bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Interleukin-21 inhibits dendritic cell activation and maturation
Authors: Brandt Katja , Bulfone-Paus Silvia , Foster Donald C. , Rückert René 
Published: August 2003

AbstractInterleukin 21 (IL-21) is a newly described cytokine with homology to IL-4 and IL-15. They belong to a cytokine family that uses the common γ chain for signaling but also have their private high-affinity receptors. Since it is well known that IL-4 modulates differentiation and activation of dendritic cells (DCs), we analyzed effects of IL-21 compared with IL-15 on DC differentiation, maturation, and function. Here we show that DCs generated with granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GMCSF) in the presence of IL-21 (IL-21DCs) differentiated into phenotypically and functionally altered DCs characterized by reduced major histocompatibility complex class II (MHCII) expression, high antigen uptake, and low stimulatory capacity for T-cell activation in vitro. Additionally, IL-21DCs completely failed to induce antigen (Ag)-specific T-cell mediated contact hypersensitivity. Furthermore, IL-21 blocked lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced activation and maturation of DCs, which was not mediated by release of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. In contrast, when supplementing GMCSF with IL-15, DCs differentiated into mature antigen-presenting cells (APCs) with low antigen uptake and highly significant increased capacities to stimulate T cells in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, these results identify a dichotomous action of these structurally related cytokines on DCs, establishing IL-21 as inhibitory cytokine on DC activation and IL-15 as potent stimulator of DC function, making both cytokines interesting targets for therapeutic manipulation of DC-induced immune reactions. (Blood. 2003;102: 4090-4098)
Metalloproteinase inhibitors improve the recovery and hemostatic function of in vitro–aged or –injured mouse platelets
Authors: Bergmeier Wolfgang , Burger Peter C. , Piffath Crystal L. , Hoffmeister Karin M. , Hartwig John H. , Nieswandt Bernhard , Wagner Denisa D. 
Published: August 2003

AbstractPlatelet transfusions are a crucial component of support for patients with severe thrombocytopenia. Storage of platelet concentrates, however, is associated with a reduction in platelet posttransfusion recovery and hemostatic function. In this study, we established a model of mitochondrial injury that resembles platelet storage lesion. Mitochondrial injury, provoked by incubation of platelets with carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone (CCCP), led to reduced posttransfusion recovery in mice, an effect that directly correlated with the duration of treatment. Damaged platelets were characterized by shape change, disruption of membrane asymmetry, surface expression of P-selectin, and profound proteolysis of GPIbα. Using our model, we identified a key role for endogenous metalloproteinase(s) in platelet clearance, as their inhibition markedly improved posttransfusion recovery of both the mitochondria-injured and in vitro-aged mouse platelets. Metalloproteinase inhibition also prevented proteolysis of GPIbα on damaged platelets, thereby improving the hemostatic function of these cells in vivo. We propose that inhibition of metalloproteinase activity during storage could significantly improve the effectiveness of platelet transfusions. Surface expression of GPIbα might be a powerful marker to determine the quality of platelet concentrates, because it reflects metalloproteinase activity in vitro. (Blood. 2003;102: 4229-4235)
CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells inhibit immune-mediated transgene rejection
Authors: Gross David-Alexandre , Leboeuf Marylène , Gjata Bernard , Danos Olivier , Davoust Jean 
Published: August 2003

AbstractLike cellular transplantation, gene therapy is often limited by immune rejection of the newly expressed antigen. In a model of gene transfer in muscle, delivery of the influenza hemagglutinin (HA) membrane protein by adeno-associated virus (AAV) is impaired by a strong immune response that leads to a rapid rejection of the transduced fibers. We show here that injection of HA-specific CD4+CD25+ T cells from T-cell receptor (TCR)-transgenic animals, concomitant with gene transfer, down-regulates the anti-HA cytotoxic and B-lymphocyte responses and enables persistent HA expression in muscle. This demonstrates for the first time that adoptive transfer of antigen-specific CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells can be used to induce sustained transgene engraftment in solid tissues. (Blood. 2003;102:4326-4328)
Effects of 5-aza-2′-deoxycytidine on fetal hemoglobin levels, red cell adhesion, and hematopoietic differentiation in patients with sickle cell disease
Authors: Saunthararajah Yogen , Hillery Cheryl A. , Lavelle Don , Molokie Robert , Dorn Louise , Bressler Linda , Gavazova Stefana , Chen Yi-Hsiang , Hoffman Ronald , DeSimone Joseph 
Published: August 2003

Abstract
Fetal hemoglobin (HbF) decreases polymerization of sickle hemoglobin (HbS) and improves outcomes in sickle cell disease (SSD). Therefore, a therapeutic goal in SSD is pharmacologic reactivation of HbF. Silencing of the γ-globin (HbF) gene is associated with DNA methylation. The cytosine analog 5-aza-2′-deoxycytidine (decitabine) hypomethylates DNA by inhibiting DNA methyltransferase. We examined if subcutaneous decitabine could increase HbF levels and improve SSD pathophysiology without cytotoxicity. Eight symptomatic SSD patients resistant or intolerant of standard treatment with hydroxyurea received decitabine 0.2 mg/kg subcutaneously 1 to 3 times per week in 2 cycles of 6-week duration. Treatment decreased neutrophils and increased mean HbF (6.5% to 20.4%, P &lt; .0001) and mean total hemoglobin (76 to 96 g/L [7.6 to 9.6 g/dL], P &lt; .001). Features of vaso-occlusive crisis pathophysiology such as red cell adhesion, endothelial damage, and coagulation pathway activity significantly improved. γ-Globin gene promoter methylation decreased, and platelets and the proportion of megakaryocytes and erythroid cells in the marrow increased without a decrease in marrow cellularity, consistent with a DNA hypomethylating, noncytotoxic mechanism of action. Weekly subcutaneous decitabine produces cumulative increases in HbF and total hemoglobin through a noncytotoxic mechanism of action. Chronic dosing and sustained increases in hemoglobin F and total hemoglobin levels may be possible. Further studies in SSD and thalassemia are indicated.
Thallium-201 Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography As an Early Predictor of Outcome in Recurrent Glioma
Authors: Vos Maaike J. , Hoekstra Otto S. , Barkhof Frederik , Berkhof Johannes , Heimans Jan J. , van Groeningen Cees J. , Vandertop W. Peter , Slotman Ben J. , Postma Tjeerd J. 
Published: August 2003

Purpose: With limited response rates and potential toxicity of chemotherapeutic treatment in patients with recurrent glioma, reliable response assessment is essential. Currently, the assessment of treatment response in glioma patients is based on the combination of radiologic and clinical findings. However, response monitoring with computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is hampered by several pitfalls and is prone to interobserver variability. The aim of this study was to establish the value of thallium-201 single-photon emission computed tomography (201Tl-SPECT) as a predictor of overall survival and response to chemotherapy in recurrent glioma, and to compare the value of 201Tl-SPECT with that of CT and MRI. Patients and Methods: We studied patients who underwent CT or MRI and 201Tl-SPECT before chemotherapy (n = 57), and patients who also had undergone CT or MRI and 201Tl-SPECT after two courses of chemotherapy (n = 44). The value of the radiologic variables (CT-MRI tumor size, 201Tl-SPECT tumor size, and maximal tumor intensity) at baseline and at follow-up in predicting overall survival, and the percentage of patients alive and progression-free at 6 months (APF6) were examined using Cox regression and logistic regression analysis. Results: Both at baseline and at follow-up, 201Tl-SPECT maximal tumor intensity was the strongest predictive variable and was inversely related to overall survival and APF6. In particular, progression of maximal tumor intensity after two courses of chemotherapy was a powerful predictor of poor outcome. Conclusion: 201Tl-SPECT is superior to conventional CT-MRI in the early prediction of overall survival and response to chemotherapy in patients with recurrent glioma.
Undertreatment Strongly Decreases Prognosis of Breast Cancer in Elderly Women
Authors: Bouchardy Christine , Rapiti Elisabetta , Fioretta Gérald , Laissue Paul , Neyroud-Caspar Isabelle , Schäfer Peter , Kurtz John , Sappino André-Pascal , Vlastos Georges 
Published: August 2003

Purpose: No consensus exists on therapy of elderly cancer patients. Treatments are influenced by unclear standards and are usually less aggressive. This study aims to evaluate determinants and effect of treatment choice on breast cancer prognosis among elderly patients. Patients and Methods: We reviewed clinical files of 407 breast cancer patients aged ≥ 80 years recorded at the Geneva Cancer Registry between 1989 and 1999. Patient and tumor characteristics, general health status, comorbidity, treatment, and cause of death were considered. We evaluated determinants of treatment by logistic regression and effect of treatment on mortality by Cox model, accounting for prognostic factors. Results: Age was independently linked to the type of treatment. Overall, 12% of women (n = 48) had no treatment, 32% (n = 132) received tamoxifen only, 7% (n = 28) had breast-conserving surgery only, 33% (n = 133) had mastectomy, 14% (n = 57) had breast-conserving surgery plus adjuvant therapy, and 2% (n = 9) received miscellaneous treatments. Five-year specific breast cancer survival was 46%, 51%, 82%, and 90% for women with no treatment, tamoxifen alone, mastectomy, and breast-conserving surgery plus adjuvant treatment, respectively. Compared with the nontreated group, the adjusted hazard ratio of breast cancer mortality was 0.4 (95% CI, 0.2 to 0.7) for tamoxifen alone, 0.4 (95% CI, 0.1 to 1.4) for breast-conserving surgery alone, 0.2 (95% CI, 0.1 to 0.7) for mastectomy, and 0.1 (95% CI, 0.03 to 0.4) for breast-conserving surgery plus adjuvant treatment. Conclusion: Half of elderly patients with breast cancer are undertreated, with strongly decreased specific survival as a consequence. Treatments need to be adapted to the patient’s health status, but also should offer the best chance of cure.
The Addition of Interleukin-6 Soluble Receptor and Transforming Growth Factor Beta1 Improves a Preoperative Nomogram for Predicting Biochemical Progression in Patients With Clinically Localized Prostate Cancer
Authors: Kattan Michael W. , Shariat Shahrokh F. , Andrews Ben , Zhu Kuichun , Canto Eduardo , Matsumoto Kazumasa , Muramoto Masatoshi , Scardino Peter T. , Ohori Makoto , Wheeler Thomas M. , Slawin Kevin M. 
Published: August 2003

Purpose: Several preoperative prostate cancer nomograms have been developed that predict risk of progression using pretreatment prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level, clinical stage, and biopsy Gleason grade. We describe the development and performance of a new nomogram. The nomogram adds new markers to the standard clinical predictors that reflect the biologic behavior of prostate cancer: pretreatment plasma levels of interleukin-6 soluble receptor (IL6SR) and transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-β1). Patients and Methods: Between November 7, 1994 and December 22, 1997, 714 patients with stage cT1c to cT3a prostate cancer and no prior therapy were treated with radical prostatectomy at the Methodist Hospital, Houston TX. Plasma levels of IL6SR and TGF-β1 were measured in banked preoperative plasma. With these data, a nomogram was developed to predict the probability of PSA progression within 5 years of surgery. The nomogram was validated with bootstrapping to assess its discrimination and calibration performance. Results: In the multivariable Cox model, PSA (P = .004), IL6SR (P < .001), TGF-β1 (P < .001), primary Gleason grade (P < .002), and secondary Gleason grade (P = .029) were associated with PSA progression, whereas clinical stage (P = .696) was not. The nomogram seemed to be well calibrated and had a bootstrap-corrected area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ie, concordance index) of 0.83. For comparison, a nomogram that omitted IL6SR and TGF-β1 achieved a concordance index of only 0.75. Conclusion: We found that pretreatment plasma levels of IL6SR and TGF-β1 improved the ability to predict biochemical progression by a prognostically substantial margin. A nomogram including the pretreatment levels of these molecular markers, along with standard clinical markers, has been developed and internally validated.
Elevated Steroidogenesis, Defective Reproductive Organs, and Infertility in Transgenic Male Mice Overexpressing Human Chorionic Gonadotropin
Authors: Rulli Susana B. , Ahtiainen Petteri , Mäkelä Sari , Toppari Jorma , Poutanen Matti , Huhtaniemi Ilpo 
Published: August 2003

AbstractWe previously developed a transgenic (TG) mouse model that overexpresses the human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) β-subunit under the universal human ubiquitin C promoter, displaying in males a modest 3-fold increase in circulating levels of LH/hCG bioactivity. The males were fertile and presented with a mild reproductive phenotype. To achieve higher levels of hCG, a double TG model was generated by cross-breeding the hCGβ-expressing mice with another TG line harboring a ubiquitin C/common α-subunit fusion gene. The double-TG mice expressed excessive levels of dimeric hCG, with 2000-fold elevated circulating LH/hCG bioactivity. These male mice were infertile, primarily due to inability to copulate, and they showed enhanced testicular androgen production despite clear down-regulation of LH/hCG receptors. Their intratesticular inhibin B was unaltered, but serum FSH was markedly reduced. Apparently the chronic hCG hyperstimulation led to focal Leydig cell proliferation/hypertrophy at 6 months of age, but failed to promote testicular tumors. Even though full spermatogenesis occurred in most of the seminiferous tubules, progressive tubule degeneration was apparent as the males grew older. The prostate and seminal vesicles were enlarged by distension of glandular lumina. Functional urethral obstruction was indicated by distension and sperm accumulation in distal vas deferens as well as by dilated urinary bladder and enlarged kidneys. The abnormal function of accessory sex glands and/or lower urinary tract as a consequence of the disturbed sex hormone balance or direct action of hCG may be the main cause of infertility in this model. The present study provides in vivo evidence that exposure of male mice to chronically elevated levels of hCG severely affects their urogenital tract function at multiple sites and causes infertility, but, unlike in LH/hCG overexpressing female mice, it is not tumorigenic.
Compromised Reproductive Function in Adult Female Mice Selectively Expressing Mutant ErbB-1 Tyrosine Kinase Receptors in Astroglia
Authors: Li Biao , Yang Zhihui , Hou Jingwen , McCracken April , Jennings M. Anita , Ma Mark Y. J. 
Published: August 2003

AbstractThe ErbB-1 tyrosine kinase receptor plays critical roles in regulating physiological functions. This receptor-mediated signaling in astroglia has been implicated in controlling female sexual development via activating neurons that release LH-releasing hormone (LHRH), the neuropeptide required for the secretion of LH. It remains unknown whether astroglial ErbB-1 receptors are necessary for maintaining normal adult reproductive function. Here we provide genetic evidence that astroglia-specific and time-controlled disruption of ErbB-1 receptor signaling by expressing mutant ErbB-1 receptors leads to compromised reproduction due to alteration in LHRH neuron-controlled secretion of LH in adult female mice. Therefore, astroglial ErbB-1 receptors are required for controlling LHRH neuronal function and thus maintaining adult reproduction, suggesting that compromised astroglial ErbB-1 signaling may also contribute to reproductive abnormalities in aging females.
Bcl-2 expression decreases cadherin-mediated cell-cell adhesion
Authors: Li Laiji , Backer Jody , Wong Annisa S. K. , Schwanke Erin L. , Stewart Brian G. , Pasdar Manijeh 
Published: August 2003

Bcl-2, a member of the apoptosis-regulating family of proteins confers a survival advantage on cells by inhibiting apoptosis. Bcl-2 expression is estrogen-responsive and high in various tumors. Overexpression of Bcl-2 has been associated with the loss of contact inhibition, unregulated growth and foci formation in culture.
In this study, we have examined the effects of bcl-2 overexpression and expression on cell-cell adhesion in MCF-7 and MDCK epithelial cell lines respectively. Overexpression of Bcl-2 in estrogen receptor-positive MCF-7 mammary carcinoma cells led to decreased cell surface E-cadherin and the disruption of junctional complexes concurrent with intracellular redistribution of their components. Particularly noticeable, was the partial nuclear localization of the tight junction-associated protein ZO-1 which coincided with upregulation of ErbB2. The expression of this EGF co-receptor is regulated by the ZO-1-associated transcription factor ZONAB. Growth in estrogen-depleted media led to downregulation of Bcl-2 expression and upregulation and membrane localization of all junctional proteins. Similar disruption in junctions, accompanied by decreased transepithelial resistance, was observed when Bcl-2 was expressed in MDCK cells.
These results strongly suggest that Bcl-2 expression decreases the level of functional E-cadherin thereby interfering with junction formation. The inhibition of junction formation decreases cell-cell adhesion leading to the loss of contact inhibition, which, in vivo, can lead to unregulated growth and tumorigenesis.
Preparation and Magnetic Property of Sm2Fe17Nx Fine Powders Sorbed by Zinc Vapor
Authors: Noguchi Kenji , Nishimura Masashi , Machida Ken-ichi , Adachi Gin-ya 
Published: August 2003

Abstract
Finely ground powders of Sm2Fe17Nx were uniformly sorbed with the Zn vapor formed at 623-673 K in evacuated glass tubings, so that coercivity (Hcj) values and oxidation resistance of the resulting Zn/Sm2Fe17Nx powders were considerably improved to a practical use level as bonded magnet materials compared with those of the untreated powder.
X-ray Structural Characterization of Molybdate-tripeptide Complex, [Mo4O12(glycylglycylglycine)2]·9H2O
Authors: Yamase Toshihiro , Inoue Miyao , Naruke Haruo , Fukaya Keisuke 
Published: August 2003

Abstract
The first isolated polyoxomolybdate-tripeptide complex, [Mo4O12(glycylglycylglycine)2], is an infinite centrosymmetric complex of the Mo4O12 unit in which a pair of Mo atoms is singly bridged by a glycylglycylglycine carboxylate group as a bidentate ligand resulted in four edge-shared MoO6 octahedral linkage. [Mo4O12]n exhibits a corrugated sheet-belt structure of four co-planar Mo atoms linked by four triply-bridging O atoms with cis-configurated two terminal O atoms for each Mo atom.
Preparation and Characterization of Carbosilane Dendrimers Carrying Mesogens with Chiral Substituent
Authors: Terunuma Daiyo , Nishio Rei , Aoki Yoshio , Nohira Hiroyuki , Matsuoka Koji , Kuzuhara Hiroyoshi 
Published: August 2003

Abstract
A series of new carbosilane dendrimers carrying a mesogenic group, 5-((+)-2-fluorooctyloxy)-2-phenylpyrimidine derivative, were prepared successfully. Although the dendrimers did not show any clear Sc* phases, it was found that all the dendrimers prepared were operative as chiral dopants.
New Findings in Photochemistry of p-Nitrophenyl Azide in the Presence of an Amine: Generation and Trapping of Enamines
Authors: Murata Shigeru , Mori Yoko , Satoh Youji , Yoshidome Ryuichi , Tomioka Hideo 
Published: August 2003

Abstract
4,5-Dihydro-5-diethylamino-1-(p-nitrophenyl)-1,2,3-triazole (3) was obtained in the photolysis of p-nitrophenyl azide (1) in triethylamine (TEA), for which the structure was determined by X-ray crystallographic analysis. The formation of the triazoline 3 is reasonably explained in terms of trapping of N,N-diethylvinylamine (5) generated in situ with the starting azide 1. The reaction sequence involving a single electron transfer from TEA to the electronically excited azide is proposed for the formation of the enamine 5.
Effect of Acidity and Additives on the Potential Oscillations during the Reduction of IO3−
Authors: Li Zelin , Chen Ke , Zeng Yue , Cai Jiale , Zhou Shaomin 
Published: August 2003

Abstract
Unlike in alkaline solutions, totally different oscillatory behavior has been observed during the reduction of IO3− in an acidic solution, and the addition of some organic substances in the alkaline solution varies the current range where the potential oscillations occur to remarkably different extent, depending on the electric charge, length of chain, and concentration of the additive. Some explanation is given for these new observations.
Iridium-Catalyzed Regioselective Reaction of 1-Naphthols with Alkynes at the peri-Position
Authors: Satoh Tetsuya , Nishinaka Yuko , Miura Masahiro , Nomura Masakatsu 
Published: August 2003

Abstract
1-Naphthols efficiently couple with internal alkynes in the presence of an iridium catalyst to selectively afford the corresponding 8-substituted 1-naphthol derivatives.
Importance of Product Desorption in Enantioselective Hydrogenation of (E)-α-Phenylcinnamic Acid with a Cinchonidine-Modified Pd/TiO2 Catalyst: Effect of Additives
Authors: Nitta Yuriko 
Published: August 2003

Abstract
Addition of amines, especially benzylamine, to the reaction mixture of (E)-α-phenylcinnamic acid with a cinchonidine-modified palladium catalyst resulted in much enhanced activities and fairly increased enantioselectivities. The preferential acceleration of the selective reaction is attributable to the effective desorption, assisted by the added base, of the hydrogenated molecules from the modified sites.
New Pyridine-modified Macrocycle and Its Ability to Encapsulate Four Divalent Metal Ions [Nickel(II), Manganese(II), and Zinc(II)] into the Ring
Authors: Asato Eiji , Furutachi Hideki , Tamanaha Chikahiro , Matsudaira Hideo , Ohba Masaaki , Okawa Hisashi , Mikuriya Masahiro 
Published: August 2003

Abstract
A large phenol- and polyether chain-based macrocycle H2Lpy possessing four pyridylmethyl groups as pendant donors was prepared and its ability to encapsulate four divalent metal ions [Ni(II), Mn(II), and Zn(II)] was confirmed by IR and NMR spectroscopy and X-ray crystallography.
Photochromism of a Chiral Cyclohexane Having Two Diarylethene Chromophores. A Large Optical Rotation Change
Authors: Yamaguchi Tadatsugu , Nakazumi Hiroyuki , Uchida Kingo , Irie Masahiro 
Published: August 2003

Abstract
A chiral cyclohexane having two diarylethene chromophores was synthesized in an attempt to construct a molecule which shows a large optical rotation change by photoirradiation. Circular dichroism (CD) and optical rotation were found to change dramatically upon photoirradiation.
Effect of Molecular Weight on Polymer Monolayer Formation
Authors: Fan Fengqiu , Miyashita Tokuji 
Published: August 2003

Abstract
Monolayer behavior of poly(N-dodecylacrylamide) (PDDA) with various molecular weights on water surface was investigated. The surface - area isotherms changed drastically with the molecular weight. The monolayer becomes more stable and more condensed form with increasing molecular weight. We discuss various factors influencing the monolayer formation of polymeric compounds.