bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transforming growth factor‐β induces epithelial to mesenchymal transition and suppresses the proliferation and transdifferentiation of cultured human pancreatic duct cells
Authors: Shin Jeong‐Ah , Hong Oak‐Kee , Lee Hye‐Jung , Jeon Sung‐Yoon , Kim Ji‐Won , Lee Seung‐Hwan , Cho Jae‐Hyoung , Lee Jung‐Min , Choi Yoon‐Hee , Chang Sang‐Ah , Son Ho‐Young , Kim Joo‐Han , Yoon Kun‐Ho
Published: November 2010

Pancreatic duct cells are considered a potential source of β‐cell regeneration, and transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) has been suggested to perform an important role in these processes, but the underlying mechanism of the signal pathways, especially in humans, remains poorly understood. To evaluate the role of TGF‐β1, pancreatic duct cells were isolated from three brain‐dead organ donors. Pancreatic cell clusters harvested after islet isolation were dispersed to single cells and cultured in monolayers, then treated with TGF‐β1. We analyzed the characteristics of the cultured cells, the TGF‐β1 intracellular signaling pathway, the proliferation, and transdifferentiation rates of the duct cells. We also evaluated the genes and protein expression patterns after TGF‐β1 treatment. After TGF‐β1 treatment, typical morphologic changes representative of EMT were observed and Erk1/2, JNK, and AKT phosphorylation, Ras downstream effectors, were increased. β cell‐specific transcription factors including PDX‐1, Beta2/NeuroD, Ist‐1, and NGN3 were markedly suppressed and the rate of transdifferentiation into β cells was also suppressed. Genomic and proteomic analyses suggested that TGF‐β1 induces marked changes in a variety of structural genes and proteins associated with EMT. In conclusion, TGF‐β1 induces EMT in cultured human pancreatic duct cells, but suppresses its proliferation and transdifferentiation into β cells. Our results are the first report of TGF‐β1 effects for EMT and ductal cell transdifferentiation and proliferation at the protein level in human pancreatic duct cells. J. Cell. Biochem. 112: 179–188, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Extracellular matrix modulates insulin production during differentiation of AR42J cells: Functional role of Pax6 transcription factor
Authors: Hamamoto Kohei , Yamada Satoko , Hara Akemi , Kodera Tsutomu , Seno Masaharu , Kojima Itaru
Published: November 2010

Extracellular matrix (ECM) modulates differentiation of pancreatic β‐cells during development. However, the mechanism by which ECM proteins modulate differentiation is not totally clear. We investigated the effect of ECM proteins on differentiation β‐cells in vitro. We investigated the effect of basement membrane ECM on differentiation of AR42J cells and rat ductal cells. First, we examined the effect of reconstituted basement membrane, Matrigel on differentiation of AR42J cells induced by activin and betacellulin. Matrigel augmented insulin production and increased the expression of GLUT2, SUR1, and glucokinase. Among various transcription factors investigated, Matrigel markedly upregulated the expression of Pax6. When Pax6 was overexpressed in cells treated with activin and betacellulin, the expression of insulin was upregulated. Conversely, knockdown of Pax6 significantly reduced the insulin expression in cells cultured on Matrigel. The effects of Matrigel on insulin‐production and induction of Pax6 were reproduced partially by laminin‐1, a major component of Matrigel, and inhibited by anti‐integrin‐β1 antibody. Matrigel also enhanced the activation of p38 mitogen‐activated kinase induced by activin and betacellulin, which was inhibited by anti‐β1 antibody. Finally, the effect of Matrigel on differentiation was reproduced in rat cultured ductal cells, and Matrigel also increased the expression of Pax6. These results indicate that basement membrane ECM augments differentiation of pancreatic progenitor cells to insulin‐secreting cells by upregulating the expression of Pax6. J. Cell. Biochem. 112: 318–329, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
NOS inhibition synchronizes calcium oscillations in human adipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stem cells by increasing gap‐junctional coupling
Authors: Sauer Heinrich , Sharifpanah Fatemeh , Hatry Myriam , Steffen Paul , Bartsch Caroline , Heller Regine , Padmasekar Manju , Howaldt Hans‐Peter , Bein Gregor , Wartenberg Maria
Published: November 2010

Adipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) are a promising stem cell source for cell transplantation. We demonstrate that undifferentiated ASCs display robust oscillations of intracellular calcium [Ca2+]i which may be associated with stem cell maintenance since oscillations were absent in endothelial cell differentiation medium supplemented with FGF‐2. [Ca2+]i oscillations were dependent on extracellular Ca2+ and Ca2+ release from intracellular stores since they were abolished in Ca2+‐free medium and in the presence of the store‐depleting agent thapsigargin. They were inhibited by the phospholipase C antagonist U73,122, the inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate (InsP3) receptor antagonist 2‐aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2‐APB) as well as by the gap‐junction uncouplers 1‐heptanol and carbenoxolone, indicating regulation by the InsP3 pathway and dependence on gap‐junctional coupling. Cells endogenously generated nitric oxide (NO), expressed NO synthase 1 (NOS 1) and connexin 43 (Cx 43). The nitric oxide NOS inhibitors NG‐monomethyl‐L‐arginine (L‐NMMA), N(G)‐nitro‐L‐arginine methyl ester (L‐NAME), 2‐ethyl‐2‐thiopseudourea, and diphenylene iodonium as well as si‐RNA‐mediated down‐regulation of NOS 1 synchronized [Ca2+]i oscillations between individual cells, whereas the NO‐donors S‐nitroso‐N‐acetylpenicillamine (SNAP) and sodium nitroprusside (SNP) as well as the soluble guanylate cyclase inhibitor 1H‐[1,2,4]oxadiazolo‐[4,3‐a]quinoxalin‐1‐one (ODQ) were without effects. The synchronization of [Ca2+]i oscillations was due to an improvement of intracellular coupling since fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) revealed increased reflow of fluorescent calcein into the bleached area in the presence of the NOS inhibitors DPI and L‐NAME. In summary our data demonstrate that intracellular NO levels regulate synchronization of [Ca2+]i oscillations in undifferentiated ASCs by controlling gap‐junctional coupling. J. Cell. Physiol. 226: 1642–1650, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Wnt5b regulates mesenchymal cell aggregation and chondrocyte differentiation through the planar cell polarity pathway
Authors: Bradley Elizabeth W. , Drissi M. Hicham
Published: November 2010

Although genetic evidence has demonstrated a role for Wnt5b during cartilage and limb development, little is known about the mechanisms underlying Wnt5b‐regulated chondrocyte differentiation. We observed that Wnt5b inhibited chondrocyte hypertrophy and expression of type X collagen. In addition, Wnt5b regulated the overall size of chondrogenic cultures, suggesting that Wnt5b regulates other processes involved in cartilage development. We therefore investigated the signaling pathways by which Wnt5b influences differentiation. Wnt5b activated known calcium‐dependent signaling pathways and JNK, a component of the planar cell polarity pathway. Since the planar cell polarity pathway regulates process such as cell migration and cell aggregation that are involved in limb development, we assayed for effects of Wnt5b on these processes. We observed a marked increase chondroprogenitor cell migration with Wnt5b expression. This effect was blocked by inhibition of JNK, but not by inhibition of other Wnt5b‐responsive factors. Expression of Wnt5b also disrupted the cellular aggregation associated with mesenchymal condensation. Decreased aggregation was associated with reduced cadherin expression as well as increased cadherin receptor turnover. This increase in cadherin receptor turnover was associated with an increase in Src‐dependent beta‐catenin phosphorylation downstream of Wnt5b. Our data demonstrate that not only does Wnt5b inhibit chondrocyte hypertrophy, but document a novel role for Wnt5b in modulating cellular migration through the JNK‐dependent and cell adhesion through an activation of Src and subsequent cadherin receptor turnover. J. Cell. Physiol. 226: 1683–1693, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
High capacity Na+/H+ exchange activity in mineralizing osteoblasts
Authors: Liu Li , Schlesinger Paul H. , Slack Nicole M. , Friedman Peter A. , Blair Harry C.
Published: November 2010

Osteoblasts synthesize bone in polarized groups of cells sealed by tight junctions. Large amounts of acid are produced as bone mineral is precipitated. We addressed the mechanism by which cells manage this acid load by measuring intracellular pH (pHi) in non‐transformed osteoblasts in response to weak acid or bicarbonate loading. Basal pHi in mineralizing osteoblasts was ∼7.3 and decreased by ∼1.4 units upon replacing extracellular Na+ with N‐methyl‐D‐glucamine. Loading with 40 mM acetic or propionic acids, in normal extracellular Na+, caused only mild cytosolic acidification. In contrast, in Na+‐free solutions, weak acids reduced pHi dramatically. After Na+ reintroduction, pHi recovered rapidly, in keeping with Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE) activity. Sodium‐dependent pHi recovery from weak acid loading was inhibited by amiloride with the Ki consistent with NHEs. NHE1 and NHE6 were expressed strongly, and expression was upregulated highly, by mineralization, in human osteoblasts. Antibody labeling of mouse bone showed NHE1 on basolateral surfaces of all osteoblasts. NHE6 occurred on basolateral surfaces of osteoblasts mainly in areas of mineralization. Conversely, elevated HCO alkalinized osteoblasts, and pH recovered in medium containing Cl−, with or without Na+, in keeping with Na+‐independent Cl−/HCO exchange. The exchanger AE2 also occurred on the basolateral surface of osteoblasts, consistent with Cl−/HCO exchange for elimination of metabolic carbonate. Overexpression of NHE6 or knockdown of NHE1 in MG63 human osteosarcoma cells confirmed roles of NHE1 and NHE6 in maintaining pHi. We conclude that in mineralizing osteoblasts, slightly basic basal pHi is maintained, and external acid load is dissipated, by high‐capacity Na+/H+ exchange via NHE1 and NHE6. J. Cell. Physiol. 226: 1702–1712, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reduced levels of folate transporters (PCFT and RFC) in membrane lipid rafts result in colonic folate malabsorption in chronic alcoholism
Authors: Wani Nissar Ahmad , Kaur Jyotdeep
Published: November 2010

We studied the effect of chronic ethanol ingestion on folate transport across the colonic apical membranes (CAM) in rats. Male Wistar rats were fed 1 g/kg body weight/day ethanol (20%) solution orally for 3 months and folate transport was studied in the isolated colon apical membrane vesicles. The folate transport was found to be carrier mediated, saturable, with pH optima at 5.0. Chronic ethanol ingestion reduced the folate transport across the CAM by decreasing the affinity of transporters (high Km) for the substrate and by decreasing the number of transporter molecules (low Vmax) on the colon luminal surface. The decreased transport activity at the CAM was associated with down‐regulation of the proton‐coupled folate transporter (PCFT) and the reduced folate carrier (RFC) which resulted in decreased PCFT and RFC protein levels in the colon of rats fed alcohol chronically. Moreover, the PCFT and the RFC were found to be distributed in detergent insoluble fraction of the CAM in rats. Floatation experiments on Optiprep density gradients demonstrated the association of the PCFT and the RFC protein with lipid rafts (LR). Chronic alcoholism decreased the PCFT and the RFC protein levels in the CAM LR in accordance with the decreased synthesis. Hence, we propose that downregulation in the expression of the PCFT and the RFC in colon results in reduced levels of these transporters in colon apical membrane LR as a mechanism of folate malabsorption during chronic alcoholism. J. Cell. Physiol. 226: 579–587, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
CiMT‐1, an unusual chordate metallothionein gene in Ciona intestinalis genome: structure and expression studies
Authors: Franchi Nicola , Boldrin Francesco , Ballarin Loriano , Piccinni Ester
Published: November 2010

The present article reports on the characterization of the urochordate metallothionein (MT) gene, CiMT‐1, from the solitary ascidian Ciona intestinalis. The predicted protein is shorter than other known deuterostome MTs, having only 39 amino acids. The gene has the same tripartite structure as vertebrate MTs, with some features resembling those of echinoderm MTs. The promoter region shows the canonical cis‐acting elements recognized by transcription factors that respond to metal, ROS, and cytokines. Unusual sequences, described in fish and echinoderms, are also present. In situ hybridization suggests that only a population of hemocytes involved in immune responses, i.e. granular amebocytes, express CiMT‐1 mRNA. These observations support the idea that urochordates perform detoxification through hemocytes, and that MTs may play important roles in inflammatory humoral responses in tunicates. The reported data offer new clues for better understanding the evolution of these multivalent proteins from non‐vertebrate to vertebrate chordates and reinforce their functions in detoxification and immunity. J. Exp. Zool. 315:90–100, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Impaired performance on the angle board test is induced in a model of painful whiplash injury but is only transient in a model of cervical radiculopathy
Authors: Dunk Nadine M. , Nicholson Kristen J. , Winkelstein Beth A.
Published: November 2010

Although clinical studies report motor impairment associated with some painful injuries of the neck, assessment of motor function in animal models has been largely limited only to studies of direct trauma to the nervous system. The incline plane test was modified to evaluate motor function in two rodent pain models of facet joint distraction (FJD) and nerve root compression (NRC) injury (n = 5/group). Sham groups were also included as controls. Motor function was measured using the modified inclined plane test with rats facing downward before surgery (baseline) and following surgery on days corresponding to when mechanical sensitivity is established and remains elevated. Mean baseline values of the board angle inducing slip for FJD (45.8 ± 3.1°) was significantly greater (p = 0.014) than that for NRC (43.5 ± 2.5°), but baseline measurements did not vary for either group over time. No changes in motor function were found for shams. Motor function after FJD significantly decreased (p < 0.001) at days 1 and 7 after injury. In contrast, at day 1 after NRC injury, slip occurred at significantly lower (p = 0.0016) incline angles, but returned to baseline levels by day 7. These results show motor function impairment is induced following painful FJD and suggest the incline plane test offers utility to evaluate functional deficits in painful injuries. © 2010 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:562–566, 2011
The most cited works in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Ponce Francisco A. , Lozano Andres M.
Published: November 2010

The number of citations a work has received is a measure of its impact. We identified the top cited works in Parkinson's disease. A Web of Science search was performed for articles including the keyword “Parkinson*” in the title (the asterisk was included in the search string as a wild card character). Articles with more than 400 citations, the threshold to be considered a “citation classic,” were identified and analyzed. The 107 articles identified appeared in 33 different journals, with clinical articles primarily appearing in the New England Journal of Medicine and Lancet, and scientific articles primarily in Nature, Science, and the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. There were 52 laboratory studies, 38 clinical studies, 12 review articles, and 5 classifications of disease. The clinical studies included evaluation of medical and surgical therapies, and the laboratory studies included gene discovery, molecular biology, and cellular biology, as well as animal models and neuropathological studies. High impact topics included deep brain stimulation, levodopa therapy and related adverse effects, MPTP‐based animal studies, discovery and evaluation of genetic mutations, and pathogenesis related to oxidative degeneration. More than half of the articles identified in this study have been published in the past 20 years. Prior to 1990, highly cited articles in Parkinson's disease tended to be those that evaluated medical therapies and defined the clinical and neuropathological characteristics of the disease. Since 1990, a high proportion of the citation classics address the genetic characterization of and surgical treatments for the disease suggesting that these are the most significant recent developments and main drivers of impact in this field. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society
The nanogranular origin of friction and cohesion in shale—A strength homogenization approach to interpretation of nanoindentation results
Authors: Bobko Christopher P. , Gathier Benjamin , Ortega J. Alberto , Ulm Franz‐Josef , Borges Lavinia , Abousleiman Younane N.
Published: November 2010

An inverse micromechanics approach allows interpretation of nanoindentation results to deliver cohesive‐frictional strength behavior of the porous clay binder phase in shale. A recently developed strength homogenization model, using the Linear Comparison Composite approach, considers porous clay as a granular material with a cohesive‐frictional solid phase. This strength homogenization model is employed in a Limit Analysis Solver to study indentation hardness responses and develop scaling relationships for indentation hardness with clay packing density. Using an inverse approach for nanoindentation on a variety of shale materials gives estimates of packing density distributions within each shale and demonstrates that there exists shale‐independent scaling relations of the cohesion and of the friction coefficient that vary with clay packing density. It is observed that the friction coefficient, which may be interpreted as a degree of pressure‐sensitivity in strength, tends to zero as clay packing density increases to one. In contrast, cohesion reaches its highest value as clay packing density increases to one. The physical origins of these phenomena are discussed, and related to fractal packing of these nanogranular materials. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Overview of advances in sugar‐based polymers
Authors: Feng Xianhong , East Anthony J. , Hammond W. B. , Zhang Yi , Jaffe M.
Published: November 2010

Polymeric biomaterials, especially agricultural commodity‐based polymers, have been moving forward quickly during the last few years because of the significant rise in oil and natural gas prices. From a life‐cycle perspective, sugar is a renewable resource that has the potential to be used as an alternative to petroleum‐based polymers. The objective of this work is to demonstrate the wide utility of a cereal‐derived material, isosorbide, for high added value applications in polymers. As a bicyclic ether derivative of glucose, isosorbide is classified by the Food and Drug Administration as a “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) material. Because of its rigidity, chirality, and nontoxicity, isosorbide can be incorporated into thermosets and thermoplastics. Such processes and products offer a more sustainable and “green” technology. By making the diglycidyl ether, isosorbide epoxy resins were synthesized in this work as a new class of thermosets with comparable dry mechanical property similar to bisphenol A (BPA) epoxide. These could be a potential replacement for BPA in coatings and adhesives. By controlling the stereochemistry, multiple isosorbide‐derived AB monomers such as isosorbide methyl terephthalate were synthesized for future homopolymerization and copolymerizations with commercial available polymers like polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and PLLA. The increased glass transition temperature and semicrystalline morphology of these isosorbide copolyesters demonstrate a way to improve the performance of polyester thermoplastics in many applications such as hot‐fill containers and engineering resins. All the intermediates generated during the syntheses were characterized by NMR. The thermal tests were conducted using the techniques of DSC and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Daily Dynamics of Personal Identity and Self–Concept Clarity
Authors: Schwartz Seth J. , Klimstra Theo A. , Luyckx Koen , Hale William W. , Frijns Tom , Oosterwegel Annerieke , van Lier Pol A. C. , Koot Hans M. , Meeus Wim H. J.
Published: November 2010

We examined the daily dynamics among self–concept clarity and identity processes, and their effects on distress, among a sample of 580 Dutch adolescents. Participants completed measures of identity, self–concept clarity, anxiety and depression at annual intervals; and daily single–item measures of self–concept clarity, identity commitments and reconsideration across three 5–day weeks. We examined (a) cross–lagged associations of self–concept clarity to identity commitment and reconsideration and (b) associations of daily fluctuations in self and identity processes to later anxiety and depression. Results indicated that self–concept clarity and identity commitments influence one another reciprocally across days, and that day–to–day fluctuations in identity predicted later anxiety and depression. Results are discussed in terms of self and identity processes and their effects on distress. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Justice Sensitivity and the Processing of Justice–Related Information
Authors: Baumert Anna , Gollwitzer Mario , Staubach Miriam , Schmitt Manfred
Published: November 2010

We investigated how Justice Sensitivity (JS) shapes the processing of justice–related information. We proposed that due to frequently perceiving and ruminating about injustices, persons high in JS develop highly accessible and differentiated injustice concepts that shape attention, interpretation and memory for justice–related information. Three studies provided evidence for these assumptions. After witnessing injustice, persons high in JS attended more strongly to unjust stimuli than to negative control stimuli (Study1) and interpreted an ambiguous situation as less just than persons low in JS (Study2). Finally, they displayed a memory advantage for unjust information (Study3). Results suggest that JS involves the availability and accessibility of injustice concepts as parameters of cognitive functioning and offer explanations for effects of JS on justice–related behaviour. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Combustible dust hazard recognition—An insurer's view
Authors: Febo Henry L.
Published: November 2010

This article will discuss some of the key factors that FM Global engineering representatives use in evaluating combustible dust hazards at insured locations. The information is used to develop underwriting information, but more importantly, it is the basis for guidance provided for the client with regard to understand the hazards of combustible dust presented by their operations. Where there are deficiencies relative to FM Global standards, detailed recommendations are provided for correction. Some brief loss background with special emphasis on the chemical industry will be provided, and 10 key factors used to develop these evaluations will be discussed. These same factors can be used by individual companies to focus their efforts in the area of prevention of incidents as a result of uncontrolled combustible dusts. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog, 2011.
Sativex: oromucosal cannabinoid spray for spasticity in MS
Authors: Chaplin Steve , Dobson Ruth
Published: November 2010

Sativex is an oromucosal cannabinoid spray licensed as add‐on therapy for moderate to‐severe spasticity in multiple sclerosis. In our New products review Steve Chaplin presents the clinical data relating to its efficacy and side‐effects, and Dr Ruth Dobson discusses its place in the treatment of spasticity.
Graphene‐based composite materials with high dielectric permittivity via an in situ reduction method
Authors: Cui Lili , Lu Xiaofeng , Chao Danming , Liu Hongtao , Li Yongxin , Wang Ce
Published: November 2010

Novel nanocomposites with graphene as conductive filler have been prepared through simple ultrasonic exfoliation of graphite oxide (GO) and subsequent in situ reduction approach. The graphene oxide and graphene nanosheets were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) patterns. The composite materials with graphene as conductive filler exhibited a low value of the percolation threshold (4.08 vol.%). It has been observed that the maximum dielectric permittivity of the composite film with 12.5 vol.% of graphene fillers achieved 2080 at 1000 Hz.
The dependence of excitation energy transfer pathways on conjugation length of carotenoids in purple bacterial photosynthetic antennae
Authors: Maruta Satoshi , Kosumi Daisuke , Horibe Tomoko , Fujii Ritsuko , Sugisaki Mitsuru , Cogdell Richard J. , Hashimoto Hideki
Published: November 2010

Ultrafast excited state dynamics of carotenoids in solution and bound to pigment–protein complexes have been investigated by femtosecond pump‐probe spectroscopic measurements. Possible excitation energy transfer (EET) pathways between carotenoids and bacteriochlorophylls and their efficiency depend strongly on the conjugation length of carotenoids. In the case of Rhodobacter sphaeroides 2.4.1, dual EET channels from carotenoid to bacteriochlorophyll (S2 → Qx and S1 → Qy) upon excitation of carotenoid were observed. In the case of Rhodospirillum rubrum S1, on the other hand, the EET pathway of S1 → Qy upon excitation of carotenoid was closed, whereas reverse energy transfer from bacteriochlorophyll to carotenoid was clearly observed upon excitation of bacteriochlorophyll. The role of carotenoids in the light‐harvesting complexes is discussed in terms of their conjugation length.
Graphite–diamond phase transition induced by interlayer charge transfer exciton in visible region
Authors: Nishioka Keita , Nasu Keiichiro
Published: November 2010

A new photoinduced phase with interlayer σ bonds was experimentally discovered in a graphite crystal. We theoretically study the mechanism of this nonequilibrium phase transition, in terms of the proliferation of photogenerated interlayer charge transfer (CT) excitations in visible region. At the Franck–Condon state, the resultant electron–hole pair is quite unstable, being easily dissipated into the two‐dimensional (2D) electronic continuum as plus and minus free carriers. However, by a small probability, the electron and the hole are bound as an interlayer CT exciton, due to the Coulomb attraction between them. This exciton self‐localizes, contracting the interlayer distance and buckling the six membered ring of graphite, only around it. Due to plenty of excitations, interlayer σ bonds are cooperatively formed, and thus a tiny sp3 nanoscale domain appears.
Exciton spin dynamics in CdTe/ZnTe quantum structures
Authors: Tomimoto Shinichi , Nozawa Shinsuke , Terai Yoshikazu , Kuroda Shinji , Takita Kôki , Masumoto Yasuaki
Published: November 2010

We have investigated the exciton spin dynamics in an ultrathin CdTe/ZnTe single quantum well (QW) and self‐assembled quantum dots (QDs) by observing time‐resolved Kerr rotation (TRKR). At temperatures low enough to suppress the thermal escape of holes from the quantum‐confinement structures, excitons dominate the TRKR signal. It shows characteristic dependence on the magnetic field, which is distinctly different from that of isolated electrons. From the data, we have estimated the electron–hole exchange energy to be 137 µeV in the QW, and larger than 190 µeV in the QDs.
Erratic strategic decisions: when and why managers are inconsistent in strategic decision making
Authors: Robert Mitchell J. , Shepherd Dean A. , Sharfman Mark P.
Published: November 2010

While decision makers in organizations frequently make good decisions rooted in stable and consistent preferences, such consistency in outcomes is not always the case. In this study, we adopt a psychological perspective of judgment to investigate managers' erratic strategic decisions, which we define as a manager's inconsistent judgments that can shape the direction of the firm. In a study of 2,048 decisions made by 64 CEOs of technology firms, we examine how both metacognitive experience and perceptions of the external environment (hostility and dynamism) could affect the extent to which managers make erratic strategic decisions. The results indicate that managers with greater metacognitive experience make less erratic strategic decisions. The results also indicate that in hostile environments managers make more erratic strategic decisions. But contrary to our expectations, in dynamic environments managers makelesserratic strategic decisions. Similarly, hostility and dynamism interact in their effect on erratic strategic decisions in that the positive relationship between environmental hostility and erratic strategic decisions will belesspositive for managers experiencing high environmental dynamism than those experiencing low environmental dynamism. These results have important implications for strategic decision‐making research. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
What's all that (strategic) noise? anticipatory impression management in CEO succession
Authors: Graffin Scott D. , Carpenter Mason A. , Boivie Steven
Published: November 2010

We develop and test a novel theory about strategic noise with regard to CEO appointments. Strategic noise is an anticipatory and preemptive form of impression management. At the time it announces a new CEO, a board of directors seeks to manage stakeholder impressions by simultaneously releasing confounding information about other significant events. Several CEO and firm characteristics affect the likelihood that this will happen. Strategic noise is most likely when long‐term CEOs have a wide pay gap between other top managers at high stock price performance firms, and when a new CEO does not have previous CEO experience or comes from a less well‐regarded firm. Results showing that CEO succession announcements are noisier than they would be by chance have some interesting implications for impression management theory, traditional event study methodology, and managerial and public policy. Interviews with public firm directors on CEO succession provide additional validity for the strategic noise construct and help us to articulate key elements of the theory. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Photooxidation of Bis(8‐dimethylaminonaphthyl) Ditelluride
Authors: Beckmann Jens , Bolsinger Jens
Published: November 2010

The photooxidation of (8‐Me2NC10H6Te)2 provided a complex reaction mixture from which the novel tetranuclear telluroxane cluster (8‐MeNC10H5TeO)4 (1) was isolated in 17 % yield. Compound 1 contains two 5,5′‐binaphthyl moieties that presumably formed by oxidation of C5–H bonds of the naphthyl ring. Upon formation of 1, one of the two methyl groups of the 8‐dimethylamino group was cleaved and the remaining coordinative Te···N bond turned into a covalent Te–N bond. In the solid‐state, individual molecules of 1 are associated through secondary Te···O interactions giving rise to a 1D coordination polymer.
Supercritical CO2 Extraction of Flax Lignans
Authors: Comin Lauren M. , Temelli Feral , Saldaña Marleny Aranda
Published: November 2010

Lignans, such as flaxseed secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG), have been implicated in the prevention of hormonally related cancers and other prevalent diseases. Lignans are typically extracted using organic solvents, which must then be removed from the extract. Supercritical carbon dioxide (SC‐CO2) is a non‐toxic, inexpensive solvent, which, when combined with polar modifiers, can be used to extract polar phenolic compounds, such as SDG. The effects of processing conditions and pre‐treatment on the extraction of SDG using SC‐CO2 were investigated. Extraction from defatted flaxseed was performed with SC‐CO2 modified with ethanol at levels of 0, 10 and 20 mol% at different temperature (40, 50 and 60 °C) and pressure (35, 40 and 45 MPa) conditions. Extracts were analyzed using RP‐HPLC. The condition (7.8 mol% ethanol, 45 MPa and 60 °C) which produced the maximum CO2 loading of SDG (0.49 μg/g CO2) was used for the pre‐treatment study, in which flaxseed defatted with petroleum ether and SC‐CO2, full‐fat hulls, defatted hulls and pre‐hydrolyzed flaxseed were used. Temperature, pressure and solvent modifier level had no significant effect (p > 0.05) on the SDG loading of CO2. However, pre‐hydrolyzed seed resulted in a significantly (p ≤ 0.05) higher CO2 loading of SDG (3.8 μg/g CO2) compared to the other treatments studied. The yields obtained represented only a small fraction of the original lignan content (15 mg/g petroleum ether defatted flaxseed).
Imprinting des RB1-Gens und „Parent-of-Origin-Effekte“ beim Retinoblastom
Authors: Lohmann D.
Published: November 2010

Mutationen beider Allele des Retinoblastomgens (RB1) sind Voraussetzung für die Entstehung des Retinoblastoms. Dieser Augentumor kann auf der Grundlage einer autosomal-dominanten Disposition entstehen, die durch Keimbahnmutationen im RB1-Gen verursacht wird. Die Entstehung eines Tumorherds wird durch eine somatische Mutation des anderen RB1-Allels ausgelöst. Bei Patienten mit der nichterblichen Form sind beide RB1-Mutationen somatisch. Beim erblichen und beim nichterblichen Retinoblastom können Elterneffekte beobachtet werden. Diesen ist gemeinsam, dass die onkogene Wirkung der ersten Mutation höher ist, wenn sie das RB1-Allel paternaler Herkunft betrifft. Das RB1-Gen des Menschen unterliegt dem Imprinting: Als indirekte Folge differenzieller Methylierung einer CpG-Insel im Intron 2 überwiegt die Expression der mit Exon 1 beginnenden Transkripte vom maternalen, methylierten Allel. Ob und wie das Imprinting dieser CpG-Insel zu den beobachteten Elterneffekten führt, ist noch ungeklärt.
Acute scrotal ultrasound: a practical guide
Authors: Heller Matthew T. , Fargiano Antonio , Rudzinski Scott , Johnson Nathan
Published: November 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to provide a practical review of common ultrasound (US) findings in patients presenting with acute scrotal pain.

Methods

We performed a literature search and reviewed numerous US cases archived in the radiology department of a large university hospital to find examples that illustrate the common US findings encountered in acute scrotal pain.

Results

We reviewed the literature and provided several practical examples of common US findings in patients presenting with acute scrotal pain.

Conclusion

Scrotal US plays a pivotal role in the evaluation of acute scrotal pain and allows proper triage of patients for conservative, medical, or surgical management due to its ability to rapidly differentiate intra versus extratesticular pathology, determine extent of trauma, and assess parenchymal perfusion.
Oral nitric‐oxide donor glyceryl‐trinitrate induces sensitization in spinal cord pain processing in migraineurs: A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, cross‐over study
Authors: Perrottal Armando , Serraol Mariano , Tassorellil Cristina , Arce‐Leall Natalia , Guaschinol Elena , Sancesl Grazia , Rossil Paolo , Bartolol Michelangelo , Pierellil Francesco , Sandrinil Giorgio , Nappil Giuseppe
Published: November 2010

Nitric‐oxide donor glyceryl‐trinitrate (GTN) modulates cerebral and spinal regions that are involved in migraine and pain processing. We hypothesized that in migraineurs, the susceptibility to develop a migraine attack after GTN administration should parallel with an high sensitivity to GTN‐induced change in the pain processing at spinal level.

We used the temporal summation threshold (TST) of the lower limb nociceptive withdrawal reflex (NWR) and the related pain sensation to study in parallel the time‐course of the effect of the GTN administration on the pain processing at spinal level in migraine and healthy subjects. Twenty‐eight (21 F; 7 M; mean age 34.2±8.2) migraine and 15 (11 F; 4 M; mean age 35.9±8.9) healthy subjects were recruited in a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, cross‐over trial. Neurophysiological examinations were carried out before (baseline) and 30′, 60′, 120′, 180′ and 240′ after GTN (0.9 mg sublingual) or placebo administration during two different sessions.

In migraineurs, GTN administration was associated to a significant facilitation in temporal summation of pain (reduced TST and increased painful sensation) 60′, 120′ and 180′ after drug intake when compared to baseline, to placebo condition and to controls after GTN intake. Furthermore, in migraineurs who developed migraine after GTN, a significant facilitation in temporal summation of pain was detected 60′, 120′ and 180′ after drug intake when compared to patients without clinical response.

In migraineurs the susceptibility to develop migraine attack after GTN administration seems to be a specific trait of a subgroup of patients linked to a supersensitivity of the pain system to GTN.
A novel rat forelimb model of neuropathic pain produced by partial injury of the median and ulnar nerves
Authors: Yil Hanju , Kiml Myung Ah , Backl Seung Keun , Eun Jong Shin , Nal Heung Sik
Published: November 2010

The vast majority of human peripheral nerve injuries occur in the upper limb, whereas the most animal studies have been conducted using the hindlimb models of neuropathic pain, involving damages of the sciatic or lumbar spinal nerve(s). We attempted to develop a rat forelimb model of peripheral neuropathy by partial injury of the median and ulnar nerves. The halves of each nerve were transected by microscissors at about 5 mm proximal from the elbow joint and behavioral signs of neuropathic pain, such as mechanical and cold allodynia, and heat hyperalgesia, were monitored up to 126 days following nerve injury. Mechanical allodynia was assessed by measuring the forepaw withdrawal threshold to von Frey filaments, and cold allodynia was evaluated by measuring the time spent in lifting or licking the forepaw after applying acetone to it. Heat hyperalgesia was also monitored by investigating the forepaw withdrawal latencies using the Hargreaves' test. After the nerve injury, the experimental animals exhibited long‐lasting clear neuropathic pain‐like behaviors, such as reduced forepaw withdrawal threshold to von Frey filaments, the increased response duration of the forepaw to acetone application, and the decreased withdrawal latency to radiant heat stimulation. These behaviors were significantly alleviated by administration of gabapentin (5 or 50 mg/kg, i.p.) in a dose‐dependent manner. Therefore, these abnormal sensitivities are interpreted as the signs of neuropathic pain following injury of the median and ulnar nerves. Our rat forelimb model of neuropathic pain may be useful for studying human neuropathic pain and screening for valuable drug candidates.
Handedness, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation and bulimic disorders
Authors: Van den Eynde F. , Broadbent H. , Guillaume S. , Claudino A. , Campbell I.C. , Schmidt U.
Published: November 2010

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) research in psychiatry mostly excludes left-handed participants. We recruited left-handed people with a bulimic disorder and found that stimulation of the left prefrontal cortex may result in different effects in left- and right-handed people. This highlights the importance of handedness and cortex lateralisation for rTMS.
With friends like these…: Peer delinquency influences across age cohorts on smoking, alcohol and illegal substance use
Authors: Ferguson C.J. , Meehan D.C.
Published: November 2010

Background

Discussions and debate about youth smoking, alcohol use, and illegal substance use (collectively referred to as youth substance use) continue to receive wide attention among researchers, policymakers, and the general public. Previous research has suggested that peer delinquency is a particularly strong correlate of youth substance use. The current study focuses on the influence of delinquent peers on substance use, and how peer delinquency influences change across age cohorts of youth.

Method

The current study examines multiple correlates for youth substance use in a sample of 8,256 youth (mean age 14), with the goal of identifying the influence of delinquent peers across age cohorts while controlling for other correlates. Data was collected from the Ohio version of the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS) developed by the Centers for Disease Control.

Results

Results from multiple regression analyses identified peer delinquency as the strongest correlate of youth substance use even when other relevant factors related to family, neighborhood, and media use were controlled. Correlations between peer delinquency and substance use behavior increased across age cohorts and for individuals who first used in middle teen years (13–16) irrespective of current age.

Interpretation.

Age appears to be a moderating factor regarding the correlation between peer delinquency and youth substance abuse. Primary and secondary prevention and intervention strategies that focus on peers are potentially more likely to reduce youth substance use and improve peer relationships than those focused on other areas such as schools or media.
Corticostriatal functional connectivity in non-medicated patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder
Authors: Sakai Y. , Narumoto J. , Nishida S. , Nakamae T. , Yamada K. , Nishimura T. , Fukui K.
Published: November 2010

The basal ganglia represents a key component of the pathophysiological model for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). This brain region is part of several neural circuits, including the orbitofronto-striatal circuit and dorsolateral prefronto-striatal circuit. There are, however, no published studies investigating those circuits at a network level in non-medicated patients with OCD. Resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging scans were obtained from 20 non-medicated patients with OCD and 23 matched healthy volunteers. Voxelwise statistical parametric maps testing strength of functional connectivity of three striatal seed regions of interest (ROIs) with remaining brain regions were calculated and compared between groups. We performed additional correlation analyses between strength of connectivity and the severity scores for obsessive-compulsive symptoms, depression, and anxiety in the OCD group. Positive functional connectivity with the ventral striatum was significantly increased (Pcorrected <.05) in the orbitofrontal cortex, ventral medial prefrontal cortex and dorsal lateral prefrontal cortex of subjects with OCD. There was no significant correlation between measures of symptom severity and the strength of connectivity (Puncorrected <.001). This is the first study to investigate the corticostriatal connectivity in non-medicated patients with OCD. These findings provide the first direct evidence supporting a pathophysiological model involving basal ganglia circuitry in OCD.
Per3, a circadian gene, is required for Chk2 activation in human cells
Authors: Im Jun-Sub , Jung Bo-Hyeon , Kim Sang-Eun , Lee Kun-Ho , Lee Joon-Kyu
Published: November 2010

MINT‐8052850: Chk2 (uniprotkb:O96017) physically interacts (MI:0915) with Per3 (uniprotkb:P56645) by anti bait coimmunoprecipitation (MI:0006)MINT‐8052875: Per3 (uniprotkb:P56645) physically interacts (MI:0914) with Chk2 (uniprotkb:O96017) and ATM (uniprotkb:Q13315) by anti tag coimmunoprecipitation (MI:0007)
floating. No gears shifting.
Authors: Mrázek Rudolf
Published: November 2010

It is impressive how, in Prasenjit Duara's essay, Asian regions are understood and presented—in the breadth of the world, not as objects with sharp edges, or compact entities of cultures, economies, and politics, not as blocks of which the present and the global so often are still thought to be made. Reading Duara's essay, I was made to think of the celebrated Japanese architect Fumihiko Maki's current grand plan for Singapore, the epitome of Asia today, a design conceived not as a space made of buildings, offices, and flats, not of blocks, but of flows—bridges and flyovers, “links,” as Maki calls them. These links are there as the most powerful part of the whole, making the city-state space by cutting through it, over the blocks, and along them. The links are empowered to make everything in the city-state to face the open, and to move into the open. A skeptic, of course, may ask, “into what open?” Indeed, the “links” of Singapore, at least those already in action, often lead from offices, flats, and blocks into one mega-supermarket and then into another.
Asia Is Not One
Authors: Acharya Amitav
Published: November 2010

Asia is not “one,” and there is no singular idea of Asia. Asia is of multiple (although not always mutually exclusive) conceptions, some drawing on material forces, such as economic growth, interdependence, and physical power, and others having ideational foundations, such as civilizational linkages and normative aspirations. Some of these varied conceptions of Asia have shaped in meaningful ways the destinies of its states and peoples. Moreover, they have underpinned different forms of regionalism, which, in turn, has ensured that Asia, despite its fuzziness and incoherence, has remained a durable, if essentially contested, notion.
The Reinvention ofSharī‘aunder the British Raj: In Search of Authenticity and Certainty
Authors: Giunchi Elisa
Published: November 2010

Influenced by Orientalist assumptions and Utilitarian ideals, and needing to enforce a system of adjudication that responded to their interests, the East India Company's officers selected among varied religious texts a set of norms and tried to apply them consistently. The decision to rely on texts rather than practice, the choice of certain precepts at the expense of others, and their rigid application ran counter to the traditional administration of justice, which had been fluid, contextual, and plural. They also distorted the meaning of Hanafifiḳh, turning what had been an instrument of legitimation, a moral reference, and a source of social standing into a system of organized dispute settlement. The emphasis on religious textual sources and the attempt to use them as a basis for codification coincided with the idea, which gained ground in the nineteenth century among Muslim reformist movements, that political weakness could be countered by returning to a pristine scripturalist Islam, focused on its legal aspects and seen as a systematic doctrine devoid of ambiguities. These ideas can be also found in the Islamist thought that subsequently spread among urban reformist movements and in legal reforms adopted in Pakistan. A review of case studies, however, suggests that the flexibility and contextuality that characterized the enforcement of Islamic law in precolonial Islam is still to be found in legal practice.
Making Space for Islam: Religion, Science, and Politics in Contemporary Malaysia
Authors: Zook Darren C.
Published: November 2010

In October 2007, Malaysia celebrated sending its first astronaut into space, as part of a cooperative venture on board a Russian space mission. As Malaysia's first astronaut was a Muslim, the Malaysian government commissioned, through its Department of Islamic Development, a project to create a definitive set of guidelines for the practice of Islam in outer space, specifically on board the International Space Station. What may on the surface appear to be a practical exercise in clarifying religious practice reveals upon closer examination to be a complex restructuring of Malaysia's domestic and international politics, with the role of Islam as the catalytic and somewhat controversial centerpiece.