bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transient 23–30 Hz oscillations in mouse hippocampus during exploration of novel environments
Authors: Berke Joshua D. , Hetrick Vaughn , Breck Jason , Greene Robert W.
Published: April 2008

The hippocampus is a key brain structure for the encoding of new experiences and environments. Hippocampal activity shows distinct oscillatory patterns, but the relationships between oscillations and memory are not well understood. Here we describe bursts of hippocampal ∼23–30 Hz (beta2) oscillations in mice exploring novel, but not familiar, environments. In marked contrast to the relatively invariant ∼8 Hz theta rhythm, beta2 power was weak during the very first lap of the novel environment, increased sharply as the mice reencountered their start point, then persisted for only a few minutes. Novelty‐evoked oscillations reflected precise synchronization of individual neurons, and participating pyramidal cells showed a selective enhancement of spatial specificity. Through focal viral manipulations, we found that novelty‐evoked oscillations required functional NMDA receptors in CA3, a subregion critical for fast oscillations in vitro. These findings suggest that beta2 oscillations indicate a hippocampal dynamic state that facilitates the formation of unique contextual representations. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nox1 is over‐expressed in human colon cancers and correlates with activating mutations in K‐Ras
Authors: Laurent Eunice , McCoy James W. , Macina Roberto A. , Liu Wenhui , Cheng Guangjie , Robine Sylvie , Papkoff Jackie , Lambeth J. David
Published: April 2008

The NADPH‐oxidase 1 (Nox1) is a homolog of gp91phox, the catalytic subunit of the phagocyte superoxide‐generating NADPH‐oxidase. Nox1 is expressed in normal colon epithelial cells and in colon tumor cell lines, and overexpression in model cells has been implicated in stimulation of mitogenesis and angiogenesis and inhibition of apoptosis. This suggests that aberrant expression of Nox1 could contribute to the development of colorectal cancer. Herein, we examine the expression of Nox1 mRNA in 24 colon tumors of various stages compared with paired adjacent normal tissue from the same patient, and correlate expression with some common mutations associated with colon cancer. Nox1 was overexpressed compared with paired normal tissue in 57% of tumors as early as the adenoma stage, with no correlation of expression level with tumor stage. Overexpression of Nox1 mRNA correlated with Nox1 protein levels assessed by immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry with an antibody specific for Nox1. There was a strong correlation between Nox1 mRNA level and activating mutations in codons 12 and 13 of K‐Ras. Eighty percent (8/10) of tumors with codons 12 and 13 mutations had a 2‐fold or more increase in Nox1 mRNA, and 70% (7/10) had a 5‐fold or greater increase. Transgenic mice expressing K‐RasG12V in the intestinal epithelium also expressed markedly elevated Nox1 in both small and large intestine. There was no correlation between inactivating mutations in the tumor suppressor p53 and Nox1 expression. We conclude that Nox1 mRNA and protein are overexpressed in colon cancer and are strongly correlated with activating mutations in K‐Ras. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression of CD175 (Tn), CD175s (sialosyl‐Tn) and CD176 (Thomsen‐Friedenreich antigen) on malignant human hematopoietic cells
Authors: Cao Yi , Merling Anette , Karsten Uwe , Goletz Steffen , Punzel Michael , Kraft Regine , Butschak Günter , Schwartz‐Albiez Reinhard
Published: April 2008

The expression of the histo‐blood group carbohydrate structures T‐nouvelle (Tn, CD175), sialylated Tn (CD175s) and the Thomsen‐Friedenreich disaccharide (TF, CD176) on human leukemia cell lines was analyzed by their reactivity with specific monoclonal antibodies in flow cytometry, immunohistology and immunoprecipitation. Expression of sialylated CD176 was evaluated by comparative immunostaining with anti‐CD176 antibodies before and after sialidase treatment. While only few cell lines expressed unmasked CD176, sialylated CD176 was present on all hematopoietic cell lines and native lymphocytes examined. CD175 and CD175s are preferentially expressed on erythroblastic leukemia cell lines. CD175s expression in these cells is consistent with the transcription of the gene encoding the key enzyme α2,6‐sialyltransferase (hST6GalNAc1). The staining intensity was reduced after methanol pretreatment of cells, indicating that these glycans are partially expressed as constituents of glycosphingolipids. Immunoprecipitation and subsequent Western blotting revealed a series of distinct high molecular glycoproteins as carriers for these carbohydrate antigens. CD34 was identified as major carrier of CD176 by immunoprecipitation and microsequencing on a KG‐1 subline enriched for CD176 expression. Incubation of several CD176‐positive cell lines with anti‐CD176 antibodies induced apoptosis of these cells, an effect not observed with anti‐CD175/CD175s antibodies. Since the presence of naturally occurring anti‐CD176 antibodies may represent a mechanism of immunosurveillance against CD176‐positive tumor cells, we propose that sialylation of surface‐expressed CD176—among other functions—protects against apoptosis. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Identification of novel DNA methylation markers in cervical cancer
Authors: Lai Hung‐Cheng , Lin Ya‐Wen , Huang Tim H.M. , Yan Pearlly , Huang Rui‐Lan , Wang Hui‐Chen , Liu Joseph , Chan Michael W.Y. , Chu Tang‐Yuan , Sun Chien‐An , Chang Cheng‐Chang , Yu Mu‐Hsien
Published: April 2008

Testing for DNA methylation has potential in cancer screening. Most previous studies of DNA methylation in cervical cancer used a candidate gene approach. The aim our study was to identify novel genes that are methylated in cervical cancers and to test their potential in clinical applications. We did a differential methylation hybridization using a CpG island (CGI) microarray containing 8640 CGI tags to uncover methylated genes in squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) of the uterine cervix. Pooled DNA from cancer tissues and normal cervical swabs were used for comparison. Methylation‐specific polymerase chain reaction, bisulfite sequencing and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction were used to confirm the methylation status in cell lines, normal cervices (n = 45), low‐grade lesions (n = 45), high‐grade lesions (HSIL; n = 58) and invasive squamous cell carcinomas (SCC; n = 22 from swabs and n = 109 from tissues). Human papillomavirus (HPV) was detected using reverse line blots. We reported 6 genes (SOX1, PAX1, LMX1A, NKX6‐1, WT1 and ONECUT1) more frequently methylated in SCC tissues (81.5, 94.4, 89.9, 80.4, 77.8 and 20.4%, respectively) than in their normal controls (2.2, 0, 6.7, 11.9, 11.1 and 0%, respectively; p < 0.0001). Parallel testing of HPV and PAX1 methylation in cervical swabs confers an improved sensitivity than HPV testing alone (80% vs. 66%) without compromising specificity (63% vs. 64%) for HSIL/SCC. Testing PAX1 methylation marker alone, the specificity for HSIL/SCC is 99%. The analysis of these novel DNA methylations may be a promising approach for the screening of cervical cancers. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hibernation as a far‐reaching program for the modulation of RNA transcription
Authors: Malatesta Manuela , Biggiogera Marco , Baldelli Beatrice , Barabino Silvia M.L. , Martin Terence E. , Zancanaro Carlo
Published: April 2008

In eukaryotic cells, pre‐mRNAs undergo several transformation steps to generate mature mRNAs ready to be exported to the cytoplasm. The molecular and structural apparatus for mRNA production is generally able to promptly respond to variations of metabolic demands. Hibernating mammals, which periodically enter a hypometabolic state, represent an interesting physiological model to investigate the adaptive morpho‐functional modifications of the pre‐mRNA transcriptional and processing machinery under extreme metabolic conditions. In this study, the subnuclear distribution of some transcriptional, splicing, and cleavage factors was investigated by ultrastructural immunocytochemistry in cell nuclei of the liver (a highly metabolizing organ involved in multiple regulatory functions) and the brown adipose tissue (responsible for nonshivering thermogenesis) from euthermic, hibernating, and arousing hazel dormice (Muscardinus avellanarius). Our observations demonstrate that, during hibernation, transcriptional activity significantly decreases and pre‐mRNA processing factors undergo an intranuclear redistribution moving to domains usually devoid of such molecules; moreover, in hepatocytes, there is a preferential accumulation of pre‐mRNAs at the splicing stage, whereas, in brown adipocytes, pre‐mRNAs are mainly stored at the cleavage stage. Upon arousal, the pre‐mRNAs at the cleavage stage are immediately utilized, while the maturation of pre‐mRNAs at the splicing stage seems to be restored before transcription had taken place. Our data suggest a programmed intranuclear reorganization of the RNA maturation machinery aimed at efficiently and rapidly restoring the pre‐mRNA processing, and, consequently, the specific cellular activities upon arousal. Once again natural hibernation appears as a highly programmed hypometabolic state rather than a simple fall of metabolic and physiological functions. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Stability‐indicating assay of sodium cromoglicate in ophthalmic solution using mixed‐mode hydrophilic interaction chromatography
Authors: Ali Mohammed Shahid , Rafiuddin Syed , Al‐Jawi Dalya Abdullah , Al‐Hetari Yasmin , Ghori Mohsin Ul Haq , Khatri Aamer Roshanali
Published: April 2008

A hydrophilic interaction chromatographic (HILIC) procedure for the quantification of Sodium Cromoglicate (SCG) in ophthalmic solution is developed. Mobile phase consists of ACN and buffer, 86:14 v/v. Atlantis HILIC–Si column, 25 cm×4.6 mm, is used as stationary phase. Detection is carried out using a variable wavelength UV‐Vis detector at 326 nm. Linearity range and percent recoveries for SCG were 50–400 μg/mL and 100.44%, respectively. The SCG HILIC‐UV assay was validated according to the International Conference on Harmonization guidelines. The method separates two impurities and degradation products resulting from stress environment. Influence of organic solvent, ionic strength and mobile phase pH on the retention of SCG is studied. The paper provides optimization of polar anionic solute (SCG) on unmodified silica by HILIC. Proposed method can be used as a stability‐indicating assay for SGC and can be proved to be beneficial in ESI‐MS for enhanced sensitivity.
Supercritical fluid extraction of amino acids from birch (Betula pendula Roth) leaves and their liquid chromatographic determination with fluorimetric detection
Authors: Klejdus Bořivoj , Lojková Lea , Kula Emanuel , Buchta Ivan , Hrdlička Petr , Kubáň Vlastimil
Published: April 2008

A method for supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) of amino acids was adapted and optimal experimental conditions were selected for a matrix consisting of dry leaves. The matrix‐dependent SFE method uses a mixture of MeOH–H2O–acetonitrile (10:10:1 v/v/v) as a modifier (0.5 mL in situ, 300 μL on‐line) at 70°C and 40 MPa and no HCl is needed as an entrainer. The amino acids were quantified using high‐performance liquid chromatography with fluorimetric detection (HPLC/FLD) after gradient elution on Zorbax Eclipse AAA columns (4.6×150 mm, 3.5 μm) with aqueous Na2HPO4 buffer of pH 7.8 and ACN–MeOH–water as a mobile phase. In comparison with Soxhlet extraction, SFE gave higher recovery and selectivity, but it required longer extraction time (90 min) and it was more labor‐intensive (clean‐up step after the pre‐concentration). Both methods should be used separately or in combination according to the matrix, number of samples, and levels of ballast compounds.
On the Davis inequality in Banach function spaces
Authors: Kikuchi Masato
Published: April 2008

We give a characterization of those Banach function spaces in which the Davis inequality for martingales is valid. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
On a new form of the ergodic theorem for the unit sphere with application to spectral theory
Authors: Li Liangpan , Tang Lan
Published: April 2008

Let 1 ≤ p < ∞ and let T be an ergodic measure‐preserving transformation of the finite measure space (X, μ). The classical Lp ergodic theorem of von Neumann asserts that for any f ϵ Lp (X, μ),

equation image

When X = 𝕊n (the unit sphere in ℝn +1) and μ is the standard area measure of 𝕊n , we establish a new form of the ergodic theorem. That is, we can replace the sequence of finite subsets of O(n + 1) (the orthogonal transformation group of ℝn +1) with a sequence of some fixed finite subsets of O(n + 1) which are independent of any measure‐preserving transformation, such that for any f ϵ Lp (𝕊n , μ),

equation image

As an application, we can completely determine the point spectrum of the Laplace operator in Lp (ℝn ) (1 ≤ p < ∞, n ≥ 1) spaces. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
On the trace problem for Lizorkin–Triebel spaces with mixed norms
Authors: Johnsen Jon , Sickel Winfried
Published: April 2008

The subject is traces of Sobolev spaces with mixed Lebesgue norms on Euclidean space. Specifically, restrictions to the hyperplanes given by x1 = 0 and xn = 0 are applied to functions belonging to quasi‐homogeneous, mixed norm Lizorkin–Triebel spaces ; Sobolev spaces are obtained from these as special cases. Spaces admitting traces in the distribution sense are characterised up to the borderline cases; these are also covered in case x1 = 0. For x1 the trace spaces are proved to be mixed‐norm Lizorkin–Triebel spaces with a specific sum exponent; for xn they are similarly defined Besov spaces. The treatment includes continuous right‐inverses and higher order traces. The results rely on a sequence version of Nikol'skij's inequality, Marschall's inequality for pseudodifferential operators (and Fourier multiplier assertions), as well as dyadic ball criteria. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Consumer choices under product option framing: Loss aversion principles or sensitivity to price differentials?
Authors: Biswas Dipayan , Grau Stacy Landreth
Published: April 2008

The effects of options framing can be theoretically explained by loss aversion principles as well as by potential alternative explanations (e.g., sensitivity to price differentials). This paper examines the interaction effects between option framing and two types of cognitive constraints (availability of cognitive resources and additional redundant product information) on consumer choices for adding or deleting optional product features. In the process, the research attempts to provide empirical support for one theoretical model (e.g., loss aversion principles) versus the other (e.g., sensitivity to price differentials). The results support the hypotheses that consumers choose a higher number of product options when starting from a fully loaded model than from a base model, and that this effect is magnified when consumers make choices under high cognitive constraints. In essence, the results empirically support the theoretical premise of the effects of option framing being driven by loss aversion principles than by diminished sensitivity to price differentials. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Understanding how technology paradoxes affect customer satisfaction with self‐service technology: The role of performance ambiguity and trust in technology
Authors: Johnson Devon S. , Bardhi Fleura , Dunn Dan T.
Published: April 2008

This study examines the role of consumer technology paradoxes within the context of self‐service technology and the routes by which these paradoxes influence customer satisfaction evaluation. Analysis of survey data from online banking customers indicates that three paradoxes operate in this context: control/chaos, fulfill needs/create needs, and freedom/enslavement. The study reveals further that the effects of these paradoxes on customer satisfaction are mediated by consumer performance ambiguity and consumer trust in technology. Theoretical and managerial implications of consumer paradoxical experiences for technology‐based services are discussed. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The hand that has forgotten its cunning—Lessons from musicians' hand dystonia
Authors: Conti Anna M. , Pullman Seth , Frucht Steven J.
Published: April 2008

Focal task‐specific dystonia of the musicians' hand (FTSDmh) is an occupational movement disorder that affects instrumental musicians and often derails careers. There has been speculation on the role of intense practice or the specific technical demands of various instruments as triggers for the development of FTSDmh. In this study, we review the clinical features of all published cases (899 patients) and 61 previously unpublished cases of FTSDmh. Our primary goals were to search for patterns in the clinical phenotype, and to discern if specific instrumental technical demands might be related to the development of dystonia. Symptoms of FTSDmh began at a mean age 35.7 years (SD = 10.6), with an overwhelming male predominance (M:F = 4.1:1). The right hand was preferentially affected in keyboard and plucked string players (77%), and the left hand in bowed string players (68%). Flexion movements were the most common dystonic movement in each instrument class, and fingers 3, 4, and 5, either in isolation or combination, were most frequently involved. The clinical implications of these findings and their possible relationship to the pathophysiology of focal task‐specific dystonia are explored. © 2008 Movement Disorder Society
The frequency of cardiac valvular regurgitation in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Yamashiro Kazuo , Komine‐Kobayashi Miki , Hatano Taku , Urabe Takao , Mochizuki Hideki , Hattori Nobutaka , Iwama Yoshitaka , Daida Hiroyuki , Sakai Michi , Nakayama Takeo , Mizuno Yoshikuni
Published: April 2008

To investigate the frequency of cardiac valve regurgitation related with low dose dopamine agonists in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD), echocardiograms were analyzed in 527 consecutive PD patients (448 patients treated with dopamine agonists, 79 patients never treated with dopamine agonists as age‐matched controls). The frequency of mild or above mild regurgitation of the aortic valve (AR) was significantly higher in the cabergoline group (13.7%, P < 0.05) compared with the controls (2.5%). Odds ratio adjusted by age and sex for AR was significantly higher in the cabergoline group (OR, 6.45; 95% CI, 1.46–28.60; P = 0.01): odds ratio was significantly higher in patients treated with higher daily doses (OR, 14.41; 95% CI, 3.08–67.38; P = 0.0007) and higher cumulative doses (OR, 15.29; 95% CI, 3.19–73.18; P = 0.0006). No statistical difference was identified in the frequency of the tricuspid and mitral regurgitation. None of the other dopamine agonist groups including pergolide gave higher frequency or higher odds ratio compared with the controls. None of our patients showed severe regurgitation or was operated for valvular heart disease. The question as to whether or not longer duration of low dose dopamine agonist treatment would yield the same results needs further studies. © 2008 Movement Disorder Society
Fetal genital anomalies: an aid to diagnosis
Authors: Pajkrt Eva , Petersen Olav B. , Chitty Lyn S.
Published: April 2008

Objective

To report our experience with the prenatal diagnosis of fetal genital anomalies and suggest a protocol for management.

Methods

A retrospective review of all the cases with fetal genital anomalies or phenotype and genotype discrepancy identified by prenatal ultrasound.

Results

Twenty cases with abnormal fetal genitalia and four with a phenotype and genotype discrepancy were diagnosed prenatally. Genital anomalies were rarely found in isolation, most were found in combination with renal or multiple structural anomalies. The etiology of abnormal genitalia was broad and included metabolic, chromosomal and genetic syndromes.

Conclusion

Prenatal detection of genital anomalies should stimulate a detailed ultrasound examination and determination of genotypic sex. Measurement of 17‐OHP and Δ4‐androstenedione or metabolites of the cholesterol pathway in the amniotic fluid and/or maternal urine may be helpful in making a definitive diagnosis. Identification of genital anomalies in fetuses with renal or multiple abnormalities can aid prenatal diagnosis, thereby facilitating accurate counseling of parents who are then in a better position to make informed choices. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of multiple loci can increase reliability of detection of fetal Y‐chromosome DNA in maternal plasma
Authors: Wagner Jasenka , Džijan Snježana , Pavan‐Jukić Doroteja , Wagner Jadranka , Lauc Gordan
Published: April 2008

Objective

Aiming to develop more reliable methods for determination of fetal gender from maternal plasma we compared three different systems of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detection of Y‐chromosome DNA.

Methods

Cell‐free DNA was isolated from 96 samples of maternal plasma and (1) amplified using AmpFLSTR‐Identifiler (15 autosomal STR loci and amelogenin) or AmpFLSTR‐Yfiler (16 Y‐chromosome STR loci) kits and subsequently analyzed on ABI‐PRISM 310 Genetic Analyzer, or (2) analyzed using Quantifiler‐Y DNA‐Quantification kit. Gender of fetuses was confirmed by cytogenetic analysis or phenotypically at birth.

Results and Conclusions

AmpFLSTR‐Identifiler and Quantifiler‐Y Human‐Quantification kits were rather reliable in determining fetal gender (92.5 and 98.1%, respectively), but false negatives were still present in both systems. AmpFLSTR‐Yfiler was found to be fully reliable as it amplified Y‐chromosome in all cases of male fetuses, and was thus 100% correct in determining fetal gender. In addition, it enabled comparison of polymorphic Y‐chromosome loci between father and a child, thus further supporting specificity of obtained results. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Anxiety levels in women undergoing prenatal maternal serum screening for Down syndrome: the effect of a fast reporting system by mobile phone short‐message service
Authors: Cheng Po‐Jen , Wu Tzong–Lin , Shaw Sheng‐Wen , Chueh Ho‐Yen , Lin Cheng‐Tao , Hsu Jenn‐Jeih , Hsieh T'sang‐T'ang , Soong Yung‐Kuei
Published: April 2008

Objective

To study the effect of fast reporting by mobile phone short‐message service (SMS) on anxiety levels in women undergoing prenatal biochemical screening for Down syndrome.

Method

From January 2005 to December 2006, 2782 women undergoing prenatal biochemical serum screening were randomized into fast reporting by SMS (group A) or without mobile phone reporting (group B). Anxiety levels were measured with the Spielberger State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) before prenatal screen testing, before the appointed clinic (when the SMS report had already been given to group A), and 3 days after the appointed clinic (when the full screening report had been given to groups A and B).

Results

For screen‐negative women, anxiety scores did not differ between groups before prenatal screen testing and 3 days after the appointed clinic. The state‐anxiety scores measured on the second occasion had declined significantly in group A. The state‐anxiety scores in both groups increased over the 3‐week period after being informed of positive screen results. The trait‐ and state‐anxiety scores at all points did not differ between the two groups of screen‐positive women.

Conclusions

The provision of a routine reporting system plus additional SMS report revealed some overall benefits in reducing anxiety among women with screen‐negative result. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Maternal serum ADAM12s in the late first trimester of pregnancies with Trisomy 21
Authors: Spencer Kevin , Cowans Nicholas J. , Stamatopoulou Anastasia
Published: April 2008

Background

ADAM12s is a placenta‐derived glycoprotein that is involved in growth and differentiation, and has been shown to be a potential first‐trimester and second‐trimester marker of Trisomy 21 and other aneuploides. Maternal ADAM12s concentrations show a considerable temporal variation with gestational age and here we study the levels at 11–13 weeks of gestation to establish the effectiveness or otherwise at a time when other established markers are used.

Materials and Methods

Samples collected as part of routine first‐trimester screening were retrieved from storage. In total, 46 samples from pregnancies with Trisomy 21 were identified and collected between 11 and 13 weeks of gestation—of these 83% had been identified by combined first‐trimester screening. A series of 414 gestational age‐matched samples collected during the same period formed the control group. ADAM12s was measured by a new DELFIA assay incorporating two monoclonals (6E6 and 8F8). Results were expressed as weight‐corrected multiples of the median (MoM).

Results

The median MoM ADAM12s rose from 0.914 at 11 weeks to 1.032 at 13 weeks.

Conclusions

Combining the data from this study and other published studies suggests that ADAM12s is unlikely to be of much additional value when screening for Trisomy 21 in the period 11–13 weeks. More studies are required looking at the potential of ADAM12s prior to 10 weeks. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A cross‐sectional survey of herbal remedy taking by United Arab Emirate (UAE) citizens in Abu Dhabi
Authors: AlBraik Fatima Ali , Rutter Paul M , Brown David
Published: April 2008

Purpose

To determine patterns of United Arab Emirates (UAE) citizen herbal medicine taking.

Methods

Questionnaire survey of UAE citizens attending a primary healthcare clinic in Abu Dhabi.

Results

Three hundred and thirty surveys were analysed. Seventy‐six per cent (250/330) had previously used herbal products, and of these 38% (94/248) were currently taking at least one herb. In total, 65 different herbs were being taken to treat 48 conditions. Respondents overwhelmingly felt herbal medicines were safe, yet 27 people reported experiencing an adverse drug reaction. Causality was not established because of multiple herbal use and a propensity for concurrent herbal and Western medicine taking. Respondents relied heavily on family and friends for advice and bought herbs from a ‘condimental shop’ (local herbal seller/healer). Despite high herbal use, respondents still preferred Western medicine to treat chronic diseases.

Conclusions

This study has shown that UAE nationals have faith and confidence in herbal medicines and are consequently high users of them despite the country's progressive adoption of Western approaches to health care. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adherence to the immunomodulatory drugs for multiple sclerosis: contrasting factors affect stopping drug and missing doses
Authors: Tremlett Helen , Van der Mei Ingrid , Pittas Fotini , Blizzard Leigh , Paley Glenys , Dwyer Terence , Taylor Bruce , Ponsonby Anne‐Louise
Published: April 2008

Background

Long‐term immunomodulatory drug (IMD) treatment is now common in multiple sclerosis (MS). However, predictors of adherence are not well understood; past studies lacked lifestyle factors such as alcohol use and predictors of missed doses have not been evaluated. We examined both levels of non‐adherence—stopping IMD and missing doses.

Methods

This longitudinal prospective study followed a population‐based cohort (n = 199) of definite MS patients in Southern Tasmania (January 2002 to April 2005, source population 226 559) every 6 months. Baseline factors (demographic, clinical, psychological and cognitive) affecting adherence were examined by logistic regression and a longitudinal analysis (generalized estimating equation (GEE)).

Results

Of the 97 patients taking an IMD (mean follow‐up = 2.4 years), 73% (71/97) missed doses, with 1 in 10 missing > 10 doses in any 6‐month period. Missed doses were positively associated with alcohol amount consumed per session (p = 0.008). A history of missed doses predicted future missed doses (p < 0.0005). Over one‐quarter (27/97) stopped their current IMD, which was associated with lower education levels (p = 0.032) and previous relapses (p = 0.05). No cognitive or psychological test predicted adherence.

Conclusions

There were few strong predictors of missed doses, although people with MS consuming more alcoholic drinks per session are at a higher risk of missing doses. Divergent factors influenced the two levels of non‐adherence indicating the need for a multifaceted approach to improving IMD adherence. In addition, missed doses should be assessed and incorporated into clinical trial design and clinical practice as poor adherers could impact on clinical outcomes. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The whereabouts of transmembrane proteins from rat brain synaptosomes during two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis
Authors: Eravci Murat , Fuxius Sandra , Broedel Oliver , Weist Stephanie , Krause Eberhard , Stephanowitz Heike , Schluter Hartmut , Eravci Selda , Baumgartner Andreas
Published: April 2008

Little is known about what happens to transmembrane proteins (TMP) in 2‐DE. In order to obtain more insight into the whereabouts of these proteins we prepared membrane‐enriched synaptosomes from rat frontal cortex and washed them with 7 M urea or Na2CO3. From each preparation, 200 µg protein was loaded on 2‐DE gels covering the 4–7 and 6–11 pH ranges, respectively. MALDI‐MS/MS analysis detected only 3 TMP among 421 identified spots. However, when the samples had been washed with Na2CO3, only few well‐focused spots remained detectable on the gel covering the pH 6–11 range. Instead, a heavily ruthenium‐stained smear became visible at the upper edge of the gel at the location where the samples had been applied by cup loading. LC‐MS/MS analysis revealed that this smear contained 38 unfocused TMP with up to 12 transmembrane helices. After transfer to the second dimension, no major areas of protein staining were left on the IPG strips. This indicates that after extraction and denaturation the TMP may form high‐molecular aggregates, due to their “hydrophobic interactions”. These aggregates enter the IPG strips, but do not focus regularly. They are then transferred onto the 2‐DE‐gels, where they remain caught at the upper edge.
Proteomics analysis of differential expression of cellular proteins in response to avian H9N2 virus infection in human cells
Authors: Liu Ning , Song Wenjun , Wang Pui , Lee Kimchung , Chan Wan , Chen Honglin , Cai Zongwei
Published: April 2008

We present the first proteomic analysis on the cellular responses to avian influenza virus (H9N2) infection in a human cell line in different time courses in order to search for target proteins for viral pathogenesis/adaptation studies. By using 2‐DE coupled with MALDI‐TOF MS and nano‐ESI‐MS/MS, we identified a set of differentially expressed cellular proteins, including cytoplasmic actin, cytokeratin, prohibitin, enoyl‐CoA hydratase, peptide‐prolyl cis–trans isomerase A (PPIase A), chloride intracellular channel protein 1, pyruvate dehydrogenase E1 component subunit beta, adenine phosphoribosyltransferase, guanine nucleotide‐binding protein subunit beta, nucleoside diphosphate kinase A, elongation factor 1‐beta and splicing factor, arginine/serine rich 1. The most significant changes in different time courses were found in cytoplasmic actin and cytokeratin, both of which constituted the major components of cytoskeleton network in the cells. The obtained data suggested a possible role of the cytoskeleton during avian influenza virus infection of mammalian cells, which might help for better understanding of the dynamics of avian influenza virus and host interaction in mammalian cell setting.
A proteome map of murine heart and skeletal muscle
Authors: Raddatz Katy , Albrecht Dirk , Hochgräfe Falko , Hecker Michael , Gotthardt Michael
Published: April 2008

The balance of hypertrophy and atrophy is critical for the adaptation of cardiac and skeletal muscle mass to the demands of the environment and when deregulated can cause disease. Here we have used a proteomics approach to generate protein reference maps for the mouse heart and skeletal muscle, which provide a molecular basis for future functional and pathophysiological studies. The reference map provides information on molecular mass, pI, and literature data on function and localization, to facilitate the identification of proteins based on their migration in 2‐D gels. In total, we have identified 351 cardiac and 284 skeletal muscle protein spots, representing 249 and 214 different proteins, respectively. In addition, we have visualized the protein pattern of mouse heart and skeletal muscle at defined conditions comparing knockout (KO) animals deficient in the sarcomeric protein titin (a genetic atrophy model) and control littermates. We found 20 proteins that were differently expressed linking titin's kinase region to the heat‐shock‐ and proteasomal stress response. Taken together, the established reference maps should provide a suitable tool to relate protein expression and PTM to cardiovascular and skeletal muscle disease using the mouse as an animal model.
Solitons and giants in matrix model
Authors: Andrić I. , Jonke L. , Jurman D.
Published: April 2008

We present a method for solving BPS equations obtained in the collective‐field approach to matrix models. The method enables us to find BPS solutions and quantum excitations around these solutions in the one‐matrix model. These semiclassical solutions correspond to giant gravitons described by matrix models obtained in the framework of AdS/CFT correspondence.
Supersymmetry breaking
Authors: Bajc B.
Published: April 2008

I will describe a minimal supersymmetric SU(5) model, in which the adjoint multiplet breaks spontaneously both gauge and supersymmetry. This inevitably leads to intermediate scales, which in turn increase the GUT scale. The dimension 6 proton decay is thus suppressed, while soft terms coming from supergravity typically dominate.
Integrable systems from membranes on AdS4 × S7
Authors: Bozhilov P.
Published: April 2008

We describe how Neumann and Neumann‐Rosochatius type integrable systems, as well as the continuous limit of the SU(2) integrable spin chain, can be obtained from membranes on AdS4 × S7 background, in the framework of AdS/CFT correspondence.
Superalgebra of Dirac‐type operators of the Euclidean Taub‐NUT space
Authors: Cotăescu I.I. , Visinescu M.
Published: April 2008

The Dirac theory in the Euclidean Taub‐NUT space gives rise to a large collection of conserved operators associated to genuine or hidden symmetries. They are involved in interesting algebraic structures as dynamical algebras or even superalgebras. One presents the properties of the superalgebra of the Dirac‐type operators produced by covariantly constant Killing‐Yano tensors on the Euclidean Taub‐NUT space.
Quantum cosmology and tachyons
Authors: Dimitrijevic D.D. , Djordjevic G.S. , Nesic Lj.
Published: April 2008

We discuss the relevance of the classical and quantum rolling tachyons inflation in the frame of the standard, p‐adic and adelic minisuperspace quantum cosmology. The field theory of tachyon matter proposed by Sen in a zero‐dimensional version suggested by Kar leads to a model of a particle moving in a constant external field with quadratic damping. We calculate the exact quantum propagator of the model, as well as, the vacuum states and conditions necessary to construct an adelic generalization.
Field theory on nonanticommutative superspace
Authors: Dimitrijević M. , Radovanović V. , Wess J.
Published: April 2008

We discuss a deformation of the Hopf algebra of supersymmetry (SUSY) transformations based on a special choice of a twist. As usual, algebra itself remains unchanged, but the comultiplication changes. This leads to a deformed Leibniz rule for SUSY transformations. Superfields are multiplied by using a ☆‐product which is noncommutative, hermitian and finite when expanded in power series of the deformation parameter. One possible deformation of the Wess‐Zumino action is proposed and analysed in detail. Differently from most of the literature concerning this subject, we work in Minkowski space‐time.
Towards twisted standard model in Moyal space‐time
Authors: Govindarajan T.R.
Published: April 2008

After reviewing twisted poincare invariance in field theories and some implications, we discuss ways to include gauge invariance and point out how the Higgs mechanism can be implemented in such a theory.
Is dark energy an effect of averaging?
Authors: Li N. , Seikel M. , Schwarz D.J.
Published: April 2008

The present standard model of cosmology states that the known particles carry only a tiny fraction of total mass and energy of the Universe. Rather, unknown dark matter and dark energy are the dominant contributions to the cosmic energy budget. We review the logic that leads to the postulated dark energy and present an alternative point of view, in which the puzzle may be solved by properly taking into account the influence of cosmic structures on global observables. We illustrate the effect of averaging on the measurement of the Hubble constant.
Spin network wavefunction and nonperturbative graviton propagator
Authors: Miković A.
Published: April 2008

We show that if the flat‐spacetime wavefunction in the spin network basis of Loop Quantum Gravity has a large‐spin asymptotics given by a Gaussian function, then the corresponding graviton propagator has the correct large‐distance asymptotics nonperturbatively in the equal‐time limit.
Central charge contribution to noncommutativity
Authors: Nikolić B. , Sazdović B.
Published: April 2008

In the presence of antisymmetric Kalb‐Ramond field Bμν Dp‐brane, to which string endpoints are attached, is a noncommutative manifold. Adding linear dilaton field, Φ(x) = Φ0 + aμ xμ, the coordinate in the direction of dilaton gradient, xc = aμ xμ, becomes commutative, while the world‐sheet conformal factor F is a new noncommutative variable. In this article we demonstrate different approach to realization of quantum conformal invariance. We introduce Liouville action in such a way that world‐sheet conformal factor F does not spoil quantum conformal invariance and theory depends on arbitrary parameter, central charge c. Particular relations between background fields produce local gauge symmetries, which transform some of the Neumann into the Dirichlet boundary conditions decreasing the dimensionality of Dp‐brane.

We introduce one methodological improvement regarding derivation of boundary conditions. Canonical Hamiltonian as a time translation generator must have well defined derivatives in coordinates and momenta. From this requirement we obtain boundary conditions directly in terms of canonical variables.
Single particle representation of parabose extension of conformal supersymmetry
Authors: Salom I.
Published: April 2008

We consider generalized conformal supersymmetry constructed as parabose N = 4 algebra. It is shown that Green's ansatz representations have, in this context, natural interpretation as multi particle spaces. The simplest nontrivial representation is shown to correspond to a massless particle of arbitrary helicity, and some peculiar properties of this space are pointed out.
Non‐supersymmetric attractors and their stability
Authors: Tripathy P.K.
Published: April 2008

Spherically symmetric, extremal black holes in a N = 2 supergravity theory coupled to vector multiplets, can be studied in terms of an effective black hole potential. Critical points of this effective potential give supersymmetry preserving as well as supersymmetry breaking black holes. We study explicit examples of non‐supersymmetric solutions, and discuss some subtle issues regarding their stability.
Induced gauge theory on a noncommutative space
Authors: Wohlgenannt M.
Published: April 2008

We discuss the calculation of the 1‐loop effective action on four dimensional, canonically deformed Euclidean space. The theory under consideration is a scalar ϕ4 model with an additional oscillator potential. This model is known to be re normalisable. Furthermore, we couple an exterior gauge field to the scalar field and extract the dynamics for the gauge field from the divergent terms of the 1‐loop effective action using a matrix basis. This results in proposing an action for noncommutative gauge theory, which is a candidate for a renormalisable model.
Crystal structure of GH13 α‐glucosidase GSJ from one of the deepest sea bacteria
Authors: Shirai Tsuyoshi , Hung Vo Si , Morinaka Katsuhito , Kobayashi Tohru , Ito Susumu
Published: April 2008

The crystal structure of the GH13 α‐glucosidase (GSJ) from deep‐sea bacterium Geobacillus sp. strain HTA‐462 was determined to a 2.0 Å resolution. Comparisons of the GSJ structure with that of other GH13 enzymes with different catalytic activities revealed that the catalytic cleft of GSJ was widely opened when compared with the homologues. The wide opening of the catalytic cleft originated from conformational changes of active site residues and disorder of the regions close to the catalytic center. This structural feature of GSJ would explain the ability of this enzyme to accept a wide variety of nonsugar molecules as acceptors in the transglycosylation reaction. Proteins 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Bioassay‐guided purification and identification of PPARα/γ agonists from Chlorella sorokiniana
Authors: Chou Yu‐Cheng , Prakash Ekambaranellore , Huang Chien‐Fu , Lien Tzu‐Wen , Chen Xin , Su Ih‐Jen , Chao Yu‐Sheng , Hsieh Hsing‐Pang , Hsu John Tsu‐An
Published: April 2008

This study isolated agonists of peroxisome proliferator activated receptors (PPARs) from the green algae Chlorella sorokiniana, using a bioassay‐guided purification strategy. PPARs are widely recognized as the molecular drug targets for many diseases including hyperglycemia, diabetes, obesity and cancer. Two independent bioassays were developed. The first is the scintillation proximity assay, a ligand binding assay. The other is the cell‐based transcriptional activation assay which uses the Dual‐Luciferase® reporter system as the reporter gene under the control of the PPAR response element. Using these two assays, a PPARγ‐active fraction, CE 3‐3, was obtained from C. sorokiniana extracts, which was also able to activate PPARαmediated gene expression.

To elucidate the active ingredients in the CE 3‐3 fraction, GC‐MS analysis was employed. The results showed that the CE 3‐3 fraction consisted of at least ten fatty acids (FAs). The bioactivities of several of the individual FAs were evaluated for their PPARγ activity and the results showed that linolenic acid and linoleic acid were the most potent FAs tested. Our studies indicate that Chlorella sorokiniana could have potential health benefits through the dual activation of PPARα/γ via its unique FA constituents. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cancer phytotherapeutics: role for flavonoids at the cellular level
Authors: Kale Anup , Gawande Sonia , Kotwal Swati
Published: April 2008

Dietary foods and fruits possess an array of flavonoids with unique chemical structure and diverse bioactivities relevant to cancer. Numerous epidemiological studies have validated the inverse relation between the consumption of flavonoids and the risk of cancer. Flavonoids possess cancer blocking and suppressing effects. Flavonoids modulate various CYPs involved in carcinogen activation and scavenging reactive species formed from carcinogens by CYP‐mediated reactions. They induce biosynthesis of several CYPs. They are involved in the regulation of enzymes of phase‐II responsible for xenobiotic biotransformation and colon microflora. Since cytochromes P450, P‐gp and phase‐II enzymes are involved in the metabolism of drugs and in the processes of chemical carcinogenesis, interactions of flavonoids with these systems hold great promise for their therapeutic potential. The role of flavonoids also includes the inhibition of activation of pro‐carcinogens, inhibition of proliferation of cancer cells, selective death of cancer cells by apoptosis, inhibition of metastasis and angiogenesis, activation of immune response against cancer cells, modulation of the inflammatory cascade and the modulation of drug resistance. This has greatly extended the goal of cancer therapy from eradicating the affected cells to control of the cancer phenotype. Phytotherapy is being used in combination with other therapies as phytonutrients have been shown to work by nutrient synergy. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ganoderma applanatum: a promising mushroom for antitumor and immunomodulating activity
Authors: Jeong Yong‐Tae , Yang Byung‐Keun , Jeong Sang‐Chul , Kim Sang‐Min , Song Chi‐Hyun
Published: April 2008

The antitumor effect of exo‐biopolymer (EXP) produced by Ganoderma applanatum was investigated using sarcoma‐180 bearing mice. EXP, when administered (10–80 mg/kg body weight: BW) intraperitoneally, significantly inhibited the growth of solid tumor and increased the natural killer (NK) cell activity. A dose of 40 mg/kg BW was found to be highly effective, as it reduced the tumor formation by 39.7%, and increased the NK cell activity of splenocytes by 51.6% compared with the control group. The complement activity of EXP was increased in accordance with an increase in concentration. The phosphatase activity of macrophages was increased by 0.7‐fold (200 µg/mL) compared with the control group. This EXP contained 58.9% carbohydrate and 17.1% protein. The major sugar of EXP was composed of mannose and glucose, while the protein mainly consisted of serine, glycine and aspartic acid. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reverse micellar microextraction for rapid analysis of thiol‐containing peptides and amino acids by atmospheric‐pressure matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization ion trap and matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Agrawal Kavita , Wu Hui‐Fen , Shrivas Kamlesh
Published: April 2008

Simple, rapid and inexpensive one‐step reverse micellar microextraction (RMME) procedures were combined with matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI MS) for the determination of thiol‐containing peptides and amino acids. In this investigation, a thiol‐containing peptide (HW6) was chosen as model compound to understand the mechanism of RMME. The electrostatic interactions between the thiol‐containing peptide and reverse micelles were proposed to be reason for the transfer of analytes from the aqueous phase to the organic phase. Reverse micelles were formed by the cationic surfactant, methyltrioctylammonium chloride (MTOAC). The best extraction efficiency of HW6 was obtained under the following conditions: pH 11.0, ionic strength 5.0 mM of KCl and micelle concentration 7.0 mM of MTOAC. The limits of detection (LODs) obtained for HW6 in water, urine and plasma samples were 0.15, 0.19 and 0.28 µM, respectively, with relative standard deviation (RSD) values in the range ±8.8–10.5%. The sensitivity obtained in water by the present method was 45‐fold higher than that of the conventional use of atmospheric‐pressure (AP)‐MALDI MS. Furthermore, the applicability of the proposed approach was extended for the determination of thiol‐containing amino acids in sample solutions by using MALDI time‐of‐flight (TOF) MS. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.