bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of enzymatically degradable IPN coatings on peri‐implant bone formation and implant fixation
Authors: Ho James E. , Barber Thomas A. , Virdi Amarjit S. , Sumner Dale R. , Healy Kevin E.
Published: January 2007

Short‐term osseointegration of orthopedic implants is critical for the long‐term stability of the implant–bone interface. To improve initial implant stability, one strategy under consideration involves the presentation of adhesion ligands on the implant surface to stimulate bone regeneration in the peri‐implant region. To assess the relative effects of implant surface chemistry and topography on osseointegration within the rat femoral ablation implant model, a nonfouling, enzymatically degradable interpenetrating polymer network (edIPN) of poly(AAm‐co‐EG/AAc) amenable to presenting the cell signaling domain Arg‐Gly‐Asp (RGD), was developed. Moderate enhancement of peri‐implant bone formation was found after 28 days using the edIPN without peptide modification (p = 0.032). However, no data supported a benefit of peptide modification, as bone–implant contact, normalized bone volume and normalized fixation strength was equivalent or poorer than dual acid‐etched (DAE) treated implants after 28 days. Surface topography was determined to be the dominant factor in modulating osseointegration, as DAE implants produced equivalent roughness‐normalized fixation strength versus previously reported data on plasma‐sprayed hydroxyapatite/tricalcium phosphate‐coated implants (Barber et al., J Biomed Mater Res A, forthcoming). An ideal osseointegrated implant will require optimization of all three aforementioned parameters, and may take the form of biomolecule delivery from thin degradable polymer networks. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2007
Shape‐engineered vascular endothelial cells: Nitric oxide production, cell elasticity, and actin cytoskeletal features
Authors: Kidoaki Satoru , Matsuda Takehisa
Published: January 2007

Single cell shape determines cellular functions. Therefore, control of cell shape is of considerable importance for the tissue engineering field. This study was designed to assess the effect of surface‐induced shaping of vascular endothelial cells (ECs) on the intracellular nitric oxide (NO) production level, the cell elasticity, and cytoskeletal (CSK) features on shape‐engineered ECs (round, 90, 120 μm diameter; spindle‐shaped, 20, 30, 40 μm width) prepared on a photolithographically microprocessed surface. Intracellular NO production was measured using a microscopic spectrometer with diaminofluorescein diacetate probe. Cell elasticity and actin CSK features were analyzed through microindentation measurement and fluorescence observations with fluorescence and atomic force microscopy. Results showed that spindle‐shaped cells exhibited lower NO production, higher cell stiffness, and denser actin stress fibers than the round and nonrestrictedly cultured control cells. Relations between cell shape with NO production, cell elasticity, and actin CSK features were discussed. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2007
Ennoblement of stainless steel in natural seawater – A new explanation
Authors: Xiangbo L. , Jia W. , Wei W. , Hongren W.
Published: January 2007

The ennoblement of corrosion potential (Ecorr) of passive metal immersed in seawater was investigated with electrochemical technology and epifluorescence microscopy. The in situ observation showed that the bacteria number increased on the metal surface according to an exponential law which was in the same way with the ennoblement of Ecorr. At the same time, the anodic polarization current of high‐Mo stainless steel decreased in the initial days. According to the mix‐potential theory and the characteristics of polarization curves of high‐Mo steel in natural seawater, the ennoblement of corrosion potential may be induced by the decrease of the passive current density.
A SERS investigation of carbon steel in contact with aqueous solutions containing BenzylDiMethylPhenylAmmonium Chloride
Authors: Bozzini B. , Romanello V. , Mele C. , Bogani F.
Published: January 2007

The electrochemical behaviour of carbon steel in contact with a neutral sulphate solution containing BenzylDiMethylPhenylAmmonium Chloride (BDMPAC), a potential non‐toxic corrosion inhibitor was investigated by Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) and linear sweep voltammetry. Sound surface enhancement was obtained by potentiostatic polarisation without special electrochemical pretreatments. Potential‐dependent Raman spectra highlighted the electrodic behaviour of the adsorbate: in the range − 1200 ÷ − 900 mV (Ag/AgCl), adsorption takes place with the benzyl ring interacting with the surface in a flat configuration, as indicated by the presence of the Ph‐CH2 combination band located near 1215 cm−1. Linear sweep voltammetry testifies the difference in measured currents between sulphate containing solutions in the absence and the presence of BDMPAC at the adsorption potentials. The formation of iron corrosion products was easily detected by in situ Raman spectroscopy.
Specification of sulfate reducing bacteria biofilms accumulation effects on corrosion initiation
Authors: Liu H. , Huang L. , Huang Z. , Zheng J.
Published: January 2007

The accumulation process of sulfate reducing bacteria (SRB) biofilms established in anaerobic stagnant batch bioreactors on the surface of carbon steel and the nutrient transport and corrosion products distribution in it were characterized by X‐ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS). In addition, the corrosion occurrence and development of carbon steel under SRB biofilm was investigated by Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) in‐situ. The results show that the thickness of SRB biofilms increases exponentially with time in the beginning and after 14 days reaches a maximum. From then on, the accumulation rate decreases to zero. In mature biofilms, SRB dispersed throughout the biofilm. In the inner layer near the substrate, due to the high sulfate‐reducing activity of SRB, corrosion products such S2−, H2S and organic acid are present, which lead to corrosion occurrence and development. In the outer layer of the biofilm SRB can also reduce the SO2−4 to SO2−3 and S2O2−3. This metabolism process enhances the Fe2+ transfer from the inner to the outer side. The activity of SRB in the biofilm plays a key role in the initial corrosion process.
Some estimates for the torsional rigidity of composite rods
Authors: Crasta Graziano , Fragalà Ilaria , Gazzola Filippo
Published: January 2007

A well‐known problem in elasticity consists in placing two linearly elastic materials (of different shear moduli) in a given plane domain Ω, so as to maximize the torsional rigidity of the resulting rod; moreover, the proportion of these materials is prescribed. Such a problem may not have a classical solution as the optimal design may contain homogenization regions, where the two materials are mixed in a microscopic scale. Then, the optimal torsional rigidity becomes difficult to compute. In this paper we give some different theoretical upper and lower bounds for the optimal torsional rigidity, and we compare them on some significant domains. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Approximate identities in variable Lp spaces
Authors: Cruz‐Uribe D. , Fiorenza A.
Published: January 2007

We give conditions for the convergence of approximate identities, both pointwise and in norm, in variable L p spaces. We unify and extend results due to Diening [8], Samko [18] and Sharapudinov [19]. As applications, we give criteria for smooth functions to be dense in the variable Sobolev spaces, and we give solutions of the Laplace equation and the heat equation with boundary values in the variable L p spaces. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
KK ‐theory of amalgamated free products of C *‐algebras
Authors: Eliasen Rune
Published: January 2007

J. Cuntz has conjectured the existence of two cyclic six terms exact sequences relating the KK ‐groups of the amalgamated free product A 1 ∗︁ B A 2 to the KK ‐groups of A 1, A 2 and B. First we establish automatic existence of strict and absorbing homomorphisms. Then we use this result to verify the conjecture when B is a countable direct sum of matrix algebras and the embeddings of B into A 1 and A 2 are quasiunital. Inspired by the proof we achieve the following nice classification result: A separable C *‐algebra B is a countable direct sum of matrix algebras if and only if the unitary group of the multiplier algebra U M (B) is compact in the strict topology. Finally we prove the conjecture when the amalgamated free product has the property that any asymptotically split extension of A 1 ∗︁ B A 2 is split. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Ample vector bundles and Bordiga surfaces
Authors: Lanteri Antonio , Maeda Hidetoshi
Published: January 2007

Let X be a smooth complex projective variety and let Z ⊂ X be a smooth surface, which is the zero locus of a section of an ample vector bundle ℰ of rank dimX – 2 ≥ 2 on X. Let H be an ample line bundle on X, whose restriction H Z to Z is a very ample line bundle and assume that (Z, H Z ) is a Bordiga surface, i.e., a rational surface having (ℙ2, 𝕆 (4)) as its minimal adjunction theoretic reduction. Triplets (X, ℰ, H) as above are discussed and classified. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Primary lateral sclerosis
Authors: Singer Mike A. , Statland Jeffrey M. , Wolfe Gil I. , Barohn Richard J.
Published: January 2007

The spectrum of motor neuron diseases ranges from disorders that clinically are limited to lower motor neurons to those that exclusively affect upper motor neurons. Primary lateral sclerosis (PLS) is the designation for the syndrome of progressive upper motor neuron dysfunction when no other etiology is identified. Distinction between PLS and the more common amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) relies primarily on recognition of their symptoms and signs, as well as on ancillary, although non‐specific, laboratory data. In this review, we survey the history of PLS from the initial descriptions to the present. We discuss the role of laboratory, electrodiagnostic, and imaging studies in excluding other diagnoses; the findings from major case series of PLS patients; and proposed diagnostic criteria. Consistent differences are evident in patients classified as PLS compared to those with ALS, indicating that, despite its limitations, this clinical designation retains important utility. Muscle Nerve, 2007
1H NMR metabonomics of plasma lipoprotein subclasses: elucidation of metabolic clustering by self‐organising maps
Authors: Suna Teemu , Salminen Aino , Soininen Pasi , Laatikainen Reino , Ingman Petri , Mäkelä Sanna , Savolainen Markku J. , Hannuksela Minna L. , Jauhiainen Matti , Taskinen Marja‐Riitta , Kaski Kimmo , Ala‐Korpela Mika
Published: January 2007

1H NMR spectra of plasma are known to provide specific information on lipoprotein subclasses in the form of complex overlapping resonances. A combination of 1H NMR and self‐organising map (SOM) analysis was applied to investigate if automated characterisation of subclass‐related metabolic interactions can be achieved. To reliably assess the intrinsic capability of 1H NMR for resolving lipoprotein subclass profiles, sum spectra representing the pure lipoprotein subclass part of actual plasma were simulated with the aid of experimentally derived model signals for 11 distinct lipoprotein subclasses. Two biochemically characteristic categories of spectra, representing normolipidaemic and metabolic syndrome status, were generated with corresponding lipoprotein subclass profiles. A set of spectra representing a metabolic pathway between the two categories was also generated. The SOM analysis, based solely on the aliphatic resonances of these simulated spectra, clearly revealed the lipoprotein subclass profiles and their changes. Comparable SOM analysis in a group of 69 experimental 1H NMR spectra of serum samples, which according to biochemical analyses represented a wide range of lipoprotein lipid concentrations, corroborated the findings based on the simulated data. Interestingly, the choline N(CH3)3 region seems to provide more resolved clustering of lipoprotein subclasses in the SOM analyses than the methyl CH3 region commonly used for subclass quantification. The results illustrate the inherent suitability of 1H NMR metabonomics for automated studies of lipoprotein subclass‐related metabolism and demonstrate the power of SOM analysis in an extensive and representative case of 1H NMR metabonomics. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Introducing environmental constraints in generation expansion problems
Authors: Marques Marcato Rachel , Sagastizábal Claudia
Published: January 2007

Generation expansion planning problems should take into account not only satisfaction of future demand but also environmental constraints, such as government imposed limits on pollution produced by coal‐based power plants. For a vertically integrated system of power plants, we model those features as a two‐stage stochastic programming problem with recourse that can be solved by decomposition methods. We present results for different demand scenarios, corresponding to low, medium, and high economic future growth, as well as different environmental cases, with stringent and non‐stringent emission limits for the thermal plants composing the electric mix. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A note on the efficiency of the conjugate gradient method for a class of time‐dependent problems
Authors: Cai Xing , Nielsen Bjørn Fredrik , Tveito Aslak
Published: January 2007

We discuss the efficiency of the conjugate gradient (CG) method for solving a sequence of linear systems; Aun+1 = un, where A is assumed to be sparse, symmetric, and positive definite. We show that under certain conditions the Krylov subspace, which is generated when solving the first linear system Au1 = u0, contains the solutions {un} for subsequent time steps. The solutions of these equations can therefore be computed by a straightforward projection of the right‐hand side onto the already computed Krylov subspace.

Our theoretical considerations are illustrated by numerical experiments that compare this method with the order‐optimal scheme obtained by applying the multigrid method as a preconditioner for the CG‐method at each time step. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Properties of vinyl ester resins containing methacrylated fatty acid comonomer: the effect of fatty acid chain length
Authors: Dey Tania
Published: January 2007

This paper reports the formulation of a low‐cost vinyl ester‐based composite resin suitable for liquid molding, which has significantly lower volatile organic compound emission associated with it. Methacrylated fatty acid comonomers were used to replace the conventional yet environmentally hazardous reactive diluent, styrene. The chain length of these fatty acids played a key role in obtaining better viscosity, as it was proved to affect two interplaying factors: intermolecular friction and hydrogen bonding. The thermomechanical performance was greatly affected by the chain length of the fatty acids as well as the crosslink density of the polymer networks. A carbon number of 6 to 8 was good enough in optimizing the viscosity parameter suitable for handling; the dynamic mechanical analysis values, namely glass transition temperature and storage modulus, were in the range 66–121 °C and 0.97–2.8 GPa, respectively, as the carbon number was varied from 4 to 16, making the material suitable for various applications. Microstructures obtained from scanning electron microscopy results were correlated with polymer properties to obtain a better insight into these polymer networks. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Catalytic reactions of oxetanes with protonic reagents and aprotic reagents leading to novel polymers
Authors: Kudo Hiroto , Nishikubo Tadatomi
Published: January 2007

This paper reports new addition reactions of oxetanes with certain protonic reagents such as carboxylic acid, phenol, and thiol, and with certain aprotic reagents such as acyl chloride, thioester, phosphonyl dichloride, silyl chloride, and chloroformate using quaternary onium salts as catalysts. The kinetic study of the addition reactions of oxetanes was also investigated. These new addition reactions were applicable to the synthesis of new polymers. These polyaddition systems could also construct both polymer main chains and reactive side chains. The alternating copolymerization of oxetanes with carboxylic anhydride was performed. Furthermore, it was found that anionic ring‐opening polymerization of oxetanes containing hydroxy groups proceeded to afford the hyperbranched polymer (HBP) with an oxetanyl group and many hydroxy groups at the ends of the polymer chains. Alkali developable photofunctional HBPs were synthesized by the polyaddition of bis(oxetane)s or tris(oxetane)s, and their patterning properties were examined, too. The photo‐induced cationic polymerization of the polymers with pendant oxetanyl groups and the thermal curing reactions of polyfunctional oxetanes (oxetane resins) were also examined to give the crosslinking materials quantitatively. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 709–726, 2007
Novel interpenetrating networks with shape‐memory properties
Authors: Zhang Shifeng , Feng Yakai , Zhang Li , Sun Junfeng , Xu Xiangkui , Xu Yongshen
Published: January 2007

Novel polyesterurethane/poly(ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate (PEGDMA) interpenetrating networks (IPNs) with good shape‐memory properties were synthesized using solvent casting method. The star‐shaped oligo[(rac‐lactide)‐co‐glycolide] was coupled with isophorone diisocyanate to form a polyesterurethane network (PULG), and PEGDMA was photopolymerized to form another polyetheracrylate network. IPNs were transparent and gel content exceeded 92%. The values of strain fixity rate and strain recovery rate were above 93%. PULG and PEGDMA networks in IPNs were amorphous and did not show any characteristic diffraction peaks in X‐ray diffraction spectra. Only one glass transition temperature (Tg) of the IPNs between Tg of PEGDMA and PULG was observed, which was proportional to PEGDMA content. PULG and PEGDMA networks were miscible when PEGDMA content was below 50 wt %. The hydrophilicity, transition temperatures, and mechanical properties of IPNs could be conveniently adjusted through variation of network compositions to match the promising potential clinical or medical applications. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 768–775, 2007
Synthesis and micropatterning properties of a novel base‐soluble, positive‐working, photosensitive polyimide having an o‐nitrobenzyl ether group
Authors: Shin Gyo Jic , Jung Jin Chul , Chi Jun Ho , Oh Tae Hwan , Kim Jin Beak
Published: January 2007

A novel positive‐working, photosensitive polyimide, poly[1,4‐phenyleneoxy‐1,4‐phenylene‐2,2′‐di(2‐nitrobenzyloxy)benzophenone‐3,3′,4,4′‐tetracarboxdiimide] (OPI‐Nb), developable with an aqueous base was prepared by the o‐nitrobenzylation of a polyimide, poly(1,4‐phenyleneoxy‐1,4‐phenylene‐2,2′‐dihydroxybenzophenone‐3,3′,4,4′‐tetracarboxdiimide) (OPI), derived from 2,2′‐dihydroxy‐3,3′,4,4′‐benzophenonetetracarboxylic dianhydride (DHBA) and 4,4′‐oxydianiline, and it micropatterning properties were investigated. The o‐nitrobenzylation of OPI to OPI‐Nb was conducted with o‐nitrobenzyl bromide in N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidinone containing Et3N. The DHBA monomer was synthesized by exhaustive KMnO4 oxidation of bis(2‐dimethoxy‐3,4‐dimethylphenyl)methane obtained by etherification of bis(2‐hydroxy‐3,4‐dimethylphenyl)methane with iodomethane, followed by deprotection of the methoxy groups and cyclodehydration of the obtained 2,2′‐dihydroxy‐3,3′4,4′‐benzophenonetetracarboxylic acid. The intermediate bis(2‐hydroxy‐3,4‐dimethylphenyl)methane was prepared by the condensation of 2,3‐dimethylphenol with paraformaldehyde. The degree of o‐nitrobenzylation was determined to be over 94 mol % from 1H NMR absorption of benzylic CH2 protons. The aromatic OPI was perfectly soluble in a dilute aqueous NaOH solution and tetramethylammonium hydroxide (TMAH), whereas OPI‐Nb was not even swellable in them. In the micropatterning process, OPI‐Nb showed a line‐width resolution of 0.4‐μm and a sensitivity of 5.4 J/cm2 when its thin films were irradiated with 365‐nm light and developed with a 2.38% aqueous TMAH solution at room temperature for 90 s. The thickness loss of OPI‐Nb films measured after postbaking at 350 °C was in the 8–9% range. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 776–788, 2007
Crystallization kinetics and morphology of biodegradable poly(butylene succinate‐co‐propylene succinate)s
Authors: Xu Yongxiang , Xu Jun , Guo Baohua , Xie Xuming
Published: January 2007

The crystallization behavior of biodegradable poly(butylene succinate) and copolyesters poly(butylene succinate‐co‐propylene succinate)s (PBSPS) was investigated by using 1H NMR, DSC and POM, respectively. Isothermal crystallization kinetics of the polyesters has been analyzed by the Avrami equation. The 2.2‐2.8 range of Avrami exponential n indicated that the crystallization mechanism was a heterogeneous nucleation with spherical growth geometry in the crystallization process of polyesters. Multiple melting peaks were observed during heating process after isothermal crystallization, and it could be explained by the melting and recrystallization model. PBSPS was identified to have the same crystal structure with that of PBS by using wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD), suggesting that only BS unit crystallized while the PS unit was in an amorphous state. The crystal structure of polyesters was not affected by the crystallization temperatures, too. Besides the normal extinction crosses under the POM, the double‐banded extinction patterns with periodic distance along the radial direction were also observed in the spherulites of PBS and PBSPS. The morphology of spherulites strongly depended on the crystallization temperature. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 45: 420–428, 2007
Morphology development of main‐chain liquid crystalline polymer fibers during solvent evaporation
Authors: Dayal Pratyush , Guenthner Andrew J. , Kyu Thein
Published: January 2007

A nonequilibrium thermodynamic approach has been developed for describing the emergence of fiber morphologies from a liquid crystalline polymer solution undergoing solvent evaporation, including fibrillar structures, concentric rings, and spiral structures. We utilized Matsuyama–Kato free energy for main‐chain liquid crystalline polymer (MCLCP) solutions, which is an extension of Maier–Saupe theory for nematic ordering and incorporates a chain‐stiffening, combined with Flory‐Huggins free energy of mixing. Temporal evolution of the concentration and nematic order parameters pertaining to the above free energy density of liquid crystalline polymer solution was simulated in the context of time‐dependent Ginzburg–Landau theory coupled with the solvent evaporation rate equation under the quasi‐steady state assumption. The emerged morphological patterns are discussed in relation to the phase diagram of the MCLCP solution and the rate of solvent evaporation. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 45: 429–435, 2007
Hydrogen peroxide oxidation by catalase‐peroxidase follows a non‐scrambling mechanism
Authors: Vlasits Jutta , Jakopitsch Christa , Schwanninger Manfred , Holubar Peter , Obinger Christian
Published: January 2007

Despite catalyzing the same reaction (2H2O2
→ 2H2O + O2) heme‐containing monofunctional catalases and bifunctional catalase‐peroxidases (KatGs) do not share sequence or structural similarities raising the question of whether or not the reaction pathways are similar or different. The production of dioxygen from hydrogen peroxide by monofunctional catalases has been shown to be a two‐step process involving the redox intermediate compound I which oxidizes H2O2 directly to O2. In order to investigate the origin of O2 released in KatG mediated H2O2 degradation we performed a gas chromatography–mass spectrometry investigation of the evolved O2 from a 50:50 mixture of H2
18O2/H2
16O2 solution containing KatGs from Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Synechocystis PCC 6803. The GC–MS analysis clearly demonstrated the formation of 18O2 (m/e
= 36) and 16O2 (m/e
= 32) but not 16O18O (m/e
= 34) in the pH range 5.6–8.5 implying that O2 is formed by two‐electron oxidation without breaking the O–O bond. Also active site variants of Synechocystis KatG with very low catalase but normal or even enhanced peroxidase activity (D152S, H123E, W122F, Y249F and R439A) are shown to oxidize H2O2 by a non‐scrambling mechanism. The results are discussed with respect to the catalatic mechanism of KatG.
Comparative genomic analysis of the mouse and rat amylase multigene family
Authors: Sugino Hidehiko
Published: January 2007

The rat and mouse amylase gene families were characterized using sequence data from the UCSC genome assembly. We found that the rat genome contains one amylase‐1 and two amylase‐2 genes, lying close to one another on the same chromosome. Detailed analysis revealed at least six additional amylase pseudogenes in the rat genome in the region adjacent to the amylase‐2 genes. In contrast, the mouse has one amylase‐1 gene and five amylase‐2 genes; the latter are tandemly and systematically arranged on the same chromosome and were generated by segmental duplication. Detailed analysis revealed that the mouse has two amylase pseudogenes, located 5′ to the five amylase‐2 segments. Thus, the amylase genes of mouse and rat tend to be amplified; the sequences of some of them are fixed while others have become pseudogenes during evolution. This is the second report of amylase genomic organization in mammals and the first in the rodents.
Extensive unfolding of the C‐LytA choline‐binding module by submicellar concentrations of sodium dodecyl sulphate
Authors: Maestro Beatriz , Sanz Jesús M.
Published: January 2007

We have investigated the stability of the choline‐binding module C‐LytA against sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS)‐induced unfolding at pH 7.0 and 20 °C. A major intermediate with an unfolded N‐terminal region accumulates at around 0.75 mM SDS, whereas 2.0 mM SDS was sufficient for a complete unfolding. This might be the first report of a protein being extensively unfolded by submicellar concentrations of SDS, occurring through formation of detergent clusters on the protein surface. All transitions were reversible upon SDS complexation with β‐cyclodextrin, allowing the calculation of thermodynamic parameters. A model for the unfolding of C‐LytA by SDS is presented and compared to a previous denaturation scheme by guanidine hydrochloride.
The effect of pleiotrophin signaling on adipogenesis
Authors: Gu Dayong , Yu Bing , Zhao Chen , Ye Wenbin , Lv Qing , Hua Zhong , Ma Jiangan , Zhang Yaou
Published: January 2007

Pleiotrophin (PTN) plays diverse roles in cell growth and differentiation. In this investigation, we demonstrate that PTN plays a negative role in adipogensis and that glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK‐3β) and β‐catenin are involved in the regulation of PTN‐mediated preadipocyte differentiation. Knocking down the expression of PTN using siRNA resulted in an increase in phospho‐GSK‐3β expression, and the accumulation of nuclear β‐catenin, which are critical downstream signaling proteins for both the PTN and Wnt signaling pathways. Our investigation suggests that there is a PTN/PI3K/AKT/GSK‐3β/β‐catenin signaling pathway, which cross‐talks with the Wnt/Fz/GSK‐3β/β‐catenin pathway and negatively regulates adipogenesis.
A Turnip yellow mosaic virus infection system in Arabidopsis suspension cell culture
Authors: Camborde Laurent , Tournier Vincent , Noizet Mildred , Jupin Isabelle
Published: January 2007

Turnip yellow mosaic virus (TYMV) is a positive‐strand RNA virus able to infect Arabidopsis thaliana. To establish a TYMV infection system in Arabidopsis cell culture, TYMV replicons with the capsid protein gene replaced by a reporter gene expressing the Sh ble protein conferring zeocin resistance were used to transfect Arabidopsis cells. Zeocin‐resistant Arabidopsis calli were used to generate a suspension cell culture. Detection of viral proteins and RNAs after 18 months in culture demonstrated persistent replication of the replicon. The Arabidopsis cell culture yielded soluble, active replication complexes, providing a useful tool to study host factors involved in TYMV replication.
The effectiveness of salvage surgery after the failure of primary concomitant chemoradiation in head and neck cancer
Authors: Richey Luke M. , Shores Carol G. , George Jonathan , Lee Steve , Couch Marion J. , Sutton David K. , Weissler Mark C.
Published: January 2007

OBJECTIVE

To determine survival outcomes and locoregional control rates in patients with locoregional head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC) who failed primary concomitant chemoradiation (CRT) intended for cure and underwent attempted surgical salvage.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING

Design was a nonrandomized retrospective cohort study. Of 204 patients with HNSCC who received primary concomitant chemoradiation intended for cure between 1995 and 2004, 38 recurred and underwent attempted salvage surgery at a tertiary care academic center.

RESULTS

Among the 38 patients undergoing surgical salvage, 12‐ and 24‐month overall survival rates were 60 percent and 27 percent. Locoregional control at 24 months was 42 percent. Lower survival was seen with initial N3 disease (P = 0.0115). Overall surgical morbidity was 24 percent.

CONCLUSION/SIGNIFICANCE

The results of salvage surgery after failed chemoradiation for HNSCC are poor. Those with N3 disease fare least well. Patients should be well informed about the realistic chances of cure and potential morbidity of surgery.

© 2007 American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery Foundation. All rights reserved.
Impact of recurrence interval on survival of oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma patients after local relapse
Authors: Liu Shih‐An , Wong Yong‐Kie , Lin Jin‐Ching , Poon Chiu‐Kwan , Tung Kwong‐Chung , Tsai Wen‐Chen
Published: January 2007

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate whether the recurrence interval influenced the survival of oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma patients after relapse.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING

Retrospective charts were reviewed at a medical center.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 1687 chart records of oral cancer patients. Statistical methods included descriptive statistics, bivariate analyses, Kaplan‐Meier survival analyses, and Cox proportional hazard models for investigating the relationship between the recurrence interval and survival of oral cancer patients after relapse.

RESULTS

Local recurrence rate was 31.3 percent. Kaplan‐Meier survival analyses showed the 5‐year overall survival after recurrence was 31.56 percent. Cox proportional hazard model revealed that those with recurrence interval less than 18 months tended to have a higher probability of death than those with recurrence interval greater than or equal to 18 months (relative risk, 1.743; 95% confidence interval, 1.298–2.358).

CONCLUSION

The interval from initial treatment to recurrence is an independent prognostic factor for oral squamous cell carcinoma patients. Those with a shorter disease‐free interval tend to have a less favorable outcome.

© 2007 American Academy of Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgery Foundation. All rights reserved.
The Personality of Hand Surgeons
Authors: HORNE DAVID , HUESTON J. T.
Published: January 2007

The aim of the present study was to investigate some aspects of motivation to practise hand surgery, psychological mindedness and personality characteristics in a group of 212 Hand Surgeons.

The data was obtained by administering the Eysenck Personality Inventory, an especially constructed questionnaire, in a group setting at two conferences in Australia.
Nutrient Pathways to Extensor Tendons of Primates
Authors: MANSKE P. R. , OGATA K. , LESKER PEGGY A.
Published: January 2007

The nutrient pathways to the extensor tendon beneath the extensor retinaculum of young adult monkeys was investigated using hydrogen as tracer material. The results indicate that diffusion from the synovium is a more significant nutrient pathway than vascular perfusion from either the mesotendon or the longitudinal intratendinous vascular network.
The Extensor Retinaculum of The Wrist: An Anatomical and Biomechanical Study
Authors: PALMER A. K. , SKAHEN J. R. , WERNER F. W. , GLISSON R.R.
Published: January 2007

Through an anatomical and biochemical study, utilizing sixty-five cadaver specimens, the extensor retinaculum of the wrist was examined. It is a complex variable fibrous structure, whose functions are to prevent dorsal bowstringing of the extensor tendons and to prevent radial and ulnar displacement of extensor tendons. We recommend that a portion of the extensor retinaculum be preserved or reconstructed at the time of dorsal wrist surgery.
Measurement of Tendon Blood Flow in Rabbits by Microsphere Uptake and 133Xe Washout
Authors: TOTHILL P. , HOOPER G.
Published: January 2007

Blood flow was measured in the calcaneal tendons of rabbits using the techniques of labelled microsphere uptake and 133Xe washout simultaneously. There was no correlation between the results obtained with the two methods in individual animals. It is doubtful if the assumptions underlying the 133Xe washout technique are valid when it is used to measure blood flow in tendons.
Blood Flow in the Arm Under Brachial Plexus Anaesthesia
Authors: McGREGOR A. D. , JONES W. K. , PERLMAN D.
Published: January 2007

Changes in blood blow and skin temperature have been measured in the arms of twenty patients under brachial plexus anaesthesia. A rise in each was noted in every patient.

The patients were subdivided into two groups of ten. The anaesthetic administered to the patients of one group contained adrenaline (1 in 100,000), and the patients in the other group received the same anaesthetic but with no added adrenaline. The rise in flow volume, flow velocity and temperature was greater in the group which received adrenaline. The difference in change of flow volume was significant (P<0.05), the difference in temperature rise highly significant (P<0.01), but the difference in change of flow velocity was not significant.
Results of Digital Neurorrhaphy in Adults
Authors: SULLIVAN D. J.
Published: January 2007

Forty-two digital neurorrhaphies utilizing contemporary techniques and suture material are reviewed. 17% regained near normal function. Another 30% regained imperfect, but very-pleasing function. Half of the patients were left with moderate to marked hypoaesthesia, but protective sensation. Protective sensation did not return to those nerves left unrepaired. Immediate repair did not allow better recovery than repair within six days. Delay up to eleven months did not obviate pleasing return of sensibility. Similarly, simultaneous tenorrhaphy did not seem to affect the quality of the result. Crushing, or avulsive injuries always resulted in “poor” return of sensibility. Testing two-point discrimination with the technique of Dellon will reveal recovery of epicritic sensation earlier than any other technique. After six months, few patients regained, or lost sensibility.

The severed digital nerve must still carry a guarded prognosis in the adult.
Histological Studies of Vascularised Nerve Graft and Conventional Nerve Graft
Authors: PHO R. W. H. , LEE Y. S. , RUJIWETPONGSTORN V. , PANG M.
Published: January 2007

Histological studies of vascularised nerve graft versus conventional nerve graft were performed in eighteen rat femoral nerves using microsurgical technique. The experiment showed that there was no difference in the degree of vascularisation, reticulin framework collapse, rate and extent of axonal regeneration and remyelination between the two groups.
Ischaemic Isolated Retraction of the Abductor Digiti Minimi
Authors: MONTELEONE M. , MONTORSI A , LUCHETTI R. , ROVESTA C.
Published: January 2007

A case of hyperabduction of the little finger due to ischaemic retraction is presented. Operative release of the abductor digit minimi produced good result. The differential diagnosis is discussed.
Attritional Flexor Tendon Rupture due to a Scaphoid Non Union Imitating an Anterior Interosseous Nerve Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: MÁHRING M. , SEMPLE CAMPBELL , GRAY I. C. M.
Published: January 2007

A case is presented of acute loss of function of flexor pollicis longus and profundus tendon to the index finger. Although the aetiology was obscure, the acute onset suggested a mechanical cause rather than a nerve compression disorder such as anterior interosseous nerve palsy. X-rays showed an ununited scaphoid fracture related to an injury many years previously.

Surgical exploration revealed attritional rupture of flexor pollicis longus and partial division of profundus tendon to index finger by a spicule of ununited scaphoid which had eroded through the volar capsule. Removal of the spicule and tenodesis of flexor pollicis longus gave a good long term result.
One Stage Thumb Reconstruction Using a Previously Injured Little Finger from the Contralateral Hand
Authors: MOSS A. L. H. , WATERHOUSE N.
Published: January 2007

A patient, with a combination of unrelated hand injuries, underwent a one stage thumb reconstruction, utilizing the stump of the opposite little finger by means of a free tissue transfer.
Acute Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Produced by Anomalous Flexor Digitorum Superficialis Indicis Muscle
Authors: AMETEWEE K. , HARRIS A. , SAMUEL M.
Published: January 2007

A 23 year old female nurse developed acute sensory symptoms of median nerve compression. Early exploration revealed abnormal flexor superficialis indicis muscle as the compressing structure. Symptoms were relieved by freeing the muscle from the nerve.
Immediate Free Vascularized Joint Transfer from Second Toe to Index Finger Proximal Interphalangeal Joint: A Case Report
Authors: TSAI T. M. , SINGER R. , ELLIOTT E. , KLEIN H.
Published: January 2007

The results of treatment of severe injuries to the proximal interphalangeal joint are unsatisfactory.

The methods of joint reconstruction are discussed, including fusion, implant arthroplasty, perichondrial grafting and vascularized joint transfer.

A patient is presented with a severe crush injury to the dorsum of the index finger with loss of skin and extensor tendon and proximal interphalangeal joint disruption. Immediate reconstruction of the finger is described using a composite free flap of skin, extensor tendon and proximal interphalangeal joint from the second toe.

Follow-up at two years is described, demonstrating proximal interphalangeal motion and finger function.
Correction of Lobster-Claw Hand in an Adult
Authors: BINNS M. , ARAFA M. , NOBLE J.
Published: January 2007

A case of Lobster-claw hand presenting for surgery in an adult is described. Surgical correction, although not perfect, was worthwhile and not difficult.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in a Melorheostotic Limb
Authors: BÖSTMAN O. M. , BAKALIM G. E.
Published: January 2007

Melorheostosis can be associated with various soft tissue lesions of the affected limb. A case is presented in which a severe carpal tunnel syndrome developed in a middle-aged woman with melorheostosis of the right upper limb since childhood.
The Hand Complications of Colles' Fractures
Authors: STEWART H. D. , INNES A. R. , BURKE F. D.
Published: January 2007

Two hundred and thirty-five patients with displaced Colles' fractures were followed to union, and 209 patients to six months, specifically searching for hand pathology.

The incidence of carpal tunnel syndrome was seventeen per cent at three months and twelve per cent at six months. The patients with the syndrome were significantly older and their fractures showed significantly greater residual dorsal angulation.

Sixteen patients developed Dupuytren's disease between three and six months, when the incidence was eleven per cent. These patients were significantly older and had average fractures and anatomical results. All cases were mild, with only two contractures. Twenty-one patients were reviewed at a mean of 20.7 months post-fracture, when no case had significantly progressed.
Dislocation of the Hamate Bone
Authors: GUNN R. S.
Published: January 2007

A case of dislocation of the hamate is reported. The literature is reviewed, the mechanism of injury discussed and results of treatment described.
Free Vascularised Transfer of a Metatarsophalangeal Joint to the Hand A Technical Modification
Authors: SMITH PAUL J. , JONES BARRY M.
Published: January 2007

We describe the vascularised transfer of a second metatarsophalangeal joint to the hand to correct a congenital deformity in a thirteen-year-old boy. Technical refinements are described, allowing inversion of the joint to the optimal position for subsequent mobility and retention of a large overlying dorsalis pedis flap to provide adequate cover.
Ulnar Instability of The Metacarpophalangeal Joint of Thumb
Authors: LAMB D. W. , ANGARITA G.
Published: January 2007

A method of reconstruction of the long standing rupture of ulnar collateral ligament of the thumb is described. Its advantage is the tightness with which the tendon used for repair can be sutured to achieve maximum stability.

This has been used in eight patients in the past four years and provided a stable and painless thumb.
Ligament Reconstruction of the Thumb Carpometacarpal Joint using a Modified Eaton and Littler Technique
Authors: MAGNUSSON A. , BERTHEUSSEN K. , WEILBY A.
Published: January 2007

A modification of the Eaton and Littler technique for reconstructing ligaments and restoring stability of the carpometacarpal joint of the thumb is described.

We use a strip from the flexor carpi radialis tendon, which is split down to the crest of the trapezium. The tendon strip is led beneath the ligaments and the abductor pollicis longus insertion, through a tunnel drilled in the metacarpal base, around the insertion of the flexor carpi radialis tendon and finally back to the dorsum of the base of the metacarpal where it is inserted in the periosteum.

This procedure ensures a dynamic fixation of the apical ligament and therefore a better stability.
Trigger Wrist Caused by a Giant Cell Tumour of Tendon Sheath
Authors: SUEMATSU N. , HIRAYAMA T. , TAKEMITSU Y.
Published: January 2007

Trigger wrist is a rare condition unlike the trigger finger of the metacarpophalangeal joint. This report describes a case of trigger wrist secondary to a giant cell tumour of the flexor tendon sheath. No previous reports are available in the medical literature.
Osteoclastoma of the First Metacarpal
Authors: McGEOCH C. M. , VARIAN J. P. W.
Published: January 2007

A case of osteoclastoma of the first metacarpal is reported. Reconstruction by en bloc excision and autologous bone graft is described. Other therapeutic options are reviewed.
Robust control of underactuated bipeds using sliding modes
Authors: Nikkhah Mehdi , Ashrafiuon Hashem , Fahimi Farbod
Published: January 2007

The purpose of this paper is to present a robust tracking control algorithm for underactuated biped robots capable of self-balancing in the presence of external disturbances. The biped is modeled as a five-link planar robot with four actuators located at hip and knee joints. A sliding mode control law has been developed for the biped to follow a human-like gait trajectory while keeping the torso nearly upright. The control forces are calculated by defining four first-order sliding surfaces as a linear combination of the torso and the four joint tracking errors. The control approach is shown to guarantee that all trajectories will reach and stay on these surfaces during each step, while the walking cycle stability is maintained through a Lyapunov function. The criteria for asymptotic stability of the surfaces are presented and a numerical search method is implemented for the selection of the corresponding surface parameters. The paper further investigates the robustness of the controller in response to disturbances. Numerical simulations demonstrate the tracking stability of the biped's multistep walk and its human-like response to an external disturbance.
Economic Growth and Robinson Crusoe
Authors: MATHIAS PETER
Published: January 2007

There is very much more to Daniel Defoe's inspired piece of ‘faction’ about Robinson Crusoe than seeing it just as a boy's adventure story. Its influence was widespread, judging by the great scale of new editions and reprintings, both internationally and through many translations. It can be read as a sophisticated myth of the ascent of man, of economic growth by dint of the work ethic, of the imperative of ‘improvement’ and the determination to master nature. It has implications for natural rights theory, the Lockeian justification of private property and the role of the ‘civilised’ European facing a hostile, alien habitat.
The Impact of the New World Order on Economic Development: The Role of the Intellectual Property Rights System
Authors: STRAUS JOSEPH
Published: January 2007

Since the establishment of the World Trade Organization, one of its pillars, the TRIPs Agreement, has been exposed to strong criticism. The main objection being that TRIPs works against the interest of the developing world. This criticism will be examined against the empirical data showing the actual economic development in developing countries, with a special focus on China and India. As those data reveal, the developing countries are to be viewed as beneficiaries of the new world economic order, of which TRIPs is an instrumental and integral part. To avoid frictions in international trade, it is, however, essential that all WTO Members strictly comply with all of their obligations, be it under TRIPs, GATT 1994, or other WTO instruments. Weakening of intellectual property rights is counterproductive.
Improved coupled GCM climatologies for summer monsoon onset studies over Southeast Asia
Authors: Mochizuki Takashi , Igarashi Hiromichi , Sugiura Nozomi , Masuda Shuhei , Ishida Nobuhiro , Awaji Toshiyuki
Published: January 2007

To enhance accurate estimates of Asian monsoon variability by a coupled general circulation model (GCM), the bulk adjustment factors that control latent heat, sensible heat and momentum fluxes are optimized using a 4‐dimensional variational data assimilation method. When using the optimized values, a coupled GCM is better able to define the summer monsoon features over Southeast Asia. In particular, the early, rapid onset is realistically simulated around the Indochina Peninsula, which is a key region for the initial stage of the Asian summer monsoon development. The spatial patterns of precipitation rate, wind velocity, and sea surface temperature are successfully reproduced. The optimized values of the bulk adjustment factors for latent heat flux become significantly correlated with the strength of the subgrid‐scale disturbances primarily associated with energetic deep convective activities in the tropics, which is one of the major sources of model biases in commonly‐used coarse resolution models.