bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polyamide 6 Composites with Melamine Polyphosphate and Layered Silicates: Evaluation of Flame Retardancy and Physical Properties
Authors: Kiliaris Pantelis , Papaspyrides Constantine D. , Pfaendner Rudolf
Published: February 2011

The potential synergy of melamine polyphosphate and layered silicates for enhancing the flame retardancy and physical properties of polyamide 6 is investigated. Through melt blending, exfoliated nanocomposites were prepared, suffering, however, from polymer degradation. In the presence of the additives, the ability of polyamide 6 to crystallize was restrained and its thermal stability was deteriorated. Nevertheless, the stiffness of the polymer was increased, yet at the expense of ductility. Apart form stiffness, the additives exerted a positive effect on the fire resistance of polyamide 6; melamine polyphosphate and layered silicates cooperated during combustion to provoke the formation of a superficial protective barrier, yielding materials of inferior flammability.

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Crk and CrkL present with different expression and significance in epithelial ovarian carcinoma
Authors: Wang Jin , Che Ya‐ling , Li Gang , Liu Bin , Shen Tai‐min , Wang Hui , Linghu Hua
Published: February 2011

Adaptor protein Crk and CrkL were thought to be closely related because both consist of one SH2 and two SH3 domains and share 60% homology with the highest identity within their functional domains. Their functions were most presumed to be in part, if not all, redundant. And both were suggested to be implicated in carcinogenesis. In this study, both Crk and CrkL presented with much higher expression in ovarian cancer tissues than those in normal and benign ovarian tissues. However, in contrast with CrkL, high Crk expression displayed close association with advanced stages and high‐grade diseases. Furthermore, the differential binding selectivity of Crk and CrkL to their downstream partners Dock 180 and C3G was demonstrated in ovarian cancer cell line SKOV3 through coimmunoprecipitation. Additionally, Crk‐knockdown cells presented with changed morphology, reduced growth, and cell invasion but remained viable. In contrast, all CrkL‐knockdown cells could not survive over time, gradually detaching from the bottom of plastic dish. In conclusion, these two highly homologous proteins hold features that allow for the differential association with each binding molecules, thereby activating different signaling pathways and being involved in diverse roles in ovarian cancer. Mol. Carcinog. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Postural sway approaches center of mass stability limits in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Menant Jasmine C. , Latt Mark D. , Menz Hylton B. , Fung Victor S. , Lord Stephen R.
Published: February 2011

Background:

Although Parkinson's disease (PD) is a well recognised risk factor for falls, how this disease and its therapy affect postural stability and leaning balance remains unclear. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of PD and levodopa on postural sway and leaning balance. Methods: Performances of 28 PD participants {median [inter‐quartile range (IQR)] duration of PD: 10 (6–13) years, median (IQR) UPDRS motor score “off”: 22 (14–31) “on” and “off” levodopa were compared with 28 age‐ and gender‐matched healthy controls on two measures of controlled leaning balance [ratio of anterior‐posterior (AP) sway to maximal balance range (MBR) and coordinated stability]. Results: PD participants had greater ratio of AP sway to MBR than controls (P < 0.001), indicating that they swayed more as a proportion of their limits of stability, both “off” and “on” levodopa (P < 0.001). They also performed poorer in the coordinated stability test both “off” and “on” levodopa compared to controls (P < 0.001, for both), suggesting greater difficulty in controlling the center of mass at or near the limits of stability. Levodopa improved PD “participants” leaning balance (P < 0.001) and reduced the AP sway to MBR ratio (P < 0.001), although not to the level of controls. Conclusions: PD participants perform poorer than controls in leaning balance tests but significantly improve when “on” levodopa. Regardless of medication state, PD participants sway markedly more as a percentage of their limits of stability than controls suggesting a higher risk of falling. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
Evidence of melatonin synthesis in the cumulus oocyte complexes and its role in enhancing oocyte maturation in vitro in cattle
Authors: El‐Raey Mohamed , Geshi Masaya , Somfai Tamás , Kaneda Masahiro , Hirako Makoto , Abdel‐Ghaffar Alaa E. , Sosa Gamal A. , El‐Roos Mahmoud E.A. Abou , Nagai Takashi
Published: February 2011

Melatonin is a multifunctional molecule that mediates several circadian and seasonal reproductive processes. The exact role of melatonin in modulating reproduction, however, is not fully understood—especially its effects on the ovarian follicles and oocytes. This study was conducted to investigate the expressions of the ASMT and melatonin‐receptor MTNR1A and MTNR1B genes in bovine oocytes and their cumulus cells, as well as the effects of melatonin on oocyte nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation in vitro. Cumulus‐oocyte complexes (COCs) from abattoir ovaries were cultured in TCM‐199 supplemented with melatonin at concentrations of 0, 10, 50, and 100 ng/ml. The expression of ASMT, MTNR1A, and MTNR1B genes was evaluated by RT‐PCR. Moreover, the effects of melatonin on cumulus cell expansion, nuclear maturation, mitochondrial characteristics and COCs steroidogenesis were investigated. Furthermore, the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was evaluated in denuded oocytes. Our study revealed that ASMT and MTNR1A genes were expressed in COCs, while the MTNR1B gene was expressed only in oocytes. Additionally, melatonin supplementation at 10 and 50 ng/ml to in vitro maturation medium significantly enhanced oocyte nuclear maturation, cumulus cell expansion and altered the mitochondrial distribution patterns, but had no effects on oocyte mitochondrial activity and COCs steroidogenesis. Melatonin‐treated oocytes had a significantly lower level of ROS than controls. The presence of melatonin receptors in COCs and its promoting effects on oocyte nuclear and cytoplasmic events, indicate the potentially important roles of this hormone in regulating bovine oocyte maturation. Moreover, the presence of ASMT transcript in COCs suggests the possible involvement of these cells in melatonin biosynthesis. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 78:250–262, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
MRI artifacts in human brain tissue after prolonged formalin storage
Authors: van Duijn Sara , Nabuurs Rob J. A. , van Rooden Sanneke , Maat‐Schieman Marion L. C. , van Duinen Sjoerd G. , van Buchem Mark A. , van der Weerd Louise , Natté Remco
Published: February 2011

For the interpretation of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) abnormalities in brain pathology, often ex vivo tissue is used. The purpose of this study was to determine the pathological substrate of several distinct forms of MR hypointensities that were found in formalin‐fixed brain tissue with amyloid‐beta deposits. Samples of brain cortex were scanned using effective transverse relaxation time‐weighted protocols at several resolutions on a 9.4 T MRI scanner. High resolution MRI showed large coarse hypointensities throughout the cortical gray and white matter, corresponding to macroscopic discolorations and microscopic circumscribed areas of granular basophilic neuropil changes, without any further specific tissue reactions or amyloid‐beta related pathology. These coarse MRI hypointensities were identified as localized areas of absent neuropil replaced by membrane/myelin sheath remnants using electron microscopy. Interestingly, the presence/absence of these tissue alterations was not related to amyloid deposits, but strongly correlated to the fixation time of the samples in unrefreshed formalin. These findings show that prolonged storaged of formalin fixed brain tissue results in subtle histology artifacts, which show on MRI as hypointensities that on first appearance are indistinguishable from genuine brain pathology. This indicates that postmortem MRI should be interpreted with caution, especially if the history of tissue preservation is not fully known. Magn Reson Med, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Investigating temporal fluctuations in tumor vasculature with combined carbogen and ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide particle (CUSPIO) imaging
Authors: Burrell Jake S. , Walker‐Samuel Simon , Baker Lauren C. J. , Boult Jessica K. R. , Ryan Anderson J. , Waterton John C. , Halliday Jane , Robinson Simon P.
Published: February 2011

A combined carbogen ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide (USPIO) imaging protocol was developed and applied in vivo in two murine colorectal tumor xenograft models, HCT116 and SW1222, with established disparate vascular morphology, to investigate whether additional information could be extracted from the combination of two susceptibility MRI biomarkers. Tumors were imaged before and during carbogen breathing and subsequently following intravenous administration of USPIO particles. A novel segmentation method was applied to the image data, from which six categories of R2* response were identified, and compared with histological analysis of the vasculature. In particular, a strong association between a negative ΔR2*carbogen followed by positive ΔR2*USPIO with the uptake of the perfusion marker Hoechst 33342 was determined. Regions of tumor tissue where there was a significant ΔR2*carbogen but no significant ΔR2*USPIO were also identified, suggesting these regions became temporally isolated from the vascular supply during the experimental timecourse. These areas correlated with regions of tumor tissue where there was CD31 staining but no Hoechst 33342 uptake. Significantly, different combined carbogen USPIO responses were determined between the two tumor models. Combining ΔR2*carbogen and ΔR2*USPIO with a novel segmentation scheme can facilitate the interpretation of susceptibility contrast MRI data and enable a deeper interrogation of tumor vascular function and architecture. Magn Reson Med 66:227–234, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Contrast‐enhanced whole‐heart coronary magnetic resonance angiography at 3 T with radial EPI
Authors: Bhat Himanshu , Yang Qi , Zuehlsdorff Sven , Li Kuncheng , Li Debiao
Published: February 2011

Whole‐heart coronary magnetic resonance angiography is a promising method for detecting coronary artery disease. However, the imaging time is relatively long (typically 10–15 min). The goal of this study was to implement a radial echo planar imaging sequence for contrast‐enhanced whole‐heart coronary magnetic resonance angiography, with the aim of combining the scan efficiency of echo planar imaging with the motion insensitivity of radial k‐space sampling. A self‐calibrating phase correction technique was used to correct for off‐resonance effects, trajectory measurement was used to correct for k‐space trajectory errors, and variable density sampling was used in the partition direction to reduce streaking artifacts. Seven healthy volunteers and two patients were scanned with the proposed radial echo planar imaging sequence, and the images were compared with a traditional gradient echo and X‐ray angiography techniques, respectively. Whole‐heart images with the radial EPI technique were acquired with a resolution of 1.0 × 1.0 × 2.0 mm3 in a scan time of 5 min. In healthy volunteers, the average image quality scores and visualized vessel lengths of the RCA and LAD were similar for the radial EPI and gradient echo techniques (P value > 0.05 for all). Anecdotal patient studies showed excellent agreement of the radial EPI technique with X‐ray angiography. Magn Reson Med, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Spectrally selective pencil‐beam navigator for motion compensation of MR‐guided high‐intensity focused ultrasound therapy of abdominal organs
Authors: Köhler Max O. , Denis de Senneville Baudouin , Quesson Bruno , Moonen Chrit T.W. , Ries Mario
Published: February 2011

MR‐guided high‐intensity focused ultrasound (MR‐HIFU) is a noninvasive technique for depositing thermal energy in a controlled manner deep within the body. However, the MR‐HIFU treatment of mobile abdominal organs is problematic as motion‐related thermometry artifacts need to be corrected and the focal point position must be updated in order to follow the moving organ to avoid damaging healthy tissue. In this article, a fat‐selective pencil‐beam navigator is proposed for real‐time monitoring and compensation of through‐plane motion. As opposed to the conventional spectrally nonselective navigator, the fat‐selective navigator does not perturb the water–proton magnetization used for proton resonance frequency shift thermometry. This allows the proposed navigator to be placed directly on the target organ for improved motion estimation accuracy. The spectral and spatial selectivity of the proposed navigator pulse is evaluated through simulations and experiments, and the improved slice tracking performance is demonstrated in vivo by tracking experiments on a human kidney and on a human liver. The direct motion estimation provided by the fat‐selective navigator is also shown to enable accurate motion compensated MR‐HIFU therapy of in vivo porcine kidney, including motion compensation of thermometry and beam steering based on the observed three‐dimensional kidney motion. Magn Reson Med, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
CALPAIN activity is increased in skeletal muscle from gastric cancer patients with no or minimal weight loss
Authors: Smith Ira J. , Aversa Zaira , Hasselgren Per‐Olof , Pacelli Fabio , Rosa Fausto , Doglietto Giovan Battista , Bossola Maurizio
Published: February 2011

The influence of cancer on skeletal muscle calpain expression and activity in humans is poorly understood. We tested the hypothesis that calpain activity is increased in skeletal muscle from gastric cancer patients with no or <5% weight loss. Muscle biopsies were obtained from rectus abdominis muscle in 15 patients who underwent surgery for gastric cancer and had <5% weight loss and also in 15 control patients. Calpain activity was determined using a calpain‐specific substrate in the absence or presence of calcium. The expression of μ‐ and m‐calpain, calpastatin, atrogin‐1, and MuRF1 was determined by real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Calpain activity was increased by 70% in cancer patients compared with controls. There were no differences in mRNA levels for μ‐ and m‐calpain, calpastatin, atrogin‐1, or MuRF1 between control and cancer patients. Calpain activity may be increased in muscle from gastric cancer patients even before changes in molecular markers of muscle wasting and significant weight loss occur. Muscle Nerve, 2011
Transplantation of olfactory ensheathing cells promotes axonal regeneration and functional recovery of peripheral nerve lesion in rats
Authors: Guérout Nicolas , Duclos Célia , Drouot Laurent , Abramovici Olivia , Bon‐Mardion Nicolas , Lacoume Yann , Jean Laetitia , Boyer Olivier , Marie Jean‐Paul
Published: February 2011

Introduction: Olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) hold promise for cell therapy because they may promote regeneration of the central nervous system. However, OECs have been less studied after peripheral nerve injury (PNI). The purpose of this investigation was to determine the effect of OEC transplantation on a severe sciatic nerve (SN) lesion. Methods: OECs were injected in rats after section and 2‐cm resection of the SN. Results: Three months after therapy, muscle strength and morphometric studies showed complete restoration of the contractile properties of the gastrocnemius and complete repair of the SN. Immunohistochemistry and RT‐PCR studies indicated an increase in the presence of neurotrophic factors. Interestingly, tracking of green fluorescent protein (GFP)‐positive OECs showed that no OECs were present in the SN. Discussion: Our results demonstrate that, after severe PNI, OECs have remarkable potential for nerve regeneration by creating a favorable microenvironment. Muscle Nerve, 2011
Do A‐waves help predict intravenous immunoglobulin response in multifocal motor neuropathy without block?
Authors: Lange Dale J. , Nijjar Rajwinder , Voustianiouk Andrei , Seidel Gregory , Panchal Janki , Wang Annabel K.
Published: February 2011

Introduction: Are there electrophysiological findings that predict response to intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) in patients with lower motor neuron (LMN) syndromes without multifocal conduction block (MCB)? Methods: We enrolled 9 patients with LMN syndromes without MCB to receive 18 weeks of IVIg therapy. Response was measured at weeks 2 and 18 using the Appel Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (AALS) score (includes grip and pincer strength measures), ALS Functional Rating Scale (ALSFRS), and electrophysiological measures, including motor unit estimates (MUNEs). Results: No change occurred in AALS or ALSFRS scores posttreatment. Grip/pincer strength increased in 7 patients (P = 0.028) after initial treatment (responders); 2 showed no improvement (non‐responders). No electrophysiological measure changed after treatment in either group but MUNEs trended higher (P = 0.055). “Abnormal A‐waves” (complex, repetitive biphasic, or present in multiple nerves) occurred in pretreatment studies more often in responders (P = 0.028).Discussion:“Abnormal A‐waves” may signal IVIg‐responsive LMN syndromes even if conduction block is absent. Muscle Nerve, 2011
Neuromuscular toxicology of the venom of Collett's snake (Pseudechis colletti): A histopathological study
Authors: Hart Andrew J. , Hodgson Wayne C. , Scott‐Davey Tracey , Harris John B.
Published: February 2011

Introduction: A bite by Collett's snake, (Pseudechis
colletti) can cause rhabdomyolysis in human victims but no signs of neurotoxicity. The pathology of muscle and peripheral nerve has not been described previously. In this study we investigated neuromuscular toxicity in rats. Methods: The venom was inoculated subcutaneously into the anterolateral aspect of one hindlimb of adult rats at a dose replicating that inoculated into an adult human male during an envenoming bite. Results: The venom caused edema, an increase in muscle wet weight, and the degeneration of 20–35% of the underlying soleus muscle. Muscle fiber regeneration began at 4 days and was complete by 8 weeks. There was little evidence of either post‐ or presynaptic toxicity. Conclusions: The dominant effect of this venom in mammals is myotoxicity. Muscle Nerve, 2011
A case of sensory ataxia as the presenting manifestation of neurosarcoidosis
Authors: Reda Haatem M. , Taylor Sean W. , Klein Christopher J. , Boes Christopher J.
Published: February 2011

Sarcoidosis rarely selectively affects the cauda equina with characteristic motor and sensory impairments.Using imaging, we report a case of cauda equina polyradiculopathy presenting with progressive sensory ataxia without clinical or electrophysiological evidence of motor involvement. Neurosarcoidosis was diagnosed pathologically by proximal dorsal root biopsy after systemic investigations for inflammatory, infectious, and neoplastic etiologies were found to be negative. There was clinical and radiographic improvement with corticosteroids. In addition, we review previously reported cases of cauda equina sarcoidosis. Muscle Nerve, 2011
Ulnar nerve conduction abnormalities in carpal tunnel syndrome
Authors: Yemisci Oya Umit , Yalbuzdag Seniz Akcay , Cosar S. Nur Saracgil , Oztop Pinar , Karatas Metin
Published: February 2011

Introduction: The aim of this study was to verify the involvement of ulnar nerve fibers in cases of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and investigate the correlation between ulnar nerve conduction parameters and extra‐median spread of symptoms. Methods: Electrophysiological studies were conducted in 93 CTS and 76 control hands. Patients were analyzed with regard to symptoms in the fifth finger. Results: In the CTS cases, ulnar distal motor latency (DML) and distal sensory latency (DSL) were significantly longer, and amplitudes were lower than in controls. Increased median nerve DML correlated with increased ulnar nerve DSL and decreased sensory amplitudes and conduction velocities (SCVs). In cases with symptoms in the fifth finger, ulnar nerve SCVs and amplitudes were lower than in patients without symptoms. Conclusions: Pathological processes leading to median neuropathy in CTS may affect ulnar nerve motor and sensory fibers in the Guyon canal. This may explain the extra‐median spread of sensory symptoms in CTS patients. Muscle Nerve 44: 352–357, 2011
Primary amyloidosis presenting as “dropped head syndrome”
Authors: Chuquilin Miguel , Al‐Lozi Muhammad
Published: February 2011

A 77‐year‐old man, with a history of lymphoma, presented with isolated neck extensor weakness and a 2‐year history of bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Needle electromyography showed myopathic changes, and biopsy of cervical paraspinal muscles showed amyloid deposition in blood vessels. Amyloidosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of dropped head syndrome. Muscle Nerve, 2011
Pathogenesis of reduced or increased bladder sensation
Authors: Tsunoyama Kuniko , Sakakibara Ryuji , Yamaguchi Chiharu , Uchiyama Tomoyuki , Yamamoto Tatsuya , Yamanishi Tomonori , Takahashi Osamu , Sugiyama Megumi , Kishi Masahiko , Ogawa Emina
Published: February 2011

Objective

Pathogenesis of reduced or increased bladder sensation is not well known. Hence, we systematically investigated the frequency of reduced or increased bladder sensation in neurologic/mental diseases.

Methods

We analyzed 911 patients who were referred from within our hospital. Data registries included a diagnosis, a lower urinary tract symptom questionnaire, a urodynamic study, and neurological examinations. Reduced bladder sensation is defined as bladder volume at the first sensation >300 ml. Increased bladder sensation is defined as bladder volume at the first sensation <100 ml. These patients were stratified into those with and without DO.

Results

Neuropathies are the most common cause of reduced bladder sensation (33.3–43.8% in diabetic neuropathy, etc.). Myelopathies are the second most common cause (17.4–25.0% in multiple sclerosis, etc.). Less common is brain diseases (9.6% in multiple system atrophy, etc.). In contrast, myelopathies are the most common cause of increased bladder sensation without DO (25.0–40.0% in spinal forms of systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjogren's syndrome, etc.). Neuropathies are the second most common (17.3–22.2% in post‐pelvic organ surgery, diabetic neuropathy, etc.). Less common is brain/mental diseases (20.0% in psychogenic bladder dysfunction, 8.1% in Parkinson's disease, etc.).

Conclusion

The present study revealed that neuropathies are the most common cause of reduced bladder sensation in neurologic/mental diseases. Increased bladder sensation without DO occurs mainly in peripheral and central sensory pathway lesions, as well as in basal ganglia lesions and psychogenic bladder dysfunction. Reduced and increased bladder sensation should be a major treatment target for maximizing patients' quality of life. Neurourol. Urodynam. 30:339–343, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Italian version of qualiveen‐30: Cultural adaptation of a neurogenic urinary disorder‐specific instrument
Authors: Bonniaud Véronique , Bryant Dianne , Pilati Claudio , Menarini Mauro , Lamartina Marcello , Guyatt Gordon , Del Popolo Giulio
Published: February 2011

Purpose

Qualiveen‐30 is a neurological urinary disorder (UD)‐specific health‐related quality of life (HRQL) instrument, recommended in the European Association of Urology guideline 2008. The objective is to complete the cultural adaptation of Qualiveen‐30 into Italian.

Materials and Methods

One hundred and twenty eight Italian‐speaking spinal cord injury (SCI) patients completed Qualiveen‐30 and the SF‐12 physical and mental component (PC and MC) at enrolment and 4 weeks later. At follow‐up, patients also made global ratings of change (GRC) in urinary HRQL (GRC).

Results

Qualiveen‐30 proved reliable (intraclass correlation coefficients of four domains: 0.77–0.90). Correlations with SF‐12 and GRC were generally consistent with our a priori predictions. Qualiveen‐30 domains showed weak‐to‐moderate cross‐sectional correlations with SF‐12 scores (0.31–0.45 PC and 0.28–0.45 MC). Correlations between changes in Qualiveen‐30 scores and in SF‐12‐PC scores were weak or absent. Correlations between changes in Qualiveen‐30 scores and in SF‐12‐MC scores were weak to moderate (0.25–0.38). Relationships between change in Qualiveen‐30 and GRC were moderate to strong (0.48–0.56). The responsiveness was excellent, similar to the original form (SMR: 1.76–2.31). Minimally important difference values in the four domains varied from 0.34 to 0.47.

Conclusions

Italian Qualiveen‐30 is a reliable, valid, and responsive measure of UD‐related HRQL in SPI patients. Investigators can be confident of the Qualiveen‐30 questionnaire's ability in distinguishing between patients in a cross‐sectional survey, as well as in measuring within‐subject changes over time in clinical trials in French, English, and Italian. Neurourol. Urodynam. 30:354–359, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reducing nocturia in the elderly: A randomized placebo‐controlled trial of staggered furosemide and desmopressin
Authors: Fu Fei‐Guo , Lavery Hugh J. , Wu Deng‐Long
Published: February 2011

Aims

The purpose of this study was to investigate efficacy, safety, and impact on quality of sleep of staggered furosemide and desmopressin in the treatment of nocturia in the elderly.

Methods

Patients aged >60 years with nocturia at least two voids per night were screened for enrollment into the study. A 3‐week dose‐titration phase established the optimum desmopressin dose (0.1, 0.2, or 0.4 mg). After a 1‐week “washout” period, patients who showed sufficient response during the dose‐titration period were randomized to receive staggered furosemide and the optimal dose of desmopressin or placebo in a double‐blind design for 3 weeks. Voiding diaries were assessed before and after the treatment.

Results

In all, 82 patients were randomized to either staggered furosemide and desmopressin (n = 41) or placebo (n = 41). In the study group, most patients reported a good response with both reduced nocturnal voids (3.5 vs. 2.0, P < 0.01) and urine volume (919.6 ml vs. 584.2 ml, P < 0.01). The mean duration of the first sleep period was improved by 70 min (133.6 vs. 203.2, P < 0.01). Compared to placebo, staggered furosemide and desmopressin resulted in a significant reduction in the mean number of nocturnal voids (43% vs. 9%; P < 0.01), nocturnal urine volume (37% vs. 5%; P < 0.01), and increase in the mean duration of the first sleep period (52% vs. 19%, P < 0.01). Adverse events were mild.

Conclusions

Staggered furosemide and desmopressin provide an effective and well‐tolerated treatment for nocturia in the elderly. Neurourol. Urodynam. 30:312–316, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ultrasound estimated bladder weight in men attending the uroflowmetry clinic
Authors: Bright Elizabeth , Pearcy Richard , Abrams Paul
Published: February 2011

Aims

To determine if measurements of ultrasound estimated bladder weight (UEBW) provide an additional diagnostic tool when assessing men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in the uroflowmetry clinic.

Methods

One hundred men with LUTS attending the uroflowmetry clinic underwent transabdominal ultrasound measurement of bladder weight, using the BVM 9500 bladder scanner (Verathon Medical, Bothell, WA). These data were explored for any correlation between measurements of maximum flow rate (Qmax) with UEBW, age, height, weight, body mass index (BMI), ICIQ M‐LUTS score, M‐LUTS voiding score, M‐LUTS incontinence score, IPSS, IPSS quality of life score, voided volume, and post‐void residual urine. Based on previously reported probabilities of bladder outlet obstruction (BOO), patients were grouped for analysis (Group 1 = Qmax <10, Group 2 = Qmax 10–15, Group 3 = Qmax >15). A one‐way ANOVA was undertaken to assess any difference in mean UEBW between the three groups.

Results

Statistically significant negative correlations between Qmax and age (r = −0.308, P = 0.002), M‐LUTS voiding score (r = −0.298, P = 0.003), IPSS (r = −0.295, P = 0.003), and post‐void residual (r = −0.213, P = 0.033) were observed. A statistically significant positive correlation between Qmax and voided volume (r = 0.503, P < 0.01) was observed. No association between Qmax and UEBW was observed (r = 0.12, P = 0.243). Mean UEBW for the three groups was remarkably similar. One‐way ANOVA identified there was no statistically significant effect of UEBW on Qmax F(2, 97) = 0.175, P = 0.840.

Conclusion

Mean UEBW did not differ significantly between the three Qmax groups. Further work is required to investigate the relationship of Qmax and UEBW in men with urodynamic confirmation of either BOO or detrusor underactivity. Neurourol. Urodynam. 30:583–586, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The effect of biological and synthetic meshes on vaginal smooth muscle cell proliferation
Authors: Gualtieri Marc , Zhang Yanping , Candiotti Keith , Yavagal Sujata , Medina Carlos A. , Takacs Peter
Published: February 2011

Aims

To compare the effects of polypropylene mesh or porcine dermal acellular collagen matrix mesh with and without estradiol supplementation on vaginal smooth muscle cells (VaSMC) proliferation.

Results

Under in vitro culture conditions, VaSMC proliferation was significantly higher in the porcine dermal acellular collagen matrix mesh exposed cells compared to the type I polypropylene mesh exposed cells (relative cell number, mean ± SD, 0.27 ± 0.03 vs. 0.21 ± 0.01, P = 0.03). Under estradiol supplementation cell proliferation in the porcine mesh exposed cells remained significantly higher compared to the polypropylene mesh exposed cells (relative cell number, mean ± SD, 0.27 ± 0.04 vs. 0.15 ± 0.03, P < 0.01).

Conclusion

The decreased rate of erosion found with the utilization of biological absorbable mesh in vaginal reconstructive surgery may partially be explained by the significantly increased VaSMC proliferation with porcine dermal acellular collagen mesh compared to polypropylene mesh. Neurourol. Urodynam. 30:435–437, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dimensioning internet protocol television video on demand services
Authors: Pandey Suman , Won Young J. , Hong James W. , Strassner John
Published: February 2011

The Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) subscription rate has increased steadily since the introduction of IPTV Video on Demand (VoD) services. We have developed a model to determine the optimum deployment strategy for delivering IPTV VoD network services from the IPTV service providers' perspective. The analysis technique in this paper helps us determine how to support a particular IPTV VoD deployment having a given number of customers that each must receive a contracted Quality of Experience (QoE). The main QoE measures considered are server waiting time, one‐way minimum delay and access network bandwidth consumption. All these models are made considering heterogeneous network conditions. The QoE models will help service providers make network deployment decisions including the number of servers, distance of servers from a community and desirable access network bandwidth capacity. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation of microencapsulated ammonium polyphosphate with montmorillonite‐melamine formaldehyde resin and its flame retardancy in EVM
Authors: Zhang Yingjun , Lu Yanbing , Guo Fei , Peng Chang , Li Mingming , Xu Weijian
Published: February 2011

Microencapsulated ammonium polyphosphate (MMT‐MF‐APP) with a montmorillonite‐melamine formaldehyde resin coating layer was successfully prepared by in situ polymerization. The product was characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. Water absorption analysis showed that the microencapsulation of APP with the MMT‐MF resin leads to a decrease in the particle's water solubility. The microcapsules also exhibited better mechanical properties and higher flame retardancy in the ethylene–vinyl acetate copolymer with high vinyl acetate content (EVM) rubber compared with the common ammonium polyphosphate. Moreover, thermogravimetric analysis results showed that the EVM composites with MMT‐MF‐APP and dipentaerythritol (DPER) as flame retardants possess higher thermal stability than those with common APP and DPER as flame retardants. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Electromagnetic interference and electrical conductivity behavior of carbon/polycyanate composite with nickel nanostrands™ under fatigue
Authors: Mall S. , Rodriguez J. , Alexander M.D.
Published: February 2011

A conductive nanocomposite containing nickel nanostrands™ in carbon fiber‐reinforced polymeric composite (M55 carbon fibers in toughened polycyanate resin matrix, RS‐3) was investigated for electromagnetic interference (EMI) and electrostatic discharge (ESD) shielding effectiveness when subjected to the tension–tension fatigue load. These were measured in terms of dB attenuation and sheet resistance, respectively. Four configurations, one without nickel nanostrands and other three with different locations of nickel nanostrands layers, were investigated. The locations were outside surfaces, dispersed throughout the laminate thickness or the midplane. Fatigue strength was not affected by the addition of nickel nanostrands at any location. The addition of nickel nanostrands enhanced, in general, the EMI and ESD shielding effectiveness of the baseline polymeric composite with carbon fibers. However, the exterior location provided the maximum enhancement of EMI and ESD effectiveness. Furthermore, both EMI and ESD shielding effectiveness were practically constant under tension–tension fatigue loading condition up to 2 million cycles. This was because the nickel nanostrands were intact under fatigue loading condition. POLYM. COMPOS., 2011. Published 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Application of chitosan emulsion as a coating on Kraft paper
Authors: Reis Arlete B , Yoshida Cristiana MP , Reis Ana Paula C , Franco Telma T
Published: February 2011

Kraft paper was coated with chitosan emulsion film. The novelty of this paper is the formation of a packaging bilayer system in only one drying step, which combines a biodegradable polymer emulsion (chitosan and palmitic acid) with Kraft paper. This system is described in detail and characterized for barrier properties (water vapor permeability rate (WVPR), air permeability and water absorption capacity (Cobb test)), mechanical properties (tensile properties, Taber stiffness and tear strength) and structural properties. The application of chitosan coating (3.5 g m−2, wet basis) on Kraft paper sheets provides a significantly lower WVPR (by ca 43%) and water absorption capacity (by ca 35%) as compared to uncoated Kraft paper. The incorporation of palmitic acid into the chitosan film solutions at 1.8 g m−2 improves the properties of Kraft paper even more by further reducing the WVPR and water absorption capacity by 51 and 41%, respectively. The air resistance of the coated Kraft systems is lower by 8‐ and 11‐fold compared to uncoated Kraft paper, which could be associated with the chitosan film acting as a gas barrier and as a coating agent that fills the pores between cellulose fibers. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Structure and function of chitinases from glycoside hydrolase family 19
Authors: Ubhayasekera Wimal
Published: February 2011

Glycoside hydrolase family 19 chitinases are found in plants, bacteria and viruses, playing various roles. Plant chitinases are important for defence and development, whereas bacterial examples are useful for nutrition. The available structural studies show that family 19 enzymes are highly α‐helical bi‐lobed structures with a wide cleft lined by conserved residues important for catalysis and substrate binding. Class I and II plant chitinases possess loops which are absent in class IV and/or bacterial chitinases. One of the loops seems to retain a significant function. These inverting endochitinases demonstrate a possible opening–closing mechanism of the catalytic cleft during chitin hydrolysis due to loop movements. However, complex structures with inhibitors and/or substrate/product analogues are required for a deeper understanding of these enzymes. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Supramolecular columnar nanostructures from self‐organization of coil–rod–coil molecules incorporating an anthracene unit
Authors: Zhong Ke‐li , Man Zhijin , Huang Zhegang , Chen Tie , Yin Bingzhu , Yi Jin Long
Published: February 2011

We report the synthesis and self‐assembly behavior of coil–rod–coil molecules. These molecules each consist of two biphenyl groups and an anthracene unit connected with ethynyl bonds at the 1,8‐position of anthracene as a rod segment, with methoxy or octyl groups at the 10‐position of anthracene, and poly(ethylene oxide) with degrees of polymerization of 12 and 17 linked to the biphenyls as coil segments. Structural investigation of these molecules by means of differential scanning calorimetry, polarized optical microscopy and X‐ray diffraction in the bulk state reveals that these molecules self‐assemble into lamellar structures in the solid state, while, in the liquid‐crystalline phase, they self‐organize into various columnar assemblies depending on the volume fraction of coil segments. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Solid‐Phase Cross‐Linking (SPCL): A new tool for protein structure studies
Authors: Paramelle David , Enjalbal Christine , Amblard Muriel , Forest Eric , Heymann Michaël , Cantel Sonia , Geourjon Christophe , Martinez Jean , Subra Gilles
Published: February 2011

A wide range of chemical reagents are available to study the protein–protein interactions or protein structures. After reaction with such chemicals, covalently modified proteins are digested, resulting in shorter peptides that are analyzed by mass spectrometry (MS). Used especially when NMR of X‐ray data are lacking, this methodology requires the identification of modified species carrying relevant information, among the unmodified peptides. To overcome the drawbacks of existing methods, we propose a more direct strategy relying on the synthesis of solid‐supported cleavable monofunctional reagents and cross‐linkers that react with proteins and that selectively release, after protein digestion and washings, the modified peptide fragments ready for MS analysis. Using this Solid‐Phase Cross‐Linking (SPCL) strategy, only modified sequences are analyzed and consistent data can be easily obtained since the signals of interest are not masked or suppressed by over‐represented unmodified materials.
Proteomic identification of radiation response markers in mouse intestine and brain
Authors: Lim Young‐Bin , Pyun Bo‐Jeong , Lee Hae‐June , Jeon Sang‐Rok , Jin Yeung Bae , Lee Yun‐Sil
Published: February 2011

Increasing efforts are being made to develop more sensitive and faster molecular methodologies at the genomic and proteomic levels for the identification of protein markers after exposure to ionizing radiation (IR). However, few specific protein markers, especially organ‐specific markers, have been identified. In this study, we analyzed altered protein expressions in various tissues, namely, brain, lung, spleen, and intestine, from 1 Gy‐irradiated mice by employing 2‐DE analysis. MALDI‐TOF MS and peptide mapping identified 25 proteins that showed greater than twofold expressional changes. In order to confirm significant differences between control and IR‐treated samples, ten identified proteins with available commercial antibodies were selected for immunoblotting. Of these, only five showed protein expression patterns that were similar to 2‐DE data. These were heat shock protein 5 (HSP 5), HSP 90 kDa β, HSP 1, transaldolase 1 (TA1), and phosphoglycerate kinase 1 (PGK1). In particular, PGK1 was specifically upregulated in mouse intestine, and TA1 was specifically downregulated in brain by irradiation. TA1 expression was unaltered in other tissues. Based on these data, we suggest that TA1 and PGK1 can be considered as candidate tissue‐specific protein markers of IR exposure.
Redox‐regulatory mechanisms induced by oxidative stress in Brassica juncea roots monitored by 2‐DE proteomics
Authors: Alvarez Sophie , Galant Ashley , Jez Joseph M. , Hicks Leslie M.
Published: February 2011

ROS, including hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), can serve as cellular signaling molecules following oxidative stress. Analysis of the redox state of proteins in Brassica juncea roots by 2‐DE proteomics following treatment with either exogenous H2O2 or buthionine sulfoximine, which depletes glutathione to cause accumulation of endogenous H2O2, led to the identification of different sets of proteins. These data suggest that exogenous and endogenous oxidative stresses trigger specialized responses.
Compartmentalized linkage of genes encoding interacting protein pairs
Authors: Nirantar Saurabh R. , Ghadessy Farid J.
Published: February 2011

Emulsion technology has been successfully applied to the fields of next‐generation high‐throughput sequencing, protein engineering and clinical diagnostics. Here, we extend its scope to proteomics research by developing and characterizing a method, termed iCLIP (in vitro compartmentalized linkage of interacting partners), which enables genes encoding interacting protein pairs to be linked in a single segment of DNA. This will facilitate archiving of the interactomes from library versus library two‐hybrid screens as libraries of linked DNAs. We further demonstrate the ability to interrogate a model yeast two‐hybrid iCLIP library for interactants by “PCR‐pulldown,” using a primer specific to a gene of interest along with a universal primer. iCLIP libraries may also be subjected to high‐throughput sequencing to generate interactome information. The applicability of the technique is also demonstrated in the related context of the bacterial two‐hybrid system.
Handbook of Epilepsy Treatment
Authors: Shorvon Simon
Published: February 2011

Being invited to write an editorial about a book1 I myself authored, is a rather strange experience. I wondered how best to approach the task, and decided, in the 500 or so allotted words, to address what is perhaps the most intriguing question for any author now as we enter the second decade of the age of the internet, namely: ‘Are medical books still required?’. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Interface Ltd
GP consortia and community mental health services – a new model
Authors: Hashmi Sammad , Mortimer Ann
Published: February 2011

The 2010 Department of Health White Paper Equity and Excellence: Liberating the NHS1 outlines plans to place commissioning in the hands of new GP consortia, thus breaking down the primary/secondary care divide. In this article, Dr Hashmi and Professor Mortimer discuss what they think the changes will mean for community mental health services. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Interface Ltd
Electroconvulsive therapy and its place in the management of depression
Authors: Singhal Ankush
Published: February 2011

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a psychiatric treatment with a controversial history. Advances in technology have led to a safer therapy, making it once again an option in very specific circumstances. Here, Dr Singhal discusses its current role in the management of depression. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Interface Ltd
Appropriateness of GP referrals of patients with anxiety and depression
Authors: Belgamwar Madhvi , Bates Catherine , Goes Celina , Taylor Nick
Published: February 2011

In its guidelines on anxiety and depression, NICE recommends a stepped care approach to patient management. In this study, the authors assessed the appropriateness of GP referrals to their community general adult mental health services of patients with anxiety and depression, according to the NICE guidelines. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Interface Ltd
Synthesis and characterization of materials prepared via the copolymerization of ethylene with 1‐octadecene and norbornene using a [(π‐cyano‐nacnac)Cp] zirconium complex
Authors: Cabrera Alan R. , Schneider Yanika , Valderrama Mauricio , Galland Griselda B. , Rojas Rene S.
Published: February 2011

[3‐Cyano‐2‐(2,6‐diisopropylphenyl)aminopent‐2‐en‐4‐(phenylimine)tris (pentafluorophenyl)borate](η5‐C5H5)ZrCl2, [(B(C6F5)3‐ NC‐nacnac)CpZrCl2], precatalyst (2) can be treated with low concentrations of methylaluminoxane (MAO) to generate active sites capable of copolymerizing ethylene with 1‐octadecene or norbornene under mild conditions. A series of poly(ethylene‐co‐octadecene) and poly(ethylene‐co‐norbornene) copolymers were prepared, and their properties were characterized by NMR, differential scanning calorimetry, and mechanical analysis. The results show that this system produced poly(ethylene‐co‐octadecene) copolymers with a branching content of about 8 mol %. However, upon increasing the comonomer concentration, a drastic reduction in the Mn of the product is observed concomitant with an increase in comonomer incorporation. This leads to a gradual decrease in Young's modulus and stress at break, indicating an increase in the “softness” of the copolymer. In the case of copolymerizations of ethylene and norbornene, the catalytic system (2/MAO) shows a substantial decrease in reactivity in the presence of norbornene and generates copolymer chains in which 5–10 mol % norbornene is in blocks. We also observe that ethylene norbornene copolymers exhibit a high degree of alternating insertions (close to 50%), as determined by NMR spectroscopy. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Combining cationic ring‐opening polymerization and click chemistry for the design of functionalized polyurethanes
Authors: Basko Malgorzata , Bednarek Melania , Billiet Leen , Kubisa Przemyslaw , Goethals Eric , Du Prez Filip
Published: February 2011

A straightforward strategy for the synthesis and functionalization of polyurethanes (PUs) via the use of alkyne‐functionalized polytetrahydrofuran (PTHF) diols is described. The alkyne groups have been introduced into the PTHF chains by the cationic ring‐opening copolymerization of tetrahydrofuran and glycidyl propargyl ether. These PTHF prepolymers were combined with 1,4‐butanediol and hexamethylene diisocyanate for the synthesis of linear PUs with latent functionalization sites. The polyether segments of the PUs have then been coupled with several types of functionalized azides by the copper‐catalyzed azide‐alkyne “click” chemistry, for example with phosphonium containing azides for their antibacterial properties. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Synthesis and optoelectronic behavior of conjugated polymer poly(3‐hexylthiophene) grafted on multiwalled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Phuong Le Anh , Huang Tsai‐Ming , Chen Po‐Tsun , Yang Arnold Chang‐Mou
Published: February 2011

A nanocomposite of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) was prepared by grafting P3HT uniformly on the surface of CNTs (P3HT/P3HT‐g‐CNT) via a “grafting from” method with the coating thicknesses controlled. It was found that as the coating thickness decreased, the crystallinity of the P3HT decreased, along with significant red‐shifting of Raman that signified alterations of chain conformation. Furthermore, although the photoluminescence (PL) peak remained unchanged when grafted on CNTs, modifications of P3HT energy gap was observed, indicating variations of vibronic levels arising from the grafting. Moreover, broadening of the PL emission took place that suggested decreasing of lifetimes of the photo‐generated species when grafted on CNTs. Bilayer photovoltaic devices with the (6,6)‐phenyl C61‐butyric acid methyl ester as the electron acceptor have shown that the nanocomposite P3HT/P3HT‐g‐CNT performed much more efficiently as the electron donor, in both photocurrent density and power conversion efficiency, compared with the neat P3HT. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2011