bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of inert fillers on diffusion and controlled release of penetrant in polymer matrices
Authors: Rajendran Sharad , Gilbert Robert G. , Cribb Bronwen , Truss Rowan , Noller Barry , Stewart Aaron , Zalucki Myron
Published: March 2008

This study investigates the characteristics of leaching into a solvent of an active used as termiticide, Bifenthrin® (a synthetic pyrethroid) entrapped in polymer, and the effect of layered silicates on this diffusion. Two contrasting solvents, water and acetone, were used to understand this phenomenon; the active is soluble in acetone but has very low solubility in water. The data are used to understand the migration characteristics of Bifenthrin when encapsulated in polyurethane to form a termite barrier. The absorption characteristics of Bifenthrin in polyethylene were also studied for comparison. Bifenthrin‐polyurethaneblends containing 0, 0.5, and 5% of layered silicates were prepared and monitored for the release of Bifenthrin. Using the time‐concentration dependence of the active in polymer, diffusion coefficients of Bifenthrin from the polymer were inferred assuming Fickian diffusion. The presence of silicates had no significant effect on the diffusion behavior. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Autism genetics: strategies, challenges, and opportunities
Authors: O'Roak Brian J. , State Matthew W.
Published: March 2008

Although genes have long been appreciated to play a critical role in determining the risk for pervasive developmental disorders, the specific transcripts contributing to autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have been quite difficult to characterize. However, recent findings are now providing the first insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying these syndromes and have begun to shed light on the allelic architecture of ASD. In this article, we address what is known about the relative contributions of various types of genetic variation to ASD, consider the obstacles facing gene discovery in this complex disorder, and evaluate the common methodologies employed to address these issues, including linkage, molecular and array‐based cytogenetics, and association strategies. We review the current literature, highlighting recent findings implicating both rare mutations and common genetic polymorphisms in the etiology of autism. Finally, we describe key advances in genomic technologies that are transforming all areas of human genetics and consider both the opportunities and challenges for autism research posed by these rapid changes.
Torsionsträgheitsmoment und Schubmittelpunkt von Winkelprofilen
Authors: Kindmann Rolf , Kraus Matthias
Published: March 2008

Die genauen Torsionskenngrößen von gewalzten Winkelprofilen, die sich auf Basis von Berechnungen mit der Finite‐Elemente‐Methode (FEM) bestimmen lassen, zeigen teilweise relativ große Abweichungen zu den Näherungslösungen, die im Allgemeinen bei baupraktischen Problemstellungen zur Anwendung kommen. Aus diesem Grund werden die genaue Lage des Schubmittelpunktes sowie genaue Torsionsträgheitsmomente für die Winkelprofile nach DIN EN 10056‐1 zusammengestellt. Darüber hinaus lässt die Kenntnis dieser Größen eine Verbesserung der bekannten Näherungsformeln sowie die Entwicklung neuer Bestimmungsgleichungen für das Torsionsträgheitsmoment zu.
In vivo real-time confocal laser scanning endomicroscopic colonoscopy for the detection and characterization of colorectal neoplasia
Authors: Hurlstone D P , Baraza W , Brown S , Thomson M , Tiffin N , Cross S S
Published: March 2008

Background

Conventional colonoscopy has a significant false-negative rate for intraepithelial neoplasia. Chromoendoscopy increases sensitivity but lacks specificity. The aim was to assess prospectively the clinical applicability and predictive power of the EC3870CIFK confocal laser endomicroscope (CLE) for the in vivo diagnosis of intraepithelial neoplasia during colonoscopy.

Methods

Lesions were identified using chromoscopy followed by CLE imaging and graded according to vascular and cellular changes. CLE imaging of circumscribed lesions and four segmental ‘normal’ colorectal quadrants was performed. Targeted biopsy specimens were then compared with histopathological results.

Results

Forty patients completed the protocol (22 men and 18 women; median age 62 (range 39–82) years). The median duration of ileal intubation and total procedure time were 12 (range 5–26) and 55 (range 28–92) min respectively. Chromoscopic colonoscopy revealed 162 lesions in 39 patients. CLE imaging was obtained on all 162 lesions. Some 5422 confocal images were compared with 802 targeted biopsy specimens. Intraepithelial neoplasia was predicted with an accuracy of 99·1 per cent (sensitivity 97·4 per cent and specificity 99·3 per cent) (P = 0·711).

Conclusion

Confocal laser endomicroscopy permits high-quality cellular, subsurface vascular and stromal imaging, enabling prediction of intraepithelial neoplasia with a high level of accuracy.
Outcome after percutaneous closure of a patent foramen ovale using the Intrasept™ device
Authors: Luermans Justin G.L.M. , Post Martijn C. , Schräder Rainer , Sluysmans Thierry , Vydt Tom , Vermeersch Paul , Chessa Massimo , Onorato Eustaquio , Goy Jean‐Jacques , Budts Werner I.H.L.
Published: March 2008

Objectives: This multi‐centre study reports safety and efficacy of percutaneous patent foramen ovale (PFO) closure, using the fourth generation Intrasept™ device. Background: PFO has been associated with paradoxical embolism and cryptogenic stroke. Percutaneous PFO closure seems to reduce the risk for recurrent paradoxical thrombo‐embolism. Currently, different devices are used for PFO closure. Methods: Patients, who underwent a PFO closure with the Intrasept device (Cardia, Eagan, MN) between July 2002 and September 2006, were included in the study. The primary endpoint was defined as reoccurrence of stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), or peripheral thrombo‐embolism. Peri‐procedural and mid‐term complications were reported. Results: Four‐hundred thirty patients (mean age 50.7 ± 13.0 years, 231 men) underwent closure. The indications were cryptogenic stroke (69.8%), TIA (23.5%), peripheral embolism (3.3%), and other (3.5%). The median follow‐up time was 0.8 years, range 3.9 years. The primary endpoint occurred in 0.5% for stroke, in 2.5% for TIA, and in none for peripheral embolism. Peri‐procedural complications were reported in 11.5% of cases, from which 0.2% was defined as major. No severe complications occurred during mid‐term follow‐up. A residual shunt was present in 12.5% of patients who did not suffer from a recurrent event, compared to 36.4% of patients who reached the primary endpoint (P = 0.04). Conclusion: This multi‐centre study suggests that percutaneous closure of a symptomatic PFO with the fourth generation Intrasept device is safe and might be effective to prevent the recurrence of paradoxical thrombo‐embolic events. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Addressing the hemodynamic dilemma of combined mitral and aortic stenosis
Authors: Suh William M. , Kern Morton J.
Published: March 2008

Accurate assessment of valvular hemodynamics is essential in the decision‐making process when referring a patient for cardiac surgery who has suspected coexistent aortic and mitral valve disease. Often times, one valvular lesion is worse than the other, and the question of “prophylactically” replacing the less severe valve at the time of surgery is controversial. In these situations and because of uncertainty regarding noninvasive assessment, hemodynamic evaluation in the cardiac catheterization laboratory provides critical information in guiding therapy. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Methods to reduce patients' maximum skin dose during percutaneous coronary intervention for chronic total occlusion
Authors: Suzuki Shigeru , Furui Shigeru , Isshiki Takaaki , Kozuma Ken , Koyama Yutaka , Ochiai Masahiko , Asakura Yasushi
Published: March 2008

Objectives: The purpose of this research is to assess the patient's entrance skin dose (ESD) during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for chronic total occlusion (CTO), and discuss methods to reduce the maximum ESDs. Background: Only a few reports are available on the methods to reduce patients' maximum ESD during the procedures. Methods: This study included consecutive 30 patients who underwent PCI procedures for CTO in the three institutions. Pearson correlation test was employed to determine the relationship between total fluoroscopic time (TFT) and the maximum ESD, dose area product (DAP) value, and the maximum ESD in each institution. Results: There were significant correlations between the TFT and maximum ESD (Institution 1: P = 0.000410, Institution 2: P = 0.000525), and between the DAP and the maximum ESD (Institution 2: P < 0.0001). In Institution 1, TFT of 60 min was set as the upper limit, and the maximum ESDs were controlled within 7 Gy. In Institution 2, the angiographic unit was a biplane system, and two skin sites were exposed, corresponding to the angulation of each X‐ray tube. In Institution 3, the interventionalist changed the beam angulations frequently by several degrees during the procedures, and the maximum ESD was controlled within 3 Gy even during procedures with a TFT of more than 1 hr. Conclusions: The TFT and DAP, the latter of which is preferable, are useful to estimate the maximum ESD. Limiting the TFT or DAP, or changing the beam angulations is important to control ESD during prolonged procedures. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Progress in the retrograde approach for chronic total coronary artery occlusion
Authors: Matsumi Jyunya , Saito Shigeru
Published: March 2008

After the introduction of the retrograde approach in percutaneous coronary intervention for chronic total occlusion (CTO), different kinds of strategies and techniques have been developed in order to achieve final success. However, it has not been fully demonstrated whether these strategies and techniques can really improve the final result. We observed one case, for which the initial attempt of the retrograde approach for a CTO lesion was unsuccessful despite the successful approach of a retrograde guidewire to the lesion, and with the second retrograde approach 3 years later being eventually successful by using various kinds of strategies and techniques. This case clearly demonstrates how the final success through the retrograde approach can be achieved by using a combination of the improved strategies and techniques for CTO lesions. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Enhancing Fluorescence Brightness: Effect of Reverse Intersystem Crossing Studied by Fluorescence Fluctuation Spectroscopy
Authors: Ringemann Christian , Schönle Andreas , Giske Arnold , von Middendorff Claas , Hell Stefan W. , Eggeling Christian
Published: March 2008

Experiments based on fluorescence detection are limited by the population of the fluorescence marker’s long‐lived dark triplet state, leading to pronounced photobleaching reactions and blinking which reduces the average fluorescence signal obtained per time interval. By irradiation with a second, red‐shifted laser line, we initiate reverse intersystem crossing (ReISC) which enhances the fluorescence signal of common fluorophores up to a factor of 14. The reverse intersystem crossing from the triplet state back to the singlet system is achieved by photoexcitation to higher‐excited triplet states, which are, however, prone to photobleaching. We gain insights into the competing pathways of ReISC and photobleaching. The relative efficiencies of these two pathways and the triplet lifetime determine the achievable fluorescence enhancement, which varies strongly with the choice of dye, excitation irradiance and wavelength, and with environmental conditions. The study of ReISC not only results in a better understanding of a fluorescent label’s photophysics, but the method is a possible approach to optimize fluorescence emission in experiments, where signal strength is a critical parameter.
Retina development in zebrafish requires the heparan sulfate proteoglycan agrin
Authors: Liu I‐Hsuan , Zhang Chengjin , Kim Min Jung , Cole Gregory J.
Published: March 2008

Recent studies from our laboratory have begun to elucidate the role of agrin in zebrafish development. One agrin morphant phenotype that results from agrin knockdown is microphthalmia (reduced eye size). To begin to understand the mechanisms underlying the role of agrin in eye development, we have analyzed retina development in agrin morphants. Retinal differentiation is impaired in agrin morphants, with retinal lamination being disrupted following agrin morpholino treatment. Pax 6.1 and Mbx1 gene expression, markers of eye development, are markedly reduced in agrin morphants. Formation of the optic fiber layer of the zebrafish retina is also impaired, exhibited as both reduced size of the optic fiber layer, and disruption of retinal ganglion cell axon growth to the optic tectum. The retinotectal topographic projection to the optic tectum is perturbed in agrin morphants in association with a marked loss of heparan sulfate expression in the retinotectal pathway, with this phenotype resembling retinotectal phenotypes observed in mutant zebrafish lacking enzymes for heparan sulfate synthesis. Treatment of agrin morphants with a fibroblast growth factor (Fgf) receptor inhibitor, rescue of the retinal lamination phenotype by transplantation of Fgf8‐coated beads, and disruption of both the expression of Fgf‐dependent genes and activation of ERK in agrin morphants provides evidence that agrin modulation of Fgf function contributes to retina development. Collectively, these agrin morphant phenotypes provide support for a crucial role of agrin in retina development and formation of an ordered retinotectal topographic map in the optic tectum of zebrafish. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2008.
Low‐level defective processing of non‐verbal sounds in dyslexic children
Authors: Uclés Paulino , Méndez Mario , Garay José
Published: March 2008

We compared processing of non‐verbal auditory stimuli by dyslexic and non‐dyslexic children using electrophysiological methods. The study included 39 children (17 with dyslexia plus 22 controls) assessed via frontal, central, parietal, and temporal electrodes. As an extension of previous P300 event‐related potential studies, we analysed variations in the power values of 40‐Hz oscillations (gamma‐band oscillations involved in cognitive processing) during a specific time window in response to the auditory ‘oddball’ paradigm that entail target (random 2 kHz) and standard (frequent 1 kHz) stimuli. Dyslexic children differed significantly from controls (P<0.001) in the mean power of the wavelet‐transformed 40‐Hz oscillation in a time interval starting at 25 ms after stimulus onset up to 50 ms. This means defective processing of sounds. Within groups, standard and target tones elicited significantly different power values (P<0.001). Correlations of values between standard and target responses at each electrode position were not significant within either group, although dyslexics showed a lower correlation than controls. Significant differences in the mean power of these oscillations detected at very early stages of auditory processing in dyslexic children and the wide range of mean values reveal impairment in processing non‐verbal sounds in dyslexia. Our results also support recent findings using behavioural and electrophysiological methods suggesting that dyslexia is a general auditory deficit instead of a speech‐specific deficit. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Selective enzymatic synthesis of lower acylglycerols rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids
Authors: Hernández‐Martín Estela , Otero Cristina
Published: March 2008

Selective elimination of saturated fatty acid (FA) residues from vegetable oils (sesame, borage, olive, and sunflower) produces lower acylglycerols rich in unsaturated and polyunsaturated FA residues. Novozym® 435 releases greater amounts of saturated FA residues than unsaturated residues relative to other biocatalysts. Highest selectivity is obtained for 50 wt‐% Novozym® 435 with respect to the oil and [ethanol]/[FA] = 25. Under these conditions, 88–90% of saturated residues are released versus only 44–45% of unsaturated residues. Product acylglycerols have ratios of unsaturated to saturated residues of 21.5–23.0 relative to 5.22–4.73 for the precursor oils. Ethanolysis is faster with Novozym® 435. This biocatalyst is much less susceptible to inactivation by ethanol than other biocatalysts. However, in excess ethanol ([EtOH]/[FA] = 4.5–25), the rate and conversion both increased when the ethanol concentration decreased. The best combination of conversion and selectivity is obtained with 50 wt‐% Novozym® 435 and [ethanol]/[FA] = 4.5. Under these conditions, the product obtained in 1 h contains ca. 48% triacylglycerols, 24% diacylglycerols and 28% monoacylglycerols; the mol percentage of unsaturated FA residues is 12.3 times greater than that of saturated residues. The sn‐2 position is essentially free of saturated FA residues. After use for ten reaction cycles, Novozym® 435 retains 80% of its initial activity.
Identification of new regional marker proteins to map mouse brain by 2‐D difference gel electrophoresis screening
Authors: Jacobs Sandy , Van de Plas Babs , Van der Gucht Estel , Clerens Stefan , Cnops Lieselotte , Van den Bergh Gert , Arckens Lutgarde
Published: March 2008

To screen for new region‐specific protein markers we compared the proteome maps of the primary visual and somatosensory areas V1 and S1 in mouse brain using 2‐D difference gel electrophoresis (2‐D DIGE). Twenty‐three protein spots showed a statistically significant difference in expression level between V1 and S1, with 52% appearing more abundantly in V1. Twenty‐six proteins were mass spectrometrically identified in 22 spots. To assess the validity of this list of potential areal markers generated by 2‐D DIGE, the effective area‐specific distribution profile of creatine kinase brain subtype (CKB), a protein with a clearly higher expression level in S1, was monitored with in situ hybridization. The mRNA expression profile of CKB displayed a clear area‐specific distribution, which allowed demarcation of S1 and its topographical borders with neighboring neocortical areas. This proteomic study demonstrates the innovative application of 2‐D DIGE and MS to select new regional markers for neuroscience research.
Protein‐aptamer binding studies using microchip affinity capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Gong Maojun , Nikcevic Irena , Wehmeyer Kenneth R. , Limbach Patrick A. , Heineman William R.
Published: March 2008

The use of traditional CE to detect weak binding complexes is problematic due to the fast‐off rate resulting in the dissociation of the complex during the separation process. Additionally, proteins involved in binding interactions often nonspecifically stick to the bare‐silica capillary walls, which further complicates the binding analysis. Microchip CE allows flexibly positioning the detector along the separation channel and conveniently adjusting the separation length. A short separation length plus a high electric field enables rapid separations thus reducing both the dissociation of the complex and the amount of protein loss due to nonspecific adsorption during the separation process. Thrombin and a selective thrombin‐binding aptamer were used to demonstrate the capability of microchip CE for the study of relatively weak binding systems that have inherent limitations when using the migration shift method or other CE methods. The rapid separation of the thrombin–aptamer complex from the free aptamer was achieved in less than 10 s on a single‐cross glass microchip with a relatively short detection length (1.0 cm) and a high electric field (670 V/cm). The dissociation constant was determined to be 43 nM, consistent with reported results. In addition, aptamer probes were used for the quantitation of standard thrombin samples by constructing a calibration curve, which showed good linearity over two orders of magnitude with an LOD for thrombin of 5 nM at a three‐fold S/N.
Transoral laser surgery for supraglottic cancer
Authors: Rodrigo Juan P. , Suárez Carlos , Silver Carl E. , Rinaldo Alessandra , Ambrosch Petra , Fagan Johannes J. , Genden Eric M. , Ferlito Alfio
Published: March 2008

The goal of treatment for supraglottic cancer is to achieve cure and to preserve laryngeal function. Organ preservation strategies include both endoscopic and open surgical approaches as well as radiation and chemotherapy. The challenge is to select the correct modalities for each patient. Endoscopic procedures should be limited to tumors that can be completely visualized during diagnostic microlaryngoscopy. If complete resection can be achieved, the oncologic results of transoral laser surgery appear to be comparable to those of classic supraglottic laryngectomy. In addition, functional results of transoral laser resection are superior to those of the conventional open approach, in terms of the time required to restore swallowing, tracheotomy rate, incidence of pharyngocutaneous fistulae, and shorter hospital stay. The management of the neck remains of paramount importance, as survival of patients with supraglottic cancer depends more on cervical metastasis than on the primary tumor. Most authors advocate bilateral elective neck dissection. However, in selected cases (T1,T2 clinically negative [N0] lateral supraglottic cancers), ipsilateral selective neck dissection could be performed without compromising survival. The authors conclude that with careful selection of patients, laser supraglottic laryngectomy is a suitable, and often the preferred, treatment option for supraglottic cancer. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2008
The therapeutic potential of the proteasome in leukaemia
Authors: McCloskey Scott Marshall , McMullin Mary Frances , Walker Brian , Irvine Alexandra E
Published: March 2008

Many cellular processes converge on the proteasome, and its key regulatory role is increasingly being recognized. Proteasome inhibition allows the manipulation of many cellular pathways including apoptotic and cell cycle mechanisms. The proteasome inhibitor bortezomib has enhanced responses in newly diagnosed patients with myeloma and provides a new line of therapy in relapsed and refractory patients. Malignant cells are more sensitive to proteasome inhibition than normal haematopoietic cells. Proteasome inhibition enhances many conventional therapies and its role in leukaemia is promising. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Childhood cancers in Chennai, India, 1990–2001: Incidence and survival
Authors: Swaminathan Rajaraman , Rama Ranganathan , Shanta Viswanathan
Published: March 2008

Childhood cancers (age at diagnosis: 0–14 years) comprise a variety of malignancies, with incidence varying worldwide by age, sex, ethnicity and geography, that provide insights into cancer etiology. A total of 1,334 childhood cancers registered in population‐based cancer registry, Chennai, India, during 1990–2001 and categorized by International Classification of Childhood Cancer norms formed the study material. Cases included for survival analysis were 1,274 (95.5%). Absolute survival was calculated by actuarial method. Cox proportional hazard model was used to elicit the prognostic factors for survival. The age‐standardized rates for all childhood cancers together were 127 per million boys and 88 per million girls. A decreasing trend in incidence rates with increasing 5‐year age groups was observed in both sexes. The top 5 childhood cancers were the same among boys and girls: leukemias, lymphomas, central nervous system neoplasms, retinoblastomas and renal tumors. The highest 5‐year absolute survival was observed in Hodgkin's disease (65%) followed by Wilm's tumor (64%), retinoblastomas (48%), non‐Hodgkin's lymphomas (47%), osteosarcomas (44%), acute lymphoid leukemia and astrocytoma (39%). Multifactorial analysis of age at diagnosis and sex showed no differences in the risk of dying for all childhood cancers. Completeness of treatment and type of hospital combination emerged as a prognostic factor for survival for all childhood cancers together (p< 0.001), acute lymphoid leukemia (p< 0.001) and non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma (p= 0.04). A Childhood Cancer Registry with high‐resolution data collection is advocated for in‐depth analysis of variation in incidence and survival. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Intra‐operative rapid diagnostic method based on CK19 mRNA expression for the detection of lymph node metastases in breast cancer
Authors: Visser Mike , Jiwa Mehdi , Horstman Anja , Brink Antoinette A.T.P. , Pol Rene P. , van Diest Paul , Snijders Peter J.F. , Meijer Chris J.L.M.
Published: March 2008

Staging by sentinel node (SN) biopsy is the standard procedure for clinically node‐negative breast cancer patients. Intra‐operative analysis of the SN allows immediate axillary lymph node (ALN) dissection in SN positive patients, but a quick, reliable and reproducible method is lacking. We tested the suitability of a quantitative cytokeratin 19 (CK19) mRNA one step nucleic acid amplification (OSNA#) technique (OSNA‐CK19) for intra‐operative SN analysis. OSNA‐CK19 involves a short manual sample preparation step and subsequent fully automated amplification of CK19 mRNA based on reverse transcription loop‐mediated isothermal amplification, with results available within 30–40 min. OSNA‐CK19 was compared to histological staining (Hematoxylin&Eosin and CAM5.2 and CK19 immunostaining) of 346 frozen ALNs from 32 breast cancer patients, using half of the lymph node for each method. 267 samples were negative and 61 positive by both methods. Three samples were histology positive and OSNA‐CK19 negative. Fifteen samples were histology negative and OSNA‐CK19 positive, 11 of which had copy numbers close to the cut‐off level of OSNA‐CK19. Seven of these 15 samples were RT‐PCR positive for epithelial markers and/or showed CK19 protein expression by Western blot suggesting the presence of tumor deposits in the lymph node part investigated by OSNA‐CK19. Concordance with histology was 94.8%, and 96.8% after exclusion of the latter 7 discordant cases. Sensitivity was 95.3% and specificity was 94.7% before and 97.1% after discordant case investigation. Our results indicate that OSNA‐CK19 can potentially be useful in an intra‐operative clinical setting to detect SN tumor involvement in breast cancer patients. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Qualitative detection of Mg content in a leaf of Hedera helix by using X‐ray radiation from a laser plasma source
Authors: Reale Lucia , Lai Antonia , Sighicelli Maria , Faenov Anatoly , Pikuz Tatiana , Flora Francesco , Zuppella Paola , Limongi Tania , Palladino Libero , Poma Anna , Kaiser Josef , Galiova Michaela , Balerna Antonella , Cinque Gianfelice
Published: March 2008

In this article, a method to reveal the presence of Mg content inside the different parts of leaves of Hedera helix is presented. In fact a sample of a Hedera helix's leaf, commonly characterized by a green and a white side, is analyzed under X‐ray radiation. The presence of two zones with different colors in the Hedera helix's leaf has not been explained. In this connection, there are presently three hypotheses to explain the characteristic double‐color appearance of the leaf. The first hypothesis suggests a different cytoplasmic inheritance of chloroplasts at the cell division, the second a different allelic composition, homozygote and heterozygote, between the two zones, and finally the third the action of a virus which changes the color properties in the Hedera's leaves. The resulting effect is a different content of “something” between the green and the white side. We utilized X‐ray radiation, obtained from a plasma source with a Mg target, to image Hedera helix leaves and we found that the green side of the leaf is highlighted. We may suppose that the reason why the X‐rays from a Mg plasma source, allow us to pick up the green side is probably due to the greater presence of the amount of Mg (from chlorophyll or other complexes and/or salts) in the two sides, green and white, of the leaf. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mechanism of a gas‐phase dissociation reaction of 4‐aminobutyl glycosides under CID MS/MS conditions
Authors: Shioiri Yuki , Suzuki Katsuhiko , Kanie Osamu
Published: March 2008

The assembly of monosaccharides during the synthetic process of glycan structures is responsible for the diversity of this family of molecules. Because of the complexity of the glycan structure, synthesis of oligosaccharides and structural analysis have been difficult tasks. During efforts to develop glycosides carrying an aglycon that can be used in both functional and structural investigations, we found that 4‐aminobutyl glycosides fulfill these criteria. We also observed that the glycosidic linkage underwent an interesting dissociation reaction under collision‐induced MS/MS, and that the reaction product is very useful in structural investigation based on mass spectrometry, especially since it provides information regarding anomeric configurations. Despite its importance, the reaction mechanism of the dissociation is not fully understood. For this reason, we studied the mechanism by synthesizing possible products and used them in detailed analyses based on energy‐resolved mass spectrometry where the energy dependence of the dissociation reaction was analyzed under collision‐induced dissociation conditions. As a result of spectral match with one of synthesized reference compounds, it was suggested that the dissociation reaction to generate a C‐ion species and a pyrrolidine took place through a five‐membered transition state in two‐step reaction sequence. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Erratum: Tibiofemoral force following total knee arthroplasty: Comparison of four prosthesis designs in vitro
Authors: Nicholls Rochelle L. , Schirm Andreas C. , Jeffcote Benjamin O. , Kuster Markus S.
Published: March 2008

The authors have inadvertently left out several acknowledgments and wish to add them here

This study was supported by DePuy International, the University of Western Australia, the Fremantle Hospital, and Mrs. Huggler.

We would like to thank Dr. Hilaire Jacob for his help with the development of the mini‐force platform.

We would also like to thank the Australian Orthopaedic Association (AOA) for the financial support of Dr. Jeffcote.
Holocene climate inferred from glacier extent, lake sediment and tree rings at Goat Lake, Kenai Mountains, Alaska, USA
Authors: Daigle Thomas A. , Kaufman Darrell S.
Published: March 2008

Lake sediment, glacier extent and tree rings were used to reconstruct Holocene climate changes from Goat Lake at 550 m asl in the Kenai Mountains, south‐central Alaska. Radiocarbon‐dated sediment cores taken at 55 m water depth show glacial‐lacustrine conditions until about 9500 cal. yr BP, followed by organic‐rich sedimentation with an overall increasing trend in organic matter and biogenic silica content leading up to the Little Ice Age (LIA). Through most of the Holocene, the northern outlet of the Harding Icefield remained below the drainage divide that currently separates it from Goat Lake. A sharp transition from gyttja to inorganic mud about AD 1660 signifies the reappearance of glacier meltwater into Goat Lake during the LIA, marking the maximum Holocene (postglacial) extent. Meltwater continued to discharge into the lake until about AD 1900. A 207 yr tree‐ring series from 25 mountain hemlocks growing in the Goat Lake watershed correlates with other regional tree‐ring series that indicate an average summer temperature reduction of about 1°C during the 19th century compared with the early–mid 20th century. Cirque glaciers around Goat Lake reached their maximum LIA extent in the late 19th century. Assuming that glacier equilibrium‐line altitudes (ELA) are controlled solely by summer temperature, then the cooling of 1°C combined with the local environmental lapse rate would indicate an ELA lowering of 170 m. In contrast, reconstructed ELAs of 12 cirque glaciers near Goat Lake average only 34 ± 18 m lower during the LIA. The restricted ELA lowering can be explained by a reduction in accumulation‐season precipitation caused by a weakening of the Aleutian low‐pressure system during the late LIA. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sustained and Focused Hepatitis B Virus Nucleocapsid–Specific T-Cell Immunity in Liver Transplant Recipients Compared To Individuals With Chronic and Self-Limited Hepatitis B Virus Infection
Authors: Bihl Florian , Loggi Elisabetta , Chisholm John V. , Biselli Maurizio , Morelli Maria C. , Cursaro Carmela , Terrault Norah A. , Bernardi Mauro , Bertoletti Antonio , Andreone Pietro , Brander Christian
Published: March 2008

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) recurrence after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) is associated with poor graft- and patient-survival. Treatment with HBV-specific immunoglobulins (HBIG) in combination with nucleos(t)ide analogs is effective in preventing HBV reinfection of the graft and improving OLT outcome. However, the role of HBV-specific cellular immunity in viral containment in immune suppressed patients in general and in OLT recipients in particular is unclear. To test whether or not OLT recipients maintain robust HBV-specific cellular immunity, the cellular immune response against HBV was assessed in 15 OLT recipients and 27 individuals with chronic and 24 subjects with self-limited HBV infection, respectively; using an overlapping peptide set spanning the viral nucleocapsid- and envelope-protein sequences. The data demonstrate that OLT recipients mounted fewer but stronger clusters of differentiation (CD)8 T cell responses than subjects with self-limited HBV infection and showed a preferential targeting of the nucleocapsid antigen. This focused response pattern was similar to responses seen in chronically infected subjects with undetectable viremia, but significantly different from patients who presented with elevated HBV viremia and who mounted mainly immune responses against the envelope protein. In conclusion, virus-specific CD4 T cell–mediated responses were only detected in subjects with self-limited HBV infection. Thus, the profile of the cellular immunity against HBV was in immune suppressed patients similar to subjects with chronic HBV infection with suppressed HBV-DNA.
Gene expression profiling as a tool for basic analysis and clinical application of human cancer
Authors: García‐Escudero Ramón , Paramio Jesús M.
Published: March 2008

The sequentiation of the human genome, together with the development of high throughput technologies, particularly gene‐expression profiling, is giving us the opportunity to describe biological features in a quantitative manner. Here we review the use of global gene expression analyses in cancer research. Microarray analyses of tumor samples have allowed researchers the development of profiles that can distinguish, identify and classify discrete subsets of disease, predict the disease outcome, or the response to therapy. Profiling of experimental models with activation of certain oncogenic pathways could also be used to ascertain the molecular events involved in the establishment and development of tumors and, consequently, these models could be validated as tools for preclinical therapy. Furthermore, the detailed analysis of gene expression deregulation after response to the therapies in such models would allow us to predict the response to specific drugs, and to target the therapies to patients in search for individualized management of the disease. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Puma is a novel target of soy isoflavone genistein but is dispensable for genistein‐induced cell fate determination
Authors: Tategu Moe , Arauchi Takako , Tanaka Rena , Nakagawa Hiroki , Yoshida Kenichi
Published: March 2008

Here, we attempted to identify novel target genes of genistein in human A549 cells. Using analysis of proteins related to cell cycle and apoptotic pathways, we confirmed an elevated level of p53 accompanying p21 Waf1/Cip1 protein in genistein‐treated or genistin‐treated A549 and WI‐38 cells, but not in HeLa cells. In addition, a p53‐upregulated modulator of apoptosis (Puma) protein accumulated significantly in genistein‐treated A549 and WI‐38 cells, but not in genistin‐treated or β‐estradiol‐treated cells, though the growth of any ingredient‐treated cells was severely inhibited. Intriguingly, the caspase‐3 activity of genistein‐treated A549 cells, in which Puma or p53 expression was knocked‐down by RNA interference (RNAi), remained unaltered compared to that in cells transfected with irrelevant RNAi. These results raise a concern that molecular targets identified by powerful omic approaches may not necessarily represent key molecules responsible for given cellular phenotypes and thus must be verified by conclusive assays.
Anti‐apoptotic effect of melatonin on preimplantation development of porcine parthenogenetic embryos
Authors: Choi Jiho , Park Seon‐Mi , Lee Eugine , Kim Ji‐Hye , Jeong Yeon‐Ik , Lee Jong‐Yun , Park Sun‐Woo , Kim Huen‐Suk , Hossein Mohammad Shamim , Jeong Yeon‐Woo , Kim Sue , Hyun Sang‐Hwan , Hwang Woo‐Suk
Published: March 2008

In the present study, we investigated the effect of melatonin on the preimplantation development of porcine parthenogenetic and somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) embryos. Parthenogenetic embryos were cultured in mNCSU‐23 supplemented with various concentrations of melatonin for 7 days. The results revealed that 100 pM was the optimal concentration, which resulted in significantly increased cleavage and blastocyst formation rates. Additionally, 100 pM melatonin provided the highest increase in total cell number of blastocysts. Therefore, the subsequent experiments were performed with 100 pM melatonin. ROS level in 2–8 cell stage embryos in the presence or absence of melatonin was evaluated. Embryos cultured with melatonin showed significantly decreased ROS. Blastocysts cultured with melatonin for 7 days were analyzed by the TUNEL assay. It was observed that melatonin not only increased (P < 0.05) the total cell number but also decreased (P < 0.05) the rate of apoptotic nuclei. Blastocysts cultured with melatonin were assessed for the expression of apoptosis‐related genes Bcl‐xl and Bax, and of pluripotency marker gene Oct‐4 by real‐time quantitative PCR. Analysis of data showed that the expression of Bcl‐xl was higher (1.7‐fold) compared to the control while the expression of Bax was significantly decreased relative to the control (0.7‐fold) (P < 0.05). Moreover, the expression of Oct‐4 was 1.7‐fold higher than the control. These results indicated that melatonin had beneficial effects on the development of porcine parthenogenetic embryos. Based on the findings of parthenogenetic embryos, we investigated the effect of melatonin on the development of porcine SCNT embryos. The results also demonstrated increased cleavage and blastocyst formation rates, and the total cell numbers in blastocysts were significantly higher when the embryos were cultured with melatonin. Therefore, these data suggested that melatonin may have important implications for improving porcine preimplantation SCNT embryo development. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 75: 1127–1135, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Intratesticular localization of the organic solute carrier protein, OSCP1, in spermatogenic cells in mice
Authors: Hiratsuka Kazuyuki , Yin Shan‐Ai , Ohtomo Takayuki , Fujita Mariko , Ohtsuki Kazutoshi , Isaka Hiroyuki , Suga Tetsuya , Kurosawa Tohru , Yamada Junji
Published: March 2008

Organic solute carrier protein 1 (OSCP1) is a recently described human gene that facilitates the transport of various organic solutes into the cell, when expressed in frog eggs. In this study, we cloned a mouse ortholog of OSCP1 encoding 379 amino acid protein, with 94% homology to the human counterpart. The mouse OSCP1 mRNA was predominantly expressed in the testis, in which it was attributed to the spermatogenic cells, except the spermatogonia. Immunohistochemistry confirmed that OSCP1 protein is continuously expressed during spermatogenesis in a stage‐ and cell type‐specific manner, in the leptotene spermatocytes at stage IX through step 15 spermatids. Subcellular fractionation of mouse testis homogenates indicated that OSCP1 is a 45‐kDa cytosolic protein. Moreover, when green fluorescent protein‐OSCP1 fusion constructs were transfected into cultured cells, the fluorescence localized evenly in the cytoplasm. These results suggest that mouse testis OSCP1 may indirectly mediate substrate uptake into meiotic and spermiogenic germ cells, within the cytosol. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 75: 1495–1504 © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Experimental and theoretical investigation of the high‐pressure behavior of concrete
Authors: Schmidt Martin J. , Cazacu Oana , Green Mark L.
Published: March 2008

The results of an experimental study aimed at characterizing the behavior of concrete for high confining pressures (up to 500 MPa) are reported. The main characteristics of the response under deviatoric conditions are quasi‐linearity in the elastic regime, stress‐path dependency, and gradual change from compressibility to dilatancy under increasing deviatoric stress. By performing the cyclic triaxial compression tests with several load–creep–unload and reload cycles, the time influence on the overall behavior was detected. Further, whether the main features of the observed behavior can be described within the framework of elastic/viscoplasticity theory was investigated. For this purpose, Cristescu's (Rock Rheology. Kluwer Academic Publishers: The Netherlands, 1989) approach was used. It was shown that the proposed elastic/viscoplastic model captures the main features of concrete behavior at high pressures. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effect of crack faces contact interaction on the critical strain in composites under compressive loading
Authors: Winiarski Bartlomiej , Guz Igor A.
Published: March 2008

Aviation and aerospace structural components made of composite laminates due to their internal structure and manufacturing methods often contain a number of inter‐ and intra‐component defects which size, dispersion and interaction alter significantly the critical compression strain level [1]. The current study investigates the effect of the cracks interaction and crack faces contact interaction on the critical strain in laminar transversally isotropic material (cross‐ply) compressed in a static manner along interlaminar defects. The frictionless Hertzian contact and the shear and extensional mode of stability loss are considered for the interacting crack faces. The statement of the problem is based on the most accurate approach, the model of piecewise‐homogenous medium and the 3‐D stability theory [2]. The moment of stability loss in the microstructure of material is treated as the onset of the fracture process. The complex non‐classical fracture mechanics problem is solved utilizing the finite elements analysis. The results are obtained for the typical dispositions of cracks. It was found that the crack faces contact interaction alter significantly the critical strain level of the composite. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Usefulness of single spot plasma glucose at a routine clinic: a preliminary report
Authors: Adetunji OR , Adeleye Jo , Salako BL , Kuti MA
Published: March 2008

While glycated haemoglobin remains the gold standard for assessing glycaemic control, the facilities for measuring it are not readily available in resource‐poor health systems like that which exists in Nigeria. This study set out to determine the usefulness of fasting single spot plasma glucose at clinic visits in the management of diabetes.

Fifty consecutive patients with type 2 diabetes attending the medical outpatient department at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria, were recruited after informed written consent was obtained. HbA1c was measured using boronate affinity technique with a portable ‘ Primus’ autoanalyser, NycoCard® Reader II, which was standardised to the DCCT. Fasting plasma glucose (FPG) was measured in mg/dl but converted to mmol/L. Anthropometric measurements were taken from the patients.

The results showed that the mean HbA1c in the population was 7.4% and the mean FPG was 7.0mmol/L. There was a significant correlation between FPG and HbA1c, (p<0.0001, r2 = 0.749).

We concluded that the significant correlation between the HbA1c and FPG in this patient population shows that the FPG remains a useful tool for assessing control at routine outpatient clinics and its continued use is recommended. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons.
Brand substitution or multiple switches per patient? An analysis of pharmaceutical brand substitution in Australia
Authors: Kalisch Lisa M. , Roughead Elizabeth E. , Gilbert Andrew L.
Published: March 2008

Purpose

To determine the number of times patients have brand and generic products substituted under Australia's Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) brand substitution policy.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (RPBS) pharmacy claims data. Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) treatment card holders with at least two dispensings of atenolol, citalopram, enalapril, metformin, omeprazole or ramipril between 1 January 2001 and 28 February 2006 were included. Patients were followed from first dispensing until death, cessation or study end. The main outcome measure was the number of substitutions per patient during follow‐up. Based on this, patients were defined as non‐switchers, brand substitution or multiple switchers.

Results

Data for 160 145 patients were analysed. Overall more than 80% of patients either had no switches or demonstrated brand substitution. For all study drugs, patients were more likely to be non‐switchers than have a brand substitution (RR range 2.6–9.4, p < 0.0001) and were more likely to be non‐switchers than multiple switchers (RR range 3.2–35.9, p < 0.0001). Patients who switched were more likely to have a brand substitution than multiple switches (RR range 1.2–3.8, p < 0.0001). Multivariate logistic regression showed greater odds of being a multiple switcher with increasing number of prescribers and dispensing pharmacies, and increasing length of follow‐up.

Conclusions

Most patients in this study did not substitute products, and those who did were more likely to demonstrate brand substitution than have multiple switches. These results suggest that the brand substitution policy is having its intended effect for most patients. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.