bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunoassay for visualization of protein‐protein interactions on Ni‐nitrilotriacetate support: Example of a laboratory exercise with recombinant heterotrimeric Gαi2β1γ2 Tagged by Hexahistidine from sf9 Cells
Authors: Bavec Aljosa
Published: February 2007

We have developed an in vitro assay for following the interaction between the αi2 subunit and β1γ2 dimer from sf9 cells. This method is suitable for education purposes because it is easy, reliable, nonexpensive, can be applied for a big class of 20 students, and avoid the commonly used kinetic approach, which does not allow visualization of protein‐protein interaction.
Electrophoretic behavior of hemoglobin variants
Authors: Szeberenyi Jozsef
Published: February 2007

Terms to be familiar with before you start to solve the test: hemoglobins, erythrocytes, reticulocytes, amino acids, α and β globin chains, electrophoresis, isoelectric point, sickle cell anemia.
Simple protocol for secondary school hands‐on activity: Electrophoresis of pre‐stained nucleic acids on agar‐agar borate gels
Authors: Britos Leticia , Goyenola Guillermo , Oroño Silvia Umpiérrez
Published: February 2007

An extremely simple, inexpensive, and safe method is presented, which emulates nucleic acids isolation and electrophoretic analysis as performed in a research environment, in the context of a secondary school hands‐on activity. The protocol is amenable to an interdisciplinary approach, taking into consideration the electrical and chemical parameters of the electrophoretic system. Furthermore, the laboratory is framed in a more comprehensive pedagogical setting, which addresses the methodological aspects of a pivotal scientific enterprise such as the Human Genome Project. In this setting, the hands‐on activity is complemented with animations, paper models, and discussions. Additionally, our results indicate that the use of borate buffer and agar‐agar gels suits many of the experiments included in college‐level laboratory activities, which currently make use of more expensive agarose gels and TBE or TAE buffers.
Tagging and purifying proteins to teach molecular biology and advanced biochemistry
Authors: Roecklein‐Canfield Jennifer A. , Lopilato Jane
Published: February 2007

Two distinct courses, “Molecular Biology” taught by the Biology Department and “Advanced Biochemistry” taught by the Chemistry Department, complement each other and, when taught in a coordinated and integrated way, can enhance student learning and understanding of complex material. “Molecular Biology” is a comprehensive lecture‐based course with a 3‐h laboratory once a week, while “Advanced Biochemistry” is a completely laboratory‐based course with lecture fully integrated around independent student projects. Both courses emphasize and utilize cutting‐edge technology. Teaching across departmental boundaries allows students access to faculty expertise and techniques rarely used at the undergraduate level, namely the tagging of proteins and their use in protein purification.
Development of a green fluorescent protein‐based laboratory curriculum
Authors: Larkin Patrick D. , Hartberg Yasha
Published: February 2007

A laboratory curriculum has been designed for an undergraduate biochemistry course that focuses on the investigation of the green fluorescent protein (GFP). The sequence of procedures extends from analysis of the DNA sequence through PCR amplification, recombinant plasmid DNA synthesis, bacterial transformation, expression, isolation, and characterization of the protein by SDS‐PAGE. A survey of participants found that the majority of them were performing most of these procedures for the first time and that participants found the exercises enjoyable and considered them a significant aid to their understanding of biochemistry, cell biology, and molecular genetics.
Replacing lectures in conventional university courses by text‐based flexible learning can be a rewarding experience for the lecturer and students
Authors: Green John
Published: February 2007

For nearly two decades, a proportion of lectures in certain modules in conventional undergraduate diploma and degree courses has been replaced by text‐based flexible learning. This flexible learning program has satisfied the various quality assurance procedures in place within the university throughout the period of implementation. Evaluation of students' performance and perceptions demonstrated that the text‐based flexible learning program was an effective alternative to lectures. The advantages and disadvantages of this flexible learning program from the lecturer's perspective are discussed.
Trends in funding science education, 1994–2004*
Authors: Woodin Terry
Published: February 2007

This review looks at the changes over the last 10 years in priorities guiding funding decisions in science education. A general survey of trends in funding both graduate and undergraduate education are covered, followed by a description of specific National Science Foundation initiatives. Understanding these changes should help proposal writers put their current submissions into context and better reply to the call for proposals from various agencies.
Redox redux: A response to feinman's “oxidation‐reduction calculations in the biochemistry course” (Biochem. Mol. Biol. Educ. 32, 161–166)
Authors: Silverstein Todd
Published: February 2007

In a recent article, Richard Feinman suggested that we teach students to perform redox calculations in biochemistry by using the European rather than the American convention. In this article I raise a few objections (and correct a few errors). First, it's not clear that the European convention is any easier to use than the American. Second, students have already learned the American convention in freshman chemistry; why teach them a different method as upperclassmen? Last, by teaching a different problem‐solving method in biochemistry than the one they learned in Introductory Chemistry, we lose an opportunity to show students how principles from “regular” chemistry apply to biological systems.
A participant‐oriented, research‐based approach for design of a biochemistry workshop for faculty at undergraduate institutions*
Authors: Owen Rebecca L. , Breyer Emelita D.
Published: February 2007

The Molecular Genetics and Protein Structure and Function workshop is one of a series of workshops offered by the National Science Foundation‐funded Center for Workshops in the Chemical Sciences. The workshop provides a hands‐on introduction to current topics and techniques in molecular genetics and protein structure/function as applied to undergraduate education. This article describes a unique method for planning such a workshop, namely a participant‐oriented approach including research‐based lectures and experiments. This approach gives faculty from undergraduate institutions a rich perspective and practical experience in this interdisciplinary field of science, integrating aspects of both molecular biology and biochemistry. An outlook on current cutting edge techniques and the direction of future research in this field may enable the faculty participants to better prepare undergraduate students for careers in the workforce or graduate or professional programs.
Aligning biochemistry to the interests of biology students using haloperoxidase to illustrate reactions of environmental and biomedical importance*
Authors: Jervis Les , Jervis Loretta M. , Giovannelli Donato
Published: February 2007

Undergraduate degree programs in the biosciences almost always include elements of biochemistry. In the United Kingdom, biosciences programs often have optional pathways to accommodate students of diverse interests. These programs rarely require students to demonstrate any school‐level chemistry knowledge, and many students find biochemistry difficult and irrelevant to their primary areas of interest. We have developed laboratory practical work that is used with more than 200 first year (Level 1) students, over 100 second year (Level 2) students, and about 30 final year (Level 3, Honors) students on pathways within a biosciences scheme ranging from Human Biosciences through Plant Sciences and Marine Biology to Environmental Biology. The practical work is based on haloperoxidase enzymes and is modified easily for different student groups and levels. The wide biological distribution of these enzymes and their important biological roles allow students with a wide spectrum of interests to engage with the practical work, and through it with biochemistry. Attempts to align the laboratory work with other aspects of the curriculum were confounded by organizational aspects of the student experience on a complex modular degree scheme.
Achieving due recognition for web scholarship: Experience at a structural biology education website
Authors: Rhodes Gale
Published: February 2007

Peer‐evaluation committees are now faced with assessing the scholarly value of World Wide Web resources such as tutorials, databases, dictionaries, and computation services. How should these activities be weighted in comparison with publications in research or education journals or presentations at meetings? Clearly, nontraditional scholarship requires nontraditional documentation. In this article, I tell how I have documented my structural biology web resources for peer evaluation and how my colleagues have responded.
Teachers as learners in a cooperative learning biochemistry class
Authors: Osgood Marcy P. , Mitchell Steve M. , Anderson William L.
Published: February 2007

Upper level college students majoring in biochemistry at the University of New Mexico have the opportunity to participate in an advanced biochemistry course entitled “Biochemistry Education.” This course introduces theories of teaching and learning, provides opportunities for participation in course organization, design, and assessment strategies, and requires practice in lecturing, exam writing, and grading. One component of this course required the biochemistry majors to act as educational assistants, leading problem‐based learning sessions in a cooperative learning introductory survey biochemistry course for nonmajors. Problem‐based learning scenarios used in this course were based on real‐life biochemistry problems. As a result of their participation, the educational assistants increased their understanding of the biochemistry principles, gained an appreciation for the difficulty of the job of a “good teacher,” developed new approaches to their own learning, and became more confident speakers. The participating biochemistry faculty were also positively affected by the collaborative approach they were attempting to model for the two sets of students and realized the benefits of truly cooperative team teaching.
The use of immunoprecipitation and affinity chromatography for the purification of a specific protein*
Authors: Szeberenyi Jozsef
Published: February 2007

Terms to be familiar with before you start to solve the test: immunoprecipitation, affinity chromatography, Western blotting, cyclin‐dependent kinases, immunoglobulins, Coomassie Blue staining.
Energetic metabolism and biochemical adaptation: A bird flight muscle model
Authors: Rioux Pierre , Blier Pierre U.
Published: February 2007

The main objective of this class experiment is to measure the activity of two metabolic enzymes in crude extract from bird pectoral muscle and to relate the differences to their mode of locomotion and ecology. The laboratory is adapted to stimulate the interest of wildlife management students to biochemistry. The enzymatic activities of cytochromecoxidase and lactate dehydrogenase are measured in pectoral muscle of black duck and ring‐necked pheasant. The black ducks have a high cytochromecoxidase/lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) ratio, which reflects high aerobic capacity required for sustained and long distance flight. The low cytochromecoxidase/LDH ratio in ring‐necked pheasants and high level of LDH activity suggest that this bird can only support short bursts of flight, which may be related to his strategy of predator avoidance.
HPV vaccine development: A case study of prevention and politics
Authors: Grimes Janelle L.
Published: February 2007

An analysis of the development of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines requires a fundamental comprehension of the underlying science of the technology, as well as an appreciation for the business issues essential to successful commercialization. Students analyzing this topic must consider scientific challenges related to the development of these vaccines, as well as the implications for their commercialization. This case study describes the evolution of our understanding of HPV infection and its causative link to cervical cancer, the establishment of viable HPV vaccine candidates, and various issues related to HPV vaccine implementation. Study questions for use in generating class discussion are provided.
Bioinformatics for undergraduates: Steps toward a quantitative bioscience curriculum*
Authors: Chapman Barbara S. , Christmann James L. , Thatcher Eileen F.
Published: February 2007

We describe an innovative bioinformatics course developed under grants from the National Science Foundation and the California State University Program in Research and Education in Biotechnology for undergraduate biology students. The project has been part of a continuing effort to offer students classroom experiences focused on principles and reasoning, using a computer‐assisted, problem‐based learning model. Here we report on the course design, methods of assessment for the course and materials, and analysis of results obtained in initial offerings of the course.
Teaching technical and professional skills using a laboratory exercise: A comparison of two methods of plasmid preparation
Authors: Brown Lesley R.
Published: February 2007

This laboratory exercise encourages upper level biochemistry students to build and expand upon previously developed laboratory skills and knowledge as they conduct a comparison of two methods of plasmid preparation based upon cost, quality of product, production time, and environmental impact. Besides creating an environment that mimics a more realistic practice of science, there are several key learning objectives. First, students will learn to effectively plan and manage time so that they can meet a scientific goal. A second objective is for them to learn to use theory as a basis for understanding new and different technology since classroom exposure is necessarily limited. Third, they will learn to think critically and logically to solve problems, and they will communicate this in written format. All of these skills are particularly important in preparation for a scientist's professional life.
Two restriction endonucleases
Authors: Szeberényi József
Published: February 2007

Terms to be familiar with before you start to solve the test: restriction endonucleases; palindromic sequences; blunt ends; cohesive (“sticky”) ends; in vitro DNA synthesis; radioactive nucleotide precursors; template‐primer complexes; DNA ligation.
Dishonesty in the biochemistry classroom laboratory: A synthesis of causes and prevention
Authors: Del Carlo Dawn , Bodner George
Published: February 2007

Although reports of academic cheating are abundant, there are relatively few papers in the literature that focus on cheating in the context of science courses and even fewer that address dishonest practices, such as “cooking” or fudging data, within the classroom laboratory. This paper briefly reviews the existing literature on academic dishonesty and explores two theories that can be used to explain why cheating occurs: (1) classroom goal structure and (2) attitudes of neutralization. We conclude with a discussion of the implications of these theories within the context of a biochemistry and molecular biology teaching laboratory.
DNA fingerprint analysis of three short tandem repeat (STR) loci for biochemistry and forensic science laboratory courses
Authors: McNamara‐Schroeder Kathleen , Olonan Cheryl , Chu Simon , Montoya Maria C. , Alviri Mahta , Ginty Shannon , Love John J.
Published: February 2007

We have devised and implemented a DNA fingerprinting module for an upper division undergraduate laboratory based on the amplification and analysis of three of the 13 short tandem repeat loci that are required by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Combined DNA Index System (FBI CODIS) data base. Students first collect human epithelial (cheek) cells using sterile buccal swabs and then utilize commercially available kits and materials to extract genomic DNA. This is followed by the PCR amplification of three specific short tandem repeat loci (i.e. CSF1PO, TPOX, THO1). Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis is used to resolve the allelic bands associated with the three short tandem repeat loci, and the results are statistically analyzed in the context of human population genetics. In addition, DNA was collected from a family, and the children's allele sets were compared with those of the parents to help illustrate paternal and maternal relatedness. This module enables students to use the materials and methods employed by actual law enforcement agencies and therefore can be used for laboratory exercises in traditional biochemistry curricula as well as for the growing field of forensic science and education.
Prevention in integrated children's services: the impact of sure start on referrals to social services and child protection registrations
Authors: Carpenter John , Brown Sharon , Griffin Michaela
Published: February 2007

Every Child Matters, the English government's plans for integrated children's services, proposed that preventative approaches such as those developed through Sure Start should be able to reduce the numbers of children requiring more intensive support from children's social services and, by implication, the numbers of children on the child protection register. This study examined the impact of Sure Start local programmes (SSLPs) on four local authorities with social services responsibilities in the northeast of England. The researchers analysed routinely collected statistical data concerning over 10,000 referrals of children under four years and over 1,600 child protection registrations (CPRs) in an eight‐year period before and after the introduction of 19 SSLPs. They also analysed interviews with 36 key informants in eight case study SSLP areas. Contrary to expectations, the quantitative data revealed no discernable short‐term effect on the numbers of referrals, or on CPRs. Interview data showed broad agreement on the potential impact of preventative work undertaken by SSLPs and many respondents believed that it was too early to draw conclusions. Alternatively, the universal approach to prevention within the Sure Start areas and the attempts to provide non‐stigmatising and non‐intrusive community‐based services may be ineffective in reducing the need for intensive support for ‘at risk’ families. The findings are discussed in relation to ‘targeted’ prevention programmes and government policy intentions. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bio‐based Ester Oils for Use as Lubricants in Metal Working
Authors: Wichmann Hubertus , Bahadir Muefit
Published: February 2007

The potential application of bio‐based ester oils for use as lubricants in metal working has been investigated for sustainable production processes in the future. When waste edible and animal fats came into focus as starting materials, it was already proven, that ester oils produced from plant fats performed very well as cooling lubricants. Waste fats were first characterized by analyzing and monitoring samples for one complete year. Inorganic and organic contaminations were found to be low and without seasonal variations. Fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) were produced by transesterification of the waste fats and they were separated into fractions with saturated FAME or unsaturated FAME by fractional crystallisation (winterisation). Further transesterification with 2‐ethylhexanol led to products that could be successfully tested as lubricants. The development of an extraction process aimed at the recycling of oil containing grinding mud by enabling the recirculation of lubricating oil and reutilization of oil‐free metal chips.
Toxicity of Ionic Liquids
Authors: Zhao Dongbin , Liao Yongcheng , Zhang Ziding
Published: February 2007

The dramatic growth in ionic liquid research over the past decade has resulted in the development of a huge number of novel ionic liquids, as well as many associated applications. The perceived environmentally friendly nature of ionic liquids, which results from their negligible vapor pressure, is now under scrutiny since although they will not evaporate into air, it is not possible to guarantee that they will never enter the environment. Toxicity research studies including ecotoxicity, have recently received broad attention and the commonly accepted notion that ionic liquids have low toxicity has been shown to be incorrect. This review attempts to highlight the progress of ionic liquid toxicity research, as well as the development of degradable and bio‐renewable ionic liquids.
Personal Sampler for Viable Airborne Microorganisms: Main Development Stages
Authors: Agranovski Igor E.
Published: February 2007

A new personal bioaerosol sampler has been developed and verified as an efficient tool for monitoring of viable/non‐viable airborne microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. The operational principle of the device is based on continuous passage of an air sample through porous media submerged into a liquid layer. During motion along narrow and tortuous ways inside the porous media, the air stream is split into a large number of ultra small bubbles with the particulates are being scavenged by these bubbles and, thus, effectively trapped. The device was initially verified for monitoring of viable airborne bacteria and fungi, firstly, under controlled laboratory conditions and later in a field. It was demonstrated that bacterial recovery rates for these two groups of microorganisms were very high and the device was found to be fully feasible for such monitoring. The next step of the device investigation was performed in the laboratory on monitoring viable airborne viruses with a range of sensitivities to physical and biological stresses. As the result, the new personal sampler demonstrated a very high recovery rate even for viruses which are rather sensitive to environmental stress (Avian Influenza, SARS, Mumps, etc.). Some following field studies, undertook in a hospital and animal houses, also demonstrated an excellent performance of the new device for selective and reliable monitoring of viable airborne viruses even in environments highly contaminated by other microorganisms. This paper reviews the main development staged of the new personal bioaerosol sampler.
A gadolinium triacetic monoamide DOTA derivative with a methanethiosulfonate anchor group. Relaxivity properties and conjugation with albumin and thiolated particles
Authors: Thonon David , Jacques Vincent , Desreux Jean F.
Published: February 2007

The gadolinium(III) complex with a new DOTA‐based ligand bearing a methanethiosulfonate group (MTS) was synthesized and its relaxivity properties were investigated. MTS‐ADO3A is a triacid DOTA derivative with an amide arm substituted by an ethylmethanethiosulfonate function. This ligand was obtained in two steps: tri‐tert‐butyl 2,2′,2″‐(1,4,7,10‐tetraazacyclododecane‐1,4,7‐triyl)triacetate was reacted with S‐(2‐aminoethyl)methanesulfonothioate and the tert‐butyl groups were removed with trifluoroacetic acid. The Gd(III) MTS–ADO3A complex readily formed disulfide bonds with albumin (BSA) in its native and reduced forms and with thiolated silica particles. Four‐ to five‐fold relaxivity increases at 20 MHz were measured on the isolated adducts. The EuMTS‐ADO3A chelate was found to be monohydrated by fluorescence and the relaxivity parameters of the Gd(III) complex were obtained by 17O NMR and by measuring the nuclear magnetic relaxation dispersion between 0.01 and 80 MHz. The water exchange time τm is increased upon forming disulfide bonds with macromolecules and particles and the relaxivity gains of all the complexes are limited by the τm factor. Forming covalent or hydrophobic/electrostatic bonds with BSA seems to bring about similar relaxivity changes but the covalent BSA adducts can be isolated and their properties can be directly studied. The addition of dithiothreitol or glutathione leads to the removal of the metal chelates from the macromolecules, as indicated by the relaxation times reverting to their values before binding. It is thus expected that the chelate will stay in the body long enough for imaging but will still be excreted through the kidneys. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An improved meshless collocation method for elastostatic and elastodynamic problems
Authors: Wen P. H. , Aliabadi M. H.
Published: February 2007

Meshless methods for solving differential equations have become a promising alternative to the finite element and boundary element methods. In this paper, an improved meshless collocation method is presented for use with either moving least square (MLS) or compactly supported radial basis functions (RBFs). A new technique referred to as an indirect derivative method is developed and compared with the direct derivative technique used for evaluation of second‐order derivatives and higher‐order derivatives of the MLS and RBF shape functions at the field point. As the derivatives are obtained from a local approximation (MLS or compact support RBFs), the new method is computationally economical and efficient. Neither the connectivity of mesh in the domain/boundary nor integrations with fundamental/particular solutions is required in this approach. The accuracy of the two techniques to determine the second‐order derivative of shape function is assessed. The applications of meshless method to two‐dimensional elastostatic and elastodynamic problems have been presented and comparisons have been made with benchmark analytical solutions. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Host–Guest Complexes of Oligopyridine Cryptands: Prediction of Ion Selectivity by Quantum Chemical Calculations
Authors: Puchta Ralph , van Eldik Rudi
Published: February 2007

The structures and complex‐formation energies for the cryptands 6,6′,6″,6″′,6″″,6″″′‐bis[nitrilotri(methylene)]tris(2,2′‐bipyridine) (1) and 2,2′,2″,9,9′,9″‐bis[nitrilotri(methylene)]tris(1,10‐phenanthroline) (2) with alkali and alkaline‐earth cations are obtained by PM3/SPASS and density functional (B3LYP/LANL2DZp) calculations and the results used to predict the ion selectivity. Both cryptands 1 and 2 have a cavity size similar to [2.2.2] and prefer Ca2+ and Sr2+, while 1 has a preference for K+ and 2 favours Na+ and K+. The cryptand flexibility for 1 is attributed mainly to the bipyridine building block and that for 2 to the groups neighbouring the bridgehead nitrogen atoms. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)
Synthesis and Sublimation Kinetics of a Highly Volatile Asymmetric Iron(II) Amidinate
Authors: Li Xin‐Gui , Li Zhengwen , Li Huazhi , Gordon Roy G.
Published: February 2007

A highly volatile asymmetric iron(II) amidinate, iron(II) bis(N‐tert‐butyl‐N′‐ethylacetamidinate), was synthesized for the first time by systematically changing starting iron(II) compounds such as acetylacetonate, acetate, and chloride, in different media such as diethyl ether, toluene, and tetrahydrofuran. The amidinate has been characterized and compared with the symmetric iron(II) bis(N,N′‐diisopropylacetamidinate) by NMR spectroscopy, MS, IR spectroscopy, and dynamic and isothermal thermogravimetric techniques. Different amidinates from three starting compounds exhibit almost the same NMR, MS, and IR spectra, a melting point of 85 °C, and the same solution color in the same solvents, but quite different synthetic yields, volatilities, and colors in different solvents. This implies that the amidinates show an interesting solvatochromism. In particular, the asymmetric iron(II) amidinates obtained should be a mixture of paramagnetic and diamagnetic compounds. The thermostability and sublimation kinetics of the iron(II) amidinates have been investigated in detail. It is found that the average activation energy of 106 kJ mol–1 for the nonisothermal sublimation is slightly higher than the average activation energy of 104 kJ mol–1 determined from the isothermal thermogravimetric experiments. The sublimation is a diffusion‐controlled process because the temperature and the rate of the sublimation depend strongly on the sublimation level and the sample size. The optimal iron(II) starting compound and reaction medium should be iron(II) acetylacetonate and diethyl ether, respectively, because the combination offers the highest yield, the greatest volatilizability of 98 %, and thus the purest product. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)
Tandem Sequential Ring‐Closing Metathesis/Diels–Alder/Cross‐Metathesis: Formation of Polycyclic Compounds by a New Three‐Component Reaction
Authors: Virolleaud Marie‐Alice , Piva Olivier
Published: February 2007

Polycyclic oxygenated compounds have been generated from penta‐ or hexadienyl propargyl ethers by a new procedure that combines the selective formation of a 1,3‐diene by ring‐closing metathesis (RCM), a Diels–Alder (DA) reaction and subsequent cross‐metathesis (CM) with a chosen alkene, which allows the functionalization of the vinyl group generated during the first step. All these processes can be performed in a one‐pot reaction with a yield of up to 63 %. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)
An Electrochemical Study of Immobilized Ruthenocene in Aqueous Media
Authors: Banks Craig E. , Robinson Kay L. , Liang Han‐Pu , Meredith Andrew W. , Lawrence Nathan S.
Published: February 2007

The voltammetric exploration of ruthenocene RuCp2 in aqueous solution via abrasive modification on a basal plane pyrolytic graphite electrode is reported. It is found that ruthenocene undergoes a one‐electron electrochemically irreversible oxidation to ruthenocenium, which then rapidly dimerizes to form [RuCp2]$\rm{ {_{2}^{2+}}}$. Then, depending on the anion in solution, either disproportionates to [RuCp2]2+ and subsequently decomposes to ruthenium oxide, or is anion stabilized. SEM images and cyclic voltammetry of the electrode surface indicates that in the presence of smaller anions the dimer is not stabilized, whereas for larger anions, such as sodium toluene sulfonate, the dimer is stabilized and decomposition is inhibited.
In Situ Fabrication of Single Poly(methyl pyrrole) Nanowire
Authors: Ramanathan Kumaran , Bangar Mangesh A. , Yun Minhee , Chen Wilfred , Mulchandani Ashok , Myung Nosang V.
Published: February 2007

One hundred nm wide by four μm long poly(methyl pyrrole) (PMPy) nanowires without and with biomolecule, biotin‐quantum dot, were synthesized by electrochemical polymerization of 1‐methyl pyrrole with chloride and p‐toluene sulfonate dopants in nanochannels between microfabricated gold electrodes. Scanning electron microscopy examination revealed well‐confined dendrite free chloride‐doped PMPy nanowires with embedded biotin‐quantum dot. Current vs. voltage investigation demonstrated ohmic nature of contact for all nanowires. Chloride‐doped PMPy nanowires were more conductive than with p‐toluene sulfonate doped PMPy nanowires whereas entrapment of biotin‐quantum dot increased the conductivity.
Modification of a Capillary for Electrophoresis by Electrostatic Self‐Assembly of an Enzyme for Selective Determination of the Enzyme Substrate
Authors: Hooper Stephanie E. , Anderson Mark R.
Published: February 2007

The integration of a separation capillary for capillary electrophoresis (CE) with an on‐column enzyme reaction for selective determination of the enzyme substrate is described. Enzyme immobilization is achieved by electrostatic assembly of poly(diallydimethylammonium chloride) (PDDA) followed by adsorption of a mixture of the negatively charged enzyme glucose oxidase (GOx) and anionic poly(styrenesulfonate) (PSS). The reaction of glucose with the GOx produces hydrogen peroxide which migrates the length of the capillary and is detected amperometrically at the capillary outlet. The enzyme reaction occurs during a capillary separation, allowing selective determination of the substrate in complex samples without the need for pre‐ or post‐separation chemical modification of the analyte. The enzyme reactor is found to have an optimal response to glucose when a 5 : 1 mixture of PSS:GOx is used. Under these conditions the limit of detection for glucose is found to be between 5.0×10−4 and 1.3×10−3 M, dependent upon the inner‐diameter of the capillary. The apparent Michaelis‐Menten constant for the enzyme reaction was determined to be 0.047 (±0.001) M and 0.0037 (±0.0007) M for a 50 and 10 μm inner‐diameter capillaries, respectively. These results indicate that the enzyme reaction is efficient, having enzyme kinetics similar to that of a reaction occurring in solution. This enzyme immobilization method was also applied to another enzyme, glutamate oxidase, yielding similar results.
Determinants of integrated health care development: chains of care in Sweden
Authors: Ahgren Bengt , Axelsson Runo
Published: February 2007

Local health care in Sweden is an emerging form of integrated care, linked together by chains of care. Experiences show, however, that the development of chains of care is making slow progress. In order to study the factors behind this development, an embedded multiple‐case study design was chosen. The study compared six health authorities in Sweden, three with successful and three with unsuccessful chain of care development.

Three major determinants of integrated health care development were identified: professional dedication, legitimacy and confidence. In more detail, space for prime movers and trust between participants were crucial success factors, while top‐down approaches targeting at the same time a change of management systems were negative for the development of chains of care. Resistance from the body of physicians was a serious obstacle to such a development.

Local health care depends on developed chains of care, but it seems that health care managers do not have the management systems necessary to run these clinical networks, mainly due to a lack of acceptance from the medical profession. This is an impossible situation in the long run, since the number of chains of care is likely to increase as a result of the emerging local health care. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Down‐regulation of insulin‐like growth factor binding protein‐5 (IGFBP‐5): Novel marker for cervical carcinogenesis
Authors: Miyatake Takashi , Ueda Yutaka , Nakashima Ryuichi , Yoshino Kiyoshi , Kimura Toshihiro , Murata Takuya , Nomura Taisei , Fujita Masami , Buzard Gregory S. , Enomoto Takayuki
Published: February 2007

To better understand the underlying pathways of cervical carcinogenesis, cDNA microarray analysis was performed on 2 sets of squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) and their adjacent normal squamous epitheliums. Consistently altered expression was detected for 32 genes. Real‐time RT‐PCR analysis was conducted on a selected subset of these genes (S100A2, GPC4, p72, IGFBP‐5, TRIM2 and NAB2) for 14 additional SCCs and 10 normal epithelia. This found that, of the 6 candidate genes, only the insulin‐like growth factor binding protein‐5 (IGFBP‐5) mRNA was generally and significantly under‐expressed in SCCs (p < 0.001). All normal cervical epithelia (30 of 30) stained positively for IGFBP‐5 protein, with 70% showing strong staining, whereas 65% (17/26) of SCC had complete loss of IGFBP‐5, and only 8% (2/26) SCC retained strong expression (p < 0.001). Immunohistochemistry of premalignant cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) lesions shows a significantly weaker or negative staining in advanced CIN3 lesions compared with normal squamous epithelia (p = 0.001). This is the first study to show that down‐regulation of IGFBP‐5 protein correlates with cervical carcinogenesis and does so at a preneoplastic stage. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A retrospective study of the effect of participation in screening mammography on the use of chemotherapy and breast conserving surgery
Authors: Coldman Andrew J. , Phillips Norm , Speers Caroline
Published: February 2007

A population sample was obtained from the British Columbia (BC) Cancer Registry of all women diagnosed with a first breast cancer in 2002 who were resident in Greater Vancouver or Greater Victoria, BC. Information on treatment and prognostic factors were obtained from source records. The study group was linked to the records of the Screening Mammography Program of BC to identify screening histories on women prior to diagnosis. Logistic regression was used to determine the relationship between screening participation and treatment and to predict treatment use from prognostic factors. Fifteen hundred and eighty‐nine women with breast cancer were included in the study and 1,071 (67%) had participated in screening prior to diagnosis: 786 (49%) had been screened within the 30 months prior to their diagnosis (regular participants). Breast conserving surgery (BCS) rates were higher (OR = 2.3, p < 0.001) and chemotherapy use lower (OR = 0.53, p < 0.001) among regular participants compared with nonparticipants after adjustment for age. A predictive model based on the distribution of prognostic factors between participants provided estimates of OR = 1.47 and OR = 0.54 for BCS and chemotherapy, respectively, and adjustment for self‐selection changed the predicted values to OR = 1.16 and OR = 0.67, respectively. Participation in screening produced a considerable change in the use of chemotherapy but less on BCS use. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dietary isothiocyanates, GSTM1, GSTT1, NAT2 polymorphisms and bladder cancer risk
Authors: Zhao Hua , Lin Jie , Grossman H. Barton , Hernandez Ladia M. , Dinney Colin P. , Wu Xifeng
Published: February 2007

Isothiocyanates (ITCs) are nonnutrient compounds in cruciferous vegetables with anticarcinogenic properties. ITCs down‐regulate cytochrome P‐450 biotransformation enzyme levels, activate Phase II detoxifying enzymes and induce apoptosis. On the other hand, ITCs also serve as a substrate for GSTs. Experimental evidences suggest that ITCs have anticarcinogenic effect on bladder cancer. Therefore, we evaluated dietary intake of ITCs, GSTM1, GSTT1 and NAT2 polymorphisms, and bladder cancer risk in a case–control study. There were 697 newly diagnosed bladder cancer cases identified from The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center and 708 healthy controls matched to cases by age (±5), gender and ethnicity. Participants underwent an in‐person interview, in which epidemiologic and food frequency questionnaires were administered to collect demographic and dietary intake data. Median ITC intake per day was statistically significantly lower in cases than in controls (0.23 vs. 0.33, p < 0.001). High ITC intake was associated with 29% decreased risk of bladder cancer [Odds ratio (OR) = 0.71, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.57, 0.89]. The protective effect was more evident in older individuals (≥64‐years‐old), men, ever smokers and heavy smokers in stratified analysis. Compared with NAT2 rapid acetylator, NAT2 slow acetylator had an increased risk of bladder cancer in Caucasians (OR = 1.31, 95% CI = 1.02, 1.69). There was no main effect associated with the GSTM1 or GSTT1 genotypes. The protective effect of ITCs against bladder cancer was not modified by GSTM1, GSTT1 or NAT2 genotypes. This is the first epidemiological report that ITCs from cruciferous vegetable consumption protect against bladder cancer. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
EP1–4 subtype, COX and PPARγ receptor expression in colorectal cancer in prediction of disease‐specific mortality
Authors: Gustafsson Annika , Hansson Elisabeth , Kressner Ulf , Nordgren Svante , Andersson Marianne , Wang Wenhua , Lönnroth Christina , Lundholm Kent
Published: February 2007

The importance of prostaglandins in tumor growth and progression is well recognized, including antineoplastic activities by cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitors. Variation in treatment response to COX inhibition has questioned differences in expression of cell surface and nuclear membrane receptors among tumors with different disease progression. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether EP1–4 subtype, PPARγ receptor and COX‐1/COX‐2 expression in colorectal cancer are related to tumor‐specific mortality. Reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry were used to demonstrate expression and protein appearance in tumor tissue compared with normal colon tissue. EP1 and EP2 subtype receptor protein was highly present in tumor cells, EP3 occurred occasionally and EP4 was not visible. PPARγ, EP2 and EP4 mRNA were significantly higher in normal colon tissue compared with tumor tissue, without any distinct relationship to Dukes A–D tumor stage. Multivariate analyses indicated that increased tumor tissue EP2 and COX‐2 expression predicted poor survival (p < 0.001). COX‐1 expression was significantly higher than COX‐2 expression in normal colon tissue. Average COX‐2 mRNA was not increased in tumor tissue compared with normal colon. However, most tumor cells stained positive for COX‐2 protein, which was low or undetectable in normal mucosa cells. COX‐1 protein was preferentially visible in stroma. EP1–4 subtype receptor mRNAs were generally positively correlated to both COX‐1 and COX‐2 in tumor tissue, but not in normal colon. Our results imply that both prostaglandin production (COX‐2) and signaling via EP1–4 subtype receptors, particularly EP2, predict disease‐specific mortality in colorectal cancer © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Frequent overexpression of the genes FXR1, CLAPM1 and EIF4G located on amplicon 3q26‐27 in squamous cell carcinoma of the lung
Authors: Comtesse Nicole , Keller Andreas , Diesinger Isabel , Bauer Christine , Kayser Klaus , Huwer Hanno , Lenhof Hans‐Peter , Meese Eckart
Published: February 2007

Previously, we reported gene amplification at chromosome 3q26‐27 in more than one third of squamous cell carcinomas of the lung. Frequent amplification of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4G on 3q27.1 indicated a possible role of this amplification in translation initiation. The analysis of 61 squamous cell lung carcinomas shows that the percentage of carcinomas with a 3q27.1 amplification increases in higher malignant tumors. Non‐invasive (T1) and minimal‐invasive (T2) tumor stages showed similar percentages of amplified and non‐amplified tumors, whereas locally‐invasive (T3) tumors revealed a statistically significant (p < 0.05) increased percentage of amplified tumors. Microarrays were used to analyze the expression pattern of genes mapping in the amplified domain and its flanking regions (3q25‐28) as well as the expression of genes directly or indirectly associated with translation initiation in squamous cell carcinoma, large cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma and small cell carcinoma. Three genes, namely FXR1, CLAPM1 and EIF4G, are most frequently overexpressed in the center of the amplified domain in squamous cell carcinomas. The eukaryotic translation initiation factors 4A1, 2B and 4B as well as the poly(A)‐binding protein PABPC1 where found to be overexpressed in all lung cancer entities. We found, however, no overexpression of eIF4E. Our results contribute to the understanding of the frequent amplification processes in squamous cell carcinomas of the lung and to the understanding of the translation initiation that appears not to require eIF4E in lung carcinogenesis. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Interplay between mutagen sensitivity and epidemiological factors in modulatinglung cancer risk
Authors: Wu Xifeng , Lin Jie , Etzel Carol J. , Dong Qiong , Gorlova Olga Y. , Zhang Qing , Amos Christopher I. , Spitz Margaret R.
Published: February 2007

Few studies have assessed mutagen sensitivity and lung cancer (LC) risk associations in the context of multiple epidemiological risk factors. We evaluated mutagen sensitivity as a susceptibility marker and explored the interplay of the genetic marker and multiple epidemiologic risk factors in modulating LC risk. This largest case–control study included 977 newly diagnosed LC patients and 977 controls, matched by age, gender, ethnicity and smoking status. Cases exhibited significantly higher mutagen sensitivity than controls in bleomycin (0.76 vs. 0.62 breaks/cell, p < 0.001) and benzo[a]pyrene diol epoxide (BDPE) assays (0.70 vs. 0.61 breaks/cell, p < 0.001). Mutagen sensitivity also exhibited dose‐response relationship with LC risk in quartile analysis (p for trend <0.001). In smokers, history of emphysema, absence of hay fever history, LC in first‐degree relatives, belomycin sensitivity, and high pack‐year were identified to be the top 5 significant risk factors in a stepwise logistic regression model (odds ratios (ORs) of 2.69, 1.91, 1.84, 1.73 and 1.67, respectively). Analyses of joint effects of risk factors showed that compared to the reference group, subjects with no exposure to any of the aforementioned risk factors, the ORs for exposure to 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or more of the risk factors were 1.56, 2.39, 3.75, 6.74 and 17.39, respectively (p for trend <0.001). This study strongly supports mutagen sensitivity as a predisposition factor for LC and demonstrates the importance of assessing multiple risk factors to comprehensively assess LC risk. This new integrative approach should facilitate identification of high‐risk subgroups and has important implications in LC prevention. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Atopy, exposure to pesticides and risk of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Vajdic Claire M. , Fritschi Lin , Grulich Andrew E. , Kaldor John M. , Benke Geza , Kricker Anne , Hughes Ann Maree , Turner Jennifer J. , Milliken Sam , Goumas Chris , Armstrong Bruce K.
Published: February 2007

Pesticide exposure has been associated with non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) risk in a number of studies, and two recent studies suggest that the increased risk may be confined to those with a history of asthma. We examined the interaction between occupational pesticide exposure and atopy on risk of NHL in an Australian population‐based case–control study. Incident cases (n = 694) were diagnosed in New South Wales or the Australian Capital Territory between 2000 and 2001 and controls (n = 694) were randomly selected from electoral rolls and frequency‐matched to cases by age, sex and State of residence. Occupational pesticide exposure was determined by an expert occupational hygienist's assessment of job‐specific questionnaires administered by telephone. History of atopy (asthma, hay fever, eczema and food allergy) was self‐reported. Logistic regression models included the three matching variables, ethnicity and sun exposure. The OR for NHL with substantial pesticide exposure and any history of asthma was 3.07 (95% CI 0.55–17.10) and with substantial pesticide exposure and no asthma history it was 4.23 (95% CI 1.76–10.16). The p‐value for interaction was 0.29. A similar pattern of risk was observed for each of the pesticide subtypes; for asthma at various times of life; for hay fever, eczema, food allergy and any atopy, in men only and for follicular lymphomas only. Although this study had limited power, the findings do not suggest modification of the association between pesticide exposure and NHL risk by asthma or atopic disease more generally. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.