bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tight correlation between expression of the Forkhead transcription factor FOXM1 and HER2 in human breast cancer
Authors: Bektas Nuran , Haaf Anette ten , Veeck Jürgen , Wild Peter Johannes , Lüscher-Firzlaff Juliane , Hartmann Arndt , Knüchel Ruth , Dahl Edgar
Published: February 2008

Background

FOXM1 regulates expression of cell cycle related genes that are essential for progression into DNA replication and mitosis. Consistent with its role in proliferation, elevated expression of FOXM1 has been reported in a variety of human tumour entities.FOXM1is a gene of interest because recently chemical inhibitors of FOXM1 were described to limit proliferation and induce apoptosis in cancer cellsin vitro, indicating that FOXM1 inhibitors could represent useful anticancer therapeutics.

Methods

Using immunohistochemistry (IHC) we systematically analysed FOXM1 expression in human invasive breast carcinomas (n = 204) and normal breast tissues (n = 46) on a tissue microarray. Additionally, using semiquantitative realtime PCR, a collection of paraffin embedded normal (n = 12) and cancerous (n = 25) breast tissue specimens as well as benign (n = 3) and malignant mammary cell lines (n = 8) were investigated for FOXM1 expression. SPSS version 14.0 was used for statistical analysis.

Results

FOXM1 was found to be overexpressed in breast cancer in comparison to normal breast tissue both on the RNA and protein level (e.g. 8.7 fold as measured by realtime PCR). We found a significant correlation between FOXM1 expression and the HER2 status determined by HER2 immunohistochemistry (P< 0.05). Univariate survival analysis showed a tendency between FOXM1 protein expression and unfavourable prognosis (P= 0.110).

Conclusion

FOXM1 may represent a novel breast tumour marker with prognostic significance that could be included into multi-marker panels for breast cancer. Interestingly, we found a positive correlation between FOXM1 expression and HER2 status, pointing to a potential role of FOXM1 as a new drug target in HER2 resistant breast tumour, as FOXM1 inhibitors for cancer treatment were described recently. Further studies are underway to analyse the potential interaction between FOXM1 and HER2, especially whether FOXM1 directly activates theHER2promoter.
A distinct population of clonogenic and multipotent murine follicular keratinocytes residing in the upper isthmus
Authors: Jensen Uffe Birk , Yan Xiaohong , Triel Charlotte , Woo Seung-Hyun , Christensen Rikke , Owens David M.
Published: February 2008

The bulge region of adult murine hair follicles harbors epidermal stem cells with multipotent capacity; however, the restricted contributions of these cells under homeostatic conditions indicates that additional stem or progenitor cell populations may be required to maintain squamous and sebaceous lineages. We have identified a distinct population of murine hair follicle keratinocytes residing in the upper isthmus (UI) between the infundibulum and bulge regions that are distinguished by low α6 integrin levels and are negative for CD34 and Sca-1. Purified UI cells give rise to long-term, stable epidermal, follicular and sebaceous lineages and can self-renew in vivo. These cells are non-quiescent and possess a unique transcript profile compared with bulge stem cells and may represent a distinct reservoir of epidermal stem or progenitor cells.
Short-term outcome in total knee replacement after soft-tissue release and balancing
Authors: Unitt L. , Sambatakakis A. , Johnstone D. , Briggs T. W. R.
Published: February 2008

We studied the influence of soft-tissue releases and soft-tissue balance on the outcome of 526 total knee replacements one year after operation. The surgery had been performed by seven surgeons in five centres in the United Kingdom between October 1999 and December 2002. Balancing was carried out by five surgeons using spacers and trials and by two surgeons using a ‘balancer’ instrument. All the surgeons assessed the adequacy of their releases by taking measurements with the balancer after soft-tissue release before implanting the components. Independent observers collected the Oxford knee scores and applied the American Knee Society functional and knee scores as well as recording the range of movement of the replaced knee. These were compared with the pre-operative scores and the extent of the releases.

We found differences in outcomes between minimal and extensive releases and between balanced and imbalanced knees.

Knees requiring extensive soft-tissue releases showed greater change in the short-term clinical outcome without increased complications and achieved similar results at one year compared with those with less deformity pre-operatively which had required less soft-tissue release. Balancing an imbalanced knee improved the short-term knee outcome.
Soft-tissue sarcomas of the hand
Authors: Pradhan A. , Cheung Y. C. , Grimer R. J. , Peake D. , Al-Muderis O. A. , Thomas J. M. , Smith M.
Published: February 2008

We have investigated the oncological outcome of 63 patients with soft-tissue sarcomas of the hand managed at three major centres in the United Kingdom. There were 44 males and 19 females with a mean age of 45 years (11 to 92). The three most common diagnoses were synovial sarcoma, clear cell sarcoma and epithelioid sarcoma. Local excision was carried out in 45 patients (71%) and amputation in 18 (29%). All those treated by amputation had a wide margin of excision but this was only achieved in 58% of those treated by local excision. The risk of local recurrence was 6% in those treated by amputation compared with 42% for those who underwent attempted limb salvage. An inadequate margin of excision resulted in a 12 times greater risk of local recurrence when compared with those in whom a wide margin of excision had been achieved. We were unable to demonstrate any role for radiotherapy in decreasing the risk of local recurrence when there was an inadequate margin of excision. Patients with an inadequate margin of excision had a much higher risk of both local recurrence and metastasis than those with wide margins. The overall survival rate at five years was 87% and was related to the grade and size of the tumour and to the surgical margin.

We have shown that a clear margin of excision is essential to achieve local control of a soft-tissue sarcoma in the hand and that failure to achieve this results in a high risk of both local recurrence and metastastic disease.
A rare presentation of sarcoidosis, back pain and spondylolisthesis
Authors: Morgan S. S. , Aslam M. B. , Mukkanna K. S. , Ampat G.
Published: February 2008

A 48-year old man presented with back pain that was resistant to treatment. An MR scan showed spondylolisthesis at L4-5 and narrowing of the exit foraminae. He had a posterior fusion which did not relieve his symptoms. He continued to have back pain and developed subcutaneous nodules in both forearms. Biopsy from the skin revealed cutaneous sarcoidosis, and one from the lumbar spine showed sarcoidosis granuloma between the bone trabeculae. A CT scan of the abdomen and chest revealed axillary lymphadenopathy, mediastinal enlarged nodes, apical nodular nodes and splenomegaly. The patient was started on large doses of methotrexate and steroids. His angiotensin-converting enzyme and calcium levels returned to normal and the back pain resolved.
A total hip replacement infected with mycobacterium bovis after intravesicular treatment with Bacille-Calmette-Guérin for bladder cancer
Authors: Reigstad O. , Siewers P.
Published: February 2008

An 86-year-old male presented with a loose total hip replacement (THR) ten years after implantation. At revision for anticipated aseptic loosening, watery pus was found in the joint and Bacille-Calmette-Guérin (BCG) was seen on culture. The bacterial strain was identified and was identical to the BCG used in the intravesicular treatment of superficial bladder carcinoma in this patient ten months earlier. After revision he received a full course of antituberculous treatment.

The clinical and radiological results were excellent after follow-up for 30 months with his uncemented THR showing satisfactory incorporation. His inflammatory markers were normal and his Harris hip score was 95 points.

The diagnosis of a tuberculous infection can be easily missed, but must be considered, especially if sterile pus is encountered.
Beyond Feeling: Chronic Pain Hurts the Brain, Disrupting the Default-Mode Network Dynamics
Authors: Baliki Marwan N. , Geha Paul Y. , Apkarian A. Vania , Chialvo Dante R.
Published: February 2008

Chronic pain patients suffer from more than just pain; depression and anxiety, sleep disturbances, and decision-making abnormalities (Apkarian et al., 2004a) also significantly diminish their quality of life. Recent studies have demonstrated that chronic pain harms cortical areas unrelated to pain (Apkarian et al., 2004b; Acerra and Moseley, 2005), but whether these structural impairments and behavioral deficits are connected by a single mechanism is as of yet unknown. Here we propose that long-term pain alters the functional connectivity of cortical regions known to be active at rest, i.e., the components of the “default mode network” (DMN). This DMN (Raichle et al., 2001; Greicius et al., 2003; Vincent et al., 2007) is marked by balanced positive and negative correlations between activity in component brain regions. In several disorders, however this balance is disrupted (Fox and Raichle, 2007). Using well validated functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) paradigms to study the DMN (Fox et al., 2005), we investigated whether the impairments of chronic pain patients could be rooted in disturbed DMN dynamics. Studying with fMRI a group of chronic back pain (CBP) patients and healthy controls while executing a simple visual attention task, we discovered that CBP patients, despite performing the task equally well as controls, displayed reduced deactivation in several key DMN regions. These findings demonstrate that chronic pain has a widespread impact on overall brain function, and suggest that disruptions of the DMN may underlie the cognitive and behavioral impairments accompanying chronic pain.
The Clustering of GABAAReceptor Subtypes at Inhibitory Synapses is Facilitated via the Direct Binding of Receptor α2 Subunits to Gephyrin
Authors: Tretter Verena , Jacob Tija C. , Mukherjee Jayanta , Fritschy Jean-Marc , Pangalos Menelas N. , Moss Stephen J.
Published: February 2008

Classical benzodiazepine sensitive GABAAreceptor subtypes, the major mediators of fast synaptic inhibition in the brain are heteropentamers that can be assembled from α1–3/5, β1–3, and γ2 subunits, but how neurons orchestrate their selective accumulation at synapses remains obscure. We have identified a 10 amino acid hydrophobic motif within the intracellular domain of the α2 subunit that regulates the accumulation of GABAAreceptors at inhibitory synaptic sites on both axon initial segments and dendrites in a mechanism dependent on the inhibitory scaffold protein gephyrin. This motif was sufficient to target CD4 (cluster of differentiation molecule 4) molecules to inhibitory synapses, and was also critical in regulating the direct binding of α2 subunits to gephyrinin vitro. Our results thus reveal that the specific accumulation of GABAAreceptor subtypes containing α2 subunits at inhibitory synapses is dependent on their ability to bind gephyrin.
Myostatin promotes a fibrotic phenotypic switch in multipotent C3H 10T1/2 cells without affecting their differentiation into myofibroblasts
Authors: Artaza Jorge N , Singh Rajan , Ferrini Monica G , Braga Melissa , Tsao James , Gonzalez-Cadavid Nestor F
Published: February 2008

Tissue fibrosis, the excessive deposition of collagen/extracellular matrix combined with the reduction of the cell compartment, defines fibroproliferative diseases, a major cause of death and a public health burden. Key cellular processes in fibrosis include the generation of myofibroblasts from progenitor cells, and the activation or switch of already differentiated cells to a fibrotic synthetic phenotype. Myostatin, a negative regulator of skeletal muscle mass, is postulated to be involved in muscle fibrosis. We have examined whether myostatin affects the differentiation of a multipotent mesenchymal mouse cell line into myofibroblasts, and/or modulates the fibrotic phenotype and Smad expression of the cell population. In addition, we investigated the role of follistatin in this process. Incubation of cells with recombinant myostatin protein did not affect the proportion of myofibroblasts in the culture, but significantly upregulated the expression of fibrotic markers such as collagen and the key profibrotic factors transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-1), as well as Smad3 and 4, and the pSmad2/3. An antifibrotic process evidenced by the upregulation of follistatin, Smad7, and matrix metalloproteinase 8 accompanied these changes. Follistatin inhibited TGF-β1 induction by myostatin. Transfection with a cDNA expressing myostatin upregulated PAI-1, whereas an shRNA against myostatin blocked this effect. In conclusion, myostatin induced a fibrotic phenotype without significantly affecting differentiation into myofibroblasts. The concurrent endogenous antifibrotic reaction confirms the view that phenotypic switches in multipotent and differentiated cells may affect the progress or reversion of fibrosis, and that myostatin pharmacological inactivation may be a novel therapeutic target against fibrosis.
β‐Globin gene cluster haplotypes and α‐thalassemia in sickle cell disease patients from Trinidad
Authors: Jones‐Lecointe Altheia , Smith Erskine , Romana Marc , Gilbert Marie‐Georges , Charles Waveney P. , Saint‐Martin Christian , Kéclard Lisiane
Published: February 2008

In this study, we have determined the frequency of βS haplotypes in 163 sickle cell disease patients from Trinidad. The α3.7 globin gene deletion status was also studied with an observed gene frequency of 0.17. Among the 283 βS chromosomes analyzed, the Benin haplotype was the most prevalent (61.8%) followed by Bantu (17.3%), Senegal (8.5%), Cameroon (3.5%), and Arab‐Indian (3.2%), while 5.7% of them were atypical. This βS haplotypes distribution differed from those previously described in other Caribbean islands (Jamaica, Guadeloupe, and Cuba), in agreement with the known involvement of the major colonial powers (Spain, France, and Great Britain) in the slave trade in Trinidad and documented an Indian origin of the βS gene. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Socioenvironmental conditions and nutritional status in urban and rural schoolchildren
Authors: Oyhenart Evelia E. , Castro Luis E. , Forte Luis M. , Sicre Maria L. , Quintero Fabian A. , Luis Maria A. , Torres Maria F. , Luna Maria E. , Cesani Maria F. , Orden Alicia B.
Published: February 2008

We analyzed the nutritional status of urban and rural schoolchildren from Mendoza (Argentina), but avoided rural and urban categorization by generating subpopulations as a function of their socioenvironmental characteristics. We transformed weight and height data into z‐scores using the CDC/NCHS growth charts; defined underweight, stunting, and wasting by z‐scores of less than −2 SD; and calculated overweight and obesity, according to the cutoff proposed by the International Obesity Task Force. Socioenvironmental characteristics included housing, public services, parental resources, and farming practices; we processed these variables by categorical principal‐component analysis. The two first axes defined four subgroups of schoolchildren: three of these were associated with urban characteristics, while the remaining subgroup was considered rural. Nutritional status differed across groups, whereas overweight was similar among the groups and obesity higher in urban middle‐income children. Urban differences were manifested mainly as underweight, but rural children exhibited the greatest stunting and wasting. Thus, the negative effects of environment on nutritional status in children are not restricted to poor periurban and rural areas, though these are indeed unfavorable environments for growth: some urban families provide children with sufficient quantity and diversity of foods to expose them to obesity. By contrast, the more affluent urban families would appear to have greater possibilities for allowing their children to adopt a healthy life‐style. Although the causes of differences in nutritional status between middle‐ and high‐income urban groups are not clear, these determinants probably involve economic as well as educational influences. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Technical note: Improved ancient DNA purification for PCR using ion‐exchange columns
Authors: Kim Kijeong , Kim Kyung‐Yong , Jeon Eunhee , Togloom Ariunaa , Cho Youn‐Ock , Lee Min‐Soo , Lkhagvasuren Gavaachimed , Choi Jee‐Hye , Tumen Dashtseveg , Ja Park Ae , Kim Keun‐Cheol , Park Ki‐Won , Kim Jae‐Hyun , Noh Maengseok , Yoo Kwon‐Jong , Lee Kwang‐Ho
Published: February 2008

A novel method of ancient DNA (aDNA) purification was developed using ion‐exchange columns to improve PCR‐amplifiable DNA extraction from ancient bone samples. Thirteen PCR‐resistant ancient bone samples aged 500–3,300 years were tested to extract aDNA using a recently reported, silica‐based aDNA extraction method and an ion‐exchange column method for the further purification. The PCR success rates of the aDNA extracts were evaluated for the amplification ability of the fragments of mitochondrial DNA, a high‐copy DNA, and amelogenin, a low‐copy DNA. The results demonstrate that the further purification of silica‐based aDNA extracts using ion‐exchange columns considerably improved PCR amplification. We suggest that the ion‐exchange column‐based method will be useful for the improvement of PCR‐amplifiable aDNA extraction, particularly from the poorly preserved, PCR‐resistant, ancient samples. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Geostatistics and spatial analysis in biological anthropology
Authors: Relethford John H.
Published: February 2008

A variety of methods have been used to make evolutionary inferences based on the spatial distribution of biological data, including reconstructing population history and detection of the geographic pattern of natural selection. This article provides an examination of geostatistical analysis, a method used widely in geology but which has not often been applied in biological anthropology. Geostatistical analysis begins with the examination of a variogram, a plot showing the relationship between a biological distance measure and the geographic distance between data points and which provides information on the extent and pattern of spatial correlation. The results of variogram analysis are used for interpolating values of unknown data points in order to construct a contour map, a process known as kriging. The methods of geostatistical analysis and discussion of potential problems are applied to a large data set of anthropometric measures for 197 populations in Ireland. The geostatistical analysis reveals two major sources of spatial variation. One pattern, seen for overall body and craniofacial size, shows an east–west cline most likely reflecting the combined effects of past population dispersal and settlement. The second pattern is seen for craniofacial height and shows an isolation by distance pattern reflecting rapid spatial changes in the midlands region of Ireland, perhaps attributable to the genetic impact of the Vikings. The correspondence of these results with other analyses of these data and the additional insights generated from variogram analysis and kriging illustrate the potential utility of geostatistical analysis in biological anthropology. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Morphological variation of major human populations based on nonmetric dental traits
Authors: Hanihara Tsunehiko
Published: February 2008

The patterns of inter‐ and intra‐regional variation among 12 major geographical groups from around the world were investigated based on 15 nonmetric dental traits. The R‐matrix method was applied using a pooled within‐group variance‐covariance matrix estimated with the maximum likelihood method (tetrachoric correlation matrix) and the threshold value for each trait estimated by univariate probit analysis. Using average heritability rates that range from 0.40 to 1.00, the inter‐regional variation represented by Fst falls between 7.19% and 16.23% of the total variance. This range of variation is compatible with those obtained by genetic, craniometric, and odontometric data. Subsaharan Africans show the largest intra‐regional diversity among the groups compared. The degree of intra‐regional variation shows, moreover, rough clinalities from subsaharan Africa to peripheral regions. The relationship between regional variation and geographic distance from subsaharan Africa supports serial bottlenecks and the founder effect of ancient populations originating in Africa. The variation of East/Northeast Asians is relatively large, suggesting a complex population history such as possible earlier divergence and multiple migrations from outside sources. The present findings are in agreement with both the recent African model for the origin of anatomically modern humans and the current scenario for human migration history suggested by genetic analyses. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Magnetization transfer ratio evolution with demyelination and remyelination in multiple sclerosis lesions
Authors: Chen Jacqueline T. , Collins D. Louis , Atkins Harold L. , Freedman Mark S. , Arnold Douglas L. ,   the Canadian MS/BMT Study Group
Published: February 2008

Objective

To assess demyelination and remyelination in vivo in acute gadolinium (Gd)‐enhancing lesions of multiple sclerosis (MS).

Methods

We measured significant changes in magnetization transfer ratio (MTR) consistent with demyelination and remyelination of individual lesion voxels, as well as the mean normalized MTR over all lesion voxels during and after contrast enhancement, in MS patients participating in a 3‐year Canadian trial assessing immunoablation and autologous stem cell transplantation for treatment of MS.

Results

The average mean normalized lesion MTR over all lesions exhibited partial recovery over 2 to 4 months after Gd enhancement. Voxel‐based analysis demonstrated that approximately 70% of the initially enhancing lesion volume (GdLV) was left with stably low MTR over 39 months of evaluation. The percentage of the GdLV undergoing significant increases in MTR consistent with remyelination increased for approximately 7 months after enhancement and then stabilized at 21 %GdLV. Significant decreases in MTR consistent with demyelination were ongoing for approximately 33 months after enhancement, stabilizing at 9 %GdLV. The estimated error of these measurements, based on scan/rescan analysis, was less than 0.4 %GdLV.

Interpretation

We found significant changes in MTR consistent with demyelination and remyelination that followed different temporal evolutions and were ongoing in different lesion regions for at least 3 years after lesion formation. Ann Neurol 2008
Preparation of temperature‐ and pH‐sensitive, stimuli‐responsive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐methacrylic acid) nanoparticles
Authors: Tian Peng , Wu Qinglin , Lian Kun
Published: February 2008

The effects of the monomer ratio, surfactant, and crosslinker contents on the particle size and phase‐transition behavior of the copolymer poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐methacrylic acid) (PNIPAAm–MAA) were investigated with Fourier transform infrared, differential scanning calorimetry, and dynamic laser scattering techniques. In addition to the thermoresponsive property of poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide), ionized methacrylic acid groups brought pH sensitivity to the PNIPAAm–MAA copolymer particles. The polymer particle size varied with the amounts of the monomer ratio, surfactant, and crosslinker. As the monomer ratio and crosslinker content increased and the amount of the surfactants decreased, the particle size increased. The influence of the crosslinker content on the particle size was less significant than the effect of the monomer ratio and surfactants. When the temperature increased, the particles tended to shrink and decreased in size to near or below 100 nm. Particle sizes at 20°C decreased to less than 100 nm with increased surfactant content. The control of the particle size within the 100‐nm range makes PNIPAAm–MAA copolymer particles useful for biomedical and heavy‐metal‐ion adsorption applications. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
How potential users of music search and retrieval systems describe the semantic quality of music
Authors: Lesaffre Micheline , Voogdt Liesbeth De , Leman Marc , Baets Bernard De , Meyer Hans De , Martens Jean‐Pierre
Published: February 2008

A large‐scale study was set up aiming at the clarification of the influence of demographic and musical background on the semantic description of music. Our model for rating high‐level music qualities distinguishes between affective/emotive, structural and kinaesthetic descriptors. The focus was on the understanding of the most important attributes of music in view of the development of efficient search and retrieval systems. We emphasized who the users of such systems are and how they describe their favorite music. Particular interest went to inter‐subjective similarities among listeners. The results from our study suggest that gender, age, musical expertise, active musicianship, broadness of taste and familiarity with the music have an influence on the semantic description of music.
Human in vivo cellular response to a cross-linked acellular collagen implant
Authors: Hammond T M , Chin-Aleong J , Navsaria H , Williams N S
Published: February 2008

Background

Hernia surgery, in particular parastomal hernia mesh repair and new techniques for hernia prevention, require novel biomaterials that avoid fibrosis and potential bowel erosion, while retaining adequate strength for their intended purpose. The aim was to evaluate the human host response to an acellular porcine-derived cross-linked collagen implant.

Methods

In a prospective pilot study on prevention of parastomal herniation, 15 patients undergoing loop stoma formation had an implant placed within the anterior abdominal wall. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry were performed to analyse the implant qualitatively and, where appropriate, quantitatively for biocompatibility, degradation, cellular infiltration, neo-extracellular matrix (ECM) formation and neovascularization.

Results

At a median of 7 (range 1–8) months, 12 of 15 patients had stoma reversal and 11 implant biopsies were obtained. In biopsies from ten of the 11 patients all responses were limited to the periphery of the implant and native pores. There was a minimal inflammatory response and minimal degradation of the implant. Fibroblastic and neovascular infiltration were noted, as was matrix metalloproteinase 1 activity with organized deposition of host collagen, fibronectin and laminin.

Conclusion

The collagen implant demonstrated excellent biocompatibility and resistance to degradation in most patients. However, fibrovascular in-growth and ECM deposition were limited. This implant has excellent potential for soft tissue reinforcement.
Determination of icariin in rat plasma by reverse‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography after oral administration of a lipid‐based suspension of Epimedium koreanum extract
Authors: Pozharitskaya Olga N. , Karlina Marina V. , Shikov Alexander N. , Kosman Vera M. , Makarova Marina N. , Makarov Valery G.
Published: February 2008

A simple, specific and sensitive method for quantitative determination of icariin in rat plasma using reverse‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography with UV‐detection was developed and applied to an animal study of a lipid‐based suspension of the Epimedium koreanum extract in rats. Rutin was selected as the internal standard and methanol was found to be the best solvent for extraction of icariin from the plasma. Linearity was observed between 0.030 and 100 µg/mL (r > 0.99). The extraction recoveries of icariin and rutin were approximately 75 and 80%, respectively, in plasma. The intra‐ and inter‐day coefficients of variation were less than 5%. The limit of detection was 6 ng/mL and the limit of quantification was 18 ng/mL. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cyanide Sensing with Organic Dyes: Studies in Solution and on Nanostructured Al2O3 Surfaces
Authors: Gimeno Nélida , Li Xiaoe , Durrant James R. , Vilar Ramón
Published: February 2008

The synthesis of two new azo phenyl thiourea compounds and their optical response to different anions is reported herein. Solution studies in methanol indicate that cyanide induces a colour change in these dyes (whereas no changes are observed in the presence of other anions, such as F−, Cl−, Br−, CH3COO−, H2PO4−, HSO4−). Interestingly, in DMSO these dyes are responsive not only to cyanide, but also to fluoride, acetate and dihydrogen phosphate. Each of these anions induces a different colour change. In the second part of the paper, we report the attachment of one of these dyes onto nanostructured TiO2 and Al2O3 films. The stability of these sensitised films to pH was studied and we concluded that the sensitised Al2O3 films are more robust, and hence, better than the TiO2 for anion sensing. The dye‐sensitised Al2O3 films were immersed in solutions of different anions and their response studied. The films can detect cyanide down to 3 ppm in aqueous solution with relatively good selectivity over other anions.
Wolfram oder Tungsten? Die Namen der chemischen Elemente
Authors: Diemann Ekkehard , Müller Achim
Published: February 2008

Zur Vereinheitlichung der Nomenklatur in der Chemie hat die Internationale Union für Reine und Angewandte Chemie (IUPAC) aktuelle Empfehlungen herausgegeben, die bei der Benennung der Elemente Neuerungen beinhalten. Die nun schon über zweihundert Jahre andauernde Kontroverse um den Namen des Elements 74 – Wolfram oder Tungsten – wird als ein typisches Beispiel in ihrer historischen Entwicklung beleuchtet.
Können Vögel das Erdmagnetfeld sehen?
Authors: Feil Sylvia
Published: February 2008

Im Frühjahr ziehen Gänse rufend über uns hinweg, zurück auf dem Weg nach Norden. Ein Blick nach oben zeigt ihre Fluglinie. Kleinere Vögel wie die Gartengrasmücke (Sylvia borin) sind nachts unterwegs. Nun hat die Gartengrasmücke schon eine gute Nachtsicht, aber ohne das Erdmagnetfeld könnte sie sich nicht orientieren. Ihre Rezeptoren des Erdmagnetfelds stehen offenbar mit dem Sehsinn in Verbindung.
Chemie‐Museum Merseburg
Authors: Schwedt Georg
Published: February 2008

Am Standort der ehemaligen TH “Carl Schorlemmer” Leuna‐Merseburg und heutigen Hochschule Merseburg (FH) entstand ab 1993 der Technikpark Deutsches Chemie‐Museum Merseburg. Der Förderverein “Sachzeugen der chemischen Industrie e.V.” ist Träger des Aufbaus, der 1997 in gemeinsamer Trägerschaft mit der Hochschule auch das Experimentallabor “Chemie zum Anfassen” einrichtete.
Kieselsäure – wie kommt sie ins Zellgewebe?
Authors: Jaenicke Lothar
Published: February 2008

Silicium, in Form der Kieselsäure, ist für Pflanzen essentiell. Es fördert Wachstum, vermindert Wasserverlust durch Transpiration, vermehrt die Resistenz gegen Parasiten. Bei Kieselalgen bildet es durch besondere Enzymmechanismen die so schön gemusterten Schalen. Es wird in unterschiedlichem Maß von allen höheren Pflanzen im Parenchym‐Gewebe angehäuft, in das es über den Safttransport aus den Wurzeln gelangt. Es muss also einen Weg aus dem Erdreich durch Zellwandschichten in den Saftstrom der Leitbahnen und von dort wiederum durch Zellschichten in das Gewebe geben. Das Problem ist aber, dass die Plasmamembran, die hinter der Zellulosewand den Zell‐Inhalt gegen außen, gegen Osmoseveränderungen und Substratverluste abschirmt, für alle gelösten Stoffe, außer für Wasser und Gase, undurchlässig ist. Man hat also nach eigenen und auswählenden Transportsystemen durch die Membran zu suchen.
Assessment of Atrial Electromechanical Coupling and Influential Factors in Nonrheumatic Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Cui Qi‐Qiong , Zhang Wei , Wang Hu , Sun Xin , Wang Rong , Yang Huan‐Yi , Meng Xian‐Qiang , Zhang Yun , Wang Hao
Published: February 2008

Background

Sequential analysis of atrial electromechanical coupling (P‐A) by Doppler tissue imaging (DTI) might provide important insight into the mechanisms of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF).

Hypothesis

The purpose of this study was to evaluate P‐A and the dispersion of P‐A, and to analyze the influential factors of P‐A.

Methods

One hundred and ten patients with PAF and 87 normal controls were enrolled. Using DTI, the time intervals from the beginning of P‐wave to the onset of atrioventricular ring motion related to atrial contraction were measured.

Results

Atrial electromechanical coupling at the interventricular septum atrioventricular annulus (P‐A1), left lateral mitral annulus (P‐A2) and right lateral tricuspid annulus (P‐A3) in PAF group were significantly longer than those in control (p < 0.001). The difference between P‐A2 and P‐A1 (T1), P‐A2 and P‐A3 (T3) in PAF group were greater than those in control before age correction (p < 0.05). The linear regression analysis showed that the duration of PAF episodes and age were the greatest influential factors of P‐A1 (r = 0.564). Left atrial anterior‐posterior dimension (LAD) and age were the greatest influential factors of P‐A2 (r = 0.459). The LAD was the greatest influential factors of T1 and T3 (r = 0.408, 0.542).

Conclusions

The atrial electromechanical coupling was significantly longer and the dispersion of P‐A at left lateral mitral annulus was greater in PAF patients. The prolongation of P‐A may be related to left atrial enlargement, long episodes of PAF and aging and the dispersion of P‐A at left lateral mitral annulus to LAD. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Genetic variation and response to morphine in cancer patients
Authors: Ross Joy R. , Riley Julia , Taegetmeyer Annie B. , Sato Hiroe , Gretton Sophy , du Bois Roland M. , Welsh Kenneth I.
Published: February 2008

BACKGROUND

Pain is a common symptom for patients with cancer, and opioids are the treatment of choice for moderate or severe cancer‐related pain. Central side effects, such as drowsiness, confusion, and hallucinations, can limit the use of opioids in clinical practice.

METHODS

The authors prospectively recruited 228 cancer patients who received morphine. Clinical data, including pain and side‐effect scores, were correlated with genotype data.

RESULTS

Genetic variation in the multidrug resistance‐1 gene (MDR‐1) was associated with moderate or severe drowsiness and confusion or hallucinations. Patients who carried the common guanosine (G) allele at position 2677 in exon 26 were less likely to experience drowsiness and confusion or hallucinations than patients who carried the variant thymidine or adenosine alleles, which code for alternate amino‐acid substitutions (chi‐square statistic, 13.3; P = .0003). In addition, genetic variation in the catechol‐O‐methyltansferase (COMT) enzyme was associated independently with these central side effects. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in intron 1 were associated significantly with central side effects; the most significant was at position −4873G (chi‐square statistic, 9.1; P = .003). SNPs in intron 1, defined as haplotype, were present in 10.4% of the population and were associated significantly with central side effects (chi‐square statistic, 7.7; P = .005). Genotype data did not correlate with morphine dose or serum morphine or metabolite concentrations in this study.

CONCLUSIONS

COMT and MDR‐1 genotypes were correlated with morphine‐related central side effects. The authors believe that this work adds significantly to the current understanding of genetic variants that may influence an individual's response to opioids. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Obsessional beliefs, compulsive behaviours and symptom severity: their evolution and interrelation over stages of treatment
Authors: Grenier Sébastien , O'Connor Kieron , Bélanger Claude
Published: February 2008

The current study reports a case series examining (1) the variation in strength of obsessional doubt and belief in consequences of the doubt; and (2) the interaction between these cognitive components and symptom measures of duration and severity of obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD), over 24 weeks of cognitive behaviour therapy. Eight participants diagnosed with OCD, four with contamination‐related rituals and four with checking behaviours, were selected on the basis of the Yale–Brown obsessive–compulsive scale (Y‐BOCS) and Padua ratings. All participants completed daily diaries measuring strength of principal obsessional doubt (0–100), strength of belief in consequences of the doubt (0–100) and the duration of the compulsive rituals throughout the 24 weeks of therapy. Severity of symptomatology was measured pre‐ and post‐treatment using the Y‐BOCS. Change in all measures was analysed over time following the procedure outlined by Storchheim and O'Mahoney (2006). Results showed that decrease in belief in secondary consequences is always accompanied by a decrease in strength of obsessions, but the converse does not hold. Furthermore, change in OCD symptomatology may precede cognitive changes. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Predictive Factors of Cardiovascular Disease in Patients on Maintenance Hemodialysis
Authors: Danis Ramazan , Ozmen Sehmus , Akin Davut , Celik Fatma , Yazanel Orhan
Published: February 2008

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to identify the role of the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene mutation and other predictive factors of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in patients on maintenance hemodialysis.

METHODS

A total of 144 patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing maintenance hemodialysis for at least 6 months were recruited. The mean age of patients was 44.84 ± 16.23 years. Serum folate, vitamin B12, homocysteine (tHcy), albumin, lipids, MTHFR C677T mutation, and smoking habits were analyzed relative to the presence of CVD.

RESULTS

Forty‐two of the 144 patients (29.1%) had CVD. Mean age, duration of dialysis, body mass index, CRP, Kt/V, male sex, diabetes mellitus, and currently smoking were found to be significantly higher in patients with CVD than in those without CVD (p < 0.05). The means of serum folate, vitamin B12, tHcy, albumin, and percentage of past smokers were not significant (p > 0.05). MTHFR C677T mutation was not found to be associated with CVD risk factors. The mean differences in tHcy levels between the TT and CC and the CT and CC genotype allele groups were significant.

CONCLUSION

We recommend that duration of ESRD and CRP predictors with traditional risk factors be taken into account when examining CVD. We suggest that if patients with ESRD have normal B12 and folate levels, abnormal tHcy level and tHcy metabolism are not risk factors for CVD in patients with ESRD. We do not recommend evaluation of the MTHFR C677T mutation and tHcy level in maintenance hemodialysis patients. The discriminative ability of risk predictors in CVD found in the study present new ideas for researchers studying this subject.
Autoregulation of XTcf‐4 depends on a Lef/Tcf site on the XTcf‐4 promoter
Authors: Koenig Sabrina F. , Lattanzio Roberto , Mansperger Katrin , Rupp Ralph A.W. , Wedlich Doris , Gradl Dietmar
Published: February 2008

The restricted expression of XTcf‐4 in the anterior midbrain is regulated via an active wnt/β‐catenin pathway (Kunz et al.,2004, Dev Biol 273:390‐401). The molecular mechanism of this autoregulatory loop, however, remained elusive. Here we show that the activity of a 1,775 bp promoter fragment containing a consensus Lef/Tcf binding site at position −1,437 to −1,428 is upregulated by activating transcription factors of the Lef/Tcf family. Furthermore, chromatin immunoprecipitation revealed that endogenous β‐catenin is bound to the Lef/Tcf site on the promoter. Thus, regulation of XTcf‐4 by canonical wnt‐signaling is directly controlled by binding to and activating a consensus Lef/Tcf binding site within its own promoter. genesis 46:81–86, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Multiple roles for apoptosis facilitating condensation of the Drosophila ventral nerve cord
Authors: Page Damon T. , Olofsson Birgitta
Published: February 2008

At the end of embryogenesis, the ventral nerve cord (VNC) of Drosophila undergoes a shape change, termed condensation. During condensation the length of the VNC shortens by 25%, a process dependent on extracellular matrix deposited by hemocytes, an intact cytoskeleton of glia and neurons and neural activity. Here we show that cell death contributes to nerve cord shortening. Firstly, apoptosis occurs at the interface of the epidermis and the nerve cord where it plays a role in the separation of these two tissues. Separation precedes condensation and in conditions where separation is prevented, condensation fails. Secondly, many cells undergo apoptosis within VNC during condensation. This cell death is localized mainly to the posterior part of the nerve cord where more than half of all cell death occurs. Preventing apoptosis either in neurons or glia partially inhibits VNC shortening during condensation. Despite the importance of midline glia in axon tract development, preventing midline glia cell death results in normal hatching and adult formation. We find that undead midline glia are eliminated from the midline and become mispositioned or expelled from the nervous system. We suggest that this represent a form of pattern repair that operates to reduce the impact of the additional cells. genesis 46:61–68, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fabrication of macroporous carbonate apatite foam by hydrothermal conversion of α‐tricalcium phosphate in carbonate solutions
Authors: Wakae H. , Takeuchi A. , Udoh K. , Matsuya S. , Munar M. L. , LeGeros R.Z. , Nakasima A. , Ishikawa K.
Published: February 2008

Bone consists of a mineral phase (carbonate apatite) and an organic phase (principally collagen). Cancellous bone is characterized by interconnecting porosity necessary for tissue ingrowth and nourishment of bone cells. The purpose of the present study was to fabricate macroporous carbonate apatite (CAP) blocks with interconnecting porosity as potential bone substitute biomaterials by hydrothermal conversion of α‐TCP foam in carbonate solution. The fabrication of the macroporous CAP was accomplished in two steps: (1) preparation of α‐TCP foams using polyurethane foams as templates, and (2) hydrothermal conversion at 200°C of α‐TCP foam in the presence of ammonium carbonate solutions of different concentrations. The maximum carbonate content of the resultant CAP foam was approximately 7.4 wt %. The mean porosity of the CAP foam was as high as 93 vol %. The macroporous CAP blocks or granules prepared in this manner has properties similar to that of bone in mineral composition and in having interconnecting macroporosity necessary for osteoconductivity and tissue ingrowth. On the basis of composition and interconnecting macroporosity, the CAP foam materials could be ideal biomaterials for bone repair and as scaffolds for tissue engineering. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 2008
Structural stability and bioapplicability assessment of hyaluronic acid–chitosan polyelectrolyte multilayers on titanium substrates
Authors: Chua P. H. , Neoh K. G. , Shi Z. , Kang E. T.
Published: February 2008

Since bacterial infections associated with implants remain a major cause of their failure, this study investigated the use of polyelectrolyte multilayers (PEMs) comprising hyaluronic acid (HA) and chitosan (CH) to confer antibacterial properties on titanium (Ti). HA and CH were deposited on Ti using the layer‐by‐layer deposition method. The antibacterial efficacy of the functionalized Ti substrates was assessed using Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The number of adherent bacteria on Ti functionalized with HA and CH PEMs was up to an order of magnitude lower than that on the pristine Ti. The effects of chemical crosslinking of the PEMs on the structural stability and antibacterial efficacy were investigated. The chemical crosslinking of the PEMs imparts greater structural stability and preserves the antibacterial properties even after the prolonged immersion in phosphate‐buffered saline. The cytotoxicity of the PEMs to osteoblasts was evaluated using the MTT assay. The results showed that the biocompatible and long‐lasting antibacterial nature of the functionalized Ti substrates offers great potential for reducing implant‐associated infections. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 2008
Frequency and predictors of prescription‐related issues after hospital discharge
Authors: Kripalani Sunil , Price Megan , Vigil Victoria , Epstein Kenneth R.
Published: February 2008

BACKGROUND

In the period immediately following hospital discharge, patients often experience difficulty with medication management. The problems related to patients' handling of discharge prescriptions are not well characterized.

METHODS

We conducted a large observational study of patients discharged from 170 community hospitals in 2005. By combining clinical, administrative, and call center data, we were able to examine independent predictors of prescription‐related issues in the 48–72 hours after hospital discharge. Issues included: not picking up prescribed discharge medications, not knowing if these medications had been picked up, not taking discharge medications, and not understanding how to take the medications.

RESULTS

More than half (57.0%) of the 31,199 subjects in the study were women, and the mean age was 61.1 years. Overall, 7.2% of patients (n = 2253) reported prescription‐related issues, most often not filling discharge prescriptions. In multivariable analyses, prescription‐related issues were more common among adults age 35–49; women; patients with Medicare HMO coverage, Medicaid, or no insurance; adults with higher severity of illness ratings; and patients prescribed 6 or more medications or an inhaler. Predictors of fewer problems were being age 65 or older; having HMO or commercial insurance; being prescribed antibiotics, anticoagulants, or angiotensin II receptor blockers; and having a major diagnosis in the skin or musculoskeletal categories.

CONCLUSIONS

About 7% of patients reported prescription‐related issues within a few days of hospital discharge. High‐risk patients should be identified and offered additional assistance prior to discharge and receive a follow‐up phone call to assess if discharge prescriptions have been filled. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2008;3:12–19. © 2008 Society of Hospital Medicine.