bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep Infection in the Sinus Tarsi after Triple Arthrodesis in Rheumatoid Patients: A Case Report
Authors: Niinimäki Tuukka , Yli-Luukko Susanna , Syrjälä Hannu , Kaarela Outi , Leppilahti Juhana
Published: November 2008

Background: Triple arthrodesis can be used to correct hind-foot deformities in rheumatoid patients. Postoperative deep infections after triple arthrodesis are challenging to treat often requiring both operative debridement and antimicrobial therapy. The purpose of the present study was to review the treatment of deep infections in the sinus tarsi region in rheumatoid patients after triple arthrodesis using antimicrobial therapy and Papineau bone grafting or local muscle flap. Materials and Methods: Seven rheumatoid patients out of 97 who underwent triple arthrodesis between January 1997 and June 2006 had a deep postoperative infection in the sinus tarsi region. These infections were treated with systemic antibiotic therapy combined with open cancellous bone grafting (Papineau technique) in four cases and with a local muscle flap (adductor digiti minimi) in three cases. Results: The median time from diagnosis of the deep infection to complete healing in six patients averaged 22 weeks, while one patient developed sepsis and died one year later. The most common pathogens were staphylococcus epidermis and staphylococcus aureus; a total of 15 pathogens were found. The average number of revision operations before the infection was considered to have resolved completely was seven. Conclusion: The rate of deep infections was 7.2% among rheumatoid patients. Infections are challenging to treat and cause prolonged morbidity. Surgical debridement and systemic antibiotic therapy combined with Papineau grafting or a local muscle flap usually yielded successful results after postoperative deep infection of the sinus tarsi region in rheumatoid patients.

Level of Evidence: IV, Retrospective Case Series
Fibular Lengthening for Malunited Ankle Fractures
Authors: Sinha Apurv , Sirikonda Siva , Giotakis Nikolaos , Walker Christopher
Published: November 2008

Background: Malunited ankle fractures are uncommon. They produce symptoms of persistent pain, joint effusion, limitation of dorsiflexion and eventually lead to ankle arthritis. We feel that correction of the ankle alignment can improve the final outcome and present our results. Materials and Method: From May 2004 to April 2006, seven patients with a malunited fibular fracture aged 25 to 62 years (male:female ratio, 5:2) were treated in our institute. All patients were referred for persistent pain. The delay between injury and the operative intervention was 3 to 16 months. All patients were assessed with a clinical examination, AOFAS ankle hindfoot score and plain radiographs. A transverse fibular osteotomy was made just above the ankle joint and below the tibiofibular syndesmosis. A tricortical iliac bone graft and a lateral fibular plate were applied. Results: Fibular length and restoration of the ankle mortise was successful in all the cases. All patients showed radiological evidence of bony union on followup. The average AOFAS score was 82 (pain: 31, function: 41, and alignment: 10). Patients were followed up for an average period of 11 (range, 6 to 24) months after the surgery. Conclusion: We present our early experience with a simpler fibular osteotomy to correct the ankle joint alignment for malunited fibular fractures which was successful at short-term followup.

Level of Evidence: IV, Retrospective Case Series
Comparison of Static Footprints and Pedobarography in Obese and Non-obese Children
Authors: Filippin Nadiesca Taisa , Bacarin Tatiana de Almeida , Lobo da Costa Paula Hentschel
Published: November 2008

Background: Static footprints have been widely used clinically. However, since this measure provides only indirect information about the medial longitudinal arch height, it is not clear if it can be indicative of dynamic foot function especially in obese children. This study aimed to verify whether static footprints can predict dynamic plantar pressures in obese children. Materials and Methods: Twenty children aged 9 to 11 years, divided into obese and non obese, voluntarily participated in this study. Static footprints and dynamic plantar pressures were analyzed by using a pedograph and the Pedar system (Novel GMbH, Munich, GER), respectively. Results: In general, correlations between static and dynamic measures were observed to be significant for the non obese children, while no significant correlations were found for the obese ones. Conclusion: Since obesity may affect the relationship between static and dynamic measures, footprints should be used with caution when inferring the characteristics of obese children's feet under dynamic conditions. Clinical Relevance: Footprints and pedobarography should not be used at this time for clinical decision making regarding the feet of obese children.
Novel Engineered Ion Channel Provides Controllable Ion Permeability for Polyelectrolyte Microcapsules Coated with a Lipid Membrane
Authors: Battle Andrew R. , Valenzuela Stella M. , Mechler Adam , Nichols Ryan J. , Praporski Slavica , di Maio Isabelle L. , Islam Hedayetul , Girard‐Egrot Agnès P. , Cornell Bruce A. , Prashar Jog , Caruso Frank , Martin Lisandra L. , Martin Donald K.
Published: November 2008

The development of nanostructured microcapsules based on a biomimetic lipid bilayer membrane (BLM) coating of poly(sodium styrenesulfonate) (PSS)/poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) polyelectrolyte hollow microcapsules is reported. A novel engineered ion channel, gramicidin (bis‐gA), incorporated into the lipid membrane coating provides a functional capability to control transport across the microcapsule wall. The microcapsules provide transport and permeation for drug‐analog neutral species, as well as positively and negatively charged ionic species. This controlled transport can be tuned for selective release biomimetically by controlling the gating of incorporated bis‐gA ion channels. This system provides a platform for the creation of “smart” biomimetic delivery vessels for the effective and selective therapeutic delivery and targeting of drugs.
Supported Lipid Bilayer on Nanocrystalline Diamond: Dual Optical and Field‐Effect Sensor for Membrane Disruption
Authors: Ang Priscilla Kailian , Loh Kian Ping , Wohland Thorsten , Nesladek Milos , Van Hove Emile
Published: November 2008

It is demonstrated that a good biomimetic model lipid membrane with dynamic fluidity can be established on optically transparent nanocrystalline diamond (OTND) with surface roughness below 10 nm. Maigainin II, an antimicrobial peptide, is chosen to investigate the permeation of artificial bacterial membranes constructed on OTND. Due to the unique combination of optical transparency and highly sensitive surface conducting channel, intrinsic OTND affords the possibility of dual‐mode sensing based on optical and field effect properties. This opens up new possibilities for making integrated biomolecule–semiconductor microdevices, or sensors where the binding of biomolecules can be tracked using confocal microscopy whilst the associated changes in charge density during membrane perforation can be tracked using the space charge effect in the semiconductor. Such a synergistic approach may provide a powerful methodology for the screening of specific bactericidal activity on biomimetic membrane systems.
Generation of Monodisperse Mesoporous Silica Microspheres with Controllable Size and Surface Morphology in a Microfluidic Device
Authors: Lee Inho , Yoo Yeonshick , Cheng Zhengdong , Jeong Hae‐Kwon
Published: November 2008

A one‐step in situ method, termed microfluidic diffusion‐induced self‐assembly, for the synthesis of monodisperse ordered mesoporous silica microspheres, is reported. The method combines microfluidic generation of uniform droplets and subsequent in situ rapid solvent diffusion‐induced self‐assembly within the microfluidic channel. The mesoporous silica microspheres prepared in this way reveal well‐ordered 2D hexagonal mesostructures with unprecedented corrugated surface morphology of disordered mesopores that are larger than 15 nm. It is speculated that the formation of an interfacial subphase and rapid diffusion of solvent to oil are attributed to the formation of the unique surface morphology. It is also shown that the surface morphology and the particle size of the mesoporous silica microspheres can be systematically controlled by adjusting fluidic conditions.
Temperature responsive pore‐filled membranes based on a BSA/poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) hydrogel
Authors: Zhang R. , Bowyer A. , Eisenthal R. , Hubble J.
Published: November 2008

A temperature‐sensitive hydrogel based on a copolymer of BSA and poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm) has been synthesized using carbodiimide chemistry. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed primary complex formation between carbodiimide‐activated carboxylic acids on the protein with protein amino groups. As a result of temperature‐induced conformational changes in PNIPAAm grafted onto the protein backbone, these protein hydrogels show significant morphological changes in response to temperature. The structural changes of the gels in response to temperature were assessed using scanning electron microscopy, and the effect of temperature on their balance of hydrophobicity was found using turbidity measurements. Composite pore‐filled membranes formed by impregnating glass fiber filters with the polymer mixture prior to gelation were used to determine permeability changes in response to temperature using both low (riboflavin) and intermediate (lysozyme) molecular weight diffusates. Clear correlation was found between changes in morphology, turbidity, and gel permeability as the gel temperature was increased from 24–37°C. In the case of permeability studies, significant transport of lysozyme only occurred at temperatures above the lower transition temperature of the hydrogel, suggesting the gel was acting as a mechanical “valve'' to control flux. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 27:27–34, 2008; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/adv.20113
Solubilization of polystyrene into monoterpenes
Authors: Hattori Kazuyuki , Naito Satofumi , Yamauchi Kenji , Nakatani Hisayuki , Yoshida Takashi , Saito Shingo , Aoyama Masakazu , Miyakoshi Tetsuo
Published: November 2008

The ability of certain monoterpenes from the essential oils of Abies sachalinensis and Eucalyptus species to dissolve polystyrene (PS) was studied. These two essential oils themselves were also examined. The aim of this study is to recycle PS without a melting process and without using petroleum‐derived solvents. The relationship between chemical structure of the terpenes and their dissolving power for PS is investigated through the solubility parameter and apparent activation energy for dissolution. α‐Terpinene and its positional isomers on a CC bond have high solvent powers for PS, whereas bicyclic terpenes are inferior in this regard even though they have similar solubility parameters to that of α‐terpinene. It is suggested that the bulky and/or hydrophilic structures in the solvent molecule prevent the dissolution of PS. Simple steam distillation of solutions of PS in the terpenes gave recovery of more than 97% of the PS and terpenes. The present solvent systems cause little degradation to PS and are promising for the recycling of PS using sustainable solvents. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 27:35–39, 2008; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/adv.20115
Adaptive geometry and process optimization for injection molding using the kriging surrogate model trained by numerical simulation
Authors: Gao Yuehua , Turng Lih‐Sheng , Wang Xicheng
Published: November 2008

An adaptive optimization method based on the kriging surrogate model has been developed to intelligently determine the optimal geometric dimensions and processing parameters for minimizing warpage in injection‐molded components. The kriging surrogate model is a statistics‐based interpolated technique that provides the approximate functional relationship between warpage and factors that influence warpage. In this study, it is used to be first trained by—and later replaced—the full‐fledged, time‐consuming numerical simulation in the optimization process. Based on this surrogate model, an adaptive iteration scheme that takes into account the predicted uncertainty is performed to improve the accuracy of the surrogate model while finding the optimum solution. The optimization process starts with a small number of initial training sample points and then adds additional key points during iterations by evaluating the correlations among the candidate points. As an example of validation and application, optimization of geometric dimensions and processing parameters for a box‐shape part with different and stepwise wall thicknesses has been performed. The results demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed optimization method. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 27:1–16, 2008; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/adv.20116
Effect of processing conditions on the characteristics of nanostructured composites of poly(1‐naphthylamine)
Authors: Riaz Ufana , Ahmad Sharif , Aziz Ahmad Syed , Ashraf S. M.
Published: November 2008

The efficient utilization of inherently conducting polymers in nanotechnological applications faces challenges in processing them into highly ordered structures that yield novel properties. This paper reports a comparative study on the nanocomposites of poly(1‐naphthylamine) (PNA), having a fused aromatic ring, and its conductive nanocomposites with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The composites were prepared by two different methods: (a) dispersion of PNA in PVA and (b) in situ polymerization of PNA in PVC. These nanocomposites were characterized by UV–visible spectroscopy, TEM, stress, strain, and conductivity measurements. The variation in the nanostructured morphology of PNA particles in PVA as well as PVC matrix in the two cases resulted from the pronounced interaction of PNA with PVA through hydrogen bond, forming a homogeneous matrix that facilitates the formation of a self‐assembled network of PNA nanoparticles. In case of PNA/PVC composite, a discrete, agglomerate‐free distribution of PNA particles was obtained. The results revealed that an appropriate choice of synthesis conditions offers a possibility to improve not only the processability but also the pattern of distribution as well as the stability of PNA particles. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 27:40–46, 2008; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/adv.20117
Calorimetric, electrophoretic, and microscopic characterization of polymer–drug complexes
Authors: Gallardo V. , Ruiz M. A. , López‐Viota M. , Morales M. E. , López‐Viota J.
Published: November 2008

The preparation of polymer–drug complexes is one of the techniques used to obtain modified release formulations for use in different pharmaceutical forms. In this study, we prepared complexes with four commercially available latexes of different characteristics and two photoprotectors to determine the calorimetric, electrophoretic, and microphotographic characteristics of the complexes. The findings shed light on the interactions between the different polymers and drugs and on the differences between complexes as a result of differences in particle size. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 27:47–55, 2008; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/adv.20119
Alpha male chimpanzee grooming patterns: implications for dominance “style”
Authors: Foster M.W. , Gilby I.C. , Murray C.M. , Johnson A. , Wroblewski E.E. , Pusey A.E.
Published: November 2008

In social primates, individuals use various tactics to compete for dominance rank. Grooming, displays and contact aggression are common components of a male chimpanzee's dominance repertoire. The optimal combination of these behaviors is likely to differ among males with individuals exhibiting a dominance “style” that reflects their tendency to use cooperative and/or agonistic dominance tactics. Here, we examine the grooming behavior of three alpha male chimpanzees at Gombe National Park, Tanzania. We found that (1) these males differed significantly in their tendency to groom with other males; (2) each male's grooming patterns remained consistent before, during and after his tenure as alpha, and (3) the three males tended to groom with high‐ middle‐ and low‐ranking partners equally. We suggest that body mass may be one possible determinant of differences in grooming behavior. The largest male exhibited the lowest overall grooming rates, whereas the smallest male spent the most time grooming others. This is probably because large males are more effective at physically intimidating subordinates. To achieve alpha status, a small male may need to compensate for reduced size by investing more time and energy in grooming, thereby ensuring coalitionary support from others. Rates of contact aggression and charging displays conformed to this prediction, suggesting that each male exhibited a different dominance “style.” Am. J. Primatol. 71:136–144, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Contact calls of common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus): influence of age of caller on antiphonal calling and other vocal responses
Authors: Chen H.‐C. , Kaplan G. , Rogers L.J.
Published: November 2008

Marmosets, as do many other primates, live in forest environments, are group living and constantly at risk of predation. Retaining contact with one another is therefore a matter of survival. We ask here whether their contact calls (phee and twitter vocalizations) are in some way ordered acoustically by sex or age and whether the calls of older marmosets elicit different responses than those of younger marmosets. In our study, marmosets (2–14 years) were visually isolated from conspecifics and the vocal responses to each isolated caller by other marmosets in the colony were recorded. Vocal responses to phee calls largely consisted of phee calls and, less commonly, twitter calls. No differences between the responses to calls by males and females were apparent. However, we found a strong positive and significant correlation between the caller's age and the percentage of its phee calls receiving a phee response, and a significant negative correlation between the caller's age and the percentage of its phee calls receiving a twitter response. The older the marmoset, the more antiphonal calling occurred. Two‐syllable phee calls were emitted more often by older marmosets (10–14 years) than by younger ones (2–6 years). Hence, we have found age‐dependent differences in phee‐call production and a consistent change in the response received across the adult life‐span. This age‐dependent effect was independent of kinship relations. This is the first evidence that marmosets distinguish age by vocal parameters alone and make social decisions based on age. Am. J. Primatol. 71:165–170, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
An experimental study of the inclusion of technology in higher education
Authors: Bustos Andreu Hernando , Nussbaum Miguel
Published: November 2008

This article presents an experimental study of the inclusion of technology in a higher education teaching context that aims at transforming the educational process by making it both more effective and more attractive to students. Portable Pocket PC devices are used to set up and run collaborative work activities in the classroom under the technologically assisted supervision of the professor. The results lead to various findings regarding the technology inclusion process, such as the importance of the underlying educational model and the instruments that provide the technology, and allow us to draw certain conclusions relating to the educational process, in particular that the continued use of ICTs leads to improvements in student performance. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 17: 100–107, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com); DOI 10.1002/cae20188
Using multiple choice questions as a pedagogic model for face‐to‐face CSCL
Authors: Valdivia Ricardo , Nussbaum Miguel
Published: November 2008

This article describes a collaborative activity based on a pedagogical model which conceptualizes collaboration as a continuous process. Students learn via discussion, negotiation and construction of responses to Collaborative Multiple Choice Questions (CMCQ). Results from the use of CMCQs as an educational instrument in Computer Science are presented and analyzed. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 17: 89–99, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com); DOI 10.1002/cae20196
The extent and nature of family alcohol and drug use: findings from the belfast youth development study
Authors: Percy Andrew , Thornton Maeve , McCrystal Patrick
Published: November 2008

Using data from an ongoing longitudinal study of adolescent drug use, this study examines the proportion of teenagers living with parents who are problem alcohol or drug users. Around two per cent of parents report high levels of problem drinking and one per cent report problem drug use. If a broader definition of hazardous drinking is used, the proportion of teenagers exposed increases to over 15 per cent. When substance use is examined at a family level (taking account of alcohol and drug use amongst dependent children in addition to that of parents), the proportion of families experiencing some form of substance use is considerable. These findings add further support to the call for increased recognition of the needs of dependent children within adult treatment services when working with parents. Likewise, the reduction of harm to children as a result of parental substance use should be an increasingly important priority for family support services. This is likely to be achieved through the closer integration of addiction and family services. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Controlled Production of Amyloid β Peptide from a Photo‐Triggered, Water‐Soluble Precursor “Click Peptide“
Authors: Taniguchi Atsuhiko , Skwarczynski Mariusz , Sohma Youhei , Okada Takuma , Ikeda Keisuke , Prakash Halan , Mukai Hidehito , Hayashi Yoshio , Kimura Tooru , Hirota Shun , Matsuzaki Katsumi , Kiso Yoshiaki
Published: November 2008

In biological experiments, poor solubility and uncontrolled assembly of amyloid β peptide (Aβ) 1–42 pose significant obstacles to establish an experiment system that clarifies the function of Aβ1–42 in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Herein, as an experimental tool to overcome these problems, we developed a water‐soluble photo‐“click peptide” with a coumarin‐derived photocleavable protective group that is based on an O‐acyl isopeptide method. The click peptide had nearly 100‐fold higher water solubility than Aβ1–42 and did not self‐assemble, as the isomerized structure in its peptide backbone drastically changed the conformation that was derived from Aβ1–42. Moreover, the click peptide afforded Aβ1–42 quickly under physiological conditions (pH 7.4, 37 °C) by photoirradiation followed by an O–N intramolecular acyl migration. Because the in situ production of intact Aβ1–42 from the click peptide could improve the difficulties in handling Aβ1–42 caused by its poor solubility and highly aggregative nature, this click peptide strategy would provide a reliable experiment system for investigating the pathological function of Aβ1–42 in AD.
Family history of cancer predicts Papanicolaou screening behavior for African American and white women
Authors: Williams Karen Patricia , Reiter Paul , Mabiso Athur , Maurer Joel , Paskett Electra
Published: November 2008

BACKGROUND:

Understanding women's motivations for getting Papanicolaou (Pap) screening has the potential to impact cancer disparities. This study examined whether having a family history of cancer was a predictor for Pap screening.

METHODS:

By using the National Health Interview Survey 2000 Cancer Control and Family modules, we identified a subsample (n=15,509) of African American (n=2774) and white women (n=12,735) unaffected by cancer, with and without a family history of cancer. Data were analyzed using logistic regression models.

RESULTS:

African American and white women with a positive family history of cancer were 42% (P < .0001) more likely to have had a recent Papanicolaou (Pap) test than their counterparts without a family history of cancer. Among African American women, those with a positive family history of cancer were 53% more likely to have had a recent Pap test, whereas among white women those with a positive family history of cancer were 41% more likely to have received a Pap test. African American women with a family history of cancer were more likely to have had a recent Pap test than white women with or without a family history of cancer.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study presents a unique perspective on Pap screening behavior. Having an immediate family member with any cancer statistically predicted having a recent Pap test for both African American and white women. Because these results demonstrated that regardless of the cancer type, having an immediate affected family member is a motivator for cervical cancer screening behavior, healthcare providers managing cancer treatment patients have a teachable opportunity that extends beyond the patient. Cancer 2009. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Activity of cladribine combined with cyclophosphamide in frontline therapy for chronic lymphocytic leukemia with 17p13.1/TP53 deletion
Authors: Robak Tadeusz , Blonski Jerzy Z. , Wawrzyniak Ewa , Gora‐Tybor Joanna , Palacz Aleksandra , Dmoszynska Anna , Konopka Lech , Warzocha Krzysztof , Jamroziak Krzysztof
Published: November 2008

BACKGROUD:

The 17p13.1 deletion that causes loss of the p53‐encoding TP53 gene is the most powerful predictor of a poor response to conventional therapy and shortened survival in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). The results of this study have demonstrated that the cladribine and cyclophosphamide regimen may improve treatment results in this poor‐risk patient population.

METHODS:

In this study, the authors retrospectively analyzed the efficacy and toxicity of 2‐CdA with cyclophosphamide combination (the CC regimen) in 20 patients with previously untreated B‐cell CLL who had 17p13.1 deletion reported to the Polish Adult Leukemia Group (PALG) registry. The CC regimen consisted of 2‐CdA at a dose of 0.12 mg/kg and cyclophosphamide at a dose of 250 mg/m2 given intravenously for 3 consecutive days. The CC cycles were repeated at 28‐day intervals for up to 6 cycles.

RESULTS:

Overall, 16 of 20 patients (80%) responded to CC therapy, including 10 patients (50%) who obtained a complete response and 6 patients (30%) who obtained a partial response. The median progression‐free survival reached 23 months (95% confidence interval, 5‐41 months). The overall survival probability at 2 years was 52.5% (95% confidence interval, 26%‐79%). Treatment toxicity generally was acceptable. Infections were the most common grade 3/4 complications and occurred in 6 patients (30%).

CONCLUSIONS:

In this retrospective analysis, the results demonstrated that the CC regimen produced a relatively high response rate in patients with previously untreated CLL who had 17p13.1/TP53 deletion, although the response duration and survival were not satisfactory. It is possible that a combination of the CC regimen with p53‐independent agents may improve treatment results in this poor‐risk patient population. Cancer 2009. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Comparison of models to predict clinical failure after radical prostatectomy
Authors: Eggener Scott E. , Vickers Andrew J. , Serio Angel M. , Donovan Michael J. , Khan Faisal M. , Bayer‐Zubek Valentina , Verbel David , Cordon‐Cardo Carlos , Reuter Victor E. , Bianco Fernando J. , Scardino Peter T.
Published: November 2008

BACKGROUND:

Models are available to accurately predict biochemical disease recurrence (BCR) after radical prostatectomy (RP). Because not all patients experiencing BCR will progress to metastatic disease, it is appealing to determine postoperatively which patients are likely to manifest systemic disease.

METHODS:

The study cohort consisted of 881 patients undergoing RP between 1985 and 2003. Clinical failure (CF) was defined as metastases, a rising prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) in a castrate state, or death from prostate cancer. The cohort was randomized into training and validation sets. The accuracy of 4 models to predict clinical outcome within 5 years of RP were compared: ‘postoperative BCR nomogram’ and ‘Cox regression CF model’ based on standard clinical and pathologic parameters, and 2 CF ‘systems pathology’ models that integrate clinical and pathologic parameters with quantitative histomorphometric and immunofluorescent biomarker features (‘systems pathology Models 1 and 2’).

RESULTS:

When applied to the validation set, the concordance index for the postoperative BCR nomogram was 0.85, for the Cox regression CF model 0.84, for systems pathology Model 1 0.81, and for systems pathology Model 2 0.85.

CONCLUSIONS:

Models predicting either BCR or CF after RP exhibit similarly high levels of accuracy because standard clinical and pathologic variables appear to be the primary determinants of both outcomes. It is possible that introducing current or novel biomarkers found to be uniquely associated with disease progression may further enhance the accuracy of the systems pathology‐based platform. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Novel agents in myeloma: An exciting saga
Authors: Mark Tomer , Niesvizky Ruben , Coleman Morton
Published: November 2008

A therapeutic renaissance in the history of cancer therapy has been unfolding with the recent development of what has been termed the ‘novel agents’ for the treatment of multiple myeloma.
Differential mRNA expression patterns of the synaptotagmin gene family in the rodent brain
Authors: Mittelsteadt Tobias , Seifert Gerald , Alvárez‐Barón Elena , Steinhäuser Christian , Becker Albert J. , Schoch Susanne
Published: November 2008

Synaptotagmins are a large family of membrane‐trafficking proteins. They are evolutionarily conserved and have 15 members in rodents and humans. Synaptotagmins‐1, ‐2, and ‐9, are known to have an essential role as calcium sensors for fast synaptic release. Synaptotagmin‐7 is a major calcium sensor for the exocytosis of large secretory vesicles in endocrine cells. The functional roles of most synaptotagmin isoforms remain unknown. Here we examined whether synaptotagmins are expressed in the rodent brain in distinct patterns and whether individual neurons and astrocytes coexpress multiple synaptotagmin isoforms. We performed a systematic analysis of expression using radioactive in situ hybridization and quantitative real‐time reverse‐transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) as well as multiplex RT‐PCR on a single‐cell level. Our results demonstrate that most synaptotagmins are expressed in the rodent brain in highly distinctive expression patterns, and that individual neurons express variable subsets of different synaptotagmins. We also show that Syt‐11 is the major isoform expressed in astrocytes. This study therefore supports the hypothesis that the functional properties of individual neurons and astrocytes are conferred by the specific subset of synaptotagmins expressed in a cell. J. Comp. Neurol. 512:514–528, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
“Fast” plasma membrane calcium pump PMCA2a concentrates in GABAergic terminals in the adult rat brain
Authors: Burette Alain C. , Strehler Emanuel E. , Weinberg Richard J.
Published: November 2008

The plasma membrane Ca2+‐ATPases (PMCA) represent the major high‐affinity Ca2+ extrusion system in the brain. PMCAs comprise four isoforms and over 20 splice variants. Their different functional properties may permit different PMCA splice variants to accommodate different kinds of local [Ca2+] transients, but for a specific PMCA to play a unique role in local Ca2+ handling it must be targeted to the appropriate subcellular compartment. We used immunohistochemistry to study the spatial distribution of PMCA2a—one of the two major carboxyl‐terminal splice variants of PMCA2—in the adult rat brain, testing whether this isoform, with especially high basal activity, is targeted to specific subcellular compartments. In striking contrast to the widespread distribution of PMCA2 as a whole, we found that PMCA2a is largely restricted to parvalbumin‐positive inhibitory presynaptic terminals throughout the brain. The only major exception to this targeting pattern was in the cerebellar cortex, where PMCA2a also concentrates postsynaptically, in the spines of Purkinje cells. We propose that the fast Ca2+ activation kinetics and high Vmax of PMCA2a make this pump especially suited for rapid clearance of presynaptic Ca2+ in fast‐spiking inhibitory nerve terminals, which face severe transient calcium loads. J. Comp. Neurol. 512:500–513, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Formation and maturation of parallel fiber‐purkinje cell synapses in the staggerer cerebellum ex vivo
Authors: Janmaat Sonja , Frédéric Florence , Sjollema Klaas , Luiten Paul , Mariani Jean , van der Want Johannes
Published: November 2008

In vivo, homozygous staggerer (Rorasg/sg) Purkinje cells (PCs) remain in an early stage of development with rudimentary spineless dendrites, associated with a lack of parallel fiber (PF) input and the persistence of multiple climbing fibers (CFs). In this immunocytochemical study we used cerebellar organotypic cultures to monitor the development of Rorasg/sg PF‐PC synapses in the absence of CF innervation. Ex vivo the vesicular glutamate transporters VGluT1 and VGluT2 reactivity was preferentially localized around the Rorasg/sg PC soma and proximal dendrites, which are typically CF domains. The shift from VGluT2 to VGluT1 in PF terminals during development was delayed in Rorasg/sg slices. The postsynaptic receptors mGluR1 and GluRδ2 were differently distributed on Rorasg/sg PCs. mGluR1 reactivity was evenly distributed in PC soma and dendrites, whereas GluRδ2 reactivity, normally restricted at PF synapses, was dense in Rorasg/sg PC somata. The presynaptic distribution of VGluT1 and VGluT2 on Rorasg/sg PCs matched the postsynaptic distribution of the glutamate receptor GluRδ2, but not mGluR1. J. Comp. Neurol. 512:467–477, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Extensive presence of serotonergic cells and fibers in the peripheral nervous system of lampreys
Authors: Barreiro‐Iglesias Antón , Aldegunde Manuel , Anadón Ramón , Rodicio María Celina
Published: November 2008

Lampreys are suitable animal models for studying the evolution of the vertebrate nervous system because they belong to the earliest group of extant vertebrates, the agnathans. The general organization of the serotonergic central nervous system is well known in lampreys, but information about its peripheral organization is lacking. In the present study, high‐performance liquid chromatography and immunohistochemistry with an antibody against serotonin were used to study the presence and peripheral distribution of serotonergic elements in the head of larval sea lampreys. Adult lampreys were also analyzed in order to compare the organization of the system in larval and postmetamorphic stages. Serotonergic cells were observed in the cranial nerve ganglia, the musculature, the taste buds, and in the gills. Serotonergic fibers were extensive in all tissues except the epidermis. Possible roles were proposed for the different cell types observed in relation to their location, structure, and innervation patterns. The serotonergic cells appear to be involved in the oxygen and taste chemoreception processes, the modulation of musculature contraction, and in the regulation of cilia beat frequency and mucus secretion in lampreys. The extensive presence of serotonergic elements in the peripheral nervous system of lampreys suggests a close relationship with the organization of this system in invertebrate groups. J. Comp. Neurol. 512:478–499, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expiratory flow in a rigid three‐generation airway with one collapsible segment
Authors: Yang X. L. , Liu Y. , Yang J. M.
Published: November 2008

The expiratory flow in a rigid three‐generation airway with one collapsible segment was numerically studied using fluid–structure interaction technique. A self‐developed finite element method code was used to calculate the nonlinear deformation of the thin‐walled structure, whereas a commercial computational fluid dynamics solver was used to resolve the fluid flow. The elastic tube in the second‐generation branch collapsed into wave number N=3 mode. The deformation of the collapsible tube increased the resistance to the fluid flow and formed a jet that altered the downstream flow pattern significantly. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
ATP and NO dually control migration of microglia to nerve lesions
Authors: Duan Yuanli , Sahley Christie L. , Muller Kenneth J.
Published: November 2008

Microglia migrate rapidly to lesions in the central nervous system (CNS), presumably in response to chemoattractants including ATP released directly or indirectly by the injury. Previous work on the leech has shown that nitric oxide (NO), generated at the lesion, is both a stop signal for microglia at the lesion and crucial for their directed migration from hundreds of micrometers away within the nerve cord, perhaps mediated by a soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC). In this study, application of 100 μMATP caused maximal movement of microglia in leech nerve cords. The nucleotides ADP, UTP, and the nonhydrolyzable ATP analog AMP‐PNP (adenyl‐5′‐yl imidodiphosphate) also caused movement, whereas AMP, cAMP, and adenosine were without effect. Both movement in ATP and migration after injury were slowed by 50 μMreactive blue 2 (RB2), an antagonist of purinergic receptors, without influencing the direction of movement. This contrasted with the effect of the NO scavenger cPTIO (2‐(4‐carboxyphenyl)‐4,4,5,5‐teramethylimidazoline‐oxyl‐3‐oxide), which misdirected movement when applied at 1 mM. The cPTIO reduced cGMP immunoreactivity without changing the immunoreactivity of eNOS (endothelial nitric oxide synthase), which accompanies increased NOS activity after nerve cord injury, consistent with involvement of sGC. Moreover, the sGC‐specific inhibitor LY83583 applied at 50 μMhad a similar effect, in agreement with previous results with methylene blue. Taken together, the experiments support the hypothesis that ATP released directly or indirectly by injury activates microglia to move, whereas NO that activates sGC directs migration of microglia to CNS lesions. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2009
Abrasive Stripping Voltammetry in Room Temperature Ionic Liquids
Authors: Chen Aicheng , Rogers Emma I. , Compton Richard G.
Published: November 2008

We report on the abrasive stripping voltammetry (AbrSV) of six different solid compounds of widely different natures in room temperature ionic liquids (RTILs). Copper as a metal representative, Prussian blue as a typical inorganic complex, indigo as an organic dye model, and anthracene, pyrene, and 9,10‐diphenylanthracene as the typical representatives of aromatic hydrocarbons were chosen in this study. They were immobilized on a gold electrode surface by mechanical abrasion and their subsequent voltammetric measurements were carried out in the ionic liquid [C4mim][NTf2], 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide. The present work demonstrates that RTILs provide an excellent electrochemical solvent environment for abrasive stripping voltammetric analysis; in particular, the much wider potential windows in RTILs as compared to aqueous media greatly enhance the analytical applicability of the AbrSV technique.
On‐chip tryptic digest with direct coupling to ESI‐MS using magnetic particles
Authors: Le Nel Anne , Krenkova Jana , Kleparnik Karel , Smadja Claire , Taverna Myriam , Viovy Jean‐Louis , Foret Frantisek
Published: November 2008

As a step toward a fully automated front‐end microfluidic chip for MS proteomics, we propose a system capable of performing online tryptic digest and ESI‐MS, using a replaceable on‐chip digestion microcolumn based on self‐assembled magnetic particles.
Miniaturized electrochemical detector as a tool for detection of DNA amplified by PCR
Authors: Huska Dalibor , Hubalek Jaromir , Adam Vojtech , Kizek Rene
Published: November 2008

This paper reports on the analysis of specific sequence of Phage Lambda DNA amplified by PCR. Agarose gel electrophoresis, gel electrophoresis on chip and stationary electrochemical instrument were employed for detection of amplicons obtained after 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35 cycles. In the case of agarose gel electrophoresis the lowest detectable amount of DNA was obtained after 15 PCR cycles. Gel electrophoresis on chip offers higher sensitivity because the lowest detectable amount of amplicons by this technique was obtained after eight PCR cycles. Further we employed square wave voltammetry and various working electrodes (hanging mercury drop electrode, screen‐printed carbon electrode and carbon‐nanotube‐based screen‐printed electrodes) to detect amplicons. Amplicons obtained even after two cycles were detectable at all electrodes. To improve the selectivity of electrochemical detection carbon nanoelectrodes were off‐line coupled with gel electrophoresis. Into the agarose gel the electrodes were placed. Further the amplicons were loaded into agarose gel wells. DNA migrating to the detection place was electrochemically analyzed. Amplicons obtained after two cycles were detectable by this hyphenated technique.
Insulin and cholesterol gallstones: New insights for a complex pathogenic relationship
Authors: Zanlungo Silvana , Miquel Juan Francisco , Rigotti Attilio , Nervi Flavio
Published: November 2008

Biddinger SB, Haas JT, Yu BB, Bezy O, Jing E, Zhang W, Unterman TG, Carey MC, Kahn CR. Hepatic insulin resistance directly promotes formation of cholesterol gallstones. Nat Med 2008;14:778–782.

Available at: http://www.nature.com/nm/journal/v14/n7/abs/nm1785.html
Ant colony optimization approach for classification of occupational low back disorder risks
Authors: Akay Diyar , Toksari M. Duran
Published: November 2008

Manual material handling (MMH) tasks, the leading cause of low back disorders (LBDs), are still extensively used in industry in spite of the advanced technology. Classification of industrial jobs related to LBD risks has great significance in preventing injuries and designing workplaces. In this article, industrial jobs have been classified into two categories, low risk and high risk, using ant colony optimization (ACO). ACO classification (ACOCLASS) has obtained better results than studies that used the same experimental data. Ergonomic interventions can be done by means of obtained classification schema for future reductions in low back injuries. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
SOCS3 as a tumor suppressor in breast cancer cells, and its regulation by PRL
Authors: Barclay Johanna L. , Anderson Stephen T. , Waters Michael J. , Curlewis Jon D.
Published: November 2008

Suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3), as a key regulator of cytokine signaling, has the potential to modulate numerous cellular processes. Its involvement in inflammatory disease is well established, and there is increasing evidence for a role in breast cancer as a regulator of signal transducers and activators of transcription (STATs). Here we show that over‐expression of SOCS3 markedly supresses STAT3 expression, and abrogates STAT5 phosphorylation, resulting in decreased cell proliferation in T47D breast cancer cells, and decreased proliferation and anchorage‐independent growth in MCF7 cells. Using T47D cells, we elucidated the signaling pathways and transcription factors involved in SOCS3 expression in response to prolactin, a key mammotropic hormone. Quantitative real time PCR was used to examine SOCS3 mRNA expression, IP/WB was used to examine STAT phosphorylation, luciferase reporter assays, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and gel shift assays allowed evaluation of cis‐elements and trans‐factors regulating SOCS3 expression. We demonstrate that prolactin‐induced SOCS3 expression is STAT‐dependant, predominantly involving STAT5, although STAT1 is also associated with the promoter. In addition, prolactin‐induced SOCS3 promoter activation requires PKA‐stimulated Sp1 binding to the GC‐rich region of the promoter. Finally, we show that PRL‐induced SOCS3 expression can be potentiated by co‐treatment with PGE2. This study demonstrates that SOCS3 acts as an anti‐proliferative agent in breast cancer cells, and highlights the complexity of SOCS3 regulation and crosstalk. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Tumour growth fraction measured by immunohistochemical staining of Ki67 is an independent prognostic factor in preoperative prostate biopsies with small‐volume or low‐grade prostate cancer
Authors: Zellweger Tobias , Günther Sarah , Zlobec Inti , Savic Spasenija , Sauter Guido , Moch Holger , Mattarelli Gianfranco , Eichenberger Tobias , Curschellas Enrico , Rüfenacht Hansjörg , Bachmann Alexander , Gasser Thomas C. , Mihatsch Michael J. , Bubendorf Lukas
Published: November 2008

Accurate prognostic parameters in prostate biopsies are needed to better counsel individual patients with prostate cancer. We evaluated the prognostic impact of morphologic and immunohistochemical parameters in preoperative prostate cancer biopsies. A consecutive series of prostate biopsies of 279 men (72% with clinical stage T1c and 23% with T2) who subsequently underwent radical prostatectomy was prospectively analysed for Gleason score, number and percentage of positive cores (NPC, PPC), total percentage of biopsy tissue with tumour (TPT), maximum tumour percentage per core (MTP), and expression of Ki67, Bcl‐2 and p53. All biopsy features were significantly associated with at least one feature of the radical prostatectomy specimen. pT stage was independently predicted by PSA, seminal vesicle invasion by Ki67 LI, positive margins by PSA and MTP, large tumour diameter by PSA and PPC, and Gleason score by biopsy Gleason score, MTP, and Ki67 LI, respectively. Biopsy Gleason score, NPC (1 vs. >1), TPT (<7 vs. ≥7%), and Ki67 LI (<10 vs. ≥10%) were significant predictors of biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy (p < 0.01, each). KI67 LI was the only independent prognostic factor in case of a low TPT (<7%) or low Gleason score (<7), the hazard ratio being 6.76 and 6.44, respectively. In summary, preoperative Gleason score, NPC, TPT and Ki67 LI significantly predict the risk of recurrence after radical prostatectomy, and Ki67 is an independent prognosticator in biopsies with low‐volume or low‐grade prostate cancer. Analysis of Ki67 LI in these biopsies may help to better identify patients with clinically insignificant prostate cancer. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.