the regulation of developmental, metabolic, and neurobiological processes, as well as several other biological functions. Due to their involvement in a diverse array of biological pathways, its wide spectrum of action, it is predicted that a wide range of genes may have their expression regulated by the activated glucocorticoid receptor (GR). In fact, it has been demonstrated that in addition to the regulation of several effectors genes, the expression of the gene encoding for GR itself is regulated by physiological stimuli and fine‐tuning mechanisms. Importantly, such generalized effector responses and fine‐tuning responses seem to be largely mediated by mechanisms of gene regulation. Therefore, this review aims to describe the mechanisms of gene regulation by glucocorticoid hormones, which are capable of regulating differential gene transcription, within a physiological context. From this discussion, we hope to shed light on how a single molecule that is capable of exerting such divergent effects is also capable of promoting such distinct responses in different target tissues. J. Cell. Physiol. 224: 311–315, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Catalytic selective oxidation faces the sustainability challenge: turning points, objectives reached, old approaches revisited and solutions still requiring further investigation
Authors: Cavani Fabrizio
Published: April 2010

This review documents some examples of recently developed technologies and new approaches currently being investigated in the field of catalytic selective oxidation, that may contribute to improving the sustainability of the chemical industry. Tools to reach this ambitious target include process integration, the development of new reactions for the valorization of renewables and new catalysts able to perform complex transformations in a single step. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Role of mitogen‐activated protein kinases in the mechanism of oxidant‐induced cell swelling in cultured astrocytes
Authors: Moriyama M. , Jayakumar A.R. , Tong X.Y. , Norenberg M.D.
Published: April 2010

Cytotoxic brain edema, usually a consequence of astrocyte swelling, is an important complication of stroke, traumatic brain injury, hepatic encephalopathy, and other neurological disorders. Although mechanisms underlying astrocyte swelling are not fully understood, oxidative stress (OS) has generally been considered an important factor in its pathogenesis. To better understand the mechanism(s) by which OS causes cell swelling, we examined the potential involvement of mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs) in this process. Cultures exposed to theoxidant H2O2 (10, 25, 50 μM) for different time periods (1–24 hr) significantly increased cell swelling in a triphasic manner. Swelling was initially observed at 10 min (peaking at 30 min), which was followed by cell shrinkage at 1 hr. A subsequent increase in cell volume occurred at approximately 6 hr, and the rise lasted for at least 24 hr. Cultures exposed to H2O2 caused the activation of MAPKs (ERK1/2, JNK and p38‐MAPK), whereas inhibition of MAPKs diminished cell swelling induced by 10 and 25 μM H2O2. These findings suggest that activation of MAPKs is an important factor in the mediation of astrocyte swelling following oxidative stress. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Enhancing and suppressing four‐wave mixing in electromagnetically induced transparency window
Authors: Nie Zhiqiang , Zhang Yanpeng , Zhao Yan , Yuan Chenzhi , Li Changbiao , Tao Rui , Si Jinhai , Gan Chenli
Published: April 2010

We demonstrate the enhancement and suppression of four‐wave mixing (FWM) in an electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) window in Y‐type 85Rb atomic system. The generated two‐photon FWM signal can be selectively enhanced and suppressed via an EIT window. The EIT of probe as well as the enhancement and suppression of FWM signals can be modified by the sequential‐cascade double dressing. The influence of different probe polarization configurations is also studied. Different polarization states of the probe laser can select different transitions among Zeeman sublevels and different dressing strengths. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Favorable long‐term surgical outcomes of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with hepatitis B envelope antibody
Authors: Ariizumi Shun‐ichi , Kotera Yoshihito , Katagiri Satoshi , Yamamoto Masakazu
Published: April 2010

Background

Surgical outcome of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in relation to the serum hepatitis B envelope (HBe) has not been clarified in detail.

Methods

We retrospectively studied 732 patients with HCC within the Milan criteria who underwent hepatectomy from 1991 through 2005. Serum hepatitis B surface antigen (HBs‐Ag) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibody were routinely performed preoperatively, and 92 patients were only positive for HBs‐Ag. Serum HBe antibody (HBe‐Ab) was further examined, and surgical outcomes after hepatectomy were compared with those of 70 patients who were positive for HBe‐Ab and 15 patients who were negative for HBe‐Ab.

Results

The 5‐ and 10‐year survival rates were significantly greater in patients who were positive for HBe‐Ab (90% and 80%, respectively) than in patients who were negative for HBe‐Ab (61% and 37%: P = 0.0004, respectively). The 5‐year recurrence‐free survival rate was significantly greater in patients who were positive for HBe‐Ab (53%) than in patients who were negative for HBe‐Ab (21%: P = 0.0054). Multivariate analysis showed that positive HBe‐Ab was an independent prognostic factor for survival (P = 0.0045) and recurrence‐free survival (P = 0.004).

Conclusions

Favorable long‐term surgical outcomes were achieved in patients with HCC within the Milan criteria who were positive for HBe‐Ab. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010; 101:471–475. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Overexpression of the drug resistance‐associated protein metallothionein does not correlate with response of sarcomas to isolated limb perfusion treatment
Authors: Grabellus Florian , Sheu Sien‐Yi , Tötsch Martin , Lehmann Nils , Kaiser Gernot M. , Jasani Bharat , Taeger Georg , Schmid Kurt W.
Published: April 2010

Background and Objectives

Hyperthermic isolated limb perfusion with TNF‐α and melphalan (HILP‐TM) achieves high response rates in sarcomas. Melphalan resistance was previously reported to be associated with overexpression of metallothioneins (MTs). Objective of this study was to investigate the influence of MT expression on tumor responses in HILP‐TM‐treated soft tissue (STSs) and bone sarcomas (BS).

Methods

In primary biopsies of 41 HILP‐TM‐treated sarcomas (37 STSs and 4 BS), MT expression was assessed by an immunoreactive score. The pathologic response to HILP‐TM was quantified in the corresponding tumor resection specimens. We studied the association of MT‐IRS between histological regression (responder >90%, or non‐responder ≤90% regression), tumor proliferation, and other clinico‐pathological parameters.

Results

MT expression was found in 70.7% (N = 29) of tumors (high 12.2%, moderate 19.5%, and low 39.0%). After HILP‐TM, 20 cases (48.8%) were categorized as “responders” and 21 (51.2%) as “non‐responders.” Six “responders” (14.6%) presented with complete regression. MT expression positively correlated with tumor proliferation but not with HILP‐TM.

Conclusions

HILP‐TM showed a favorable response in a high rate of sarcomas. Although MT overexpression was observed in this cohort of sarcomas, the immunohistochemical MT status was not predictive of the tumor response after HILP‐TM treatment. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010; 101:465–470. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pregnancy after breast cancer. A comprehensive review
Authors: de Bree Eelco , Makrigiannakis Antonios , Askoxylakis John , Melissas John , Tsiftsis Dimitris D.
Published: April 2010

Pregnancy after breast cancer treatment has become an important issue since many young breast cancer patients have not completed their family. Generally, these patients should not be discouraged to become pregnant when they want to, since published data suggest no adverse effect of pregnancy on survival. As fertility may be impaired by chemotherapy, different fertility preserving strategies have been developed. Births seem to sustain no adverse effects, while breastfeeding appears to be feasible and safe. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010; 101:534–542. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cytoreductive surgery plus hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy to treat gastric cancer with ascites and/or peritoneal carcinomatosis: Results from a Chinese center
Authors: Yang Xiao‐Jun , Li Yan , Yonemura Yutaka
Published: April 2010

Background

This work was to evaluate cytoreductive surgery (CRS) plus hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) for advanced gastric cancer (GC).

Methods

CRS and HIPEC were performed on 28 GC patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) and/or malignant ascites, with survival and perioperative safety as study endpoints.

Results

A total of 30 CRS and HIPEC procedures were performed. Cytoreduction scores ratings (CCR) were CCR‐0 in 11 (39.2%), CCR‐1 in 6 (21.4%), CCR‐2 in 8 (28.8%), and CCR‐3 in 3 (10.6%) cases. The 6‐, 12‐, 18‐, and 24‐month survival rates were 75%, 50%, 43%, and 43%, respectively. The median survivals of patients with PCI ≤20 and high PCI >20 were 27.7 months (95% CI 15.2–40.3 months) and 6.4 months (95% CI 3.8–8.9 months) (P = 0.000). The estimated median survival for patients with CCR‐0, CCR‐1, and CCR‐2 and 3 were 43.4 months (95% CI, 26.9–59.9 months), 9.5 months (95% CI 6.4–12.6 months), and 7.5 months (95% CI 3.0–13.6 months) (P = 0.001, CCR0 vs. CCR1‐3). No perioperative death but 1 (3.6%) serious adverse event occurred.

Conclusions

CRS plus HIPEC could offer survival advantage for selected GC patients with PC and/or ascites, with acceptable safety profile. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010; 101:457–464. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.