bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frontomaxillary facial angle at 11 + 0 to 13 + 6 weeks' gestation—reproducibility of measurements
Authors: Plasencia W. , Dagklis T. , Sotiriadis A. , Borenstein M. , Nicolaides K. H.
Published: December 2006

Objective

To assess the intra‐ and interobserver reproducibility in the measurement of the frontomaxillary facial (FMF) angle at 11 + 0 to 13 + 6 weeks' gestation and to investigate the effect of deviations from the exact mid‐sagittal view on these measurements.

Methods

Three‐dimensional (3D) volumes of the fetal face were used by two operators to measure the FMF angle in 50 chromosomally normal and 50 trisomy 21 fetuses. The measurements were taken in the exact mid‐sagittal view and repeated after lateral rotation of the head by 5°, 10° and 15° away from the vertical position of the occipitofrontal diameter axis. Mean difference and 95% limits of agreement between paired measurements of FMF angle by the same and by two different sonographers were determined.

Results

In the mid‐sagittal plane the maxillary bone was rectangularly shaped. Rotation away from this plane became easily recognizable because at a mean of 7° (range, 4–10°) the shape of the maxilla changed with the appearance of the zygomatic process of the maxilla and at a mean of 8° (range, 4–12°) the tip of the nose became invisible. In both the normal and trisomy 21 fetuses the FMF angle measured at 5–15° was not significantly different from the one measured in the mid‐sagittal plane. In 95% of the cases, the difference between paired measurements of the FMF angle by the same sonographer at the mid‐sagittal plane was between − 2.3° and 3.0° and at 15° it was − 1.0° to 6.8°. At the mid‐sagittal plane, the difference in measurements between two sonographers was − 3.1 to 3.0°.

Conclusion

The landmarks that define the mid‐sagittal plane of the fetal face are the tip of the nose and the rectangularly shaped maxilla. Measurement of the FMF angle is highly reproducible. Copyright © 2006 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Postoperative Glycemic Control after Central Pancreatectomy for Mid‐gland Lesions
Authors: Allendorf John D. , Schrope Beth A. , Lauerman Margaret H. , Inabnet William B. , Chabot John A.
Published: December 2006

Introduction

Patients undergoing partial pancreatectomy are at risk for developing surgically induced diabetes. Patients with lesions in the neck and body of the pancreas are at increased risk because traditional resectional approaches (pancreaticoduodenectomy or distal pancreatectomy) must be extended to remove the tumor with adequate margins. Increasingly, we have been performing pancreatic parenchyma‐sparing resections (central pancreatectomy with pancreaticogastrostomy) in an effort to reduce the risk of postpancreatectomy endocrine insufficiency.

Methods

The operative records of patients who underwent pancreatectomy at our institution from 1999 to 2005 were reviewed. We identified 26 patients who underwent central pancreatectomy with pancreaticogastrostomy reconstruction for cystic lesions (n = 23), neuroendocrine tumors (n = 2), and Frantz’s tumor (n = 1). Charts were reviewed for patient demographics, volume of resection, complications, and evaluation of postoperative glycemic control.

Results

The mean follow‐up was 33 months (range 3–72 months). The average volume of pancreas resected was 49.6 ± 38.6 cm3, and the mean diameter of the lesions was 2.6 ± 1.5 cm. Nine complications occurred in eight patients (overall morbidity 31%), and the average length of stay was 6.9 ± 2.7 days. Pancreatic leaks (n = 2; 7.7%) were successfully managed nonoperatively. There was no operative mortality, and there has been no tumor recurrence. None of the patients were diabetic preoperatively. Postoperatively, two (7.7%) developed endocrine insufficiency with a mean postoperative hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) value of 7.65%. Neither patient has required exogenous insulin. HbA1c in the remaining patients was 5.9% ± 0.5%.

Conclusions

Pancreatic parenchyma‐sparing surgery for lesions in the midportion of the gland can be performed with acceptable morbidity. Postoperative glycemic control after pancreatic parenchyma‐sparing surgery compares favorably with that reported for patients with traditional resections.
Prognostic Implication of Para‐aortic Lymph Node Metastasis in Resectable Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Doi Ryuichiro , Kami Kazuhiro , Ito Daisuke , Fujimoto Koji , Kawaguchi Yoshiya , Wada Michihiko , Kogire Masafumi , Hosotani Ryo , Imamura Masayuki , Uemoto Shinji
Published: December 2006

Background

The survival curve of patients who undergo surgical resection of pancreatic cancer displays a steep decline within 1 year and a relatively slow decline thereafter. The patients with a short survival time may have identifiable clinicopathologic factors that lead to rapid relapse.

Study Design

We analyzed clinicopathologic factors in 133 patients who underwent margin‐negative pancreatoduodenectomy with extended radical lymphadenectomy for invasive ductal carcinoma of the pancreas to detect factors that could be responsible for the short survival.

Results

Tumor size, invasion of the anterior pancreatic capsule, retroperitoneal invasion, portal venous invasion, major arterial invasion, and metastasis to the para‐aortic lymph nodes were variables associated with survival time in univariate analysis. Metastasis to the para‐aortic lymph nodes was the single independent factor with a significant association with mortality in multivariate analysis. Some 84% of the patients who had positive para‐aortic lymph nodes died within 1 year, versus 46% of the patients with negative nodes.

Conclusions

Although tumors that involve the para‐aortic lymph nodes may technically be resectable, the expected postoperative survival time for most patients is less than 1 year. If para‐aortic nodal metastasis is detected, alternative treatment strategies should be considered.
Impact of Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus Infection on Outcome after Esophagectomy
Authors: Bowrey David J. , Evans Martyn D. , Clark Geoffrey W. B.
Published: December 2006

Background

Infection with methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has reached endemic proportions in the United Kingdom. The aim of the present study was to determine the frequency of MRSA infection in patients undergoing esophagectomy and to report its impact on patient outcome.

Patients and Methods

The study population was 98 patients undergoing esophagectomy for carcinoma during the years 1998–2004. Patient information was collected prospectively and entered into a computerized database and analyzed retrospectively by univariate and multivariate analysis.

Results

Overall, 20 of the 98 patients (20%) developed infection with MRSA after esophagectomy. Patients who developed MRSA infection had greater levels of postoperative morbidity, longer intensive care unit (ICU) stays (median 2 days versus 1 day, P = 0.005) and hospital stays (21 days versus 16 days, P < 0.001) compared to those who did not develop infection. Multivariate analysis identified preoperative chemotherapy (P = 0.006) and readmission to the ICU (P = 0.007) as significant risk factors with MRSA infection. Overall, 17 of 46 patients (37%) who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy developed MRSA infection, compared to 3 of 52 (6%) who did not receive this treatment (P = 0.0001).

Conclusions

Overall, one in five patients undergoing esophagectomy developed MRSA infection, with those patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy identified as being at greatest risk of this complication. This is an alarming finding, as neoadjuvant chemotherapy is the standard of care for patients with esophageal carcinoma in the United Kingdom.
Effect of 5‐Fluorouracil plus Interferon on the Integrity of Colonic Anastomoses Covering with Fibrin Glue
Authors: Kanellos D. , Blouhos K. , Pramateftakis M. G. , Kanellos I. , Demetriades H. , Sakkas L. , Betsis D.
Published: December 2006

Background

It has been well established that the immediate postoperative intraperitoneal administration of chemotherapeutic agents such as 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) after curative colon resection for colon cancer destroys disseminated cancer cells and inhibits micrometastases but also inhibits anastomotic healing. On the other hand, the application of fibrin glue constitutes a physical barrier around the anastomosis and may prevent anastomotic leakage. The purpose of this experimental study was to determine the effect of 5‐FU plus interferon (IFN)‐α‐2a on the integrity of colonic anastomoses covered with fibrin glue when injected intraperitoneally immediately after colon resection.

Materials and Methods

Sixty rats were randomized to one of four groups. After resection of a 1‐cm segment of the transverse colon, an end‐to‐end sutured anastomosis was performed. Rats of the control and the fibrin glue groups were injected with 6 ml of 0.9% sodium chloride (NaCl) solution intraperitoneally. Rats in the 5‐FU + IFN and the 5‐FU + IFN + fibrin glue groups received 5‐FU plus IFN intraperitoneally. The colonic anastomoses of the rats in the fibrin glue and in the 5‐FU + IFN + fibrin glue groups were covered with fibrin glue. All rats were sacrificed on the 8th postoperative day, and the anastomoses were examined macroscopically. The bursting pressure measurements were recorded, and the anastomoses were graded histologically.

Results

Only the 5‐FU + IFN group had anastomoses rupture, and the rupture rate (33%) in this group was significantly greater than in the other groups, where there were no ruptures (P= 0.015). The adhesion formations score was, on average, significantly higher in rats of the 5‐FU + IFN group compared with the control group (P= 0.006) and the 5‐FU + IFN + fibrin glue group (P= 0.010). Bursting pressures were significantly lower in the control group when compared to the fibrin glue and 5‐FU + IFN + fibrin glue group (P< 0.001). Rats in the 5‐FU + IFN + fibrin glue group developed significantly more marked neoangiogenesis than rats in the other groups. Inflammatory cell infiltration, collagen deposition, and fibroblast activity did not differ significantly among the four groups (P= 0.856,P= 0.192 andP= 0.243, respectively).

Conclusion

The immediate postoperative intraperitoneal administration of 5‐FU plus IFN impairs colonic healing. However, when the colonic anastomoses were covered with fibrin glue, the injection of 5‐FU plus IFN had no adverse effects on the integrity of the anastomoses.
Carcinoma of the Ampulla of Vater: Factors Influencing Long‐term Survival of 127 Patients with Resection
Authors: Qiao Qi‐lu , Zhao Yi‐guo , Ye Mu‐lin , Yang Yin‐mo , Zhao Jian‐xun , Huang Yan‐ting , Wan Yuan‐lian
Published: December 2006

Introduction

The prognosis for patients with carcinoma of the ampulla of Vater is improved relative to other periampullary neoplasms. Identification of independent prognostic factors in ampullary carcinomas has been limited by the small number of tumors resected. The aim of the present study was to determine the clinicopathologic factors that influence long‐term survival in patients with resected ampullary carcinoma.

Methods

Clinicopathologic data were retrospectively reviewed for patients with ampullary carcinomas radically resected between March 1987 and September 2002. The correlation between clinicopathologic variables and survival of patients after resection was examined by the Kaplan‐Meier method, the log‐rank test, and Cox proportional hazards regression. Ampullary carcinomas were radically resected in 127 patients either by pancreaticoduodenectomy (n = 124) or local resection (n = 3).

Results

Hospital mortality was 9.7%. The overall actuarial survival rates (including hospital deaths) at 1, 3, 5, and 10 years were 76.2%, 46.8%, 43.3%, and 35.7%, respectively. Factors that significantly influenced survival were lymph node status (P < 0.001), depth of tumor infiltration (P = 0.029), and TNM stage (P < 0.001) on univariate analysis. On multivariate analysis, both depth of infiltration and lymph node status were the independent determinants of survival after resection (P = 0.003, P = 0.005, respectively).

Conclusions

Carcinoma of the ampulla of Vater has a higher resectability rate and a much better survival rate than pancreatic cancer. Pancreaticoduodenectomy is the treatment of choice for this tumor. Long‐term survival was independently influenced by the depth of tumor infiltration and lymph node metastasis.
Blood Perfusion of the Free Anterolateral Thigh Perforator Flap: Its Beneficial Effect in the Reconstruction of Infected Wounds in the Lower Extremity
Authors: Gravvanis Andreas , Tsoutsos Dimosthenis , Karakitsos Dimitrios , Iconomou Thomais , Papadopoulos Othon
Published: December 2006

Background

In a prospective study, we evaluated the blood perfusion and the blood flow of anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap by both near‐infrared spectroscopy and color Doppler ultrasonography. Moreover, we assessed the ability of the perforator flap to reconstruct infected wounds of the lower extremity in 11 patients.

Methods

Near‐infrared spectroscopy showed excellent oxygen saturation, and Doppler ultrasonography documented excellent blood flow and decreased vascular resistance in the ALT flap postoperatively.

Results

All flaps were successful and all wounds healed uneventfully within 2 weeks without any signs of recurrences or persistent infection. All patients achieved acceptable gait function after rehabilitation.

Conclusions

Apart from the mandatory role of thorough debridement, our results indicate that the ALT flap offers rich blood supply to the recipient area, thus contributing to the sterilization and healing of an infected wound within a short time period.
Early Video‐Assisted Thoracic Surgery for Primary Spontaneous Hemopneumothorax
Authors: Chang Yu‐Tang , Dai Zen‐Kong , Kao Eing‐Long , Chuang Hung‐Yi , Cheng Yu‐Jen , Chou Shah‐Hwa , Huang Meei‐Feng
Published: December 2006

Introduction

Primary spontaneous hemopneumothorax (PSHP) is a rare surgical emergency. The aim of this study was to compare the previous strategy of tube thoracostomy followed by thoracotomy when complications developed with early video‐assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) for PSHP.

Methods

Between November 1989 and May 2005, a total of 24 consecutive patients with PSHP were retrospectively reviewed. Before January 2000, there were 13 patients who were subjected to the treatment strategy of initial tube thoracostomy and underwent operation if the condition deteriorated or later complications occurred (group T). Under this strategy, all of these patients later required operations. After January 2000, another 11 patients were treated with VATS as soon as their condition stabilized after tube thoracostomy and resuscitation (group V). The data for the two groups were compared: sex, age, involved side, initial heart rate (HR) and mean blood pressure (BP), initial hemoglobin (Hb), preoperative blood loss, operating time, amount of blood transfusion, period of chest tube drainage (POD), length of hospital stay (LOS), complications, and length of follow‐up.

Results

The sex, age, involved side, and the initial HR, BP, and Hb of the two groups were similar. The patients of group V had a significantly longer operating time [group V, 111 minutes (mean); group T, 85 minutes, P = 0.002]; less preoperative blood loss (group V, 946 ml; group T, 1687 ml, P = 0.003); less blood transfusion (group V, 465 ml; group T, 1044 ml, P = 0.002); shorter POD (group V, 4 days; group T, 7 days, P = 0.011); and shorter LOS (group V, 5 days; group T, 10 days, P = 0.002). No mortality or recurrence was noted in the entire series.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that surgery should be undertaken for PSHP as soon as possible after the clinical condition has stabilized. Under this strategy, VATS is an acceptable approach. It allows a shorter hospital stay and is exempt from unnecessary blood transfusion. Later complications, such as empyema and impaired lung reexpansion, can also be avoided.
Selected Patients with Metastatic Melanoma May Benefit from Liver Resection
Authors: Herman Paulo , Machado Marcel Autran C. , Montagnini André Luis , D’Albuquerque Luiz A. C. , Saad William A. , Machado Marcel C. C.
Published: December 2006

Background

In the last few years there has been expanding use of hepatic resection for non‐colorectal metastases. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the experience of liver resection for patients with metastatic melanoma.

Methods

Eighteen patients with metastatic melanoma were explored for possible surgical resection. All patients fitted the following criteria: absence of extra‐hepatic disease after evaluation with CT/MRI and FDG‐PET scans; disease‐free interval longer than 24 months after the resection of the primary melanoma; presumed completely resectable lesions; absence of clinical co‐morbidities.

Results

Liver resection was performed in 10 patients; 8 out of 18 presented with irresectable tumors and/or peritoneal metastases and were not operated. One patient presented with postoperative biliary fistula and was conservatively managed. No other complications or postoperative mortality were observed. After a mean follow‐up of 25.4 months, 5 patients are alive and without evidence of recurrence. Overall median survival was 22 months; overall survival and disease‐free survival were 70% and 50% respectively.

Conclusions

Resection of liver metastases from melanoma in a selected group of patients may increase survival. Exploratory laparoscopy should be included in the preoperative armamentarium of diagnostic tools.
Spleen‐preserving Distal Pancreatectomy with Excision of Splenic Artery and Vein: A Case‐matched Comparison with Conventional Distal Pancreatectomy with Splenectomy
Authors: Carrère Nicolas , Abid Skander , Julio Charles Henri , Bloom Eric , Pradère Bernard
Published: December 2006

Background

The value of spleen preservation during distal pancreatectomy (DP) still remains controversial. Spleen‐preserving DP with excision of the splenic artery and vein is a simplified technique for spleen preservation. The aim of this study was to compare the postoperative course of DP with or without splenectomy.

Patients and Methods

From 1990 to 2005, 38 consecutive patients with benign or low‐grade malignant disease underwent a spleen‐preserving DP operation with excision of the splenic artery and vein (Conservative Group). They were compared with 38 patients who underwent conventional DP with splenectomy over the same time period (Splenectomy Group) and who had been matched for age, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, and pathological diagnosis. Postoperative courses were analyzed and compared between the Conservative Group and Splenectomy Group.

Results

Spleen preservation was effective in 36 of the 38 attempts (95%). Postoperative complications – in particular, infectious intra‐abdominal complications – were significantly higher in the Splenectomy Group (34 and 18%, respectively) than in the Conservative Group (13 and 3%, respectively) (P = 0.03 and P = 0.02, respectively). The length of the surgery, perioperative blood loss or transfusions, perioperative mortality and length of hospital stay did not differ between the two groups. Univariate analysis showed that splenectomy was the only risk factor for postoperative complication.

Conclusions

Spleen‐preserving DP with excision of the splenic artery and vein is a fast, safe and effective procedure associated, in this series, with a reduction of postoperative complications relative to conventional DP with splenectomy. This technique should be considered in patients with benign or low‐grade malignant disease of the pancreas.
Methodological Challenges of Multiple-Component Intervention: Lessons Learned from a Randomized Controlled Trial of Functional Recovery after Hip Fracture
Authors: Allegrante John P. , Peterson Margaret G. E. , Cornell Charles N. , MacKenzie C. Ronald , Robbins Laura , Horton Roberta , Ganz Sandy B. , Ruchlin Hirsch S. , Russo Pamela Williams , Paget Stephen A. , Charlson Mary E.
Published: December 2006

We conducted a randomized controlled trial to assess the efficacy and safety of a multiple-component intervention designed to improve functional recovery after hip fracture. One hundred seventy-six patients who underwent surgery for a primary unilateral hip fracture were assigned randomly to receive usual care (control arm, n = 86) or a brief motivational videotape, supportive peer counseling, and high-intensity muscle-strength training (intervention arm, n = 90). Between-group differences on the physical functioning, role-physical, and social functioning domains of the SF-36 were assessed postoperatively at 6 months. At the end of the trial, 32 intervention and 27 control patients (34%) completed the 6-month outcome assessment. Although patient compliance with all three components of the intervention was uneven, over 90% of intervention patients were exposed to the motivational videotape. Intervention patients experienced a significant ( P = 0.03) improvement in the role-physical domain (mean change, −11 ± 33) compared to control patients (mean change, −37 ± 41). Change in general health ( P = 0.2) and mental health ( P = 0.1) domain scores was also directionally consistent with the study hypothesis. Although our findings are consistent with previous reports of comprehensive rehabilitation efforts for hip fracture patients, the trial was undermined by high attrition and the possibility of self-selection bias at 6-month follow-up. We discuss the methodological challenges and lessons learned in conducting a randomized controlled trial that sought to implement and assess the impact of a complex intervention in a population that proved difficult to follow up once they had returned to the community.
Electrically tunable solid-state silicon nanopore ion filter
Authors: Vidal Julien , Gracheva Maria E. , Leburton Jean-Pierre
Published: December 2006

We show that a nanopore in a silicon membrane connected to a voltage source can be used as an electrically tunable ion filter. By applying a voltage between the heavily doped semiconductor and the electrolyte, it is possible to invert the ion population inside the nanopore and vary the conductance for both cations and anions in order to achieve selective conduction of ions even in the presence of significant surface charges in the membrane. Our model based on the solution of the Poisson equation and linear transport theory indicates that in narrow nanopores substantial gain can be achieved by controlling electrically the width of the charge double layer.
Application of enzymes to the synthesis of amino acid‐based bola and gemini surfactants
Authors: Valivety Rao , Gill Iqbal S. , Vulfson Evgeny N.
Published: December 2006

A facile and flexible chemoenzymatic route for the preparation of a variety of amino acid‐based surfactants ranging from simple monoesters to more complex bola‐ and gemini‐amphiphiles is described. The methodology is based on the observation that some lipases, notably immobilized Candida antarctica and Rhizomucor miehei, readily accept N‐Cbzamino acids as substrates and catalyze their esterification/amidation with long‐chain alcohols and α,ω‐diols/α,ω‐diamines in excellent yield. The resulting alkanediyl‐α,ω‐bis‐(N‐Cbz‐amino acid) can be either deprotected using conventional procedures to attain a number of multifunctional bola‐amphiphiles or further modified to obtain a range of amino acid‐based gemini surfactants.
Regulation of stearoyl‐CoA desaturase expression
Authors: Ntambi James M. , Miyazaki Makoto , Dobrzyn Agnieszka
Published: December 2006

Stearoyl‐CoA desaturase (SCD) is a regulatory enzyme in lipogenesis, catalyzing the rate‐limiting step in the overall de novo synthesis of monousaturated FA, mainly oleate and palmitoleate from stearoyl‐ and palmitoyl‐CoA, respectively. Oleate and palmitoleate are the major monounsaturated FA of membrane phospholipids, TG, wax esters, cholesterol esters, and alkyldiacylglycerol. Several SCD gene isoforms (SCD1, SCD2, SCD3, and SCD4) exist in mice, and two have been characterized in humans. SCD1 gene expression in liver cells is regulated by numerous stimuli including diet and hormones. We are interested in why SCD is such a highly regulated enzyme even though oleate, the major product of this enzyme, is one of the most abundant FA in the diet and is therefore readily available. Dietary oleate is also well known for its TG‐lowering effects and, as a major component of olive oil, is expected to have beneficial effects. However, high SCD activity has been implicated in diabetes, obesity, atherosclerosis, and cancer in several animal models; therefore, the role that de novo oleate plays in these disease states has to be carefully evaluated. By using SCD1‐/‐mice, which are deficient in tissue oleate, we begin to learn more about the physiological role of SCD gene expression and oleate in normal and disease states.
Resolvins, docosatrienes, and neuroprotectins, novel omega‐3‐derived mediators, and their endogenous aspirin‐triggered epimers
Authors: Serhan Charles N. , Arita Makoto , Hong Song , Gotlinger Katherine
Published: December 2006

The molecular basis for the beneficial impact of essential omega‐3 (n−3) FA remains of interest. Recently, we identified novel mediators generated from eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) that displayed potent bioactions identified first in resolving inflammatory exudates and in tissues enriched with DHA. The trivial names resolvin (resolution phase interaction products) and docosatrienes were introduced for the bioactive compounds from these novel series since they possess potent anti‐inflammatory and immunoregulatory actions. Compounds derived from EPA carrying potent biological actions (i.e., 1–10 nM range) are designated E series and denoted resolvins of the E series (resolvin E1 or RvE1), and those biosynthesized from the precursor DHA are denoted resolvins of the D series (resolvin D1 or RvD1). The number 1 designates the bioactive compounds in this family (e.g., 1–4). Bioactive members from DHA‐containing conjugated triene structures or docosatrienes (DT) that possess immunoregulatory and neuroprotective actions were termed neuroprotectins. Aspirin treatment initiates a related epimeric series by triggering endogenous formation of the 17R‐D series resolvins and docosatrienes. These epimers are denoted as aspirin‐triggered (AT)‐RvD and DT, and possess potent anti‐in‐flammatory actions in vivo essentially equivalent to their 17S series pathway products. These include five distinct series: (i) 18R resolvins from EPA (i.e., RvE1); (ii) 17R series (AT) resolvins from DHA (RvD1 through RvD4); (iii) 17S series resolvins from DHA (RvD1 through RvD4), (iv) DT from DHA; and (v) their AT form 17R series DT. In this article, we provide an overview of the formation and actions of these newly uncovered pathways and products.
Biological Activities and Syntheses of Steroidal Saponins: the Shark‐Repelling Pavoninins
Authors: Williams John R. , Gong Hua
Published: December 2006

Steroidal saponins are complex compounds that have a steroid attached to a carbohydrate moiety. They are natural surfactants and detergents and exhibit a number of biological effects. Steroidal saponins have shown membrane‐permeabilizing, hypocholesterolemic, immunostimulant, and anticancer properties. They have also been found to affect the growth, food intake and reproductive capabilities of animals. Furthermore, they have been shown to act as antiviral and antifungal agents. They have been isolated from many plants and some animals, especially sea cucumbers and starfish. Fish belonging to the species Pardachirus pavoninus excrete a mixture of six steroidal N‐acetylglucosaminides, pavoninins 1–6, with shark‐repelling properties. We report syntheses of the C‐15α pavoninin‐4 by both direct synthesis from diosgenin and by remote functionalization. A general solution for the glycosylation of hindered alcohols was developed using glycosyl fluorides as good glycosyl donors. The syntheses of two C‐16β structural analogs of OSW‐1 are described.
Diphenyleneiodonium induces ROS‐independent p53 expression and apoptosis in human RPE cells
Authors: Park Sang Eun , Song Ju Dong , Kim Kang Mi , Park Yeong Min , Kim Nam Deuk , Yoo Young Hyun , Park Young Chul
Published: December 2006

The diphenyleneiodonium (DPI) is widely used as an inhibitor of flavoenzymes, particularly NADPH oxidase. In this study, we investigated the effect of DPI on the apoptosis of human RPE cells. DPI treatment in ARPE‐19 cells evoked a dose‐ and time‐dependent growth inhibition, and also induced DNA fragmentation and protein content of the proapoptotic factor Bax. In addition, DPI significantly induced the expression and phosphorylation of p53, which induces proapoptotic genes in response to DNA damage or irreparable cell cycle arrest. ROS have been implicated as a key factor in the activation of p53 by many chemotherapeutic drugs. Recent data on the regulation of intracellular ROS by DPI are controversial. Therefore, we analyzed whether DPI could contribute to the generation of intracellular ROS. Although there was increase in ROS level from cells treated for 24 h with DPI, it was not detectable at early time points, required to induce p53 expression. And DPI‐induced p53 expression was not affected by the ROS scavenger NAC. We conclude that DPI induces the expression of p53 by ROS‐independent mechanism in ARPE‐19 cells, and renders cells sensitive to drug‐induced apoptosis by induction of p53 expression.
Identification of differential proteins in nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells with p53 silence by proteome analysis
Authors: Sun Yi , Yi Hong , Zhang Peng-Fei , Li Mao-Yu , Li Cui , Li Feng , Peng Fang , Feng Xue-Ping , Yang Yi-Xuan , Yang Fang , Xiao Zhi-Qiang , Chen Zhu-Chu
Published: December 2006

Although mutation of p53 tumor‐suppressor gene is rare in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), NPC has a high frequency of overexpression of p53 protein. There seem to be complex mechanisms of inactivation and stabilization of p53 in NPC. To detect proteins associated with the function of p53 in high throughout screening, we succeeded in establishing p53 knockdown human NPC CNE2 cell line (CNE2sip53) using stable RNA interference, and compared the proteomic changes between CNE2sip53 and control cell line CNE2/pSUPER using two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis. Twenty‐two differentially expressed proteins between the two cell lines were identified by both matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry and electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry, some of which are known to be associated with the p53 function (HSP27, hnRNP K, 14‐3‐3σ, etc.), and others may be novel proteins associated with p53 function (eIF4B, TPT1, hnRNP H3, SFRS1 etc.). Furthermore, several differential proteins including HSP27, HSP70, GRP75 and GRP78 were verified as p53 interacting proteins in NPC by immunoprecipitation and Western blot analysis, and the suppression of HSP27 expression by HSP27 antisense oligonucleotides could decrease the p53 protein level. Our data suggest that these differential proteins may be associated with the function of p53 in NPC, and provide new clues to elucidate the mechanisms of inactivation and stabilization of p53 in NPC.
Sporulating bacteria prefers predation to cannibalism in mixed cultures
Authors: Nandy Subir Kumar , Bapat Prashant M. , Venkatesh K.V.
Published: December 2006

Predatory behavior, a property associated with ecosystems, is not commonly observed in microorganisms. However, cannibalistic tendencies have been observed in microorganisms under stress. For example, pure culture of Bacillus subtilis exhibits cannibalism under nutrient limitation. It has been proposed that a fraction of cells in the population produce Spo0A, a regulatory protein that is responsible for delaying sporulation. Cells containing spo0A would produce a killing factor by activating skf operon and an associated pump to export the factor. Cells that do not contain spo0A in the population are lysed. However in addition to the competition among the cells of B. subtilis, these cells also compete with other organisms for the limited nutrients. In this work, we report the cannibalistic behavior of B. subtilis in presence of Escherichia coli under severe nutritional limitation. We demonstrate that B. subtilis lyses cells of E. coli using an antibacterial factor under the regulation of Spo0A. Our experiments also suggest that B. subtilis prefers predation of E. coli to cannibalism in mixed cultures. B. subtilis also demonstrated predation in mixed cultures with other soil microorganisms, such as, Xanthomonas campestris, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobactor lwoffi. This may offer B. subtilis a niche to survive in an environment with limited nutrients and under competition from other microorganisms.
Follicular lymphoma presenting as mumps, with persistent cervical lymphadenopathy
Authors: Cole A S , Trotter M I , O'Connell J
Published: December 2006

We report a case of follicular lymphoma in a healthy individual, which presented as saliva- and serum-proven mumps. The patient presented with a sore throat and parotid and submandibular lymphadenopathy. Fine needle aspiration, undertaken three weeks following presentation, revealed no malignant cells. An excision biopsy of a level two node was performed due to persistent lymphadenopathy, five weeks following presentation. As far as we are aware, this is the first reported case of follicular lymphoma presenting as mumps. This case highlights the importance of follow up in patients in whom lymphadenopathy is persistent despite the proven diagnosis of mumps.
Preseptal cellulitis due to Mycobacterium marinum
Authors: Benton J , Karkanevatos A
Published: December 2006

Mycobacterium marinum is an atypical mycobacterium found in both salt and fresh water. It occasionally causes soft tissue infections after minor trauma, principally affecting the limbs.

A 17-year-old male aquarium worker presented with preseptal cellulitis of his right eye, after attempting to lance a hordeolum some days previously. The condition failed to respond to antibiotics and a necrotic area developed, which subsequently required debridement. Histology of the debrided area demonstrated granulomatous inflammation which when considered with his occupation led to the diagnosis of Mycobacterium marinum – ‘fish-tank granuloma’.

A Medline search did not demonstrate any previous cases of Mycobacterium marinum infection occurring peri-orbitally. The current literature regarding diagnosis and management is reviewed. Although infection with Mycobacterium marinum is rare in the general population, this case demonstrates the importance of considering the diagnosis when dealing with patients frequently exposed to fresh or salt water.
Primary cutaneous aggressive epidermotropic CD8 positive cytotoxic T-cell lymphoma of the ear
Authors: Fika Z , Karkos P D , Badran K , Williams R E
Published: December 2006

We report a case of an epidermotropic CD8+ cutaneous T-cell lymphoma which initially presented as an ulcerated lesion of the pinna. Although T-cell lymphomas may present as cutaneous lesions, the ear is rarely involved. This uncommon presentation and the need for multiple biopsies means that the diagnosis of these lesions may be delayed or missed. A high index of suspicion is required when evaluating cutaneous lesions in the head and neck area.
Phylogeny of diplozoids in five genera of the subfamily Diplozoinae Palombi, 1949 as inferred from ITS-2 rDNA sequences
Authors: GAO Q. , X. CHEN M. , YAO W. J. , GAO Y. , SONG Y. , WANG G. T. , WANG M. X. , NIE P.
Published: December 2006

The phylogenetic relationship of 5 genera, i.e. Diplozoon Nordmann, 1832, ParadiplozoonAchmerov, 1974, InustiatusKhotenovsky, 1978, SindiplozoonKhotenovsky, 1981, and EudiplozoonKhotenovsky, 1985 in the subfamily Diplozoinae Palombi, 1949 (Monogenea, Polyopisthocotylea) was inferred from rDNA ITS-2 region using neighbour-joining (NJ), maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian methods. The phylogenetic trees produced by using NJ, ML and Bayesian methods exhibit essentially the same topology. Surprisingly, freshwater species of Paradiplozoon from Europe clustered together with species of Diplozoon, but separated from Chinese Paradiplozoon species. The results of molecular phylogeny and lower level of divergence (4·1–15·7%) in ITS-2 rDNA among Paradiplozoon from Europe and Diplozoon and, on the other hand, high level of divergence (45·3–53·7%) among Paradiplozoon species from Europe and China might indicate the non-monophyletic origin of the genus Paradiplozoon. Also, the generic status of European Paradiplozoon needs to be revised. The species of Paradiplozoon in China is a basal group in Diplozoinae as revealed by NJ and Bayesian methods, and Sindiplozoon appears to be closely related to European Paradiplozoon and Diplozoon with their relationship to Eudiplozoon and Inustiatus being unresolved.
The special issue devoted to papers from the Astrobiology Society of Britain Conference 2006
Authors: Burchell M.J.
Published: December 2006

The Astrobiology Society of Britain (http://www.astrobiologysociety.org/) held its second conference (Life Here, There and Everywhere) in April 2006. The meeting was hosted by the University of Kent and took place on campus in Canterbury from 18–21 April. A total of 48 abstracts were submitted to the meeting. The final schedule featured 35 talks and 14 posters on a range of topics which included Mars, the Moon, comets, exoplanets, impacts, outreach and analytic techniques – all with an astrobiology flavour. With 62 attendees (including overseas delegates from Sweden, Spain, Portugal, Australia and the United States) the meeting also allowed for strong social interaction (and the building of new collaborations and networking) as well as showcasing ongoing research in the field.
The 1948 Italian Constitution and the 2006 Referendum: Food for Thought
Authors: Pinelli Cesare
Published: December 2006

Historical background of the Italian Constitution – Main features – Golden age of constitutional enforcement – Italian political renewal – Fathers and sons – The great reform proposal – The 2006 referendum – The upshot.
Presidential Elements in Government France: The Quest for Political Responsibility of the President in the Fifth Republic
Authors: Constantinesco Vlad , Pierré-Caps Stéphane
Published: December 2006

Power of state – President as state's and as people's representative – Bicephalism of government – Unity in cabinet – History – Guizot, Chateaubriand – Orleanism – President's arbitration is form of leadership – De Gaulle engaging political responsibility – penal responsibility – Cohabitation – Constitutional amendment and referendum (1962) – President structures parliamentary majority – Weakness of Parliament – Full presidentialization? – Sixth Republic?
Habermas, Supranational Democracy and the European Constitution
Authors: McCormick John P.
Published: December 2006

Habermas's normative vision – Strengths and deficiencies – European Union democracy as solution to global problems – Necessity of developing a European civil society – Normative ideal, functional mechanisms, empirical reexamination – Habermas's criticism of Euro-skeptics – Substance-through-procedure mode of social integration – Adequacy of procedural substance questioned – Empirical limits to Habermasian European Union democracy – ‘Multi-segmented governance’ in the European Union – Supranational redistribution? – Legal integration has not facilitated social integration – Scharpf, Weiler, Joerges, Schmitter – Habermas's Sozialstaat principles jeopardized on Union level – Structural obstacle to coordinated European social welfare policy – European politics will resemble Sektoralstaat – Participation, egalitarianism and accountability
Evans v. UK – European Court of Human Rights
Authors: Bomhoff Jacco , Zucca Lorenzo
Published: December 2006

Proportionality review and, in particular, ad hoc judicial balancing of competing rights and interests are probably the most celebrated tools propagated by the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) and are currently dominant features of the European discourse on rights. This methodology and its discourse, in fact, have gained such widespread popularity that, although the outcome of Convention-based and other fundamental rights claims is often far from certain, the way they will be treated by judges can be predicted with some confidence.
Bosphorus – European Court of Human Rights
Authors: Peers Steve
Published: December 2006

The position of human rights within the European Union legal order has been an issue since the early years of the original European Economic Community. For many years, the development of human rights as general principles of Community law was characterized by dialogue and debate between the Communities' Court of Justice on the one hand, and certain national constitutional courts on the other, as regards the protection of human rights recognized in national constitutions by the Community legal order. But in recent years, there has been a parallel dialogue between the Court of Justice and the European Court of Human Rights, as regards the Community legal order's protection of the rights guaranteed by the European Convention of Human Rights (ECHR).
Formation, transformation, and removal of aerosol over a tropical mangrove forest
Authors: Chatterjee A. , Dutta C. , Sen S. , Ghosh K. , Biswas N. , Ganguly D. , Jana T. K.
Published: December 2006

A comprehensive size‐segregated characterization of the chemical properties (water‐soluble inorganic fraction) of the sea‐salt aerosol originated from the surf zone at the land‐ocean boundary of Sundarban Mangrove forest, NE coast of Bay of Bengal, and an analysis of the relevant meteorological parameters revealed how the combined effect of anthropogenic gases and aerosol advected to the virgin mangrove forest and micrometeorological conditions could change the marine character of the aerosol before the onset of SW monsoon. The average aerosol mass concentration was 99.94 ± 41.9 μg m−3 with production rate of 0.19 μg m−2 s−1 (during January) to 4.29 μg m−2 s−1 (during April) and dry deposition rate of 0.019 μg m−2 s−1 (during January) to 13.21 μg m−2 s−1 (during June). 72.35% of the total aerosol mass was leachable by water, and relatively large concentrations of phosphorus were observed. More chloride depletion from the coarse (2.0 < dp < 10 μm) and nucleation (dp < 0.4 μm) modes compared to the accumulation mode (0.4 < dp < 2.0 μm) was observed in winter (Cl/Na = 0.6023 ± 0.1798), and a reverse trend was observed in summer (Cl/Na = 0.644 ± 0.262). A significant positive correlation was obtained for chloride loss with non‐sea‐sulphate and nitrate for particles > 2.0 μm. Distributions of Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, NH4+, Cl−, NO2−, NO3−, SO42−, and PO43− in different size modes were considered to collate their source apportionment. The proximity of Calcutta and Haldia metropolis to the mangrove forest could influence the forest air quality and depositional processes.
n‐3 (omega‐3) polyunsaturated fatty acids prevent acute atrial electrophysiological remodeling
Authors: da Cunha D N Q , Hamlin R L , Billman G E , Carnes C A
Published: December 2006

Background and Purpose:

Recent reports suggest that n‐3 (omega‐3) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) may reduce atrial fibrillation (AF). Reduction of the atrial effective refractory period (ERP) is believed to be an important early remodeling event that favors the development and perpetuation of AF. We hypothesized that n‐3 PUFAs would attenuate early atrial electrophysiolgical remodeling in a canine model of acute atrial tachypacing.

Experimental Approach:

Adult dogs of either sex received n‐3 PUFAs (n=6), n‐6 PUFAs (n=6), or saline (n=6) infused over 1 h. After a stable ERP was established, treatment was initiated concurrently with 6 h of rapid atrial pacing (400 b.p.m.). Serial right atrial ERPs were measured during rapid atrial pacing, and induction of atrial tachyarrhythmias was attempted at the conclusion of each study.

Key results:

There was no change in P wave duration or in the PQ, QRS, QT or QTc intervals in any of the treatment groups. N‐3 PUFA treatment significantly reduced the shortening of atrial ERP, compared to both control groups (P<0.05). In separate experiments, the same n‐3 PUFA infusion was given to dogs remaining in normal sinus rhythm. During sinus rhythm, n‐3 PUFA infusion did not alter any electrocardiogram (ECG) parameter or the atrial ERP.

Conclusions and Implications:

We conclude that acute n‐3 PUFA treatment prevents acute atrial electrophysiological remodeling during high rate activity, which may minimize the self‐perpetuation of AF.

British Journal of Pharmacology (2007) 150, 281–285. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0706977
Single layer mesoporous silica thin films as templates for metallic nanoscale arrays
Authors: Hussen G. N. A. , Shirakawa H. , Nix W. D. , Clemens B. M.
Published: December 2006

Mesoporous silica films have been synthesized as a single pore layer on silicon, germanium, and indium tin oxide substrates. The film structure consists of a hexagonal array of pores approximately 10nm in diameter, with 3nm wall thickness. The film thickness is controlled through ethanol dilution of the precursor solution, while the film structure is controlled through the acid content and relative humidity of the aging environment. Increasing acidity suppresses the condensation and polymerization kinetics in the film, while the water content of the aging environment increases the fluidity of the film prior to condensation and the curvature of the micelles. Higher acidity and relative humidity result in films that develop the thermodynamically stable phase, as would be predicted by the volume fraction of the block copolymer. Gold was sputter deposited onto mesoporous substrates, resulting in gold islands that are thermally more stable compared with those resulting from deposition on the bare substrate. The gold islands that deposit atop the mesoporous film can be easily removed, resulting in an array of isolated gold particles inside the pores. Furthermore, gold films deposited onto mesoporous silica films on germanium substrates show a dramatic increase in thermal stability against coarsening relative to particles on bare germanium. A sputter deposited gold grown and maintained at 550°C for many hours retain a grain size of approximately 10nm, while grains on bare germanium coarsen to larger than 100nm.
Low temperature electron mobility and concentration under the gate of AlGaN∕GaN field effect transistors
Authors: Sakowicz M. , Tauk R. , Łusakowski J. , Tiberj A. , Knap W. , Bougrioua Z. , Azize M. , Lorenzini P. , Karpierz K. , Grynberg M.
Published: December 2006

High electron mobility field effect transistors were fabricated on AlGaN∕GaN heterostructures and their magnetoresistance was measured at 4.2K up to 10T with simultaneous modulation of the gate potential. Low and high magnetic field data were used to determine the electron mobility (μ) and concentration (n), respectively, in the gated part of the transistor channel. With these measurements we present a method to determine μ and n under the gate of a transistor, which does not require knowledge of the transistor gate length, access resistance, threshold voltage, or capacitance. We discuss applications of this method for nanometer and ballistic transistors.
Elastic constants of monocrystal iron from 3to500K
Authors: Adams J. J. , Agosta D. S. , Leisure R. G. , Ledbetter H.
Published: December 2006

Resonant ultrasound spectroscopy was used to measure the monocrystal elastic constants of iron over a temperature range of 3–500K. All the moduli behave normally as a function of temperature and are well described by the semiempirical Einstein-oscillator model. Values at 300K are bulk modulus=166.2±0.9GPa; shear constant C′=(C11−C12)∕2=48.15±0.9GPa; shear constant C44=115.87±0.17GPa. The Poisson ratio (ν100) is 0.3679±0.0005. Representation surfaces of Young’s and torsion moduli are presented. The Debye temperature (θD) is 476.3K as calculated from 3K measured elastic constants. A thermodynamic Grüneisen parameter γth=1.65 is calculated. The temperature dependence of the internal friction associated with C′ is very different from that associated with C44. Possible reasons for this difference are suggested.