bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clock‐drawing potentially mediates the effect of depression on mortality: replication in three cohorts
Authors: Royall Donald R. , Palmer Raymond F. , Chiodo Laura K. , Polk Marsha J. , S. Markides Kyriakos , Hazuda Helen
Published: February 2008

Objective

Previously studies have associated visuospatial tasks, particularly ‘clock‐drawing’, with mortality. We sought to determine whether clock‐drawing also mediates the association between depressive symptoms and mortality.

Participants

Non‐institutionalized Hispanic and non‐Hispanic White elderly volunteers.

Measurements

Survival curves were generated as a function of baseline depressive symptom ratings. Significant models were adjusted for CLOX performance. CLOX is divided into CLOX1, a measure of executive control, and CLOX2, a measure of visuospatial skills.

Design

Retrospective analysis of three longitudinal cohorts.

Results

CLOX2 and depressive symptoms were both associated with mortality in unadjusted models. CLOX2 predicted survival independently of CLOX1 in all three cohorts. CLOX2 also attenuated, and/or mediated the association between depressive symptoms and mortality. These results withstood adjustment for age and education in all three cohorts.

Conclusion

Regardless of the sample examined, or the measure of depressive symptoms applied, the association between depressive symptoms and mortality appears to be at least partially mediated by visuospatial skills. This finding supports our hypothesis that right hemisphere structural brain disease, particularly that involving the insula, may mediate depression's effects on mortality. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Differential expression of MUC1 and carbohydrate antigens in primary and secondary head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Croce María V. , Rabassa Martín E. , Pereyra Adrián , Segal‐Eiras Amada
Published: February 2008

Background

In head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), tumor markers may be helpful to evaluate prognosis accurately as well as to improve therapy selection. Detection of human MUC1 has been widely employed for the evaluation of carcinoma patients. This article aims to study MUC1, Tn, sTn, and Lewis antigenic expression in primary HNSCC, lymph node metastasis, and local recurrences.

Methods

We used immunohistochemistry, tissue homogenization and differential centrifugation, isopycnic density gradient centrifugation, sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and Western blot.

Results

In primary tumors, MUC1 was detected in 80.0% of the samples; sLewis x in 23.2%, Lewis x in 45.6%, and Lewis y in 40.8%. Tn and sTn were found in 4.0% and 6.4% of samples, respectively. In metastatic lymph nodes, MUC1 showed a similar positive reaction as in primary tumors. Lewis y was detected in 20% lymph nodes whereas Lewis x, sLewis x, Tn, and sTn did not show differences. Some recurrences expressed MUC1 and only a few Lewis antigens, whereas Tn and sTn were not detected.

Conclusion

In primary HNSCC and metastatic nodes, a high expression of MUC1 and Lewis antigens was detected that diminished in local recurrences. We also found that differentiated tumors mainly expressed a linear pattern of MUC1CT and Lewis x. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2008
Expression of epidermal growth factor receptor and cyclin D1 in pretreatment biopsies as a predictive factor of radiotherapy efficacy in early glottic cancer
Authors: Chang Ah Ram , Wu Hong‐Gyun , Park Charn Il , Jun Yoon Kyung , Kim Chul‐Woo
Published: February 2008

Background

To evaluate the prognostic value of the expressions of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and cyclin D1 in early glottic cancer treated with radiotherapy only.

Methods

One hundred fifty‐one patients with T1‐2, N0 glottic cancer who had been treated with radiotherapy at Seoul National University Hospital since 1992 through 2004. Immunohistochemical staining for EGFR and cyclin D1 were performed on the formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tissues of 25 patients who developed local recurrence and on the tissues of 25 matched patients free from disease. Patterns and degrees of expression were compared between these 2 groups.

Results

High EGFR (p = .047) and high cyclin D1 (p = .040) expressions were both found to be significantly associated with a poor prognosis. No association was found between EGFR and cyclin D1 status (p = .158), but EGFR and cyclin D1 status in combination were found to be significantly associated with local control. The patients with both high EGFR and high cyclin D1 expression had the poorest outcome compared with the others (14 months vs 29 months of median time to progression). Patterns of EGFR and cyclin D1 expression changed after recurrence, but these changes were not found to alter the ultimate prognosis.

Conclusion

The molecular biomarkers, EGFR and cyclin D1 have a prognostic significance in early glottic cancer. These markers in combination seem to play an important role in tumor relapse and may be useful for selecting patients with a poor outcome after radiotherapy. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2008
Involved margin of tongue cancer: The impact of tumor satellites on prognosis
Authors: Yang Tsung‐Lin , Ko Jenq‐Yuh , Chang Yih‐Leong
Published: February 2008

Background

Surgical margin is important to evaluate the adequacy of surgery related to tongue cancer. Despite the distances of margins, tumor components comprising the involved margins should also be investigated. Our aim was to explore the influences of tumor satellites on the clinical outcomes of involved margins.

Methods

Two hundred twenty‐five patients with fresh tongue cancer were investigated. Nineteen patients with pathologically confirmed involved margins were enrolled. Based on the analysis of tumor components of involved margins, they were classified into 2 groups of either tumor‐satellite involved margins (SMs) or main‐tumor involved margins (MMs).

Results

The results showed that the clinical stages distribution was different: advanced stages in the MM group, and earlier in SM (p = .028). SM group had a higher incidence of neck recurrence (p = .040). Nonetheless, no difference in the disease‐specific survival was noted.

Conclusion

Tumor‐satellite involved margins should be regarded as a worse prognosticator in tongue cancer. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2008
Value of postoperative radiotherapy in patients with pathologic N1 neck disease
Authors: Jäckel Martin C. , Ambrosch Petra , Christiansen Hans , Martin Alexios , Steiner Wolfgang
Published: February 2008

Background

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of postoperative radiotherapy for the treatment of patients with pathologic N1 neck disease.

Methods

One hundred eighteen consecutive patients with upper aerodigestive tract cancer who were initially treated with curative surgery between 1986 and 2002 and had pN1 disease without extracapsular spread were reviewed. Postoperative radiotherapy was given to 46 patients.

Results

Eight isolated regional recurrences were observed, 3 of which occurred in contralateral undissected necks. Seven of the 72 patients treated with surgery alone and 1 of the 46 who received postoperative radiotherapy were affected. The respective 3‐year neck recurrence rates amounted to 11.2% and 2.9% (p = .0921). A survival benefit of irradiated patients could not be established.

Conclusions

The data confirm a trend toward improved regional control of pN1 disease if postoperative radiotherapy is applied. However, as a survival benefit is uncertain, use of radiation treatment cannot be recommended generally, but requires individual decisions. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2008
Speech Handicap Index in patients with oral and pharyngeal cancer: Better understanding of patients' complaints
Authors: Rinkel Rico N. , Leeuw Irma M. Verdonck‐de , van Reij Ellen J. , Aaronson Neil K. , Leemans C. René
Published: February 2008

Background

A Speech Handicap Index (SHI) questionnaire with 30 items on speech problems was developed and validated in 92 patients with cancer of the oral cavity or pharynx and 110 healthy subjects.

Methods

All subjects completed the SHI and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life Questionnaire–Head & Neck module (QLQ‐H&N35). Twenty‐nine patients completed the SHI twice to assess test–retest reliability.

Results

Factor analysis identified 2 well‐defined subscales, assessing speech function and psychosocial functioning related to speech. Internal consistency and test–retest reliability were high. Construct validity was evidenced by its ability to distinguish between patient subgroups formed on the basis of tumor grade. A cut‐off score of 6 points was defined to identify patients with speech problems.

Conclusions

Results of this initial psychometric study indicate that the SHI is a reliable and valid questionnaire for assessing speech problems. Additional research is needed to evaluate responsiveness of the questionnaire to changes in speech‐related problems over time. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2008
Primary and secondary small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the larynx: A review
Authors: Ferlito Alfio , Rinaldo Alessandra
Published: February 2008

Primary laryngeal small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (SCNC) is an unusual malignancy accounting for <0.5% of laryngeal carcinomas. To date, approximately 200 cases of primary and 5 of secondary SCNC of the larynx have been reported. This tumor most often presents in the sixth and seventh decades in men who are heavy cigarette smokers. The lesion may be associated with different paraneoplastic syndromes (ectopic adrenocorticotropic hormone syndrome, Schwartz–Bartter syndrome or syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone, and Eaton–Lambert myasthenic syndrome) or with ectopic hormone production. The diagnosis is based essentially on the histologic appearance of the tumor, confirmed by immunocytochemical investigations. Concurrent chemoradiotherapy regimens offer potential for long‐term survival. This tumor is biologically aggressive, and the extent of the disease is the most significant independent prognostic factor of survival. The survival rate is similar to that with pulmonary SCNC. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2008
Recurrent laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma: rTNM versus composite laryngeal recurrence staging system. Proposal for a modification of the CLRSS to improve patient classification
Authors: León Xavier , López Montserrat , García Jacinto , Viza Ignacio , Gich Ignasi , Quer Miquel
Published: February 2008

Background

Based on the initial TNM stage of the tumor and the extension of recurrence, the composite laryngeal recurrence staging system (CLRSS) has been proposed as an alternative to the rTNM system for staging patients with recurrent laryngeal carcinoma. The objective of our study was to carry out an external validation of the CLRSS, and to evaluate a modified version of the original CLRSS, that we named CLRSS‐2.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 332 patients with recurrent laryngeal carcinoma treated in our center between 1985 and 2003.

Results

rTNM, CLRSS, and CLRSS‐2 showed a monotonic prognostic gradient with increasing stage and produced significant differences in survival between stages. Discrepancies were detected in the cross‐tabulation between rTNM and CLRSS. The CLRSS‐2 achieved the best results in an objective comparison of the staging systems evaluated.

Conclusion

The CLRSS‐2 was the best method to classify patients with a recurrent laryngeal carcinoma. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2008
Combined endovascular and surgical treatment of carotid body tumor in a patient with thoracic situs solitus
Authors: Pecorari Giancarlo , Roccia Fabio , Nadalin Juri , Giordano Carlo , Garzaro Massimiliano
Published: February 2008

Background

Chemodectomas of the head and neck are tumors that originate from the neural crest. The authors report a case of carotid body tumor with chronic hypoxia secondary to congenital cyanogenic cardiac malformation, radiologically and surgically treated.

Methods and Results

A 37‐year‐old woman presented 1‐year history of a slow‐growing right lateral‐cervical swelling. Radiologic examination led to a suspicion of carotid body tumor. Her history revealed thoracic situs solitus and a complex congenital heart disease. She was hospitalized for a selective angiography of the cervical vessels. Twenty‐four hours later, the tumor was completely removed under local anesthesia. One year later, there were no signs of recurrence, and the patient showed a correct hemodynamic compensation.

Conclusions

The choice of surgical resection with selective preoperative embolization, which induced the obliteration of the feeder vessels, devascularizing the tumor and avoiding significant intraoperative bleeding, was successful. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2008
Vallecular varix causing diagnostic confusion in hematemesis
Authors: Wong Manzhi , Karuman Philip
Published: February 2008

Background

Hematemesis is a common and dramatic presentation of upper gastrointestinal bleeding and is a source of significant morbidity and mortality. Common causes include peptic ulcer disease and varices. However, endoscopists need to be aware of other rare causes to avoid a delay in diagnosis, which may be potentially fatal.

Methods and Results

We present a case of vallecular varix causing recurrent hematemesis and successfully treated with sclerosant injection. We also review the literature regarding its pathogenesis and treatment.

Conclusions

Vallecular varicosities are a rare cause of life‐threatening bleeding from the aerodigestive tract. The area should be targeted early for evaluation especially in cases of bleeding of unknown origin. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2008
Preparation of thyroid tumor cells in aspiration biopsies for aspiration biopsy nucleic acid diagnosis
Authors: Takano Toru , Higashiyama Takuya , Uruno Takashi , Yamada Hiroya , Yoshida Hiroshi , Miyauchi Akira
Published: February 2008

Background

The relative expression level of trefoil factor 3 (TFF3) mRNA to galectin‐3 (LGALS3) mRNA (T/G ratio) is a useful marker to distinguish thyroid follicular carcinomas from adenomas. However, because of the interference by the simultaneously aspirated peripheral blood cells or infiltrating lymphocytes, the precise measurement of the T/G ratio in aspirates is difficult.

Methods

We tested 2 methods of selecting thyroid tumor cells and removing blood cells from the aspirates. One method was selection with magnetic beads coated with Ber‐EP4 antibody and the other was filtration through a nylon mesh.

Results

After selection with Ber‐EP4 antibody, T/G ratios in aspirates showed varied degrees of difference from those in the corresponding tissues. After mesh filtration, differences in T/G ratios between the aspirates and the corresponding tissues were less than 200% in all 8 cases.

Conclusion

Mesh filtration of aspirates proved superior results for the measurement of T/G ratio. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2008
Bacterial DNA in patients with cirrhosis and noninfected ascites mimics the soluble immune response established in patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis
Authors: Francés Rubén , Zapater Pedro , González-Navajas José M. , Muñoz Carlos , Caño Rocío , Moreu Rocío , Pascual Sonia , Bellot Pablo , Pérez-Mateo Miguel , Such José
Published: February 2008

Bacterial infections and severity of associated inflammatory reaction influence prognosis in patients with advanced cirrhosis. We compared the innate immune response to bacterial DNA (bactDNA) translocation with that caused by viable bacteria translocation in patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and the relationship between the cytokine response and serum levels of bactDNA. The bactDNA translocation was investigated in 226 patients with cirrhosis and noninfected ascites, 22 patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, and 10 patients with ascites receiving continuous norfloxacin. Serum and ascitic fluid tumor necrosis factor α, interferon-γ, interleukin-12, and nitric oxide metabolites were measured via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Bacterial genomic identifications were made via amplification and sequencing of the 16S ribosomal RNA gene and digital quantization with DNA Lab-on-chips. The bactDNA was present in 77 noninfected patients (34%) and in all cases of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, even in those with culture-negative ascitic fluid. No patient receiving norfloxacin showed bactDNA translocation. Levels of all cytokines were similar in patients with bactDNA translocation or spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and significantly higher than in patients without bactDNA or in those receiving norfloxacin. Serum bactDNA concentration paralleled levels of all cytokines and nitric oxide in a series of patients with bactDNA translocation or spontaneous bacterial peritonitis followed during 72 hours. Antibiotic treatment in the series of patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis did not abrogate bactDNA translocation in the short term.

Conclusion:

bactDNA translocation-associated cytokine response is indistinguishable from that in patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and is dependent on bactDNA concentration. Norfloxacin abrogates bactDNA translocation and cytokine response.
Differential roles of basolateral and central amygdala on the effects of uncontrollable stress on hippocampal synaptic plasticity
Authors: Yang Chih‐Hao , Huang Chiung‐Chun , Hsu Kuei‐Sen
Published: February 2008

The amygdala is considered central in mediating stress‐related changes of hippocampal functions. However, it remains unclear whether different amygdala subnuclei have different roles in coordinating stress effects. Here, we report that stress exposure caused an immediate increase of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 phosphorylation in the hippocampal area CA1 and the basolateral amygdala (BLA) and after a delay in the central amygdala (CEA). Exposure to the novel environment following stress increased ERK1/2 phosphorylation in the CEA, but reversed the stress‐induced increase of ERK1/2 phosphorylation in the hippocampal area CA1 and the BLA. Either ERK1/2 inhibitor U0126 or N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist DL‐(−)‐2‐amino‐5‐phosphonopentanoic acid (APV) administration into the BLA, but not the CEA, blocked the stress effects on hippocampal long‐term potentiation (LTP) and long‐term depression. Novelty‐exploration‐induced reversal of stress effects was prevented when animals were injected U0126 or APV into the CEA, but not the BLA, before subjected to the novel environment. The ability of novelty exploration to reverse the stress effects was mimicked by intra‐CEA infusion of NMDA. These findings suggest that BLA ERK1/2 signaling pathway is critical to mediate the stress effects on hippocampal synaptic plasticity; the activation of CEA ERK1/2, in contrast, appears to mediate the reversal of stress effects. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In vitro activation of the medial septum—Diagonal band complex generates atropine‐sensitive and atropine‐resistant hippocampal theta rhythm: An investigation using a complete septohippocampal preparation
Authors: Goutagny Romain , Manseau Frédéric , Jackson Jesse , Danik Marc , Williams Sylvain
Published: February 2008

The medial septum and diagonal band complex (MS‐DB) is believed to play a key role in generating theta oscillations in the hippocampus, a phenomenon critical for learning and memory. Although the importance of the MS‐DB in hippocampal theta rhythm generation is generally accepted, it remains to be determined whether the MS‐DB alone can generate hippocampal oscillations or is only a transducer of rhythmic activity from other brain areas. Secondly, it is known that hippocampal theta rhythm can be separated into an atropine‐sensitive and insensitive component. However, it remains to be established if the MS‐DB can generate both types of rhythm. To answer these questions, we used a new in vitro rat septohippocampal preparation placed in a hermetically separated two side recording chamber. We showed that carbachol activation of the MS‐DB generated large theta oscillations in the CA1 and CA3 regions of the hippocampus. These oscillations were blocked by applying either the GABAA receptor antagonist bicuculline or the AMPA/kainate antagonist DNQX to the hippocampus. Interestingly, the application of the muscarinic receptor antagonist atropine produced only a partial decrease in the amplitude, without modification of the frequency, of theta. These results show for the first time, that upon optimal excitation, the MS‐DB alone is able to generate hippocampal oscillations in the theta frequency band. Moreover, these MS‐DB generated theta oscillations are mediated by muscarinic and nonmuscarinic receptors and have a pharmacological profile similar to theta rhythm observed in awake animals. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A synaptic reinforcement‐based model for transient amnesia following disruptions of memory consolidation and reconsolidation
Authors: Amaral Olavo B. , Osan Remus , Roesler Rafael , Tort Adriano B.L.
Published: February 2008

The observation of memory recovery following post‐training amnestic interventions has historically caused controversy over the meaning of this finding, leading some authors to question the paradigm of a consolidation period for memories. Similarly, recent demonstrations of transient amnesia caused by interventions following memory reactivation have been used to question the existence of a retrieval‐driven reconsolidation process. The present work aims to approach the phenomenon of transient amnesia following disruptions of consolidation and reconsolidation, discussing how memory recovery might be explained within a framework of systems consolidation, persistent synaptic reinforcement, and multiple memory traces. With these concepts in mind, we propose that long‐term consolidation processes can underlie recovery from amnesia, demonstrating the feasibility of such a hypothesis in a two‐structure computational model of learning in which consolidation is dependent upon synaptic reentry reinforcement. On the basis of this, we suggest that prolonged consolidation can account for experimental findings of transient amnesia, in a way that explains differences between disruptions of consolidation and reconsolidation without the need to dwell into the discussion between storage‐ and retrieval‐based explanations for memory impairment. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Late N‐acetylcysteine treatment prevents the deficits induced in the offspring of dams exposed to an immune stress during gestation
Authors: Lanté Fabien , Meunier Johann , Guiramand Janique , De Jesus Ferreira Marie‐Céleste , Cambonie Gilles , Aimar Rose , Cohen‐Solal Catherine , Maurice Tangui , Vignes Michel , Barbanel Gérard
Published: February 2008

Prenatal infection is a major stressful experience leading to enhanced susceptibility for mental illnesses in humans. We recently reported in rats, that oxidative stress and glutathione (GSH) shortage occurred in fetal male brain after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to the dams and that these responses might be involved in the neurodevelopmental deficits observed in adolescent offspring. Furthermore, pretreatment with N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) before LPS avoided both delayed synaptic plasticity and mnesic performance deficits. Since NAC is one of the few medications permitted in pregnant women, this study evaluated the ability of NAC to serve as a protective therapy even after the LPS challenge. Pregnant rats received a single ip injection of E. coli LPS, two days before delivery, and were given NAC in their tap water after the LPS. GSH was evaluated at the time of its expected drop in the hippocampus of male fetuses, whereas long‐term potentiation (LTP) in the CA1 area of the hippocampus and spatial memory in the water‐maze were recorded in 28‐day‐old male offspring. Post‐treatment with NAC, four hours after the LPS challenge fully prevented the drop in the GSH hippocampal content. LTP, as well as spatial learning were completely protected. NAC administration at delivery also partially restored the LTP whereas post‐treatment two days later was inefficient. Another set of dams were supplemented with α‐tocopherol prior to LPS exposure, enhancing the α‐tocopherol levels in fetal hippocampus. This treatment did not prevent the LPS‐induced synaptic plasticity impairment. These results point to fetal hippocampal GSH as a major target of the detrimental effects of in utero LPS challenge. The therapeutic window of NAC extends up to birth, suggesting that this drug might be clinically useful even after an immuno‐inflammatory episode. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Neuroanatomical and behavioral effects of a novel version of the cholinergic immunotoxin mu p75‐saporin in mice
Authors: Moreau Pierre‐Henri , Cosquer Brigitte , Jeltsch Hélène , Cassel Jean‐Christophe , Mathis Chantal
Published: February 2008

The selective lesion of basal forebrain cholinergic neurons (BFCNs) is an unestimable tool to study the implication of these neurons in cognition, an interest widely motivated by their degeneration in Alzheimer's disease. Here we evaluated the histochemical and behavioral effects of a selective lesion of BFCNs in C57BL/6J mice treated intracerebroventricularly (ICV) with a novel version of the immunotoxin mu p75‐saporin (0.4 μg/mouse). There was a 100% postsurgical survival rate, no abnormal loss of weight, no disruption of sensorimotor coordination, and no noncognitive bias in a water‐maze test. This immunotoxin induced a loss of choline acetyltransferase‐positive neurons in the medial septum (−82%) and in the nucleus basalis (−55%). Preserved parvalbumine‐immunostaining suggests that the lesion was specific to BFCNs. Septo‐hippocampal and basalo‐cortical projections of BFCNs degenerated as suggested by massive loss of acetylcholinesterase‐positive staining in the hippocampus and the cortical mantle. Moreover, anticalbindin immunostaining showed no damage to cerebellar Purkinje cells. Lesioned mice displayed increased diurnal and nocturnal locomotor activity. Their spatial learning/memory performances in a water maze and in a Barnes maze were significantly impaired: learning was substantially slowed down, although not obliterated, and memory retention was altered. These behavioral consequences are comparable, with fewer side effects, to those reported after ICV 192 IgG‐saporin in rats. In conclusion, the new version of mu p75‐saporin provides a safe and powerful tool for BFCN lesion in mice. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Changes in rat hippocampal CA1 synapses following imipramine treatment
Authors: Chen Fenghua , Madsen Torsten M. , Wegener Gregers , Nyengaard Jens R.
Published: February 2008

Neuronal plasticity in hippocampus is hypothesized to play an important role in both the pathophysiology of depressive disorders and the treatment. In this study, we investigated the consequences of imipramine treatment on neuroplasticity (including neurogenesis, synaptogenesis, and remodelling of synapses) in subregions of the hippocampus by quantifying number of neurons and synapses. Adult male Sprague‐Dawley rats were injected with imipramine or saline (i.p.) daily for 14 days. Unbiased stereological methods were used to quantify the number of neurons and synapses. No differences in the volume and number of neurons of hippocampal subregions following imipramine treatment were found. However, the number and percentage of CA1 asymmetric spine synapses increased significantly and, conversely, the percentage of asymmetric shaft synapses significantly decreased in the imipramine treated group. Our results indicate that administration of imipramine for 14 days in normal rats could significantly increase the excitatory spine synapses, and change the relative distribution of spine and shaft synapses. We speculate that the present findings may be explained by the establishment of new synaptic connections and by remodelling or transformation of existing synapses. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Multivariate statistical analysis of underground gas storage caverns on groundwater chemistry in Korea
Authors: Lee Jeonghoon , Ko Kyung‐Seok , Kim Jun‐Mo , Chang Ho‐Wan
Published: February 2008

An understanding of groundwater flow and chemistry is important to operate underground storage caverns. Groundwater flow is mainly affected by cavern operating conditions. Groundwater chemistry is modified by disinfection activities for removing possible biological clogging and by mixing with cement pore water. It is important to discern these two effects, because wells affected by the disinfection activities may have hydrological connections with water curtains used to inject the disinfectant. However, it is difficult to separate these two effects using graphical methods because of their similar chemical characteristics. Instead, multivariate statistical analysis, such as principal component analysis (PCA) and factor analysis (FA), can be used. Groundwater samples for chemical analysis were obtained from four surveys in 1999–2000. Based on the results from PCA and FA, it appears that there were temporal variations of seepage water into the propane area when the cavern operation fluctuated, but we could not observe such variation in the butane area. These changes may occur mainly at depth, where water flow is slow and water renewal in the cavern surrounding is limited. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of three models to estimate evapotranspiration for a temperate mixed forest
Authors: Shi Tingting , Guan Dexin , Wang Anzhi , Wu Jiabing , Jin Changjie , Han Shijie
Published: February 2008

Forest evapotranspiration is one of the main components in the regional water budget. A comparison between measured and estimated eddy covariance (EC) data, considering the Katerji–Perrier (KP), Todorovic (TD) and Priestley–Taylor (PT) actual evapotranspiration methods, was carried out. These models, relying on more easily obtainable data, are valuable when long‐term direct measurements are not available. The objective of this paper is to compare the effectivity of these three models. In this paper, experimental data were obtained within the temperate mixed forest of broad‐leaved and coniferous trees of the Changbai Mountains in northeastern China during the growing seasons of 2003 to 2005. The KP method gave the most effective values for half‐hourly and daily evapotranspiration computed by summing up half‐hourly estimates, and the TD method overestimated evapotranspiration by about 30%. The diurnal courses of estimated and measured evapotranspiration showed bell curves, similar to that of net radiation, except for a slight increase at about 14:30 solar time due to a peak value of vapour pressure deficit (VPD). For the case of daily evapotranspiration using daily mean micrometeorological variables, the PT method presented the closest values to the measurements. Accuracy of estimation related to VPD negatively (especially for VPD > 1·5 kPa). The KP parameters, considered to be vegetation dependent, were a = 0·545 and b = 1·31 at the experimental site. A constant PT parameter (α = 1·18) was applied to estimated evapotranspiration. Daily values of α responded to VPD (negatively) more strongly than to soil moisture (positively) in this forest. The experiment showed the inherent limits and advantages of the three methods. The KP method, a semi‐empirical approach, was preferred to estimate half‐hourly evapotranspiration. The TD method was a mechanistic approach to estimate reference evapotranspiration and always overestimated actual evapotranspiration. The PT method, being site dependent and the simplest approach, was effective enough to estimate large time‐scale (at least daily) evapotranspiration. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hydrochemistry of the Narmada and Tapti Rivers, India
Authors: Sharma Sanjay Kumar , Subramanian V.
Published: February 2008

The chemistry of major ions and elements in Narmada and Tapti river water was studied based on the monitoring of the drainage basins for monsoon and post‐monsoon seasons in 2004. The results show the influence of rock weathering on the concentration of major ions in the surface water. There is a significant contribution from the catchment geologies in the major constituents of water. The total dissolved solids (TDS) concentrations are reflecting the signature of weathering of rocks in the catchment areas. In the Narmada River,$HCO_{3}^{-}$, Ca2+and Mg2+are dominant ions, whereas in the Tapti River the ions dominating major compositions are$HCO_{3}^{-}$, Na+and Mg2+. The high concentration of Cl−and$SO_{4}^{2-}$is a signature of anthropogenic inputs in addition to the contribution of discharge from springs and/or groundwater. The high concentration of$NO_{3}^{-}$can exclusively be attributed to the anthropogenic activities. The average concentration of dissolved silica being higher than the Indian and world average is reflecting the contribution of silicate weathering. The present study gives the silicate and carbonate weathering rates and the corresponding CO2consumption rates considering the contribution of carbonate rocks present in the selected river basins of the Deccan basaltic province. The mean silicate weathering rates during the investigation period for the Narmada and Tapti Rivers show lower values, but the corresponding mean CO2consumption rates give higher values compared with earlier estimated rates by Dessertet al. (2001.Earth and Planetary Science Letters188: 459). For the study period, the mean carbonate weathering rates and the associated CO2consumption rates for the Narmada and Tapti Rivers are ∼12·67 t km−2year−1and ∼7·32 t km−2year−1and ∼0·36 × 106mol km−2year−1and ∼0·22 × 106mol km−2year−1respectively. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigation of runoff generation in a pristine, poorly gauged catchment in the Chilean Andes I: A multi‐method experimental study
Authors: Blume Theresa , Zehe Erwin , Reusser Dominik E. , Iroumé Andrés , Bronstert Axel
Published: February 2008

Catchment scale hydrological process studies in southern Chile are of special interest as little research at this scale has been carried out in this region. In particular, the young volcanic ash soils, which are typical for this area, are not well understood in their hydrological behaviour. In addition, extensive land use changes require detailed knowledge of hydrological processes in disturbed as well as undisturbed catchments in order to estimate resulting risks of erosion, eutrophication, floods and droughts. This study focuses on data collection and experimental determination of relevant processes in an undisturbed forested catchment in the Andes of southern Chile. The here gained understanding of runoff generation can serve as a reference for comparison with sites subject to human intervention, improving estimation of the effects of land use change. Owing to the lack of long‐term data for this catchment it was necessary to replace long time series by a multitude of experimental methods covering as many aspects of the runoff generation process as possible. The methods used in this investigation include: measurements of streamflow, rainfall, throughfall, water chemistry, soil water dynamics, groundwater dynamics, soil physics, soil mineralogy, geo‐electrical sounding, and tracer techniques. Methods and equipment used during field campaigns are described and evaluated for usefulness versus expenditure (labour and financial costs). Selected results and the hypotheses developed from these findings are presented. The results suggest the importance of fast processes for rainfall runoff response on the one hand as well as considerable dampening effects of a large subsurface storage on the other hand. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Temporal and spatial variations in the discharge and dissolved organic carbon of drip waters in Beijing Shihua Cave, China
Authors: Ban Fengmei , Pan Genxing , Zhu Jian , Cai Binggui , Tan Ming
Published: February 2008

To detect the causal relationship between cave drip waters and stalagmite laminae, which have been used as a climate change proxy, three drip sites in Beijing Shihua Cave were monitored for discharge and dissolved organic carbon (DOC). Drip discharges and DOC were determined at 0 to 14‐day intervals over the period 2004–2006. Drip discharges show two types of response to surface precipitation variations: (1) a rapid response; and (2) a time‐lagged response. Intra‐annual variability in drip discharge is significantly higher than inter‐annual variability. The content of DOC in all drip waters varies inter‐ and intra‐annually and has good correlation with drip water discharge at the rapid response sites. High DOC was observed in July and August in the three years observed. The flushing of soil organic matter is dependent upon the intensity of rain events. The DOC content of drip water increases sharply above a threshold rainfall intensity (>50 mm d−1) and shows several pulses corresponding with intense rain events (>25 mm d−1). The DOC content was lower and less variable during the dry period than during the rainy period. The shape of DOC peak also varies from year to year as it is influenced by the intensity and frequency of rainfall. The different drip sites show marked differences in DOC response, which are dominated by hydrological behaviour linked to the recharge of the soil and karst micro‐fissure/porosity network. The results explain why not all stalagmite laminae are consistent with climate changes and suggest that the structure of the rainy season events could be preserved in speleothems. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A discrete Bayesian network to investigate suspended sediment concentrations in an Alpine proglacial zone
Authors: Mount Nick , Stott Tim
Published: February 2008

In this study, a Bayesian Network (BN) is used to model the suspended sediment concentrations (SSC) in the catchments of the glaciers Noir and Blanc in the Ecrins National Park, France, and at the distal end of the proglacial zone into which both torrents drain. Relationships between air temperature, glacier discharge and SSC are represented as random variables; thereby taking the natural next step from proposed modified rating curve methods which increasingly approximate random variable approaches. Hydrological relationships are propagated through the network via conditional probability distributions computed from 980 field records obtained at three monitoring sites during July 2005. Rainfall affected data are removed from the modelling process. A two‐sample Kolmogorov–Smirnov goodness‐of‐fit (two‐sample KS) test (n = 5) shows good agreement between the probability distributions of SSC predicted by the BN, and those recorded in the field at the outflow of the proglacial zone over an air temperature range of 5–25 °C. The BN performs poorly for air temperatures between 25 and 30 °C and this is attributed to limited field records covering this temperature range. Discussion of the significant limitations surrounding the widespread application of BNs in hydrological modelling are offered with a focus on data volume and temporal limitations. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tenascin‐W, a new marker of cancer stroma, is elevated in sera of colon and breast cancer patients
Authors: Degen Martin , Brellier Florence , Schenk Susanne , Driscoll Robert , Zaman Khalil , Stupp Roger , Tornillo Luigi , Terracciano Luigi , Chiquet‐Ehrismann Ruth , Rüegg Curzio , Seelentag Walter
Published: February 2008

Tenascins are extracellular matrix proteins present during the development of organisms as well as in pathological conditions. Tenascin‐W, the fourth and last member of the tenascin family remains the least well‐characterized one. Our study aimed to evaluate the potential significance of tenascin‐W as cancer biomarker by monitoring its presence in the serum of colorectal and breast cancer patients and its expression in colorectal tumor tissues. To measure serum tenascin‐W levels, a sensitive sandwich‐ELISA was established. Mean tenascin‐W concentration in sera of patients with nonmetastatic colorectal cancer at time of diagnosis was highly increased compared to that of healthy volunteers. A similar tendency was observed for tenascin‐C in the same patient cohort. However, the increase was much more striking for tenascin‐W. We also detected elevated tenascin‐W levels in sera of breast cancer patients. Furthermore, we could show a prominent expression of tenascin‐W in extracts from colorectal tumor tissues by immunoblot analysis, whereas tenascin‐W was not detectable in the corresponding normal colon mucosa. To confirm the western blot results, we performed immunohistochemistry of frozen sections of the same patients as well as of an additional, independently chosen collection of colorectal cancer tissues. In all cases, similarly to tenascin‐C, tenascin‐W was detected in the tumor stroma. Our results reveal a clear association between elevated levels of tenascin‐W and the presence of cancer. These results warrant further studies to evaluate the potential value of serum and tissue tenascin‐W levels as diagnostic, prognostic or monitoring biomarker in colorectal, breast and possibly other solid cancers. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The interaction of CYP3A5 polymorphisms along the androgen metabolism pathway in prostate cancer
Authors: Vaarala Markku H. , Mattila Henna , Ohtonen Pasi , Tammela Teuvo L.J. , Paavonen Timo K. , Schleutker Johanna
Published: February 2008

Prostate cancer is a leading solid tumor among men in the Western world. Androgens play an important role in the carcinogenesis and treatment of prostate cancer. CYP3A5 is a cytochrome P450 superfamily member which also has activity in testosterone metabolism. In this study, we looked for two‐gene interactions associated with clinical characteristics of prostate cancer in the Finnish population. We used multifactor‐dimensionality reduction for the identification of the two‐gene interactions in androgen metabolism pathway genes together with clinical characteristics of prostate cancer among 754 genotyped prostate cancer patients. The CYP3A5*3/*3 and SRD5A2 A49T GG genotype interaction was associated with the clinical tumor stage T2–T4 (T‐stage, TNM classification) with odds ratio (OR) 2.14, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.35–3.40. Patients with CYP3A5*3/*3 and KLK3 I179T CC/TC genotypes had increased OR 2.30, 95% CI 1.16–4.58 for metastatic disease. Further, two‐gene interaction CYP3A5*3/*3 and KLK3 −252A > G AA was associated with Gleason scores ≥7 with OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.11–2.09. Prostate cancer patients with CYP3A5*3/*3 and KLK −252A > G GG/AG genotypes had decreased OR of 0.70 with 95% CI 0.50–0.98 for high prostate‐specific antigen levels at diagnosis. For prostate cancer patients aged below 65 years, the OR for interaction of CYP3A5*1/*3 or *1/*1 and AKR1C3 Q5H CC genotypes was 1.84 with 95% CI 1.03–3.28. For prostate cancer, the best two‐gene interaction included genotypes SRD5A2 V89L GG and AKR1C3 Q5H CC with OR 1.30, 95% CI 1.01–1.66. It remains to be clarified whether these polymorphism associations identified here are also present in other populations. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of borate glass composition on its conversion to hydroxyapatite and on the proliferation of MC3T3‐E1 cells
Authors: Brown Roger F. , Rahaman Mohamed N. , Dwilewicz Agatha B. , Huang Wenhai , Day Delbert E. , Li Yadong , Bal B. Sonny
Published: February 2008

Glasses containing varying amounts of B2O3 were prepared by partially or fully replacing the SiO2 in silicate 45S5 bioactive glass with B2O3. The effects of the B2O3 content of the glass on its conversion to hydroxyapatite (HA) and on the proliferation of MC3T3‐E1 cells were investigated in vitro. Conversion of the glasses to HA in dilute (20 mM) K2HPO4 solution was monitored using weight loss and pH measurements. Proliferation of MC3T3‐E1 cells was determined qualitatively by assay of cell density at the glass interface after incubation for 1 day and 3 days, and quantitatively by fluorescent measurements of total DNA in cultures incubated for 4 days. Higher B2O3 content of the glass increased the conversion rate to HA, but also resulted in a greater inhibition of cell proliferation under static culture conditions. For a given mass of glass in the culture medium, the inhibition of cell proliferation was alleviated by using glasses with lower B2O3 content, by incubating the cell cultures under dynamic rather than static conditions, or by partially converting the glass to HA prior to cell culture. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 2009
Electron spin resonance studies of the effects of sterilization on poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogels
Authors: Kanjickal Deenu , Lopina Stephanie , Evancho‐Chapman Mary Michelle , Schmidt Steven , Inbaraj Johnson J. , Cardon Thomas B. , Lorigan Gary A.
Published: February 2008

The effects of several sterilization procedures on a poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogel have been examined by electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy. The crosslinked polyurethanes were synthesized by reacting PEG with a tri‐functional isocyanate. The free radical concentration of unsterilized, ethylene oxide (EtO), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and gamma sterilized hydrogels were monitored over time. Free radical presence was observed for all the treatments, unsterilized and sterilized PEG hydrogels. The unsterilized and the EtO sterilized samples elicited similar levels of free radical intensity whereas, the H2O2 and gamma sterilized samples had a significantly higher free radical concentration. The spectra reveal overlapping resonances of a peroxy and a triphenylmethyl radical. The concentration of the free radicals increase for all the treatments over time except for the gamma sterilized sample. The increase is significantly higher in the H2O2 sterilized sample. A tentative model is proposed to explain the reaction pathway leading to the production of the free radicals. The observed increases in the free radical concentrations of the EtO and hydrogen peroxide sterilized hydrogels over a five‐month‐period make it difficult to predict properties that are affected by free radical concentrations. In that light, gamma sterilization, that does not induce a change in free radical concentrations over a five month period, could be the sterilization method of choice for PEG hydrogels that could potentially be stored for undetermined periods of time prior to application. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 2009
Minimization of residual tin in the controlled Sn(II)octoate‐catalyzed polymerization of ε‐caprolactone
Authors: Stjerndahl A. , Finne‐Wistrand A. , Albertsson A.‐C. , Bäckesjö C. M. , Lindgren U.
Published: February 2008

By using less catalyst in the ring‐opening polymerization of ε‐caprolactone, a residual tin content of 5 ppm was reached without the need for additional purification. The initial amount of tin (II) 2‐ethylhexanoate [Sn(Oct)2] was varied using catalyst:monomer ratios of 1:1000, 1:10,000, and 1:20,000. The impact on the final conversion, reaction control, average molecular weight, and polydispersity was studied. The amount of Sn(Oct)2 could be significantly reduced without influencing the reaction results. The residual amount of tin was reduced from 176ppm with a catalyst:monomer ratio of 1:1000 in the polymer, to 5 ppm with the ratio 1:10,000. It was thus concluded that a catalyst:monomer ratio of 1:10,000 or lower is required to achieve a polymer with tin content suitable for biomedical applications. The materials were also tested in a proliferation study with mesenchymal stem cells from mouse. Porous scaffolds were fabricated from the polymers, using a salt leaching technique, and the cell growth on the porous scaffolds as well as on homogeneous films was determined by light absorbance measurements. In this study, the cell proliferation results showed that cells could grow on all polymers with an efficiency equal to or better than that on normal tissue culture plastic. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 2008