bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integração de fronteiras: a saúde no contexto de uma política nacional de desenvolvimento
Authors: Gadelha Carlos Augusto Grabois , Costa Laís
Published: October 2007

As fronteiras do Brasil com os países da América do Sul foram, nas últimas décadas, associadas a uma agenda negativa de intervenção pública com o intuito quase exclusivo de garantir a segurança nacional por meio da imposição de restrições de toda ordem. No presente século, com uma progressiva e lenta mudança no paradigma geopolítico, a integração entre as nações do continente passa a ser vista como prioritária. A região de fronteira, como ponto crítico desse processo de integração, passa a configurar uma área estratégica para a integração sul-americana, entrando na agenda de desenvolvimento dos Estados nacionais. Nesse novo contexto, o artigo procura subsidiar a aproximação do campo da saúde com o do desenvolvimento regional, com foco na região de fronteira, caminhando num sentido duplo: de um lado traz a agenda de desenvolvimento para o campo da saúde e, de outro, fornece pistas de como as ações em saúde podem contribuir para uma perspectiva mais geral de desenvolvimento e integração.
Condiciones de vida, situación de la salud y disponibilidad de servicios de salud en la frontera de Brasil: un enfoque geográfico
Authors: Peiter Paulo Cesar
Published: October 2007

Este estudio se propone identificar espacios críticos en la atención a la salud de la Franja Fronteriza de Brasil. Para ello se realizó una caracterización de la distribución de los recursos de salud por municipio y regiones fronterizas en 1999-2000, posteriormente relacionada con las condiciones de vida, situación de salud, accesibilidad geográfica y otros aspectos de la dinámica fronteriza. Se utilizaron datos secundarios de grandes bancos de datos nacionales de salud y geografía, completados con datos primarios recogidos sobre el terreno. Para el análisis de los datos y producción de mapas se utilizaron Sistemas de Información Geográfica. La Franja de Frontera se mostró heterogénea en los aspectos considerados. El segmento que comprende los municipios situados en la frontera norte presentó las condiciones más desfavorables constituyéndose en la región más crítica para la atención a la salud. El segmento central presentó una situación intermedia, con una proporción equilibrada de sub-regiones en situación crítica y no-crítica. El segmento sur presentó una situación satisfactoria en todas las sub-regiones. La heterogeneidad de la salud en la Franja Fronteriza mostró la necesidad de un enfoque específico que considere sus diferentes regiones y las particularidades de la dinámica fronteriza.
Saúde nas fronteiras: acesso e demandas de estrangeiros e brasileiros não residentes ao SUS nas cidades de fronteira com países do MERCOSUL na perspectiva dos secretários municipais de saúde
Authors: Giovanella Ligia , Guimarães Luisa , Nogueira Vera Maria Ribeiro , Lobato Lenaura de Vasconcelos Costa , Damacena Giseli Nogueira
Published: October 2007

No contexto de formação de mercados comuns, as regiões de fronteira adquirem especial atenção, pois antecipam efeitos dos processos de integração. Nas fronteiras convivem diferentes sistemas políticos, monetários, de segurança e proteção social, e a intensificação de fluxos decorrentes da integração gera novos desafios para os sistemas de saúde, exigindo políticas específicas direcionadas à garantia do direito à saúde nas regiões fronteiriças. Este trabalho apresenta resultados de pesquisa com o objetivo de analisar condições de acesso e demandas por serviços de saúde em cidades fronteiriças do MERCOSUL. Foi realizado inquérito com secretários municipais de saúde das 69 localidades brasileiras da linha de fronteira com países do MERCOSUL referentes aos Estados do Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina, Paraná e Mato Grosso do Sul. Buscou-se identificar ações demandadas pela população fronteiriça, mecanismos utilizados para acesso, fluxos entre serviços e sistemas, estratégias de resposta e acordos locais. Iniciativas de cooperação entre gestores locais brasileiros e estrangeiros, identificadas em quase metade dos municípios, podem orientar a formulação de diretrizes para situações de fronteira que possibilitem a melhoria do acesso integral à atenção à saúde.
Integración regional andina en salud
Authors: Agudelo Carlos A.
Published: October 2007

A pesar su historia compartida, los países de la Región Andina presentan una diversidad social y política que genera realidades sanitarias heterogéneas y procesos de integración complejos. Se han dado por décadas procesos generales, como la Asociación Latinoamericana de Libre Comercio y la Asociación Latinoamericana de Integración, o de alcance regional como la Comunidad Andina de Naciones, la Comunidad del Caribe y el Mercado Común Centroamericano. En el campo específico de la salud se cuenta con un instrumento en la Región Andina, el Convenio Hipólito Unánue, creado en 1971. Estos procesos de integración se han concentrado en los aspectos económicos, con base en acuerdos de preferencias arancelarias, los cuales han generado, en el largo plazo, un intercambio comercial apreciable. En el campo de la salud se ha avanzado menos, en términos de procesos que ponen en común experiencias nacionales, conocimientos y capacidades. El análisis de las experiencias de integración en salud muestra que esta depende de las fortalezas de cada país y, en gran parte, de los procesos políticos nacionales.
A pesquisa sobre educação profissional em saúde no MERCOSUL: uma contribuição para políticas de integração regional referentes à formação de trabalhadores técnicos em saúde
Authors: Ramos Marise
Published: October 2007

O avanço da integração econômica regional no Cone Sul coloca o problema da circulação de trabalhadores como componente dos processos de produção, havendo o risco de se ter um fluxo de trabalhadores qualificados para determinadas regiões em prejuízo de outras. Requer-se, com isso, o estabelecimento de reciprocidade de reconhecimento curricular e de mecanismos de habilitação e credenciamento. A Escola Politécnica de Saúde Joaquim Venâncio, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, como um Centro Colaborador da Organização Mundial de Saúde para a Educação Técnica em Saúde, volta-se para esse assunto, desenvolvendo investigações para subsidiar estudos e normatizações relativas à integração de políticas de formação de trabalhadores técnicos em saúde no MERCOSUL. Um desafio importante nesse sentido é o levantamento e a sistematização da oferta quantitativa e qualitativa de educação técnica em saúde nos países membros do bloco. Estudo dessa natureza contribuirá para o estabelecimento de correspondências entre regulamentações curriculares, títulos, diplomas e códigos do exercício profissional, vigentes na organização dos serviços de saúde dos respectivos países. Situar esse desafio no âmbito da problemática da relação entre trabalho, educação e saúde, é o propósito deste texto.
MicroRNA-134 Modulates the Differentiation of Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells, Where It Causes Post-Transcriptional Attenuation of Nanog and LRH1
Authors: Tay Yvonne M.-S. , Tam Wai-Leong , Ang Yen-Sin , Gaughwin Philip M. , Yang Henry , Wang Weijia , Liu Rubing , George Joshy , Ng Huck-Hui , Perera Ranjan J. , Lufkin Thomas , Rigoutsos Isidore , Thomson Andrew M. , Lim Bing
Published: October 2007

Hundreds of microRNAs (miRNAs) are expressed in mammalian cells, where they aid in modulating gene expression by mediating mRNA transcript cleavage and/or regulation of translation rate. Functional studies to date have demonstrated that several of these miRNAs are important during development. However, the role of miRNAs in the regulation of stem cell growth and differentiation is not well understood. We show herein that microRNA (miR)-134 levels are maximally elevated at day 4 after retinoic acid-induced differentiation or day 2 after N2B27-induced differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs), but this change is not observed during embryoid body differentiation. The elevation of miR-134 levels alone in mESCs enhances differentiation toward ectodermal lineages, an effect that is blocked by a miR-134 antagonist. The promotion of mESC differentiation by miR-134 is due, in part, to its direct translational attenuation of Nanog and LRH1, both of which are known positive regulators of Oct4/POU5F1 and mESC growth. Together, the data demonstrate that miR-134 alone can enhance the differentiation of mESCs to ectodermal lineages and establish a functional role for miR-134 in modulating mESC differentiation through its potential to target and regulate multiple mRNAs.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Myocardin A Enhances Telomerase Activities in Adipose Tissue Mesenchymal Cells and Embryonic Stem Cells Undergoing Cardiovascular Myogenic Differentiation
Authors: Madonna Rosalinda , Willerson James T. , Geng Yong-Jian
Published: October 2007

Acting as a reverse transcriptase that maintains nuclear telomere length and replication potential, telomerase usually decreases in expression and activities when mammalian stem cells undergo terminal differentiation. This study identified, in adult adipose tissue, a subpopulation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) that coexpresses telomerase and myocardin A, a key regulator of cardiovascular myogenic development. The telomerase/myocardin A-positive MSCs differentiated into cardiovascular myogenic cells while retaining expression and activation of the telomerase catalytic unit, telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT), at a level comparable to that of ESCs. Both myocardin A and TERT could be coimmunoprecipitated from the developing MSCs and ESC-derived EBs with either anti-TERT or anti-myocardin A antibodies, suggesting the formation of TERT-myocardin A complexes in the MSCs and EBs. The proteins pulled down with anti-myocardin antibodies showed almost the same levels of telomerase activities as those precipitated with anti-TERT antibodies. Overexpression of myocardin A by cDNA transfection significantly increased telomerase activities and promoted telomere synthesis by MSCs. The data from this study indicate a potentially novel function of myocardin A in maintaining the myogenic stemness in developing MSCs and EBs by enhancing telomerase activation and promoting myogenic gene expression.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Human Multipotent Stromal Cells Undergo Sharp Transition from Division to Development in Culture
Authors: Larson Benjamin L. , Ylöstalo Joni , Prockop Darwin J.
Published: October 2007

Human mesenchymal stem cells, or multipotent stromal cells (MSCs), are of interest for clinical therapy, in part because of their capacity for proliferation and differentiation. However, results from clinical trials and in vitro models have been variable, possibly because of MSC heterogeneity and a lack of standardization between MSC in vitro expansion protocols. Here we defined changes in MSCs during expansion in vitro. In low-density cultures, MSCs expand through distinct lag, exponential growth, and stationary phases. We assayed cultures of passage 2 human MSCs from three donors at low density (50 cells per cm2) at approximately 5% confluence on day 2 and after the cultures had expanded to approximately 70% confluence on day 7. On day 2, genes involved in cell division were upregulated. On day 7, genes for cell development were upregulated. The variations among three donors were less than the variation within the expansion of MSCs from a single donor. The microarray data for selected genes were confirmed by real-time polymerase chain reaction, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and FACScan analysis. Approximately 50% of cells at day 2 were in S-phase compared with 10% at day 7. The results demonstrated major differences in early and late stage cultures of MSCs that should be considered in using the cells in experiments and clinical applications.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Extremely Low Doses of X-Radiation can Induce Adaptive Responses in Mouse Prostate
Authors: Day Tanya K. , Zeng Guoxin , Hooker Antony M. , Bhat Madhava , Turner David R. , Sykes Pamela J.
Published: October 2007

The pKZ1 mouse chromosomal inversion assay is the only assay that has detected modulation of a mutagenic endpoint after single whole body X-irradiation with doses lower than 1 mGy. A non-linear dose response for chromosomal inversion has been observed in spleen and prostate between 0.001 mGy and 10 mGy, with doses between 0.005–0.01 mGy causing an increase in inversions and doses between 1–10 mGy causing a reduction below spontaneous inversion frequency. An adaptive response is a decreased biological effect induced by a low radiation dose. Adaptive responses contradict the linear-no-threshold model of risk estimation. We demonstrated that very low (0.001 mGy, 0.01 mGy, 1 mGy and 10 mGy) doses of X-radiation induced a chromosomal inversion adaptive response as measured by a reduction in the frequency of subsequent high dose (1000 mGy) induced inversions in prostate. These are the lowest X-radiation doses reported to induce an adaptive response for any endpoint. Adaptive response experiments were also performed where the high dose was administered four hours prior to a low dose of 0.01 mGy or 10 mGy. In both cases an adaptive response was observed. Identification of the modifying factors involved in the adaptive response may provide candidates for radioprotection.
Whole-Body Low Dose Irradiation Promotes the Efficacy of Conventional Radiotherapy for Cancer and Possible Mechanisms
Authors: Jin S.Z. , Pan X.N. , Wu N. , Jin G.H. , Liu S.Z.
Published: October 2007

The purpose of the present study was to explore the possibility of establishing cancer radiotherapy protocols that could promote treatment efficacy at a reduced radiation dose. Mouse models of melanoma (B16) and Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) were used in the experiments. Conventional local radiotherapy was combined with low dose whole-body irradiation (LDWBI) in the presence or absence of gene therapy by intratumor injection of a recombinant plasmid Egr-mIL-18-B7.1 (E18B). After a number of trials with different combinations it was found that a protocol of 2-week treatment with 2 × (E18B + 2 Gy + 0.075 Gy × 2) was found to be able to promote treatment efficacy at a reduced radiation dose. In this protocol local irradiation with 2Gy was administered 24h after intratumor injection of 10 μg of the plasmid E18B followed by LDWBI with 0.075 Gy every other day for 2 sessions in 1 week, and the procedure was repeated for another week. When this combined treatment was compared with conventional radiotherapy, i.e., 2Gy every other day 3 times in one week repeated for 2 weeks, the treatment efficacy was improved, as judged by increased average survival rate, reduced mean tumor weight, reduced pulmonary metastasis and suppressed intratumor capillary growth with a 2/3 reduction of radiation dose. Immunologic studies showed stimulated natural killer (NK) and cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) activity as well as increased interferon-γ (IFN-γ) secretion in this combined treatment group as compared with the group receiving local treatment alone. It is suggested that up-regulation of host anticancer immunity by LDWBI and the initiation of expression of immune genes by both the local large dose and LDWBI are important factors in the realization of improved cancer control.
Predictors of injurious assault committed during or after drinking alcohol: a case–control study of young offenders
Authors: Navis Charlene , Brown Stephen L. , Heim Derek
Published: October 2007

Studies of causal links between alcohol and aggression are often handicapped by threats to internal and external validity. Case–control methods employ an event‐level analysis that can reduce some of these validity threats by the use of within‐subject controls. This study used a case–control approach, asking 39 male inmates in a Young Offenders' Institution to compare drinking behaviour before incidents where they reported commission of an injurious assault and a matched incident where they did not. After controlling contextual differences, participants reported personally drinking more heavily and heavier drinking within their group, but not being more impaired when an assault was committed. The assault incidents were more likely to involve spontaneous, rather than planned, drinking and a higher proportion of males in the group. They were less likely to involve drinking in a pub. Our confirmation of previous findings using a case–control methodology strengthens those findings. Limitations of this methodology are also discussed. Aggr. Behav. 34:167–174, 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Analysis of the demand for imported meat in Switzerland using a dynamic specification: Implications for the European Union
Authors: Feleke Shiferaw T. , Kilmer Richard L.
Published: October 2007

The study identifies the long‐run equilibrium (steady‐state) relationship of the demand for imported meat in Switzerland and the speed of adjustment of the short‐run demand using the Error Correction Linear Approximate Almost Ideal Demand System (EC‐LA/AIDS). Results indicate that imports of meat into Switzerland have a long‐run equilibrium relationship with price and real expenditure. The study also finds that the demand for pork is price elastic, while the demand for beef, chicken, and mutton is price inelastic. Results will have important implications for the EU meat industry to adjust its export supply in response to changes in prices resulting from the bilateral trade agreements in which Switzerland is expected to reduce or abolish nontariff barriers, further open its market, and reduce or abolish all duties and export subsidies. [EconLit citations: Q110, Q130, Q170 © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Agribusiness 23: 497–510, 2007.
Monosomy 1p36 deletion syndrome
Authors: Gajecka Marzena , Mackay Katherine L. , Shaffer Lisa G.
Published: October 2007

Monosomy 1p36 results from a heterozygous deletion of the most distal chromosomal band on the short arm of chromosome 1. Occurring in ∼1 in 5,000 live births, monosomy 1p36 is the most common terminal deletion observed in humans. Monosomy 1p36 is associated with mental retardation, developmental delay, hearing impairment, seizures, growth impairment, hypotonia, and heart defects. The syndrome is also characterized by several distinct dysmorphic features, including large anterior fontanels, microcephaly, brachycephaly, deep‐set eyes, flat nose and nasal bridge, and pointed chin. Several genes have been proposed as causative for individual features of the phenotype. In addition, based upon molecular characterization of subjects with monosomy 1p36, several mechanisms for the generation and stabilization of terminal deletions have been proposed. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The 6p subtelomere deletion syndrome
Authors: DeScipio Cheryl
Published: October 2007

Submicroscopic deletion of the 6p25 subtelomere has recently been recognized as a clinically identifiable syndrome. To date, more than 30 cases have been described with variable cytogenetically visible 6p deletions. Terminal 6p deletions result in a clinically distinguishable phenotype. The focus of this review is the phenotype associated with isolated terminal deletions of 6p25, and specifically isolated submiscroscopic subtelomere deletions. A distinct phenotype has emerged consisting of developmental delay/mental retardation, language impairment, hearing loss, and ophthalmologic, cardiac, and craniofacial abnormalities. These features demonstrate considerable clinical overlap with the Ritscher‐Schinzel (or cranio‐cerebello‐cardiac (3C)) syndrome (OMIM #220210). Isolated submiscroscopic 6p25 subtelomere terminal deletion has been reported in 11 individuals, two of whom are siblings. Cytogentic and molecular mapping of the 6p25 deletion boundary has been reported in 8 of these 10 unrelated individuals with isolated submiscroscopic subtelomere deletion. This analysis has revealed substantial phenotypic overlap between individuals with submicroscopic terminal 6p deletions and those with large, cytogenetically visible deletions of the region suggesting that the critical genes contributing to the main clinical and developmental features lie in the terminal region of 6p25. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Consumer attitudes toward genetic modification and sustainability: implications for the future of biorenewables
Authors: Verbeke Wim
Published: October 2007

Consumers are increasingly interested in sustainability and more sustainable production methods but, especially in Europe, they have been quite critical toward particular applications of genetic modification (GM). While there is little doubt that the sustainability issue entails substantial opportunities for biorenewables, the GM issue –posing either a threat or an opportunity –is less straightforward. Although initial findings suggest that European consumers feel positive about biotechnology applications for biofuel production, consumer attitudes toward and acceptance of GM, specifically in the production of biorenewables, have not been investigated in depth, leaving numerous questions unresolved and calling for further social sciences research in this area. A particularly interesting path to explore is to what extent the consumer's belief that GM is tampering with nature, and therefore is ethically wrong, might be outweighed by the perception that GM in biorenewables production contributes to re‐establishing the balance in nature and therefore is beneficial overall. Further challenges pertain to communication, providing tangible benefits to consumers, and monitoring consumer acceptance and adoption of biorenewables. © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Remembering Bruce: The early years
Authors: Stewart John M.
Published: October 2007

This paper summarizes Merrifield‐Stewart interactions during the years 1952–1968. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 90: 185–187, 2008.

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
How do stakeholders and legislation influence the allocation of green space on brownfield redevelopment projects? Five case studies from Switzerland, Germany and the UK
Authors: Altherr Wendy , Blumer Daniel , Oldörp Heike , Nagel Peter
Published: October 2007

Disused railway sites have become a focus of redevelopment projects in many European cities. As sites that offer economically lucrative opportunities for building projects, as well as important habitats for threatened pioneer species, they are contested ground. We compared the allocation of green space in five urban development projects on disused railway sites from Switzerland, Germany and the United Kingdom. We show that the distance to the city centre, the involvement of the stakeholders and the current legislation are important in explaining the quantity and type of green space allocated. In particular, the farther away from the city centre, the higher the proportion of apartments planned and the higher the allocation of green space within the public space. Our comparison also illustrates that ‘conventional’ green spaces are of major importance for the public acceptance of urban redevelopment projects and are highlighted by developers as an important image factor. We identified three strategies to protect the valuable natural sites in such railway brownfields: protection of the pioneer habitats in situ, reinstallation of similar habitats on roofs (ex situ) and safeguarding of the natural process of succession. For future brownfield redevelopment projects we would encourage guidelines that take into account the special kind of nature on such sites and guarantee planning reliability for investors. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Online reporting for sustainability issues
Authors: Isenmann Ralf , Bey Christoph , Welter Markus
Published: October 2007

Online reporting describes an emerging digital reporting approach based on support through current information and communication technology (ICT), particularly on the internet. Such a computer‐based method provides an array of medium‐specific capabilities and technical benefits to improve sustainability communication, both for companies (reporters) and their various stakeholders (report users). Compared with orthodox methods, online reporting used for sustainability communication overcomes the limitations of paper‐based disclosure, such as ‘one size fits all’ reports, print medium fixation and one‐way communication. The contribution gives an outline on this up‐and‐coming sustainability online reporting approach in four categories. (i) Medium‐specific trends in the field are observed. (ii) New opportunities emerging for corporate sustainability communication are identified. (iii) A framework for sustainability online reporting is presented. (iv) Limitations are discussed that should be considered when moving away from early reporting stages towards the advanced one of sustainability online reporting. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Finding the best location for pumping stations in the Galovica drainage area of Serbia: the AHP approach for sustainable development
Authors: Srdjevic Z. , Kolarov V. , Srdjevic B.
Published: October 2007

The paper proposes a new approach for sustainability appraisal in development projects in Serbia by using the analytic hierarchy process as a group decision‐making framework. Selection of the most acceptable location for pumping stations in the Galovica drainage area is chosen for the case study. Three experts (an ecologist, a hydro‐engineer and a local authority representative) evaluated three alternative locations regarding technical, economical, environmental and social criteria. Sensitivity analysis shows that the group decision will remain stable unless the importance weight of the hydro‐engineer is set to 0.9 or higher. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
A FAK/Src chimera with gain‐of‐function properties promotes formation of large peripheral adhesions associated with dynamic actin assembly
Authors: Siesser Priscila M. F. , Meenderink Leslie M. , Ryzhova Larisa , Michael Kristin E. , Dumbauld David W. , García Andrés J. , Kaverina Irina , Hanks Steven K.
Published: October 2007

Formation of a complex between the tyrosine kinases FAK and Src is a key integrin‐mediated signaling event implicated in cell motility, survival, and proliferation. Past studies indicate that FAK functions in the complex primarily as a “scaffold,” acting to recruit and activate Src within cell/matrix adhesions. To study the cellular impact of FAK‐associated Src signaling we developed a novel gain‐of‐function approach that involves expressing a chimeric protein with the FAK kinase domain replaced by the Src kinase domain. This FAK/Src chimera is subject to adhesion‐dependent activation and promotes tyrosine phosphorylation of p130Cas and paxillin to higher steady‐state levels than is achieved by wild‐type FAK. When expressed in FAK −/− mouse embryo fibroblasts, the FAK/Src chimera resulted in a striking cellular phenotype characterized by unusual large peripheral adhesions, enhanced adhesive strength, and greatly reduced motility. Live cell imaging of the chimera‐expressing FAK −/− cells provided evidence that the large peripheral adhesions are associated with a dynamic actin assembly process that is sensitive to a Src‐selective inhibitor. These findings suggest that FAK‐associated Src kinase activity has the capacity to promote adhesion integrity and actin assembly. Cell Motil. Cytoskeleton 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Whole‐brain radiotherapy versus stereotactic radiosurgery for patients in recursive partitioning analysis classes 1 and 2 with 1 to 3 brain metastases
Authors: Rades Dirk , Pluemer Andre , Veninga Theo , Hanssens Patrick , Dunst Juergen , Schild Steven E.
Published: October 2007

BACKGROUND.

The authors investigated whether stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) alone improved outcomes for patients in recursive partitioning analysis (RPA) Classes 1 and 2 who had 1 to 3 brain metastases compared with whole‐brain radiotherapy (WBRT).

METHODS.

Data regarding 186 patients in RPA Classes 1 and 2 who had 1 to 3 brain metastases and who received either 30 to 40 grays (Gy) of WBRT (n = 91 patients) or 18 to 25 Gy SRS (n = 95 patients) were analyzed retrospectively. Eight other potential prognostic factors were evaluated regarding overall survival (OS), entire brain control (BC), local control (LC) of treated metastases, and brain control distant from treated metastases (distant control [DC]): Those 8 factors were age, sex, performance status, tumor type, number of brain metastases, extracranial metastases, RPA class, and interval from tumor diagnosis to radiotherapy.

RESULTS.

On multivariate analysis of OS, age ( risk ratio [RR], 1.51; P = .024), Karnofsky performance status (KPS) (RR, 1.98; P = .002), and extracranial metastases (RR, 2.26; P < .001) were significant, whereas the radiation regimen was not significant (P = .89). On multivariate analysis of BC, only the radiation regimen (RR, 1.33; P = .003) was found to be significant. On multivariate analysis of LC, radiation regimen (RR, 1.63; P < .001) and sex (RR, 1.62; P = .022) were significant. On multivariate analysis of DC, KPS (RR, 1.85; P = .049) and extracranial metastases (RR, 1.69; P = .047) were significant. The radiation regimen was not found to be significant even on univariate analysis (P = .80). In RPA class subgroup analyses, BC and LC were better after SRS than WBRT for patients in RPA Classes 1 and 2, whereas OS and DC did not differ significantly.

CONCLUSIONS.

For patients in RPA Classes 1 and 2 who had 1 to 3 brain metastases, SRS alone was associated with improved BC and LC compared with 30 to 40 Gy WBRT, whereas OS and DC were not significantly different. Similar results were observed in separate subgroup analyses of patients in RPA Class 1 and RPA Class 2. Cancer 2007. © 2007 American Cancer Society.
Performance of wireless multihop communications systems with cooperative diversity over fading channels
Authors: Tsiftsis Theodoros A.
Published: October 2007

We present closed‐form bounds for the performance of wireless multihop communications systems with cooperative diversity over Nakagami‐m fading channels. The end‐to‐end signal‐to‐noise ratio is formulated and upper bounded by using the inequality between harmonic and geometric means of positive random variables. Closed‐form expression is derived for the moment‐generating function and is used to obtain lower bounds for the average error probability. Numerical results are compared with computer simulations showing the tightness of the proposed bounds. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Frequency of Gallstones after Renal Transplantation and Factors that Affect Gallstone Formation: A Comparative Study
Authors: Çelik Aykut Ferhat , Altıparmak Mehmet Riza , Pamuk Gülsüm Emel , Pamuk Ömer Nuri , Apaydin Süheyla
Published: October 2007

BACKGROUND

We investigated the frequency of gallstones (GSs) in our renal transplant recipients and evaluated the effects of various factors on GS formation.

METHODS

One hundred and eight‐two patients who had undergone renal transplantation at our center in the last 12 years were included in the study. Of these, 163 patients were followed up regularly, of whom 118 were using cyclosporine A (CsA). Abdominal ultrasonography of all patients was performed, and biochemical parameters were also determined.

RESULTS

Median duration of patient follow‐up was 36 months. GSs were diagnosed in 5 patients (3.1%). Mean age and follow‐up duration of the CsA group were lower than those of the non‐CsA group (p < 0.05 and p < 0.001, respectively). The frequency of GSs was 3.4% in the CsA group and 2.2% in the non‐CsA group (p > 0.05). Median time to detect GS formation in the post‐transplantation period was 85 months. The CsA group had a significantly shorter GS‐free follow‐up period than the non‐CsA group (p = 0.008). According to Cox multivariate regression analysis, the only factor that affected GS formation in the post‐transplantation period was the use of CsA.

CONCLUSION

The use of CsA showed a trend toward increasing the risk of developing a GS sooner in the posttransplant period, particularly for young men.
Anemia Management in Adult Chronic Hemodialysis Patients Using Darbepoetin Alfa Protocol
Authors: Nguyen Timothy , Wells Debra
Published: October 2007

BACKGROUND

Data on darbepoetin alfa for anemia management in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is scarce when compared with epoetin alfa. Clinical experiences of using darbepoetin alfa, dosing guide, and average weekly requirements are discussed in this article.

METHODS

A retrospective data analysis of 150 adult chronic hemodialysis patients was conducted for the period January 2005–May 2006. Darbepoetin alfa administration used convenient pre‐filled syringes. Dose was titrated up or down in small increments to target hemoglobin (Hgb) levels of at least 11 and less than 13 g/dL. Hgb levels were measured twice monthly with the goal of maintaining 80% of patients at the target of 11 g/dL or greater. Intravenous iron was administered to maintain serum ferritin levels between 100 and 600 ng/mL and transferrin saturation between 20% and 45%. Other parameters monitored included average weekly darbepoetin alfa dose.

RESULTS

The average percentage of patients maintained at an Hgb level of 11 g/dL or greater was: January–June 2005, 76.5% (95% CI, ± 2.56); July–December 2005, 82% (95% CI, ± 2.12); and 2006, 78.6% (95% CI, ± 2.96). The percentage of patients with an Hgb > 12 g/dL was 21%–46%. The average weekly darbepoetin alfa doses decreased from 70 ± 3 µg (January–June 2005) to 62 ± 2 µg (June–December 2005) and further decreased to 55 µg (95% CI, mean ± 1.12) in 2006.

CONCLUSIONS

Darbepoetin alfa is effective for anemia management in CKD patients. The average weekly darbepoetin alfa requirement for anemia management to target an Hgb level of 11 g/dL or greater for most adult chronic hemodialysis patients is 55 µg or less.
Rosiglitazone increases matrix production and quenches inflammation: studies in human cells
Authors: Solini Anna , Santini Eleonora , Madec Stephanie , Nannipieri Monica , Bonotti Alessandra , Cuccato Sabina , Ferrannini Ele
Published: October 2007

Background

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is characterized by an accelerated atherogenesis, a process to which both proliferative and inflammatory responses contribute. Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors‐gamma (PPARγ) agonists have both anti‐proliferative and anti‐inflammatory properties. We tested the effect of therapeutic doses of rosiglitazone on proliferative and inflammatory pathways in fibroblasts (HF) from five controls (C) and five T2D patients, and in aortic smooth muscle cells (hSMC).

Methods

Transforming growth factor‐beta (TGFβ) and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) expression, and IL‐6, laminin and fibronectin release were measured. To identify the involved intracellular signalling, extracellular signal‐regulated kinases (ERK)1/2 phosphorylation and p38 activation were evaluated.

Results

Both phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (PMA) [a protein kinase C (PKC) activator] and rosiglitazone increased TGFβ expression and fibronectin and laminin release in C and T2D patients. Rosiglitazone effect was reversed by its specific inhibitor Sr202. The combination PMA + rosiglitazone was additive in C, but not in T2D patients. IL‐6 production was stimulated by PMA in both C and T2D patients; this effect was prevented by rosiglitazone in a Sr202‐inhibitable manner. Experiments performed in hSMC yielded the same results. Rosiglitazone increased p38 activation more in C than in T2D patients; PMA‐induced phosphorylation of ERK1/2 was similarly reduced in both cells.

Conclusions

In HF and hSMC, rosiglitazone stimulates the synthesis of matrix components via enhanced TGFβ expression; when combined with PMA, the resulting PKC activation is mediated by enhanced p38 phosphorylation. On the other hand, rosiglitazone quenches inflammation in both cell types, by counteracting PMA‐induced phosphorylation of ERK1/2. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Body composition in girls and young women with anorexia nervosa: Comparison of different equations
Authors: Probst Michel , Goris Marina , Vandereycken Walter , Pieters Guido
Published: October 2007

Objective:

The weight percentage of body fat in anorexic adolescents on the basis of four distinct formulas (Siri; Lohman; Westrate and Deurenberg; Heyward and Stolarczyk) is compared.

Method:

The body composition of 238 anorexia nervosa (AN) patients, divided into four age categories (13–15, 15–17, 17–19, and 19–22 years), was measured by means of densitometry (underwater weighing).

Results:

Depending on the formula, the results calculated by the formulas differ significantly in each age category. The Siri formula generally results in the highest mean fat percentage (12.76%–13.39%) whereas the Heyward and Stolarczyck formula shows the lowest figures (8.77%–9.31%). Applying the Lohman and the Heyward and Stolarczyck formulas to the 19–22 years category, results in negative fat percentages.

Conclusion:

A clinically useful formula is important for the estimation of body composition in specific age categories. We recommend with some restrictions, to apply the Siri formula in AN patients. © 2007 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 2008
Chiral resolution of melatoninergic ligands by EKC using highly sulfated CDs
Authors: Lipka Emmanuelle , Danel Cécile , Orhan Hervé , Bonte Jean‐Paul , Vaccher Claude
Published: October 2007

EKC methods for the enantiomeric resolutions of melatoninergic ligands were developed using anionic CDs (highly S‐α‐CD, highly S‐β‐CD, and highly S‐γ‐CD) as chiral selectors at acidic pH 2.5. The optimization of the various operational parameters (nature and concentration of the CD, phosphate buffer concentration, addition of organic modifiers in the BGE, and temperature) allows baseline enantioresolutions (superior to 2) in short analysis times (inferior to 7 min) for all studied analytes. Some analytical characteristics of the optimal method were then studied for each analyte: repeatability, linearity, and LOD and LOQ. Lastly, determination of the apparent binding constants for the 18 complexes formed between the six analytes and the three CDs led us to rationalize the complexation mechanisms.
Improved solubilization of surface proteins from Listeria monocytogenes for 2‐DE
Authors: Mujahid Sana , Pechan Tibor , Wang Chinling
Published: October 2007

Solubilization of bacterial surface (cell wall and membrane‐associated) proteins for 2‐DE is challenging, particularly in the case of Gram‐positive bacteria. This is primarily due to strong protein association with the cell wall peptidoglycan and protein hydrophobicity. We solubilized surface proteins for 2‐DE from the Gram‐positive pathogen Listeria monocytogenes using mutanolysin, which digests cell wall peptidoglycan, and one of three different mixtures of zwitterionic detergent and chaotropes: (i) CHAPS/urea, (ii) amidosulfobetaine‐14 (ASB‐14)/urea/thiourea (iii) N‐decyl‐N,N'‐dimethyl‐3‐ammonio‐1‐propanesulfonate/urea/thiourea. Cell lysis with mutanolysin followed by solubilization with ASB‐14/urea/thiourea gave the highest overall protein yield with the best 2‐DE resolution. Protein spot identification by MALDI‐TOF/TOF‐MS analysis revealed 29 characterized surface proteins of L. monocytogenes, 17 of which have not previously been reported on the surface proteome map. This is the first report describing the successful solubilization and 2‐DE of L. monocytogenes proteins bound to the cell surface via an LPXTG motif or by a hydrophobic tail. The increase in surface proteome coverage obtained by mutanolysin and ASB‐14/urea/thiourea solubilization suggests the utility of this method for future analytical and comparative studies of surface proteins from Listeria, and possibly other Gram‐positive bacteria, using 2‐DE proteomic analysis. An updated 2‐DE reference map of L. monocytogenes surface proteins is presented.
Enantioseparation of phenothiazines in CD‐modified CZE using single isomer sulfated CD as a chiral selector
Authors: Liao Wei‐Ssu , Lin Chen‐Hsing , Chen Chih‐Yu , Kuo Chia‐Ming , Liu Yu‐Chih , Wu Jong‐Chang , Lin Ching‐Erh
Published: October 2007

Enantioseparations of five chiral phenothiazines in CD‐modified CZE using the single isomer sulfate‐substituted β‐CD (heptakis(2,3‐dihydroxy‐6‐O‐sulfo)‐β‐CD, SI‐S‐β‐CD) and dual CD systems consisting of SI‐S‐β‐CD and a neutral CD as chiral selectors in a citrate buffer at pH 3.0 were investigated. The results indicate that SI‐S‐β‐CD is an excellent chiral selector for enantioseparation of promethazine. The enantiomers of trimeprazine were well separated, while those of ethopropazine could also be baseline‐resolved with SI‐S‐β‐CD. With dual CD systems, especially with hydroxypropyl‐β‐CD (HP‐β‐CD) as neutral CD, the enantioselectivity of thioridazine and ethopropazine was considerably enhanced. Effective enantioseparation of phenothiazines, except for methotrimeprazine, could thus be favorably and simultaneously achieved. Moreover, reversal of the enantiomer migration order of ethopropazine and thioridazine occurred by varying the concentration of γ‐CD in the presence of SI‐S‐β‐CD. These phenomena may be attributable to the opposite effects of sulfated β‐CD and γ‐CD on the mobility of the enantiomers of ethopropazine and of thioridazine. Comparative studies on the enantioseparations of phenothiazines with single CD and dual CD systems containing SI‐S‐β‐CD and randomly sulfate‐substituted β‐CD (MI‐S‐β‐CD) were made.
CE‐based noncompetitive immunoassay for immunoglobulin G in bovine colostrum products
Authors: Zhao Jin , Ding Xiaojing , Wang Xinyu , Wang Qian , Wang Zhi
Published: October 2007

A CE‐based noncompetitive immunoassay for IgG in bovine colostrum products was established. FITC‐labeled protein G (FITC‐PrG) was tagged through noncovalent bindings to the Fc region of the mouse monoclonal antibovine IgG (Ab). The FITC‐PrG, Ab, and IgG formed a sandwiched immunocomplex FITC‐PrG‐Ab‐IgG under optimal incubation conditions. The immunocomplex was separated and analyzed by CZE with LIF detection in less than 2 min in an uncoated fused‐silica capillary. Addition of PEG 20 000 (PEG 20M) in the running buffer significantly suppressed analyte adsorption and thus improved the reproducibility and the resolution. The precision of the method was 5.1% (n = 7). A linear relationship was established for the IgG concentration in the range of 1–5 mg/L with a linear correlation coefficient (r = 0.9917). The LOD was 0.1 mg/L (S/N = 3). The method was successfully applied for the determination of IgG in bovine colostrum products and satisfactory results were achieved.
High‐throughput determination of glutathione and reactive oxygen species in single cells based on fluorescence images in a microchannel
Authors: Gao Ning , Li Lu , Shi Zhikun , Zhang Xiaoli , Jin Wenrui
Published: October 2007

A novel high‐throughput method is presented based on fluorescence images of cells in a microchannel for determination of glutathione (GSH) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) inside single cells. We first present a method to determine GSH and ROS separately, in which GSH in cells is derivatized by 2,3‐naphthalenedicarboxaldehyde (NDA), and intracellular ROS is labeled using dihydrorhodamine 123. The cells with either fluorescent derivatized GSH or fluorescent labeled ROS are introduced into a microchannel and fluorescence images of every moving cell in the microchannel are taken continuously using a highly sensitive thermoelectrically cooled electron‐multiplying CCD. The fluorescence intensities of the images correspond to the masses of GSH or ROS. An average detection rate of 80–120 cells/min is achieved. We then propose a method for simultaneously determining GSH and ROS, in which ROS is first labeled in the cells. The labeled cells are then introduced into the whole channel and allowed to immobilize onto the glass substrate. The fluorescence images of all the cells in the channel are taken. NDA is then introduced into the channel to derivatize the GSH in the immobilized cells, and fluorescence images of all cells are taken again. An average analysis rate of ˜20 cells/min is achieved. The masses of GSH and ROS in the single cells can be obtained from the fluorescence intensities of the images using their calibration curves. Since the cells are not lysed, there is no problem with adsorption of biological macromolecules and cellular debris on the channel wall, so that channel treatment, necessary in usual single‐cell analysis techniques using CE and microchip electrophoresis, is no longer necessary. For single global cells, this method can also be used to determine the concentrations of ROS and GSH, which has not been reported previously. The concentrations of ROS and GSH in single global cells can be calculated from the determined masses and the cell volume (derived from the diameter of the round fluorescence image of the derivatized GSH). For gastric cancer cells, the concentrations of GSH and ROS are in the range 0.35×10‐3–1.3×10‐3 mol/L and 0.77×10‐6–1.5×10‐6 mol/L, respectively.
RNA analysis by MEKC with LIF detection
Authors: Cornelius Michael G. , Schmeiser Heinz H.
Published: October 2007

We have developed and validated a procedure of high sensitivity for the analysis of RNA. The procedure is based on the separation and detection of the 5'‐monophosphates of ribonucleosides selectively conjugated with 4,4‐difluoro‐5,7‐dimethyl‐4‐bora‐3a,4a‐diaza‐s‐indacene‐3‐propionyl ethylene diamine hydrochloride (BODIPY FL EDA) at the 5'‐phosphate group using CE with LIF. BODIPY conjugates of the four common ribonucleoside‐5'‐monophosphates were prepared and subjected to CE‐LIF to serve as standard compounds for peak assignment and to develop separation conditions. After digestion of RNA or oligoribonucleotides to 5'‐monophosphates by nuclease P1 and fluorescence labeling BODIPY conjugates were detected and resolved by CE‐LIF without further purification steps. Comparative CE‐LIF analyses with DNA digested to deoxyribonucleoside‐5'‐monophosphates showed that the assay is equally efficient and sensitive for RNA analysis. Conditions to determine the modified ribonucleosides inosine, xanthosine, pseudouridine and 2'‐O‐methyladenosine were also established. The limits of detection were in the range of 80–200 pM. After calibrating the assay with oligoribonucleotides, pseudouridine was quantified in total RNA of Drosophila, human liver, human kidney and t‐RNA of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. These studies demonstrate good potential of fluorescence labeling of ribonucleoside‐5'‐monophosphates with BODIPY FL EDA and detection by CE‐LIF to determine RNA composition with high accuracy and sensitivity.