bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Noninvasive cortical stimulation with transcranial direct current stimulation in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Fregni Felipe , Boggio Paulo S. , Santos Marcelo C. , Lima Moises , Vieira Adriana L. , Rigonatti Sergio P. , Silva M. Teresa A. , Barbosa Egberto R. , Nitsche Michael A. , Pascual‐Leone Alvaro
Published: June 2006

Electrical stimulation of deep brain structures, such as globus pallidus and subthalamic nucleus, is widely accepted as a therapeutic tool for patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). Cortical stimulation either with epidural implanted electrodes or repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation can be associated with motor function enhancement in PD. We aimed to study the effects of another noninvasive technique of cortical brain stimulation, transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), on motor function and motor‐evoked potential (MEP) characteristics of PD patients. We tested tDCS using different electrode montages [anodal stimulation of primary motor cortex (M1), cathodal stimulation of M1, anodal stimulation of dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), and sham‐stimulation] and evaluated the effects on motor function—as indexed by Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), simple reaction time (sRT) and Purdue Pegboard test—and on corticospinal motor excitability (MEP characteristics). All experiments were performed in a double‐blinded manner. Anodal stimulation of M1 was associated with a significant improvement of motor function compared to sham‐stimulation in the UPDRS (P < 0.001) and sRT (P = 0.019). This effect was not observed for cathodal stimulation of M1 or anodal stimulation of DLPFC. Furthermore, whereas anodal stimulation of M1 significantly increased MEP amplitude and area, cathodal stimulation of M1 significantly decreased them. There was a trend toward a significant correlation between motor function improvement after M1 anodal–tDCS and MEP area increase. These results confirm and extend the notion that cortical brain stimulation might improve motor function in patients with PD. © 2006 Movement Disorder Society
Mutation analysis of the GNE gene in distal myopathy with rimmed vacuoles (DMRV) patients in Thailand
Authors: Liewluck Teerin , Pho‐Iam Theeraphong , Limwongse Chanin , Thongnoppakhun Wanna , Boonyapisit Kanokwan , Raksadawan Natte , Murayama Kumiko , Hayashi Yukiko K. , Nishino Ichizo , Sangruchi Tumtip
Published: June 2006

Distal myopathy with rimmed vacuoles (DMRV) is an early‐adult‐onset, distal myopathy caused by a mutation of the UDP‐N‐acetylglucosamine 2 epimerase/N‐acetylmannosamine kinase (GNE) gene. We herein report four Thai patients with DMRV who carried compound heterozygous mutations of the GNE gene including three novel (p.G89R, p.P511T, and p.I656N) and two known mutations (p.A524V and p.V696M). All patients shared p.V696M in one allele. Our study demonstrates the mutation spectrum of the GNE gene in Thai patients with DMRV. Muscle Nerve, 2006
CK‐MM autoantibodies: Prevalence, immune complexes, and effect on CK clearance
Authors: Warren Gordon L. , O'Farrell Laura , Rogers Karen R. , Billings Kelly M. , Sayers Stephen P. , Clarkson Priscilla M.
Published: June 2006

Although the blood level of creatine kinase (CK) is the most commonly used marker of muscle injury, there is marked interindividual variability in this measure. Part of this variability may be attributed to variability in the rate of CK clearance from the circulation. In this study, we assessed the possibility that CK‐MM autoantibodies form immune complexes with CK following muscle injury and subsequently affect the CK clearance rate. Using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, CK‐MM autoantibodies were detected in all 25 human subjects studied but the levels varied greatly. Using protein A‐sepharose, the percentage of the plasma CK activity found in immune complexes was determined to be correlated with the CK‐MM autoantibody level at lower CK levels (<1,022 U/L). When CK‐MM antibodies were administered to mice, plasma CK activity following a bolus CK injection was reduced by 11%–32%. We conclude that CK‐MM autoantibodies can modulate the rate of CK clearance from the circulation. Thus, the relatively low blood CK levels seen in some individuals following injury may be attributed partly or entirely to an autoantibody‐enhanced clearance of CK. Muscle Nerve, 2006
Differences of the ipsilateral silent period in small hand muscles
Authors: Jung Patrick , Ziemann Ulf
Published: June 2006

The ipsilateral silent period (iSP) is thought to depend on activity transmitted by the corpus callosum but ipsilateral corticospinal pathways may also contribute. Because the presence of ipsilateral corticospinal pathways differs between small hand muscles, we compared the iSP in the first dorsal interosseous (FDI) and abductor pollicis brevis (APB) muscles. The iSP was elicited in 20 healthy subjects by focal transcranial magnetic stimulation of one primary motor cortex during maximal voluntary contraction of the ipsilateral target muscle. The iSP duration was significantly longer in the FDI than APB because of an irregularly occurring second phase of inhibition in the FDI that was absent in the APB. Although the first phase of inhibition is transmitted by the corpus callosum, we provide evidence that the second phase is mediated through ipsilateral corticospinal pathways. Therefore, for specific assessment of callosal conduction, the iSP should be measured in the APB rather than FDI. Muscle Nerve, 2006
Exercise intolerance associated with a novel 8300t>C mutation in mitochondrial transfer RNAlys
Authors: Gambello Michael J. , Bai Ren‐Kui , Chen Tian‐Jian , Dimachkie Mazen , Wong Lee‐Jun C.
Published: June 2006

Mutations in the mitochondrial genome contribute to the pathophysiology of many neuromuscular diseases. Recently there has been an increased appreciation of the role of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations in the etiology of exercise intolerance. Using TTGE (temporal temperature‐gradient gel electrophoresis) and sequence analyses of the entire mitochondrial genome, we identified a novel heteroplasmic mutation (8300T>C) in the tRNAlys gene (MTTK) from a patient with unexplained exercise intolerance. The mutation was present in blood, hair, and muscle, with the highest percentage of heteroplasmy found in muscle. The results of muscle respiratory chain enzyme analysis are consistent with tRNA mutation. These data suggest that this novel mutation is yet another mtDNA mutation associated with muscle disease and should be considered in patients with similar symptoms. Muscle Nerve, 2006
What is the origin of the premotor potential recorded from the second lumbrical?
Authors: Takahashi Nobushige , Takahashi Osamu , Ogawa Shinji , Takahashi Morimasa
Published: June 2006

When recording with a palm electrode, a premotor potential (PMP) precedes the compound muscle action potential that is evoked from the second lumbrical muscle following median nerve stimulation. The origin of this PMP has been uncertain. We demonstrate that median sensory nerve action potentials (SNAPs) can be recorded orthodromically with the palm electrode and conclude that the origin of the PMP is a median SNAP arising from antidromically activated digital sensory branches. Muscle Nerve, 2006
Prenylated stilbenes from peanut root mucilage
Authors: Sobolev Victor S. , Potter Thomas L. , Horn Bruce W.
Published: June 2006

Seven prenylated stilbenes were identified by combined HPLC‐PAD‐APCI/MSn analysis of an extract of mucilage isolated from peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) root tips. The principal constituent was assigned the structure 4‐(3‐methyl‐but‐1‐enyl)‐3, 5‐dimethoxy‐4¢‐hydroxy‐trans‐stilbene. The common name mucilagin A is proposed for this novel compound. Its concentration in the mucilage was estimated at 250 σg/g (wet weight basis). The large body of literature on the anti‐microbial properties of plant‐derived stilbenes suggests that compounds detected in peanut mucilage may play a role in regulating root–soil pathogen interactions. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Repeated measurement of pregnancy‐associated plasma protein‐A (PAPP‐A) in Down syndrome screening: A validation study
Authors: Palomaki Glenn E. , Wright David E. , Summers Anne M. , Neveux Louis M. , Meier Christian , O'Donnell Andrea , Huang Tianhua , Knight George J. , Haddow James E.
Published: June 2006

Objectives

To confirm that measuring pregnancy‐associated plasma protein‐A (PAPP‐A) in both first‐ and second‐trimester serum samples improves Down syndrome screening.

Methods

We selected paired first‐ and second‐trimester stored serum samples from 34 Down syndrome pregnancies (cases) and 514 unaffected pregnancies (controls) and tested the second‐trimester samples for PAPP‐A and dimeric inhibin‐A (DIA). First‐trimester PAPP‐A measurements were already available, as were second‐trimester measurements of alpha‐fetoprotein, unconjugated estriol (uE3), and human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG).

Results

PAPP‐A was lower among cases than controls (0.47 MoM) in the first trimester (at an average of 12.5 weeks); in the second trimester, it was not different (0.91 MoM). Using repeated measures of PAPP‐A alone, 21 of 34 cases were detected (62%, 95%CI 44% to 78%) with 5% false positives. At an observed 2% false‐positive rate, the detection rates (DR) for the quadruple (69%) and serum integrated (69%) tests were lower than for the repeated measures test (75%). Modelled performance at 12 weeks was similar to these observed findings (70, 75, and 82%, respectively). If the first‐trimester samples were collected at 10 weeks, however, DR would be higher (70, 81, and 91%, respectively).

Conclusions

Adding a repeated measure of PAPP‐A to existing serum markers improves Down syndrome screening to levels that are currently obtainable only by including ultrasound measurement of nuchal translucency (NT). Serum‐based screening has the advantages of higher availability and reliability at a lower cost, resulting in a more effective screening strategy. A serum‐based repeated measures test has a place in routine Down syndrome screening. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Amniotic trisomy 11 mosaicism—is it a benign finding?
Authors: Basel‐Vanagaite Lina , Davidov Bella , Friedman Jane , Yeshaya Yosefa , Magal Nurit , Drasinover Valerie , Shohat Mordechai
Published: June 2006

Objectives

A case of prenatally diagnosed trisomy 11 mosaicism with a normal outcome is reported and the medical literature on prenatal detection of this finding is reviewed.

Methods

Proportion of cells with trisomy 11 was evaluated in amniocytes, fetal blood lymphocytes, newborn fibroblasts and urinary epithelial cells. Karyotype studies and fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis using the 11q13LS1 CCND1 probe were performed.

Results

Trisomy 11 level III mosaicism of 26% was detected in amniotic fluid cells. Periumbilical blood sampling showed a normal fetal karyotype. No fetal structural abnormalities were noted on ultrasound scan. The infant was spontaneously delivered and had normal physical findings at birth. No evidence of trisomic cells was found on extensive postnatal evaluation, implying an extraembryonic origin. Molecular analysis excluded uniparental disomy of chromosome 11. At 1 year of age, the baby is developing normally.

Conclusions

Only three reports on trisomy 11 mosaicism identified at amniocentesis have been published previously, all with a normal outcome. Additional cases of prenatally diagnosed mosaicism for trisomy 11 are necessary to assess more accurately the clinical significance of this finding. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Calreticulin induces delayed cardioprotection through mitogen‐activated protein kinases
Authors: Liu Xiuhua , Xu Feifei , Fu Yan , Liu Fengying , Sun Sheng , Wu Xudong
Published: June 2006

Hypoxic preconditioning (HPC) attenuates tissue injury caused by ischemia/reperfusion. The protective mechanisms of HPC involve up‐regulation of the protective proteins and mitigation of cellular calcium overload. Calreticulin (CRT), a Ca2+‐binding chaperone, plays an important role in regulating calcium homeostasis and folding of proteins. The role of CRT in cardioprotection of HPC and the pathways determining CRT expression during HPC are not clear. In this work, 2‐DE and MALDI‐MS were employed to analyze CRT differential expression in cardiomyocytes subjected to transient hypoxia. Western blotting analysis was used to detect the CRT expression and activities of p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) and c‐Jun NH2‐terminal kinase (JNK) in myocardium subjected to ischemia with and without HPC and sham operation. The hearts from HPC group were more resistant to sustained ischemia and had much stronger phosphorylation of p38 MAPK, with a reduced phosphorylation of JNK, than controls. The CRT expression was positively correlated with the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK and negatively correlated with the level of JNK phosphorylation. Furthermore, inhibition of the p38 MAPK with SB202190 abolished, while inhibition of the JNK with SP600125 enhanced the CRT up‐regulation in cardiomyocytes induced by HPC. The results indicate that HPC up‐regulates CRT expression through the MAPK signaling pathways.
Scaling analysis of cotton cellulose/LiCl·DMAc solution using light scattering and rheological measurements
Authors: Aono Hajime , Tatsumi Daisuke , Matsumoto Takayoshi
Published: June 2006

Semidilute solution of cotton lint (CC1) in 8 wt % LiCl/N,N‐dimethylacetamide was investigated using static light scattering (SLS) and rheological measurements. The reduced osmotic modulus estimated by SLS measurements for CC1 solutions are proportional to c1.16 in the semidilute region. From the exponent of 1.16, de Gennes' scaling theory derives the relationship between radius of gyration, Rg, and molecular weight, Mw, of CC1 as Rg ∝ M0.62 This corresponds to the Mark‐Houwink‐Sakurada exponent of 0.86. This exponent is very close to that estimated from scaling analysis of zero shear rate viscosity, that is 0.85. Apparent radius of gyration, Rg,app, estimated by SLS measurements for CC1 solutions are proportional to c−0.5 in the semidilute region. Rg,app indicates the mesh size of polymer entanglement in the semidilute region. On the assumption of the Gaussian behavior of CC1 molecule in the semidilute region, the exponent of −0.5 gives the relationship between the molar mass between entanglements, Me, and c as following relationship: Me ∝ c−1. This agrees with the concentration dependence on plateau modulus estimated from the dynamic viscoelastic measurements. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 44: 2155–2160, 2006
Venting of a runaway organic peroxide decomposition in viscous solvents on pilot scale
Authors: Snee T.J. , Cuscó L. , Hare J.A. , Kerr D.C. , Royle M.
Published: June 2006

Runaway reactions continue to occur in polymerization reactors, which are widely used in the chemical industry. Those of greatest concern include highly viscous multiphase mixtures. Considerable uncertainties exist in the design of emergency pressure‐relief systems for such reactors because there are only limited experimental data available on the flow of such fluids in relief systems.

Venting experiments are reported here that have been carried out in a 350 L pilot‐scale reactor for the runaway decomposition of an organic peroxide in xylene solvent, with batch volumes of 150 and 200 L and with a range of concentrations of polystyrene dissolved in the xylene to modify the viscosity. Measurements were made of pressures in the reactor, vent line, and catch tank; temperatures at different levels in the reactor and in the vent line and catch tank; viscosity in the reactor; mass in the catch tank; and two‐phase density in the vent line.

Analysis of the results shows that the venting behavior of a high‐viscosity reaction system is complex. There is no simple relationship between maximum pressure and viscosity. The results indicate that the flow regime in the reactor is influenced by the fluid viscosity and that this is of primary importance in explaining the effects on maximum pressure. © Crown Copyright 2006. Published with the permission of the Controller of HMSO and the Queen's printer for Scotland. Process Saf Prog, 2006
Phonon drag induced by Einstein mode in ZrB12
Authors: Glushkov V. , Ignatov M. , Demishev S. , Filippov V. , Flachbart K. , Ishchenko T. , Kuznetsov A. , Samarin N. , Shitsevalova N. , Sluchanko N.
Published: June 2006

We report on the first measurements of the Seebeck effect for single crystals of superconductor ZrB12 (T c ≈ 6.1 K) at temperatures 2.5–300 K in magnetic fields H 0 < 1 kOe. The experimental data evidently prove that the Seebeck coefficient S (T ) at T > 20 K is controlled by the electron coupling to a soft phonon Einstein mode having the characteristic energy Θ E = ħω E/k B ≈ 216 K. The origin of the S (T ) anomalies detected in the temperature interval T < 11 K is discussed in terms of the electron DOS renormalization and the superconductivity in ZrB12. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Detection of reactive free radicals derived from nucleosides by liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry of DMPO spin trapping adducts
Authors: Maurel Vincent , Ravanat Jean‐Luc , Gambarelli Serge
Published: June 2006

In this study, reactive free radicals derived from several nucleosides were spin trapped by 5,5‐dimethyl‐1‐pyrroline N‐oxide (DMPO) and then detected by high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC/ESI‐MS/MS). This method provides a specific detection of spin trapping adducts derived from nucleosides with a very high sensitivity: quantities as low as 0.5 picomoles of spin trapping adducts corresponding to concentrations of 2.5 10−8 mol . L−1 were detected. Different spin trapping adducts were characterized by HPLC/ESI‐MS/MS in three well‐known systems producing free radicals photochemically: the photolysis of 5‐halo‐2′‐deoxyuridines, the photolysis of 5‐thiophenylmethyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine and the photolysis of thymidine with menadione bisulfite as a photosensitizer. A new radical photoreactivity of uridine derivatives was also detected by this method both at the nucleoside and at the RNA level, showing that the method is also relevant for studying spin trapping adducts derived from DNA and RNA strands. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simultaneous quantification of chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid in rat plasma after an intravenous administration of mailuoning injection using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry
Authors: Wang Su Jun , Zhang Zhen Qing , Zhao Yan Hong , Ruan Jin Xiu , Li Jing Lai
Published: June 2006

A simple, rapid and sensitive method was developed for the simultaneous quantification of chlorogenic acid (CGA) and caffeic acid (CA) in rat plasma using a high‐performance liquid chromatography system coupled to a negative ion electrospray mass spectrometric analysis. The plasma sample preparation was a simple deproteinization by the addition of two volumes of acetonitrile followed by centrifugation. The analytes and internal standard ferulic acid were separated on an Intersil C8‐3 column (5 mm; 250 × 2.1 mm) with acetonitrile/0.05% triethylamine solution (70:30, v/v) as mobile phase at a flow rate of 0.2 mL/min with an operating temperature of 30°C. Detection was performed on a quadrupole mass spectrometer equipped with an electrospray ionization (ESI) source operated in selected ion monitoring (SIM) mode. Negative ion ESI was used to form deprotonated molecules at m/z 353 for chlorogenic acid, m/z 179 for caffeic acid, and m/z 193 for the internal standard ferulic acid. Linear detection responses were obtained for CGA concentrations ranging from 0.005 to 2.0 µg/mL and for CA concentrations ranging from 0.010 to 2.0 µg/mL and the lower limits of quantitation (LLOQs) for CGA and CA were 0.005 and 0.01 µg/mL, respectively. The intra‐ and inter‐day precisions (RSD%) were within 9.0% for both analytes. Deviation of the assay accuracies was within ±10.0% for both analytes. Their average recoveries were greater than 88.0%. Both analytes were proved to be stable during all sample storage, preparation and analytic procedures. The method was successfully applied to the pharmacokinetic study of CGA and CA following an intravenous dose of 5 mL/kg mailuoning injection to rats. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impact of modelling intra‐subject variability on tests based on non‐linear mixed‐effects models in cross‐over pharmacokinetic trials with application to the interaction of tenofovir on atazanavir in HIV patients
Authors: Panhard Xavière , Taburet Anne‐Marie , Piketti Christophe , Mentré France
Published: June 2006

We evaluated the impact of modelling intra‐subject variability on the likelihood ratio test (LRT) and the Wald test based on non‐linear mixed effects models in pharmacokinetic interaction and bioequivalence cross‐over trials. These tests were previously found to achieve a good power but an inflated type I error when intra‐subject variability was not taken into account. Trials were simulated under H0 and several H1 and analysed with the NLME function. Different configurations of the number of subjects n and of the number of samples per subject J were evaluated for pharmacokinetic interaction and bioequivalence trials. Assuming intra‐subject variability in the model dramatically improved the type I error of both interaction tests. For the Wald test, the type I error decreased from 22, 14 and 7.7 per cent for the original (n = 12, J = 10), intermediate (n = 24, J = 5) and sparse (n = 40, J = 3) designs, respectively, down to 7.5, 6.4 and 3.5 per cent when intra‐subject variability was modelled. The LRT achieved very similar results. This improvement seemed mostly due to a better estimation of the standard error of the treatment effect. For J = 10, the type I error was found to be closer to 5 per cent when n increased when modelling intra‐subject variability. Power was satisfactory for both tests. For bioequivalence trials, the type I error of the Wald test was 6.4, 5.7 and 4.2 per cent for the original, intermediate and sparse designs, respectively, when modelling intra‐subject variability. We applied the Wald test to the pharmacokinetic interaction of tenofovir on atazanavir, a novel protease inhibitor. A significant decrease of the area under the curve of atazanavir was found when patients received tenofovir. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Long𝒞ri𝒮𝒫: a test for bump hunting in longitudinal data
Authors: Harezlak Jaroslaw , Naumova Elena , Laird Nan M.
Published: June 2006

We propose an extension of the Harezlak and Heckman (J. Comput. Graph. Statist.2001;10(4): 713–729) test for detecting local extrema to the longitudinal data setting. We use penalized spline regression techniques (Statist. Sci.1996;11:89–102) to provide a computationally efficient method of testing for relatively large data sets. We estimate thep‐values of our test, Long𝒞ri𝒮𝒫, with a smoothed bootstrap. Our simulation studies indicate that the test is generally conservative and has power exceeding 70 per cent at the α=0.1 nominal level in most considered settings. Finally, we apply our testing procedure to the longitudinal measurements of body mass index of former prisoners of war in Vietnam and conclude that the mean population curve exhibits non‐monotone behaviour. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Die Wupper‐Talbrücke Oehde – eine moderne Verbundbrücke
Authors: Hamme Markus , Marzahn Gero , Prehn Wolfgang , Swadlo Jutta
Published: June 2006

Die Bundesautobahn A 1 ist eine der wichtigsten Nord‐Süd‐Verbindungen in Deutschland. Der Streckenabschnitt in Nordrhein‐Westfalen verbindet den Großraum Köln mit dem östlichen Ruhrgebiet und gehört damit zu den meistbefahrenen Streckenabschnitten. Wegen des hohen Verkehrsaufkommens ist die vorhandene vierstreifige Verkehrsführung nicht mehr ausreichend leistungsfähig, so daß die Erweiterung auf sechs Fahrstreifen als Teil des Gesamtkonzepts des sechsstreifigen Autobahnausbaus mit den Autobahnen A 1, A 2 und A 3 um das Ruhrgebiet herum erfolgt. Dadurch, daß die A 1 im Raum Wuppertal durch das Bergische Land mit seiner hügeligen Topografie geführt wird, müssen insgesamt sechs Talbrücken mit Längen zwischen 240 und 420 m erweitert werden oder neu entstehen. Die Wupper‐Talbrücke Oehde ist dabei ein bedeutendes Ingenieurbauwerk in diesem Streckenabschnitt. Als moderne Verbundkonstruktion ist sie ein ausgezeichnetes Beispiel für die guten Einsatzmöglichkeiten der Verbundbauweise im Brückenbau. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Geh‐ und Radwegüberführung mit ungewöhnlicher Lage bei Hornberg – Entwurf und Ausführung –
Authors: Hornecker Gustav
Published: June 2006

In topographisch schwierigem Umfeld wurde vom Regierungspräsidium Freiburg bei Hornberg im Schwarzwald eine behindertengerechte Geh‐ und Radwegverbindung über die Gutach realisiert. Die ungewöhnliche, symmetrische Brückenlösung besteht aus einer im Grundriß gekrümmten, mittels gespreiztem Pylon abgespannten Stahlverbundkonstruktion. Die Gestaltung, insbesondere die Krümmung im Grundriß, entwickelt sich aus der vorgebenden örtlichen Situation. Bei dem über dem Bach gespreizten Pylon wurde die Form der Krümmung als Stilelement übernommen.

Im folgenden Aufsatz wird auf Fragen der Entwurfsentstehung, der Gründungsproblematik, der Konstruktion und Statik des Tragwerks und auf Fragen der Herstellung eingegangen. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Zum Einfluß der Interaktion von Biegemoment und Querkraft auf das Tragverhalten von Wellstegträgern
Authors: Kuchta Krzysztof
Published: June 2006

Dargestellt werden Ergebnisse Versuchsergebnisse und numerische Simulationen, die den Versagensmechanismus von Wellstegträgern unter dem Einfluß der Interaktion von Biegemoment und Querkraft beschreiben. Vorgeschlagen werden einfache Formeln zur Berücksichtigung dieser Versagensformen bei Bestimmung des Tragverhaltens von Wellstegträgern. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Isolation and Partial Characterisation of Native Starches of new Banana and Plantain Hybrids (Musa spp.) in Comparison with that of Plantain Variety Orishele
Authors: Coulibaly Souleymane , Nemlin Jean Gnopo , Amani Georges N'Guessan
Published: June 2006

Native starches were extracted from four new banana hybrids (CRBP 14, CRBP 39, FHIA 17 and FHIA 21) and from Orishele, a plantain variety (Musa spp) used as control. Purity (determined by the polarimetric method), iodine complex absorption spectrum (conducted according to Garcia and Lajolo), size and shape of granules (determined with a scanning electron microscope and an optical microscope equipped with a micrometer), swelling power and solubilization patterns (determined according to Leach et al.) were the characteristics under study. For the four banana hybrids, starch purities range from 96.55 to 97.83%, whereas it stands at a medium value in the case of the control (Orishele variety). The absorption maxima of the starch‐iodine complexes for the five cultivars occurred between 620 and 630 nm, with absorption averages ranging between 1.11 and 1.85%. Again, the control variety Orishele has medium value for iodine absorption. The majority of starch granules is of oblong shape, and their lengths range from 3.33 to 56.66 µm. CRBP 14 and CRBP 39 have the largest granule sizes, followed by Orishele; hybrids FHIA 21 and FHIA 17 having the smallest sizes. At high temperatures hybrid FHIA 17 shows the lowest increase of swelling and solubilisation. This hybrid also presents the lowest setback, swelling and solubilisation values. This hybrid also has the smallest starch granule sizes together with the lowest iodine absorption. Apart from starch setback, the other three hybrids (CRBP 14, CRBP 39 and FHIA 21) show characteristics that are superior to those of the control. Hybrid FHIA 17 can be classified as of sweet banana type, whereas the three other hybrids are of plantain type.
Bishop score and ultrasound assessment of the cervix for prediction of time to onset of labor and time to delivery in prolonged pregnancy
Authors: Strobel E. , Sladkevicius P. , Rovas L. , De Smet F. , Karlsson E. Dejin , Valentin L.
Published: June 2006

Objectives

To determine the ability of Bishop score and sonographic cervical length to predict time to spontaneous onset of labor and time to delivery in prolonged pregnancy.

Methods

Ninety‐seven women underwent transvaginal ultrasound examination and palpation of the cervix at 291–296 days' gestation according to ultrasound fetometry at 12–20 weeks' gestation. Sonographic cervical length and Bishop score were recorded. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine which variables were independent predictors of the onset of labor/delivery ≤ 24 h, ≤ 48 h, and ≤ 96 h. Receiver–operating characteristics (ROC) curves were drawn to assess diagnostic performance.

Results

In nulliparous women (n = 45), both Bishop score and sonographic cervical length predicted the onset of labor/delivery ≤ 24 h and ≤ 48 h (area under ROC curve for the onset of labor ≤ 24 h 0.79 vs. 0.80, P = 0.94; for delivery ≤ 24 h 0.81 vs. 0.85, P = 0.64; for the onset of labor ≤ 48 h 0.73 vs. 0.74, P = 0.90; for delivery ≤ 48 h 0.77 vs. 0.71, P = 0.50). Only Bishop score discriminated between nulliparous women who went into labor/delivered ≤ 96 h or > 96 h. A logistic regression model including Bishop score and cervical length was superior to Bishop score alone in predicting delivery ≤ 24 h (area under ROC curve 0.93 vs. 0.81, P = 0.03) and superior to Bishop score alone and cervical length alone in predicting the onset of labor ≤ 24 h (area under ROC curve 0.90 vs. 0.79, P = 0.06; and 0.90 vs. 0.80, P = 0.06). In parous women (n = 52), Bishop score and sonographic cervical length predicted the onset of labor/delivery ≤ 24 h (area under ROC curve for the onset of labor 0.75 vs. 0.69, P = 0.49; for delivery 0.74 vs. 0.70, P = 0.62), but only Bishop score discriminated between women who went into labor/delivered ≤ 48 h and > 48 h. Three parous women had not gone into labor and six had not given birth at 96 h. In parous women logistic regression models including both Bishop score and cervical length did not substantially improve prediction of the time to onset of labor/delivery.

Conclusions

In prolonged pregnancy Bishop score and sonographic cervical length have a similar ability to predict the time to the onset of labor and delivery. In nulliparous women the use of logistic regression models including Bishop score and cervical length is likely to offer better prediction of the onset of labor/delivery ≤ 24 h than the use of the Bishop score alone. Copyright © 2006 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Maple syrup urine disease: Favourable effect of early diagnosis by newborn screening on the neonatal course of the disease
Authors: Simon E. , Fingerhut R. , Baumkötter J. , Konstantopoulou V. , Ratschmann R. , Wendel U.
Published: June 2006

Background: In the rare autosomal recessive disorder maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) the accumulation of the branched‐chain amino acids and their metabolic products results in acute and chronic brain dysfunction. Since 2002, MSUD has been part of the extended newborn screening programme in Germany and Austria. Early diagnosis and intervention during the presymptomatic or early symptomatic period should improve the outcome of the patients, which would make the case for screening for MSUD. Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the clinical course and alterations of marker metabolites during the first weeks of life in 10 patients with classical MSUD detected by newborn screening (NBS) in comparison with the 10 youngest German patients diagnosed clinically. Method: Laboratory data as well as information on clinical course and management during the neonatal period were obtained retrospectively. Results: Patients detected in NBS presented with lower plasma leucine concentrations at confirmation of diagnosis and less severe clinical symptoms. Lowering of leucine to below a critical threshold of 1000 μmol/L was achieved earlier than in patients diagnosed on clinical grounds. Conclusion: After diagnosis in screening, treatment can be initiated before the occurrence of severe metabolic decompensation. However, a favourable effect can only be achieved with immediate transfer of the neonate to a metabolic centre for adequate treatment in case of a positive screening result.
Effect of Local Application of Cidofovir on the Control of Recurrences in Recurrent Laryngeal Papillomatosis
Authors: Pontes Paulo , Avelino Melissa , Pignatari Shirley , Weckx Luc Louis Maurice
Published: July 2006

OBJECTIVE

To study the effect of local application of cidofovir in patients with recurrent laryngeal papillomatosis (RLP) by measuring the interval between recurrences and the extent of disease at each recurrence.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING

The study group included 10 patients with RLP. Videolaryngoscopic analysis of previous RLP operations for each patient before starting cidofovir and the number and timing of pre‐cidofovir recurrences of the disease provided data for a self‐control group. The cidofovir was injected with a laryngeal needle during papilloma resection operations. To evaluate the changes and the extent of the disease, the authors developed a staging system based on anatomic topography. The extent of the disease and the intervals between recurrences were analyzed and statistically compared.

RESULTS

The median interval between recurrences significantly increased from 102 days before cidofovir to 239 days after treatment. No local or systemic side effects were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

The study supports the hypothesis that cidofovir is an effective adjunct in treating recurrences of RLP.

EBM rating: C‐4
Pigmented Nevus of the External Auditory Canal
Authors: Fei‐Peng Lee
Published: July 2006

OBJECTIVE

To present the clinical experience during an 18‐year period of a series of 11 cases of pigmented nevus of the external auditory canal (EAC).

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING

Retrospective medical review of 11 consecutive patients with lesions seen in 2 departments of otolaryngology in Taiwan.

RESULTS

12 pigmented nevi, 2 to 12 mm (average, 6.4 mm) in diameter, were excised under otomicroscopy, and the EAC was packed with a temporary Penrose stent. One large lesion developed a postobstructive external auditory canal cholesteatoma (EACC). Histopathologic examination revealed 11 intradermal nevi and 1 compound nevus. There have been no recurrences or stenoses of EACs after 3 months to 17 years (average, 6 years) of follow‐up.

CONCLUSION

If a pigmented nevus causes symptoms, especially when it is large enough to obstruct the lumen of the EAC and has the possibility of developing into an EACC, it should be excised.

EBM rating: C‐4
Office‐Based Intralesional Cidofovir Injections for Nasal Septal Papilloma: A Pilot Study
Authors: Shemen Larry J. , Shnayder Yelizaveta
Published: July 2006

OBJECTIVES

To determine if nasal septal papilloma is responsive to intralesional cidofovir injections.

METHODS

Five adult males, ages 37 to 57, presented with nasal septal or columellar papilloma. Three lesions had been previously excised with the laser and recurred. The lesions were injected with cidofovir on a monthly basis until complete resolution or any residual lesion was excised afterwards with the laser.

RESULTS

All patients achieved disease remission sustained over 10 to 24 months. Overall doses were much lower than those described for laryngeal papillomatosis and no toxic effects were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Office‐based intralesional injections of cidofovir may show benefit in the treatment of nasal septal papilloma.

EBM rating: C‐4
Association of HLA‐DR3 and HLA‐DR4 with Sinonasal Polyposis in Mexican Mestizos
Authors: Jaqueline Ramírez‐Anguiano , Jesús K. Yamamoto‐Furusho , Rodrigo Barquera , Olga Beltrán , Julio Granados
Published: July 2006

OBJECTIVE

The pathogenesis of sinonasal polyposis (SNP) is not clear; it has been suggested that it is polygenic and multifactorial. The major histocompatibility complex is a useful tool to predict genetic susceptibility to diseases, especially to autoimmune diseases. Since such susceptibility is influenced by ethnicity, it is necessary to have a wide knowledge of the structure of the population to which the patient belongs. The purpose of the study was to determine the association of HLA‐DRB1 alleles with sinonasal polyposis in the Mexican Mestizo population.

STUDY DESIGN

We studied the HLA‐DR alleles in 34 adult Mexican Mestizo patients with SNP and compared them to those present in 99 healthy controls.

METHODS

Genomic DNA from mononuclear cells was obtained by using the “salting out” technique and high‐resolution DNA typing of the HLA‐DRB1 alleles was performed after PCR amplification.

RESULTS

We found a statistically significant increased frequency of the HLA‐DRB1∗03 allele (P = 0.03, odds ratio [OR] = 2.9, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.0–7.8) and of the HLA‐DRB1∗04 allele (P = 0.009, OR = 2.2, 95% CI: 1.2–4.2) in patients with SNP as compared to controls, and a statistically significant decreased frequency of the HLA‐DRB1∗08 allele (P = 0.01, OR = 0.2, 95% CI: 0.05–0.8).

CONCLUSION

The HLA‐DR locus seems to be associated with the genetic susceptibility to develop SNP in Mexicans.

EBM rating: B‐2b
Reliability of Interpretation of CT Examination of the Larynx in Patients with Glottic Laryngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Hoorweg J.J. , Kruijt R.H. , Heijboer R.J.J. , Eijkemans M.J.C. , Kerrebijn J.D.F.
Published: July 2006

INTRODUCTION

Reports in literature suggest that tumor volume, cartilage invasion, and cartilage sclerosis are independent prognostic factors for tumor control in radiotherapy as primary treatment of laryngeal carcinomas.

OBJECTIVE

Assessment of the interobserver variability and prognostic value in the measurement of tumor volume, cartilage invasion, and sclerosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective analysis of 55 CT scans by three independent observers. Volume measurements and determination of cartilage invasion, cartilage sclerosis, and tumor localization were calculated. Correlation between the prognostic factors and radiotherapy was calculated for each observer.

RESULTS

Values for interobserver agreement varied substantially; cartilage invasion (κ value: −0.02 to 0.66), cartilage sclerosis (κ value: 0.13 to 0.57), tumor localization of subsites (κ value: 0.03 to 0.60), and tumor volume (correlation: 0.34 to 0.73). The found interobserver variation makes it impossible to establish accurate prognostic factors.

CONCLUSION

Determination of tumor volume, cartilage invasion, and cartilage sclerosis on the basis of CT imaging shows considerable interobserver variation; clinical significance appears to be limited.

EBM rating: B‐3a
Nationwide Survey on the use of Image‐Guided Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Authors: Hepworth Edward J. , Bucknor Matthew , Patel Ankit , Vaughan Winston C.
Published: July 2006

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate impressions and usage of sinus surgery image‐guided surgical (IGS) systems by ENT surgeons in the United States.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING

A survey was mailed to selected practicing ENT physicians, investigating regional information, practice type, IGS usage patterns, perceived benefits and limitations, and usage of the 61795 surgery code.

RESULTS

Seventy‐three percent of respondents use IGS. Nonusers respond that it provides no benefit or is too expensive. Eighty percent of respondents replied that IGS may allow for increased safety in certain procedures. Most users attempt reimbursement with the 61795 code.

CONCLUSION

IGS usage is increasing but appears to be perceived as expensive and nonbeneficial in certain situations. Most respondents, however, felt that IGS may lead to safer surgery in certain situations, including revision and frontal procedures. Several factors appear to limit routine use including ease of use, technical setup, code reimbursement, and initial purchase costs.

SIGNIFICANCE

IGS use appears to be increasing. The most frequent users appear to agree with the previously issued AAO‐HNS guidelines regarding appropriate indications. Expanded use may depend on ease of use, reimbursement, and affordability.

EBM rating: D‐5
Sensory Neuropathic Cough: A Common and Treatable Cause of Chronic Cough
Authors: Bastian Robert W. , Vaidya Abhay M. , Delsupehe Kathelijne G.
Published: July 2006

OBJECTIVE

To describe our experience with chronic sensory neuropathic cough and its response to amitriptyline in a first group of patients.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING

A prospective cohort of patients is described in detail. Each was referred to an academic laryngological practice after extensive prior negative workup for cough and failure to respond to various treatments. Each of these patients was treated with amitriptyline and asked to report the effect on the cough at fixed intervals by means of telephone interviews.

RESULTS

A first cohort of 12 consecutive patients with a chronic, nonproductive cough that lasted between 2 months and 20 years, with no (formerly) discernible cause is described. Purely clinical criteria of inclusion and exclusion are proposed. All patients had at least 40% reduction of self‐reported symptoms, with most describing between 75% to 100% short‐term relief.

CONCLUSION

Sensory neuropathic cough can be diagnosed clinically in patients with chronic idiopathic cough. A trial of amitriptyline 10 mg or of other antineuralgia type medications may be helpful. Longer term and controlled trials are warranted to validate this entity and prove efficacy of neurologic medication in chronic sensory neuropathic cough.

EBM rating: C‐4
Estrogen Blockade Reduces Auditory Feedback in CBA Mice
Authors: Thompson K. Scott , Xiaoxia Zhu , Frisina D. Robert
Published: July 2006

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effects of estrogen suppression on age‐related changes in distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs) and contralateral suppression (CS) of DPOAEs in CBA mice.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING

Young CBA mice received a slow‐release shoulder implantation of either tamoxifen or placebo. Serial DPOAEs and CS of DPOAEs were obtained at 3‐week intervals over a period of 9 weeks.

RESULTS

Although DPOAEs were maintained over the study interval, CS of DPOAEs decreased significantly with age in the experimental group. No such declines were observed in either the control animals or the untreated male mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Estrogen suppression negatively affects the MOC efferent feedback system.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our results support the hypothesis that estrogen plays an important role in the maintenance of auditory integrity. Additionally, our findings raise intriguing questions about auditory effects of hormonal shifts in humans resulting from menopause, hormone supplements such as oral contraceptives, and hormone replacement therapy as well as antiestrogens.
Long‐Term Results of Endonasal Laser Dacryocystorhinostomy
Authors: Neel Umapathy , Sukman Kalra , Derek W. Skinner , Robert B. Dapling
Published: July 2006

OBJECTIVE

To determine the long‐term success rate of endonasal laser dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) in our unit.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a retrospective study including all the consecutive cases of endonasal laser DCR (ELDCR) between November 1996 and December 1999. Patients who underwent revision DCR were excluded. The absence or improvement of symptoms as reported by the patients was defined as successful outcome. Conversely, recurrence of epiphora was considered as failure. The results were reviewed at 1 year in the clinic and at further 3 years and 5 years by telephone consultation.

RESULTS

There were 65 patients (73 procedures) in the study cohort, with a mean follow‐up period of 74 months (range, 60–97). Early failure was noted in 13 patients at 1 year. Only 28 patients (of the possible 50) were free from epiphora after 5 years postsurgery.

CONCLUSION

We found that the success rate of ELDCR has gradually declined over the years to 56% (confidence interval, 38–69) in patients who had at least 5 years of postoperative data. We do not advocate the use of laser in endonasal DCR for patients with epiphora.

EBM rating: C‐4
Preliminary Findings for Preemptive Analgesia with Inhaled Morphine: Efficacy in Septoplasty and Septorhinoplasty Cases
Authors: Selami Ateş Önal , Erol Keleş , Gonca Çağlar Toprak , İsmail Demirel , Alpay H. Cengiz , Levent Avci
Published: July 2006

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of inhaled morphine for preemptive analgesia in patients who undergo septoplasty or septorhinoplasty.

STUDY PLAN AND METHODS

Eighty ASA I‐II patients scheduled for septoplasty or septorhinoplasty were recruited and randomly divided into 2 groups that received different treatments 10 minutes prior to induction. The preemptive analgesia group (Group P, n = 40) received 65 μg kg−1 morphine sulphate (a 3‐mL volume) via an oral nebulizer, and the control group (Group C, n = 40) received 3 mL 0.9% sodium chloride (physiological saline) via the same type of nebulizer. Blood pressure, oxygen saturation, heart rate, time to first requirement for analgesia, and occurrence of nausea/vomiting were recorded.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between Groups P and C with respect to age, body weight, sex distribution, or duration of surgery. There was also no significant difference between the group frequencies of postoperative nausea/vomiting. The time to first requirement for analgesia was significantly longer in Group P than Group C.

CONCLUSION

The results of this preliminary study suggest that a single dose of inhaled morphine administered preemptively prior to septoplasty or septorhinoplasty provides effective postoperative analgesia.

EBM rating: B‐3b
Laryngeal Reconstruction with Porous High‐Density Polyethylene
Authors: Iseri Mete , Ustundag Emre , Yayla Berna , Kaur Ahmet
Published: July 2006

OBJECTIVE

This study was undertaken to evaluate the use of the Medpor (Porex Surgical, College Park, GA) implant in laryngeal reconstruction and to discuss potential indications of this material in head and neck surgeries.

METHOD

Twelve rabbits were used in this particular study. Laryngoplasties were performed by extracting 5 × 10‐mm thyroid cartilage and replacing it with Medpor implant. Animals were sacrificed in the 1st, 2nd, and 4th weeks and 2, 6, and 9 months after implantation. The degree of fibrous capsule formation, histiocytic reaction, foreign body giant cell reaction, lymphocytic and neutrophilic reactions, vocal fold changes, and hyaline cartilage formation in the implant bed were evaluated.

RESULTS

Fibrous capsule was formed around the implant in 2 weeks. Four weeks after the implantation cellular reaction in the implant bed decreased significantly. Foreign body giant cell reaction was detected only the first 2 weeks after the implantation.

CONCLUSION

According to the results of this study, the Medpor implant can be safely used in laryngeal reconstruction.
The Effects of Intradermal and Topical Mitomycin C on Wound Healing
Authors: Porter Glen T. , Gadre Swarupa A. , Calhoun Karen H.
Published: July 2006

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of intradermal and topical mitomycin C (MMC) on skin wound healing.

STUDY DESIGN/SETTING

A prospective, controlled study in a rat wound model performed in an academic medical center.

RESULTS

Intradermal and topical MMC application decreased wound integrity when compared with saline‐treated animals at 1 week, 2 weeks, 1 month, and 6 months. Skin necrosis occurred in animals that received intradermal MMC. Hemotoxylin and eosin and immunohistochemical staining showed no consistent difference between treatment arms. Fibrosis and collagen deposition were reduced in MMC‐treated wounds on trichrome staining.

CONCLUSIONS

MMC‐treated wounds showed decreased wound strength compared with controls. Intradermal MMC can cause skin necrosis. Histologic findings did not always correspond with clinical data.

SIGNIFICANCE

The data suggest cautious use of MMC in clinical situations when wound breaking strength is critical.