bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ChemInform Abstract: Clinical Chemistry: Challenges for Analytical Chemistry and the Nanosciences from Medicine
Authors: Durner Juergen
Published: April 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: External Stimulus‐Responsive Control of Aromatic Amide Conformations
Authors: Okamoto Iwao , Kagechika Hiroyuki , Tanatani Aya
Published: April 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Homonuclear Dipolar Recoupling Techniques for Structure Determination in Uniformly 13C‐Labeled Proteins
Authors: Ladizhansky Vladimir
Published: April 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
Radiofluorinated Pyrimidine‐2,4,6‐triones as Molecular Probes for Noninvasive MMP‐Targeted Imaging
Authors: Breyholz Hans‐Jörg , Wagner Stefan , Faust Andreas , Riemann Burkhard , Höltke Carsten , Hermann Sven , Schober Otmar , Schäfers Michael , Kopka Klaus
Published: April 2010

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are zinc‐ and calcium‐dependent endopeptidases. Representing a subfamily of the metzincin superfamily, MMPs are involved in the proteolytic degradation of components of the extracellular matrix. Unregulated MMP expression, MMP dysregulation and locally increased MMP activity are common features of various diseases, such as cancer, atherosclerosis, stroke, arthritis, and others. Therefore, activated MMPs are suitable biological targets for the specific visualization of such pathologies, in particular by using radiolabeled MMP inhibitors (MMPIs). The aim of this work was to develop a radiofluorinated molecular probe for noninvasive in vivo imaging for the detection of up‐regulated levels of activated MMPs in the living organism. Fluorinated MMPIs (26, 31 and 38) based on the pyrimidine‐2,4,6‐trione lead structure RO 28‐2653 (1) were synthesized, and their MMP inhibition potency was evaluated in vitro. The radiosynthesis and the in vivo biodistribution of the first 18F‐labeled prototype, MMP‐targeted tracer [18F]26, suitable for molecular imaging by means of positron emission tomography (PET) were realized.
Adenosine and 2′‐Deoxyadenosine Modified with Boron Cluster Pharmacophores as New Classes of Human Blood Platelet Function Modulators
Authors: Bednarska Katarzyna , Olejniczak Agnieszka B. , Wojtczak Błażej A. , Sułowska Zofia , Leśnikowski Zbigniew J.
Published: April 2010

Novel types of adenosine and 2′‐deoxyadenosine derivatives containing boron clusters at positions C2′, N6, or C8 were synthesized. The effect of these modified compounds on platelet function was studied. Modification of adenosine at the C2′ position with a para‐carborane cluster (C2B10H11) results in efficient inhibition of platelet function, including aggregation, protein secretion, and P‐selectin expression induced by thrombin or ADP. These preliminary findings and the new chemistry proposed form the basis for the development of a new class of adenosine analogues that modulate human blood platelet activities.
Physical performance limitations among adult survivors of childhood brain tumors
Authors: Ness Kirsten K. , Morris E. Brannon , Nolan Vikki G. , Howell Carrie R. , Gilchrist Laura S. , Stovall Marilyn , Cox Cheryl L. , Klosky James L. , Gajjar Amar , Neglia Joseph P.
Published: April 2010

BACKGROUND:

Young adult survivors of childhood brain tumors (BTs) may have late effects that compromise physical performance and everyday task participation. The objective of this study was to evaluate muscle strength, fitness, physical performance, and task participation among adult survivors of childhood BTs.

METHODS:

In‐home evaluations and interviews were conducted for 156 participants (54% men). Results on measures of muscle strength, fitness, physical performance, and participation were compared between BT survivors and members of a population‐based comparison group by using chi‐square statistics and 2‐sample t tests. Associations between late effects and physical performance and between physical performance and participation were evaluated in regression models.

RESULTS:

The median age of BT survivors was 22 years (range, 18‐58 years) at the time of the current evaluation, and they had survived for a median of 14.7 years (range, 6.5‐45.9 years) postdiagnosis. Survivors had lower estimates of grip strength (women, 24.7 ± 9.2 kg vs 31.5 ± 5.8 kg; men, 39.0 ± 12.2 kg vs 53.0 ± 10.1 kg), knee extension strength (women, 246.6 ± 95.5 Newtons [N] vs 331.5 ± 5.8 N; men, 304.7 ± 116.4 N vs 466.6 ± 92.1 N), and peak oxygen uptake (women, 25.1 ± 8.8 mL/kg per minute vs 31.3 ± 5.1 mL/kg per minute; men, 24.6 ± 9.5 mL/kg per minute vs 33.2 ± 3.4 mL/kg per minute) than members of the population‐based comparison group. Physical performance was lower among survivors and was associated with not living independently (odds ratio [OR], 5.0; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.0‐12.2) and not attending college (OR, 2.3; 95% CI 1.2‐4.4).

CONCLUSIONS:

Muscle strength and fitness values among BT survivors were similar to those among individuals aged ≥60 years and were associated with physical performance limitations. Physical performance limitations were associated with poor outcomes in home and school environments. The current data indicated an opportunity for interventions targeted at improving long‐term physical function in this survivor population. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Prognostic factors for recurrent breast cancer patients with an isolated, limited number of lung metastases and implications for pulmonary metastasectomy
Authors: Yhim Ho‐Young , Han Sae‐Won , Oh Do‐Youn , Han Wonshik , Im Seock‐Ah , Kim Tae‐You , Kim Young Tae , Noh Dong‐Young , Chie Eui Kyu , Ha Sung Whan , Park In Ae , Bang Yung‐Jue
Published: April 2010

BACKGROUND:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical treatment outcomes of recurrent breast cancer with a limited number of isolated lung metastases, and to evaluate the role of pulmonary metastasectomy.

METHODS:

The authors consecutively enrolled 140 recurrent breast cancer patients with isolated lung metastasis from 1997 to 2007 in Seoul National University Hospital and retrospectively analyzed 45 patients who had <4 metastatic lesions.

RESULTS:

Fifteen patients had pulmonary metastasectomy followed by systemic treatment (pulmonary metastasectomy group), and 30 received systemic treatment alone (nonpulmonary metastasectomy group). The 3‐year progression‐free survival (PFS) and 4‐year overall survival (OS) was significantly longer in the pulmonary metastasectomy group than in the nonpulmonary metastasectomy group (3‐year PFS, 55.0% vs 4.5%, P < .001; 4‐year OS, 82.1% vs 31.6%, P = .001). In multivariate analysis, a disease‐free interval (DFI) of <24 months (hazard ratio [HR], 4.53; 95% CI, 1.72‐11.90), no pulmonary metastasectomy (HR, 9.52; 95% CI, 3.34‐27.18) and biologic subtypes such as human epithelial growth factor receptor‐2 positive (HR, 3.00; 95% CI, 1.04‐8.64) and triple negative (HR, 3.92; 95% CI, 1.32‐11.59) were independent prognostic factors for shorter PFS.

CONCLUSIONS:

The authors' results demonstrated that DFI and biologic subtypes of tumor are firm, independent, prognostic factors for survival, and pulmonary metastasectomy can be a reasonable treatment option in this population. Further prospective studies are warranted to evaluate the role of pulmonary metastasectomy. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Design of a high precision logarithmic converter in a binary floating point divider
Authors: Lee Yong‐Hwan , Cho Young‐Sung , Moon Sangook
Published: April 2010

In most floating‐point operations related with 3D graphic applications for mobile devices, properly approximated data calculations with reduced complexity and low power are preferable to exactly rounded floating‐point operations with unnecessary preciseness of cost. Among all the sophisticated floating‐point arithmetic operations, division is the most complicated and time consuming. We adopted the concept of the logarithmic number system and proposed a novel approach of designing a hardware logarithm converter to utilize the advantage of the transformation of the division into a simple subtraction. The proposed piecewise interpolation method with differential coefficients for logarithmic conversion greatly reduces the error range compared with the previous studies. The comparison between our divider and the conventional precision divider shows that the throughput has been considerably improved with slightly increased gate counts, where the difference of the results is sufficiently tolerable for mobile 3D graphic applications. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Platinum and Non‐Platinum Nanomaterials for the Molecular Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Alonso‐Vante Nicolas
Published: April 2010

Herein, some chemical approaches to the tailoring of nanodivided materials are highlighted. Transition‐metal materials in nanodivided form are essentially devoted to study the electrocatalytic reduction of molecular oxygen (ORR) in acid medium. This Minireview focuses on the physical and chemical structures of platinum‐based and non‐platinum‐based materials. Due to the research dynamism in this field, the discussion is limited to a comprehensive review of ORR cathode materials investigated in the author’s laboratory as well as to some relevant work obtained in other laboratories concerning the electrochemical ORR pathway and substrate effects.
Light‐Induced Conformational Changes of the Chromophore and the Protein in Phytochromes: Bacterial Phytochromes as Model Systems
Authors: Scheerer Patrick , Michael Norbert , Park Jung Hee , Nagano Soshichiro , Choe Hui‐Woog , Inomata Katsuhiko , Borucki Berthold , Krauß Norbert , Lamparter Tilman
Published: April 2010

Recombinant phytochromes Agp1 and Agp2 from Agrobacterium tumefaciens are used as model phytochromes for biochemical and biophysical studies. In biliverdin binding phytochromes the site for covalent attachment of the chromophore lies in the N‐terminal region of the protein, different from plant phytochromes. The issue which stereochemistry the chromophore adopts in the so‐called Pr and Pfr forms is addressed by using a series of locked chromophores which form spectrally characteristic adducts with Agp1 and Agp2. Studies on light‐induced conformational changes of Agp1 give an insight into how the intrinsic histidine kinase is modulated by light. Comparison of the crystal structure of an Agp1 fragment with other phytochrome crystal structures supports the idea that a light induced rearrangement of subunits within the homodimer modulates the activity of the kinase.
Spectroscopic and Computational Insight into the Intermolecular Interactions between Zwitter‐Type Ionic Liquids and Water Molecules
Authors: Park HoSeok , Jung Young Mee , Yang Seong Ho , Shin Weonho , Kang Jung Ku , Kim Hoon Sik , Lee Hyun Joo , Hong Won Hi
Published: April 2010

Geometric and conformational changes of zwitter‐type ionic liquids (ZILs) due to hydrogen‐bonding interactions with water molecules are investigated by density functional theory (DFT), two‐dimensional IR correlation spectroscopy (2D IR COS), and pulsed‐gradient spin‐echo NMR (PGSE NMR). Simulation results indicate that molecular structures in the optimized states are strongly influenced by hydrogen bonding of water molecules with the sulfonate group or imidazolium and pyrrolidinium rings of 3‐(1‐methyl‐3‐imidazolio)propanesulfonate (1) and 3‐(1‐methyl‐1‐pyrrolidinio)propanesulfonate (2), respectively. Concentration‐dependent 2D IR COS reveals kinetic conformational changes of the two ZIL–H2O systems attributable to intermolecular interactions, as well as the interactions of sulfonate groups and imidazolium or pyrrolidinium rings with water molecules. The dramatic changes in the 1H self‐diffusion coefficients elucidate the formation of proton‐conduction pathways consisting of ZIL networks. In ZIL domains, protons are transferred by a Grotthuss‐type mechanism through formation, breaking, and restructuring of bonds between ZILs and H2O, leading to an energetically favorable state. The simulation and experimental investigations delineated herein provide a perspective to understanding the interactions with water from an academic point of view as well as to designing ILs with desired properties from the viewpoint of applications.
One‐Pot Synthesis of Lactide–Styrene Diblock Copolymers via Catalytic Immortal Ring‐Opening Polymerization of Lactide and Nitroxide‐Mediated Polymerization of Styrene
Authors: Poirier Valentin , Duc Michel , Carpentier Jean‐François , Sarazin Yann
Published: April 2010

An efficient, practical, and industrially relevant procedure for the production of polymer materials, in which a part of the oil‐derived polyolefins has been replaced by a renewable, biodegradable, and biocompatible poly(lactide) block, is presented. Binary catalytic systems combining innocuous metals (yttrium, zinc, magnesium, or calcium) and bifunctional alcohols (acting as transfer agents) were developed to promote the immortal ring‐opening polymerization of lactide directly in styrene. Up to 20 000 equivalents of lactide were polymerized (metal catalyst loading of 50–100 ppm) in a controlled fashion in the presence of 10–100 equivalents of a double‐headed transfer agent to give as many end‐functionalized poly(lactide) macromolecules that can be used eventually as macroinitiators for the controlled nitroxide‐mediated polymerization of styrene. The specific use of the sterically shielded complex [BDI‐iPr]Zn‐N(SiMe3)2 ([BDI‐iPr]=bis(diketiminate) ligand) allowed the efficient, catalytic, and controlled production of poly(lactide)‐block‐poly(styrene) materials in a one‐pot, solvent‐free sequential procedure, with nearly 100 % atom‐efficiency.
Effects of a newly developed tricyclic PARP‐1 inhibitor, on ischemic stroke
Authors: Yoo A. Rum , Koh Seong‐Ho , Noh Min Young , Cho Goang Won , Park Ji‐Seon , Kim Youngchul , Lee Han‐Chang , Kim Myung‐Hwa , Kim Seung Hyun
Published: April 2010

Poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP)‐1 plays an important role in the pathogenic mechanism of ischemic stroke. A number of studies have been undertaken to develop PARP‐1 inhibitors for clinical use. We report on the newly developed PARP‐1 inhibitors, among which 12a showed good activity (IC50=7.8 nM in an enzyme‐based assay and=0.73 µM in a cell‐based assay) and pharmacokinetic profiles. Treatment of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) occluded rats with 3 mg/kg 12a reduced infarct volume suggesting that, may be a good candidate for the treatment of ischemic stroke. Drug Dev Res 71: 253–260, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Tolerogenicity is not an absolute property of a dendritic cell
Authors: Farquhar Claire A. , Paterson Alison M. , Cobbold Stephen P. , Garcia Rueda Hugo , Fairchild Paul J. , Yates Stephen F. , Adams Elizabeth , Saunders Nigel J. , Waldmann Herman , Nolan Kathleen F.
Published: April 2010

Pharmacological modulation is known to temper the immune capacity of DC, enhancing the notion that modulated Ag‐bearing DC might be used therapeutically to induce tolerance. We have investigated phenotypic features shared by such DC, and queried their potential to tolerize in different settings. Immature, IL‐10, TGF‐β and 1α,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3‐modulated BMDC all induced tolerance to male skin in female TCR transgenic A1.RAG mice, and the modulated DC also tolerized after exposure to the TLR4‐ligand LPS. Transcript profiling revealed that this was achieved despite retaining much of the normal LPS‐maturation response. No shared tolerance‐associated transcripts could be identified. Equivalent BMDC could not tolerize in Marilyn TCR‐transgenic mice. Simultaneous presentation of both A1.RAG and Marilyn peptide‐Ag (Dby‐H2Ek and Dby‐H2Ab) on immature (C57BL/6JxCBA/Ca) F1 BMDC also only achieved tolerance in A1.RAG mice. Both strains registered Ag, but Foxp3+ Treg were only induced in A1.RAG mice. In contrast, Marilyn T cells showed greater proliferation and an inflammatory bias, in response to Ag presented by immature F1 BMDC in vitro. In summary, while pharmacological agents can skew DC to reinforce their immature tolerogenic phenotype, the outcome of presentation is ultimately an integrated response including T‐cell‐intrinsic components that can over‐ride for immune activation.
Wash-off potential of urban use insecticides on concrete surfaces
Authors: Jiang Weiying , Lin Kunde , Haver Darren , Qin Sujie , Ayre Gilboa , Spurlock Frank , Gan Jay
Published: April 2010

Contamination of surface aquatic systems by insecticides is an emerging concern in urban watersheds, but sources of contamination are poorly understood, hindering development of regulatory or mitigation strategies. Hardscapes such as concrete surfaces are considered an important facilitator for pesticide runoff following applications around homes. However, pesticide behavior on concrete has seldom been studied, and standardized evaluation methods are nonexistent. In the present study, a simple batch method for measuring pesticide wash-off potential from concrete surfaces was developed, and the dependence of washable pesticide residues was evaluated on pesticide types, formulations, time exposed to outdoor conditions, and number of washing cycles. After application to concrete, the washable fraction of four pyrethroids (bifenthrin, permethrin, cyfluthrin, and cyhalothrin) and fipronil rapidly decreased, with half-lives ≤3 d, likely due to irreversible retention in micropores below the concrete surface. The initial fast decrease was followed by a much slower declining phase with half-lives ranging from one week to two months, and detectable residues were still found in the wash-off solution for most treatments after 112 d. The slow decrease may be attributed to a fraction of pesticides being isolated from degradation or volatilization after retention below the concrete surface. Wash-off potential was consistently higher for solid formulations than for liquid formulations, implying an increased runoff contamination risk for granular and powder formulations. Trace levels of pyrethroids were detected in the wash-off solution even after 14 washing–drying cycles over 42 d under outdoor conditions. Results from the present study suggest that pesticide residues remain on concrete and are available for contaminating runoff for a prolonged time. Mechanisms for the long persistence were not clearly known from the present study and merit further investigation. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2010;29:1203–1208. © 2010 SETAC
Dual enantioselective effect of the insecticide bifenthrin on locomotor behavior and development in embryonic–larval zebrafish
Authors: Jin Meiqing , Zhang Ying , Ye Jing , Huang Changjiang , Zhao Meirong , Liu Weiping
Published: April 2010

Bifenthrin (BF) is a synthetic pyrethroid that targets the nervous system of insects and may have adverse effects on the behavior and development of nontarget organisms. However, no reports have been issued on the effects of different enantiomers on locomotor behavior for synthetic pyrethroids (SPs) in zebrafish, and whether locomotor activity is associated with the developmental toxicities remains unclear. In this study, enantioselectivity of BF (1S and 1R) on the acute locomotor activity and developmental toxicities of embryonic–larval zebrafish were first evaluated. The results indicated that 1R-BF was more toxic, causing morphological impairments, with a 96-h median effective concentration (EC50) of 226 µg/L for pericardial edema and 145 µg/L for curved body axis. Administration of 20 µg/L of one enantiomer of BF had differential effects on the locomotor activity of zebrafish larvae at 4 d postfertilization (dpf) under alternating light and dark conditions. Larvae treated with 1R-BF were not sensitive to the alteration of light to dark, and the locomotor activities were reduced to a level similar to that observed in light, which otherwise increased rapidly and markedly. However, 1S-BF did not alter the general pattern of zebrafish response to the light or dark compared with the control. The results demonstrated that the differential effects on development might have contributed to the enantioselectivity in the locomotor activity. The consistency of enantioselectivity with insecticidal activity may also indicate a common mode of action. Furthermore, 1R-BF accelerated the spontaneous movement and hatching process, whereas 1S-BF seemed to be inhibitory. The results suggest the need to link behavioral changes to developmental toxicities in order to achieve more comprehensive health risk assessments of chiral pesticides. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2010;29:1561–1567. © 2010 SETAC
Impact of changes in analytical techniques for the measurement of polychlorinated biphenyls and organochlorine pesticides on temporal trends in herring gull eggs
Authors: de Solla Shane R. , Weseloh D.V. Chip , Hebert Craig E. , Pekarik Cynthia
Published: April 2010

Changes in analytical approaches during the tenure of monitoring programs for organochlorine (OC) pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) may affect estimates of temporal trends. We used an in-house reference material to create multiplication factors to adjust the estimates of OC pesticides and PCBs (Aroclor equivalents) in Great Lake herring gull eggs analyzed using electron capture detection (1987–1997) to be more equivalent to estimates using mass spectrometric detection (1998–2005) as well as accompanying differences in analytical procedures. We examined temporal trends in contaminant concentrations in herring gull eggs using change point regressions, to determine whether significant changes in long-term trends were associated with analytical methodology. The highest frequency of change point occurrences shifted from 1997 (when analytical methodology was altered) to 2003 after data adjustment. The explanatory power (r2) of the regressions was lower after adjustment, although only marginally so (mean r2 difference = 0.04). The initial rates of decline before change points in contaminant concentrations were generally slower after the data adjustment, but after any change points the declines were not significantly different. The regression models did not change for 83.3% of the cases. The effects on the interpretation of long-term temporal trends in herring gull eggs, although not negligible, were minor relative to the magnitude of the temporal changes. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2010;29:1476–1483. © 2010 SETAC
On the approximation of local efflux/influx bed discharge in the shallow water equations based on a wave propagation algorithm
Authors: Mahdizadeh Hossein , Stansby Peter K. , Rogers Benedict D.
Published: April 2010

In cities, flood waves may propagate over street surfaces below which lie complicated pipe networks used for storm drainage and sewage. The flood and pipe flows can interact at connections between the underground pipes and the street surface. The present paper examines this interaction, using the shallow water equations to model the flood wave hydrodynamics. Sources and sinks in the mass conservation equation are used to model the pipe inflow and outflow conditions at bed connections. We consider the problem reduced to one dimension. The shallow water equations are solved using a Godunov‐type wave propagation scheme. Wave speeds are modified in the wave propagation algorithm to enable flows to be simulated over nearly dry beds and dry states. First, the model is used to simulate vertical flows through finite gaps in the bed. Next, the interaction of the vertical flows with a dam break flow is considered for both dry and wet beds. An efflux number, En, is defined based on the vertical efflux velocity and the gap length. Comparisons are made with numerical predictions from STAR‐CD, a commercial Navier–Stokes solver that models the free‐surface motions, and a parameter study is undertaken to investigate the effect of the one‐dimensional approximation of the present model, for a range of non‐dimensional efflux numbers. It is found that the shallow flow model gives sensible predictions at all time provided En<0.5, and for long durations for En>0.5. Dam break flow over an underground connecting pipe is also considered. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assessments of learning‐related skills and interpersonal skills constructs within early childhood environments in Singapore
Authors: Lim Sok Mui , Rodger Sylvia , Brown Ted
Published: April 2010

Social skills are necessary for developing successful relationships and promoting learning. Interpersonal skills (IPS) are needed for maintaining friendships while learning‐related skills (LRS) are required for positive classroom behaviours. In this study, we investigated the construct validity of LRS and IPS within two existing assessments: the Child Behavior Rating Scales (CBRS) and the Preschool and Kindergarten Behavior Scales—2nd edition (PKBS‐2). Teachers completed the CBRS and PKBS‐2 for 117 Singaporean children aged 3–6 years. Rasch analysis was used to identify items that fit the unidimensional constructs of LRS and IPS within each instrument. Specific items from within the CBRS were found to measure LRS and IPS. Within the PKBS‐2, items were found to measure IPS and a new construct labelled Compliance. Instead of creating new assessment tools to measure new constructs, this study innovatively demonstrated how Rasch analysis can be used to document the existence of new constructs within already existing tools. The identification of new constucts and the use of these tools in an Asian context are presented. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Self–other awareness and peer relationships in toddlers: gender comparisons
Authors: Levine Laura E. , Conway James M.
Published: April 2010

Toddlers' growing self–other awareness has been linked with their ability to interact with peers, but there is reason to think that self–other awareness may relate to different aspects of peer relationships for boys and girls. We hypothesized that boys would express self–other awareness by separating self from other through claiming toys, while girls would express self–other awareness by creating similarities between self and other through use of the duplicate of a partner's toy. For 52 22–26 month olds, self–other awareness was assessed through four tasks: mirror self recognition, perceptual role taking, pronoun recognition and pronoun use. Each child subsequently interacted with a same‐sex peer for 30 min. Girls high in self–other awareness, and their partners were more likely to engage in duplicate toy use than girls low in self–other awareness. No differences in toy claiming were found. Future longitudinal research would clarify how the onset of self–other awareness relates to developments in peer interaction for girls and boys. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The anger–distress model of temper tantrums: associations with emotional reactivity and emotional competence
Authors: Giesbrecht Gerald F. , Miller Michael R. , Müller Ulrich
Published: April 2010

The goals of this investigation were (a) to assess the structural validity of the anger–distress model of temper tantrums, and (b) to examine the associations among temper tantrums, emotional reactivity and emotional competence in a community sample of preschoolers. A parent‐report measure, the Temper Tantrum Grid, was used to measure the frequency of common tantrum behaviours. Laboratory and parent‐report measures of emotional reactivity and emotional competence were administered. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the proposal that anger and distress are separate but overlapping tantrum processes. Correlation analyses showed that temper tantrum anger and distress were related to emotional reactivity and emotional competence. There was no evidence to support the notion that emotional competence moderated the effect of emotional reactivity on temper tantrums. In contrast, emotional competence was a significant mediator of the association between emotional reactivity and temper tantrums. Overall, the results support the anger–distress model of temper tantrums. The findings suggest that children's temper tantrums are systematically related to the overall organization of emotion and behaviour in preschool children. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Environmental risk assessment for the serotonin re-uptake inhibitor fluoxetine: Case study using the European risk assessment framework
Authors: Oakes Ken D , Coors Anja , Escher Beate I , Fenner Kathrin , Garric Jeanne , Gust Marion , Knacker Thomas , Küster Anette , Kussatz Carola , Metcalfe Chris D , Monteiro Sara , Moon Thomas W , Mennigen Jan A , Parrott Joanne , Péry Alexandre RR , Ramil Maria , Roennefahrt Ines , Tarazona José V , Sánchez-Argüello Paloma , Ternes Thomas A , Trudeau Vance L , Boucard Tatiana , Van Der Kraak Glen J , Servos Mark R
Published: April 2010

The serotonin re-uptake inhibitor fluoxetine was selected for an environmental risk assessment, using the most recent European guideline (EMEA 2006) within the European Union (EU)-funded Environmental Risk Assessment of Pharmaceuticals (ERAPharm) project due to its environmental persistence, acute toxicity to nontarget organisms, and unique pharmacokinetics associated with a readily ionizable compound. As a widely prescribed psychotropic drug, fluoxetine is frequently detected in surface waters adjacent to urban areas because municipal wastewater effluents are the primary route of entry to aquatic environments. In Phase I of the assessment, the initial predicted environmental concentration of fluoxetine in surface water (initial PECSW) reached or exceeded the action limit of 10 ng/L, when using both a default market penetration factor and prescription data for Sweden, Germany, and the United Kingdom. Consequently, a Phase II risk assessment was conducted in which green algae were identified as the most sensitive species with a NOEC of <0.6 µg/L. From this value, a predicted no effect concentration for surface waters (PNECSW) of 0.012 µg/L was derived. The PEC/PNEC ratio was above the trigger value of 1 in worst-case exposure scenarios indicating a potential risk to the aquatic compartment. Similarly, risks of fluoxetine for sediment-dwelling organisms could not be excluded. No risk assessment was conducted for the terrestrial compartment due to a lack of data on effects of fluoxetine on soil organisms. The need for a separate risk assessment for the main metabolite of fluoxetine, norfluoxetine, was not conducted because of a lack of fate and effect studies. Based on published data, fluoxetine and norfluoxetine appeared to have a low to moderate bioaccumulation potential, which should be confirmed in formal studies according to OECD guidelines. Exposure assessments for fluoxetine according to the current framework rely heavily on KOC and KOW values. This approach is problematic, because fluoxetine is predominantly a cationic substance at environmental pH values. Consequently, the fate of fluoxetine (and other ionic substances) cannot be predicted using partition coefficients established for nonionic compounds. Further, published estimates for partition coefficients of fluoxetine vary, resulting in considerable uncertainties in both the exposure and environmental risk assessments of fluoxetine. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2010;6:524–539. © 2009 SETAC
Elevated serum IGF-1 levels synergize PTH action on the skeleton only when the tissue IGF-1 axis is intact
Authors: Elis Sebastien , Courtland Hayden-William , Wu Yingjie , Fritton J Christopher , Sun Hui , Rosen Clifford J , Yakar Shoshana
Published: April 2010

There is growing evidence that insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and parathyroid hormone (PTH) have synergistic actions on bone and that part of the anabolic effects of PTH is mediated by local production of IGF-1. In this study we analyzed the skeletal response to PTH in mouse models with manipulated endocrine or autocrine/paracrine IGF-1. We used mice carrying a hepatic IGF-1 transgene (HIT), which results in a threefold increase in serum IGF-1 levels and normal tissue IGF-1 expression, and Igf1 null mice with blunted IGF-1 expression in tissues but threefold increases in serum IGF-1 levels (KO-HIT). Evaluation of skeletal growth showed that elevations in serum IGF-1 in mice with Igf1 gene ablation in all tissues except the liver (KO-HIT) resulted in a restoration of skeletal morphology and mechanical properties by adulthood. Intermittent PTH treatment of adult HIT mice resulted in increases in serum osteocalcin levels, femoral total cross-sectional area, cortical bone area and cortical bone thickness, as well as bone mechanical properties. We found that the skeletal response of HIT mice to PTH was significantly higher than that of control mice, suggesting synergy between IGF-1 and PTH on bone. In sharp contrast, although PTH-treated KO-HIT mice demonstrated an anabolic response in cortical and trabecular bone compartments compared with vehicle-treated KO-HIT mice, their response was identical to that of PTH-treated control mice. We conclude that (1) in the presence of elevated serum IGF-1 levels, PTH can exert an anabolic response in bone even in the total absence of tissue IGF-1, and (2) elevations in serum IGF-1 levels synergize PTH action on bone only if the tissue IGF-1 axis is intact. Thus enhancement of PTH anabolic actions depends on tissue IGF-1. © 2010 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Systemic effects of ulna loading in male rats during functional adaptation
Authors: Sample Susannah J , Collins Ryan J , Wilson Aliya P , Racette Molly A , Behan Mary , Markel Mark D , Kalscheur Vicki L , Hao Zhengling , Muir Peter
Published: April 2010

Functional skeletal adaptation is thought to be a local phenomenon controlled by osteoctyes. However, the nervous system also may have regulatory effects on adaptation. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of loading of a single bone on adaptation of other appendicular long bones and whether these responses were neuronally regulated. Young male Sprague-Dawley rats were used. The right ulna was loaded to induce a modeling response. In other rats, a second regimen was used to induce bone fatigue with a mixed modeling/remodeling response; a proportion of rats from each group received brachial plexus anesthesia to induce temporary neuronal blocking during bone loading. Sham groups were included. Left and right long bones (ulna, humerus, tibia, and femur) from each rat were examined histologically 10 days after loading. In fatigue- and sham-loaded animals, blood plasma concentrations of TNF-α, RANKL, OPG, and TRAP5b were determined. We found that loading the right ulna induced an increase in bone formation in distant long bones that were not loaded and that this effect was neuronally regulated. Distant effects were most evident in the rats that received loading without bone fatigue. In the fatigue-loaded animals, neuronal blocking induced a significant decrease in plasma TRAP5b at 10 days. Histologically, bone resorption was increased in both loaded and contralateral ulnas in fatigue-loaded rats and was not significantly blocked by brachial plexus anesthesia. In young, growing male rats we conclude that ulna loading induced increased bone formation in multiple bones. Systemic adaptation effects were, at least in part, neuronally regulated. © 2010 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Bradykinin‐induced cell migration and COX‐2 production mediated by the bradykinin B1 receptor in glioma cells
Authors: Lu Dah‐Yuu , Leung Yuk‐Man , Huang Ssu‐Ming , Wong Kar‐Lok
Published: April 2010

Bradykinin is produced and acts at the site of injury and inflammation. Recent reports have also shown that bradykinin selectively modulates blood–tumor barrier permeability. However, the molecular mechanisms and pathologic roles underlying bradykinin‐induced glioma migration remain unclear. Glioma is the most common primary adult brain tumor, with a poor prognosis because of the ease with which tumor cells spread to other regions of the brain. In this study, we found that bradykinin increases the cell migration and expression of cyclo‐oxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) in glioma cells. Bradykinin‐mediated migration was attenuated by the selective COX‐2 inhibitor NS‐398. Moreover, increased motility of glioma cells and expression of COX‐2 were mimicked by a bradykinin B1 receptor (B1R) agonist and markedly inhibited by a B1R antagonist. Bradykinin‐mediated migration was attenuated by phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI‐3 kinase)/AKT inhibitors LY 294002 and wortmannin. Bradykinin stimulation also increased the phosphorylation of the p85 subunit of PI‐3 kinase and serine 473 of AKT. Treatment of bradykinin with AP‐1 inhibitors Tanshinone IIA and curcumin also reduced COX‐2 expression and glioma cell migration. Moreover, treatment of bradykinin also induced phosphorylation of c‐Jun in glioma cells. AP‐1 promoter analysis in the luciferase reporter construct showed that bradykinin increased AP‐1 transcription activity and was inhibited by LY 294002 and wortmannin. One mechanism underlying bradykinin‐directed migration is transcriptional up‐regulation of COX‐2 and activation of the B1R receptor, PI‐3 kinase, AKT, c‐Jun, and AP‐1 pathways. J. Cell. Biochem. 110: 141–150, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A conserved post‐transcriptional BMP2 switch in lung cells
Authors: Jiang Shan , Fritz David T. , Rogers Melissa B.
Published: April 2010

An ultra‐conserved sequence in the bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) 3′ untranslated region (UTR) markedly represses BMP2 expression in non‐transformed lung cells. In contrast, the ultra‐conserved sequence stimulates BMP2 expression in transformed lung cells. The ultra‐conserved sequence functions as a post‐transcriptional cis‐regulatory switch. A common single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP, rs15705, +A1123C), which has been shown to influence human morphology, disrupts a conserved element within the ultra‐conserved sequence and altered reporter gene activity in non‐transformed lung cells. This polymorphism changed the affinity of the BMP2 RNA for several proteins including nucleolin, which has an increased affinity for the C allele. Elevated BMP2 synthesis is associated with increased malignancy in mouse models of lung cancer and poor lung cancer patient prognosis. Understanding the cis‐ and trans‐regulatory factors that control BMP2 synthesis is relevant to the initiation or progression of pathologies associated with abnormal BMP2 levels. J. Cell. Biochem. 110: 509–521, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
PR‐Set7‐mediated monomethylation of histone H4 lysine 20 at specific genomic regions induces transcriptional repression
Authors: Congdon Lauren M. , Houston Sabrina I. , Veerappan Chendhore S. , Spektor Tanya M. , Rice Judd C.
Published: April 2010

Increasing evidence indicates that the post‐translational modifications of the histone proteins play critical roles in all eukaryotic DNA‐templated processes. To gain further biological insights into two of these modifications, the mono‐ and trimethylation of histone H4 lysine 20 (H4K20me1 and H4K20me3), ChIP‐chip experiments were performed to identify the precise genomic regions on human chromosomes 21 and 22 occupied by these two modifications. Detailed analysis revealed that H4K20me1 was preferentially enriched within specific genes; most significantly between the first ∼5% and 20% of gene bodies. In contrast, H4K20me3 was preferentially targeted to repetitive elements. Among genes enriched in H4K20me3, the modification was typically targeted to a small region ∼1 kb upstream of transcription start. Our collective findings strongly suggest that H4K20me1 and H4K20me3 are both physically and functionally distinct. We next sought to determine the role of H4K20me1 in transcription since this has been controversial. Following the reduction of PR‐Set7/Set8/KMT5a and H4K20me1 in cells by RNAi, all H4K20me1‐associated genes analyzed displayed an ∼2‐fold increase in gene expression; H4K20me3‐associated genes displayed no changes. Similar results were obtained using a catalytically dead dominant negative PR‐Set7 indicating that H4K20me1, itself, is essential for the selective transcriptional repression of H4K20me1‐associated genes. Furthermore, we determined that the H4K20me1‐associated DNA sequences were sufficient to nucleate H4K20me1 and induce repression in vivo. Our findings reveal the molecular mechanisms of a mammalian transcriptional repressive pathway whereby the DNA sequences within specific gene bodies are sufficient to nucleate the monomethylation of H4K20 which, in turn, reduces gene expression by half. J. Cell. Biochem. 110: 609–619, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Transcriptional regulation of bone sialoprotein gene by Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide
Authors: Li Xinyue , Kato Naoko , Mezawa Masaru , Li Zhengyang , Wang Zhitao , Yang Li , Sasaki Yoko , Kaneko Takashi , Takai Hideki , Yoshimura Atsutoshi , Ogata Yorimasa
Published: April 2010

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a major mediator of inflammatory response. Periodontopathic bacterium Porphyromonas gingivalis LPS has quite different character from Escherichia coli LPS. E. coli LPS is agonist for Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4), whereas P. gingivalis LPS worked as antagonist for TLR4. Bone sialoprotein (BSP) is an early marker of osteoblast differentiation. To investigate the effects of P. gingivalis LPS on BSP transcription, we used rat osteoblast‐like ROS17/2.8 cells. BSP mRNA levels were decreased by 0.1 µg/ml and increased by 0.01 µg/ml P. gingivalis LPS at 12 h. Results of luciferase assays showed that 0.1 µg/ml decreased and 0.01 µg/ml P. gingivalis LPS increased BSP transcription in −116 to +60 BSP construct. The effects of P. gingivalis LPS were abrogated by double mutations in cAMP response element (CRE) and FGF2 response element (FRE). Tyrosine kinase inhibitor herbimycin A, ERK1/2 inhibitor and antioxidant N‐acetylcystein inhibited effects of P. gingivalis LPS. Protein kinase A inhibitor and PI3‐kinase/Akt inhibitor only abolished the effect of 0.01 µg/ml P. gingivalis LPS. Furthermore, 0.1 µg/ml LPS decreased the CRE– and FRE–protein complexes formation, whereas 0.01 µg/ml P. gingivalis LPS increased the nuclear protein binding to CRE and FRE. ChIP assays revealed increased binding of CREB1, JunD, Fra2, Runx2, Dlx5, and Smad1 to a chromatin fragment containing the CRE and FRE by 0.01 µg/ml P. gingivalis LPS. These studies therefore indicated that 0.1 µg/ml suppressed, and 0.01 µg/ml P. gingivalis LPS increased BSP gene transcription mediated through CRE and FRE elements in the rat BSP gene promoter. J. Cell. Biochem. 110: 823–833, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Development and validation of brief content scales for the psychological screening inventory‐2
Authors: Lanyon Richard I.
Published: April 2010

This article describes the development of 21 brief content (BC) scales to supplement the existing scales of the Psychological Screening Inventory‐2 (PSI‐2), and three validity studies to support their use for both the PSI‐2 and the original PSI. The BC scales comprise groups of four or more items that are statistically homogeneous in content and are replicated across three data sets: PSI and PSI‐2 normative data and a PSI‐based group of forensic respondents. Concurrent validity was shown in correlations with the following: (a) the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory‐2 (MMPI‐2) basic clinical scales, Content scales, PSY‐5 scales, and Restructured Clinical (RC) scales; (b) family/friend observer ratings; and (c) therapist ratings in an outpatient substance abuse treatment program. Consistent with the purpose of the PSI/PSI‐2, the BC scales are intended to provide additional screening information and not a comprehensive representation of psychopathology. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol: 66:1–13, 2010.
Coca‐Cola Enterprises invests in on‐boarding at the front lines to benefit the bottom line
Authors: Fritz Kelly , Kaestner Mark , Bergmann Marshall
Published: April 2010

The world's largest bottler of nonalcoholic beverages has made a training investment in new customer‐facing employees as a strategy for reducing turnover, improving productivity, and increasing employee engagement. The CCE Pathway, a structured program of daily self‐study, on‐the‐job learning, peer coaching, reflection, and weekly manager assessments, accelerates learning so that new frontline employees know everything they need to keep customers happy. The authors explain the two‐to‐four‐week program's structure for experiential learning tailored to each position's requirements. Learning objectives for each day focus questions, conversations, and feedback on the knowledge and actions important for individual success and business results. Ongoing coaching and evaluation ensure that learning translates into performance. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
How a leading medical lab accrediting organization has achieved breakthrough improvement with transformational leadership
Authors: Roberts Tammy , Hacker Stephen , Beigel Doug
Published: April 2010

COLA, a leading clinical laboratory accreditation organization, faced a rapidly contracting market and worsening financial performance but was paralyzed by outmoded systems and a vision and mind‐set hamstrung by attachments to past success. In an eight‐year journey, leaders and staff learned to create transformative change in themselves and on key organizational fronts, subsequently generating breakthrough improvements in performance that have set COLA on a new path to success. The authors discuss the key cornerstones of transformational change; a model of transformational leadership; and the transformation cycle COLA used to integrate these with strategic/business planning, execution, and performance monitoring. They also describe COLA's key initiatives—including governance, leadership and culture, performance measurement, sales and marketing, research and development process, and IT—and present evidence of a robust business and organizational transformation at COLA. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Does the use of fibrin glue prevent seroma formation after axillary lymphadenectomy for breast cancer? A prospective randomized trial in 159 patients
Authors: Cipolla Calogero , Fricano Salvatore , Vieni Salvatore , Graceffa Giuseppa , Licari Gaspare , Torcivia Adriana , Latteri Mario A.
Published: April 2010

Background

Seroma formation frequently occurs in patients who have undergone axillary lymphadenectomy. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of fibrin glue in the prevention of seroma formation after axillary lymphadenectomy.

Materials and Methods

Hundred fifty‐nine breast cancer patients about to undergo quadrantectomy or mastectomy plus axillary lymphadenectomy were enrolled in the study and randomized into two groups. Fibrin glue spray applied to the axillary fossa plus placement of closed suction drainage were used in 80 patients (group A); placement of closed suction drainage was only used in 79 patients (group B).

Results

Group A patients showed a slight advantage with regard to the mean duration of axillary drainage placement (4.5 ± 1.3 days in group A vs. 5.1 ± 1.6 days in group B) and number of seroma aspirations (6.3 ± 1.1 in group A vs. 6.7 ± 1.2 in group B). No statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups of patients regarding the mean volume of total axillary drainage and of total seroma volume.

Conclusions

The use of fibrin glue does not prevent seroma formation and does not reduce seroma magnitude and duration. The costs of the product involved do not justify its routine use in patients undergoing axillary dissection. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010; 101:600–603. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.