bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management of Aortic Aneurysms and Dissections with the Zenith TX2 Stent Graft
Authors: Anthony Lee W.
Published: August 2007

Endovascular repair of thoracic aortic aneurysms offers a less invasive alternative to conventional surgery, similar to its counterpart in the abdominal aorta. Although its long-term durability and outcome remain relatively unknown, published midterm results from clinical trials suggest comparable rates of aneurysm-related mortality and significant reductions in early morbidity compared with open repair. The Zenith TX2 stent graft (Cook Endovascular, Bloomington, IN) is an investigational endovascular device that is designed to treat aneurysms and other degenerative pathologies of the thoracic aorta. At the time of this writing, it is nearing completion of its pivotal trial. Clinical experience with this device is limited to countries outside the United States and to sites participating in the clinical trials. The purpose of this article is to provide a description of the Zenith TX2 device and its application in the repair of thoracic aortic aneurysms and dissections.
Role of Poly(ADP-Ribose) Polymerase during Vascular Reconstruction
Authors: Albadawi Hassan , Crawford Robert S. , Atkins Marvin D. , Watkins Michael T.
Published: August 2007

Open vascular repair of ischemic myocardium and aortic aneurysms results in a systemic inflammatory response that influences the mortality and morbidity of these procedures. Recent studies in animal models of complex vascular reconstruction indicate that the activity of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) may influence the mortality and morbidity of these kinds of reconstructions. PARP's activity, localized to nuclei and mitochondria, is stimulated by deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) strand breaks. Activation of PARP results in synthesis of poly(ADP-ribose) sugar moieties, whose primary role is to protect DNA from degradation during cytotoxic stress. Paradoxically, when stressful conditions similar to those experienced during vascular reconstructions result in overactivation of PARP, depletion of cellular levels of adenosine triphosphate and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide can result in exacerbation of tissue injury. Herein we review the role of PARP in inflammation and its relevance to cardiovascular reconstructions.
Agenesis of the Hepatic Vena Cava in a Patient with Scimitar Syndrome
Authors: Ors Fatih , Deniz Omer , Kocaoglu Murat , Tasar Mustafa , Celik Turgay
Published: August 2007

With the use of sophisticated imaging modalities, congenital anomalies of the inferior vena cava and its tributaries, such as agenesis of the hepatic vena cava, are becoming more and more commonly encountered. Scimitar syndrome, also called venolobar syndrome and hypogenetic lung syndrome, is a rare pulmonary vascular anomaly of the right lung that can sometimes be associated with some cardiovascular anomalies. We present here a case with agenesis of the hepatic vena cava associated with scimitar syndrome.
Scrotal Necrosis following Endovascular Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair
Authors: Zhang Wayne W. , Chauvapun Joe P. , Dosluoglu Hasan H.
Published: August 2007

Scrotal necrosis is an extremely rare complication following endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. Sloughing of scrotal skin and penile necrosis owing to therapeutic hypogastric artery occlusion for endoluminal aortoiliac aneurysm repair have been documented. We present herein one case of scrotal necrosis following endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. The presentation of combined scrotal necrosis, buttock ischemia, lower extremity livedo reticularis, and left blue toes with palpable pulses in the posterior tibial and dorsalis pedis arteries suggested that microembolization during endovascular aneurysm repair was the major cause of the devastating ischemic complications in this patient.
False Anastomotic Aneurysms
Authors: Marković Dragan M. , Davidović Lazar B. , Kostić Dušan M. , Maksimović Živan L. , Kuzmanovic Ilija B. , Koncar Igor B. , Cvetkovic Dragan M.
Published: August 2007

This retrospective study covers the period from 1991 to 2002, during which 3,623 patients were operated on because of aneurysmal or occlusive disease of aortoiliac and femoropopliteal segments. Among them, 87 patients (2.4%) developed a false anastomotic aneurysm in the 12-year follow-up period and were treated operatively.

Most frequently, in 53 patients (6.9%), a false anastomotic aneurysm developed after aortobifemoral bypass performed owing to aortoiliac occlusive disease. The cause of false anastomotic aneurysm was infection in 21 cases (24.7%); resection and revascularization were performed with a Dacron graft in 46 cases (52.9%), with a polytetrafluoroethylene graft in 10 cases (11.5%), and with the great saphenous vein in 16 cases (18.4%). Homograft implantation in 4 patients (4.6%) or extra-anatomic bypasses in 11 cases (12.6%) were performed when graft infection was suspected. Of 87 patients who underwent surgery, 74 (85.5%) had good early results without infection, reintervention, limb loss, and mortality.

The presence of infection as a cause of false anastomotic aneurysm and comorbidity increased the mortality rate significantly after the reoperation, whereas the type of graft used in treatment had no influence on early results.
Predictors for the Healing of Transmetatarsal Amputations: Retrospective Study of 91 Amputations
Authors: Blume Peter , Salonga Christine , Garbalosa Juan , Pierre-Paul Daphne , Key Jonathon , Gahtan Vivian , Sumpio Bauer E.
Published: August 2007

This retrospective study reviewed 80 consecutive patients (mean age 62 years; range 21–91 years) who underwent 91 transmetatarsal amputations (TMAs) between 1995 and 2003. The mean follow-up was 12 ± 1.36 months. Sixty-two TMAs healed initially (group 1), whereas 29 TMAs did not heal by 3 months (group 2). At the final examination, in groups 1 and 2, 63 of 91 (69%) limbs were healed. Of the 28 limbs that did not heal, 25 of 28 (89%) required further proximal amputation. Initial healing correlated significantly with the ability to ambulate ( p < .0001) and overall limb salvage ( p < .0001). In group 1, 20 of 27 (74%) limbs that were revascularized healed ( p = .0336). Nonhealing amputations were associated with end-stage renal disease (13 of 19; 68%) ( p = .0209) and leukocytosis (13 of 19; 68%) ( p = .0052).
Fault Tolerant Control Design For Polytopic LPV Systems
Authors: Rodrigues Mickael , Theilliol Didier , Aberkane Samir , Sauter Dominique
Published: August 2007

Fault Tolerant Control Design For Polytopic LPV Systems

This paper deals with a Fault Tolerant Control (FTC) strategy for polytopic Linear Parameter Varying (LPV) systems. The main contribution consists in the design of a Static Output Feedback (SOF) dedicated to such systems in the presence of multiple actuator faults/failures. The controllers are synthesized through Linear Matrix Inequalities (LMIs) in both fault-free and faulty cases in order to preserve the system closed-loop stability. Hence, this paper provides a new sufficient (but not necessary) condition for the solvability of the stabilizing output feedback control problem. An example illustrates the effectiveness and performances of the proposed FTC method.
Arthroscopic Treatment of Osteochondral Lesions of the Distal Tibia
Authors: Mologne Timothy S. , Ferkel Richard D.
Published: August 2007

Background: Osteochondral lesions of the tibia are much less frequent than those of the talus, and treatment guidelines have not been established. We hypothesized that arthroscopic treatment methods used for osteochondral lesion of the talus would also be effective for those of the distal tibia. Methods: A review of 880 consecutive ankle arthroscopies identified 23 patients (2.6%) with osteochondral lesions of the distal tibia. Four patients were excluded because of concomitant acute ankle fractures requiring open reduction and internal fixation and two were lost to followup, leaving 17 in the study. The mean age was 38 (19 to 71) years. Six (35%) had osteochondral lesions of the tibia and talus; 11 had isolated lesions of the distal tibia. Treatment included excision, curettage, and abrasion arthroplasty in all patients. Five patients had transmalleolar drilling of the lesion, two had microfracture, and two had iliac bone grafting. At last followup, patients were evaluated with a questionnaire, physical examination, and ankle radiographs. Results: Mean followup was 44 (24 to 99) months. Preoperatively, the median American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot score was 52; postoperatively, it was 87. Using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test to compare preoperative and postoperative scores, there was significant improvement in the ankle-hindfoot score postoperatively ( p < 0.001). Seven patients had excellent results, seven had good results, one had a fair result, and two had poor results. Conclusions: Osteochondral lesions of the distal tibia present a challenge to the orthopedic surgeon. Arthroscopic treatment by means of debridement, curettage, abrasion arthroplasty, and, in some patients, transmalleolar drilling, microfracture, or iliac crest bone grafting, resulted in excellent and good results in 14 of 17 patients at medium-term followup.
Calcaneonavicular Coalition Resection with Extensor Digitorum Brevis Interposition in Adults
Authors: Scott Aaron T. , Tuten H. Robert
Published: August 2007

Background: Traditionally, pediatric patients with symptomatic calcaneonavicular coalitions have been treated with resection of the coalition and interposition of the origin of the extensor digitorum brevis muscle. Despite the success of calcaneonavicular coalition resection in children, many surgeons are reluctant to perform this procedure in adults or in patients with osseous coalitions, and joint sacrificing arthrodesis often is done instead. Methods: Seven adult patients (eight feet) had calcaneonavicular coalition resection with extensor digitorum brevis interposition. The average patient age was 41 years, and all patients displayed isolated, symptomatic calcaneonavicular coalitions without any radiographic evidence of degenerative arthritis. At followup, physical and radiographic evaluations were performed, and an American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot score was recorded. Charts were reviewed for complications and patients were questioned with regards to their overall satisfaction with the surgery. Results: At a mean postoperative followup of 56.5 months, the average AOFAS score was 87. Review of most recent radiographs revealed no degenerative changes or recurrence of the coalition. All patients responded that they would have this surgery again and that they would recommend this procedure to a friend. Complications included one superficial infection and one dysesthesia involving the sural nerve. Conclusions: The results of the present study suggest that resection combined with muscular interposition can be successful in patients over the age of 18 in whom conservative management of their symptomatic coalitions has failed. This procedure offers an excellent alternative to arthrodesis and has a very low complication rate.
The Venous Pump of the First Metatarsophalangeal Joint: Clinical Implications
Authors: Elsner Andreas , Schiffer Gereon , Jubel Axel , Koebke Jürgen , Andermahr Prof. J.
Published: August 2007

Background: Although the anatomy and physiology of the venous circulation of the ankle and midfoot are well documented, the physiologic importance of forefoot mobility has not been reported in the literature. The question of this study was whether the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint may operate, like the ankle, as a “pump” to encourage venous return. Methods: Forty-nine cadaver foot specimens were examined using dissection, plastination, vessel infiltration, and maceration, and radiographic (including venography, MRI, and magnetic resonance angiography) techniques. The anatomy and physiology were described and compared to the ankle joint. Forty patients had biphasic Doppler flow studies. Results: The major finding was the medial drainage of the plantar venous sinus, which is fibrotically bound to the joint capsule. Functional venous valves were evident distally and within fibrous vascular lumens. Mobilization of the first MTP joint led to compression and emptying of the veins. Passive mobilization of the first MTP joint led to an average flow increase of 55% ± 7 ( p < 0.0001), while active movement led to an average increase of 78% ± 7 ( p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Our described connection between the joint capsule and veins indicates a “toe-ankle pump” with a significant increase of venous blood flow during motion of the MTP joint. Possible clinical applications for an external MTP pump include anti-edema or thromboprophylactic therapy, especially in patients with foot or ankle injuries. A new toe-pump has been designed based on these results.
Risk of Neurovascular Injuries in Flexor Hallucis Longus Tendon Transfers: An Anatomic Cadaver Study
Authors: Mulier Tom , Rummens Elise , Dereymaeker Greta
Published: August 2007

Background: Flexor hallucis longus (FHL) tendon transfer is a frequently used treatment for both posterior tibial tendon insufficiency and chronic Achilles tendinopathy. We observed difficulties in harvesting the FHL tendon that may arise from cross-attachments with the flexor digitorum longus (FDL) tendon near the knot of Henry. The posterior tibial nerve is located nearby the decussation of these tendons. This study examined whether the difficult harvesting may be the cause of nerve injury. Methods: A cadaver study was performed on 24 foot specimens. In all feet, we used a double-incision technique. The FHL tendon was transected in the distal medial midfoot incision and retracted through the posteromedial hindfoot incision. After harvesting the FHL tendon, we exposed the posterior tibial nerve and its lateral and medial plantar branches to identify if any lesion had occurred. Results: The retraction failed at the first attempt in all specimens because of the presence of cross-attachments between the FHL and FDL tendons. A more extensive dissection of the FHL and FDL tendons was therefore required. We found lesions in 33% of all foot specimens, including two complete ruptures of the medial plantar nerve. Conclusions: Harvesting of the FHL tendon when transection is made distal to the knot of Henry may cause injuries to the medial and lateral plantar nerves. Experience in this procedure may reduce the risk of nerve injuries but even then nerve lesions remain possible. The clinical significance of these nerve lesions is not described in literature and remains to be determined.
Hammer Toe Correction Using an Absorbable Intramedullary Pin
Authors: Konkel Kurt F. , Menger Andrea G. , Retzlaff Sharon Ann
Published: August 2007

Background: Fixed flexion deformity of the proximal interphalangeal joint with or without hyperextension of the metatarsophalangeal joint is one of the most common foot deformities. Many operative options have been recommended. Complaints after operative procedures include a too straight toe, floating toe, painful toe recurvatum, mallet toe, pin track infection, broken hardware, and the necessity of removing hardware. A proximal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis for hammertoe deformity using a 2-mm absorbable pin for internal fixation is described. Methods: The results of 48 toe arthrodeses in 35 patients were reviewed. Followup ranged from 16 to 58 (average 38.5) months. Results: The procedure is simple and safe for the correction of painful rigid hammertoe deformities. Patient satisfaction was high, complications were minimal, and followup required no pin management or removal. Conclusions: This procedure can be used for hammer toe deformities requiring surgery when the metatarsophalangeal joint is stable, the skin is not compromised, and the intramedullary canal of the proximal phalanx is 2.0 mm or less. It also has been useful in stabilizing hammertoe correction when there are severe pre-existing metal allergies.
Morphometric Dimensions of the Calcaneonavicular (Spring) Ligament
Authors: Patil Vishwas , Ebraheim Nabil A. , Frogameni Alexandra , Liu Jiayong
Published: August 2007

Background: The spring ligament complex (SLC) is a static support of the head of the talus and a major anatomical contributor to the integrity of the medial longitudinal arch, particularly if the dynamic support of the posterior tibial tendon is compromised. For this reason, we sought to further elucidate the anatomical components and dimensions of this ligamentous complex. Methods: Dissection was performed on 30 adult cadaver feet disarticulated at the ankle joint that were preserved by embalming technique. Results: The superomedial ligament (SML) averages 42.51 ± 3.93 mm and 33.44 ± 3.34 mm at the superomedial and inferolateral borders, respectively. The width at the level of sustentaculum tali and navicular tuberosity averaged 20.00 ± 2.35 mm and 10.26 ± 2.05 mm, respectively. The medioplantar oblique (MPO) ligament averaged 23.56 ± 2.15 mm and 21.20 ± 1.42 mm at the medial and the lateral borders, respectively. The widths at the navicular and calcaneal side were 2.71 ± 0.39 mm and 8.14 ± 0.56 mm, respectively. The inferoplantar longitudinal (IPL) ligament measured 4.26 ± 0.43 mm and 2.66 ± 0.42 mm at the medial and lateral borders, respectively. The width at the calcaneal and navicular insertions measured 5.21 ± 0.53 mm and 3.39 ± 0.39 mm, respectively. Conclusions: The distinction between the SML and MPO components of the spring ligament complex is difficult. This study tried to clarify the dimensions and configurations of these components of the SLC. Clinical relevance: This effort may aid surgeons who wish to repair this ligament with more precision.
Influence of Mold Temperature on the Internal Structure and Creep Variation in the Thickness Direction of sPS Injection Moldings
Authors: Banik K. , Mennig G.
Published: August 2007

In this work, an effort was made to study the effect of mold temperature variation on the creep behavior of syndiotatctic polystyrene (sPS) injection moldings. The resulting molecular orientation, crystallinity and molecular packing density in the moldings due to processing were characterized to understand the creep variation in the thickness direction. The moldings were sliced off in definite layers by milling from both the surfaces and the creep behavior was characterized. The results indicated that the development of internal structures and the resulting creep behavior is strongly interdependent with creep strain decreasing as the core of the molding is reached. A higher mold temperature generally freezes-in more crystalline regions and enhances the molecular packing density inside the part that affects the tendency to creep. The frozen-in molecular orientation on the other hand showed only a negligible effect.
Effects of Zinc Salts of Sulfonated Natural Rubber on Mechanical Properties, Morphology and Compatibility of Natural Rubber/Chlorosulfonated Polyethylene Blends
Authors: Lopattananon N. , Boonsong K. , Seadan M.
Published: August 2007

Rubbery ionomer based on zinc salt of sulfonated natural rubber (Zn-SNR) was employed as a new compatibilizer to prepare blends of natural rubber (NR) and chlorosulfonated polyethylene (CSM) with different compositions by melt mixing process. Epoxidized natural rubber (ENR), known as an effective compatibilizer for such blends, was also incorporated into the blends. The role of ionomer and ENR on NR/CSM blend properties and morphology was evaluated by mean of tensile measurement, oil resistance testing, DMTA and SEM. The tensile properties and oil resistance of the blends were found to increase with respect to CSM content, and increased further on compatibilization with Zn-SNR and ENR. The blends compatibilized with Zn-SNR showed a similar or higher level of improvement in tensile strength and elongation at break as compared to those of ENR. The tensile strength for all of the compatibilized blends was greater than that of corresponding neat blends by 23 to 113%. The mechanism for enhancing in tensile properties of the blends using the Zn-SNR compatibilizing agent has been proposed. The observation of DMTA and SEM showed that the blends were two-separated phase morphology. However, the addition of Zn-SNR to NR/CSM blends resulted in promoted compatibility as indicated by a shift in the tan peak of CSM to lower temperature, a reduction in dispersed phase size and better adhesion between NR and CSM. These results demonstrated that the Zn-SNR is a new reactive compatibilizer for NR and CSM blends.
Polymorphisms in folate and homocysteine metabolizing genes and chromosome damage in mothers of Down syndrome children
Authors: Coppedè Fabio , Colognato Renato , Bonelli Alessia , Astrea Guja , Bargagna Stefania , Siciliano Gabriele , Migliore Lucia
Published: August 2007

We recently observed an association between combinations of polymorphisms in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR 677C > T or 1298A > C) and reduced folate carrier (RFC‐1 80G > A) genes and the risk of a Down syndrome (DS) pregnancy in young Italian women. Others have observed an association between a methionine synthase (MTR 2756A > G) gene polymorphism and the risk of a DS offspring in Italy. Moreover, in a separate study, we observed an increased frequency of both binucleated micronucleated cells (BNMN) and chromosome malsegregation events in peripheral lymphocytes of mothers of DS individuals aged less than 35 years at conception (MDS) in respect to controls. The aim of the present study was to evaluate chromosome damage, measured by means of the micronucleus assay, in peripheral lymphocytes of a group of women (n = 34) who had a DS child in young age (<35 years) and in a control group (n = 35), and to correlate them with MTHFR 677C > T and 1298A > C, RFC‐1 80G > A and MTR 2756A > G polymorphisms. We observed an increased frequency of BNMN in the MDS group compared to the control group (17.13 ± 8.31‰ vs. 10.28 ± 4.53‰; P < 0.001), and, in the general population, a correlation between years of age and BNMN frequency (P = 0.05). A significant correlation between the frequency of BNMN and the MTHFR 677C > T polymorphism (P = 0.038) was also found. Present results indicate that MDS are more prone to chromosome damage than control mothers; moreover the contribution of folate and homocysteine metabolizing gene polymorphisms seems to have an effect on the baseline frequency of BNMN lymphocytes. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Diaphragmatic defects and limb deficiencies—Taking sides
Authors: Evans Jane A.
Published: August 2007

Diaphragmatic defects and limb deficiencies usually occur as independent anomalies, as a polytopic field defect (in which ipsilateral anomalies might be expected) or as wider pattern of defects, potentially involving disturbance of laterality or the midline (in which bilateral or contralateral defects would occur). Data on cases from previous studies and/or the literature were used to determine whether there is an association between the sides involved in the defects. The 88 adequately described cases identified included 20 with de Lange syndrome, seven with Poland anomaly, four with trisomy 18, 52 with other patterns of multiple malformations and five with diaphragmatic and limb defects alone. Evaluation of the position of the limb (left, right, bilateral) and the diaphragmatic defects (left, right, bilateral) did not show significant association in patterns of sidedness (P = 0.48). In 56% of cases, the limb deficiencies were bilateral. Among the 32 unilateral cases, 19 (59%) were ipsilateral (15 left; 4 right) and 13(41%) were contralateral (P = 0.38). Eleven of the 13 contralateral cases had left sided diaphragmatic defects and right sided limb deficiency; four had de Lange syndrome and nine had other patterns of multiple anomalies. Only cases with Poland anomaly or otherwise isolated defects showed a trend towards ipsilateral defects. Most cases with multiple congenital anomalies, had limbs defects on both the right and left (57%) or both sides of the diaphragm were affected (an additional 10%), indicating a widespread dysmorphogenetic process rather than a more restricted field defect. In other cases, defects were bilateral or, if unilateral, reflected the propensities for diaphragmatic defects to more often involve the left side, and limb defects, the right. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Demography, life history and migrations in a Mexican mantled howler group in a rainforest fragment
Authors: Arroyo‐Rodríguez Víctor , Asensio Norberto , Cristóbal‐Azkarate Jurgi
Published: August 2007

This paper represents the results of a long‐term study (1996–2003) on the demographic changes over time of a Mexican mantled howler (Alouatta palliata mexicana) group in a rainforest fragment (40 ha) in Los Tuxtlas, Mexico, with a follow‐up census 3 years later (2006). In addition to demographic and life history parameters, we describe six dispersal events. Our results suggest that this group has been expanding during the study period, growing from six to 12 individuals, with an annual average intrinsic growth rate of 0.07, an infant survivorship of 67%, and an average immature to female ratio of 0.90. This increase in size is probably related to the high food availability in their home range. However, fragment isolation may be negatively affecting the dispersal patterns typical of the species, which could result in a loss of genetic variability over time. Am. J. Primatol. 70:114–118, 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Neural regions essential for reading and spelling of words and pseudowords
Authors: Philipose Lisa E. , Gottesman Rebecca F. , Newhart Melissa , Kleinman Jonathan T. , Herskovits Edward H. , Pawlak Mikolaj A. , Marsh Elisabeth B. , Davis Cameron , Heidler‐Gary Jennifer , Hillis Argye E.
Published: August 2007

Objective

To identify dysfunctional brain regions critical for impaired reading/spelling of words/pseudowords by evaluating acute stroke patients on lexical tests and magnetic resonance imaging, before recovery or reorganization of structure–function relationships.

Methods

A series of 106 consenting patients were administered oral reading and spelling tests within 24 hours of left supratentorial stroke onset. Patients underwent diffusion‐ and perfusion‐weighted magnetic resonance examination the same day to identify regions of hypoperfusion/infarct of 16 Brodmann areas.

Results

Simultaneous logistic regression analysis demonstrated that dysfunction of left Brodmann areas 40 (supramarginal gyrus) and 37 (posterior‐inferior temporal/fusiform gyrus) best predicted impairment in reading words (odds ratio [OR], 6.20 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.54–24.96] and 2.71 [95% CI, 0.87–8.45], respectively), reading pseudowords (OR, 39.65 [95% CI 3.9–400.78] and 4.41 [95% CI, 1.1–17.51], respectively), spelling words (OR, 14.11 [95% CI 1.37–144.93] and 7.41 [95% CI, 1.48–37.24], respectively), and spelling pseudowords (OR, 4.84 [95% CI, 0.73–32.13] and 7.74 [95% CI, 1.56–38.51], respectively). Whole‐brain voxel‐wise analyses demonstrated voxel clusters within these regions that were most strongly associated with task deficits.

Interpretation

Results indicate that a shared network of regions including parts of left Brodmann areas 37 and 40 is necessary for reading and spelling of words and pseudowords. Further studies may define the precise roles of these brain regions in language. Identification of any neural regions specific to one of these tasks or one type of stimuli will require study of more patients with selective deficits. Ann Neurol 2007
Cotesia kariyai larvae need an anchor to emerge from the host Pseudaletia separata
Authors: Nakamatsu Y. , Tanaka T. , Harvey J.A.
Published: August 2007

Mature larvae of the gregarious endoparasitoid Cotesia kariyai construct cocoons for pupation approximately 10 days after parasitization and emerge from their host Pseudaletia separata under a long day photo‐regime (16L8D) at 25 ± 1°C. The parasitoid larvae make capsules in the host hemocoel just prior to their emergence. These capsules function as “anchors,” which enable them to press against the host integument from inside the host. It was predicted that this anchor might be composed of silk proteins secreted from the parasitoid larvae, because a previous study showed that the anchor was made up of a glycoprotein and that the silk gland of parasitoid larvae developed from 2nd larval stage. Fibroin‐like proteins in C. kariyai larva mainly consist of two proteins with molecular masses of the 300.6 and 46.7 kDa estimated by SDS‐PAGE. The fibroin‐like proteins with the same molecular mass were detected from the anchor proteins just prior to parasitoid emergence. These results indicate that the anchor was assembled with fibrion‐like proteins and was formed just before parasitoid emergence while in the host body cavity. Injection of bovine pancreatic trypsin inhibited the emergence of parasitoid larvae from the host because the anchor was decomposed by trypsin. Trypsin activity in the parasitized host hemolymph increased only after parasitoid emergence. Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 66:1–8, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The effects of boric acid‐induced oxidative stress on antioxidant enzymes and survivorship in Galleria mellonella
Authors: Hyršl Pavel , Büyükgüzel Ender , Büyükgüzel Kemal
Published: August 2007

Larvae of the wax moth, Galleria mellonella (L.), were reared from first instar on a diet supplemented with 156, 620, 1,250, or 2,500 ppm boric acid (BA). The content of malondialdehyde (MDA, an oxidative stress indicator), and activities of the antioxidant enzymes [superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione S‐transferase (GST), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx)] were determined in the fat body and hemolymph in the 7th instar larvae and newly emerged pupae. Relative to control larvae, MDA was significantly increased in larval hemolymph, larval and pupal fat body, but decreased in the pupal hemolymph. Insects reared on diets with 156‐ and 620‐ppm BA doses yielded increased SOD activity but 1,250‐ and 2,500‐ppm doses resulted in decreased SOD activity in larval hemolymph. SOD activity was significantly increased but CAT was decreased in the larval fat body. High dietary BA treatments led to significantly decreased GST activity. However, they increased GPx activity in larval hemolymph. Dietary BA also affected larval survival. The 1,250‐ and 2,500‐ppm concentrations led to significantly increased larval and pupal mortality and prolonged development. In contrast, the lowest BA concentration increased longevity and shortened development. We infer that BA toxicity is related, at least in part, to oxidative stress management. Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 66:23–31, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors for the treatment of Philadelphia chromosome‐positive adult acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Piccaluga Pier Paolo , Paolini Stefania , Martinelli Giovanni
Published: August 2007

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a heterogeneous disorder, with the greatest prevalence in children, but it also affects adults, and has an increasing incidence with age. Chromosomal abnormalities in ALL have been frequently described, the most common is the Philadelphia chromosome (Ph). The resulting fusion gene, BCR‐ABL1, encodes for a chimerical oncoprotein (BCR‐ABL) with constitutive tyrosine kinase activity, which leads to uncontrolled cell proliferation, reduced apoptosis, and impaired cell adhesion. Treating Philadelphia chromosome‐positive (Ph+) ALL patients with conventional chemotherapy has not substantially improved their long‐term outcomes. Recently, however, BCR‐ABL–targeted strategies have been successfully adopted. Imatinib is an oral competitive inhibitor of ABL with demonstrated phase 2 efficacy in patients with treatment‐naive and pretreated ALL. Despite its efficacy, imatinib may induce specific resistance in a large proportion of patients, mainly because of the occurrence of ABL1 mutations. Therefore, novel inhibitors have been developed. Dasatinib is a multitargeted kinase inhibitor of BCR‐ABL, SRC, C‐KIT, PDGFRs, and ephrin A receptor kinases. Unlike imatinib, it binds both the active and inactive BCR‐ABL as well as the majority of ABL mutants. Dasatinib is approved for treatment of imatinib‐pretreated Ph+ ALL, and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) on the basis of phase 2 trials that demonstrated impressive efficacy and favorable tolerability profiles. Nilotinib is another BCR‐ABL targeted agent that is similar in structure to imatinib but has significantly greater binding affinity. It also has demonstrated promising efficacy in Ph+ ALL but is still being evaluated in phase 2 trials. In this article, the authors reviewed current knowledge on novel tyrosine‐kinase inhibitors in adult Ph+ ALL patients. Cancer 2007. © 2007 American Cancer Society.
Therapy may unmask hypoplastic myelodysplastic syndrome that mimics aplastic anemia
Authors: Konoplev Sergej , Medeiros L. Jeffrey , Lennon Patrick A. , Prajapati Sapana , Kanungo Anuradha , Lin Pei
Published: August 2007

BACKGROUND.

Rarely, patients who present with pancytopenia and are diagnosed initially with aplastic anemia (AA) subsequently develop a myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). There has been controversy regarding whether the initial diagnosis of AA is correct or whether these patients have hypocellular MDS at the onset of pancytopenia.

METHODS.

The authors studied bone marrow (BM) specimens from patients who were diagnosed initially with AA and subsequently with MDS from a cohort of 128 consecutive patients who had AA during the period from 1993 to 2004. Cytogenetic and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analyses were performed to assess for monosomy 7 retrospectively in a subset of patients.

RESULTS.

Twelve patients were identified (age range, 26–79 years). At the time they were diagnosed with AA, there was no evidence of dysplasia, the median BM cellularity was 5% (range, from <1% to 15%), and all patients had a normal karyotype. Therapy for 11 patients included immunomodulating agents, which were accompanied by growth factors in 4 patients and 1 patient underwent BM transplantation. One patient received growth factors only. The median interval to the diagnosis of MDS was 9 months (range, 2–43 months). The median BM cellularity was 30% (range, 5–90%), and dysplastic changes were observed in all patients. Nine patients had an abnormal karyotype, and monosomy 7 was the most common abnormality (n = 5 patients). FISH detected monosomy 7 in 6 samples at the time MDS was diagnosed and in 2 samples at the time AA was diagnosed.

CONCLUSIONS.

The detection of monosomy 7 in specimens that were considered AA and the short time interval to a subsequent diagnosis of MDS suggests that these patients had hypoplastic MDS at the onset of pancytopenia. Therapy may allow the detection of MDS by enhancing cell growth. Cancer 2007. © 2007 American Cancer Society.
The derivatives of the Wnt3a lineage in the central nervous system
Authors: Louvi Angeliki , Yoshida Michio , Grove Elizabeth A.
Published: August 2007

The dorsal midline of the vertebrate neural tube is a source of signals that direct cell fate specification and proliferation. Using genetic fate mapping in the mouse and a previously generated Wnt3aCre line, we report here that genetically labeled cells of the Wnt3a lineage migrate widely from the dorsal midline into the dorsal half of the adult brain and spinal cord, contributing to diverse structures in the diencephalon, midbrain, and brainstem and extensively populating the rostral spinal cord. Conspicuously, many of these structures are linked in specific functional networks. Wnt3a lineage cells populate nuclei of the central auditory system from the medulla to thalamus, and the trigeminal sensory system from the cervical spinal cord to the midbrain. Our findings reveal the rich contributions of the Wnt3a lineage to a variety of brain structures and show that functionally integrated nuclei can share a molecular identity, provided by transient gene expression early in their development. J. Comp. Neurol. 504:550–569, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reproduction phase‐related variations in neuropeptide Y immunoreactivity in the olfactory system, forebrain, and pituitary of the female catfish, Clarias batrachus (Linn.)
Authors: Mazumdar Minakshi , Sakharkar Amul J. , Singru Praful S. , Subhedar Nishikant
Published: August 2007

The aim of this study was to determine whether neuropeptide Y (NPY) immunoreactivity in the cells and fibers in the forebrain and pituitary of Clarias batrachus is linked to the annual reproductive cycle. A steady rise in luteinizing hormone (LH) immunoreactivity was seen in the pituitary through preparatory (February–April) and prespawning (May–June) phases; it was greatly reduced during spawning (July–August; P < 0.001) and partially replenished during postspawning (September–November; P < 0.01) through resting (December–January) phases. Although NPY immunoreactivity in olfactory receptor neurons and olfactory nerve layer in olfactory bulb was gradually augmented during resting through prespawning phases (P < 0.001), attaining a peak in spawning phase (P < 0.001), a dramatic decline was encountered during postspawning phase (P < 0.001). A similar pattern was also observed in NPY‐containing fibers of the medial olfactory tract (MOT) and pituitary. However, a different pattern of NPY immunoreactivity was observed in the neurons of nucleus entopeduncularis (NE) and nucleus preopticus periventricularis (NPP). Whereas these neurons and fibers in the forebrain showed significant augmentation during the resting through prespawning phases (P < 0.001), the immunoreactivity dramatically declined during spawning (P < 0.001) and was partially replenished in the postspawning phase. Testosterone injection of juveniles significantly augmented (P < 0.001) NPY immunoreactivity in NE neurons. We suggest that NPY cells of NE and NPP, and related fiber systems, might be involved in processing of sex steroid‐borne information and regulation of the gonadotropin‐releasing hormone‐LH axis. J. Comp. Neurol. 504:450–469, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The foraging gene of Drosophila melanogaster: Spatial‐expression analysis and sucrose responsiveness
Authors: Belay A.T. , Scheiner R. , So A.K.‐C. , Douglas S.J. , Chakaborty‐Chatterjee M. , Levine J.D. , Sokolowski M.B.
Published: August 2007

The ability to identify and respond to food is essential for survival, yet little is known about the neural substrates that regulate natural variation in food‐related traits. The foraging (for) gene in Drosophila melanogaster encodes a cGMP‐dependent protein kinase (PKG) and has been shown to function in food‐related traits. To investigate the tissue distribution of FOR protein, we generated an antibody against a common region of the FOR isoforms. In the adult brain we localized FOR to neuronal clusters and projections including neurons that project to the central complex, a cluster within the dorsoposterior region of the brain hemispheres, a separate cluster medial to optic lobes and lateral to brain hemispheres, a broadly distributed frontal‐brain cluster, axon bundles of the antennal nerve and of certain subesophageal‐ganglion nerves, and the medulla optic lobe. These newly described tissue distribution patterns of FOR protein provide candidate neural clusters and brain regions for investigation of neural networks that govern foraging‐related traits. To determine whether FOR has a behavioral function in neurons we expressed UAS‐for in neurons using an elav‐gal4 driver and measured the effect on adult sucrose responsiveness (SR), known to be higher in rovers than sitters, the two natural variants of foraging. We found that pan‐neuronal expression of for caused an increase in the SR of sitters, demonstrating a neural function for PKG in this food‐related behavior. J. Comp. Neurol. 504:570–582, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Redefining epithelial progenitor potential in the developing thymus
Authors: Rossi Simona W. , Chidgey Ann P. , Parnell Sonia M. , Jenkinson William E. , Scott Hamish S. , Boyd Richard L. , Jenkinson Eric J. , Anderson Graham
Published: August 2007

Cortical and medullary epithelium represent specialised cell types that play key roles in thymocyte development, including positive and negative selection of the T cell repertoire. While recent evidence shows that these epithelial lineages share a common embryonic origin, the phenotype and possible persistence of such progenitor cells in the thymus at later stages of development remain controversial. Through use of a panel of reagents including the putative progenitor marker Mts24, we set out to redefine the stages in the development of thymic epithelium. In the early embryonic day (E)12 thymus anlagen we find that almost all epithelial cells are uniformly positive for Mts24 expression. In addition, while the thymus at later stages of development was found to contain distinct Mts24+ and Mts24– epithelial subsets, thymus grafting experiments show that both Mts24+ and Mts24– epithelial subsets share the ability to form organised cortical and medullary thymic microenvironments that support T cell development, a function shown previously to be lost in the Mts24– cells by E15 when lower cell doses were used. Our data help to clarify stages in thymic epithelial development and provide important information in relation to currently used markers of epithelial progenitors.

See accompanying commentary: http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/eji.200737709
The chemokine receptor CCR6 is an important component of the innate immune response
Authors: Wen Haitao , Hogaboam Cory M. , Lukacs Nicholas W. , Cook Donald N. , Lira Sergio A. , Kunkel Steven L.
Published: August 2007

In our initial studies we found that naïve CCR6‐deficient (CCR6–/–) C57BL/6 mice possessed significantly lower number of both F4/80+ macrophages and dendritic cells (DC), but higher number of B cells in the peritoneal cavity, as compared to naïve wild type (WT) controls. Furthermore, peritoneal macrophages isolated from CCR6–/– mice expressed significantly lower levels of inflammatory cytokines and nitric oxide following lipopolysaccharide (LPS)stimulation, as compared to WT macrophages. In a severe experimental peritonitis model induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), CCR6–/– mice were protected when compared with WT controls. At 24 h following the induction of peritonitis, CCR6–/– mice exhibited significantly lower levels of inflammatory cytokines/chemokines in both the peritoneal cavity and blood. Interestingly, DC recruitment into the peritoneal cavity was impaired in CCR6–/– mice during the evolution of CLP‐induced peritonitis. Peritoneal macrophages isolated from surviving CCR6–/– mice 3 days after CLP‐induced peritonitis exhibited an enhanced LPS response compared with similarly treated WT peritoneal macrophages. These data illustrate that CCR6 deficiency alters the innate response via attenuating the hyperactive local and systemic inflammatory response during CLP‐induced peritonitis.
Direct and indirect methods to simulate the actual evapotranspiration of an irrigated overhead table grape vineyard under Mediterranean conditions
Authors: Rana Gianfranco , Katerji Nader
Published: August 2007

Two methods, indirect and direct, for simulating the actual evapotranspiration (E) were applied to an irrigated overhead table grape vineyard during summer, situated in the Mediterranean region (south Italy), over two successive years. The first method, indirect but more practical, uses the crop coefficient (Kc) approach and requires determination of the reference evapotranspiration E0 (FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) method). This method underestimated on average by 17% the daily values of the actual evapotranspiration E. The analysis in this paper shows that the values of Kc for the table grapes determined by the FAO method seem to not be valid in our experimental conditions. Similar conclusions can be found in the literature for the table grape cultivated under different experimental conditions and using different training systems. The second method, is a direct method for estimating the evapotranspiration. It requires development of a model for the overhead table grape vineyard E, following the Penman–Monteith one‐step approach, and using standard meteorological variables as inputs for the determination of the canopy resistance. This method, which needs a particularly simple calibration, provided a better simulation of the hourly and daily evapotranspiration than the indirect method. In additon, the standard error of the daily values for the direct method ( ± 0 · 41 mm) was about 50% lower than that obtained for the indirect method, also when the indirect method used a locally calibrated coefficient Kc instead of a generic Kc. Both, for practical application and theoretical issues, the advantages and disadvantages linked to the use of each tested method are discussed in detail. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In vitro and in vivo study to the biocompatibility and biodegradation of hydroxyapatite/poly(vinyl alcohol)/gelatin composite
Authors: Wang Mingbo , Li Yubao , Wu Jiaqi , Xu Fenglan , Zuo Yi , Jansen J.A.
Published: August 2007

A novel porous composite material composed of hydroxyapatite, poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), and gelatin (Gel) was fabricated by emulsification. Scanning electron microscopy showed that the material had a well‐interconnected porous structure including many macropores (100–500 μm) and micropores (less than 20 μm) on their walls. The composite had a porosity of 78% and showed high water absorption up to 312.7% indicating a good water‐swellable behavior that is a characteristic of hydrogel materials. When immersed in water, the scaffold's weight continuously decreased. After immersion in simulated body fluid, the weight continuously increased because Ca2+ and PO ions deposited on the surface and the internal surfaces of the material pores. The deposit was proved to be carbonated hydroxyapatite by thin‐film X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and energy dispersive X‐ray analysis. The composite was detected to be non‐cytotoxicity by MTT assay. The HA/PVA/Gel material was also implanted subcutaneously in the dorsal region of adult female rats. After 12 weeks of implantation, the porous material adhered tightly with the surrounding tissue, and the ingrowth of fibrous tissue as well as the material's partial degradation was observed, which partly indicated that the composite was biocompatible in vivo. In conclusion, the porous HA/PVA/Gel composite is a promising scaffold for cartilage tissue engineering with more studies. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2008