bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Free‐breathing, three‐dimensional coronary artery magnetic resonance angiography: Comparison of sequences
Authors: Weber Oliver M. , Pujadas Sandra , Martin Alastair J. , Higgins Charles B.
Published: August 2004

Purpose

To compare six free‐breathing, three‐dimensional, magnetization‐prepared coronary magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) sequences.

Materials and Methods

Six bright‐blood sequences were evaluated: Cartesian segmented gradient echo (C‐SGE), radial SGE (R‐SGE), spiral SGE (S‐SGE), spiral gradient echo (S‐GE), Cartesian steady‐state free precession (C‐SSFP), and radial SSFP (R‐SSFP). The right coronary artery (RCA) was imaged in 10 healthy volunteers using all six sequences in randomized order. Images were evaluated by two observers with respect to signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR), contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR), visible vessel length, vessel edge sharpness, and vessel diameter.

Results

C‐SSFP depicted RCA over the longest distance with high vessel sharpness, good SNR, and excellent background suppression. S‐GE provided best SNR and CNR in proximal segments, but more vessel blurring and poorer background suppression, resulting in poor visualization of distal segments. R‐SSFP images showed good background suppression and best vessel sharpness, but only moderate SNR. C‐SGE provided good SNR and reasonable CNR, but lowest vessel sharpness. S‐SGE and R‐SGE visualized the RCA over the smallest distance, mostly due to vessel blurring and low SNR, respectively.

Conclusion

Overall, Cartesian SSFP provided the best image quality with excellent vessel sharpness, visualization of long vessel segments, and good SNR and CNR. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2004;20:395–402. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Weight‐bearing MRI of patellofemoral joint cartilage contact area
Authors: Gold Garry E. , Besier Thor F. , Draper Christine E. , Asakawa Deanna S. , Delp Scott L. , Beaupre Gary S.
Published: August 2004

Purpose

To measure contact area of cartilage in the patellofemoral joint during weight bearing using an open MRI scanner.

Materials and Methods

We developed an MR‐compatible back support that allows three‐dimensional imaging of the patellofemoral cartilage under physiologic weight‐bearing conditions with negligible motion artifact in an open MRI scanner. To measure contact areas, we trained observers using a phantom of known area and tested intra‐ and interobserver variability. We measured in vivo contact areas between the patella and femoral cartilage with the knee in 30 degrees of flexion, loaded and unloaded, in six volunteers.

Results

We were able to measure the contact area of the patellofemoral cartilage with small interobserver (CV 7.0%) and intraobserver (CV 3.0%) variation. At 30 degrees of knee flexion, mean contact area increased from 400 mm2 (unloaded) to 522 mm2 (loaded to 0.45 times body weight per leg).

Conclusion

Using an open magnet and specially designed apparatus, it is possible to image the patellar cartilage during physiologic loading. Knowledge of patellar cartilage contact area is needed to assess patellofemoral stress, which may be increased in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2004;20:526–530. Published 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Correlation of T1ρ with fixed charge density in cartilage
Authors: Wheaton Andrew J. , Casey Francis L. , Gougoutas Alexander J. , Dodge George R. , Borthakur Arijitt , Lonner Jess H. , Schumacher H. Ralph , Reddy Ravinder
Published: August 2004

Purpose

To establish the specificity of T1ρ with respect to fixed charge density (FCD) as a measure of proteoglycan (PG) content in cartilage during the onset of osteoarthritis (OA).

Materials and Methods

T1ρ‐weighted and sodium MRI were performed on cartilage samples of enzymatically degraded bovine explants and natural osteoarthritic human samples representing controlled and physiological models of OA, respectively. Spatial maps of T1ρ and FCD (measured using the previously validated method of sodium MRI) were calculated from image data. Data were extracted from the maps and subjected to linear regression to compare changes in T1ρ with changes in FCD in each model. Tissue samples were subjected to histological staining for a reduction in PG content.

Results

Plots of normalized T1ρ rate vs. FCD were found to be strongly correlated (R2 > 0.75 and 0.85) in both models with nearly the same slope of ≈1/2 (P > 0.51). Loss of PG in bovine and human tissue was confirmed by histology.

Conclusion

The strong correlation of the FCD and T1ρ data in both the controlled and physiological models demonstrates that changes in T1ρ are due predominantly to changes in PG content. This work is a first step in establishing T1ρ as a method of quantifying PG changes in early‐stage OA. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2004;20:519–525. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hepatitis B virus genotype D strains from Estonia share sequence similarity with strains from Siberia and May specify ayw4
Authors: Tallo Tatjana , Norder Helene , Tefanova Valentina , Krispin Tõnu , Priimägi Ludmilla , Mukomolov Sergey , Mikhailov Mikhail , Magnius Lars O.
Published: August 2004

The genotypes and subtypes of 205 HBV isolates collected during 1989–2002 in Estonia and 14 other regions of the former USSR were determined by sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of the S gene. The in Europe prevailing genotypes, A and D, were also circulating in the whole territory of the former USSR including Estonia and accounted for 18.5 and 81% of the strains, respectively. All genotype A strains specified adw2, and a single genotype C strain specified adrq+. Most genotype D strains specified ayw3 and ayw2, although, three strains from Estonia and Siberia specified ayw4. Due to unique substitutions, Ser122 and Ala127, four strains could not be classified according to the subtype. One strain specifying ayw3 encoded Leu143 and Ala145 and was possibly an immune “escape” mutant. At phylogenetic analysis 93% of the Estonian genotype D strains belonged to a cluster specifying mainly ayw3 and were more similar to isolates from Siberia and the Far‐East of Russia than to isolates originating from Central Russia which belonged to another cluster of strains specifying mainly ayw2. This pattern might be explained by part of the Estonian population, has roots east of European Russia, based on linguistic evidence. Eight dominant HBV strains represented by identical S gene sequences were identified, one within genotype A and seven within genotype D, three of which included isolates from Estonia and Siberia. Some of these strains were collected over a period of at least 13 years indicating there are genetically stable variants of HBV that remain conserved over decades. J. Med. Virol. 74:221–227, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Molecular epidemiology of hepatitis C virus in Iran as reflected by phylogenetic analysis of the NS5B region
Authors: Samimi‐Rad Katayoun , Nategh Rakhshandeh , Malekzadeh Reza , Norder Helene , Magnius Lars
Published: August 2004

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) subtypes were determined in 125 Iranian patients by phylogenetic analysis within the NS5B or 5′‐UTR/core regions. Subtypes 1a and 3a were predominant accounting for 47 and 36%, whereas 1b and 4 accounted for 8 and 7%. This subtype distribution differs from that of Turkey and Pakistan, where subtypes 1b and 3a dominate and also from neighbouring Arabic countries where subtype 4 is the prevalent genotype. The Iranian 1a and 3a strains formed subclusters in the dendrogram indicating that these subtypes are indigenous to Iran. In contrast, the 1b strains intermixed with strains derived worldwide. Subtype 1a was frequent in South Iran (70%), while 3a was more prevalent in North‐West Iran (83%), a region with a high proportion of Turkish inhabitants. Patients infected by blood products had more frequently subtype 1a (57%), while younger drug users had more frequently subtype 3a (54%). Genotype 4 was over‐represented among haemodialysis patients in Tehran. One strain, most similar to genotype 5, was highly divergent in the NS5B region and further analysis is needed to assess the systematic status of this strain. In half of the patients with unknown source of infection only the 5′‐UTR could be amplified, most of which were from North‐West Iran and from patients younger than those with unknown source of infection with typable strains, mean age 29 versus 43 years. In conclusion, the NS5B sequence data revealed population based subtype patterns in Iran, the further study of which may help to understand the molecular epidemiology of HCV in a low‐endemic area. J. Med. Virol. 74:246–252, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Anti‐HSV activity of lactoferrin and lactoferricin is dependent on the presence of heparan sulphate at the cell surface
Authors: Andersen Jeanette H. , Jenssen Håvard , Sandvik Kjersti , Gutteberg Tore J.
Published: August 2004

Lactoferrin (LF) is a multifunctional glycoprotein, which plays an important role in immune regulation and defense mechanisms against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Lactoferricin (Lfcin) is a potent antimicrobial peptide generated from the N‐terminal part of LF by pepsin cleavage. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms of the anti‐herpes simplex virus (anti‐HSV) activity of LF and Lfcin. The results demonstrated that LF and Lfcin inhibited the entry of HSV into Vero cells. LF had no effect against HSV after the virus had entered the cells, while Lfcin exerted antiviral activity also after the initial binding of the virus to the host cell. The distribution of LF and Lfcin in the cells was investigated by immunogold‐labeling and transmission electron microscope (TEM). LF was found mainly at the cell surface in cells expressing heparan sulphate. Lfcin was randomly distributed intracellularly. LF must be present at the cell surface to exert antiviral activity, while Lfcin exert its antiviral activity also when found mainly intracellularly. Both LF and Lfcin were dependent on the presence of heparan sulphate at the cell surface to exert their antiviral activity. J. Med. Virol. 74:262–271, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
High frequency of selection of K65R and Q151M mutations in HIV‐2 infected patients receiving nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors containing regimen
Authors: Descamps Diane , Damond Florence , Matheron Sophie , Collin Gilles , Campa Pauline , Delarue Severine , Pueyo Sophie , Chêne Genevieve , Brun‐Vézinet Francoise ,   the French ANRS HIV‐2 Cohort Study Group
Published: August 2004

The objective of the study was to determine retrospectively which substitutions in the reverse transcriptase (RT) gene are selected in vivo during nucleoside RT inhibitors (NRTI) containing regimen in HIV‐2 infected subjects. Thirty‐four HIV‐2 patients having received NRTI‐containing regimen with available specimens and amplifiable RT gene were studied. Analyses of RT gene were undertaken after a median NRTI exposure of 51 months (range: 5–128). Mutations at positions known to be involved in HIV‐1 resistance were observed in 26/34 patients. Selection of Q151M mutation was observed in nine out of 34 isolates (26%) after a median NRTIs exposure of 41 months (range: 12–77). In 8/9 cases, Q151M mutation was associated with other substitutions at positions known to be involved in HIV‐1 resistance: K65R (n = 6), D67N (n = 1), N69S or T (n = 2), K70R (n = 3), M184V (n = 4), S215Y (n = 1). Compared with HIV‐1 infection, there is a high frequency of selection of Q151M mutation in HIV‐2 infected patients receiving various combinations of NRTIs. In these highly thymidine analogue pretreated patients, the selection of thymidine analogue mutations was low suggesting that the pathway to resistance is very different between these two viruses. J. Med. Virol. 74:197–201, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Evolution of precore/core promoter mutations in hepatitis B carriers with hepatitis B e antigen seroreversion
Authors: Liu Chun‐Jen , Chen Pei‐Jer , Lai Ming‐Yang , Kao Jia‐Horng , Chen Ding‐Shinn
Published: August 2004

The evolution of precore stop codon mutation (A1896) and dinucleotide mutation (T1762/A1764) in the basic core promoter (BCP) of hepatitis B virus (HBV) genome during transient seroconversion and seroreversion of hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) remains unclarified. Five HBeAg‐positive HBV carriers who experienced transient seroconversion followed by seroreversion of HBeAg (Group I, 3.3%) and 3 HBeAg‐negative HBV carriers with documented reversion of HBeAg (Group II, 2.5%) in a prospective cohort of 272 patients with chronic hepatitis B were thus identified. The sequential changes at the precore nucleotide 1896 and BCP dinucleotide 1762/1764 were determined by polymerase chain reaction and direct sequencing. At enrollement, precore A1896 and BCP T1762/A1764 were noted in 4 (50%) and 1 (13%) of the eight patients. During a median follow‐up period of 58 months (range: 31–76 months), 12 episodes of transient HBeAg seroconversion followed by seroreversion were encountered in Group I patients and 3 episodes of HBeAg seroreversion in Group II patients. Accompanying acute exacerbations were found in two‐thirds of patients with either HBeAg seroconversion or seroreversion. Overall, precore nucleotide A1896 remained identical in 73% and 83% of the seroconversion and seroreversion events, respectively. BCP dinucleotide T1762/A1764 remained unchanged in 94% and 92% of the seroconversion and seroreversion events, respectively. At the end of follow‐up, only one had both precore and BCP mutations. In conclusion, these data suggested that HBeAg seroreversion might be due to the lack of sustained precore and BCP mutations after HBeAg seroconversion. Although uncommon, HBeAg seroreversion can be associated with hepatitis exacerbation. J. Med. Virol. 74:237–245, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Temporal trends in the HIV‐1 epidemic in Russia: Predominance of subtype A
Authors: Bobkov Aleksei F. , Kazennova Elena V. , Selimova Ludmila M. , Khanina Tatyana A. , Ryabov Grigory S. , Bobkova Marina R. , Sukhanova Anna L. , Kravchenko Aleksei V. , Ladnaya Natalia N. , Weber Jonathan N. , Pokrovsky Vadim V.
Published: August 2004

During the period 1996–1997, three highly homogeneous variants of HIV‐1 were identified, circulating among injecting drug users (IDUs) in the former Soviet Union republics. One of these belonged to HIV‐1 genetic subtype A (IDU‐A), another belonged to HIV‐1 genetic subtype B (IDU‐B) and the third was a recombinant between the first two variants (CRF03_AB). However, since 1997, the HIV‐1 epidemic has affected an increasing number of geographic regions in Russia. This study was undertaken to survey the prevailing genetic variants and to estimate the current proportions of these three HIV‐1 genetic subtypes in Russia. Blood samples were taken in 1999–2003 from 1090 HIV‐infected individuals and analysed by gag/env HMA. The IDU‐A variant was found to be the majority variant (89.7–100%) in 44 of 45 regions of the Russian Federation studied. The IDU‐A variant was also found to spreading rapidly through heterosexual transmission in 1999–2003 (30/34, 88%). CRF03_AB predominates in the Kaliningrad region only (28/29, 96.6%). The IDU‐B variant is currently of minor importance in the IDU epidemic but other European subtype B variants predominate among men having sex with men (18/18, 100%). Sequence analysis of the env V3 encoding regions derived from HIV‐1 infected individuals in Yekaterinburg (the main centre of the HIV‐1 epidemic in Russia in 2002–2003) showed that the IDU‐A variant is still highly homogeneous. The mean pairwise nucleotide distance (n = 9) was 2.89 ± 1.14 (range 1.36–6.14). However, the mean genetic distance between each sequence within the samples collected from the Yekaterinburg IDU‐A variant subset and the IDU‐A consensus is 2.51 ± 1.06 (range 1.36–4.66) and considerably higher than in South Russia in 1996 (0.79 ± 0.51, range 0.38–1.90). The current HIV‐1 epidemic in Russia is almost entirely caused by a highly homogeneous A‐subtype strain, which will influence vaccine development strategies and must be taken into account in the quality control of molecular tests for the diagnosis of HIV‐1. J. Med. Virol. 74:191–196, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Molecular epidemiology of respiratory syncytial virus in Kilifi district, Kenya
Authors: Scott Paul D. , Ochola Rachel , Ngama Mwanajuma , Okiro Emelda A. , Nokes D. James , Medley Graham F. , Cane Patricia A.
Published: August 2004

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes significant burden of disease during infancy and childhood. This study examined the genetic relatedness of RSV positive samples from child inpatients and outpatients and a birth cohort from a rural coastal district of Kenya and also the distribution of strains between these three groups. Clinical samples were collected over a 4‐year period in Kilifi District, Kenya from community and hospital surveillance. Three hundred ninety seven of 1,044 nasal specimens from children (under 5 years old) attending Kilifi District Hospital, and from community‐monitored infants, were positive for RSV by multiplex RT‐PCR. Of these, 376 samples were analysed further by restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLP) of the nucleocapsid (N) and attachment (G) protein genes. The G gene was sequenced for 109 samples and phylogenetic analysis carried out. The group A samples from Kilifi fell into two clusters based on G gene sequences, while only one group B cluster was observed. One RSV‐B sample from 2003 demonstrated the presence of a 60‐nucleotide duplication within the G gene, clustering with similar isolates from Buenos Aries from 1999. All had similar sequences to isolates from the UK, USA, Spain, or Uruguay. The Kilifi District samples showed greater than 97% homology to isolates from South Africa and Mozambique and 91–94% homology to isolates from The Gambia. Samples from different sources, clearly differing in disease severity, did not differ in genotype characteristics, suggesting that disease causing variants are a general reflection of infections within this community. J. Med. Virol. 74:344–354, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cross‐species hybridization: Characterization of gene expression in woodchuck liver using human membrane arrays
Authors: Rinaudo Jo Ann Spiewak , Gerin John L.
Published: August 2004

Total RNA from normal adult woodchucks was analyzed using membrane arrays containing human cDNA clones, and the gene expression patterns were compared to human liver. Various hybridization and wash conditions were examined. In both the woodchuck and human livers, 352 genes were identified as highly expressed (Z‐scores ≥1.96). These genes represented numerous liver functions: transcription, RNA processing, signal transduction, protein synthesis and degradation, as well as enzymes. Several genes were selected and expression was verified by Northern blots for woodchuck liver. There were no false positives but 29 genes were identified as false negatives, expressed only in human liver. Possible reasons for these false negatives were the length and percentage of homology between the two species, differences in the distribution and types of mismatches, and the sequence region spotted on the array. These were assessed by examining expression of the transferrin gene in both species. A 200‐fold range of RNA concentration (0.1–20 μg total RNA) was also examined and the optimal RNA concentration was determined to be 5 μg. Membranes were capable of being hybridized and reprobed at least five times. The study demonstrates that cross‐species hybridization is a valid method for identifying gene expression in woodchuck liver. J. Med. Virol. 74:300–313, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Influence of chemical and ischemic preconditioning on cytokine expression after focal brain ischemia
Authors: Pera Joanna , Zawadzka Malgorzata , Kaminska Bozena , Szczudlik Andrzej
Published: August 2004

Inflammation, upregulation of cytokines, proapoptotic molecules, and apoptosis are accepted widely as crucial players in stroke‐induced brain damage. Induction of brain tolerance against ischemia by pretreatment with nonlethal stressors (preconditioning) has been found to influence expression of different molecules, in addition to reduction of infarct size. It remains unclear, however, whether and how preconditioning changes expression of cytokines after subsequent brain ischemia. We sought to analyze cortical expression of interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β, Fas, and Fas ligand (FasL) mRNA after a transient, focal brain ischemia in rats subjected to preconditioning. The mRNA levels were determined using a semiquantitative RT‐PCR in the ischemic and contralateral cortex, separately. Transient ischemia was induced by 90‐min middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo) and neurologic deficits as well as infarct size were quantified. Preconditioning was carried out by a short‐term MCAo or an injection of 3‐nitropropionic acid 3 days before MCAo. In both preconditioning paradigms, similar effects on investigated mRNA levels were observed. IL‐1β and IL‐6 levels were decreased in tolerant rats compared to those in nontolerant ones. Changes in TNF‐α, TGF‐β, and Fas levels were comparable independently of tolerance state. FasL mRNA was at similar level in rats subjected to chemical preconditioning but lower after ischemic preconditioning. Our findings demonstrate that both preconditioning methods exert a very similar effect on the expression of investigated cytokines. Interestingly, we observed a selective effect of preconditioning on IL‐1β and IL‐6 expression that suggests different functional properties as well as different regulation of analyzed molecules during an induction of the brain tolerance against ischemia. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Gene expression profile activated by the chemokine CCL5/RANTES in human neuronal cells
Authors: Valerio Alessandra , Ferrario Marina , Martinez Fernando O. , Locati Massimo , Ghisi Valentina , Bresciani Laura Grazia , Mantovani Alberto , Spano PierFranco
Published: August 2004

Differentiated human NT2‐N neurons were shown to express CCR5 and CXCR4 chemokine receptor mRNA and protein, and to be responsive to the chemokines CCL5 and CXCL12. Using cDNA microarray technology, CCL5 was found to induce a distinct transcriptional program, with reproducible induction of 46 and 9 genes after 2 and 8 hr of treatment, respectively. Conversely, downregulation of 20 and 7 genes was observed after 2 and 8 hr of treatment, respectively. Modulation of a selected panel of CCL5‐responsive genes was also confirmed by quantitative RT‐PCR and Western blot and compared to gene expression changes induced by CXCL12 treatment. Gene clustering identified distinct functional subsets of CCL5‐responsive molecules, and a significant number of expressed sequence tags encoding unknown genes. CCL5‐responsive genes comprise a significant number of enzymes, transcription factors, and miscellaneous molecules involved in neuronal survival and differentiation, including neurite outgrowth and synaptogenesis. Our results suggest that CCL5 biological functions might go beyond its recognized chemotactic activity in the central nervous system, in particular with regard to the control of neural plasticity events both during development and in postnatal life. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
MAPKAP kinase‐2 is a primary response gene induced by depolarization in PC12 cells and in brain
Authors: Vician Linda J. , Xu Guoping , Liu Wei , Feldman Jonathan D. , Machado Hidevaldo B. , Herschman Harvey R.
Published: August 2004

Using a combination of targeted differential display for induced protein kinases and differential library screening, we identified mitogen‐activated protein kinase activated protein kinase 2 (MAPKAPK2), as a primary response gene whose transcription is stimulated by membrane depolarization and by forskolin in rat PC12 pheochromocytoma cells. MAPKAPK3 was neither induced nor repressed by similar treatments. The increase in MAPKAPK2 mRNA is preceded by an increase in a MAPKAPK2 intron‐containing RNA precursor, indicating that the increase in message is due at least in part to increased transcription. The open reading frame of full‐length rat MAPKAPK2 cDNA is 99% identical to mouse MAPKAPK2 and 92% identical to human MAPKAPK2. The human MAPKAPK2 predicted protein contains 14 additional amino acids in the proline‐rich N‐terminal domain, when compared to murine and rat MAPKAPK2 predicted proteins. The MAPKAPK2 form found in PC12 cells corresponds to variant 2 in the human; this ortholog carries a nuclear translocation signal near its C‐terminus. MAPKAPK2 message is also induced in the dentate gyrus, CA1, and CA3 of the rat hippocampus between 2–4 hr after the onset of kainic acid‐induced seizures. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Glacial imprints of the Okanogan Lobe, southern margin of the Cordilleran Ice Sheet
Authors: Kovanen Dori J. , Slaymaker Olav
Published: August 2004

The glacial geomorphology of the Waterville Plateau (ca. 55 km2) provides information on the dynamics of the Okanogan Lobe, southern sector of the Cordilleran Ice Sheet in north‐central Washington. The Okanogan Lobe had a profound influence on the landscape. It diverted meltwater and floodwater along the ice front contributing to the Channeled Scabland features during the late Wisconsin (Fraser Glaciation). The glacial imprint may record surge behaviour of the former Okanogan Lobe based on a comparison with other glacial landsystems. Conditions that may have promoted instability include regional topographic constraints, ice marginal lakes and dynamics of the subglacial hydrological system, which probably included a subglacial reservoir. The ice‐surface morphology and estimated driving stresses (17–26 kPa) implied from ice thickness and surface slope reconstructed in the terminal area also suggest fast basal flow characteristics. This work identifies the location of a fast flowing ice corridor and this probably affected the stability and mass balance of the south‐central portion of the Cordilleran Ice Sheet. Evidence for fast ice flow is lacking in the main Okanogan River Valley, probably because it was destroyed during deglaciation by various glacial and fluvial processes. The only signature of fast ice flow left is the imprint on the Waterville Plateau. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Iberian Plio‐Pleistocene biochronology: micromammalian evidence for MNs and ELMAs calibration in southwestern Europe
Authors: Fernández Manuel Hernández , Azanza Beatriz , Sierra María Ángeles Álvarez
Published: August 2004

A multivariate biochronological analysis of the Plio‐Pleistocene Iberian rodent fossil record is presented. Among more than 300 fossil sites, 49 sites have been selected. The ordination of the fossil sites selected from the Iberian Peninsula has been achieved by the appearance event ordination method. After calibration of this ordination with geochronological dates at some of the localities, numerical dates are proposed for all the localities studied. Hence, mammal fossil sites non‐datable by other means (palaeomagnetism, radiometric dating, etc.) have been dated with a relatively high degree of confidence. Final results allow dating of boundaries between the Plio‐Pleistocene European Land Mammal Ages (ELMAS) or the Mammal Neogene (MN) units. These boundaries agree with previous studies using magnetostratigraphical calibration of these scales. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigations on the conversion of onion aroma precursors S‐alk(en)yl‐L‐cysteine sulphoxides in onion juice production
Authors: Resemann Jörg , Maier Britta , Carle Reinhold
Published: August 2004

Onion flavour develops when the cells are disrupted, allowing the enzyme alliinase (EC 4.4.1.4) to act upon the aroma precursors S‐alk(en)yl‐L‐cysteine sulphoxides (ACSOs). For maximum flavour release, optimal cell disintegration and complete enzymatic conversion of ACSOs are desired. To assess an industrial scale onion juice extraction in regard to the extent of cell disintegration and the rate of enzymatic ACSO conversion, samples from all mass flows (ie onion, macerate, juice and pomace) were subjected to ACSO analysis. Applying a modified HPLC method, which allows baseline separation of the aroma precursors, three ACSOs, namely methyl‐, propyl‐ and 1‐propenyl‐L‐cysteine sulphoxides (MCSO, PCSO and 1‐PeCSO), were determined. Initial ACSO ratios changed in the course of increasing degree of comminution from 17:83 to 100:0 (MCSO/1‐PeCSO). Only negligible amounts of PCSO were detected (<9.2 nmol g−1 fresh weight (fw)), contributing less than 0.2% to the total ACSO content. For evaluation of the disintegration efficiency a chart was established consisting of an abscissa representing a percentage scale of ruptured cells and ordinates for the development of the marker parameters ACSOs and reaction product pyruvate relative to their initial contents. From this correlation a cell disintegration percentage after grinding of about 70% was deduced according to the determined ACSO contents. On a molar basis, macerate, juice and pomace showed 15, 0.6–2.4 and 0.7–1.0% of initial ACSO contents respectively. Only trace amounts of 1‐PeCSO were found in the juice (<16 nmol g−1 fw). MCSO was converted to almost 90%, indicating that enzymatic transformation, in a practical sense, goes to completion. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Growth, nutritional quality and safety of oysters (Crassostrea gigas) cultured in the lagoon of Venice (Italy)
Authors: Orban Elena , Di Lena Gabriella , Masci Maurizio , Nevigato Teresina , Casini Irene , Caproni Roberto , Gambelli Loretta , Pellizzato Michele
Published: August 2004

Quality aspects of oysters (Crassostrea gigas) from a suspended culture in the lagoon of Venice (Valle Dogà) were examined in different seasons over a 1‐year period. Ecophysiological and commercial quality indicators (condition index, content of meat, shell and intervalvar fluid), nutritional quality parameters (proximate and mineral composition, glycogen content, fatty acid profile, cholesterol, plant sterols, fat‐soluble vitamins content) and levels of organic pollutants (polychlorinated biphenyls and organochlorine pesticides) were determined at different times of the year. Seasonal variations were observed in the nutrient content, with particular regard to moisture (ranging from 866.8 g kg−1 in June to 938.8 g kg−1 in September), protein (23.9 g kg−1 in September to 76.6 g kg−1 in June), ash (22.5 g kg−1 in February to 29.5 g kg−1 in July), lipid (3.0 g kg−1 in September to 8.8 g kg−1 in June) and glycogen (0.7 g kg−1 in September to 11.5 g kg−1 in February). In spite of this variability, the nutritional quality of the oysters was generally good, especially just before gamete release when the concentration of nutrients was at its maximum. Low levels of organochlorine chemicals were detected in the edible meat of oysters but, because only a limited number of samples were analysed, no general conclusion can be drawn on the safety of seafood from this area. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Physicochemical, functional and structural characterization of fibre from defatted Rosa rubiginosa and Gevuina avellana seeds
Authors: Moure Andrés , Dourado Fernando , Sineiro Jorge , Gama Francisco M , Domínguez Herminia
Published: August 2004

The composition, functional properties and structural features of the fiber from Rosa rubiginosa defatted seeds and from Gevuina avellana defatted and partially deproteinized seeds were evaluated. The effect of phosphate salts and temperature during the extraction of fibres and the influence of two drying technologies on the distribution of soluble and insoluble dietary fibre were assessed. The extraction of protein and monosaccharides was favoured by increasing temperature in the range studied. Water and oil absorption capacities higher than 10 g g−1 were observed for soluble and insoluble fibres from Gevuina avellana and for the soluble ones from Rosa rubiginosa. The insoluble fibre product from Rosa and Gevuina contained 650–810 g kg−1 and 390–440 g kg−1 neutral detergent fibre respectively. The protein content in the insoluble fibre varied in the range 100–150 g kg−1 and 120–260 g kg−1 and in the soluble fibre between 200–550 g kg−1 and 180–370 g kg−1 for Rosa and Gevuina respectively. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Ruminal degradation of tannin‐treated legume meals
Authors: Martínez TF , Moyano FJ , Díaz M , Barroso FG , Alarcón FJ
Published: August 2004

The inefficiency of protein utilisation by ruminants fed protein concentrates (based on legume meals) causes serious economic loss and environmental damage owing to their rapid hydrolysis and deamination in the rumen. Thus efforts aimed at slowing the ruminal fermentation of such feeds are needed, and recent studies have observed potentially positive effects of tannins on ruminant nutrition under certain circumstances. Tannins are a complex group of naturally occurring plant polyphenols characterised by their ability to bind with proteins. This property of tannins is considered responsible for the decreased ruminal digestibility of forages both in vivo and in vitro. Under that perspective, commercial tannic acid was added at three proportions (10, 25 and 50 g kg−1 on a dry matter basis) to four different legume meals (horse bean, kidney bean, soybean and pea), and the effect on in situ dry matter and crude protein ruminal disappearance was assessed. The results confirmed the dose‐dependent (although not persistent after 48 h) slowing of in situ digestibility, this effect being significant at the highest tannin treatment when compared with untreated samples. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that soybean seed endosperm cell walls were protected from digestion by the ruminal microbiota, while the digestion of starch granules was relatively unaffected by tannic acid. Electrophoresis of the protein fractions confirmed the lower digestibility of tannin‐treated seeds as well as the relative lack of alteration of the electrophoretic profile of individual proteins. Implications for the digestion of concentrates in ruminants are discussed. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Rationale for superficial injection techniques in lymphatic mapping in breast cancer patients
Authors: Nieweg Omgo E. , Estourgie Susanne H. , van Rijk Maartje C. , Kroon Bin. B.R.
Published: August 2004

One of the most avidly debated issues in lymphatic mapping is where the tracers are best deposited in patients with breast cancer. The four superficial approaches are easy to perform and have several other distinct advantages. They are based on the hypothesis that the entire breast parenchyma and the overlying skin drain to a common node in the axilla because of their common embryological origin. Evidence is presented that casts doubt upon the correctness of this assumption. Tracer administration close to the tumor site appears to be the safest approach for the time being. Excellent results can be obtained with this latter approach, despite the fact that it is technically more demanding. J. Surg. Oncol. 2004;87:153–156. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparison of performances between partial double-pass and full
double-pass systems in two-stage L-band EDFA
Authors: Md Samsuri N , Harun S W , Ahmad H
Published: August 2004

The two-stage L-band EDFA with partial double-pass (DP)
system is compared with the full DP system. The partial DP system
has a higher gain and lower noise figure at small input signal
power compared with the full DP system. The small signal gain and
noise figure are obtained at about 31.2 dB and 6.2 dB,
respectively, for the partial DP system. The reduction of gain in
full DP system is due to the double-propagation of
conventional-band amplified spontaneous emission in the short
length erbium-doped fiber at the first stage that causes
gain-clamping effect to the system. The higher gain in the partial
DP system contributes to the lower noise figure even compared with
single-pass two-stage system at small input signal powers.
However, at high input signal powers, the lowest noise figure is
observed for the single-pass system.
Optically controlled adaptive mirror
Authors: Reinert F , Graf Th , Lüthy W , Weber H P
Published: August 2004

We report on an adaptive mirror system that allows
generating thermo-optically controlled wavefront corrections. The
influence of the wavefront is based on the thermal dependence of
the refractive index in a thin active layer. The thermal pattern
in the active layer is generated by irradiation with a diode laser
emitting at 805 nm. The active layer consists of a diluted aqueous
solution of NdCl3. A Michelson interferometer is used to
measure the wavefront distortions. A phase shift of 6π with a
lateral resolution of better than 1 mm and a temporal rise/fall
time of a few seconds can be achieved with an absorbed power of
only 150 mW at an intensity of about 10 W/cm2.
Fingerprinting molecules based on direct measurement of absorption
spectrum by frequency-tuning monochromatic THz source
Authors: Shi W , Ding Y J
Published: August 2004

We have demonstrated that by directly measuring the
absorption spectrum of the chemicals in the vapor phase, we are
able to fingerprint molecules. This process is made possible by
frequency-tuning a widely-tunable THz source developed by us
recently. In the THz region, we can use a set of the absorption
peaks due to rotational transitions to truly fingerprint chemical
species.
Bactericidal effect of different laser systems in the deep layers of dentin
Authors: Schoop Ulrich , Kluger Wolf , Moritz Andreas , Nedjelik Natascha , Georgopoulos Apostolos , Sperr Wolfgang
Published: August 2004

Background and Objectives

In recent years, various laser systems have gained importance in the field of laser‐assisted endodontics, namely the Nd:YAG, the diode, the Er:YAG, and the Er,Cr:YSGG laser. Individual studies have been carried out so far, focusing on the respective wavelength, its specific bactericidal capabilities, and potential usefulness is root‐canal disinfection. The present in vitro investigation however, was performed to compare the microbicidal effect of these laser systems under standardized conditions and to draw a conclusion upon their relative effectiveness in the deep layers of dentin.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

In total, 360 slices of root dentin with a thickness of 1 mm were obtained by longitudinal cuts of freshly extracted human premolars. The samples were steam sterilized and subsequently inoculated with a suspension of either Escherichia coli or Enterococcus faecalis. After the incubation, the samples were randomly assigned to the four different laser systems tested. Each laser group consisted of two different operational settings and a control. The dentinal samples underwent “indirect” laser irradiation through the dentin from the bacteria‐free side and were then subjected to a classical quantitative microbiologic evaluation. To assess the temperature increase during the irradiation procedure, additional measurements were carried out using a thermocouple.

Results

Microbiology indicated that all laser systems were capable of significant reductions in both test strains. At an effective output power of 1 W, E. coli was reduced by at least three log steps in most of the samples by the tested wavelengths, with the best results for the Er:YAG laser showing complete eradication of E. coli in 75% of the samples. E. faecalis, a stubborn invader of the root canal, showed minor changes in bacterial count at 1 W. Using the higher setting of 1.5 W, significant reductions of E. coli were again observed with all laser systems, where only the diode and the Er:YAG laser were capable of complete eradication of E. faecalis to a significant extent. There was no significant relation between the temperature increase and the bactericidal effect.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrates that all the wavelengths investigated are suitable for the disinfection of even the deeper layers of dentin and may prove to constitute valuable tools in state‐of‐the‐art endodontics. Lasers Surg. Med. 35:111–116, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Treatment of vitiligo by 308‐nm excimer laser: An evaluation of variables affecting treatment response
Authors: Ostovari N. , Passeron T. , Zakaria W. , Fontas E. , Larouy J.C. , Blot J.F. , Lacour J.Ph. , Ortonne J.P.
Published: August 2004

Background and Objectives

To determine the true efficacy of the 308‐nm excimer laser for the treatment of vitiligo, while taking into account confounding factors such as anatomic site of treatment, age, sex, skin type, MED, and duration of evolution of the vitiligo.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Thirty‐five patients with vitiligo were included. Each lesion was treated twice a week by the 308‐nm excimer laser for a maximum of 24 sessions. Efficacy was blindly evaluated by two independent physicians.

Results

Repigmentation was noted in 46 plaques/52 (88.5%). Repigmentation rate (75%) was obtained in 14 (26.9%). In “UV sensitive” areas (face, neck, trunk), 8/14 lesions (57.1%) had a repigmentation rate, 75% versus 6/38 (15.8%) in “UV resistant” areas (bony prominences and extremities) (P = 0.031). No relationship could be established between response to the treatment and the following variables: age, sex, skin type, MED, and duration of evolution of the vitiligo (respectively, P = 1, 0.666, 0.566, 0.628, 0.521).

Conclusions

An aesthetically reasonable result is achieved essentially in “UV sensitive” areas, thus appearing to be the appropriate places of choice for this treatment. Lasers Surg. Med. 35:152–156, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In vivo multiphoton fluorescence imaging: A novel approach to oral malignancy
Authors: Wilder‐Smith Petra , Osann Kathryn , Hanna Nevine , Abbadi Naglaa El , Brenner Matt , Messadi Diana , Krasieva Tatiana
Published: August 2004

Background and Objective

Current techniques for oral diagnosis require surgical biopsy of lesions, and may fail to detect early malignant change. Non‐invasive, sensitive tools providing early detection of oral cancer and a better understanding of malignant change are needed. These studies evaluated in vivo multiphoton excited fluorescence (MPM) techniques to (1) map epithelial and subepithelial changes through out oral carcinogenesis and (2) serve as an effective diagnostic modality.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

In the hamster model (n = 70), epithelial and subepithelial change was imaged in vivo throughout carcinogenesis. MPM‐ and histopathology‐based diagnoses on a scale of 0 (healthy)–6 (squamous cell carcinoma [s.c.c.]) were scored by two pre‐standardized investigators.

Results

Collagen matrix and fibers, cellular infiltrates, blood vessels, and microtumors were clearly visible. MPM agreed with the histopathology for 88.6% of diagnoses.

Conclusions

In vivo MPM images provide (1) high resolution information on specific components of the carcinogenesis process (2) an excellent basis for oral diagnostics. Lasers Surg. Med. 35:96–103, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cover Picture: Macromol. Chem. Phys. 13/2004
Authors: Bumbu Gina‐Gabriela , Kircher Gunnar , Wolkenhauer Markus , Berger Rüdiger , Gutmann Jochen S.
Published: August 2004

Cover: Scanning force microscopy cantilevers are well known examples of micro engineered mechanical systems (MEMS). MEMS are typically fragile, owing to the small size of their functional parts. With the development of a special setup, it has been possible to grow covalently bound polymer brushes on a cantilever via atom transfer radical polymerization. Such functionalized cantilevers proof to be sensitive to changes in their environment by exhibiting a mechanical response and may therefore serve as model sensors.

Further details can be found in the Full Paper by G.‐G. Bumbu,* G. Kircher, M. Wolkenhauer, R. Berger, and J. S. Gutmann on page 1713.
Mass spectrometry in metabolome analysis
Authors: Villas‐Bôas Silas G. , Mas Sandrine , Åkesson Mats , Smedsgaard Jørn , Nielsen Jens
Published: August 2004

In the post‐genomic era, increasing efforts have been made to describe the relationship between the genome and the phenotype in cells and organisms. It has become clear that even a complete understanding of the state of the genes, messages, and proteins in a living system does not reveal its phenotype. Therefore, researchers have started to study the metabolome (or the metabolic complement of functional genomics). Within this context, mass spectrometry (MS) has increasingly occupied a central position in the methodologies developed for determination of the metabolic state. This review is mainly focused on the status of MS in the metabolome field, trying to direct the reader to the main approaches for analysis of metabolites, reviewing basic methodologies in sample preparation, and the most recent MS techniques introduced. Apart from the description of the different methods, this review will try to state a general comparison between the several different techniques that involve MS and metabolite analysis, and will highlight their limitations and preferred applicability. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 24:613–646, 2005
System for prostate brachytherapy and biopsy in a standard 1.5 T MRI scanner
Authors: Susil Robert C. , Camphausen Kevin , Choyke Peter , McVeigh Elliot R. , Gustafson Gary S. , Ning Holly , Miller Robert W. , Atalar Ergin , Coleman C. Norman , Ménard Cynthia
Published: August 2004

A technique for transperineal high‐dose‐rate (HDR) prostate brachytherapy and needle biopsy in a standard 1.5 T MRI scanner is demonstrated. In each of eight procedures (in four patients with intermediate to high risk localized prostate cancer), four MRI‐guided transperineal prostate biopsies were obtained followed by placement of 14–15 hollow transperineal catheters for HDR brachytherapy. Mean needle‐placement accuracy was 2.1 mm, 95% of needle‐placement errors were less than 4.0 mm, and the maximum needle‐placement error was 4.4 mm. In addition to guiding the placement of biopsy needles and brachytherapy catheters, MR images were also used for brachytherapy treatment planning and optimization. Because 1.5 T MR images are directly acquired during the interventional procedure, dependence on deformable registration is reduced and online image quality is maximized. Magn Reson Med 52:683–687, 2004. Published 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Quantification of human atherosclerotic plaques using spatially enhanced cluster analysis of multicontrast‐weighted magnetic resonance images
Authors: Itskovich Vitalii V. , Samber Daniel D. , Mani Venkatesh , Aguinaldo Juan Gilberto S. , Fallon John T. , Tang Cheuk Y. , Fuster Valentin , Fayad Zahi A.
Published: August 2004

One of the current limitations of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the lack of an objective method to classify plaque components. Here we present a cluster analysis technique that can objectively quantify and classify MR images of atherosclerotic plaques. We obtained three‐dimensional (3D) images from 12 human coronary artery specimens on a 9.4T imaging system using multicontrast‐weighted fast spin‐echo (T1‐, proton density‐, and T2‐weighted) imaging with an isotropic voxel size of 39 μ. Spatially enhanced cluster analysis (SECA) was performed on multicontrast MR images, and the resulting segmentation was evaluated against histological tracings. To visualize the overall structure of plaques, the MR images were rendered in 3D. The specimens exhibited lesions of American Heart Association (AHA) plaque classification types I‐VI. Both MR images and histological sections were independently reviewed, categorized, and compared. Overall, the classification obtained from the cluster‐analyzed MR and histopathology images showed very good agreement for all AHA types (92%, Cohen's κ = 0.89, P < 0.0001). All plaque types were identified and quantified by SECA with a high degree of correlation between cluster‐analyzed MR and manually traced histopathology data. MRI combined with SECA provides an objective method for atherosclerotic plaque component characterization and quantification. Magn Reson Med 52:515–523, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.