bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A method of estimating energy saving effect and its application to factory energy supply systems
Authors: Kitamura Shoichi , Mori Kazuyuki , Ozaki Yoshihiko , Shindo Seiichi , Izui Yosiho
Published: June 2009

In order to carry out energy saving service, it is indispensable to calculate the energy saving effect quantitatively by presuming the energy cost at the time of not executing the energy saving measure. However, it is difficult because the energy cost changes when environment (energy demand, unit prices of fuel or electric power, and so on) changes even if an energy saving measure is not executed. Although the effect has been conventionally evaluated by the difference between the energy costs before and after the energy saving measure, the effect cannot be calculated correctly when there is environmental change. In this paper, we propose the method of estimating the energy saving effect by presuming the energy cost after an energy saving measure, assuming that the measure is not executed, and show the results of its application to the practical power plants. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 168(4): 14–20, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20880
Descriptive norms, prescriptive norms, and social control: An intercultural comparison of people's reactions to uncivil behaviors
Authors: Brauer Markus , Chaurand Nadine
Published: June 2009

Social control is the generic term for any reaction through which a bystander communicates to the “perpetrator” of a norm transgression that his/her action is socially unacceptable. In order to understand the characteristics of behaviors that lead to social control reactions in public settings, we conducted a study with respondents from eight different countries. Respondents were presented with a description of 46 uncivil behaviors and indicated for each behavior (a) its prescriptive normativity (how deviant it was), (b) its descriptive normativity (how frequent it was), and (c) how likely it was that they would express their disapproval to the “perpetrator.” Results showed that in all eight countries, prescriptive normativity was the primary determinant of respondents' social control reactions. In addition, respondents from collectivistic cultures reported that they would exert more social control than respondents from individualistic cultures. The findings suggest that people will exert social control when they feel personally implicated by the uncivil behavior. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Separation of similar yeast strains by IEF techniques
Authors: Horká Marie , Růžička Filip , Holá Veronika , Šlais Karel
Published: June 2009

Rapid and reliable identification of the etiological agents of infectious diseases, especially species that are hardly distinguishable by routinely used laboratory methods, e.g. Candida albicans from C. dubliniensis, is necessary for early administration of an appropriate therapy. Similarly, the differentiation between biofilm‐positive and biofilm‐negative yeast strains is necessary for the choice of a therapeutic strategy due to higher resistance of the biofilm‐positive strains to antifungals. In this study rapid separation and identification of similar strains of Candida, cells and/or their lysates, based on IEF are outlined. The isoelectric points of the monitored “similar pairs” of Candidas, C. albicans and C. dubliniensis and the biofilm‐positive C. parapsilosis, C. tropicalis and their biofilm‐negative strains were determined by CIEF with UV detection in the acidic pH gradient. The differences between their isoelectric points were up to 0.3 units of pI. Simultaneously, a fast and a simple technique was developed for the lysis of the outer membrane cell and characteristic fingerprints were found in lysate electrophoreograms and in gels from the capillary or the gel IEF, respectively.
Spatial frequency scheduling for uplink SC‐FDMA based linearly precoded multiuser MIMO systems
Authors: Lin Zihuai , Xiao Pei , Sørensen Troels B. , Vucetic Branka
Published: June 2009

This paper investigates the performance of the uplink single carrier (SC) frequency division multiple access (FDMA) based linearly precoded multiuser multiple input multiple output (MIMO) systems with frequency domain packet scheduling. A mathematical expression of the received signal to interference plus noise ratio (SINR) for the studied systems is derived and a utility function based spatial frequency packet scheduling algorithms is investigated. The schedulers are shown to be able to exploit the available multiuser diversity in time, frequency and spatial domains. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
CNS pericytes: Concepts, misconceptions, and a way out
Authors: Krueger Martin , Bechmann Ingo
Published: June 2009

Rouget, in 1873, was the first to describe a population of cells surrounding capillaries, which he regarded as contractile elements. Fifty years later, Zimmermann termed these cells “pericytes” and distinguished three subtypes along the vascular tree. Since then, the discussion concerning the contractile ability of pericytes has never ceased. Current concepts of pericyte biology rather suggest critical roles in the maintenance of homeostasis, blood–brain barrier (BBB) integrity, angiogenesis, and neovascularization. In addition, data from models of brain pathology suggest that novel pericytes are recruited from the bone marrow, but their respective precursor remains enigmatic. Recent data also suggest an important role in the regulation of cerebral blood flow, thus confirming Rouget's original idea. However, comparison of data from different studies is often constrained by the fact that pericytes were questionably identified. Although a clear‐cut definition exists, defining pericytes as part of the vascular wall being enclosed in its basement membrane, pericytes are often mixed up with adjacent cell types of the vascular wall, the perivascular space, and the juxtavascular parenchyma. In fact, their identification is difficult—if not impossible—in standard histological sections. An unambiguous distinction, however, is possible at the ultrastructural level and in semi‐thin sections, where their location within the vascular basement membrane can be displayed. Using these techniques in combination with immunological staining methods allows demarking their unique morphology and location. Here, we review original papers describing pericytes, briefly outline their topography within the vascular compartments, describe methods for their identification, and summarize current concepts of their function. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Enhanced visual processing contributes to matrix reasoning in autism
Authors: Soulières Isabelle , Dawson Michelle , Samson Fabienne , Barbeau Elise B. , Sahyoun Chérif P. , Strangman Gary E. , Zeffiro Thomas A. , Mottron Laurent
Published: June 2009

Recent behavioral investigations have revealed that autistics perform more proficiently on Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM) than would be predicted by their Wechsler intelligence scores. A widely‐used test of fluid reasoning and intelligence, the RSPM assays abilities to flexibly infer rules, manage goal hierarchies, and perform high‐level abstractions. The neural substrates for these abilities are known to encompass a large frontoparietal network, with different processing models placing variable emphasis on the specific roles of the prefrontal or posterior regions. We used functional magnetic resonance imaging to explore the neural bases of autistics' RSPM problem solving. Fifteen autistic and eighteen non‐autistic participants, matched on age, sex, manual preference and Wechsler IQ, completed 60 self‐paced randomly‐ordered RSPM items along with a visually similar 60‐item pattern matching comparison task. Accuracy and response times did not differ between groups in the pattern matching task. In the RSPM task, autistics performed with similar accuracy, but with shorter response times, compared to their non‐autistic controls. In both the entire sample and a subsample of participants additionally matched on RSPM performance to control for potential response time confounds, neural activity was similar in both groups for the pattern matching task. However, for the RSPM task, autistics displayed relatively increased task‐related activity in extrastriate areas (BA18), and decreased activity in the lateral prefrontal cortex (BA9) and the medial posterior parietal cortex (BA7). Visual processing mechanisms may therefore play a more prominent role in reasoning in autistics. Hum Brain Mapp, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Targeted Expression of Uncoupling Protein 2 to Mouse Liver Increases the Susceptibility to Lipopolysaccharide/Galactosamine-Induced Acute Liver Injury†
Authors: Shang Yingli , Liu Yong , Du Lei , Wang Youliang , Cheng Xuan , Xiao Weiming , Wang Xiaohui , Jin Haijing , Yang Xiao , Liu Shusen , Chen Quan
Published: June 2009

Normal hepatocytes do not express endogenous uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) in adult liver, although Kupffer cells do, and it is strikingly induced in hepatocytes in steatotic liver and obese conditions. However, the direct link of UCP2 with the pathogenic development of liver diseases and liver injury remains elusive. Here we report that targeted expression of UCP2 to mouse liver increases susceptibility to acute liver injury induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and galactosamine (GalN). UCP2 appears to enhance proton leak, leading to mild uncoupling in a guanosine diphosphate-repressible manner. Indeed, mitochondria from the genetically manipulated mouse liver have increased state 4 respiration, lower respiratory control ratio, and reduced adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels, which altered mitochondrial physiology. To address the underlying mechanism of how UCP2 and the reduced energy coupling efficiency enhance cell death in mouse liver, we show that the reduced ATP levels lead to activation of 5′AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and its downstream effector, c-Jun N-terminal kinase; thus, the increased sensitivity toward LPS/GalN-induces apoptosis. Importantly, we show that inhibition of UCP2 activity by its pharmacological inhibitor genipin prevents LPS/GalN-induced ATP reduction, AMPK activation, and apoptosis. Also, inhibition of ATP production by oligomycin promotes LPS/GalN-induced cell death both

in vivo

and

in vitro

.

Conclusion:

Our results clearly show that targeted expression of UCP2 in liver may result in compromised mitochondrial physiology that contributes to enhanced cell death and suggests a potential role of UCP2 in the development of liver diseases. (Hepatology 2009.)
Toll-Like Receptor 4 Is Involved in the Development of Fructose-Induced Hepatic Steatosis in Mice†
Authors: Spruss Astrid , Kanuri Giridhar , Wagnerberger Sabine , Haub Synia , Bischoff Stephan C. , Bergheim Ina
Published: June 2009

A link between dietary fructose intake, gut-derived endotoxemia, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been suggested by the results of human and animal studies. To further investigate the role of gut-derived endotoxin in the onset of fructose-induced NAFLD, Toll-like receptor (TLR-) 4-mutant (C3H/HeJ) mice and wildtype (C3H/HouJ) mice were either fed plain water or water enriched with 30% fructose for 8 weeks. Hepatic steatosis, plasma alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and markers of insulin resistance as well as portal endotoxin levels were determined. Hepatic levels of myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), interferon regulatory factor (IRF) 3 and 7, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) as well as markers of lipid peroxidation were assessed. Chronic intake of 30% fructose solution caused a significant increase in hepatic steatosis and plasma ALT levels in wildtype animals in comparison to water controls. In fructose-fed TLR-4 mutant mice, hepatic triglyceride accumulation was significantly reduced by ≈40% in comparison to fructose-fed wildtype mice and plasma ALT levels were at the level of water-fed controls. No difference in portal endotoxin concentration between fructose-fed wildtype and TLR-4-mutant animals was detected. In contrast, hepatic lipid peroxidation, MyD88, and TNFα levels were significantly decreased in fructose-fed TLR-4-mutant mice in comparison to fructose-fed wildtype mice, whereas IRF3 and IRF7 expression remained unchanged. Markers of insulin resistance (e.g., plasma TNFα, retinol binding protein 4, and hepatic phospho-AKT) were only altered in fructose-fed wildtype animals.

Conclusion:

Taken together, these data further support the hypothesis that in mice the onset of fructose-induced NAFLD is associated with intestinal bacterial overgrowth and increased intestinal permeability, subsequently leading to an endotoxin-dependent activation of hepatic Kupffer cells. (Hepatology 2009.)
Minimal Hepatic Encephalopathy Is Associated with Motor Vehicle Crashes
Authors: Bajaj Jasmohan S. , Saeian Kia , Schubert Christine M. , Hafeezullah Muhammad , Franco Jose , Varma Rajiv R. , Gibson Douglas P. , Hoffmann Raymond G. , Stravitz Todd R. , Heuman Douglas M. , Sterling Richard K. , Shiffman Mitchell , Topaz Allyne , Boyett Sherry , Bell Debulon , Sanyal Arun J.
Published: June 2009

Patients with minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) have impaired driving skills, but association of MHE with motor vehicle crashes is unclear. Standard psychometric tests (SPT) or inhibitory control test (ICT) can be used to diagnose MHE. The aim was to determine the association of MHE with crashes and traffic violations over the preceding year and on 1-year follow-up. Patients with cirrhosis were diagnosed with MHE by ICT (MHEICT) and SPT (MHESPT). Self and department-of-transportation (DOT)-reports were used to determine crashes and violations over the preceding year. Agreement between self and DOT-reports was analyzed. Patients then underwent 1-year follow-up for crash/violation occurrence. Crashes in those with/without MHEICT and MHESPT were compared. 167 patients with cirrhosis had DOT-reports, of which 120 also had self-reports. A significantly higher proportion of MHEICT patients with cirrhosis experienced crashes in the preceding year compared to those without MHE by self-report (17% vs 0.0%,

P

= 0.0004) and DOT-reports (17% vs 3%,

P

= 0.004, relative risk: 5.77). SPT did not differentiate between those with/without crashes. A significantly higher proportion of patients with crashes had MHEICT compared to MHESPT, both self-reported (100% vs 50%,

P

= 0.03) and DOT-reported (89% vs 44%,

P

= 0.01). There was excellent agreement between self and DOT-reports for crashes and violations (Kappa 0.90 and 0.80). 109 patients were followed prospectively. MHEICT patients had a significantly higher future crashes/violations compared to those without (22% vs 7%,

P

= 0.03) but MHESPT did not. MHEICT (Odds ratio: 4.51) and prior year crash/violation (Odds ratio: 2.96) were significantly associated with future crash/violation occurrence.

Conclusion:

Patients with cirrhosis and MHEICT have a significantly higher crash rate over the preceding year and on prospective follow-up compared to patients without MHE. ICT, but not SPT performance is significantly associated with prior and future crashes and violations. There was an excellent agreement between self- and DOT-reports. (Hepatology 2009.)
Impact of High-Dose Peginterferon Alfa-2A on Virological Response Rates in Patients with Hepatitis C Genotype 1: a Randomized Controlled Trial† ‡
Authors: Roberts Stuart K. , Weltman Martin D. , Crawford Darrell H. G. , McCaughan Geoffrey W. , Sievert William , Cheng Wendy S. , Rawlinson William , Desmond Paul V. , Marks Phillipa S. , Yoshihara Motoko , Rizkalla Bishoy , DePamphilis Jean K. , Dore Gregory J.
Published: June 2009

This study tested the hypothesis that high-dose peginterferon alfa-2a (PEG-IFNα-2a) for the first 12 weeks would increase early and sustained virological response (SVR) rates in patients with chronic hepatitis C genotype 1. Eight hundred ninety-six patients were randomized 1:1 to 360 μg (n = 448) or 180 μg (n = 448) PEG-IFNα-2a weekly plus ribavirin at 1000-1200 mg/day for 12 weeks, followed by 36 weeks of 180 μg PEG-IFNα-2a weekly plus ribavirin at 1000-1200 mg/day with 871 patients evaluable for the intention-to-treat analysis. Virological responses were assessed by TaqMan (limit of detection 15 IU/mL) at week 4, 8, 12, 24, 48 (end of therapy), and 24 weeks following therapy (SVR). Undetectable hepatitis C virus RNA rates were significantly higher among patients receiving high-dose induction therapy at week 4 (36% versus 26%,

P

< 0.005), week 8 (61% versus 50%,

P

< 0.005), and week 12 (74% versus 62%,

P

< 0.005). However, SVR was not significantly different between patients receiving high-dose (53%) and standard (50%) therapy. Significant baseline prognostic factors for SVR included age, sex, race, histological stage, and viral load. SVR was considerably higher among patients with no or minimal fibrosis (64% and 60%, respectively) compared to those with severe fibrosis/cirrhosis (28% and 24%, respectively). The frequency of serious adverse events and drug discontinuations were similar in both groups, whereas PEG-IFN dose modification, weight and appetite reduction, and grade IV neutropenia were significantly higher in the induction arm.

Conclusion:

Induction dosing with 360 μg/week PEG-IFNα-2a for 12 weeks was well tolerated and enhanced early virological response but not SVR rates. The high SVR rates in patients with minimal fibrosis highlight the benefit of early treatment in patients with hepatitis C virus genotype 1. (Hepatology 2009.)
Helping families improve: an evaluation of two primary care approaches to parenting support in the Netherlands
Authors: de Graaf Ireen , Onrust Simone , Haverman Merel , Janssens Jan
Published: June 2009

The present study evaluated two primary care parenting interventions. First, we evaluated the most widely used Dutch practices for primary care parenting support. Second, we assessed the applicability of the Primary Care Triple P approach, which is now being utilized in a wide variety of primary care settings. Both interventions target parents of children with mild to moderate behavioural and/or emotional problems, with the aim of improving parenting skills and thereby decreasing child problems. We examined the interventions in pre‐, post‐ and follow‐up assessment, and compared the results. Both interventions produced significant reductions in reported child emotional and behaviour problems, that also remained after 3 months. For both groups, parenting styles were also found to have improved at both post‐test and follow‐up measurement. When compared with the regular Dutch parenting consultation practices, however, the Primary Care Triple P approach produced greater reductions in parental laxness and total parenting dysfunction, and greater improvement in total parenting competence at both post‐test and follow‐up. Primary Care Triple P may even—in light of the greater improvements in parenting skills and total parental competences in the Triple P group than in the regular Dutch parenting consultation group—produce better results in the long run concerning child behaviour and emotional problems. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Continuous and intermittent dosing of lonafarnib potentiates the therapeutic efficacy of docetaxel on preclinical human prostate cancer models
Authors: Liu Gongjie , Taylor Stacey A. , Marrinan Cindy H. , Hsieh Yunsheng , Bishop W. Robert , Kirschmeier Paul , Long Brian J.
Published: June 2009

Lonafarnib is a potent, selective farnesyltransferase inhibitor (FTI) undergoing clinical studies for the treatment of solid tumors and hematological malignancies. Preclinically, a number of FTIs, including lonafarnib, interact with taxanes to inhibit cancer cell growth in an additive/synergistic manner. These observations provided rationale for investigating the effects of combining lonafarnib and docetaxel on preclinical prostate cancer models. To date, docetaxel is the only chemotherapeutic agent in clinical use for hormone‐refractory prostate cancer. In vitro experiments with 22Rv1, LNCaP, DU‐145, PC3 and PC3‐M prostate cancer cell lines showed significantly enhanced inhibition of cell proliferation and apoptosis when lonafarnib was added to docetaxel. In human tumor xenograft models, continuous coadministration of lonafarnib with docetaxel caused marked tumor regressions (24–47%) in tumors from all of the cell types as well as parental CWR22 xenografts. Intermittent dosing of lonafarnib (5 days on then 5 days off) coadministered with docetaxel produced similar regressions in hormone‐refractory 22Rv1 tumors. 22Rv1 tumors progressing on docetaxel treatment also responded to treatment with intermittent lonafarnib (5 days on then 5 days off). Moreover, animals did not exhibit any signs of toxicity during coadministration of lonafarnib and docetaxel. In conclusion, coadministration of continuous and intermittent lonafarnib enhanced the antitumor activity of docetaxel in a panel of prostate cancer models. An intermittent dosing schedule of lonafarnib coadministered with docetaxel may allow enhanced efficacy to that of continuous dosing by improving the tolerability of higher doses of lonafarnib. © 2009 UICC
Reciprocal changes in gene expression profiles of cocultured breast epithelial cells and primary fibroblasts
Authors: Rozenchan Patricia Bortman , Carraro Dirce Maria , Brentani Helena , Mota Louise Danielle de Carvalho , Bastos Elen Pereira , Ferreira Elisa Napolitano e , Torres Cesar H. , Katayama Maria Lúcia Hirata , Roela Rosimeire Aparecida , Lyra Eduardo C. , Soares Fernando Augusto , Folgueira Maria Aparecida Azevedo Koike , Góes João Carlos Guedes Sampaio , Brentani Maria Mitzi
Published: June 2009

The importance of epithelial‐stroma interaction in normal breast development and tumor progression has been recognized. To identify genes that were regulated by these reciprocal interactions, we cocultured a nonmalignant (MCF10A) and a breast cancer derived (MDA‐MB231) basal cell lines, with fibroblasts isolated from breast benign‐disease adjacent tissues (NAF) or with carcinoma‐associated fibroblasts (CAF), in a transwell system. Gene expression profiles of each coculture pair were compared with the correspondent monocultures, using a customized microarray. Contrariwise to large alterations in epithelial cells genomic profiles, fibroblasts were less affected. In MDA‐MB231 highly represented genes downregulated by CAF derived factors coded for proteins important for the specificity of vectorial transport between ER and golgi, possibly affecting cell polarity whereas the response of MCF10A comprised an induction of genes coding for stress responsive proteins, representing a prosurvival effect. While NAF downregulated genes encoding proteins associated to glycolipid and fatty acid biosynthesis in MDA‐MB231, potentially affecting membrane biogenesis, in MCF10A, genes critical for growth control and adhesion were altered. NAFs responded to coculture with MDA‐MB231 by a decrease in the expression of genes induced by TGFβ1 and associated to motility. However, there was little change in NAFs gene expression profile influenced by MCF10A. CAFs responded to the presence of both epithelial cells inducing genes implicated in cell proliferation. Our data indicate that interactions between breast fibroblasts and basal epithelial cells resulted in alterations in the genomic profiles of both cell types which may help to clarify some aspects of this heterotypic signaling. © 2009 UICC
The degradation of cell cycle regulators by SKP2/CKS1 ubiquitin ligase is genetically controlled in rodent liver cancer and contributes to determine the susceptibility to the disease
Authors: Calvisi Diego F. , Pinna Federico , Ladu Sara , Muroni Maria R. , Frau Maddalena , Demartis Ilaria , Tomasi Maria L. , Sini Marcella , Simile Maria M. , Seddaiu Maria A. , Feo Francesco , Pascale Rosa M.
Published: June 2009

Previous work showed a genetic control of cell cycle deregulation during hepatocarcinogenesis. We now evaluated in preneoplastic lesions, dysplastic nodules and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), chemically induced in genetically susceptible F344 and resistant Brown Norway (BN) rats, the role of cell cycle regulating proteins in the determination of a phenotype susceptible to HCC development. p21WAF1, p27KIP1, p57KIP2 and p130 mRNA levels increased in fast growing lesions of F344 rats. Lower/no increases occurred in slowly growing lesions of BN rats. A similar behavior of RassF1A mRNA was previously found in the 2 rat strains. However, p21WAF1, p27KIP1, p57KIP, p130 and RassF1A proteins exhibited no change/low increase in the lesions of F344 rats and consistent rise in dysplastic nodules and HCC of BN rats. Increase in Cks1‐Skp2 ligase and ubiquitination of cell cycle regulators occurred in F344 but not in BN rat lesions, indicating that posttranslational modifications of cell cycle regulators are under genetic control and contribute to determine a phenotype susceptible to HCC. Moreover, proliferation index of 60 human HCCs was inversely correlated with protein levels but not with mRNA levels of P21WAF1, P27KIP1, P57KIP2 and P130, indicating a control of human HCC proliferation by posttranslational modifications of cell cycle regulators.
Participation and study decisions in a public system of higher education
Authors: Kelchtermans Stijn , Verboven Frank
Published: June 2009

We analyze the decision whether to participate and where and what to study in a public system of higher education, based on a unique dataset of all eligible high school pupils in an essentially closed region (Flanders). We find that pupils perceive the available institutions and programs as close substitutes relative to the outside option. This implies an ambiguous role for travel costs: they hardly affect the participation decision, but have a strong impact on the decision where and what to study. To illustrate how our empirical results can inform the debate on reforming public systems, we assess the effects of tuition fee increases. Uniform cost‐based tuition fee increases achieve most of the welfare gains; the additional gains from fee differentiation are relatively limited. These welfare gains are quite large under conservative assumptions on the social cost of public funds, and there is a substantial redistribution from students to outsiders. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Upregulation of gamma‐2 laminin‐332 in the mouse ear vesicant wound model
Authors: Chang Yoke‐Chen , Sabourin Carol L. K. , Lu Shou‐En , Sasaki Takako , Svoboda Kathy K. H. , Gordon Marion K. , Riley David J. , Casillas Robert P. , Gerecke Donald R.
Published: June 2009

Epithelial cell migration during wound healing is regulated in part by enzymatic processing of laminin‐332 (formerly LN‐5), a heterodimer formed from α, β, and γ polypeptide chains. Under static conditions, laminin‐332 is secreted into the extracellular matrix as a proform and has two chains processed to smaller forms, allowing it to anchor epithelial cells to the basement membrane of the dermis. During incisional wounding, laminin γ2 chains in particular are processed to smaller sizes and function to promote epithelial sheet migration over the wound bed. The present study examines whether this same function occurs following chemical injury. The mouse ear vesicant model (MEVM) was used to follow the pathology in the ear and test whether processed laminin‐332 enhances epithelial cell migration. Skin biopsies of sulfur mustard (SM) exposed ears for several time points were analyzed by histology, immunohistochemistry, real‐time PCR, and Western blot analysis. SM exposure greatly increased mRNA levels for laminin‐γ2 in comparison to the other two chains. Protein production of laminin‐γ2 was upregulated, and there was an increase in the processed forms. Protein production was in excess of the amount required to form heterotrimeric laminin‐332 and was associated with the migrating epithelial sheet, suggesting a potential role in wound healing for monomeric laminin‐γ2. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 23:172–184, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/jbt.20275
Antioxidant butylated hydroxyanisole inhibits estrogen‐induced breast carcinogenesis in female ACI rats
Authors: Singh Bhupendra , Mense Sarah M. , Remotti Fabrizio , Liu Xinhua , Bhat Hari K.
Published: June 2009

Exposure to estrogens is suggested to be a risk factor in human breast cancer development. The mechanisms underlying estrogen‐induced cancer have not been fully elucidated. Both estrogen receptor (ER)‐mediated proliferative processes and ER‐independent generation of oxidative stress are suggested to play important roles in estrogen‐induced breast carcinogenesis. In the current study, we investigated the role of oxidative stress in breast carcinogenesis using the ACI rat model of mammary tumorigenesis. Female ACI rats were treated with 17β‐estradiol (E2), butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), or a combination of E2 + BHA for up to 240 days. Cotreatment of rats with E2 + BHA reduced estrogen‐induced breast tumor development with tumor incidence of 24%, a significant decrease relative to E2 where tumor incidence was 82%. Proliferative changes in the breast tissue of E2 + BHA‐treated animals were similar to those observed in E2‐treated animals. Tissue levels of 8‐isoprostane, a marker of oxidant stress, as well as the activities of antioxidant enzymes including glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase were quantified in the breast tissues of rats treated with E2 + BHA and compared to activity levels found in E2‐treated animals and respective age‐matched controls. Cotreatment with BHA inhibited E2‐mediated increases in 8‐isoprostane levels as well as activities of antioxidant enzymes. In summary, these data suggest that estrogen‐mediated oxidant stress plays a critical role in the development of estrogen‐dependent breast cancers and BHA inhibits E2‐dependent breast carcinogenesis by decreasing oxidant stress. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 23:202–211, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/jbt.20281
Oxidative damage and gene expression profile of antioxidant enzymes after T‐2 toxin exposure in mice
Authors: Chaudhari Manjari , Jayaraj R. , Santhosh S. R. , Rao P. V. Lakshmana
Published: June 2009

T‐2 toxin is one of the most potent trichothecenes, and on exposure causes severe human and animal diseases. We investigated the dose‐ and time‐dependent effect of T‐2 toxin on certain biochemical variables, oxidative damage in terms of antioxidant enzyme activity, and gene expression profile in mice. Mice treated intraperitoneally with either 1 LD50 or 2 LD50 dose (5.61 and 11.22 mg/kg body weight, respectively) of T‐2 toxin showed significant alterations in hepatic alanine amino transferase, aspartate amino transferase, and lactate dehydrogenase. Significant changes in hepatic lipid peroxidation, depletion of glutathione (GSH), and expression of heat shock protein‐70 indicated oxidative damage. We also evaluated the activity of antioxidant enzymes and compared the gene expression profile by quantitative real‐time reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction. Except for glutathione reductase (GR), there was a significant increase in activity of glutathione‐S‐transferase (GST), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase at 1 LD50 dose. At 2 LD50 dose, SOD showed decrease in activity, whereas GST, GPx, and catalase showed significant increase. In contrast, gene expression profile showed downregulation in GR, GPx, GST, and catalase at 1 LD50 dose. At 2 LD50 dose except GSH synthetase, all other genes were downregulated. The results clearly show oxidative stress as one of the mechanisms of T‐2 toxin‐mediated toxicity. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 23:212–221, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/jbt.20282
Changes in expression of cell‐cycle‐related genes in PC‐3 prostate cancer cells caused by ovine uterine serpin
Authors: Padua Maria B. , Hansen Peter J.
Published: June 2009

The hormonal‐regulated serpin, ovine uterine serpin (OvUS), also called uterine milk protein (UTMP), inhibits proliferation of lymphocytes and prostate cancer (PC‐3) cells by blocking cell‐cycle progression. The present aim was to identify cell‐cycle‐related genes regulated by OvUS in PC‐3 cells using the quantitative human cell‐cycle RT2 Profiler™ PCR array. Cells were cultured ±200 µg/ml recombinant OvUS (rOvUS) for 12 and 24 h. At 12 h, rOvUS increased expression of three genes related to cell‐cycle checkpoints and arrest (CDKN1A, CDKN2B, and CCNG2). Also, 14 genes were down‐regulated including genes involved in progression through S (MCM3, MCM5, PCNA), M (CDC2, CKS2, CCNH, BIRC5, MAD2L1, MAD2L2), G1 (CDK4, CUL1, CDKN3) and DNA damage checkpoint and repair genes RAD1 and RBPP8. At 24 h, rOvUS decreased expression of 16 genes related to regulation and progression through M (BIRC5, CCNB1, CKS2, CDK5RAP1, CDC20, E2F4, MAD2L2) and G1 (CDK4, CDKN3, TFDP2), DNA damage checkpoints and repair (RAD17, BRCA1, BCCIP, KPNA2, RAD1). Also, rOvUS down‐regulated the cell proliferation marker gene MKI67, which is absent in cells at G0. Results showed that OvUS blocks cell‐cycle progression through upregulation of cell‐cycle checkpoint and arrest genes and down‐regulation of genes involved in cell‐cycle progression. J. Cell. Biochem. 107: 1182–1188, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
On the kinetic mechanism of the hydrogen abstraction reactions of the hydroxyl radical with CH3CF2Cl and CH3CFCl2: A dual level direct dynamics study
Authors: Ji Yue‐Meng , Cao Fenglei , Gao Hui , Li Xiangzhi , Zhao Cunyuan , Su Chengyong , Liu Jing‐Yao , Li Ze‐Sheng
Published: June 2009

By means of the dual‐level direct dynamics method, the mechanisms of the reactions, CH3CF2Cl + OH → products (R1) and CH3CFCl2 + OH → products (R2), are studied over a wide temperature range 200–2000 K. The optimized geometries and frequencies of the stationary points are calculated at the MP2/6‐311G(d,p) level, and then the energy profiles of the reactions are refined with the interpolated single‐point energy method at the G3(MP2) level. The canonical variational transition‐state theory with the small‐curvature tunneling (SCT) correction method is used to calculate the rate constants. For the title reactions, three reaction channels are identified and the H‐abstraction channel is the major pathway. The results indicate that F substitution has a significant (reductive) effect on hydrochlorofluorocarbon reactivity. Also, for all H‐abstraction reaction channels the variational effect is small and the SCT effect is only important in the lower temperature range on the rate constants calculation. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2010
Excited states of OsO4: A comprehensive time‐dependent relativistic density functional theory study
Authors: Zhang Yong , Xu Wenhua , Sun Qiming , Zou Wenli , Liu Wenjian
Published: June 2009

A large number of scalar as well as spinor excited states of OsO4, in the experimentally accessible energy range of 3–11 eV, have been captured by time‐dependent relativistic density functional linear response theory based on an exact two‐component Hamiltonian resulting from the symmetrized elimination of the small component. The results are grossly in good agreement with those by the singles and doubles coupled‐cluster linear response theory in conjunction with relativistic effective core potentials. The simulated‐excitation spectrum is also in line with the available experiment. Furthermore, combined with detailed analysis of the excited states, the nature of the observed optical transitions is clearly elucidated. It is found that a few scalar states of 3T1 and 3T2 symmetries are split significantly by the spin‐orbit coupling. The possible source for the substantial spin‐orbit splittings of ligand molecular orbitals is carefully examined, leading to a new interpretation on the primary valence photoelectron ionization spectrum of OsO4. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2010
Transition state theory with Tsallis statistics
Authors: Quapp Wolfgang , Zech Alraune
Published: June 2009

We discuss the rate of an elementary chemical reaction. We use the reaction path and especially its saddle point on the potential energy surface. The reaction path connects reactant and product of a reaction over the transition state (TS). Usually, the TS is assumed near or at the single saddle point of the reaction path. By means of comparison of the statistics of states at the reactant and at the TS, one can estimate the reaction rate by the Eyring theory. We propose to use the Tsallis statistics at the TS, a statistics of seldom accidents. Thus, we propose to generalize the well‐known Boltzmann–Gibbs statistics, which is the limiting case of the Tsallis statistics. We use features of this nonextensive thermostatistics. The basic properties of the statistics are used to derive (approximated) partition functions, and they are applied on reaction rates. The approximation includes a factorization of the partition functions. The theory is applied to HCN isomerization to HNC, and to the reaction H2 + CN → H + HCN. It allows an accordance with experimental estimations of the reaction rates. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2010
Closed trail decompositions of complete equipartite graphs
Authors: Burgess Andrea , Šajna Mateja
Published: June 2009

The complete equipartite graph \documentclass{article}\footskip=0pc\pagestyle{empty}\begin{document}$K_m * {\overline{K_n}}$\end{document} has mn vertices partitioned into m parts of size n, with two vertices adjacent if and only if they are in different parts. In this paper, we determine necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of a decomposition of \documentclass{article}\footskip=0pc\pagestyle{empty}\begin{document}$K_m * {\overline{K_n}}$\end{document} into closed trails of length k. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Combin Designs 17: 374–403, 2009
Authenticating and distinguishing the eight species of traditional Tibetan medicine “Meiduoluomi” by microscopic technique
Authors: An Jing , Li Jie , Wang Jiang‐Gang , Zhang Zhi‐Feng , Chen Chu , Zhang Hao
Published: June 2009

Because of the morphological and macroscopic similarity, many species of Erigeron and Aster (Asteraceae) are confusable and usually used under the same name “Meiduoluomi” in traditional Tibetan medicine (TTM). To find an easy, quick, and reliable method to authenticate and distinguish the eight main medicinal plants of these species, the light microscope was used to reveal the morphoanatomic details. The fixed, sectioned, and stained plant materials and epidermis materials were studied by microscopic techniques. The results of the microscopic features are systematically described and illustrated, and comparison parameters are presented. Furthermore, a key to the eight species of “Meiduoluomi” was constructed. Microscopy can be unambiguously used to authenticate and distinguish the eight main species of TTM “Meiduoluomi.” Microsc. Res. Tech., 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Regulated production of SnoN2 is a feature of testicular differentiation
Authors: Itman Catherine , Whiley Penny A.F. , Zhou Wei , Meistrich Marvin , Sahin Zeliha , Loveland Kate Lakoski
Published: June 2009

Transforming growth factor betas (TGFβs) and activins are key regulators of male fertility, affecting somatic and germ cell proliferation and differentiation in the developing and adult testis. Several studies have shown that these ligands influence discrete developmental stages, suggesting that temporal expression of modifying factors may determine their specific signaling outcomes. Upon binding to cell surface receptors, TGFβ and activin signals are transduced intracellularly by the phosphorylation and nuclear accumulation of SMAD2 and SMAD3 transcription factors. The objective of this study was to determine the cellular localization of phosphorylated SMAD2/3 and the transcriptional repressor SnoN (Ski‐like), a modifier of SMAD2/3 transcriptional activity, in mouse testes. Western blot established that only the smaller SnoN isoform, SnoN2, is produced in the testis. By immunohistochemistry, widespread phospho‐SMAD2/3 distribution was observed in somatic and germ cells at all ages. In contrast, SnoN2 production was highly regulated, being detected only in gonocytes and interstitial cells at birth and in pachytene spermatocytes at puberty. In the adult, SnoN2 expression differed to that during the first wave, being ubiquitously expressed but exhibiting regulated nuclear localization. In another model of spermatogenic differentiation, the irradiated rat testis, widespread phospho‐SMAD2/3 contrasted with restricted SnoN2 expression. SnoN2 was limited to interstitial cells, with reduced staining intensity observed associated with the timing of spermatogenesis resumption. We conclude that somatic and germ cells at all differentiation stages are actively transducing TGFβ superfamily signals but that responses to these ligands may be selectively modulated by controlled production and nuclear localization of SnoN2. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Single photon fluorescent microlithography for live‐cell imaging
Authors: Kunik Darío , Aramendia Pedro F. , Martínez Oscar E.
Published: June 2009

Using fluorescent dyes to trigger the polymerization of a commercial polyurethane resin allows a rapid fabrication of micrometer and submicrometer sized fluorescent structures by one‐photon absorption. Here, we show that standard He–Ne lasers emitting at 632.8 nm can be used to start the photopolymerization and that very low laser power is required. This procedure allows the fabrication of fiduciary fluorescent references on standard glass coverslips, mica sheets, or gold‐coated coverslips for laser scanning or standard fluorescent microscopy. The biocompatibility of the polymerized resin with cells in culture was tested by growing Xenopus melanophores and a standard laser scanning microscope was used to demonstrate that it is possible to use equipment readily available in several laboratories. We show that fluorescent structure with less than 10 nm in height may be used as references in fluorescence microscopy allowing a smooth environment for cell growth. Different dyes were tested and the conditions for one‐photon polymerization were outlined. Microsc. Res. Tech. 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Promotional role of microcredit: Evidence from the Grameen Bank of Bangladesh
Authors: Basher Md. Abul
Published: June 2009

This paper investigates whether the income augmenting role of microcredit is attributable only to increased participation of the borrower in economic activities or switch to more productive activities also. The paper provides a framework to analyze this question in absence of any longitudinal data. By using the data from the Grameen Bank of Bangladesh, the paper finds that microcredit enables the borrowers to move progressively into more productive activities as they become experienced. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Technical efficiency in the Vietnamese manufacturing sector
Authors: Pham Hung T. , Dao Thanh L. , Reilly Barry
Published: June 2009

The manufacturing sector has developed into the Vietnamese economy's most important sector on the basis of its contribution to export and GDP growth over the past decade. The doi moi reform process transformed Vietnam's manufacturing activity from a state‐dominated sector to a vibrant one containing important roles for both newly created domestic and foreign‐invested private firms. This paper employs a stochastic frontier estimation approach, in conjunction with data drawn from the Vietnam Enterprise Survey for 2003, to estimate and inform the determinants of technical efficiency in the manufacturing sector. The empirical results reveal that an average manufacturing enterprise is operating at nearly 62 per cent of its technically efficient frontier with an estimated standard deviation of around 16 per cent. The study provides empirical evidence of a positive relationship between technical efficiency, export orientation and several measures of trade openness. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Radiosynthesis and preliminary biodistribution in mice of 6‐deoxy‐6‐[131I]iodo‐L‐ascorbic acid
Authors: Kim Jintaek , Yamamoto Fumihiko , Karasawa Satoru , Mukai Takahiro , Maeda Minoru
Published: June 2009

An ascorbate analog labeled with iodine‐131, 6‐deoxy‐ 6‐[131I]iodo‐L‐ascorbic acid was prepared for evaluation as an in vivo tracer of L‐ascorbic acid. The no‐carrier‐added radiosynthesis was conducted by nucleophilic bromine–iodine exchange between the brominated precursor and sodium [131I]iodide in 2‐pentanone at 130–140°C. HPLC purification using a reverse‐phase column gave 6‐deoxy‐6‐[131I]iodo‐L‐ascorbic acid in radiochemical yield of 36–60% with high radiochemical purity and satisfactory‐specific radioactivity in a total preparation time of 90 min. Biodistribution studies in fibrosarcoma‐bearing mice showed a high uptake in the adrenal glands, accompanied by low activity of tumor accumulation, accumulation properties similar to previous results obtained with 14C‐labeled ascorbic acid and 6‐deoxy‐6‐[18F]fluoro‐L‐ascorbic acid, in spite of high level of deiodination. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Extracellular matrix produced by bone marrow stromal cells and by their derivative, SB623 cells, supports neural cell growth
Authors: Aizman Irina , Tate Ciara C. , McGrogan Michael , Case Casey C.
Published: June 2009

Several studies have shown the benefits of transplanting bone marrow‐derived multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) into neurodegenerative lesions of the central nervous system, despite a low engraftment rate and the poor persistence of grafts. It is known that the extracellular matrix (ECM) modulates neuritogenesis and glial growth, but little is known about effects of MSC‐derived ECM on neural cells. In this study, we demonstrate in vitro that the ECM produced by MSC can support neural cell attachment and growth. We also compare the neurosupportive properties of MSC to the MSC derivative, SB623 cells, which is being developed as a cell therapy for stroke. Embryonic rat brain cortical cells cultured for 3 weeks on human MSC‐ and SB623 cell‐derived ECM exhibit about a 1.5 and 3 times higher metabolic activity, respectively, compared with the cultures grown on poly‐D‐lysine (PDL), although the initial neural cell adhesion to cell‐derived ECM and PDL is similar. The MSC‐ and SB623 cell‐derived ECM protects neural cells from nutrient and growth factor deprivation. Under the conditions used, only neurons grow on PDL. In contrast, both MSC‐ and SB623 cell‐derived ECMs support the growth of neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes, as demonstrated by immunostaining. Morphologically, neurons on cell‐derived ECM form more complex and extended neurite networks than those cultured on PDL. Together, these data indicate that the beneficial effect of MSC and SB623 cells in neurotransplantation could be explained in part by the neurosupportive properties of the ECM produced by these cells. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.