bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ex vivo evaluation of human fetal membrane closure
Authors: Petratos Peter B. , Baergen Rebecca N. , Bleustein Clifford B. , Felsen Diane , Poppas Dix P.
Published: October 2004

Background and Objective

This study compares stress and leak point pressure of human fetal membranes following closure with suture, laser welding, or a new tissue sealant, SynthaSeal™

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Samples of fetal membrane were bisected and repaired with suture, laser welding with albumin solders, or a tissue sealant. Representative tissue samples were assessed by histology. Anastomotic strength was evaluated by tensiometry. Additionally, leak pressure was measured after membrane samples were placed onto an infusion pump/pressure transducer, incised, and repaired as above.

Results

Membrane stress was strongest (P < 0.001) for the tissue sealant group. Sutured samples were stronger than laser‐welded samples. Membrane leak pressure was greatest for the tissue sealant group. The suture group demonstrated a higher leak pressure than the laser‐welded group.

Conclusions

Human fetal membranes were not suited for repair with laser welding under the conditions tested. A new tissue sealant, SynthaSeal™, may provide a simple, effective method for membrane closure following fetoscopy, amniocentesis, and open fetal surgery. Lasers Surg. Med. 30:48–53, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry of bacteria*
Authors: Lay Jackson O.
Published: October 2004

I.
Introduction
172

II.
Bacterial RNA and DNA
174

III.
Recombinant Proteins
175

IV.
Protein Identification
176

V.
Proteomics
178

VI.
Other Applications that Involve Cellular Isolates
180

VII.
Whole Cells
180

VIII.
Interpretation of Data from Whole Cells
187

IX.
Identification of Proteins and Metabolites in Cells
188

X.
Isolate‐Related Strain Differences in Human Pathogenic Bacteria
190

XI.
Conclusion and Future Prospects
190

References
191

The development of MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry methods for the characterization of bacteria is reviewed and discussed. The general use of MALDI for the characterization of large biomolecules led directly to obvious applications involving the analysis of isolated bacterial proteins. More surprising was the observation that MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry could be applied directly to crude cellular fractions or cellular suspensions and that the resulting data from such complex mixtures could provide evidence for chemotaxonomic classification. Versatility and the rapidity of analysis led to the rapid development of a number of MALDI‐TOF methods involving bacteria. Examples of some of the applications covered in this review are the analysis of bacterial RNA and DNA, the detection of recombinant proteins, the characterization of targeted or unknown proteins, bacterial proteomics, the detection of virulence markers, and the very rapid characterization of bacteria at the genus, species, and strain level. The demonstrated capability of taxonomic classification at the strain level, using unprocessed cells, opens the possibility that MALDI‐TOF and similar mass spectrometry approaches may contribute significantly to fulfilling emerging needs for the development of near real‐time methods for the characterization of bacteria. © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 20:172–194, 2001
Computational chemistry: A useful (sometimes mandatory) tool in mass spectrometry studies
Authors: Alcamí Manuel , Mó Otilia , Yáñez Manuel
Published: October 2004

I.Introduction196II.Theoretical Models197A.   Hartree‐Fock (HF) Theory197B.   Configuration Interaction (CI)197C.   Perturbation Theory198D.   Coupled Cluster Theory198E.   Quadratic Configuration Interaction199F.   Composite Procedures199G.   Multiconfiguration Interaction Theories199H.   Density Functional Theory200I.   CASSCF‐DFT Approaches201J.   Wave Function Analysis202III.Performance of the Model203A.   Geometries203B.   Harmonic Vibrational Frequencies and Infrared Intensities206C.   Energies206D.   Entropies208E.   Convergency Problems of the Moller Plesset Series209F.   Radicals and Other Open‐Shell Systems210G.   Dications213IV.Bond Weakening vs. Bond Reinforcement in Ion‐Molecule Interactions214A.   Dissociative Proton Attachment219B.   Ionization Effects in Three‐Membered Rings221V.Theoretical Characterization of Elusive or Non‐Conventional Structures of Relevance in Gas‐Phase Ion Chemistry Confirmed by Experiment223A.   Oxywater224B.   Ammonia Oxide224C.   Silicon‐Containing Molecules225D.   Fluoroformic Acid225E.   Sulfur‐ and Phosphorus‐Containing Molecules225F.   Ylides226G.   Ethylenedione227H.   Cumulenes and Heterocumulenes227I.   Carbenes230J.   Hydrogen‐Bridged Radical Cations230VI.The Role of Non‐Classical Structures in Ion‐Molecule Interactions231A.   Hydrocarbon Protonated Forms231B.   Protonated Forms of X4(X=P, As, Sb, Bi) and Other Small Clusters233C.   Molecular Planetary Systems234Acknowledgments235References235

In this review, we present a brief summary of the theoretical methods most frequently used in gas‐phase ion chemistry. In subsequent sections, the performance of these methods is analyzed, paying attention to the reliability of geometries, vibrational frequencies, energies, and entropies. The possible pathologies of the different methods, in the form of instabilities of the wave function or spin contamination problems, are discussed. Several examples are presented to illustrate the usefulness ofab initioor density functional theory (DFT) methods to predict the existence of elusive molecules and/or to characterize non‐conventional structures, and to rationalize the charge redistributions normally associated with ion–molecule interactions and which result in bond‐weakening or bond‐reinforcement effects. Finally, the role of non‐classical structures in ion–molecule interactions is also illustrated with different examples. © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 20:195–245, 2001
Genetic testing in Parkinson's disease
Authors: McInerney‐Leo Aideen , Hadley Donald W. , Gwinn‐Hardy Katrina , Hardy John
Published: October 2004

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder of adulthood characterized clinically by rigidity, bradykinesia, resting tremor, and postural instability. The annual incidence of PD ranges between 16 and 19 individuals per 100,000 (Twelves et al., Mov Disord 2003;18:19–31). Historically, PD has been commonly viewed as an idiopathic or environmentally triggered condition. However, as is true with most common conditions, there have been several families reported with PD who demonstrate a classic Mendelian pattern of inheritance. To date, nine genetic loci have been reported and four pathogenic genes have been identified: α‐synuclein, parkin, DJ1, and PINK1. Families with alterations in these genes or linked sites demonstrate either recessive or dominant inheritance patterns and may have typical and/or atypical symptoms, with an age of onset extending from the second to the sixth decade. Commercial tests for parkin and α‐synuclein mutations are now available. We predict that physicians, particularly neurologists, increasingly will be approached for information and referrals regarding genetic testing. To assist patients and their families, physicians will not only need to know when such testing is likely to yield a meaningful result but also be aware of the possible social and emotional consequences of testing. The following is a review of what is currently known about the genetics of PD within this context. We discuss what is known about genetic testing for Huntington's disease, a well‐described model for genetic testing in a neurodegenerative disorder. We explore the utility, appropriateness, and possible implications of genetic testing for diagnostic and presymptomatic purposes. Published 2004 John Wiley & Sons
The ubiquitin‐proteasome pathway and proteasome inhibitors
Authors: Myung Jayhyuk , Kim Kyung Bo , Crews Craig M.
Published: October 2004

The ubiquitin‐proteasome pathway has emerged as a central player in the regulation of several diverse cellular processes. Here, we describe the important components of this complex biochemical machinery as well as several important cellular substrates targeted by this pathway and examples of human diseases resulting from defects in various components of the ubiquitin‐proteasome pathway. In addition, this review covers the chemistry of synthetic and natural proteasome inhibitors, emphasizing their mode of actions toward the 20S proteasome. Given the importance of proteasome‐mediated protein degradation in various intracellular processes, inhibitors of this pathway will continue to serve as both molecular probes of major cellular networks as well as potential therapeutic agents for various human diseases. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Med Res Rev, 21, No. 4, 245–273, 2001
Arterial calcification: A review of mechanisms, animal models, and the prospects for therapy
Authors: Wallin Reidar , Wajih Nadeem , Greenwood G. Todd , Sane David C.
Published: October 2004

The causes of arterial calcification are beginning to be elucidated. Macrophages, mast cells, and smooth muscle cells are the primary cells implicated in this process. The roles of a variety of bone‐related proteins including bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (BMP‐2), matrix Gla protein (MGP), osteoprotegerin (OPG), osteopontin, and osteonectin in regulating arterial calcification are reviewed. Animals lacking MGP, OPG, smad6, carbonic anhydrase isoenzyme II, fibrillin‐1, and klotho gene product develop varying extents of arterial calcification. Hyperlipidemia, vitamin D, nicotine, and warfarin, alone or in various combinations, produce arterial calcification in animal models. MGP has recently been discovered to be an inhibitor of bone morphogenetic protein‐2, the principal osteogenic growth factor. Many of the forces that induce arterial calcification may act by disrupting the essential post‐translational modification of MGP, allowing BMP‐2 to induce mineralization. MGP requires gamma‐carboxylation before it is functional, and this process uses vitamin K as an essential cofactor. Vitamin K deficiency, drugs that act as vitamin K antagonists, and oxidant stress are forces that could prevent the formation of GLA residues on MGP. The potential role of arterial apoptosis in calcification is discussed. Potential therapeutic options to limit the rate of arterial calcification are summarized. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Med Res Rev, 21, No. 4, 274–301, 2001
The active site of HIV‐1 protease
Authors: Mager Peter P.
Published: October 2004

The active site of the homodimeric HIV‐1 protease includes six amino acids (triads AspThrGly found in each monomer) in amino acid positions 25 to 27 and 25′ to 27′. Up to now, the role of Thr26 and Thr26′, and Gly27 and Gly27′, is unknown. It is hypothesized that strong hydrogen‐bonding forces between the Thr26 and Thr26′ residues stabilize the conformational state of the active site, and that the function of Gly27 and Gly27′ is to accommodate and bind a substrate in a position in which the catalytic Asp25 and Asp25′ carboxylate groups can attack the amide moiety of a substrate. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Med Res Rev, 21, No. 4, 348–353, 2001
Normal‐appearing white matter in multiple sclerosis has heterogeneous, diffusely prolonged T2
Authors: Whittall Kenneth P. , MacKay Alex L. , Li David K.B. , Vavasour Irene M. , Jones Craig K. , Paty Donald W.
Published: October 2004

T2 relaxation in normal‐appearing white matter (NAWM) of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients was reexamined using more complete sampling and analysis of decay curves, and to assess focal vs. diffuse abnormalities. Nine MS patients and 10 controls were scanned using a single‐slice 32‐echo pulse sequence with a 10‐ms echo spacing. Decay curves from outlined white and gray matter structures were analyzed using non‐negative least‐squares (NNLS). Resulting T2 distributions were each summarized by the geometric mean T2, T2. Different white matter structures had different mean (over the subjects in a group) T2. Mean T2 in NAWM was always greater than that of controls. Differences were not caused by a few voxels with extreme T2 (i.e., focal lesions), but rather by shifts of the entire T2 distribution (diffuse prolongation). This T2 increase suggests diffuse myelin or axonal pathology. Magn Reson Med 47:403–408, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nuclear magnetic relaxation dispersion of ferritin and ferritin‐like magnetic particle solutions: A pH‐effect study
Authors: Gossuin Yves , Roch Alain , Lo Bue Francesco , Muller Robert N. , Gillis Pierre
Published: October 2004

The relaxation mechanism of water protons in the presence of ferritin is still being debated. In this work, the pH dependence of the relaxation induced by ferritin and Fercayl®, a ferritin‐like akaganeite particle, is studied through T1 and T2 nuclear magnetic relaxation dispersion (NMRD) profiles. To differing extents, the relaxation brought about by both systems is significantly affected by pH. A proton exchange time of 33 ns (at pH 6 and 37°C) is deduced from the fittings of Fercayl® T1 NMRD profiles. The linearity of the relationship between 1/T2 and the magnetic field B0 for ferritin and Fercayl® solutions is not altered by changes in pH. The parameters of this linearity strongly depend on pH for the latter, while remaining unchanged for the former. These results are interpreted in terms of an exchange between protons belonging to hydroxyl groups at the surface of the particle and bulk water protons. Magn Reson Med 46:476–481, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Positive effects of polyethylene glycol conjugation to generation‐4 polyamidoamine dendrimers as macromolecular MR contrast agents
Authors: Kobayashi Hisataka , Kawamoto Satomi , Saga Tsuneo , Sato Noriko , Hiraga Akira , Ishimori Takayoshi , Konishi Junji , Togashi Kaori , Brechbiel Martin W.
Published: October 2004

Macromolecules conjugated with polyethylene glycol (PEG) acquire more hydrophilicity, resulting in a longer half‐life in circulation and lower immunogenicity. Two novel conjugates for MRI contrast agents were synthesized from a generation‐4 polyamidoamine dendrimer (G4D), 2‐(p‐isothiocyanatobenzyl)‐6‐methyl‐diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (1B4M), and one or two PEG molecules with a molecular weight of 20000 Da (PEG2‐G4D‐(1B4M‐Gd)62 (MW: 96 kD), PEG1‐G4D‐(1B4M‐Gd)63 (MW: 77 kD)). Their pharmacokinetics, excretion, and properties as vascular MRI contrast agents were evaluated and compared with those of G4D‐(1B4M‐Gd)64 (MW: 57 kD). PEG2‐G4D‐(1B4M‐Gd)62 remained in the blood significantly longer and accumulated significantly less in the liver and kidney than the other two preparations (P < 0.01). Although the blood clearance was slower, PEG2‐G4D‐(1B4M‐Gd)62 was excreted more readily without renal retention than the other two preparations. In conclusion, the positive effects of PEG conjugation on a macromolecular MRI contrast agent were found to be prolonged retention in the circulation, increased excretion, and decreased accumulation in the organs. Magn Reson Med 46:781–788, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Active acoustic control in gradient coils for MRI
Authors: Mansfield P. , Haywood B. , Coxon R.
Published: October 2004

The new principles of active acoustic control in gradient coil design recently introduced by Mansfield and Haywood (MAGMA 1999;8(Suppl 1):55) are further developed theoretically for the far‐field acoustic output for a single sector of a coil system comprising four or more flat rectangular coil sectors. Each sector consists of a split plate arrangement in which are embedded two windings, an outer primary winding and a narrow inner re‐entrant loop control winding immediately adjacent to and surrounding the split or air gap. The wire spacing of the control winding is made small so as not to affect substantially the magnetic field created by the primary winding. Experimental results are presented for two sectors each made of a different readily available plastic material and tested over a range of frequencies. They both show substantial average reductions in acoustic output over the full output when the control winding is appropriately driven. New theoretical expressions are derived for particular frequencies based on normal mode expansions for the plate. This new approach is better able to explain the acoustic output difference between the full and reduced output modes. Empirical expressions are also developed which include longitudinal as well as transverse plate characteristics and used to fit the experimental acoustic output data as a function of frequency and indicate good agreement with regard to both the form and amplitude of the acoustic output response. Magn Reson Med 46:807–818, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
3D coronary vessel wall imaging utilizing a local inversion technique with spiral image acquisition
Authors: Botnar René M. , Kim Won Y. , Börnert Peter , Stuber Matthias , Spuentrup Elmar , Manning Warren J.
Published: October 2004

Current 2D black blood coronary vessel wall imaging suffers from a relatively limited coverage of the coronary artery tree. Hence, a 3D approach facilitating more extensive coverage would be desirable. The straightforward combination of a 3D‐acquisition technique together with a dual inversion prepulse can decrease the effectiveness of the black blood preparation. To minimize artifacts from insufficiently suppressed blood signal of the nearby blood pools, and to reduce residual respiratory motion artifacts from the chest wall, a novel local inversion technique was implemented. The combination of a nonselective inversion prepulse with a 2D selective local inversion prepulse allowed for suppression of unwanted signal outside a user‐defined region of interest. Among 10 subjects evaluated using a 3D‐spiral readout, the local inversion pulse effectively suppressed signal from ventricular blood, myocardium, and chest wall tissue in all cases. The coronary vessel wall could be visualized within the entire imaging volume. Magn Reson Med 46:848–854, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Characterization of the macromolecule baseline in localized 1H‐MR spectra of human brain
Authors: Hofmann L. , Slotboom J. , Boesch C. , Kreis R.
Published: October 2004

Short‐echo‐time magnetic resonance spectra of human brain contain broad contributions from macromolecules. As they are a priori of unknown shape and intensity, they pose a problem if one wants to quantitate the overlying spectral features from low‐molecular‐weight metabolites. On the other hand, the macromolecular contributions may provide relevant clinical information themselves, if properly evaluated. Several methods, based on T1, T2, or spectral shape, have previously been suggested to suppress or edit the macromolecule contributions. Here, a method is presented based on a series of saturation recovery scans and that allows for simultaneous recording of the macromolecular baseline and the fully relaxed metabolite spectrum. In comparison to an inversion recovery technique aimed at nulling signals from long‐T1 components, the saturation recovery method is less susceptible to T1 differences inherent in signals from different metabolites or introduced by pathology. The saturation recovery method was used to quantitate the macromolecular baseline in white and/or gray matter locations of the human brain in 40 subjects. It was found that the content and composition of MR visible macromolecules depends on cerebral location, as well as the age of the investigated subject, while no gender dependence could be found. Magn Reson Med 46:855–863, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Quantitative imaging of magnetization transfer exchange and relaxation properties in vivo using MRI
Authors: Sled John G. , Pike G. Bruce
Published: October 2004

We describe a novel imaging technique that yields all of the observable properties of the binary spin‐bath model for magnetization transfer (MT) and demonstrate this method for in vivo studies of the human head. Based on a new model of the steady‐state behavior of the magnetization during a pulsed MT‐weighted imaging sequence, this approach yields parametric images of the fractional size of the restricted pool, the magnetization exchange rate, the T2 of the restricted pool, as well as the relaxation times in the free pool. Validated experimentally on agar gels and samples of uncooked beef, we demonstrate the method's application on two normal subjects and a patient with multiple sclerosis. Magn Reson Med 46:923–931, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Coronary magnetic resonance angiography: Experimental evaluation of the new rapid clearance blood pool contrast medium P792
Authors: Taupitz Matthias , Schnorr Jörg , Wagner Susanne , Kivelitz Dietmar , Rogalla Patrik , Claaßen Gerlind , Dewey Marc , Robert Philippe , Corot Claire , Hamm Bernd
Published: October 2004

The signal‐enhancing characteristics of a new monodisperse monogadolinated macromolecular MR contrast medium (P792) were evaluated for magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) of the coronary arteries. A total of 15 cardiac examinations were performed in pigs at 1.5 T using a 3D gradient‐echo sequence. Images were acquired during breath‐hold before and up to 35 min after IV injection of Gd‐DTPA (0.3 mmol Gd/kg), Gd‐BOPTA (0.2 mmol Gd/kg), and P792 (13 μmol Gd/kg). An increase in the signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) of 97% ± 17%, 108% ± 37%, and 109% ± 31% in coronary arteries and of 82% ± 19%, 82% ± 24%, and 28% ± 18% in myocardium, respectively, was measured during the first postcontrast acquisition. The blood‐to‐myocardium signal‐difference‐to‐noise ratio (SDNR) was significantly higher for P792 than for the other Gd compounds (P < .05) for up to 15 min after injection. Qualitative assessment showed that visualization of the coronary arteries and their branches was significantly better for P792 compared to the low‐molecular Gd compounds (P < .05). The blood pool contrast medium P792 is well suited for MRA of the coronary arteries. Magn Reson Med 46:932–938, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of flow and energy metabolism on injury and Rb+ uptake in pig hearts: An 87Rb and 31P NMR study
Authors: Kupriyanov Valery V. , Bo Xiang  , Sun Jiankang , Jilkina Olga , Dai Guangping , Deslauriers Roxanne
Published: October 2004

In this work the roles of coronary flow (CF) and metabolism in Rb+ (K+ congener) uptake were studied. In isolated pig hearts the left anterior descending artery (LAD) was cannulated to maintain adequate perfusion of the LAD bed. Rb+ loading was initiated and the LAD flow was either completely stopped (no flow (NF)) or reduced to 12% (low flow (LF)), or buffer was deoxygenated without change in flow (hypoxic flow (HYP)) for 2 h. CF through the LAD was then restored to normal, or perfusion was switched to oxygenated buffer. Serial 87Rb MR images or localized 31P spectra were acquired to compare the Rb+ uptake and energetics in the left ventricular (LV) anterior (ischemic/hypoxic) and posterior (normal) walls. End‐ischemic/hypoxic 87Rb signal intensities in the anterior wall were higher and the fluxes were greater in the HYP and LF groups than in the NF group. Phosphocreatine and ATP decreased less significantly and recovered better in the HYP and LF groups. Upon reperfusion/reoxygenation, the HYP and LF groups showed higher 87Rb signal intensities and smaller or no infarctions in the anterior wall compared to those in the NF group. Ischemia reduces Rb+ uptake due to both flow limitations and metabolic inhibition of cellular transport. 87Rb MRI has a potential for distinguishing necrotic and reversibly damaged tissue. Magn Reson Med 46:963–973, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Improved harmonic phase myocardial strain maps
Authors: Kuijer Joost P.A. , Jansen E. , Marcus J. Tim , van Rossum Albert C. , Heethaar Robert M.
Published: October 2004

Magnetic resonance tagging has proven a valuable tool in the quantification of myocardial deformation. However, time‐consuming postprocessing has discouraged the use of this technique in clinical routine. Recently, the harmonic phase (HARP) technique was introduced for automatic calculation of myocardial strain maps from tagged images. In this study, a comparison was made between HARP instantaneous strain maps calculated from single tagged images (SPAMM) and those calculated from subtracted tagged images (CSPAMM). The performance was quantified using simulated images of an incompressible cylinder in the ‘end‐systolic’ state with realistic image contrast and noise. The error in the second principal stretch ratio was 0.009 ± 0.032 (mean ± SD) for the SPAMM acquisition, and 0.007 ± 0.016 for CSPAMM at identical contrast‐to‐noise ratio. Furthermore, differences between the methods were illustrated with in vivo strain maps. Those calculated from CSPAMM images showed fewer artifacts and were less sensitive to the choice of cut‐off frequencies in the HARP band‐pass filter. A prerequisite for the method to become practical is that the CSPAMM images should be acquired in a single breathhold. Magn Reson Med 46:993–999, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
β‐Ureidopropionase deficiency: A novel inborn error of metabolism discovered using NMR spectroscopy on urine
Authors: Moolenaar Sytske H. , Göhlich‐Ratmann Gudrun , Engelke Udo F.H. , Spraul Manfred , Humpfer Eberhard , Dvortsak Peter , Voit Thomas , Hoffmann Georg F. , Bräutigam Christa , van Kuilenburg André B. , van Gennip Albert , Vreken Peter , Wevers Ron A.
Published: October 2004

In this work, NMR investigations that led to the discovery of a new inborn error of metabolism, β‐ureidopropionase (UP) deficiency, are reported. 1D 1H‐NMR experiments were performed using a patient's urine. 3‐Ureidopropionic acid was observed in elevated concentrations in the urine spectrum. A 1D 1H‐1H total correlation spectroscopy (TOCSY) and two heteronuclear 2D NMR techniques (heteronuclear multiple bond correlation (HMBC) and heteronuclear single‐quantum correlation (HSQC)) were used to identify the molecular structure of the compound that caused an unknown doublet resonance at 1.13 ppm. Combining the information from the various NMR spectra, this resonance could be assigned to 3‐ureidoisobutyric acid. These observations suggested a deficiency of UP. With 1D 1H‐NMR spectroscopy, UP deficiency can be easily diagnosed. The 1H‐NMR spectrum can also be used to diagnose patients suffering from other inborn errors of metabolism in the pyrimidine degradation pathway. Magn Reson Med 46:1014–1017, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dynamic patterns of USPIO enhancement can be observed in macrophages after ischemic brain damage
Authors: Rausch Martin , Sauter Andre , Fröhlich Johannes , Neubacher Ute , Radü Ernst W. , Rudin Markus
Published: October 2004

Cells of the mononuclear phagocytotic system (MPS) are often found near to or within ischemic tissue and can potentially aggravate cellular damage. Hence, visualization of those cells would allow demarcation of putatively affected from intact tissue. Experimental MRI studies have shown that ultrasmall particles of dextran‐coated iron oxide (USPIO) are internalized into cells of the MPS. To test if this cell tagging method may be also applied to cerebral infarction, USPIOs were administered to Fisher rats 5.5 h after permanent occlusion of the middle cerebral artery (pMCAO). During the first 2 days USPIO were preferentially found in patches within the lesion and in surrounding areas. On day 4, USPIOs expanded within the core of the lesion. On day 7 they were found predominantly within the boundary area. Histological analysis showed large populations of macrophages containing iron particles in the infarcted tissue. We conclude, therefore, that it is possible to monitor MPS activity after focal cerebral ischemia using USPIOs. Magn Reson Med 46:1018–1022, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Motion correction of parametric fMRI data from multi‐slice single‐shot multi‐echo acquisitions
Authors: Speck O. , Hennig J.
Published: October 2004

Fast parametric imaging using multi‐echo techniques has been proven to yield quantitative parameter maps with high stability for functional MRI (fMRI). Due to the different contrasts and signal‐to‐noise ratios (SNRs) in the various images, motion correction of the echo images or the resulting parameter maps is not a straightforward process. 3D motion correction of parametric imaging data has not yet been examined thoroughly. However, motion correction is an essential step in fMRI data processing. In this study several possible motion detection methods were tested and compared. Motion parameters can be estimated from the different echo images as well as from the parameter maps. The accuracy of the different methods was examined in simulations and in in vivo experiments. Motion parameters should be estimated from the I0‐parameter maps and subsequently applied to the T‐parameter maps. Magn Reson Med 46:1023–1027, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
New strategy for reconstructing partial‐Fourier imaging data in functional MRI
Authors: Zhang Xiaodong , Yacoub Essa , Hu Xiaoping
Published: October 2004

Most partial Fourier (PF) approaches use a low‐resolution phase estimate in the reconstruction to account for non‐zero phases of the image. These methods may fail when there are large phase errors, a situation commonly encountered in T‐weighted functional MRI (fMRI). To mitigate this problem, a method was developed based on the inversion of a matrix formulated according to a phase map derived from iterative reconstruction. To make this method computationally practical for fMRI, a strategy was introduced such that the matrix inversion is performed only once for each slice in the time series, assuming that the phase map remains constant in the time series. To ensure the temporal phase invariance, physiological noise correction and global phase correction were applied to the data before the reconstruction. This method was demonstrated to be robust and efficient for fMRI. Magn Reson Med 46:1045–1048, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparison of long‐term results of transurethral incision of the prostate with transurethral resection of the prostate, in patients with benign prostatic hypertrophy
Authors: Tkocz Michal , Prajsner Andrzej
Published: October 2004

One hundred patients with benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) were randomized to transurethral incision (TUIP) or transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). The average prostate weight before operation was not more than 30.0 g. Indications for the operations were based on the disease history, physical examination, digital rectal examination, laboratory values, and pressure‐flow examination. All operations were performed with patients under spinal anesthesia. TUIP was performed with a Collins knife, and TURP was performed with a resectoscope. Follow‐up was performed 24 months after the operations. After treatment there were statistically significant daytime and nocturnal reduction in voiding frequencies of 2.9 and 1.7, respectively, after TUIP, and 2.0 and 1.5 after TURP. In both groups, there occurred significantly better maximal flow rate from 7.6 mL/s to 16.9 mL/s in group I and from 6.9 mL/s to 17.6 mL/s in group II. The mean values of linearized passive urethral resistance relation in both groups significantly decreased from 3.6 ± 0.6 to 1.0 ± 0.5 after TUIP and from 3.9 ± 04 to 1.4 ± 0.5 after TURP. The TUIP procedure is effective and safe for patients with a small number of complications. Neurourol. Urodynam. 21:112–116, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Superconvergence of nonconforming finite element method for the Stokes equations
Authors: Ye Xiu
Published: October 2004

This article derives a general superconvergence result for nonconforming finite element approximations of the Stokes problem by using a least‐squares surface fitting method proposed and analyzed recently by Wang for the standard Galerkin method. The superconvergence result is based on some regularity assumption for the Stokes problem and is applicable to any nonconforming stable finite elements with regular but nonuniform partitions. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 18: 143–154, 2002; DOI 10.1002/num.1036
Government Credible Commitment to the French and American Nuclear Power Industries
Authors: Delmas Magali , Heiman Bruce
Published: October 2004

Backlash against nuclear power, although widespread, affected nuclear power programs differently in the United States than in France owing to their differing institutional setups. This article uses a transaction costs economics approach to examine government credible commitment to the French and American nuclear power industries. Positive political theory sheds light on the comparative institutional environment in each industry. The American combination of fragmented power, little reliance on bureaucratic expertise, an independent judiciary, and opposing interest groups greatly undermines the ability of the U.S. government to credibly commit to the nuclear power industry. In France, despite substantial anti‐nuclear interest groups, the impermeability of the institutional setup—no division of power, weak judiciary, and reliance on bureaucratic expertise—effectively prevents activists from influencing policy outcomes. © 2001 by the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management.
Does Urban Public Housing Diminish the Social Capital and Labor Force Activity of Its Tenants?
Authors: Reingold David A. , Van Ryzin Gregg G. , Ronda Michelle
Published: October 2004

This paper investigates the effect of urban public housing on the social capital and labor force activity of its tenants using cross‐sectional survey data from the Multi‐City Study of Urban Inequality (MSCUI). A structural equation model of the hypothesized direct and indirect effects of public housing and neighborhood disadvantage on social capital and labor force activity is specified and fitted to these data. The modeling results suggest that urban public housing is strongly associated with neighborhood disadvantage but has little or no direct effect on either social capital or labor force activity. And while public housing may have indirect effects on social capital and labor force activity through neighborhood poverty, these indirect effects appear to be small. These findings have implications for the current emphasis in urban public housing policy on moving residents into the private housing market and reducing poverty concentration. © 2001 by the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management.
Chronic Illness and Health Insurance‐Related Job Lock
Authors: Stroupe Kevin T. , Kinney Eleanor D. , Kniesner Thomas J.J.
Published: October 2004

Job duration patterns are examined for evidence of health insurance‐related job lock among chronically ill workers or workers whose family member is chronically ill. Using Cox proportional hazard models to indicate the effect of health insurance and health status on workers' job duration we allow for more general insurance effects than that shown in the existing literature. Data for workers in Indiana predating the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) are used to examine the potential effect of HIPAA on job mobility. Among the workers in this sample who relied on their employer for coverage, chronic illness reduced job mobility by about 40 percent as compared with otherwise similar workers who did not rely on their employer for coverage. Results reported here identify previously under‐appreciated job lock among chronically ill workers and workers whose family member is chronically ill, clarify how one best researches job lock, and indicate the potential effect of policies aimed at alleviating job lock and promoting inter‐employer worker mobility. © 2001 by the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management.
Motivation for Compliance with Environmental Regulations
Authors: Winter Søren C. , May Peter J.
Published: October 2004

A combination of calculated, normative, and social motivations as well as awareness of rules and capacity to
comply are thought to foster compliance with regulations. Hypotheses about these factors were tested with data
concerning Danish farmers' compliance with agro‐environmental regulations. Three key findings
emerge: that farmers' awareness of rules plays a critical role; that normative and social motivations are
as influential as calculated motivations in enhancing compliance; and that inspectors' enforcement
style affects compliance differently from that posited in much of the literature. It was also found that
formalism in inspection can be helpful to a point, while coercion by inspectors can backfire. Taken together,
these findings counter arguments concerning the harm of legalism and the benefits of flexible enforcement. This
study contributes to the understanding of factors that shape compliance with social and environmental
regulations. © 2001 by the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management.
From Welfare to Work: Has Welfare Reform Worked?
Authors: Kaushal Neeraj , Kaestner Robert
Published: October 2004

This paper discusses estimates of the effect of welfare reform,as measured by the imposition of time limits
and family cap provisions, on the employment and fertility of less educated unmarried women. This analysis shows
that welfare reform has induced less educated unmarried women to move from welfare to work in significant
numbers. The imposition of time limits and other administrative reforms correlated with it have increased the
employment of unmarried women with 12 or fewer years of education by an estimated 363,171, approximately 28
percent of the decline in welfare caseloads for this group since 1994. Furthermore, evidence shows that women
who have left welfare for employment worked approximately 29 hours per week, which even at low wages may
significantly improve their financial status relative to public assistance. However, little evidence can be
found to show that the imposition of time limits and family caps affect the fertility of less educated unmarried
women. © 2001 by the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management.
Prospective study of the patient‐level cost of asthma care in children*
Authors: Ungar Wendy J. , Coyte Peter C.
Published: October 2004

Our objective was to assess the cost of asthma care at the patient level in children from the perspectives of society, the Ontario Ministry of Health, and the patient. In this longitudinal evaluation, health service use data and costs were collected during telephone interviews at 1, 3, and 6 months with parents of 339 Ontario children with asthma. Direct costs were respiratory‐related visits to healthcare providers, emergency rooms, hospital admissions, pulmonary function tests, prescription medications, devices, and out‐of‐pocket expenses. Indirect costs were parents' absences from work/usual activities and travel and waiting time.

Hospital admissions accounted for 43%, medications for 31%, and parent productivity losses for 12% of total costs from a societal perspective. Statistically significant predictors of higher total costs were worse symptoms, younger age group, and season of participation. Adjusted annual societal costs per patient in 1995 Canadian dollars varied from $1,122 in children aged 4–14 years to $1,386 in children under 4 years of age. From the Ministry of Health perspective, adjusted annual costs per patient were $663 in children over 4 years and $904 in younger children. Adjusted annual costs from the patient perspective were $132 in children over 4 years and $129 in children under 4 years.

The rising incidence of pediatric asthma demands that greater attention be paid to the delivery of optimal care to this segment of the population. Appropriate methods must be used to analyze healthcare costs and the use of services in the midst of widespread healthcare reform. The quality of clinical and health policy decision‐making may be enhanced by cost‐of‐illness estimates that are comprehensive, precise, and expressed from multiple perspectives. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2001; 32:101–108. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sputum processing for evaluation of inflammatory mediators
Authors: Kim Jung‐Soo , Hackley Grant H. , Okamoto Kosuke , Rubin Bruce K.
Published: October 2004

Neutrophil‐dominated inflammation is prominent in the cystic fibrosis (CF) and chronic bronchitis (CB) airways. We assessed the degree of airway inflammation by measuring the sputum concentrations of interleukin (IL)‐8, myeloperoxidase (MPO), and deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). We determined the relationship among the concentrations of these mediators and investigated methodological problems that may be responsible for reported variability in measurements. Sputa obtained from 31 patients were solubilized with phosphate‐buffered saline, dithiothreitol (DTT) (0.1% or 1%), or dornase alfa (0.2 mg/mL). The sputum concentration of IL‐8 and MPO was measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and DNA was measured using microfluorimetry.

There was a significant relationship among sputum IL‐8, MPO, and DNA. For MPO (means ± SD), CF was 1,392 ± 771 vs. CB at 75 ± 65 mcg/mL; P < 0.0001. For IL‐8: CF was 239 ± 154 vs. CB at 121 ± 108 ng/mL; P = 0.0002. For DNA, CF was 1.707 ± 1.25 vs. CB at 0.184 ± 0.272 mg/mL; P < 0.0001. The MPO concentration in CF sputum was approximately double after in vitro treatment with dornase alfa (P < 0.0001).

There is a greater concentration of IL‐8, MPO, and DNA in CF than in CB sputa. There is a significant relationship among these inflammatory markers in sputum. DNA polymers bind myeloperoxidase in the sputum, and we speculate that treatment with dornase alfa may remove a source of MPO inhibition. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2001; 32:152–158. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Off‐line exhaled nitric oxide measurements in children
Authors: Barreto Mario , Villa Maria Pia , Martella Susy , Falasca Carlo , Guglielmi Francesco , Pagani Jacopo , Darder Maria Teresa , Ronchetti Roberto
Published: October 2004

The concentration of exhaled nitric oxide (eNO) is a useful marker of asthmatic bronchial inflammation. eNO can now be measured away from the laboratory (off‐line), even in children. Short exhalation maneuvers (8 sec) and small samples (1 L) of exhaled gas are probably sufficient in children, but more information is needed about the effect of different measurement conditions. As a preliminary step before conducting epidemiological studies in schoolchildren, we investigated the effects of expiratory flow, dead space, and expiratory time on eNO concentrations collected in 1‐L mylar collection bags. We studied 101 cooperative subjects (62 males) aged 5–18 years (30 healthy volunteers, 51 asthmatics, and 20 children with various other respiratory diseases) in our pulmonary function laboratory. On‐line and off‐line eNO were compared in a single session, and analyzed with a Sievers NOA™ 280 nitric oxide analyzer. For both methods of collecting expired gas, subjects did a single exhalation without breath‐holding against an expiratory pressure 10 cm H2O. We investigated the effects of expiratory flow, dead space, and exhalation time on eNO; we also compared on‐line and off‐line eNO measurements, and the repeatability of both techniques at a given flow rate.

Expiratory flows of 58 mL/sec provided more reproducible data than lower flows (coefficient of repeatability 1.1 ppb for 58 mL/sec vs. 2.8 for 27 mL/sec vs. 5.7 for 18 mL/sec). eNO concentrations were about 25% higher in off‐line than in on‐line recordings if the initial 250 mL of exhaled gas were not eliminated, and 37% higher if exhalation lasted longer (16 sec vs. 8 sec). Eliminating 250 mL of dead space and shortening the filling time to 8 sec yielded off‐line eNO values close to those on‐line (geometric mean off‐line eNO 14.4 ppb, 95% confidence interval: 12.2–17.0) vs. on‐line eNO 13.8 ppb (95% confidence interval: 11.6–16.5). On‐line and off‐line results were highly correlated (r = 0.996, P = 0.000) and had similar coefficients of variation (on‐line eNO 2.6%, off‐line 2.8%). Neither agreement nor repeatability of eNO measurements were affected by disease status or baseline FEV1 (% predicted values).

Once standardized, the off‐line eNO technique using 1‐L gas collection bags will provide results similar to those recorded on‐line. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2001; 32:159–167. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Efficacy of early piston‐type high‐frequency oscillatory ventilation in infants with respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Sakai Takeo , Kamohara Takasi , Aiba Satoru , Yoshioka Tosiro , Itinohe Akiko , Chiba Hiroo , Watanabe Tatsuya , Iinuma Kazuie
Published: October 2004

We investigated whether the combination of surfactant replacement therapy and early application of high‐frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV) was more effective in patients with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) than late application of HFOV and conventional mechanical ventilation (CMV). To determine this, we retrospectively reviewed the cases of 126 neonates with RDS who received surfactant replacement therapy within 4 hr after birth. Patients were grouped into those who received HFOV immediately after birth (HFOV group), those who initially were ventilated by CMV and subsequently received HFOV (CMV/HFOV group), and those who did not receive HFOV (CMV group). Changes in respiratory system compliance (Crs), arterial‐alveolar oxygen gradient (a/ApO2), and mean airway pressure (MAP) were compared.

Infants who received HFOV were less mature than those who received CMV. The a/ApO2 measured immediately after birth before surfactant replacement therapy was significantly lower in the HFOV and CMV/HFOV group than in the CMV group. After 72 hr, the Crs in the HFOV group was higher than in any other group and was significantly higher than the CMV/HFOV group at 48 and 120 hr.

These results suggest that initiating HFOV in combination with surfactant replacement therapy immediately after birth provides effective ventilatory support for infants with RDS. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2001; 32:168–174. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Bronchiectasis: Still a problem
Authors: Karakoc Gülbin Bingöl , Yilmaz Mustafa , Altintas Derya Ufuk , Kendirli Seval Güneser
Published: October 2004

The prevalence of bronchiectasis (BR) has decreased significantly in industrialized countries, but is still commonplace in developing countries. We evaluated the causes and clinical features of BR in 23 children (13 boys (57%) and 10 girls (43%), with a mean age of 8.45 ± 4.02 years).

Infection was the major cause of BR in our region. In 8 patients, BR developed after tuberculosis or pneumonia, was associated with immune deficiency syndromes in 4 children, and with asthma in 4. Cystic fibrosis was diagnosed in 4 cases and ciliary dyskinesia in 3. In 10 patients, only one lobe was involved. Bronchiectatic lesions were most commonly found in the left lower lobe and were observed in 7 patients. Multilobar involvement was found in 13 patients. The initial treatment was primarily medical, but in 2 patients whose medical therapy failed, pulmonary resection was carried out. Three patients died from severe pulmonary infection and respiratory failure. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2001; 32:175–178. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Congenital pulmonary lymphangiectasia: A case report of thoracic duct agenesis
Authors: Antonetti Marc , Manuck Tracy Ann , Schramm Craig , Hight Donald
Published: October 2004

We present a 17‐year‐old Caucasian male with congenital pulmonary lymphangiectasia and an absent thoracic duct. This patient is unique as he did not present with the disorder until age 9.5 years. Since his initial presentation he has had recurrent chylothoraces and has been treated symptomatically. We discuss the possible implications of his disorder as well as some of the limited treatment that is available. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2001; 32:184–186. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.