bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced connexin 43 expression delays intra‐mitoitc duration and cell cycle traverse independently of gap junction channel function
Authors: Johnstone Scott R. , Best Angela K. , Wright Catherine S. , Isakson Brant E. , Errington Rachel J. , Martin Patricia E.
Published: April 2010

Connexins (Cxs) and gap junction (GJ)‐mediated communication have been linked with the regulation of cell cycle traverse. However, it is not clear whether Cx expression or GJ channel function are the key mediators in this process or at what stage this regulation may occur. We therefore tested the hypothesis that enhanced Cx expression could alter the rate of cell cycle traverse independently of GJ channel function. Sodium butyrate (NaBu) or anti‐arrhythmic peptide (AAP10) were used to enhance Cx expression in HeLa cells stably expressing Cx43 (HeLa‐43) and primary cultures of human fibroblasts (HFF) that predominantly express Cx43. To reduce GJ‐mediated communication, 18‐α‐glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) was used. In HeLa‐43 and HFF cells, NaBu and AAP10 enhanced Cx43 expression and increased channel function, while GA reduced GJ‐mediated communication but did not significantly alter Cx43 expression levels. Timelapse microscopy and flow cytometry of HeLa‐WT (wild‐type, Cx deficient) and HeLa‐43 cells dissected cell cycle traverse and enabled measurements of intra‐mitotic time and determined levels of G1 arrest. Enhanced Cx43 expression increased mitotic durations corresponding with a G1 delay in cell cycle, which was linked to an increase in expression of the cell cycle inhibitor p21waf1/cip1 in both HeLa‐43 and HFF cells. Reductions in Cx43 channel function did not abrogate these responses, indicating that GJ channel function was not a critical factor in reducing cell proliferation in either cell type. We conclude that enhanced Cx43 expression and not GJ‐mediated communication, is involved in regulating cell cycle traverse. J. Cell. Biochem. 110: 772–782, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Morphine treatment of human monocyte‐derived macrophages induces differential miRNA and protein expression: Impact on inflammation and oxidative stress in the central nervous system
Authors: Dave Rajnish S. , Khalili Kamel
Published: April 2010

HIV‐1‐infected opiate abusers often exhibit an accelerated form of HIV‐1‐associated dementia and enhanced neurological dysfunction. Productive HIV‐1 infection of microglia and perivascular macrophages and the resultant secretion of neurotoxic molecules by these cells contribute to this phenomenon. In order to understand the role of morphine in this process, we performed a genome‐wide association study at the micro RNA (miRNA) and protein levels in human monocyte‐derived macrophages (h‐mdms). A total of 26 differentially expressed miRNA were identified (P < 0.01), of which hsa‐miR‐15b and hsa‐miR‐181b had the greatest increase and decrease in expression levels, respectively. Computational analysis predicted fibroblast growth factor‐2 (FGF‐2) as the strongest target gene for hsa‐miR15b. Of note, we observed a decrease in FGF‐2 protein expression in response to morphine. Both hsa‐miR‐15b and hsa‐miR‐181b have several predicted gene targets involved in inflammation and T‐cell activation pathways. In this context, we observed induction of MCP‐2 and IL‐6 by morphine. Moreover, proteomic analysis revealed the induction of mitochondrial superoxide dismutase in response to morphine treatment. HIV‐1 infection did not induce mitochondrial superoxide dismutase. Collectively, these observations demonstrate that morphine induces inflammation and oxidative stress in h‐mdms thereby contributing to expansion of HIV‐1 CNS reservoir expansion and disease progression. Of note, differentially expressed miRNAs (hsa‐miR‐15b and 181‐b) may have a potential role in regulating these processes. J. Cell. Biochem. 110: 834–845, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Low‐concentration heparin suppresses ionomycin‐activated CAMK‐II/EGF receptor‐ and ERK‐mediated signaling in mesangial cells
Authors: Song LiFang , Xiao Weiqun , Templeton Douglas M.
Published: April 2010

Heparin and endogenous heparinoids inhibit the proliferation of smooth muscle cells, including renal mesangial cells; multiple effects on signaling pathways are well established, including effects on PKC, Erk, and CaMK‐II. Many studies have used heparin at concentrations of 100 µg/ml or higher, whereas endogenous concentrations of heparinoids are much lower. Here we report the effects of low‐concentration (1 µg/ml) heparin on activation of several kinases and subsequent induction of the c‐fos gene in mesangial cells in response to the calcium ionophore, ionomycin, in the absence of serum factors. Ionomycin rapidly increases the phosphorylation of CaMK‐II (by 30 s), and subsequently of the EGF receptor (EGFR), c‐Src, and Erk 1/2. Low‐dose heparin suppresses the ionomycin‐dependent phosphorylation of EGFR, c‐Src, and Erk 1/2, but not of CaMK‐II, whereas inhibition of activated CaMK‐II reduces phosphorylation of EGFR, c‐Src, and Erk. Our data support a mechanism whereby heparin acts at the cell surface to suppress downstream targets of CaMK‐II, including EGFR, leading in turn to a decrease in Erk‐ (but not c‐Src‐) dependent induction of c‐fos. J. Cell. Physiol. 224: 484–490, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cell death shapes embryonic lineages of the central complex in the grasshopper Schistocerca gregaria
Authors: Boyan George , Herbert Zsofia , Williams Leslie
Published: April 2010

We have investigated cell death in identified lineages of the central complex in the embryonic brain of the grasshopper Schistocerca gregaria. Progeny from these lineages lie in the pars intercerebralis and direct projections to the protocerebral bridge and then the central body via the w, x, y, z tracts. Osmium‐ethyl gallate staining reveals pycnotic cells exclusively in cortical regions, and concentrated specifically within the lineages of the W, X, Y, Z neuroblasts. Minimal cell death occurs in a sporadic, nonpatterned manner, in other protocerebral regions. Immunohistochemistry reveals pycnotic cells express the enzyme cleaved Caspase‐3 in their cytoplasm and are therefore undergoing programmed cell death (apoptosis). The number of pycnotic bodies in lineages of the pars intercerebralis varies with age: small numbers are present in the Y, Z lineages early in embryogenesis (42%), the number peaks at 67–80%, and then declines and disappears late in embryogenesis. Cell death may encompass up to 20% of a lineage at mid‐embryogenesis. Peak cell death occurs shortly after maximum neurogenesis in the Y, Z lineages, and is maintained after neurogenesis has ceased in these lineages. Cell death within a lineage is patterned. Apoptosis is more pronounced among older cells and almost absent among younger cells. This suggests that specific subsets of progeny will be culled from these lineages, and we speculate about the effect of apoptosis on the biochemical profile of such lineages. J. Morphol. 271:949–959, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Incorporation of aerosol effects in a clear‐sky semi‐empirical model of UVER radiation for Valencia, Spain
Authors: Núñez M. , Marín M. J. , Utrillas M. P. , Estellés V. , Martínez‐Lozano J. A.
Published: April 2010

The study develops a simple but physically based model for estimating erythemal irradiance [(UV erythemal radiation (UVER)] for cloudless urban regions with substantial aerosol load, such as that of the Valencia environment in Spain. The model estimates direct and diffuse UVER for cloudless aerosol‐free conditions using the LibRadtran model with a DISORT algorithm. Aerosol optical thickness for UVER (τaER) is obtained as a residual term by comparing measured direct UVER against modelled direct UVER in the absence of aerosol load. On average, τaER is 18% higher than τ data extrapolated to 305 nm using the CIMEL CE‐318. Comparison of measured direct and diffuse UVER with model estimates provide the single scattering albedo (ωER), which on average is 0.88 for Burjassot, Valencia.

When tested against independent data, hourly root mean square (RMS) errors are 6.2% if both aerosol properties are known independently. The error is 7.6% when monthly averages of these aerosol properties are used to estimate hourly erythemal irradiance in other years. However, errors are larger, at 18.0%, when monthly estimates of these aerosol properties are used at other experimental sites in the region with no aerosol data. Copyright © 2010 Royal Meteorological Society
Characteristic intraseasonal oscillation of rainfall and its effect on interannual variability over Bangladesh during boreal summer
Authors: Fujinami Hatsuki , Hatsuzuka Daisuke , Yasunari Tetsuzo , Hayashi Taiichi , Terao Toru , Murata Fumie , Kiguchi Masashi , Yamane Yusuke , Matsumoto Jun , Islam Md. Nazrul , Habib Arjumand
Published: April 2010

Intraseasonal oscillation (ISO) of rainfall during the summer monsoon season (June–August) and its plausible effect on interannual variation (IAV) of total summer monsoon rainfall over Bangladesh are examined using daily rainfall data from 25 rain‐gauge stations for 20 years (1981–2000). Submonthly scale (7–25 days) ISO is a dominant mode of summer rainfall fluctuation over Bangladesh. In the active (suppressed) ISO phases, a cyclonic (anticyclonic) circulation anomaly develops at the low‐level troposphere from northeastern India to Bangladesh, and an anticyclonic (cyclonic) circulation anomaly appears over the Bay of Bengal, accompanied by the enhancement of westerly/southwesterly (easterly/southeasterly) moisture flux anomalies over Bangladesh. The IAV of total summer monsoon rainfall is significantly correlated with that of the rainfall variance, mainly in the submonthly scale, suggesting that the ISO activity controls the IAV of the total summer monsoon rainfall. Moreover, the spatial patterns of atmospheric circulation and convection associated with the ISO and the IAV are quite similar to each other around the monsoon trough, especially from northeastern India to Bangladesh. In wet monsoon years, more frequent strong submonthly scale ISOs and a larger number of rainy days related to the active ISO phase are evident compared with that of dry monsoon years. Climatologically, Bangladesh is one of the most predominant areas of submonthly scale ISO; however, 30–60‐day ISO is not prominent. These characteristic features probably allow the submonthly scale ISO to modulate the total seasonal rainfall and the spatial patterns of circulation and convection over and near Bangladesh. Copyright © 2010 Royal Meteorological Society
Responses of Batis maritima plants challenged with up to two‐fold seawater NaCl salinity
Authors: Debez Ahmed , Saadaoui Dhouha , Slama Inès , Huchzermeyer Bernhard , Abdelly Chedly
Published: April 2010

Batis maritima is a promising halophyte for sand‐dune stabilization and saline‐soil reclamation. This species has also applications in herbal medicine and as an oilseed crop. Here, we address the plant response to salinity reaching up to two‐fold seawater concentration (0–1000 mM NaCl), with a particular emphasis on growth, water status, mineral nutrition, proline content, and photosystem II integrity. Plant biomass production was maximal at 200 mM NaCl, and the plants survived even when challenged with 1000 mM NaCl. Plant water status was not impaired by the high accumulation of sodium in shoots, suggesting that Na+ compartmentalization efficiently took place in vacuoles. Concentrations of Mg2+ and K+ in shoots were markedly lower in salt‐treated plants, while that of Ca2+ was less affected. Soluble‐sugar and chlorophyll concentrations were hardly affected by salinity, whereas proline concentration increased significantly in shoots of salt‐treated plants. Maximum quantum efficiency (Fv/Fm), quantum yield of PSII (ΦPSII), and electron‐transport rate (ETR) were maximal at 200–300 mM NaCl. Both nonphotochemical quenching (NPQ) and photochemical quenching (qP) were salt‐independent. Interestingly, transferring the plants previously challenged with supraoptimal salinities (400–1000 mM NaCl) to the optimal salinity (200 mM NaCl) substantially restored their growth activity. Altogether, our results indicate that B. maritima is an obligate halophyte, requiring high salt concentrations for optimal growth, and surviving long‐term extreme salinity. Such a performance could be ascribed to the plant capability to use sodium for osmotic adjustment, selective absorption of K+ over Na+ in concomitance with the stability of PSII functioning, and the absence of photosynthetic pigment degradation.
Nitrogen effects on total flavonoids, chlorogenic acid, and antioxidant activity of the medicinal plant Chrysanthemum morifolium
Authors: Liu Dahui , Liu Wei , Zhu Duanwei , Geng Mingjian , Zhou Wenbing , Yang Tewu
Published: April 2010

Chrysanthemum morifolium (Ramat.) has a long history of cultivation and use as a traditional medicine and tea plant in China. A greenhouse experiment with potted soil–quarz mixture studied the effects of nitrogen supply (0, 56, 112, 167, 224, 334, 501, 556, and 668 mg N kg–1) on concentrations and ratios of total flavonoids and chlorogenic acid in the flowers of C. morifolium using spectrophotometric and HPLC methods. The antioxidant activity of the flowers was determined as the radical scavenging activities of hydroxyl, superoxide anion, and 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl hydrate (DPPH) free radicals. A high N supply decreased the concentrations of total flavonoids by 18%–35% and that of chlorogenic acid by 8%–60% compared to a low N‐supply rate. At the same time, increasing N supply significantly decreased the antioxidant activity of the flowers. The antioxidant activity of C. morifolium flowers was significantly positively correlated with the concentrations of total flavonoids and chlorogenic acid. We conclude that an N supply in excess of 300 mg (kg soil)–1 will negatively affect the antioxidant activity and thereby reduce the quality of C. morifolium flowers.
Structural and vibrational analyses of 2‐(2‐benzofuranyl)‐2‐imidazoline
Authors: Contreras C. D. , Montejo M. , López González J. J. , Zinczuk J. , Brandán S. A.
Published: April 2010

We have studied 2‐(2‐benzofuranyl)‐2‐imidazoline (BFI) and characterized it by using infrared and Raman spectroscopies. The density functional theory (DFT) method together with Pople's basis set shows that two conformers exist for the title molecule as have been theoretically determined in the gas phase and that, probably, an average of both conformations is present in the solid phase. The harmonic vibrational wavenumbers for the optimized geometry of the latter conformer were calculated at the B3LYP/6‐31G* level in the proximity of the isolated molecule. For a complete assignment of the IR and Raman spectra in the compound in the solid phase, DFT calculations were combined with Pulay's scaled quantum mechanics force field (SQMFF) methodology in order to fit the theoretical wavenumbers to the experimental ones. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Biopsied Donor Liver: Incorporating Macrosteatosis Into High-Risk Donor Assessment
Authors: Spitzer Austin L. , Lao Oliver B. , Dick André A. S. , Bakthavatsalam Ramasamy , Halldorson Jeffrey B. , Yeh Matthew M. , Upton Melissa P. , Reyes Jorge D. , Perkins James D.
Published: April 2010

To expand the donor liver pool, ways are sought to better define the limits of marginally transplantable organs. The Donor Risk Index (DRI) lists 7 donor characteristics, together with cold ischemia time and location of the donor, as risk factors for graft failure. We hypothesized that donor hepatic steatosis is an additional independent risk factor. We analyzed the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients for all adult liver transplants performed from October 1, 2003, through February 6, 2008, with grafts from deceased donors to identify donor characteristics and procurement logistics parameters predictive of decreased graft survival. A proportional hazard model of donor variables, including percent steatosis from higher-risk donors, was created with graft survival as the primary outcome. Of 21,777 transplants, 5051 donors had percent macrovesicular steatosis recorded on donor liver biopsy. Compared to the 16,726 donors with no recorded liver biopsy, the donors with biopsied livers had a higher DRI, were older and more obese, and a higher percentage died from anoxia or stroke than from head trauma. The donors whose livers were biopsied became our study group. Factors most strongly associated with graft failure at 1 year after transplantation with livers from this high-risk donor group were donor age, donor liver macrovesicular steatosis, cold ischemia time, and donation after cardiac death status. In conclusion, in a high-risk donor group, macrovesicular steatosis is an independent risk factor for graft survival, along with other factors of the DRI including donor age, donor race, donation after cardiac death status, and cold ischemia time. Liver Transpl 16:874–884, 2010. © 2010 AASLD.
Association between TP53 gene ARG72PRO polymorphism and chromosome aberrations in human cancers
Authors: Litviakov Nicolay V. , Denisov Evgeny V. , Takhauov Ravil' M. , Karpov Andrey B. , Skobel'skaja Elena V. , Vasil'eva Elena O. , Goncharik Olesya O. , Ageeva Alena M. , Mamonova Natalya V. , Mezheritskiy Stanislav A. , Sevost'janova Natalya V. , Koshel Andrey P.
Published: April 2010

It is well known that the TP53 gene considerably influences on DNA repair processes. Polymorphisms in the TP53 gene, particularly the well‐known Arg72Pro in codon 72 of exon 4 (Ex4+119 G>C; rs1042522), can modify the functionality of the p53 protein and activation of DNA repair. Actually, polymorphic variants Arg and Pro were found to have different properties of regulation of TP53‐dependent DNA repair target genes, that can effect various levels of chromosome aberrations in cancer patients with these genotypes. Here, we studied frequency of chromatid breaks (CB), chromosome‐type aberrations (CTA) and aberrant cells (AC) in cancer patients (n = 102) with various Arg72Pro genotypes. It was shown that the Arg variant of TP53 gene is associated with high frequency of AC and chromatid breaks. That is Arg/Arg carriers have more different chromosome aberrations in comparison to individuals with Arg/Pro and Pro/Pro genotypes (P < 0.05). Conversely, the lowest level of AC and chromatid breaks were detected in cancer patients with the Pro/Pro genotype. A completely unexpected result was that women with Arg/Arg genotype had the most high frequency of CB and AC in comparison to Arg/Pro and Pro/Pro women carriers (P < 0.001). In the group of male patients we did not show any differences in chromosome aberrations between carriers of Arg72Pro genotypes. In conclusion, the TP53 gene Arg72Pro polymorphism appreciably influence on occurrence of chromosome aberrations in cancer. Mol. Carcinog. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Characteristics of locomotion, muscle strength, and muscle tissue in regenerating rat skeletal muscles
Authors: Iwata Akira , Fuchioka Satoshi , Hiraoka Koichi , Masuhara Mitsuhiko , Kami Katsuya
Published: April 2010

Although numerous studies have aimed to elucidate the mechanisms used to repair the structure and function of injured skeletal muscles, it remains unclear how and when movement recovers following damage. We performed a temporal analysis to characterize the changes in movement, muscle function, and muscle structure after muscle injury induced by the drop‐mass technique. At each time‐point, movement recovery was determined by ankle kinematic analysis of locomotion, and functional recovery was represented by isometric force. As a histological analysis, the cross‐sectional area of myotubes was measured to examine structural regeneration. The dorsiflexion angle of the ankle, as assessed by kinematic analysis of locomotion, increased after injury and then returned to control levels by day 14 post‐injury. The isometric force returned to normal levels by day 21 post‐injury. However, the size of the myotubes did not reach normal levels, even at day 21 post‐injury. These results indicate that recovery of locomotion occurs prior to recovery of isometric force and that functional recovery occurs earlier than structural regeneration. Thus, it is suggested that recovery of the movement and function of injured skeletal muscles might be insufficient as markers for estimating the degree of neuromuscular system reconstitution. Muscle Nerve 41: 694–701, 2010
Effect of physical training on pain sensitivity and trapezius muscle morphology
Authors: Nielsen Pernille Kofoed , Andersen Lars L. , Olsen Henrik B. , Rosendal Lars , Sjøgaard Gisela , Søgaard Karen
Published: April 2010

The objective of this study was to investigate morphological and physiological characteristics of painful muscles in women with (MYA,n= 42) and without (CON,n= 20) trapezius myalgia, and assess changes in response to a 10‐week, randomized, controlled trial. MYA accomplished: (1) specific strength training (SST); (2) general fitness training (GFT); or (3) reference intervention (REF). Differences in muscle morphology could not be detected by ultrasound imaging. Significantly lower pressure pain threshold (PPT) and shoulder torque were observed for MYA, indicating pain‐related lack of full activation. After 10 weeks, increased shoulder torque and PPT of the painful trapezius were observed in SST solely. The PPT of a pain‐free reference muscle was increased in response to both SST and GFT, indicating a general effect of physical activity on pain perception. This study shows clinically relevant improvement in pain sensitivity and muscle strength capacity in response to SST. Muscle Nerve, 2010
Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy associated with tumor necrosis factor‐α antagonists
Authors: Alshekhlee Amer , Basiri Kevian , Miles J. Douglas , Ahmad Saef A. , Katirji Bashar
Published: April 2010

Biologic therapy with tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α antagonists for rheumatoid arthritis has been well established. We describe two patients with rheumatoid arthritis who developed chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) during their course of therapy with TNF‐α antagonists. A 45‐year‐old woman and a 49‐year‐old man, both with a history of rheumatoid arthritis, were treated with etanercept and infliximab, respectively. Clinical signs of peripheral neuropathy developed 2 weeks and 12 months after the initiation of TNF‐α antagonists. Electrodiagnostic studies at variable points during the disease course showed signs of acquired demyelination consistent with CIDP. Cerebrospinal fluid examination showed albuminocytologic dissociation (total protein concentration 118 mg/dl and 152 mg/dl, respectively). Both patients failed to improve after discontinuation of the offending agent, and they responded poorly to corticosteroids. However, there was clinical and electrophysiologic recovery after initiation of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) therapy. CIDP may occur early or late during the treatment course with TNF‐α antagonists. IVIg may reverse and stabilize the inflammatory process. Muscle Nerve 41: 742–747, 2010
Trigeminal neuropathy from perineural spread of an amyloidoma detected by blink reflex and thin‐slice magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Yamazaki Yuu , Ochi Kazuhide , Nakata Yuki , Dohi Eisuke , Eguchi Kuniki , Yamaguchi Satoshi , Matsushige Toshinori , Ueda Takeshi , Amatya Vishwa J. , Takeshima Yukio , Nakamura Takeshi , Ohtsuki Toshiho , Kohriyama Tatsuo , Matsumoto Masayasu
Published: April 2010

The purpose of this study was to describe a trigeminal neuropathy caused by the perineural spread of an amyloidoma. A 62‐year‐old woman had an amyloidoma of the Gasserian ganglion that was hypointense on T2‐weighted images; the lesion was enhanced by gadolinium on thin‐slice magnetic resonance imaging. There was no evidence of systemic amyloidosis or underlying inflammatory or neoplastic disorders. Her blink reflex and thin‐slice magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated that the right trigeminal nerve was involved. A rare trigeminal neuropathy resulted from the perineural spread of a primary amyloidoma that was difficult to detect by conventional magnetic resonance imaging. Muscle Nerve, 2010
Novel diagnostic features of dysferlinopathies
Authors: Rosales Xiomara Q. , Gastier‐Foster Julie M. , Lewis Sarah , Vinod Malik , Thrush Devon L. , Astbury Caroline , Pyatt Robert , Reshmi Shalini , Sahenk Zarife , Mendell Jerry R.
Published: April 2010

Reports of dysferlinopathy have suggested a clinically heterogeneous group of patients. We identified specific novel molecular and phenotypic features that help distinguish dysferlinopathies from other forms of limb‐girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD). A detailed history, physical exam, and protein and mutation analysis of genomic DNA was done for all subjects. Five of 21 confirmed DYSF gene mutations were not previously reported. A distinct “bulge” of the deltoid muscle in combination with other findings was a striking feature in all patients. Six subjects had atypical calf enlargement, and 3 of these exhibited a paradoxical pattern of dysferlin expression: severely reduced by direct immunofluorescence with overexpression on Western blots. Six patients showed amyloid deposits in muscle that extended these findings to new domains of the dysferlin gene, including the C2G domain. Correlative studies showed colocalization of amyloid with deposition of dysferlin. The present data further serve to guide clinicians facing the expensive task of molecular characterization of patients with an LGMD phenotype. Muscle Nerve 42: 14–21, 2010
Vascular pathology in dermatomyositis and anatomic relations to myopathology
Authors: Pestronk Alan , Schmidt Robert E. , Choksi Rati
Published: April 2010

The causes of perifascicular myofiber atrophy and capillary pathology in dermatomyositis are incompletely understood. We studied 11 dermatomyositis muscles by histochemistry, immunohistochemistry, and ultrastructure. We found that endomysial capillaries within regions of perifascicular atrophy are not entirely lost, but they have reduced size, endothelial loss, C5b9 complement deposits, and relatively preserved connective tissue molecules and pericytes. In all muscles, the perimysium varies regionally. Some areas contain intermediate‐sized vessels. Others are avascular. In dermatomyositis, vascular perimysium contains abnormal vessel fragments, perivascular inflammation, and increased PECAM‐1. Perifascicular myofiber atrophy and capillary pathology are concentrated near the avascular perimysium. We conclude that both perimysial intermediate‐sized vessels and endomysial capillaries within regions of perifascicular myofiber atrophy are abnormal in dermatomyositis. Capillary damage and myofiber atrophy are concentrated in regions distant from intermediate‐sized perimysial vessels. Chronic immune vascular damage and insufficiency in dermatomyositis may cause ischemia, myofiber atrophy, and capillary damage in “watershed” regions of muscle near the avascular perimysium. Muscle Nerve, 2010
Immunopathogenesis of juvenile dermatomyositis
Authors: Khanna Sahil , Reed Ann M.
Published: April 2010

There is increasing evidence for involvement of the mechanisms of the innate immune system in the pathogenesis of idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs), especially in the adult and juvenile forms of dermatomyositis. Juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) is the most common form of childhood IIM, and this review focuses on recent advances in understanding the actions of the innate immune system in this condition. Over the last few years, great strides have been made in understanding immune dysregulation in IIM, including JDM. Novel autoantibodies have been identified, and new genetic contributions have been described. Among the most striking findings is type I interferon activity in JDM tissue and peripheral blood. This is in conjunction with the description of dysregulation of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I gene and identification of plasmacytoid dendritic infiltrates as the possible cellular source of type I interferons. These findings also point toward the potential prognostic value of muscle biopsies and have helped expand our understanding of the etiopathogenesis of IIM. Muscle Nerve 41: 581–592, 2010
Efficacy and adverse events of sacral nerve stimulation for overactive bladder: A systematic review
Authors: Siddiqui Nazema Y. , Wu Jennifer M. , Amundsen Cindy L.
Published: April 2010

Aims

To systematically review the literature regarding efficacy and adverse events of sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) via the InterStim device for treatment of women with refractory overactive bladder (OAB).

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Collaboration databases from 1980 to September 2008. All English studies reporting on efficacy or adverse events of SNS for the treatment of refractory OAB were considered. Only studies where 30 or more women received the complete therapy (implanted lead and generator) were included. The quality of the studies (good, fair, or poor) was assessed based on predefined criteria.

Results

Seven studies were designated “good” regarding efficacy of SNS for OAB. Multiple authors reported results from the same cohort of patients. In this instance, the highest quality study was chosen, leaving three independent studies regarding efficacy. In these studies, incontinent episodes per day and pad usage significantly improved after SNS therapy. Six studies were designated “good” regarding adverse events. Using tined leads, surgical revision rates ranged from 3% to 16%. Six percent of patients were explanted due to lack of efficacy and 5–11% of patients were explanted due to infection.

Conclusions

Based on observational data, SNS appears effective for treatment of OAB in women. Adverse event rates with tined leads are lower than previously published estimates using non‐tined leads. High‐quality studies are needed to confirm our findings and to provide additional data regarding reprogramming, quality of life, and efficacy when compared to other therapies. Neurourol. Urodynam. 29:S18–S23, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Afferent neurourology: A novel paradigm
Authors: Clemens J. Quentin
Published: April 2010

The term “afferent neurourology” is introduced to describe the study of sensory processing related to the genitourinary tract. Urologic disorders that are characterized by abnormal sensory processing are reviewed, and unique challenges to our understanding of these disorders are described. A paradigm which separates afferent urologic disorders from efferent disorders and structural abnormalities is presented. Neurourol. Urodynam. 29:S29–S31, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Stem cell therapy for stress urinary incontinence
Authors: Nikolavsky Dmitriy , Chancellor Michael B.
Published: April 2010

The rhabdosphincter at the mid urethra is critical for maintaining urinary continence. In a setting of stress urinary incontinence stem cells transplanted into the site of the rhabdosphincter may augment sphincter regeneration and also release trophic factors promoting muscle and nerve integration of this muscle. We hereby review the use of cellular therapy for SUI and our experience with the development of muscle‐derived stem cells (MDSCs). Neurourol. Urodynam. 29:S36–S41, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Long‐term outcomes and patient satisfaction of continent catheterizable limb and augmentation cystoplasty simultaneous with salvage prostatectomy
Authors: Zafirakis Helen , De Elise J.B. , Pisters Louis L. , Pettaway Curtis , Westney O. Lenaine
Published: April 2010

Aims

We evaluated the long‐term outcomes of augmentation cystoplasty and continent catheterizable limb formation in patients who underwent simultaneous salvage prostatectomy.

Methods

Twelve men who underwent salvage prostatectomy with augmentation cystoplasty and either an appendicovesicostomy or Monti ileovesicostomy between October 2000 and February 2003 were assessed for long‐term surgical complications, reoperations, continence rates, and patient satisfaction using the Incontinence Symptom Index (ISI) questionnaire and a self‐designed catheterization questionnaire.

Results

In addition to bladder augmentation, six patients underwent appendicovesicostomy, four had a Monti ileovesicostomy and two a spiral Monti ileovesicostomy. There were no intraoperative complications or surgical‐related deaths. Four patients required revision surgery (33%) at a mean of 39 months. Minor revisions were performed for stomal stenosis in two patients with stomal relocation in two patients. Ten of 12 patients were dry (83.3%) with a catheterization frequency of between 3 and 8 hr. At a mean follow‐up of 61 months (SD = 20.51), the mean ISI severity score was 1.86 (SD = 3.54) and the mean ISI bother score was 1 (SD 0.74). The majority (86%) would choose to undergo the surgery again.

Conclusions

Although surgically challenging and associated with significant morbidity, salvage prostatectomy with concomitant bladder augmentation and continent catheterizable reconstruction is a feasible and effective means of obtaining adequate long‐term urinary continence, while preserving the native bladder. In comparison to similar historical patients with catheterizable limbs only, fewer of the augmented patients needed antimuscarinic medication and delayed augmentation was not necessary. Complications do not increase over time and the continence rates are stable. Neurourol. Urodynam. 29:S51–S56, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Thymic carcinoma in children: A report from the Polish pediatric rare tumors study
Authors: Stachowicz‐Stencel Teresa , Bien Ewa , Balcerska Anna , Godzinski Jan , Synakiewicz Anna , Madziara Wojciech , Perek‐Polnik Marta , Peregud‐Pogorzelski Jarosław , Pietras Wojciech , Pobudejska Aneta , Kurylak Andrzej , Mankowski Przemyslaw
Published: April 2010

Background

Invasive thymomas and thymic carcinomas are rare tumors jointly accounting between 0.2% and 1.5% of malignancies in adults. They are usually at an advanced stage when diagnosed and have both high recurrence and poor survival rates. In this report, the aim is to explore our experience in the treatment of thymic carcinomas in Polish children.

Procedure

The clinical data of nine children with thymic carcinomas, treated between 1992 and 2008 in the Polish oncological and surgical centers was retrospectively analyzed.

Results

In five cases, presenting symptoms resulted from the compression of the respiratory ways by the mediastinal tumor. In two children paraneoplastic autoimmune syndromes were associated with thymic carcinoma. In accordance with the Masaoka classification, two patients had stage II, five had stage III, and two had stage IV of the disease. Diagnostic biopsy of mediastinal tumor was performed on eight patients and one underwent complete primary resection and subsequently received radiotherapy; he has passed 11 years since the conclusion of therapy. Six patients received multi‐drug chemotherapy with or without steroids. Delayed surgery was performed in four children (R0‐2, R1‐1, and R2‐1). After complete resection, one child received chemotherapy. In three patients, chemotherapy and radiotherapy was administered. Seven patients died, including six due to progression of the disease with the other as a result of complications following chemotherapy; only two patients classed at stage II remain alive.

Conclusions

Most thymic tumors in pediatric patients are inoperable at diagnosis, which results in poor prognosis. Improved chemotherapy approaches are needed. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2010;54:916–920 © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Theoretical and experimental studies on stability of the C‐ON bond in new ketone functionalized N‐alkoxyamines
Authors: Megiel Elżbieta , Kaim Andrzej , Cyrański Michał Ksawery
Published: April 2010

Three new ketone functionalized N‐alkoxyamines derived from 2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidin‐1‐oxyl (TEMPO) were prepared: N‐(1‐phenylpropyloxy)‐2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidin‐4‐one, 1‐phenyl‐1‐(2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidinoxy)propanone, 1‐phenyl‐1‐(4‐oxo‐2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidinoxy)propanone. The rate constants of C‐ON bonds homolysis in the synthesized alkoxyamines were determined over a range of temperatures via nitroxide‐exchange experiments using HPLC to monitor the concentration. The Arrhenius parameters of homolysis for the investigated alkoxyamines were determined (lnA, Ea). Homolytic bond dissociation energies (BDE) of the C‐ON bond in the synthesized compounds were determined from quantum‐mechanical calculations at the B3‐LYP/6‐31G(d) and BMK/6‐311+G(3df,2p) levels. Ketone functionalization of the alkyl fragment of alkoxyamine in β position dramatically increases the rate constant of homolysis (by a factor of ca. 500 at the temperature of 363 K) suggesting that the new ketone functionalized N‐alkoxyamines should be effective as C‐radical precursor and unimolecular initiators in NMRP at lower temperatures than the alkoxyamines applied earlier. The analyses of natural bond, frontal orbitals and spin distribution indicated that the decrease in the strength of C‐ON bonds in ketone fuctionalized alkoxyamines in the alkyl fragment predominantly originates from a substantially smaller HOMO–LUMO gap and more delocalized spin density in leaving alkyl radicals as compared with unfunctionalized alkoxyamines. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Can tetra‐tert‐butylethylene be formed by ion–ion recombination or ion–molecule reaction of two di‐tert‐butylcarbene units?—a DFT study
Authors: Kanawati Basem , Lenoir Dieter , Schmitt‐Kopplin Philippe
Published: April 2010

The reaction channels of di‐tert‐butylcarbene (2), its radical anion, (3) and its radical cation (4) were investigated theoretically by using DFT/B3LYP with 6‐31+G(d) basis set and 6‐311+G(2d,p) for single point energy calculations. Conversion of the neutral carbene 2 to the charged species 3 and 4 results in significant geometric changes. In cation 4 two different types of C(CH3)3 bonds are observed: one elongated sigma bond called “axial” with 1.61 Å and two normal sigma bonds with a bond length of 1.55 Å. Species 2 and 4 have an electron deficient carbon center; therefore, migration of CH3 and H is observed from adjacent tert‐butyl groups with low activation energies in the range of 6–9 kcal/mol like similar Wagner–Meerwein rearrangements in the neopentyl‐cation system. Neutral carbene 2 shows CH insertion to give a cyclopropane derivative with an activation energy of 6.1 kcal/mol in agreement with former calculations. Contrary to species 2 and 4, the radical anion 3 has an electron rich carbon center which results in much higher calculated activation energies of 26.3 and 42.1 kcal/mol for H and CH3 migrations, respectively. NBO charge distribution indicates that the hydrogen migrates as a proton. The central issue of this work is the question: how can tetra‐tert‐butylethylene (1) be prepared from reaction of either species 2, 3, or 4 as precursors? The ion–ion reaction between 3 and 4 to give alkene 1 with a calculated reaction enthalpy of 203.5 kcal/mol is extremely exothermic. This high energy decomposes alkene 1 after its formation into two molecules of carbene 2 spontaneously. Ion–molecule reaction of radical anion 3 with the neutral carbene 2 is a much better choice: via a proper oriented charge–transfer complex the radical anion of tetra‐tert‐butylethylene (11) is formed. The electron affinity of 1 was calculated to be negligible. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Structural instability of N‐acceptors in homo‐ and heteroepitaxially grown ZnO by MBE
Authors: Ando K. , Abe T. , Taya T. , Ishihara Y. , Enomoto K. , Yamazaki Y. , Yoshikawa J. , Fujino K. , Nakamura H. , Ohno T. , Kasada H.
Published: April 2010

Unique properties of the N‐acceptor in homo‐ and heteroepitaxially grown ZnO by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) are studied by means of microproving of surface sheet‐resistance, Hall‐effect measurement, persistent photoconduction (PPC) and thermally stimulated current (TSC). Rapid postanneal of N‐doped ZnO is found to induce the change in the conduction type from n‐type (as‐grown) to p/n‐type mixed conduction, forming island structure, and these properties are related to a structural instability of the N‐acceptor.
Seeded growth of bulk ZnO by chemical vapor transport
Authors: Skupiński Paweł , Grasza Krzysztof , Mycielski Andrzej , Paszkowicz Wojciech , Łusakowska Elżbieta , Tymicki Emil , Jakieła Rafał , Witkowski Bartłomiej
Published: April 2010

The results of the seeded growth of bulk zinc oxide by chemical vapor transport (CVT) are presented. Hydrogen is used as the transport agent. Crystals with three different crystallographic directions were obtained, Zn‐terminated (0001), O‐terminated (000‐1), and non‐polar (1‐100). The tendency to maintain the crystallographic orientation of seed was observed. The investigation shows that the quality of the growing crystal depends on the crystallographic orientation and the polarity of the seed. Three kinds of macroscopic defects, not yet reported for ZnO crystals, were observed, (i) flat voids with transverse size of about 200 µm, (ii) spherical voids or “bubbles” about 10 µm in diameter, and (iii) the micropipes. The nature of these defects is discussed.
Random lasing in nanocrystalline ZnO powders
Authors: Kalt Heinz , Fallert Johannes , Dietz Roman J. B. , Sartor Janos , Schneider Daniel , Klingshirn Claus
Published: April 2010

We investigate the properties of random lasing in nanocrystalline ZnO powders. The lowest threshold for lasing occurs for average particle diameters of about 260 nm. Reproducible lasing features are achieved for reduced ensemble sizes. Spatially resolved luminescence spectroscopy is used to probe directly the degree of localization of random laser mode. We find that strongly confined and extended modes can co‐exist in the same spatial area. However, localized modes appear for small optical gain while extended modes are only supported in the presence of large optical gain, as is expected from theory. Localized and extended random‐laser modes co‐exist in space but appear in spectral regions of low and high optical gain, respectively.

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The role of stacking faults and their associated 0.13 eV acceptor state in doped and undoped ZnO layers and nanostructures
Authors: Thonke K. , Schirra M. , Schneider R. , Reiser A. , Prinz G. M. , Feneberg M. , Sauer R. , Biskupek J. , Kaiser U.
Published: April 2010

Cathodoluminescence spectra recorded with high spatial and wavelength resolution on tilted ZnO epitaxial layers allow to identify a very prominent emission peak at 3.314 eV as a free electron to shallow acceptor (EA ≈ 130 meV) transition. By correlation with TEM cross‐section images recorded on the same samples we can find these acceptor states to be located on basal plane stacking faults (BSFs). Locally, high concentrations of acceptor states are found. Since this spectral feature is often reported in literature especially after attempts to obtain p‐type or transition metal doping, we conclude that stacking faults are a common by‐product when group V or other extrinsic atoms are incorporated in ZnO layers or nanostructures.
Magnetic field induced changes of the magnetic phase transition in metastable zinc blende MnS layers grown by MBE
Authors: Demper M. , Chen L. , Krug von Nidda H.‐A. , Bradford C. , Loidl A. , Prior K. A. , Heimbrodt W.
Published: April 2010

We studied the magnetic and optical properties of antiferromagnetic zinc blende MnS layers with thicknesses of 1.8 nm and 8.3 nm, which were grown between ZnSe cladding layers by molecular beam epitaxy on a (100)‐GaAs substrate. The paramagnetic to antiferromagnetic phase transition has been studied by optical and SQUID‐measurements. The yellow emission band of the internal manganese 3d‐states undergoes a significant blue shift below the magnetic phase transition, which is caused by the total spin orientation in this magnetic phase. It was found that the phase transition itself can be influenced by an external magnetic field in case of the 1.8 nm sample but remains unchanged for the 8.3 nm sample. SQUID‐measurements confirm the results of the optical techniques and reveal moreover the occurrence of a field induced ferromagnetic phase transition in case of the thinner sample. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Surprising stability of the trion against the free carrier screening
Authors: Klochikhin Albert A. , Kochereshko Vladimir P. , Besombes Luciene , Karczewski Greg , Wojtowicz Tomek , Kossut Jacek
Published: April 2010

The effects of charge‐density fluctuations on trion states and spin‐density fluctuation on the exciton states in quantum well are considered in the limit of low doping by electrons. In both cases the quasi‐two dimensionality of the systems is taken into account. The trion‐chargedensity interaction is considered in the random phase approximation.

The influence of the exchange electron‐electron interaction on the excitons is considered using a simplified approach. It is shown that the broadening of the trion absorption band profile with free carrier concentration increase is essentially weaker than the broadening of the exciton absorption band. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Isothermal close space sublimation of CdTe/ZnTe heterostructures in vacuum conditions
Authors: de Melo O. , Sánchez M. , García B. J. , Hernández‐Vélez M.
Published: April 2010

Thin films and structures of ZnTe and CdTe have been grown by isothermal close space sublimation using alternated exposure of single crystalline substrates to elemental Zn, Te and Cd sources. The results show that the use of vacuum conditions promotes the transport of vapors towards the surface and then efficient growth at lower temperatures. Films thickness ranged between 200 and 600 nm for 50 cycles samples. ZnTe and CdTe films were obtained even at temperatures as low as 310 °C. This is important because low temperatures worsen the inter‐ diffusion processes; as a consequence we have obtained relatively abrupt interfaces in the ZnTe/CdTe system. Its compositional, structural and optical properties are presented. These results offer new possibilities of this low cost technique for growing heterostructures. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Self‐activated luminescence spectra of CdS(O) in the context of the band anticrossing theory
Authors: Morozova Nataliya , Danilevich Nadezhda , Kanakhin Alexey
Published: April 2010

This work proposes an interpretation of self‐activated luminescence in CdS(O), based on the band anticrossing theory, which takes into account the influence of an oxygen isoelectronic impurity on the band structure. Analogous to ZnS‐ZnSe(O), two luminescence bands were discovered in CdS(O), which we named SA and SAL. It was found, that in the presence of dissolved oxygen the SA luminescence consists of two supplementary H and L components. They owe existence to the transitions from E+and E– subbands of the bifid conduction band in CdS(O) to the recombination level of SA luminescence. Their spectral dependence on the concentration of the dissolved oxygen was estimated.

SAL self‐activated luminescence in CdS(O) doesn't contain H component, which lies into the fundamental absorption area of the crystal. The structure of SA and SAL centres of luminescence has shown their equivalence to the respective centres in ZnS(ZnSe). In the work we present the position of the localized level of oxygen E0, the band gap Eg versus the dissolved oxygen concentration as well as the general band model of CdS(O). This study supplements the analogous research, performed earlier for ZnS‐ZnSe(O). (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)