bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Looking ahead: A case for human papillomavirus testing of self‐sampled vaginal specimens as a cervical cancer screening strategy
Authors: Gravitt Patti E. , Belinson Jerome L. , Salmeron Jorge , Shah Keerti V.
Published: February 2011

Even in the era of highly effective human papillomavirus (HPV) prophylactic vaccines, substantial reduction in worldwide cervical cancer mortality will only be realized if effective early detection and treatment of the millions of women already infected and the millions who may not receive vaccination in the next decade can be broadly implemented through sustainable cervical cancer screening programs. Effective programs must meet three targets: (i) at least 70% of the targeted population should be screened at least once in a lifetime, (ii) screening assays and diagnostic tests must be reproducible and sufficiently sensitive and specific for the detection of high‐grade precursor lesions (i.e., CIN2+), and (iii) effective treatment must be provided. We review the evidence that HPV DNA screening from swabs collected by the women in their home or village is sufficiently sound for consideration as a primary screening strategy in the developing world, with sensitivity and specificity for detection of CIN2+ as good or better than Pap smear cytology and VIA. A key feature of a self‐collected HPV testing strategy (SC‐HPV) is the move of the primary screening activities from the clinic to the community. Efforts to increase the affordability and availability of HPV DNA tests, community education and awareness, development of strong partnerships between community advocacy groups, health care centers and regional or local laboratories, and resource appropriate strategies to identify and treat screen‐positive women should now be prioritized to ensure successful public health translation of the technologic advancements in cervical cancer prevention.
OIL PRICES AND STOCK MARKETS IN GCC COUNTRIES: EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE FROM PANEL ANALYSIS
Authors: Arouri Mohamed El Hedi , Rault Christophe
Published: January 2011

In this paper, we examine long‐run links between oil prices and stock markets in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) using recent bootstrap panel cointegration techniques and seemingly unrelated regression (SUR) methods. Since GCC countries are major world energy market players, their stock markets are likely to be susceptible to oil price. We show that there is evidence for cointegration between oil prices and stock markets in GCC countries, while the SUR results indicate that oil price increases have a positive impact on stock prices, except in Saudi Arabia. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The geography of dual career households: A research agenda and selected evidence from secondary data sources for Britain
Authors: Green Anne E.
Published: January 2011

Amongst the key dimensions of population and labour market change in most parts of western Europe and other similar economies in the 1990s are low fertility rates, rising numbers of smaller households, increasing female participation rates, growth in higher level non‐manual occupations and the spread of flexible employment patterns. This paper explores how these trends have led to an increase in the number and significance of one particular subgroup: dual career households. An overview from available secondary sources of the geography and socio‐economic characteristics of such households in Britain is presented, and directions for possible future research on dual career households are outlined.
Immigration impacts on internal migration of the poor: 1990 census evidence for US states
Authors: Frey William H.
Published: January 2011

This article presents newly‐available migration data from the 1990 US census to assess immigration and internal migration components as they affect state poverty populations. New immigrant waves are heavily focused on only a few ‘port‐of‐entry’ states. It is suggested that these immigrants have begun to impact upon internal migration into and out of these ‘high immigration states’, and have also altered the national system of internal migration patterns. This article addresses three questions: How do the magnitudes of poverty population out‐migration from high immigration states compare with those of other states? Is this out‐migration selective on particular social and demographic groups? Is immigration a significant determinant of internal migration of the poor population?

The results of this analysis are consistent with the view that recent, focused immigration is associated with out‐migration among a state's poor longer‐term residents. At the local level, there is a demographic displacement of low income residents by immigrants which involves more than just numbers of people. Rather, it involves a turnover of race, ethnic and skill‐level characteristics in the state's poor population that can impact upon race relations, public service requirements and labor force quality.
The demographic system of a Mediterranean Island: Mykonos, Greece 1859–1959
Authors: Hionidou Violetta
Published: January 2011

This paper is an attempt to examine the demographic distinctiveness of island populations. The population of the Greek island of Mykonos in the period 1859 to 1959 is used. Using the results obtained from family reconstitution and inverse projection the inter‐relations of the major demographic components are described. The pre‐transitional demographic system of Mykonos was found to have been characterised by the combination of low mortality and low marital though moderately high overall fertility. The resulting high population growth was counterbalanced by high emigration which kept the island population almost constant. Mortality and fertility experienced parallel and rapid decline. In both pre‐ and transitional Mykonos fertility rather than mortality seems to have been the main factor responsible for the changes in population growth. The findings point to a demographic distinctiveness of Mediterranean island populations. Nevertheless, more detailed island studies are necessary before firm conclusions concerning the demographic distinctiveness of islands can be reached.
Spatial and demographic dynamics of metropolitan and nonmetropolitan territory in the United States
Authors: Nucci Alfred , Long Larry
Published: January 2011

Population in nonmetropolitan territory is growing more slowly in the 1990s than the total population of metropolitan areas, but several features of the nonmetropolitan ‘turnaround’ of the 1970s have returned. Our study starts with metropolitan areas as bounded in 1963, and analyses subsequent population change in these areas and in counties added to their expanding fringe by 1973, 1983, and 1993; then we added in new metropolitan areas recognised as of these dates, and subsequent addition of counties to their fringes. For these territorial aggregates we analyse natural increase, net migration, and change in the native and foreign‐born populations. This approach provides an improved basis for comparing population redistribution in successive decades. It reveals that the rise between 1960 and 1994 in the percentage of Americans who live in metropolitan areas can be attributed entirely to territory reclassified during this period to the metropolitan sector from the nonmetropolitan sector.
A novel method for measuring aromatase activity in tissue samples by determining estradiol concentrations
Authors: Tinwell H. , Rascle J. B. , Colombel S. , Al Khansa I. , Freyberger A. , Bars R.
Published: January 2011

Increasing scrutiny of endocrine disrupters has led to changes to European pesticide and biocide legislation and to the introduction of the Endocrine Disrupter Screening Program by the US EPA. One element of endocrine disrupter identification is to determine its effects on aromatase, but most available assays are limited as they depend on tritiated water production to indicate enzyme activity. Whilst acceptable for determining aromatase effects using a cell‐free approach, this method is unreliable for cell or tissue‐based investigations as other cytochrome P‐450 isoenzyme activities can similarly produce tritiated water and consequently confound interpretation of the aromatase data. To address this lack of specificity an assay directly measuring the final estrogen product by incubating rat tissue protein with testosterone and measuring the resultant estradiol concentration was developed. Using this approach we demonstrated marked increases in enzyme activity in pregnant rat ovary samples and dose‐related inhibitions when incubating non‐pregnant rat ovary samples with known aromatase inhibitors. Hepatic aromatase activity was investigated using our method and by tritiated water production with microsomes from rats dosed with the antiandrogen 1,1‐dichloro‐2,2‐bis(4 chlorophenyl)ethane. Additional cytochrome P‐450s were also measured. Treatment‐related increased tritiated water production and general hepatic enzyme activity were recorded but estradiol was not increased, indicating that the increased tritiated water was due to general enzyme activity and not aromatase activity. A simple and specific method has been developed that can detect aromatase inhibition and induction, which when applied to tissue samples, provides a means of generating relevant animal data concerning chemical effects on the aromatase enzyme.
Sonographic diagnosis of tumor thrombus formation in the umbilical vein: A case report
Authors: Feng Pei , Feifei Zhang , Ning He , Yuxiang Liu
Published: January 2011

There are few reports of tumor thrombus formation in the umbilical vein. We report a case in which sonographic examination revealed tumor thrombus formation in the reopened umbilical vein in a patient with hepatic cirrhosis, primary liver cancer, and portal hypertension. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2011
Analysis of achilles tendon vascularity with second‐generation contrast‐enhanced ultrasound
Authors: Genovese Eugenio , Ronga Mario , Recaldini Chiara , Fontana Federico , Callegari Leonardo , Maffulli Nicola , Fugazzola Carlo
Published: January 2011

Purpose:

To compare morphological, power Doppler, and contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) features of the Achilles tendon between asymptomatic athletes and athletes who had undergone surgical repair of a previous rupture.

Methods:

Twenty‐four athletes were divided in two groups (A and B). Group A included 14 patients with a median age of 32 years (range 27 to 47 years) who had undergone surgical repair for unilateral Achilles tendon rupture. Group B (control group) included 10 subjects with a median age of 34 years (range 27 to 40 years) with no previous or present history of tendinopathy. All patients were evaluated with ultrasound, power Doppler, and CEUS with second‐generation contrast agent. We studied the uninjured Achilles tendon in athletes of group A and either the left or the right Achilles tendon of the athletes in group B.

Results:

CEUS showed a significantly greater ability to detect a greater number of vascular spots within the uninjured tendon of group A compared to group B (<0.05).

Conclusions:

In athletes who had suffered a tear of an Achilles tendon, CEUS detected small vessels that were not identified by power Doppler ultrasound in the uninjured contralateral Achilles tendon. CEUS is useful to evaluate vascularity not detected by other imaging techniques. Vascularity in the uninjured tendon seems to be increased in patients who had a previous rupture. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2011
Mesothelium of the murine allantois exhibits distinct regional properties
Authors: Daane Jacob M. , Enders Allen C. , Downs Karen M.
Published: January 2011

The rodent allantois is thought to be unique amongst mammals in not having an endodermal component. Here, we have investigated the mesothelium, or outer surface, of murine umbilical precursor tissue, the allantois (∼7.25–8.5 days postcoitum, dpc) to discover whether it exhibits the properties of an epithelium. A combination of morphology, challenge with biotinylated dextran amines (BDAs), and immunohistochemistry revealed that the mesothelium of the mouse allantois exhibits distinct regional properties. By headfold stages (∼7.75–8.0 dpc), distal mesothelium was generally squamous in shape, and highly permeable to BDA challenge, whereas ventral proximal mesothelium, referred to as “ventral cuboidal mesothelium” (VCM) for the characteristic cuboidal shape of its cells, was relatively impermeable. Although “dorsal cuboidal mesothelium” (DCM) resembled the VCM in cell shape, its permeability to BDA was intermediate between the other two regions. Results of immunostaining for Zonula Occludens‐1 (ZO‐1) and Epithelial‐cadherin (E‐cadherin), together with transmission electron microscopy (TEM), suggested that impermeability in the VCM may be due to greater cellular contact area between cells and close packing rather than to maturity of tight junctions, the latter of which, by comparison with the visceral yolk sac, appeared to be rare or absent from the allantoic surface. Both VCM and DCM exhibited an ultrastructure more favorable for protein synthesis than did the distal squamous mesothelium; however, at most stages, VCM exhibited robust afadin (AF‐6), whereas the DCM uniquely contained alpha‐4‐integrin. These observations demonstrate that the allantoic mesothelium is not a conventional epithelium but possesses regional ultrastructural, functional and molecular differences that may play important roles in the correct deployment of the umbilical cord and its associated vascular, hematopoietic, and other cell types. J. Morphol., 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Caffeine enhances osteoclast differentiation from bone marrow hematopoietic cells and reduces bone mineral density in growing rats
Authors: Liu Shing Hwa , Chen Chinliang , Yang Rong Sen , Yen Yuan Peng , Yang Ya Ting , Tsai Chingmin
Published: January 2011

Caffeine‐containing beverage consumption has been associated with low bone mass and increased fracture risk in some, but not most, observational studies. The effects of caffeine on bone metabolism are still controversial. We investigated the effects of caffeine on the differentiation of bone progenitor cells and bone mineral density (BMD) by in vitro and in vivo experiments. Low‐concentration caffeine (0.005–0.1 mM) did not affect the bone marrow cell viability and alkaline phosphatase activity during osteoblast differentiation from bone marrow stromal cells, but it effectively enhanced the osteoclastogenesis from bone marrow hematopoietic cells and the bone resorption activity by pit formation assay. Moreover, caffeine effectively enhanced the receptor activator of NF‐κB ligand (RANKL), but reduced the osteoprotegerin protein expressions in osteoblast MC3T3‐E1 cells. Caffeine could also increase the cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) protein expression and prostaglandin (PG)E2 production in cultured neonatal mouse calvariae. In animal study, BMD in lumbar vertebra, femur, or tibia was significantly lowered in growing rats supplemented with 0.2% caffeine in diets for 20 weeks compared with the control group. The calcium contents in tibia and femur of caffeine‐treated rats were also lower than that in the control group. The osteoclastogenesis of bone marrow cells isolated from caffeine‐treated rats was markedly enhanced as compared with the control group. Taken together, these results suggest that caffeine may reduce BMD in growing rats through the enhancement in osteoclastogenesis. Caffeine may possess the ability to enhance a COX‐2/PGE2‐regulated RANKL‐mediated osteoclastogenesis. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:954–960
Mesenchymal stem cells and platelet lysate in fibrin or collagen scaffold promote non‐cemented hip prosthesis integration
Authors: Dozza Barbara , Di Bella Claudia , Lucarelli Enrico , Giavaresi Gianluca , Fini Milena , Tazzari Pier Luigi , Giannini Sandro , Donati Davide
Published: January 2011

The objective of this study was to evaluate whether mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) and platelet lysate (PL) seeded in a fibrin or collagen scaffold could improve the new bone (NB) formation around an uncemented hip prosthesis stem in a sheep model. In vitro expanded MSC were suspended in PL and either mixed with collagen or fibrin gel as delivery vehicle. The cell–gel composites were inserted inside the femoral canal, then the prosthesis was press‐fit inserted inside the femur. Identical procedures were performed in a control group, but only the prosthesis was implanted. Histomorphometrical analysis performed 4 months after surgery indicated that the newly formed bone inside the medullary canal, between the inner cortex and the prosthetic stem, was significantly higher in the MSC–PL–collagen group (mean 18.7 ± 4.5%) and in the MSC–PL–fibrin group (mean 18.8 ± 15.2%) when compared to the control group (mean 4.6 ± 2.0%). There was a significantly higher bone–prosthesis contact in the MSC–PL–collagen group (mean 2.7 ± 2.6%) and in the MSC–PL–fibrin group (mean 2.3 ± 3.1%) compared to the control group (mean 0.2 ± 0.1%). The results indicate that MSC and PL in a fibrin or collagen scaffold can promote NB formation around an uncemented hip prosthesis stem. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:961–968
Local application of VEGF compensates callus deficiency after acute soft tissue trauma—results using a limb‐shortening distraction procedure in rabbit tibia
Authors: Ochman Sabine , Frey Sönke , Raschke Michael J. , Deventer Jehan N. , Meffert Rainer H.
Published: January 2011

Acute soft tissue trauma influences callus formation and fracture healing. Several studies showed a relationship between angiogenesis and bone formation during distraction osteogenesis. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of controlled release of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) on callus formation in a limb‐shortening distraction procedure after acute compartment syndrome. Acute soft tissue trauma with critical increased compartment pressure was generated in 22 rabbits, and the limb was shortened simulating fracture site debridement. In the test group (n = 11), a VEGF‐coated collagen matrix was locally applied around the fracture, while no collagen was applied in the control group (n = 11). Following 10 days in limb shortening, a gradual distraction of 0.5 mm/12 h was performed using an external fixation device and followed up for 40 days. Osseous consolidation occurred in all animals. Average callus diameter (1.54 ± 0.8 vs. 1.27 ± 0.14 mm) and torsional strength (72% vs. 46% of normal) were significantly higher in the test versus the control group. Blood vessel formation increased with a significantly higher number of vessels (6.3 vs. 3.81/mm2) and larger cross‐sectional area (>40 µm, 90.5% vs. 86%) in the test versus control group. The results showed that locally applied VEGF stimulates fracture healing after acute soft tissue trauma and might be an option for fracture treatment in cases with severe soft tissue damage. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29: 1093–1098, 2011
Callus patterns in femoral lengthening over an intramedullary nail
Authors: Muzaffar Nasir , Hafeez Arifa , Modi Hitesh , Song Hae‐Ryong
Published: January 2011

Our objectives were to evaluate callus patterns seen in femoral lengthening over an intramedullary nail by Li classification regarding shape and type and to predict the result while using the nail to reduce the external fixation period and its complications. Eight hundred digital radiographs of 15 patients with 15 segments of femur shortening who underwent femoral lengthening with a monolateral external fixator over an intramedullary nail were analyzed retrospectively by four observers. Each radiograph was studied for callus shape, feature type, and callus density using pixel values. The classification was tested for concurrence and reproducibility by interobserver studies and callus patterns were compared with treatment indices to evaluate how they correlated with the outcome. Mean length gained was 4.5 cm (range: 2–8 cm). External fixator index (EFI) was 21.68 days/cm. Average distraction consolidation index (DCI) was 48.49 days/cm. Fusiform callus was seen in three cases, cylindrical in seven, and lateral in five. The homogenous pathway had higher DCI (43.7) than the heterogeneous pathway (32.9), and mixed pathways making up the rest had a DCI of 50.1. Pixel value of callus showed gradual increase in density until 20–24 weeks, then density gradually fell for 8 weeks, again increased after 32 weeks, again gradually fell, and was comparable to adjacent normal bone by 44–48 weeks. Our results suggest that the Li classification can be satisfactorily applied to lengthening procedures over intramedullary nails. The radiologic pattern and pixel value of regenerate can be correlated with the clinical outcome and can be an aid of prognostic value for the surgeon. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29: 1106–1113, 2011
Diffuse malignant peritoneal mesothelioma: Systematic review of clinical management and biological research
Authors: Baratti Dario , Kusamura Shigeki , Deraco Marcello
Published: January 2011

Diffuse malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (DMPM) is an uncommon and locally aggressive tumor with poor prognosis. Currently, no standard therapy is available. The biology of this disease is still poorly understood. We performed a systematic search of relevant studies on clinical management and biological research of DMPM. Trials were selected using a predetermined protocol. The current evidence suggests that cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (PIC) results in improved survival. Biological understanding of DMPM is currently evolving. J. Surg. Oncol. 2011;103:822–831. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The concepts in poorly differentiated carcinoma of the thyroid: A review article
Authors: Nambiar Ajit , Pv Sunil , Susheelan Vijaylakshmi , Kuriakose Moni Abraham
Published: January 2011

Poorly differentiated carcinomas of the thyroid have evolved over the past half century into a specific entity in the classification of thyroid carcinomas. The need for a consensus diagnostic criteria has been stressed in view of the wide discrepancies and confusion among pathologists and clinicians. This review attempts to understand the concept, the evolution, clarity and validity of the concepts in poorly differentiated carcinomas of the thyroid. J. Surg. Oncol. 2011;103:818–821. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Assessment of lymphatic drainage patterns and implications for the extent of neck dissection in head and neck melanoma patients
Authors: Klop W. Martin C. , Veenstra Hidde J. , Vermeeren Lenka , Nieweg Omgo E. , Balm Alfons J.M. , Lohuis Peter J.F.M.
Published: January 2011

Background and Objectives

The aim of this study is to evaluate lymphatic drainage with sentinel node location data in patients with head and neck cutaneous melanoma, and to determine the implications for the extent of therapeutic neck dissections.

Methods

Sixty‐five patients with head and neck cutaneous melanoma without evidence of regional metastases at ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration cytology examination were included. Lymphatic drainage patterns were investigated using planar and dynamic lymphoscintigraphy, and SPECT/CT. Biopsy of sentinel nodes was guided by images and gamma probe. The incidence of discordant sentinel nodes was determined by comparing actual drainage patterns to “O'Briens map” and to the treatment guidelines of The Netherlands Cancer Institute.

Results

Sentinel node identification was successful in 98% of the patients. Fifteen patients (23%) were diagnosed with a tumor‐positive sentinel node. Two sentinel node‐negative patients (3%) developed a regional lymph node metastasis (false‐negative ratio: 12%). Twenty‐three percent of the harvested sentinel nodes were discordant according to “O'Brien's map,” while 14% were discordant according to the treatment guidelines of The Netherlands Cancer Institute (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Almost a quarter of head and neck melanomas metastasize outside clinically predicted neck levels. Neck surgery guidelines of The Netherlands Cancer Institute provide for a smaller number of discordant sentinel nodes. J. Surg. Oncol. 2011;103:756–760. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Carcinoid tumors of the appendix: A population‐based study
Authors: Mullen John T. , Savarese Diane M.F.
Published: February 2011

Background

Carcinoid tumors of the appendix are rare, and as such there are few data guiding their optimal treatment.

Methods

The analysis included all patients with malignant, typical carcinoid tumor of the appendix for whom complete data were available in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database between 1988 and 2003. Clinicopathologic factors predicting lymph node (LN) involvement and survival were determined.

Results

LN metastases were present in 44 of 89 patients (49%), including 4 of 27 patients (15%) with tumors ≤ 1.0 cm, 16 of 34 patients (47%) with tumors > 1.0 cm but ≤ 2.0 cm, and 24 of 28 patients (86%) with tumors >2.0 cm. Increasing tumor size predicted LN involvement, whereas age, gender, and depth of tumor invasion did not. Excluding patients with distant metastasis (DM), the 10‐year overall survival rates of patients with positive LNs and tumor sizes ≤1.0 cm, >1.0 cm but ≤2.0 cm, and >2.0 cm were 100%, 92%, and 91%, respectively.

Conclusions

Right hemicolectomy should be considered for patients with appendiceal carcinoid tumors >1.0 cm in size given their high incidence of LN metastases and limited data concerning the natural history of unresected LN metastases. J. Surg. Oncol. 2011;104:41–44. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reversed‐phase liquid chromatographic separation of antiretroviral drugs on a monolithic column using ionic liquids as mobile phase additives
Authors: Nageswara Rao Ramisetti , Ramachandra Bondigalla , Mastan Vali Rajavarapu
Published: January 2011

The use of 3‐methylimidazolium cation‐based ionic liquids (ILs) was evaluated as mobile phase additives for separation of antiretroviral drugs on a monolithic column by RP‐HPLC. Separation of eight commonly used antiretroviral drugs was achieved on a Chromolith Flash, RP‐18e column (25×4.6 mm, porous material) using water (pH 4.0 adjusted with acetic acid)/methanol v/v as a mobile phase containing ILs in a gradient elution mode. The effects of concentrations of ILs on retention, resolution and peak shape were studied and a regression equation correlating the interactions between stationary phase and the ILs was established. The retention of all the drugs was decreased notably by using 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate, while 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium methylsulfate reduced gradient drift drastically when compared to triethylamine.
Preparation and chiral recognition in HPLC of cellulose 3,5‐dichlorophenylcarbamates immobilized onto silica gel
Authors: Qu Hai‐tao , Li Jun‐qing , Wu Guang‐shun , Shen Jun , Shen Xian‐de , Okamoto Yoshio
Published: January 2011

The 3,5‐dichlorophenylcarbamates (2) of cellulose bearing a small amount of 3‐(triethoxysilyl)propyl residues were synthesized by a one‐pot process and immobilized onto a silica gel through intermolecular polycondensation of the triethoxysilyl groups. The obtained cellulose derivatives were characterized by 1H NMR and elemental analysis (EA), and their recognition abilities were evaluated by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The cellulose derivatives containing about 1–5% of the 3‐(triethoxysilyl)propyl residue were efficiently immobilized with a high chiral recognition ability. The immobilized chiral packing materials (CPMs) could be used with the eluents containing chloroform and tetrahydrofuran (THF), which cannot be used with the conventional coated‐type chiral packing materials. By using these eluents, the chiral recognition for many racemates was improved.
Determination of nitroanilines in hair dye using polymer monolith microextraction coupled with HPLC
Authors: Xiao Pengfei , Bao Changli , Jia Qiong , Su Riyan , Zhou Weihong , Jia Jianbo
Published: January 2011

In this study, a novel method for the determination of nitroanilines in hair dye samples has been developed based on poly(methacrylic acid‐co‐ethylene glycol dimethacrylate) monolith microextraction (PMME) and high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. Four nitroanilines, p‐nitroaniline (PNAL), m‐nitroaniline (MNAL), o‐nitroaniline (ONAL), and 2,4‐dinitroaniline (DNAL), are studied as representatives. To obtain optimum extraction efficiency, several experimental parameters including sample flow rate, sample volume, sample pH, and eluent flow rate have been investigated. Under the optimal experimental conditions, the linear regression coefficients of the standard curves are greater than 0.9990. The limits of detection for p‐nitroaniline, m‐nitroaniline, o‐nitroaniline, and 2,4‐dinitroaniline are 0.012, 0.008, 0.018, and 0.005 μg/mL, respectively. The intraday and interday relative standard deviations are less than 3.1 and 5.4%, respectively. The proposed method is simple, rapid, sensitive, and competent when used for the determination of nitroanilines in hair dye samples and the accuracy is assessed through recovery experiments.
Poly(arylene ether)s with Pendant Perfluoroalkyl Sulfonic Acid Groups as Proton‐Exchange Membrane Materials
Authors: Ghassemi Hossein , Schiraldi David A. , Zawodzinski Thomas A. , Hamrock Steven
Published: January 2011

New membranes were prepared and evaluated as polymer electrolytes for PEMFCs. Polymers with PSU in the main chain and –C(O)(CF2)3SO3H in the side chain (PSU‐PSA) were synthesized by substitution of PSU‐Li and SFBF, followed by treatment with aqueous potassium hydroxide then sulfuric acid. The proton conductivity of PSU‐PSA with an ion exchange capacity (IEC) of 1.12 mmol · g−1 was 0.091 S · cm−1 at 80 °C under 100% relative humidity. A hydrogen/air PEMFC test of PSU‐PSA with an IEC value of 1.12 mmol · g−1 produced a maximum power output of 0.265 W · cm−2. A DMA measurement revealed that PSU‐PSA had an α‐relaxation temperature around 196 °C which is higher than the value reported for Nafion.

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Poly(meth)acrylates Obtained by Cascade Reaction
Authors: Popescu Dragos , Keul Helmut , Moeller Martin
Published: January 2011

Preparation, purification, and stabilization of functional (meth)acrylates with a high dipole moment are complex, laborious, and expensive processes. In order to avoid purification and stabilization of the highly reactive functional monomers, a concept of cascade reactions was developed comprising enzymatic monomer synthesis and radical polymerization. Transacylation of methyl acrylate (MA) and methyl methacrylate (MMA) with different functional alcohols, diols, and triols (1,2,6‐hexanetriol and glycerol) in the presence of Novozyme 435 led to functional (meth)acrylates. After the removal of the enzyme by means of filtration, removal of excess (meth)acrylate and/or addition of a new monomer, e.g., 2‐hydroxyethyl (meth)acrylate the (co)polymerization via free radical (FRP) or nitroxide mediated radical polymerization (NMP) resulted in poly[(meth)acrylate]s with predefined functionalities. Hydrophilic, hydrophobic as well as ionic repeating units were assembled within the copolymer. The transacylation of MA and MMA with diols and triols carried out under mild conditions is an easy and rapid process and is suitable for the preparation of sensitive monomers.

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Association of olfactory dysfunction and brain. Metabolism in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Baba Toru , Takeda Atsushi , Kikuchi Akio , Nishio Yoshiyuki , Hosokai Yoshiyuki , Hirayama Kazumi , Hasegawa Takafumi , Sugeno Naoto , Suzuki Kyoko , Mori Etsuro , Takahashi Shoki , Fukuda Hiroshi , Itoyama Yasuto
Published: January 2011

Hyposmia is one of the cardinal early symptoms of Parkinson disease (PD). Accumulating clinical and pathological evidence suggests that dysfunction of the olfactory‐related cortices may be responsible for the impaired olfactory processing observed in PD; however, there are no clear data showing a direct association between altered brain metabolism and hyposmia in PD. In this study, we evaluated brain glucose metabolism and smell‐identification ability in 69 Japanese patients with nondemented PD. Olfactory function was assessed using the Odor Stick Identification Test for Japanese. The regional cerebral metabolic rate of glucose consumption at rest was measured using 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography and was analyzed using SPM‐based group comparisons and the brain–behavior partial least‐squares method. We found that olfactory dysfunction was closely related to cognitive dysfunction, including memory impairment. Moreover, brain–behavior partial least‐squares analysis revealed that odor‐identification performance was closely associated with broad cortical dysfunction, including dysfunction of the piriform cortex and amygdala. Our results suggest that the cognitive deficit in olfactory perception is an important aspect of hyposmia in PD and that this deficit is caused by altered brain metabolism in the amygdala and piriform cortex. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
Vitamin D intestinal absorption is not a simple passive diffusion: Evidences for involvement of cholesterol transporters
Authors: Reboul Emmanuelle , Goncalves Aurélie , Comera Christine , Bott Romain , Nowicki Marion , Landrier Jean‐François , Jourdheuil‐Rahmani Dominique , Dufour Claire , Collet Xavier , Borel Patrick
Published: January 2011

Scope: It is assumed that vitamin D is absorbed by passive diffusion. However, since cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) and cholesterol display similar structures, we hypothesized that common absorption pathways may exist.

Methods and results: Cholecalciferol apical transport was first examined in human Caco‐2 and transfected Human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells. Cholecalciferol uptake was then valuated ex vivo and in vivo, using either wild‐type mice, mice overexpressing Scavenger Receptor class B type I (SR‐BI) at the intestinal level or mice treated or not with ezetimibe. Cholecalciferol uptake was concentration‐, temperature‐ and direction‐dependent, and was significantly impaired by a co‐incubation with cholesterol or tocopherol in Caco‐2 cells. Moreover Block Lipid Transport‐1 (SR‐BI inhibitor) and ezetimibe glucuronide (Niemann‐Pick C1 Like 1 inhibitor) significantly decreased cholecalciferol transport. Transfection of HEK cells with SR‐BI, Cluster Determinant 36 and Niemann‐Pick C1 Like 1 significantly enhanced vitamin D uptake, which was significantly decreased by the addition of Block Lipid Transport‐1, sulfo‐N‐succinimidyl oleate (Cluster Determinant 36 inhibitor) or ezetimibe glucuronide, respectively. Similar results were obtained in mouse intestinal explants. In vivo, cholecalciferol uptake in proximal intestinal fragments was 60% higher in mice overexpressing SR‐BI than in wild‐type mice (p<0.05), while ezetimibe effect remained non‐significant.

Conclusion: These data show for the first time that vitamin D intestinal absorption is not passive only but involves, at least partly, some cholesterol transporters.
Three‐Dimensional MR image registration of the human brain
Authors: Bedell Barry J. , Narayana Ponnada A. , Johnston Dennis A.
Published: February 2011

An automatic three‐dimensional technique for registration of MR images of human brain is described. The algorithm was tested, using MR images of human brain, and was found to estimate angular offsets to within 0.5° and translational offsets to within about 1 pixel. The quality of final registration was evaluated by histogram analysis. The algorithm was found to be computationally efficient and robust.
Localized 1H NMR spectroscopy of rat spinal cord in Vivo
Authors: Zelaya Fernando O. , Chalk Jonathan B. , Mullins Paul , Brereton Ian M. , Doddrell David M.
Published: February 2011

A movable, actively decoupled surface coil has been employed to obtain a localized 1H NMR spectrum from the lumbosacral spinal cord of a live Lewis rat. A volume selective ‘VOSY’ normally spelled out as ‘volume selective spectroscopy’ spectroscopy pulse sequence that incorporates “phase ramped” selective RF pulses, has been used to minimize random phase jitter in the NMR signal as a result of the large frequency shifts required to locate the voxel in the center of the cord while using intense gradient pulses. Spectra from 13‐μl voxels in healthy rats and in rats inoculated with guinea pig spinal cord and complete Freund's adjuvant, resulting in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, are shown.
Cerebrovascular changes in rats during ischemia and reperfusion: A comparison of bold and first pass bolus tracking techniques
Authors: Jones Richard A. , Müller Tomm B. , Haraldseth Olav , Baptista António M. , Øksendal Audun N.
Published: February 2011

Both first pass bolus tracking of a susceptibility contrast agent and blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) sequences provide information on the tissue perfusion and the cerebral blood volume, but each sequence has its own particular limitations. In this article, both techniques were used to assess the cerebrovascular changes occurring in a rat model of focal cerebral ischemia with reperfusion after 2 h of ischemia. The blood oxygenation level dependent studies were performed before, during, and after 60 s of anoxia to observe the response of the tissue to a respiratory challenge. Both techniques were able to detect ischemia and reperfusion; however, first pass bolus tracking provided better sensitivity and was easier to interpret. Because the blood oxygenation level dependent sequence did not provide any additional information, bolus tracking would appear to be the method of choice for studies of cerebral ischemia with reperfusion.
Ferritin effect on the transverse relaxation of water: NMR microscopy at 9.4 T
Authors: Gottesfeld Ziv , Neeman Michal
Published: February 2011

Accumulation of ferritin, the iron storage protein, has been linked recently to aging and a number of pathologies. Noninvasive detection of iron storage by MRI relies on its extremely strong effect on water relaxation. The aim of this article is to characterize the effect of ferritin on transverse water relaxation in a high magnetic field, using an imaging Carr‐Purcell Meiboom‐Gill (CPMG) preparation sequence. Ferritin‐induced water relaxation showed quadratic dependence on the iron loading factor, implying a paramagnetic mechanism. However, an additional zero order term was found, that could be due to the initial stages of the iron core loading. Significant enhancement of ferritin contrast was obtained at very short τCPMG durations. This approach for enhancing ferritin contrast was demonstrated by NMR microscopy of ferritin‐injected Xenopus oocytes, thus showing the feasibility of ferritin detection in a high magnetic field, even in systems with short transverse relaxation.
Transcranial direct current stimulation does not modulate motor cortex excitability in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Munneke Moniek A.M. , Stegeman Dick F. , Hengeveld Yvonne A. , Rongen Jan J. , Schelhaas H. Jurgen , Zwarts Machiel J.
Published: January 2011

Introduction:

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive disease caused by the degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons. The etiology of ALS is unclear, but there is evidence that loss of cortical inhibition could be related to motor neuron degeneration. We sought to determine whether cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can reduce cortical excitability in patients with ALS.

Methods:

Three sessions of cathodal tDCS, lasting 7, 11, or 15 minutes, were performed in 10 patients and 10 healthy controls. Corticospinal excitability was measured before and after the tDCS.

Results:

Cathodal tDCS induced a consistent decrease in corticospinal excitability in healthy controls, but not in ALS patients.

Conclusions:

The failure of tDCS to produce an excitability shift in the patients supports the potential diagnostic value of tDCS as a marker of upper motor neuron involvement. However, variation in corticospinal excitability measurements both inter‐ and intraindividually will limit its usefulness. Muscle Nerve 44: 109–114, 2011
Clarifying variability of corticomotoneuronal function in kennedy disease
Authors: Vucic Steve , Kiernan Matthew C.
Published: January 2011

Introduction:

Although Kennedy disease (KD) is regarded as a pure lower motor neuron disorder, recent transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) studies have reported subclinical corticomotoneuronal dysfunction in KD. To clarify these findings, this study applied novel triple stimulation (TST) and threshold tracking TMS techniques to gain further insights into corticomotoneuronal function in KD.

Methods:

TMS studies were undertaken in 12 KD patients and 38 age‐matched controls. Motor evoked potentials were recorded over the abductor pollicis brevis (threshold tracking TMS) and abductor digiti minimi (TST).

Results:

The mean TSTtest:TSTcontrol amplitude (99 ± 0.7%, normal >93%) and area (98.4 ± 1.6%, normal >92%) ratios were normal in Kennedy disease. In addition, short‐interval intracortical inhibition (SICI) was similar in KD and controls (KD: 8.1 ± 1.3%; controls: 10.1 ± 0.7%; P = 0.11), as were the motor evoked potential amplitude, resting motor threshold, intracortical facilitation, and cortical silent period duration.

Conclusions:

Triple stimulation and threshold tracking TMS techniques have reiterated normal corticomotoneuronal function in KD. Muscle Nerve, 2011
Succinylcholine in malignant hyperthermia: Evaluation of a novel in vivo model
Authors: Metterlein Thomas , Schuster Frank , Palmer Elise , Roewer Norbert , Anetseder Martin
Published: January 2011

Introduction:

Malignant hyperthermia (MH) is a potentially lethal anesthetic complication characterized by muscle hypermetabolism and generalized rigor. The exact mechanism of succinylcholine as an MH trigger cannot be examined in existing in vitro models. Therefore, a novel in vivo model was used to examine the metabolic response to succinylcholine.

Methods:

With institutional review board approval, 6 MH susceptible (MHS) and 6 MH non‐susceptible (MHN) pigs were anesthetized with hemodynamic and systemic metabolic monitoring. Microdialysis catheters were placed intramuscularly. After equilibration, succinylcholine, halothane, and Ringer solution were injected. Lactate was measured in the dialysate and statistically analyzed by Mann–Whitney U‐test (significance level P < 0.05).

Results:

Hemodynamic and systemic metabolic parameters were not different between the groups throughout the experiment. In the MHS pigs, halothane induced a significant increase of lactate. In MHN pigs, no substance induced a reaction.

Conclusions:

Halothane, but not succinylcholine, induced a hypermetabolic reaction in this model. Therefore, the role of succinylcholine as an MH trigger remains questionable. Muscle Nerve, 2011
Electrophysiological features of hirayama disease
Authors: Lyu Rong‐Kuo , Huang Ying‐Chih , Wu Yih‐Ru , Kuo Hung‐Chou , Ro Long‐Sun , Chen Chiung‐Mei , Chang Hong‐Shiu
Published: January 2011

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to compare the pattern of hand muscle involvement in Hirayama disease (HD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Methods: We reviewed findings of upper limb nerve conduction studies of 46 HD patients and 60 ALS patients. The findings from 54 healthy subjects were used for comparison. Results: In HD, the ulnar compound muscle action potential (CMAP) amplitude was more severely reduced than the median one, and the reverse pattern was observed in ALS. The mean ulnar/median (U/M) CMAP amplitude ratio was significantly lower in HD (0.64 ± 0.79) and abnormally higher in ALS (2.15 ± 1.77) compared with normal subjects (0.89 ± 0.23). An abnormally low U/M CMAP amplitude ratio (<0.6) was encountered in 34 patients with HD and in 1 with ALS. A U/M CMAP amplitude ratio ≥4.5 or absent median motor response was found only in ALS. Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate different patterns of hand muscle involvement between these two diseases. Muscle Nerve, 2011
The effect of paired stimuli on blink reflex latencies in normal subjects
Authors: Rubin Devon I. , Dimberg Elliot L. , Kennelly Kathleen D.
Published: January 2011

Introduction: In this study we assessed the effect of paired stimuli on the latencies and amplitudes of the blink reflex. Methods: Blink reflexes were performed with single and paired (5‐ms interstimulus interval) stimuli in 47 patients. The changes in latencies between paired and single stimuli were calculated. Results: Paired stimulation produced two types of R1 waveform morphologies: single‐ and double‐peaked waveforms. Increases in R1 and contralateral R2 latencies with paired stimulation were significantly higher in those with single‐peaked R1 responses compared to those with double‐peaked R1 responses. Conclusions: Interpreting the blink reflex latencies using paired stimulation requires visualization of the R1 waveform morphology. A double‐peaked R1 response requires no change in normal latency values, but the latency of a single‐peaked R1 should be interpreted from the second shock artifact. The effect on the R2 latency is variable. Muscle Nerve, 2011
Peripheral nerve and muscle ultrasound in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Cartwright Michael S. , Walker Francis O. , Griffin Leah P. , Caress James B.
Published: January 2011

Introduction:

High‐resolution ultrasound has been used to evaluate several neuromuscular conditions, but it has only been used on a limited basis in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients. It has not been used to assess their peripheral nerves. This study was designed to use neuromuscular ultrasound to investigate nerve cross‐sectional area and muscle thickness in ALS.

Methods:

Twenty individuals with ALS and 20 matched controls underwent neuromuscular ultrasound to measure the cross‐sectional area of their median and sural nerves and the thickness of their biceps/brachialis muscle complex.

Results:

The cross‐sectional area of the median nerve in the mid‐arm was smaller in the ALS group than in controls (10.5 mm2 vs. 12.7 mm2, P = 0.0023), but no difference was seen in the sural nerve (4.5 mm2 vs. 5.0 mm2, P = 0.1927). The ALS group also had thinner biceps/brachialis than controls (2.1 cm vs. 2.9 cm, P = 0.0007).

Conclusions:

Neuromuscular ultrasound demonstrates nerve and muscle atrophy in ALS and should be further explored as a disease biomarker. Muscle Nerve 44: 346–351, 2011
Incidence of stress urinary incontinence following vaginal repair of pelvic organ prolapse in objectively continent women
Authors: Al‐Mandeel Hazem , Ross Sue , Robert Magali , Milne Jill
Published: January 2011

Objective To estimate the incidence of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) following vaginal repair of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) in preoperatively continent women and to evaluate the impact of the problem.

Methods Women were eligible if they had undergone vaginal repairs for any degree or type of POP with no anti‐incontinence procedure between July 1, 2004 and June 30, 2006, and had been continent preoperatively, as defined by a negative cough stress test with or without reduction of prolapse. Demographic, preoperative, operative, and postoperative data were retrieved from hospital charts. The incidence of postoperative SUI (POSUI) and its quality of life (QoL) impact were assessed by mailed questionnaire. The POSUI endpoint was defined by the report of SUI symptoms on the mailed questionnaire and/or affirmation of postoperative treatment for SUI.

Results Forty‐two out of 100 respondents reported POSUI within the 2‐year average follow‐up period. Twelve of 37 symptomatic women (32%) were moderately or greatly bothered by their symptoms. The QoL impact score was generally low but was statistically greater in women with POSUI compared to those with no POSUI (13 vs. 3, P = 0.0006).

Conclusion The risk of POSUI following vaginal repairs of POP may be higher than previously reported and approximately one‐third of women are bothered by these symptoms. These findings deserve further investigation. Neurourol. Urodynam. 30:390–394, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.