bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antiparasitic properties of homoallylamines and related compounds
Authors: Gómez-Barrio Alicia , Montero-Pereira David , Nogal-Ruiz Juan , Escario José , Muelas-Serrano Susana , Kouznetsov Vladimir , Vargas Méndez Leonor , Urbina Gonzáles Juan , Ochoa Carmen
Published: June 2006

A study of some antiparasitic properties of several homoallylamines and related tetrahydroquinolines and quinolines, previously described, was carried out using in vitro activity assays against the epimastigote form of Trypanosoma cruzi and against Trichomonas vaginalis. Unspecific cytotoxicity against murine macrophages was also studied. Although the antichagasic and trichomonacidal activities are not comparable to those of the standard drugs, nifurtimox and metronidazole, some of the compounds exhibit an interesting specific antiparasitic activity.
Natural infection of Oryctolagus cuniculus (Lagomorpha, Leporidae) by Gongylonema neoplasticum (Nematoda, Gongylonematidae) in Portugal
Authors: Eira Catarina , Miquel Jordi , Vingada José , Torres Jordi
Published: June 2006

Gongylonema neoplasticum was identified in the oesophagus of 14 wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) from Portugal. This is the first record of Gongylonema neoplasticum in a naturally infected lagomorph species in Europe. This paper presents the most relevant measurements of adult worms and some of their surface features seen by scanning electron microscopy. Epidemiological aspects of G. neoplasticum such as geographical distribution, host spectrum and biological features are discussed.
Reproductive characteristics of a precocious vaccine line (Rt3+15) of Eimeria tenella in embryonating chicken eggs
Authors: Grant Richards D. , Whithear Kevin , Scott Peter , Gasser Robin
Published: June 2006

Coccidiosis of chickens, caused by species of Eimeria (Protozoa, Apicomplexa), is an intestinal disease of major economic importance worldwide. In the present study, the reproductive characteristics of a precocious line (designated E. tenella Rt3+15) from Australia were investigated in chicken embryos and the implications of the findings briefly discussed.
Contribution of 5‐HT2A receptor gene ‐1438A>G polymorphism to outcome of attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder in adolescents
Authors: Li Jun , Kang Chuanyuan , Wang Yufeng , Zhou Rulun , Wang Bing , Guan Lili , Yang Li , Faraone Stephen V.
Published: June 2006

Attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) typically emerges before 7 years of age and may persist into adolescence or adulthood. The adolescent outcome can be classified into four types, including non‐remission, syndromatic remission, symptomatic remission, and functional remission. Genetic factors are believed to contribute to symptom stability and change across development, so adolescent outcome may be a sub‐phenotype for molecular genetic studies of ADHD. Serotonin system genes are prime candidates for this sub‐phenotype, since the development of this neurotransmitter system parallels the course of ADHD. The current study examined the association between adolescent outcome in ADHD and serotonin system genes, including the ‐1438A>G polymorphism of the serotonin 2A receptor gene (HTR2A) and the ‐759C>T polymorphism of the serotonin 2C receptor gene (HTR2C). The ‐1438A>G polymorphism was found to be related to remission in ADHD, especially functional remission (P = 0.029). Due to potential phenotypic and etiologic heterogeneity in ADHD, the results of this study must be replicated in additional samples before they can be generalized to other populations. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
An examination of the behavioral and neuropsychological correlates of three ADHD candidate gene polymorphisms (DRD4 7+, DBH TaqI A2, and DAT1 40 bp VNTR) in hyperactive and normal children followed to adulthood
Authors: Barkley Russell A. , Smith Karen M. , Fischer Mariellen , Navia Bradford
Published: June 2006

Several candidate gene polymorphisms have been implicated in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), including DAT1 40bp VNTR, DRD4 7+, and DBH TaqI A2 alleles. We used the Milwaukee longitudinal study of hyperactive (n = 122) and normal (n = 67) children to compare participants with and without these respective polymorphisms on ADHD‐related behavioral ratings at childhood, 8 years later in adolescence, and 13+ years later into young adulthood. Neuropsychological tests were given at the adolescent and young adulthood follow‐up. No differences were found between the DRD4‐7+ and 7− repeat polymorphism. The DBH TaqI A2 allele, when homozygous, was associated with being more hyperactive in childhood, having more pervasive behavior problems at adolescence, and earning less money on a card playing task in adulthood. At adolescence, poorer test scores were also found only in the hyperactive group with homozygous for this allele. The DAT1 40bp VNTR heterozygous 9/10 repeat, however, differed from the 10/10 repeat pair in many respects, having greater ADHD and externalizing symptoms at all three follow‐ups, more cross‐situational behavioral problems at both childhood and adolescence, poorer mother‐teen relations at adolescence, and lower class rankings in high school. Participants with the 9/10 pair in the control group also had lower work performance, a lower grade point average in high school, greater teacher rated externalizing symptoms at adolescence, and greater omission errors on a continuous performance test in adulthood. The DAT1 40bp VNTR 9/10 polymorphism pairing appears to be reliably associated with greater symptoms of ADHD and externalizing behavior from childhood to adulthood, and with family, educational, and occupational impairments. We also present a contrary view on the appropriate endophenotypes for use in behavioral genetic research on ADHD. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
BDNF gene variants and brain morphology in schizophrenia
Authors: Agartz Ingrid , Sedvall Göran C. , Terenius Lars , Kulle Bettina , Frigessi Arnoldo , Hall Håkan , Jönsson Erik G.
Published: June 2006

The objective was to investigate putative associations between brain‐derived neurotrophic factor gene (BDNF) polymorphisms and brain morphology in patients with schizophrenia and healthy control subjects. Four BDNF polymorphisms were genotyped and analyzed versus 39 brain volume measures in 96 patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder and 104 healthy subjects. In all subjects, quantitative data on segmented gray, white, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) tissue class volumes of total brain and major cerebral lobes including ventricular CSF were obtained using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In a randomly selected subset of this population (n = 101–122), MR volumes from cerebellar tonsil, hemispheres, and vermis subregions, striatal structures, hippocampus, and corpus callosum were also measured. The BDNF 11757 G/C polymorphism was highly significantly associated with frontal gray matter volume variation in patients alone and in patients and control subjects combined. In patients only, the 270 C/T polymorphism was associated with total caudate volume. Significant associations were demonstrated between the BDNF 11757 G/C and Val66Met polymorphisms and a global haplotype estimate of four BDNF polymorphisms and the posterior superior cerebellar vermis volume in the controls as well as in the combined group, but not in the patients. The 11757 G/C polymorphism was associated with cerebellar hemisphere white and gray matter volumes in the combined group. The BDNF −633 T/A polymorphism was associated with gray matter of the putamen in the controls. Trends for associations between several polymorphisms/haplotype estimates and MRI volumes were found. BDNF gene variation may influence brain morphology. The effects may be different in patients with schizophrenia and healthy subjects. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Methylation of twoHomo sapiens‐specific X‐Y homologous genes in Klinefelter's syndrome (XXY)
Authors: Ross Norman L.J. , Wadekar Rekha , Lopes Alexandra , Dagnall Adam , Close James , DeLisi Lynn E. , Crow Timothy J.
Published: June 2006

An increased incidence of psychiatric and structural brain abnormalities in individuals with Klinefelter syndrome (KS, 47 XXY) could be due to the presence of extra copies of X‐Y homologous genes that escape X inactivation. Of particular interest are the two brain‐expressed genes Protocadherin11XY (PCDH11XY) and the Synaptobrevin‐like gene (SYBL1) which have been duplicated from the X chromosome to the Y chromosome to give X‐Y homologous gene pairs that are specific to modern humans. We examined the DNA of KS individuals reported recently by DeLisi et al.2005and determined the parental origin of the X alleles, the degree of skewed X inactivation and investigated the CpG island methylation status ofPCDH11XYandSYBL1by bisulphite sequencing and quantification of methylated HpaII sites. We used a novel method for quantification of unmethylated CpGs with the restriction enzyme McrBC which cuts methylated but not unmethylated CpGs. The results showed that KS individuals have two methylated and one unmethylatedSYBL1allele whereasPCDH11XYis unmethylated and escapes X inactivation on the extra X chromosome. Overexpression ofPCDH11XYin KS is probable and variable escape from inactivation of thisHomo sapiens‐specific gene could account for some abnormalities in KS. The origin of the parental alleles or their preferential X inactivation was not associated with psychotic symptoms. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
No association between low density lipoprotein receptor genetic variants and Alzheimer's disease risk
Authors: Rodríguez Eloy , Mateo Ignacio , Llorca Javier , Sánchez‐Quintana Coro , Infante Jon , Berciano José , Combarros Onofre
Published: June 2006

A number of studies suggest that brain cholesterol metabolism may play a role in Alzheimer's disease (AD) development, probably through modulation of amyloid beta production. The discovery that apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 allele is a risk factor for sporadic AD raises the possibility that the receptors to which APOE binds on the surface of neurons are also involved in the neurodegenerative process. To evaluate the relationship between low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) genetic variant and AD, independently or in concert with the APOE ε4 allele, we examined three LDLR polymorphisms located in exons 8 (rs 11669576), 10 (rs 5930), and 13 (rs 5925), in a large group of 322 Spanish AD patients and 314 controls. The current study does not demonstrate an association between LDLR genotypes or haplotypes and AD, neither in the total sample nor when the populations were stratified for the presence or absence of the APOE ε4 allele. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Transmission distortion of BDNF variants to bipolar disorder type I patients from a south american population isolate,
Authors: Kremeyer Barbara , Herzberg Ibi , Garcia Jenny , Kerr Emily , Duque Constanza , Parra Vicky , Vega Jorge , Lopez Carlos , Palacio Carlos , Bedoya Gabriel , Ospina Jorge , Ruiz‐Linares Andres
Published: June 2006

Recent reports have implicated polymorphisms in the brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene region in the etiology of several psychiatric phenotypes, including bipolar disorder. Significant disease association has been reported for the G allele at SNP rs6265, which encodes for Valine at position 66 of BDNF (Val66Met), an apparently functional variant of this key BDNF. Here we examined a sample of 224 bipolar type I patients and available parents (comprising a total of 212 nuclear families) ascertained in a South American population isolate (Antioquia, Colombia). We tested for transmission distortion to bipolar patients of alleles at the rs6265 polymorphism and at a microsatellite marker 1.3 kb away from this SNP. Significant excess transmission of the rs6265 G allele to cases was observed (χ2 = 10.77, d.f. = 1, P = 0.001). Two‐locus haplotype analysis showed a significant global transmission distortion (χ2 = 16.059, d.f. = 7, P = 0.025) with an excess transmission of a haplotype comprising the rs6265 G allele and microsatellite allele 227. These results are consistent with previous studies pointing to a role for BDNF in susceptibility to mood disorders. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mandating coverage of biologic therapies for rheumatic disease: Where Evidence and Politics meet
Authors: Bair Yali A. , White Richard H. , Kravitz Richard L.
Published: June 2006

In this issue of Arthritis Care & Research, we inaugurate an occasional series of commentaries entitled Policy Matters. In all of clinical research, our goal is to improve patient outcomes. Usually, that means focusing on the medical, demographic, and socioeconomic factors at the level of individuals with rheumatic diseases; sometimes, our scope of inquiry expands to encompass the impact of the communities in which they live. However, increasingly, the welfare of persons with rheumatic conditions is also affected by health policies through such diverse mechanisms as reimbursement decisions for specific treatments, insurance coverage, manpower, and NIH budgets (the foregoing list is hardly exhaustive).

Recently, a piece of legislation was introduced in California (SB913) that has the potential to alter the availability of biologic response modifying agents (BRMs) by mandating that health plans that provide coverage for one such agent include all on their formularies (a revised version would preclude a trial of another disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug before use of a BRM). In this state, the California Health Benefits Review Program (CHBRP) provides evidence reviews of the medical effectiveness, cost, and public health impact of proposed health insurance mandates for the legislature. The analysts from the University of California who conducted the medical effectiveness review of SB913 for CHBRP provide a legislative history of the proposed law in this article. We hope that the readership of Arthritis Care & Research find this article informative as an exemplar of the policies that could dramatically alter the welfare of our patients.
Changing spectrum of the diffuse infiltrative lymphocytosis syndrome
Authors: Basu Dhiman , Williams Francis M. , Ahn Chul W. , Reveille John D.
Published: June 2006

Objective

To describe the changing clinical spectrum of patients with diffuse infiltrative lymphocytosis syndrome (DILS) after the introduction of highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART), and to carry out HLA class II oligotyping in these patients.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of patients with DILS who were referred to an outpatient facility for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–positive individuals between 1994 and 2003 was performed. DILS was diagnosed as suggested by previous criteria. Demographic features and relevant clinical, laboratory, and radiologic data were recorded and results analyzed.

Results

A total of 129 patients with DILS were identified. Of them, 56 (43%) were African American, 41 (32%) were white, and 32 (25%) were Hispanic. Parotid gland swelling appeared to be the sine qua non of DILS. Twenty‐seven percent of patients had opportunistic infections. The status of 103 patients was available as of December 2003: 26 (25%) had died, of which only 6 (6%) succumbed to opportunistic infections. The prevalence of DILS had significantly decreased in the post‐HAART era (1998 onwards) compared with that of the pre‐HAART period (P < 0.000001). The prevalence of lymphocytic interstitial pneumonitis had also dropped significantly following introduction of HAART therapy (P = 0.015). A higher frequency of certain HLA class II alleles (DRB1) was found in African Americans with DILS compared with those with HIV without DILS (P = 0.006).

Conclusion

The epidemiology, clinical presentation, and certain extraglandular manifestations of DILS have changed, concomitant with the introduction of HAART, further suggesting that DILS is an antigen (viral)‐driven response and the primary treatment for it is anti‐HIV therapy.
Development of a tool for early referral of children and adolescents with signs and symptoms suggestive of chronic arthropathy to pediatric rheumatology centers
Authors: Len Claudio Arnaldo , Terreri Maria Teresa , Puccini Rosana F. , Wechsler Rudolf , Silva Edina Koga , Oliveira Leda M. , Barbosa Cássia M. Passarelli , Pedroso Glaura César , Hilário Maria Odete E.
Published: June 2006

Objective

To develop an easy, time‐efficient tool to identify children and adolescents with signs and symptoms suggestive of chronic arthropathies, and to evaluate its interobserver reproducibility and reliability.

Methods

The instrument used standardized techniques as required for the development of health‐related instruments, targeting parents of apparently healthy children and adolescents ages 1–16 years. A multidisciplinary team was involved in the design of the instrument.

Results

Each health professional generated 10–15 questions addressing musculoskeletal complaints that they considered to be the most relevant. A total of 60 questions were listed. During the reduction step, each health professional scored questions from 1 to 4 according to the question's relevance. The tool comprised 12 questions and was administered to the parents of 3 groups: patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA; n = 48), children with diffuse musculoskeletal pain (n = 39), and a healthy control group (n = 42). The JIA group achieved the highest scores, followed by the diffuse musculoskeletal pain group and the control group. Nine (18.7%) of 48 patients with JIA and 2 (5.1%) of 39 children with musculoskeletal pain had a score of 5. The interobserver reproducibility was confirmed. All 12 questions were included in the final version of the instrument. We determined that children and adolescents with a score ≥5 should be referred for a rheumatologic evaluation (cluster analysis and logistic regression).

Conclusion

Our questionnaire seems to be a useful tool for the early detection of musculoskeletal problems in children that may need a referral for a rheumatologic evaluation.
Influence of clinical features on the health status of patients with limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis
Authors: Gliddon Angela E. , Doré Caroline J. , Maddison Peter J. ,   QUINS TRIAL STUDY GROUP
Published: June 2006

Objective

To determine the effect of limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis (lcSSc) on patients' health status, and to identify the contributions to health status of different manifestations of lcSSc.

Methods

The Short Form 36 questionnaire was completed by 213 patients with lcSSc or Raynaud's syndrome and an antinuclear antibody typical of lcSSc as part of the baseline visit of the Quinapril in Scleroderma trial. Results were analyzed after correcting for age and sex using the Welsh Health Survey. Patients' results were related to their clinical characteristics.

Results

The mean physical component score (PCS) was 44.0 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 42.5, 45.5), which was lower than the population norm of 50, and the median mental component score (MCS) was 52.2 (95% CI 48.5, 54.3). Raynaud's disease visual analog scale (VAS) scores, lung function, the number of organ systems affected, and skin score were significantly correlated with PCS. The total score (TDS) of an SSc severity scale showed the highest correlation. The effect of lcSSc on PCS was worse in younger patients. Multiple regression including age demonstrated that Raynaud's disease severity could predict a reduction in PCS beyond that predicted by TDS. Raynaud's disease severity and duration of lcSSc were linked to low MCS. Arthritis reduced PCS and esophageal involvement reduced PCS and MCS.

Conclusion

Physical health status of patients with lcSSc was reduced, with 30% of the variation predicted by TDS, age, and severity of Raynaud's disease VAS. Mental health status was not reduced in this population.
Selective labeling of a membrane peptide with 15N‐amino acids using cells grown in rich medium
Authors: Englander Jacqueline , Cohen Leah , Arshava Boris , Estephan Racha , Becker Jeffrey M. , Naider Fred
Published: June 2006

Nuclear magnetic resonance spectra of membrane proteins containing multiple transmembrane helices have proven difficult to resolve due to the redundancy of aliphatic and Ser/Thr residues in transmembrane domains and the low chemical shift dispersity exhibited by residues in α‐helical structures. Although 13C‐ and 15N‐labeling are useful tools in the biophysical analysis of proteins, selective labeling of individual amino acids has been used to help elucidate more complete structures and to probe ligand–protein interactions. In general, selective labeling has been performed in Escherichia coli expression systems using minimal media supplemented with a single labeled amino acid and nineteen other unlabeled amino acids and/or by using auxotrophs for specific amino acids. Growth in minimal media often results in low yields of cells or expression products. We demonstrate a method in which one labeled amino acid is added to a rich medium. These conditions resulted in high expression (≥100 mg/L) of a test fusion protein and milligram quantities of the selectively labeled membrane peptide after cyanogen bromide cleavage to release the peptide from the fusion protein. High levels of 15N incorporation and acceptable levels of cross‐labeling into other amino acid residues of the peptide were achieved. Growth in rich media is a simple and convenient alternative to growth in supplemented minimal media and is readily applicable to the expression of proteins selectively labeled with specific amino acids. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 84: 508–518, 2006

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
Elucidating the binding thermodynamics of 8‐anilino‐1‐naphthalene sulfonic acid with the A‐state of α‐lactalbumin: An isothermal titration calorimetric investigation
Authors: Singh Sreelekha K. , Kishore Nand
Published: June 2006

Isothermal titration calorimetry has been used to demonstrate that the heat profile associated with the binding of 8‐anilino‐1‐naphthalene sulfonic acid (ANS) with the acid induced molten globule state (A‐state) of α‐lactalbumin (α‐LA) is different from that with the native and denatured states of the protein. The results corroborate the spectroscopic observations that ANS binds more strongly to the partially folded states of the protein compared to that with the native and denatured states. ANS binds to the A‐state of α‐LA at two independent binding sites that remain nearly the same in the temperature range of 10–35°C. The number of moles of ANS binding at site 1 at 10°C is 14.0 ± 0.2 and remains nearly the same with rise in temperature. However, the number of moles of ANS molecules binding at site 2 show an increase from 1.6 ± 0.2 at 10°C to 4.1 ± 0.1 at 35°C. The deviation of the slope of enthalpy–entropy compensation plot from unity and nonadherence to van't Hoff dictates implies that the binding sites on the A‐state of α‐LA for ANS are not well defined and specific; rather, these binding sites are formed due to greater exposure of hydrophobic clusters in the A‐state of the protein. The results for the first time demonstrate the use of isothermal titration calorimetry in characterizing the A‐state of α‐LA both qualitatively and quantitatively. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 83:205–212, 2006

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
Multinuclear magnetic resonance, electrospray ionization–mass spectroscopy, and parametric method 5 studies of a new derivative of gossypol with 2‐thiophenecarbohydrazide as well as its complexes with LI+, Na+, K+, RB+, and Cs+ cations
Authors: Przybylski Piotr , Schilf Wojciech , Lewandowska Weronika , Brzezinski Bogumil
Published: June 2006

A new derivative of racemic gossypol with 2‐thiophenecarbohydrazide (GHHT) and its complexes with monovalent cations have been synthesized and studied by electrospray ionization–mass spectroscopy (ESI‐MS), multinuclear nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), as well as by the Parametric Method 5 (PM5) methods. It is demonstrated that GHHT forms stable complexes of 1:1 stoichiometry with monovalent metal cations. The structures of the complexes are stabilized by three types of intramolecular hydrogen bonds. The spectroscopic methods have provided clear evidence that GHHT and its complexes exist in the DMSO‐d6 solution in the N‐imine–N‐imine tautomeric forms. The structures of the GHHT and its complexes with Li+, Na+, K+, Rb+, and Cs+ cations are visualized and discussed in detail. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 83: 213–225, 2006

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
SMIXTURE: strategy for mixture model clustering of multivariate images
Authors: Tran Thanh N. , Wehrens Ron , Buydens Lutgarde M. C.
Published: June 2006

SMIXTURE, a novel strategy for mixture model clustering of multivariate images, has been developed. Most other clustering approaches require good guesses of the number of components (clusters) and the initial statistical parameters. In our approach, the initial parameters are determined by agglomerative clustering on homogenous regions, identified by region growing segmentation. SMIXTURE can be used in both a normal situation of mixture modeling, where the density of a cluster is modeled by a single normal distribution; and in a more complex situation, where the density of a single cluster is a mixture of several normal sub‐clusters. The method has proven to be very robust to noise/outliers, overlapping clusters, is reasonably fast and is suitable for moderate to large images. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Aluminium(III) Trifluoromethanesulfonate as an Efficient Catalyst for the Intramolecular Hydroalkoxylation of Unactivated Olefins: Experimental and Theoretical Approaches
Authors: Coulombel Lydie , Rajzmann Michel , Pons Jean‐Marc , Olivero Sandra , Duñach Elisabet
Published: June 2006

The Al(OTf)3‐catalyzed cycloisomerization of unactivated unsaturated alcohols was studied from experimental and theoretical points of view. A series of cyclic ethers was obtained in excellent yields and regioselectivities. This catalyst system provides one of the most straightforward routes to cyclic ethers with Markovnikov‐type regioselectivity under mild conditions. Theoretical and NMR studies were carried out in order to better determine the mechanism of this reaction. The NMR studies were in agreement with preferential complexation of Al(OTf)3 to the oxygen atom of the unsaturated alcohol, but did not exclude complexation to the double bond of the alcohol. Theoretical calculations indicated strong acidification of the hydroxyl proton when Al(OTf)3 was complexed to the alcohol oxygen atom. A plausible catalytic cycle for the Al(OTf)3‐catalyzed intramolecular hydroalkoxylation of unactivated olefins is proposed.
The Nicholas Approach to Natural Product Hybrids
Authors: Álvaro Elsa , de la Torre María C. , Sierra Miguel A.
Published: June 2006

The intermolecular Nicholas reaction of terpene‐based scaffolds is an excellent access to natural product hybrid compounds. These intermolecular reactions have a low selectivity and are scarcely efficient for non‐conjugated cations, but they are highly efficient to produce new terpene structures through an intramolecular reaction pathway. The use of cations derived from natural product derived [Co2(CO)6]–enyne complexes is, in contrast, a highly efficient regio‐ and stereoselective procedure to prepare very complex structures, incorporating diverse densely functionalized or labile moieties. Thus, β‐pinene–diterpene–alkaloid or homohybrids can be accessed in totally stereo‐, regio‐ and siteselective fashion. This approach efficiently discriminates between different propargylic positions by selecting the nature of the alcohol, being the enyne‐derived cations the most reactive. The chimera 38 with a steroid–terpene–indole skeleton was prepared in this way.
Routine immunophenotyping in acute leukemia: Role in lineage assignment and reassignment
Authors: Qadir Misbah , Barcos Maurice , Stewart Carleton C. , Sait Sheila N. J. , Ford Laurie A. , Baer Maria R.
Published: June 2006

Diagnostic evaluation of acute leukemia at Roswell Park Cancer Institute has routinely included immunophenotyping by multiparameter flow cytometry. In a retrospective analysis of 646 cases, morphology and cytochemistry established lineage in 612, but not in 34 (5%), of which 26, 5, and 3 were myeloid, undifferentiated, and lymphoid, respectively, based on immunophenotyping. In addition, immunophenotyping changed the lineage assigned based on morphology and cytochemistry in 11 cases (2%); 8 changed from lymphoid to myeloid, and 3 from myeloid to lymphoid. The data support routine inclusion of at least limited immunophenotyping in the diagnostic evaluation of acute leukemia. © 2006 International Society for Analytical Cytology
Expression profiling of the mouse early embryo: Reflections and perspectives
Authors: Ko Minoru S.H.
Published: June 2006

The laboratory mouse model plays important roles in our understanding of early mammalian development and provides an invaluable model for human early embryos, which are difficult to study for ethical and technical reasons. A comprehensive collection of cDNA clones, their sequences, and complete genome sequence information, which have been accumulated over the past two decades, reveal even further the value of the mouse models. Here, the progress in global gene expression profiling in early mouse embryos and, to some extent, stem cells is reviewed and future directions and challenges are discussed. The discussions include the restatement of global gene expression profiles as a snapshot of cellular status, and subsequent distinction between the differentiation state and physiological state of the cells. The discussions then extend to the biological problems that can be addressed only through global expression profiling, including a bird's‐eye view of global gene expression changes, molecular index for developmental potency, cell lineage trajectory, microarray‐guided cell manipulation, and the possibility of delineating gene regulatory cascades and networks. Developmental Dynamics 235:2437–2448, 2006. Published 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hydrophosphanation of Phenolic Aldehydes as Facile Synthetic Approach to Catechol‐Functionalized Phosphane Oxides and Phosphanes
Authors: Chikkali Samir , Gudat Dietrich
Published: June 2006

Reactions of diphenylphosphane with mono‐ and dihydroxybenzaldehydes yield as initial products α‐phosphanyl‐carbinols that exist according to NMR studies in dynamic equilibrium with the starting materials in solution but are stable in the solid state. The facile rearrangement of the initial products yields isomeric phosphane oxides which react with MeI and excess LiAlH4 via deoxygenation to give the corresponding phosphanes. Phosphane oxides and phosphanes were isolated and characterized by analytical and spectroscopic data. The reactions described represent an improved synthesis for phosphanes with phenol and catechol functionalities that are useful for applications as ligands or supramolecular building blocks.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006)
Generation and Rearrangements of Thioacetaldehyde S‐Sulfide (Methylthiosulfine) and Thioacetone S‐Sulfide (Dimethylthiosulfine)
Authors: Maier Günther , Reisenauer Hans Peter , Romański Jaroslaw , Petzold Holm , Mlostoń Grzegorz
Published: June 2006

Matrix isolation spectroscopy allows the direct identification of ylides 1b and 1c. They are generated by flash vacuum pyrolysis of the 1,2,4‐trithiolanes 3b and 3c. Photochemical activation of the thiosulfines 1b and 1c initiates ring closure to the corresponding dithiiranes 2b and 3b. The presence of a methyl group in thiosulfines 1b and 1c opens a new reaction channel for their thermal transformation, namely a [1,4]‐H shift with formation of vinyldisulfanes 5. The results of the matrix studies are supported by preparative runs, in which the products of the pyrolyses were trapped at higher temperatures and their spectra measured in solution under standard conditions. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006)
Variability in the collective behaviour of England fans at Euro2004: ‘Hooliganism’, public order policing and social change
Authors: Stott Clifford , Adang Otto , Livingstone Andrew , Schreiber Martina
Published: June 2006

This paper presents an analysis of collective behaviour among England football fans attending the European football championships in Portugal (Euro2004). Given this category's violent reputation, a key goal was to explore the processes underlying their apparent shift away from conflict in match cities. Drawing from the elaborated social identity model of crowd behaviour (ESIM) data were obtained using semi‐structured observations and interviews before, during and after the tournament. Qualitative analysis centres first on three key incidents in match cities where the potential for violence was undermined either by ‘self‐policing’ among England fans, or by appropriately targeted police intervention. These are contrasted with two ‘riots’ involving England fans that occurred in Algarve during the tournament. A phenomenological analysis of England fans' accounts suggests that the contexts created by different forms of policing helped bring to the fore different understandings of what constituted proper and possible behaviour among England fans, and that these changes in identity content underpinned shifts toward and away from collective conflict. The implications of this analysis for the ESIM, understanding public order policing, social change and social conflict are discussed. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Differential mitochondrial protein expression profiling in neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Gillardon Frank
Published: June 2006

Alterations in mitochondrial structure or function have been described in a variety of human diseases for nearly half a century. The complete sequence of the human mitochondrial genome has been published in 1981. The mitochondrial proteome database however, is still incomplete. Here I give a short review on recent advances to determine the complete set of mitochondrial proteins. The main emphasis is put on gel‐based proteomic approaches to identify differentially expressed mitochondrial proteins in neurodegenerative diseases.
Phospho‐proteomic analysis of cellular signaling
Authors: de Graauw Marjo , Hensbergen Paul , van de Water Bob
Published: June 2006

Reversible protein phosphorylation plays an important role in the regulation of many different processes, such as cell growth, differentiation, migration, metabolism, and apoptosis. Identification of differentially phosphorylated proteins by means of phospho‐proteomic analysis provides insight into signal transduction pathways that are activated in response to, for example, growth factor stimulation or toxicant‐induced apoptosis. This review summarizes recent advances made in the field of phospho‐proteomics and provides examples of how phospho‐proteomic techniques can be combined to quantitatively investigate the dynamic changes in protein phosphorylation in time. By linking experimental data to clinical data (e.g., disease progression or response to therapy) new disease markers could be identified, which could then be validated for applications in disease diagnosis and progression or prediction of a response to drugs.
Use of magnetic beads with immobilized monoclonal antibodies for isolation of highly pure plasma membranes
Authors: Lawson Erika L. , Clifton James G. , Huang Feilei , Li Xuesong , Hixson Douglas C. , Josic Djuro
Published: June 2006

In plasma membrane proteome research, contamination of the isolated plasma membrane fraction with proteins from other organelles is still a problem. Even if highly specific isolation methods are used, such as density gradient centrifugation combined with selective extraction, contaminating proteins cannot be completely removed. To solve this problem, a protocol for the isolation of highly pure plasma membrane fractions from rat liver and two different hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines was developed. Magnetic beads with immobilized mAb's against highly expressed membrane proteins were used for specific binding of membrane vesicles and their separation from other organelles. Isolated plasma membranes were further selectively solubilized with different reagents and analyzed by use of different methods, such as Western blotting, 1‐ and 2‐DE, and MS. Purification and further selective solubilization was validated by use of mAb's against the marker integral plasma membrane protein carcinoembryonic antigen cell adhesion molecule 1, and identification of isolated proteins by MS. The method presented here minimizes contamination with other organelles and enables further identification of membrane proteins.
Transforming omics data into context: Bioinformatics on genomics and proteomics raw data
Authors: Perco Paul , Rapberger Ronald , Siehs Christian , Lukas Arno , Oberbauer Rainer , Mayer Gert , Mayer Bernd
Published: June 2006

Differential gene expression analysis and proteomics have exerted significant impact on the elucidation of concerted cellular processes, as simultaneous measurement of hundreds to thousands of individual objects on the level of RNA and protein ensembles became technically feasible. The availability of such data sets has promised a profound understanding of phenomena on an aggregate level, expressed as the phenotypic response (observables) of cells, e.g., in the presence of drugs, or characterization of cells and tissue displaying distinct patho‐physiological states. However, the step of transforming these data into context, i.e., linking distinct expression or abundance patterns with phenotypic observables – and furthermore enabling a sound biological interpretation on the level of reaction networks and concerted pathways, is still a major shortcoming. This finding is certainly based on the enormous complexity embedded in cellular reaction networks, but a variety of computational approaches have been developed over the last few years to overcome these issues. This review provides an overview on computational procedures for analysis of genomic and proteomic data introducing a sequential analysis workflow: Explorative statistics for deriving a first, from the purely statistical viewpoint, relevant candidate gene/protein list, followed by co‐regulation and network analysis to biologically expand this core list toward functional networks and pathways. The review on these procedures is complemented by example applications tailored at identification of disease‐associated proteins. Optimization of computational procedures involved, in conjunction with the continuous increase in additional biological data, clearly has the potential of boosting our understanding of processes on a cell‐wide level.
Mandeville's Journey into the Big, Wide World
Authors: Röhl Susanne
Published: June 2006

Jean de Mandeville and his report of a fantastic journey around the world were once as well‐known as Marco Polo. The distribution of the French manuscript versions of this medieval “bestseller” can now be reconstructed
Blood Pressure and Daily Life
Authors: Duschek Stefan , Schandry Rainer
Published: June 2006

Does chronically low blood pressure impair the brain's performance? Psychological performance tests and modern measurement techniques provide a novel answer
Structural break threshold VARs for predicting US recessions using the spread
Authors: Galvão Ana Beatriz C.
Published: June 2006

This paper proposes a model to predict recessions that accounts for non‐linearity and a structural break when the spread between long‐ and short‐term interest rates is the leading indicator. Estimation and model selection procedures allow us to estimate and identify time‐varying non‐linearity in a VAR. The structural break threshold VAR (SBTVAR) predicts better the timing of recessions than models with constant threshold or with only a break. Using real‐time data, the SBTVAR with spread as leading indicator is able to anticipate correctly the timing of the 2001 recession. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Heparin‐like synthetic polymers, named RGTAs, mimic biological effects of heparin in vitro
Authors: Rouet Vincent , Meddahi‐Pellé Anne , Miao Hua‐Quan , Vlodavsky Israel , Caruelle Jean‐Pierre , Barritault Denis
Published: June 2006

A family of biopolymers engineered to protect and stabilize heparin binding growth factors (HBGFs) show remarkable properties as wound healing agents in several in vivo tissue repair models to the extend that damaged tissues would recover almost its initial aspect and properties. These polymers where named RGTA for regenerating agents and proposed to act in vivo by enhancing the bioavailability of HBGFs at the site of the injury. To provide support for this hypothesis, we studied interaction of RGTA with FGF‐2, taken as the paradigm of HBGFs, and its high‐ and low‐affinity receptors as well as its ability to inhibit heparanase activity. We show that RGTA is comparable to heparin as it favors FGF‐2 binding to FGFR‐1 and FGF‐2 dimerization and potentiates FGF‐2‐induced mitogenic activity. Furthermore, we show that RGTA inhibits the release of FGF‐2 from its extracellular matrix storage sites by heparanase. Our data provide new evidence to support that RGTA may act in vivo both by enhancing HBGF activity and preserving HBGF availability by protecting the matrix low affinity heparan sulfates from rapid heparanase degradation. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2006
Ribosomal protein L10 interacts with the SH3 domain and regulates GDNF‐induced neurite growth in SH‐SY‐5y cells
Authors: Park Seyeon , Jeong Doc‐Gyun
Published: June 2006

The 24.5 kDa ribosomal protein L10 (RP‐L10), which was encoded by QM gene, was known to interact with the SH3 domain of Yes kinase. Herein, we demonstrate that RP‐L10 interacts with the SH3 domain of Src and activates the binding of the Nck1 adaptor protein with skeletal proteins such as the Wiskott‐Aldrich Syndrome Protein (WASP) and WASP interacting protein (WIP) in neuroblastoma cell line, SH‐SY‐5y. The RP‐L10 was associated with the SH3 domains of Src and Yes. It is shown that two different regions of RP‐L10 are associated with the Src‐SH3. The effect of ectopic RP‐L10 expression on neuronal cell scaffolding was explored in cells transiently transfected with QM. SH‐SY‐5y human neuroblastoma cells transfected with QM were considerably more susceptible to neurite outgrowth induced by glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF). However, RP‐L10 did not directly interact with actin assembly. Taken together, these results suggest that the RP‐L10 may positively regulate the GDNF/Ret‐mediated signaling of neurite outgrowth in the neuroblastoma cell line, SH‐SY‐5y. J. Cell. Biochem. 99: 624–634, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Modified HMG‐CoA reductase and LDLr regulation is deeply involved in age‐related hypercholesterolemia
Authors: Pallottini Valentina , Martini Chiara , Cavallini Gabriella , Donati Alessio , Bergamini Ettore , Notarnicola Maria , Caruso Maria Gabriella , Trentalance Anna
Published: June 2006

During the ageing process in rats hypercholesterolemia occurs in concert with full activation, lowered degradation rate and an unchanged level of the rate limiting cholesterol biosynthesis enzyme, 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMG‐CoAR). The molecular bases of the HMG‐CoAR unchanged level and lowered degradation rate in aged rats is not clear. In fact no data are available during ageing, on transcription and degradation of HMG‐CoAR, so well defined in adult animal. So, aim of this work was to measure mRNA levels of the enzyme and the level of the proteins of the regulatory complex responsible of the cholesterol metabolism. To complete the picture, the level of sterol regulatory element binding proteins (SREBPs), SREBP cleavage activating protein, and insulin‐induced gene has been measured. The levels of other related proteins, whose transcription is SREBP dependent, that is low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLr) and Caveolin 1, have been also measured. The age‐related reduced Insigs levels, joined to a reduced insulin sensitivity, could explain the decreased degradation rate of the HMG‐CoAR and the increased active SREBP‐2. The SREBP‐2 in particular seems to be committed in multiple way to gene transcription. The obtained data represent a good contribution to explain the age‐related hypercholesterolemia. J. Cell. Biochem. 98: 1044–1053, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Antitumor efficacy of DNA vaccination to the epigenetically acting tumor promoting transcription factor BORIS and CD80 molecular adjuvant
Authors: Loukinov Dmitri , Ghochikyan Anahit , Mkrtichyan Mikayel , Ichim Thomas E. , Lobanenkov Victor V. , Cribbs David H. , Agadjanyan Michael G.
Published: June 2006

Cancer testis (CT) antigens are promising candidates for tumor vaccines due to their immunogenicity and tissue‐restricted expression. Recently, we identified a novel cancer testis gene, BORIS, whose expression is restricted to male testis after puberty and is strictly absent in non‐malignant female tissue. BORIS encodes a DNA‐binding protein that shares 11 zing finger (ZF) with transcription factor CTCF and differs at the N‐ and C‐termini. CTCF has been implicated in epigenetic regulation of imprinting, X chromosome inactivation, repression, and activation of cancer testis antigens. BORIS expression has been documented in cancers of diverse histological origin, including, but not limited to breast, prostate, ovary, gastric, liver, endometrial, glia, colon, and esophagus. Interestingly, BORIS induces demethylation and subsequent expression of many cancer‐testis genes, including MAGE‐A1 and NY‐ESO‐1, indicating that it is expressed very early in malignancy and might be an attractive candidate for immunotherapy. In this study we tested BORIS as a vaccine in a very aggressive, highly metastatic, and poorly immunogenic murine model of mammary carcinoma. Immunizations with a DNA encoding the mutant form of murine BORIS antigen (pmBORIS lacking DNA‐binding function) significantly prolonged survival, and inhibited tumor growth in BALB/c mice inoculated with 4T1 cells. Priming with pmBORIS mixed with molecular adjuvant and boosting with adenoviral vector expressing mBORIS was generally more effective, suggesting that the vaccination protocol could be further optimized. This is the first report demonstrating the feasibility of vaccination with a cancer associated epigenetic regulator for the induction of tumor inhibition. J. Cell. Biochem. 98: 1037–1043, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.