bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Second‐line treatments after first‐line gefitinib therapy in advanced nonsmall cell lung cancer
Authors: Wu Jenn‐Yu , Shih Jin‐Yuan , Yang Chih‐Hsin , Chen Kuan‐Yu , Ho Chao‐Chi , Yu Chong‐Jen , Yang Pan‐Chyr
Published: June 2009

Gefitinib is effective as first‐line therapy for advanced nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, after failure of gefitinib, it is unknown whether any second‐line regimens could lead to better outcomes. To study the influence of different second‐line antitumor regimens on the outcomes of patients with NSCLC after failure of first‐line gefitinib, we carried out a retrospective study in a tertiary referral medical center to investigate the prognosis of patients with NSCLC receiving second‐line antitumor treatment after gefitinib therapy. Clinical data and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutational status of tumors were collected. A total of 195 patients with Stage IIIb or IV NSCLC receiving first‐line gefitinib and at least 1 subsequent line therapy were identified. A second‐line therapy with a platinum‐based combination or taxane‐containing regimen were associated with a higher therapy response, whereas a platinum‐based combination was linked to better overall survival. Ninety‐five patients had tumors with known EGFR mutation status; 61 had EGFR mutations and 34 had wild‐type EGFR. A second‐line therapy with a gemcitabine/platinum combination regimen resulted in better overall survival than erlotinib in patients with EGFR mutations (p = 0.035) but not in patients with wild‐type EGFR (p = 0.785). The study suggested that, after failure of first‐line gefitinib therapy, second‐line platinum‐based combination regimens were associated with a better overall survival than other regimens, including erlotinib. The survival benefit of platinum‐based combination regimens existed in patients with mutant EGFR but not wild‐type EGFR.
Nanostructuration of titania films prepared by self‐assembly to affect cell adhesion
Authors: Bass John D. , Belamie Emmanuel , Grosso David , Boissiere Cédric , Coradin Thibaud , Sanchez Clément
Published: June 2009

Nanostructured and dense titania films prepared by evaporation‐induced self‐assembly (EISA) are shown to possess tunable topographical nanoscale features on the order 2–12 nm. Thermal treatment (calcination) induces a transition from amorphous titania to crystalline anatase that modifies the chemical and structural properties of the surfaces via the migration of matter. For nanostructured films, the nanoporous network changes from organized ellipsoidal pores, ∼4 nm × 2 nm, to a grid‐like structure with pores on the order of 12 nm, whereas dense films show a slight roughening of the surface. Cells seeded on templated films show measurable, statistically significant differences in morphology compared with cells seeded on dense films. Moreover, although crystallization of templated films results in surfaces that promote less well‐spread cells with higher circularities, the opposite trend is observed for dense films. As such, these results represent a new method to tailor interfaces for biomaterial applications, using EISA to control material patterning on the nanoscale. This self‐assembly based approach allows the patterning on size scales that are inaccessible by most traditional techniques while offering the added potential to package and control the release of bioactive molecules. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Characterization of pH‐responsive hydrogels of poly(itaconic acid‐g‐ethylene glycol) prepared by UV‐initiated free radical polymerization as biomaterials for oral delivery of bioactive agents
Authors: Betancourt Tania , Pardo Juan , Soo Ken , Peppas Nicholas A.
Published: June 2009

Effective oral delivery of proteins is impeded by steep pH gradients and proteolytic enzymes in the gastrointestinal tract, as well as low absorption of the proteins into the bloodstream because of their size, charge, or solubility. In this work, pH‐responsive complexation hydrogels of poly(itaconic acid) (PIA) with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) grafts were synthesized for applications in oral drug delivery. These hydrogels were expected to be in collapsed configuration at low pH because of hydrogen bonding between PIA carboxyl groups and PEG, and to swell with increasing pH because of charge repulsion between deprotonated carboxylic acid groups. Hydrogels were prepared by UV‐initiated free radical polymerization using tetraethylene glycol as the crosslinking agent and Irgacure® 2959 as the initiator. The effect of monomer ratios, crosslinking ratio, and solvent amount on the properties of the hydrogels were investigated. The composition of the hydrogels was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Equilibrium swelling studies in the pH range of 1.2–7 revealed that the extent of swelling increased with increasing pH up to a pH of about 6, when no further carboxylic acid deprotonation occurred. Studies in Caco‐2 colorectal carcinoma cells confirmed the cytocompatibility of these materials at concentrations of up to 5 mg/mL. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 2010
A dexamethasone‐loaded PLGA microspheres/collagen scaffold composite for implantable glucose sensors
Authors: Ju Young Min , Yu Bazhang , West Leigh , Moussy Yvonne , Moussy Francis
Published: June 2009

We have developed a new dexamethasone (Dex)‐loaded poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) microspheres/porous collagen scaffold composite for implantable glucose sensors. The scaffolds were fabricated around the sensing element of the sensors and crosslinked using nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA). The microspheres containing Dex were incorporated into the NDGA‐crosslinked collagen scaffold by dipping in microsphere suspension in either water or Pluronic. The loading efficiencies of Dex in the microspheres and the scaffold were determined using high performance liquid chromatography. The microspheres/scaffold composite fabricated using microspheres in the hydrogel solution had a better loading efficiency than when microspheres were in water suspension. The composite fabricated using the hydrogel also showed a slower and more sustained drug release than the standard microspheres in vitro during a 4 week study and did not significantly affect the function of the sensors in vitro. The sensors with the composite that were still functional retained above 50% of their original sensitivity at 2 weeks. Histology showed that the inflammatory response to the Dex‐loaded composite was much lower than for the control scaffold at 2 and 4 weeks after implantation. The Dex‐loaded composite system might be useful to reduce inflammation to implanted glucose sensors and therefore extend their function and lifetime. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Macrophage fusion leading to foreign body giant cell formation persists under phagocytic stimulation by microspheres in vitro and in vivo in mouse models
Authors: Jay Steven M. , Skokos Eleni A. , Zeng Jianmin , Knox Kristin , Kyriakides Themis R.
Published: June 2009

The formation of surface‐damaging foreign body giant cells (FBGC) from the fusion of macrophages is considered a hallmark of the foreign body response. Experimental evidence indicates that when macrophages are unable to internalize foreign bodies via phagocytosis due to their large size, they acquire a fusogenic phenotype. The mechanism behind this transformation is unclear, and questions, such as which phenotype takes precedence for co‐stimulated macrophages engaged in the foreign body response and whether or not such phenotypic alteration is graded, remain unanswered. By recapitulating fusion in vitro using cell lines and primary mouse bone marrow‐derived macrophages, we investigated whether concurrent exposure of macrophages to phagocytic and fusogenic stimuli would limit fusion. Induction of phagocytosis by addition of 3.0 μm‐diameter polystyrene microspheres to cells under fusogenic conditions, at ratios of 1:10, 1:1, and 10:1 did not prevent fusion. To determine the effect of microsphere phagocytosis on fusion in vivo, we first determined the kinetics of monocyte recruitment, surface adhesion, and fusion following intraperitoneal implantation of a foreign body in a mouse model. Concomitant or subsequent injection of microspheres resulted in their significant accumulation at the biomaterial surface at 2 weeks, but FBGC were still detected. Our findings indicate that despite increasing the abundance of a phagocytic stimulus (microspheres), significant FBGC formation occurs. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 2010
Cognitive‐behavioral therapy for individuals at high risk of developing psychosis
Authors: Addington Jean , Mancuso Enza
Published: June 2009

Early intervention for psychosis has become an established clinical practice. Research is now focusing on identifying individuals in the pre‐psychotic period when they appear to be putatively prodromal for psychosis. Criteria have been established for identifying these young people who are at clinical high risk, and there have been some early studies testing both pharmacological and psychological treatments. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been tested as a potentially effective intervention in this group. Here, we describe two cases that were treated with CBT. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol: In Session 65: 879–890, 2009.
Prenatal diagnosis of VACTERL syndrome and partial caudal regression syndrome: A previously unreported association
Authors: Gedikbasi Ali , Yararbas Kanay , Yildirim Gokhan , Yildirim Dogukan , Arslan Oguz , Gul Ahmet , Ceylan Yavuz
Published: June 2009

We describe a case of VACTERL syndrome associated with type 1 unilateral caudal regression syndrome. The abnormal sonographic findings at 26 weeks included hemivertebrae, scoliosis, hypoplastic and deformed lumbar spine and sacrum, preaxial polydactyly on the left hand, duplicated hallux on the left foot and hemihypoplasia of the left lower limb, bilateral club foot, and single umbilical artery. Postmortem examination confirmed prenatal sonographic findings with additional findings of supernumerary rib at the lumbar level and anal atresia. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 2009
Improved analyte detectability of proteins and peptide lysates by means of multiple large‐volume injection in LC‐MS
Authors: Storme Michael L. , t'Kindt Ruben S. , Van Bocxlaer Jan F.
Published: June 2009

A ‘multiple (trapping) large‐volume injection’ approach was developed for the analysis of peptides and proteins. In this way, a maximally 10‐fold gain in sensitivity could be achieved. The system involves the use of an automated 10‐port switching valve in combination with a 1 mm i.d. trapping/guard column and a 1 mm i.d.×150 mm analytical column. The optimized multiple injection/loading procedure allows quantitative measurements of peptides and protein lysates. Linear calibration curves (R2 ⪈ 0.988) over a minimum of two orders of magnitude were generated for a range of peptide and protein standards with sensitivities equal to or even exceeding, those generally achieved only through increasing miniaturization (quantification limit ⪈0.5 pmol/mL).
The association between interferon regulatory factor 6 (IRF6) and nonsyndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate in a Honduran population
Authors: Diercks Gillian R. , Karnezis Tom T. , Kent David T. , Flores Carlos , Su Gloria H. , Lee Joseph H. , Haddad Joseph
Published: June 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Interferon regulatory factor 6 (IRF6), the gene that causes van der Woude syndrome (VWS), is a candidate gene for nonsyndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate (NSCLP) because a number of studies have supported an association between NSCLP and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in IRF6 in several populations. This project investigated the contribution of IRF6 to NSCLP in the Honduran population, a previously unstudied group with a high prevalence of NSCLP.

Study Design:

Family‐based joint linkage and association study.

Methods:

A set of five SNPs in and around IRF6 previously reported to be associated with NSCLP were tested for association with NSCLP in 276 affected and unaffected Honduran individuals from 59 families with at least two members affected by clefting and at least one member with confirmed NSCLP.

Results:

We observed support of linkage for three SNPs—rs1856161, rs2235371, and rs2235377—under a dominant model (log of odds [LODs] = 1.97, 1.56, 1.73, respectively). Subsequent single‐point, haplotype, and joint linkage and association analyses continued to support the association with NSCLP (P ≤ .05) at these three SNPs. When analysis was restricted to NSCLP cases, excluding cleft palate only cases, support for association strengthened.

Conclusions:

This is the first study to demonstrate that three candidate SNPs within IRF6 are significantly associated with NSCLP in the Honduran population, providing the first genetic clue to NSCLP observed in the Honduran population and confirming findings from populations in other parts of the world. Further studies are needed to identify the putative variant(s). Laryngoscope, 2009
Incidence of seropositivity to bordetella pertussis and mycoplasma pneumoniae infection in patients with chronic laryngotracheitis
Authors: Beaver Mary Es , Karow Colleen M.
Published: June 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Determine the incidence of bordetella pertussis and mycoplasma pneumonia infection in patients with chronic laryngotracheitis.

Study Design:

A prospective case study.

Methods:

Fifty‐four consecutive adult patients presenting with symptoms (throat clearing, hoarseness, cough, globus) and signs (laryngeal and subglottic erythema and edema) of chronic laryngotracheitis (CLTR) for >6 weeks were included in the study. A single blood draw for anti‐pertussis toxin IgG, IgA, IgM, and mycoplasma IgM was performed at presentation. Duration of symptoms, symptom score (Reflux Symptom Index [RSI]), and physical exam score were recorded.

Results:

Thirteen patients (24%) had elevated IgA and IgG to pertussis toxin. Nine patients (17%) had elevated IgM to pertussis toxin. Eight patients (15%) had elevated IgM to mycoplasma pneumoniae. There were no significant differences in symptom duration, RSI score, or Voice Handicap Index‐10 score among patients with current infection, recent past infection, or no infection. Subglottic erythema scores were significantly higher for patients with current or recent past infection compared to the no infection group. Patients with current infection or recent past infection had significantly more tracheal erythema than supraglottic or vocal fold erythema.

Conclusions:

Bordetella pertussis and mycoplasma pneumoniae infection play a significant role in the etiology of CLTR. Pertussis can be a mild but chronic presentation and may not produce typical symptoms of severe cough. Symptom duration and severity cannot differentiate between CLTR of infectious or other etiology. Infection should be considered in patients with CLTR that have significant tracheal erythema. Laryngoscope, 2009
1H, 13C, 19F and 11B NMR spectral reference data of some potassium organotrifluoroborates
Authors: Oliveira Roberta A. , Silva Ricardo O. , Molander Gary A. , Menezes Paulo H.
Published: June 2009

Complete 1H, 13C, 19F and 11B NMR spectral data for 28 potassium organotrifluoroborates are described. The resonance for the carbon bearing the boron atom is described for most of the studied compounds. A modified 11B NMR pulse sequence was used and better resolution was observed allowing the observation of 11B–19F coupling constants for some of the studied compounds. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Predicting the dependency of a degree of saturation on void ratio and suction using effective stress principle for unsaturated soils
Authors: Mašín David
Published: June 2009

The paper presents an approach to predicting variation of a degree of saturation in unsaturated soils with void ratio and suction. The approach is based on the effective stress principle for unsaturated soils and several underlying assumptions. It focuses on the main drying and wetting processes and does not incorporate the effects of hydraulic hysteresis. It leads to the dependency of water retention curve (WRC) on void ratio, which does not require any material parameters apart from the parameters specifying WRC for the reference void ratio. Its validity is demonstrated by comparing predictions with the experimental data on four different soils taken over from the literature. Good correlation between the measured and predicted behaviour indirectly supports applicability of the effective stress principle for unsaturated soils. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A general regularization of the hypersingular integrals in the symmetric Galerkin boundary element method
Authors: Bonnet G.
Published: June 2009

The symmetric Galerkin boundary element method is used to solve boundary value problems by keeping the symmetric nature of the matrix obtained after discretization. The matrix elements are obtained from a double integral involving the double derivative of Green's operator, which is highly singular. The paper presents a regularization of the hypersingular integrals which depend only on the properties of Green's tensor. The method is presented in the case of Laplace's operator, with an example of application. The case of elasticity is finally addressed theoretically, showing an easy extension to any case of anisotropy. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The why and how of volunteering
Authors: Handy Femida , Hustinx Lesley
Published: June 2009

Volunteers: A Social Profile, by Marc A. Musick and John Wilson. Bloomington: Indiana University Press, 2007. 680 pp., $39.95 cloth.

The Decision to Volunteer: Why People Give Their Time and How You Can Engage Them, by Beth Gazley and Monica Dignam. Washington, D.C.: ASAE and the Center for Association Leadership, 2008. 144 pp., $89.85 paper.

Challenges in Volunteer Management, edited by Matthew Liao‐Troth. Charlotte, N.C.: Information Age, 2008. 292 pp., $73.99 cloth, $39.99 paper.
Non‐basal plane SiC surfaces: Anisotropic structures and low‐dimensional electron systems
Authors: Starke Ulrich
Published: June 2009

The polytype dependent stacking sequence in SiC is exposed on its non‐basal plane surfaces, and thus complex and anisotropic surface reconstructions can be expected. Detailed investigations of the atomic and electronic structure of a ‐plane (11$ \bar 2 $0) surfaces and diagonal cuts, namely (1$ \bar 1 $02) and ($ \bar 1 $10$ \bar 2 $) surfaces of 4H‐SiC are reviewed. After hydrogen etching the surfaces show large, flat terraces. Preparation in ultra‐high vacuum (UHV) leads to the development of well ordered surface phases. On 4H‐SiC(11$ \bar 2 $0) three unique and distinguishable (1 × 1) phases can be identified by monitoring the LEED spot intensities. On 4H‐SiC(1$ \bar 1 $02) surfaces three well ordered phases with different periodicity appear. The Si rich (2 × 1) phase is characterized by an ordered array of Si‐adatom chains which host an electronic surface state that is confined within the chains. A c(2 × 2) phase exists at a surface composition close to SiC bulk. At high temperatures a (1 × 1) phase develops which is carbon terminated with a graphite‐like bond configuration. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Characterization of Ce‐rich coating on carbon surface by immersing in an aqueous solution containing Ce ions
Authors: Wang Chunyu , Chen Guoqin , Wen Guangwu , Wu Gaohui
Published: June 2009

Surface modification of carbon fibers with Ce‐rich coating was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and it is shown that a Ce‐rich coating can protect carbon fibers. After the carbon surface was scratched crosswise, self‐healing behavior of carbon surface with chemical immersion treatment from Ce salt solution was investigated at various immersion times. The Ce‐rich compounds deposited easily on the scratch sites, filling it with Ce‐rich compounds. Such self‐healing behavior enables the carbon surface to protect itself. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results indicate that Ce4+ was the dominant oxidation state for the Ce‐rich coating on the carbon surface. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigation of historical documents for forensic purposes by x‐ray fluorescence spectrometry
Authors: Pessanha S. , Manso M. , Guilherme A. , Costa M. , Carvalho M. L.
Published: June 2009

This work shows the suitability of energy dispersive x‐ray fluorescence (EDXRF) in the field of forensic document examination. The identification and quantification of the elemental composition of the paper and inks of books and documents can shed some light on its authenticity and authorship. The concentrations of S, Cl, K, Ca, Ti, Co, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Br, Rb, Sr, Ba and Pb were determined in these samples in order to characterise them.

In this work, paper sheets of an early 20th century book were analysed in order to distinguish different paper manufacturers. The analysis of two historical documents (18th and 19th centuries) was performed in order to investigate the authenticity of the documents by analysing the ink of the signatures and the corresponding text. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A behavioral Bayes method to determine the sample size of a clinical trial considering efficacy and safety
Authors: Kikuchi Takashi , Gittins John
Published: June 2009

It is necessary for the calculation of sample size to achieve the best balance between the cost of a clinical trial and the possible benefits from a new treatment. Gittins and Pezeshk developed an innovative (behavioral Bayes) approach, which assumes that the number of users is an increasing function of the difference in performance between the new treatment and the standard treatment. The better a new treatment, the more the number of patients who want to switch to it. The optimal sample size is calculated in this framework. This BeBay approach takes account of three decision‐makers, a pharmaceutical company, the health authority and medical advisers. Kikuchi, Pezeshk and Gittins generalized this approach by introducing a logistic benefit function, and by extending to the more usual unpaired case, and with unknown variance. The expected net benefit in this model is based on the efficacy of the new drug but does not take account of the incidence of adverse reactions. The present paper extends the model to include the costs of treating adverse reactions and focuses on societal cost‐effectiveness as the criterion for determining sample size. The main application is likely to be to phase III clinical trials, for which the primary outcome is to compare the costs and benefits of a new drug with a standard drug in relation to national health‐care. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Auditing in organizations: A theoretical concept and empirical evidence
Authors: Penini Gad , Carmeli Abraham
Published: June 2009

Although auditing in organizations is an important mechanism in developing better corporate processes and knowledge, little has been done to address such key questions as a definition of quality auditing, how it is enabled or its impact and outcomes. This study presents a model of auditing quality in public sector organizations, operationalizes it. In addition, this research examines the role of perceived organizational support (POS) in building auditing quality and the extent to which the latter affects organizational outcomes. The findings of a multi‐stage investigation coupled with various sources of data indicate that six components are crucial to auditing quality. In addition, it is shown that POS is an important enabler of auditing quality, which in turn results in positive organizational outcomes. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of Polymer Grafted Magnetite Nanoparticle with the Highest Grafting Density via Controlled Radical Polymerization
Authors: Babu Kothandapani , Dhamodharan Raghavachari
Published: June 2009

The surface-initiated ATRP of benzyl methacrylate, methyl methacrylate, and styrene from magnetite nanoparticle is investigated, without the use of sacrificial (free) initiator in solution. It is observed that the grafting density obtained is related to the polymerization kinetics, being higher for faster polymerizing monomer. The grafting density was found to be nearly 2 chains/nm2for the rapidly polymerizing benzyl methacrylate. In contrast, for the less rapidly polymerizing styrene, the grafting density was found to be nearly 0.7 chain/nm2. It is hypothesized that this could be due to the relative rates of surface-initiated polymerization versus conformational mobility of polymer chains anchored by one end to the surface. An amphiphilic diblock polymer based on 2-hydroxylethyl methacrylate is synthesized from the polystyrene monolayer. The homopolymer and block copolymer grafted MNs form stable dispersions in various solvents. In order to evaluate molecular weight of the polymer that was grafted on to the surface of the nanoparticles, it was degrafted suitably and subjected to gel permeation chromatography analysis. Thermogravimetric analysis, transmission electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were used to confirm the grafting reaction.
Ultra-Sensitivity Glucose Sensor Based on Field Emitters
Authors: Liu Huibiao , Qian Xuemin , Wang Shu , Li Yuliang , Song Yinglin , Zhu Daoben
Published: June 2009

A new glucose sensor based on field emitter of ZnO nanorod arrays (ZNA) was fabricated. This new type of ZNA field emitter-based sensor shows high sensitivity with experimental limit of detection of 1 nM glucose solution and a detection range from 1 nM to 50 μM in air at room temperature, which is lower than that of glucose sensors based on surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy, fluorescence signal transmission, and electrochemical signal transduction. The new glucose sensor provides a key technique for promising consuming application in biological system for detecting low levels of glucose on single cells or bacterial cultures.
Characterization of Mutant Serine Palmitoyltransferase 1 in LY‐B Cells
Authors: Momin Amin A. , Park Hyejung , Allegood Jeremy C. , Leipelt Martina , Kelly Samuel L. , Merrill Alfred H. , Hanada Kentaro
Published: June 2009

CHO‐LY‐B cells have been useful in studies of sphingolipid metabolism and function because they lack serine palmitoyltransferase (SPT) activity. Cloning and sequencing of the SPT1 transcript of LY‐B cells identified the mutation as a guanine to adenine change at nucleotide 738, causing a G246R transformation. Western blots revealed low expression of the mutant SPT1 peptide, but activity was not detectable by mass spectrometric analysis of [13C]‐palmitate incorporation into sphinganine, sphingosine, 1‐deoxysphinganine, or 1‐desoxymethylsphinganine. Treatment of LY‐B cells with chemical chaperones (DMSO or glycerol) increased the amounts of mutant SPT1 as well as SPT2, but SPT activity was not restored. This study has established that G246R mutation in hamster SPT1 results in the loss of SPT activity.
Physicochemical, Textural and Viscoelastic Properties of Palm Diacylglycerol Bakery Margarine During Storage
Authors: Cheong Ling‐Zhi , Tan Chin‐Ping , Long Kamariah , Suria Affandi Yusoff Mohd. , Lai Oi‐Ming
Published: June 2009

Physicochemical, textural and viscoelastic properties of palm diacylglycerol (PDG) bakery margarines (DOS720, DOS721 and DOS711) and commercial margarine (CM) throughout a 3‐month storage period were evaluated and compared. All the margarines had significant (P < 0.05) increments in slip melting point (SMP), solid fat content (SFC) and hardness during storage with CM having the highest overall increment followed by margarines DOS711, DOS 721 and DOS720. The smaller increments are mainly due to the ability of PDG to delay polymorphic transformation from β′ to β form. In terms of viscoelastic properties, all margarines had a higher degree of firmness which may probably be due to rearrangement of the fat crystals into a three‐dimensional scaffolding network upon storage. In terms of melting behavior, storage has no effects on all margarines with the exception of margarine DOS711. The melting behavior of margarine DOS711 displayed a probability of oil exudation during storage. As for polymorphic transformation, CM had the earliest polymorphic transformation with only β crystals after 8 weeks of storage. PDG bakery margarines managed to retard the transformation to more than 10 weeks of storage for DOS711 and 12 weeks of storage for DOS720 and DOS721.
Evaluation of Authenticity of Iranian Olive Oil by Fatty Acid and Triacylglycerol Profiles
Authors: Piravi‐Vanak Z. , Ghavami M. , Ezzatpanah H. , Arab J. , Safafar H. , Ghasemi Jahan B.
Published: June 2009

For evaluation of the authenticity of Iranian olive oil, samples from many Iranian olive oil producers especially north of Iran in the production year 2007 were collected. The fatty acid and triacylglycerol compositions were measured. The most recent calculation methods including ∆ECN the difference between the actual and theoretical ECN42 (equivalent carbon number), triglyceride content and R of olive oils according to IOOC methods were applied. On the basis of our results, we were able to classify the olive oils into the extra virgin, virgin olive and olive oil categories. The important fatty acids are oleic, palmitic and linoleic acids and their main triacylglycerols are OOO, POO, OOL, PLO, SOS plus POP, and OLL, respectively. On the basis of the triacylglycerol results, experimental ECN48, ECN46, ECN50, ECN44 and ECN42 were obtained. By using the fatty acids results and a computer program, the theoretical ECN42 and ECN44 were calculated. Then R values, being the ratio of r ECN42/r ECN44 for authenticity of all olive oils and ∆ECN for determining categories of olive oils, were defined. The results of olive oil samples were in the accepted limits of Codex and IOOC. Finally we suggest that the R and ∆ECN can be used in identification of adulteration of olive oils and also they are useful from the point of view of authenticity and classification.
Links between nonshared friendship experiences and adolescent siblings' differences in aspirations
Authors: Kretschmer Tina , Pike Alison
Published: June 2009

Using a sibling design, this study examined the association between adolescents' friendship experiences and their aspirations for self‐acceptance, affiliation, and financial success. We hypothesized that adolescent siblings would differ in their aspirations and that unique experiences in friendships would be associated with these differences. Within our sample of 102 same‐sex sibling pairs (mean age older sibling 16 years, younger sibling 14 years), only a small degree of sibling similarity was found for aspirations as well as friendship experiences. Self‐acceptance and affiliation were positively linked to general friendship positivity as well as to positive features of the adolescents' closest friend. Bivariate model‐fitting techniques revealed that nonshared processes (i.e., unique to each child in the family) explained these links between friendship experiences and aspirations. The results indicate that growing up in one home and being socialized by the same parents does not make adolescent siblings similar in their aspirations but rather that nonshared experiences like those with close friends are related to aspiration dissimilarity of siblings.
Different responses of Fe transporters in Caco‐2/HT29‐MTX cocultures than in independent Caco‐2 cell cultures
Authors: Laparra José Moisés , Glahn Raymond P. , Miller Dennis D.
Published: June 2009

The human intestinal epithelium is composed of several cell types, mainly enterocytes and goblet (mucin‐secreting) cells. This study compares the cellular response of Fe transporters in Caco‐2, HT29‐MTX, and Caco‐2/HT29‐MTX co‐culture models for Fe bioavailability. Caco‐2 cells in vitro differentiate into enterocyte‐like cells and HT29‐MTX cell lineage into a mucin‐secreting cellular population. Cell cultures were exposed to digests of Fe+3, Fe+3/ascorbic acid, cooked fish (high‐available Fe) or white beans (low‐available Fe). Cell responses as shown by mRNA expression of the main Fe transporters, DMT1 and DcytB, and cell ferritin formation were monitored. In Caco‐2/HT29‐MTX co‐cultures, the mucin layer lowered the pool of free Fe to diffuse towards the cell brush border membrane of enterocytes, which was accompanied of an upregulation of DMT1 mRNA expression. In contrast, cultures exposed to digests of fish or white beans showed no significant differences in the regulation of Fe transporters.
Restoration of SOCS3 suppresses human lung adenocarcinoma cell growth by downregulating activation of Erk1/2, Akt apart from STAT3
Authors: Yu Zu‐bin , Bai Li , Qian Pin , Xiao Yin‐bin , Wang Guan‐song , Qian Gui‐sheng , Bai Chun‐xue , Min Jia‐xin
Published: June 2009

SOCS3 is regarded as a major negative regulator of STAT3. Recent evidence indicates that SOCS3 regulates strength and duration of other signaling pathways including ras/ERK1/2/MAPK, PI3‐K/Akt in non‐malignant cells. The repression or silence of SOCS3 expression in a few tumor types has led to speculation that loss of SOCS3 gene is closely related to deregulation of multiple signal pathways during tumorigenesis. However, apart from STAT3, little is known in malignant cells about the mechanism by which SOCS3 modulates other intracellular signal cascades such as Erk1/2 and Akt, whose aberrant activation has been implicated in many human tumors. Expression of SOCS3 proved deficient in human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells, and forced expression of SOCS3 resulted in growth inhibition. Growth suppression due to SOCS3 was associated with attenuated activation of Erk1/2, Akt as well as STAT3. The results suggested that SOCS3, as negative regulators of cytokine signaling, might maintain homeostasis by regulating multiple signaling pathways and reverse cell malignant behavior.
Influence of exogenous salicylic acid on flavonolignans and lipoxygenase activity in the hairy root cultures of Silybum marianum
Authors: Khalili Masumeh , Hasanloo Tahereh , Tabar Kazemi Seyyed Kamal , Rahnama Hassan
Published: June 2009

Silymarin is one of the most potent antioxidant so far developed from plant sources used as hepatoprotectants. Influence of different concentrations (0, 1, 2, 4, 6 and 8 mg/50 ml culture) and exposure time (24, 48, 72, 96 and 120 h) of salicylic acid on lipoxygenase activity, linoleic acid content, growth and production of silymarin in hairy root cultures of S. marianum were investigated. Detection and identification of flavonolignans was carried out by high performance liquid chromatograph method. Salicylic acid enhanced silymarin production (1.89 mg g−1 DW). The optimal feeding condition was the addition of salicylic acid (6 mg/50 ml culture) after 24 h in which the silymarin content was 2.42 times higher than the control (0.78 mg g−1 DW). The content of silybin, isosilybin, silychristin, silydianin and taxifolin were 0.703, 0.017, 0.289, 0.02 and 0.863 mg g−1 DW respectively in these samples, while in non‐treated hairy roots were 0.027, 0.046, 0.23, 0.022 and 0.453 respectively. Lipoxygenase activity also affected by elicitation. lipoxygenase activity increased 24 h after treatment by ∼1.57‐ fold (0.21 Δ OD234/mg protein min−1). Upon elicitation with salicylic acid, linoleic acid content of hairy roots (38.26 mg g−1 DW) were also elevated after 24 h, in which the linoleic acid content was 2.37 times higher than the control (16.1 mg g−1 DW). It is feasible that elicitation with salicylic acid regulates the jasmonate pathway, which in turn mediates the elicitor‐induced accumulation of silymarin.
Role of MEF feeder cells in direct reprogramming of mousetail‐tip fibroblasts
Authors: Chen Mengfei , Sun Xuerong , Jiang Ruzhang , Shen Wenjuan , Zhong Xiufeng , Liu Bingqian , Qi Ying , Huang Bing , Xiang Andy Peng , Ge Jian
Published: June 2009

Pluripotent stem cells can be induced from somatic cells by the transcription factors Oct3/4, Sox2, c‐Myc and Klf4 when co‐cultured with mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF) feeder cells. To date, the role of the feeder cells in the reprogramming process remains unclear. In this study, using a comparative analysis, we demonstrated that MEF feeder cells did not accelerate reprogramming or increase the frequency of induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell colonies. However, feeder conditions did improve the growth of primary iPS colonies and were necessary for passaging the primary colonies after reprogramming was achieved. We further developed a feeder‐free culture system for supporting iPS growth and sustaining pluripotency by adding bFGF and activin A (bFA) to the medium. These data will facilitate the generation of human iPS cells without animal feeders for regenerative medicine.
Defective myogenic differentiation of human rhabdomyosarcoma cells is characterized by sialidase Neu2 loss of expression
Authors: Stoppani Elena , Rossi Stefania , Marchesini Sergio , Preti Augusto , Fanzani Alessandro
Published: June 2009

Sialidase Neu2 is a glycohydrolytic enzyme whose tissue distribution has been detected principally in differentiated skeletal muscle. In this study we show that Neu2 expression is absent in different embryonal and alveolar human tumor rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) cells, which are genetically committed myoblasts characterized by delayed differentiation. Forced myogenic differentiation of an embryonal RMS cell line, as obtained via pharmacological and genetic p38 activation or via follistatin overexpression, was characterized by Neu2 loss of expression despite the significant rise of different muscle‐specific markers, suggesting therefore that the defective myogenic program of RMS cells is accompanied by Neu2 suppression.
Neuroprotective effect of methanol extract of Phellodendri Cortex against 1‐methyl‐4‐phenylpyridinium (MPP+)‐induced apoptosis in PC‐12 cells
Authors: Jung Hyo Won , Jin Guang‐Zhen , Kim Sung Yun , Kim Yeong Shik , Park Yong‐Ki
Published: June 2009

Phellodendri Cortex (PC) is a traditional herbal medicine, widely used in Korea and China. The effects of the methanol extract of Phellodendri Cortex (PC extract) on 1‐methyl‐4‐phenylpyridinium (MPP+)‐induced neuronal apoptosis in PC‐12 cells have been investigated. MPP+‐induced apoptosis in PC‐12 cells was accompanied by an increased bax/bcl‐2 ratio, release of cytochrome c to the cytosol and activation of caspase‐3. PC extract inhibited the downregulation of bcl‐2 and the upregulation of bax, as well as the release of mitochondrial cytochrome c into the cytosol. In addition, PC extract attenuated caspase‐3 activation and cleavage of poly (ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP). These results suggest that the PC extract has protective effects against MPP+‐induced neuronal apoptosis in PC‐12 cells.
Interactions of free copper (II) ions alone or in complex with iron (III) ions with erythrocytes of marine fish Dicentrarchus labrax
Authors: Labieniec Magdalena , Milowska Katarzyna , Balcerczyk Aneta , Rucinska Agata , Sadowska Magdalena , Jokiel Marta , Brichon Gerard , Gabryelak Teresa
Published: June 2009

As a consequence of human activity, various toxicants – especially metal ions – enter aquatic ecosystems and many fish are exposed to considerable levels. As the free ion and in some complexes, there is no doubt that copper promotes damage to cellular molecules and structures through radical formation. Therefore, we have investigated the influence of copper uptake by the red blood of the sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax), and its oxidative action and effects on cells in the presence of complexed and uncomplexed Fe3+ ions.

Erythrocytes were exposed to various concentrations of CuSO4, Fe(NO3)3, and K3Fe(CN)6 for up to 5 h, and the effects of copper ions alone and in the combination with iron determined. The results show that inside the cells cupric ion interacts with hemoglobin, causing methemoglobin formation by direct electron transfer from heme Fe2+ to Cu2+. Potassium ferricyanide as a source of complexed iron decreases Met‐Hb formation induced by copper ions unlike Fe(NO3)3. We also found that incubation of fish erythrocytes with copper increased hemolysis of cells. But complexed and uncomplexed iron protected the effect of copper. CuSO4 increased the level of lipid peroxidation and a protective effect on complexed iron was observed. Incubation of erythrocytes with copper ions resulted in the loss of a considerable part of thiol content at 10 and 20 μM. This effect was decreased by potassium ferricyanide and Fe(NO3)3 only after 1 and 3 h of incubation. The level of nuclear DNA damage assayed by comet assay showed that 20 μM CuSO4 as well as 20 μM Fe(NO3)3 and 10 mM K3Fe(CN)6 induce single‐ and double‐strand breaks. The lower changes were observed after the exposure of cells to K3Fe(CN)6. The data suggest that complexed iron can act protectively against copper ions in contrast to Fe(NO3)3.
Stimulation of the side population fraction of ATDC5 chondroprogenitors by hypoxia
Authors: Kishimoto Koshi N. , Oxford Carol L. , Reddi A. Hari
Published: June 2009

The influence of oxygen tension on the side population (SP) fraction sorted from ATDC5 chondroprogenitor cells was investigated. ATDC5 cells cultured in normoxia (20%) or hypoxia (1% oxygen) were compared. The SP fraction was significantly higher in the cells cultured in hypoxia. The gene expression of 3 ABC transporters, abcb1a/b (mdr1a/b) and abcg2 (bcrp1) was quantified by RT‐PCR. SP cells were characterized by the higher expression of abcb1a. The expression levels of abcb1b and abcg2 were higher than abcb1a. However, there was no significant difference between SP and non‐SP fractions in the expression of abcb1b and abcg2. The telomeric repeat amplification protocol assay showed that SP cells tended to show lower telomerase activity than non‐SP cells. Chondrogenic properties of ATDC5 cells derived from SP or non‐SP were assessed by micromass culture. There were not significant differences between SP and non‐SP derived cells in Alcian blue staining and sox9, Aggrecan, Col2a1 and SZP mRNA expression. The results demonstrate that the SP fraction was stimulated by hypoxia and chondrogenic properties of SP and non‐SP fraction of ATDC5 cells were similar.
Staurosporine‐induced apoptosis in P388D1 macrophages involves both extrinsic and intrinsic pathways
Authors: Nakamura‐López Yuko , Sarmiento‐Silva Rosa Elena , Moran‐Andrade Julio , Gómez‐García Beatriz
Published: June 2009

Treatment of P388D1, a macrophage‐like cell line, with staurosporine triggered apoptosis through the activation of caspase‐9 and caspase‐3. Unexpected effects of staurosporine on the induction of apoptosis were the activation of caspase‐8, and an increase of the levels of TNF‐α. The increased TNF‐α levels led to activation of caspase‐8 by an autocrine effect via the TNF receptor expressed by the P388D1 macrophages. In contrast, P388D1 macrophages that either had been exposed to UV light or treated with dexamethasone did not undergo apoptosis.
Lipid droplets interact with mitochondria using SNAP23
Authors: Jägerström Sara , Polesie Sam , Wickström Ylva , Johansson Bengt R. , Schröder Henrik D. , Højlund Kurt , Boström Pontus
Published: June 2009

Triglyceride‐containing lipid droplets (LD) are dynamic organelles stored on demand in all cells. These droplets grow through a fusion process mediated by SNARE proteins, including SNAP23. The droplets have also been shown to be highly motile and interact with other cell organelles, including peroxisomes and the endoplasmic reticulum. We have used electron and confocal microscopy to demonstrate that LD form complexes with mitochondria in NIH 3T3 fibroblasts. Using an in vitro system of purified LD and mitochondria, we also show the formation of the LD–mitochondria complex, in which cytosolic factors are involved. Moreover, the presence of LD markers in mitochondria isolated by subcellular fractionations is demonstrated. Finally, ablation of SNAP23 using siRNA reduced complex formation and beta oxidation, which suggests that the LD–mitochondria complex is functional in the cell.
Inhibition of PKHD1 may cause S‐phase entry via mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Zheng Rong , Wang Li , Fan Junming , Zhou Qin
Published: June 2009

Autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD) is an important genetic disorder in pediatric nephrological practice. Mutation of the polycystic kidney and hepatic disease gene 1 (PKHD1) was identified as the cause of ARPKD. Rapamycin is a highly specific inhibitor of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). Rapamycin exerts its biological activity by inhibiting the serine–threonine kinase mTOR, which regulates important cellular processes such as control of cell cycle, cell size, translation initiation and transcription. The ability of rapamycin to cause G1‐cell cycle arrest, reduced cell growth and a reduced rate of proliferation has led to efforts to develop rapamycin and related mTOR inhibitors as anti‐cystogenesis agents. Therefore, we investigated the relationship between the decreased FPC and the protein levels of mTOR and the inhibitory effects of rapamycin on the expression of mTOR, Hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1 alpha (HIF‐1α) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the human 293T cell line. These observations should provide an important platform for determining FPC function and the pathogenesis of ARPKD, with the targeting of mTOR signaling being exploitable as a novel therapy.
2′‐Epi‐2′‐O‐acetylthevetin B induces apoptosis partly via Ca2+‐mediated mitochondrial pathway in human hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells
Authors: Feng Bo , Huang Cai‐Guo , Chen Ruo‐Hua , Guo Yue‐Wei , Jiao Bing‐Hua
Published: June 2009

2′‐Epi‐2′‐O‐acetylthevetin B (GHSC‐74), a cardiac glycoside, can be isolated from the seeds of Cerbera manghas L. We demonstrated that GHSC‐74 reduced the viability of HepG2 cells in a time‐ and dose‐dependent manner, and efficiently induced apoptosis without significantly decreasing the viability of Chang human liver cells and Swiss albino 3T3 fibroblasts, as indicated by annexin‐V/PI binding assay and Hoechst 33342 staining. In addition, stimulation of HepG2 cells with GHSC‐74 induced a series of intracellular events: (1) loss of mitochondrial membrane potential; (2) sustained elevation of cytosolic [Ca2+]; and (3) downregulation of Bcl‐2. BAPTA‐AM, a cytosolic Ca2+ chelator, partly suppressed cell death and prevented mitochondrial membrane potential from losing in GHSC‐74‐treated HepG2 cells. In contrast, EGTA, an extracellular Ca2+ chelator, exhibited a weaker effect as compared to that of BAPTA‐AM. Taken together, the Ca2+‐mediated mitochondrial pathway was found to be involved in GHSC‐74‐induced HepG2 cell apoptosis.
Cyclin Y, a novel membrane‐associated cyclin, interacts with PFTK1
Authors: Jiang Mei , Gao Yankun , Yang Tao , Zhu Xueliang , Chen Jiangye
Published: June 2009

MINT‐7147695, MINT‐7147713: pftk1 (uniprotkb:O94921) and CCNY (uniprotkb:Q8ND76) colocalize (MI:0403) by fluorescence microscopy (MI:0416)
Protecting girls and women from harmful practices affecting their health: Are we making progress?
Authors: Cottingham Jane , Kismodi Eszter
Published: June 2009

Since female genital mutilation (FGM) was first recognized internationally in 1958, it has now become widely accepted and anchored in international law that FGM is a violation of girls' and women's human rights. Declines in the practice, however, are slow overall, and continued work for its elimination requires action and investment at many levels. Where the practice has diminished, community action has been widespread and sustained. Governments, who are ultimately responsible for the eradication of FGM, must take many measures to outlaw the practice and protect girls' and women's rights, through legislation, policy, education, and resource allocation. Among the other key actors, health care professionals have a particularly important role in treating women and in preventing FGM by actively opposing any medicalization of the practice.