bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular mapping of high‐grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia shows etiological dominance of HPV16
Authors: van der Marel Jacolien , Quint Wim G.V. , Schiffman Mark , van de Sandt Miekel M. , Zuna Rosemary E. , Terence Dunn S. , Smith Katherine , Mathews Cara A. , Gold Michael A. , Walker Joan , Wentzensen Nicolas
Published: March 2012

Women with high‐grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (HGCIN) frequently present with multiple cervical lesions and multiple concomitant Human papillomavirus (HPV) genotype infections. To elucidate HPV genotype attribution in different regions on the cervix, we performed molecular mapping of cervical disease in women with HGCIN. Thirteen subjects referred to colposcopy for abnormal cervical cancer screening results were included. A cervical smear and biopsies from 4 different areas on the cervix were collected. HPV genotyping using Linear Array (for cytology) or SPF10 LiPA25 (for histology) were performed in 13 smears, 52 whole sections from biopsies and 138 tissue regions isolated with laser capture microdissection (LCM). Twelve subjects had a diagnosis of CIN3 and one subject had a diagnosis of CIN2 based on the worst histology found in 4 biopsies. Eight of the 13 smears (62%) showed multiple genotype infections. Four of 13 women (31%) had multiple HPV infections in their biopsies. After performing LCM‐PCR, only one woman (8%) had two different carcinogenic HPV types in morphologically distinct, but colliding HGCIN lesions. HPV16 was identified as the causal type in all women with HPV16 in cytology. A large proportion of other HPV types found in cervical smears were not detected at the tissue level. Using tissue‐based genotyping and LCM‐PCR analysis, we were able to attribute an individual HPV type to each area of CIN lesions. We demonstrate that HPV16 is even more etiologically dominant than previously thought, based on various genotype attribution models.
Induction of proapoptotic antibodies to triple‐negative breast cancer by vaccination with TRAIL death receptor DR5 DNA
Authors: Piechocki Marie P. , Wu Gen Sheng , Jones Richard F. , Jacob Jennifer B. , Gibson Heather , Ethier Stephen P. , Abrams Judith , Yagita Hideo , Venuprasad K , Wei Wei‐Zen
Published: March 2012

TNF‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand receptor 2 [TRAIL‐R2 or death receptor 5 (DR5)] is expressed at elevated levels in a broad range of solid tumors to mediate apoptotic signals from TRAIL or agonist antibodies. We tested the hypothesis that DR5 DNA vaccination will induce proapoptotic antibody to trigger apoptosis of tumor cells. BALB/c mice were electrovaccinated with DNA‐encoding wild‐type human DR5 (phDR5) or its derivatives. Resulting immune serum or purified immune IgG induced apoptosis in triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells, which were also TRAIL sensitive. The proapoptotic activity of immune serum at dilutions of 0.5–2% was comparable to that of 1–2 μg/ml of TRAIL. Apoptotic activity of immune serum was enhanced by antibody crosslinking. Apoptotic cell death induced by anti‐DR5 antibody was shown by the cleavage of PARP and caspase‐3. In contrast, immune serum had no effect on the proliferation of activated human T cells, which expressed low levels of DR5.In vivo, hDR5 reactive immune serum prevented growth of SUM159 TNBC cells in severe combined immune‐deficient mice. DR5‐specific IFN‐γ‐secreting T cells were also induced by DNA vaccination. Furthermore, the feasibility to overcome immune tolerance to self DR5 was shown by the induction of mouse DR5‐binding antibody after electrovaccination of BALB/c mice with pmDR5ectm‐Td1encoding a fusion protein of mouse DR5 and an immunogenic fragment of tetanus toxin. These findings support DR5 as a promising vaccine target for controlling TNBC and other DR5‐positive cancers.
Comparative analyses of regulatory T cell subsets in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: A crucial role of CD25−FOXP3− T cells
Authors: Kakita Naruyasu , Kanto Tatsuya , Itose Ichiyo , Kuroda Shoko , Inoue Michiyo , Matsubara Tokuhiro , Higashitani Koyo , Miyazaki Masanori , Sakakibara Mitsuru , Hiramatsu Naoki , Takehara Tetsuo , Kasahara Akinori , Hayashi Norio
Published: March 2012

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) play pivotal role in cancer‐induced immunoediting. Increment of CD25high+FOXP3+ natural Tregs has been reported in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC); however, the involvement of other type of Tregs remain elusive. We aimed to clarify whether FOXP3−
Tregs are increased and functionally suppressive or not in patients with HCC. We enrolled 184 hepatitis C‐infected patients with chronic liver diseases or HCC, 57 healthy subjects and 27 HCC patients with other etiology. Distinct Treg subsets were phenotypically identified by the expression of CD4, CD25, CD127 and forkhead/winged helix transcription factor (FOXP3). Their gene profiles, frequency and suppressor functions against T cell proliferation were compared among the subjects. To examine the molecules involving in Treg differentiation, we cultured naive CD4+ T cells in the presence of HCC cells and dendritic cells. We determined two types of CD4+CD127−
T cells with comparable regulatory ability; one is CD25high+ cells expressing FOXP3 (CD25high+FOXP3+ Tregs) and the other is CD25−
cells without FOXP3−
expression (CD25−FOXP3−
cells). The peripheral or intrahepatic frequency of CD25−FOXP3−
Tregs in HCC patients is higher than those in other groups, of which significance is more than CD25high+FOXP3+ cells. Of importance, CD25−FOXP3−
Tregs, but not CD25high+FOXP3+ cells, dynamically change in patients accompanied by the ablation or the recurrence of HCC. CD25−FOXP3−
T cells with CD127−IL‐10+
phenotype are inducible in vitro from naive CD4+ T cells, in which programmed cell death 1 ligand 1, immunoglobulin‐like transcript 4 and human leukocyte antigen G are involved.. In conclusion, CD25−FOXP3−
Tregs with suppressive capacity are increased in patients with HCC, suggesting their distinct roles from CD25+FOXP3+ Tregs.
Enhancement of natural killer cell effector functions against selected lymphoma and leukemia cell lines by dasatinib
Authors: Hassold Nicole , Seystahl Katharina , Kempf Kristina , Urlaub Doris , Zekl Michael , Einsele Hermann , Watzl Carsten , Wischhusen Jörg , Seggewiss‐Bernhardt Ruth
Published: March 2012

As NK cell immunotherapy is still poorly successful, combinations with drugs enhancing NK cell activity are of major interest. NK large granular lymphocyte expansions associated with improved survival have been described under monotherapy with the Bcr‐Abl/Src inhibitor dasatinib, which inhibits NK cell functions in vitro. As Src kinases play a major role in inhibitory and activating signaling pathways of NK cells, both outcomes appear plausible. To clarify these contradictory observations and potentially enable the use of dasatinib as adjuvant, we analyzed how clinically relevant doses promote NK cell effector functions. Polyclonal human NK cells were studied ex vivo. Functional outcomes assessed included conjugate formation, calcium flux, receptor regulation, cytokine production, degranulation, cytotoxicity, apoptosis induction and signal transduction. While dasatinib inhibits NK cell effector functions during functional assays, 24 hr pretreatment of NK cells followed by washout of dasatinib, led to dose‐dependent enhancement of cytokine production, degranulation marker expression and cytotoxicity against selected lymphoma and leukemia cell lines. Mechanistically, this was neither due to an altered viability of NK cells nor increased NKG2D, LFA‐1 or conjugate formation with target cells. Receptor proximal signaling events were inhibited. However, a slight time dependent enhancement of Vav phosphorylation was observed under certain circumstances. The shift in Vav phosphorylation level may be one major mechanism for NK cell activity enhancement induced by dasatinib. Our findings argue for a careful timing and dosing of dasatinib application during leukemia/lymphoma treatment to enhance NK cell immunotherapeutic efforts.
SPILLOVERS BETWEEN BUSINESS CONFIDENCE AND STOCK RETURNS IN GREECE, ITALY, PORTUGAL, AND SPAIN
Authors: Atukeren Erdal , Korkmaz Turhan , Çevik Emrah İ
Published: March 2012

This paper employs Hong's (2001) causality‐in‐mean and causality‐in‐variance tests to investigate the spillovers between business confidence and stock returns for the four economically distressed Southern European countries, namely Greece, Italy, Spain, and Portugal. The sample uses monthly data and covers the period from January 1988 to December 2010. Our causality‐in‐mean results indicate that there is feedback relationship between stock returns and business confidence in Portugal. The direction of causality‐in‐mean runs from business confidence to stock returns in Italy, but it is in the reverse direction in the case of Spain. Nevertheless, there is still evidence of a contemporaneous interaction between business confidence and stock returns in both Italy and Spain. On the other hand, causality‐in‐variance indicate the presence of volatility spillovers from business confidence to stock returns in Portugal, while a causal relationship is found in the current month in the case of Italy. Business confidence causes stock returns only in the mean in Greece. These results indicate that the stock market and business confidence relationship has its own idiosyncratic properties and that the stock market reactions to the current macroeconomic environment and expectations about the future developments might evolve differently in each country. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
REAL EXCHANGE RATE DYNAMICS IN TRANSITION ECONOMIES: A NONLINEAR ANALYSIS
Authors: Nusair Salah A.
Published: March 2012

This article examines the behaviour of the real exchange rates for 18 transition economies using nonlinear models. We find strong evidence of nonlinearities in 16 of the 18 countries. Contrary to widely held belief that the behaviour of real exchange rates should exhibit symmetrical adjustment for deviations above and below its equilibrium level, we find strong evidence of asymmetrical adjustment in 12 of the 16 countries for which the null hypothesis of linearity is rejected. Applying nonlinear unit root tests reveals evidence of stationarity in all the cases except for Poland. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Distribution of metal released from cobalt–chromium alloy orthopaedic wear particles implanted into air pouches in mice
Authors: Afolaranmi Grace A. , Akbar Moeed , Brewer James , Grant M. Helen
Published: March 2012

Metal‐on‐metal hip replacement implants generate wear debris and release ions both locally and systemically in patients. To investigate dissemination of metal, we determined blood and organ levels of cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), and molybdenum (Mo) following the implantation of Co–Cr alloy wear debris in mice using skin pouches as a model system. We observed increased metal levels in blood for up to 72 h; the levels of Co were highest and remained elevated for 7 days. Co levels were elevated in all organs studied (liver, kidney, spleen, lung, heart, brain, and testes), with the peak at 48 h; highest levels were measured in liver and kidney (838.9 ± 223.7 ng/g in liver, and 938.8 ± 131.6 ng/g in kidney). Organ Cr levels were considerably lower than Co levels, for example, Cr in kidney was 117.2 ± 12.6 ng/g tissue at 48 h. Co is more mobile than Cr, reaching higher levels at earlier time points. This could be due to local tissue binding of Cr. Exposure to Co–Cr particles in vivo altered antioxidant enzyme expression and activities. We observed induction of catalase protein in the liver and glutathione reductase (GR) and peroxidase (GPx) proteins in the spleen. Activities of catalase and GPx in the liver were significantly increased while that of GR was decreased in the kidney. Organs of mice with Co–Cr particle implantation were exposed to increased metal levels capable of inducing reactive oxygen species scavenging enzymes, suggesting the tissue may be subjected to oxidative stress; however, the overall antioxidant defence system was not markedly disturbed. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2012.
Reactivation of human polyomavirus JC in patients affected by psoriasis vulgaris and psoriatic arthritis and treated with biological drugs: Preliminary results
Authors: Nardis Chiara , Anzivino Elena , Bellizzi Anna , Rodio Donatella M. , De Pità Ornella , Chiarini Fernanda , Pietropaolo Valeria
Published: March 2012

Psoriasis vulgaris (PsV) and psoriatic arthritis (PSA) are inter‐related heritable inflammatory skin diseases. Psoriatic lesions develop as a result of abnormal immune responses, hyperproliferation and altered differentiation of keratinocytes, and a notable subset of psoriatic patients develops PsA, characterized by joints inflammation. Recently, biological drugs were introduced to treat these diseases. However, this therapy has already been associated with the development of serious life‐threatening infections, such as the reactivation of human polyomavirus JC (JCV), responsible for the progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a lethal demyelinating disease caused by oligodendrocytes lytic infection. Therefore, the aims of our study were the investigation of the possible JCV reactivation in PsV and PsA patients treated with adalimumab, etanercept, and methotrexate, performing quantitative real‐time PCR in sera and skin biopsies at the time of recruitment (T0) and after 3 (T3) and 6 (T6) months of treatment, and the sequencing analysis of the JCV non‐coding control region (NCCR). We found JCV DNA in 5/15 PsV patients and in 2/15 PsA patients and JCV NCCR sequence analysis always showed a structure similar to non‐pathogenic CY archetype, with random occurrence of a few irrelevant point mutations. Nevertheless the poor number of patients analyzed, our preliminary data can pave the way for taking into account that the follow‐up of JCV DNA detection and the JCV NCCR sequence analysis in psoriatic patients may be important to evaluate the risk of PML onset, considering that patients affected by autoimmune diseases and treated with biologics continue to rise. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 3796–3802, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Morphological gradient based adapted selective filter for removal of rician noise from magnetic resonance images
Authors: Zia Sultan , Jaffar M. Arfan , Choi Tae‐Sun
Published: March 2012

Feature/edge‐preserving noise removal techniques have a strong potential in several application domains including medical image processing. Magnetic resonance (MR) images have a tendency to gain Rician noise during acquisition. In this article, we have presented genetic algorithms based adapted selective non‐local means (GASNLM) filter‐based scheme for noise suppression of MR images while preserving the image features as much as possible. We have applied GASNLM filter with optimal parameter values for different frequency image regions to remove the noise. Filter parameter values are optimized by genetic algorithm (GA). A change in NLM filter known as selective weight matrix is also proposed to preserve the image features. The results prove soundness of the method. We have compared results with many well known and latest techniques, and the improvements are discussed. Microsc. Res. Tech. 75:1044–1050, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
On the morphology of the worker immatures of the leafcutter ant Atta sexdens linnaeus (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
Authors: Solis Daniel Russ , Fox Eduardo Gonçalves Paterson , Ceccato Marcela , Reiss Itamar Cristina , Décio Pâmela , Lorenzon Natalia , Da Silva Natiele Gonçalves , Bueno Odair Correa
Published: March 2012

Leafcutter ants of the genus Atta Fabricius are serious agricultural pests. Morphological studies of immature stages within this group are few, and the data provided for species of considerable importance are usually incomplete. In this study, the immatures of Atta sexdens Linnaeus are described and compared using light and scanning electron microscopy. Only specimens from founding stage colonies (i.e., lacking adult workers) were used. The existence of four larval instars was estimated by a frequency plot of maximum head widths, and the larvae of different instars differed from each other mainly by their bodily dimensions. Worker larvae belonged to two distinct morphological castes: (1) gardeners and nurses and (2) within‐nest generalists. The worker larvae described in this study differed from a previous description of the same species by the following traits: the existence of a genal lobe, the number of clypeal hairs, the presence of two hairs on the ninth abdominal somite, the presence of hairs on the anterior surface of the labrum, and the shape of the maxillary palpus. This study provides a comparative analysis of immature stages of A. sexdens that may be relevant to future morphological and biological studies of the Attini. Microsc. Res. Tech. 75:1059–1065, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ultrastructural evaluation of enamel after dental bleaching associated with fluoride
Authors: Dominguez John A. , Bittencourt Bruna , Michel Milton , Sabino Nilson , Gomes João Carlos , Gomes Osnara M. M.
Published: March 2012

This study evaluated the effects on human enamel after two bleaching procedures: with a fluoridated bleaching agent and with topical fluoride application postbleaching. It used 43 enamel blocks (3 mm2) that were ground flat (600–2,000 grit) and polished with polishing paste (one and one‐fourth). Specimens were randomly divided into three groups according to the bleaching procedure: (1) control group, (2) hydrogen peroxide 35% (HPF) and topical application of fluoride 1.23%, and (3) HP 38% (OP) with fluoride in its composition. Bleaching agents were used according to the manufacturer's instructions. Three methodologies were used: nanoindentation, to observe surface hardness and elastic modulus; atomic force microscopy, to observe surface roughness (Ra − Rz); and scanning electron microscopy, to observe the enamel surface effects. Group OP had a decrease in the elastic modulus after bleaching, which was recovered at 14 days. An increased roughness (Ra; 32%) was observed on group HPF and had an increased erosion on enamel surface (67%). It was concluded that topical application of fluoride, after using the nonfluoridated whitening agent, increased the roughness values and erosion of enamel. Microsc. Res. Tech. 75:1093–1098, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ultrastructural analysis of the root canal walls after simultaneous irrigation of different sodium hypochlorite concentration and 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate
Authors: Gasic Jovanka , Popovic Jelena , Živković Slavoljub , Petrovic Aleksandar , Barac Radomir , Nikolic Marija
Published: March 2012

To determine whether sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) with 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX) leads to colour change and precipitate formation, and to ultrastructurally analyse the dentine surface after simultaneous irrigation with 0.5% NaOCl and 0.2% CHX. Four tubes in which 5ml of different NaOCl concentrations and 5ml 0,2% CHX were placed, were observed every 15 minutes in the first two hours and after 7 days. Mixture solutions were centrifuged at 800 rpm/4 min. A precipitate is observed under light‐microscopy. Thirty‐five single‐rooted teeth were instrumented using crown‐down technique with irrigation: Positive control: distilled water, Negative control: 0,5% NaOCl+15% EDTA, Experimental group: identical to the negative control, then canals were treated with 0.5% NaOCl+0.2% CHX. The longitudinal root sections were observed under scanning‐electron‐microscopy. The amount of debris was assessed with 5/score‐system, and the results were analysed using the Mann‐Whitney U test (p < 0.001). Change in colour was noticed immediately after the merger and it did not change with time. Mixture solutions showed considerable turbidity, but precipitate was observed only after centrifugation. Statistical analysis showed a significant difference in the dentinal wall purity when comparing the cervical and middle root canal thirds between the experimental and negative control group. The difference was also observed between the cervical and middle thirds compared to the apical third of the root canal within these groups. Interaction between NaOCl and CHX, as well as the creation of precipitates, depends not only on the concentration of NaOCl, but also on the concentration of CHX. Microsc. Res. Tech. 75:1099–1103, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
In situ derivatization–liquid liquid extraction as a sample preparation strategy for the determination of urinary biomarker prolyl‐4‐hydroxyproline by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Cimlová Jana , Kružberská Pavla , Švagera Zdeněk , Hušek Petr , Šimek Petr
Published: March 2012

Polar analytes that possess protic functional groups have often been treated with alkyl chloroformates to decrease their polarity and increase their volatility prior to gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis. This derivatization reaction has two distinct advantages. It proceeds smoothly in aqueous media, and the desired reaction products are efficiently separated from interfering ionic components by their extraction into a water‐immiscible organic phase. In the present work, the derivatization–liquid liquid sample preparation was examined in detail for analysis of a potential urinary dipeptide biomarker l‐prolyl‐4‐l‐hydroxyproline (PHP) by downstream liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray mass spectrometry. PHP was treated with a series of alkyl and fluoroalkyl chloroformates in aqueous media, and the detected reaction products were investigated. Smooth conversion of PHP into the N‐isobutyloxycarbonyl isobutyl ester was accomplished by the coupled action of isobutanol, isobutyl chloroformate and the pyridine catalyst. This derivative afforded a highest detector response from all the derivatized forms examined, including the nonderivatized PHP. A simple isocratic elution on a common RP‐C18 HPLC column coupled with tandem mass spectrometry, and use of the synthesized heptadeuterated analog (D7‐PHP) as an internal standard, enabled validation of the method and determination of PHP in human urine in less than 5 min. The in situ derivatization–liquid liquid extraction has thus been demonstrated to be a useful sample preparation strategy for the analysis of polar metabolites by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry in the complex urine matrix. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of a multimodel‐based seasonal prediction system for extreme droughts and floods: a case study for South Korea
Authors: Sohn Soo‐Jin , Tam Chi‐Yung , Ahn Joong‐Bae
Published: March 2012

An experimental, district‐level system was developed to forecast droughts and floods over South Korea to properly represent local precipitation extremes. The system is based on the Asia‐Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Climate Center (APCC) multimodel ensemble (MME) seasonal prediction products. Three‐month lead precipitation forecasts for 60 stations in South Korea for the season of March to May are first obtained from the coarse‐scale MME prediction using statistical downscaling. Owing to the relatively small variance of the MME and regression‐based downscaling outputs, the downscaled MME (DMME) products need to be subsequently inflated. The final station‐scale precipitation predictions are then used to produce drought and flood forecasts on the basis of the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI).

The performance of three different inflation schemes was also assessed. Of these three schemes, the method that simply rescales the variance of predicted rainfall to that based on climate records, irrespective of the prediction skill or the DMME variance itself at a particular station, gives the best overall improvement in the SPI predictions. However, systematic biases in the prediction system cannot be removed by variance inflation. This implies that DMME techniques must be further improved to correct the bias in extreme drought/flood predictions. Overall, it is seen that DMME, in conjunction with variance inflation, can predict hydrological extremes with reasonable skill. Our results could inform the development of a reliable early warning system for droughts and floods, which is invaluable to policy makers and stakeholders in agricultural and water management sectors, and so forth and is important for mitigation and adaptation measures. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
Role of sentinel lymphadenectomy in thin cutaneous melanomas with positive deep margins on initial biopsy
Authors: Koshenkov Vadim P. , Shulkin Daniel , Bustami Rami , Chevinsky Aaron H. , Whitman Eric D.
Published: March 2012

Introduction

Breslow thickness (BRES) on initial melanoma biopsy determines need for sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy. In presence of positive deep margins, BRES is indeterminate. We hypothesized that thin (BRES <0.76 mm) melanomas with positive deep margins and thicker melanomas (BRES 0.76–2.0 mm) have statistically similar risk of SLN metastasis.

Methods

Retrospective review was performed of adult patients undergoing wide excision plus SLN biopsy for melanoma from 01/2004 to 05/2010. Group 1 (BRES <0.76mm and positive deep margins) was compared to Group 2 (BRES 0.76–2.0 mm, regardless of margin status). Primary outcome was presence of SLN metastasis.

Results

260 patients were eligible, 72 (28%) in Group 1 and 188 (72%) in Group 2. Average age was 57 years, with 120 (46%) females. SLNs were positive in 6/72 (8.3%) patients in Group 1 and 17/188 (9.0%) patients in Group 2 (P = 0.86). The two groups were not statistically different by multivariate analysis (P = 0.49). In multivariate model, Clark's level IV (P = 0.009) was only predictive factor of SLN metastasis.

Conclusions

Melanoma patients with thin BRES but positive deep margins carry risk of SLN metastasis similar to patients with thicker melanomas. Positive deep margins should be considered in decision to perform SLN biopsy. Clark's level IV was significantly associated with SLN metastasis. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012; 106:363–368. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High expression of CX3CL1 by tumor cells correlates with a good prognosis and increased tumor‐infiltrating CD8+ T cells, natural killer cells, and dendritic cells in breast carcinoma
Authors: Park Min Ho , Lee Ji Shin , Yoon Jung Han
Published: March 2012

Background

CX3CL1 is the only CX3C chemokine that can chemoattract T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and dendritic cells (DCs). The role of CX3CL1 in breast carcinoma remains unknown.

Methods

Immunohistochemical staining for CX3CL1, CD8, CD57, and CD1a was performed on 204 breast carcinoma specimens using tissue microarray blocks to determine whether CX3CL1 expression correlated with a good prognosis and antitumor immunity.

Results

The number of stromal CD8+ T cells, intratumoral CD1a+ DCs, and stromal CD57+ NK cells were significantly increased in the high CX3CL1 expression group compared with those in the low CX3CL1expression group. Patients with high CX3CL1 expression had a significantly better disease‐free and overall survival than those with low CX3CL1 expression (P = 0.002 and P < 0.001, respectively). CX3CL1 expression was identified as one of the independent prognostic factors for disease‐free and overall survival (P = 0.046 and P = 0.010, respectively).

Conclusion

The expression of CX3CL1 by tumor cells appears to enhance the recruitment of CD8+ T cells, CD57+ NK cells, and CD1a+ DCs, thereby bringing about a better prognosis in breast carcinoma. CX3CL1 is a new prognostic biomarker and may be a novel candidate for development of a more effective therapeutic strategy for breast carcinoma. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012; 106:386–392. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of Organizational Learning Mechanisms on Organizational Performance and Shared Mental Models during Planned Change
Authors: Ellis Shmuel , Margalit Daniella , Segev Eli
Published: March 2012

The study investigated the interrelations among use of organizational learning mechanisms, organizational mental models, and organizational outcomes. It was conducted in a bank, 10 of whose branches were soon to undergo organizational change designed to improve customer service and another 10 were to undergo the same organizational change a few months later. The results demonstrated that customer satisfaction was greater for branches that used organizational learning mechanisms intensively than for branches that used these mechanisms less intensively. The learning branches also showed richer shared knowledge (more constructs and causal links within their cognitive cause maps) and more congruent mental models (cause maps). Furthermore, the content of the learning branches' shared knowledge reflected more closely the messages delivered by organizational management in favor of the structural change. The hypothesis that the use of organizational learning mechanisms moderates the success of an organizational change program was supported by the cause maps data but only partially supported by the customer satisfaction data. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exploiting Thermoresponsive Polymers to Modulate Lipophilicity: Interactions With Model Membranes
Authors: Saaka Yussif , Deller Robert C. , Rodger Alison , Gibson Matthew I.
Published: March 2012

Upon heating above their lower critical solution temperature (LCST) poly[oligo(ethyleneglycol)methacrylate]s (POEGMA) were shown to undergo a shift in their partition coefficient triggering aqueous to organic phase transfer, which indicated their potential to partition into cell membranes upon application of an external stimulus. Fluorescence‐based assays indicated that the LCST transition did not induce lysis of model phospholipid vesicles but did promote fusion, as confirmed by dynamic light scattering. Membrane perturbation assays and linear dichroism spectroscopy investigations suggest that POEGMAs above their transition temperatures can interact with, or insert into, membranes. These findings will help develop the application of responsive polymers in drug delivery.
Protein‐based stable isotope probing (protein‐SIP) in functional metaproteomics
Authors: Seifert Jana , Taubert Martin , Jehmlich Nico , Schmidt Frank , Völker Uwe , Vogt Carsten , Richnow Hans‐Hermann , von Bergen Martin
Published: March 2012

The community phenotype as the sum of molecular functions of organisms living in consortia strongly depends on interactions within these communities. Therefore, the analyses of the most significant molecules in terms of the phenotype, the proteins, have to be performed on samples without disrupting the meta‐species environment. Due to the increasing genomic information, proteins provide insights into a potential molecular function and the phylogenetic structure of the community. Unfortunately, the lists of identified proteins are often based first on the technical capacity of the used methods or instruments, and second on the interpretation of them by the assignment of molecular functions to proteins in databases. Especially in non‐model organisms the functions of many proteins are often not known and an increasing number of studies indicate a significant amount of uncertainty. To decrease the dependency on assumptions and to enable functional insights by metaproteome approaches, the metabolic labeling from an isotopically labeled substrate can be used. Since the metabolites deriving from the substrate are very rarely species‐specific, the incorporation of the stable isotope into proteins can be used as a surrogate marker for metabolic activity. The degree of incorporation can be determined accurately on the peptide level by mass spectrometry; additionally, the peptide sequence provides information on the metabolic active species. Thereby, protein‐stable isotope probing (protein‐SIP) adds functional information to metaproteome approaches. The classical metaproteome approaches will be reviewed with an emphasis on their attempts towards functional interpretation. The gain from functional insights into metaproteomics by using metabolic labeling of stable isotopes of carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur is reviewed with a focus on the techniques of measurement, calculation of incorporation and data processing. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Mass Spec Rev 31:683–697, 2012
Do we always prioritize balance when walking? Towards an integrated model of task prioritization
Authors: Yogev‐Seligmann Galit , Hausdorff Jeffrey M. , Giladi Nir
Published: March 2012

Previous studies suggest that strategies such as “posture first” are implicitly employed to regulate safety when healthy adults walk while simultaneously performing another task, whereas “posture second” may be inappropriately applied in the presence of neurological disease. However, recent understandings raise questions about the traditional resource allocation concept during walking while dual tasking. We propose a task prioritization model of walking while dual tasking that integrates motor and cognitive capabilities, focusing on postural reserve, hazard estimation, and other individual intrinsic factors. The proposed prioritization model provides a theoretical foundation for future studies and a framework for the development of interventions designed to reduce the profound negative impacts of dual tasking on gait and fall risk in patients with neurological diseases. © 2012 Movement Disorder Society
Increased levels of 5‐HT1A receptor binding in ventral visual pathways in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Huot Philippe , Johnston Tom H. , Visanji Naomi P. , Darr Tayyeba , Pires Donna , Hazrati Lili‐Naz , Brotchie Jonathan M. , Fox Susan H.
Published: March 2012

Visual hallucinations are common in advanced Parkinson's disease (PD). The pathophysiology of visual hallucinations may involve enhanced serotonergic neurotransmission. The atypical antipsychotics clozapine and quetiapine, which have affinity for 5‐HT2A and 5‐HT1A receptors, are effective against visual hallucinations in PD. 5‐HT2A receptors are increased in ventral visual pathways in PD patients with visual hallucinations, and we hypothesized that 5‐HT1A receptors were also involved in visual hallucinations in PD. Autoradiographic binding using [3H]‐WAY‐100,635 and NAN‐190 was performed in brain sections from 6 PD patients with visual hallucinations, 6 PD patients without visual hallucinations, and 5 age‐matched controls. All PD subjects had been treated with L‐dopa. Brain areas studied were the orbitofrontal, inferolateral temporal, and motor cortices, as well as the striatum, globus pallidus, substantia nigra, and thalamus. 5‐HT1A‐binding levels were dramatically increased in the ventral visual pathways of all PD patients compared with controls (0 vs 11 and 0 vs 100 nmol/mg, respectively; both P < .05). There was no significant difference in 5‐HT1A‐binding levels in PD patients with visual hallucinations compared with PD patients without visual hallucinations or with controls in any of the brain areas studied (P > .05). Gross abnormalities in 5‐HT1A levels in ventral visual areas occurred in all PD patients exposed to L‐dopa. However, as there was no difference in 5‐HT1A‐binding levels between hallucinators and nonhallucinators, alterations in 5‐HT1A receptor levels may not contribute specifically to visual hallucinations in PD. However, the discrete anatomical distribution of rises to the ventral visual areas suggests some role in predisposing to visual hallucinations. © 2012 Movement Disorder Society
Is overactive bladder in children and adults the same condition?: ICI‐RS 2011
Authors: Salvatore Stefano , Serati Maurizio , Origoni Massimo , Candiani Massimo
Published: March 2012

Aim

To report the debate on the relationship between overactive bladder (OAB) in children and adults during the ICI‐RS meeting in 2010.

Methods

Literature supporting or being against the theory that OAB in children and adults represents the same condition has been reviewed and debated.

Results

Growing evidence is showing a strong link between urinary symptoms in childhood, such as nocturnal enuresis (NE) and OAB symptoms, and OAB in adulthood. Behavioral and environmental factors may have an important role in predisposed subjects. Studies on familial and genetic factors have been reported.

Conclusion

It might be inappropriate to state that OAB in children and adults represents the same condition. However, epidemiological and genetic findings demonstrate a strong link between OAB symptoms in these two different ages of life. Predisposing factors and behavioral and/or environmental elements may lead to OAB occurrence in adults. Neurourol. Urodynam. 31:349–351, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pictures of me: user views on their representation in homelessness fundraising appeals
Authors: Breeze Beth , Dean Jon
Published: March 2012

There is a long‐standing ethical debate regarding the ‘right’ representation of recipients in charity marketing materials that are intended to accurately define and represent social problems whilst also prompting the maximum response in voluntary income. The study presented in this article makes a contribution to that debate by highlighting the views of charity beneficiaries regarding their representation in fundraising campaigns. Drawing on data from five focus groups conducted in cities across England, we explore the views of young homeless people regarding the images of homelessness that appeared in major charity campaigns aimed at raising money to fund homelessness services. Participants displayed a high level of reflexivity, demonstrating that they understood the issues involved with homelessness and the perceptions of people like themselves that exist in the public sphere and in the consciousness of potential donors. Although the participants held the view that maximising revenues through the use of simple, eye‐catching images is the prime goal of fundraising, they also expressed a desire for more nuanced campaigns that tell the dynamic stories of how people become homeless and the use of imagery that elicits empathy rather than merely arouses sympathy. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Unpacking the social media phenomenon: towards a research agenda
Authors: Kietzmann Jan H. , Silvestre Bruno S. , McCarthy Ian P. , Pitt Leyland F.
Published: March 2012

In this paper, we highlight some of the challenges and opportunities that social media presents to researchers, and offer relevant theoretical avenues to be explored. To do this, we present a model that unpacks social media by using a honeycomb of seven functional building blocks. We then examine each of the seven building blocks and, through appropriate social and socio‐technical theories, raise questions that warrant further in‐depth research to advance the conceptualization of social media in public affairs research. Finally, we combine the individual research questions for each building block back into the honeycomb model to illustrate how the theories in combination provide a powerful macro‐lens for research on social media dynamics. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role of intersubband optical transitions on the electrical properties of InGaAs/GaAs quantum dot solar cells
Authors: Jolley Greg , Fu Lan , Lu Hao Feng , Tan Hark Hoe , Jagadish Chennupati
Published: March 2012

We report on an experimental study of the intersubband optical response of an In0.5Ga0.5As/GaAs quantum dot solar cell (QDSC). By calculating the quantum dot absorption cross section, the strength of the intersubband optical transitions is gauged, and their importance and influence on the electrical properties of the solar cell can be compared with those of other physical processes such as thermal intersubband and optical interband transitions. The temperature‐dependent photocurrent and dark current characteristics of the QDSC have also been analyzed in detail, leading to an understanding of the specific effects reducing the open‐circuit voltage. The deviation of QDSCs from idealized models is discussed, and some conditions required for an improved open‐circuit voltage are suggested. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Body image predicts quality of life in men with prostate cancer
Authors: Taylor‐Ford Megan , Meyerowitz Beth E. , D'Orazio Lina M. , Christie Kysa M. , Gross Mitchell E. , Agus David B.
Published: March 2012

Objective

Most men diagnosed with prostate cancer in the USA will survive. Of the many aspects of survivorship affected by prostate cancer, body image receives limited attention despite some indication that it may be important to men with the disease. The present study investigated how body image changes over time and the relations between changes in body image and quality of life (QOL) in men with prostate cancer.

Methods

In a longitudinal design, patients (N = 74) completed questionnaires before treatment (T1) and at 1 month (T2) and 2 years (T3) following treatment completion.

Results

Growth curve modeling indicated that there was no significant change over time in group‐level body image scores. However, hormone treatment was associated with a negative trajectory of change over 2 years. Also, analysis of individual difference scores indicated that ≥50% of patients demonstrated change of at least 0.5 standard deviation between time points. Hierarchical regression indicated that change in body image between T1 and T2 was significantly associated with change in QOL between T1 and T3, while controlling for demographic variables, treatment, treatment‐related functioning, and general and treatment‐specific positive expectations. In predicting change in body image between T1 and T2, treatment‐specific positive expectation was the only significant predictor.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrates that body image is an important component of the prostate cancer experience. Findings suggest that body image has a meaningful association with QOL among prostate cancer survivors.Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Factors associated with breast cancer worry 3 years after completion of adjuvant treatment
Authors: Phillips Kristin M. , McGinty Heather L. , Gonzalez Brian D. , Jim Heather S. L. , Small Brent J. , Minton Susan , Andrykowski Michael A. , Jacobsen Paul B.
Published: March 2012

Objective

Although many survivors continue to worry about cancer years after completing treatment, little is known about factors associated with cancer worry. This study examined associations between breast cancer worry and demographic and clinical variables, as well as fatigue, symptom burden, and risk perception in a sample of breast cancer survivors 3 years post‐adjuvant treatment. We hypothesized that after controlling for demographic and treatment factors, a significant proportion of variance in cancer worry would be explained by greater fatigue severity, more symptom burden, and greater perceived risk of recurrence.

Methods

Stage 0‐II breast cancer patients (N = 202) completed measures of risk perception, cancer worry (modified Lerman's Cancer Worry Scale), symptom burden (Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale), and fatigue severity (Fatigue Symptom Inventory) 3 years after completing adjuvant treatment. Multiple regression analyses were used to determine the proportion of variance in cancer worry accounted for by fatigue, symptom burden, and risk perception after controlling for demographic and clinical variables.

Results

Age, fatigue, symptom burden, and risk perception each explained a significant proportion of variance in cancer worry (p < 0.05). Fatigue, symptom burden, and risk perception together accounted for 27% of the variance in cancer worry after controlling for demographic and clinical factors (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

The hypothesis was supported that fatigue, symptom burden, and risk perception are associated with cancer worry among breast cancer survivors. It is possible that lingering fatigue and other symptoms may remind breast cancer survivors of their disease. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Soil contamination and persistence of pollutants following organophosphate sprays and explosions to control red‐billed quelea (Quelea quelea)
Authors: Cheke Robert A , Adranyi Enoch , Cox John R , Farman Dudley I , Magoma Richard N , Mbereki Collen , McWilliam Andrew N , Mtobesya Boaz N , van der Walt Etienne
Published: March 2012

BACKGROUND: Red‐billed quelea (Quelea quelea) are controlled at breeding colonies and roosts by organophosphate sprays or explosions. Contamination with organophosphates after sprays and with petroleum products and phthalates after explosions was assessed.

RESULTS: Concentrations in soil of the organophosphate fenthion the day after sprays were uneven (0–29.5 µg g−1), which was attributable to excess depositions at vehicle turning points, incorrect positioning of nozzles and poor equipment maintenance. A laboratory study using field‐collected samples provided an estimate of 47 days for the half‐life of fenthion. After sprays, fenthion persisted in soil for up to 188 days. High concentrations were detected 5 months after negative results at the same sites, providing indirect evidence of leaching. Concentrations of total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPHs) and phthalates ranged from 0.05 to 130.81 (mean 18.69) µg g−1and from 0 to 1.62 (mean 0.55) µg g−1respectively in the craters formed by the explosions, but declined to means of 0.753 and 0.027 µg g−1at 10 m away. One year after an explosion, mean TPHs of 0.865 and mean phthalates of 0.609 were detected.

CONCLUSION: Localisation of high concentrations of fenthion likely to have effects on soil biota could be mitigated by improved spray management. Given a half‐life in the soil of 47 days for fenthion and the possibility of its leaching months after applications raises concerns about its acceptability. The pollutants left behind after explosions have been quantified for the first time, and, given their long‐term persistence, their continued use poses a threat to environmental health. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of disorder on the charge‐carrier dynamics in κ ‐(D8‐ET)2Cu[N(CN)2]Br
Authors: Brandenburg Jens , Müller Jens , Schlueter John A.
Published: March 2012

We have applied resistance fluctuation spectroscopy to study the intrinsic low‐frequency dynamics of the charge carriers in the system κ ‐(D8‐ET)2Cu[N(CN)2]Br for two different cooling rates. A strong increase of both the resistance and the noise level is observed below the thermodynamic glass‐transition temperature Tg. Surprisingly, the data of the normalized spectral weight 〈(δR)2〉/R2 fall on top of each other for both cooling rates except for temperatures near the Mott critical point (T0 ≃ 35 K) and below 28 K. The suppression of the peak in 〈(δR)2〉/R2 associated with the Mott transition suggests that disorder is an additional parameter in the generalized phase diagram. The enhanced noise level below 28 K might be explained by a disorder‐induced staggered magnetic moment in the metallic state close to the antiferromagnetic Mott insulator. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
(DT‐TTF)2[Pd(mnt)2]: An unusual ionic salt
Authors: Silva Rafaela A. L. , Afonso Mónica L. , Santos Isabel C. , Belo Dulce , Freitas Rui R. , Lopes Elsa B. , Coutinho Joana T. , Pereira Laura C. J. , Henriques Rui T. , Almeida Manuel , Rovira Concepció
Published: March 2012

The charge transfer salt based on the organic donor dithiophene‐tetrathiafulvalene and palladium bis‐maleonitrile‐dithiolate, (DT‐TTF)2[Pd(mnt)2], was obtained as single crystal by electrocrystallisation in dichloromethane. The crystal structure is different from the analogues previously described with other metals (Au, Cu, Ni and Pt) but of the same type as (TTDM–TTF)2[Au(mnt)2]. However in this DT‐TTF salt the Pd complex is dianionic, being the donor molecules fully oxidised and the compound should then be formulated as (DT‐TTF+)2[Pd(mnt)2]2–. This compound has properties of a quasi‐one‐dimensional semiconductor with sRT∼ 6 × 10–2 Scm–1 and Ea∼0.172 eV (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)