bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular characterization and embryonic expression of the family of N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor subunit genes in the zebrafish
Authors: Cox Jane A. , Kucenas Sarah , Voigt Mark M.
Published: August 2005

We present the cloning of 10 N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptor subunits from the zebrafish. These subunits fall into five subtypes, each containing two paralogous genes. Thus, we report two NMDAR1 genes (NR1.1 and NR1.2), and eight NMDAR2 genes, designated NR2A.1 and NR2A.2, NR2B.1 and NR2B.2, NR2C.1 and NR2C.2, and NR2D.1 and NR2D.2. The predicted sequences of the NR1 paralogs display 90% identity to the human protein. The NR2 subunits show less identity, differing most at the N‐ and C‐termini. The NR1 genes are both expressed embryonically, although in a nonidentical manner. NR1.1 is found in brain, retina, and spinal cord at 24 hours postfertilization (hpf). NR1.2 is expressed in the brain at 48 hpf but not in the spinal cord. NR2 developmental gene expression varies: both paralogs of the NR2A are expressed at 48 hpf in the retina, only one paralog of the NR2B is expressed at low levels in the heart at 48 hpf. Neither of the NR2C is expressed embryonically. Both paralogs of the NR2D are expressed: 2D.1 is in the forebrain, retina, and spinal cord at 24 hpf, whereas the 2D.2 is only found in the retina. Our findings demonstrate that the zebrafish can serve as a useful model system for investigating the role of NMDA receptors in the development of the nervous system. Developmental Dynamics 234:756–766, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis of a Europium Complex for Anion‐Sensing Involving Regioselective Substitution of Cyclen
Authors: Yu Junhua , Parker David
Published: August 2005

A regioselective synthetic route that allows the construction of tri‐functionally substituted cyclen is described. This facilitates the synthesis of a europium complex that exhibits a good photoresponse to malate, forming the basis of a chemoselective sensor. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2005)
Headspace solid‐phase microextraction analysis of artificial flavors
Authors: Coleman William M , Dube Michael F
Published: August 2005

Using a non‐equilibrated solid‐phase microextraction/gas chromatography/mass spectrometry technique, differentiation between a wide variety of types and examples of artificial flavors has been demonstrated. Addition of an internal standard to the samples, as received, allowed for the calculation of yields on a µg g−1 basis for the majority of headspace volatiles. The relative standard deviation values expressed as percentages were between 3 and 5%. The precise nature of the approach coupled with the compound identification capacity of the mass spectrometer afforded the capability to easily differentiate between multiple sources of artificial flavors. With a total analysis time of approximately 30 min and the absence of solvent, this approach has the capability of detecting and quantifying the presence of the low‐molecular‐weight solvents often used in the preparation of artificial flavors. Such a capability represents a distinct advantage over more conventional methods of solvent dilution. Results from conventional gas chromatography/mass selective detector analyses are contrasted and compared with the results obtained from the headspace SPME approach. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Bioavailability of a bilberry anthocyanin extract and its impact on plasma antioxidant capacity in rats
Authors: Talavéra Séverine , Felgines Catherine , Texier Odile , Besson Catherine , Mazur André , Lamaison Jean‐Louis , Rémésy Christian
Published: August 2005

Anthocyanins are secondary metabolites from the flavonoid family, frequently found in fruits and vegetables. They have been shown to possess beneficial health effects and various in vitro assays have highlighted their powerful antioxidant capacity. However, little is known about their metabolism after digestion and their antioxidant potency in vivo. The aim of this work was to evaluate anthocyanin bioavailability and to determine the impact of an anthocyanin‐rich diet on plasma antioxidant status in rats. Animals were fed for 8 days with a vitamin E‐deficient diet supplemented with a bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) anthocyanin extract providing daily 1.43 mmol anthocyanins kg−1 body weight. An anthocyanin‐enriched diet significantly enhanced the plasma antioxidant capacity compared with a control diet (P < 0.0001). Moreover, anthocyanins were recovered in urine in the intact glycosidic forms in addition to unknown metabolites. Urinary excretion of bilberry anthocyanins and their metabolites was 0.71 ± 0.08 µmol per 24 h (ie 0.22% of the ingested dose). Anthocyanins and their corresponding aglycones were detected in caecal contents. After a single oral administration of the bilberry extract, native anthocyanins quickly (30 min) appeared in plasma. Hence, in spite of a low bioavailability, bilberry anthocyanin extract consumption has a positive effect on plasma antioxidant capacity. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Renal Function after Orthotopic Liver Transplantation is Predicted by Duration of Pretransplantation Creatinine Elevation
Authors: Campbell Mical S. , Kotlyar David S. , Brensinger Colleen M. , Lewis James D. , Shetty Kirti , Bloom Roy D. , Markmann James F. , Olthoff Kim M. , Shaked Abraham , Reddy Rajender K.
Published: August 2005

In patients with recent onset renal insufficiency, the decision to perform combined kidney/liver transplantation (CKLT) vs. orthotopic liver transplantation alone (OLTa) can be difficult. We hypothesized that duration of renal dysfunction may correlate with creatinine elevation after liver transplantation. We retrospectively identified 69 liver transplantation patients with pretransplantation creatinine ≥1.5 mg/dL (53 OLTa, 13 CKLT). Variables analyzed were presence of hepatorenal syndrome, creatinine, Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score, albumin, age, race, gender, cause of liver disease, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and history of ascites, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, variceal bleeding, hepatic encephalopathy, renal replacement therapy (RRT), and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunting. Duration of pretransplantation renal dysfunction was predictive of 6- and 12-month creatinine post-OLTa. Area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for prediction of 12-month renal insufficiency by renal dysfunction duration was 0.71; optimal duration cutoff was 3.6 weeks. We applied a multivariable model, derived from OLTa patients, to CKLT subjects with definite or possible hepatorenal syndrome. Predicted 12-month creatinine without renal transplantation was >2.0 mg/dL for each patient. CKLT patients as opposed to OLTa patients had longer duration of renal dysfunction (median, 18.1 vs. 2.7 weeks,

P

< 0.001), higher creatinine (median 4.0 versus 1.7 mg/dL,

P

< 0.001), and higher rate of pretransplantation RRT (62% vs. 7%,

P

< 0.001). Adjusting for baseline characteristics, CKLT patients had lower creatinine than OLTa patients at 6 months (

P

=0.15) and 12 months (

P

=0.01) after transplantation. In conclusion, duration, but not cause, of renal dysfunction predicts renal outcome in OLTa recipients. Prospective studies may use duration of renal dysfunction to help identify CKLT candidates.
Percutaneous Ablation Procedures in Cirrhotic Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma Submitted to Liver Transplantation
Authors: Pompili Maurizio , Mirante Vincenzo Giorgio , Rondinara Gianfranco , Fassati Luigi Rainero , Piscaglia Fabio , Agnes Salvatore , Covino Marcello , Ravaioli Matteo , Fagiuoli Stefano , Gasbarrini Giovanni , Rapaccini Gian Ludovico
Published: August 2005

Aims of this retrospective study were to analyze the efficacy and safety of percutaneous ethanol injection (PEI) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in cirrhotic patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) submitted to orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). We studied 40 patients undergoing OLT in whom 46 HCC nodules had been treated with PEI (13 nodules), RFA (30 nodules), or PEI+RFA (3 nodules). Child-Turcotte-Pugh class was A in 18 cases, B in 18, and C in 4. The mean waiting time for OLT was 9.5 months. The effectiveness of ablation techniques was evaluated by histological examination of the explanted livers. Complete necrosis was found in 19 nodules (41.3%), partial or absent necrosis in 27 nodules (58.7%). Among the 30 nodules treated by RFA, 14 were completely necrotic (46.7%) and 16 demonstrated partial necrosis (53.3%). Considering the 13 neoplasms undergoing PEI, 3 nodules showed complete necrosis (23.1%), 6 partial necrosis (46.1%), and 4 absent necrosis (30.8%). The rate of complete necrosis was 53.1% for nodules smaller than 3 cm and 14.3% for larger lesions (

P

= 0.033) but increased to 61.9% when considering only the lesions smaller than 3 cm treated by RFA. During the follow up, HCC recurred in 3 patients treated by PEI. No cases of HCC recurrence at the abdominal wall level were recorded. Percutaneous ablation procedures are effective treatments in cirrhotic patients with HCC submitted to OLT and are not associated to an increased risk of tumor recurrence. RFA provides complete necrosis in most nodules smaller than 3 cm, and appears to be the best treatment option in these cases.
Evaluation of Renal Function in Liver Transplant Recipients Receiving Daclizumab (Zenapax), Mycophenolate Mofetil, and a Delayed, Low-Dose Tacrolimus Regimen Vs. a Standard-Dose Tacrolimus and Mycophenolate Mofetil Regimen
Authors: Yoshida Eric M. , Marotta Paul J. , Greig Paul D. , Kneteman Norman M. , Marleau Denis , Cantarovich Marcelo , Peltekian Kevork M. , Lilly Leslie B. , Scudamore Charles H. , Bain Vincent G. , Wall William J. , Roy Andre , Balshaw Robert F. , Barkun Jeffrey S.T.
Published: August 2005

Posttransplant chronic renal failure, secondary to calcineurin inhibitor agents, is emerging as a major problem in liver transplantation. We report a randomized clinical trial comparing daclizumab, delayed low-dose tacrolimus (target trough level 4-8 ng/mL, starting day 4-6), Investigational Arm (n = 72), to standard tacrolimus induction/maintenance dosing, Standard Arm (n = 76), with mycophenolate mofetil and tapering corticosteroids in both study arms. The end-points were renal function indicated by the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD). There was no significant difference in patient survival (86.6% Investigational Arm vs. 92.9% Standard Arm;

P

= 0.21) or acute rejection (23.2% vs. 27.7%, respectively;

P

= 0.68). Statistically significant differences in median glomerular filtration rate (GFR) were found in favor of the Investigational Arm. With the CG equation, the GFR at the end of the first week was 110.7 vs. 89.6 mL/min (

P

= 0.019) without significant differences thereafter. With the MDRD, statistically significant differences extended to the first posttransplant month (86.8 vs. 70.1 mL/min/1.73 m2;

P

< 0.001) with and was seen at month 6 (75.4 vs. 69.5 mL/min/1.73 m2;

P

= 0.038). In conclusion, delayed low-dose tacrolimus, in combination with daclizumab and mycophenolate mofetil, preserves early renal function post-liver transplantation without the cost of increased acute rejection.
The Contemporary Role of Antioxidant Therapy in Attenuating Liver Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Glantzounis Georgios K. , Salacinski Henryk J. , Yang Wenxuan , Davidson Brian R. , Seifalian Alexander M.
Published: August 2005

Oxidative stress is an important factor in many pathological conditions such as inflammation, cancer, ageing and organ response to ischemia-reperfusion. Humans have developed a complex antioxidant system to eliminate or attenuate oxidative stress. Liver ischemia-reperfusion injury occurs in a number of clinical settings, including liver surgery, transplantation, and hemorrhagic shock with subsequent fluid resuscitation, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. It is characterized by significant oxidative stress but accompanied with depletion of endogenous antioxidants. This review has 2 aims: firstly, to highlight the clinical significance of liver ischemia-reperfusion injury, the underlying mechanisms and the main pathways by which the antioxidants function, and secondly, to describe the new developments that are ongoing in antioxidant therapy and to present the experimental and clinical evidence about the role of antioxidants in modulating hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury.
Use of Yttrium-90 Microspheres (Therasphere®) in a Patient with Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma Leading to Liver Transplantation
Authors: Kulik Laura M. , Mulcahy Mary F. , Hunter Russell D. , Nemcek Albert A. , Abecassis Michael M. , Salem Riad
Published: August 2005

Prior to therapy, model for end stage liver disease (MELD) scoring, diagnostic imaging and tumor staging were performed in a patient with T3 HCC. The patient received an orthotopic liver transplant (OLT) 42 days after treatment. The explant specimen showed complete necrosis of the target tumor. Follow-up of this patient has demonstrated no evidence of recurrence. There was no life threatening or fatal adverse experiences related to treatment. This case report documents the natural course, history and outcome of a patient treated with yttrium-90 for unresectable HCC. The patient was downstaged from T3 to T2 and was subsequently transplanted.
Transmission of T. Cruzi Infection Via Liver Transplantation to a Nonreactive Recipient for Chagas' Disease
Authors: Barcán Laura , Lunaó Concepción , Clara Liliana , Sinagra Angel , Valledor Alejandra , De Rissioí Ana María , Gadanoá Adrián , García Myriam Martín , de Santibañes Eduardo , Riarte Adelina
Published: August 2005

Chagas' disease is an endemic zoonosis of South America caused by a protozoan parasite

Trypanosoma cruzi.

About 30% of infected people develop the disease. This disease is known to reactivate in immunocompromised hosts, such as patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, leukemia, and transplantation. There is some experience with transplantation of infected renal grafts into negative recipients, resulting in an index of transmission of 35%. No cases have been reported involving other organ transplants up to 2002, when the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 3 cases of Chagas' disease transmission to 3 recipients (liver, kidney, and pancreas-kidney) from a single chagas infected donor. Here we report on a case of orthotopic liver transplant from a chagas infected donor into a negative recipient in clinical emergency status. The recipient was monitored by direct parasitological Strout method and serological tests with detection of transmission on the 84th day by both studies, without clinical signs. The patient was put on benznidazole with rapid clearance of the parasitemia. However, we propose that chagas infected donors may be accepted for liver transplant recipients only in emergency status.
Overcoming the Portal Steal Phenomenon in Auxiliary Partial Orthotopic Liver Transplantation by Modulation of the Venous Outflow of the Native Liver
Authors: Broering Dieter C. , Walter Jessica , Bassas Atef F.
Published: August 2005

The main drawback of auxiliary partial orthotopic liver transplantation (APOLT) is the competition of the portal flow between the graft and the native liver, leading to graft failure. In two patients with Crigler-Najjar syndrome type I, the intrahepatic resistance of the native liver was increased by occluding the recipients middle hepatic vein during parenchymal transection, leading the portal flow towards the graft. This new surgical technique could encourage centers to recommence APOLT.
Emergency Splenic Arterial Embolization for Massive Variceal Bleeding in Liver Recipient with Left-Sided Portal Hypertension
Authors: Ou Hsin-You , Huang Tung-Liang , Chen Tai-Yi , Tsang Leo Leung-Chit , Concejero Allan M. , Chen Chao-Long , Cheng Yu-Fan
Published: August 2005

Splenic vein thrombosis with gastric variceal bleeding is difficult to manage, and splenectomy may be necessary to stop variceal bleeding. The authors report the case of a post-orthotopic liver transplant patient with bleeding gastric varices secondary to splenic vein thrombosis treated by partial splenic artery embolization. Successful embolization was performed via transcatheter approach depositing Gianturco coils into the intrasplenic artery resulting in immediate cessation of variceal bleeding. No recurrence of bleeding was noted postembolization. In conclusion, splenic artery embolization can be used as treatment for postliver transplant variceal bleeding with hypersplenism.
ALK-1 Mutations in Liver Transplanted Patients With Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia
Authors: Argyriou Loukas , Pfitzmann Robert , Wehner Lars-Erik , Twelkemeyer Stefan , Neuhaus Peter , Nayernia Karim , Engel Wolfgang
Published: August 2005

Hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is an autosomal dominantly inherited disorder characterized by cutaneous and mucosal telangiectasias, epistaxis and arteriovenous malformations in lung, liver, central nervous system, and gastrointestinal tract. Mutations in the genes for endoglin (ENG) and for activin A receptor type II-like kinase 1 (ALK-1) have been identified to be associated with HHT. Intrahepatic manifestation in HHT might lead to the requirement of liver transplantation. We report here on 6 liver transplanted patients and 2 who were scheduled for liver transplantation due to intrahepatic HHT, in whom both genes were sequenced. Mutation analysis revealed in all patients the presence of mutations in ALK-1. In conclusion, these results are of possible prognostic value concerning the need of liver transplantation in HHT patients.
Normative target‐based decision making
Authors: Abbas Ali E. , Matheson James E.
Published: August 2005

This paper relates normative expected‐utility decision making to target‐based decision making, and introduces a new quantity, the aspiration equivalent. We show that using the aspiration equivalent as a target provides a new method for choosing between lotteries that is consistent with expected‐utility maximization. Furthermore, we show that the aspiration‐equivalent target provides a win–win situation for executive–manager delegation. This result furnishes a new link between normative decision analysis and target‐based decision making. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Entry of foreign banks in Shanghai: implications for business strategies in an increasingly competitive market
Authors: Leung M.K. , Young T.
Published: August 2005

This paper uses a simple mean‐variance choice model as the basis of a duration analysis of the factors determining the decision of a foreign bank to establish a branch in Shanghai, the fast developing financial centre in China. Bank attributes, namely region of origin, parent bank size, the number of international branches and their branch network in China, have a significant impact on the time to entry. A country's share of total foreign direct investment in Shanghai also significantly affects the entry decision. The attributes facilitating entry also provide the foreign bank with a competitive advantage in its foreign currency transactions in Shanghai. However, with the ensuing market liberalisations after China's WTO accession, the entrants' competitiveness may not be sustained in the local currency market, especially following the proactive business strategies of Chinese banks and the protectionist measures of the government. It is expected that only a small number of the entrants will be able to emerge as big market players in the growing domestic currency market in Shanghai. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Industry clustering of initial public offerings
Authors: Jain Bharat A. , Kini Omesh
Published: August 2005

Extant empirical evidence has documented both a temporal variation in the number of initial public offerings (IPOs) and an industry clustering effect in these offerings. This article attempts to provide insights into this phenomenon by: (i) identifying industry conditions that influence IPO clustering, (ii) analyzing differences in characteristics of clustered versus non‐clustered IPOs, and (iii) studying the impact of IPO clustering on long‐run operating performance. We find that IPO clustering is more likely to occur in high‐growth fragmented industries that are characterized by strong investment opportunities, favorable investor sentiment, and which require high levels of investments in R&D. Further, we document a negative relation between post‐IPO operating performance and whether the IPO firm goes public in its industry cluster period. We conclude that the relatively poor post‐IPO operating performance of firms that go public in industry cluster periods likely reflects industry overinvestment arising from too many firms within that industry chasing the same investment opportunities. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimal response to a next generation new product introduction: to imitate or to leapfrog?
Authors: Sudharshan D. , Liu Ben Shaw‐Ching , Ratchford Brian T.
Published: August 2005

In this paper, we study the choice of technology levels and timing of the introduction of new technologies in a market in which customer sophistication increases over time. Faced with the introduction of a new generation product, a firm can either imitate or leapfrog it. If the new product is introduced optimally, we show that the optimal response is to imitate it. This is because the technology leader's best strategy is to set a technology level that makes imitation the best response. We also derive decision rules for the timing of introduction of new technologies. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of deep brain stimulation and medication on strength, bradykinesia, and electromyographic patterns of the ankle joint in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Vaillancourt David E. , Prodoehl Janey , Sturman Molly M. , Bakay Roy A.E. , Metman Leo Verhagen , Corcos Daniel M.
Published: August 2005

We investigated the control of movement in 12 patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) after they received surgically implanted high‐frequency stimulating electrodes in the subthalamic nucleus (STN). The experiment studied ankle strength, movement velocity, and the associated electromyographic patterns in PD patients, six of whom had tremor at the ankle. The patients were studied off treatment, ON STN deep brain stimulation (DBS), on medication, and on medication plus STN DBS. Twelve matched control subjects were also examined. Medication alone and STN DBS alone increased patients' ankle strength, ankle velocity, agonist muscle burst amplitude, and agonist burst duration, while reducing the number of agonist bursts during movement. These findings were similar for PD patients with and without tremor. The combination of medication plus STN DBS normalized maximal strength at the ankle joint, but ankle movement velocity and electromyographic patterns were not normalized. The findings are the first to demonstrate that STN DBS and medication increase strength and movement velocity at the ankle joint. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society
High‐frequency electrical conduction block of mammalian peripheral motor nerve
Authors: Bhadra Niloy , Kilgore Kevin L.
Published: August 2005

A quick‐acting, quick‐reversing method for blocking action potentials in peripheral nerves could be used in the treatment of muscle spasticity and pain. A high‐frequency alternating‐current (HFAC) sinusoidal waveform is one possible means for providing this type of block. HFAC was used to block peripheral motor nerve activity in an in vivo mammalian model. Frequencies from 10 to 30 kHZ at amplitudes of between 2 and 10 V were investigated. A complete and reversible motor block was obtained at all frequencies. The block threshold amplitudes showed a linear relationship with frequency, the lowest threshold being at 10 kHZ. HFAC block has three phases: an onset response; a period of asynchronous firing; and a steady state of complete or partial block. The onset response and the asynchronous firing can be minimized by using an optimal frequency–amplitude combination. In general, the onset response was lowest for the combination of 30 kHZ and 10 V. Muscle Nerve, 2005
Recombinant urate oxidase (Rasburicase) for the treatment of hyperuricemia in pediatric patients with hematologic malignancies: Results of a compassionate prospective multicenter study in Korea
Authors: Shin Hee Young , Kang Hyoung Jin , Park Eun Sil , Choi Hyoung Soo , Ahn Hyo Seop , Kim Sun Young , Chung Nak Gyun , Kim Hack Ki , Kim So Youn , Kook Hoon , Hwang Tai Ju , Lee Kwang Chul , Lee Sun Min , Lee Kun Soo , Yoo Keon Hee , Koo Hong Hoe , Lee Mee Jung , Seo Jong Jin , Moon Hyung Nam , Ghim Thad , Lyu Chuhl Joo , Lee Won Sik , Choi Yong Mook
Published: August 2005

Background

Hyperuricemia accompanying tumor lysis syndrome is a serious complication in neoplasia with rapid proliferation and destruction. To confirm the efficacy of recombinant urate oxidase (rasburicase) and its safety profile, a phase IV compassionate use prospective study was performed in Korean pediatric patients with hematologic malignancies.

Procedure

Rasburicase was administered at 0.2 mg/kg/day once daily for 3–5 days (twice daily allowed during the first 72 hr) by intravenous route for hyperuricemia (uric acid > 7.5 mg/dl). The study period was 5 weeks and consisted of a baseline assessment within 48 hr before the administration of rasburicase, 3–5 days of assessment during treatment and a follow‐up assessment at 4 weeks after its final administration.

Results

The uric acid endpoint (≤7.0 mg/dl) was reached in 97.3% (36/37) of the patients and uric acid levels were significantly reduced in all patients (P < 0.001). Drug related toxicities were mild and reversible without any grade 4 or serious adverse event associated with rasburicase.

Conclusion

This study confirms that rasburicase is a safe and effective agent for the treatment of hyperuricemia associated with hematologic malignancies in pediatric patients. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2006, 46:439–445. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors with high and low Ras‐GTP are permissive for oncolytic herpes simplex virus mutants
Authors: Mahller Yonatan Y. , Rangwala Fatima , Ratner Nancy , Cripe Timothy P.
Published: August 2005

Background

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs) occur most frequently in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 and are often fatal. Current therapy relies upon radical surgical resection, which often fails to completely remove the tumor. To address the need for novel treatment approaches for this disease, we sought to determine if human MPNST‐derived cell lines are sensitive to oncolytic Herpes simplex virus (oHSV) infection. Activation of the Ras pathway and its inhibitory effects on protein kinase R (PKR) activation have been shown to dictate cellular permissivity to oHSV mutants. Because NF‐1‐associated MPNSTs possess inherent hyperactive Ras, we hypothesized these tumors would be ideal therapeutic targets for oHSVs.

Procedure

Human MPNST‐derived cell lines were examined for sensitivity to oHSV‐mediated gene transduction, virus replication, cytotoxicity, and apoptosis. These parameters were correlated with PKR activation following oHSV infection and compared with normal human Schwann cells (NHSCs) without hyperactive Ras.

Results

MPNST‐derived cell lines were efficiently transduced, supported virus replication and were killed by the oncolytic HSV mutants, including sporadic MPNSTs without hyperactive Ras. In contrast to the highly sensitive MPNST cell lines, NHSCs did not support mutant virus replication.

Conclusions

MPNSTs are susceptible to lysis by oncolytic HSV mutants, regardless of Ras status. Tumor‐selective virus replication in MPNST cells appears to be mediated by both cellular expression of ribonucleotide reductase and prevention of eIF2α phosphorylation. Virus‐induced cytotoxicity of MPNST cell lines was caused by both direct lysis and apoptosis. Our data suggest the use of oncolytic HSV mutants may represent a novel treatment approach for patients with MPNSTs. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T polymorphism: Association with risk for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia and response during the initial phase of chemotherapy in greek patients
Authors: Chatzidakis Konstantinos , Goulas Antonis , Athanassiadou‐Piperopoulou Fani , Fidani Liana , Koliouskas Dimitrios , Mirtsou Vassiliki
Published: August 2005

Background

As of late, a number of studies have focused on the association of the gene for methyletetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) with risk for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in children and in adults, as well as with response to chemotherapy. The degree of this association may vary according to the ethnic background and geographic localization of the population under study, or the phase of treatment when response to chemotherapy is concerned.

Procedure

We have analyzed the MTHFR C677T polymorphism in 52 patients and 88 control individuals, all ethnic Greek residents of northern Greece, and examined the association of this polymorphism with (a) susceptibility to childhood ALL and (b) the distribution of average plasma alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels, white blood cell counts (WBC), and hemoglobin levels (Hb) during the induction and consolidation phases of treatment.

Results and Conclusions

We were able to detect a statistically significant protective effect, with respect to ALL, associated with carriage of the MTHFR 677T allele [OR = 0.387 (95% CI = 0.193–0.776)]. In addition, we observed a general tendency towards lower values in all three parameters studied, associated with the MTHFR 677CC genotype, which was more evident in the transition from the induction to the consolidation phase, indicating that MTHFR genotyping may be of prognostic value in the early phase of treatment for childhood ALL, in our population. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Prolongation of the prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time in children with sickle cell disease
Authors: Raffini Leslie J. , Niebanck Alison E. , Hrusovsky Joanne , Stevens Amanda , Blackwood‐Chirchir Anne , Ohene‐Frempong Kwaku , Kwiatkowski Janet L.
Published: August 2005

Background

Patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) have high rates of perioperative complications, including bleeding 1,2.

Procedures

We conducted a retrospective review of pre‐operative coagulation studies in pediatric patients with SCD followed by a prospective study of 100 well children with SCD to determine the prevalence of abnormal coagulation screening tests, and to evaluate potential etiologies.

Results

In the retrospective study, 32/84 (38.1%) had a prolonged prothrombin time (PT), compared to 8/100 in the prospective study. Prolongations of the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) were less common. Children in the prospective study with prolonged PTs had significantly lower levels of Factor V and VII compared to those with normal PTs. Factor VII levels were <50% in 4/8 with long PTs, compared to 3/92 with normal PTs, P = 0.001. Though retrospectively, several patients had normalization of their PT with vitamin K, there was no laboratory evidence of vitamin K deficiency in the prospective study. In the retrospective analysis, six of seven children who had pre‐operative coagulation studies and significant intraoperative blood loss had prolonged PTs (P = 0.04).

Conclusions

Children with SCD admitted for surgical procedures were more likely to have prolonged PTs than those tested at a well visit. There was intra‐patient variability in coagulation studies that may be related to clinical status, hepatocellular dysfunction, and/or increased clotting factor consumption. Future well‐designed prospective studies to determine whether abnormal coagulation studies are associated with an increased risk of perioperative bleeding in children with SCD are necessary. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2006; 47:589–593. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis, characterization and properties of functionalized styrene–maleimide copolymers
Authors: Pérez‐Camacho O , Sepúlveda‐Guzmán S , Pérez‐Álvarez M , García‐Zamora M , Cadenas‐Pliego G
Published: August 2005

New functionalized styrene–maleimide copolymers were prepared by free radical copolymerization of styrene (St) and N‐4‐carboxybutylmaleimide (NBMI) in chloroform, using 2,2′‐azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN) as initiator. Monomer and copolymer characterization was carried out by 1H‐ and 13C‐NMR. Copolymer composition was determined by elemental analysis and Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The glass transition temperature (from DSC) and the thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) of the copolymers were consistent with the thermal behavior and stability observed for alternating St–maleimide copolymers. St–NBMI copolymers crosslinked with divinylbenzene (DVB) were also synthesized and their cation exchange properties evaluated in order to assess the capacity of the new copolymers to bind metallic ions. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Constitutive cyclo‐oxygenase‐2 does not contribute to the development of human visceral pain hypersensitivity
Authors: Willert Robert P. , Delaney Claire , Hobson Anthony R. , Thompson David G. , Woolf Clifford J. , Aziz Qasim
Published: August 2005

Background and aims Central sensitisation (CS), contributes to the development and maintenance of gastrointestinal pain hypersensitivity. Constitutive cyclo‐oxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) contributes to central sensitisation in somatic pain hypersensitivity but its role in mediating visceral pain hypersensitivity is unknown. We therefore conducted a study to determine if COX‐2 inhibition with Valdecoxib attenuates the development or early maintenance of CS in a validated human oesophageal pain hypersensitivity model.

Methods Healthy volunteers were studied in two randomised, double blind, crossover studies in which pain thresholds (PT) to electrical stimulation were assessed in the proximal oesophagus, chest wall and foot, prior to and following a distal oesophageal acid infusion. Protocol 1: Valdecoxib, (40 mg) or matching placebo was given orally for 4 days prior to oesophageal acid infusion. Protocol 2: IV Parecoxib (40 mg) or saline was given 120 min after oesophageal acid infusion.

Results Valdecoxib did not prevent the induction of secondary allodynia in the proximal oesophagus nor did it attenuate it following its establishment. Chest wall PT fell following oesophageal acid but foot PT remained unchanged; highlighting the development viscero‐somatic convergence due to CS. Valdecoxib had no analgesic or anti‐hyperalgesic effect on chest wall or foot PT.

Conclusions Neither the induction nor initial maintenance of acid induced oesophageal pain hypersensitivity is prevented by Valdecoxib, suggesting that constitutive spinal COX‐2 does not contribute to the development or early maintenance of acute visceral central sensitisation.
Antinociceptive activity of the selective iNOS inhibitor AR‐C102222 in rodent models of inflammatory, neuropathic and post‐operative pain
Authors: LaBuda Christopher J. , Koblish Michael , Tuthill Paul , Dolle Roland E. , Little Patrick J.
Published: August 2005

Nitric oxide generated by the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) isoforms contributes to pain processing. The selective inhibition of iNOS might represent a novel, therapeutic target for the development of antinociceptive compounds. However, few isoform‐selective inhibitors of NOS have been developed. The present experiments examined the anti‐inflammatory and antinociceptive activity of a selective inducible nitric oxide (iNOS) inhibitor, AR‐C102222, on arachidonic acid‐induced ear inflammation, Freund's complete adjuvant (FCA)‐induced hyperalgesia, acetic acid‐induced writhing, and tactile allodynia produced by L5 spinal nerve ligation (L5 SNL) or hindpaw incision (INC). AR‐C102222 at a dose of 100 mg/kg p.o., significantly reduced inflammation produced by the application of arachidonic acid to the ear, attenuated FCA‐induced mechanical hyperalgesia, and attenuated acetic acid‐induced writhing. In the L5 SNL and INC surgical procedures, tactile allodynia produced by both procedures was significantly reduced by 30 mg/kg i.p. of AR‐C102222. These data demonstrate that the selective inhibition of iNOS produces antinociception in different models of pain and suggest that the iNOS‐NO system plays a role in pain processing.
RNA silencing in fungi: Mechanisms and applications
Authors: Nakayashiki Hitoshi
Published: August 2005

Two RNA silencing‐related phenomena, quelling and meiotic silencing by unpaired DNA (MSUD) have been identified in the fungus Neurospora crassa. Similar to the case with the siRNA and miRNA pathways in Drosophila, different sets of protein components including RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase, argonaute and dicer, are used in the quelling and MSUD pathways. Orthologs of the RNA silencing components are found in most, but not all, fungal genomes currently available in the public databases, indicating that the majority of fungi possess the silencing machinery. Advantage and disadvantage of RNA silencing as a tool to explore gene function in fungi are discussed.
Do environmental factors affect recruits per spawner anomalies of New England groundfish?
Authors: Brodziak Jon , O'Brien Loretta
Published: August 2005

We evaluated the influence of environmental factors on recruits per spawner (RS) anomalies of 12 New England groundfish stocks. Nonparametric methods were used to analyse time-series of RS anomalies derived from stock-recruitment data in recent assessments. The 12 stocks occur in three geographic regions: the Gulf of Maine (cod Gadus morhua, redfish Sebastes fasciatus, winter flounder Pseudopleuronectes americanus, American plaice Hippoglossoides platessoides, witch flounder Glyptocephalus cynoglossus, and yellowtail flounder Limanda ferruginea), Georges Bank (cod, haddock Melanogrammus aeglefinus, and yellowtail flounder), and Southern New England (summer flounder Paralichthys dentatus, yellowtail flounder, and winter flounder). Randomization tests were applied to detect years when RS anomalies were unusually high or low for comparison with oceanographic conditions such as the 1998 intrusion of Labrador Subarctic Slope water into the Gulf of Maine region. Randomization methods were also used to evaluate the central tendency and dispersion of all RS anomalies across stocks. Average RS anomalies were significantly positive in 1987 across stocks and regions, indicating that environmental forcing was coherent and exceptional in that year. Responses of RS values of individual stocks to lagged and contemporaneous environmental variables such as the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) index, water temperature, windstress, and shelf water volume anomalies were evaluated using generalized additive models. Overall, the NAO forward-lagged by 2 years had the largest impact on RS anomalies. This apparent effect is notable because it could provide a leading indicator of RS anomalies for some commercially exploited stocks. In particular, the three primary groundfish stocks on Georges Bank (cod, haddock, and yellowtail flounder) all exhibited positive RS anomalies when the NAO2 variable was positive.
Age calibration of carbonate rind thickness in late pleistocene soils for surficial deposit age estimation, Southwest USA
Authors: Amoroso Lee
Published: August 2005

Carbonate rinds have been used for cross-correlation of landforms as well as a quantitative indicator of soil age. Using the measured rind thickness of clasts found within a deposit, whose age has been independently determined, allows the construction of a calibrated surface-age proxy. Measurements were taken at sites within the Mojave Desert, the northwestern Sonoran Desert, the southern Great Basin, and the western Colorado Plateau. These sites are all within about 300 km of the intersection of the borders of the states of California, Arizona, and Nevada. In the study area, elevation varied from 200 to 1200 m, MAP was from 95 to 195 mm, and MAT was from 18.4° to 23.3°C. The calibrated proxy, while not accounting for the effects of parent material or climate on rind development, does show a strong correlation (R2 = 0.74,P < 0.05) between carbonate rind thickness and surface age for deposits of late to middle Pleistocene age. The calibrated chronosequence, rind thickness = 0.0889 + 0.0079 [surface age]), is in general valid over a large region of southwestern United States. This statistical relation suggests that parent material, climate, and elevation may not be as strong a control on carbonate accumulation as is age for younger soils.
A Thirteenth-Century Franciscan Money Manager: Archbishop Eudes Rigaud of Rouen, 1248–1275
Authors: DAVIS ADAM J.
Published: August 2005

In the century following the death of St Francis, the Franciscan order underwent enormously rapid changes. As Franciscans became university masters, inquisitors, royal councillors and bishops, some confronted dilemmas in reconciling their religious vows with the duties of their offices. Yet whereas some friar-bishops and archbishops might have shied away from involving themselves in their churches' finances, Eudes Rigaud, the first Franciscan archbishop of Rouen, made significant investments in landed property, seigneurial rights and rents on behalf of his archdiocese. The Franciscan archbishop's commitment to ecclesiastical reform, evident in his meticulous visitations of his clergy as recorded in his episcopal register, is also visible in his efforts to augment his archdiocese's temporalities.
Undulations on the equatorward edge of the diffuse proton aurora: TIMED/GUVI observations
Authors: Zhang Y. , Paxton L. J. , Morrison D. , Lui A. T. Y. , Kil H. , Wolven B. , Meng C.‐I. , Christensen A. B.
Published: August 2005

Undulations on the equatorward edge of the diffuse proton aurora have been identified by using TIMED/GUVI auroral images in the far ultraviolet wavelengths. While undulations have been previously reported on the duskside (Lui et al., 1982), GUVI observations show the undulation also occurs in the dayside, nightside, and morningside. The GUVI proton auroral images provide direct optical evidence that the undulations occur in the proton aurora. It is also the first detection of the undulation in the dayside indicating strong convection shear in the region. The undulation in the nightside, a wavy structure in the whole diffuse proton aurora, is significantly different from those in the duskside and dayside. While almost all of the undulation events are observed during magnetic storms (Dst < −60 nT), one exceptional case shows undulation in the dayside with Dst = 30 nT. However, the case is associated with a large solar wind speed (650 km/s) and a high dynamic pressure (14 nPa). Coincident DMSP SSIES observations suggest that both large ion drift velocity (>1000 m/s) and strong velocity shear (>0.1 s−1) within the diffuse aurora oval are necessary conditions for the undulation to occur. The SSIES data also indicate the areas with large ion drift velocity and shear move to higher latitudes in the MLT sectors toward midnight. This may explain why the undulation is rarely detected in the nightside.
Rotational and spin‐orbit distributions of NO observed by MIPAS/ENVISAT during the solar storm of October/November 2003
Authors: Gardner J. L. , Lopéz‐Puertas M. , Funke B. , Miller S. M. , Lipson S. J. , Sharma R. D.
Published: August 2005

Aurorally enhanced 5.3 μm emission from nitric oxide was observed by the MIPAS instrument on board the ENVISAT satellite during the solar storm of October/November 2003. Spectral modeling of the NO(Δv = 1) fundamental band emissions was performed in order to determine the NO rotational and spin‐orbit distributions. In the thermosphere, NO(v = 1) is produced by collisional excitation of NO(v = 0) by O atoms and also by the chemical reactions of N(4S) and N(2D) atoms with O2. There are no measurements of the nascent spin‐orbit distribution of NO produced by the reaction of N atoms with O2. Auroral activity leads to increased production of N(4S) and N(2D) atoms, resulting in enhanced chemical formation of NO. In the MIPAS data taken during the solar storm, strong NO signal levels and increased rotational temperatures indicated high levels of auroral activity. A comparison of the data from October/November 2003 with data taken during a quiescent period in June 2003 showed that NO(v = 1) produced by N + O2 has a hotter spin‐orbit distribution than NO(v = 1) produced by O atom collisional excitation. The results imply that the spin‐orbit ratio may be useful for identifying different sources of NO in the thermosphere. In addition, the NO(v = 1) spin‐orbit distributions were found not to be in local thermodynamic equilibrium (non‐LTE) for both quiescent and auroral conditions. The non‐LTE effects must be taken into account in order to accurately retrieve atmospheric NO concentrations from 5.3 μm emissions.
Scattering by buried dielectric cylindrical structures
Authors: Di Vico M. , Frezza F. , Pajewski L. , Schettini G.
Published: August 2005

An analytical‐numerical technique for the solution of the two‐dimensional electromagnetic plane wave scattering by a finite set of dielectric circular cylinders buried in a dielectric half‐space is presented. The problem is solved for both the near‐ and far‐field regions, for transverse magnetic and transverse electric polarizations. The scattered field is represented in terms of a superposition of cylindrical waves, and use is made of the plane wave spectrum to take into account the reflection and transmission of such waves by the interface. The validity of the approach is confirmed by comparisons with results available in the literature, with very good agreement, and by self‐consistency tests. Applications of the method to objects of arbitrary cross section simulated by suitable configurations of circular cylinders are shown.
Hydraulic geometry of secondary channels of lower Fraser River, British Columbia, from acoustic Doppler profiling
Authors: Ellis Erica R. , Church Michael
Published: August 2005

The hydraulics and morphology of secondary channels within the lower Fraser River gravel reach were examined using data collected with an acoustic Doppler profiler during the large 2002 freshet. Data were collected over an area of channel (“subreach”), for a range of subreach morphologies (“upstream,” “mid,” and “downstream”). As suggested by visual evidence, at‐a‐station hydraulic geometry of subreach types stratified along gradients of width, depth, and velocity. Fish habitat is more abundant and more persistently available in the wide, deep downstream subreaches, but higher velocities preferred by some species occur in the mid stream and upstream subreaches. Additional high‐flow data, used to develop bank‐full scaling relations (classical “downstream” hydraulic geometry), conformed well to a simple power law up to and including data points from the main channel. However, width and depth exponents deviated from classical results. Investigation suggests that the relations observed in this study approach expected relations for constant slope and channel boundary materials.
Emission of bromine and iodine from Mount Etna volcano
Authors: Aiuppa A. , Federico C. , Franco A. , Giudice G. , Gurrieri S. , Inguaggiato S. , Liuzzo M. , McGonigle A. J. S. , Valenza M.
Published: August 2005

Constraining fluxes of volcanic bromine and iodine to the atmosphere is important given the significant role these species play in ozone depletion. However, very few such measurements have been made hitherto, such that global volcanic fluxes are poorly constrained. Here we extend the data set of volcanic Br and I degassing by reporting the first measurements of bromine and iodine emissions from Mount Etna. These data were obtained using filter packs and contemporaneous ultraviolet spectroscopic SO2 flux measurements, resulting in time‐averaged emission rates of 0.7 kt yr−1 and 0.01 kt yr−1 for Br and I, respectively, from April to October 2004, from which we estimate global Br and I fluxes of order 13 (range, 3–40) and 0.11 (range, 0.04–6.6) kt yr−1. Observed changes in plume composition highlight the coherent geochemical behavior of HCl, HF, HBr, and HI during magmatic degassing, and strong fractionation of these species with respect to SO2.