bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early sacral neuromodulation prevents urinary incontinence after complete spinal cord injury
Authors: Sievert Karl‐Dietrich , Amend Bastian , Gakis G. , Toomey P. , Badke A. , Kaps H.P. , Stenzl Arnulf
Published: August 2009

Background

The study aim was to investigate potential influences on human nerves and pelvic organs through early implantation of bilateral sacral nerve modulators (SNMs) in complete spinal cord injury (SCI) patients during the acute bladder‐areflexia phase.

Methods

Ten patients with neurologically‐confirmed complete spinal cord lesions (SCLs) were provided with bilateral SNMs during the phase of atonic‐detrusor muscle. Modulation was achieved by two electrodes implanted into each S3‐foramen. Six patients declined and served as controls. The mean follow‐up was 26.2 months.

Results

Videourodynamics (VU) confirmed detrusor acontractility, resulting in urinary continence as well as significant reductions in urinary tract infections (UTIs). Bowel movements did not require oral laxatives; additional preprogrammed parameters achieved erections for intercourse.

Interpretation

Early SNM implantation in SCI patients may revolutionize neurogenic lower urinary tract (LUT) dysfunction management; it prevented detrusor overactivity and urinary incontinence, ensured normal bladder capacity, reduced UTI rates, and improved bowel and erectile functionality without nerve damage.

Conclusion

Future SCI investigations will be conducted to evaluate the potential benefits of even earlier SNM placement to progressively enhance pelvic organ functionality. This new approach may provide important clues required for assessing whether neuronal information is passed through the sympathetic trunk ganglion to the brain after complete SCI. Further investigations are needed to determine if functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) might be helpful for analyzing changes in brain function in patients with SNMs and those taking antimuscarinics. ANN NEUROL 2010;67:74–84
High cortical spreading depression susceptibility and migraine‐associated symptoms in Cav2.1 S218L mice
Authors: van den Maagdenberg Arn M. J. M. , Pizzorusso Tommaso , Kaja Simon , Terpolilli Nicole , Shapovalova Maryna , Hoebeek Freek E. , Barrett Curtis F. , Gherardini Lisa , van de Ven Rob C. G. , Todorov Boyan , Broos Ludo A. M. , Tottene Angelita , Gao Zhenyu , Fodor Mariann , De Zeeuw Chris I. , Frants Rune R. , Plesnila Nikolaus , Plomp Jaap J. , Pietrobon Daniela , Ferrari Michel D.
Published: August 2009

Objective

The CACNA1A gene encodes the pore‐forming subunit of neuronal CaV2.1 Ca2+ channels. In patients, the S218L CACNA1A mutation causes a dramatic hemiplegic migraine syndrome that is associated with ataxia, seizures, and severe, sometimes fatal, brain edema often triggered by only a mild head trauma.

Methods

We introduced the S218L mutation into the mouse Cacna1a gene and studied the mechanisms for the S218L syndrome by analyzing the phenotypic, molecular, and electrophysiological consequences.

Results

Cacna1aS218L mice faithfully mimic the associated clinical features of the human S218L syndrome. S218L neurons exhibit a gene dosage–dependent negative shift in voltage dependence of CaV2.1 channel activation, resulting in enhanced neurotransmitter release at the neuromuscular junction. Cacna1aS218L mice also display an exquisite sensitivity to cortical spreading depression (CSD), with a vastly reduced triggering threshold, an increased propagation velocity, and frequently multiple CSD events after a single stimulus. In contrast, mice bearing the R192Q CACNA1A mutation, which in humans causes a milder form of hemiplegic migraine, typically exhibit only a single CSD event after one triggering stimulus.

Interpretation

The particularly low CSD threshold and the strong tendency to respond with multiple CSD events make the S218L cortex highly vulnerable to weak stimuli and may provide a mechanistic basis for the dramatic phenotype seen in S218L mice and patients. Thus, the S218L mouse model may prove a valuable tool to further elucidate mechanisms underlying migraine, seizures, ataxia, and trauma‐triggered cerebral edema. ANN NEUROL 2010;67:85–98
The role of subjective factors in the information search process
Authors: Gwizdka Jacek , Lopatovska Irene
Published: August 2009

We investigated the role of subjective factors in the information search process. Forty‐eight participants each conducted six Web searches in a controlled setting. We examined relationships between subjective factors (happiness levels, satisfaction with and confidence in the search results, feeling lost during search, familiarity with and interest in the search topic, estimation of task difficulty) and objective factors (search behavior, search outcomes, and search‐task characteristics). Data analysis was conducted using a multivariate statistical test (canonical correlations analysis). The findings confirmed existence of several relationships suggested by prior research, including relationships between objective search task difficulty and the perception of task difficulty, and between subjective states and search behaviors and outcomes. One of the original findings suggests that higher happiness levels before and during the search correlate with better feelings after the search, but also correlate with worse search outcomes and lower satisfaction, suggesting that, perhaps, it pays off to feel some “pain” during the search to “gain” quality outcomes.
Use of recombinant rotavirus VP6 nanotubes as a multifunctional template for the synthesis of nanobiomaterials functionalized with metals
Authors: Plascencia‐Villa Germán , Saniger José M. , Ascencio Jorge A. , Palomares Laura A. , Ramírez Octavio T.
Published: August 2009

The structural characteristics and predefined constant size and shape of viral assemblies make them useful tools for nanobiotechnology, in particular as scaffolds for constructing highly organized novel nanomaterials. In this work it is shown for the first time that nanotubes formed by recombinant rotavirus VP6 protein can be used as scaffolds for the synthesis of hybrid nanocomposites. Rotavirus VP6 was produced by the insect cell‐baculovirus expression vector system. Nanotubes of several micrometers in length and various diameters in the nanometer range were functionalized with Ag, Au, Pt, and Pd through strong (sodium borohydride) or mild (sodium citrate) chemical reduction. The nanocomposites obtained were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high‐resolution TEM (HRTEM) with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), dynamic light scattering, and their characteristic plasmon resonance. The outer surface of VP6 nanotubes had intrinsic affinity to metal deposition that allowed in situ synthesis of nanoparticles. Furthermore, the use of preassembled recombinant protein structures resulted in highly ordered integrated materials. It was possible to obtain different extents and characteristics of the metal coverage by manipulating the reaction conditions. TEM revealed either a continuous coverage with an electrodense thin film when using sodium citrate as reductant or a discrete coverage with well‐dispersed metal nanoparticles of diameters between 2 and 9 nm when using sodium borohydride and short reaction times. At long reaction times and using sodium borohydride, the metal nanoparticles coalesced and resulted in a thick metal layer. HRTEM‐EDS confirmed the identity of the metal nanoparticles. Compared to other non‐recombinant viral scaffolds used until now, the recombinant VP6 nanotubes employed here have important advantages, including a longer axial dimension, a dynamic multifunctional hollow structure, and the possibility of producing them massively by a safe and efficient bioprocess. Such characteristics confer important potential applications in nanotechnology to the novel nanobiomaterials produced here. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2009; 104: 871–881. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Long term efficacy of abciximab bolus‐only compared to abciximab bolus and infusion after transradial coronary stenting
Authors: Bagur Rodrigo , Bertrand Olivier F. , Rodés‐Cabau Josep , Larose Éric , Rinfret Stéphane , Nguyen Can M. , Noel Bernard , Larochellière Robert De , Poirier Paul , Costerousse Olivier , Roy Louis
Published: August 2009

Background: No data are available on the long term efficacy of abciximab bolus‐only with aspirin and clopidogrel pretreatment and systematic coronary stenting. Our objective was to evaluate the 3‐year clinical outcomes in the EASY trial. Methods: After a bolus of abciximab (0.25 mg/kg) and uncomplicated transradial coronary stenting, 1,005 patients were randomized either to same‐day home discharge and no infusion (bolus‐only group, n = 504) or to overnight hospitalization and 12 hours abciximab infusion (bolus + infusion group, n = 501). In contrast, 343 patients were not randomized after stenting for safety reasons and received abciximab bolus and infusion (not‐randomized group). The rate of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), including death, myocardial infarction (MI) and target vessel revascularization (TVR) after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was evaluated. Results: Up to 3 years, the incidence of MACE remained similar in the two randomized groups, 14% in bolus‐only vs. 17% in bolus + infusion (P = 0.38). Similar efficacy was observed in subgroups analysis including higher‐risk patients such as those with diabetes, unstable angina or non‐ST elevation MI. Conversely, the incidence of MACE remained significantly higher in patients not‐randomized post‐PCI at all time intervals (P < 0.0001). The difference in outcomes between randomized and not‐randomized patients was mostly accounted by the higher rates of MI, TVR as survival rate remained similar. Conclusion: In patients pretreated with aspirin and clopidogrel and undergoing uncomplicated coronary artery stenting, abciximab bolus‐only was associated with similar outcomes compared with bolus followed by infusion, up to 3 years after PCI. Conversely, patients with suboptimal results or clinical complications during PCI remained at higher risk of late revascularization or MI. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Transradial simultaneous kissing stenting (SKS) with SheathLess access
Authors: Liang Michael , Puri Aniket , Linder Rickard
Published: August 2009

Transradial coronary intervention is usually performed via a 5 or 6 Fr sheath due to the small calibre of radial arteries. Simultaneous kissing stenting (SKS) technique requires a guiding catheter 7 Fr or larger and is therefore difficult to perform via transradial approach. Conversion to femoral approach or additional arterial access is usually required to achieve this goal. To overcome this limitation, a hydrophilic 7.5 Fr SheathLess guiding catheter can be exploited. This catheter possesses approximately the same size outer diameter as a 6 Fr sheath and an internal diameter of a 7.5 Fr catheter. A smooth and successful performance of SKS through transradial approach is described using this catheter. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A new technique for vascular access management in transcatheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: Sharp Andrew S.P. , Michev Iassen , Maisano Francesco , Taramasso Maurizio , Godino Cosmo , Latib Azeem , Denti Paulo , Dorigo Enrica , Giacomini Andrea , Iaci Giuseppe , Manca Mario , Ielasi Alfonso , Montorfano Matteo , Alfieri Ottavio , Colombo Antonio
Published: August 2009

Objectives: To describe results from a novel percutaneous technique designed to minimize the risk of hemorrhage in the event of a major complication during transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Background: Vascular access management is a major challenge in transfemoral TAVI due to the large introducer sheathes required. Methods: Fifty‐two pts underwent TAVI between November 2007 and March 2009. Of these, 37 received an Edwards‐Sapien Valve (23 mm valve: 17/37; 26 mm valve: 20/37) whilst 15 patients received a CoreValve (26 mm valve: 6/15; 29 mm valve: 9/15). Using a crossover technique, the opposing femoral artery was cannulated with a 7Fr long sheath. This allowed contralateral passage of a balloon and inflation in the proximal iliac. The sheath was then removed and Prostar sutures tied in a dry field. Balloon optimization of the puncture site was performed as required. Results: In three subjects, elective surgical repair was undertaken due to excessive femoral arterial calcification. In the remaining 49, the crossover technique was employed and closed with two Prostar devices (Edwards‐Sapien) or one (CoreValve). There were serious “on‐table” complications in seven patients, six due to the large introducer sheathes used in the TAVI procedure—iliac avulsion, two iliac dissections, iliac perforation, common femoral perforation and scrotal hematoma. All were repaired safely by combined surgical and endovascular techniques, using the crossover technique to ensure patient stability. All made a good recovery and were independently ambulant at discharge. Conclusion: Using crossover balloon inflation as an adjunct to Prostar closure may be helpful for managing TAVI vascular access sites. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Enantioselective Total Synthesis of Brevetoxin A: Convergent Coupling Strategy and Completion
Authors: Crimmins Michael T. , Zuccarello J. Lucas , McDougall Patrick J. , Ellis J. Michael
Published: August 2009

A highly convergent, enantioselective total synthesis of brevetoxin A is reported. The development of a [X+2+X] Horner–Wadsworth–Emmons/cyclodehydration/reductive etherification convergent coupling strategy allowed a unified approach to the synthesis of two advanced tetracyclic fragments from four cyclic ether subunits. The Horner–Wittig coupling of the two tetracyclic fragments provided substrates that were explored for reductive etherification, the success of which delivered a late‐stage tetraol intermediate. The tetraol was converted to the natural product through an expeditious selective oxidative process followed by methylenation.
New Lipophilic 2‐Amino‐N,N′‐dialkyl‐4,5‐dimethylimidazolium Cations: Synthesis, Structure, Properties, and Outstanding Thermal Stability in Alkaline Media
Authors: Kunetskiy Roman A. , Císařová Ivana , Šaman David , Lyapkalo Ilya M.
Published: August 2009

A series of new N,N′‐dialkyl‐4,5‐dimethylimidazolium cations possessing electron‐rich 2‐imidazolylidene‐ or phosphoranylidene‐amino substituents has been efficiently synthesized from common precursors, N,N′‐dialkyl‐4,5‐dimethylimidazol‐2‐ylidenes. The new lipophilic salts obtained have been found to be highly stable towards strong alkali under both biphasic and homogeneous conditions. Their exceptional aqueous base resistance, which has hitherto only been seen with peralkylated polyaminophosphazenium cations, may be attributed to three factors: aromatic stabilization, efficient resonance charge delocalization, and steric protection of the exocyclic nitrogen linkage due to bulky lipophilic N‐alkyl substituents.
Primer and interviews: Gene regulation in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Kiefer Julie C.
Published: August 2009

The animal and plant kingdoms use many of the same molecular tools to build decidedly different multicellular organisms. Learning how plants approach challenges common to both kingdoms can inspire new ways of thinking in the animal biologist. This primer introduces how a weed from the mustard family, Arabidopsis thaliana, has been used to work through developmental problems. It also compares and contrasts gene regulation tools in animals and plants. Accompanying the primer is a discussion of current topics in root development with Arabidopsis researchers Philip N. Benfey, Ph.D., and Kenneth D. Birnbaum, Ph.D. Developmental Dynamics 238:2449–2458, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Variable FZD7 expression in colorectal cancers indicates regulation by the tumour microenvironment
Authors: Vincan Elizabeth , Flanagan Dustin J. , Pouliot Normand , Brabletz Thomas , Spaderna Simone
Published: August 2009

Recent evidence shows that a sub‐population of Wnt/β‐catenin target genes is specifically induced in different tissue contexts. FZD7 is a putative Wnt/β‐catenin target gene and although it is highly expressed in well‐differentiated colorectal cancer tumour cells, its expression is decreased in de‐differentiated tumour cells at the invasive front despite elevated Wnt/β‐catenin signalling in this area. This variable expression of FZD7 implicates additional regulation by the microenvironment; however, this has not been investigated. To begin to elucidate the role of extracellular matrix in regulating FZD7 expression, we generated a FZD7 promoter reporter and analysed FZD7 promoter activity in colorectal cancer cells grown on different matrices. We demonstrate that the FZD7 promoter is regulated by β‐catenin in colorectal cancer cells and observed decreased promoter activity in cells grown on fibronectin but not collagen I or collagen IV. Thus, expression of FZD7 in colorectal cancer may be regulated by fibronectin in the microenvironment. Developmental Dynamics 239:311–317, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression of Axin2 indicates a role for canonical Wnt signaling in development of the crown and root during pre‐ and postnatal tooth development
Authors: Lohi Mahtab , Tucker Abigail S. , Sharpe Paul T.
Published: August 2009

Previously two reporter mice, TOPgal and BATgal, have been used to uncover the spatial patterns of canonical Wnt activity up to the bell stage of tooth development. To further understand the function of this pathway, not only at the early developmental stages of odontogenesis but also in postnatal teeth, we have used Axin2‐lacZ mice a direct reporter of canonical Wnt activity. As tooth development progresses, Axin2 expression becomes localized to the primary and secondary enamel knots, and the underlying mesenchyme. In postnatal teeth, Axin2 expression is observed in developing odontoblasts, in the dental pulp and concentrated around the developing roots. Expression is excluded from the ameloblasts and associated with the enamel‐free zones at the tip of the molar cusps. This expression identifies new roles for Wnt signaling in defining the regions where enamel will form, and controlling root development at late stages of tooth development. Developmental Dynamics 239:160–167, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Two New Imidazole‐Based Heteroscorpionate Ligands
Authors: Fischer Nina V. , Heinemann Frank W. , Burzlaff Nicolai
Published: August 2009

The syntheses of two novel imidazole‐based N,N,Oand N,N,S ligands, 2,2‐bis(N‐methylimidazol‐2‐yl)ethanol (Hbmie) and lithium bis(N‐methylimidazol‐2‐yl)dithioacetate Li[bmidta], are described. The coordination properties of the two new ligands are studied by the synthesis of rhenium(I) and ruthenium(II) complexes. Single crystal X‐ray diffraction analyses of Hbmie, Li[bmidta] together with bis(N‐methylimidazol‐2‐yl)methane (bmim) and [Re(bmie)(CO)3] are provided, too.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Synthesis and Crystal Structure of a New C602– Fulleride: [K(DB24C8)(DME)]2C60·DME
Authors: Kozhemyakina Nina V. , Nuss Jürgen , Jansen Martin
Published: August 2009

The “break‐and‐seal” approach was applied to synthesize the new fulleride [K(DB24C8)(DME)]2C60·DME by reacting fullerene C60 with potassium and dibenzo‐24‐crown‐8 (DB24C8) in dimethoxyethane (DME). Single crystals were grown from solution by the modified “temperature difference method”, single‐crystal X‐ray analysis was performed revealing the structure [C2/c, Z = 4, a = 31.133(4), b = 15.127(2), c = 21.433(3) Å, β = 117.506(3)°, R1 = 0.056, wR(all) = 0.171, 8459 independent reflections]. Due to crystal symmetry, the C602– anion is disordered between two well distinguishable orientations. The distribution of the bond lengths within the fullerene is discussed and attributed to a Jahn–Teller distortion.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Histidine Analog Amino Acids Providing Metal‐Binding Sites Derived from Bioinorganic Model Systems
Authors: Nadler André , Hain Christina , Diederichsen Ulf
Published: August 2009

Metalloproteins are of utmost importance for nearly all biological processes. Valuable information about their functionalities came from mutagenesis studies and led to the de novo design of artificial proteins. Advances in peptide chemistry enable the total synthesis of complete proteins and allow the incorporation of non‐proteinogenic amino acids. Chelating amino acids utilized to introduce artificial metal‐binding sites into proteins should mimic the side chains of the natural residues in order to minimize structural consequences within the target proteins. In this paper a synthetic method is described for the preparation of amino acids bearing a metal ligand system connected to the β‐carbon via triazole formation. Thereby, a histidine isoster is generated with an additional metal‐binding site in proximity to the peptide backbone. Two representative building blocks bearing the ligands triazacyclononane (tacn) and bis(picoloyl)‐amine (bpa) were synthesized and incorporated into model peptides.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Photopatternable Carbon Electrodes for Chip‐Based Electrochemical Detection
Authors: Gonzalez Carlos F. , Cropek Donald M. , Henry Charles S.
Published: August 2009

Presented is the preparation and initial characterization of carbonaceous electrodes prepared using photolithographic techniques. The electrodes were created using a graphite doped photoresist mixture which allowed for direct electrode patterning. The electrodes were tested using cyclic voltammetry with a Fe(CN)$\rm{ {_{6}^{3-/4-}}}$ test solution and were found to exhibit a linear response as per the Randles–Sevick relation. The feasibility of using these electrodes to conduct biological assays was demonstrated with p‐aminophenol, a common analyte in electrochemical ELISAs, using differential pulse voltammetry.
Effect of the nature of the single‐isomer anionic CD and the BGE composition on the enantiomeric separation of β‐blockers in NACE
Authors: Rousseau Anne , Chiap Patrice , Oprean Radu , Crommen Jacques , Fillet Marianne , Servais Anne‐Catherine
Published: August 2009

The separation of ten β‐blockers has been investigated in NACE systems using heptakis(2,3‐di‐O‐methyl‐6‐O‐sulfo)‐β‐CD (HDMS‐β‐CD) and heptakis(2,3‐di‐O‐acetyl‐6‐O‐sulfo)‐β‐CD (HDAS‐β‐CD). The influence on enantioresolution, mobility difference and selectivity of the nature of both anionic CD and BGE anion as well as their concentrations were studied by means of a multivariate approach. A D‐optimal design with 25 experimental points was applied. For all studied analytes, the enantiomeric resolution was shown to be significantly influenced by both CD nature and concentration. Except for two compounds, HDAS‐β‐CD was found to give higher enantioresolution values than HDMS‐β‐CD. The best enantioseparation for all compounds was achieved in the presence of a high chiral selector concentration and for most of them at a low BGE anion concentration. For each investigated compound, operating conditions leading to the best enantiomeric resolution were deduced. A generic NACE system was then recommended, namely 10 mM ammonium acetate and 40 mM HDAS‐β‐CD in methanol acidified with 0.75 M formic acid. This generic system was able to completely resolve the enantiomers of all β‐blockers, with a Rs value of at least 4. Finally, the optimal conditions obtained modelling resolution, mobility difference and selectivity were compared.
Inducible character of β‐xylanase in a hyperproducing mutant of Thermomyces lanuginosus
Authors: Santhosh Kumar Kuttanpillai , Permaul Kugen , Singh Suren
Published: August 2009

Ten strains of Thermomyces lanuginosus from various culture collections were evaluated for extracellular endo‐β‐1,4‐xylanase production. The best xylanase producer (5771±173 nkat/mL) T. lanuginosus SK, was subjected to UV and N‐methyl‐N‐nitro‐N‐nitrosoguanidine mutagenesis. A mutant strain T. lanuginosus MC134, that showed on oatspelts xylan a 1.5 fold higher xylanase production than the parent strain SK, was subjected to a study of the regulation of xylanase synthesis during growth on various carbohydrates and during induction in glucose‐grown cells. In the growth experiments the highest production of xylanase was observed in the presence of xylans, however, an appreciable amount of the enzyme, about 10%, was also produced during growth on xylose. Xylobiose was found to be the most efficient xylanase inducer in the glucose‐grown cells. Its induction efficiency was followed by xylose, beechwood and birchwood xylan. Xylanase induction by polysaccharides started several hours later but proceeded for a longer time than that induced by the low molecular mass inducers, indicating that the polysaccharides serve as more sustainable source of inducers and that they have to be first hydrolyzed by the low level of constitutively synthesized xylanase. The repression of the induction of xylanase by glucose confirmed that the xylanase synthesis in the mutant strain is similar to the parent strain and exhibits an induction‐repression regulation mechanism.
Further development of a multimodal pushover analysis procedure for seismic assessment of bridges
Authors: Paraskeva Themelina S. , Kappos Andreas J.
Published: August 2009

An improvement is first suggested to the modal pushover analysis (MPA) procedure for bridges initially proposed by the writers (Earthquake Engng Struct. Dyn. 2006; 35(11):1269–1293), the key idea being that the deformed shape of the structure responding inelastically to the considered earthquake level is used in lieu of the elastic mode shape. The proposed MPA procedure is then verified by applying it to two actual bridges. The first structure is the Krystallopigi bridge, a 638 m‐long multi‐span bridge, with significant curvature in plan, unequal pier heights, and different types of pier‐to‐deck connections. The second structure is a 100 m‐long three‐span overpass bridge, typical in modern motorway construction in Europe, which, although ostensibly a regular structure, is found to exhibit a rather unsymmetric response in the transverse direction, mainly due to torsional irregularity. The bridges are assessed using response spectrum, ‘standard’ pushover (SPA), and MPA, and finally using non‐linear response history analysis (NL‐RHA) for a number of spectrum‐compatible motions. The MPA provided a good estimate of the maximum inelastic deck displacement for several earthquake intensities. The SPA on the other hand could not predict well the inelastic deck displacements of bridges wherever the contribution of the first mode to the response of the bridge was relatively low. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On Desmids of Southern Himachal Pradesh of Indo‐Western Himalaya
Authors: Dwivedi R. K. , Shukla Ch. P. , Misra P. K. , Shukla S. K. , Seth M. K.
Published: August 2009

Thirty nine taxa of Class Chlorophyceae (Order Zygnematales, Family Desmidiaceae) collected from different aquatic habitats of Sirmaur, Solan, Shimla, Una, Hamirpur, Bilaspur and Mandi districts of Himachal Pradesh, India have been described. These taxa belong to six genera viz. Closterium Nitzsch (three species, two varieties), Pleurotaenium Nägeli (two spp.), Cosmarium Corda ex Ralfs (18 spp., ten var.), Micrasterias C.Agardh (one sp.), Spondylosium Bréb. (one sp.) and Euastrum Ehrenb. (one sp., one var.). 38 taxa are being reported for the first time from the state of Himachal Pradesh out of which 28 taxa are of Cosmarium indicating that water bodies of Southern Himachal Pradesh are clean (oligotrophic) and need to protect. Overall presence of desmids reveals the oligotrophic nature of water bodies. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Tufted stellate hairs in Valeriana tomentosa Kunth
Authors: Weberling F. , Salzer E.
Published: August 2009

In the general characteristics of the family Valerianaceae the occurrence of “stellate hairs” described by the authors of Valeriana tomentosa Kunth and V. malvaceae Graebn. still remains unconsidered. Beyond their diagnostic value, however, it is interesting, that at least the specific ontogeny and anatomical structure of the “stellate hairs” of V. tomentosa corresponds very well with similar trichomes known for several other taxa of Dipsacales, namely species of Viburnum (Viburnaceae) and some Dipsacaceae (Cephalaria, Scabiosa). (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Antipsychotics and risk of cerebrovascular events in treatment of behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia in Hong Kong: a hospital‐based, retrospective, cohort study
Authors: Chan Man‐chak , Chong Catherine Shiu‐yin , Wu Anna Ying‐king , Wong Kai‐choi , Dunn Eva Lai‐wah , Tang Orlando Wai‐nang , Chan Wah‐fat
Published: August 2009

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate the risk of cerebrovascular adverse events (CVAEs) in patients with behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) treated with typical or atypical antipsychotics in Hong Kong

Method

This was a retrospective cohort study. Patients aged 65 or above, diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, vascular or mixed dementia, and first attended the psychiatric service of our unit between 1st January 2000 to 30th June 2007 were studied. The patients were divided into three groups according to their antipsychotic usage. They were compared on sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. The risk of CVAEs was studied by means of Cox regression analysis.

Results

The studied cohort consisted of 1089 patients. The antipsychotic non‐user, typical and atypical users groups consisted of 363, 654 and 72 patients, respectively. Incidence rate of CVAE for the three groups were 44.6/1000, 32.7/1000 and 49.6/1000 person years, respectively. The risk of developing CVAEs did not differ in typical or atypical antipsychotic user groups compared with non‐user group. The adjusted hazard ratio of typical and atypical antipsychotic user groups were 0.964 (95% CI = 0.584–1.591) and 1.036 (95% CI = 0.350–3.066), respectively. Subgroup analyses of individual antipsychotic did not show a significant increase in risk of CVAEs.

Conclusion

This study showed that there was no statistical difference in risk of cerebrovascular events in treatment of BPSD with typical and atypical antipsychotics compared with non‐user group. Nonetheless, given the side effects of antipsychotics, prescription of antipsychotics should be reserved for severe and distressing symptoms with careful consideration. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Search costs and Medicare plan choice
Authors: McCarthy Ian M. , Tchernis Rusty
Published: August 2009

There is increasing evidence suggesting that Medicare beneficiaries do not make fully informed decisions when choosing among alternative Medicare health plans. To the extent that deciphering the intricacies of alternative plans consumes time and money; the Medicare health plan market is one in which search costs may play an important role. To account for this, we split beneficiaries into two groups – those who are informed and those who are uninformed. If uninformed, beneficiaries only use a subset of covariates to compute their maximum utilities, and if informed, they use the full set of variables considered. In a Bayesian framework with Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods, we estimate search cost coefficients based on the minimum and maximum statistics of the search cost distribution, incorporating both horizontal differentiation and information heterogeneities across eligibles. Our results suggest that, conditional on being uninformed, older, higher income beneficiaries with lower self‐reported health status are more likely to utilize easier access to information. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The integration of thermal infrared imaging, discharge measurements and numerical simulation to quantify the relative contributions of freshwater inflows to small estuaries in Atlantic Canada
Authors: Danielescu Serban , MacQuarrie Kerry T. B. , Faux Russell N.
Published: August 2009

Nutrient fluxes from developed catchments are often a significant factor in the declining water quality and ecological functioning in estuaries. Determining the relative contributions of surface water and groundwater discharge to nutrient‐sensitive estuaries is required because these two pathways may be characterized by different nutrient concentrations and temporal variability, and may thus require different remedial actions. Quantifying the volumetric discharge of groundwater, which may occur via diffuse seepage or springs, remains a significant challenge. In this contribution, the total discharge of freshwater, including groundwater, to two small nutrient‐sensitive estuaries in Prince Edward Island (Canada) is assessed using a unique combination of airborne thermal infrared imaging, direct discharge measurements in streams and shoreline springs, and numerical simulation of groundwater flow. The results of the thermal infrared surveys indicate that groundwater discharge occurs at discrete locations (springs) along the shoreline of both estuaries, which can be attributed to the fractured sandstone bedrock aquifer. The discharge measured at a sub‐set of the springs correlates well with the area of the thermal signal attributed to each discharge location and this information was used to determine the total spring discharge to each estuary. Stream discharge is shown to be the largest volumetric contribution of freshwater to both estuaries (83% for Trout River estuary and 78% for McIntyre Creek estuary); however, groundwater discharge is significant at between 13% and 18% of the total discharge. Comparison of the results from catchment‐scale groundwater flow models and the analysis of spring discharge suggest that diffuse seepage to both estuaries comprises only about 25% of the total groundwater discharge. The methods employed in this research provide a useful framework for determining the relative volumetric contributions of surface water and groundwater to small estuaries and the findings are expected to be relevant to other fractured sandstone coastal catchments in Atlantic Canada. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hydrological variability in the Amazon drainage basin and African tropical basins
Authors: Molinier Michel , Ronchail Josyane , Guyot Jean Loup , Cochonneau Gérard , Guimaraes Valdemar , de Oliveira Eurides
Published: August 2009

Long‐term monthly mean rainfall and water discharge data from about 50 rain gauge stations and approximately the same number of hydrometric stations in the Amazon drainage basin were systematically analysed. The longest records approached 100 years in length. Comparison with climatic indices derived from the Tropical Pacific (Southern Oscillation Index—SOI) and the Atlantic [sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies] reveals the influence of the El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phenomenon on the variability of Amazonian hydrological regimes. This influence, however, may be strengthened by the tropical Atlantic SST. A similar study of several big rivers in Africa shows that the influence of ENSO is weaker in that continent. The hydrological variability of these streams is better explained by South Atlantic surface temperature anomalies. The Atlantic Ocean could act as a relay between the Pacific and the African continents. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Water uptake and nutrient concentrations under a floodplain oak savanna during a non‐flood period, lower Cedar River, Iowa
Authors: Schilling Keith E. , Jacobson Peter
Published: August 2009

Floodplains during non‐flood periods are less well documented than when flooding occurs, but non‐flood periods offer opportunities to investigate vegetation controls on water and nutrient cycling. In this study, we characterized water uptake and nutrient concentration patterns from 2005 to 2007 under an oak savanna located on the floodplain of the Cedar River in Muscatine County, Iowa. The water table ranged from 0·5 to 2·5 m below ground surface and fluctuated in response to stream stage, plant water demand and rainfall inputs. Applying the White method to diurnal water table fluctuations, daily ET from groundwater averaged more than 3·5 mm/day in June and July and approximately 2 mm/day in May and August. Total annual ET averaged 404 mm for a growing season from mid‐May to mid‐October. Savanna groundwater concentrations of nitrate‐N, ammonium‐N, and phosphate‐P were very low (mean <0·18, <0·14, <0·08 mg/l, respectively), whereas DOC concentrations were high (7·1 mg/l). Low concentrations of N and P were in contrast to high nutrient concentrations in the nearby Cedar River, where N and P averaged 7·5 mg/l and 0·13, respectively. In regions dominated by intensive agriculture, study results document valuable ecosystem services for native floodplain ecosystems in reducing watershed‐scale nutrient losses and providing an oasis for biological complexity. Improved understanding of the environmental conditions of regionally significant habitats, including major controls on water table elevations and water quality, offers promise for better management aimed at preserving the ecology of these important habitats. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transactivation and expression patterns of Jun and Fos/AP‐1 super‐family proteins in human oral cancer
Authors: Mishra Alok , Bharti Alok C. , Saluja Daman , Das Bhudev C.
Published: August 2009

Transcription factor activator protein‐1 (AP‐1) super‐family is known to modulate expression of array of genes during development of many cancers and considered as an important target for modern therapeutics. But the role of AP‐1 during development of human oral cancers is still poorly understood. Because oral cancer is one of the most common cancers in India and south‐east Asia, we studied the activation and expression pattern of AP‐1 family of proteins and mRNA in different stages of oral carcinogenesis. Gel‐shift assay, western blotting, immunohistochemistry and northern blotting have been used to assess the binding activity and expression pattern of AP‐1 family (c‐Jun, JunB, JunD, c‐Fos, FosB, Fra‐1 and Fra‐2) proteins and mRNA transcripts in a total of 100 fresh oral tissue specimens comprising precancer (n = 40), cancer (n = 50) and healthy control (n = 10). Constitutive activation of AP‐1 with concomitant upregulated expression of majority of AP‐1 family of proteins and mRNA was observed in cancer cases. Interestingly, almost all precancerous cases showed JunD homodimers, whereas c‐Fos/JunD was the most prevalent complex found in cancer tissues. The overexpression of EGFR mRNA, p50:p50/NF‐κB homodimer formation, together with overexpression of pERK and c‐Fos proteins in this study suggests an interesting cross talk between AP‐1 and NF‐κB pathways in oral cancers. Thus, this study demonstrates differential expression and activation of AP‐1 super‐family proteins in relation to severity of lesion and their crucial role in human oral carcinogenesis.
Theoretical study on the gas‐phase reaction mechanism between rhodium monoxide and methane for methanol production
Authors: Gao Chao , Yang Hua‐Qing , Xu Jian , Qin Song , Hu Chang‐Wei
Published: August 2009

The gas‐phase reaction mechanism between methane and rhodium monoxide for the formation of methanol, syngas, formaldehyde, water, and methyl radical have been studied in detail on the doublet and quartet state potential energy surfaces at the CCSD(T)/6‐311+G(2d, 2p), SDD//B3LYP/6‐311+G(2d, 2p), SDD level. Over the 300–1100 K temperature range, the branching ratio for the Rh(4F) + CH3OH channel is 97.5–100%, whereas the branching ratio for the D‐CH2ORh + H2 channel is 0.0–2.5%, and the branching ratio for the D‐CH2ORh + H2 channel is so small to be ruled out. The minimum energy reaction pathway for the main product methanol formation involving two spin inversions prefers to both start and terminate on the ground quartet state, where the ground doublet intermediate CH3RhOH is energetically preferred, and its formation rate constant over the 300–1100 K temperature range is fitted by kCH3RhOH = 7.03 × 106 exp(−69.484/RT) dm3 mol−1 s−1. On the other hand, the main products shall be Rh + CH3OH in the reactions of RhO + CH4, CH2ORh + H2, Rh + CO +2H2, and RhCH2 + H2O, whereas the main products shall be CH2ORh + H2 in the reaction of Rh + CH3OH. Meanwhile, the doublet intermediates H2RhOCH2 and CH3RhOH are predicted to be energetically favored in the reactions of Rh + CH3OH and CH2ORh + H2 and in the reaction of RhCH2 + H2O, respectively. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem 2010
Carotid intima‐media thickness and cerebrovascular reactivity in long‐term type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Siró Péter , Molnár Csilla , Katona Éva , Antek Csaba , Kollár József , Settakis Georgios , Fülesdi Béla
Published: August 2009

Purpose

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the leading risk factors for cerebrovascular diseases. Both macro‐ and microvascular damage may occur. The aim of the present work was to assess intima‐media thickness as well as cerebral vasoreactivity in patients suffering from type 1 diabetes mellitus (IDDM).

Methods

Intima‐media thickness and resting middle cerebral artery blood flow velocity was measured in 33 IDDM patients and 31 healthy controls. After baseline investigations, 30 seconds of breath holding (BH) and 60 seconds of voluntary hyperventilation (HV) were performed by the subjects. Transcranial Doppler measurements were performed in each case after vasodilatory (BH) and vasoconstrictor (HV) stimuli. Cerebrovascular reactivity was expressed as the percentage of change of the middle cerebral mean blood flow velocity after BH or HV.

Results

IDDM patients showed a significantly larger intima‐media thickness (0.1 ± 0.02 mm) than healthy controls (0.06 ± 0.006 mm,p< 0.001). Cerebrovascular reactivity after BH was less intensive in diabetic patients (19.3 ± 16.1%) than that of the control subjects (38.7 ± 22.8%,p< 0.01). Similarly, HV induced a less‐pronounced decrease of cerebral blood flow velocity in diabetic subjects (–30.1 ± 13.2%) than in nondiabetics (–37.6 ± 17.0%,p< 0.05).

Conclusion

Our results refer to early macro‐ and microangiopathic involvement of the cerebral vessels, which develop in parallel with angiopathies of the other organs, such as nephropathy and retinopathy. Further prospective studies are needed to clarify the role of these macro‐ and microangiopathic changes in the development of cerebrovascular complications in patients suffering from DM. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2009
The novel synchronous ion shield mass analyzer
Authors: Hauschild J.‐P. , Wapelhorst E. , Müller J.
Published: August 2009

The novel synchronous ion shield (SIS) mass analyzer enables the fabrication of a mass spectrometer on a chip. It is specially developed to account for fabrication restrictions in micro‐electro‐mechanical systems (MEMS) technology. This technology allows to fabricate 100 mass spectrometer chips (7·10 mm2) simultaneously on a substrate of 100 mm diameter. Descriptive insights of the SIS mass analyzer with its surrounding ion optics and energy filter are presented. Simulation results and experiments prove the concept and show the performance of the device. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Atmospheric moisture content associated with surface air temperatures over northern Eurasia
Authors: Ye Hengchun , Fetzer Eric J.
Published: August 2009

This study uses both historical station records and Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) satellite instrument products to examine the relationship between atmospheric moisture content and surface air temperature over northern Eurasia, with a special emphasis on the summer season. We find that the rate of atmospheric water vapor content change with temperature varies by season and generally decreases with increasing air temperature. The average rate of water vapor pressure increase with air temperature is 7.57%/ °C in winter, 4.78%/ °C in spring, 3.06%/ °C in summer, and 4.39%/ °C in fall based on 80 weather station records over a 55‐year period. The average rate of atmospheric total precipitable water increases is about 3.02%/ °C based on AIRS data from the most recent four summers over northern Eurasia. Except for the winter season, these rates are considerably lower than the 7%/ °C rate that the Clausius–Clapeyron relationship and constant relative humidity would suggest. During summer season, we also found decreasing water vapor partial pressure and decreasing total water vapor with increasing air temperature at southern and southwestern study regions where higher mean temperatures are found. The large regional and seasonal variations in water vapor–temperature relationship over Eurasia imply that potential amplified water vapor feedback is most likely to be found in cold regions during the cold season while it may not be as significant as expected during the warm season. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Gait characteristics and functional assessment of children with Type I Osteogenesis Imperfecta
Authors: Graf Adam , Hassani Sahar , Krzak Joseph , Caudill Angela , Flanagan Ann , Bajorunaite Ruta , Harris Gerald , Smith Peter
Published: August 2009

The purpose of this study was to improve the evaluation process of children with type I Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) by providing a quantitative comparison of gait and selected functional assessments to age‐matched controls. A 14‐camera Vicon Motion Analysis System was used for gait analysis along with selected functional assessments (Pediatric Outcomes Data Collection Instrument [PODCI], Functional Assessment Questionnaire [FAQ], Faces Pain Scale‐Revised [FPS‐R]) conducted on 10 subjects with type I OI and 22 age‐matched healthy controls. The results of the OI group demonstrated abnormal gait parameters including increased double support, delayed foot off, reduced ankle range of motion and plantarflexion during third rocker, along with greater ankle power absorption during terminal stance and reduced ankle power generation during push off. The functional assessment scores of the OI group were similar to the control group for basic mobility and function, but were lower than their peers in the sports and physical function category. The evaluation of individuals with OI by means of gait analysis and selected functional assessments, along with an accurate biomechanical model of the lower extremities, is proposed to better understand and predict OI disability and improve quality of life. © 2009 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res
Prognostic effect of inadvertent curettage without treatment delay in osteosarcoma
Authors: Kim Min Suk , Lee Soo‐Yong , Cho Wan Hyeong , Song Won Seok , Koh Jae‐Soo , Lee Jun Ah , Yoo Ji Young , Shin Duk Seop , Jeon Dae‐Geun
Published: August 2009

Background

Unplanned primary surgery has been known to have a negative prognostic impact in osteosarcoma.

Methods

We identified 20 osteosarcoma patients that had undergone inadvertent surgery followed by adequate treatment without delay, and compared the clinicopathologic characteristics of these 20 case patients with those of 365 patients who underwent incisional biopsy. For survival analysis, 40 control patients matched for tumor size at presentation, tumor location, age and gender were selected from these 365 patients.

Results

Unusual initial clinicopathologic characteristics were frequently observed in the case patients, such as, an older age, a small tumor size, an unusual tumor location, and a lytic radiographic pattern. The 5‐year overall survival rate in the case group was 89.4 ± 7.1% and in the control group was 83.9 ± 6.1%, and the 5‐year event‐free survival rate in the case group was 90.0 ± 6.7% and in the control group was 76.8 ± 6.8%. The log rank test revealed no survival difference between the case and control groups.

Conclusions

As is the case for soft tissue sarcoma, inadvertent extensive curettage with no ensuing treatment delay was found to have no detrimental effect on overall‐ or event‐free survival in osteosarcoma. Further study using a larger sample size is needed to confirm our results. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;100:484–487. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.