bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phenotypic and Genotypic Detection of UV-induced Bacteriocin Production in Enteric Gram-Negative Rods and their Activity against Escherichia coli O157: H7
Authors: Oluwajide O. O. , Olowe R. A. , Adefioye O. J. , Adekunle O. C. , Adeyemi F. M. , Akinde S. B. , Aluko E.F , Olowe O. A.
Published: April 2024

Background: Virulence and antibiotic resistance of bacterial pathogens are one of the most universal threats to public health care. 

Materials: In this study, a total of two hundred and fifty-seven (257) enteric bacteria isolated from human rectal swabs and cattle dung were screened for production of low-toxic, high target-specific bactericidal macromolecule peptides (Bacteriocin) against strains of E. coli 0157: H7 using agar well diffusion method. The producer isolates were exposed to ultra-violet (UV) rays (UV 302nm and 254nm) for induction.

Results: Out of the 257 isolates, 21 (8.1%) were active against E. coli 0157: H7 due to their constitutive bacteriocin, however, on the induction by UV ray; only 7 (2.1%) retained their potency for bacteriocin production. Three (42.9%) of seven isolates were randomly selected for genotypic screening (Col 28b (L) and Col K genes) because of their increased zone of inhibition (bioactive ability) after exposure to UV ray; the isolates also showed resistance to ≤ 2 classes of antibiotics and exhibited Gamma/alpha haemolysis.

Conclusion: This study revealed Serratia marcescens in this work to possess an antimicrobial molecule of bacteriocinogenic type with possession of Col 28b gene.
Response of Spacing and Row Proportions of Turmeric + Okra Intercropping System of Odisha in India
Authors: Debata D.K. , Das L.K.
Published: April 2024

Farmers of Kandhamal district of Odisha are cultivating turmeric as sole crop where interspace are not properly utilised. Therefore, One experiment was conducted at RRTTS, G.Udayagiri, Kandhamal, Odisha to study   the response of spacing and row proportions on growth and yield attributes of okra in turmeric + okra intercropping System during 2022-23 kharif. T1 - Sole turmeric at 30x 20 cm (Recommended), T2- Sole Oka 45x20 cm (Recommended),T3-  Okra  +  Turmeric (1:1), T4- Okra  + turmeric (1:2),  T5- Okra  + turmeric (1:3),T6- Okra  + turmeric (1:4),T7- Okra  + turmeric (2:1),T8- Okra  + turmeric (2:2), T9-  Okra  + turmeric (2:3), T10- Okra  + turmeric (2:4). Sole crop of turmeric fresh rhizome (119.2 q ha-1) and okra fresh fruit (72.8 q ha-1) produced the highest yield when compared with other intercropping systems. Turmeric + Okra Intercropping system (1:4) spacing and row proportion in T6 registered highest turmeric rhizome equivalent yield 149.9q ha-1over other intercropping system and B: C ration of 2.17 where as in sole crop of B: C ratio -1.43.
Influence of Gut Resistome on Humans with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Abuljadayel Dalia , Bahieldin Ahmed , Alotaibi Budur , Aresh Wafa M. , Farsi Reem M.
Published: April 2024

Recent studies have shed light on the connection between the gut resistome and individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Environmental factors such as premature birth and exposure to drugs in utero can have a significant impact on children with ASD. Microorganisms present in wastewater, hospitals, and animal production wastewaters have been found to contain various antibiotic-resistant genes (ARGs) that encode resistance to a broad spectrum of antibiotics. Environmental variables are currently considered potential etiological agents of this condition, as genetics alone cannot explain its primary origin. Numerous bacteria found in the gut microbiota (GM) have an impact on human health. Furthermore, a microbe impacted by birth mode, lifestyle, and genetics is present in the intestine. To produce different compounds that affect the host, train the host's immunity, modify drug action and metabolism, regulate gut endocrine function, and eliminate toxins, for example, GM is essential to achieving the intended target for treatment application.
Exploring Biochemical Changes and Nutritional Composition in Mungbean Genotypes
Authors: Singh Shakti , Kumar Nand , Ojha Komal , Kumar R. K. M. Harish , Khan Anam , Kalpana Kavuri , Sachan Kushal , Singh Bal veer
Published: April 2024

During the Rabi season of 2018-19, an experiment was undertaken at the C.S.A University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur's pulse research farm kalyanpur to investigate the biochemical investigation of several promising genotypesof mung bean [Vigna radiata (L)]. The nutritional quality flour and characteristics such as the overall range of variability of number of pods per plant, maturity period, yield in gram per plant, moisture content, methionine and tryptophan content were found to be 18-27, 60-70 percent, 2.90-5.94g/plant, 0.38 to 5.68, 0.35-0.72g/16gN, and 1.30 to 1.80g/16gN in mung bean (use either genotype or variety based on the historical description of the mung bean materials used in your research), respectively. The genotypes IPM-02-3, KM-2268, KM-2328, KM-2364, KM-2260, KM-2362 of the varietal trail were found to have the highest number of pods per plant, lowest moisture percentage, lowest maturity period, yield in gram per plant, and greater nutritional contents (don’t such an abrevatted terms in the abstract which might creat confusion for readers) methionine and tryptophan content.
Improving FSO Link Performance using PolSK Modulation
Authors: Kone Douatia , Kamenan Koffi Arnaud , Kamagate Aladji
Published: April 2024

Free Space Optical (FSO) communication systems are based on the use of infrared light to transmit information at high speed through the atmospheric channel. Their performance is therefore affected by the characteristics of the atmospheric channel. One of the most widely used methods of compensating for the effects of atmospheric factors is modulation.The main aim of this research is to demonstrate the improvement in FSO link performance using PolSK modulation in a subtropical environment such as Cˆote d’Ivoire. The performance indicators considered are bit error rate, channel capacity, outage probability and energy efficiency. The mathematical expression of the evolution of each of these indicators as a function of the atmospheric parameters of our environment was determined using the gamma-gamma model. A numerical evaluation of the results obtained was carried out using Matlab software.
The results show that PolSK modulation offers the best results in terms of BER reduction, with a BER of the order of 10-11 for an SNR of 50dB, compared with BERs of 10-4 and 10-2 for BPSK and OOK modulations respectively. We obtain a probability of interruption of the order of 10-3 for PolSK modulation compared with 10-2 for BPSK modulation and 10-1 for OOK modulation. As for the channel capacity, we obtain the same value (4:1458bit/s) for PolSK and BPSK modulation compared with 3:8181bit/s for OOK modulation. BPSK modulation, on the other hand, stands out for its excellent energy efficiency.
A Study on Design and Analysis of an Alert-Confirm Detection Method
Authors: Kim Eunhee , Oh Hyunsu , Min Sawon
Published: April 2024

Active electronically scanning antennas are faster and more flexible in beam-scheduling than mechanical antennas. Thus, they require an advanced resource management or detection methods to operate efficiently. In a surveillance radar performing periodic detection, alert-confirm detection is an excellent method to improve the cumulative detection probability by reducing the period while maintaining the detection probability. This paper proposes a design method for alert-confirm detection based on the parameters of the conventional design. We developed a simulator based on simulink@matworks and verified the result through Monte Carlo simulation.
Multipath Track Association Technique using Characteristics of Conical Bearing in Horizontal Line Array Sonar
Authors: Oh Raegeun
Published: April 2024

This paper conducts a study on methods for associating multipath tracks received by a horizontal line array sonar. The horizontal line array sonar introduces conical bearing ambiguities due to its array-shaped characteristics. Target signals are often subject to multipath propagation in the ocean, resulting in errors in target bearing estimation due to these bearing ambiguities. Recent research efforts have been directed toward using multipath tracks to estimate the positions of targets. However, there has been a lack of research dedicated to identifying multipath tracks from the measurements of a horizontal line array sonar. Therefore, this study identifies the conical bearing characteristics of multipath signals based on the result of experiment and establishes criteria for associating multipath tracks. Additionally, Simulations are performed to determine the ability to associate multipath tracks.
The Architecture Model for Defense Systems Test Works based on Systems Engineering
Authors: Na Taeheum , Heo Dongeun , Kim Youngmin , Lee Jooyeoun
Published: April 2024

This paper describes the establishment of defense systems test works architecture model for the efficient operation of an expanded test organization and the provision of standardized test services after the integration of proving grounds in ADD. The system engineering vee model is applied to the defense system test works to define the project management model and the unit-test management model. In order to establish the defense systems test works architecture model, the process flow of test works, artifacts by life cycle, and interrelations between regulations and test works are explained, and Integrated Test Information System for implementation of architecture model is discussed. Through the defense systems test works architecture model presented in this study, it will contribute to quickly responding to the test requirements of complex and diverse defense systems, efficiently managing projects, and providing standardized test services.
A Study on Method for Applying CBM+ in Missile for Effective Health Management
Authors: Lee Youn-Ho , Kim Seong-Mok , Kim Ji-Won , Jung Jae-Woo , Park Jung Won , Kim Yong Soo
Published: April 2024

The objective of condition-based maintenance plus(CBM+) is to improve the availability and maintenance efficiency of missiles, bolstering national defense capabilities. This study proposes an application of CBM+ to enhance the reliability and the safety of missiles, which are the devices typically stored for long durations. CBM+ does not only contribute to defense capabilities, but it also aims to reduce maintenance costs. This study focuses particularly on the dormant stage of the missile life-cycle, in which various failure modes and environmental impacts on failure mechanisms are investigated. The effectiveness of maintenance strategies and the implementation of CBM+ is evaluated using simulation data.
The properties of polyolefins modified with PET powder
Authors: Jakubowska P. , Sterzyński T. , Królikowski B.
Published: May 2008

The polyolefin and poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) products are the mostly current communal waste materials. The waste polymeric materials are generally difficult to separate, and therefore a processing of nonseparated materials presents an interesting alternative suggestion. The aim of our work was to analyze the possibility of reprocessing of polyolefins by a relative low temperature, and to study the effect of addition of PET solid powder on processing and application properties. The results of our investigations allow to conclude that the solid PET powder may play a role of a heterogeneous nucleator, acting as an α‐phase promoter of an isotactic polypropylene. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Pervaporation dehydration of isopropyl alcohol with NaY zeolite incorporated hybrid membranes
Authors: Kulkarni Srikant S. , Kittur Arjumand A. , Kariduraganavar Mahadevappa Y. , Davis Fred J.
Published: May 2008

With a solution technique, NaY zeolite incorporated, tetraethylorthosilicate‐crosslinked poly(vinyl alcohol) membranes were prepared. The resulting membranes were tested for their ability to separate isopropyl alcohol/water mixtures by pervaporation in the temperature range of 30–50°C. The effects of the zeolite content and feed composition on the pervaporation performance of the membranes were investigated. The experimental results demonstrated that both flux and selectivity increased simultaneously with increasing zeolite content in the membranes. This was explained on the basis of the enhancement of hydrophilicity, selective adsorption, and establishment of a molecular sieving action attributed to the creation of pores in the membrane matrix. The membrane containing 15 mass % zeolite exhibited the highest separation selectivity of 3991 with a flux of 5.39 × 10−2 kg/m2 h with 10 mass % water in the feed at 30°C. The total flux and flux of water were close to each other for almost all the studied membranes, and this suggested that the membranes could be used effectively to break the azeotropic point of water/isopropyl alcohol mixtures to remove a small amount of water from isopropyl alcohol. From the temperature‐dependent diffusion and permeation values, the Arrhenius activation parameters were estimated. The activation energy values obtained for water were significantly lower than those for isopropyl alcohol, and this suggested that the developed membranes had a higher separation efficiency for water/isopropyl alcohol systems. The activation energy values for total permeation and water permeation were found to be almost the same for all the membranes, and this signified that coupled transport was minimal because of the highly selective nature of the membranes. Positive heat of sorption values were observed in all the membranes, and this suggested that Henry's mode of sorption was predominant. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness of graphite‐filled polypropylene and poly(ether imide) based composites
Authors: Sawai Pravin , Banerjee Susanta
Published: May 2008

The electromagnetic interference shielding characteristics of polypropylene (PP) and poly(ether imide) (PEI) filled with synthetic graphite composites were studied. The thermal properties were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis, whereas the morphologies of the composites were studied by scanning electron microscopy. The viscosity measurements were studied by advance rheometry. The measurements of shielding effectiveness (SE) were carried out in the frequency range 8–12 GHz (X‐band range). The return loss and loss due to absorption were also measured as a function of frequency in the X‐band range. It was observed that the SE of the composites was frequency dependent, and it increased with increasing frequency. The SE also increased with increasing filler loading. The PEI‐based composites showed a higher SE compared to that of the PP‐based composites. The correlation between SE and the conductivity of the various composites is also discussed. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Structure development and viscoelastic properties in silane‐crosslinked ethylene–octene copolymer
Authors: Kamphunthong Walailuck , Sirisinha Kalyanee
Published: May 2008

The development of structure and viscoelastic properties during silane crosslink reaction in metallocene ethylene–octene copolymer has been investigated. Using attenuated and transmission infrared spectroscopy, the concentrations of certain functional groups and change in sample thickness were monitored, giving the information on the progress of crosslink reaction. The evolution of crosslink content and viscoelastic properties was analyzed using a parallel‐plate rheometer. The results showed that crosslinking process started with the hydrolyzation of methoxy groups in the near‐surface layer, proceeding in a diffusion manner. At this stage no silanol groups could be detected, revealing that the condensation occurred promptly after hydrolyzation. The internal crosslink could not begin until there are sufficient water molecules in the surrounding. A water by‐product from the condensation reaction played an essential part in the center region. The rheological data showed a reduction in magnitude of creep compliance. As the reaction proceeded, more networks took place within an existing gel. The materials, then, acted more like elastic and exhibited an improvement in ability for recovery process. The immobilization of chain segments, due to the presence of tight network, disallowed conformations necessary for crosslink reaction and a certain amount of hydrolyzable groups and silanol groups remained after a long crosslinking process. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Structure and adhesion properties of acrylic acid grafted high‐density polyethylene powders synthesized by a novel photografting method
Authors: Cao Zheng , Lei Jingxin , Zhang Wenbing
Published: May 2008

A novel photografting, nonvapor, and nonliquid phase living graft polymerization was developed to functionalize high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) powder. The structure and adhesion properties of HDPE powder grafted with acrylic acid (AA) were studied by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), water contact angle, peel strength, and graft degree measurements. The result shows that HDPE powder can be grafted with AA via the method with a short reaction time and a high monomer conversion. The graft degree increases with the reaction time. Then, the hydrophilicity of the grafted HDPE powder increases also. The peel strength of HPDE/steel joint improved significantly when acrylic acid grafted HPDE powder was used as hot melt adhesive in place of ungrafted HDPE powder. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Gas permeability of fluorinated hyperbranched polyimide
Authors: Gao Hong , Wang Dong , Jiang Wei , Guan Shaowei , Jiang Zhenhua
Published: May 2008

The gas permeability of carbon dioxide, oxygen and nitrogen for hyperbranched polyimide (HBPI) containing trifluoromethyl groups were investigated. The HBPIs were prepared by condensation polymerization of a triamine monomer, 1,3,5‐tris(2‐trifluoromethyl‐4‐aminophenoxy) benzene (TFAPOB) and a commercially available dianhydride monomer 1,4‐bis(3,4‐dicarboxyphenoxy) benzene dianhydride (HQDPA). With different monomer addition methods and different monomer molar ratios, amine terminated HBPI (AM‐HQDPA) and anhydride terminated HBPI (AD‐HQDPA) were obtained, subsequently, the trifluoromethylphenyl amine terminated HBPI (CF3‐HQDPA) was achieved by modifying the end groups of AD‐HQDPA with (3,5‐ditrifluoromethyl)aniline. The CF3‐HQDPA exhibited a good mechanical and thermal stability as well as AM‐HQDPA, and showed better gas permeabilities than that of AM‐HQDPA because of increase of free volume contributed by the bulky trifluoromethyl group introduced, but, the selectivity ofCF3‐HQDPA was lower than that of AM‐HQDPA. This result was consistent with the trade‐off relationship. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
ROCK1 Expression is Regulated by TGFβ3 and ALK2 During Valvuloseptal Endocardial Cushion Formation
Authors: Sakabe Masahide , Sakata Hirokazu , Matsui Hiroko , Ikeda Kazuo , Yamagishi Toshiyuki , Nakajima Yuji
Published: May 2008

During early heart development at the looped heart stage, endothelial cells in the outflow tract and atrioventricular (AV) regions transform into mesenchyme to generate endocardial cushion tissue. This endocardial epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) is regulated by several regulatory pathways, including the transforming growth factor‐beta (TGFβ), bone morphogenetic protein (BMP), and Rho‐ROCK pathways. Here, we investigated the spatiotemporal expression pattern of ROCK1 mRNA during EMT in chick and examined whether TGFβ or BMP could induce the expression of ROCK1. At the onset of EMT, ROCK1 expression was up‐regulated in endothelial/mesenchymal cells. A three‐dimensional collagen gel assay was used to examine the mechanisms regulating the expression of ROCK1. In AV endocardium co‐cultured with associated myocardium, ROCK1 expression was inhibited by either anti‐TGFβ3 antibody, anti‐ALK2 antibody or noggin, but not SB431542 (ALK5 inhibitor). In cultured preactivated AV endocardium, TGFβ3 protein induced the expression of ROCK1, but BMP did not. AV endothelial cells that were cultured in medium supplemented with TGFβ3 plus anti‐ALK2 antibody failed to express ROCK1. These results suggest that the expression of ROCK1 is up‐regulated at the onset of EMT and that signaling mediated by TGFβ3/ALK2 together with BMP is involved in the expression of ROCK1. Anat Rec, 291:845‐857, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Central Projections of Trigeminal Afferents Innervating the Face in Naked Mole‐Rats (Heterocephalus glaber)
Authors: Henry Erin C. , Sarko Diana K. , Catania Kenneth C.
Published: May 2008

In this study, we examined the topography of projections from facial afferents to the trigeminal brainstem nuclear complex (TBNC) in naked mole‐rats using the neuronal tracer CTB‐HRP. Tracer injections were made in a ventral to dorsal sequence that included the tooth pulp and dental ligament, ventral buccal pad, vibrissae, and the forehead. Labeled terminals were identified throughout the rostrocaudal extent of the TBNC, including the principal nucleus (Pr5), pars oralis (Sp5O), pars interpolaris (Sp5I), and pars caudalis (Sp5C) of the spinal trigeminal nucleus. Injections that labeled afferents from the tooth pulp and dental ligament resulted in heavy transport to dorsomedial portions of the TBNC, whereas injections made into progressively more dorsal regions of the face resulted in labeled terminals progressively more ventral and lateral in the nuclei. Injections that included dental afferents also labeled the mesencephalic nucleus of V, whereas injections into the skin of the face labeled cell bodies in the facial nucleus, and in most cases the motor nucleus of 5. Dental afferents in more rostral portions of the TBNC were coextensive with a cytochrome oxidase‐dense region visible in alternate sections processed for chemoarchitecture. Anat Rec, 291:988–998, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Biorefining and beyond
Authors: Ragauskas Art J.
Published: May 2008

A key challenge is to go beyond these ‘comfortable borders’. © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Erratum: On the numerical stability of two widely used PLS algorithms
Authors: Faber Nicolaas (Klaas) M. , Ferre Joan
Published: May 2008

The above article (DOI: 10.1002/cem.1112) was published online on 14 February 2008. An error was subsequently identified: the captions for Figures 1 and 2 were omitted; they should read as follows:

Figure 1. Orthogonality criterion (θA) for the octane data as a function of number of components (A) calculated using the standard PLS algorithm and SIMPLS.

Figure 2. Orthogonality criterion (θA) for the wines data as a function of number of components (A) calculated using the standard PLS algorithm and SIMPLS.
A Family of Hydrogels Based on Ureido‐Linked Aminopolyol‐Derived Amphiphiles and Bolaamphiphiles: Synthesis, Gelation under Thermal and Sonochemical Stimuli, and Mesomorphic Characterization
Authors: Ávalos Martín , Babiano Reyes , Cintas Pedro , Gómez‐Carretero Antonio , Jiménez José L. , Lozano Marina , Ortiz Angel L. , Palacios Juan C. , Pinazo Aurora
Published: May 2008

This article describes the systematic preparation of a novel family of carbohydrate amphiphiles and bolaamphiphiles in which hydrophilic and hydrophobic units are connected via a ureido or bis(ureido) moiety. The sugar core is derived from aminopolyols such as D‐glucamine (1), N‐methyl‐D‐glucamine (2), or the sugar‐like species tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane (3). The O‐unprotected derivatives behave as self‐organizing nonionic surfactants with good water gelation ability, which can be induced under thermal or ultrasound‐driven stimuli. In addition, some derivatives of 1 and 2, and rarely 3 also formed lyotropic liquid crystals with lamellar or hexagonal structures that exhibit low‐temperature transitions.
Role and prognostic significance of tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand death receptor DR5 in nonsmall‐cell lung cancer and precursor lesions
Authors: Cooper Wendy A. , Kohonen‐Corish Maija R.J. , Zhuang Liqing , McCaughan Brian , Kennedy Catherine , Screaton Gavin , Sutherland Robert L. , Lee C‐Soon
Published: May 2008

BACKGROUND.

The tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand (TRAIL) death receptor, DR5, mediates proapoptotic signals and is implicated in the pathogenesis of many neoplasms including nonsmall‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

METHODS.

In this study, immunohistochemical expression of DR5 was examined in 146 cases of stage I and II NSCLC as well as neoplastic precursor lesions and regional lymph node metastases using tissue microarrays.

RESULTS.

High DR5 expression was observed in 67.1% of primary NSCLC, 55.6% of bronchial squamous carcinoma in situ, 40% of squamous metaplasia, as well as 76.5% of lymph node metastases. In all of these lesions, DR5 expression was significantly higher than in normal bronchial epithelium. Increased expression of DR5 correlated with poorly differentiated tumors and was inversely correlated with bronchioloalveolar carcinomas. There was no correlation with other clinicopathologic variables. A significant association was found between high DR5 expression and reduced overall survival in univariate analysis. Among smokers, high DR5 and tumor stage were independent predictors of reduced disease‐free survival in multivariate analysis, however, DR5 was not an independent prognostic marker among the entire cohort of NSCLC.

CONCLUSIONS.

These findings suggest that DR5 plays a role in the development of early‐stage NSCLC and the high levels of DR5 expression suggest that these tumors may be susceptible to novel anticancer agents targeting the DR5 receptor and may improve patient survival, particularly for patients who are smokers. Cancer 2008. ©2008 American Cancer Society.
Genetic polymorphisms in the carbonyl reductase 3 gene CBR3 and the NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 gene NQO1 in patients who developed anthracycline‐related congestive heart failure after childhood cancer
Authors: Blanco Javier G. , Leisenring Wendy M. , Gonzalez‐Covarrubias Vanessa M. , Kawashima Toana I. , Davies Stella M. , Relling Mary V. , Robison Leslie L. , Sklar Charles A. , Stovall Marilyn , Bhatia Smita
Published: May 2008

BACKGROUND.

Exposure to anthracyclines as part of cancer therapy has been associated with the development of congestive heart failure (CHF). The potential role of genetic risk factors in anthracycline‐related CHF remains to be defined. Thus, in this study, the authors examined whether common polymorphisms in candidate genes involved in the pharmacodynamics of anthracyclines (in particular, the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate:quinone oxidoreductase 1 gene NQO1 and the carbonyl reductase 3 gene CBR3) had an impact on the risk of anthracycline‐related CHF.

METHODS.

A nested case–control study was conducted within a cohort of 1979 patients enrolled in the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study who received treatment with anthracyclines and had available DNA. Thirty patients with CHF (cases) and 115 matched controls were genotyped for polymorphisms in NQO1 (NQO1*2) and CBR3 (the CBR3 valine [V] to methionine [M] substitution at position 244 [V244M]). Enzyme activity assays with recombinant CBR3 isoforms (CBR3 V244 and CBR3 M244) and the anthracycline substrate doxorubicin were used to investigate the functional impact of the CBR3 V244M polymorphism.

RESULTS.

Multivariate analyses adjusted for sex and primary disease recurrence were used to test for associations between the candidate genetic polymorphisms (NQO1*2 and CBR3 V244M) and the risk of CHF. Analyses indicated no association between the NQO1*2 polymorphism and the risk of anthracycline‐related CHF (odds ratio [OR], 1.04; P = .97). There was a trend toward an association between the CBR3 V244M polymorphism and the risk of CHF (OR, 8.16; P = .056 for G/G vs A/A; OR, 5.44; P = .092 for G/A vs A/A). In line, recombinant CBR3 V244 (G allele) synthesized 2.6‐fold more cardiotoxic doxorubicinol per unit of time than CBR3 M244 (A allele; CBR3 V244 [8.26 ± 3.57 nmol/hour.mg] vs CBR3 M244 [3.22 ± 0.67 nmol/hour.mg]; P = .01).

CONCLUSIONS.

The functional CBR3 V244M polymorphism may have an impact on the risk of anthracycline‐related CHF among childhood cancer survivors by modulating the intracardiac formation of cardiotoxic anthracycline alcohol metabolites. Larger confirmatory case–control studies are warranted. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Preoperative Wilms tumor rupture
Authors: Brisse Hervé J. , Schleiermacher Gudrun , Sarnacki Sabine , Helfre Sylvie , Philippe‐Chomette Pascale , Boccon‐Gibod Liliane , Peuchmaur Michel , Mosseri Véronique , Aigrain Yves , Neuenschwander Sylvia
Published: May 2008

BACKGROUND.

According to current International Society of Pediatric Oncology (SIOP) Wilms recommendations, all preoperative tumor ruptures should be classified as stage IIIc. However, to the authors' knowledge, the definition and diagnostic criteria of preoperative rupture have not been defined clearly.

METHODS.

The authors performed a retrospective analysis of 57 children with clinical and/or radiologic (computed tomography [CT]) signs of preoperative tumor rupture of a series of 250 patients enrolled in Wilms SIOP protocols at their institution.

RESULTS.

Clinical and radiologic signs of preoperative rupture were observed in 39 patients and 55 patients, respectively. The site of rupture on imaging was retroperitoneal only in 48 patients and both retroperitoneal and intraperitoneal in 7 patients. Surgery was performed after chemotherapy in 55 of 57 patients. Peritoneal disease recurrence occurred in 3 of 57 patients, including 2 patients with stage III tumors who had initial intraperitoneal rupture and 1 patient with a stage I tumor. Among the 48 patients who had radiologic signs of retroperitoneal‐only rupture, the final pathologic stage was stage III in 22 patients, stage II in 9 patients, and stage I in 17 patients, and no abdominal disease recurrence was observed, although only 23 of 48 patients received flank radiotherapy. The 5‐year local control rate was significantly higher in patients who had retroperitoneal‐only rupture compared with patients who had intraperitoneal rupture (100% vs 83.3%; standard error, ±15.2%; P = .0015).

CONCLUSIONS.

The use of CT scans significantly increased the number of patients who could be classified with “tumor rupture.” Intraperitoneal rupture was diagnosed accurately with CT and was associated with a significant risk of peritoneal disease recurrence. In contrast, patients who have radiologic signs of localized retroperitoneal‐only rupture at diagnosis most likely should not be upstaged, and their treatment may be determined according to pathologic stage only. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Expression of FOXP2 in the developing monkey forebrain: Comparison with the expression of the genes FOXP1, PBX3, and MEIS2
Authors: Takahashi Kaoru , Liu Fu‐Chin , Oishi Takao , Mori Takuma , Higo Noriyuki , Hayashi Motoharu , Hirokawa Katsuiku , Takahashi Hiroshi
Published: May 2008

By using the developing monkey brain as a model for human development, we investigated the expression pattern of the FOXP2 gene, a member of the FOX family of transcription factors in the developing monkey brain, and compared its expression pattern with transcription factors PBX3, MEIS2, and FOXP1. We observed FOXP2 mRNA expression in several brain structures, including the striatum, the islands of Calleja and other basal forebrain regions, the cerebral cortex, and the thalamus. FOXP2 mRNA was preferentially expressed in striosomal compartments during striatal development. The striosomal expression was transient and developmentally down‐regulated in a topographical order. Specifically, during the perinatal state, striosomal FOXP2 expression was detected in both the caudate nucleus and the putamen, although expression was more prominent in the caudate nucleus than in the putamen. Striosomal FOXP2 expression declined during the postnatal period, first in the putamen and later in the caudate nucleus. During the same period, we also detected PBX3 mRNA in the striosomal compartment of the developing monkey striatum. FOXP2, as well as PBX3 and MEIS2, was expressed in the islands of Calleja and other cell clusters of the basal forebrain. FOXP2, in combination with PBX3 and MEIS2, may play a pivotal role in the development of striosomal neurons of the striatum and the islands of Calleja. J. Comp. Neurol. 509:180–189, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mast cell regulation of epithelial TSLP expression plays an important role in the development of allergic rhinitis
Authors: Miyata Masanori , Hatsushika Kyosuke , Ando Takashi , Shimokawa Naomi , Ohnuma Yuko , Katoh Ryohei , Suto Hajime , Ogawa Hideoki , Masuyama Keisuke , Nakao Atsuhito
Published: May 2008

Epithelial cell‐derived thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) is a master switch for asthma or atopic dermatitis by inducing a dendritic cell‐mediated Th2‐type allergic inflammation. Allergic rhinitis is also pathologically characterized by Th2‐type allergic inflammation. This study demonstrates that mast cells regulate the epithelial TSLP expression in allergic rhinitis. TSLP expression was found to be up‐regulated predominantly in the nasal epithelium in the ovalbumin (OVA)‐sensitized and ‐nasally challenged mouse model of allergic rhinitis, which was abolished in mast cell‐deficient WBB6F1‐W/Wv in comparison with control WBB6F1‐+/+ mice. Similarly, the epithelial TSLP expression was reduced in Fc receptor γ chain (FcγR)‐deficient mice, where the high‐affinity IgE receptor (FcϵRI) is not expressed on mast cells, in comparison with control C57BL/6 mice. Furthermore, the administration of neutralizing TSLP antibody during the challenge phase of OVA inhibited the development of allergic rhinitis. These results suggest that the direct stimulation of epithelial cells by antigens alone may not be sufficient to induce TSLP expression in the nasal epithelium, and that mast cell regulation of epithelial TSLP expression, possibly via FcϵRI, plays an important role in the development of allergic rhinitis.
N‐Ras or K‐Ras inhibition increases the number and enhances the function of Foxp3 regulatory T cells
Authors: Mor Adi , Keren Gad , Kloog Yoel , George Jacob
Published: May 2008

Naturally occurring regulatory T cells (Treg) driven by their transcriptional controller Foxp3 are compromised in immune‐mediated disorders and confer protection when adoptively transferred. We examined the Ras‐inhibitory effect on functional determinants of Treg in vivo and in vitro. Ras was inhibited in Jurkat T cells by transfection with a dominant‐negative form of Ras, or by shRNA for N‐Ras, K‐Ras, and H‐Ras, or by farnesylthiosalycylic acid, a small‐molecule inhibitor. Except for H‐Ras transduction with shRNA, each inhibitory mode increased expression of Foxp3 and nuclear factor of activated T cell proteins, and surface expression of CD25. Ras inhibition in PBMC and spleen‐derived lymphocytes reproduced these findings. The heightened Foxp3 expression reflected both increased basal cellular protein and peripheral conversion of non‐Treg to Treg. Ras inhibition enhanced Treg‐induced suppression; thus, when adoptively transferred to mice, Ras‐inhibited Treg reduced the incidence of diabetes. Inhibition of Foxp3 by respective siRNA reversed the enhancement. Thus, inhibition of the N‐ or K‐Ras isoform triggers an anti‐inflammatory effect by up‐regulating, via Foxp3 elevation, the numbers and functional suppressive properties of Treg.
One‐Pot Generation of Lithium (Lithiophenyl)trialkoxyborates from Substituted Dihalobenzenes (Hal = Br, I) and Their Derivatization with Electrophiles
Authors: Kurach Paweł , Luliński Sergiusz , Serwatowski Janusz
Published: May 2008

The simple one‐pot approach to synthetically useful phenyltrialkoxyborates bearing lithium at the phenyl ring has been developed starting with 1,3‐ and 1,4‐diiodobenzene, as well as several activated dibromobenzenes and bromoiodobenzenes. The general sequence of transformations involves halogen–lithium exchange by using nBuLi and subsequent boronation with a trialkylborate. The resulting lithium (halophenyl)trialkoxyborates were then subjected to halogen–lithium exchange in situ with a second equivalent of nBuLi to give dianionic lithium (lithiophenyl)trialkoxyborates. Treatment with selected electrophiles afforded substituted arylboronic acids and/or their pinacol esters as final products in moderate‐to‐good yields.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
A controlled evaluation of monthly maintenance interpersonal psychotherapy in late‐life depression with varying levels of cognitive function
Authors: Carreira Kristen , Miller Mark D. , Frank Ellen , Houck Patricia R. , Morse Jennifer Q. , Dew Mary Amanda , Butters' Meryl A. , Reynolds Charles F.
Published: May 2008

Objective

To evaluate the effect of maintenance Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) on recurrence rates and time to recurrence of major depression in elderly patients with varying levels of cognitive function.

Methods/Design

Two‐year maintenance study of monthly maintenance IPT vs supportive clinical management (CM) in remitted depressed elderly who were participants in a previously reported placebo‐controlled study of maintenance paroxetine and IPT (Reynolds et al., 2006). We used Cox regression analysis to test interactions between cognitive status (Dementia Rating Scale score) and treatment (IPT, CM) with respect to recurrence of major depression.

Results

We observed a significant interaction between cognitive status and treatment: lower cognitive performance was associated with longer time to recurrence in IPT than in CM (58 weeks vs 17 weeks) (HR = 1.41 [95% CI = 1.04, 1.91], p = 0.03). Subjects with average cognitive performance showed no effect of maintenance IPT vs CM on time to recurrence (38 vs 32 weeks, respectively).

Conclusion

Monthly maintenance IPT confers protection against recurrence of major depression in elders with lower cognitive functioning. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Genetic and phenotypic analysis of B‐cell post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorders provides insights into disease biology
Authors: Vakiani Efsevia , Basso Katia , Klein Ulf , Mansukhani Mahesh M. , Narayan Gopeshwar , Smith Paula M. , Murty Vundavalli V. , Dalla‐Favera Riccardo , Pasqualucci Laura , Bhagat Govind
Published: May 2008

B‐cell post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorders (PTLD) are classified as early lesions, polymorphic lymphomas (P‐PTLD) and monomorphic lymphomas (M‐PTLD). These morphologic categories are thought to reflect a biologic continuum, although supporting genetic data are lacking. To gain better insights into PTLD pathogenesis, we characterized the phenotypes, immunoglobulin (Ig) gene alterations and non‐Ig gene (BCL6, RhoH/TTF, c‐MYC, PAX5, CIITA, BCL7A, PIM1) mutations of 21 PTLD, including an IM‐like lesion, 8 P‐PTLD and 12 M‐PTLD. Gene expression profile analysis was also performed in 12 cases. All PTLD with clonal Ig rearrangements showed evidence of germinal centre (GC) transit based on the analysis of Ig and BCL6 gene mutations, and 74% had a non‐GC phenotype (BCL6 ± MUM1+). Although surface Ig abnormalities were seen in 6/19 (32%) PTLD, only three showed ‘crippling’ Ig mutations indicating other etiologies for loss of the B‐cell receptor. Aberrant somatic hypermutation (ASHM) was almost exclusively observed in M‐PTLD (8/12 vs. 1/8 P‐PTLD) and all three recurrent cases analysed showed additional mutations in genes targeted by ASHM. Gene expression analysis showed distinct clustering of PTLD compared to B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphomas (B‐NHL) without segregation of P‐PTLD from non‐GC M‐PTLD or EBV+ from EBV− PTLD. The gene expression pattern of PTLD appeared more related to that of memory and activated B‐cells. Together, our results suggest that PTLD represent a distinct type of B‐NHL deriving from an antigen experienced B‐cell, whose evolution is associated with accrual of genetic lesions. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prostaglandin F2α induces the normoxic activation of the hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1 transcription factor in differentiating 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes: Potential role in the regulation of adipogenesis
Authors: Liu Li , Clipstone Neil A.
Published: May 2008

Prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) is a potent paracrine inhibitor of adipocyte differentiation. Here we show that treatment of differentiating 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes with PGF2α induces the expression of DEC1, a transcriptional repressor that has previously been implicated in the inhibition of adipogenesis in response to hypoxia as a downstream effector of the hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1 (HIF‐1) transcription factor. Surprisingly, despite performing our experiments under normal ambient oxygen conditions, we find that treatment of differentiating 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes with PGF2α also results in the marked activation of HIF‐1, as measured by an increase in the accumulation of the HIF‐1α regulatory subunit. However, unlike the effects of hypoxia, this PGF2α‐induced normoxic increase in HIF‐1α is not mediated by an increase in the stability of the HIF‐1α polypeptide, rather we find that PGF2α selectively increases the expression of the alternatively spliced HIF‐1α I.1 mRNA isoform. Significantly, we demonstrate that the shRNA‐mediated knockdown of endogenous HIF‐1α expression attenuates the PGF2α‐induced expression of DEC1, overcomes the inhibitory effects of PGF2α on the expression of proadipogenic transcription factors C/EBPα and PPARγ and partially rescues the PGF2α‐induced inhibition of adipogenesis. Taken together, these results indicate that PGF2α promotes the activation of the HIF‐1 transcription factor pathway under normal oxygen conditions, and highlight a potential role for the normoxic activation of the HIF‐1/DEC1‐pathway in mediating the inhibitory effects of PGF2α on adipocyte differentiation. J. Cell. Biochem. 105: 89–98, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
C‐type natriuretic peptide regulation of limb mesenchymal chondrogenesis is accompanied by altered N‐cadherin and collagen type X‐related functions
Authors: Alan Tulay , Tufan A. Cevik
Published: May 2008

AMDM, a form of osteochondrodysplasia, is due to the loss‐of‐function mutations in NPR‐B gene. This study investigated the functional involvement of CNP‐3, chick homolog of human CNP, and its receptor NPR‐B in chondrogenesis utilizing the micromass culture of the chick limb mesenchymal cells. Results revealed CNP‐3 and NPR‐B expression in the chick limb bud making stage‐specific peak levels first at Hamburger‐Hamilton stage 23–24, and second at stage 30–31, corresponding to pre‐chondrogenic mesenchymal condensation and initiation of chondrogenic maturation‐hypertrophy in vivo, respectively. CNP‐3 and NPR‐B expression in vitro increased parallel to collagen type X expression, but not to that of collagen type II. Treatment of cultures with CNP significantly increased N‐cadherin, and collagen type X expression, glycosaminoglycan synthesis and chondrogenesis. Collagen type II expression was not significantly affected. Thus, results implicated CNP‐3/NPR‐B signaling in pre‐chondrogenic mesenchymal condensation, glycosaminoglycan synthesis and late differentiation of chondrocytes in the process of endochondral ossification. J. Cell. Biochem. 105: 227–235, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A tandem MS precursor‐ion scan approach to identify variable covalent modification of albumin Cys34: a new tool for studying vascular carbonylation
Authors: Aldini Giancarlo , Regazzoni Luca , Orioli Marica , Rimoldi Isabella , Facino Roberto Maffei , Carini Marina
Published: May 2008

We developed a liquid chromatography electrospray ionisation multi‐stage mass spectrometry (LC‐ESI‐MS/MS) approach based on precursor‐ion scanning and evaluated it to characterize the covalent modifications of Cys34 human serum albumin (HSA) caused by oxidative stress and reactive carbonyl species (RCS) adduction. HSA was isolated and digested enzymatically to generate a suitable‐length peptide (LQQCPF) containing the modified tag residue. The resulting LQQCPF peptides were identified by LC‐ESI‐MS/MS in precursor‐ion scan mode and further characterized in product‐ion scan mode. The product ions for precursor‐ion scanning were selected by studying the MS/MS fragmentation of a series of LQQCPF derivatives containing Cys34 modified with different α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes and di and ketoaldehydes. We used a Boolean logic to enhance the specificity of the method: this reconstitutes a virtual current trace (vCT) showing the peaks in the three precursor‐ion scans, marked by the same parent ion. The method was first evaluated to identify and characterize the Cys34 covalent adducts of HSA incubated with 4‐hydroxy‐hexenal, 4‐hydroxy‐trans‐2‐nonenal (HNE) and acrolein (ACR). Then we studied the Cys34 modification of human plasma incubated with mildly oxidized low‐density lipoproteins (LDL), and the method easily identified the LQQCPF adducts with HNE and ACR. In other experiments, plasma was oxidized by 2,2'‐azobis(2‐amidinopropane) HCl (AAPH) or by Fe2+/H2O2. In both conditions, the sulfinic derivative of LQQCPF was identified and characterized, indicating that the method is suitable not only for studying RCS‐modified albumin, but also to check the oxidative state of Cys34 as a marker of oxidative damage. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Study of synthetic complex esters as automotive gear lubricants
Authors: Nagendramma Ponnekanti , Kaul Savita
Published: May 2008

A number of di‐ and triol‐centered polyols such as 2, 2‐dimethyl‐1, 3‐propane diol, 2, 2‐diethyl‐1, 3‐propane diol and 1, 1, 1‐tris hydroxy methyl propane complex esters have been synthesized using di‐carboxylic acids like adipic and sebacic acids (C6–C10) and 2‐ethyl 1‐hexanol with indigenous ion‐exchange resin (Indion‐130) catalyst. The applicability of these esters as automotive gear lubricants has been evaluated. The products were found to be compatible with extreme pressure additives. In addition, the products are readily biodegradable. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hydrophilic interaction and reversed‐phase ultra‐performance liquid chromatography TOF‐MS for metabonomic analysis of Zucker rat urine
Authors: Gika Helen G. , Theodoridis Georgios A. , Wilson Ian D.
Published: May 2008

Hydrophilic interaction chromatography (HILIC) provides a complementary technique to RP methods for the retention of polar analytes for LC‐MS‐based metabonomic studies. Combining the advantages of both RP and HILIC separations with the efficient and rapid separations obtained using sub‐2 μm particles via the recently introduced ultra‐performance LC (UPLC) enables increased coverage of the metabolites present in biological samples to be achieved. Here an HILIC‐UPLC‐MS method was developed to provide metabolite profiles for urine samples obtained from male Zucker rats. The resulting data were compared with results obtained for the same samples by RP‐UPLC‐MS and demonstrated the complementary nature of the two separations with both methods enabling discrimination between the different sample types. Interestingly sample type differentiation was based on different markers.