bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Salvia miltiorrhiza Extract on the Liver CYP3A Activity in Humans and Rats
Authors: Wang Xin , Yeung John H. K.
Published: March 2011

Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen) is a famous Traditional Chinese medicine used widely in the treatment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. This study explored the effects of Danshen capsules commonly used in clinical practice on the liver CYP3A activity in humans and rats. The effects of Danshen extract on liver CYP3A activity were determined by metabolism of model substrates in vitro in human and rat liver microsomes and in the rat in vivo. HPLC was used to determine model substrates and metabolites. Danshen extract (50–2000 µg/mL) competitively inhibited human and rat liver microsomal CYP3A activity with inhibition constant (Ki) values of 51 and 65 µg/mL, respectively. In the rat, 14‐day Danshen extract treatment (100 mg/kg/day, i.p. or 200 mg/kg/day, p.o.) decreased midazolam clearance (11–14%), with a concomitant increase in area under the curve (AUC; 12–17%) and a decrease in the volume of distribution (11–15%). These studies demonstrated that Danshen extract affected the metabolism of CYP3A substrates through competitive inhibition in human and rat liver in vitro and had no enzyme inducing effects on rat CYP3A in vivo after chronic administration. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In Vitro Inhibition of Huanglian [Rhizoma coptidis (L.)] and its Six Active Alkaloids on Six Cytochrome P450 Isoforms in Human Liver Microsomes
Authors: Han Yong‐Long , Yu Hong‐Liang , Li Dan , Meng Xiang‐Le , Zhou Zhi‐Yong , Yu Qi , Zhang Xiao‐You , Wang Fu‐Jing , Guo Cheng
Published: March 2011

Huanglian (Rhizoma Coptidis) as a popular herb has been used for the treatment of various diseases such as diarrhea, eye inflammation and women's abdominal ailments. Alkaloids are considered to be responsible for its pharmacological effects. In this investigation, Huanglian and its six alkaloids (coptisine, epiberberine, berberine, jateorrhizine, palmatine and magnoflorine) were systematically evaluated for their inhibition of six cytochrome P450 isoforms (CYP1A2, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6 and CYP3A4) in human liver microsomes by the LC‐MS/MS method. Huanglian showed the strongest inhibition of CYP2D6, followed by CYP1A2 and CYP3A4_T. The IC50 values were 5.8 µg/mL, 36.8 µg/mL and 59.2 µg/mL, respectively. Of the constituents tested, coptisine and epiberberine showed strong inhibition of CYP2D6 with IC50 values of 4.4 µm and 7.7 µm; berberine, jateorrhizine and palmatine showed weak inhibition of CYP2D6 with IC50 values of 45.5 µm, 49.4 µm and 92.6 µm, respectively; jateorrhizine showed moderate inhibition of CYP3A4_T with an IC50 value of 13.3 µm; coptisine showed weak inhibition of CYP1A2 with an IC50 value of 37.3 µm. In addition, activation was observed in coptisine/CYP2C9 and palmatine/CYP2C9/CYP2C19. Other CYP450 isoforms were not affected markedly by the six alkaloids. In conclusion, Huanglian showed in vitro inhibition of CYP2D6, the inhibition might be contributed mostly by protoberberine alkaloids, especially coptisine and epiberberine. Herb–drug interactions may occur through the CYP2D6 inhibition. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bridging the gap between weather and seasonal forecasting: intraseasonal forecasting for Australia
Authors: Hudson Debra , Alves Oscar , Hendon Harry H. , Marshall Andrew G.
Published: March 2011

This study examines the potential use of the Predictive Ocean Atmosphere Model for Australia (POAMA), the Bureau of Meteorology's dynamical seasonal forecast system, as an intraseasonal prediction tool for Australia. This would fill the current prediction capability gap between weather forecasts and seasonal outlooks for Australia. The intraseasonal forecast skill of a 27‐year hindcast dataset is investigated, focusing on precipitation and minimum and maximum temperatures over Australia in the second fortnight (average days 15–28 of the forecast). Most of the skill for forecasting precipitation and maximum temperature in the second fortnight is focused over eastern Australia, during austral winter and spring for precipitation and during spring for maximum temperature. For this region and seasons the forecast of the second fortnight performs generally better than using climatology, persistence of observed, or persistence of the forecast for the first fortnight (average days 1–14). The model has generally poor skill in predicting minimum temperatures. The role of key drivers of Australian climate variability for providing predictability at intraseasonal time‐scales is investigated. This is done for the austral winter and spring seasons, when POAMA's skill for predicting precipitation is highest. Forecast skill is found to be increased during extremes of the El Niño Southern Oscillation, the Indian Ocean Dipole and the Southern Annular Mode. The regions of impact of these modes of climate variability on forecast skill are similar to those regions identified in observed studies as being influenced by the respective drivers. In contrast, there is no significant relationship between intraseasonal forecast skill for precipitation and the amplitude of the Madden Julian Oscillation (MJO) in winter and spring, although the analysis does not distinguish between the phases of the MJO. The results indicate that the use of POAMA for intraseasonal forecasting is promising. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
Definition of a moist entropy potential temperature: application to FIRE‐I data flights
Authors: Marquet Pascal
Published: March 2011

A moist entropy potential temperature–denoted byθs–is defined analytically in terms of the specific entropy for moist air. The expression forθsis valid for a general mixing of dry air, water vapour and possible condensed water species. It displays the same conservative properties as the moist entropy, even for varying dry air or total water content. The moist formulation forθsis equal to the dry formulationθif dry air is considered, and it displays new properties valid for the moist air cases, both saturated or unsaturated ones. Exact and approximate versions ofθsare evaluated for several stratocumulus cases, in particular by using the aircraft observation datasets from the FIRE‐I experiment. It appears that there is no (or only a small) jump inθsat the top of the planetary boundary layer (PBL). The mixing in moist entropy is almost complete in the PBL, with the same values observed in the clear air and the cloudy regions, including the very top of the entrainment region. The Randall–Deardorff Cloud‐Top Entrainment Instability analysis may be interpreted as a mixing in moist entropy criterion. The iso‐θslines are plotted on skewT–logpand conserved variable diagrams. All these properties could suggest some hints on the use of moist entropy (orθs) in cloud modelling or in mixing processes, with the marine stratocumulus considered as a paradigm of moist turbulence. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
Laplace transform integration of the shallow‐water equations. Part I: Eulerian formulation and Kelvin waves
Authors: Clancy Colm , Lynch Peter
Published: March 2011

A filtering integration scheme is developed, using a modification of the contour used to invert the Laplace transform (LT). It is shown to eliminate components with frequencies higher than a specified cut‐off value. Thus it is valuable for integrations of the equations governing atmospheric flow. The scheme is implemented in a shallow‐water model with an Eulerian treatment of advection. It is compared to a reference model using the semi‐implicit (SI) scheme. The LT scheme is shown to treat dynamically important Kelvin waves more accurately than the SI scheme. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
Laplace transform integration of the shallow‐water equations. Part II: Semi‐Lagrangian formulation and orographic resonance
Authors: Clancy Colm , Lynch Peter
Published: March 2011

In this article we combine the Laplace transform (LT) scheme with a semi‐Lagrangian advection scheme, and implement it in a shallow‐water model. It is compared to a reference model using the semi‐implicit (SI) scheme, with both Eulerian and Lagrangian advection. We show that the LT scheme is accurate and computationally competitive with these reference schemes. We also show, both analytically and numerically, that the LT scheme is free from the problem of orographic resonance that is found with semi‐implicit schemes. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
THE FLORA OF URBAN RIVER WALLSCAPES
Authors: Francis R. A. , Hoggart S. P. G.
Published: March 2011

Urban river walls represent some of the most common habitat available to riparian species within heavily engineered urban river corridors, but research into the characteristics and diversity of river walls is very rare. In this study, the flora of urban river walls was surveyed at 16 sites (92 walls) along 32 km of the river Thames through central London to determine the characteristics and habitat origins of species found on these walls, whether these species indicated ‘an urban cliff effect’ occurring on wall habitats and whether plant species richness varied between different wall types. A total of 90 species were found on the walls, with the majority of species associated with disturbed areas and riparian habitats, supporting the idea of a ‘mass effect’ occurring, whereby the flora is maintained by propagule pressure from remnant or introduced habitats within urban or peri‐urban areas, rather than walls selecting for cliff/rock species. There was an increased incidence of plants from cliff/rock habitats found in the flora however, suggesting that an urban cliff effect does still occur. Species were organized along the river walls based on riparian/terrestrial gradients and stress tolerance, probably reflecting a gradient of wall height above river flows. Plant species richness was significantly higher on brick walls than that on sheet piling, indicating key differences between materials probably based on surface integrity. Large areas of connected river walls (‘wallscapes’) through heavily engineered urban rivers represent potential sites for the enactment of reconciliation ecology via habitat improvement in urban ecosystems. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mindfulness‐based Coping with University Life: A Non‐randomized Wait‐list‐controlled Pilot Evaluation
Authors: Lynch Siobhan , Gander Marie‐Louise , Kohls Niko , Kudielka Brigitte , Walach Harald
Published: March 2011

The aim of this study was to explore the feasibility of implementing a new 8‐week mindfulness‐based programme, ‘Mindfulness‐Based Coping with University Life’ (MBCUL), specifically tailored to the needs and demand of students and to explore its impact in a pilot evaluation. Participants were drawn from the University of Northampton (MBCUL N = 10; control N = 6). A non‐randomized wait‐list‐controlled design was employed. Measures examined anxiety and depression, perceived stress, mindfulness and personally relevant change before and immediately after the programme. The diurnal profile of salivary cortisol and alpha‐amylase level was collected for two consecutive days. No significant intergroup differences were observed on any of the measures at either time point. However, significant change was observed for the MBCUL group in terms of perceived stress (d = 1.06; z = −2.25, p = 0.03), anxiety (d = 1.04; z = −2.14, p = 0.03), depression (d = 0.52; z = −0.69, p = 0.5) and personally relevant change (d = 2.63; z = −2.68, p = 0.01), along with an increase in mindfulness (d = 1.06; z = −1.89, p = 0.06). In contrast, no significant change was found in the daily profiles of cortisol and alpha‐amylase. The data from this pilot tentatively suggest that MBCUL appears to be a promising programme that warrants further evaluation using a randomized study with a larger sample size. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Convective Assembly of 2D Lattices of Virus‐like Particles Visualized by In‐Situ Grazing‐Incidence Small‐Angle X‐Ray Scattering
Authors: Ashley Carlee E. , Dunphy Darren R. , Jiang Zhang , Carnes Eric C. , Yuan Zhen , Petsev Dimiter N. , Atanassov Plamen B. , Velev Orlin D. , Sprung Michael , Wang Jin , Peabody David S. , Brinker C. Jeffrey
Published: March 2011

The rapid assembly of icosohedral virus‐like particles (VLPs) into highly ordered (domain size > 600 nm), oriented 2D superlattices directly onto a solid substrate using convective coating is demonstrated. In‐situ grazing‐incidence small‐angle X‐ray scattering (GISAXS) is used to follow the self‐assembly process in real time to characterize the mechanism of superlattice formation, with the ultimate goal of tailoring film deposition conditions to optimize long‐range order. From water, GISAXS data are consistent with a transport‐limited assembly process where convective flow directs assembly of VLPs into a lattice oriented with respect to the water drying line. Addition of a nonvolatile solvent (glycerol) modified this assembly pathway, resulting in non‐oriented superlattices with improved long‐range order. Modification of electrostatic conditions (solution ionic strength, substrate charge) also alters assembly behavior; however, a comparison of in‐situ assembly data between VLPs derived from the bacteriophages MS2 and Qβ show that this assembly process is not fully described by a simple Derjaguin–Landau–Verwey–Overbeek model alone.
Superiority of Branched Side Chains in Spontaneous Nanowire Formation: Exemplified by Poly(3‐2‐methylbutylthiophene) for High‐Performance Solar Cells
Authors: Chen Hsieh‐Chih , Wu I‐Che , Hung Jui‐Hsiang , Chen Fu‐Je , Chen I‐Wen P. , Peng Yung‐Kang , Lin Chao‐Sung , Chen Chun‐Hsien , Sheng Yu‐Jane , Tsao Heng‐Kwong , Chou Pi‐Tai
Published: March 2011

One‐dimensional nanostructures containing heterojunctions by conjugated polymers, such as nanowires, are expected to greatly facilitate efficient charge transfer in bulk‐heterojunction (BHJ) solar cells. Thus, a combined theoretical and experimental approach is pursued to explore spontaneous nanowire formation. A dissipative particle dynamics simulation is first performed to study the morphologies formed by rodlike polymers with various side‐chain structures. The results surprisingly predict that conjugated polymers with branched side chains are well suited to form thermodynamically stable nanowires. Proof of this concept is provided via the design and synthesis of a branched polymer of regioregular poly(3‐2‐methylbutylthiophene) (P3MBT), which successfully demonstrates highly dense nanowire formation free from any stringent conditions and stratagies. In BHJ solar cells fabricated using a blend of P3MBT and [6,6]‐phenyl‐C71‐butyric acid methyl ester (PC71BM), P3MBT polymers are self‐organized into highly crystalline nanowires with a d100 spacing of 13.30 Å. The hole mobility of the P3MBT:PC71BM (1:0.5 by weight) blend film reaches 3.83 × 10−4 cm2 V−1 s−1, and the maximum incident photon‐to‐current efficiency reaches 68%. The results unambiguously prove the spontaneous formation of nanowires using solution‐processable conjugated polymers with branched alkyl side chains in BHJ solar cells.
Assembly and Degradation of Low‐Fouling Click‐Functionalized Poly(ethylene glycol)‐Based Multilayer Films and Capsules
Authors: Leung Melissa K. M. , Such Georgina K. , Johnston Angus P. R. , Biswas Dhee P. , Zhu Zhiyuan , Yan Yan , Lutz Jean‐François , Caruso Frank
Published: March 2011

Nano‐/micrometer‐scaled films and capsules made of low‐fouling materials such as poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) are of interest for drug delivery and tissue engineering applications. Herein, the assembly and degradation of low‐fouling, alkyne‐functionalized PEG (PEGAlk) multilayer films and capsules, which are prepared by combining layer‐by‐layer (LbL) assembly and click chemistry, are reported. A nonlinear, temperature‐responsive PEGAlk is synthesized, and is then used to form hydrogen‐bonded multilayers with poly(methacrylic acid) (PMA) at pH 5. The thermoresponsive behavior of PEGAlk is exploited to tailor film buildup by adjusting the assembly conditions. Using alkyne–azide click chemistry, PEGAlk/PMA multilayers are crosslinked with a bisazide linker that contains a disulfide bond, rendering these films and capsules redox‐responsive. At pH 7, by disrupting the hydrogen bonding between the polymers, PEGAlk LbL films and PEGAlk‐based capsules are obtained. These films exhibit specific deconstruction properties under simulated intracellular reducing conditions, but remain stable at physiological pH, suggesting potential applications in controlled drug release. The low‐fouling properties of the PEG films are confirmed by incubation with human serum and a blood clot. Additionally, these capsules showed negligible toxicity to human cells.
Graphene Devices: Structured Graphene Devices for Mass Transport (Small 6/2011)
Authors: Barreiro Amelia , Rurali Riccardo , Hernández Eduardo R. , Bachtold Adrian
Published: March 2011

The reversible atomic‐mass transport along graphene devices has been achieved. The motion of Al and Au in the form of atoms or clusters is driven by applying an electric field between the metal electrodes that contact the graphene sheet. It is shown that Al moves in the direction of the applied electric field whereas Au tends to diffuse in all directions. The control of the motion of Al is further demonstrated by achieving a 90° turn, using a graphene device patterned in a crossroads configuration. The controlled motion of Al is attributed to the charge transfer from Al onto the graphene so that the Al is effectively charged and can be accelerated by the applied electric field. To get further insight into the actuation mechanism, theoretical simulations of individual Al and Au impurities on a perfect graphene sheet were performed. The direct (electrostatic) force was found to be ∼1 pN and dominant over the wind force. These findings hold promise for practical use in future mass transport in complex circuits.
Micropatterning: Ultrafast Large‐Area Micropattern Generation in Nonabsorbing Polymer Thin Films by Pulsed Laser Diffraction (Small 6/2011)
Authors: Verma Ankur , Sharma Ashutosh , Kulkarni Giridhar U.
Published: March 2011

An ultrafast, parallel, and beyond‐the‐master micropatterning technique for ultrathin (30−400 nm) nonabsorbing polymer films by diffraction of laser light through a 2D periodic aperture is reported. The redistribution of laser energy absorbed by the substrate causes self‐organization of polymer thin films in the form of wrinklelike surface relief structures caused by localized melting and freezing of the thin film. Unlike conventional laser ablation and laser writing processes, low laser fluence is employed to only passively swell the polymer as a pre‐ablative process without loss of material, and without absorption/reaction with incident radiation. Self‐organization in the thin polymer film, aided by the diffraction pattern, produces microstructures made up of thin raised lines. These regular microstructures have far more complex morphologies than the mask geometry and very narrow line widths that can be an order of magnitude smaller than the openings in the mask. The microstructure morphology is easily modulated by changing the film thickness, aperture size, and geometry, and by changing the diffraction pattern.
Fundamental Study on Carbon Composite Iron Ore Hot Briquette Used as Blast Furnace Burden
Authors: Man‐sheng Chu , Zheng‐gen Liu , Zhao‐cai Wang , Jun‐ichiro Yagi
Published: March 2011

Carbon composite iron ore hot briquette (CCB) is the product of fine iron ore and fine coal by hot briquetting process, which attracts more and more attention as a new type of ironmaking raw materials aiming to improve the operation efficiency and reduce the coke consumption of blast furnace. This paper is devoted to experimental study on metallurgical properties of CCB and numerical simulation of the BF operation with CCB charging. At first, the metallurgical properties of CCB, including cold crushing strength, RDI, RSI, reducibility, high temperature strength, and softening and dripping are experimentally tested and compared with the common burdens, which revealed that the CCB possesses the required metallurgical properties and is suitable to use as the blast furnace burden. Then, the effects of charging CCB on the dripping properties of comprehensive burdens are elucidated based on the experiments under simulated blast furnace conditions. The results showed that the maximum charging ratio of CCB in the iron burdens is 40%–50% for achieving appropriate dripping properties of the mixed burdens. Finally, a multi‐fluid blast furnace model is used to simulate BF operation with CCB charging. According to model simulations, charging CCB will cause the temperature level to decreases in the furnace and the location of the cohesive zone shifts downward. On the other hand, the productivity tends to increase while coke rate and total reducing agent rate decrease, the heat efficiency improves remarkably and the operation performance of BF is effectively enhanced.
The contribution of low‐affinity transport mechanisms to serotonin clearance in synaptosomes
Authors: Hagan Catherine E. , Schenk James O. , Neumaier John F.
Published: March 2011

Although many studies assert that the serotonin (5‐HT) transporter (SERT) is the predominant mechanism controlling extracellular 5‐HT concentrations, accumulating evidence suggests that low affinity, high capacity transport mechanisms may contribute more to 5‐HT clearance than previously thought. The goal of this study was to quantify the contributions of SERT relative to other mechanisms in clearing extracellular 5‐HT concentrations ranging from 50 nM to 1 μM in synaptosomes prepared from wild‐type and SERT knockout mice using rotating disk electrode voltammetry. SERT inhibitors combined with decynium‐22 (D‐22), a blocker of several low‐affinity transporters, blocked all uptake of 5‐HT into synaptosomes. We found that SERT is responsible for the majority of synaptosomal uptake only at relatively low 5‐HT concentrations, but comprises a diminishing proportion of 5‐HT clearance when extracellular 5‐HT increases above 100 nM. The effect of D‐22 was similar in wild‐type and SERT knockout synaptosomes. Thus, there was no evidence of upregulation of low‐affinity mechanisms in knockout mice across the concentrations of 5‐HT tested. These are surprising results, in light of the prevailing view that SERT is the primary uptake mechanism for extracellular 5‐HT at physiological concentrations. We conclude that non‐SERT mediated 5‐HT uptake is substantial even at modest 5‐HT concentrations. These findings, in conjunction with other studies, have important implications for understanding serotonergic disorders and may explain the variable efficacy and stability of patients' responses to antidepressants, such as the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. © Synapse, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of food restriction and sucrose intake on synaptic delivery of AMPA receptors in nucleus accumbens
Authors: Peng Xing‐Xiang , Ziff Edward B. , Carr Kenneth D.
Published: March 2011

Insertion and removal of AMPA receptors from the synaptic membrane underlie dynamic tuning of synaptic transmission and enduring changes in synaptic strength. Preclinical addiction research suggests that AMPA receptor trafficking plays an important role in nucleus accumbens (NAc) neuroplasticity underlying the compulsive and persistent quality of drug‐seeking. Considering the parallels between drug addiction and compulsive eating, plus the supranormal reward properties of sucrose, and the role of dieting as a risk factor in development of binge pathology, the present study used a biochemical subcellular fractionation approach to determine whether brief intake of a 10% sucrose solution increases synaptic delivery of AMPA receptors in NAc of chronically food‐restricted (FR) relative to ad libitum fed (AL) rats. FR, alone, produced a small but significant increase in synaptic expression of AMPA receptors. This may contribute to NAc integrative mechanisms that mediate the enhanced behavioral responsiveness of FR subjects to phasic reward stimuli, including food and drugs. Brief intake of sucrose increased GluR1 in the PSD, regardless of dietary condition, though the net effect was greater in FR than AL subjects. A marked increase in GluR2 was also observed, but only in FR rats. This set of results suggests that in FR subjects, sucrose may have primarily increased delivery of GluR1/GluR2 heteromers to the PSD, while in AL subjects sucrose increased delivery of GluR2‐lacking channels. The functional consequences of these possible differences in subunit composition of trafficked AMPA receptors between diet groups remain to be determined. Nevertheless, the present set of results suggest a promising new avenue to pursue in the effort to understand synaptic plasticity involved in adaptive and pathological food‐directed behavior and the mechanistic basis of severe dieting as a risk factor for the latter. Synapse, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Age‐related changes in gene expression are accelerated in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Saetre P. , Jazin E. , Emilsson L.
Published: March 2011

In the normal brain, age is associated with changes in gene expression. Age is also a prominent risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD), where clinical features are similar to age‐related decreases in cognitive performance. We hypothesized that some age‐related changes in gene expression are accelerated in AD patients. To study this, we selected 10 candidate genes earlier shown by microarray analysis to be differentially expressed in AD (Emilsson et al., [2006] Neurobiol Dis 21:618–625). Using real‐time PCR analysis and a control based statistical model, we investigated age‐related changes in mRNA levels in a large collection of human brain postmortem tissues from AD patients and controls. Our results demonstrate that the age‐related changes in gene expression are manifested earlier in AD. Furthermore, five of the genes (ITPKB, RGS4, RAB3A, STMN1, SYNGR3) have in common an involvement in neuronal calcium dependent signaling, a cellular process previously related to both AD and aging. These observations suggest that coordinated transcriptional changes associated with ageing and calcium homeostasis in the human brain are accelerated in patients with AD. Our results point to the possibility that the activity of these genes can be used in the future as a palette of biomarkers for predicting disease risk in young individuals. Synapse 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lactational and postnatal exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls induces sex‐specific anxiolytic behavior and cognitive deficit in mice offspring
Authors: Tian Yu‐Hua , Hwan Kim Seung , Lee Seok‐Yong , Jang Choon‐Gon
Published: March 2011

The central nervous system is affected by polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Previous studies have indicated that developmental exposure to PCBs impairs behavioral performance and alters cognitive abilities. This study assessed the effects of lactational and postnatal exposure to a commercial PCBs mixture, Aroclor 1254 (A1254), on mice performing several neurobehavioral tasks including the open field test, novel object test, elevated plus maze test, Y‐maze test, and tail suspension test. In the open field test, PCBs treatment (6 and 18 mg/kg/day) was associated with increased movement, time duration, and frequency in the central zone in female but not male mice. PCBs‐treated female mice (6 and 18 mg/kg/day) also showed decreased novel object recognition, indicating impairment in recognition memory. Finally, we performed autoradiographic receptor binding assays for dopamine (DA) D1 and D2 receptors, dopamine transporter (DAT), and the N‐methyl‐D‐aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor after behavioral tests to examine whether alterations occurred in the dopaminergic and NMDAergic systems of the brain. Our results showed that PCBs treatment did not change D1 and D2 receptors or DAT binding in the dorsal striatum of female mice. However, PCBs treatment significantly decreased NMDA receptor binding in the dorsal striatum, frontal cortex, cingulate cortex, and motor cortex, and CA3 and dentate gyrus (DG) of the hippocampus in female mice. Collectively, our results suggest that long‐term PCBs exposure can induce anxiolytic behavior, cognitive deficits, and changes of NMDA receptors. Synapse, 2011. © 2011 Wiley©Liss, Inc.
Evolution of middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity after a successful laser procedure for iatrogenic twin anemia–polycythemia sequence
Authors: Groussolles M. , Sartor A. , Connan L. , Vayssière C.
Published: March 2011

We report a case of twin anemia–polycythemia sequence (TAPS) treated by laser at 24 + 5 weeks' gestation, 7 weeks after a first laser procedure for twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome at 16 + 6 weeks. This management led to the birth of two healthy neonates by Cesarean section at 36 weeks. In this case, weekly measurement of the middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity allowed us to monitor the twins after both laser treatments and, more specifically, to detect TAPS. Following delivery, placental injection showed a minuscule coagulated arteriovenous anastomosis. Intrauterine transfusion is generally chosen to manage TAPS, but the choice of therapy must consider gestational age, technical difficulties and disease severity. The laser procedure cannot be used as a curative treatment for TAPS in all cases. We propose a decisional algorithm to help clinicians select the appropriate treatment. Copyright © 2012 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hemodynamics of fetal breathing movements: the inferior vena cava
Authors: Nyberg M. K. , Johnsen S. L. , Rasmussen S. , Kiserud T.
Published: March 2011

Objective

Based on the hypothesis that fetal breathing movements (FBM) enhance sections of the circulation to meet the needs of gas transport, we studied the effects of FBM on the fetal inferior vena cava (IVC), which transports blood with the lowest oxygen saturation in the fetal body.

Methods

One‐hundred and ten women with low‐risk singleton pregnancies were included in a longitudinal study during the second half of pregnancy. Inner diameter, peak systolic velocity and time‐averaged maximum blood velocity were measured in the IVC below the ductus venosus outlet during rest and FBM. Volume flow and pressure gradient were estimated in 55 observations of forced inspiratory movements at 36 weeks of gestation. The results are presented as mean and 95% CI of the mean.

Results

Based on 585 observations obtained during fetal rest and FBM, we found no difference in diameter, 0.42 (95% CI, 0.41–0.43) cm vs. 0.41 (95% CI, 0.39–0.42) cm, respectively, apart from during high‐amplitude inspiratory movement, when the diameter was 0.15 (95% CI, 0.13–0.17) cm. The peak systolic velocity was different during rest and FBM, 34.0 (95% CI, 32.7–35.3) cm/s vs. 81.5 (95% CI, 76.2–87.5) cm/s, respectively, and correspondingly for time‐averaged maximum velocity, 19.7 (95% CI, 18.9–20.5) cm/s vs. 37.2 (95% CI, 34.9–39.9) cm/s, respectively. Forced inspiratory movements at 36 weeks significantly reduced flow in the IVC compared with rest, 63.6 (95% CI, 44.4–88.1) mL/min vs. 186.0 (95% CI, 142.8–238.1) mL/min, respectively. The pressure gradient increased 14‐fold during forced inspiration, from 0.64 to 8.76 mmHg.

Conclusions

High‐amplitude fetal inspiration substantially constricts the abdominal IVC and creates a negative pressure in the chest. The IVC constriction withholds abdominal blood, thus temporarily giving way to other flows. Copyright © 2011 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Magnetic resonance imaging of the normal fetal esophagus
Authors: Brugger P. C. , Weber M. , Prayer D.
Published: March 2011

Objectives

To establish the appearance on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the normal fetal esophagus and to provide biometric data from 20 to 39 gestational weeks.

Methods

In this retrospective study of 250 fetal MRI examinations (20–39 gestational weeks) the visibility of the upper (E1, cervical to tracheal bifurcation) and lower (E2, tracheal bifurcation to diaphragm) esophageal segments was assessed separately in each of three section planes. Segments were scored as being visible or not, and whether they were fluid‐filled was noted. Maximum esophageal diameters were recorded. To study the age dependency of esophageal visualization, fetuses were divided into three age groups: 20–25, 26–31 and 32–39 weeks. In 19 cases, there were dynamic studies and these were analyzed for the duration of fluid‐filling.

Results

Segment E1 was visualized only when it was fluid‐filled and it was visible in 16.8% of axial, 4% of frontal and 22.4% of sagittal acquisitions. Segment E2 could also be detected in the unfilled state, when it appeared solid; it was seen in 96.4% of axial, 74% of frontal and 39.6% of sagittal acquisitions, being fluid‐filled in 62.7–88.9% of these. Depending on the amount of fluid‐filling and the gestational age, E2 segments had a variable appearance. Dynamic scans showed E1 segments to be fluid‐filled for periods of 0.5–1.5 s and E2 segments for periods of 3–35 s. Both the frequency of visualization and the maximum diameter increased linearly with gestational age.

Conclusion

Visualization of the fetal esophagus by MRI depends on section plane, segment and gestational age, with considerable differences between the two segments: while E1 requires fluid‐filling related to fetal swallowing, the E2 portion can usually be demonstrated independent of fluid‐filling, as a consequence of its topographical relationships. The frequently fluid‐filled state of E2 may reflect the immature nature of esophageal neuromuscular activity, and the lack of an anti‐reflux mechanism due to the short length of the abdominal esophagus. Copyright © 2011 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reliability of a new method for assessing urethral compression following midurethral tape procedures using four‐dimensional ultrasound
Authors: Yang J.‐M. , Yang S.‐H. , Huang W.‐C. , Tzeng C.‐R.
Published: March 2011

Objectives

To evaluate the intra‐ and interobserver reliability of a new method of assessing resting and dynamic urethral compression after midurethral tape procedures using three‐ and four‐dimensional (3D and 4D) ultrasound.

Methods

Thirty‐one women who had undergone transobturator midurethral tape procedures at Cathay General Hospital were enrolled in the study and 4D ultrasound was performed pre‐ and postoperatively. Preoperative ultrasound assessment included measurement of the urethral central echolucent area (UCEA) in the axial plane. Postoperative ultrasound assessment included measurement of the tape–urethral distance (TUD) in the sagittal plane as well as UCEA and tape angle in the axial plane (ATA). The TUD was measured at the upper end (TUDu), central point (TUDc) and lower end (TUDl) of the tape. All pre‐ and postoperative ultrasound assessments were performed in women at rest, on maximum straining and during strong coughing. 4D ultrasound volume datasets were stored digitally and analyzed offline by two independent investigators blinded to clinical data and to each others' measurements. Intra‐ and interobserver reliability were evaluated using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results

There were significant reductions in TUDc, TUDl and UCEA during increased intra‐abdominal pressure. ICC values for the measurement of TUD at rest, on straining and during coughing demonstrated very good reliability. ICC values for the pre‐ and postoperative measurement of UCEA at rest, on straining and during coughing demonstrated good to very good reliability. ICC values for the measurement of ATA at rest, on straining and during coughing demonstrated fair to good reliability.

Conclusions

4D ultrasound can be used to obtain measurements with good reliability in the assessment of urethral compression. Copyright © 2011 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transvaginal ultrasonographic measurement of cervical length in asymptomatic high‐risk women with a short cervical length in the previous pregnancy
Authors: Crane J. M. G. , Hutchens D.
Published: March 2011

Objective

To determine if asymptomatic women at high risk of preterm delivery who had a short cervical length in their previous pregnancy and delivered at term are at increased risk of having a short cervical length in their next pregnancy, and whether they are at increased risk of preterm birth.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included high‐risk (those with a history of spontaneous preterm birth, uterine anomaly or excisional treatment for cervical dysplasia) asymptomatic women who were pregnant with a singleton gestation delivering between April 2003 and March 2010, who had had a previous pregnancy and who had transvaginal ultrasonographic cervical length measurement performed at 16–30 weeks' gestation in both pregnancies. Comparison was among women who had a short cervical length (< 3.0 cm) in their previous pregnancy but delivered at term in that pregnancy (Short Term Group), women with a history of a normal cervical length (≥ 3.0 cm) in their previous pregnancy delivering at term (Long Term Group), and women who had a short cervical length (< 3.0 cm) in their previous pregnancy delivering preterm (Short Preterm Group). Primary outcomes were spontaneous preterm birth at < 37 weeks' gestation and cervical length. Secondary outcomes were spontaneous preterm birth at < 35 weeks and < 32 weeks, low birth weight, maternal outcomes and neonatal morbidity.

Results

A total of 62 women were included. Women in the Short Term Group were more likely to have a short cervical length in their next pregnancy compared with those in the Long Term Group (10/23 (43.5%) vs. 4/26 (15.4%), respectively) but not as likely as women in the Short Preterm Group (9/13 (69.2%); P = 0.003). Women in the Short Term Group were not at an increased risk of spontaneous preterm birth at < 37 weeks in the next pregnancy compared with women in the Long Term Group (2/23 (8.7%) vs. 2/26 (7.7%), respectively), but women in the Short Preterm Group were at an increased risk (6/13 (46.2%); P < 0.0001). Compared with women in the Short Term and Long Term groups, women in the Short Preterm Group were also at an increased risk of threatened preterm labor (6/23 (26.1%) and 4/26 (15.4%) vs. 9/13 (69.2%), respectively; P = 0.002) and of receiving corticosteroids for fetal lung maturation (6/23 (26.1%) and 4/26 (15.4%) vs. 11/13 (84.6%), respectively; P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Although high‐risk asymptomatic women with a short cervical length in their previous pregnancy who delivered at term are at increased risk of having a short cervix in their next pregnancy, they are not at increased risk of preterm birth. Copyright © 2011 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Selectivity function scheduler for IEEE 802.11e HCCA access mode
Authors: Ali Najah Abu , Bourawy Ashraf , Hassanein Hossam
Published: March 2011

In this paper, we present a scheduling algorithm that enhances the performance of the standard IEEE 802.11e scheduler for the Hybrid Coordination Function Controlled Channel Access mode. The main contribution in designing the proposed scheduler is the ability to accommodate multiple streams with different levels of Quality of Service requirements concurrently running on the same station. This is achieved by dynamically calculating the Transmission Opportunities of each active traffic stream (TS) and the appropriate Service Interval of each active station. The proposed algorithm optimizes the utilization of the scarce bandwidth resources by only polling active stations. The algorithm incorporates a selectivity function to assign polling priorities to the active streams only based on their diverse requirements and their link‐attainable transmission rates. The performance of the proposed Selectivity Function Scheduler (SFS) scheme is evaluated against the standard scheduler. Simulation results show that the SFS outperforms the standard scheduler in terms of enhancing streams' throughput, reducing packet dropping ratio and maintaining high fairness amongst the admitted TS. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Portable XRF study of pigments applied in Juan Hispalense’s 15th century panel painting
Authors: Križnar A. , Muñoz V. , de la Paz F. , Respaldiza M. A. , Vega M.
Published: March 2011

Several medieval paintings and polychrome sculptures have been analysed in the frame of a collaboration between the Fine Arts Museum of Seville and the National Centre of Accelerators, dedicated to a non‐destructive study of artworks that belong to the wide museum’s collection. Among the oldest artworks in the collection is the panel painting Archangel St. Michael attributed to Juan Hispalense, one of the first painters in the 15th‐century Seville known by name. The panel was analysed by a portable X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) to get more information about the pigments applied and to identify possible later interventions. The results showed that the pigments were those commonly used in that period. Lead white was found in the preparation of the painting and in colour layers. For yellow colour, yellow ochre was used, while for the red one, the painter usually mixed red earth and vermillion. Blue pigment is azurite, while the copper‐based green one could not be determined more specifically by XRF. Brown colour is made with yellow ochre and organic black or, in some cases, umbra. Black pigment is probably bone or ivory black. Many decorative parts of the panel are gilded, which were confirmed by Au peaks. Later interventions were carried out on the base of Ti–Zn white mixed with earth pigments, while for green areas such as Archangel's wings also chrome green was applied. The research is part of a larger study which is still going on, whose aim is to gain more knowledge about the 15th‐ and 16th‐century Spanish painting and polychromy. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Crystal Structures and Chemical Properties of Dimesitylcadmium and Dimesitylmercury
Authors: Hayashi Mari , Bolte Michael , Wagner Matthias , Lerner Hans‐Wolfram
Published: March 2011

Mesityllithium was used to synthesize dimesitylcadmium and dimesitylmercury from CdCl2 and HgCl2, respectively. X‐ray‐crystallographic data show that the group 12 metal compounds M[Mes]2 (M = Zn, Cd, Hg) are isomorphous (monoclinic, P21/n). The asymmetric unit of M[Mes]2 (M = Zn, Cd, Hg) consists of one mesityl group bonded to the metal atom, which is related to the second substituent by an inversion center. In addition we have investigated the reaction of BBr3 with M[Mes]2 (M = Cd, Hg) for our understanding of the reactivity of donor‐free group 12 mesityl compounds. The reaction of M[Mes]2 (M = Cd, Hg) with an excess of BBr3 produces MesBBr2. UV‐induced conversion of Hg[Mes]2 in benzene yielded quantitatively mesitylene and mercury whereas irradiation of a chloroform solution of Hg[Mes]2 for 1290 min (λmax = 510 nm) gave mesitylene, Hg[Mes]Cl, and HgCl2 in a ratio of 6:4:1. Slow concentration of the reaction solution led to the deposition of X‐ray quality crystals of the addition compound of two Hg[Mes]Cl molecules and HgCl2 (monoclinic space group P21/n).
A Totally Laparoscopic Distal Gastrectomy Can Be an Effective Way of Performing Laparoscopic Gastrectomy in Obese Patients (Body Mass Index ≥ 30)
Authors: Kim Min Gyu , Kim Kap Choong , Kim Beom Su , Kim Tae Hwan , Kim Hee Sung , Yook Jeong Hwan , Kim Byung Sik
Published: March 2011

Background

In the surgical treatment of gastric cancer, obesity is known to be a predictive factor for poor early surgical outcomes. To evaluate the more effective modality of laparoscopic gastrectomy in obese patients, we compared the early surgical outcomes of laparoscopy‐assisted and totally laparoscopic gastrectomy.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed early surgical outcomes in 1,480 consecutive patients who underwent distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer between April 2004 and July 2010. To compare surgical outcomes of laparoscopy‐assisted distal gastrectomy (LADG) with those of totally laparoscopic distal gastrectomy (TLDG) in 76 obese patients (LADG, n = 39; TLDG, n = 37), the patients were classified as either obese or nonobese. The obesity was defined using the WHO classification BMI cutoff of 30 kg/m2.

Results

In the analysis of surgical outcomes of the LADG group, there were significant differences between the obese and nonobese groups with respect to operative time (P = 0.004, obese, 171.8 min; nonobese, 141.0 min), time to first flatus (P = 0.027, obese, 3.3 days; nonobese, 3.1 days), commencement of soft diet (P = 0.040, obese, 4.6 days; nonobese, 4.0 days), postoperative complication rate (P = 0.045, obese, 15.4%; nonobese, 6.5%), and postoperative hospital stay (P = 0.014, obese, 8.9 days; nonobese, 7.2 days). In TLDG group, on the other hand, there were no significant differences in surgical outcomes between the groups.

Conclusion

Based on these findings, early surgical outcomes of LADG were strongly influenced by the obesity. TLDG without minilaparotomy, however, was unaffected by the obesity. These findings strongly suggest that TLDG could be a safe procedure to avoid the impact of obesity.
Ballistic Thoracoabdominal Injury: Analysis of Recent Military Experience in Afghanistan
Authors: Morrison J. J. , Midwinter M. J. , Jansen J. O.
Published: March 2011

Background

Military surgery has seen the arrival of the critical care provision and cross‐sectional imaging enjoyed by civilian trauma surgeons. Ballistic injury to the thoracoabdominal region is uncommon but potentially devastating. The aim of this study was to analyze recent military experience of managing this injury complex.

Methods

The study is a retrospective analysis of patients, admitted over a 12‐month period, to the British Military Hospital in Afghanistan with ballistic thoracoabdominal injuries.

Results

In total, 27 patients sustained combined thoracoabdominal injury with a mean new injury severity score of 29 ± 12, revised trauma score of 5.94 ± 2.93 and predicted survival of 71.1% ± 39.1%. In all, 20 (74%) patients underwent immediate operation, and 7 (26%) were initially managed nonoperatively. Of those requiring surgery, 11 required laparotomy and tube thoracostomy, and 9 required thoraco‐laparotomy. Of the seven casualties who were initially observed and/or further investigated, two required laparotomy following computed tomography scanning, and five were managed conservatively, two of whom required delayed surgery. There were nine fatalities, all within 16 days of being wounded. Four patients died from exsanguination, one from a traumatic brain injury, and four from multiorgan failure. Five patients presented with cardiac arrest, two of whom survived.

Conclusions

Exploration remains the default treatment. Resuscitative thoracotomy may yield unexpected survivors, even if subsequent laparotomy is required. Nonoperative management appears to be feasible in a small proportion of patients but requires careful selection supported by cross‐sectional imaging.
The Life of Rudolf Nissen: Advancing Surgery Through Science and Principle
Authors: Fults D. W. , Taussky P.
Published: March 2011

Rudolf Nissen (1896–1981) was a surgeon whose career began in Germany during the first third of the 20th century, a period of rapid progress in biomedical technology, during which neurosurgery, anesthesiology, and other specialties emerged. A protégé and later close colleague of thoracic surgery pioneer Ferdinand Sauerbruch (1875–1951), Nissen resigned from the Berlin Charité Clinic and left Germany in 1933, in response to the rise of Nazi fascism. Throughout his subsequent career in Istanbul, Turkey, the American cities of Boston and New York, and finally Basel, Switzerland, Nissen developed innovative surgical techniques, advocated for patient‐centered medical education, and promoted surgical subspecialization. A lifelong proponent of clear scientific writing, Nissen expressed, in extensively published work, his philosophy that progress in surgery depends critically on rigorously applying the scientific method, upholding professional integrity, and respecting human dignity.