bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combinatorial Library of Low Molecular‐Weight Organo‐ and Hydrogelators Based on Glycosylated Amino Acid Derivatives by Solid‐Phase Synthesis
Authors: Kiyonaka Shigeki , Shinkai Seiji , Hamachi Itaru
Published: February 2003

A combinatorial approach for the synthesis of supramolecular gelators as new organic materials is described herein. In the course of the development of a convenient and flexible solid‐phase synthesis of the artificial glycolipids, some of these compounds were accidentally found to act as low molecular‐weight gelators toward organic solvents. Using this combinatorial solid‐phase synthesis of glycosylated amino acetates, screening and optimization of low molecular‐weight organo/hydro‐gelators were efficiently carried out. We found that an N‐acetyl‐galactosamine‐appended amino acid ester (GalNAc‐aa) efficiently gelates a broad spectrum of organic solvents. More interestingly, some GalNAc‐aa derivatives displayed an excellent hydrogelation capability. Transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and FT‐IR were used for characterization of the gel structure. It is indicated that supramolecular fibers supported by strong hydrogen‐bonding networks are entangled so that the resulting spaces can immobilize a number of solvent molecules effectively. In addition, the supramolecular hydrogel consisting of GalNAc‐suc‐glu(O‐methyl‐cyc‐pentyl)2 is stable even under high salt concentrations probably due to its nonionic character and as a result, a native protein is successfully entrapped in the gel matrix without denaturation.
Neurochemical comparison of synaptic arrangements of parvocellular, magnocellular, and koniocellular geniculate pathways in owl monkey (Aotus trivirgatus) visual cortex
Authors: Shostak Yuri , Ding Yuchuan , Casagrande Vivien A.
Published: January 2003

As in other primates, the lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) of owl monkeys contains three anatomically and physiologically distinct relay cell classes, the magnocellular (M), parvocellular (P), and koniocellular (K) cells. M and P LGN cells send axons to the upper and lower tiers of layer IV, and K cells send axons to the cytochrome oxidase (CO) blobs of layer III and to layer I of primary visual cortex (V1). Our objective was to compare the synaptic arrangements made by these axon classes. M, P, and K axons were labeled in adult owl monkeys by means of injections of wheat germ agglutinin‐horseradish peroxidase into the appropriate LGN layers. The neurochemical content of both pre‐ and postsynaptic profiles were identified by postembedding immunocytochemistry for γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate. Our key finding is that the synaptic arrangements made by M, P, and K axons in owl monkey exhibit more similarities than differences. They are exclusively presynaptic, contain glutamate and form asymmetric synapses mainly with glutamate‐positive dendritic spines. The majority of the remaining axons synapse with glutamatergic dendritic shafts. There are also differences between LGN pathways. M and P terminals are significantly larger and more likely to make multiple synapses than K axons, although M and P axons do not differ from each other in either of these characteristics. Of interest, a larger percentage of M and K axons than P axons make synapses with GABAergic dendritic shafts. Cells directly postsynaptic to M and K axons are known to exhibit orientation selectivity and, in some cases, direction selectivity. Cells postsynaptic to P axons do not show these properties, but instead tend to reflect their LGN inputs more faithfully; therefore, it is possible that these physiologic differences seen in the cortical cells postsynaptic to different LGN pathways reflect the differential involvement of inhibitory circuits. J. Comp. Neurol. 456:12–28, 2003. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Acquisition of neuronal and glial markers by neural crest–derived cells in the mouse intestine
Authors: Young Heather M. , Bergner Annette J. , Müller Thomas
Published: January 2003

Enteric neurons and glia arise from the neural crest. The phenotype of crest‐derived cells was examined as they differentiated into neurons or glia in the mouse small and large intestine. Previous studies have shown that undifferentiated enteric crest–derived cells are Phox2b+/Ret+/p75+/Sox10+, and at embryonic day (E) 10.5, about 10–15% of the crest‐derived cells in the small intestine have started to differentiate into neurons. In the current study, by E12.5 and E14.5, about 25% and 47%, respectively, of Phox2b+ cells in the small intestine were immunoreactive to the pan‐neuronal protein, ubitquitin hydrolase (PGP9.5), and the percentage did not change dramatically from E14.5 onward. The differentiation of crest‐derived cells into neurons in the colon lagged behind that in the small intestine by several days. Differentiating enteric neurons showed high Ret, low p75, and undetectable Sox10 immunostaining. Glial precursors were identified by the presence of brain‐specific fatty acid binding protein (B‐FABP) and detected first in the fore‐ and rostral midgut at E11.5. Glial precursors appeared to be B‐FABP+/Sox10+/p75+ but showed low Ret immunostaining. S100b was not detected until E14.5. Adult glial cells were B‐FABP+/Sox10+/p75+/S100b+. A nucleic acid stain (to identify all ganglion cells) was combined with immunostaining for PGP9.5 and S100b to detect neurons and glial cells, respectively, in the postnatal intestine. At postnatal day 0, fewer than 5% and 10% of cells in myenteric ganglia of the small and large intestine, respectively, were neither PGP9.5+ nor S100b+. Because some classes of neurons are not present in significant numbers until after birth, the expression of PGP9.5 by developing enteric neurons appeared to precede the expression of neuron type–specific markers. J. Comp. Neurol. 456:1–11, 2003. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ontogeny of calcitonin receptor mRNA and protein in the developing central nervous system of the rat
Authors: Tolcos Mary , Tikellis Christos , Rees Sandra , Cooper Mark , Wookey Peter
Published: January 2003

In this study, the expression of receptors for calcitonin (CTR), the CTR C1a and C1b isoforms, was investigated during development of the fetal rat central nervous system (CNS) by using in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry. Coincident expression with both techniques was evident. Immunohistochemical evidence for the expression of the C1a isoform alone was found. Expression was first observed at embryonic day 12/13 (E12/E13) within and adjacent to the ventricular zones known to include primary matrices of proliferation, in regions of the preoptic area, anterior and posterior hypothalamus, anterior and posterior pons, medulla, and spinal cord. At later times, with the decline in the density of immunoreactivity at these loci (E15), expression in primary matrices was found later at distinct loci within the ventricular zones of cerebellum (E17), and at E19, the tectum, lateral ventricle, and cortical subplate. By E19, the density of staining had increased and was widespread throughout the expanding CNS. In the rostral domains, moderate to high density was found in the external plexiform layer; the medial preoptic area and nucleus; the ventromedial, dorsomedial, and arcuate hypothalamic nuclei; and the lateral and posterior hypothalamic areas. In the midbrain, similar levels of expression were noted in the central nucleus of raphe; the deep mesencephalic, dorsal raphe, and laterodorsal tegmental nuclei; and the ventral periaqueductal gray. In the pons, positive loci included the locus coeruleus and the gigantocellular and pontine reticular nuclei. In the medulla, high expression was evident in the gigantocellular, intermediate, magnocellular, and medullary reticular, spinal trigeminal and cuneate nuclei; and the nucleus tractus solitarius. In the spinal cord, moderate to high density of staining was found in the ventral, dorsal, and lateral horns, and in the ventral, dorsal, and cuneate funiculi. On the other hand, transitory expression was found in the diagonal band, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, amygdala, and the lateral mamillary and anterobasal nuclei of the hypothalamus. These studies indicate a role for CTR in the activation of some premigratory neuroblasts in the CNS as well as a possible role later in an undefined function associated with mature neurons of particular nuclei. J. Comp. Neurol. 456:29–38, 2003. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression and distribution of tuberoinfundibular peptide of 39 residues in the rat central nervous system
Authors: Dobolyi Arpad , Palkovits Miklós , Usdin Ted Björn
Published: January 2003

Tuberoinfundibular peptide of 39 residues (TIP39) has been recently purified and identified as a selective ligand for the parathyroid hormone 2 receptor. As a next step toward understanding its functions, we report the expression and distribution of TIP39 in the rat central nervous system. In situ hybridization histochemistry and immunocytochemistry revealed TIP39‐containing cell bodies in three distinct areas. The major one comprises the subparafascicular area posterior through the intralaminar nucleus of the thalamus; a second is the medial paralemniscal nucleus at the pontomesencephalic junction; and a third is in the dorsal and dorsolateral hypothalamic areas, which contained a few, scattered cell bodies. We found, in contrast to the highly restricted localization of TIP39‐containing cell bodies, a much more widespread localization of TIP39‐containing fibers. The highest density of fibers was observed in limbic areas such as the septum, the amygdala, and the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis; in areas involved in endocrine regulation, such as the hypothalamic dorsomedial, paraventricular, periventricular, and arcuate nuclei; in auditory areas, such as the ectorhinal and temporal cortices, inferior colliculus, medial geniculate body, and some of the nuclei of the superior olivary complex; and in the dorsolateral funiculus of the spinal cord. The localization of TIP39‐containing nuclei and fibers provides an anatomical basis for previously demonstrated endocrine and nociceptive effects of TIP39 and suggests additional functions for TIP39, one apparent candidate being the regulation of auditory information processing. J. Comp. Neurol. 455:547–566, 2003. Published 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Follicular thyroid lesions coexisting with Hashimoto's thyroiditis: Incidence and possible sources of diagnostic errors
Authors: Kollur Sharanamma M. , El Sayed Salah , El Hag Imad Abdien
Published: January 2003

Our objectives were to study the types and incidence of thyroid follicular lesions coexisting with Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT), the pitfalls in their cytodiagnosis, and the effect on management. All cases of HT diagnosed by fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) and/or histology over a 7‐yr period were retrospectively studied. HT coexisted with follicular adenoma (FA) in 6 cases, follicular variant of papillary carcinoma (FVPC) in 1 case, and goitrous nodule (GN) in 2 cases. The overall incidence rates of thyroid neoplasm and goitrous nodules coexistent with HT were 15% and 3.5%, respectively. A preoperative FNA diagnosis was available in 10 histologically proven cases of HT. A false‐positive diagnosis of follicular neoplasm (FN) that led to unnecessary thyroidectomies was given in 3 cases. In 2 of these, the cytological diagnosis was HT with the possibility of coexisting FN, and in the third case, the cytological finding of HT was misinterpreted as FN. The main causes of these diagnostic pitfalls were the presence of hyperplastic follicular cells with nuclear pleomorphism, a paucity of lymphoid cells in burned‐out HT, and lack of ones exposure. Nuclear pleomorphism was observed in none of the follicular adenomas. FNA diagnosed accurately the coexisting lesions in 6 cases; 3 FA, 1 FVPC, and 2 GN, but it did not sample HT. In one case, FNA diagnosed correctly both HT and the coexisting FA. Therefore, the presence of a coexistent neoplasm or goitrous nodule reduced the chances of sampling HT by 85.7%, with no false‐negative results. Indeed, aspiration on and around the thyroid nodule helps in sampling HT. However, HT may dominate the smear and obscure neoplasia. This can be avoided if the procedure is performed by the pathologist and the aspiration is done on the nodule only. The overlapping cytological features of FN and HT were the main causes of false‐positive results. This can be reduced by avoiding the diagnosis of FN in the presence of follicular‐cell pleomorphism and/or moderate to excessive numbers of lymphoid cells, provided proper aspiration technique is maintained. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2003;28:35–38. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Perineal nodule due to enterobiasis: An aspiration cytologic diagnosis
Authors: Kumar Neeta , Sharma Prashant , Sachdeva Ritesh , Jain Shyama
Published: January 2003

Subcutaneous swelling due to Enterobious vermicularis infection is rare. Their presence in perineal subcutaneous tissue is unusual and a clinical curiosity. A case of subcutaneous nodule in the perineum due to E. vermicularis infection diagnosed on fine‐needle aspiration is described. Tissue reaction was granulomatous with neutrophils and eosinophils. Lack of familiarity with the morphology of parasites or its eggs, degeneration, and inadequate sampling may make the diagnosis difficult. This case report provides the morphologic clues to cytopathologists toward rendering a diagnosis and alerts them to the possibility of parasitic infection in unusual locations. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2003;28:58–60. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression of Sox9 in granulosa cells lacking the estrogen receptors, ERα and ERβ
Authors: Dupont Sonia , Dennefeld Christine , Krust Andrée , Chambon Pierre , Mark Manuel
Published: January 2003

Ovaries from adult mice lacking both estrogen receptors ERα and ERβ (ERαβKO mice) contain abnormal cells sharing morphologic features with Sertoli cells, which are located mainly in the interstitial compartment. We show here that these cells express the Sertoli cell markers TIF1β, TIF2, and Sox9. In ERαβKO ovaries, Sox9 is expressed by granulosa cells before the morphologic appearance of Sertoli cells, but neither by granulosa cell precursors nor by non‐Sertolian interstitial cells. These findings suggest that functional Sertoli cells can transdifferentiate from mature granulosa cells devoid of estrogen receptors as a result of Sox9 expression. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Transitions in the model of epithelial patterning
Authors: Přibyl Michal , Muratov Cyrill B. , Shvartsman Stanislav Y.
Published: January 2003

We analyze pattern formation in the model of cell communication in Drosophila egg development. The model describes the regulatory network formed by the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and its ligands. The network is activated by the oocyte‐derived input that is modulated by feedback loops within the follicular epithelium. We analyze these dynamics within the framework of a recently proposed mathematical model of EGFR signaling (Shvartsman et al. [2002] Development 129:2577–2589). The emphasis is on the large‐amplitude solutions of the model that can be correlated with the experimentally observed patterns of protein and gene expression. Our analysis of transitions between the major classes of patterns in the model can be used to interpret the experimentally observed phenotypic transitions in eggshell morphology in Drosophila melanogaster. The existence of complex patterns in the model can be used to account for complex eggshell morphologies in related fly species. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of olive paste kneading process time on the overall quality of virgin olive oil
Authors: Ranalli Alfonso , Pollastri Luciano , Contento Stefania , Iannucci Emilia , Lucera Lucia
Published: February 2003

The influence of the olive paste malaxation time on the composition and the industrial output of oil was investigated. To this purpose, three Italian olive varieties (Leccino, Dritta, Caroleo) were processed with a centrifugal system for six malaxation periods (0, 15, 30, 45, 60 and 75 min). The concentrations of the majority of the oil constituents changed during the malaxation. However, these changes were not significant for all of them: the contents of β‐carotene, the major xanthophylls, chlorophylls a and b, pheophytins a and b in the oils increased progressively with increasing malaxing times, whereas the contents of simple and hydrolysable phenols (secoiridoid derivatives), o‐diphenols and total phenols decreased. A significant increase in total volatiles and green volatiles of the lipoxygenase cascade (C6 aldehydes, C6 alcohols, C5 alcohols and C5 carbonyls) was detected. An opposite trend was observed for the green C6 esters. As a result, the global analytical quality, flavour, aroma and shelf‐life of the oils were negatively affected. The oil yield increased substantially up to 45 min of paste malaxation times. Beyond 60 min, the yields tended to decrease.
Evaluation of Structure, Nucleation and Growth Mechanism of Electropolymerized Polypyrrole on Highly Oriented Pyrolytic Graphite Electrode
Authors: Hwang Bing‐Joe , Santhanam Raman , Lin Yi‐Liang
Published: February 2003

Chronoamperometry (i–t) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were used to study the nucleation and growth mechanism of electropolymerized polypyrrole formed on highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) substrate surface. From i–t measurements it was found that the nucleation and growth mechanism was a 3‐D progressive after nuclei overlapping. However, before nuclei overlapping, it was not clear whether the mechanism was 2‐D instantaneous or 3‐D progressive. This ambiguity in the nucleation and growth mechanism was confirmed as 3‐D progressive from the results of AFM measurements. In addition to nucleation and growth mechanism, possible models were proposed for different structures observed on the AFM image of polypyrrole, obtained from very early stages of polymerization.
New mutations and protein variants of NBS1 are identified in cancer cell lines
Authors: Tessitore Alessandra , Biordi Leda , Flati Vincenzo , Toniato Elena , Marchetti Paolo , Ricevuto Enrico , Ficorella Corrado , Scotto Luigi , Giannini Giuseppe , Frati Luigi , Masciocchi Carlo , Tombolini Vincenzo , Gulino Alberto , Martinotti Stefano
Published: January 2003

Alterations of the NBS1 gene are responsible for Nijmegen breakage syndrome (NBS), which is characterized by chromosomal instability, radiosensitivity, and cancer predisposition. NBS1 protein (Nibrin) is part of a molecular complex (NBS1– MRE11A–RAD50) that is functionally involved in DNA double‐strand–break repair. Defects in recombination or in repair mechanisms at the level of DNA breakage can lead to chromosomal aberrations, genetic instability, as well as cancer predisposition syndromes (i.e., NBS, ataxia‐telangiectasia, Bloom syndrome). In this study, we examined 20 cancer cell lines to evaluate the potential involvement of NBS1 in tumoral pathogenesis. Three different mutations, generating truncated or aberrant NBS1 transcripts, were identified at the level of NBS1 mRNA. In addition, two shorter NBS1 protein variants were detected in two cell lines. These data suggest a possible involvement of NBS1 in tumor development. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Intravenous leiomyomatosis is characterized by a der(14)t(12;14)(q15;q24)
Authors: Dal Cin Paola , Quade Bradley J. , Neskey David M. , Kleinman Michael S. , Weremowicz Stanislawa , Morton Cynthia C.
Published: January 2003

Intravenous leiomyomatosis (IVL) is a rare smooth‐muscle proliferation that is of special interest because of its quasi‐malignant behavior. Our finding of a specific chromosomal aberration, a der(14)t(12;14)(q15;q24), in a second case of IVL suggests that it may be characteristic of IVL. We propose that IVL arises from a uterine leiomyoma with a t(12;14)(q15;q24). The presence of an extra copy of 12q15‐qter and/or loss of 14q24‐qter may be a critical genetic event(s) leading to intravascular intrusion and proliferation. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Genetic profiling of colorectal cancer liver metastases by combined comparative genomic hybridization and G‐banding analysis
Authors: Diep Chieu B. , Parada Luis A. , Teixeira Manuel R. , Eknæs Mette , Nesland Jahn M. , Johansson Bertil , Lothe Ragnhild A.
Published: January 2003

The majority of genetic studies of colorectal carcinogenesis have focused on changes found in primary tumors. Despite the fact that liver metastases are a leading cause of colorectal cancer deaths, the molecular genetic basis of the advanced disease stages remains poorly understood. We performed comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) on 17 liver metastases from colorectal carcinomas and compared the quantitative profile with the qualitative profile previously obtained with chromosome banding. An average of 12.6 aberrations per tumor was found by CGH. Chromosome 18 and chromosome arms 4q, 8p, and 17p were most frequently lost, whereas chromosomes 7 and 20 and chromosome arms 6p, 8q, and 13q were most frequently gained. We compared the chromosome banding and CGH data after converting the karyotypes into net copy number gains and losses. Ten tumors showed agreement between the findings of the two techniques, whereas five tumors did not (in two cases, no mitotic cells were obtained for banding analysis). All five discordant cases had a “simple” abnormal or normal karyotype, but revealed multiple changes by CGH. A likely explanation for this discrepancy is that in vitro growth before G‐banding selected against the cancer cells. Interestingly, by comparing the CGH profiles of the “complex” vs. the “simple”/normal karyotype groups, deletion of 8p and gain of 16q were seen more frequently in the former group. The liver metastases had the same aberrations as seen in primary colorectal carcinomas, summarized in a literature survey. However, these aberrations were seen more frequently in liver metastases, which may be attributable to increased genetic instability. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Alzheimer's disease is associated with a selective increase in α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor immunoreactivity in astrocytes
Authors: Teaktong Thanasak , Graham Alison , Court Jennifer , Perry Robert , Jaros Evelyn , Johnson Mary , Hall Ros , Perry Elaine
Published: January 2003

Alzheimer's disease (AD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) are common forms of dementia in the elderly associated with cholinergic dysfunction, including reductions in nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). In AD, astrocytes are implicated in the formation of senile plaques, one of the core pathological features. Using immunohistochemistry, we have investigated astrocytic expression of the two major nicotinic receptor α subunits in the human hippocampus and entorhinal cortex. α7, but not α4, subunit immunoreactivity was associated with astrocytes. An increase in the proportion of astrocytes expressing α7 immunoreactivity was observed in AD compared with age‐matched controls. A similar increase was not evident in DLB. Elevated α7 nAChRs on astrocytes in AD may contribute to alterations in calcium homeostasis and nitric oxide production, which in turn could affect β‐amyloid–mediated inflammatory processes in AD. GLIA 41:207–211, 2003. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Early oligodendrocyte progenitor cells in the human fetal telencephalon
Authors: Rakic Sonja , Zecevic Nada
Published: January 2003

Oligodendrocytes, the myelin‐producing cells in the central nervous system, represent a large portion of the total number of cells in the human brain. Using cell‐specific markers and antibodies to ventral homeodomain transcription factors, NKX2.1 and DLX2, we show here that a subpopulation of early oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) in the human telencephalon may originate in the ganglionic eminence (GE). DLX2‐labeled OPCs form a well‐delineated stream of cells connecting the GE subventricular zone (SVZ) to the cortical intermediate zone through the anterior cortical SVZ. This population of cells is labeled by early OPCs markers, PDGFRα, Olig1, and NG2, and not with either neuronal, astrocyte, or late OPCs markers. Intriguingly, numerous CD68+ microglia/macrophages, nestin+ neural stem cells, and CD34+ hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are also present in both the GE stream and the cortical SVZ. These cells could be colabeled with DLX2 as well as early OPCs markers. A separate subpopulation of early OPCs, present in the GE and cortical SVZ, did not express either DLX2 or CD68. These findings suggest that different subpopulations of early OPCs, characterized with different sets of transcription factors and cell‐specific markers, are present in human forebrain. These subpopulations may have different origins; one may originate in the cortical SVZ, while others may come from the GE and/or outside the CNS as hematopoietic stem cells. GLIA 41:117–127, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Endothelin B receptors are expressed by astrocytes and regulate astrocyte hypertrophy in the normal and injured CNS
Authors: Rogers Scott D. , Peters Christopher M. , Pomonis James D. , Hagiwara Hiromi , Ghilardi Joseph R. , Mantyh Patrick W.
Published: January 2003

The ability of mammalian central nervous system (CNS) neurons to survive and/or regenerate following injury is influenced by surrounding glial cells. To identify the factors that control glial cell function following CNS injury, we have focused on the endothelin B receptor (ETBR), which we show is expressed by the majority of astrocytes that are immunoreactive for glial acid fibrillary protein (GFAP) in both the normal and crushed rabbit optic nerve. Optic nerve crush induces a marked increase in ETBR and GFAP immunoreactivity (IR) without inducing a significant increase in the number of GFAP‐IR astrocytes, suggesting that the crush‐induced astrogliosis is due primarily to astrocyte hypertrophy. To define the role that endothelins play in driving this astrogliosis, artificial cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), ET‐1 (an ETAR and ETBR agonist), or Bosentan (a mixed ETAR and ETBR antagonist) were infused via osmotic minipumps into noninjured and crushed optic nerves for 14 days. Infusion of ET‐1 induced a hypertrophy of ETBR/GFAP‐IR astrocytes in the normal optic nerve, with no additional hypertrophy in the crushed nerve, whereas infusion of Bosentan induced a significant decrease in the hypertrophy of ETBR/GFAP‐IR astrocytes in the crushed but not in the normal optic nerve. These data suggest that pharmacological blockade of astrocyte ETBR receptors following CNS injury modulates glial scar formation and may provide a more permissive substrate for neuronal survival and regeneration. GLIA 41:180–190, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cannabinoids ablate release of TNFα in rat microglial cells stimulated with lypopolysaccharide
Authors: Facchinetti Fabrizio , Del Giudice Elda , Furegato Sara , Passarotto Marzla , Leon Alberta
Published: January 2003

Upon activation, brain microglial cells release proinflammatory mediators, such as TNFα, which may play an important role in eliciting neuroinflammatory processes causing brain damage. As cannabinoids have been reported to exert anti‐inflammatory and neuroprotective actions in the brain, we here examined the effect of both synthetic and endogenous cannabinoids on TNFα release elicited by bacterial endotoxin lypopolysaccharide (LPS) in cultured microglia. Exposure of primary cultures of rat cortical microglial cells to LPS significantly stimulated TNFα mRNA expression and release. The endogenous cannabinoids anandamide and 2‐arachidonylglycerol (2‐AG), as well as the synthetic cannabinoids (+)WIN 55,212‐2, CP 55,940, and HU210, inhibited in a concentration‐dependent manner (1–10 μM) the LPS‐induced TNFα release. Unlike the high‐affinity cannabinoid receptor agonist (+)WIN 55,212‐2, the low‐affinity stereoisomer (−)WIN 55,212‐2 did not exert any significant inhibition on TNFα release. Given this stereoselectivity, the ability of (+)WIN 55,212‐2 to inhibit LPS‐induced TNFα release from microglia is most likely receptor‐mediated. By RT‐PCR we found that the two Gi/o protein‐coupled cannabinoid receptors (type 1 and 2) are both expressed in microglial cultures. However, selective antagonists of type 1 (SR141716A and AM251) and type 2 (SR144528) cannabinoid receptors did not affect the effect of (+)WIN 55,212‐2. Consistent with this finding is the observation that the ablative effect of (+)WIN 55,212‐2 on LPS‐evoked release of TNFα was not sensitive to the Gi/o protein inactivator pertussis toxin. In addition, the cAMP elevating agents dibutyryl cAMP and forskolin both abolished LPS‐induced TNFα release, thus rendering unlikely the possibility that (+)WIN 55,212‐2 could ablate TNFα release through the inhibition of adenylate cyclase via the Gi‐coupled cannabinoid receptors type 1 and 2. In summary, our data indicate that both synthetic and endogenous cannabinoids inhibit LPS‐induced release of TNFα from microglial cells. By showing that such effect does not appear to be mediated by either CB receptor type 1 or 2, we provide evidence suggestive of the existence of yet unidentified cannabinoid receptor(s) in brain microglia. GLIA 41:161–168, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Astrocytic expression of the Alzheimer's disease β‐secretase (BACE1) is stimulus‐dependent
Authors: Hartlage‐Rübsamen Maike , Zeitschel Ulrike , Apelt Jenny , Gärtner Ulrich , Franke Heike , Stahl Tobias , Günther Albrecht , Schliebs Reinhard , Penkowa Milena , Bigl Volker , Roßner Steffen
Published: January 2003

The beta‐site APP‐cleaving enzyme (BACE1) is a prerequisite for the generation of β‐amyloid peptides, which give rise to cerebrovascular and parenchymal β‐amyloid deposits in the brain of Alzheimer's disease patients. BACE1 is neuronally expressed in the brains of humans and experimental animals such as mice and rats. In addition, we have recently shown that BACE1 protein is expressed by reactive astrocytes in close proximity to β‐amyloid plaques in the brains of aged transgenic Tg2576 mice that overexpress human amyloid precursor protein carrying the double mutation K670N‐M671L. To address the question whether astrocytic BACE1 expression is an event specifically triggered by β‐amyloid plaques or whether glial cell activation by other mechanisms also induces BACE1 expression, we used six different experimental strategies to activate brain glial cells acutely or chronically. Brain sections were processed for the expression of BACE1 and glial markers by double immunofluorescence labeling and evaluated by confocal laser scanning microscopy. There was no detectable expression of BACE1 protein by activated microglial cells of the ameboid or ramified phenotype in any of the lesion paradigms studied. In contrast, BACE1 expression by reactive astrocytes was evident in chronic but not in acute models of gliosis. Additionally, we observed BACE1‐immunoreactive astrocytes in proximity to β‐amyloid plaques in the brains of aged Tg2576 mice and Alzheimer's disease patients. GLIA 41:169–179, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Combined modality treatment of Ewing's sarcoma of the maxilla
Authors: Wexler Leonard H. , Kacker Ashutosh , Piro John D. , Haddad Joseph , Close Lanny G.
Published: January 2003

Background.

Primary bone sarcomas arising in osseous structures of the head and neck are rare. These tumors are often incompletely resected and treated with radiotherapy for local control.

Methods.

We report a case of a 9‐year‐old girl with a maxillary Ewing's sarcoma. This patient was successfully treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by surgical resection and prosthetic reconstruction of the primary site. The surgical approach that was used consisted of a subtotal maxillectomy by means of a facial degloving approach, sparing the orbital contents and the inferior orbital rim and orbital floor.

Results.

This approach produced excellent cosmetic, functional, and oncologic outcome. The patient remains without evidence of disease recurrence more than 4 years after surgery.

Conclusions.

This case illustrates a novel surgical approach to the resection of a maxillary Ewing's sarcoma and highlights the need for a multidisciplinary team approach to the management of head and neck sarcomas in children. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 25: 168–172, 2003
Elective treatment of the neck in squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx: Clinical experience
Authors: Spriano Giuseppe , Piantanida Renato , Pellini Raul , Muscatello Luca
Published: January 2003

Background.

In head and neck cancer, the best prophylactic treatment for the N0 neck is a subject of debate. Some authors propose lateral selective lymph node dissection (levels II–IV) on the basis of the probability of finding occult metastases in those lymph nodes. A more extensive procedure including Vth level is considered unnecessary because of the low incidence of metastases in the posterior triangle.

Methods.

We retrospectively evaluated 346 N0 patients affected by laryngeal carcinoma and consecutively treated at the Department of Otorhinolaryngology of the Ospedale di Circolo, Varese, Italy. The patients underwent elective selective neck dissection (levels II–V) for a total of 602 dissected heminecks.

Result.

Seventy heminecks (11.6%) were pN+, and in 10 of 70 cases (14.3%) level V was involved; in 5 of 10 metastases were isolated.

Conclusion.

Our retrospective study confirms the probabilistic criteria of the incidence of occult metastasis by level in laryngeal cancer. On the basis of our data Vth level nodes, although very rarely, 10 of 604 (1.6%), are involved with laryngeal cancer. Our approach to routinely dissect Vth level nodes is discussed. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 25: 97–102, 2003
Anterior cranial base reconstruction using free tissue transfer: Changing trends
Authors: Califano Joseph , Cordeiro Peter G. , Disa Joseph J. , Hidalgo David A. , DuMornay Wilson , Bilsky Mark H. , Gutin Philip H. , Shah Jatin P. , Kraus Dennis H.
Published: January 2003

Introduction.

A consecutive series of 135 patients undergoing resection for malignant tumors involving the anterior cranial base between 1976 and 1999 was reviewed.

Patient and Methods.

In the years from 1976–1991, free‐tissue transfer was used in 5 of 76 or 6.6% of cases, whereas free‐tissue reconstruction was used in 24 of 59 or 40% of cases in the years 1992–1999. Of those cases reconstructed with free‐tissue transfer in 1976–1991, 60% (three of five) underwent a complex resection defined as involving dura, brain, or more than one major structure adjacent to skull base. Of those patients reconstructed with conventional (pericranial or pericranial/galeal) pedicled flaps in this time period, 35% (25 of 71) underwent a complex resection. From 1992–1999, 75% (18 of 24) of patients reconstructed with free‐tissue transfer received a complex resection, whereas only 6% (2 of 35) of patients reconstructed by other means received a complex resection.

Outcomes.

For those patients reconstructed by free‐tissue transfer, there were no instances of flap loss. Comparison of these two time periods was notable for a similar patient composition in terms of age, histologic findings, and extent of resection. Major complication rates for patients who are reconstructed with free‐tissue transfer for anterior cranial base resections (31%) are similar compared with patients who have been reconstructed with conventional pedicled flaps (35%). This was noted despite an increased extent and complexity of resection in those patients who underwent free‐tissue transfer reconstruction (72%) compared with those patients reconstructed by more conventional means (26%) p < .001.

Conclusion.

In our institution, the use of vascularized, free‐tissue transfer has replaced pedicled flaps as the preferred modality for reconstructing complex anterior cranial base defects involving resection of dura, brain, or multiple major structures adjacent to local skull base, including the orbit, palate, and other structures. Complication rates for patients reconstructed with free‐tissue transfer techniques is similar to those patients reconstructed by conventional techniques, despite an increase in complexity of resection in this group. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 24: 000–000, 2002
Arteria lusoria identified on preoperative CT and nonrecurrent inferior laryngeal nerve during thyroidectomy: A retrospective study
Authors: Hermans Robert , Dewandel Patricia , Debruyne Frans , Delaere Pierre R.
Published: January 2003

Background.

To evaluate surgical identification of nonrecurrence of the inferior laryngeal nerve (NRILN) during thyroidectomy in patients with an aberrant subclavian artery (a. lusoria) as seen on CT.

Material and Methods.

The medical files of patients treated by thyroidectomy between January 1998–December 2000 (n = 583) were retrospectively reviewed for preoperative and postoperative mobility of the vocal cords and perioperative identification of NRILN. The available preoperative CT studies (n = 163) were reviewed for presence of a. lusoria.

Results.

In five patients, the CT study revealed an a. lusoria (3.16%). In one of five of these patients, an NRILN was surgically detected; the overall detection rate of NRILN was 0.21%. In one of four patients with nonidentification of this nerve during surgery, immediate unilateral and permanent vocal cord paralysis were present after surgery. No permanent vocal cord paralysis occurred in any of the other patients.

Conclusion.

The identification of a. lusoria should alert the radiologist and surgeon that a NRILN is present, allowing an anticipating surgical technique, reducing the risk of neural injury. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 25:113–117, 2003
Introduction: Psychosocial consequences of the war in the region of former Yugoslavia
Authors: Rosner Rita
Published: January 2003

Editorials usually reflect research topics addressed in the articles which follow them as well as highlight central issues, providing an overview of the topic and sometimes outlining its historical development. Most of this is true for this editorial, but there is—unfortunately—an immediate connection to the current political situation as well: I am writing this two weeks after the attacks on the World Trade Center, and many people all over the world are afraid that war may now threaten countries not affected by war for many years. The threat of war makes us think more about the multiple medical and psychosocial consequences which follow it. Yet, there is no such thing as “war.” Each war has its own profile of events which interact with the particular societies involved and with the people in the war region. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 59: 1–8, 2003.
The efficacy of a mental health program in Bosnia‐Herzegovina: Impact on coping and general health
Authors: Mooren Trudy T.M. , de Jong Kaz , Kleber Rolf J. , Ruvic Jadranka
Published: January 2003

The efficacy of a community‐based psychosocial program in Bosnia‐Herzegovina during the war and immediate postwar years (1994–1999) was described in this article. Ten centers provided various kinds of psychological help in the besieged city of Sarajevo and the towns of Zenica, Travnik, and Vitez. Since 1994, an intensive monitoring system has documented data on clients, interventions, and outcomes. This study focused on the systematic evaluation of counseling interventions aimed to alleviate the distress in wartime. The sample consisted of 3,283 and 1,785 inhabitants of Sarajevo, Zenica, Travnik, and Vitez who filled out the GHQ‐28 and IES respectively. Pre‐ and post‐assessments were compared throughout consecutive years (1994–1999) and across age groups and both sexes. Outcomes of these scales reflected very high scores, especially among people between 30 and 40 years of age. Furthermore, intake scores increased in time rather than decreased. Differences between pre‐ and postmeasurements are highly significant—throughout the years. Analyses revealed substantial proportions of clinically recovered or generally improved individual functioning, although some clients revealed no improvement. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 59: 57–69, 2003.
The effects of dietary fat and caloric content on the body‐size estimates of Anorexic Profile and normal college students
Authors: Hoyt Wendy D. , Hamilton Scott B. , Rickard Kathryn M.
Published: January 2003

Anorexic‐Profile (AP) and Normal‐Profile (NP) college‐women's body‐size estimates of a fictitious female student (target) consuming a regular diet of high‐ vs low‐fat/calorie foods were compared. Participants initially were divided into four groups based on scores from the Eating‐Disorders Inventory (AP and NP) and Body‐Mass Index Scores (Low and High Body Mass) and then randomly assigned to one of four dietary conditions. Participants then rated the estimated body size of the target using the Figure‐Rating Scale. Significant main effects were found for profile status (AP vs NP), caloric content, and fat content. The significant two‐way interaction of profile status and dietary fat revealed a greater increase in body‐size estimates for AP vs NP participants as the diet of the target changed from low to high fat. Results highlight the importance given to dietary fat, especially among AP women, when predicting likely effects on body size. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 59: 85–91, 2003.
The Japanese version of the Multiple Affect Adjective Checklist—Revised: Development and validation
Authors: Yasuda Tomoyuki , Lubin Bernard , Kim Juhu , Van Whitlock Rodney
Published: January 2003

In order to develop a Japanese version of the Multiple Affect Adjective Checklist—Revised (MAACL‐R), the 66 scored adjectives were translated into Japanese and translated back into English as recommended by Werner and Campbell (1971). Confirmatory factor analyses evidenced the existence of five first‐order factors (i.e., the anxiety, depression, hostility, positive affect, and sensation‐seeking factors) and the two second‐order factors (i.e., the dysphoric and pleasant affect factors) underlying the response to the Japanese MAACL‐R. Internal consistency ranged from .73 to .91, and four‐week retest reliability ranged from .67 to .74 on the seven scales (Anxiety, Depression, Hostility, Positive Affect, Sensation Seeking, Dysphoria, and PASS). Although correlations with the scales of the State‐Trait Personality Inventory, State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory, Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale, a sensation‐seeking scale, and a subjective well‐being scale indicated only acceptable discriminant validity, adequate convergent validity was evidenced by the examination of these correlations. The Japanese version of the MAACL‐R seems to be ready for use in research. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 59: 93–109, 2003.
Signal‐to‐noise ratio effects in quantitative cerebral perfusion using dynamic susceptibility contrast agents
Authors: Smith Michael R , Lu Hong , Frayne Richard
Published: January 2003

Theoretical and simulation evidence is presented in support of the idea that the optimal manner of determining blood flow from MR perfusion studies is not necessarily obtained by setting experimental conditions to maximize either the arterial input or the measured tissue concentration level for a particular echo time (TE). The noise power in the contrast concentration curve is associated with its peak because of the nonlinear relationship between the contrast concentration and MR signal intensity curves. The optimum signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR), SNRC, for a particular contrast concentration curve can be obtained when the experimental concentration level and TE are adjusted to produce an MR intensity curve whose signal loss is 63% of the precontrast MR signal intensity. It is demonstrated that the stability of the singular valued decomposition (SVD) deconvolution approach to determine blood flow parameters is increased when the tissue curve maximum signal loss is in the range of 40–80%. The accuracy and stability of the SVD‐determined blood flow parameters are affected by deviations from these optimum conditions in a manner that depends on the mean transit time (MTT) associated with the residue function. It is recommended that the experimental TE value be set so that neither the tissue nor the arterial curves are placed a region of rapidly deteriorating SNRC. Magn Reson Med 49:122–128, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Correlation between BOLD‐fMRI and EEG signal changes in response to visual stimulus frequency in humans
Authors: Singh Manbir , Kim Sungheon , Kim Tae‐Seong
Published: January 2003

The correlation between signals acquired using electroencephalography (EEG) and fMRI was investigated in humans during visual stimulation. Evoked potential EEG and BOLD fMRI data were acquired independently under similar conditions from eight subjects during stimulation by a checkerboard flashed at frequencies ranging from 2–12 Hz. The results indicate highly correlated changes in the strength of the EEG signal averaged over two occipital electrodes and the BOLD signal within the occipital lobe as a function of flash frequency for 7/8 subjects (average linear correlation coefficient of 0.76). Both signals peaked at approximately 8 Hz. For one subject the correlation coefficient was 0.20; the EEG signal peaked at 6 Hz and the BOLD signal peaked at 10 Hz. Overall, the EEG and BOLD signals, each averaged over 40‐sec stimulation periods, appear to be coupled linearly during visual stimulation by a flashing checkerboard. Magn Reson Med 49:108–114, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reduction of transient signal oscillations in true‐FISP using a linear flip angle series magnetization preparation
Authors: Deshpande Vibhas S. , Chung Yiu‐Cho , Zhang Qiang , Shea Steven M. , Li Debiao
Published: January 2003

An electrocardiogram (ECG)‐triggered, magnetization‐prepared, segmented, 3D true fast imaging with steady‐state precession (true‐FISP) sequence with fat saturation was recently proposed for coronary artery imaging. A magnetization preparation scheme consisting of an α/2 radiofrequency (RF) pulse followed by 20 constant flip angle dummy RF cycles was used to reduce signal oscillations in the approach to steady state. However, if large resonance offsets on the order of 70–100 Hz are present, significant magnetization oscillations will still occur during data acquisition, which will result in image ghosting and blurring. The goal of this work was to validate that a linear flip angle (LFA) series can be used during magnetization preparation to reduce these image artifacts. Computer simulations, phantom studies, and coronary artery imaging in healthy volunteers were performed to compare this magnetization preparation scheme with that of an α/2 pulse followed by constant flip angle dummy RF cycles. The results demonstrated substantial reduction in the apparent image artifacts when using linearly increasing flip angles during magnetization preparation. Magn Reson Med 49:151–157, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Investigating the BOLD effect during infusion of Gd‐DTPA using rapid T mapping
Authors: Pears J.A. , Francis S.T. , Butterworth S.E. , Bowtell R.W. , Gowland P.A.
Published: January 2003

This work aimed to investigate the effects of administering Gd‐DTPA on the BOLD effect, and to determine the feasibility of using this approach to measure fractional changes in blood volume and blood oxygenation on neuronal activation during a visual paradigm. A linear relationship between cortical R and the intravascular concentration of Gd‐DTPA was demonstrated. The change in R in the visual cortex on activation at 3 T (in the absence of Gd‐DTPA) was found to be 1.38 ± 0.31 s−1 (N = 4). The fractional change in total blood volume during visual activation was calculated to be 28% ± 7% (N = 4). The absolute increase in venous blood oxygenation on activation (ΔY) was estimated to be 21% ± 4% (N = 4) (assuming HCT = 0.4, resting blood oxygenation = 60%, fraction of volume change that was venous = 36%, and the resting venous fraction of the blood volume = 70%). Simulations showed that the estimated change in venous blood oxygenation was sensitive to the assumed venous blood fraction, and that the estimated fractional change in blood oxygenation was insensitive to whether the change in blood volume occurred in the arterial or venous network. Magn Reson Med 49:61–70, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.