bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ChemInform Abstract: New Synthetic Methodologies Based on Active Transition Metals
Authors: Alonso Francisco , Yus Miguel
Published: September 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Palladium‐Catalyzed Selective Activation of Allyl Alcohols as Allyl Cations, Allyl Anions, and Zwitterionic Trimethylenemethanes
Authors: Tamaru Yoshinao , Kimura Masanari
Published: September 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Enantio‐ and Regioselective CpRu‐Catalyzed Carroll Rearrangement
Authors: Austeri Martina , Buron Frederic , Constant Samuel , Lacour Jerome , Linder David , Muller Jessica , Tortoioli Simone
Published: September 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Carbon—Carbon Bond‐Forming Reactions Using Alkyl Fluorides
Authors: Terao Jun , Todo Hirohisa , Watabe Hiroyasu , Ikumi Aki , Shinohara Yoshiaki , Kambe Nobuaki
Published: September 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Nickel‐Catalyzed Coupling Reactions of Alkenes
Authors: Ng Sze‐Sze , Ho Chun‐Yu , Schleicher Kristin D. , Jamison Timothy F.
Published: September 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Catalytic Enantioselective Reformatsky Reactions
Authors: Cozzi Pier Giorgio , Mignogna Alessandro , Zoli Luca
Published: September 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Evaluation of Catalytic Activity of Copper Salts and Their Removal Processes in the Three‐Component Coupling Reactions
Authors: Hwang Seung Jun , Cho Seung Hwan , Chang Sukbok
Published: September 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Ruthenium Catalysts for Selective Nucleophilic Allylic Substitution
Authors: Bruneau Christian , Renaud Jean‐Luc , Demerseman Bernard
Published: September 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Catalysts Through Self‐Assembly for Combinatorial Homogeneous Catalysis
Authors: Breit Bernhard
Published: September 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Reactions of Alcohols and Silyl Ethers in the Presence of an Indium/Silicon‐Based Catalyst System: Deoxygenation and Allyl Substitution
Authors: Baba Akio , Yasuda Makoto , Nishimoto Yoshihiro , Saito Takahiro , Onishi Yoshiyuki
Published: September 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Organometallic Catalysts in Synthetic Organic Chemistry — From Reactions in Aqueous Media to Gold Catalysis
Authors: Genet Jean‐Pierre , Darses Sylvain , Michelet Veronique
Published: September 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Boryllithium: A Novel Boron Nucleophile and Its Application in the Synthesis of Borylmetal Complexes
Authors: Yamashita Makoto , Nozaki Kyoko
Published: September 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Carboxylic Acid Salts
Authors: Dakin L. , Lahue B.
Published: September 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Alk‐2‐enoic Acids
Authors: Vanderwal C. D. , Jacobsen E. N.
Published: September 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Lanthanide Complexes and Quantum Dots: A Bright Wedding for Resonance Energy Transfer
Authors: Charbonniere Loic J. , Hildebrandt Niko
Published: September 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Photochromism and Molecular Mechanical Devices
Authors: Irie Masahiro
Published: September 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Simulation of Chemical Reaction Equilibria by the Reaction Ensemble Monte Carlo Method: A Review
Authors: Turner C. Heath , Brennan John K. , Lisal Martin , Smith William R. , Johnson J. Karl , Gubbins Keith E.
Published: September 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Development of Assay Methods for Endogenous Inorganic Sulfur Compounds and Sulfurtransferases and Evaluation of the Physiological Functions of Bound Sulfur
Authors: Tanabe Shinzo
Published: September 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Raman Optical Activity — A Reliable Chiroptical Technique
Authors: Haesler Jacques , Hug Werner
Published: September 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
Pluronics‐Stabilized Gold Nanoparticles: Investigation of the Structure of the Polymer–Particle Hybrid
Authors: Rahme Kamil , Oberdisse Julian , Schweins Ralf , Gaillard Cédric , Marty Jean‐Daniel , Mingotaud Christophe , Gauffre Fabienne
Published: September 2008

Hybrid gold–polymer nanoparticles are obtained by self‐assembly of amphiphilic copolymers (Pluronics) in solutions containing preformed gold nanoparticles (diameter ca. 12 nm). Dynamic light scattering, TEM, cryo‐TEM, and small‐angle neutron scattering experiments with contrast variation are used to characterize the structure of the gold–polymer particles. Five Pluronics (F127, F68, F88, F108, P84) with different molecular weights and hydrophilic/hydrophobic balances are investigated. Gold nanoparticles are individually embedded within globules of polymer, even under conditions for which Pluronics micelles do not form in solution. The hybrid particles are several tens of nanometers in size (larger than micelles of the corresponding Pluronics), and the size can be tuned by changing the temperature.
Theoretical Study on the Spectroscopic Properties of CO3.−.nH2O Clusters: Extrapolation to Bulk
Authors: Pathak Arup K. , Mukherjee Tulsi , Maity Dilip K.
Published: September 2008

Vertical detachment energies (VDE) and UV/Vis absorption spectra of hydrated carbonate radical anion clusters, CO3.−.n H2O (n=1–8), are determined by means of ab initio electronic structure theory. The VDE values of the hydrated clusters are calculated with second‐order Moller–Plesset perturbation (MP2) and coupled cluster theory using the 6‐311++G(d,p) set of basis functions. The bulk VDE value of an aqueous carbonate radical anion solution is predicted to be 10.6 eV from the calculated weighted average VDE values of the CO3.−.n H2O clusters. UV/Vis absorption spectra of the hydrated clusters are calculated by means of time‐dependent density functional theory using the Becke three‐parameter nonlocal exchange and the Lee–Yang–Parr nonlocal correlation functional (B3LYP). The simulated UV/Vis spectrum of the CO3.−.8 H2O cluster is in excellent agreement with the reported experimental spectrum for CO3.− (aq), obtained based on pulse radiolysis experiments.
Strategies for the Improvement of the Hydrogen Storage Properties of Metal Hydride Materials
Authors: Wu Hui
Published: September 2008

Metal hydrides are an important family of materials that can potentially be used for safe, efficient and reversible on‐board hydrogen storage. Light‐weight metal hydrides in particular have attracted intense interest due to their high hydrogen density. However, most of these hydrides have rather slow absorption kinetics, relatively high thermal stability, and/or problems with the reversibility of hydrogen absorption/desorption cycling. This paper discusses a number of different approaches for the improvement of the hydrogen storage properties of these materials, with emphasis on recent research on tuning the ionic mobility in mixed hydrides. This concept opens a promising pathway to accelerate hydrogenation kinetics, reduce the activation energy for hydrogen release, and minimize deleterious possible by‐products often associated with complex hydride systems.
Glycerol Upgrading over Zeolites by Batch‐Reactor Liquid‐Phase Oligomerization: Heterogeneous versus Homogeneous Reaction
Authors: Krisnandi Yuni K. , Eckelt Reinhard , Schneider Matthias , Martin Andreas , Richter Manfred
Published: September 2008

Glycerol upgrading to diglycerols in the presence of basic (Na+ or Cs+) ion‐exchanged (FAU or BEA) zeolite catalysts was studied in a liquid‐phase batch rector at 260 °C under normal pressure. Homogeneous NaHCO3 and CsHCO3 catalysts were studied for comparison. All the catalysts, including NaHCO3 and CsHCO3, displayed the same conversion–selectivity relationship. The selectivity to linear diglycerols decreased at higher conversions/reaction times owing to the consecutive formation of higher oligomers, with preferential further conversion of α,α′‐diglycerol. The maximum yield of linear diglycerols was limited to about 30 %. The activities of the zeolites followed the order X>Y>Beta, independent of the alkali ion present. Catalysis by the zeolites starts with an induction period attributed to a slow leaching of alkaline cations from the zeolite. Thereafter, the reaction is characterized by a progressive loss of the microporous structure of the zeolite and increasing overlap of heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysis, where, primarily, the activity depends on the cation content of the zeolite.
Generation of mice with conditionally activated transforming growth factor beta signaling through the TβRI/ALK5 receptor
Authors: Bartholin Laurent , Cyprian Farhan S. , Vincent David , Garcia Céline N. , Martel Sylvie , Horvat Branka , Berthet Cyril , Goddard‐Léon Sophie , Treilleux Isabelle , Rimokh Ruth , Marie Julien C.
Published: September 2008

We generated a transgenic mouse strain (LSL‐TβRICA) containing a latent constitutively active TGFβ type I receptor (TβRI/ALK5) by using a knock‐in strategy into the X chromosome‐linked hypoxanthine phosphoribosyl‐transferase (Hprt) locus. Transgene expression, under the control of the ubiquitous CAG (human cytomegalovirus enhancer and chicken β‐actin) promoter, is repressed by a floxed transcriptional “Stop” (LSL, Lox‐Stop‐Lox). In the presence of cre‐recombinase, the “Stop” is excised to allow TβRICA transgene expression. We showed that restricted expression of TβRICA in T lymphocytes efficiently activates TGFβ signaling and rescues the T‐cell autoimmune disorders of TGFβRII conditional knockouts. Unexpectedly, our study reveals that TGFβ signaling upregulation controls T‐cell activation but does not impair their development or their peripheral homeostasis. In addition to the information provided on TGFβ effects on T‐cell biology, LSL‐TβRICA mouse constitutes an attractive tool to address the effect of TGFβ signaling upregulation in any cell type expressing the cre‐recombinase. genesis 46:724–731, 2008. Published 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The medaka sex‐determining gene DMY acquired a novel temporal expression pattern after duplication of DMRT1
Authors: Otake Hiroyuki , Shinomiya Ai , Kawaguchi Aya , Hamaguchi Satoshi , Sakaizumi Mitsuru
Published: September 2008

The male sex‐determining gene, DMY, of the medaka is considered to have arisen via gene duplication of DMRT1. In the medaka, both genes are expressed in Sertoli cell lineage cells, but their temporal expression patterns are quite different. DMY expression starts just before the sex‐determining period, whereas DMRT1 expression occurs during the testicular differentiation period. To evaluate the alterations to the expression patterns of the DMRT1 genes after duplication, we analyzed the morphological gonadal sex differentiation processes and expression patterns of DMRT1 in Oryzias luzonensis and Oryzias mekongensis, which are closely related to the medaka but do not have DMY. Male‐specific upregulation of DMRT1 in these two species occurred during the testicular differentiation period, similar to the case for DMRT1 in the medaka. These findings suggest that DMY acquired a novel temporal expression pattern after duplication and that this event played a critical role in the evolutionary process of this gene. genesis 46:719–723, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lentiviral integration preferences in transgenic mice
Authors: Yang Shang‐Hsun , Cheng Pei‐Hsun , Sullivan Robert T. , Thomas James W. , Chan Anthony W.S.
Published: September 2008

Lentiviral gene transfer has a significant impact on the development of biomedical research. One of the most important features of lentiviruses is the capability to infect both dividing and nondividing cells. However, little is known whether integration preference exists, specifically in early embryos. An in‐depth genome analysis on 112 independent lentiviral integration sites from 43 transgenic founder mice was performed to determine if there are preferable sites for lentiviral integration in early embryonic genome. Our results demonstrated that lentiviruses were biased in integrating within intragenic regions, especially in the introns. However, no integration preference was found associated with specific chromosomes, repetitive elements, or CpG islands, nor was there any preference for integrating at close proximity to transcription start sites. Our findings suggested that lentiviruses were biased to integrate into the intragenic regions of early embryonic genome of mouse. genesis 46:711–718, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Early home‐based intervention in the Netherlands for children at familial risk of dyslexia
Authors: van Otterloo Sandra G. , van der Leij Aryan , Henrichs Lotte F.
Published: September 2008

Dutch children at higher familial risk of reading disability received a home‐based intervention programme before formal reading instruction started to investigate whether this would reduce the risk of dyslexia. The experimental group (n=23) received a specific training in phoneme awareness and letter knowledge. A control group (n=25) received a non‐specific training in morphology, syntax, and vocabulary. Both interventions were designed to take 10 min a day, 5 days a week for 10 weeks. Most parents were sufficiently able to work with the programme properly. At post‐test the experimental group had gained more on phoneme awareness than the control group. The control group gained more on one of the morphology measures. On average, these specific training results did not lead to significant group differences in first‐grade reading and spelling measures. However, fewer experimental children scored below 10th percentile on word recognition. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Voltammetric Determination of Phenoxybenzyl‐Type Insecticides at Chemically Modified Conducting Polymer‐Carbon Nanotubes Coated Electrodes
Authors: Manisankar P. , Sundari P. L. Abirama , Sasikumar R. , Roy D. Jestin
Published: September 2008

The electrochemical reduction of three common insecticides such as cypermethrin (CYP), deltamethrin (DEL) and fenvalerate (FEN) was investigated at glassy carbon electrode (GCE), multiwalled carbon nanotubes modified GCE (MWCNT‐GCE), polyaniline (herein called as modifier M1) and polypyrrole (herein called as modifier M2) deposited MWCNT/GCE using cyclic voltammetry. Influences of pH, scan rate, and concentration were studied. The surface morphology of the modified film was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X‐ray diffraction analysis (XRD). A systematic study of the experimental parameters that affect differential pulse stripping voltammetry (DPSV) was carried out and the optimized experimental conditions were arrived at. The calibration plots were linear over the insecticide's concentration range 0.1–100 mg L−1 and 0.05–100 mg L−1 for all the three insecticides at MWCNT‐GCE and MWCNT(M1)‐GCE respectively. The MWCNT(M2)‐GCE performed well among the three electrode systems and the determination range obtained was 0.01–100 mg L−1 for CYP, DEL and FEN. The limit of detection (LOD) was 0.35 μg L−1, 0.9 μg L−1 and 0.1 μg L−1 for CYP, DEL and FEN respectively on MWCNT(M2)‐GCE modified system. Suitability of this method for the trace determination of insecticide in spiked soil sample was also determined.
Evolution of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heavy metals in sludge samples from conventional activated sludge wastewater treatment plants
Authors: Villar P. , Villar M. , Callejón M. , Pérez J. L. , Jiménez J. C. , Alonso E. , Guiraúm A.
Published: September 2008

This paper presents results on the presence and evolution of PAHs and heavy metals in a conventional activated sludge wastewater treatment plant (WWTP). The 16 PAHs recommended by the EPA were determined. On the other hand, 13 heavy metals were studied (Al, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Ti and Zn). Moreover, water content, organic and mineral matter were determined for the generic characterization of the sludges in an attempt to assess their agricultural value. The sewage sludges originated from the Guadalete WWTP site in Jerez de la Frontera (Cádiz, Spain). PAHs have been extracted by microwave energy. High performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array and fluorescence detectors have been used (HPLC‐DAD‐FL). Heavy metals were analyzed by ICP‐AES. The results showed that total PAHs concentration (sum of 16 EPA PAHs) varied between 6757 ng g−1 dry matter (DM) for compost and 4176 ng g−1 DM for secondary sludge. The most abundant PAH is pyrene. The highest concentration of heavy metals was also found in compost (51750 mg kg−1 DM) and lowest concentration in secondary sludge (24250 mg kg−1). In order to obtain global conclusions from all results, several chemometrical techniques of pattern recognition were applied. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dimensional approach to delusions in psychotic depression in the elderly: factor structure and clinical correlates
Authors: Gournellis Rossetos , Oulis Panagiotis , Michalopoulou Panagiota , Kaparoudaki Adamantia , Dimitrakopoulos Christos , Lykouras Lefteris
Published: September 2008

Objective

The present study attempted to investigate the clinically important broader dimensions of clinical characteristics of delusions, through multivariate analysis, in a pure sample of elderly unipolar delusional depressives as well as to test their external validity against a set of demographic, anamnestic and psychopathological validators.

Methods

Fifty inpatients suffering from psychotic major depression (PMD) in the context of major depressive disorder, 60 years old or older, were assessed on the basis of SCID IV, HRSD, MMSE and by three‐point ordinal scales of 12 clinical, intrinsic or relational characteristics of delusions tested for their inter‐rater reliability.

Results

Principal Component Analysis resulted in the extraction of five factors, jointly accounting for 69.7% of the total variance. The five factors were interpreted as representing the dimensions of delusional strength, acute upsetting, delusional organization, incomprehensibility and incitation to actions. Most of the factors were differentially associated with patients' demographic, anamnestic and clinical variables.

Conclusion

Our results overlap in part with those of another similar study in delusional depressives of all age‐ranges, differing, however, in respects possibly attributable to peculiarities of elderly depressives. Overall, the findings of the present study contribute to the further elucidation of major clinical dimensions of delusions in PMD in the elderly and the testing of their external validity. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hepatic function is preserved in the absence of mature microRNAs #
Authors: Hand Nicholas J. , Master Zankhana R. , Le Lay John , Friedman Joshua R.
Published: September 2008

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression through partial or complete complementarity with target messenger RNAs. The function of miRNAs in normal liver physiology is largely unknown. We address the role of Dicer1 in the differentiated liver. We derived mice lacking Dicer1 function in hepatocytes and assessed the loss of mature miRNA via quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Gene expression microarray analysis was performed on liver RNA from mutant and control mice. Liver sections from mutant and control mice were examined and liver function tests were performed. Mice lacking Dicer1 function in hepatocytes appeared and behaved normally. Despite the loss of mature miRNAs, hepatic function was maintained, as reflected by normal blood glucose, albumin, cholesterol, and bilirubin. However, mutant mice between 2 and 4 months of age exhibited progressive hepatocyte damage with elevated serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase. Liver mass was increased in mutant mice, as were cellular markers of both proliferation and apoptosis. Microarray analysis indicated large-scale changes in gene expression, with increased expression of many miRNA targets, particularly imprinted genes. Conclusions: Loss of miRNA processing in the liver at late gestation has a remarkably mild phenotype, suggesting that miRNAs do not play an essential role in hepatic function. However, miRNA deficiency results in hepatocyte apoptosis, hepatocyte regeneration, and portal inflammation. Finally, microarray analysis of gene expression in the mutant liver supports a previously hypothesized role for Dicer1 in the repression of imprinted genes. (Hepatology 2008.)
Transcription factor 7–like 2 polymorphism modulates glucose and lipid homeostasis, adipokine profile, and hepatocyte apoptosis in NASH #
Authors: Musso Giovanni , Gambino Roberto , Pacini Giovanni , Pagano Gianfranco , Durazzo Marilena , Cassader Maurizio
Published: September 2008

Genetic factors underlying the association of NAFLD with diabetes and atherosclerosis are unknown. Recent human studies suggest transcription factor 7–like 2 (TCF7L2) polymorphism predisposes to diabetes through modulation of β-cell function and modulates lipid levels in familial dyslipidemia. Emerging experimental evidence connects TCF7L2 to adipocyte metabolism and lipid homeostasis, as well. We tested if TCF7L2 polymorphism is a risk factor for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and if it modulates liver injury, glucose homeostasis, lipoprotein, and adipokine profiles in NASH. TCF7L2 genotype and dietary habits of 78 nondiabetic normolipidemic NAFLD subjects and 156 age-, body mass index–, sex-matched healthy controls were assessed. In 39 biopsy-proven nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and matched controls TCF7L2 polymorphism was correlated to liver histology and oral glucose tolerance test–derived parameters of glucose homeostasis. Patients with NASH and controls consumed a high-fat meal and TCF7L2 genotype was correlated to postprandial circulating lipoproteins, adipokines, and cytokeratin-18 fragments. The TCF7L2 CT/TT genotype was more frequent in NAFLD and predicted the presence and severity of liver disease, of β-cell dysfunction, of reduced incretin effect and hepatic insulin resistance in NASH; it also modulated postprandial hepatocyte apoptosis, lipoproteins, and adipokine profiles in both groups. Conclusion: TCF7L2 polymorphism predisposes to NAFLD and significantly impacts liver injury, glucose homeostasis, and postprandial lipoprotein and adipokine responses to fat ingestion. This polymorphism also modulates a fat-induced increase in circulating markers of hepatocyte apoptosis in NASH. Targeting postprandial lipemia, at least in at-risk TCF7L2 genotypes, may improve liver disease and glucose dysmetabolism in these patients. (Hepatology 2008.)
Evidence for LKB1/AMP-activated protein kinase/ endothelial nitric oxide synthase cascade regulated by hepatocyte growth factor, S-adenosylmethionine, and nitric oxide in hepatocyte proliferation #
Authors: Vázquez-Chantada Mercedes , Ariz Usue , Varela-Rey Marta , Embade Nieves , Martínez-Lopez Nuria , Fernández-Ramos David , Gómez-Santos Laura , Lamas Santiago , Lu Shelly C. , Martínez-Chantar Luz M. , Mato José M.
Published: September 2008

Abstract

S

-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) is involved in numerous complex hepatic processes such as hepatocyte proliferation, death, inflammatory responses, and antioxidant defense. One of the most relevant actions of SAMe is the inhibition of hepatocyte proliferation during liver regeneration. In hepatocytes, SAMe regulates the levels of cytoplasmic HuR, an RNA-binding protein that increases the half-life of target messenger RNAs such as cyclin D1 and A2 via inhibition of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)-mediated adenosine monophosphate–activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation. Because AMPK is activated by the tumor suppressor kinase LKB1, and AMPK activates endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase (eNOS), and NO synthesis is of great importance for hepatocyte proliferation, we hypothesized that in hepatocytes HGF may induce the phosphorylation of LKB1, AMPK, and eNOS through a process regulated by SAMe, and that this cascade might be crucial for hepatocyte growth. We demonstrate that the proliferative response of hepatocytes involves eNOS phosphorylation via HGF-mediated LKB1 and AMPK phosphorylation, and that this process is regulated by SAMe and NO. We also show that knockdown of LKB1, AMPK, or eNOS with specific interference RNA (iRNA) inhibits HGF-mediated hepatocyte proliferation. Finally, we found that the LKB1/AMPK/eNOS cascade is activated during liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy and that this process is impaired in mice treated with SAMe before hepatectomy, in knockout mice deficient in hepatic SAMe, and in eNOS knockout mice. Conclusion: We have identified an LKB1/AMPK/eNOS cascade regulated by HGF, SAMe, and NO that functions as a critical determinant of hepatocyte proliferation during liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy. (Hepatology 2009;49:608–617.)
Impacts of annual precipitation extremes on soil and nutrient losses in vineyards of NE Spain
Authors: Ramos M. C. , Martínez‐Casasnovas J. A.
Published: September 2008

The objective of this research was to characterise annual precipitation extremes in a Mediterranean vineyard region. The number of exceptional events (P > 95th percentile) and annual extreme events (P > 99th percentile), as well as their strength, erosive character and return period were analysed for 2000–2004. The erosive character was evaluated according to the R‐factor (kinetic energy × maximum intensity in 30‐min periods). Soil and nutrient losses caused by these events were evaluated by combining field sampling and a hydrological model to estimate total runoff in a vineyard plot. The results show a clear increase in the number of very wet days and extreme events (P > 95th percentile), which represented up to 88% of annual rainfall. The severity of the extreme events (TS = precipitation event P > 99th percentile) reached values higher than 50 mm almost every year. These values were far exceeded in 2000, when one extraordinary event recorded 50% of the annual rainfall, with TS of 189 mm, about 80% of total rainfall being lost as runoff. Annual erosivity was driven not only by extreme events, but also by short events of less depth but high intensity. During some of the years analysed, rainfall erosivity was two or three times the average in the area. Most soil and nutrient losses occurred in a small number of events: one or two events every year were responsible for more than 75% of the annual soil and nutrient losses on average. Antecedent soil moisture conditions, runoff rates, and events with a return period higher than two years were responsible for the higher erosion rates. Apart from an exceptional event recorded in 2000, which produced more than 200 Mg ha−1 soil losses, annual soil losses up to 25 Mg ha−1 were recorded, which are much higher than the soil loss tolerance. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Leptin signaling in breast cancer: An overview
Authors: Cirillo Donatella , Rachiglio Anna Maria , la Montagna Raffaele , Giordano Antonio , Normanno Nicola
Published: September 2008

The adipocyte‐derived peptide leptin acts through binding to specific membrane receptors, of which six isoforms (obRa‐f) have been identified up to now. Binding of leptin to its receptor induces activation of different signaling pathways, including the JAK/STAT, MAPK, IRS1, and SOCS3 signaling pathways. Since the circulating levels of leptin are elevated in obese individuals, and excess body weight has been shown to increase breast cancer risk in postmenopausal women, several studies addressed the role of leptin in breast cancer. Expression of leptin and its receptors has been demonstrated to occur in breast cancer cell lines and in human primary breast carcinoma. Leptin is able to induce the growth of breast cancer cells through activation of the Jak/STAT3, ERK1/2, and/or PI3K pathways, and can mediate angiogenesis by inducing the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). In addition, leptin induces transactivation of ErbB‐2, and interacts in triple negative breast cancer cells with insulin like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) to transactivate the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), thus promoting invasion and migration. Leptin can also affect the growth of estrogen receptor (ER)‐positive breast cancer cells, by stimulating aromatase expression and thereby increasing estrogen levels through the aromatization of androgens, and by inducing MAPK‐dependent activation of ER. Taken together, these findings suggest that the leptin system might play an important role in breast cancer pathogenesis and progression, and that it might represent a novel target for therapeutic intervention in breast cancer. J. Cell. Biochem. 105: 956–964, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Thrombin induced secretion of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) and its effect on nuclear signaling in endothelium
Authors: Wadgaonkar Raj , Somnay Kaumudi , Garcia Joe G.N.
Published: September 2008

The procoagulant thrombin stimulates endothelial cells (EC) to undergo rapid cytoskeleton changes via signaling pathways that induce multiple phenotypic changes, including alterations in permeability, vasomotor tone, adhesion molecule synthesis, and leukocyte trafficking. We studied a novel role of thrombin's action on the endothelium that results in MIF secretion, which is linked to myosin light chain (MLC) and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK½)‐dependent nuclear signaling. In bovine pulmonary artery EC (BPAEC), thrombin treatment induced intracellular MLC phosphorylation within 15 min, followed by a significant increase in MIF secretion within 30 min. Thrombin treatment induced biphasic ERK½ phosphorylation with an early phase occurring at 15 min and a later phase at 120 min. To understand the role of MIF secretion in thrombin‐induced biphasic activation of ERK½, BPAE cells were treated with (i) recombinant MIF, and (ii) the medium collected from thrombin‐treated BPAE cells. These studies demonstrated a sustained monophasic ERK½ phosphorylation. Inhibition of MIF secretion by MIF siRNA or antisense‐MIF treatment, along with a neutralizing antibody, attenuated the thrombin‐induced second phase ERK phosphorylation, suggesting a direct involvement of MIF in the second phase of ERK½ activation. Pretreatment of BPAE cells with an ERK kinase inhibitor and with antisense‐MIF significantly inhibited thrombin‐induced nuclear factor kappa (NF‐κB) activation. These results indicate that MIF secretion and ERK phosphorylation both play a necessary role in thrombin induced NF‐κB activation. J. Cell. Biochem. 105: 1279–1288, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
BAG3 protein regulates caspase‐3 activation in HIV‐1‐infected human primary microglial cells
Authors: Rosati Alessandra , Khalili Kamel , Deshmane Satish L. , Radhakrishnan Sujatha , Pascale Maria , Turco M. Caterina , Marzullo Liberato
Published: September 2008

BAG3, a member of the BAG co‐chaperones family, is expressed in several cell types subjected to stressful conditions, such as exposure to high temperature, heavy metals, drugs. Furthermore, it is constitutively expressed in some tumors. Among the biological activities of the protein, there is apoptosis downmodulation; this appears to be exerted through BAG3 interaction with the heat shock protein (Hsp) 70, that influences cell apoptosis at several levels. We recently reported that BAG3 protein was detectable in the cytoplasm of reactive astrocytes in HIV‐1‐associated encephalopathy biopsies. Here we report that downmodulation of BAG3 protein levels allows caspase‐3 activation by HIV‐1 infection in human primary microglial cells. This is the first reported evidence of a role for BAG3 in the balance of death versus survival during viral infection. J. Cell. Physiol. 218: 264–267, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Recent Advances in Automatic Continuous Online Monitoring of Polymerization Reactions (ACOMP)
Authors: Alb Alina M. , Reed Wayne F.
Published: September 2008

ACOMP allows comprehensive, model‐independent, near realtime monitoring of many different types of polymerization reactions. It provides conversion kinetics, and the evolution of average molar mass, intrinsic viscosity and average composition distributions (for copolymers). Here, recent advances in ACOMP will be summarized, dealing with continuous reactors, copolymerization, ‘living’ type reactions (NMP, RAFT, ATRP, ROMP), polyelectrolytes, heterogeneous phase reactions, including free radical reactions in emulsions, and predictive control. In the case of emulsion polymerization, a new approach will be presented in which the evolution of the characteristics of both the soluble phase – monomer conversion, polymer molar mass and intrinsic viscosity‐ and the dispersed phase – particle size – are simultaneously monitored. NSF CBET 0623531, BoR ITRS 019B, NASA NCC3‐946, TIMES, PolyRMC (Tulane Center for Polymer Reaction Monitoring and Characterization).
Boundary integral equations for two‐dimensional low Reynolds number flow past a porous body
Authors: Kohr Mirela , Wendland Wolfgang L. , Raja Sekhar G. P.
Published: September 2008

In this paper we use the method of matched asymptotic expansions in order to study the two‐dimensional steady flow of a viscous incompressible fluid at low Reynolds number past a porous body of arbitrary shape. One assumes that the flow inside the porous body is described by the Brinkman model, i.e. by the continuity and Brinkman equations, and that the velocity and boundary traction fields are continuous across the interface between the fluid and porous media. By considering some indirect boundary integral representations, the inner problems are reduced to uniquely solvable systems of Fredholm integral equations of the second kind in some Sobolev or Hölder spaces, while the outer problems are solved by using the singularity method. It is shown that the force exerted by the exterior flow on the porous body admits an asymptotic expansion with respect to low Reynolds number, whose terms depend on the solutions of the abovementioned system of boundary integral equations. In addition, the case of small permeability of the porous body is also treated. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A questionnaire based review of long‐term follow‐up programs for survivors of childhood cancer in Canada
Authors: Guilcher G.M.T. , Fitzgerald C. , Pritchard S.
Published: September 2008

Background

Major advances have been made in the treatment of childhood cancer; however, survivors of childhood cancer are at increased risk for morbidity and mortality. There is little literature regarding available long‐term follow‐up programs for survivors of childhood cancer.

Procedure

In March 2007, 16 surveys were sent to pediatric hematology/oncology programs across Canada to determine what programs were available for survivors of childhood cancer, and the nature of such programs.

Results

Of 15 participating centers, 13 (87%) have multi‐disciplinary programs for the long‐term follow‐up of pediatric cancer survivors. Research databases were documented in 9/15 (60%) of centers to document late effects. Dedicated programs for adult survivors of childhood cancer were established in 8/15 (53%) of centers. Access to subspecialty care for survivors was rated as quite good. Concerns were raised by many participants about patients being lost to follow‐up. Respondents indicated that primary care physicians appear to be under‐represented within dedicated long‐term follow‐up programs.

Conclusion

Long‐term follow‐up programs for survivors of childhood cancer are available in 87% of Canadian pediatric oncology centers. While programs reported good access to care for childhood survivors, many adult survivors of childhood cancer have more limited timely access to services and patients are often lost to follow‐up. New models of care incorporating primary care physicians are necessary due to growing numbers of survivors. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;52:113–115. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Systemic analysis of TGFβ proteomics revealed involvement of Plag1/CNK1/RASSF1A/Src network in TGFβ1‐dependent activation of Erk1/2 and cell proliferation
Authors: Bhaskaran Nimesh , Souchelnytskyi Serhiy
Published: September 2008

Transforming growth factor‐β (TGFβ) is a key regulator of cell proliferation, death, migration, and differentiation. To explore mechanisms of TGFβ action, we performed systemic analysis of functional dependencies between 153 proteins which changed their expression and synthesis upon treatment of human breast epithelial cells with TGFβ1. We found that TGFβ1 initiated signaling via a scale‐free network of proteins which affect primary cellular metabolism, stress response, signal transduction, transport, transcription, cytoskeleton, and cell death. Multiple inputs into each functional domain were observed, emphasizing robustness of TGFβ1 signaling. Network analysis demonstrated importance of a Plag1/CNK1/RASSF1A/Src‐dependent prozone effect, as a systemic feature which is crucial for TGFβ1‐dependent activation of Erk1/2 and regulation of cell proliferation. We showed that the balance between Plag1, CNK1, RASSF1A and Src defined whether TGFβ1 will stimulate, inhibit or will have no effect on a long‐term activation of Erk1/2 and subsequent TGFβ1 inhibitory or stimulatory effect on cell proliferation. This is the first demonstration of importance of systemic features for incorporation of Erk1/2 activation into TGFβ1 signaling.
Intracellular signaling pathways regulating radioresistance of human prostate carcinoma cells
Authors: Skvortsova Ira , Skvortsov Sergej , Stasyk Taras , Raju Uma , Popper Bela‐Andre , Schiestl Bernhard , von Guggenberg Elisabeth , Neher Andreas , Bonn Guenther K. , Huber Lukas A. , Lukas Peter
Published: September 2008

Radiation therapy plays an important role in the management of prostate carcinoma. However, the problem of radioresistance and molecular mechanisms by which prostate carcinoma cells overcome cytotoxic effects of radiation therapy remains to be elucidated. In order to investigate possible intracellular mechanisms underlying the prostate carcinoma recurrences after radiotherapy, we have established three radiation‐resistant prostate cancer cell lines, LNCaP‐IRR, PC3‐IRR, and Du145‐IRR derived from the parental LNCaP, PC3, and Du145 prostate cancer cells by repetitive exposure to ionizing radiation. LNCaP‐IRR, PC3‐IRR, and Du145‐IRR cells (prostate carcinoma cells recurred after radiation exposure (IRR cells)) showed higher radioresistance and cell motility than parental cell lines. IRR cells exhibited higher levels of androgen and epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptors and activation of their downstream pathways, such as Ras‐mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) and phosphatidyl inositol 3‐kinase (PI3K)‐Akt and Jak‐STAT. In order to define additional mechanisms involved in the radioresistance development, we determined differences in the proteome profile of parental and IRR cells using 2‐D DIGE followed by computational image analysis and MS. Twenty‐seven proteins were found to be modulated in all three radioresistant cell lines compared to parental cells. Identified proteins revealed capacity to interact with EGF and androgen receptors related signal transduction pathways and were involved in the regulation of intracellular routs providing cell survival, increased motility, mutagenesis, and DNA repair. Our data suggest that radioresistance development is accompanied by multiple mechanisms, including activation of cell receptors and related downstream signal transduction pathways. Identified proteins regulated in the radioresistant prostate carcinoma cells can significantly intensify activation of intracellular signaling that govern cell survival, growth, proliferation, invasion, motility, and DNA repair. In addition, such analyses may be utilized in predicting cellular response to radiotherapy.
Preparation of exfoliated polyacrylic clay nanocomposites with high loading: An investigation into the intercalation of ammonium‐terminated polyacrylic acid and polyacrylates
Authors: Wu Tongfei , Xie Tingxiu , Yang Guisheng
Published: September 2008

Low‐molecular‐weight polyacrylic acid with amine chain end used as a macromolecular intercalating agent was synthesized by radical polymerization using 2‐aminoethanethiol hydrochloride as chain transfer agent. Three polyacrylates (sodium polyacrylate‐t‐NH, calcium polyacrylate‐t‐NH, and zinc polyacrylate‐t‐NH) were prepared by neutralization from this polyacrylic acid using sodium hydroxide, zinc oxide, and calcium hydroxide as alkalies. The intercalation of ammonium‐terminated polyacrylic acid and polyacrylate was investigated by viscosity measurement, XRD, and TEM. Using this ammonium‐terminated polyacrylic acid as the intercalating agent, exfoliated polyacrylic acid/clay and polyacrylate/clay composites with a clay loading of ∼30 and 20 wt %, respectively, were prepared through the evaporation of solvent from their clay suspensions. The thermal degradation of polyacrylic acid/clay and polyacrylate/clay composites was also studied by TGA. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 46: 2335–2340, 2008
An evidence‐based review of yoga as a complementary intervention for patients with cancer
Authors: Smith Kelly B. , Pukall Caroline F.
Published: September 2008

Objective: To conduct an evidence‐based review of yoga as an intervention for patients with cancer. Specifically, this paper reviewed the impact of yoga on psychological adjustment among cancer patients.

Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted between May 2007 and April 2008. Data from each identified study were extracted by two independent raters; studies were included if they assessed psychological functioning and focused on yoga as a main intervention. Using a quality rating scale (range = 9–45), the raters assessed the methodological quality of the studies, and CONSORT guidelines were used to assess randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Effect sizes were calculated when possible. In addition, each study was narratively reviewed with attention to outcome variables, the type of yoga intervention employed, and methodological strengths and limitations.

Results: Ten studies were included, including six RCTs. Across studies, the majority of participants were women, and breast cancer was the most common diagnosis. Methodological quality ranged greatly across studies (range = 15.5–42), with the average rating (M = 33.55) indicating adequate quality. Studies also varied in terms of cancer populations and yoga interventions sampled.

Conclusions: This study provided a systematic evaluation of the yoga and cancer literature. Although some positive results were noted, variability across studies and methodological drawbacks limit the extent to which yoga can be deemed effective for managing cancer‐related symptoms. However, further research in this area is certainly warranted. Future research should examine what components of yoga are most beneficial, and what types of patients receive the greatest benefit from yoga interventions. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.