bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monolithic silica capillary columns having immobilized lectins and surface bound polar functionalities for lectin affinity and normal phase nano‐LC and CEC of glycoconjugates, respectively
Authors: Zhong Hengwen , El Rassi Ziad
Published: April 2009

In this report, monolithic silica‐based capillary columns were produced by the sol–gel process and subsequently silanized with γ‐glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane to form on the surface of the monolith a reactive γ‐glycidoxypropylsilyl sublayer to which an interactive top layer can be covalently attached. The interactive top layer consisted of either an immobilized lectin or polar cyano functions to perform lectin affinity chromatography (LAC) of glycoproteins or normal phase chromatography (NPC) of glycans, respectively. Two lectins were immobilized, namely Con A and wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) due to their utility in LAC of a wide range of glycoconjugates. On the other hand, 1H‐imidazole‐4,5‐dicarbonitrile was covalently attached to the silica monolith to yield polar silica monolith referred to as 2CN–OH monolith. The two lectin monolithic columns were evaluated in Nano‐LC with standard glycoproteins over a wide range of conditions and proved useful in capturing the glycoforms bearing the pertinent saccharidic motifs for interaction with the given lectin. The 2CN–OH monolithic columns were effective in the profiling of glycans derived from glycoproteins in both NP‐CEC and NP‐Nano‐LC with NP‐CEC offering enhanced separation when compared to NP‐Nano‐LC.
SwissPIT: An workflow‐based platform for analyzing tandem‐MS spectra using the Grid
Authors: Quandt Andreas , Masselot Alexandre , Hernandez Patricia , Hernandez Céline , Maffioletti Sergio , Appel Ron D. , Lisacek Frederique
Published: April 2009

The identification and characterization of peptides from MS/MS data represents a critical aspect of proteomics. It has been the subject of extensive research in bioinformatics resulting in the generation of a fair number of identification software tools. Most often, only one program with a specific and unvarying set of parameters is selected for identifying proteins. Hence, a significant proportion of the experimental spectra do not match the peptide sequences in the screened database due to inappropriate parameters or scoring schemes. The Swiss protein identification toolbox (swissPIT) project provides the scientific community with an expandable multitool platform for automated in‐depth analysis of MS data also able to handle data from high‐throughput experiments. With swissPIT many problems have been solved: The missing standards for input and output formats (A), creation of analysis workflows (B), unified result visualization (C), and simplicity of the user interface (D). Currently, swissPIT supports four different programs implementing two different search strategies to identify MS/MS spectra. Conceived to handle the calculation‐intensive needs of each of the programs, swissPIT uses the distributed resources of a Swiss‐wide computer Grid (http://www.swing‐grid.ch).
Experimental annotation of channel catfish virus by probabilistic proteogenomic mapping
Authors: Kunec Dusan , Nanduri Bindu , Burgess Shane C.
Published: April 2009

Experimental identification of expressed proteins by proteomics constitutes the most reliable approach to identify genomic location and structure of protein‐coding genes and substantially complements computational genome annotation. Channel catfish herpesvirus (CCV) is a simple comparative model for understanding herpesvirus biology and the evolution of the Herpesviridae. The canonical CCV genome has 76 predicted ORF and only 12 of these have been confirmed experimentally. We describe a modification of a statistical method, which assigns significance measures, q‐values, to peptide identifications based on 2‐D LC ESI MS/MS, real‐decoy database searches and SEQUEST XCorr and ΔCn scores. We used this approach to identify CCV proteins expressed during its replication in cell culture, to determine protein composition of mature virions and, consequently, to refine the canonical CCV genome annotation. To complement trypsin, we used partial proteinase K digestion, which yielded greater proteome coverage. At FDR <5%, for peptide identifications, we identified 25/76 previously predicted ORF using trypsin and 31/76 using proteinase K. Furthermore, we identified 17 novel protein‐coding regions (7 potential ATG‐initiated ORF). Most of these novel ORF encode small proteins (<100 amino acids). Directed, strand‐specific reverse transcription real‐time PCR confirmed RNA expression from 6/7 novel ATG‐initiated ORF investigated.
Quantum dots laser desorption/ionization MS: multifunctional CdSe quantum dots as the matrix, concentrating probes and acceleration for microwave enzymatic digestion for peptide analysis and high resolution detection of proteins in a linear MALDI‐TOF MS
Authors: Shrivas Kamlesh , Kailasa Suresh Kumar , Wu Hui‐Fen
Published: April 2009

We report the first use of functionalized cadmium selinide quantum dots (CdSe QDs) with 11‐mercaptoundecanoic acid (MUA) as the matrix for the selective ionization of proteins with high resolution and rapid analysis of amino acids and peptides by using quantum dots laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (QDLDI‐MS). The mercaptocarboxylic groups of CdSe QDs have been known to be an effective affinity probe to interact with the biomolecules at low abundance level. Using these QDs as the matrix, sensitivity of the method was greatly enhanced and the LOQ of peptides was found to be 100 pM with RSD <10%. The QDLDI‐MS is capable for the selective ionization of insulin, lysozyme and myoglobin with high resolution, which is not observed with sinapic acid (SA) as the matrix. The QDLDI‐MS technique offers many advantages for the analysis of amino acids, peptides and proteins with regard to simplicity, rapidity, sensitivity and the mass spectra were generated in the presence of signal suppressors such as urea and Trition X‐100. In addition, the CdSe QDs have been successfully applied as preconcentrating probes for the analysis of digested peptides in lysozyme from chicken egg white by microwave‐assisted enzymatic digestion. This indicates that the QDs are able to absorb radiation from microwave and their ability to trap peptides from microwave‐digested lysozyme. These results demonstrate that the CdSe QDs are promising candidates for the selective ionization of the analytes with an accurate platform to the rapid screening of biomolecules.
Quantitative detection of changes in the leaf‐mesophyll tonoplast proteome in dependency of a cadmium exposure of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) plants
Authors: Schneider Thomas , Schellenberg Maja , Meyer Stefan , Keller Felix , Gehrig Peter , Riedel Kathrin , Lee Youngsook , Eberl Leo , Martinoia Enrico
Published: April 2009

Although the vacuole is the most important final store for toxic heavy metals like cadmium (Cd2+), our knowledge on how they are transported into the vacuole is still insufficient. It has been suggested that Cd2+ can be transported as phytochelatin‐Cd2+ by an unknown ABC transporter or in exchange with protons by cation/proton exchanger (CAX) transporters. To unravel the contribution of vacuolar transporters to Cd2+ detoxification, a quantitative proteomics approach was performed. Highly purified vacuoles were isolated from barley plants grown under minus, low (20 μM), and high (200 μM) Cd2+ conditions and protein levels of the obtained tonoplast samples were analyzed using isobaric tag for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ™). Although 56 vacuolar transporter proteins were identified, only a few were differentially expressed. Under low‐Cd2+ conditions, an inorganic pyrophosphatase and a γ‐tonoplast intrinsic protein (γ‐TIP) were up‐regulated, indicating changes in energization and water fluxes. In addition, the protein ratio of a CAX1a and a natural resistance‐associated macrophage protein (NRAMP), responsible for vacuolar Fe2+ export was increased. CAX1a might play a role in vacuolar Cd2+ transport. An increase in NRAMP activity leads to a higher cytosolic Fe2+ concentration, which may prevent the exchange of Fe2+ by toxic Cd2+. Additionally, an ABC transporter homolog to AtMRP3 showed up‐regulation. Under high Cd2+ conditions, the plant response was more specific. Only a protein homologous to AtMRP3 that showed already a response under low Cd2+ conditions, was up‐regulated. Interestingly, AtMRP3 is able to partially rescue a Cd2+‐sensitive yeast mutant. The identified transporters are good candidates for further investigation of their roles in Cd2+ detoxification.
Complementary and alternative medicine inclusion in physical therapist education in the United States
Authors: Geigle Paula Richley , Galantino Mary Lou
Published: April 2009

Purpose. The purpose of this study was to determine the current prevalence, and at what level, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) content is included in physical therapist (PT) education in the United States. This survey study provides self‐report data regarding reasons why faculty members choose to include or not include CAM into programme content. Background/Significance. This study investigates the current prevalence of CAM content, and what level of inclusion (minimal, moderate, advanced) in PT curricula will assist programmes as they modify existing curricula and develop new programmes. Subjects. All 196 US‐accredited programmes were included in our survey. Materials and Methods. An IRB‐approved (Investigational Review Board), pilot‐tested, two‐page survey was emailed to all programme chairpersons of accredited PT programmes. A hard copy survey was mailed to non‐responding programmes. Analyses. Returned surveys were analyzed descriptively to characterize the data shape, tendency and variability. Data were summarized in a frequency distribution and graphically depicted in a histogram for each category. In addition, qualitative analysis was completed for the explanatory data. Results. Forty‐seven per cent (92) of all accredited PT programmes (196) responded. Most commonly included CAM areas were: manipulative and body‐based methods, alternative medical systems and biologically based therapies. Most frequent responses to limitations to including CAM in PT curriculum were: limited curriculum time, lack of evidence supporting CAM practices and trouble locating qualified CAM presenters. Conclusions. This survey suggests the following: CAM techniques are included in entry‐level PT education in the United States; the majority of these techniques are offered at the minimum or exposure level; manipulative and body‐based methods, alternative medical systems and biologically based therapies are the most frequently included CAM techniques. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Temperature variation of radiative recombination rate of electron‐hole pairs responsible for defect photoluminescence in a‐Si:H
Authors: Ogihara C. , Morigaki K.
Published: April 2009

Lifetime distribution and characteristic lifetime of the defect photoluminescence (PL) in a‐Si:H have been obtained by means of frequency resolved spectroscopy at various temperatures in the range of 10‐200 K. Temperature variation of the radiative recombination rate has been obtained from the intensities and the characteristic lifetimes. The results obtained for the a‐Si:H films as grown and after prolonged illumination have been compared. Thermal quenching of the defect PL becomes more significant after illumination. However the decrease of lifetime with raising temperature becomes less significant after illumination. Increase of the radiative recombination rate with increasing temperature, which is significantly observed above 100 K, becomes less significant after the illumination, indicating that the illumination causes the increase of the density of strongly localised tail states. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
High temperature measurement using luminescence of Pr3+ doped YAG and Ho3+ doped CaF2
Authors: Kamma Indumathi , Kommidi Praveena , Reddy B. Rami
Published: April 2009

Calibration plots have been developed for temperature sensing by measuring luminescence from Pr3+ doped YAG and Ho3+ doped CaF2. 1D2 lifetime of Pr3+ doped YAG decreased linearly from 187 μs to 110 μs as the sample temperature was changed from 20 °C to 1000 °C. 5F5 lifetime of Ho3+ doped CaF2 varied linearly from 380 μs to 188 μs as the sample temperature was changed from 20 °C to 1000 °C. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Spectrally‐resolved transient grating signals from β‐carotene in benzene solution
Authors: Sugisaki Mitsuru , Fujiwara Masazumi , Nair Selvakumar V. , Ruda Harry E. , Cogdell Richard J. , Hashimoto Hideki
Published: April 2009

The vibronic coherence of β‐carotene in benzene has been investigated by means of transient grating spectroscopy using sub 20‐fs optical pulses. The coherent oscillations with a period of a few tens of femtoseconds have been clearly observed, which reflect the C‐C and C=C stretching modes and the C‐CH3 rocking mode of the polyene backbone. We found that the signal is very sensitive to the excitation wavelength. Calculations based on a Brownian oscillator model were performed. We show that the experimental results are well explained by properly considering the excitation pulse shapes. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Direct surface patterning of homogeneous and nanostructured chalcogenide layers
Authors: Takats Viktor , Miller Floyd , Jain Himanshu , Cserhati Csaba , Kokenyesi Sandor
Published: April 2009

Investigations of direct one‐step optical recording of surface optical and geometrical patterns in homogeneous and nanostructured chalcogenide layers were extended towards e‐beam recording. Our aim was to establish the common features of the two processes, and to develop some optimum materials for prototypic micro‐ and nanosized elements for optoelectronics. Experiments were conducted on Se/As2S3 and Sb/As2S3 nanolayered structures (NLS) as well as on uniform Se, Sb and As2S3 layers. Both green laser light (λ = 535 nm) and e‐beam (5‐20 pA, 10‐30 keV) induced bleaching in all NLS. The optical change was more efficient in Sb‐containing NLS. In contrast, volume expansion occurred only in chalcogenide‐chalcogenide NLS and the homogeneous Se or As2S3 layers. Its magnitude was larger for the NLS (Δd /d ≥10%); no volume change was detected in Sb layer. A comparison of the two types of recording revealed the role of interdiffusion and induced free volume aggregation in a giant relief formation under the increased fluidity conditions. It was shown that these effects could be used to fabricate micro lenses, amplitude‐phase optical modulating and guiding elements. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Studying the microscopic clusters involving N in dilute GaIn(Al)NAs alloys via local mode spectroscopy and computer simulation
Authors: Talwar Devki N. , Wood Joshua , Zhou Feng
Published: April 2009

In the framework of a Green's function theory we report the results of our comprehensive study for the localized vibrational modes (LVMs) associated with microscopic clusters involving N, In and Ga in Ga1–xInx(Alx)NyAs1–y alloys. From the force variation correlation with the bond covalency for the closest mass acceptors CAs(a–) and isoelectronic NAs defects in III‐As we have obtained the corrected value of the interaction parameter for Al‐N bond predicting NAs local mode in AlAs (∼510 cm–1) at a higher frequency than that of GaAs:14N (∼471 cm–1). Various impurity complexes NAs‐Ga4; NAs‐InGa(1)‐Ga3 and NAs‐InGa(2)‐Ga2 are identified by comparing the calculated impurity modes with the existing infrared and Raman scattering spectroscopy data. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Amplified spontaneous emissions from π‐conjugate conductive polymer film: evanescent‐field modulation by a 1‐D photonic crystal substrate
Authors: Tomioka Akihiro , Kamiyama Yasushi , Ohno Yoshiyuki , Kosuge Yuki , Otani Kota
Published: April 2009

One‐dimensional photonic crystal (PC) with alternating layers of TiO2 and SiO2 was fabricated with spin coating and low temperature baking, resulting in a successful tuning of the PC stop band so as to block the amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) of a π‐conjugate polymer film. Single PC as a substrate, not a cavity with two PC's, of the polymer film was sufficient to shift the tangential ASE to the energy at PC stop band edge, indicating that the tangential ASE propagating along the interface was modulated by its evanescent‐field tail in the PC, which opens a possibility for wide tuning of the coherent luminescence from an ultrathin π‐conjugate polymer film with ultimate mode volume. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Exchange‐coupled L10‐FePt/Fe composite patterns with perpendicular magnetization
Authors: Breitling A. , Bublat T. , Goll D.
Published: April 2009

L10‐FePt and exchange‐coupled L10‐FePt/Fe composite films are grown epitaxially on MgO(001) single crystal substrates and are subsequently large‐area patterned utilizing an electron beam lithography process with Ar+ ion etching. The patterning process of the continuous film system leads to a different demagnetization behavior resulting in an increase of the out‐of‐plane coercivity of the patterned samples. Due to exchange‐coupling between L10‐FePt and Fe the coercivity of the L10‐FePt/Fe composite patterns is reduced by 52% as compared to the coercivity of L10‐FePt patterns. From the analysis of the temperature dependence of the coercivity it follows that the dots include regions with reduced anisotropy. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Correction
Authors: Cole T. J. , Stanojevic S. , Stocks J. , Coates A. L. , Hankinson J. L. , Wade A. M.
Published: April 2009

We regret that the following acknowledgement was omitted in error from our paper ‘Age‐ and size‐related reference ranges: A case study of spirometry through childhood and adulthood’, by T. J. Cole, S. Stanojevic, J. Stocks, A. L. Coates, J. L. Hankinson and A. M. Wade (Statistics in Medicine 2009; 29:880–898): S.S. was funded by Asthma UK, Project ID 05/005.
A Boost of BMP4 Accelerates the Commitment of Human Embryonic Stem Cells to the Endothelial Lineage
Authors: Goldman Orit , Feraud Olivier , Boyer-Di Ponio Julie , Driancourt Catherine , Clay Denis , Le Bousse-Kerdiles Marie-Caroline , Bennaceur-Griscelli Annelise , Uzan Georges
Published: April 2009

Embryoid bodies (EBs) generated during differentiation of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) contain vascular-like structures, suggesting that commitment of mesoderm progenitors into endothelial cells occurs spontaneously. We showed that bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4), an inducer of mesoderm, accelerates the peak expression of CD133/kinase insert domain-containing receptor (KDR) and CD144/KDR. Because the CD133+KDR+ population could represent endothelial progenitors, we sorted them at day 7 and cultured them in endothelial medium. These cells were, however, unable to differentiate into endothelial cells. Under standard conditions, the CD144+KDR+ population represents up to 10% of the total cells at day 12. In culture, these cells, if sorted, give rise to a homogeneous population with a morphology typical of endothelial cells and express endothelial markers. These endothelial cells derived from the day 12 sorted population were functional, as assessed by different in vitro assays. When EBs were stimulated by BMP4, the CD144+KDR+ peak was shifted to day 7. Most of these cells, however, were CD31−, becoming CD31+ in culture. They then expressed von Willebrand factor and were functional. This suggests that, initially, the BMP4-boosted day 7, CD144+KDR+CD31− population represents immature endothelial cells that differentiate into mature endothelial cells in culture. The expression of OCT3/4, a marker of immaturity for hESCs decreases during EB differentiation, decreasing faster following BMP4 induction. We also show that BMP4 inhibits the global expression of GATA2 and RUNX1, two transcription factors involved in hemangioblast formation, at day 7 and day 12.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
miR-200 Regulates PDGF-D-Mediated Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition, Adhesion, and Invasion of Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Kong Dejuan , Li Yiwei , Wang Zhiwei , Banerjee Sanjeev , Ahmad Aamir , Kim Hyeong-Reh Choi , Sarkar Fazlul H.
Published: April 2009

MicroRNAs have been implicated in tumor progression. Recent studies have shown that the miR-200 family regulates epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) by targeting zinc-finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) and ZEB2. Emerging evidence from our laboratory and others suggests that the processes of EMT can be triggered by various growth factors, such as transforming growth factor β and platelet-derived growth factor-D (PDGF-D). Moreover, we recently reported that overexpression of PDGF-D in prostate cancer cells (PC3 PDGF-D cells) leads to the acquisition of the EMT phenotype, and this model offers an opportunity for investigating the molecular interplay between PDGF-D signaling and EMT. Here, we report, for the first time, significant downregulation of the miR-200 family in PC3 PDGF-D cells as well as in PC3 cells exposed to purified active PDGF-D protein, resulting in the upregulation of ZEB1, ZEB2, and Snail2 expression. Interestingly, re-expression of miR-200b in PC3 PDGF-D cells led to reversal of the EMT phenotype, which was associated with the downregulation of ZEB1, ZEB2, and Snail2 expression, and these results were consistent with greater expression levels of epithelial markers. Moreover, transfection of PC3 PDGF-D cells with miR-200b inhibited cell migration and invasion, with concomitant repression of cell adhesion to the culture surface and cell detachment. From these results, we conclude that PDGF-D-induced acquisition of the EMT phenotype in PC3 cells is, in part, a result of repression of miR-200 and that any novel strategy by which miR-200 could be upregulated would become a promising approach for the treatment of invasive prostate cancer.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Regenerative Effects of Transplanted Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Fracture Healing
Authors: Granero-Moltó Froilán , Weis Jared A. , Miga Michael I. , Landis Benjamin , Myers Timothy J. , O'Rear Lynda , Longobardi Lara , Jansen E. Duco , Mortlock Douglas P. , Spagnoli Anna
Published: April 2009

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) have a therapeutic potential in patients with fractures to reduce the time of healing and treat nonunions. The use of MSC to treat fractures is attractive for several reasons. First, MSCs would be implementing conventional reparative process that seems to be defective or protracted. Secondly, the effects of MSCs treatment would be needed only for relatively brief duration of reparation. However, an integrated approach to define the multiple regenerative contributions of MSC to the fracture repair process is necessary before clinical trials are initiated. In this study, using a stabilized tibia fracture mouse model, we determined the dynamic migration of transplanted MSC to the fracture site, their contributions to the repair process initiation, and their role in modulating the injury-related inflammatory responses. Using MSC expressing luciferase, we determined by bioluminescence imaging that the MSC migration at the fracture site is time- and dose-dependent and, it is exclusively CXCR4-dependent. MSC improved the fracture healing affecting the callus biomechanical properties and such improvement correlated with an increase in cartilage and bone content, and changes in callus morphology as determined by micro-computed tomography and histological studies. Transplanting CMV-Cre-R26R-Lac Z-MSC, we found that MSCs engrafted within the callus endosteal niche. Using MSCs from BMP-2-Lac Z mice genetically modified using a bacterial artificial chromosome system to be β-gal reporters for bone morphogenic protein 2 (BMP-2) expression, we found that MSCs contributed to the callus initiation by expressing BMP-2. The knowledge of the multiple MSC regenerative abilities in fracture healing will allow design of novel MSC-based therapies to treat fractures.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Low Oxygen Enhances Primitive and Definitive Neural Stem Cell Colony Formation by Inhibiting Distinct Cell Death Pathways
Authors: Clarke Laura , van der Kooy Derek
Published: April 2009

Neural stem cells (NSCs) can be derived from single mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) in the absence of instructive factors. Clonal primitive NSC (pNSC) colonies are formed first, and then give rise to clonal, fibroblast growth factor-dependent definitive neural stem cells (dNSCs). We tested low-oxygen culture as a potential method of alleviating the extensive cell death seen in pNSCs and dNSCs. Culture in low (4%) oxygen promoted survival of pNSCs by inhibiting apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF)-dependent cell death, although pNSCs undergo both AIF- and caspase-mediated cell death in 20% oxygen. In contrast, survival of dNSCs in low oxygen was increased by inhibition of caspase-dependent cell death. In normoxia, AIF is implicated in promoting dNSC survival. Neither survival effect was dependent on the main transcriptional effector of hypoxia, hypoxia-inducible factor 1. Low-oxygen concentrations may be involved in expansion of early NSC populations by inhibiting cell death through different pathways in these sequential pNSC and dNSC populations.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Dopamine D2Highreceptors stimulated by phencyclidines, lysergic acid diethylamide, salvinorin A, and modafinil
Authors: Seeman Philip , Guan Hong‐Chang , Hirbec Hélène
Published: April 2009

Although it is commonly stated that phencyclidine is an antagonist at ionotropic glutamate receptors, there has been little measure of its potency on other receptors in brain tissue. Although we previously reported that phencyclidine stimulated cloned‐dopamine D2Long and D2Short receptors, others reported that phencyclidine did not stimulate D2 receptors in homogenates of rat brain striatum. This study, therefore, examined whether phencyclidine and other hallucinogens and psychostimulants could stimulate the incorporation of [35S]GTP‐γ‐S into D2 receptors in homogenates of rat brain striatum, using the same conditions as previously used to study the cloned D2 receptors. Using 10 μM dopamine to define 100% stimulation, phencyclidine elicited a maximum incorporation of 46% in rat striata, with a half‐maximum concentration of 70 nM for phencyclidine, when compared with 80 nM for dopamine, 89 nM for salvinorin A (48 nM for D2Long), 105 nM for lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), 120 nM for R‐modafinil, 710 nM for dizocilpine, 1030 nM for ketamine, and >10,000 nM for S‐modafinil. These compounds also inhibited the binding of the D2‐selective ligand [3H]domperidone. The incorporation was inhibited by the presence of 200 μM guanylylimidodiphosphate and also by D2 blockade, using 10 μM S‐sulpiride, but not by D1 blockade with 10 μM SCH23390. Hypertonic buffer containing 150 mM NaCl inhibited the stimulation by phencyclidine, which may explain negative results by others. It is concluded that phencyclidine and other psychostimulants and hallucinogens can stimulate dopamine D2 receptors at concentrations related to their behavioral actions. Synapse 63:698–704, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Visualizing vesicular dopamine dynamics in Parkinson's disease
Authors: de la Fuente‐Fernández Raúl , Sossi Vesna , McCormick Siobhan , Schulzer Michael , Ruth Thomas J. , Stoessl A. Jon
Published: April 2009

It has been suggested that dopamine derived from exogenous levodopa may not follow vesicular dynamics in Parkinson's disease (PD). Using a novel PET method based on the sensitivity of [11C]‐dihydrotetrabenazine (DTBZ) binding to changes in vesicular dopamine levels, we show here that striatal [11C]‐DTBZ binding decreases after levodopa administration in advanced PD, likely reflecting an increase in vesicular dopamine levels. Endogenous dopamine and exogenously derived dopamine seem to follow the same vesicular dynamics. Synapse 63:713–716, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Glutamate agonists for treating schizophrenia have affinity for dopamine D2High and D3 receptors
Authors: Seeman Philip , Guan Hong‐Chang
Published: April 2009

Although the glutamate agonist LY 404,039 has been used to treat schizophrenia, its closest congener LY 379,268 has an affinity for both glutamate and dopamine (DA) D2High receptors. Considering that all antipsychotics act on dopamine receptors, and considering that another laboratory reported that LY 379,268 did not have any affinity for the D2High receptor, it was necessary to examine whether such glutamate agonists have an affinity for D2 and D3 dopamine receptors in vitro. The present data show that 50–200 nM LY 379,268 inhibited the binding of [3H]domperidone and [3H](+)PHNO to cloned dopamine D2 receptors consistently and reproducibly by 16% with dissociation constants of 2.1 and 2.5 nM at D2High, respectively. In addition, LY 379,268 inhibited the binding of [3H]domperidone and [3H](+)PHNO to cloned dopamine D3 receptors with dissociation constants of 130 and 10 nM, respectively. LY 379,268 also inhibited the binding of [3H]domperidone to rat striata with a dissociation constant of 22 nM, predicting a clinical antipsychotic dose of 80–100 mg/day. LY 379,268 appears to act as an agonist at D2High and as an antagonist at D3, because guanine nucleotide eliminated the competition at D2High but had no effect on the competition at D3. The findings indicate that this type of glutamate agonist, LY 379,268, has a significant affinity for D2High and D3 receptors. Synapse 63:705–709, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A phylogenetic analysis of sex‐specific evolution of ecological morphology inLiolaemuslizards
Authors: Pincheira‐Donoso Daniel , Hodgson David J. , Stipala Jan , Tregenza Tom
Published: April 2009

Adaptive radiation theory predicts that phenotypic traits involved in ecological performance evolve in different directions in populations subjected to divergent natural selection, resulting in the evolution of ecological diversity. This idea has largely been supported through comparative studies exploring relationships between ecological preferences and quantitative traits among different species. However, intersexual perspectives are often ignored. Indeed, although it is well established that intersexual competition and sex‐specific parental and reproductive roles may often subject sex‐linked phenotypes to antagonistic selection effects, most ecomorphological research has explored adaptive evolution on a single sex, or on means obtained from both sexes together. The few studies taking sexual differences into account reveal the occurrence of sex‐specific ecomorphs in some clades of lizards, and conclude that the independent contribution of the sexes to the morphological diversity produced by adaptive radiation can be substantial. Here, we investigate whether microhabitat use results in the evolution of sex‐specific ecomorphs across 44Liolaemuslizard species. We found that microhabitat structure does not predict variation in body size and shape in either of the sexes. Yet, we found that males and females tend to occupy significantly different positions in multivariate morphological spaces, indicating that treating males and females as ecologically and phenotypically equivalent units may lead to incomplete or mistaken estimations of the diversity produced by adaptive evolution.
Mechanical Deformation Behavior of Nonpolar GaN Thick Films by Berkovich Nanoindentation
Authors: Wei Tongbo , Hu Qiang , Duan Ruifei , Wang Junxi , Zeng Yiping , Li Jinmin , Yang Yang , Liu Yulong
Published: April 2009

In this study, the deformation mechanisms of nonpolar GaN thick films grown on m-sapphire by hydride vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE) are investigated using nanoindentation with a Berkovich indenter, cathodoluminescence (CL), and Raman microscopy. Results show that nonpolar GaN is more susceptible to plastic deformation and has lower hardness thanc-plane GaN. After indentation, lateral cracks emerge on the nonpolar GaN surface and preferentially propagate parallel to the "Equation missing" orientation due to anisotropic defect-related stresses. Moreover, the quenching of CL luminescence can be observed to extend exclusively out from the center of the indentations along the "Equation missing" orientation, a trend which is consistent with the evolution of cracks. The recrystallization process happens in the indented regions for the load of 500 mN. Raman area mapping indicates that the distribution of strain field coincides well with the profile of defect-expanded dark regions, while the enhanced compressive stress mainly concentrates in the facets of the indentation.
Vegetable Oil-Based Hyperbranched Thermosetting Polyurethane/Clay Nanocomposites
Authors: Deka Harekrishna , Karak Niranjan
Published: April 2009

The highly branched polyurethanes and vegetable oil-based polymer nanocomposites have been showing fruitful advantages across a spectrum of potential field of applications.Mesua ferrea L. seed oil-based hyperbranched polyurethane (HBPU)/clay nanocomposites were prepared at different dose levels by in situ polymerization technique. The performances of epoxy-cured thermosetting nanocomposites are reported for the first time. The partially exfoliated structure of clay layers was confirmed by XRD and TEM. FTIR spectra indicate the presence of H bonding between nanoclay and the polymer matrix. The present investigation outlines the significant improvement of tensile strength, scratch hardness, thermostability, water vapor permeability, and adhesive strength without much influencing impact resistance, bending, and elongation at break of the nanocomposites compared to pristine HBPU thermoset. An increment of two times the tensile strength, 6 °C of melting point, and 111 °C of thermo-stability were achieved by the formation of nanocomposites. An excellent shape recovery of about 96–99% was observed for the nanocomposites. Thus, the formation of partially exfoliated clay/vegetable oil-based hyperbranched polyurethane nanocomposites significantly improved the performance.
Structural Modification in Carbon Nanotubes by Boron Incorporation
Authors: Handuja Sangeeta , Srivastava P , Vankar VD
Published: April 2009

We have synthesized boron-incorporated carbon nanotubes (CNTs) by decomposition of ferrocene and xylene in a thermal chemical vapor deposition set up using boric acid as the boron source. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy studies of the synthesized CNT samples showed that there was deterioration in crystallinity and improvement in alignment of the CNTs as the boron content in precursor solution increased from 0% to 15%. Raman analysis of these samples showed a shift of ~7 cm−1in wave number to higher side and broadening of the G band with increasing boron concentration along with an increase in intensity of the G band. Furthermore, there was an increase in the intensity of the D band along with a decrease in its wave number position with increase in boron content. We speculate that these structural modifications in the morphology and microstructure of CNTs might be due to the charge transfer from boron to the graphite matrix, resulting in shortening of the carbon–carbon bonds.
Characterization of Microemulsion Systems Formed by a Mixed 1,3‐Dioxolane Ethoxylate/Octyl Glucoside Surfactant System
Authors: Alkhatib Mayson H. , Hayes Douglas G. , Urban Volker S.
Published: April 2009

The phase behavior of microemulsion systems containing water (or 1.0 wt% NaClaq), isooctane, and the binary surfactant system consisting ofn‐octyl‐β‐d‐glucopyranoside, C8βG1, and the acid‐cleavable alkyl ethoxylate, 4‐CH3O (CH2CH2O)7.2, 2‐(CH2)12CH3, 2‐(CH2)CH3, 1,3‐dioxolane, or “cyclic ketal” (“CK‐2,13”), was determined. Large temperature‐insensitive one, two, and three‐phase microemulsion‐phase regions were obtained when equal masses of the two surfactants were employed, suggesting that C8βG1reduces the temperature sensitivity of CK‐2,13's ethoxylate group. Addition of C8βG1to CK‐2,13 greatly improves the latter's low efficiency, evidenced by the formation of a three‐phase microemulsion system for surfactant concentrations at low fractions of total surfactants for systems with equal mass ratios of water to oil and CK‐2,13 to C8βG1. Analysis of the phase diagrams also suggests that CK‐2,13 and C8βG1impart hydrophobic and hydrophilic character, respectively, to the surfactant mixture, and that addition of salt further increases the hydrophilicity of C8βG1, presumably because of the salting‐in of the latter. Analysis of small‐angle neutron scattering data revealed that the mixed surfactant system formed spherical oil‐in‐water microemulsions, and that increasing the CK‐2,13 fraction among the surfactants reduced the critical microemulsion concentration but slightly increased the nanodroplet size.
Designs of Bioreactor Systems for Solvent‐Free Lipase‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Fructose–Oleic Acid Esters
Authors: Pyo Sang‐Hyun , Hayes Douglas G.
Published: April 2009

Fructose–oleic acid esters, biodegradable, biocompatible and biobased surfactants and value‐added products were synthesized under solvent‐free conditions at 65 °C in stirred‐batch mode and using several different bioreactor systems. For a stirred‐tank bioreactor (STBR) using fed‐batch fructose addition and 5.0 wt.% immobilized Rhizomucor miehei lipase (Lipozyme® IM, Novozymes, Franklinton, NC), the conversion yield was over 80%, and the initial rate of the reaction was comparable to previously obtained results using tert‐butanol during the initial phase. The bioreactor systems contained a packed “desorption” column (DC) containing fructose crystals and silica gel for delivery of saccharide, and either a STBR or packed‐bed bioreactor (PBBR). The liquid stream, initially containing oleic acid and a mixture of fructose–oleic acid esters at a ratio of 75/25 w/w, was continuously recirculated throughout the system. The PBBR system yielded the highest conversion (84.4%) and rate of reaction subsequent to the addition of 10 wt.% molecular sieves during the latter stage of reaction; however, the reaction rate was several‐fold lower than the batch mode reactions due to the lower fructose concentrations provided by the DC.
Adduction contracture of the shoulder due to fibrous long head of the triceps in children
Authors: Hung Nguyen Ngoc
Published: April 2009

Objective

To evaluate the clinical and functional results of surgical treatment for fibrous long head of the triceps in children.

Materials and methods

Data were analyzed from 32 patients (38 shoulders) aged over 5 years of age from August 1995 to December 2004. The adduction contracture, elbow flexed angles when the scapula was held in the chest wall, and scapulo-humeral angles in radiographs were measured. Surgical release of the long head of the triceps was performed.

Results

There were 22 females and 10 males in this study. Bilateral shoulder involvement was found in six patients. Only the right shoulder was involved in 5 patients, and only the left in 21 patients. All 32 patients (38 shoulders) developed adduction contracture of the shoulder after repeated intramuscular injection of antibiotic(s) into the long head of the triceps. Thirty-four shoulders (29 patients) were classified as severe, and four shoulders (3 patients) were classified as moderate. In all, we attained excellent results in 36 shoulders (94.7%) and good results in two shoulders (5.3%). There have been no fair or poor results or complications so far.

Conclusion

Generally, surgical treatment of adduction contracture of the shoulder has achieved good results, with improved shoulder function. Releasing the long head of the triceps is a simple and safe surgical technique.
Where the education system and women's bodies collide: The social and health impact of girls' experiences of menstruation and schooling in Tanzania
Authors: Sommer Marni
Published: April 2009

The global development community has focused in recent decades on closing the gender gap in education, but has given insufficient attention to the specific needs of pre‐ and post‐pubescent girls as they transition to young womanhood within the educational institution. This study explored the social context of girls' experiences of menses and schooling in northern Tanzania, with data collection focused on capturing girls' voiced concerns and recommendations. Results indicated that pubescent girls are confronted with numerous challenges to managing menses within the school environment. Many are transitioning through puberty without adequate guidance on puberty and menses management, and pursuing education in environments that lack adequate facilities, supplies, and gender sensitivity. Girls have pragmatic and realistic recommendations for how to improve school environments, ideas that should be incorporated as effective methods for improving girls' academic experiences and their healthy transitions to womanhood.
A pea mutant (costata) expressing higher activity in thylakoid membrane‐bound carbonic anhydrase altersPSII downregulation mechanisms
Authors: Lazova G. , Naidenova N. , Ignatova L. , Stefanov D.
Published: April 2009

The interaction between photosynthetic electron transport and the activities of the thylakoid associated carbonic anhydrase (tCA), estimated as combined tCA activity in pea plants (Pisum sativumL. Borek cv., WT) and mutant form (costata2/125) that differ in chlorophyll content have been compared. Chlorophyllafluorescence changes after the inhibition of tCA by ethoxyzolamide (EZ), estimating possible role of tCA in PSII downregulation were investigated.Costataexpresses higher tCA activity and higher O2evolution in comparison to WT. Inhibition of tCA by EZ decreased effective PSII photochemistry that coincided with an enhancement in thermal dissipation, while maximal PSII quantum yield (Fv/Fm) did not significantly change. Ethoxyzolamide induced changes in fluorescence parameters that were more strongly expressed incostata2/125. The results show that tCA is involved in the regulation of the proton gradient across thylakoid membranes and thus limits PSII downregulation.
Light‐induced and apoptosis‐like cell death in the unicellular eukaryote, Blepharisma japonicum
Authors: Takada Yuichi , Matsuoka Tatsuomi
Published: April 2009

The unicellular eukaryote, Blepharisma japonicum, is a light‐sensitive ciliated protozoa. It possesses a photoreceptor pigment called blepharismin that plays critical roles in defensive behavior against predators and step‐up photophobic response. In addition, the pigment generates reactive oxygen species such as singlet oxygen and hydroxyl radicals which contribute to photodynamic action. Previous studies reported that intense light (>300 W m−2) induced rapid photodynamic killing (necrosis) characterized by cell swelling and plasma efflux, while moderate light (3–30 W m−2) only induced pigment extrusion and photooxidation. We have found that moderate light (5 W m−2) induced apoptosis‐like cell death. Microscopically it was found that >3 h of moderate light irradiation induced macronuclear condensation and plasma efflux without cell swelling. Single cell gel electrophoresis assay showed that DNA fragmentation occurred between 1 and 3 h of irradiation, and the condensed macronuclei contained quite fragmented DNA. Macronuclear DNA extracted from light‐irradiated cells contained DNA fragments of 180–200 and 360–400 bp, which were seen as apoptosis ladders.
Serum amyloid A and protein AA: Molecular mechanisms of a transmissible amyloidosis
Authors: Westermark Gunilla T. , Westermark Per
Published: April 2009

Systemic AA‐amyloidosis is a complication of chronic inflammatory diseases and the fibril protein AA derives from the acute phase reactant serum AA. AA‐amyloidosis can be induced in mice by an inflammatory challenge. The lag phase before amyloid develops can be dramatically shortened by administration of a small amount of amyloid fibrils. Systemic AA‐amyloidosis is transmissible in mice and may be so in humans. Since transmission can cross species barriers it is possible that AA‐amyloidosis can be induced by amyloid in food, e.g. foie gras. In mice, development of AA‐amyloidosis can also be accelerated by other components with amyloid‐like properties. A new possible risk factor may appear with synthetically made fibrils from short peptides, constructed for tissue repair.
The secreted Helicobacter cysteine‐rich protein A causes adherence of human monocytes and differentiation into a macrophage‐like phenotype
Authors: Dumrese Claudia , Slomianka Lutz , Ziegler Urs , Choi Sung Sook , Kalia Awdhesh , Fulurija Alma , Lu Wei , Berg Douglas E. , Benghezal Mohammed , Marshall Barry , Mittl Peer R.E.
Published: April 2009

Helicobacter pylori genomes typically contain 8 or 9 genes that code for secreted and highly disulfide‐bridged proteins designated Helicobacter cysteine‐rich proteins (Hcp). Here we show that HcpA (hp0211) but not HcpC (hp1098) triggers the differentiation of human myeloid Thp1 monocytes into macrophages. Small amounts of HcpA cause the transition of round‐shaped monocytes into cells with star‐like morphologies, adherence to the culture dish surface, phagocytosis of opsonized fluorescent microspheres, and expression of the surface marker protein CD11b, all of which are indicative of a macrophage‐like phenotype. We conclude that HcpA acts as a bacterial immune modulator similar to a eukaryotic cytokine.
Essential role of p38 MAPK in caspase‐independent, iPLA2‐dependent cell death under hypoxia/low glucose conditions
Authors: Aoto Mamoru , Shinzawa Koei , Suzuki Yoji , Ohkubo Nobutaka , Mitsuda Noriaki , Tsujimoto Yoshihide
Published: April 2009

Here, we show that p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase is activated under hypoxia. A selective inhibitor of p38 or decrease in the p38alpha protein level prevents hypoxia‐induced cell death. The p38 inhibitor abolishes PLA2 activation by hypoxia, indicating that p38 acts upstream of PLA2. The antioxidant N‐acetyl‐cysteine inhibits activation of p38 and cell death induced by hypoxia, indicating that reactive oxygen species (ROS) are responsible for p38 activation. These results demonstrate that the ROS/p38/PLA2 signaling axis has a crucial role in caspase‐independent cell death induced by hypoxia.
How much was your shopping basket? Working memory processes in total basket price estimation
Authors: Luna David , Kim Hyeong‐Min (Christian)
Published: April 2009

Although much attention has been paid to recall of a single price, research is lacking in understanding the process of how consumers estimate the total price of a shopping basket. Drawing on research on numeric cognition, memory processes, and mental accounting, we show in five studies that the accuracy of total price estimation as well as the timing of such estimation is systematically influenced by several factors. We find that the length (in syllables) of the prices in the basket and the attention that consumers pay to the prices influence the accuracy of the calculation of the total basket price. Furthermore, our studies also show that the timing of the calculation is influenced by the nature of the items in the basket (i.e., unrelated vs. complementary items).