bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy in a Squash Player
Authors: Berry Mathieu , Roncalli Jerome , Lairez Olivier , Elbaz Meyer , Carrié Didier , Galinier Michel
Published: July 2009

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy is usually described following acute emotional stress. We report here the case of a 48-year-old woman admitted for acute coronary syndrome after an intensive squash match. Diagnosis of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy due to acute physical stress was suspected in presence of normal coronary arteries and transitory left ventricular dysfunction with typical apical ballooning. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging confirmed regional wall-motion abnormalities and was helpful in excluding myocardial infarction diagnosis. During squash the body is subject to sudden and vigorous demands inducing a prolonged and severe workload on the myocardium.
Divergence of AMP Deaminase in the Ice WormMesenchytraeus solifugus(Annelida, Clitellata, Enchytraeidae)
Authors: Marotta Roberto , Parry Bradley R. , Shain Daniel H.
Published: July 2009

Glacier ice worms,Mesenchytraeus solifugusand related species, are the largest glacially obligate metazoans. As one component of cold temperature adaptation, ice worms maintain atypically high energy levels in an apparent mechanism to offset cold temperature-induced lethargy and death. To explore this observation at a mechanistic level, we considered the putative contribution of5′adenosine monophosphate deaminase (AMPD), a key regulator of energy metabolism in eukaryotes. We cloned cDNAs encoding ice worm AMPD, generating a fragment encoding 543 amino acids that included a short N-terminal region and complete C-terminal catalytic domain. The predicted ice worm AMPD amino acid sequence displayed conservation with homologues from other mesophilic eukaryotes with notable exceptions. In particular, an ice worm-specific K188E substitution proximal to the AMP binding site likely alters the architecture of the active site and negatively affects the enzyme's activity. Paradoxically, this would contribute to elevated intracellular ATP levels, which appears to be a signature of cold adapted taxa.
Continuity and change in social and physical aggression from middle childhood through early adolescence
Authors: Underwood Marion K. , Beron Kurt J. , Rosen Lisa H.
Published: July 2009

For a sample followed from age 9–13 (N=281), this investigation examined developmental trajectories for social and physical aggression as measured by teacher ratings. Trajectories for both forms of aggression were estimated first separately, then jointly. Mean levels of both social and physical aggression decreased over time for the overall sample, but with high variability of individual trajectories. Subgroups followed high trajectories for both social and physical aggression. Joint estimation yielded six trajectories: low stable, low increasers, medium increasers, medium desisters, high desisters, and high increasers. Membership in the high increaser group was predicted by male gender, unmarried parents, African American ethnicity, and maternal authoritarian and permissive parenting. Permissive parenting also predicted membership in the medium increaser group. This is one of the first studies to examine social aggression longitudinally across this developmental period. Though the results challenge the claim that social aggression is at its peak in early adolescence, the findings emphasize the importance of considering different developmental trajectories in trying to understand origins and outcomes of aggression. Aggr. Behav. 35:357–375, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dyeability improvement of proteinic and polyamide fabrics pretreated with saccharin sodium salt: A kinetic approach
Authors: Allam O. G. , Bendak A.
Published: July 2009

Improvement of the dyeability of wool, silk, and polyamide fabrics with cationic dye was achieved by their pretreatments with saccharin sodium salt. The acquired color values of the dyed materials were significantly enhanced by the aforementioned treatment. Kinetic investigations of the dyeing process were performed by determining the half dyeing time, specific dyeing rate constant, and diffusion coefficient. Fastness properties to crocking (dry and wet) and washing of the pretreated dyed fabrics were significantly improved. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Synthesis of Novel Diselenide‐Linked Porphyrin Dimers under Phase‐Transfer Catalysis Condition and Their Interactions with DNA
Authors: Xue Zhi , Kwong Daniel Wei‐Jing , Xue Ling‐Wei , Liu Qing , Hou An‐Xin , Wong Wai‐Kwok
Published: July 2009

Novel diselenide‐linked porphyrin dimers were synthesized under phase‐transfer catalysis conditions. The targeted compounds were characterized by 1H‐NMR, high‐resolution mass spectrometry, UV/VIS and fluorescence spectroscopies, redox‐potential measurements, and elemental analysis. The interaction of the title compounds with DNA was studied using UV/VIS, fluorescence, and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopies. The relative rates of singlet‐oxygen production from the diselenide‐linked porphyrin dimers upon photoirradiation were also measured.
Reactions of 4‐[Bis(2‐chloroethyl)amino]benzenebutanoic Acid (Chlorambucil) with DNA
Authors: Florea‐Wang Diana , Pawlowicz Agnieszka J. , Sinkkonen Jari , Kronberg Leif , Vilpo Juhani , Hovinen Jari
Published: July 2009

4‐[Bis(2‐chloroethyl)amino]benzenebutanoic acid (=chlorambucil, 1; 2.5 mM) was allowed to react with single‐ and double‐stranded calf thymus DNA at physiological pH (cacodylic acid, 50% base) at 37°. The DNA–chlorambucil adducts were identified by analyzing the DNA hydrolysates by NMR, UV, HPLC, LC/ESI‐MS/MS techniques as well as by spiking with authentic materials. ssDNA was more reactive than dsDNA, and the order of reactivity in ssDNA was Ade‐N1>Gua‐N7>Cyt‐N3>Ade‐N3. The most reactive site in dsDNA was Ade‐N3. The Gua‐N7 and Ade‐N3 adducts were hydrolytically labile. Ade‐N7 adduct could not be identified in the hydrolysates of ssDNA or dsDNA. The adduct Gua‐N7,N7, which consists of two units of Gua bound together with a unit derived from chlorambucil, is a cross‐linking adduct, and it was detected in the hydrolysates of ssDNA and dsDNA. Also several other adducts were detected which could be characterized by spiking with previously isolated authentic adducts or tentatively by MS. The role of chlorambucil–DNA adducts on the cytotoxicity and mutagenity of 1 is also discussed.
A Versatile Transport Network for Sequestering and Excreting Plant Glycosides in Leaf Beetles Provides an Evolutionary Flexible Defense Strategy
Authors: Discher Sabrina , Burse Antje , Tolzin‐Banasch Karla , Heinemann Stefan H. , Pasteels Jacques M. , Boland Wilhelm
Published: July 2009

The larval defenses of chrysomeline leaf beetles comprise components that are either synthesized de novo or sequestered from their food plants. Both biosynthetic modes are based on glucosides that serve as substrates and forms of transport. The defensive glands import the compounds through highly selective glucoside transporters from a circulating pool in the hemolymph. Here we address the selectivity of the different transport systems with larvae of Chrysomela populi, an obligate sequestering species, and with larvae of Phaedon cochleariae, producing nonaterpene iridoids. Both species possess an interconnected network of transport systems for uptake and excretion. The glucosides are imported by the gut membrane with low selectivity. Their excretion by the Malpighian tubules is similarly unselective, but the uptake of the glucosides from the hemolymph into the defensive system is specific. Only the genuine glucoside precursors made de novo or sequestered from the plant are imported. The successful combination of the precursor‐adapted pathways of excretion and defense has probably allowed many leaf beetle species to adaptively radiate onto, and coevolve with plants that offer appropriate glucoside precursors.
Magneto‐transport properties of polycrystalline YBa2(Cu1‐xMx)3O7‐δ (M = B and Mn)
Authors: Albiss B. A. , Obaidat I. M. , Gharaibeh M. , Hatamleh W. , Barhoum S. A. , Hasan M. K.
Published: July 2009

The magnetic and transport properties of polycrystalline YBa2 (Cu1‐xMx)3 O7‐δ (M = B and Mn) superconductor was investigated. Samples of YBa2(Cu1‐xBx)3O7‐δ doped with several concentrations of boron B(x = 0.05 and 0.1) were investigated using magnetization measurements. A YBa2(Cu1‐xMnx)3O7‐δ sample doped with Mn with concentration of x = 0.02 was investigated using current‐voltage (I‐V) measurements. Our results on the YBa2(Cu1‐xBx)3O7‐δ samples reveal a considerable increase in the hysterisis width of the magnetization, M versus the applied magnetic field H with increasing boron concentration. The lower critical field was also found to be enhanced by boron doping. The critical current density, Jc was found to be significantly enhanced in the Mn‐doped sample. The enhancement of Jc was found to be more significant at the lower temperatures for all applied magnetic fields used (0 Oe, 300 Oe, and 500 Oe). Thus, chemical doping is suggested to enhance the vortex pinning forces in the YBCO samples. From the resistivity (R‐T) measurements, chemical doping of the samples was found to have no significant effect on the critical temperature, Tc. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Factors limiting song acquisition in adult zebra finches
Authors: Funabiki Yasuko , Funabiki Kazuo
Published: July 2009

Song learning takes place in two separate or partially overlapping periods, a sensory phase in which a tutor song is memorized and a sensorimotor phase in which a copy of the model is produced. The stage of song development where song becomes stable and stereotyped is called crystallization. Adult birds usually do not learn new song in many species including the zebra finch. However, it is not known whether song crystallization as such or aging impedes adult learning. Exposure to loud noises prevents birds from developing and crystallizing their song, because they cannot control their voice by auditory feedback. Zebra finches even without previous experience of hearing or singing a song failed to learn a song model provided in adulthood. Thus, neither the absence of a tutor song nor the lack of song crystallization enables new song learning in adulthood, but age per se limits the ability or motivation to learn song. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 2009
Regulation of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling by protein kinases
Authors: Verheyen Esther M. , Gottardi Cara J.
Published: July 2009

The Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway plays essential roles during development and adult tissue homeostasis. Inappropriate activation of the pathway can result in a variety of malignancies. Protein kinases have emerged as key regulators at multiple steps of the Wnt pathway. In this review, we present a synthesis covering the latest information on how Wnt signaling is regulated by diverse protein kinases. Developmental Dynamics 239:34–44, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Left‐right asymmetry in the chick embryo requires core planar cell polarity protein Vangl2
Authors: Zhang Ying , Levin Michael
Published: July 2009

Consistent left‐right patterning is a fascinating and biomedically important problem. In the chick embryo, it is not known how cells determine their position (left or right) relative to the primitive streak, which is required for subsequent asymmetric gene expression cascades. We show that the subcellular localization of Vangl2, a core planar cell polarity (PCP) protein, is consistently polarized, giving cells in the blastoderm a vector pointing toward the primitive streak. Moreover, morpholino‐mediated loss‐of‐function of Vangl2 by electroporation into chicks at very early stages randomizes the normally left‐sided expression of Sonic hedgehog. Strikingly, Vangl2 morpholinos also induce a desynchronization of asymmetric gene expression within the left and right domains of Hensen's node. These data reveal the existence of polarized planar cell polarity protein localization in gastrulating chick and demonstrate that the PCP pathway is functionally required for normal asymmetry in the chick upstream of Sonic hedgehog. These data suggest a new and widely applicable class of models for the spread and coordination of left‐right patterning information in the embryonic blastoderm. genesis 47:719–728, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Transthyretin mouse transgenes direct RFP expression or Cre‐mediated recombination throughout the visceral endoderm
Authors: Kwon Gloria S. , Hadjantonakis Anna‐Katerina
Published: July 2009

Laser scanning confocal images of embryonic day (E) 5.5 (left pair) and 6.5 (right pair) Ttr::RFP ; Afp::GFP transgenic mouse embryos expressing red fluorescent protein (RFP) and green fluorescent protein (GFP) reporters in the visceral endoderm. Data are depicted as single optical sections of merged GFP and RFP channels (lefthand image of each pair), demonstrating that these reporters are visceral endoderm‐specific with fluorescence restricted to the surface of the embryo. 3D reconstructions of confocal z‐stacks reveal reporter localization throughout the visceral endoderm (righthand image of each pair). See the paper by Kwon and Hadjantonakis in this issue.
Application of multiple equilibrium point search in gradient systems to mixed‐integer programming
Authors: Masuda Kazuaki , Kurihara Kenzo
Published: July 2009

This paper proposes a solution to mixed‐integer programming by using a gradient system and searching for multiple equilibrium points in the system. The method is available when the objective function of a problem is continuous and differentiable. In order to find feasible solutions of a mixed‐integer programming problem by gradient systems, discrete decision variables are treated as continuous ones. We demonstrate a systematic way to build the kind of gradient systems in which equilibrium points are embedded at feasible solutions of a mixed‐integer problem. For numerical computation, the multiple equilibrium points search method we have already proposed is available and its adjustments to improve efficiency and certainty for mixed‐integer programming are also proposed in this paper. Results for some problems show the effectiveness of our method: high ability of thorough search and high quality of derived solutions. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 92(8): 53–63, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10037
Ultra‐miniature optical fiber pressure sensor with a sleeve for catheter insertion
Authors: Shimada Masato , Shimada Makoto , Kinefuchi Yoshio , Takahashi Koro
Published: July 2009

A diaphragm‐type optical fiber pressure sensor, which has a sleeve for fiber insertion, is proposed, and the fundamental characteristics of this sensor are demonstrated. The sleeve structure is fabricated by DRIE (Deep Reactive Ion Etching). The diaphragm with a sleeve is suitable for highly reliable and easy bonding between the sleeve and the optical fiber. The light intensity change detection by the Fabry–Perot interferometer based on the pressure is increased by the improved DRIE method. The mass production method of the developed diaphragm will be useful for creating a low‐cost pressure sensor. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 92(8): 36–42, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10044
Solving resource constrained multiple project scheduling problems by random key‐based genetic algorithm
Authors: Okada Ikutaro , Lin Lin , Gen Mitsuo
Published: July 2009

In this paper, we propose a hybrid genetic algorithm with fuzzy logic controller (flc‐rkGA) to solve the resource‐constrained multiple project scheduling problem (rc‐mPSP) which is well known as an NP‐hard problem and the objective in this paper is to minimize total complete time in the project. It is difficult to treat the rc‐mPSP problems with traditional optimization techniques. The new approach proposed is based on the hybrid genetic algorithm (flc‐rkGA) with fuzzy logic controller (FLC) and random‐key encoding. For these rc‐mPSP problems, we demonstrate that the proposed flc‐rkGA to solve the rc‐mPSP problem yields better results than several heuristic genetic algorithms presented in the computation result. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 92(8): 25–35, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10101
New generalized D‐state observers for sensorless drive of permanent‐magnet synchronous motors. Impact of rotor flux harmonics to fundamental component estimate
Authors: Shinnaka Shinji
Published: July 2009

This paper proposes new generalized D‐state observers as new minimum‐order flux state observers for sensorless drive of permanent‐magnet synchronous motors. The proposed generalized D‐state observers, which are established by a new approach using filters in the D‐module, contain the conventional D‐state observer as a special case, and the associated observer gain also contains the conventional one for the conventional D‐state observer as a special case. Consequently, the proposed generalized D‐state observers provide designers with a higher degree of design flexibility. In addition, for generalized D‐state observers, this paper presents a new analysis of the error in estimation of the rotor flux fundamental component due to rotor flux harmonics originating from nonsinusoidal magnetization, which has hitherto been an unsolved problem. It is analytically shown and verified by numerical experiments that harmonics appear in the flux estimate in a similar manner to the original rotor flux harmonics from the viewpoint of rotor phase error. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 169(2): 37–47, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20768
Impact of various characteristics of electricity and heat demand on the optimal configuration of a microgrid
Authors: Bando Shigeru , Watanabe Hiroki , Asano Hiroshi , Tsujita Shinsuke
Published: July 2009

The impact of various characteristics of electricity demand and heat demand on the optimal configuration of a microgrid was analyzed using a methodology developed to design the number and capacity for each piece of equipment (e.g., gas engines, batteries, thermal storage tanks) in microgrids that have combined heat and power systems. Three types of microgrids were analyzed: one consisting of an office building and an apartment building, another consisting of a hospital and an apartment building, and another consisting of a hotel, office building, and retail area. In the methodology, the annual cost was minimized by considering the partial load efficiency of a gas engine and its scale economy, and the optimal number and capacity of each piece of equipment and the annual operational schedule were determined using the optimal planning method. Based on calculations using this design methodology, (1) the optimal number of gas engines is determined by the ratio of the off‐peak to peak electricity demand and by the ratio of heat demand to electricity demand, (2) a battery required to supply electricity for a limited time during a peak demand period is used auxiliary, and (3) the thermal storage tank for space cooling and space heating can be selected to minimize the use of auxiliary equipment such as a gas absorption chiller. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 169(2): 6–13, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20867
Positive holes flowing through stressed igneous rocks
Authors: Takeuchi Akihiro
Published: July 2009

Igneous rocks generally involve positive hole pairs (PHPs), a kind of lattice defects also known as peroxy links: O3X−OO−YO3 with X, Y=Si4+, Al3+, etc. When a portion of such a rock block is stressed or heated, PHPs are deformed and positive holes (p‐holes) are activated. These are defect electrons corresponding to the O− electronic state in the O2− sublattice and can propagate into the unstressed portion. Currents and positive surface electrifications detected in laboratory stressed igneous rocks can be explained by the p‐holes. When the p‐holes are activated in the Earth's crust accompanied by seismic or volcanic events, they will lead to anomalous electromagnetic phenomena and could affect electronic communications. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 169(2): 1–5, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20944
Pricing and hedging of quanto range accrual notes under Gaussian HJM with cross‐currency Levy processes
Authors: Liao Szu‐Lang , Hsu Pao‐Peng
Published: July 2009

This study analyzes the pricing and hedging problems for quanto range accrual notes (RANs) under the Heath‐Jarrow‐Morton (HJM) framework with Levy processes for instantaneous domestic and foreign forward interest rates. We consider the effects of jump risk on both interest rates and exchange rates in the pricing of the notes. We first derive the pricing formula for quanto double interest rate digital options and quanto contingent payoff options; then we apply the method proposed by Turnbull (Journal of Derivatives, 1995, 3, 92–101) to replicate the quanto RAN by a combination of the quanto double interest rate digital options and the quanto contingent payoff options. Using the pricing formulas derived in this study, we obtain the hedging position for each issue of quanto RANs. In addition, by simulation and assuming the jump risk to follow a compound Poisson process, we further analyze the effects of jump risk and exchange rate risk on the coupons receivable in holding a RAN. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 29:973–998, 2009
Model risk adjusted hedge ratios
Authors: Alexander Carol , Kaeck Andreas , Nogueira Leonardo M.
Published: July 2009

Most option pricing models assume all parameters except volatility are fixed; yet they almost invariably change on re‐calibration. This article explains how to capture the model risk that arises when parameters that are assumed constant have calibrated values that change over time and how to use this model risk to adjust the price hedge ratios of the model. Empirical results demonstrate an improvement in hedging performance after the model risk adjustment. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 29:1021–1049, 2009
Pricing American options by canonical least‐squares Monte Carlo
Authors: Liu Qiang
Published: July 2009

Options pricing and hedging under canonical valuation have recently been demonstrated to be quite effective, but unfortunately are only applicable to European options. This study proposes an approach called canonical least‐squares Monte Carlo (CLM) to price American options. CLM proceeds in three stages. First, given a set of historical gross returns (or price ratios) of the underlying asset for a chosen time interval, a discrete risk‐neutral distribution is obtained via the canonical approach. Second, from this canonical distribution independent random samples of gross returns are taken to simulate future price paths for the underlying. Third, to those paths the least‐squares Monte Carlo algorithm is then applied to obtain early exercise strategies for American options. Numerical results from simulation‐generated gross returns under geometric Brownian motions show that the proposed method yields reasonably accurate prices for American puts. The CLM method turns out to be quite similar to the nonparametric approach of Alcock and Carmichael and simulations done with CLM provide additional support for their recent findings. CLM can therefore be viewed as an alternative for pricing American options, and perhaps could even be utilized in cases when the nature of the underlying process is not known. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 30:175–187, 2010
Do small traders contribute to price discovery? Evidence from the Hong Kong Hang Seng Index markets
Authors: Tao Libin , Song Frank M.
Published: July 2009

Using one‐contract‐size trades in the Mini Hang Seng Index futures to proxy the activities of small traders, this study empirically investigates the information contribution of small futures traders to price discovery on the Hang Seng Index (HSI) markets. Estimated with the models of Gonzalo, J., and Granger, C. W. J. (1995) and Hasbrouck, J. (1995), the results show that small traders contribute about 16.8% to price discovery, a disproportionately high share considering their relatively low trading volume. The results also indicate that the Hang Seng Index futures (HSIF) market still has the largest information share (about 71.0%), whereas the HSI spot market has a 12.2% share. Our results suggest that small traders are not uninformed in the HSIF markets, and play an important role in price discovery. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 30:156–174, 2010
Cooperation between hippocampal somatostatin receptor subtypes 4 and 2: Functional relevance in interactive memory systems
Authors: Gastambide François , Lepousez Gabriel , Viollet Cécile , Loudes Catherine , Epelbaum Jacques , Guillou Jean‐Louis
Published: July 2009

The hippocampal somatostatin (sst) receptor subtype 4 (sst4) modulates memory formation by diminishing hippocampus‐based spatial function while enhancing striatum‐dependent behaviors. sst4‐mediated regulations on neuronal activity in the hippocampus appear to depend on both competitive and cooperative interactions with sst receptor subtype 2 (sst2). Here, we investigated whether interactions with sst2receptors are required for sst4‐mediated effects on hippocampus‐dependent spatial memory and striatum‐dependent cued memory in a water maze paradigm. Competition was assessed in mice by intrahippocampal injections of the sst4agonist L‐803,087 alone or combined with sst2agonists (L‐779,976 or octreotide). Effects of L‐803,087 were also tested in sst2knockout mice to assess for receptor cooperation. Finally, sst2aand sst4localizations within hippocampal subregions were analyzed by immunohistochemistry and expression levels of sst2aand sst2bwere quantified by real‐time qPCR. Hippocampal injections of L‐803,087 impaired spatial memory but enhanced cued memory. The latter effect was lost not only in sst2knockout mice but also in the presence of sst2agonists, whereas the former effect remained unaffected by sst2agonists or gene deletion. Octreotide and L‐779,976 did not yield memory effects but reduced swim velocity throughout the acquisition trials suggesting that stimulation of sst2affected motivation and/or anxiety. sst2aand sst4were respectively detected in the dentate gyrus (DG) and the CA1 subfield suggesting that their functional interactions are not mediated by direct receptor coupling. Hippocampus sst2aexpression was 36‐fold higher than sst2b. Possible neural mechanisms and functional significances for interaction between memory systems in relationship with stress‐induced changes in hippocampal functions are discussed. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Molecular cold‐adaptation: Comparative analysis of two homologous families of psychrophilic and mesophilic signal proteins of the protozoan ciliate, Euplotes
Authors: Alimenti Claudio , Vallesi Adriana , Pedrini Bill , Wüthrich Kurt , Luporini Pierangelo
Published: July 2009

Locations of negatively charged and aromatic residues in En and Er pheromones. See Molecular Cold‐adaptation: Comparative Analysis of Two Homologous Families of Psychrophilic and Mesophilic Signal Proteins of the Protozoan Ciliate, Euplotes by Alimenti et al., pp. 838–845
Protective mechanisms ofN‐acetyl‐cysteine against pyrrolizidine alkaloid clivorine‐induced hepatotoxicity
Authors: Ji Lili , Liu Tianyu , Chen Ying , Wang Zhengtao
Published: July 2009

Pyrrolizidine alkaloid (PA) clivorine, isolated from traditional Chinese medicinal plantLigularia hodgsoniiHook, has been shown to induce apoptosis in hepatocytes via mitochondrial‐mediated apoptotic pathway in our previous research. The present study was designed to observe the protection ofN‐acetyl‐cysteine (NAC) on clivorine‐induced hepatocytes apoptosis. Our results showed that 5 mM NAC significantly reversed clivorine‐induced cytotoxicity via MTT and Trypan Blue staining assay. DNA apoptotic fragmentation analysis and Western‐blot results showed that NAC decreased clivorine‐induced apoptotic DNA ladder and caspase‐3 activation. Further results showed that NAC inhibited clivorine‐induced Bcl‐xL decrease, mitochondrial cytochromecrelease and caspase‐9 activation. Intracellular glutathione (GSH) is an important ubiquitous redox‐active reducing sulfhydryl (SH) tripeptide, and our results showed that clivorine (50 µM) decreased cellular GSH amounts and the ratio of GSH/GSSG in the time‐dependent manner, while 5 mM NAC obviously reversed this depletion. Further results showed that GSH synthesis inhibitor BSO augmented clivorine‐induced cytotoxicity, while exogenous GSH reversed its cytotoxicity on hepatocytes. Clivorine (50 µM) significantly induced cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Further results showed that 50 µM Clivorine decreased glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity and increased glutathioneStransferase (GST) activity, which are both GSH‐related antioxidant enzymes. Thioredoxin‐1 (Trx) is also a ubiquitous redox‐active reducing (SH) protein, and clivorine (50 µM) decreased cellular expression of Trx in a time‐dependent manner, while 5 mM NAC reversed this decrease. Taken together, our results demonstrate that the protection of NAC is major via maintaining cellular reduced environment and thus prevents clivorine‐induced mitochondrial‐mediated hepatocytes apoptosis. J. Cell. Biochem. 108: 424–432, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Radiation responses of cancer stem cells
Authors: Vlashi Erina , McBride William H. , Pajonk Frank
Published: July 2009

Recent experimental evidence indicates that many solid cancers have a hierarchical organization structure with a subpopulation of cancer stem cells (CSCs). The ability to identify CSCs prospectively now allows for testing the responses of CSCs to treatment modalities like radiation therapy. Initial studies have found CSCs in glioma and breast cancer relatively resistant to ionizing radiation and possible mechanisms behind this resistance have been explored. This review summarizes the landmark publications in this young field with an emphasis on the radiation responses of CSCs. The existence of CSCs in solid cancers place restrictions on the interpretation of many radiobiological observations, while explaining others. The fact that these cells may be a relatively quiescent subpopulation that are metabolically distinct from the other cells in the tumor has implications for both imaging and therapy of cancer. This is particularly true for biological targeting of cancer for enhanced radiotherapeutic benefit, which must consider whether the unique properties of this subpopulation allow it to avoid such therapies. J. Cell. Biochem. 108: 339–342, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Quantitative detection of PML‐RARα fusion transcript by real‐time PCR with a single primer pair
Authors: Takenokuchi Mariko , Nakamachi Yuji , Yoneda Keiko , Joo Kana , Kawano Seiji , Tatsumi Eiji , Saigo Katsuyasu , Kumagai Shunichi
Published: July 2009

Quantitative detection of minimal residual disease has prognostic value for some leukemias. Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) is characterized by the specific PML‐RARα fusion gene from t(15;17). Added to three PML‐RARα isoforms, alternative spliced forms of PML exons give rise to multiple isoforms even within a single patient. To date, multiple primer pairs for the detection of the various PML‐RARα transcripts have been designed, potentially generating some nonspecific amplification products. Here, we established a real‐time quantitative PCR (RQ‐PCR) strategy with a single primer pair using LightCycler (sp‐RQ‐PCR), which could simultaneously detect three isoforms with equal specificity and sensitivity as well as alternative spliced forms. Results obtained with sp‐RQ‐PCR for 39 samples from 15 APL patients and 31 non‐APL samples were compared with those with TaqMan™ assay with three primer pairs. In two of the APL samples, PML‐RARα was detected in the TM, but not in the sp‐RQ‐PCR or nested PCR. Furthermore, the sp‐RQ‐PCR showed no positive results for the 31 non‐APL samples, whereas the TM identified 13% (4/31) as positive. Electrophoresis detected some artifacts in the TM, which do not correspond to PML‐RARα. We conclude that our sp‐RQ‐PCR is specific enough to identify various forms of PML‐RARα and yields no false‐positive results. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 23:223–230, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Improvement of the newly developed latex agglutination test (Katex) for diagnosis of visceral lieshmaniasis
Authors: Hatam Gholam Reza , Ghatee Mohammad Amin , Hossini Seyed Mohammad Hossein , Sarkari Bahador
Published: July 2009

Introduction: Different methods are available for diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis (VL), among them the urine‐based antigen detection assay, latex agglutination test (Katex), is a recently developed one. The main drawback of the test is false‐positive reactivity in some of healthy individuals. The false positivity of the test can be removed by boiling the urine sample for 5 min before testing. In this study an attempt was made to improve Katex by removing unpleasant boiling process, which also decreases field applicability of the test.

Methods: False‐positive and true‐positive urine samples were collected from VL patients and healthy individuals. Both samples were then treated by reagents including, sodium dodecyl sulfate, trichloroacetic acid, dithiothreitol (DTT), sulphosalicylic acid and also heating at 56°C.

Results: Findings of this study showed that DTT pretreatment significantly reduced the rate of false‐positive reactivity of Katex where 73% of false‐positive urine samples changed to negative after DTT treatment. However, the DTT treatment reduced the rate of true positivity by 14%.

Conclusion: These data indicate that DTT can be used to eliminate nonspecific reactivity in the Katex. This will improve the performance of Katex and make it a more convenient and field applicable test. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 23:202–205, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Quantitative risk estimation for large for gestational age using the area under the 100‐g oral glucose tolerance test curve
Authors: Kim Sollip , Min Won‐Ki , Chun Sail , Lee Woochang , Chung Hee‐Jung , Lee Pil Ryang , Kim Ahm
Published: July 2009

We devised a complementary quantitative method for gestational diabetes (GDM) that uses the area under the curve (AUC) of the results of the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), and evaluated its efficacy in predicting neonates that would be large for gestational age (LGA). The study subjects were 648 pregnant women. The AUC–OGTT (concentration × time) was calculated from the 100‐g OGTT results. The incidence of LGA according to each range of the AUC–OGTT was estimated and odds ratios were analyzed using multiple logistic regression analysis.The incidence of LGA increased with the AUC–OGTT value and was 0% for AUC<300, 7.8% for 300–400, 14.9% for 400–500, 20.8% for 500–600, and 45.5% for ≥600. The odds ratio of LGA increased by approximately two‐fold with an increase of 100 in the AUC–OGTT. The results indicated that the AUC–OGTT can be used to quantify the risk of LGA in GDM. The AUC–OGTT could complement a diagnosis of GDM using conventional diagnostic criteria. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 23:231–236, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression of CD4+CD25highCD127low/− regulatory T cells in transitional cell carcinoma patients and its significance
Authors: Zhu Xi , Ma Lin‐Lin , Ye Tian
Published: July 2009

To evaluate the expressions of CD4+CD25highCD127low/− regulatory T cells (Tregs) in peripheral blood from patients with transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) in urinary system, we investigated the proportion of Treg population in CD4+ T from 93 patients with TCC, 38 with benign urinary diseases, and 37 healthy subjects by using flow cytometric analysis and analyzing different clinicopathologic characteristics and the changes before and after operation. We found that the proportion of Treg in peripheral blood from patients with TCC was significantly increased as compared with the othertwo groups. There was a strong correlation between the proportion of Treg and tumor recurrence, quantity, lymph node metastasis (P<0.01), as well as pathological stage; no correlation was found between the proportion of Treg and clinical TNM stage (P>0.05). The proportion of Treg was also different before and after operation (P<0.05). This suggest that CD4+CD25+CD127low/− regulatory T cells may be responsible for immune suppression in TCC patients. The resection of tumor can decrease the proportion of Treg in peripheral blood. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 23:197–201, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Age‐dependent pattern of connexin43 expression in testes of European bison (Bison bonasus, L.)
Authors: Hejmej Anna , Kopera Ilona , Kotula‐Balak Malgorzata , Giżejewski Zygmunt , Bilińska Barbara
Published: July 2009

Morphology and the expression of connexin43 (Cx43) was investigated in testes of immature, prepubertal, and adult European bison bulls by means of routine histology, immunohistochemistry, and Western blotting, respectively. Testes were collected from culled animals living in Bialowieza and Borecka Forests, Poland. Histological examination of testicular tissue of immature and prepubertal males revealed normal structure, whereas of adult individuals either normal testicular structure with advanced spermatogenesis or varying degrees of tubule and interstitial tissue abnormality were seen. Immunohistochemical studies revealed Cx43 signal mostly at Leydig cell membrane appositions. In testes of immature males heterogeneous staining was observed; its intensity markedly increased in prepubertal males reaching almost two times more intense staining in adults. Strong Cx43 signal between Leydig cells was also observed in testes with structural alterations; however, sporadically it was of weak linear pattern. In the tubules of the latter, the intensity of Cx43 staining was weak to moderate or it was even absent. Immunohistochemical qualitative analysis was confirmed by quantitative image analysis in which the staining intensity was expressed as relative optical density of diaminobenzidine deposits. Data from Western blot analyses confirmed the results obtained by immunohistochemistry; immunodetectable Cx43 protein as a band of 43 kDa was detected in all testes samples. Overall, the increase in Cx43 level in testes along the bison postnatal development may be capable of a better exchange of metabolites and coordinating Leydig cell activity during maturation. A relationship between homozygosity occurring in European bison and altered intercellular communication is suggested. J. Exp. Zool. 311A: 667–675, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Structure and function of the maxillary nephridium of Lithobius forficatus (Chilopoda, Pleurostigmophora)
Authors: Rosenberg Jörg , Sombke Andy , Hilken Gero
Published: July 2009

Notostigmophora and Lithobiomorpha are the only Chilopoda that have maxillary nephridia. The ultrastructure of the maxillary nephridium in Scutigera coleoptrata was described, but only light microscopic descriptions of this excretory organ of Lithobius forficatus are available. Therefore, we studied the ultrastructural organization of the maxillary nephridium of L. forficatus. In this species, the paired maxillary nephridium lies lateral to the pleuroventral longitudinal musculature in the region of the 1st and 2nd maxilla. The nephridium is partitioned in three compartments: a wide sacculus and a nephridial canal formed by a sac‐like labyrinth and a bean‐like utriculus. The sacculus opens with two different openings to the labyrinth. The labyrinth and the utriculus are connected by a short canal. Each nephridium opens to the exterior by two conducting canals. The lumen of the sacculus is lined by podocytes. The nephridial canal is formed by a high‐prismatic transport epithelium with a wide microvillar border and a high basal labyrinth. Only the epithelium of the utriculus is covered by a cuticle. Here, we compare the maxillary nephridia of L. forficatus (Pleurostigmophora) with that of Scutigera coleoptrata (Notostigmophora) in regard to their functional morphology, the mode of life of these species, and their excretory products. J. Morphol. 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
HIV‐1 IN alternative molecular recognition of DNA induced by raltegravir resistance mutations
Authors: Mouscadet Jean‐François , Arora Rohit , André Joseph , Lambry Jean‐Christophe , Delelis Olivier , Malet Isabelle , Marcelin Anne‐Geneviève , Calvez Vincent , Tchertanov Luba
Published: July 2009

Virologic failure during treatment with raltegravir, the first effective drug targeting HIV integrase, is associated with two exclusive pathways involving either Q148H/R/K, G140S/A or N155H mutations. We carried out a detailed analysis of the molecular and structural effects of these mutations. We observed no topological change in the integrase core domain, with conservation of a newly identified Ω‐shaped hairpin containing the Q148 residue, in particular. In contrast, the mutations greatly altered the specificity of DNA recognition by integrase. The native residues displayed a clear preference for adenine, whereas the mutant residues strongly favored pyrimidines. Raltegravir may bind to N155 and/or Q148 residues as an adenine bioisoster. This may account for the selected mutations impairing raltegravir binding while allowing alternative DNA recognition by integrase. This study opens up new opportunities for the design of integrase inhibitors active against raltegravir‐resistant viruses. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Epidemiologic risk profile of infection with different groups of human papillomaviruses
Authors: Chan Paul K.S. , Ho Wendy C.S. , Wong Martin C.S. , Chang Alexander R. , Chor Josette S.Y. , Yu Mei‐Yung
Published: July 2009

This study identified the age‐specific prevalence and epidemiologic risk profile for infection with different groups and species of human papillomaviruses (HPV). Structured interview and HPV testing were conducted for 2,604 Chinese women self‐referred for cervical screening. Independent risk factors for infection were identified by multiple logistic regressions. Overall, a major peak of HPV infection was observed at women aged 26–30 years, and a minor peak at 46–55 years. This pattern was observed for high‐risk, low‐risk, and alpha‐5/7/9 HPVs; but alpha‐3/6 HPVs showed peaks of similar magnitudes in young and older women. Independent risk factors for HPV infection (all types combined) included younger age (OR [95% CI] for >55 vs. ≤30 years = 0.22 [0.09–0.55]; 31‐45 vs. ≤ 30 years = 0.57 [0.33–0.99]), having ≥4 lifetime sexual partners (2.28 [1.06–4.88]), and smoking (2.24 [1.22–4.10]). Young age and smoking were the most consistent independent risk factors observed across different HPV groups. The risk profile for high‐risk HPV was similar to alpha‐5/7/9. Single‐type infection was associated with having more sexual partners, higher education level and oral contraception; whereas multiple‐type infection was associated with smoking. In conclusion, a U‐shaped age‐specific prevalence curve was observed for HPV infection overall, but with a different pattern for different HPV species. Different HPV groups showed variations in their risk profiles. These data are useful for formulating preventative strategy for HPV‐related diseases. Catch‐up vaccination program in Hong Kong should cover a wider age group as the first peak of infection occurred relatively late. J. Med. Virol. 81:1635–1644, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Neural stimulation does not mediate attenuated vascular response in ACL‐deficient knees: Potential role of local inflammatory mediators
Authors: Miller Daniel , Salo Paul , Hart David A. , Leonard Catherine , Mammoto Takeo , Bray Robert C.
Published: July 2009

Chronic inflammation associated with osteoarthritis (OA) alters normal responses and modifies the functionality of the articular vasculature. Altered responsiveness of the vasculature may be due to excessive neural activity associated with chronic pain and inflammation, or from the production of inflammatory mediators which induce vasodilation. Using laser speckle perfusion imaging (LSPI), blood flow to the medial collateral ligament (MCL) of adult rabbits was measured in denervated ACL transected knees (n = 6) and compared to unoperated control (n = 6) and 6‐week anterial cruciate ligament (ACL)‐transected knees (n = 6). Phenylephrine and neuropeptide Y were applied to the MCL vasculature in topical boluses of 100 µL (dose range 10−14 to 10−8 mol and 10−14 to 10−9 mol, respectively). Denervation diminished vasoconstrictive responsiveness to phenylephrine compared to both control and ACL‐transected knees. Denervation minimally enhanced vascular responses to neuropeptide Y (NPY) compared to ACL deficiency alone, which nevertheless remained significantly diminished from control responses. To evaluate the potential role of inflammatory dilators in the diminished contractile responses, phenylephrine was coadministered with histamine, substance P, and prostaglandin E2. High‐dose histamine, and low‐dose substance P and PGE2 were able to inhibit contractile responses in the MCL of control knees. Excessive neural input does not mediate diminished vasoconstrictive responses in the ACL transected knee; inflammatory mediators may play a role in the deficient vascular responsiveness of the ACL transected knee. © 2009 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 28:83–88, 2010
Geochemistry and extractable Fe and Al in cold‐temperature soils of northwestern Siberia
Authors: Mahaney William C. , Kalm Volli , Hancock Ronald G. V. , Michel Fred , Kapran Barbara
Published: July 2009

The concentrations of major, minor and trace elements in three Cryosols from northwestern Siberia were analysed to determine profiles of geochemical uniformity, element mobility and the release and build‐up of extractable Fe and Al. The scope of this study involves weathering processes over all or part of the Lateglacial to the Holocene Epoch (<10 ka) in a cold environment. Iron and Al extracts are investigated to elicit information regarding profile age and palaeoclimate. ‘Free’ iron (Fed) relative to total Fe increases in the Ah + Bw horizons compared with the lower horizons, where oxidation is weaker. Low total Fe reflects reworked felsic deltaic and shallow marine deposits from the Permian to the early Tertiary, thereafter emplaced by episodic flooding of glacial meltwater from the Arctic Urals and/or the Kara Sea Ice Sheet. Organically complexed Al (Alp), uniformly low in all soils, nevertheless shows trends indicating some downward movement, a rather unique occurrence in Arctic tundra soils. As indicated by the slow increase of oxihydrites, it may not be realistic to estimate the age of a profile by its physical characteristics. However, it appears possible to determine broad age ranges from the isotopic composition of water in soils. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.