bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential modes of termination of amygdalothalamic and amygdalocortical projections in the monkey
Authors: Miyashita Toshio , Ichinohe Noritaka , Rockland Kathleen S.
Published: March 2007

The amygdala complex participates in multiple systems having to do with affective processes. It has been implicated in human disorders of social and emotional behavior, such as autism. Of the interconnected functional networks, considerable research in rodents and primates has focused on connections between the amygdala and orbitofrontal cortex (OFC). The amygdala projects to OFC by both a direct amygdalocortical (AC) pathway and an indirect pathway through mediodorsal thalamus. In the rat, retrograde tracer experiments indicate that the AC and amygdalothalamic (AT) pathways originate from separate populations, and may therefore convey distinctive information, although the characteristics of these pathways remain unclear. To investigate this issue in monkeys we made anterograde tracer injections in the basolateral amygdala complex (BLC; n = 3). Three distinctive features were found preferentially associated with the AT or AC pathways. First, AT terminations are large (average diameter = 3.5 μm; range = 1.2–7.0 μm) and cluster around proximal dendrites, in contrast with small‐bouton AC terminations. Second, AT terminations form small arbors (diameter ≈0.1 mm), while AC are widely divergent (often >1.0 mm long). The AT terminations features are reminiscent of large bouton, “driver” corticothalamic terminations. Finally, AC but not AT terminations are positive for zinc (Zn), a neuromodulator associated with synaptic plasticity. From these results we suggest that AC and AT terminations originate from distinct populations in monkey as well as in rodent. Further work is necessary to determine the degree and manner of their segregation and how these subsystems interact within a broader connectivity network. J. Comp. Neurol. 502:309–324, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Time course and distribution of inflammatory and neurodegenerative events suggest structural bases for the pathogenesis of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: Brown David A. , Sawchenko Paul E.
Published: March 2007

Murine models of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) are important vehicles for studying the effects of genetic manipulation on disease processes related to multiple sclerosis (MS). Currently, a comprehensive assessment of EAE pathogenesis with respect to inflammatory and degenerating neuronal elements is lacking. By using Fluoro‐jade histochemistry to mark neurodegeneration and dual immunostaining to follow T‐cell, microglial, and vascular responses, the time course and distribution of pathological events in EAE was surveyed. C57BL/6J mice were killed at 7, 10, 14, 21 or 35 days after vaccination with the myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein peptide MOG35–55. Disease onset occurred at day 14 and peaked at day 21. Early T‐cell infiltration and microglial activation in periventricular and superficial white matter structures adjacent to meninges suggested initial recruitment of effector T cells via the cerebrospinal fluid and choroid plexus. This was associated with microglial activation at distal sites along the same white matter tracts, with subsequent vascular recruitment of T cells associated with further injury. Systematic examination of the entire CNS supported this two‐step model of EAE pathogenesis, with inflammation and neurodegeneration commencing at similar times and affecting multiple levels of predominantly sensory central pathways, including their terminal fields. This included aspects of the visual, auditory/vestibular, somatosensory (lemniscal), and proprioceptive (spinocerebellar) systems. The early targeting of visual and periventricular structures followed by more widespread CNS involvement is consistent with common presenting signs in human MS patients and suggestive of a similar basis in neuropathology. J. Comp. Neurol. 502:236–260, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis and characterization of fine lithium niobate powders by sol‐ gel method
Authors: Wang L. H. , Yuan D. R. , Duan X. L. , Wang X. Q. , Yu F. P.
Published: March 2007

Lithium niobate (LN) nanocrystal powders were prepared by low‐temperature sol‐gel method. Dihydrate lithium acetate as lithium source, and niobium chloride as niobium source were used as starting materials. The gel and powders were characterized by thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry (TG/DSC), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electronmicroscopy (TEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra. The results show that when the gel was heat‐treated at 600°C, the fine LN nanocrystals with the size of 40‐60 nm were obtained, and the size of the powders become larger with the heat‐treated temperature increasing. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Mathematical modeling of the multi‐run process of crystal pulling from the melt by EFG (Stepanov) technique in dependence on the angle of inclination of the working edges of the dies
Authors: Zhdanov A. V. , Rossolenko S. N. , Borodin V. A.
Published: March 2007

A mathematical model for the determination of melt hydrodynamics, impurity concentrations and thermal stresses in the multi‐run process of the growth of sapphire ribbons by EFG (Stepanov) technique with inclinated working surfaces of the dies is considered. The mathematical model deals with thermal conductivity equation, Navier‐Stokes equation, diffusion equation, capillary Laplace equation. This problem has been solved by the finite‐element method. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Crystallization shelves for laboratory furnaces
Authors: Cabric B. , Janicijevic A.
Published: March 2007

Several designs of air coolers (modular bilateral “crystallization shelves”), installed in laboratory furnaces are presented. The setup allows easy regulation and simultaneous crystallization of several substances at different temperature gradients, shapes of crystallization fronts and rate intervals, with the purpose of obtaining crystals. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Growth and characterization of nonlinear optical zinc hydrogen phosphate single crystal grown in silica gel
Authors: Raj C. Justin , Mangalam G. , Navis Priya S. Mary , Linet J. Mary , Vesta C. , Dinakaran S. , Milton Boaz B. , Das S. Jerome
Published: March 2007

Good optical quality single crystals of zinc hydrogen phosphate (ZnHPO4) having dimensions up to 8×2×2 mm3 have been grown with the aid of sodium meta silicate gel. Single crystal XRD studies confirm that the crystal belongs to the orthorhombic system with space group P212121. The functional groups present in the crystals were confirmed using FTIR technique. Optical absorbance shows very low absorption in the entire visible region. Differential thermal and thermo gravimetric analysis confirmed that the crystal is stable up to 193°C. Photoconductivity study reveals positive photoconductivity in the presence of photo active centers formed by trap energy levels. The NLO activity of the crystal was confirmed by Kurtz powder technique. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The effect of metallic ions on tapering phenomenon of DKDP crystals and its elimination
Authors: Li Guohui , He Youping , Su Genbo , Zhuang Xinxin , Lin Xiuqin , Li Zhengdong
Published: March 2007

The anomalous wedge‐like shape of KH2PO4‐type single crystal, also called tapering, is discussed in this paper. DKDP single crystals grew on seeds from the solutions containing high concentrations of Al3+, Fe3+ and Cr3+ impurities. The tapering phenomenon occurred on the prismatic {010} faces, and the tapering angle θ was nearly measured as 10°. We adjusted the pD value of the solution from 3.0 to 4.2 by adding K2CO3, the tapering angle of DKDP crystal grown from the same solution at same supercooling was reduced to 0°. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Influence of x‐irradiation on indentation size effect and formation of cracks for [Ky(NH4)1‐y]2ZnCl4mixed crystals
Authors: Abu El‐Fadl A. , Soltan A. S. , Shaalan N. M.
Published: March 2007

The effects of x‐beam irradiation with different doses on microhardness and its related physical constants on [Ky(NH4)1‐y]2ZnCl4mixed crystals with concentrations, y equals 0.000, 0.232, 0.644, 0.859 or 1.000 has been studied. The tests were performed for x‐doses from 0.2 kGy up to 1.6 kGy for loads from 20 to 160 g. The variation of hardness on (010) faces of orthorhombic [Ky(NH4)1‐y]2ZnCl4mixed crystals with load were studied. The experimental results showed that, the hardness decreased as the x‐doses increased. Variation of the microhardness follows the normal ISE trend for low x‐doses and un‐irradiated crystals, then follows the reverse ISE trend for high x‐doses. Analysis of the experimental results revealed that: the radial cracks length, indentation size and applied indentation load are mutually related, and these dependences related with fracture mechanics are the basis of Meyer's empirical law. Indentation size effect (ISE) can be explained satisfactory by Hays‐Kendall's approach and proportional specimen resistance model. Brittleness of two cracks system are applicable for characterizing cracks around indentation impression (i.e. radial cracks) and another is (lateral cracks) for [Ky(NH4)1‐y]2ZnCl4mixed crystals, crystals in the load range 60 – 160 g. It is shown that indentation induced microhardness decreases, whereas the length of radial cracks induced on indentation increases with the increase of x‐doses. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Domain structure and birefringence studies on a 0.91Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3 ‐0.09PbTiO3 single crystal
Authors: Singh G. , Bhaumik I. , Ganesamoorthy S. , Karnal A. K. , Tiwari V. S.
Published: March 2007

Domain structure and phase transition sequence of 0.91PZN‐0.09PT single crystal, grown from high temperature solution, have been analysed using polarised light microscopy. The domain structure of (001)cub cut single crystal exhibit co‐existence of rhombohedral and tetragonal phases. The sequence and phase transition temperatures have been determined from temperature dependence of birefringence. Birefringence measurements during heating and cooling reveal a first order nature of phase transition between rhombohedral (R3m) and tetragonal (P4mm). The birefringence was measured with accuracy of 10‐3. However, dielectric measurement does not provide any evidence of R3m ‐ P4mm phase transition. It is shown that in‐situ analysis of domain structure and phase transition can be used as non‐destructive analytical tool for determination of local composition and phase transition sequence. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Light‐induced self‐defocusing property in tetragonal tungsten bronze crystals
Authors: Gao Ch. Y. , Xia H. R. , Xu J. Q. , Si Sh. Ch. , Zhang H. J. , Wang J. Y. , Song H. L.
Published: March 2007

In open‐circuit boundary conditions, tetragonal tungsten bronze (CSBN75) crystals are settled on one of arms of Michelson's interferometer in such a way that even minor perturbation of the penetrated beam can be enlarged and observed through the Michelson's interferometer rings. The experimental results shows that CSBN75 (Δn < 0) are self‐defocusing photorefractive crystals. In this paper, qualitative and quantitative discussion on the light‐induced change in the index of refraction is given. The self‐defocusing character in CSBN75 suggests that it is possible to observe the dark spatial solitons with this crystal in further investigation. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effect of NaCl filler on ferroelectric phase and polaron configurations of PVDF films
Authors: Elashmawi I. S.
Published: March 2007

Polyvinyldene fluoride (PVDF) films filled with NaCl of mass fraction range 1 ≤ W ≤ 6 % were prepared by casting technique. Their crystalline structure, thermal, optical properties and Electron spin resonance (ESR) were examined. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and differential thermal analysis (DTA) measurements indicated a maximum ferroelectric β‐phase increment at 4%. DTA was used to identify the phase transition temperatures, the order of reaction and the activation energy of melting. The UV‐Visible optical absorption implied a minimum value of the estimated optical energy gap at W = 4%. ESR spectra contained a Lorentizian signal exhibiting a minimum value of the symmetry factor at W = 4%. The energy levels of the optical gap boundaries were though to contribute to ESR transitions. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Synthesis and crystal structure determination of 6,7‐dihydro‐2‐methoxy‐4‐(substituted)‐5H ‐benzo[6,7]cyclohepta[1,2‐b ]pyridine‐3‐carbonitrile
Authors: Moustafa A. M. , Girgis A. S.
Published: March 2007

The compounds 6,7‐dihydro‐2‐methoxy‐4‐(4‐methylphenyl)‐5H ‐benzo[6.7]cyclohepta[1,2‐b ]pyridine‐3‐carbonitrile (compound IIIa) and 4‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐6,7‐dihydro‐2‐methoxy‐5H ‐benzo[6,7]cyclohepta[1,2‐b ]pyridine‐3‐carbonitrile (compound IIIb) were synthesized and their structures have been determined from three dimensional X‐ray data using direct method and refined by full matrix least squares with anisotropic thermal parameters for non‐hydrogen atoms to conventional R(gt) of 0.036 and 0.038 for the two compounds respectively. For compound (IIIa) the crystals are monoclinic, space group Cc, with a=11.2909 (5) Å, b=17.7755(8) Å, c=9.1437(4) Å and β=95.428(3)°, while the crystals of the second compound (IIIb) are triclinic, space group P1, with a=8.7465(3)Å, b=10.3958(3)Å, c=10.9011(4)Å, α= 108.3870(10)°, β=101.3741(12)°, γ=97.9594(12)°. The molecular structure of the two compounds have nearly the same configuration, where the cyclohepta ring takes the boat shape and the methoxy and the carbonitrile groups are attached at the same position C2 and C8. The difference occurs only at the position C4, where the substituent is methylphenyl for compound (IIIa) and chlorophenyl for the other. The bond lengths, valency angles and the hydrogen bonding were calculated and fully discussed. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The eating disorders medicine cabinet revisited: A clinician's guide to ipecac and laxatives
Authors: Steffen Kristine J. , Mitchell James E. , Roerig James L. , Lancaster Kathryn L.
Published: March 2007

Objective:

To describe the frequency of alternative medication use in bulimia nervosa (BN), and to review available nonprescription emetic (ipecac) and laxative products and their potential toxicities.

Method:

Survey data were collected from 39 consecutive treatment‐seeking patients with BN or subthreshold BN. Survey data of the available nonprescription and herbal products from local retail stores were also collected. Toxicology information was reviewed on these agents from MEDLINE and herbal textbooks.

Results:

Ipecac use occurred in 18% of the 39 patients. Laxatives had been used at some point to control weight or “get rid of food” by 67% of the patients. Of these, 31% had abused laxatives during the month prior to evaluation. In the product survey, 248 laxative‐containing products were identified.

Conclusion:

There are numerous laxative products readily available to patients, and many of them have significant associated toxicities. Patients with BN tend to endorse high rates of laxative use. While ipecac is used infrequently, it can have deleterious consequences. Patients with BN should be screened for use of both ipecac and laxatives and should be educated about the potential consequences associated with the misuse of these agents. © 2007 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 2007
Cover Picture: Mycenarubins A and B, Red Pyrroloquinoline Alkaloids from the Mushroom Mycena rosea (Eur. J. Org. Chem. 10/2007)
Authors: Peters Silke , Spiteller Peter
Published: March 2007

The cover picture shows the mushroom Mycena rosea whose fruiting bodies contain two new red pyrroloquinoline alkaloids named mycenarubin A and B. So far, pyrroloquinoline alkaloids are mainly known from marine sources. The new secondary metabolites have been detected by means of a comparative HPLC profiling of the fruiting bodies and the mycelial cultures. The absolute configuration of the mycenarubins was established by a stereoselective synthesis of the model compound (S)‐4‐carboxydamirone C and comparison of its CD spectrum with the CD spectra of the mycenarubins. Details are discussed in the article by S. Peters and P. Spiteller on p. 1571 ff.
Searching for structure in measurements of air pollutant concentration
Authors: Morlini Isabella
Published: March 2007

When studying air pollution measurements at different sites in a spatial area, we may search for a typical pattern, common to all curves, describing the underlying air pollution process in a pre‐specified period. Another area of interest to support local authorities in air quality management may be the classification of the different sites in homogeneous clusters and the group ranking that follows. Yet, there is variation in both amplitude and dynamics among the air pollutant concentrations measured at the different monitoring stations. Analyzing such measurements, where the basic unit of information is the entire observed process rather than a string of numbers, involves finding the time shifts or the warping functions among curves. The analysis is much more complicated if we consider a multivariate process, that is, vector‐valued air pollutant measurements. Following our previous work where an improved dynamic time‐warping algorithm has been developed, especially in the multivariate case, and used both for classifying functional data and estimating the structural mean of a sample of curves, we analyzed the measurements of some air pollutants in Emilia Romagna (northern Italy). In addition, for the univariate analyses, we applied the self‐modeling warping function approach, which is also convenient for these data. Indeed, this method was found to be model‐free and enough flexible to capture very complex and highly non‐linear patterns. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Double‐stranded RNA induces iNOS gene expression in Schwann cells, sensory neuronal death, and peripheral nerve demyelination
Authors: Lee Hyunkyoung , Park Chanhee , Cho Ik‐Hyun , Kim Hyun Yeong , Jo Eun‐Kyeong , Lee Soojin , Kho Hong‐Seop , Choi Se‐Young , Bae Oh Seog , Park Kyungpyo , Kim Joong Soo , Lee Sung Joong
Published: March 2007

Inflammation in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) is one of the characteristics of virus‐induced peripheral neuropathy. In this inflammatory response, Schwann cells are actively involved. Previously, toll‐like receptor 3 (TLR3) was reported as a receptor for double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA) that induces antiviral and inflammatory responses in cells of the innate immune system. In this study, we investigated the expression and putative role of TLR3 in Schwann cells. TLR3 was constitutively expressed in Schwann cells. Stimulation with polyinosinic–polycytidylic acid, a synthetic dsRNA analogue, induced the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) gene in Schwann cells. Studies on the intracellular signal transduction pathways using iSC, an immortalized Schwann cell line, revealed that dsRNA induces the activation of NF‐κB, p38, and c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK). The activation of NF‐κB, p38, JNK, and dsRNA‐dependent protein kinase is required for dsRNA‐mediated iNOS gene expression. However, the activation of PI3 kinase and GSK‐3β inhibited iNOS gene induction, a process mediated by their inhibitory effects on NF‐κB and p38 activation. dsRNA‐induced NO production caused neuronal cell death in cultured dorsal root ganglion. Finally, the introduction of dsRNA into the rat sciatic nerve induced iNOS gene expression and peripheral nerve demyelination in vivo. Taken together, these data suggest that viral RNA may induce inflammatory Schwann cell activation via TLR3 and peripheral nerve damage in the PNS. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparison of behavioral and psychological symptoms in early‐onset and late‐onset Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Toyota Yasutaka , Ikeda Manabu , Shinagawa Shunichiro , Matsumoto Teruhisa , Matsumoto Naomi , Hokoishi Kazuhiko , Fukuhara Ryuji , Ishikawa Tomohisa , Mori Takaaki , Adachi Hiroyoshi , Komori Kenjiro , Tanabe Hirotaka
Published: March 2007

Background

When comparing with early‐onset Alzheimer's disease (EO‐AD) and late‐onset Alzheimer's disease (LO‐AD), some symptomatological differences in clinical features can be seen between them. Rapid progression, more severe language problems or visuospatial dysfunction occur more often in EO‐AD patients. However, there have been very few reports about the differences in behavioral and psychological symptoms between these two groups.

Aim

The aim of this study was to demonstrate the differences in behavioral symptoms between EO‐AD and LO‐AD groups.

Method

Three hundred and seven consecutive outpatients with AD were put into an EO‐AD group (46 patients) or a LO‐AD group (261 patients). Comprehensive assessment batteries, including the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI), were administered at the first medical assessment.

Results

Significant differences were found between the EO‐AD and LO‐AD groups in terms of NPI total score (EO‐AD: 10.3 ± 10.9, LO‐AD: 17.8 ± 17.0, p = 0.004) and number of patients who experienced each NPI subscale score (delusion; EO‐AD: 13.0%, LO‐AD: 50.6%, p < 0.001). There were no differences in cognitive functions or dementia severity between two groups.

Conclusion

In EO‐AD, behavioral and psychological symptoms are relatively fewer than LO‐AD at the first medical assessment. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Markers of inflammation and cognitive decline in an African‐Caribbean population
Authors: Jordanova Vesna , Stewart Robert , Davies Emma , Sherwood Roy , Prince Martin
Published: March 2007

Background

Inflammatory processes may play an important role in cognitive decline and dementia. We investigated the prospective association between levels of three markers of inflammation, plasma interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), serum C‐reactive protein (CRP), serum amyloid A (SAA), and cognitive decline in an African‐Caribbean community population.

Methods

Of 290 participants aged 55–75 years at baseline sampled from Primary Care registration lists in south London, 216 (75%) were re‐interviewed after 3 years. Baseline plasma concentrations of IL‐6, CRP and SAA were ascertained through immunoassays. A battery of psychometric tests was administered on both occasions and decline in both individual tests and a composite outcome was analysed.

Results

After adjustment for potential confounding factors, raised levels of IL‐6 (>3.1 pg/ml) were associated with cognitive decline in the total sample (odds ratio 2.9, 95% CI 1.1–7.5), but no associations were found for CRP or SAA. Raised IL‐6 was most strongly associated with decline in orientation and immediate verbal recall tasks, with weaker associations for delayed recall and psychomotor speed.

Conclusions

Raised IL‐6 but not CRP predicted cognitive decline in this population Inflammatory changes associated with cognitive decline may be specific to particular causal pathways. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The MEK kinases MEKK4/Ssk2p facilitate complexity in the stress signaling responses of diverse systems
Authors: Bettinger Blaine T. , Amberg David C.
Published: March 2007

The mammalian JNK/p38 MAP kinase kinase kinase MEKK4 and the Saccharomyces cerevisiae Ssk2p are highly homologous. MEKK4 can replace all of the known functions of Ssk2p in yeast, including functioning in the high osmolarity glycerol (HOG) MAPK pathway and the recently described actin recovery pathway. MEKK4 and Ssk2p share a number of conserved domains and appear to be activated by a similar mechanism. Binding of an activating protein to the N‐terminal region alleviates auto‐inhibition and causes the kinase to auto‐phosphorylate, resulting in activation. In this review we will examine the role of the MAP kinase kinase kinase isoform Ssk2p/MEKK4 in the adaptation of both yeast and mammalian systems to specific external stimuli. Recent work has provided a wealth of information about the activation, regulation, and functions of these MEKK kinases to extra‐cellular signals. We will also highlight evidence supporting a role for MEKK4 in mediating actin recovery following osmotic shock in mammalian cells. J. Cell. Biochem. 101: 34–43, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The green tea compound, (−)‐epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate downregulates N‐cadherin and suppresses migration of bladder carcinoma cells
Authors: Rieger‐Christ Kimberly M. , Hanley Robert , Lodowsky Christopher , Bernier Trisha , Vemulapalli Praneeth , Roth Mendel , Kim JiYoung , Yee Amy S. , Le Sandrine Meé , Marie Pierre J. , Libertino John A. , Summerhayes Ian C.
Published: March 2007

Green tea has been reported as potential dietary protection against numerous cancers and has been shown to have activity in bladder tumor inhibition in different animal models. The goal of this study was to examine the effects of (−)‐epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG—the major phytochemical in green tea) on growth inhibition and behavior of human bladder carcinoma cells and to identify the altered signaling pathway(s) underlying the response to EGCG exposure. EGCG inhibited the in vitro growth of invasive bladder carcinoma cells with an IC50 range of 70–87 µM. At a concentration of 20 µM, EGCG decreased the migratory potential of bladder carcinoma cells with concomitant activation of p42/44 MAPK and STAT3 and inactivation of Akt. Using biochemical inhibitors of MAPK/ERK, and siRNA to knockdown STAT3 and Akt, inhibition of migration was recorded associated with Akt but not MAPK/ERK or STAT3 signaling in bladder cells. In addition, EGCG downregulated N‐cadherin in a dose‐dependent manner where reduction in N‐cadherin expression paralleled declining migratory potential. Continuous feeding of EGCG to mice prior to and during the establishment of bladder carcinoma xenografts in vivo revealed >50% reduction in mean final tumor volume (P ≤ 0.05) with no detectable toxicity. EGCG inhibited bladder carcinoma cell growth and suppressed the in vitro migration capacity of cells via downregulation of N‐cadherin and inactivation of Akt signaling. Continuous administration of EGCG to mice revealed significant inhibition of tumor growth in vivo indicating a possible preventative role for green tea in bladder cancer. J. Cell. Biochem. 102: 377–388, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The regulation of osteogenesis by ECM rigidity in MC3T3‐E1 cells requires MAPK activation
Authors: Khatiwala Chirag B. , Peyton Shelly R. , Metzke Mark , Putnam Andrew J.
Published: March 2007

Once thought to provide only structural support to tissues by acting as a scaffold to which cells bind, it is now widely recognized that the extracellular matrix (ECM) provides instructive signals that dictate cell behavior. Recently we demonstrated that mechanical cues intrinsic to the ECM directly regulate the behavior of pre‐osteoblastic MC3T3‐E1 cells. We hypothesized that one possible mechanism by which ECM compliance exerts its influence on osteogenesis is by modulating the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. To address this hypothesis, the differentiation of MC3T3‐E1 cells cultured on poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)‐based model substrates with tunable mechanical properties was assessed. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels at days 7 and 14 were found to be significantly higher in cells grown on stiffer substrates (423.9 kPa hydrogels and rigid tissue culture polystyrene (TCPS) control) than on a soft hydrogel (13.7 kPa). Osteocalcin (OCN) and bone sialoprotein (BSP) gene expression levels followed a similar trend. In parallel, MAPK activity was significantly higher in cells cultured on stiffer substrates at both time points. Inhibiting this activation pharmacologically, using PD98059, resulted in significantly lower ALP levels, OCN, and BSP gene expression levels on the hydrogels. Interestingly, the effectiveness of PD98059 was itself dependent on substrate stiffness, with marked inhibition of MAPK phosphorylation in cells grown on compliant hydrogels but insignificant reduction in cells grown on TCPS. Together, these data confirm a role for MAPK in the regulation of osteogenic differentiation by ECM compliance. J. Cell. Physiol. 211: 661–672, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dietary isoflavones act on bone marrow osteoprogenitor cells and stimulate ovary development before influencing bone mass in pre‐pubertal piglets
Authors: De Wilde Anne , Maria Rassi Claudia , Cournot Giulia , Colin Colette , Lacroix Herminie C. , Chaumaz Gilles , Coxam Veronique , Bennetau‐Pelissero Catherine , Pointillart Alain , Lieberherr Michele
Published: March 2007

Food containing soybeans provide isoflavone phytoestrogens that can preserve bone mass in postmenopausal women, and prevent bone loss in ovariectomized rats. But their effects on bone remain unclear, particularly on bone formation during growth. Two groups of eight pre‐pubertal piglets were fed a basal or an isoflavone‐enriched (S800) diet for 6 weeks. The S800 diet contained 800 mg SoyLife™/kg, providing 2.8 mg isoflavones/kg body weight/day. Several bones were collected and tested for bone strength and density. Bone marrow was collected from humeri together with blood samples and genital tracts. The plasma concentrations of isoflavones were increased in the pigs fed S800, but growth rate, body weight, plasma bone markers, bone mineral density, and strength were all unaffected. In contrast, cultured stromal cells from S800 pigs had more alkaline phosphatase‐rich cells and mineralized nodules, secreted more osteocalcin, osteoprotegerin and RANK‐L, synthesized more osteoprotegerin, and RANK‐L. Cultured mononucleated nonadherent bone marrow cells from S800 pigs developed fewer tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase mononucleated cells (osteoclast progenitors) when cultured with 1,25(OH)2D3, and resorbed a smaller area of dentine slices. Freshly isolated bone marrow osteoclast progenitors from S800 pigs had more caspase‐3 cleavage activity, and synthesized less RANK. Both osteoclast and osteoblast progenitors had ERα and ERβ, whose syntheses were stimulated by the S800 diet. The S800 piglets had heavier ovaries with more follicles, but their uterus weight was unaffected. We conclude that dietary isoflavones have no detectable effect on the bone mass of growing female piglets, but act on bone marrow osteoprogenitors via ERs—mainly ERβ, and stimulate ovary development. J. Cell. Physiol. 212: 51–59, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Morphological and functional differentiation of HSG cells: Role of extracellular matrix and trpc 1
Authors: Vag Janos , Byrne Elaine M. , Hughes Deirdre H. , Hoffman Matthew , Ambudkar Indu , Maguire Paula , O'Connell Brian C.
Published: March 2007

A human salivary intercalated duct cell line (HSG) is capable of morphological change to acinar‐type cells, and of salivary amylase (AMY1) expression, by culturing on basement membrane extracts (BME). The aim of this study was to determine the critical conditions for functional and morphological differentiation of HSG cells and to establish if the processes are related. Cells were grown on BMEs that had different protein concentrations and growth factor content, and then examined with respect to morphology and AMY1 expression. To investigate the role of intracellular calcium in amylase expression, a pcDNA3.1‐TRPC1α construct was used to overexpress htrp1α, which mediates the store‐operated calcium entry in HSG cells. Expression of the AMY1, TRPC1α and β genes was quantified by means of real time RT‐PCR. Growth factor‐reduced BME (12.8 mg/ml) induced multicellular acinar structures with lumen formation but without stimulation of either AMY1 or TRPC1. HSG cells cultured on higher concentration BME (17.5 or 16.4 mg/ml) formed reticular networks. AMY1 expression increased both on growth factor‐reduced BME (17.5 mg/ml: 3.0‐fold, P < 0.001) and on regular BME (16.4 mg/ml: 3.7‐fold, P < 0.001) accompanied by a slight increase in expression of TRPC1α and TRPC1β. Overexpression of htrp1α did not cause any significant changes in AMY expression, though it attenuated the BME (17.5 mg/ml)‐induced AMY1 upregulation. Overall, the higher protein concentration BME favors amylase expression in HSG cells, whereas the lower concentration causes marked morphological changes. J. Cell. Physiol. 212: 416–423, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Methylselenol generated from selenomethionine by methioninase downregulates integrin expression and induces caspase‐mediated apoptosis of B16F10 melanoma cells
Authors: Kim Aeyung , Oh Jang‐Hee , Park Jong‐Min , Chung An‐Sik
Published: March 2007

Melanoma is a highly metastatic cancer resistant to current chemotherapeutic and radiotherapeutic approaches. Several studies have shown that interactions between cancer cells and the extracellular matrix (ECM) are critical for the survival and invasion of metastatic cancer cells. In this study, we examine the effects of methylselenol generated from selenomethionine (SeMet) by methioninase (METase) on cell proliferation, adhesion, and expression of integrins in murine melanoma B16F10 cells, which are metastatic in the lungs of syngeneic C57BL/6J mice. Combined treatment with SeMet‐METase decreased the expression of integrins α4, β1, αν, and β3, and inhibited melanoma‐ECM adhesion. Caspase‐mediated apoptosis was induced following loss of cell adherence. Phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and Akt, related to integrin‐mediated survival, were decreased upon treatment with SeMet‐METase while phosphorylation of p38, PKC‐δ, and IκBα increased. In the presence of specific inhibitors of p38, PKC‐δ, and NF‐κB, expression of integrins and cell adhesion to ECM were maintained and cell apoptosis was prevented in SeMet‐METase‐treated melanoma cells. Treatment with caspase inhibitors restored cell viability and blocked poly (ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP) cleavage, but did not restore integrin expression and cell adhesion to ECMs reduced by SeMet‐METase. Based on these results, we propose that combined treatment with SeMet‐METase induces caspase‐mediated apoptosis in melanoma cells by altering integrin expression and adhesion. Furthermore, activation of p38, PKC‐δ, and NF‐κB is a prerequisite for the down‐regulation of integrin expression, followed by detachment‐mediated apoptosis. J. Cell. Physiol. 212: 386–400, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Identification of the main arterial branches by whole‐body contrast‐enhanced MRA in elderly subjects using limited user interaction and fast marching
Authors: Tizon Xavier , Lin Qingfen , Hansen Tomas , Borgefors Gunilla , Johansson Lars , Ahlström Håkan , Frimmel Hans
Published: March 2007

Purpose

To extract a graph model corresponding to a predefined set of arterial branches from whole‐body contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (CE‐MRA) data sets in elderly asymptomatic subjects, a high‐incidence group.

Materials and Methods

Maximum intensity projections (MIPs) were used as an interface to place landmarks in the three‐dimensional (3D) data sets. These landmarks were linked together using fast marching to form a graph model of the arterial tree. Only vessels of interest were identified.

Results

We tested our method on 10 subjects. We were able to build a graph model of the main arterial branches that performed well in the presence of vascular pathologies, such as stenosis and aneurysm. The results were rated by an experienced radiologist, with an overall success rate of 80%.

Conclusion

We were able to extract chosen arterial branches in 3D whole‐body CE‐MRA images with a moderate amount of interaction using a single MIP projection. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Focal nodular hyperplasia: Intraindividual comparison of dynamic gadobenate dimeglumine‐ and ferucarbotran‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Daniele Marin  , Iannaccone Riccardo , Laghi Andrea , Catalano Carlo , Murakami Takamichi , Hori Masatoshi , Kim Tonsok , Passariello Roberto
Published: March 2007

Purpose

To intraindividually compare the enhancement pattern of focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH) after dynamic administration of two bolus‐injectable liver‐specific MR contrast agents, ferucarbotran and gadobenate dimeglumine.

Materials and Methods

A total of 19 patients with 24 FNHs underwent gadobenate dimeglumine‐ and ferucarbotran‐enhanced MRI during the hepatic arterial‐dominant phase (HAP; 25 seconds), the portal‐venous phase (PVP; 60 seconds), and the equilibrium phase (EP; 180 seconds). Hepatospecific phases were acquired on T1‐weighted images 120 minutes after gadobenate dimeglumine administration, and on T2‐weighted images 10 minutes after ferucarbotran administration. Lesion enhancement was independently analyzed by two observers. The kappa statistic was determined to evaluate the agreement between the enhancement patterns of the lesions.

Results

On gadobenate dimeglumine–enhanced MR images during HAP, PVP, and EP, FNHs were: hyperintense (24/20/13); isointense (0/4/11); and hypointense (0/0/0). On ferucarbotran‐enhanced MR images during HAP, PVP, and EP, FNHs were: hyperintense (2/0/0); isointense (16/9/14); and hypointense (6/15/10). Overall, poor agreement between both contrast agents was observed. During the hepatospecific phases, most (20/24; 83%) FNHs showed a typical enhancement pattern during the delayed hepatospecific phase.

Conclusion

The dynamic enhancement pattern of FNHs is significantly different between gadobenate dimeglumine– and ferucarbotran‐enhanced MRI. With respect to hepatospecific phase, the majority of FNHs showed a typical behavior on both contrast agents. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
S100B in neuropathologic states: The CRP of the brain?
Authors: Sen Jon , Belli Antonio
Published: March 2007

In recent years there has been a proliferation of interest in the brain‐specific protein S100B, its many physiologic roles, and its behaviour in various neuropathologic conditions. Since the mid‐1960s, its wide variety of intracellular and extracellular activities has been elucidated, and it has also been implicated in an increasing number of central nervous system (CNS) disorders. S100B is part of a superfamily of proteins, some of which (including S100B) have been implicated as calcium‐dependent regulatory proteins that modulate the activity of effector proteins or cells. S100B is primarily an astrocytic protein. Within cells, it may have a role in signal transduction, and it is involved in calcium homeostasis. Information about the functional implication of S100B secretion by astrocytes into the extracellular space is scant but there is substantial evidence that secreted glial S100B exerts trophic or toxic effects depending on its concentration. This review summarises the historic development and current knowledge of S100B, including recent interesting findings relating S100B to a diversity of CNS pathologies such as traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer's disease, Down's syndrome, schizophrenia, and Tourette's syndrome. These broad implications have led some workers to describe S100B as ‘the CRP (C‐reactive protein) of the brain.’ This review also examines S100B's potential role as a neurologic screening tool, or biomarker of CNS injury, analogous to the role of CRP as a marker of systemic inflammation. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Spastin and microtubules: Functions in health and disease
Authors: Salinas Sara , Carazo‐Salas Rafael E. , Proukakis Christos , Schiavo Giampietro , Warner Thomas T.
Published: March 2007

SPG4, the gene encoding for spastin, a member of the ATPases associated with various cellular activities (AAA) family, is mutated in around 40% of cases of autosomal dominant hereditary spastic paraplegia (AD‐HSP). This group of neurodegenerative diseases is characterized by a progressive spasticity and lower limb weakness with degeneration of terminal axons in cortico‐spinal tracts and dorsal columns. Spastin has two main domains, a microtubule interacting and endosomal trafficking (MIT) domain at the N‐terminus and the C‐terminus AAA domain. Early studies suggested that spastin interacts with microtubules similarly to katanin, a member of the same subgroup of AAA. Recent evidence confirmed that spastin possesses microtubule‐severing activity but can also bundle microtubules in vitro. Understanding the physiologic and pathologic involvement of these activities and their regulation is critical in the study of HSP. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Localization of phospholipase Cβ1 on the detergent‐resistant membrane microdomain prepared from the synaptic plasma membrane fraction of rat brain
Authors: Taguchi Katsutoshi , Kumanogoh Haruko , Nakamura Shun , Maekawa Shohei
Published: March 2007

The membrane microdomain (MD), such as detergent‐resistant low‐density membrane microdomain fraction (DRM), has been paid much attention because many signal‐transducing molecules are recovered in this fraction, although precise localization and interactions of these molecules are largely unclear. To identify neuronal MD‐localized proteins, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against the DRM‐components of synaptic plasma membrane fraction (SPM) were produced and the antigens were characterized. One of the antigens reacted with two closely positioned bands of about 140 kDa in SDS‐PAGE and the antigen showed age‐dependent localization on DRM. The antigen was immunoprecipitated with the mAb after partial solubilization with 0.6 M NaCl from SPM‐derived DRM and identified as phospholipase Cβ1 through mass analysis. The identity was further confirmed with Western blotting using a specific polyclonal antibody. The enzyme purified from the DRM was activated by the α subunit of trimeric G protein, Gq, expressed in HEK293 cells. The lipid composition of the liposomes affected the enzymatic activity and the addition of NAP‐22, a neuronal DRM‐localized protein, inhibited the activity. These results suggest that there exists a signal‐transducing MD that performs important roles in neuronal functions through PIP2 signaling and Ca2+ mobilization. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sagittal pelvic mal‐rotation and positioning of the acetabular component in total hip arthroplasty: Three‐dimensional computer model analysis
Authors: Tang W.M. , Chiu K.Y. , Kwan M.F.Y. , Ng T.P.
Published: March 2007

Mal‐rotation of pelvis on the sagittal plane, which is common in patients with fixed spinal kyhposis, for example, ankylosing spondylitis, can cause error in cup positioning when hip arthroplasty is performed. The present study was performed to quantify the effects of sagittal pelvic mal‐rotation on the final cup position and to evaluate different methods of cup positioning to compensate for the mal‐rotation. Three‐dimensional reconstruction of computer tomograms of 15 sets of full pelvi was performed. Two methods of cup insertion were simulated and compared: a method mimicking genuine surgery (anatomical positioning) and one that compensates for the sagittal pelvic mal‐rotation (functional positioning). Sagittal pelvic mal‐rotation of more than 20°, if ignored, resulted in a cup with an anterversion of more than 30° and an inclination of more than 55°. Half of the cup surface was not in contact with host bone when the cup position was maintained at 20° anteversion and 45° inclination in a patient with 50° sagittal pelvic mal‐rotation. The usual method of cup positioning may need to be modified in patients with sagittal pelvic mal‐rotation in order to maintain the desired cup position. For each 10° of sagittal pelvic mal‐rotation beyond 20° of mal‐rotation, the cup needs to be put in such that it is 5° less inclined and anteverted. © 2007 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 25: 766–771, 2007
Determination of polyacetylenes in carrot roots (Daucus carota L.) by high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detection
Authors: Christensen Lars P. , Kreutzmann Stine
Published: March 2007

A new high‐performance liquid chromatographic method with diode array detection was developed for the separation and simultaneous determination of the carrot polyacetylenes falcarindiol (FaDOH), falcarindiol 3‐acetate (FaDOAc) and falcarinol (FaOH) in carrot root extracts. The optimal chromatographic conditions were achieved on a C18 column with a linear gradient elution of water and acetonitrile as mobile phases, at the flow rate of 1.0 mL/min. All calibration curves of the three carrot polyacetylenes showed good linear regression (R2 >0.998) within the test ranges. The developed method showed good precision for quantification of all polyacetylenes with overall intraday and interday variation of less than 3.3% and with average recovery rates of 99.2, 96.8 and 99.7% for FaDOH, FaDOAc and FaOH, respectively. The LOD (S/N = 3) and LOQ (S/N = 10) were less than 0.19 and 0.42 μg/mL, respectively, for all analytes. The established method was successfully used to determine the spatial distribution of FaDOH, FaDOAc and FaOH in six carrot genotypes (Bolero, Independent, Line 1, Mello Yello, Purple Haze and Tornado) by analysing peeled carrots and the corresponding peels for these polyacetylenes.
Use of SPE‐GC/EIMS for residue analysis in wine elaborated from musts spiked with formulations of chlorpyriphos‐methyl, methiocarb, dicofol, and cyproconazol
Authors: Jiménez Juan José , Bernal José Luis , del Nozal María J. , Toribio Laura , Bernal José
Published: March 2007

The likely presence in wine of residues of the active ingredient and its degradation products, besides the byproducts and excipients of the commercial formulation, has been investigated for four pesticides. Formulations containing chlorpyriphos‐methyl, methiocarb, dicofol, and cyproconazol were added to must, which was subjected to a usual vinification. The wines elaborated from must spiked with the formulation of chlorpyriphos‐methyl contained two pyridinol compounds in addition to excipients such as alkylbenzenes, naphthalene, and methylnaphthalenes. Methiocarb was hydrolyzed to yield the corresponding phenol, and various unidentified compounds related to cyproconazol were observed in wine. The residues of the dicofol‐containing formulation resulted to be dechlorination products; impurities from its commercial formulation were also detected in must and wine extracts. White wines contained higher amounts of residues than red wines. The residues were detected after an SPE followed by GC/EIMS in the scan mode. The concentrations of the active ingredients were determined by a matrix‐matched calibration to avoid quantitative errors arising from the matrix.
Comparative evaluation of extraction procedures and method validation for determination of carbohydrates in cereals and dairy products by capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Jager Alessandra V. , Tonin Fernando G. , Tavares Marina F. M.
Published: March 2007

This work describes the development and application of two optimized electrolytes: 15 mmol/L sorbate, 0.2 mmol/L CTAB, and 35 mmol/L sodium hydroxide for the determination of fructose, glucose, maltose, maltotriose, and sucrose in cereals and 15 mmol/L sorbate, 0.3 mmol/L CTAB, and 55 mmol/L sodium hydroxide for the determination of fructose, glucose, galactose, lactose, and sucrose in dairy products. Both methods were validated with respect to linearity, limits of detection (using both signal‐to‐noise ratio and the Eurachem approach), recovery tests, and intra‐ and inter‐day precision exhibiting adequate performance. Additionally, statistically similar results were obtained in a comparative study of extraction procedures for carbohydrates using the AOAC protocol, ultrasound extraction, magnetic stirring, and sample dissolution.