bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Possibilities and limits of political humour in a hybrid regime
Authors: Hyttinen Anniina
Published: April 2024

This article focuses on the Hungarian Two-Tailed Dog Party (MKKP), which can be defined as a joke party. MKKP uses humour to criticise the corruption flourishing around the governing party Fidesz as well as its simplified and racist form of political communication. However, MKKP’s critical stance extends to Hungarian politicians and the political system in general.
This visual ethnographic research focuses on the activities that MKKP organised during national days in Hungary between 2017 and 2022, which included a space launch, a peace march and an alternative national day celebration on 20 August. The events can be defined as parody performances. The field material is complemented by a semi-structured interview with the party activists. MKKP’s humour is critical and revealing in nature, aiming to expose the powerholders’ agenda. However, instead of ridiculing, MKKP’s humour is primarily corrective and supportive. As such, it has the potential to alleviate polarisation. In MKKP’s activism, creativity and cynicism exist in close proximity to one another. Humour also functions as a powerful antidote against simplified populist truths that rely on fearmongering and enemy images. In a hybrid regime, absurd humour can be used to reveal the inherent absurdities of the political reality. MKKP has occasionally succeeded in entering the state-controlled public sphere. During recent years, the party has started to address societal matters more seriously, without abandoning its roots as a humour party.
Pedagogical Effectiveness of GMRCE Learning Model in Strengthening Learning Attitude in Gas Laws
Authors: Uy Edison
Published: April 2024

Science education is plagued by challenges, with students complaining about the learning process and teachers expressing exhaustion among students. The study investigated the pedagogical effectiveness of the modified processes of Gamification, Modeling, Rewarding, Cognitive Teamwork, and Explicit Timing (GMRCE) Model in strengthening students’ learning attitude in Gas Laws among Grade 10 Science students at Pangdan National High School during the School Year 2022-2023. The study utilized a pretest-posttest, comparison-group true-experimental design, measuring conceptual understanding through a three-tier 15-item test and assessing mathematical skills through a four-item word problem test. Descriptive-correlational research is designed to analyze personal profiles, including age, sex, academic performance, attitude toward science, proficiency level, and acceptability. Results showed that students with positive attitudes toward science achieved favorable academic performance, and the GMRCE Learning Model effectively improved students’ learning attitude in Gas Laws, which was deemed moderately acceptable, indicating a high satisfaction rating. The study suggests that teachers should use strategic learning models to encourage active participation and improve academic performance. A replicated study involving a larger group of participants may be conducted in other schools, and a qualitative approach may be integrated to validate the findings.
Ameliorative Histological Effects of Aqueous Neem Leaf Extract (Azadirachta indica) on Lead Induced Neurotoxicity of Lateral Geniculate Body of Adult Wistar Rats
Authors: Fakunle P.B , Ehiremen S.E , Taiwo-Ola D. O , Akanji O D , Onakoya O.A , Oladejo M. K , Oladapo E. A
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Lead exposure remains a significant public health burden across the globe, impacting millions of individuals and posing a major threat to nervous system development and function. Among the vulnerable targets of lead's neurotoxic assault is the lateral geniculate body (LGB), a crucial relay station within the visual pathway. This brain region acts as a gateway for visual information, processing signals from the retina and transmitting them to the visual cortex for interpretation.
Aim: This study seeks to investigate the potential neuroprotective effects of aqueous Azadirachta indica (Neem leaf) extract against lead-induced neurotoxicity in the LGN of adult rats.
Methods: Twenty (20) adult wistar rats weighing 150-200g were randomly grouped into four(4) (A-D, n=5). Group A Normal control Group B received (70mg/kg)(Orally) Lead only, Group C received (200mg/kg)(Orally) Azadirachta indica (Neem leaf), Group D received (70mg/kg Lead and 200mg/k Azadirachta indica)(Orally). Alterations in the relative weight of the LGB were determined, and antioxidant status was assessed by measuring Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) and Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) levels. The effects of neem leaf extract on lactate dehydrogenase were also evaluated. Additionally, histological changes in the cerebellum due to lead exposure were examined using H&E and Cresyl Violet staining.
Results: Lead exposure led to alterations in the relative weight of the LGB, SOD and CAT level was significantly (P,<0.005) reduced compared to the control, while the LDH was significantly increased(P.>0.005) and disruptions in lactate dehydrogenase activity. Aqueous neem leaf extract administration showed potential ameliorative effects mitigating these alterations and histological examination revealed ameliorative changes in the LGB associated with lead exposure.
The study highlights the potential neuroprotective effects of aqueous neem leaf extract against lead-induced neurotoxicity, emphasizing its role in mitigating oxidative stress and preserving histological integrity in the LGN. Insights into the effects of neem on carbohydrate metabolism enzymes and cerebellar histology contribute to a comprehensive understanding of its therapeutic potential.
Interferon‐stimulated gene 15 (ISG15) conjugates proteins in dermatomyositis muscle with perifascicular atrophy
Authors: Salajegheh Mohammad , Kong Sek Won , Pinkus Jack L. , Walsh Ronan J. , Liao Anne , Nazareno Remedios , Amato Anthony A. , Krastins Bryan , Morehouse Chris , Higgs Brandon W. , Jallal Bahija , Yao Yihong , Sarracino David A. , Parker Kenneth C. , Greenberg Steven A.
Published: July 2009

Objective

We investigated interferon‐stimulated gene 15 (ISG15), a poorly understood ubiquitin‐like modifier, and its enzymatic pathway in dermatomyositis (DM), an autoimmune disease primarily involving muscle and skin.

Methods

We generated microarray data measuring transcript abundance for approximately 18,000 genes in each of 113 human muscle biopsy specimens, and studied biopsy specimens and cultured skeletal muscle using immunohistochemistry, immunoblotting proteomics, real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and laser‐capture microdissection.

Results

Transcripts encoding ISG15‐conjugation pathway proteins were markedly upregulated in DM with perifascicular atrophy (DM‐PFA) muscle (ISG15 339‐fold, HERC5 62‐fold, and USP18 68‐fold) compared with 99 non‐DM samples. Combined analysis with publicly available microarray datasets showed that >50‐fold ISG15 transcript elevation had 100% sensitivity and specificity for 28 biopsies from adult DM‐PFA and juvenile DM patients compared with 199 muscle samples from other muscle diseases. Free ISG15 and ISG15‐conjugated proteins were only found on immunoblots from DM‐PFA muscle. Cultured human skeletal muscle exposed to type 1 interferons produced similar transcripts and ISG15 protein and conjugates. Laser‐capture microdissection followed by proteomic analysis showed deficiency of titin in DM perifascicular atrophic myofibers.

Interpretation

A large‐scale microarray study of muscle samples demonstrated that among a diverse group of muscle diseases DM was uniquely associated with upregulation of the ISG15 conjugation pathway. Exposure of human skeletal muscle cell culture to type 1 interferons produced a molecular picture highly similar to that seen in human DM muscle. Perifascicular atrophic myofibers in DM were deficient in a number of skeletal muscle proteins including titin. ANN NEUROL 2010;67:53–63
N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor antibodies in pediatric dyskinetic encephalitis lethargica
Authors: Dale Russell C. , Irani Sarosh R. , Brilot Fabienne , Pillai Sekhar , Webster Richard , Gill Deepak , Lang Bethan , Vincent Angela
Published: July 2009

Encephalitis lethargica (EL) describes an encephalitis with psychiatric, sleep, and extrapyramidal movement disorders. Dyskinetic and Parkinsonian forms have been described. EL shares clinical features with the anti–N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor (NMDAR‐Ab) encephalitis. We studied 20 sera from pediatric patients with contemporary EL. Ten sera (from 2 males and 8 females, aged 1.3–13 years) and 6/6 cerebrospinal fluid samples were positive for NMDAR‐Ab. NMDAR‐Ab–positive patients had dyskinesias, agitation, seizures, and insomnia, whereas Parkinsonism and somnolence dominated in the NMDAR‐Ab–negative children. We were unable to identify any tumors. The dyskinetic form of EL is an NMDAR‐Ab encephalitis and can affect very young children. Ann Neurol 2009;66:704–709
A method to assess longitudinal riverine connectivity in tropical streams dominated by migratory biota
Authors: Crook Kelly E. , Pringle Catherine M. , Freeman Mary C.
Published: July 2009

One way in which dams affect ecosystem function is by altering the distribution and abundance of aquatic species.

Previous studies indicate that migratory shrimps have significant effects on ecosystem processes in Puerto Rican streams, but are vulnerable to impediments to upstream or downstream passage, such as dams and associated water intakes where stream water is withdrawn for human water supplies. Ecological effects of dams and water withdrawals from streams depend on spatial context and temporal variability of flow in relation to the amount of water withdrawn.

This paper presents a conceptual model for estimating the probability that an individual shrimp is able to migrate from a stream's headwaters to the estuary as a larva, and then return to the headwaters as a juvenile, given a set of dams and water withdrawals in the stream network. The model is applied to flow and withdrawal data for a set of dams and water withdrawals in the Caribbean National Forest (CNF) in Puerto Rico.

The index of longitudinal riverine connectivity (ILRC), is used to classify 17 water intakes in streams draining the CNF as having low, moderate, or high connectivity in terms of shrimp migration in both directions. An in‐depth comparison of two streams showed that the stream characterized by higher water withdrawal had low connectivity, even during wet periods. Severity of effects is illustrated by a drought year, where the most downstream intake caused 100% larval shrimp mortality 78% of the year.

The ranking system provided by the index can be used as a tool for conservation ecologists and water resource managers to evaluate the relative vulnerability of migratory biota in streams, across different scales (reach‐network), to seasonally low flows and extended drought. This information can be used to help evaluate the environmental tradeoffs of future water withdrawals.

Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modulation of Protein Dimerization by a Supramolecular Host–Guest System
Authors: Uhlenheuer Dana A. , Wasserberg Dorothee , Nguyen Hoang , Zhang Li , Blum Christian , Subramaniam Vinod , Brunsveld Luc
Published: July 2009

Two sets of cyan and yellow fluorescent proteins, monomeric analogues, and analogues with a weak affinity for dimerization were functionalized with supramolecular host–guest molecules by expressed protein ligation. The host–guest elements induce selective assembly of the monomeric variants into a supramolecular heterodimer. For the second set of analogues, the supramolecular host–guest system acts in cooperation with the intrinsic affinity between the two proteins, resulting in the induction of a selective protein–protein heterodimerization at a more dilute concentration. Additionally, the supramolecular host–guest system allows locking of the two proteins in a covalent heterodimer through the facilitated and selective formation of a reversible disulfide linkage. For the monomeric analogues this results in a strong increase of the energy transfer between the proteins. The protein heterodimerization can be reversed in a stepwise fashion. The trajectory of the disassembly process differs for the monomeric and dimerizing set of proteins. The results highlight that supramolecular elements connected to proteins can both be used to facilitate the interaction between two proteins without intrinsic affinity and to stabilize weak protein–protein interactions at concentrations below those determined by the actual affinity of the proteins alone. The subsequent covalent linkage between the proteins generates a stable protein dimer as a single species. The action of the supramolecular elements in concert with the proteins thus allows the generation of protein architectures with specific properties and compositions.
Multisite Solid Catalyst for Cascade Reactions: The Direct Synthesis of Benzodiazepines from Nitro Compounds
Authors: Climent Maria J. , Corma Avelino , Iborra Sara , Santos Laura L.
Published: July 2009

Substituted 1,5‐benzodiazepines are selectively synthesized in one pot from substituted nitroaromatics and ketones. The reaction is performed in the presence of hydrogen and in the absence of solvent by using a bifunctional solid catalyst with a chemoselective hydrogenation functional group capable of reducing the nitro group to a diamino group and an acid functional group, which catalyzes the cyclocondensation of the amino group with the ketone.
Hypochondriasis Y‐BOCS: a study of the psychometric properties of a clinician‐administered semi‐structured interview to assess hypochondriacal thoughts and behaviours
Authors: Greeven Anja , Spinhoven Philip , van Balkom Anton J. L. M.
Published: July 2009

Introduction: This study investigated the psychometric properties of the first clinician‐administered semi‐structured interview for assessing the severity of hypochondriacal symptoms. The Hypochondriasis Yale‐Brown Obsessive–Compulsive Scale (H‐YBOCS) consisted of three a priori dimensions: hypochondriacal obsessions, compulsions and avoidance. Methods: The 16‐item interview was conducted with 112 participants with Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, hypochondriasis. We analysed factor analytic structure, reliability, construct validity and sensitivity to change. Results: Factor analysis supported a three‐factor model similar to the a priori dimensions. Internal consistency ranged from satisfactory to good. Inter‐rater reliability was excellent. The construct validity was low to moderate. The H‐YBOCS was sensitive for measuring changes in symptom severity. Conclusion: The H‐YBOCS is a (factorially) valid and coherent interview with a high level of agreement across different raters. The relatively low discriminant validity could be due to co‐morbid anxiety and depressive disorders. Overall, the H‐YBOCS seems to be a promising contribution to the assessment of hypochondriasis. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message:

• The hypochondriasis Y‐BOCS is a feasible clinician rated interview to assess the severity of hypochondriacal complaints.
Versatile Synthesis of Secondary 2‐Amino Thiols and/or Their Disulfides via Thiazolinium Salts
Authors: Mercey Guillaume , Lohier Jean‐François , Gaumont Annie‐Claude , Levillain Jocelyne , Gulea Mihaela
Published: July 2009

Commercially available β‐amino alcohols have been transformed into various secondary β‐amino thiols and/or their disulfides by using methyl dithioacetate as a source of sulfur. The transformation involves a thiazolinium salt as a versatile key intermediate, which enables easy modulation of the product structure by varying the substituents on the heterocycle and the N‐alkylating agent.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
“Reverse degradomics”, monitoring of proteolytic trimming by multi‐CE and confocal detection of fluorescent substrates and reaction products
Authors: Piccard Helene , Hu Jialiang , Fiten Pierre , Proost Paul , Martens Erik , Van den Steen Philippe E. , Van Damme Jo , Opdenakker Ghislain
Published: July 2009

A platform for profiling of multiple proteolytic activities acting on one specific substrate, based on the use of a 96‐channel capillary DNA sequencer with CE‐LIF of labeled substrate peptides and reaction products is introduced. The approach consists of synthesis of a substrate peptide of interest, fluorescent labeling of the substrate, either aminoterminally by chemical coupling, or carboxyterminally by transglutaminase reaction, proteolysis by a biological mixture of proteases in the absence or presence of protease inhibitors, multi‐channel analysis of substrate and reaction products, and data collection and processing. Intact substrate and reaction products, even when varying by only one amino acid, can be relatively semi‐quantified in a high‐throughput manner, yielding information on proteases acting in complex biological mixtures and without prepurification. Monitoring, classification and inhibition of multiple proteolytic activities are demonstrated on a model substrate, the aminoterminus of the mouse granulocyte chemotactic protein‐2. In view of extensive processing of chemokines into various natural forms with different specific biological activities, and of the fragmentary knowledge of processing proteases, examples of processing by neutrophil degranulate, tumor cell culture fluids and plasma are provided. An example of selection and comparison of inhibitory mAbs illustrates that the platform is suitable for inhibitor screening. Whereas classical degradomics technologies analyze the substrate repertoire of one specific protease, here the complementary concept, namely the study of all proteases acting, in a biological context, on one specific substrate, is developed and tuned to identify key proteases and protease inhibitors for the processing of any biological substrate of interest.
The serum protein binding of pharmacologically active gallium(III) compounds assessed by hyphenated CE‐MS techniques
Authors: Groessl Michael , Bytzek Anna , Hartinger Christian G.
Published: July 2009

Transition metal‐based drugs exhibit high affinity to the soft donors of human serum proteins, especially of the high‐abundance protein HSA and of transferrin (Tf), whereas Ga(III) salts are known to bind to Tf and other iron‐containing metalloproteins, thereby interfering with the iron metabolism. Herein, the utilization of CE‐MS methods for studying the binding behavior of a therapeutic gallium nitrate formulation and the anticancer drug candidate Tris(8‐oxyquinolinato)gallium(III) to Tf and HSA under simulated physiological conditions is described. Both the Ga(III) salt and the complex were found to bind to Tf exclusively in the presence of carbonate, however, at different kinetics and to a different extent. Fe(III) induces the release of the Ga ions due to the higher affinity constant and also prevents the Ga(III) species from accessing the iron‐binding pockets of Tf. In contrast, only low affinity to HSA was observed and even when present atca. 20‐fold excess, the majority of the Ga was attached to Tf.
Analysis of N‐acetylaminosugars by CE: A comparative derivatization study
Authors: Rustighi Isabella , Campa Cristiana , Rossi Marco , Semeraro Sabrina , Vetere Amedeo , Gamini Amelia
Published: July 2009

N‐linked or O‐linked glycans derived from glycoprotein processing carry, an N‐acetylglucosamine or an N‐acetylgalactosamine respectively, at their reducing termini. The presence of the N‐acetylamino group on C‐2 of reducing sugar residues has been reported to hamper the derivatization reaction with a chromophore at the anomeric centre. In this paper N‐acetyllactosamine, N‐acetylglucosamine, N‐acetylgalactosamine and several other neutral monosaccharides are coupled to three different dyes (4‐aminobenzonitrile, 2‐aminopyridine, 2‐aminobenzoic acid (2‐AA)) by reductive amination and analysed by CE with UV detection. The 2‐AA derivatives showed the lowest concentration detection limits, varying approximately in the 2–3 μM range for the saccharides tested including the N‐acetamido ones. The possibility to separate and detect with the same sensitivity ten 2‐AA‐labelled monosaccharides mainly found in mammalian or plant glycoproteins in a single CE run is highlighted. The analysis has been carried out in less than 25 min using the borate‐complexation method in CZE mode. The influence of the strength of the acid used as catalyst in the chemical modification of the sugars with 2‐AA is also shortly addressed.
Dielectrophoretic focusing of particles in a microchannel constriction using DC‐biased AC flectric fields
Authors: Zhu Junjie , Xuan Xiangchun
Published: July 2009

This paper presents a fundamental study of particle electrokinetic focusing in a single microchannel constriction. Through both experiments and simulations, we demonstrate that such dielectrophoresis‐induced particle focusing can be implemented in a much smaller magnitude of DC‐biased AC electric fields (10 kV/m in total) as compared to pure DC electric fields (up to 100 kV/m). This is attributed to the increase in the ratio of cross‐stream particle dielectrophoretic velocity to streamwise electrokinetic velocity as only the DC field component contributes to the latter. The effects of the 1 kHz frequency AC to DC electric field ratio on particle trajectories and velocity variations through the microchannel constriction are also examined, which are found to agree with the simulation results.
Identifying and removing heterogeneities between monitoring networks
Authors: Skøien J. O. , Baume O. P. , Pebesma E. J. , Heuvelink G. B. M
Published: July 2009

There is an increased interest in merging observations from local networks into larger national and international databases. However, the observations from different networks have typically been made using different equipment and applying different post‐processing of the values. These heterogeneities in recorded values between networks can lead to inconsistencies between different networks, and to discontinuities at the borders between regions if the observations are used as a source for interpolated maps of the process. Such discontinuities are undesirable, and could create difficulties in interpreting the maps by decision makers.

In this paper, we present two variants of a method that can be used to identify and quantify differences between networks. The first variant deals with networks sharing the same region (usually multiple networks within a country) while the second variant deals with networks in neighbouring regions (usually networks in different countries). The estimated differences can be used to estimate individual biases for each network, which can be subtracted as a harmonization procedure.

The method was applied to European gamma dose rate (GDR) measurements from May 2008 from the European Radiological Data Exchange Platform (EURDEP) database. Data from the Slovenian GDR network are used for an application of the first variant of the method whereas the complete dataset is used to illustrate the second variant. The results indicate that these two variants are able to identify and quantify biases reliably, and the interpolated maps after subtraction of the estimated biases appear more reliable than maps created on the basis of the recorded data. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Myeloperoxidase and superoxide dismutase 2 polymorphisms comodulate the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma and death in alcoholic cirrhosis #
Authors: Nahon Pierre , Sutton Angela , Rufat Pierre , Ziol Marianne , Akouche Hassan , Laguillier Christelle , Charnaux Nathalie , Ganne-Carrié Nathalie , Grando-Lemaire Véronique , N'Kontchou Gisèle , Trinchet Jean-Claude , Gattegno Liliane , Pessayre Dominique , Beaugrand Michel
Published: July 2009

Alcohol increases reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation in hepatocyte mitochondria and by reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidases and myeloperoxidase (MPO) in Kupffer cells and liver-infiltrating neutrophils. Manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) converts superoxide anion into hydrogen peroxide, which, unless detoxified by glutathione peroxidase or catalase (CAT), can form the hydroxyl radical with iron. Our aim was to determine whether Ala16Val-superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2), G-463A-MPO, or T-262C-CAT dimorphisms modulate the risks of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and death in alcoholic cirrhosis. Genotypes and the hepatic iron score were assessed in 190 prospectively followed patients with alcoholic cirrhosis. During follow-up (61.1 ± 2.7 months), 51 patients developed HCC, and 71 died. The T-262C-CAT dimorphism did not modify hepatic iron, HCC, or death. The GG-MPO genotype did not modify iron but increased the risks of HCC and death. The hazard ratio (HR) was 4.7 (2.1–10.1) for HCC and 3.6 (1.9–6.7) for death. Carriage of one or two Ala-SOD2 allele(s) was associated with higher liver iron scores and higher risks of HCC and death. The 5-year incidence of HCC was 34.4% in patients with both the GG-MPO genotype and one or two Ala-SOD2 alleles, 5.1% in patients with only one of these two traits, and 0% in patients with none of these traits. Corresponding 5-year death rates were 37.6%, 11.6%, and 5%. Conclusion: The combination of the GG-MPO genotype (leading to high MPO expression) and at least one Ala-SOD2 allele (associated with high liver iron score) markedly increased the risks of HCC occurrence and death in patients with alcoholic cirrhosis. (Hepatology 2009.)
Sp1 coordinately regulates de novo lipogenesis and proliferation in cancer cells
Authors: Lu Suying , Archer Michael C.
Published: July 2009

Cancers express high levels of fatty acid synthase (FAS) from which they derive fatty acids for membrane biosynthesis to sustain cell proliferation. How cancer cells coordinate de novo lipogenesis and proliferation has not been investigated. Transcription factors Sp1, Sp3 and Sp4 are overexpressed in a variety of cancers and regulate gene expression by interacting with GC‐rich Sp1 binding sites. Genes encoding FAS and cell cycle proteins such as CDC25A contain Sp1 binding sites in their promoters. We demonstrate by RNA interference that Sp1, Sp3 and Sp4 all play a role in regulating CDC25A expression and proliferation in human breast cancer cells. Only Sp1, however, also regulates FAS. Furthermore, mithramycin, which blocks Sp1 binding sites, decreased proliferation, inhibited CDC25A and FAS expression and reduced binding of Sp1 to the promoters of these genes as assessed by ChIP assays. Conversely, 17β‐estradiol (E2) increased proliferation and CDC25A and FAS expression along with increased binding of Sp1 to the promoters of the 2 genes. In addition, we showed that the expression of sterol regulatory element‐binding protein‐1c (SREBP‐1c), the only transcription factor that has been shown to regulate genes of lipogenic enzymes in cancer cells, is also regulated by Sp1. Finally, we demonstrated that Sp1 plays a role in sustaining proliferation and FAS expression in colon as well as prostate cancer cells. Overall, these observations suggest that Sp1 coordinately regulates de novo lipogenesis and proliferation in cancer cells.
Developmental control of segment numbers in vertebrates
Authors: Gomez Céline , Pourquié Olivier
Published: July 2009

Segmentation or metamery in vertebrates is best illustrated by the repetition of the vertebrae and ribs, their associated skeletal muscles and blood vessels, and the spinal nerves and ganglia. The segment number varies tremendously among the different vertebrate species, ranging from as few as six vertebrae in some frogs to as many as several hundred in some snakes and fish. In vertebrates, metameric segments or somites form sequentially during body axis formation. This results in the embryonic axis becoming entirely segmented into metameric units from the level of the otic vesicle almost to the very tip of the tail. The total segment number mostly depends on two parameters: (1) the control of the posterior growth of the body axis during somitogenesis—more same‐size segments can be formed in a longer axis and (2) segment size—more smaller‐size segments can be formed in a same‐size body axis. During evolution, independent variations of these parameters could explain the huge diversity in segment numbers observed among vertebrate species. These variations in segment numbers are accompanied by diversity in the regionalization of the vertebral column. For example, amniotes can exhibit up to five different types of vertebrae: cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral and caudal, the number of which varies according to the species. This regionalization of the vertebral column is controlled by the Hox family of transcription factors. We propose that during development, dissociation of the Hox‐ and segmentation‐clock‐dependent vertebral patterning systems explains the enormous diversity of vertebral formulae observed in vertebrates. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 312B:533–544, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Modification of dendritic cells with interferon‐γ‐inducible protein‐10 gene to enhance vaccine potency
Authors: Kang Tae Heung , Bae Hyun Cheol , Kim Seok‐Ho , Seo Su Hong , Son Sang Wook , Choi Eun Young , Seong Seung‐Yong , Kim Tae Woo
Published: July 2009

Background

Dendritic cell (DC)‐based vaccines have become a promising modality in cancer immunotherapy. However, their ability to initiate tumor antigen‐specific T cell immunity is limited in various negative‐feedback mechanisms. The rapid down‐regulation of chemokines, such as the interferon inducible protein of 10 kDa (IP‐10), which chemoattracts activated antigen‐specific CD8+ T cells, would represent negative‐feedback regulation. Therefore, we attempted to improve DC vaccine potency by introducing the IP‐10 gene retrovirally aiming to replenish the chemoattractive activity of DCs.

Methods

We introduced IP‐10 gene into DC2.4 cells, referred to as DC‐IP10, using a retroviral system. Nonsecretable mIP‐10‐expressing DCs (DC‐mIP10) were also prepared to evaluate the effects of secretion in IP‐10‐mediated modulation of DC biology. Additionally, in vitro and in vivo activation of antigen‐specific T lymphocytes and in vivo anti‐tumor effects induced by DC‐IP10 or DC‐mIP10 were determined.

Results

The modification of DC2.4 cells with the IP‐10 gene resulted in the secretion of functionally chemoattractive IP‐10 and, unexpectedly, a significant up‐regulation of surface expression in co‐stimulatory molecules, such as CD40 and CD80, compared to that of DCs with vector control (DC‐no insert). DC‐mIP10 also displayed the partially matured phenotypes but failed to recruit antigen‐specific T cells in an in vitro cell culture system. Consistently, DC‐IP10 generated more tumor antigen‐specific CD8+ T cells and stronger anti‐tumor effects in vaccinated mice than did control DCs and DC‐mIP10.

Conclusions

The results obtained provide the groundwork for a future clinical translation of the chemokine‐based genetic modification of DCs to increase their vaccine potency. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The molecular mechanism of human group IIA phospholipase A2 inactivation by bolinaquinone
Authors: Monti Maria Chiara , Chini Maria Giovanna , Margarucci Luigi , Tosco Alessandra , Riccio Raffaele , Bifulco Giuseppe , Casapullo Agostino
Published: July 2009

The molecular basis of the human group IIA secretory phospholipase A2inactivation by bolinaquinone (BLQ), a hydroxyquinone marine terpenoid, has been investigated for the comprehension of its relevant antiinflammatory properties, through the combination of spectroscopic techniques, biosensors analysis, mass spectrometry (MS) and molecular docking. Indeed, sPLA2s are well known to be implicated in the pathogenesis of inflammation such as rheumatoid arthritis, septic shock, psoriasis and asthma. Our results suggest a mechanism of competitive inhibition guided by a non‐covalent molecular recognition event, disclosing the key role of the BLQ hydroxyl‐quinone moiety in the chelation of the catalytic Ca2+ion inside the enzyme active site.

The understanding of the sPLA2‐IIA inactivation mechanism by BLQ could be useful for the development of a new chemical class of PLA2inhibitors, able to specifically target the enzyme active site. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surface optical phonon modes in ternary aligned crystalline InGaN/GaN multi‐quantum‐well nanopillar arrays
Authors: Wu Shang‐En , Dhara S. , Hsueh Tao‐Hung , Lai Yi‐Feng , Wang Cheng‐Yu , Liu Chuan‐Pu
Published: July 2009

The optical properties of focused ion beam‐engraved, perfectly aligned and spatially controlled multi‐quantum‐well (MQW) InGaN/GaN nanopillars were investigated. Crystalline MQW nanopillars with a diameter of 30–95 nm and high aspect ratios (7:1–16:1) showed a maximum of three‐fold enhancement in emission intensity per unit active area. A light‐emitting contour map of Taiwan is drawn with a nanopillar structure to demonstrate the site control of the technique adopted in the present study. Raman scattering studies were used to characterize the newly created surfaces. Unknown peaks in GaN and InGaN nanostructures are identified for surface optical (SO) phonon modes with proper assignments of wave vectors using multiple excitations, and the SO mode for the ternary phase is reported for the first time. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Long‐term results of AIEOP LNH‐92 protocol for the treatment of pediatric lymphoblastic lymphoma: A report of the Italian Association of pediatric hematology and oncology
Authors: Pillon Marta , Piglione Matilde , Garaventa Alberto , Conter Valentino , Giuliano Maria , Arcamone Giampaolo , Mura Rossella , Cellini Monica , D'Amore Emanuele S.G. , Varotto Stefania , Mussolin Lara , Rosolen Angelo
Published: July 2009

Background

Lymphoblastic lymphoma (LBL) is the second most frequent lymphoma subtype in childhood. It is commonly treated according to therapy strategies for lymphoblastic leukemia.

Methods

The AIEOP LNH‐92 protocol was a modified LSA2‐L2 therapy used for both T‐ and B‐cell precursor LBL and included Induction, Consolidation, and Maintenance treatment with a total duration of 11 and 24 months for stages I and II, stages III and IV disease, respectively.

Results

Fifty‐five eligible patients were enrolled, 40 males and 15 females, with a median age of 8 years. Complete remission was achieved in 93% of the cases. With a median follow‐up of 9 years the event‐free survival (EFS) was 69% and overall survival 72%. EFS of localized disease was 100%. The most frequent grades III and IV toxicity was hematologic and hepatic (elevated transaminases) toxicity. No toxic death nor second tumor were observed. Outcome was comparable to most concomitant international protocols for LBL, but inferior to recent trials that included reinduction treatment or a higher intensity therapy for high stage disease.

Conclusions

AIEOP LNH92 protocol demonstrated similar efficacy compared to contemporary regimens, with limited toxicity. Nevertheless, an intensified treatment is warranted for high stage disease. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:953–959. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Urine concentrating ability in infants with sickle cell disease: Baseline data from the phase III trial of hydroxyurea (BABY HUG)
Authors: Miller Scott T. , Wang Winfred C. , Iyer Rathi , Rana Sohail , Lane Peter , Ware Russell E. , Li Daner , Rees Renée C.
Published: July 2009

Background

A urine concentrating defect is quite common in sickle cell anemia, has its onset in early childhood, and may be reversible with transfusion. The Pediatric Hydroxyurea Phase III Clinical Trial (BABY HUG) is a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial to assess efficacy of hydroxyurea in preventing organ damage in young children with sickle cell anemia.

Procedures

Enrolled infants were subjected to parent‐supervised fluid deprivation, and urine and serum osmolality were determined.

Results

Of 185 infants age 7.5–17.9 months (mean 13.0 ± 2.7) and fluid‐deprived 7.4 ± 2.4 hr (range 4–13), 178 had concurrent determinations of urine and serum osmolality. Mean serum osmolality was 286 ± 6 mOsm/kg H2O (range 275–312) and independent of age, height, weight, or duration of fluid deprivation. Urine osmolality (mean 407 ± 151, range 58–794 mOsm/kg H2O) was greater than serum (P < 0.0001) and correlated with duration of fluid deprivation (P = 0.001). Of 142 (77.2%) who concentrated urine, 54 (29.4%) had urine osmolality >500 mOsm/kg H2O. Urine osmolality correlated with 99mTc‐DTPA clearance (P = 0.02) and serum urea nitrogen (P < 0.0001), but not with serum osmolality, gender, age, height, weight, or serum creatinine. Infants able to produce urine with osmolality >500 mOsm/kg H2O had higher mean fetal hemoglobin concentrations than did those who could not (P = 0.014).

Conclusions

Even with often limited fluid deprivation, 77.2% of young infants with sickle cell anemia were able to concentrate urine. Preservation of concentrating ability was associated with higher fetal hemoglobin concentration. Assessment will be repeated after 2 years of hydroxyurea or placebo treatment (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00006400). Pediatr Blood Cancer 2010;54:265–268. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pilocytic astrocytoma in a child with Noonan syndrome
Authors: Schuettpelz Laura G. , McDonald Sharon , Whitesell Kristina , Desruisseau David M. , Grange Dorothy K. , Gurnett Christina A. , Wilson David B.
Published: July 2009

Noonan syndrome (NS; MIM 163950) is an autosomal dominant dysmorphic syndrome characterized by distinct facial features, cardiac anomalies, short stature, and motor delay. Activating mutations in PTPN11, encoding the protein tyrosine phosphatase SHP2, are associated with about 50% of cases. Mutations in other genes in the RAS/mitogen‐activated protein kinase signaling pathway are responsible for many of the remainder of cases. While mutations in this pathway are found in a variety of malignancies, including solid tumors, there are few reports of solid tumors in individuals with NS. We report here a patient with PTPN11 mutation‐associated NS and a pilocytic astrocytoma. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:1147–1149. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Congenital aggressive variant of Langerhans cells histiocytosis with CD56+/E‐Cadherin− phenotype
Authors: Lucioni Marco , Beluffi Giampiero , Bandiera Laura , Zecca Marco , Inzani Frediano , Fiandrino Giacomo , Viglio Alessandra , Stronati Mauro , Necchi Vittorio , Riboni Roberta , Locatelli Franco , Paulli Marco
Published: July 2009

In children <2 years of age, cutaneous involvement is the most frequent presentation of Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH). Cutaneous LCH can be localized or associated with dissemination and organ dysfunction. The clinical course is variable, ranging from spontaneous regression to a fatal outcome. We describe a female newborn presenting with congenital cutaneous lesions who rapidly developed pulmonary infiltrates and multiple osteolytic lesions. Skin biopsy showed a dermal infiltrate of medium to large cells morphologically and phenotypically consistent with LCH. The clinical course was rapidly fatal in spite of chemotherapy. No strict correlation between morphology and prognosis has been documented in LCH, but, in our case, distinct morphological and immunohistochemical features (CD56 expression and no E‐Cadherin expression) may have contributed to an aggressive clinical course. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:1107–1110. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
On the momentum equation for the quasi‐geostrophic model
Authors: Mohebalhojeh Ali R.
Published: July 2009

The momentum equation for the quasi‐geostrophic (QG) model derived based on the conventional Rossby‐number expansions does not uniquely determine the QG motion up to first order in the Rossby number. There are infinitely many ways of closing the equations. The momentum equation for QG derived by Holm and Zeitlin in 1998 based on a variational formulation for QG is compared with that for the conventional Rossby‐number expansions. The underlying assumption in the construction of the variational formulation is geostrophic velocity for the particles. It is shown that the variational momentum equation corresponds to a particular way of closing the conventional momentum equation for QG. The numerical results for potential vorticity (PV) inversion on a circular vortex indicate a smaller range of applicability and loss of accuracy for the variational momentum equation for QG when compared with the QG one that sets the first‐order linearized potential vorticity to zero. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Finnish World Shops at a crossroads in the commercialized fair trade market
Authors: Laine Eeva L. , Laine Matias
Published: July 2009

The popularity of fair trade is growing swiftly in many parts of the world. As the fair trade market has grown, new kinds of participant have emerged and the field has become increasingly commercialized. However, there are also tensions between the different groups as to whether commercialization and mainstreaming benefit the ultimate aims of the movement. This paper presents a qualitative study of how the Finnish World Shop movement's key actors understand the movement's role and position in the developing fair trade market. The study discusses the polyphonic nature of this democratic social movement at the crossroads of continuing as a traditional solidarity movement or transforming into a more commercial organization. Furthermore, the findings highlight the implications these choices may have for sustainability in the World Shops' supply chain. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Identification and characterization of multiple curcumin synthases from the herb Curcuma longa
Authors: Katsuyama Yohei , Kita Tomoko , Horinouchi Sueharu
Published: July 2009

Curcuminoids are pharmaceutically important compounds isolated from the herb Curcuma longa. Two additional type III polyketide synthases, named CURS2 and CURS3, that are capable of curcuminoid synthesis were identified and characterized. In vitro analysis revealed that CURS2 preferred feruloyl‐CoA as a starter substrate and CURS3 preferred both feruloyl‐CoA and p‐coumaroyl‐CoA. These results suggested that CURS2 synthesizes curcumin or demethoxycurcumin and CURS3 synthesizes curcumin, bisdemethoxycurcumin and demethoxycurcumin. The availability of the substrates and the expression levels of the three different enzymes capable of curcuminoid synthesis with different substrate specificities might influence the composition of curcuminoids in the turmeric and in different cultivars.
Cervical dysplasia in Nigerian women infected with HIV
Authors: Agaba Patricia A. , Thacher Thomas D. , Ekwempu Chinedu C. , Idoko John A.
Published: July 2009

Objective

To determine the prevalence of and risk factors for cervical dysplasia in HIV‐positive women receiving care at the Jos University Teaching Hospital in Nigeria.

Methods

A total of 369 HIV‐positive women had cervical cytology performed; HIV‐1 RNA viral load and CD4 counts were measured.

Results

Of 369 participants, cervical dysplasia was present in 107 (29.0%) women. However, cervical cytology was abnormal in 252 (68.3%). Among those with abnormal cytology, 145 (57.5%) women had ASCUS, 56 (22.2%) had LSIL, and 51 (20.2%) had HSIL. Median CD4 lymphocyte count was lower in women with dysplasia compared with those without (142 vs 170 cells/mm3; P = 0.04), while median HIV RNA viral load was higher in women with dysplasia (101 781 vs 77 479 copies/mL; P = 0.002). Low CD4 count (< 200 cells/mm3) and evidence of HPV infection were significantly associated with cervical dysplasia.

Conclusion

A high prevalence of cervical dysplasia was found among HIV‐positive Nigerian women, which was associated with increased immune suppression.
Der zweite Gesundheitsmarkt
Authors: Henke Klaus-Dirk
Published: July 2009

Einleitung

A working hypothesis is that the increasing “second health care market” is supporting and financing the “first health sector” in the overall health economy. The first sector refers to the protection with health care services for everyone in tax-financed or in social security type of systems whilst the second health care market is functioning as the normal economy does in industrial countries; i.e. through innovative products and services in growing markets. To justify this hypothesis there are several considerations to be taken into account and hopefully tested empirically in the future.
Weathering phases recorded by gnammas developed since last glaciation at Serra da Estrela, Portugal
Authors: Domínguez-Villar David , Razola Laura , Carrasco Rosa M. , Jennings Carrie E. , Pedraza Javier
Published: July 2009

The morphometrical analysis of gnammas (weathering pits) in granite landscapes has been used to establish the relative chronology of recent erosive surfaces and to provide the weathering history in a region. To test the validity of gnammas as relative chronometer indicators, and the reliability of the obtained weathering record, two sites have been studied in Serra da Estrela, Portugal. The first site is within the limits of the glacier that existed in these mountains during the last glaciation, whereas the second site is located in an unglaciated sector of the mountains, which preserves a longer record of weathering in the bedrock surface. The number of gnamma weathering phases recorded in the latter site (8) is larger than those from the former (6). Correlation between both measurement stations based on morphometrical criteria is excellent for the younger six weathering phases (1 to 6). Consequently, the parameter used for relative chronology (δ-value) has been verified to be age dependent, although absolute values are modulated by microclimate due to altitude variations. The weathering record was essentially duplicated once the surfaces at both sites were exposed, demonstrating the reliability of gnamma evolution as a post-glacial environmental indicator for the region.
An observational study of oceanic eddy generation mechanisms by tall deep‐water islands (Gran Canaria)
Authors: Piedeleu Marc , Sangrà Pablo , Sánchez‐Vidal Anna , Fabrés Joan , Gordo Carmen , Calafat Antoni
Published: July 2009

Oceanic eddy generation by tall deep‐water islands is common phenomenon. It is recognized that these eddies may have a significant impact on the marine system and related biogeochemical fluxes. Hence, it is important to establish favourable conditions for their generation. With this objective, we present an observational study on eddy generation mechanisms by tall deep‐water islands, using as a case study the island of Gran Canaria. Observations show that the main generation mechanism is topographic forcing, which leads to eddy generation when the incident oceanic flow is sufficiently intense. Wind shear at the island wake may acts only as an additional eddy‐generation trigger mechanism when the impinging oceanic flow is not sufficiently intense. For the case of the island of Gran Canaria we have observed a mean of ten generated cyclonic eddies per year. Eddies are more frequently generated in summer coinciding with intense Trade winds and Canary Current.
High concentration of surface ozone observed along the Khumbu Valley Nepal April 2007
Authors: Moore G. W. K. , Semple J. L.
Published: July 2009

Increasing air pollution in Southeast Asia has the potential for dramatic impacts on the population and climate in relatively pristine regions such as the Himalaya. Recent measurements near Mount Everest indicate the presence of elevated levels of ozone at elevations from 5000m to 9000m that are the result of both the long‐range transport of tropospheric pollutants from Southeast Asia as well as the descent of ozone‐rich stratospheric air. Here we report on the first surface ozone concentration transect in the Mount Everest region. The data collected at elevations from 2900m to 5200m indicate an increase in concentration with height as well as 8‐hour average exposures in excess of 140ppb. Satellite data and meteorological diagnostics suggest a stratospheric source for the high levels observed. The majority of values observed exceed guidelines for human exposure and therefore are of a magnitude to suggest that they are of physiological relevance.