bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Production Optimization With Adjoint Models Under Nonlinear Control-State Path Inequality Constraints
Authors: Sarma Pallav , Chen Wen H. , Durlofsky Louis J. , Aziz Khalid
Published: May 2008

The general petroleum-production optimization problem falls into the category of optimal control problems with nonlinear control-state path inequality constraints (i.e., constraints that must be satisfied at every time step), and it is acknowledged that such path constraints involving state variables can be difficult to handle. Currently, one category of methods implicitly incorporates the constraints into the forward and adjoint equations to address this issue. However, these methods either are impractical for the production optimization problem or require complicated modifications to the forward-model equations (the simulator). Therefore, the usual approach is to formulate this problem as a constrained nonlinear-programming (NLP) problem in which the constraints are calculated explicitly after the dynamic system is solved. The most popular of this category of methods for optimal control problems has been the penalty-function method and its variants, which are, however, extremely inefficient. All other constrained NLP algorithms require a gradient for each constraint, which is impractical for an optimal control problem with path constraints because one adjoint must be solved for each constraint at each time step in every iteration.

The authors propose an approximate feasible-direction NLP algorithm based on the objective-function gradient and a combined gradient for the active constraints. This approximate feasible direction is then converted into a true feasible direction by projecting it onto the active constraints and solving the constraints during the forward-model evaluation itself. The approach has various advantages. First, only two adjoint evaluations are required in each iteration. Second, the solutions obtained are feasible (within a specified tolerance) because feasibility is maintained by the forward model itself, implying that any solution can be considered a useful solution. Third, large step sizes are possible during the line search, which may lead to significant reductions in the number of forward-and adjoint-model evaluations and large reductions in the magnitude of the objective function. Through two examples, the authors demonstrate that this algorithm provides a practical and efficient strategy for production optimization with nonlinear path constraints.
Primary Mesenteric Angiosarcoma in a Child with Associated Lymphangiectasia: A Case Report
Authors: Castro E.C.C. , Galambos C. , Shaw Peter H. , Ranganathan S.
Published: May 2008

Angiosarcomas are rare tumors in children, usually occurring in soft tissue and liver. By contrast, angiosarcoma in adults usually occurs in the extremities in conjunction with lymphedema. Mesenteric angiosarcoma has only rarely been reported. When angiosarcomas arise in this location, they usually represent a 2nd malignancy following Hodgkin's lymphoma. We report a child who presented to the emergency room with an acute abdomen and underwent emergency surgery for a mesenteric angiosarcoma with associated lymphangiectasia of the bowel and mesentery. A brief review of the literature and the nomenclature of these unusual tumors are discussed.
Pharmacokinetics of butorphanol tartrate in red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis) and great horned owls (Bubo virginianus)
Authors: Riggs Shannon M. , Hawkins Michelle G. , Craigmill Arthur L. , Kass Philip H. , Stanley Scott D. , Taylor Ian T.
Published: May 2008

Objective—To determine the pharmacokinetics of butorphanol tartrate after IV and IM single-dose administration in red-tailed hawks (RTHs) and great horned owls (GHOs).

Animals—6 adult RTHs and 6 adult GHOs.

Procedures—Each bird received an injection of butorphanol (0.5 mg/kg) into either the right jugular vein (IVj) or the pectoral muscles in a crossover study (1-week interval between treatments). The GHOs also later received butorphanol (0.5 mg/kg) via injection into a medial metatarsal vein (IVm). During each 24-hour postinjection period, blood samples were collected from each bird; plasma butorphanol concentrations were determined via liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry.

Results—2- and 1-compartment models best fit the IV and IM pharmacokinetic data, respectively, in both species. Terminal half-lives of butorphanol were 0.94 ± 0.30 hours (IVj) and 0.94 ± 0.26 hours (IM) for RTHs and 1.79 ± 1.36 hours (IVj), 1.84 ± 1.56 hours (IM), and 1.19 ± 0.34 hours (IVm) for GHOs. In GHOs, area under the curve (0 to infinity) for butorphanol after IVj or IM administration exceeded values in RTHs; GHO values after IM and IVm administration were less than those after IVj administration. Plasma butorphanol clearance was significantly more rapid in the RTHs. Bioavailability of butorphanol administered IM was 97.6 ± 33.2% (RTHs) and 88.8 ± 4.8% (GHOs).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In RTHs and GHOs, butorphanol was rapidly absorbed and distributed via all routes of administration; the drug's rapid terminal half-life indicated that published dosing intervals for birds may be inadequate in RTHs and GHOs.
Histologic and micro–computed tomographic evaluation of the osseointegration of a nonresorbable bone substitute in alveoli of ponies after tooth extraction
Authors: Vlaminck Lieven , Cnudde Veerle , Pieters Koen , Van Den Broeck Wim , Steenhaut Michel , Jacobs Patric , Gasthuys Frank
Published: May 2008

Objective—To evaluate the biological behavior of a nonresorbable bone substitute (NRBS) in the alveoli of ponies, compared with tissue quality in naturally healing alveoli, after cheek tooth extraction.

Animals—5 clinically normal ponies.

Procedures—In each pony, both maxillary fourth premolars (Triadan 108/208) were repulsed bilaterally during anesthesia. One randomly chosen alveolus was filled with NRBS and isolated from the oral cavity by use of dental impression material and a spring-wire retention device. The other alveolus was occluded in its occlusal third portion with dental impression material. One year after surgery, cylindrical lateromedial biopsy specimens were collected from the apical, middle, and occlusal level of each alveolus. Biopsy samples were evaluated for bone mineral density and bone volume via micro–computed tomography; qualitative histologic characteristics were evaluated via light microscopy.

Results—Bone mineral density and bone volume were greater in control alveoli, compared with NRBS-treated alveoli. Control alveoli were characterized by the presence of few mature bone trabeculae and wide spaces containing fat tissue and mesenchymal stroma. In treated alveoli, biocompatibility and osteoconductive properties of the NRBS were excellent; continuous bone formation and bone remodeling were also evident.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that the NRBS was integrated well in calcified alveolar tissues in ponies 1 year after maxillary cheek tooth extraction. Further research is necessary to establish the benefits of this NRBS in the development of a dental implant surgical technique in equids.
Evaluation of technetium Tc 99m–labeled biotin for scintigraphic detection of soft tissue inflammation in horses
Authors: Kleine Lauren G. , Solano Mauricio , Rusckowski Mary , Hunt Kathleen E. , Johnson Karen L. , Kirker-Head Carl A.
Published: May 2008

Objective—To evaluate the use of technetium Tc 99m–labeled EDTA-biotin monomer (99mTc-EB1) as a scintigraphic imaging agent for soft tissue inflammatory lesions in horses.

Animals—6 healthy adult horses.

Procedures—First (phase 1), the agent's safety and blood-tissue clearance and an appropriate imaging protocol were determined in 6 horses. Each horse was injected with 99mTc-EB1 (1.1 GBq, IV, once); images were acquired at intervals during the following 24-hour period. Subsequently (phase 2), inflammation was induced via injection of 200 mg (10 mL) of mepivacaine (0.4 mg/kg) into the right neck musculature and perineurally in the proximal palmar metacarpal region of the right forelimb of 2 horses. Six hours after mepivacaine injection, 99mTc-EB1 (2.2 GBq, IV, once) was administered; 8 hours after injection, comparative soft tissue images were acquired after administration of technetium 99mTc-hydroxymethylene diphosphonate (99mTc-HDP; 7.4 GBq, IV, once).

Results—After injections of 99mTc-EB1, physical examinations, CBCs, and serum biochemical analyses revealed no abnormalities in any horse. Blood clearance of 99mTc-EB1 was rapid (A phase, 2.2 minutes; β phase, 58 minutes). Soft tissue uptake of 99mTc-EB1 was immediate and persisted for as long as 4 hours after injection. At 6 hours after IM and perineural mepivacaine injections, mepivacaine-induced inflammation was detectable by use of 99mTc-EB1.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that 99mTc-EB1 is safe for use in horses and can identify soft tissue inflammation without concurrent uptake in bone. Compared with 99mTc-HDP administration, use of 99mTc-EB1 extended the duration of soft tissue scintigraphic image acquisition.
Effects of ketoconazole on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of morphine in healthy Greyhounds
Authors: KuKanich Butch , Borum Stacy L.
Published: May 2008

Objective—To assess pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of morphine and the effects of ketoconazole on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of morphine in healthy Greyhounds.

Animals—6 healthy Greyhounds, 3 male and 3 female.

Procedures—Morphine sulfate (0.5 mg/kg. IV) was administered to Greyhounds prior to and after 5 days of ketoconazole (12.7 ± 0.6 mg/kg, PO) treatment. Plasma samples were obtained from blood samples that were collected at predetermined time points for measurement of morphine and ketoconazole concentrations by mass spectrometry. Pharmacokinetics of morphine were estimated by use of computer software.

Results—Pharmacodynamic effects of morphine in Greyhounds were similar to those of other studies in dogs and were similar between treatment groups. Morphine was rapidly eliminated with a half-life of 1.28 hours and a plasma clearance of 32.55 mL/min/kg. The volume of distribution was 3.6 L/kg. No significant differences in the pharmacokinetics of morphine were found after treatment with ketoconazole. Plasma concentrations of ketoconazole were high and persisted longer than expected in Greyhounds.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Ketoconazole had no significant effect on morphine pharmacokinetics, and the pharmacodynamics were similar between treatment groups. Plasma concentrations of ketoconazole were higher than expected and persisted longer than expected in Greyhounds.
Acid-base and hormonal abnormalities in dogs with naturally occurring diabetes mellitus
Authors: Durocher Lawren L. , Hinchcliff Kenneth W. , DiBartola Stephen P. , Johnson Susan E.
Published: May 2008

Objective—To examine acid-base and hormonal abnormalities in dogs with diabetes mellitus.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Animals—48 dogs with diabetes mellitus and 17 healthy dogs.

Procedures—Blood was collected and serum ketone, glucose, lactate, electrolytes, insulin, glucagon, cortisol, epinephrine, norepinephrine, nonesterified fatty acid, and triglyceride concentrations were measured. Indicators of acid-base status were calculated and compared between groups.

Results—Serum ketone and glucose concentrations were significantly higher in diabetic than in healthy dogs, but there was no difference in venous blood pH or base excess between groups. Anion gap and strong ion difference were significantly higher and strong ion gap and serum bicarbonate concentration were significantly lower in the diabetic dogs. There were significant linear relationships between measures of acid-base status and serum ketone concentration, but not between measures of acid-base status and serum lactate concentration. Serum insulin concentration did not differ significantly between groups, but diabetic dogs had a wider range of values. All diabetic dogs with a serum ketone concentration > 1,000 μmol/L had a serum insulin concentration < 5 μU/mL. There were strong relationships between serum ketone concentration and serum glucagon-insulin ratio, serum cortisol concentration, and plasma norepinephrine concentration. Serum β-hydroxybutyrate concentration, expressed as a percentage of serum ketone concentration, decreased as serum ketone concentration increased.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that ketosis in diabetic dogs was related to the glucagon-insulin ratio with only low concentrations of insulin required to prevent ketosis. Acidosis in ketotic dogs was attributable largely to high serum ketone concentrations.
Long-term outcome of domestic ferrets treated surgically for hyperadrenocorticism: 130 cases (1995–2004)
Authors: Swiderski Jennifer K. , Seim III Howard B. , MacPhail Catriona M. , Campbell Terry W. , Johnston Matthew S. , Monnet Eric
Published: May 2008

Objective—To determine the long-term survival rate and factors that affect survival time of domestic ferrets treated surgically for hyperadrenocorticism.

Study Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—130 ferrets with hyperadrenocorticism that were treated surgically.

Procedures—Medical records of ferrets surgically treated for hyperadrenocorticism were reviewed. Data recorded included signalment, duration of clinical signs prior to hospital admission, CBC values, serum biochemical analysis results, anesthetic time, surgical time, concurrent diseases, adrenal gland affected (right, left, or both [bilateral]), histopathologic diagnosis, surgical procedure, caudal vena caval involvement (yes or no), postoperative melena (yes or no), days in hospital after surgery, and whether clinical signs of hyperadrenocorticism developed after surgery.

Results—130 ferrets were entered in the study (11 of 130 ferrets were admitted and underwent surgery twice). The 1- and 2-year survival rates were 98% and 88%, respectively. A 50% survival rate was never reached. Combined partial adrenal gland resection with cryosurgery had a significantly negative effect on survival time. No other risk factors were identified. Survival time was not significantly affected by either histopathologic diagnosis or specific affected adrenal gland (right, left, or bilateral).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Ferrets with adrenal gland masses that were treated surgically had a good prognosis. Survival time of ferrets with hyperadrenocorticism undergoing surgery was not affected by the histologic characteristic of the tumor, the adrenal glands affected (right, left, or bilateral), or complete versus partial adrenal gland resection. Debulking was a sufficient surgical technique to allow a favorable long-term outcome when complete excision was not possible.
Periparturient hemorrhage in mares: 73 cases (1998–2005)
Authors: Arnold Carolyn E. , Payne Maria , Thompson James A. , Slovis Nathan M. , Bain Fairfield T.
Published: May 2008

Objective—To determine signalment, physical examination and clinicopathologic abnormalities, outcome, and subsequent fertility of mares with periparturient hemorrhage (PPH) and identify factors associated with outcome (ie, survival vs death).

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—73 mares.

Procedures—Medical records were reviewed for information on age, breed, initial complaint, physical examination and clinicopathologic abnormalities, treatment, outcome, and subsequent fertility.

Results—Median age was 14.0 years (range, 5 to 24 years), and median number of foals produced prior to the diagnosis of PPH was 8 (range, 1 to 16). Ten (14%) mares had prepartum hemorrhage and 63 (86%) had postpartum hemorrhage. Treatment was aimed at restoring cardiovascular volume, enhancing coagulation, controlling pain, and reducing the effects of endotoxemia. Sixty-one (84%) mares survived and 12 (16%) died or were euthanized. Common complications included fever, leukopenia, retained fetal membranes, increased digital pulses, thrombophlebitis, and cardiac arrhythmias. Of the 53 surviving mares for which subsequent breeding information was available, 26 (49%) produced 1 or more foals after recovering from PPH.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that PPH can develop in mares of any age and parity. Treatment was associated with a good prognosis for survival and a reasonable prognosis for future fertility.
Indications for and short- and long-term outcome of permanent tracheostomy performed in standing horses: 82 cases (1995–2005)
Authors: Chesen A. Berkley , Rakestraw Peter C.
Published: May 2008

Objective—To identify indications for and short- and long-term outcome of permanent tracheostomy performed in standing horses.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—82 horses undergoing permanent tracheostomy.

Procedures—Data obtained from medical records included signalment, diagnosis, surgical technique, complications, use of the horse before and after surgery, and owner satisfaction. Follow-up information was obtained through a telephone questionnaire administered to owners.

Results—Indications for permanent tracheostomy included nasopharyngeal cicatrix (n = 59), arytenoid chondropathy (55), and laryngeal hemiplegia (20); 54 horses had multiple indications for tracheostomy. Complications identified prior to discharge included partial dehiscence (n = 8), transient fever (10), and excessive swelling (13). Complications identified after discharge included partial dehiscence (n = 3), inversion of skin (2), and stenosis of the tracheostomy requiring repair (1). Long-term follow-up information was available for 64 horses. Fifty-seven of the 64 (89%) horses returned to their previous use, and owners of 63 (98%) horses reported being very satisfied with the results. The owner of 1 (2%) horse was unsatisfied with the results. The 1-year survival rate was 97% (95% confidence interval, 95% to 100%). Mean estimated truncated survival time (ie, failure-free period) was 9.7 years (95% confidence interval, 9.3 to 10.1 years).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that permanent tracheostomy can be safely performed in standing horses and was a viable treatment for horses with obstructive disease of the upper respiratory tract that was unresponsive to medical treatment or other surgical treatments.
Characterization of hypertriglyceridemia and response to treatment with insulin in llamas and alpacas: 31 cases (1995–2005)
Authors: Waitt Laura H. , Cebra Christopher K.
Published: May 2008

Objective—To evaluate camelids with hypertriglyceridemia with regard to signalment, clinical features of disease, and response to treatment with insulin.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—23 alpacas and 8 llamas with hypertriglyceridemia.

Procedures—For analysis of medical record data, 20 hypertriglyceridemic camelids with multiple recorded measurements of serum or plasma triglycerides concentration were classified as follows: those with an initial triglycerides concentration > 60 to ≥ 500 mg/dL that were or were not treated with insulin (HT-I and HT-N camelids, respectively) and those with an initial triglycerides concentration > 500 mg/dL that were treated with insulin (lipemic [LIP-I] camelids). Only 1 recorded triglycerides concentration was available for an additional 11 hypertriglyceridemic camelids; data from those records were included in the characterization of signalment and clinical features of disease.

Results—Compared with the general population of hospitalized camelids, hypertriglyceridemic camelids did not differ significantly with respect to age or sex. Of 22 female camelids, only 7 were lactating or pregnant. Serum or plasma triglycerides concentrations in HT-N and HT-I camelids did not differ significantly at admission, but triglycerides concentrations in HT-I camelids decreased significantly after insulin treatment. Posttreatment triglycerides concentrations in HT-I camelids were significantly lower than those in HT-N camelids. During the period of hospitalization, triglycerides concentrations in HT-N camelids increased, whereas those in LIP-I camelids decreased significantly.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that hypertriglyceridemia affects llamas and alpacas of all ages and both sexes. Insulin treatment may reduce serum or plasma triglycerides concentrations in camelids with hypertriglyceridemia.
Raman Spectroscopy as a Potential Tool for Early Diagnosis of Malignancies in Esophageal and Bladder Tissues
Authors: Stone Nicholas , Kendall Catherine , Barr Hugh
Published: May 2008

This chapter outlines the use of Raman spectroscopy for discrimination of pathologies in the bladder and esophagus based upon the biochemical signature accompanying the disease process. This has great strength in that objective molecular‐specific analysis becomes possible for diagnosis and understanding of carcinogenesis processes. The importance of the gold‐standard histopathology, sample handling procedures and spectrometer standardization are outlined. Methods of sampling in vivo and in vitro are discussed and discrimination methodologies are demonstrated. Finally exploitation of the inherent biochemical signature found within the tissues is explored and an attempt is made to provide relative concentrations of significant biochemical components.
Most earcons do not interfere with spoken passage comprehension
Authors: Bonebright Terri L. , Nees Michael A.
Published: May 2008

A cross‐modal dual attention experiment was completed by 198 undergraduates in three blocks that each consisted of an orientation task and a concurrent listening task. For the orientation task, participants located regions on an LCD that were cued by speech or one of four types of symbolic auditory cues (i.e. earcons); the concurrent task required participants to listen to and answer questions about GRE sample test passages. Results indicated the orientation task had no effect on comprehension of the passages compared to a passage‐only control for four of the five auditory cue types. All auditory cues resulted in high performance for the orientation task, with speech and complex sounds exhibiting the highest performance. Implications for auditory display design and for assistive technologies for visually impaired persons are discussed. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Association of reading disability on chromosome 6p22 in the Afrikaner population
Authors: Platko Jill V. , Wood Frank B. , Pelser Izelda , Meyer Marianne , Gericke George S. , O'Rourke Julia , Birns Julie , Purcell Shaun , Pauls David L.
Published: May 2008

The genetic basis of reading disability (RD) has long been established through family and twin studies. More recently genetic linkage studies have identified genomic regions that appear to harbor susceptibility genes for RD. Association studies have been shown to have greater power for detecting genes of modest effect, particularly in genetically isolated populations. Hence, a case control study of RD was undertaken in the Afrikaner population in South Africa. Sixty‐eight microsatellite markers in regions where linkages had been reported in previous studies were genotyped on 122 children with reading disability and 112 typically reading controls drawn from the same school population. A single allele of marker D6S299 showed a highly significant association with the RD phenotype (D6S299[229], P‐value 0.000014). Other markers on other chromosomes also showed suggestive associations. Of particular interest were markers on chromosomes 1 and 15. These two regions have been implicated in studies of populations that formed the founding population in the Afrikaner population. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of carbon fillers on the thermal conductivity of highly filled liquid‐crystal polymer based resins
Authors: Hauser Rebecca A. , King Julia A. , Pagel Rachel M. , Keith Jason M.
Published: May 2008

The thermal conductivity of insulating polymers can be increased by the addition of conductive fillers. One potential market for these thermally conductive resins is for fuel cell bipolar plates. In this study, various amounts of three different carbon fillers (carbon black, synthetic graphite particles, and carbon fiber) were added to Vectra A950RX liquid crystal polymer. Because the resulting composites were anisotropic, they were tested for both through‐plane and in‐plane thermal conductivities. The effects of single fillers and combinations of the different fillers were studied via a factorial design. Each single filler caused a statistically significant increase in composite through‐plane and in‐plane thermal conductivities at the 95% confidence level, with synthetic graphite causing the largest increase. All of the composites containing combinations of the different fillers caused statistically significant increases in the composite through‐plane and in‐plane thermal conductivities. It is possible that thermally conductive pathways were formed that linked these carbon fillers, which resulted in increased composite thermal conductivity. Composites containing 70, 75, and 80 wt % synthetic graphite and the composite containing all three fillers (2.5 wt % carbon black, 65 wt % synthetic graphite, and 5 wt % carbon fiber) had in‐plane thermal conductivities of 20 W m−1 K−1 or higher, which is desirable for bipolar plates. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Lack of a co‐promotion effect of 60 Hz rotating magnetic fields on N‐ethyl‐N‐nitrosourea induced neurogenic tumors in F344 rats
Authors: Chung Moon‐Koo , Kim Yong‐Bum , Ha Chang‐Su , Myung Sung‐Ho
Published: May 2008

The present study was conducted to investigate the possible effect of 60 Hz magnetic fields as promoters of brain tumors initiated transplacentally by ethylnitrosourea (ENU) in F344 rats. One hundred twenty mated animals were divided into six different groups and exposed in utero on day 18 of gestation to a single intravenous dose of either Saline (vehicle control, Group I), or ENU 10 mg/kg (Groups II–VI). In the present study, a total of 480 offspring was used. The offspring in group II were given no further treatment while the offspring in Groups III–VI were exposed to four different intensities of magnetic fields. Animals received exposure to 60 Hz magnetic field at field strengths of 0 Tesla (sham control, T1, Group III), 5 μT (T2, Group IV), 83.3 μT (T3, Group V), or 500 μT (T4, Group VI), for 21 h/day from the age of 4 weeks to the age of 32 or 42 weeks. At histopathological examination, tumors of the nervous system were seen in all the ENU‐treated groups. The tumor incidence of the ENU group at 32nd and 42nd week necropsy was higher than that of the vehicle control group. The incidence of glial tumors at 42nd week necropsy was higher than the 32nd week necropsy. However, there were no differences in the tumor incidence between the sham control (T1) and ENU + magnetic field exposure groups (T2–T4). In conclusion, there was no evidence that exposure of offspring to 60 Hz at magnetic field strengths up to 500 μT to the age of 32 or 42 weeks promoted ENU‐initiated brain tumors in rats. Bioelectromagnetics 29:539–548, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A new chemiluminescence paradox: selective inhibition of isoluminol‐amplified activity in phagocytes by peptides from annexin AI
Authors: Dahlberg Maria , Dahlgren Claes , Hellstrand Kristoffer , Movitz Charlotta
Published: May 2008

Chemiluminescence systems enhanced by either isoluminol or luminol in combination with a peroxidase are sensitive methods for the detection of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by phagocyte NADPH oxidase. The two amplifying substrates are structurally very similar, differing only in the position of the amino group in the aromatic ring of the molecules. This difference renders isoluminol a less lipophilic molecule that is less permeable to biological membranes. The use of isoluminol is consequently restricted to studies dealing with the secretion of oxygen metabolites. In this study we show that synthetic peptides derived from the N‐terminal domain of the calcium‐regulated protein annexin AI interfere with the detection of radicals in an isoluminol‐amplified, but not in a luminol‐amplified, system. The annexin AI‐derived peptides reduce the light output with isoluminol excited by superoxide and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) in formyl‐methionyl‐leucyl‐phenylalanine‐ and phorbol myristate acetate‐stimulated cells, as well as by hydrogen peroxide and HRP. The precise mechanism for the inhibition is not known. The results presented strongly suggest that a reduced cellular response detected with isoluminol‐amplified chemiluminescence should be confirmed with an alternative technique to determine release of superoxide anions and hydrogen peroxide. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Direct and indirect immunolabelling of HeLa cells with quantum dots
Authors: Yang Dongzhi , Chen Qifan , Wang Wenxing , Xu Shukun
Published: May 2008

With excellent optical properties, quantum dots (QDs) have been made as attractive molecular probes for labelling cells in biological research. In this study high‐quality CdSe QDs prepared in a paraffin–oleic acid system were used as fluorescent labels in direct and indirect detection of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), a cancer marker expressed on the surface of HeLa cells. The primary antibody (Ab) (rabbit anti‐CEA8) and secondary Ab (goat anti‐rabbit IgG) were covalently linked to carboxyl‐functioned CdSe QDs, and both the QDs–antibody and QDs–IgG probes were successfully used to label HeLa cells. The present study demonstrates the practicability of CdSe QDs as an attractive type of fluorescent labels for biological applications such as protein probes and cell imaging. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Non‐enzymatic aqueous peroxyoxalate chemiluminescence immune detection using a CCD camera and a CMOS device
Authors: Filanoski Brian , Rastogi Shiva K. , Cameron Adam , Cameron Eric , Mishra Nirankar N. , Maki Wusi , Maki Gary
Published: May 2008

A new method for non‐enzymatic aqueous peroxyoxalate chemiluminescence (POCL) biomolecular detection using imaging chip‐based devices has been developed. A water‐soluble amide of oxalic acid was synthesized and used in the investigation and characterization of POCL immunodetection in an aqueous environment. Six fluorescent dyes commonly used in biological detection were tested, and the intensity of light generated from the aqueous POCL reactions was characterized in the liquid phase. Direct detection sensitivity comparisons between a standard fluorescent method and this POCL method were performed in both liquid and solid phases. Results showed that detection sensitivity using the POCL method is comparable to that of the fluorescent method. POCL biomolecular detection on a nitrocellulose membrane was also investigated using a charge‐coupled device (CCD) camera. Again, POCL detection sensitivity proved to be comparable to that using the fluorescent detection method. In an application of aqueous POCL biomolecular detection, Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin B (SEB) and its antibody were used to demonstrate immuno‐ and affinity detection. For further applications, such as DNA and protein arrays, simultaneous detection of biomolecules labelled with different fluorescent labels was investigated, using a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) colour imaging chip. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Flow‐injection chemiluminescence determination of ofloxacin using the Ru(bpy)2(CIP)2+−Ce(IV) system and its application
Authors: Chen Li , Wang Xiaoli , Zhao Huichun , Wang Kezhi , Jin Linpei
Published: May 2008

This paper reports a flow‐injection chemiluminescence method for the determination of ofloxacin (OFLX) using the Ru(bpy)2(CIP)2+–Ce(IV) system. Under the optimum conditions, the relative CL intensity was proportional to the concentration of OFLX in the range 3.0 × 10–8–1.0 × 10–5 mol/L and the detection limit was 4.2 × 10–9 mol/L. The proposed method has been successfully applied to the determination of ofloxacin in pharmaceuticals and human urine. The chemiluminescence mechanism of the system is also discussed. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Visualizing lignin coalescence and migration through maize cell walls following thermochemical pretreatment
Authors: Donohoe Bryon S. , Decker Stephen R. , Tucker Melvin P. , Himmel Michael E. , Vinzant Todd B.
Published: May 2008

Plant cell walls are composed primarily of cellulose, hemicelluloses, lignins, and pectins. Of these components, lignins exhibit unique chemistry and physiological functions. Although lignins can be used as a product feedstock or as a fuel, lignins are also generally seen as a barrier to efficient enzymatic breakdown of biomass to sugars. Indeed, many pretreatment strategies focus on removing a significant fraction of lignin from biomass to better enable saccharification. In order to better understand the fate of biomass lignins that remain with the solids following dilute acid pretreatment, we undertook a structural investigation to track lignins on and in biomass cell walls. SEM and TEM imaging revealed a range of droplet morphologies that appear on and within cell walls of pretreated biomass; as well as the specific ultrastructural regions that accumulate the droplets. These droplets were shown to contain lignin by FTIR, NMR, antibody labeling, and cytochemical staining. We provide evidence supporting the idea that thermochemical pretreatments reaching temperatures above the range for lignin phase transition cause lignins to coalesce into larger molten bodies that migrate within and out of the cell wall, and can redeposit on the surface of plant cell walls. This decompartmentalization and relocalization of lignins is likely to be at least as important as lignin removal in the quest to improve the digestibility of biomass for sugars and fuels production. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Studies on the Electrochemical Property of Dinuclear Copper(II) Complex Containing Dimethylglyoxime and Its Interaction with DNA
Authors: Xu Guiyun , Fan Jinshi , Jiao Kui
Published: May 2008

The electrochemical property of dinuclear copper(II) complex containing dimethylglyoxime [Cu2(Hdmg)4] was studied with cyclic voltammetry. Cu2(Hdmg)4 had an irreversible oxidation peak in pH 5.0 B–R buffer solution at the stearic acid‐modified carbon paste electrode. Cyclic voltammetry, UV‐vis absorption spectra and viscosity measurements were used to study the interaction of Cu2(Hdmg)4 with herring fish sperm DNA. Cu2(Hdmg)4 interacts with the bases of DNA to form nonelectroactive adducts. The interaction of Cu2(Hdmg)4 with ssDNA was stronger than that of Cu2(Hdmg)4 with dsDNA because of the exposed bases of ssDNA. The gene sequence related to the BAR transgene in the transgenic corn was detected using Cu2(Hdmg)4 as electroactive indicator.
Selective Determination of Dopamine in the Presence of Ascorbic Acid at Porous‐Carbon‐Modified Glassy Carbon Electrodes
Authors: Song Shuqing , Gao Qiuming , Xia Kaisheng , Gao Lu
Published: May 2008

Selective dopamine (DA) determinations using porous‐carbon‐modified glassy carbon electrodes (GCE) in the presence of ascorbic acid (AA) were studied. The effects of structure textures and surface functional groups of the porous carbons on the electrochemical behavior of DA was analyzed based on both cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) measurements. The differential pulse voltammetry of DA on the modified GCE was determined in the presence of 400‐fold excess of AA, and the linear determination ranges of 0.05–0.99, 0.20–1.96, and 0.6–12.60 μM with the lowest detected concentrations of 4.5×10−3, 4.4×10−2, and 0.33 μM were obtained on the mesoporous carbon, mesoporous carbon with carboxylic and amino groups modified electrodes, respectively.
Characterization of acid‐sensing ion channel expression in oligodendrocyte‐lineage cells
Authors: Feldman Daniel H. , Horiuchi Makoto , Keachie Krista , Mccauley Erica , Bannerman Peter , Itoh Aki , Itoh Takayuki , Pleasure David
Published: May 2008

Acid‐sensing ion channels (ASICs) are widely expressed in neurons, where they serve in pain and mechanical sensation, and contribute to learning and memory. Six ASIC subunit proteins form homo‐ or heteromeric channel complexes with distinct physiological properties. Of such complexes, only monomeric ASIC1a channels are Ca2+ permeable. Prior pharmacologic and genetic studies have shown that ASIC1a channel inactivation markedly diminishes CNS susceptibility to ischemic damage. Here, we characterize ASIC expression in oligodendrocyte lineage cells (OLC) by molecular, electrophysiological, calcium imaging, and immunofluorescence techniques. ASIC1a, ASIC2a, and ASIC4 mRNAs were expressed in cultured rat OLC, with steady‐state levels of each of these mRNAs several‐fold higher in oligodendroglial progenitors than in mature oligodendroglia. ASIC transcripts were also detected in brain white matter, and ASIC1a protein expression was detected in white matter oligodendroglia. Inactivating, proton‐gated, amiloride‐sensitive OLC currents were detected by whole‐cell voltage clamp. These currents showed profound tachyphylaxis with slow recovery, and were predominantly blocked by psalmotoxin, indicating that homomeric ASIC1a comprised a large fraction of functional ASIC in the cultured OLC. ASIC activation substantially depolarized OLC plasma membrane in current clamp studies, and elicited transient elevations in intracellular Ca2+ in imaging studies. Thus, OLC ASIC1a channels provide a means by which an acid shift in CNS extracellular pH, by diminishing plasma membrane potential and increasing Ca2+ permeability, can activate OLC signaling pathways, and may contribute to OLC vulnerability to CNS ischemia. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
REG1A expression is a prognostic marker in colorectal cancer and associated with peritoneal carcinomatosis
Authors: Astrosini Christian , Roeefzaad Claudia , Dai Yi‐Yang , Dieckgraefe Brian K. , Jöns Thomas , Kemmner Wolfgang
Published: May 2008

By expression profiling of early staged colon carcinomas, we found regenerating islet‐derived 1 alpha (REG1A) to be upregulated in patients with an unfavorable clinical outcome. For validation, REG1A expression was quantified in another colorectal cancer (CRC) patient cohort by Taqman PCR. Aside from tumor and normal tissue from 63 nonpretreated CRC patients, 31 mucosa biopsies from healthy individuals as well as 22 adenomas were included in the investigation. REG1A was significantly upregulated in tumor specimens (p < 0.001) and adenoma (p < 0.01) as compared to normal colorectal tissue. REG1A expression in normal peritumoral tissue in turn proved to be significantly elevated compared to mucosa from healthy individuals (p < 0.01). Determination of REG1A expression might be useful for early tumor diagnosis with a sensitivity of 90.6%, and a specificity of 77.9%. REG1A expression was significantly increased in tumors with peritoneal carcinomatosis (p < 0.01). Moreover, REG1A turned out to be a significant predictor of disease‐free survival (p < 0.05). In conclusion, we present evidence that REG1A is a molecular marker of prognostic value and is associated with peritoneal carcinomatosis in CRC. REG1A turned out to be already significantly raised in peritumoral normal tissue compared to mucosa from healthy individuals, suggesting a molecular field effect of secreted REG1A. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The HspA2 protein localizes in nucleoli and centrosomes of heat shocked cancer cells
Authors: Ścieglińska Dorota , Pigłowski Wojciech , Mazurek Agnieszka , Małusecka Ewa , Żebracka Jadwiga , Filipczak Piotr , Krawczyk Zdzisław
Published: May 2008

The human HSPA2 gene, which belongs to the HSP70 family of heat shock genes, is a counterpart of rodent testis‐specific HspA2 gene. Rodent genes are expressed mainly in pachytene spermatocytes, while transcripts of human HSPA2 gene have been detected in various normal somatic tissues, albeit translation of the messenger RNA into corresponding protein has not been yet unambiguously demonstrated, except for several cancer cell lines. The aim of our work, a first step in search for HspA2 function in cancer cells, was to establish its intracellular localization at physiological temperature and during heat shock. First, we used qRT‐PCR and a highly specific antibody to select cell lines with the highest expression of the HspA2 protein, which turned out to be A549 and NCI‐H1299 lines originating from non‐small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC). Significant expression of the HspA2 was also detected by immunohistochemistry in primary NSCLC specimens. Intracellular localization of the HspA2 was studied using both the specific anti‐HspA2 polyclonal antibody and transfection of cells with fusion proteins HspA2‐EGFP and mRFP‐HspA2. We found that, at physiological temperature, the HspA2 was localized primarily in cytoplasm whereas, during heat shock, localization shifted to nucleus and nucleoli. Moreover, we demonstrate that in heat‐shocked cells HspA2 accumulated in centrosomes. Our results suggest that the HspA2, like Hsp70 protein, can be involved in protecting nucleoli and centrosomes integrity in cancer cells subjected to heat shock and, possibly, other cellular stressors. J. Cell. Biochem. 104: 2193–2206, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Epinephrine stimulates esophageal squamous‐cell carcinoma cell proliferation via β‐adrenoceptor‐dependent transactivation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase/cyclooxygenase‐2 pathway
Authors: Liu Xuan , Wu William K.K. , Yu Le , Sung Joseph J.Y. , Srivastava Gopesh , Zhang Shu T. , Cho Chi H.
Published: May 2008

Esophageal cancer is the sixth leading causes of cancer‐related death in the world. It is suggested that β‐adrenoceptor is involved in the control of cell proliferation, but its role in the pathogenesis of esophageal cancer remains unknown. We therefore studied the role of β‐adrenergic signaling in the regulation of growth of an esophageal squamous‐cell carcinoma cell line HKESC‐1. Results showed that both β1‐ and β2‐adrenoceptors were expressed in HKESC‐1 cells. Stimulation of β‐adrenoceptors with epinephrine significantly increased HKESC‐1 cell proliferation accompanied by elevation of intracellular cyclic AMP levels, which were abolished by β1‐ or β2‐selective antagonists. Epinephrine also increased extracellular signal‐regulated kinase‐1/2 (ERK1/2) phosphorylation as well as cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) and cytosolic phospholipase A2 expression, which were blocked by β1‐ or β2‐selective antagonists. Moreover, epinephrine increased cyclin D1, cyclin E2, cyclin‐dependent kinase (CDK)‐4, CDK‐6, and E2F‐1 expression and retinoblastoma protein phosphorylation at Ser807/811, all of which were abrogated by β1‐adrenoceptor antagonist. Furthermore, epinephrine increased the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), VEGF receptor (VEGFR)‐1 and ‐2 in a β2‐adrenoceptor‐, mitogen‐activated protein kinase/ERK kinase (MEK)‐, and COX‐2‐dependent manner. MEK or COX‐2 inhibitor also significantly inhibited HKESC‐1 cell proliferation induced by epinephrine. Collectively, we demonstrate that epinephrine stimulates esophageal squamous‐cell carcinoma cell proliferation via β‐adrenoceptor‐dependent transactivation of ERK/COX‐2 pathway. Stimulation of β1‐ and β2‐adrenoceptors also elicits a differential response on the expression of cell cycle regulators. These novel findings may shed new light on the understanding of β‐adrenergic signaling in the control of esophageal cancer cell growth. J. Cell. Biochem. 105: 53–60, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Interactions between integrin ligand density and cytoskeletal integrity regulate BMSC chondrogenesis
Authors: Connelly John T. , García Andrés J. , Levenston Marc E.
Published: May 2008

Interactions with the extracellular matrix play important roles in regulating the phenotype and activity of differentiated articular chondrocytes; however, the influences of integrin‐mediated adhesion on the chondrogenesis of mesenchymal progenitors remain unclear. In the present study, agarose hydrogels were modified with synthetic peptides containing the arginine‐glycine‐aspartic acid (RGD) motif to investigate the effects of integrin‐mediated adhesion and cytoskeletal organization on the chondrogenesis of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) within a three‐dimensional culture environment. Interactions with the RGD‐modified hydrogels promoted BMSC spreading in a density‐dependent manner and involved αvβ3 integrin receptors. When cultured with the chondrogenic supplements, TGF‐β1 and dexamethasone, adhesion to the RGD sequence inhibited the stimulation of sulfated‐glycosaminoglycan (sGAG) production in a RGD density‐dependent manner, and this inhibition could be blocked by disrupting the F‐actin cytoskeleton with cytochalasin D. In addition, interactions with the RGD‐modified gels promoted cell migration and aggrecanase‐mediated release of sGAG to the media. While adhesion to the RGD sequence inhibited BMSC chondrogenesis in the presence of TGF‐β1 and dexamethasone, osteocalcin and collagen I gene expression and alkaline phosphatase activity were enhanced by RGD interactions in the presence of serum‐supplemented medium. Overall, the results of this study demonstrate that integrin‐mediated adhesion within a three‐dimensional environment inhibits BMSC chondrogenesis through actin cytoskeleton interactions. Furthermore, the effects of RGD‐adhesion on mesenchymal differentiation are lineage‐specific and depend on the biochemical composition of the cellular microenvironment. J. Cell. Physiol. 217: 145–154, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dynamic assessment of fibroblast mechanical activity during Rac‐induced cell spreading in 3‐D culture
Authors: Petroll W. Matthew , Ma Lisha , Kim Areum , Ly Linda , Vishwanath Mridula
Published: May 2008

The goal of this study was to determine the morphological and sub‐cellular mechanical effects of Rac activation on fibroblasts within 3‐D collagen matrices. Corneal fibroblasts were plated at low density inside 100 µm thick fibrillar collagen matrices and cultured for 1–2 days in serum‐free media. Time‐lapse imaging was then performed using Nomarski DIC. After an acclimation period, perfusion was switched to media containing PDGF. In some experiments, Y‐27632 or blebbistatin were used to inhibit Rho‐kinase (ROCK) or myosin II, respectively. PDGF activated Rac and induced cell spreading, which resulted in an increase in cell length, cell area, and the number of pseudopodial processes. Tractional forces were generated by extending pseudopodia, as indicated by centripetal displacement and realignment of collagen fibrils. Interestingly, the pattern of pseudopodial extension and local collagen fibril realignment was highly dependent upon the initial orientation of fibrils at the leading edge. Following ROCK or myosin II inhibition, significant ECM relaxation was observed, but small displacements of collagen fibrils continued to be detected at the tips of pseudopodia. Taken together, the data suggests that during Rac‐induced cell spreading within 3‐D matrices, there is a shift in the distribution of forces from the center to the periphery of corneal fibroblasts. ROCK mediates the generation of large myosin II‐based tractional forces during cell spreading within 3‐D collagen matrices, however residual forces can be generated at the tips of extending pseudopodia that are both ROCK and myosin II‐independent. J. Cell. Physiol. 217: 162–171, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.