bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cancer metastasis facilitated by developmental pathways: Sonic hedgehog, Notch, and bone morphogenic proteins
Authors: Bailey Jennifer M. , Singh Pankaj K. , Hollingsworth Michael A. 
Published: October 2007

AbstractThis review will highlight the significance of three critical pathways in developmental biology and our emerging understanding of their roles in regulating tumor metastasis: Bone morphogenic protein (BMP), Notch and Sonic hedgehog (SHH). We will discuss parallels between their known roles in development and how these processes can be used by tumor cells to create microenvironments that enhance tumor metastasis. That tumor cells usurp pathways critical to the developing embryo is not surprising, as many of the normal developmental programs include processes that are also seen during tumor progression to a metastatic phenotype, including epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), tissue specific morphogenesis, cellular motility and invasion. BMPs are involved in EMT, contribute to tissue specific morphogenesis, and are expressed in highly‐metastatic tumor cells. BMPs have also been hypothesized to have a role in the establishment of a pre‐neoplastic niche. Notch and SHH facilitate neovascularization, angiogenesis, EMT and can contribute to the maintenance of highly‐metastatic tumor stem cells. J. Cell. Biochem. 102: 829–839, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Intra‐articular electrotransfer of plasmid encoding soluble TNF receptor variants in normal and arthritic mice
Authors: Bloquel C. , Denys A. , Boissier M. C. , Apparailly F. , Bigey P. , Scherman D. , Bessis N. 
Published: October 2007

AbstractBackgroundAnti‐inflammatory gene therapy is promising in inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We have previously demonstrated that intra‐muscular (i.m.) electrotransfer (ET) of plasmids encoding three different human tumor necrosis factor‐α‐soluble receptor I variants (hTNFR‐Is) exert protective effects in an experimental RA model. However, such a systemic approach could be responsible for side effects. The present study aimed at performing an intra‐articular (i.a.) gene therapy by electrotransfer using the hTNFR‐Is plasmids.Methods and resultsWe evaluated targeting of mice joints by CCD optical imaging after i.a. ET of a luciferase‐encoding plasmid and we showed that ET led to strongly increased transgene expression in a plasmid dose‐dependent manner. Moreover, articular and seric hTNFR‐Is was detectable for 2 weeks. As expected, systemic hTNFR‐Is rates were lower after i.a. ET than after i.m. ET. A longer protein secretion could be achieved with several i.a. ETs. Also, we observed that hTNFR‐Is expression within arthritic joints was slightly higher than in normal joints.ConclusionsIn collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA), a mouse model for RA, we demonstrated that hTNFR‐Is/mIgG1‐encoding plasmid i.a. ET decreased joint destruction in the ankles. In conclusion, our results suggest that local TNFR‐Is gene therapy may play a role in decreasing joint destruction in CIA. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Application of Taguchi method for the characterization of calcareous deposits formed by pulse cathodic protection
Authors: Zamanzade M. , Shahrabi T. , Gharacheh E. A. 
Published: October 2007

AbstractIn this study, the Taguchi method, a powerful tool to design optimization for quality, is used to find the optimal process parameters of pulse cathodic protection system for the calcareous deposits' formation. An orthogonal array, main effect and the signal‐to‐noise (S/N) ratio are employed to investigate the process parameters in order to achieve optimum final current density. Through this study also the main process parameters that affect the calcareous deposits' formation can be found. Experiments were carried out to confirm the effectiveness of this approach. From the results, chronoamperometric measurements have been used to evaluate the influence of pulse cathodic protection on decreasing the required cathodic current for protection and also decreasing the surface coverage. The morphology of the formed deposits has been evaluated through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and chemical analysis of the formed deposits has been performed using X‐ray diffraction (XRD). It is found that the different environmental conditions, i.e., Ca2+ concentration, Mg2+ concentration, rotation speed, and temperature significantly affect the final required current density of the pulse cathodic protection. The optimum levels of parameters at different frequencies are also presented.
Multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification assay for simultaneous detection of Parkinson's disease gene rearrangements
Authors: Scarciolla Oronzo , Brancati Francesco , Valente Enza Maria , Ferraris Alessandro , De Angelis Maria Vittoria , Valbonesi Stefano , Garavaglia Barbara , Uncini Antonino , Palka Giandomenico , Stuppia Liborio , Dallapiccola Bruno 
Published: October 2007

AbstractParkinson's disease (PD) is a common disorder caused by degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and other brain areas. Mutations in several genes have been associated with both autosomal dominant PD and recessive early onset Parkinsonism (EOP). Genomic rearrangements such as deletions or multiplications of one or more exons represent a common mutational mechanism for most of these genes and are not detectable with routine mutation screening techniques. MLPA (Multiplex Ligation‐dependent Probe Amplification), is a cheap, simple, rapid, and sensitive tool to detect exon dosage alterations and specific point mutations in selected genes. We tested the recently developed PD‐MLPA assay by using 13 positive control samples carrying known mutations in SNCA, LRRK2, Parkin, PINK1, and DJ‐1 genes. We then applied this technique to screen 16 EOP patients who were then cross‐tested by quantitative PCR (qPCR). All the mutations present in the positive control samples were clearly detected by MLPA. Moreover, three novel Parkin rearrangements were identified among EOP patients and confirmed by qPCR. Only two samples generated false positive duplications of LRRK2 exon 1 and UCH‐L1 exon 9, respectively. These results show that PD‐MLPA assay can simultaneously and effectively detect rearrangements in most PD genes (SNCA, Parkin, PINK1, and DJ‐1) as well as the LRRK2 G2019S common mutation. Thus, the use of this novel platform can improve the analysis of such mutations, facilitating comprehensive genetic testing in PD and EOP. © 2007 Movement Disorder Society
Paradoxical kinesia at war
Authors: Schlesinger Ilana , Erikh Ilana , Yarnitsky David 
Published: October 2007

AbstractParadoxical kinesia is the sudden transient ability of a patient with Parkinson's disease to perform a task he was previously unable to perform, usually when facing an immediate threat. The sensory cues governing this behavior and the prevalence in real life situations are unknown. The objective of this study was to determine the occurrence of paradoxical kinesia in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients whose residential area was suddenly a war zone, under a life threatening missile attack, necessitating immediate evacuation. Fifty PD patients were interviewed during and immediately following the war. Only two patients experienced paradoxical kinesia, one war related and the other historical, both in response to visual cues. In contrast, an auditory stimulus in the form of a frightening loud siren, warning patients of an imminent missile attack, did not induce paradoxical kinesia. When questioned about their general function during wartime, patients reported significant increases in OFF time (P < 0.01), dyskinesia (P < 0.009), anxiety (P < 0.002), and depression (P < 0.01) as compared with their performance before the war. Paradoxical kinesia is uncommon, even in the face of danger. Visual, but not auditory, triggers appear to be needed to prompt its occurrence. © 2007 Movement Disorder Society
Nocturia: Etiology, diagnosis, and treatment
Authors: Appell Rodney A. , Sand Peter K. 
Published: October 2007

AbstractVoiding at night, or nocturia, is a common reason for interrupted sleep in the adult population. The condition affects both men and women, with an incidence that increases dramatically with age. Nocturia has a negative impact on quality of life, affecting both morbidity and mortality. Effective diagnosis of the condition is dependent on a clear understanding of its underlying etiology. In general, the causes of nocturia fall into three categories: diurnal polyuria, nocturnal polyuria, and low bladder capacity. In some individuals, however, nocturnal polyuria and low bladder capacity may both contribute to the overall symptomatology of nocturia. Addressing any underlying conditions that contribute to nocturia is the first step in treating the condition. Lifestyle and behavioral changes may provide benefit in some individuals, but for many, the only option is pharmacotherapy. Antimuscarinic agents are first‐line therapies for overactive bladder and are often used in the management of nocturia. Pharmacological and physicochemical differences between available antimuscarinic agents, however, translate into different safety and tolerability profiles, which may make some agents more suitable for use in certain populations, including the elderly. Careful selection of the most appropriate antimuscarinic medication is therefore central in optimizing treatment outcomes. Neurourol. Urodynam. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Chemokine CXCL12 enhances proliferation in pre‐B‐ALL via STAT5 activation
Authors: Mowafi Frida , Cagigi Alberto , Matskova Ludmila , Björk Olle , Chiodi Francesca , Nilsson Anna 
Published: October 2007

AbstractBackgroundCXCL12 (SDF‐1α) is a chemokine, which plays an important role in normal B‐cell lymphopoesis, migration and homing to the bone marrow (BM) and previous studies have suggested a role for CXCL12 and its receptor CXCR4 in the pathogenesis of ALL.PurposeCXCL12 levels in serum were evaluated from ALL‐children and controls. The biological effect of recombinant CXCL12 on primary leukaemic cells was investigated. Signalling via the CXCL12/CXCR4 axis was further characterized in an in vitro model using the pre‐B leukaemic cell line Nalm‐6.ResultsThe serum level of CXCL12 in children at diagnosis of pre‐B‐ALL is significantly higher than in healthy children (4.8 (0–32) ng/ml vs. 0 (0–3.2) ng/ml, P < 0.001). After completed chemotherapy, CXCL12 decreases to levels comparable to those found in the control group. In addition, we found that recombinant CXCL12 enhances pre‐B leukaemic cell proliferation in vitro. The CXCL12/CXCR4 axis is able to initiate functional signalling and we show that STAT5 is activated in CD19+ leukaemic cells from BM of ALL patients and in the leukaemic cell line Nalm‐6.ConclusionOur findings suggest that CXCL12 may have a role in leukaemic cell proliferation and survival during childhood ALL. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2008;50:812–817. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Thiourethane‐based thiol‐ene high Tg networks: Preparation, thermal, mechanical, and physical properties
Authors: Li Qin , Zhou Hui , Wicks Douglas A. , Hoyle Charles E. 
Published: October 2007

AbstractThiourethane‐based thiol‐ene (TUTE) films were prepared from diisocyanates, tetrafunctional thiols and trienes. The incorporation of thiourethane linkages into the thiol‐ene networks results in TUTE films with high glass transition temperatures. Increases of Tg were achieved by aging at room temperature and annealing the UV cured films at 85 °C. The aged/annealed film with thiol prepared from isophorone diisocyanate and cured with a 10,080‐mJ/cm2 radiant exposure had the highest DMA‐based glass transition temperature (108 °C) and a tan δ peak with a full width at half maximum (FWHM) of 22 °C, indicating a very uniform matrix structure. All of the initially prepared TUTE films exhibited good physical and mechanical properties based on pencil hardness, pendulum hardness, impact, and bending tests. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 5103–5111, 2007
Kirchhoff index of linear hexagonal chains
Authors: Yang Yujun , Zhang Heping 
Published: October 2007

AbstractThe resistance distance rij between vertices i and j of a connected (molecular) graph G is computed as the effective resistance between nodes i and j in the corresponding network constructed from G by replacing each edge of G with a unit resistor. The Kirchhoff index Kf(G) is the sum of resistance distances between all pairs of vertices. In this work, according to the decomposition theorem of Laplacian polynomial, we obtain that the Laplacian spectrum of linear hexagonal chain Ln consists of the Laplacian spectrum of path P2n+1 and eigenvalues of a symmetric tridiagonal matrix of order 2n + 1. By applying the relationship between roots and coefficients of the characteristic polynomial of the above matrix, explicit closed‐form formula for Kirchhoff index of Ln is derived in terms of Laplacian spectrum. To our surprise, the Krichhoff index of Ln is approximately to one half of its Wiener index. Finally, we show that ${Kf(G)\over W(G)}>{1\over 5}$ holds for all graphs G in a class of graphs including Ln. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2008
Photoemission studies of Mn/ZnO(000‐1) interface
Authors: Zou C. W. , Wu Y. Y. , Sun B. , Gao W. , Xu P. S. 
Published: October 2007

AbstractThe O‐terminated ZnO(000‐1) surface and Mn/ZnO(000‐1) interface have been investigated by synchrotron radiation photoemission spectroscopy (SRPES), low energy electron diffraction (LEED) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) systematically. Our results show that ordered O‐polar ZnO(000‐1) surface can be prepared by annealing in an oxygen ambience and this polar surface expresses good chemical stability. At room temperature, metallic Mn film is deposited onto the cleaned ZnO(000‐1)surface and grows in a layer‐by‐layer mode. During the process of Mn film deposition a downward Fermi level movement is observed, and the final resultant Schottky barrier height is 1.07 ± 0.05 eV. High temperature annealing is performed and the interfacial reaction happens evidently. The interfacial chemical reaction and the effect of interfacial dipole layer have been briefly discussed. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An improved continuous medium technique for structural frame analysis
Authors: Laier José Elias 
Published: October 2007

AbstractThis paper presents an improved constitutive equation of frame in the context of continuous medium technique. This improved constitutive equation, which is a consistent formulation of column global bending, is applicable to a complete class of frameworks including the ideal shear frame panel, for which the beams are assumed to be rigid, and the associated column system, for which the rigidity of beams is negligible. Global buckling and second‐order effects of the frame structure are discussed. The main results can be extended to other types of lateral stiffening elements as built‐up columns. A worked example is presented in order to compare the main results with those obtained by the classic matrix method. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of Ginkgolide B on 6‐OHDA‐induced apoptosis and calcium over load in cultured PC12
Authors: Meng Haiwei , Li Chuangang , Feng Lei , Cheng Baohua , Wu Fengxia , Wang Xiaohong , Li Zhenping , Liu Shuwei 
Published: October 2007

AbstractGinkgolide B, one of the major components of Ginkgo biloba extracts, is a potent platelet‐activating factor (PAF) receptor antagonist, which is also regarded as having neuroprotective effects on the CNS. The aim of this research is to observe the effects of Ginkgolide B on the PC12 apoptosis induced by 6‐hydroxydopamine (6‐OHDA) and to explore whether these effects are related to the changes of intracellular Ca2+ and Calbindin D28K mRNA in PC12 cells. In the present work, the damage of PC12 cells was induced by 100 μM 6‐OHDA. The cells survival rate was examined by MTT assays. The intracellular free calcium concentration in PC12 cells was measured by using the fluorescent Ca2+ indicator fluo‐3/AM. Semi‐quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) was employed to determine the expression of Calbindin D28K mRNA in PC12. The data show that the Ginkgolide B inhibited PC12 cells apoptosis induced by 6‐OHDA in a dose‐dependent manner, and decreased the activity of caspase‐3. In addition, Ginkgolide B increased the expression of Calbindin D28K mRNA and inhibited 6‐OHDA‐induced elevation in the intracellular calcium concentration. Our results showed that the Ginkgolide B inhibited the apoptosis of PC12 induced by 6‐OHDA, and the protective effects of Ginkgolide B on PC12 cells are mediated, at least in part, by up‐regulating the Calbindin D28K mRNA and by decreasing the intracellular calcium concentration.
Iron, copper and immunocompetence
Authors: Muñoz Carlos , Rios Ernesto , Olivos Jorge , Brunser Oscar , Olivares Manuel 
Published: October 2007

Microminerals including copper and iron are essential to immunity and health in human beings. The development of powerful tools in analytical cell biology and molecular genetics has facilitated efforts to identify specific cellular and molecular functions of trace elements in the maturation, activation and functions of host defence mechanisms. Selected recent reports about the role of copper and iron nutrition on immune functions are critically analysed here. Effects of trace element supplementation on infectious morbidity are also reviewed. While micromineral deficiencies, in general, may have widespread effects on nearly all components of immune response, these effects can be reversed by supplementation. However, the conflicting effects of iron deficiency and iron supplementationin vitroon the defensive systems reveals the urgent need for further additional information on thein vivosituation. In the elderly, vaccination against respiratory infections is likely to protect only 30–70 % of the population. However, it may be possible to modulate immune function and ultimately reduce the severity of infections through micronutrient supplementation. Thus, microminerals contribute to the maintenance of the balance between immunity and health in humans.
Things held in common: Memory, space and the reconstitution of community life
Authors: DiGregorio Michael 
Published: October 2007

AbstractThis article presents the hard work, and eventual failure, of the elder branch of the main lineage within a village of steel producers to reaffirm local identity through the recreation of a common ritual space dedicated to the spirit of the village's founder, original artisan, and their ancestor. It presents this process as a struggle over the meanings and representations of community and space in a time of rapid social and economic transformation. The ultimate failure of this struggle, which only becomes evident after 15 years, has affirmed something else: the spaces of practice associated with the village's public administration and family-based commercial interests.
Praying for profit: The cult of the Lady of the Treasury (Bè Chúa Kho)
Authors: Lý Lê Hồng 
Published: October 2007

AbstractSince the 1990s, the Temple of the Lady of the Treasury of Bắc Ninh province has become a religious destination for local people as well as thousands of pilgrims from around the country. The resurgence of this cult is one of the most visible manifestations of the Đổi Mới (Renovation) revival of religious practices after decades of discouragement and suppression. It also illustrates some of the profound socio-economic changes that have taken place since the advent of Đổi Mới in 1986.
‘Seats for spirits to sit upon’: Becoming a spirit medium in contemporary Vietnam
Authors: Thị Hiền Nguyễn 
Published: October 2007

AbstractThis article will examine the motivations for being spirit mediums, practitioners of the lên đồng rituals associated with the Mother Goddess (Đạo Mẫu) religion, which is unique to the ethnic Vietnamese. Drawing on the life stories of mediums interviewed in northern Vietnam, I will show that these people practise the rituals primarily because they themselves view this role as their destiny and because they expect it to bring them good health and auspiciousness.
The emperor's new clothes: Re-fashioning ritual in the Huế Festival
Authors: Salemink Oscar 
Published: October 2007

AbstractThis essay focuses on the political dimensions of the Festival Huế, which is claimed to be significant as a celebration of the nation. Although socialist state rituals have lost their relevance in the Đổi Mới era, the revival and re-invention of ritualised tradition create fertile ground for new ritualised events that legitimate and lend significance to the current regime. I argue that despite the unfamiliarity of many spectators with the symbolic contents of these new forms, they are effective because of their aesthetic resemblance to, and association with, familiar rituals.
Threats to kill: a follow-up study
Authors: Warren L. J. , Mullen P. E. , Thomas S. D. M. , Ogloff J. R. P. , Burgess P. M. 
Published: October 2007

BackgroundMental health clinicians are frequently asked to assess the risks presented by patients making threats to kill, but there are almost no data to guide such an evaluation.MethodThis data linkage study examined serious violence following making threats to kill and the potential role of mental disorder. A total of 613 individuals convicted of threats to kill had their prior contact with public mental health services established at the time of the index offence. The group's subsequent criminal convictions were established 10 years later using the police database. Death from suicidal or homicidal violence was also established.ResultsWithin 10 years, 44% of threateners were convicted of further violent offending, including 19 (3%) homicides. Those with histories of psychiatric contact (40%) had a higher rate (58%) of subsequent violence. The highest risks were in substance misusers, mentally disordered, young, and those without prior criminal convictions. Homicidal violence was most frequent among threateners with a schizophrenic illness. Sixteen threateners (2.6%) killed themselves, and three were murdered.ConclusionsIn contrast to the claims in the literature that threats are not predictive of subsequent violence, this study revealed high rates of assault and even homicide following threats to kill. The mentally disordered were over-represented among threat offenders and among those at high risk of subsequent violence. The mentally disordered threateners at highest risk of violence were young, substance abusing, but not necessarily with prior convictions. Those who threaten others were also found to be at greater risk of killing themselves or being killed.
The impact, and surgical implications, of isolated anomalous connection of one pulmonary vein
Authors: Koh Masahiro , Uemura Hideki , Kagisaki Koji 
Published: October 2007

AbstractPartially anomalous pulmonary venous connection of a solitary pulmonary vein in the setting of an intact atrial septum is often subclinical, and the indications for surgical repair are controversial. Here we describe a patient who developed a significant shunt over a period of 10-years. Flow through the anomalously connected pulmonary segment depends on the difference of pressure between the right and left atrium, and may increase with age.