bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A robust ratio metric method for analysis of Zap‐70 expression in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
Authors: Bakke Antony C. , Purtzer Zoe , Leis Jose , Huang James
Published: December 2005

Since Zap‐70 expression in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cells correlates with a lack of somatic mutation of the immunoglobulin variable heavy chain (IgVH) genes, it has been proposed as a surrogate marker for disease prognosis. However, published studies of Zap‐70 expression have used different commercial antibodies and analytic strategies. This study was undertaken to determine if any strategy was broadly applicable in a clinical flow cytometry laboratory.

Expression of Zap‐70 was determined in 37 CLL patients using four different commercial antibodies. T, NK, and CLL cells were identified by immunophenotyping along with Zap‐70 expression. Data was analyzed in terms of both percent of CLL cells expressing Zap‐70 and the ratio of Zap‐70 expression in CLL cells compared to that in T + NK cells.

Three Zap‐70 antibodies showed wide ranges of Zap‐70 expression as a percentage of tumor cells, while a fourth gave consistently elevated results. Comparing the percent Zap‐70 expression with any two antibodies gave poor correlations (r2 = 0.45–0.63). Our results indicated that the previous analytical strategies were not reproducible. A ratio metric is proposed, which gave better correlations (r2 as high as 0.95) and would allow separation of CLL patients with elevated or decreased Zap‐70 expression. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Flow‐cytometric analysis of reactive oxygen species in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with thyroid dysfunction
Authors: Sarkar Mita , Varshney Rajeev , Chopra Madhu , Sekhri Tarun , Adhikari Jawahar S. , Dwarakanath Bilikere S.
Published: December 2005

Background:

Thyroid hormones are major regulators of energy metabolism and increased levels of the hormones (hyperthyroidism) results in an increase in the metabolic rate. Thyroid dysfunction causing alteration in hormone secretion leads to perturbations in the metabolic status. The hypermetabolic state may cause increased generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to oxidative stress in these patients. This study was carried out to verify our proposition by measuring the ROS in the terminally differentiated cells like the peripheral blood mononuclear cells of the patients.

Methods:

Flow‐cytometric analysis of the ROS was carried out using 2′,7′ dichlorofluorescein diacetate in the isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells of the subjects.

Results:

ROS generation was found to be 3‐folds higher in hyperthyroids as compared with euthyroids and hypothyroids and this was not found to be gender specific.

Conclusions:

Hyperthyroidism results in ROS generation in patients, which can be detected flow cytometrically in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Hence, this could complement the other thyroid function tests facilitating the diagnosis and design of appropriate therapy. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Guidelines for improving the reproducibility of quantitative multiparameter immunofluorescence measurements by laser scanning cytometry on fixed cell suspensions from human solid tumors
Authors: Shackney Stanley , Emlet David R. , Pollice Agnese , Smith Charles , Brown Kathryn , Kociban Deborah
Published: December 2005

Background:

Laser scanning Cytometry (LSC) is a versatile technology that makes it possible to perform multiple measurements on individual cells and correlate them cell by cell with other cellular features. It would be highly desirable to be able to perform reproducible, quantitative, correlated cell‐based immunofluorescence studies on individual cells from human solid tumors. However, such studies can be challenging because of the presence of large numbers of cell aggregates and other confounding factors. Techniques have been developed to deal with cell aggregates in data sets collected by LSC. Experience has also been gained in addressing other key technical and methodological issues that can affect the reproducibility of such cell‐based immunofluorescence measurements.

Methods and results:

We describe practical aspects of cell sample collection, cell fixation and staining, protocols for performing multiparameter immunofluorescence measurements by LSC, use of controls and reference samples, and approaches to data analysis that we have found useful in improving the accuracy and reproducibility of LSC data obtained in human tumor samples. We provide examples of the potential advantages of LSC in examining quantitative aspects of cell‐based analysis. Improvements in the quality of cell‐based multiparameter immunofluorescence measurements make it possible to extract useful information from relatively small numbers of cells. This, in turn, permits the performance of multiple multicolor panels on each tumor sample. With links among the different panels that are provided by overlapping measurements, it is possible to develop increasingly more extensive profiles of intracellular expression of multiple proteins in clinical samples of human solid tumors. Examples of such linked panels of measurements are provided.

Conclusions:

Advances in methodology can improve cell‐based multiparameter immunofluorescence measurements on cell suspensions from human solid tumors by LSC for use in prognostic and predictive clinical applications. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Origin of the ultimobranchial body cyst: T/ebp/Nkx2.1 expression is required for development and fusion of the ultimobranchial body to the thyroid
Authors: Kusakabe Takashi , Hoshi Nobuo , Kimura Shioko
Published: December 2005

The ultimobranchial body (UBB) is an outpocketing of the fourth pharyngeal pouch that fuses with the thyroid diverticulum, giving rise to calcitonin‐producing C‐cells. In this study, we demonstrate that the UBB is composed of two types of cells: one expressing T/ebp/Nkx2.1 and the other expressing p63. The former cell type, accounting for a majority of the UBB, requires T/ebp/Nkx2.1 for their survival. In contrast, the p63‐positive cells, even in the absence of T/ebp/Nkx2.1 expression, can proliferate and give rise to a vesicular structure that is lined by a monolayer of p63‐negative cells, surrounded by a cluster and/or single layer of p63‐positive cells, displaying the basal/stem cell phenotype. T/ebp/Nkx2.1 haploinsufficiency causes abnormal fusion of the UBB with the thyroid diverticulum, which stays as a cluster of C‐cells around the vesicular structure, similar to the one observed in mice null for T/ebp/Nkx2.1 expression. These results demonstrate that T/ebp/Nkx2.1 plays a role in the survival of UBB cells, their dissemination into the thyroid diverticulum, and the formation of UBB‐derived vesicular structure. Developmental Dynamics 235:1300–1309, 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Erk1/2 signaling is required for Tgf‐β2–induced suture closure
Authors: Opperman Lynne A. , Fernandez Claudia R. , So Sarah , Rawlins Joseph T.
Published: December 2005

Transforming growth factors β (Tgf‐βs) act by means of Smad signaling pathways and may also interact with the mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathway. The hypothesis was tested that Erk1/2 signaling is required for Tgf‐β2–induced suture closure, by culturing embryonic mouse calvariae in the presence of Tgf‐β2 with or without Erk1/2 inhibitor PD98059 (PD). Suture widths were measured daily, and microdissected sutures and bones were homogenized and protein analyzed by Western blots. Tgf‐β2 induced narrowing of the sutures after 72 hr, an effect inhibited by treatment with PD. Erk1/2 and Egf but not Smad2/3 protein expression was up‐regulated by Tgf‐β2 calvarial tissues at 72 hr. PD inhibited endogenous and Tgf‐β2–stimulated Erk1/2 protein as well as Tgf‐β2–stimulated Egf, but increased Smad2/3 protein expression. In tissues harvested 0, 15, and 30 min after exposure to Tgf‐β2, Erk1/2 phosphorylation was up‐regulated after 15 min, an effect abrogated by the simultaneous addition of PD. In summary, Tgf‐β2 stimulated Erk1/2 phosphorylation and induced Egf and Erk1/2 expression, associated with suture closure after 72 hr. Blocking Erk1/2 activity with PD inhibited these effects but increased Smad2/3 expression. We postulate that Tgf‐β2 regulates suture closure directly by means of phosphorylation of Erk1/2 and indirectly by up‐regulating Erk1/2, a substrate for Fgf receptor signaling required for Fgf induction of premature suture obliteration. Developmental Dynamics 235:1292–1299, 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Electronic structures of 3d‐metal mononitrides
Authors: Wu Zhijian
Published: December 2005

Bond distances, vibrational frequencies, electron affinities, ionization potentials, and dissociation energies of the title molecules in neutral, positively, and negatively charged ions were studied by use of density functional methods B3LYP, BLYP, BHLYP, BPW91, and B3PW91. The calculated results are compared with experiments and previous theoretical studies. It was found that the calculated properties are highly dependent on the functionals employed, in particular for the dissociation energy and vibrational frequency. For neutral species, pure density functional methods BLYP and BPW91 have relatively good performance in reproducing the experimental bond distance and vibrational frequency. For cations, hybrid exchange functional methods B3LYP and B3PW91 are good in predicting the dissociation energy. For both neutral and charged species, BHLYP tends to give smaller dissociation energy. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem 27: 267–276, 2006
Cranial neural crest cell migration in cockatiel Nymphicus hollandicus (Aves: Psittaciformes)
Authors: Tokita Masayoshi
Published: December 2005

Parrots have developed unique jaw muscles in their evolutionary history. The M. pseudomasseter, which completely covers the lateral side of the jugal bar, is regarded as a jaw muscle unique to parrots. In a previous study, I presented a hypothesis on the relevance of modifications in the regulation of cranial neural crest cell (NCC) development to the generation of this novel jaw muscle based on histological analyses (Tokita [2004] J Morphol 259:69–81). In the present study, I investigated distribution and migration patterns of cranial neural crest cells (NCCs) through parrot embryogenesis with immunohistochemical techniques to further understand the role of cranial NCCs in the evolution of the M. pseudomasseter, and to provide new information on the relative plasticity in cranial NCC migration at early stages of avian development. The basic nature of cranial NCC development was mostly conserved between chick and parrot. In both, cranial NCCs migrated from the dorsal tip of the neural tube in a ventral direction. Three major populations were identified in their cranial NCCs. Migration pathways of these cells were almost identical between chick and parrot. The principal difference was seen in the relative timing of cranial NCC migration. In the parrot, cranial NCC migration into the first pharyngeal arch was more advanced than in the chick at early stages of development. Such a temporal shift in cranial NCC migration might influence architectural patterning of parrot jaw muscles that generates new muscle like M. pseudomasseter. J. Morphol. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Scaling of body frontal area and body width in birds
Authors: Nudds R.L. , Rayner J.M.V.
Published: December 2005

By analyzing a homogenous dataset we show, in contradiction to a previous study, that the scaling of body frontal area (Sb) with body mass (mb) does not differ between passerine and nonpasserine birds. It is likely that comparison of data collected from live passerines with data collected from frozen nonpasserines had led to the incorrect conclusion that the scaling of Sb varied between the taxa. We suggest that body dimensions collected from frozen specimens, or specimens stored in alcohol, are not applicable to live birds, and that both the current equations presented in the literature for predicting Sb from mb may lead to inaccurate estimates. Using data from preserved specimens, we found that Sb scales isometrically with mb (Sb ∝ mb0.66), and therefore we found no evidence for larger birds being more streamlined than smaller birds. Sb scales with negative allometry against wingspan (b), however, and b scales with positive allometry against mb, so larger birds have smaller Sb relative to b. In addition, it appears that dorsoventral flattening of the body is a general characteristic of bird's bodies but that it is more pronounced in larger birds, suggesting perhaps a function in terms of increased lift during forward flight. It appears that bird's bodies obey the surface‐to‐area geometric scaling law, but bird body shape may vary in relation to aerodynamic function. We suggest that a large‐scale study, simultaneously measuring Sb and mb in live passerines and nonpasserines, is required to improve the predictive power of Sb upon mb scaling equations, which play a key role in the estimation of mechanical power consumption in flight in birds. Furthermore, the relations between bird body shape and axial skeleton dimensions, with reference to aerodynamic adaptation, warrant further investigation. J. Morphol. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Causes of mechanically induced collagen damage in articular cartilage
Authors: Wilson Wouter , van Burken Christine , van Donkelaar Corrinus , Buma Pieter , van Rietbergen Bert , Huiskes Rik
Published: December 2005

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a multifactorial disease, associated with articular cartilage degeneration and eventually joint destruction. The phases of the disease have been described in detail, and mechanical factors play an important role in the initiation of OA, but many questions remain about its etiology. Swelling of cartilage, one of the earliest signs of damage, is proportional to the amount of collagen damage. This strongly suggests that damage to the collagen network is an early event in cartilage degeneration. The goal of this study was to determine the mechanical cause of early collagen damage in articular cartilage after mechanical overloading. Both the shear strain along the fibrils and the maximum fibril strains were evaluated as possible candidates for causing collagen damage. This evaluation was done by comparing the locations of maximum shear and tensile strains with the locations of initial collagen damage after mechanical overloading in bovine explants as found using antibodies directed against denatured type II collagen (Col2‐3/4M). Collagen damage could be initiated by excessive shear strains along the collagen fibrils, and by excessive fibrils strains. The locations of collagen damage after mechanical overloading were highly dependent on the cartilage thickness, with thinner cartilage being more susceptible to damage than thicker samples. © 2005 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res
Variation in the content of glucosinolates, hydroxycinnamic acids, carotenoids, total antioxidant capacity and low‐molecular‐weight carbohydrates in Brassica vegetables
Authors: Nilsson Jessica , Olsson Kerstin , Engqvist Gabriele , Ekvall Jimmy , Olsson Marie , Nyman Margareta , Åkesson Björn
Published: December 2005

Bioactive compounds were investigated in genotypes (cauliflower 10, white cabbage 10, curly kale 1) and plant parts of the three crops. The content of most of the major glucosinolates glucobrassicin, sinigrin and glucoiberin differed significantly between cultivars. Samples harvested in 2000 had higher amounts of several glucosinolates than samples from 1999. Within cauliflower the buds of the floret had 1.5 to 2.5‐fold higher concentration of glucobrassicin and 4‐methoxyglucobrassicin than the stalk. In white cabbage several glucosinolates had their highest content in the outer leaves (up to 2‐fold higher). Upper leaves of curly kale contained 5‐fold more of total glucosinolates than lower leaves. Chlorogenic acid was the dominating hydroxycinnamate in curly kale, which also contained at least ten times more of carotenoids (mainly lutein) than white cabbage. Total antioxidant capacity (TAC) assayed with the FRAP method was 0.76 (0.06) µmol/g fw (mean (SD)) in water‐soluble and 0.32 (0.04) in water‐insoluble extracts of cauliflower which was 62–68% higher than in white cabbage. Curly kale contained 6.4 and 6.1 µmol/g fw TAC in water‐soluble and water‐insoluble extracts. TAC did not differ between plant parts. Progoitrin and 4‐hydroxyglucobrassicin were correlated to water‐soluble TAC in white cabbage, probably reflecting a variation in other compounds. Cauliflower contained less glucose, fructose and sorbitol but more sucrose than white cabbage. Curly kale had lower contents of glucose (∼2 times), fructose (∼4–5 times) and sucrose (20 and 36 times, respectively) than cauliflower and white cabbage, while inositol was only found in curly kale. Storage of white cabbage reduced the amount of sorbitol and sucrose. The study shows that cultivar, plant part and storage affect the content of bioactive compounds in Brassica vegetables. The variation between years, as in cauliflower, is due to environmental factors. Since the cultivar ranking order was rather stable for several components the data could provide a basis for the selection of cultivars optimised for valuable health components for fresh market consumption. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Effects of rosemary and green tea extracts on frozen surimi gels fortified with omega‐3 fatty acids
Authors: Pérez‐Mateos Miriam , Lanier Tyre C , Boyd Leon C
Published: December 2005

Two different sources of omega‐3 fatty acids (fish oil concentrate and menhaden oil) with or without the addition of natural antioxidants (rosemary and green tea) were incorporated into surimi gels at equivalent levels and examined for changes in sensory and physical properties and resistance to oxidation during 9 months of frozen storage. Gels with menhaden oil showed higher acceptance than gels with fish oil concentrate, which displayed a fishy taste that was partially masked by natural antioxidants. Formation of volatile compounds was similar in all samples. Upon heating to form the gel, there was a ca 20–25% decrease in the relative polyene index of the control containing no rosemary or green tea extract. Formulations with menhaden oil containing green tea and rosemary were more stable immediately after cooking; however, a slight pro‐oxidant effect occurred during storage. Omega‐3 fortified gels were whiter than gels with no added oil. Rosemary and green tea extracts increased yellowness (b*) and redness (a*), respectively. Strength increased in all formulations during frozen storage. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Lycopene content and colour of ripening tomatoes as affected by environmental conditions
Authors: Brandt Sára , Pék Zoltán , Barna Éva , Lugasi Andrea , Helyes Lajos
Published: December 2005

Tomatoes may have a great impact in the prevention of some types of cancer. This protective effect has been attributed to lycopene. The biosynthesis of lycopene is affected by environmental conditions. If the temperature of the fruits exceeds 30 °C, the synthesis of lycopene is inhibited. Strong direct radiation on fruits (∼2990 µmol m−2 s−1 for 1.5–4 h) is harmful. In 2002, we investigated the effect of temperature and photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) on lycopene content. Fruit samples were harvested three times during the growing phase. The average lycopene content of harvested fruits, picked on 18 June 2002, reached 64.9 mg kg−1 of fresh tomato. The fruits gathered on 25 June 2002 contained on average only 35.5 mg of lycopene per kilogram. The average lycopene content from the third harvest (on 9 July 2002) was 68.9 mg kg−1. The values of PAR varied between 150 and 415 µmol m−2 s−1, so they did not exceed the critical value. The average temperature preceding the second harvest was the highest (28–32 °C) and the maximum temperature ranged between 40 and 43 °C. This prolonged, extremely high temperature may have caused the low lycopene level in the second harvest. The lycopene content of six ripeness stages, from green to deep red stage, was measured in 2002 and 2003. The accumulation of lycopene accelerates from the pink stage and there is a high correlation (R2 = 0.92) between lycopene content and colour values (a*/b*). The higher the ratio of a*/b*, the higher was the lycopene content. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
An overview on the development of a bio‐artificial pancreas as a treatment of insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus
Authors: Silva Ana Isabel , de Matos António Norton , Brons I. Gabrielle , Mateus Marília
Published: December 2005

This paper presents the concept and most of the research undertaken all over the world for the development of a bio‐artificial pancreas (BAP) device over the last 30 years. The devices studied, meant to mimic the insulin secretion of the natural organ, were diverse and have been reviewed. Allogeneic or xenogeneic cells or cell clusters have been separated from the host's immune system by synthetic biocompatible semipermeable membranes to prevent the need, of the host, for immune‐suppressing regimens. The biocompatible polymer used as a barrier and its intrinsic characteristics, the cell immobilization or suspension media, the existence or not of co‐immobilized molecules or cells, the number of devices used and the implantation site, were addressed. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Med Res Rev
Velocity‐selective RF pulses in MRI
Authors: de Rochefort Ludovic , Maître Xavier , Bittoun Jacques , Durand Emmanuel
Published: December 2005

A family of velocity‐selective pulses consisting of a series of RF hard pulses followed by bipolar gradients was designed. The succession of required pulses was deduced using a k‐space approach within a small tip‐angle approximation. Fourier transform of the desired velocity excitation determined the flip‐angle series, and the corresponding position in the generalized k‐space identified the bipolar‐gradient first moments. Spins from any velocity class can be selected. To illustrate this approach we designed and experimentally tested a velocity‐slice selection that is analogous to standard spatial‐slice selection but involves excitation of spins moving at a chosen velocity (velocity‐slice center) and within a given interval (velocity‐slice thickness). The assumed approximation does not limit the design to small angles, because velocity selection still holds for angles up to 90°. Velocity slices were experimentally selected, centered on velocities ranging from −1 m s−1 to 1 m s−1 with a velocity‐slice thickness of 0.4 m s−1. The experimental velocity‐slice profile was assessed and the flow was quantified. Magn Reson Med, 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
An EOQ model with multiple suppliers and random capacity
Authors: Erdem Asli Sencer , Fadilog̃lu Mehmet Murat , Özekici Süleyman
Published: December 2005

We consider an EOQ model with multiple suppliers that have random capacities, which leads to uncertain yield in orders. A given order is fully received from a supplier if the order quantity is less than the supplier's capacity; otherwise, the quantity received is equal to the available capacity. The optimal order quantities for the suppliers can be obtained as the unique solution of an implicit set of equations in which the expected unsatisfied order is the same for each supplier. Further characterizations and properties are obtained for the uniform and exponential capacity cases with discussions on the issues related to diversification among suppliers. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2006
Distributed delay constrained multicast routing algorithm with efficient fault recovery
Authors: Ural Hasan , Zhu Keqin
Published: December 2005

Existing distributed delay constrained multicast routing algorithms construct a multicast tree in a sequential fashion and need to be restarted when failures occur during the multicast tree construction phase or during an on‐going multicast session. This article proposes an efficient distributed delay constrained multicast routing algorithm that constructs a multicast tree in a concurrent fashion by taking advantage of the concurrency in the underlying distributed computation. The proposed algorithm has a message complexity of O(mn) and time complexity of O(n) in the worst case, wheremis the number of destinations andnis the number of nodes in the network. It constructs multicast trees with the same tree costs as the ones constructed by well‐known algorithms such as DKPP and DSHP while utilizing 409 to 1734 times fewer messages and 56 to 364 times less time than these algorithms under comparable success rate ratios. The proposed algorithm has been augmented with a fault recovery mechanism that efficiently constructs a multicast tree when failures occur during the tree construction phase and recovers from any failure in the multicast tree during an on‐going multicast session without interrupting the running traffic on the unaffected portion of the tree. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, Vol. 47(1), 37–51 2006
Exact methods based on node‐routing formulations for undirected arc‐routing problems
Authors: Baldacci R. , Maniezzo V.
Published: December 2005

This article proposes a new transformation of undirected arc‐routing problems into equivalent node‐routing problems, with emphasis on the transformation of Capacitated Arc Routing Problems (CARP) into Capacitated Vehicle Routing Problems (CVRP). For this last case, an analogue transformation has already been proposed in Pearn et al., where each required CARP edge is mapped onto a triplet of CVRP nodes. In our case, only two CVRP nodes are needed for every CARP required edge. The transformed instances have a structure and a dimension that make most CARP benchmarks solvable by state of the art CVRP techniques. We thus propose a general purpose transformation of arc into node‐routing problems and new results on lower bounds and exact methods for CARP instances. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, Vol. 47(1), 52–60 2006
The k‐degree Cayley graph and its topological properties
Authors: Hsieh Sun‐Yuan , Hsiao Tien‐Te
Published: December 2005

This article introduces a new family of Cayley graphs, called k‐degree Cayley graphs, for building interconnection networks. The k‐degree Cayley graph possesses many valuable topological properties, such as regularity with degree k, logarithmic diameter, and maximal fault tolerance. We present an optimal shortest path routing algorithm for the k‐degree Cayley graph. Cycle‐embedding and clique‐embedding are also discussed. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, Vol. 47(1), 26–36 2006
Numerical approximation of the three‐dimensional ocean primitive equations
Authors: Guo Daniel X.
Published: December 2005

In this article, we investigate the numerical approximation of the three‐dimensional ocean primitive equations (PEs), which was studied by Lions et al. We develop a new scheme for the PEs based on the fractional‐step method approximation, which is of second order (and can possibly be made of higher order) in time and reduces the core computation to a two‐dimensional problem. For the testing of the scheme, the numerical simulation for the ocean on a rectangular domain is presented. We focus on the ocean surface and study the nonlinear behavior of western boundary currents (WBCs), with particular emphasis on multiple equilibria—the so‐called double‐gyre phenomena. The wind stress on the ocean surface is the only force. The basic state of the ocean surface consists of two antisymmetric gyres when the wind stress is symmetric. By applying the scheme to the PEs, we are able to investigate most aspects of the ocean circulation. We will report them elsewhere. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq, 2006
Successful treatment with voriconazole of Aspergillus brain abscess in a boy with medulloblastoma
Authors: Stiefel M. , Reiß T. , Staege M.S. , Rengelshausen J. , Burhenne J. , Wawer A. , Foell J.L.
Published: December 2005

Invasive aspergillosis is an increasing problem in immuno‐incompetent patients after prolonged steroid therapy, cancer radio‐chemotherapy, and bone marrow or solid organ transplantation. Cerebral aspergillosis is a well‐described complication of the invasive aspergillosis but only in rare cases, the brain is the sole site of infection. Despite increasing availability of antifungal drugs, the prognosis of cerebral aspergillosis is poor. We report on an 11‐year‐old boy with medulloblastoma in the area of the fourth ventricle. Following tumor surgery and radio‐chemotherapy, several abscess‐like structures occurred in the operating field. After incomplete abscess, resection histology and culture confirmed a localized Aspergillus fumigatus infection. The initial treatment of the Aspergillus fumigatus infection with conventional amphotericin B failed, and treatment with the triazole voriconazole was started. Intravenous treatment with voriconazole resulted in a reduction of the Aspergillus fumigatus abscess. After switching to oral ambulatory therapy, the Aspergillus fumigatus abscess increased in size. To improve treatment, voriconazole dosage was adapted to reach drug concentrations in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) above the minimal fungicidal concentration and plasma specimens. During the concentration‐controlled voriconazole therapy for a period of 18 months, a complete response was achieved. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2007;49:203–207. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis and conformational behaviour of luminescently labelled poly[styrene‐graft‐(N‐isopropyl acrylamide)] copolymers
Authors: Chee Chong‐Kooi , Rimmer Stephen , Soutar Ian , Swanson Linda
Published: December 2005

The synthesis and characterization of poly(N‐isopropyl acrylamide) (PNIPAM), which has been grafted to polystyrene, are described. Despite the fact that these copolymers contain around 20 % of the hydrophobic monomer styrene, they still retain water solubility below 32 °C. Such observations imply that altering the polymer topography provides an alternate strategy for manipulation of the lower critical solution temperature (LCST). The fluorescence characteristics of the polarity probe, pyrene, have been used to provide information regarding the thermoresponsive behaviour of the grafted copolymer samples. On the basis of these measurements, a model is proposed which suggests that a hydrophobic styrene core exists at all temperatures between 5 and 60 °C, which is stabilized by a hydrophilic ‘corona’ formed by the PNIPAM grafts. The LCST marks a conformational ‘collapse’ of the grafts onto the styrene core, which results in the formation of a compact globular species. The fluorescence data also provide evidence that the PNIPAM graft chain‐length influences the nature of the globule. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Design and use of macromonomers as steric stabilizers for the synthesis of novel functional particles in dispersed media
Authors: Chambon Pierre , Chemtob Abraham , Cloutet Eric , Cramail Henri , Gibanel Sébastien , Gnanou Yves , Héroguez Valérie , Quéméner Damien , Radhakrishnan Bindushree
Published: December 2005

The synthesis of core–shell latex particles is discussed in this paper. Various macromonomers have been engineered and used as steric reactive stabilizers to render these particles surface active. Latexes of polystyrene, polynorbornene and polyurethane have been obtained in aqueous, organic and supercritical CO2dispersant media. The fields of application of these original materials are also discussed. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Perspectives on the use of the problem‐solving model from the viewpoint of a school psychologist, administrator, and teacher from a large midwest urban school district
Authors: Lau Matthew Y. , Sieler Jay D. , Muyskens Paul , Canter Andrea , VanKeuren Barbara , Marston Doug
Published: December 2005

The Minneapolis Public School System has been implementing an intervention‐based approach to special education placement. This Problem‐Solving Model (PSM) was designed to de‐emphasize the role of norm‐referenced tests and to provide early instructional interventions. The basic outline of the PSM is to define the problem, determine the best interventions to address this problem, implement interventions and monitor their effectiveness, and repeat the cycle as needed. In this article, we present a case study of a student moving through this process. We also discuss how movement toward a data‐based decision‐making process impacts the roles of school psychologists, administrators, and special education teachers. Common questions regarding the model are addressed, and tips for effective implementation of a problem‐solving model are outlined. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Psychol Schs 43: 117–127, 2006.
Differences in the allosteric modulation by phenytoin of the binding properties of the σ1 ligands [3H](+)‐pentazocine and [3H]NE‐100
Authors: Cobos Enrique J. , Lucena Gema , Baeyens José M. , Del Pozo Esperanza
Published: December 2005

The present study evaluated the effects of phenytoin (DPH) on the binding to synaptosomal fraction membranes from guinea pig brain of the prototypic sigma1 (σ1) receptor agonist [3H](+)‐pentazocine and the putative σ1 antagonist [3H]NE‐100. Equilibrium and binding kinetics studies were done. The order of affinity of 12 σ1 ligands for binding sites labeled with [3H](+)‐pentazocine correlated well with their order of affinity for sites labeled with [3H]NE‐100, suggesting that both radioligands label the same receptor. Phenytoin increased the binding of [3H](+)‐pentazocine, enhancing its affinity (KD value) for σ1 receptors and decreasing its dissociation rate from these receptors. The maximal number of receptors (Bmax value) labeled with [3H](+)‐pentazocine was not changed. In contrast, phenytoin decreased the specific binding and maximal number of receptors labeled with [3H]NE‐100, and increased its dissociation rate from σ1 receptors. The affinity of this radioligand for σ1 receptors was not modified. In conclusion, phenytoin behaved as a positive allosteric modulator on the binding of [3H](+)‐pentazocine, whereas it negatively modulated the binding of [3H]NE‐100. These results add evidence in favor of the use of phenytoin in vitro to distinguish between agonists and antagonists of σ1 receptors. Synapse 59:152–161, 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Solutions for the grid integration of wind farms—a survey
Authors: Bousseau Pierre , Fesquet Floriane , Belhomme Régine , Nguefeu Samuel , Thai Thanh Chau
Published: December 2005

This article presents a survey of different possible technical solutions for the grid integration of wind farms. These solutions concern the main problems encountered today and, whenever possible, examples of actual implementation in wind farm projects are given. More specifically the following types of solutions are discussed: choice of an appropriate wind turbine generator technology; solutions based on co‐ordinated wind farms and power system operation; reactive compensation and voltage control systems; fault ride‐through systems; energy storage systems; current limitation devices; directional protections; etc. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Short‐term wind forecasting using off‐site observations
Authors: Larson Kristin A. , Westrick Kenneth
Published: December 2005

Accurate wind energy forecasts can be an essential component for economic viability of a wind project. Timely and accurate short‐term (hours) forecasts can increase the electric grid efficiency and minimize ancillary or other firming requirements, ultimately resulting in reduced costs. This article investigates the use of off‐site observations, at distances up to 200 km from the wind farm, as predictors in statistical forecast techniques. In combination with on‐site and off‐site observations, fine‐scale numerical weather predictions can also be used to further increase forecast accuracy at these short forecast horizons. An example from the Pacific Northwest of the USA is described. It is shown that significant forecast improvements are feasible when using off‐site observations and/or mesoscale numerical weather predictions in statistical forecast algorithms. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Habitat‐specific responses in the flowering phenology and seed set of alpine plants to climate variation: implications for global‐change impacts
Authors: Kudo Gaku , Hirao Akira S.
Published: December 2005

The timing of the snowmelt is a crucial factor in determining the phenological schedule of alpine plants. A long‐term monitoring of snowmelt regimes in a Japanese alpine area revealed that the onset of the snowmelt season has been accelerated during the last 17 years in early snowmelt sites but that such a trend has not been detected in late snowmelt sites. This indicates that the global warming effect on the snowmelt pattern may be site‐specific. The flowering phenology of fellfield plants in an exposed wind‐blown habitat was consistent between an unusually warm year (1998) and a normal year (2001). In contrast, the flowering occurrence of snowbed plants varied greatly between the years depending on the snowmelt time. There was a large number of flowering species in the fellfield community from mid‐ to late to late June and from mid‐ to late July. The flowering peak of an early‐melt snowbed plant community was in the middle of the flowering season and that of a late‐melt snowbed community was in the early flowering season. These habitat‐specific phenological patterns were consistent between 1998 and 2001. The effects of the variation in flowering timing on seed‐set success were evaluated for an entomophilous snowbed herb, Peucedanum multivittatum, along the snowmelt gradient during a 5‐year period. When flowering occurred prior to early August, mean temperature during the flowering season positively influenced the seed set. When flowering occurred later than early August, however, the plants enjoyed high seed‐set success irrespective of temperature conditions if frost damage was absent. These observations are probably explained based on the availability of pollinators, which depends not only on ambient temperature but also on seasonal progress. These results suggest that the effects of climate change on biological interaction may vary depending on the specific habitat in the alpine ecosystem in which diverse snowmelt patterns create complicated seasonality for plants within a very localized area.
Host plant acceptance by the phytophagous mite Tetranychus kanzawai Kishida is affected by the availability of a refuge on the leaf surface
Authors: Oku Keiko , Yano Shuichi , Takafuji Akio
Published: December 2005

We used 11 wild plants to experimentally test the effects of leaf trichomes and leaf quality on host plant acceptance by a phytophagous spider mite, Tetranychus kanzawai, in the absence of predators. There was a positive correlation between leaf hair traits (height/density) and host plant acceptance. We used two model plants (Phaseolus vulgaris and Phaseolus lunatus; the former had higher and denser leaf hairs than the latter) to examine the effects of leaf hairs on the dispersal and fecundity of T. kanzawai in the presence of a predatory mite, Neoseiulus womersleyi. In the presence of N. womersleyi, significantly fewer T. kanzawai females dispersed from a P. vulgaris leaf than from a P. lunatus leaf. Moreover, in the presence of the predator the fecundity of T. kanzawai females on P. lunatus was significantly lower than on P. vulgaris, although in terms of host quality the two plants were equivalent. In the presence of N. womersleyi, T. kanzawai females on P. vulgaris spent more time on webs than those on P. lunatus. Moreover, webs seemed to be less accessible than leaf surfaces to the predator. These results suggest that leaf hairs provide a refuge for T. kanzawai adult females.
Blow-up and nonexistence of sign changing solutions to the Brezis–Nirenberg problem in dimension three
Authors: Ben Ayed Mohamed , El Mehdi Khalil , Pacella Filomena
Published: December 2005

In this paper we study low energy sign changing solutions of the critical exponent problem

(\mathrm{P}_{\lambda }):\:−\mathrm{\Delta }u = u^{5} + \lambda u

in

Ω

,

u = 0

on

∂Ω

, where

Ω

is a smooth bounded domain in

\mathbb{R}^{3}

and

λ

is a real positive parameter. We make a precise blow-up analysis of this kind of solutions and prove some comparison results among some limit values of the parameter

λ

which are related to the existence of positive or of sign changing solutions.

Dans cet article, nous étudions les solutions changeant de signe et à énergie minimale du problème avec exposant critique

(\mathrm{P}_{\lambda })\text{}:\:−\mathrm{\Delta }u = u^{5} + \lambda u

dans

Ω

,

u = 0

sur

∂Ω

, où

Ω

est un domaine borné et régulier de

\mathbb{R}^{3}

et

λ

est un paramètre réel strictement positif. Nous faisons une analyse précise du 'blow-up’ de ce type de solutions et nous prouvons des résultats de comparaisons pour certaines valeurs limites du paramètre

λ

qui sont liées à l'existence des solutions positives ou des solutions changeant de signe.
Expression of Musashi‐1 in the rat stomach and changes during mucosal injury and restitution
Authors: Nagata Hiroshi , Akiba Yasutada , Suzuki Hidekazu , Okano Hideyuki , Hibi Toshifumi
Published: December 2005

Musashi‐1 is involved in maintenance of neural stem cells. In the rat stomach, we found some cells in the luminal compartment of the mucosa that stained positively for Musashi‐1. These cells were distinct from other cells of epithelial lineage, except for parietal cells, and coexpressed HES5. The Musashi‐1‐positive cells exfoliated after damage, while Musashi‐1 expression in neck cells were upregulated, and proliferating cells diminished before reappearing and increasing in number thereafter. We conclude that a subpopulation of parietal cells acts as a source of Musashi‐1, which contributes to rapid re‐epithelization by restoration of stem cells and regulation of cell differentiation.
A novel ATP/ADP hydrolysis activity of hyperthermostable group II chaperonin in the presence of cobalt or manganese ion
Authors: Hongo Kunihiro , Hirai Hidenori , Uemura Chisato , Ono Shujiro , Tsunemi Junjiro , Higurashi Takashi , Mizobata Tomohiro , Kawata Yasushi
Published: December 2005

A novel ATPase activity that was strongly activated in the presence of either cobalt or manganese ion was discovered in the chaperonin from hyperthermophilic Pyrococcus furiosus (Pfu‐cpn). Surprisingly, a significant ADPase activity was also detected under the same conditions. A more extensive search revealed similar nucleotide hydrolysis activities in other thermostable chaperonins. Chaperonin activity, i.e., thermal stabilization and refolding of malate dehydrogenase from the guanidine‐hydrochloride unfolded state were also detected for Pfu‐cpn under the same conditions. We propose that the novel cobalt/manganese‐dependent ATP/ADPase activity may be a common trait of various thermostable chaperonins.
Differential β‐arrestin binding of AT1and AT2angiotensin receptors
Authors: Turu Gábor , Szidonya László , Gáborik Zsuzsanna , Buday László , Spät András , Clark Adrian J.L. , Hunyady László
Published: December 2005

Agonist stimulation of G protein‐coupled receptors causes receptor activation, phosphorylation, β‐arrestin binding and receptor internalization. Angiotensin II (AngII) causes rapid internalization of the AT1receptors, whereas AngII‐bound AT2receptors do not internalize. Although the activation of the rat AT1Areceptor with AngII causes translocation of β‐arrestin2 to the receptor, no association of this molecule with the AT2receptor can be detected after AngII treatment with confocal microscopy or bioluminescence resonance energy transfer. These data demonstrate that the two subtypes of angiotensin receptors have different mechanisms of regulation.
A caldesmon peptide activates smooth muscle via a mechanism similar to ERK‐mediated phosphorylation
Authors: Huang Renjian , Wang C.-L. Albert
Published: December 2005

Caldesmon (CaD) is thought to regulate smooth muscle contraction, because it binds actin and inhibits actomyosin interactions. A synthetic actin‐binding peptide (GS17C) corresponding to Gly666–Ser682 of chicken gizzard CaD has been shown to induce force development in permeabilized smooth muscle cells. The mechanism of GS17C's action remains unclear, although a structural effect was postulated. By photo‐crosslinking and fluorescence quenching experiments with a gizzard CaD fragment (H32K; Met563‐Pro771) and its mutants, we showed that GS17C indeed dissociated the C‐terminal region of H32K from actin, in a manner similar to extracellular signal‐regulated kinase‐mediated phosphorylation, thereby reversing the CaD‐imposed inhibition and enabling the actomyosin interaction.
Modulation of the antigen transport machinery TAP by friends and enemies
Authors: Abele Rupert , Tampé Robert
Published: December 2005

The transporter associated with antigen processing (TAP) is a key factor of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I antigen presentation pathway. This ABC transporter translocates peptides derived mainly from proteasomal degradation from the cytosol into the ER lumen for loading onto MHC class I molecules. Manifold mechanisms have evolved to regulate TAP activity. During infection, TAP expression is upregulated by interferon‐γ. Furthermore, the assembly and stability of the transport complex is promoted by various auxiliary factors. However, tumors and viruses have developed sophisticated strategies to escape the immune surveillance by suppressing TAP function. The activity of TAP can be impaired on the transcriptional or translational level, by enhanced degradation or by inhibition of peptide translocation. In this review, we briefly summarize existing data concerning the regulation of the TAP complex.
Differences in catalytic activity between rat testicular and ovarian carbonyl reductases are due to two amino acids
Authors: Sciotti Michel A. , Tam Steven , Wermuth Bendicht , Baker Michael E.
Published: December 2005

The sequences of rat testis carbonyl reductase (rCR1) and rat ovary carbonyl reductase (rCR2) are 98% identical, differing only at amino acids 140, 141, 143, 235 and 238. Despite such strong sequence identity, we find that rCR1 and rCR2 have different catalytic constants for metabolism of menadione and 4‐benzoyl‐pyridine. Compared to rCR1, rCR2 has a 20‐fold lower K
m and 5‐fold lower k
cat towards menadione and a 7‐fold lower K
m and 7‐fold lower k
cat towards 4‐benzoyl‐pyridine. We constructed hybrids of rCR1 and rCR2 that were changed at either residues 140, 141 and 143 or residues 235 and 238. rCR1 with residues 140, 141 and 143 of rCR2 has similar catalytic efficiency for menadione and 4‐benzoyl‐pyridine as rCR1. rCR1 with Thr‐235 and Glu‐238 of rCR2 has the catalytic constants of rCR2, indicating that it is this part of rCR2 that contributes to its lower K
m for menadione and 4‐benzoyl‐pyridine. Comparisons of three‐dimensional models of rCR1 and rCR2 show how Thr‐235 and Glu‐238 stabilize rCR2 binding of NADPH and menadione.