bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulations of IEF in microchannel with variable cross‐sectional area
Authors: Chou Yin , Yang Ruey‐Jen
Published: February 2009

This study develops a 1‐D mass transport model to describe the electrophoresis transport behavior within a microchannel with a variable cross‐sectional area. Utilizing three different numerical schemes, simulations are performed to investigate the IEF of proteins in ampholyte‐based pH gradients within both a planar microchannel and a contraction–expansion microchannel, respectively. The simulation results obtained using the modified 1‐D mass transport model and the finite‐volume method (FVM) for the IEF separation of a single protein sample in a ten‐ampholyte‐based pH gradient within a planar microchannel are consistent with those presented by Shim et al. [Electrophoresis 2007, 28, 572–586] using a 2‐D FVM scheme. In addition, the Courant–Friedrichs–Lewy number insensitive conservation element and solution element (CNI‐CESE) method is found to be both more robust and more computationally efficient than the conventional CESE scheme when modeling IEF phenomena within a contraction–expansion microchannel. In modeling the IEF separation of four sample ampholytes in a 20‐ampholtye‐based pH gradient within a contraction–expansion microchannel, the results obtained using the CNI‐CESE scheme are in good agreement with those published in literature. Moreover, the simulations can be performed significantly faster with the new 1‐D model and the CNI‐CESE scheme. Finally, the results obtained using the modified 1‐D mass transport model and the CNI‐CESE scheme demonstrate that the concentration of the focused test sample and the resolution of the pH gradient within the microchannel increase as the number of ampholytes used to accomplish the IEF separation process is increased.
Two‐dimensional protein separation in microfluidic devices
Authors: Chen Hong , Fan Z. Hugh
Published: February 2009

Proteomics is emerging as an important tool in modern drug discoveries and medical diagnostics. One of the techniques used in proteomics studies is 2‐DE. The process of the conventional 2‐DE is time‐consuming and it has substandard reproducibility. Many efforts have been made to address the limitations, with an aim for fast separation and high resolution. In this paper, we reviewed the work on achieving 2‐DE in microfluidic devices, including individual dimension in one channel, two dimensions in two intersected channels, and 2‐D separation in a large number of channels. We also discussed the need for integrating microvalves within 2‐DE devices to prevent different separation media from contaminating with each other. Although more efforts are required to match the performance of conventional 2‐DE in a slab gel, microfluidics‐based 2‐D separation has a potential to become an alternative in the future.
GelBandFitter – A computer program for analysis of closely spaced electrophoretic and immunoblotted bands
Authors: Mitov Mihail I. , Greaser Marion L. , Campbell Kenneth S.
Published: February 2009

GelBandFitter is a computer program that uses non‐linear regression techniques to fit mathematical functions to densitometry profiles of protein gels. This allows for improved quantification of gels with partially overlapping and potentially asymmetric protein bands. The program can also be used to analyze immunoblots with closely spaced bands. GelBandFitter was developed in Matlab and the source code and/or a Windows executable file can be downloaded at no cost to academic users from http://www.gelbandfitter.org.
Numerical calculation of the dielectrophoretic force on a slender body
Authors: Lin Yuan , Shiomi Junichiro , Amberg Gustav
Published: February 2009

In this paper, a model is proposed to numerically calculate the dielectrophoretic (DEP) force acting on a straight slender body in a non‐uniform electric field. The induced charges are assumed to be located along the centerline of the slender body. By enforcing the boundary conditions at the interfaces of the two dielectrics, an integral equations system is obtained with the induced charge densities as unknowns. Based on the calculated induced charge densities, expressions to calculate the DEP force and torque are obtained. The calculated induced charge density of a prolate ellipsoid under a uniform electric field is compared with the analytic solution and an excellent agreement is achieved. The smaller the slenderness (the ratio of maximum radius to length of the slender body), the smaller the error is. The DEP force that a prolate ellipsoid experiences in a general electric field is numerically calculated and compared with the results obtained by the commonly accepted effective dipole moment method. The current model is expected to possess higher accuracy than the effective dipole moment method and to demand less calculation work than the Maxwell stress tensor method.
System effects in sample self‐stacking CZE: Single analyte peak splitting of salt‐containing samples
Authors: Malá Zdena , Gebauer Petr , Boček Petr
Published: February 2009

In CZE one often gets more peaks than the number of sample components. In practice the additional peaks are often left unexplained or assigned to unidentified impurities or system peaks although cases exist when one analyte forms two or more regular distinct zones. One source of such effects are samples with high salt content that are generally assumed to bring higher sensitivity due to the sample self‐stacking mechanism. The subject of this contribution is the theoretical and experimental investigation of the electromigration behavior of salt‐containing samples. It is shown that they can exhibit splitting of the analyte zone into mutually independent parts detectable as well‐developed distinct peaks. Theory based on velocity diagrams and computer simulations reveals that these effects originate in the transient phase of separation where electromigration dispersion profiles and sharp boundaries are formed and evolve. During this, the sample may induce parallel existence of several transient sharp boundaries (including system boundaries) that are simultaneously capable of stacking an analyte. Their electromigration is convergent and depending on whether they merge before the analyte destacks from them, permanent or transient double or multiple peaks are formed. Presented examples of anionic and cationic systems show good agreement with theory. The appearance of multiple peaks can be very variable, ranging from double or triple peaks to a major peak with a minor peak quite apart. Knowledge of the peak‐splitting mechanism allows both to identify its presence in a given BGE and sample and to find effective remedy.
Dual frequency dielectrophoresis with interdigitated sidewall electrodes for microfluidic flow‐through separation of beads and cells
Authors: Wang Lisen , Lu Jente , Marchenko Steven A. , Monuki Edwin S. , Flanagan Lisa A. , Lee Abraham P.
Published: February 2009

This paper presents a novel design and separation strategy for lateral flow‐through separation of cells/particles in microfluidics by dual frequency coupled dielectrophoresis (DEP) forces enabled by vertical interdigitated electrodes embedded in the channel sidewalls. Unlike field‐flow‐fractionation‐DEP separations in microfluidics, which utilize planar electrodes on the microchannel floor to generate a DEP force to balance the gravitational force and separate objects at different height locations, lateral separation is enabled by sidewall interdigitated electrodes that are used to generate non‐uniform electric fields and balanced DEP forces along the width of the microchannel. In the current design, two separate AC electric fields are applied to two sets of independent interdigitated electrode arrays fabricated in the sidewalls of the microchannel to generate differential DEP forces that act on the cells/particles flowing through. Individual particles (cells or beads) will experience DEP forces differently due to the difference in their dielectric properties. The balance of the differential DEP forces from the electrode arrays will position dissimilar particles at distinct equilibrium planes across the width of the channel. When coupled with fluid flow, this results in lateral separation along the width of the microchannel and the separated particles can thus be automatically directed into branched channel outlets leading to different reservoirs for downstream processing. In this paper, we present the design and analysis of lateral separation enabled by dual frequency coupled DEP, and cell/bead and cell/cell separations are demonstrated with this lateral separation strategy. With vertical interdigitated electrodes on the sidewall, the height of the microchannel can be increased without losing the electric field strength in contrast to other multiple frequency DEP devices with planar electrodes. As a result, populations of cells can be separated simultaneously instead of one by one to enable high‐throughput sorting microfluidic devices.
GST polymorphism and excretion of heterocyclic aromatic amine and isothiocyanate metabolites after Brassica consumption
Authors: Steck Susan E. , Hebert James R.
Published: February 2009

Brassica vegetable intake has been associated with decreased risk and well‐done meat intake has been associated with increased risk of cancers at multiple organ sites in epidemiologic studies. Experimental studies suggest a role of modulation of phase I and phase II metabolizing enzymes as one mechanism for these associations. Heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAAs) are carcinogens formed in meat that has been cooked to well‐done and at high temperatures. Phase I metabolizing enzymes catalyze the activation of HAAs, and phase II metabolizing enzymes serve to detoxify the active carcinogens. The glutathione S‐transferases (GSTs) are a family of phase II metabolizing enzymes that are induced by, and act to conjugate, isothiocyanates (ITCs), phytochemicals found in Brassica vegetables. This review summarizes the results of feeding studies in humans that examine effects of polymorphisms in GSTs on ITC metabolite excretion, reviews the evidence for modulation of HAA mutagenicity by ITCs, and discusses the need for feeding studies examining potential interactions among polymorphic genes encoding phase I and phase II metabolizing enzymes, meat intake, and Brassica intake to elucidate their role in cancer etiology. Environ. Mol. Mutagen., 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Archaeological evidence for destructive earthquakes in Sicily between 400 B.C. and A.D. 600
Authors: Bottari Carla , Stiros Stathis C. , Teramo Antonio
Published: February 2009

A systematic archaeoseismological study indicates that at least three earthquakes occurred between 400 B.C. and A.D. 600, causing destruction to numerous ancient monuments in Sicily. Evidence for these earthquakes comes from the collapse style of buildings (toppled walls, column drums in a domino‐style arrangement, directional collapses, etc.), and the exclusion of other likely causes for such effects. Dating of inferred earthquakes is based on coins (accurate to within 5–10 years), pottery (accurate to within 50–200 years), and other artifacts. The oldest documented earthquake occurred between 370 and 300 B.C. and caused the collapse of two Greek temples in Selinunte. This otherwise poorly documented event was probably also the cause of extensive destruction in northeastern Sicily in the first century A.D. Destruction of some sites may be assigned to an earthquake that occurred between 360 and 374 and correlates with the A.D. 365 seismic sequence known from historical sources. This study covers a wider region and provides a more precise dating of earthquakes than previous studies. Although it focuses on a certain period (4th–3rd centuries B.C., 4th–7th centuries A.D.), it indicates that the period before A.D. 1000 is not a period of seismic quiescence in Sicily as was previously believed, but to a period characterized by strong and destructive earthquakes. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Utilization of laser range finder and differential GPS for high‐resolution topographic measurement at Hacituğrul Tepe, Turkey
Authors: Hayakawa Yuichi S. , Tsumura Hiro'omi
Published: February 2009

Topographic maps are fundamental for geoarchaeological field studies and archaeological excavations. However, traditional methods of topographic mapping, as well as modern high‐tech methods such as airborne laser scanning and photogrammetry of high‐resolution satellite images, are often cost‐ineffective for field studies in terms of time, money, and labor. We here propose a method to measure topography for archaeological sites and surrounding areas quickly and accurately, using a laser range finder (LRF) and differential global positioning system DGPS. Three‐dimensional coordinates of points on land surfaces are measured through the LRF, targeted from multiple measuring locations whose positions are acquired with the DGPS. The point data are then interpolated to produce a digital elevation model (DEM) using a geographic information system (GIS). High‐resolution DEMs can be obtained with this method, with horizontal and vertical accuracies on the order of 10 cm. We here demonstrate the method for measuring detailed topography of the Hacituğrul Tepe in central Turkey. Digital topography data incorporated in GIS can also be part of an archaeological database, providing opportunities for quantitative analyses of topography and archaeological materials. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
When Water Gets Warmer
Authors: Sommer Ulrich
Published: February 2009

The various effects of climate change on seas, lakes and rivers are already apparent. Even tiny changes in the food chain have a considerable impact on the ecosystem
When Mouse and Keyboard Become Obsolete
Authors: Unterstell Rembert
Published: February 2009

Intelligent solutions for everyday life in the digital age: Andreas Butz, a media informatics professor from the University of Munich, is investigating the future of the computer
The VE‐cadherin binding domain of fibrinogen induces endothelial barrier permeability and enhances transendothelial migration of malignant breast epithelial cells
Authors: Sahni Abha , Arévalo Maria T. , Sahni Sanjeev K. , Simpson‐Haidaris Patricia J.
Published: February 2009

Fibrin deposition and exudation of plasma fibrinogen (Fg) have long been recognized as hallmarks of inflammation, cardiovascular disease and neoplasia. The Fg‐β15–42 domain binds to the endothelial cell adhesion molecule, VE‐cadherin, promoting endothelial cell proliferation, angiogenesis and leukocyte diapedesis. Furthermore, spontaneous blood‐borne and lymphatic metastasis of some types of tumor emboli requires plasma fibrin(ogen); however, the molecular mechanisms by which this occurs are poorly understood. We sought to determine whether Fg‐β15–42 and VE‐cadherin binding interactions promote endothelial barrier permeability and breast cancer cell transendothelial migration (TEM) using transwell insert culture systems. Synthetic peptides containing/missing residues β15–17 critical for Fg‐β15–42 binding to VE‐cadherin, and antibodies that bind to Fg‐β15–21 (T2G1) and VE‐cadherin (BV9) were used to induce or inhibit Fg‐mediated permeability and TEM. Fg induced dose‐dependent permeability of human umbilical vein and microvascular endothelial but not epithelial cell barriers. Maximal Fg‐induced endothelial permeability required Fg‐β15–42 and VE‐cadherin‐binding interactions involving Fg‐β15–17. Fg‐induced TEM of malignant MDA‐MB‐231 and MCF‐7 breast cancer cells also required Fg‐β15–42 and VE‐cadherin binding; however, such TEM was independent of E‐cadherin or estrogen receptor expression. In contrast, Fg did not induce TEM of nonmalignant MCF‐10A breast epithelial cells. Fg‐induced endothelial permeability was retained in the presence of MDA‐MB‐231 but inhibited in the presence of MCF‐10A cells. It is intriguing to speculate that loss of Fg‐β15–42 binding by premalignant breast epithelial cells serves as a molecular switch to induce a highly aggressive, metastatic breast cancer phenotype. Hence, Fg‐β15–42 represents a potential molecular target for therapeutic intervention of breast cancer metastasis. © 2009 UICC
Vitamin E intake and risk of esophageal and gastric cancers in the NIH‐AARP Diet and Health Study
Authors: Carman Sarah , Kamangar Farin , Freedman Neal D. , Wright Margaret E. , Dawsey Sanford M. , Dixon L. Beth , Subar Amy , Schatzkin Arthur , Abnet Christian C.
Published: February 2009

We investigated the association of dietary α‐tocopherol, γ‐tocopherol and supplemental vitamin E intake with the risk of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (n = 158), esophageal adenocarcinoma (n = 382), gastric cardia adenocarcinoma (n = 320) and gastric noncardia adenocarcinoma (GNCA; n = 327) in the NIH‐AARP Diet and Health Study, a cohort of approximately 500,000 people. Data on dietary and supplemental vitamin E intake were collected using a validated questionnaire at baseline and were analyzed using Cox regression models. Intakes were analyzed as continuous variables and as quartiles. For dietary α‐tocopherol, we found some evidence of association with decreased esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and increased esophageal adenocarcinoma risk in the continuous analyses, with adjusted hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals of 0.90 (0.81–0.99) and 1.05 (1.00–1.11), respectively, per 1.17 mg (half the interquartile range) increased intake. However, in quartile analyses, the p value for trend was nonsignificant for both these cancers. There was no association between dietary α‐tocopherol and gastric cardia adenocarcinoma or GNCA. We observed no statistically significant associations with γ‐tocopherol. For supplemental vitamin E, the results were mainly null, except for a significantly lower risk of GNCA with higher doses of supplemental vitamin E. An increase of 71 mg/day (half the interquartile range) in supplemental vitamin E had an hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) of 0.92 (0.85–1.00) and the p value for trend in the quartile analysis was 0.015. © 2009 UICC
The impact of dietary and lifestyle risk factors on risk of colorectal cancer: A quantitative overview of the epidemiological evidence
Authors: Huxley Rachel R. , Ansary‐Moghaddam Alireza , Clifton Peter , Czernichow Sebastien , Parr Christine L. , Woodward Mark
Published: February 2009

Colorectal cancer is a major cause of cancer mortality and is considered to be largely attributable to inappropriate lifestyle and behavior patterns. The purpose of this review was to undertake a comparison of the strength of the associations between known and putative risk factors for colorectal cancer by conducting 10 independent meta‐analyses of prospective cohort studies. Studies published between 1966 and January 2008 were identified through EMBASE and MEDLINE, using a combined text word and MESH heading search strategy. Studies were eligible if they reported estimates of the relative risk for colorectal cancer with any of the following: alcohol, smoking, diabetes, physical activity, meat, fish, poultry, fruits and vegetables. Studies were excluded if the estimates were not adjusted at least for age. Overall, data from 103 cohort studies were included. The risk of colorectal cancer was significantly associated with alcohol: individuals consuming the most alcohol had 60% greater risk of colorectal cancer compared with non‐ or light drinkers (relative risk 1.56, 95% CI 1.42–1.70). Smoking, diabetes, obesity and high meat intakes were each associated with a significant 20% increased risk of colorectal cancer (compared with individuals in the lowest categories for each) with little evidence of between‐study heterogeneity or publication bias. Physical activity was protective against colorectal cancer. Public‐health strategies that promote modest alcohol consumption, smoking cessation, weight loss, increased physical activity and moderate consumption of red and processed meat are likely to have significant benefits at the population level for reducing the incidence of colorectal cancer. © 2009 UICC
Side population of pancreatic cancer cells predominates in TGF‐β‐mediated epithelial to mesenchymal transition and invasion
Authors: Kabashima Ayano , Higuchi Hajime , Takaishi Hiromasa , Matsuzaki Yumi , Suzuki Sadafumi , Izumiya Motoko , Iizuka Hideko , Sakai Gen , Hozawa Shigenari , Azuma Toshifumi , Hibi Toshifumi
Published: February 2009

We report here side population (SP) cells, a cancer stem cell enriched fraction from pancreatic cancer cell line, have enormous superior potential of the epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), invasion, and metastasis. In an isolated SP cell culture, the cells rapidly expressed and up‐regulated E‐cadherin, an epithelial phenotypic marker, and the cells formed tightly contacted cell cluster, which is a representative epithelial phenotypic appearance. When the SP cells were incubated in the presence of TGF‐β, SP cells changed their shape into mesenchymal‐like appearance including spindle shaped assembly. This alteration was associated with significant reduction of E‐cadherin expression level. TGF‐β induced EMT‐associated gene alteration such as reduction of E‐cadherin mRNA and induction of Snail mRNA and matrixmetalloproteinase (MMP)‐2 mRNA. Finally, SP cells exerted notable matrigel invasion activity in response to TGF‐β treatment, whereas MP cells did not respond to TGF‐β‐mediated invasion. In conclusion, these results suggest that SP cells from pancreatic cancer cell line possess superior potentials of phenotypic switch, i.e., EMT/MET, micro‐invasion, and in vivo metastasis, as compared to MP cells. Because micro‐invasion and metastasis are key mechanisms of cancer malignant potential, SP cells would be the attractive target for preventing cancer progression. © 2008 UICC
A novel histone deacetylase inhibitor augments tamoxifen‐mediated attenuation of breast carcinoma growth
Authors: Restall Christina , Doherty Judy , Liu Hong Bin , Genovese Rosemary , Paiman Lisa , Byron Keith A. , Anderson Robin L. , Dear Anthony E.
Published: February 2009

Earlier we generated novel derivatives of the hydroxamate‐based histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi), Oxamflatin (Ox), which demonstrate considerable HDACi activity. Here the effects of one such derivative, Metacept‐1 (MCT‐1), alone or in combination with tamoxifen on mammary tumour growth have been assessed in a syngeneic orthotopic model. MCT‐1 alone resulted in a trend towards inhibition of growth of 4T1.2 mammary tumours. Since the combination of MCT‐1 and tamoxifen up‐regulates estrogen receptor expression in 4T1.2 cells in vitro, we tested this combination and found a significant reduction in primary tumour growth over tamoxifen treatment alone. Taken together, these observations suggest that the novel HDACi MCT‐1 may warrant further exploration in the treatment of estrogen receptor positive breast carcinoma, particularly when used in combination with conventional agents such as tamoxifen. © 2009 UICC
Evaluation of sublethal effects of dichlorvos upon Caenorhabditis elegans based on a set of end points of toxicity
Authors: Jadhav Kisan B. , Rajini Padmanabhan Sharda
Published: February 2009

The primary objective of this study was to examine a possible correlation among the three endpoints of toxicity, namely, stress gene expression (hsp16), feeding, and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity in transgenic C. elegans (hsp16‐lacZ) exposed to sublethal concentrations of dichlorvos, an organophosphorus insecticide. Worms exposed to dichlorvos (at 5, 40, and 80 μM) exhibited a concentration‐dependent inhibition in feeding with total cessation in feeding occurring beyond 4 h of exposure. Concomitantly, marked and dose‐dependent inhibition (69%–90%) of AChE was also evident after 4 h of exposure. Induction of heat shock protein (Hsp) was evident after 4 h of exposure (as seen from quantitative analysis), although maximum expression of Hsp was evident only after 24 h of exposure (as evident from qualitative analysis). Interestingly, the Hsp induction was restricted only to the pharyngeal region. Significant correlation was discernible between the three evaluated end points suggesting their possible interrelated role in the physiological dysfunctions evoked by sublethal concentrations of dichlorvos. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 23:9–17, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/jbt.20258
Sulforaphane and its analogues inhibit CYP1A1 and CYP1A2 activity induced by benzo[a]pyrene
Authors: Skupinska Katarzyna , Misiewicz‐Krzeminska Irena , Stypulkowski Rafal , Lubelska Katarzyna , Kasprzycka‐Guttman Teresa
Published: February 2009

CYP1A1 and CYP1A2 enzymes metabolize polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) to the reactive oxyderivatives. PAHs can induce the activity of both enzymes, which increases its conversion and enhances risk of carcinogenesis. Thus, the inhibition of CYP enzymes is recognized as a cancer chemoprevention strategy. A well‐known group of chemopreventive agents is isothiocyanates, which occur naturally inBrassicavegetables. In this paper, a naturally occurring sulforaphane and its two synthetic analogues isothiocyanate‐2‐oxohexyl and alyssin were investigated. The aim of the study was to determine whether the differences in the isothiocyanate structure change its ability to inhibit CYP1A1 and CYP1A2 activity induced by benzo[a]pyrene in HepG2 and Mcf7 cells. Also a mechanistic study was performed including isothiocyanates' influence on CYP1A1 and CYP1A2 catalytic activity, enzymatic protein level, and AhR translocation. It was shown that both enzymes were significantly induced by benzo[a]pyrene, and isothiocyanates were capable of decreasing the induced activity. The inhibitory properties depend on the types of isothiocyanate and enzyme. In general, CYP1A2 was altered in the more meaningful way than CYP1A1 by isothiocyanates. Sulforaphane exhibited weak inhibitory properties, whereas both analogues were capable of inhibiting BaP‐induced activity with the similar efficacy. The mechanistic study revealed that analogues decreased the CYP1A2 activity via the protein‐level reduction and CYP1A1 directly. The results indicate that isothiocyanates can be considered as potent chemopreventive substances and the change in the sulforaphane structure increases its chemopreventive potency. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 23:18–28, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/jbt.20259
Arachidonic acid release by H2O2 mediated proliferation of mouse embryonic stem cells: Involvement of Ca2+/PKC and MAPKs‐induced EGFR transactivation
Authors: Lee Sang Hun , Na Sun Im , Heo Jung Sun , Kim Min Hee , Kim Yun Hee , Lee Min Young , Kim Seong Hong , Lee Yun Jung , Han Ho Jae
Published: February 2009

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by a variety of endogenous factors and roles in embryonic stem (ES) cells has yet to be identified. Thus, we examined role of arachidonic acid (AA) in H2O2‐indued proliferation of mouse ES cells and its related signaling molecules. AA release was maximally increased in response to 10−4 M H2O2 for 1 h. In addition, H2O2 increased intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and the phosphorylation of protein kinase C (PKC), p44/42, p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK), and JNK/SAPK. Moreover, H2O2 induced an increase in the phosphorylation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), which was blocked by the inhibition of p44/42 or p38 MAPKs. The inhibition of each signal molecule with specific inhibitors blocked H2O2‐induced cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) activation and AA release. H2O2 increased NF‐κB phosphorylation to induce an increase in the levels of cyclooxygenase (COX)‐2 proteins. Subsequently, H2O2 stimulated PGE2 synthesis, which was reduced by the inhibition of NF‐κB activation. Moreover, each H2O2 or PGE2 increased DNA synthesis and the number of cells. However, H2O2‐induced increase in DNA synthesis was inhibited by the suppression of cPLA2 pathway. In conclusion, H2O2 increased AA release and PGE2 production by the upregulation of cPLA2 and COX‐2 via Ca2+/PKC/MAPKs and EGFR transactivation, subsequently proliferation of mouse ES cells. J. Cell. Biochem. 106: 787–797, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The SIE, SRE, CRE, and FAP‐1 four intracellular signal pathways between stimulus and the expression of c‐fos promoter
Authors: He Hong , Ping Feiyun
Published: February 2009

c‐fos gene has a close relationship with the osteoblasts. Mechanical signal effect on osteoblasts would change the expression level of c‐fos. Authors introduce the signal pathways of four cis‐response elements on the promoter of c‐fos, that is, CRE (cAMP responsive element), FAP‐1 (Fbs‐AP‐1 site), SRE (serum response element), and SIE (sis‐inducible element), as the regulatory mechanism for c‐fos gene expression following various stimuli. J. Cell. Biochem. 106: 764–768, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Genome‐wide reduction in H3K9 acetylation during human embryonic stem cell differentiation
Authors: Krejčí Jana , Uhlířová Radka , Galiová Gabriela , Kozubek Stanislav , Šmigová Jana , Bártová Eva
Published: February 2009

Epigenetic marks are important factors regulating the pluripotency and differentiation of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). In this study, we analyzed H3K9 acetylation, an epigenetic mark associated with transcriptionally active chromatin, during endoderm‐like differentiation of hESCs. ChIP‐on‐chip analysis revealed that differentiation results in a genome‐wide decrease in promoter H3K9 acetylation. Among the 24,659 promoters analyzed, only 117 are likely to be involved in pluripotency, while 25 acetylated promoters are likely to be responsible for endoderm‐like differentiation. In pluripotent hESCs, the chromosomes with the highest absolute levels of H3K9 acetylation are chromosomes 1, 6, 2, 17, 11, and 12 (listed in order of decreasing acetylation). Chromosomes 17, 19, 11, 20, 22, and 12 are the most prone to differentiation‐related changes (both increased acetylation and deacetylation). When chromosome size (in Mb) was accounted for, the highest H3K9 acetylation levels were found on chromosome 19, 17, 6, 12, 11, and 1, and the greatest differentiation‐associated decreases in H3K9 acetylation occurred on chromosomes 19, 17, 11, 12, 16, and 1. The gene density and size of individual chromosomes were strongly correlated with the levels of H3K9 acetylation. Our analyses point to chromosomes 11, 12, 17, and 19 as being critical for hESC pluripotency and endoderm‐like differentiation. J. Cell. Physiol. 219: 677–687, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pilot‐scale treatment of waste‐water from carbon production by a combined physical–chemical process
Authors: Wang Hongjie , Liu Ruiping , Qu Jiuhui , Fan Maohong , Li Huaizheng
Published: February 2009

BACKGROUND: Due to its strong colour, high concentrations of fluorides and chemical oxygen demand (CODCr) and large amount of suspended solids (SS), the waste‐water from carbon production (WCP) seriously affects the stability of the circulating system of Guizhou Branch, Aluminium Corporation of China. In this paper, the performance of a pilot‐scale (24 m3 d−1) combined treatment plant, consisting of chemical precipitation, coagulation, and Fenton oxidation, for the treatment of WCP was investigated.

RESULTS: Lime precipitation and hydrated ferrous sulphate (HFS) coagulation, with polyacrylamide (PAM) as a coagulation aid, proved to be effective in the removal of colour (>70%), suspended solids (SS) (>90%) and fluoride (>80%) from the WCP. Subsequent Fenton oxidation combined with coagulation as a final treatment efficiently removed SS, F−, CODCr, dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and colour. The average total removal efficiencies of these parameters in the pilot‐scale combined technology were as follows: SS = 98.8%, F− = 95.7%, CODCr = 94.8%, DOC = 91.8% and colour = 98.3%, giving an average effluent quality: colour 24 (multiple), CODCr 168 mg L−1, DOC 80 mg L−1, F− 38 mg L−1 and SS 44 mg L−1, consistent with the reusable water limits for the process.

CONCLUSIONS: The current experimental results and the economic evaluation suggest that the combined process could be advantageous and feasible for the treatment of WCP. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Marfan syndrome and its disorder in periodontal tissues
Authors: Suda Naoto , Shiga Momotoshi , Ganburged Ganjargal , Moriyama Keiji
Published: February 2009

Elastic system fibers are composed of two distinct elements, elastin, which is an amorphous component crosslinked in the core, and microfibril, localized in the periphery of elastin. As microfibrillar proteins, fibrillins, microfibril‐associated glycoproteins (MAGPs), latent TGF‐β‐binding proteins (LTBPs), microfibril‐associated proteins (MFAPs), and fibulins are known. Fibrillin‐1 is a major microfibrillar protein and characterized by calcium binding EGF‐like (cbEGF) domain. Association between fibrillin‐1 and TGF‐β is a recent topic of this field and this interaction is known to inactivate and target TGF‐β action. FBN1 encoding fibrillin‐1 is a responsible gene for Marfan syndrome type 1 (MIM ♯154700), characterized by increased height and long limbs, ectopia lentis, and cardiovascular disorders, such as mitral valve prolapse and aortic dilation and regurgitation. Animal models suggest that the abnormal TGF‐β signaling is underlying as the pathogenesis of these conditions. Besides skeletal, ocular and cardiovascular conditions, severe periodontitis is frequently seen in affected patients. To clarify the unknown function of elastic system fibers in the periodontal ligament (PDL), PDL‐cells were isolated from a Marfan syndrome type 1 patient who was with the severe periodontitis and had a mutation in one of the cbEGF domain of fibrillin‐1. These results suggested that wild‐type fibrillin‐1 was required for the normal cell alignment and tissue architecture of PDLs. Evidences are now accumulated to suggest that fibrillin‐1 is one of the molecule involved in the interaction between cell and extracellular matrix. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 312B:503–509, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Gene induction for the treatment of methylmalonic aciduria
Authors: Hu Ruimei , Buck Nicole E. , Khaniani Mahmoud S. , Wood Leonie , Wardan Hady , Benoist Jean‐Francois , Li Lingli , Vadolas Jim , Sarsero Joseph P. , Ioannou Panos A. , Peters Heidi L.
Published: February 2009

Background

Methylmalonic aciduria is an autosomal recessive inborn error of the propionate metabolic pathway. One form of this disorder is caused by mutations in methylmalonyl‐coenzyme A mutase (MCM), resulting in reduced levels of enzyme activity. The pharmacological up‐regulation of residual mutase activity is one approach to advance treatment strategies for individuals affected by this disorder. We describe the construction, characterization and use of a cellular genomic reporter assay for MCM expression that will potentially identify therapeutic pharmacological agents for methylmalonic aciduria treatment.

Methods

Homologous recombination was used to insert an enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) cassette inframe before the last codon of exon 13 of the MCM gene (MUT) in a BAC clone. The construct was used to generate stable HeLa cell lines. EGFP expression was measured by flow cytometry and the real‐time reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction was used to quantify changes in MUT gene mRNA levels.

Results

The genomic reporter assay used to screen a selection of compounds. Cisplatin, zidovudine and adefovir were found to increase the levels of MCM mRNA and EGFP expression, providing support for the possible efficacy of these pharmacological compounds in treating methylmalonic aciduria.

Conclusions

This assay has the potential of being used in high‐throughput screening of chemical libraries for the identification of novel compounds that specifically modulate the expression of MCM. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Water‐promoted Dowex 50W catalyzed highly efficient green protocol for 2‐arylbenzothiazole formation
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Chhanda , Datta Arup
Published: February 2009

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2‐Aminothiophenol and a variety of aryl aldehydes were allowed to react in one‐pot operation to give 2‐aryl‐benzothiazoles in excellent yields in the presence of Dowex 50W in water. Very high yields coupled with the ease of work‐up procedure, formation of no side products, employment of “reusable” catalyst, and “green” synthesis in aqueous medium without maintaining anhydrous reaction conditions are the most important aspects of this methodology. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2009).
Formation of complexes between uracil and calcium ions: an ESI/MS/MS study in combination with theoretical calculations
Authors: Zins Emilie‐Laure , Rochut Sophie , Pepe Claude
Published: February 2009

Cationized uracil clusters around calcium metal ions were generated in the gas phase by electrospray ionization (ESI). A previous study showed that with particular experimental conditions, hexamer, octamer, decamer, dodecamer and tetradecamer uracil clusters are present in high quantities. New experiments were carried out to understand the reasons for the particular stability of these complexes. MS/MS experiments suggested that these uracil clusters belong to the same family. Based on ab initio and DFT quantum chemistry calculations, structures in agreement with experimental results are proposed for these clusters. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Does auditory rhythmical cueing improve gait in people with Parkinson's disease and cognitive impairment? A Feasibility study
Authors: Rochester Lynn , Burn David J. , Woods Gillian , Godwin Jon , Nieuwboer Alice
Published: February 2009

Gait and balance problems resulting from Parkinson's disease (PD) are more common in people with PD and dementia (PDD), yet, it is unknown whether the benefits of cueing therapy for mobility generalize to them. We aimed to determine the feasibility and effectiveness of auditory cues to improve gait in PD and cognitive impairment (PD‐CI). Nine participants with PD‐CI walked with and without auditory cues using two different strategies: (1) Cue with temporal instruction to “step in time to the beat,” (2) Cue with spatiotemporal instruction to “take a big step in time to the beat.” Cues were delivered with a metronome at preferred stepping frequency while on medication during single and dual‐task gait. Gait was assessed using GAITRite and walking speed, stride amplitude, step frequency, and variability (CV%) of step and double limb support time were measured. Data were analyzed in SPSS version 16 using fixed‐effect linear mixed models. An adjusted, P value of 0.01 was considered significant. Participants were men, aged 74.89 (±6.45) years with median MMSE of 22 (range 20.5–25) and UPDRS III score of 44 (35.5–47.0). Participants complied with testing and instructions. The cue that focused attention on both temporal and spatial parameters of gait significantly improved single and dual‐task walking speed and stride amplitude. This study provides evidence for the potential of cueing to improve gait in PD‐CI. Only individuals with mild CI were included, and the effect with increased CI and different types of dementia requires further evaluation. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
Effect of whole body vibration in Parkinson's disease: A controlled study
Authors: Arias Pablo , Chouza Marcelo , Vivas Jamile , Cudeiro Javier
Published: February 2009

In the search of new strategies to improve the quality of life of Parkinson's disease patients, recent work has reported an amelioration of Parkinsonian symptoms using Whole Body Vibration (WBV). A double‐blinded, placebo controlled design was used to evaluate the effect of a 12 WBV sessions‐programme on a number of motor and clinical tests in 23 Parkinson's disease patients. Patients were assigned to one of two groups, one receiving WBV and the other a placebo group. At the end of the programme as well as during intra‐session evaluation, there was no difference between the experimental (vibration) and placebo groups in any outcomes. These results suggest that reported benefits of vibration are due to a placebo response. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
Multi‐scale domain decomposition method for large‐scale structural analysis with a zooming technique: Application to plate assembly
Authors: Amini A. Mobasher , Dureisseix D. , Cartraud P.
Published: February 2009

This article is concerned with a multi‐scale domain decomposition method (DDM), based on the FETI‐DP solver, for large‐scale structural elastic analysis and suited to problems that exhibit structural heterogeneities, such as plate assemblies in the presence of structural details. In this approach once a partition of the global fine mesh into subdomains has been performed (all subdomains possess a fine mesh) and to optimize the computational time, the fine mesh is preserved only in the zones of interest (with local phenomena due to discontinuity, hole, etc.) while the remaining subdomains are replaced by numerical homogenized coarse elements. Indeed, the multi‐scale aspect is introduced by the description of subdomains with either a fine or a coarse scale mesh. As a result, an extension of the FETI‐DP DDM is proposed in this article (called herein FETI‐DP micro–macro) that allows the simultaneous usage of different discretizations: fine (microscopic) mesh for subdomains in zones of interest and coarse (macroscopic or homogenized) mesh for the complementary part of the structure. Using this strategy raises the problem of the determination of the stiffness of coarse subdomains, and of the incompatible finite element connection between fine and coarse subdomains. Two approaches (collocation and Mortar) are presented and compared. The article ends with patch tests and some numerical examples in 2D and 3D. The obtained numerical results exemplify the efficiency and capability of the FETI‐DP micro–macro approach and reveal that the Mortar approach is more accurate, at constant cost, than the collocation approach. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Epithelioid osteosarcoma of the jaw
Authors: Cozza Raffaele , Devito Rita , De Ioris Maria Antonietta , Zama Mario , Boldrini Renata , Fidani Paola , Donfrancesco Alberto
Published: February 2009

Epithelioid osteosarcoma (OS) is a rare sub‐type of OS with an aggressive behavior. An epithelioid OS was diagnosed in an 8‐year‐old female with painful swelling of the left jaw. After two courses of chemotherapy (cisplatin/methotrexate/doxorubicin), the patient presented a progressive disease. After hemimandibulectomy, 13 courses of post‐operative chemotherapy (cisplatin/methotrexate/doxorubicin/ifosfamide) were performed. Histological and ultra‐structural examination showed a high grade neoplasm consisting of sheets of epithelioid cells with focal osteoid formation. The patient is alive and in complete remission 42 months from diagnosis. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;52:877–879. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dyskeratosis congenita with corneal limbal insufficiency
Authors: Aslan Deniz , Ozdek Sengul , Camurdan Orhun , Bideci Aysun , Cinaz Peyami
Published: February 2009

We describe a newly diagnosed Turkish adolescent female with Dyskeratosis congenita along with the novel ocular finding of corneal limbal insufficiency. Corneal limbal insufficiency was suggested to be a premature aging sign resulting from a deficiency in corneal stem cell activity, a biological process caused by underlying telomeric defect in this disease. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:95–97. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Application of the contextual model to school‐based counseling: Why does it work?
Authors: Sullivan Erin , Kehle Thomas J. , Bray Melissa A.
Published: February 2009

There is considerable support for the effectiveness of psychotherapies regardless of their individual theoretical underpinnings. They all evidence substantial positive outcomes, particularly if they contain common elements. These include a therapeutic relationship within an appropriate setting, a rationale for why the client is unhappy or distressed and in need of therapy, and procedures for effecting positive change. We interpret these common elements as a process of learning that promotes the client's independence, friendship formation and maintenance, competence, and physical health. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of viscosity ratio on the morphology of PET microfibrils in uncompatibilized and compatibilized drawn PET/PP/TiO2 blends
Authors: Li Wenjing , Schlarb Alois K. , Evstatiev Michael
Published: February 2009

Uncompatibilized and compatibilized (polypropylene‐grafted maleic anhydride (PP‐g‐MA) as compatibilizer) PET (polyethylene terephthalate)/PP (polypropylene)/TiO2 drawn strands were prepared by extrusion of the blends and cold drawing of the extrudates. In the uncompatibilized drawn strand, the generated PET microfibrils show large aspect ratio and wide distribution in diameter; whereas in the compatibilized drawn strand numbers of short needle‐like PET formations appear and demonstrate uniform diameter distribution. Derived from PET droplets, the microfibril morphology is greatly influenced by the size of PET droplets in the extrudates: small droplet deforms into needle‐like shape and large one becomes microfibril. In the compatibilized PET/PP/TiO2 extrudate, the size of PET droplet is much smaller than that in the uncompatibilized one. The reduction of droplet size is attributed to the low viscosity ratio between dispersed phase and matrix, which facilitates the break up of the dispersed PET droplets. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 47: 555–562, 2009
Temperature dependence of ESR spectra of nitroxide spin probe in glassy polymers
Authors: Chernova Daria A. , Vorobiev Andrey Kh.
Published: February 2009

Temperature dependencies of ESR spectra of nitroxide spin probes in glassy polymers near and below glass transition temperature were examined in detail. Three temperature ranges, each characterized by specific changes in spectral shape, were defined. (i) In the low temperature range, ESR spectra of nitroxide radical in glassy polymer matrix weakly depend on temperature and remain qualitatively the same. (ii) In the intermediate temperature range, significant changes in the shape of spectra are observed. (iii) A new phenomenon was revealed near and below glass transition temperature: narrowing of linewidths occurs while the ratio of amplitudes of different components varies insignificantly. Analysis of molecular rotational mobility was carried out by means of commonly used empirical approaches. It was shown that widely used formulas and empirical approaches are not applicable for characterization of molecular mobility in glassy polymers. Mechanisms of rotational molecular movements in glassy polymers are discussed. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 47: 563–575, 2009
Electrical breakdown in high‐density polyethylene/graphite nanosheets conductive composites
Authors: Zhou Lichun , Lin Jingshan , Chen Guohua
Published: February 2009

The electrical breakdown is investigated in high‐density polyethylene/graphite nanosheets (HDPE/GNs) conductive composites. A sample suffers electrical breakdown when the applied field exceeds the critical electrical breakdown field below which the sample reaches a stable state. It is found that the ratio of the critical electrical breakdown resistance to the linear resistance assumes a fixed value Y, which is found to be about 1.30 in HDPE/GNs conductive composites. The value Y is independent of GNs' content, sample size, breakdown cycle, but depends on the property of GNs. The critical breakdown field Eb scales with the resistance R0 as $E_{\rm b}\sim R_0^{y_{\rm b}}$ with the exponent yb = 0.46 ± 0.02, which is close to the value predicted in mean‐field theory but higher than the value given by the singly connected bonds networks. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 47: 576–582, 2009