bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A VANADIUM BROMOPEROXIDASE CATALYZES THE FORMATION OF HIGH‐MOLECULAR‐WEIGHT COMPLEXES BETWEEN BROWN ALGAL PHENOLIC SUBSTANCES AND ALGINATES1
Authors: Salgado Leonardo Tavares , Cinelli Leonardo Paes , Viana Nathan Bessa , Tomazetto de Carvalho Rodrigo , De Souza Mourão Paulo Antônio , Teixeira Valéria Laneuville , Farina Marcos , Filho And Gilberto Menezes Amado
Published: February 2009

The interaction between phenolic substances (PS) and alginates (ALG) has been suggested to play a role in the structure of the cell walls of brown seaweeds. However, no clear evidence for this interaction was reported. Vanadium bromoperoxidase (VBPO) has been proposed as a possible catalyst for the binding of PS to ALG. In this work, we studied the interaction between PS and ALG from brown algae using size exclusion chromatography (SEC) and optical tweezers microscopy. The analysis by SEC revealed that ALG forms a high‐molecular‐weight complex with PS. To study the formation of this molecular complex, we investigated the in vitro interaction of purified ALG from Fucus vesiculosus L. with purified PS from Padina gymnospora (Kütz.) Sond., in the presence or absence of VBPO. The interaction between PS and ALG only occurred when VBPO was added, indicating that the enzyme is essential for the binding process. The interaction of these molecules led to a reduction in ALG viscosity. We propose that VBPO promotes the binding of PS molecules to the ALG uronic acids residues, and we also suggest that PS are components of the brown algal cell walls.
Ten years of hemovigilance reports of transfusion‐related acute lung injury in the United Kingdom and the impact of preferential use of male donor plasma
Authors: Chapman Catherine E. , Stainsby Dorothy , Jones Hilary , Love Elizabeth , Massey Edwin , Win Nay , Navarrete Cristina , Lucas Geoff , Soni Neil , Morgan Cliff , Choo Louise , Cohen Hannah , Williamson Lorna M.
Published: February 2009

BACKGROUND AND METHODS: From 1996 through 2006, 195 cases were reported as transfusion‐related acute lung injury (TRALI) to the Serious Hazards of Transfusion scheme and from 1999 onward classified by probability, using clinical features and HLA and/or HNA typing. From late 2003, the National Blood Service provided 80 to 90 percent of fresh‐frozen plasma (FFP) and plasma for platelet (PLT) pools from male donors.

RESULTS: Forty‐nine percent of reports were highly likely/probable TRALI, and 51 percent possible/unlikely. Of 96 investigations, donor antibodies recognizing recipient antigens were found in 73 cases (65%), with HLA Class I in 25 of those (40%), HLA Class II antibodies in 38 (62%), and granulocyte antibodies in 12 (17%). A review in 2003 revealed that the TRALI risk/component was 6.9 times higher for FFP and 8.2 times higher for PLTs than for red blood cells, and that in donors of implicated FFP/PLTs, white blood cell antibodies were found 3.6 times more often than by chance (p ≤ 0.0001), with all implicated donors being female. Provision of male plasma was associated with a reduction in TRALI reports from 36 in 2003 to 23 in each of 2004 and 2005 and 10 in 2006. Highly likely/probable cases reduced from 23 in 2003 to 10, 6, and 4 in the 3 subsequent years, with cases implicating FFP or PLTs falling from 16 to 9, 3, and 1 respectively.

CONCLUSIONS: The risk of highly likely/probable TRALI due to FFP has fallen from 15.5 per million units issued during 1999 through 2004 to 3.2 per million during 2005 through 2006 (p = 0.0079) and from 14.0 per million to 5.8 per million for PLTs.
Serologic and molecular typing of human T‐lymphotropic virus among blood donors in Maputo City, Mozambique
Authors: Gudo Eduardo Samo , Abreu Celina M. , Mussá Tufária , Do Rosário Augusto Ângelo , Otsuki Koko , Chambo Evelina , Amade Nádia , Tanuri Amílcar , Ferreira Jr Orlando C. , Jani Ilesh V.
Published: February 2009

BACKGROUND: Screening for human T‐lymphotropic virus‐1/2 (HTLV‐1/2) infection is not performed in blood banks in Mozambique. The aim was to determine the prevalence of HTLV‐1/2 among blood donors of the Maputo Central Hospital Blood Bank and measure the coinfection rate of HTLV‐1/2 with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and syphilis.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A total of 2019 consecutive blood donors were screened for HTLV‐1/2 antibodies, HIV‐1/2 antibodies, hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), and rapid plasma reagin (RPR) for syphilis. Specimens reactive on a first HTLV‐1/2 enzyme immunoassay (EIA) were retested using a second EIA. Specimens that were dually reactive on both EIAs were further tested using Western blot (WB) and real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

RESULTS: All 18 dually reactive specimens (0.89%; 95% confidence interval, 0.48%‐1.30%) were positive for the presence of HTLV‐1 by WB and real‐time PCR. HTLV‐2 was not detected. The prevalences of anti‐HIV, HBsAg, and reactivity in the RPR test were 5.72, 6.01, and 0.98 percent, respectively. There was no significant association between HTLV‐1 infection and demographic variables (age and sex) or serologic markers (HIV, HBsAg, and RPR). For the 17 HTLV‐1–positive donors for whom serologic data for HIV, HBsAg, and syphilis RPR were available, 2 showed coinfection with HIV and 1 with HBV.

CONCLUSION: Compared to other infectious agents, HTLV‐1 is present at relatively low levels among blood donors in Mozambique. Cost and logistics will present as major challenges for introducing HTLV‐1/2 screening in blood banks. In blood banks in Southern Africa where EIA testing is possible, a sequential algorithm of two EIAs may be a cost‐efficient option for HTLV‐1/2 screening.
Cognitive deficits after recovery from thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Kennedy April S. , Lewis Qurana F. , Scott James G. , Kremer Hovinga Johanna A. , Lämmle Bernhard , Terrell Deirdra R. , Vesely Sara K. , George James N.
Published: February 2009

BACKGROUND: Patients with apparent complete recovery from thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) often complain of problems with memory, concentration, and fatigue.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Twenty‐four patients who were enrolled in the Oklahoma TTP‐HUS Registry for their initial episode of TTP, 1995‐2006, and who had ADAMTS13 activity of less than 10 percent were evaluated for a broad range of cognitive functions 0.1 to 10.6 years (median, 4.0 years) after their most recent episode. At the time of their evaluation, they had normal physical and Mini‐Mental State Examinations and no evidence of TTP.

RESULTS: The patients, as a group, performed significantly worse on 4 of the 11 cognitive domains tested than standardized US data from neurologically normal individuals adjusted for age, sex, and education (p < 0.05). These four domains measured complex attention and concentration skills, information processing speed, rapid language generation, and rote memorization. Twenty‐one (88%) patients performed below expectations on at least 1 of the 11 domains. No clear patterns were observed between cognitive test results and patients' characteristics or features of the preceding TTP, including age, occurrence of severe neurologic abnormalities, multiple episodes, and interval from an acute episode.

CONCLUSION: Patients who have recovered from TTP may have persistent cognitive abnormalities. The abnormalities observed in these patients are characteristic of disorders associated with diffuse subcortical microvascular disease. Studies of larger patient groups will be required to confirm these preliminary observations and to determine patient characteristics that may contribute to persistent cognitive abnormalities.
High‐Q Microwave Dielectrics in the (Mg1−xCox)2TiO4 Ceramics
Authors: Huang Cheng‐Liang , Chen Jhih‐Yong
Published: February 2009

The microwave dielectric properties and the microstructures of (Mg1−xCox)2TiO4 ceramics prepared by the conventional solid‐state route were investigated. Lattice parameters were also measured for specimens with different x. The formation of solid solution (Mg1−xCox)2TiO4 (x=0.02–0.1) was confirmed by the X‐ray diffraction patterns, energy dispersive X‐ray analysis, and the lattice parameters measured. By increasing x from 0 to 0.05, the Q×f of the specimen can be tremendously boosted from 150 000 GHz to a maximum of 286 000 GHz. A fine combination of microwave dielectric properties (ɛr∼15.7, Q×f∼286 000 GHz at 10.4 GHz, τf∼−52.5 ppm/°C) was achieved for (Mg0.95Co0.05)2TiO4 ceramics sintered at 1390°C for 4 h. Ilmenite‐structured (Mg0.95Co0.05)TiO3 was detected as a second phase. The presence of the second phase would cause no significant variation in the dielectric properties of the specimen because it possesses compatible properties compared with that of the main phase. In addition, only a small deviation in the dielectric properties was monitored for specimens with x=0.04–0.05 at 1360°–1420°C. It not only provides a wide process window but also ensures an extremely reliable material proposed as a very promising dielectric for low‐loss microwave and millimeter wave applications.
Additive‐Assisted Nitridation to Synthesize Si3N4 Nanomaterials at a Low Temperature
Authors: Li Fengxia , Fu Li , Ma Xiaojian , Sun Changhui , Wang LianCheng , Guo Chunli , Qian Yitai , Qian Yitai
Published: February 2009

Starting from Si powder, NaN3 and different additives such as N‐aminothiourea, iodine, or both, Si3N4 nanomaterials were synthesized through the nitridation of silicon powder in autoclaves at 60°–190°C. As the additive was only N‐aminothiourea, β‐Si3N4 nanorods and α‐Si3N4 nanoparticles were prepared at 170°C. If the additive was only iodine, α‐Si3N4 dendrites with β‐Si3N4 nanorods were obtained at 190°C. However, when both N‐aminothiourea and iodine were added to the system of Si and NaN3, the products composed of β‐Si3N4 nanorods and α, β‐Si3N4 nanoparticles could be prepared at 60°C.
Fabrication and Characterization of Anode‐Supported Tubular Solid‐Oxide Fuel Cells by Slip Casting and Dip Coating Techniques
Authors: Zhang Lan , He Hong Quan , Kwek Wen Rui , Ma Jan , Tang Ee Ho , Jiang San Ping
Published: February 2009

High‐performance anode‐supported tubular solid‐oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) have been successfully developed and fabricated using slip casting, dip coating, and impregnation techniques. The effect of a dispersant and solid loading on the viscosity of the NiO/Y2O3–ZrO2 (NiO/YSZ) slurry is investigated in detail. The viscosity of the slurry was found to be minimum when the dispersant content was 0.6 wt% of NiO/YSZ. The effect of sintering temperature on the shrinkage and porosity of the anode tubes, densification of the electrolyte, and performance of the cell at different solid loadings is also investigated. A Ni/YSZ anode‐supported tubular cell fabricated from the NiO/YSZ slurry with 65 wt% solid loading and sintered at 1380°C produced a peak power output of ∼491 and ∼376 mW/cm2 at 800°C in wet H2 and CH4, respectively. With the impregnation of Ce0.8Gd0.2O2 (GDC) nanoparticles, the peak power density increased to ∼1104 and ∼770 mW/cm2 at 800°C in wet H2 and CH4, respectively. GDC impregnation considerably enhances the electrochemical performance of the cell and significantly reduces the ohmic and polarization resistances of thin solid electrolyte cells.
Isothermal Sintering Effects on Phase Separation and Grain Growth in Yttria‐Stabilized Tetragonal Zirconia Polycrystal
Authors: Matsui Koji , Yoshida Hidehiro , Ikuhara Yuichi
Published: February 2009

The isothermal sintering behavior in 3 mol% yttria‐stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal (Y‐TZP) was investigated to clarify phase‐separation and grain‐growth mechanisms during sintering. In the Y‐TZP sintered at 1300°C for 2 h, the Y3+ ion distribution of grain interiors in Y‐TZP was nearly homogeneous, but Y3+ ions segregated along grain boundaries within a width of about 10 nm. When the holding time increased from 2 to 50 h, the cubic‐phase regions with high Y3+ ion concentrations were clearly formed in the grain interiors adjacent to the grain boundaries, though the average grain size hardly increased. This result shows that the cubic‐phase regions were formed without grain growth, which can be explained by the grain‐boundary segregation‐induced phase transformation mechanism. In the Y‐TZP sintered at 1500°C for 2 h, the cubic‐phase regions were already formed, and both of the cubic‐phase region and average grain size increased with increasing holding time. This grain‐growth behavior can be interpreted by the third‐power growth low derived based on the solute drag theory, which indicates that the cubic‐phase regions do not effectively act as the pinning points.
Synthesis of Eu‐Doped CaAlSiN3 from Ammonometallates: Effects of Sodium Content and Pressure
Authors: Li Jinwang , Watanabe Tomoaki , Wada Hiroshi , Setoyama Tohru , Yoshimura Masahiro
Published: February 2009

We report the effects of synthesis pressure and sodium content in reactants on the lattice structure and photoluminescence properties of Eu‐doped CaAlSiN3, a red phosphor, synthesized by a low‐temperature process (up to 800°C) from ammonometallates. The lattice parameters and average and anisotropic values of crystallite size and lattice strains were calculated by refining against X‐ray diffraction data. These values are correlated with synthesis pressure and sodium content. The light emission was shown to be a result of a compromise between the effects of the lattice cell dimensions and the strains. The sample obtained at Na/Ca=2.0 under 100 MPa showed the best photoluminescence emission among all the produced samples. On the other hand, our analysis suggests the optimum pressure and Na/Ca ratio for a maximum light emission could be around 60 MPa and 2, respectively.
Synthesis and Densification of Transparent Magnesium Aluminate Spinel by SPS Processing
Authors: Meir Shay , Kalabukhov Sergei , Froumin Natasha , Dariel Moshe P. , Frage Nahum
Published: February 2009

Mixtures of elementary oxides, MgO–Al2O3, were used to fabricate transparent polycrystalline magnesium aluminate spinel specimens by means of the spark plasma sintering technique. A sintering aid, 1 wt% of LiF, was added to the mixed powder. The presence of the additive promotes the synthesis of spinel that starts at 900°C and is completed at 1100°C. The LiF additive wets spinel on its melting and promotes densification, which is completed at 1600°C. LiF vapor plays a cardinal role in eliminating residual carbon contamination and in the fully dense state, allows attaining a 78% level of optical transmittance. The optimal conditions for achieving adequate transparency were determined and the role of the LiF addition in the various stages of the process is discussed.
Effect of Sintering Temperature on the Microstructural and Flux Pinning Characteristics of Bi1.6Pb0.5Sr1.8La0.2Ca1.1Cu2.1O8+δ Ceramics
Authors: Sarun Pallian Murikoli , Vinu Surendran , Shabna Razia , Biju Alikunju , Guruswamy Perumal , Syamaprasad Upendran
Published: February 2009

We evaluated the microstructure, superconducting, and flux pinning properties of La‐doped (Bi,Pb)‐2212 bulk sample by varying its sintering temperature (Tsinter) between 846° and 860°C. Significant variations in microstructure, self‐ and in‐field JCs at 64 K and flux pinning properties have been observed for La‐substituted samples with respect to Tsinter. The sample sintered at 858°C shows best self‐field JC while that sintered at 846°C shows the best in‐field JC due to the changes in microstructure. The activation energy of flux motion (pinning potential Uo) is estimated from the field dependent resistivity–temperature curves, and the flux pinning force (FP) from the field‐dependent JC values. It is found that the La‐doped samples, sintered at 846°C show maximum FP and Uo of 463 kN/m3 and 0.380±0.001 eV as against 93.6 k/Nm3 and 0.140±0.001 eV, respectively, for the sample sintered at 858°C. The undoped (Bi,Pb)‐2212 shows a maximum FP and Uo of 12.7 k/Nm3 and 0.074±0.001 eV, respectively. The origin of these enhanced properties is mainly from the normal‐like defects introduced by optimum La‐doping at the Sr‐site, at an optimum sintering temperature.
Pressure Distribution and Defect Formation in Green Ceramic Bodies During Supercritical Extraction of Binder
Authors: Krishnamurthy Kumar , Lombardo Stephen J.
Published: February 2009

Supercritical extraction (SCE) with carbon dioxide at 10–40 MPa and 55°–90°C has been used to remove binder from multilayer green ceramic bodies. Defects such as cracking and delamination were occasionally observed in the green bodies following the extraction process, and these defects were attributed to pressure gradients that arise during isothermal depressurization from conditions of SCE. A model based on flow in porous media was developed to describe the temporal and spatial distribution of pressure within the green body during depressurization. The model incorporates both nonideal pressure–volume–temperature behavior and nonconstant viscosity of the supercritical fluid. The effects of the body size and gas‐phase permeability on the pressure within the green body were examined.
Fabrication of an Al2O3/YAG/ZrO2 Ternary Eutectic by Combustion Synthesis Melt Casting Under Ultra‐High Gravity
Authors: Liang Rui , Pei Jun , Li Jiangtao , Jin Haibo , Chen Kexin
Published: February 2009

This work presents a novel method for preparing an Al2O3/YAG/ZrO2 ternary eutectic whereby combustion synthesis melt casting has been combined with the ultra‐high gravity (UHG) technique. The fabricated product had a relative density of 99.3% of the theoretical one. Phase composition and microstructure analyses indicated that the application of UHG resulted in a metal‐free ceramic microstructure with no porosity or microcracks. The microstructure comprises ZrO2 rods dispersed in Al2O3. The product had 17.82 GPa Vickers hardness and 5.51 MPa·m1/2 fracture toughness.
The Structure of Yttrialite and Its Identification Using Laboratory and Synchrotron‐Based Powder X‐Ray Diffraction
Authors: Heward William J. , Sarrafi‐Nour Reza , Gao Yan
Published: February 2009

A highly crystalline sample of the impurity stabilized phase y‐Y2Si2O7, generally known as yttrialite, has been formed from the melt of a glass with a nominal composition of 62(SiO2)–10(Al2O3)–28(Y2O3) mol%. Powder X‐ray diffraction patterns were collected using in‐house instrumentation and the 11‐BM diffractometer at the Advanced Photon Source, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, IL. Rietveld refinements were carried out on the patterns using two structural models. On patterns collected using in‐house instrumentation the correct structure assignment was difficult to determine; however, the extremely high‐quality data afforded by the 11‐BM instrument showed conclusively that the sample was found to crystallize in the monoclinic system (SG=P21/m) with lattice parameters a=5.03032(6), b=8.06892(6), c=7.33620(6) Å, and β=108.673(1). Furthermore, simulations have shown that it is likely that this structure model can be used to describe natural yttrialite or yttrialite that is formed at low temperatures, though the possibility that such materials are paracrystalline is also discussed.
Ca2B5O9Cl:Eu2+, A Suitable Blue‐Emitting Phosphor for n‐UV Excited Solid‐State Lighting
Authors: Zhang Xinmin , Chen Hong , Ding Weijia , Wu Hao , Kim Jongsu
Published: February 2009

Blue‐emitting Ca2B5O9Cl:Eu2+ phosphors have been synthesized by solid state reaction. The photoluminescence excitation (PLE) spectra show broad‐band absorptions and can match the emission of near ultraviolet (n‐UV) chip well. At lower Eu2+ concentration, the emission band can be resolved into two bands, which is assigned to the 5d→4f transition of Eu2+ ions substituting two different Ca2+ sites. At higher Eu2+ concentration, the energy transfer from Eu(1) to Eu(2) happens and is very efficient. At higher temperature the phosphor exhibits a lower temperature quenching effect. The fluorescence lifetimes are short enough for application in solid‐state lighting. The electroluminescence spectrum indicates that the emission of chip can almost be absorbed by phosphor and down‐converted into an intensive blue light. The chromaticity coordinates of fabricated light‐emitting‐diodes (LEDs) is very close to that of BaMgAl10O17:Eu2+ (BAM). Ca2B5O9Cl:Eu2+ is a good blue component phosphor for n‐UV excited solid‐state lighting.
Effects of Ca/Ti Cosubstitution upon Microwave Dielectric Characteristics of CaSmAlO4Ceramics
Authors: Fan Xie Cheng , Chen Xiang Ming
Published: February 2009

(Ca1+xSm1−x)(Al1−xTix)O4(0≤x≤0.4) ceramics were synthesized by solid‐state reaction method and their microstructures and microwave dielectric properties were investigated. X‐ray diffraction analysis and energy‐dispersive X‐ray analysis indicated that the matrix phase was a solid solution with a composition represented by the chemical formula (Ca1+xSm1−x) (Al1−xTix)O4and minor amount of (Ca,Sm)(Al,Ti)O3secondary phase was detected. Ca/Ti cosubstitution could significantly improve the microwave dielectric characteristics of CaSmAlO4ceramics, and the excellent microwave dielectric characteristics were obtained in the modified ceramics as ɛr=19–23,Q×f=49 100–118 700 GHz, and τf=−15–15 ppm/°C.
The Politics of Family Planning: An Agenda for President Obama
Authors: Pillsbury Barbara
Published: February 2009

Shirley Fiske is contributing editor of “Anthropology Works,” the AAA Committee on Practicing, Applied and Public Interest Anthropology column in Anthropology News.
Management of the acute porphyrias
Authors: Kauppinen R.
Published: February 2009

Three hepatic porphyrias — acute intermittent porphyria, hereditary co‐proporphyria and variegate porphyria — are characterized by episodic acute attacks that consist of various neuro‐psychiatric symptoms and signs, such as abdominal pain, vomiting, constipation, hypertension and tachycardia associated with increased excretion of porphyrins and porphyrin precursors. Peripheral neuropathy is manifested as pain in the extremities, and it may progress to a severe motor neuropathy. Measurement of por‐phobilinogen in the urine gives a prompt diagnosis during acute attacks. Attacks are often induced by precipitating factors such as drugs, alcohol, infection, fasting or changes in sex‐hormone balance, and they should be eliminated when a patient is treated during an attack. Heme, the end biosynthetic product, is the most effective therapy for restoration of porphyrin biosynthesis to normal, and it is usually infused at 3mg/kg daily for 4 days. Adequate calories are necessary and parenteral nutrition with carbohydrates may be necessary. Attacks may also require therapy for hypertension, pain and epileptic seizures. Strict avoidance of all precipitating factors may not be necessary in the asymptomatic phase.
Molecular genetics of erythropoietic protoporphyria
Authors: Todd D. J.
Published: February 2009

Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is caused by decreased activity of the enzyme ferrochelatase and is characterized by burning photosensitivity commencing in childhood. From 1–10% of patients develop potentially fatal protoporphyric hepatic failure. The gene for ferrochelatase has been cloned, sequenced and mapped to the long arm of chromosome 18. EPP is genetically very heterogeneous and 24 different mutations in 27 unrelated patients have been published. In the majority of families co‐inheritance of a mutant ferrochelatase allele from one parent and a low‐output “normal” ferrochelatase allele from the other parent is required for disease expression. The molecular basis, if any, of protoporphyric hepatic failure has not yet been resolved. Gene therapy experiments have been completed in vitro and are in progress in an animal model of EPP. In conclusion, molecular genetic investigation of EPP has increased our understanding of its pathogenesis and inheritance. Why some EPP patients develop hepatic failure is still unanswered. Gene therapy of EPP patients may become possible in the future.
Influence of dietary lipid on hapten‐specific UV‐induced immunosuppression
Authors: Okotie‐Eboh G. , Gerguis J. , Black H. S.
Published: February 2009

The influence of diets containing high (12%, w/w) and low (0.75%) levels of corn oil on hapten‐specific antibody production to trinitrophenol‐conjugated sheep red blood cells (TNP‐SRBC) was examined in mice receiving 0, 3, 9, and 11 wk of UV radiation. Splenocytes from HRA HRII‐c/+/Skh female hairless mice from the two dietary groups were incubated under a special atmosphere of low oxygen tension (7% O2, 10% CO2, and 83% N2) with TNP‐SRBC to generate hapten‐specific T‐suppressor cells that, in turn, influence the number of direct plaque forming cells (PFC) in the Cunnigham‐Szenberg plaque assay. Chronic UV irradiation reduced the number of direct PFC in both groups. After 11 wk of UV, the number of PFC in the high dietary fat group was significantly lower (P<0.001) than that observed in the low fat group. These results suggest that dietary fat modulates UV‐induced hapten‐specific immunosuppression. Furthermore, the influence of dietary fat level, in this respect, was not realized until after 11 wk of UV, a time at which dietary fat has been shown to exert its influence on UV‐carcinogenic expression.
Plasma levels of 8‐methoxypsoralen following PUVA‐bath photochemotherapy
Authors: von Kobyletzki G. , Hoffmann K. , Kerscher M. , Altmeyer P.
Published: February 2009

Administration of 8‐methoxypsoralen (8‐MOP) in a dilute bath water solution is an effective therapeutic alternative to oral PUVA therapy, avoiding systemic side effects, offering better bioavailability of the psoralen and requiring much smaller amounts of UVA for induction of therapeutic effects. To obtain exact data about the percutaneous absorption of 8‐MOP during a psoralen bath, the plasma levels of the drug were determined in 26 patients with different skin diseases by a reverse high‐performance liquid chromatographic method. Fifteen patients receiving oral PUVA therapy (0.8 mg 8‐MOP/kg body weight) served as a positive control group. Bath solutions were prepared by diluting 15 ml of 0.5% stock solution of 8‐MOP in 150 l of bath water (0.5 mg/l, 37°C). Blood samples were drawn from patients 5, 30, 60, 120 and 180 min after the bath. In the oral PUVA group, blood samples were obtained 1½ h after administration of the drug. In 23 of 26 patients, 8‐MOP levels were undetectable in every blood sample. After 30 min, two patients showed detectable levels of 8‐MOP (5 ng/ml, 7 ng/ml), while 60 min after the PUVA bath 8‐MOP was detectable in only one volunteer (5 ng/ml). In patients receiving oral 8‐MOP therapy, serum levels varied between 45 and 360 ng/ml 1½ h after drug administration. Our data confirm extremely low 8‐MOP levels resulting from 8‐MOP bath water treatments and provide confirmation of the absence of systemic side effects in patients who are undergoing PUVA‐bath therapy.
Reliability of self‐assessment in determining skin phototype for Korean brown skin
Authors: Park S. B. , Suh D. H. , Youn J. I.
Published: February 2009

The widely used skin phototype system first introduced by Fitzpatrick, which is based on the history of an individual tendency to burn and tan, was studied in 733 Korean men by means of a self‐assessment questionnaire. Combining two factors, individual burning and tanning tendency, less than half (43.9%) could be classified according to the skin phototype system. Furthermore, the concordant ratio between subjective skin phototypes assessed by the subjects themselves and classification by combining self‐reported burning and tanning tendencies was much lower (34.4%). In a subgroup of 156 subjects, the minimal erythema dose (MED) was determined and compared with the reported tendencies to burn and tan. The results showed that subjects with higher MEDs tended to report more tanning. We concluded that in Korean brown skin, there is a disconcordant relationship between reported burning and tanning tendencies and, though reliable for white skin, self‐assessed skin phototypes are unreliable in Korean brown skin.
Solar urticaria enhanced through clothing
Authors: Gardeazabal J. , González‐Pérez R. , Bilbao I. , Alvarez‐Hernández M. I. , Aguirre A. , Díaz‐Pérez J. L.
Published: February 2009

Solar urticaria is characterized by itching, erythema and wheeling immediately after exposure to radiation in the ultraviolet (UVB, UVA) and visible spectra. Although its exact mechanism remains unknown, evidence supports an immunologic pathogenesis. We describe an unusual patient with solar urticaria who had more severe involvement in skin irradiated with UVA light through white clothing. We propose that optical whiteners in clothing and detergents had absorbed UVA radiation, transforming it into visible light, which was responsible for the urticarial response.
In vitro and in vivo activation of hypericin with the incoherent light source PDT 1200 SOA (520–750 nm) and with solar simulated radiation (290–2500 nm)
Authors: Schempp C. M. , Simon‐Haarhaus B. , Heine A. , Schöpf E. , Simon J. C.
Published: February 2009

The photodynamic active plant pigment hypericin is a possible new photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy. Hypericin shows absorption maxima in the ultraviolet (330 nm) and visible light range (550 and 588 nm). The present study compared the photoactivation of hypericin with the incoherent light source PDT 1200 SOA (520–750 nm) to that with a 1000 watt solar simulator (290–2500 nm). Hypericin displayed dose and time dependent phototoxic effects in the keratinocyte cell line HaCaT in vitro and after intracutaneous in vivo application with both light sources. In vivo, delayed (48 h) photosensitivity in hypericin‐sensitized skin was observed. With intracutaneous application of 100 ng/ml hypericin, no phototoxic reaction could be produced. The PDT 1200 SOA was about four times more effective in vitro and about ten times more effective in vivo when compared to the solar simulator. Since the PDT 1200 SOA allows homogenous irradiation of large areas, we conclude that the PDT 1200 SOA is an effective and convenient light source for in vitro and in vivo studies using hypericin.
Persistent solar urticaria. A case report
Authors: Ghigliotti G. , Brusati C. , Guarrera M. , Nigro A.
Published: February 2009

Solar urticaria is an uncommon dermatological disease characterized by wheals developing within a few minutes after sun exposure and lasting a few hours. We describe a man in whom wheals developed on his trunk and arms more than 30 min after sun exposure and lasted more than 24 h. High doses of UVA reproduced lesions with histological features typical of urticaria. After 7 years, urticaria began to develop even in winter and without sun exposure. Our patient is unusual in that his wheals were delayed in onset and longlasting. The later association of idiopathic urticaria is an additional unusual feature.
Steady‐state mRNA levels of interleukin‐1, integrins, cJun, and cFos in hairless mouse skin during short‐term chronic UV exposure and the effect of topical tretinoin
Authors: Kligman L. H. , Yang S. , Schwartz E.
Published: February 2009

We have proposed that UV activation of cytokine and integrin signaling pathways may initiate the photoaging process and that one of the effects of tretinoin treatment may be to alter the cytokine and integrin patterns. In previous results, steady‐state mRNA levels of interleukin‐1α, tumor necrosis factor α, transforming growth factor β, collagenase, stromelysin, collagen, and integrins (α1 and α2) were increased in the skin of hairless mice that were either UV treated or concurrently treated with UV followed by topical tretinoin for 5 weeks. The aim of this study was to focus on the expression of α1, α2 and α5 integrins, IL‐1α, IL‐1β, cJun, and cFos at an earlier time point (3 weeks). Animals were UV irradiated thrice weekly for 3 weeks and were treated topically with either 0.05% tretinoin or the vehicle immediately after each exposure. Total RNA was prepared and used in RT‐PCR with radiolabeled dCTP and specific primers. UV slightly increased steady‐state mRNA levels for α1, α2 and α5 integrins whereas UV+tretinoin increased their expression (3‐, 2‐ and 7‐fold respectively). Steady‐state mRNA levels for IL‐1α, IL‐1β and cJun were increased with UV (3‐, 12‐ and 6‐fold respectively) and with UV+tretinoin (6‐, 7‐ and 9‐fold respectively). In contrast, cFos expression was unchanged. In situ staining for IL‐1α mRNA was slightly more abundant in mice treated for 3 weeks with UV and UV+ tretinoin than in controls whereas 5 weeks of UV+tretinoin treatment gave strongly positive staining. Results are consistent with cytokines and integrins mediating the effects of UV on the skin, with modulation of these effects by tretinoin.
Suppression of immediate‐type hypersensitivity elicitation in the skin prick test by ultraviolet B irradiation
Authors: Vocks E. , Ständer K. , Rakoski J. , Ring J.
Published: February 2009

Reproducibility of skin prick testing (SPT) and its modulation by ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation is of clinical interest. Sensitized atopic volunteers (groups A and B, n=21) were prick tested with common commercial allergen solutions (undiluted, diluted 1:10 and diluted 1:100) before, 24 h after one and 24 h after three suberythematous UVB irradiations. Volunteers in group A (n=8) received local UVB irradiation of prick test areas, whereas volunteers in group B (n=13) received whole body UVB irradiation, with prick test areas covered. In group A, the wheal intensities, expressed as the ratio allergen wheal size to histamine wheal size, were decreased by 28% (1:10 dilution) (P=0.01) and 45% (1:100 dilution) (P=0.02) after one UVB irradiation. Flare intensities were decreased by 48% (1:10 dilution) (P=0.03) after three UVB irradiations. In group B, the wheal and flare responses tended to decrease. Possible mechanisms of this short‐term suppressive effect of UVB irradiation on SPT reactions include a direct effect on mast cells. It is concluded that UV irradiation, even a single exposure, prior to skin testing may compromise the validity of SPT testing.
Survival of Immediately Provisionalized Dental Implants: A Case‐Control Study with up to 5 Years Follow‐Up
Authors: Laviv Amir , Levin Liran , Usiel Yeffet , Schwartz‐Arad Devorah
Published: February 2009

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the survival rate of immediately provisionalized implants with up to 5 years follow‐up.

Materials and Methods: The study consisted of 226 patients, 113 consecutive patients with immediately provisionalized dental implants (cases) and 113 randomly selected, age‐, gender‐, and implant position‐matched controls with conventional late implant loading. Survival rate and incidence of complications were recorded.

Results: Follow‐up ranged from 6 to 60 months. Smoking was reported by 20.8% of patients. Maxillary incisors and mandibular lateral incisors were the most common areas for implant placement. Conventionally loaded implants were narrower (p = .03) and shorter (p = .001). Immediate implantation into a fresh extraction socket was performed in 69% of the cases and in 36.3% of the controls (p = .001). Implant survival rate was 96.5%. Of the eight failed implants, six were immediately provisionalized and two were conventionally loaded. No statistically significant difference was found in survival rates between groups (p > 0.05). Five of the failed implants (case group) were immediately loaded implants placed in fresh extraction sockets.

Conclusion: Immediate implant provisionalization achieved similar high success rates compared with the conventional, delayed approach. As immediate implant provisionalization is mainly desired in the anterior region, the high success rates are encouraging.
Quantitation of Mandibular Symphysis Volume as a Source of Bone Grafting
Authors: Verdugo Fernando , Simonian Krikor , Smith McDonald Roberto , Nowzari Hessam
Published: February 2009

Background: Autogenous intramembranous bone graft present several advantages such as minimal resorption and high concentration of bone morphogenetic proteins. A method for measuring the amount of bone that can be harvested from the symphysis area has not been reported in real patients.

Purpose: The aim of the present study was to intrasurgically quantitate the volume of the symphysis bone graft that can be safely harvested in live patients and compare it with AutoCAD® (version 16.0, Autodesk, Inc., San Rafael, CA, USA) tomographic calculations.

Materials and Methods: AutoCAD software program quantitated symphysis bone graft in 40 patients using computerized tomographies. Direct intrasurgical measurements were recorded thereafter and compared with AutoCAD data. The bone volume was measured at the recipient sites of a subgroup of 10 patients, 6 months post sinus augmentation.

Results: The volume of bone graft measured by AutoCAD averaged 1.4 mL (SD 0.6 mL, range: 0.5–2.7 mL). The volume of bone graft measured intrasurgically averaged 2.3 mL (SD 0.4 mL, range 1.7–2.8 mL). The statistical difference between the two measurement methods was significant. The bone volume measured at the recipient sites 6 months post sinus augmentation averaged 1.9 mL (SD 0.3 mL, range 1.3–2.6 mL) with a mean loss of 0.4 mL.

Conclusion: AutoCAD did not overestimate the volume of bone that can be safely harvested from the mandibular symphysis. The use of the design software program may improve surgical treatment planning prior to sinus augmentation.
Finite‐Element Analysis of Stress on Dental Implant Prosthesis
Authors: Rubo José Henrique , Capello Souza Edson Antonio
Published: February 2009

Background: Understanding how clinical variables affect stress distribution facilitates optimal prosthesis design and fabrication and may lead to a decrease in mechanical failures as well as improve implant longevity.

Purpose: In this study, the many clinical variations present in implant‐supported prosthesis were analyzed by 3‐D finite element method.

Materials and Method: A geometrical model representing the anterior segment of a human mandible treated with 5 implants supporting a framework was created to perform the tests. The variables introduced in the computer model were cantilever length, elastic modulus of cancellous bone, abutment length, implant length, and framework alloy (AgPd or CoCr). The computer was programmed with physical properties of the materials as derived from the literature, and a 100N vertical load was used to simulate the occlusal force. Images with the fringes of stress were obtained and the maximum stress at each site was plotted in graphs for comparison.

Results: Stresses clustered at the elements closest to the loading point. Stress increase was found to be proportional to the increase in cantilever length and inversely proportional to the increase in the elastic modulus of cancellous bone. Increasing the abutment length resulted in a decrease of stress on implants and framework. Stress decrease could not be demonstrated with implants longer than 13 mm. A stiffer framework may allow better stress distribution.

Conclusion: The relative physical properties of the many materials involved in an implant‐supported prosthesis system affect the way stresses are distributed.
Tooth‐to‐Implant Connection: A Systematic Review of the Literature and a Case Report Utilizing a New Connection Design
Authors: Chee Winston W. , Mordohai Nikitas
Published: February 2009

Background: In the treatment of partially edentulous patients, implants have often been connected to natural teeth. Numerous studies have reported significant complications and problems, while others have demonstrated favorable outcomes.

Purpose: The purpose of this article was to systematically review the literature regarding the splinting of implants and teeth. The difference in the biomechanical behavior between osseointegrated implants and teeth and the efficacy of the different modes of connection that have been employed are explored.

Materials and Methods: A MEDLINE search between 1966 and October 2006 was performed to retrieve relevant articles. A further manual search from the bibliographies of the former articles was performed to include as many references as possible. Prospective and retrospective clinical studies, as well as laboratory and computer‐generated research, were included.

Results: A pronounced difference in the biomechanics of teeth and implants has been revealed in theoretical models. This disparity has also been supported by the majority of the experimental work published. As a result, principal complications, such as intrusion of teeth and higher risk of overload and greater marginal bone loss around the implants have been reported. Among the several types of connections utilized, the rigid connection showed fewer complications but unfortunately did not eliminate them.

Conclusion: Totally implant‐supported prostheses should be the treatment of choice. However, there are cases where combining teeth and implants is inevitable. The authors propose a rationale design of connecting implants and teeth. This design minimizes the biologic and technical complications.
Histolocalisation of the oil and pigments in the pumpkin seed
Authors: Kreft M. , Zorec R. , Janeš D. , Kreft S.
Published: February 2009

Pumpkin seed oil has a distinct taste and a characteristic green‐red colour. A green layer (chlorenchyma) can be observed in the cross section of the seed on the inner side of the testa. This layer is considered to be a source of protochlorophyll pigment that gives colour to the pumpkin seed oil. However, the histolocalisation of the pigment by selective method was not yet studied. In this study, we localised the oil to the small lipid droplets in the cotyledon cells by Rhodamine 6G lipophilic stain. Furthermore, we localised protochlorophyll to chlorenchyma by microscopic fluorimetry. Emission maximum of protochlorophyll was 700 nm when measured in the seed, but it shifted to 630 and 655 nm (two peaks) when measured in pumpkin seed oil or in the extract.
First detection of cosmic structure in the 21-cm intensity field
Authors: Pen Ue-Li , Staveley-Smith Lister , Peterson Jeffrey B. , Chang Tzu-Ching
Published: February 2009

We present the first statistically significant detection of cosmic structure using broadly distributed hydrogen radio emission. This is accomplished using a cross-correlation with optical galaxies. Statistical noise levels of 20 μK are achieved, unprecedented in this frequency band. The signal is consistent with arising from the collective flux of known populations of galaxies. This lends support to the idea that large volumes of the Universe can be rapidly mapped without the need to resolve individual faint galaxies, enabling precise constraints to dark energy models. We discuss strategies for improved intensity mapping.
Blue hook stars in globular clusters
Authors: Dieball A. , Knigge C. , Maccarone T. J. , Long K. S. , Hannikainen D. C. , Zurek D. , Shara M.
Published: February 2009

Blue hook (BHk) stars are a rare class of horizontal branch stars that have so far been found in only very few Galactic globular clusters (GCs). The dominant mechanism for producing these objects is currently still unclear. In order to test if the presence of BHk populations in a given GC is linked to specific physical or structural cluster properties, we have constructed a parent sample of GCs for which existing data are sufficient to establish the presence or absence of BHk populations with confidence. We then compare the properties of those clusters in our parent sample that do contain a BHk population to those that do not. We find that there is only one compelling difference between BHk and non-BHk clusters: all known BHk clusters are unusually massive. However, we also find that the BHk clusters are consistent with being uniformly distributed within the cumulative mass distribution of the parent sample. Thus, while it is attractive to suggest that there is a lower mass cut-off for clusters capable of forming BHk stars, the data do not require this. Instead, the apparent preference for massive clusters could still be a purely statistical effect: intrinsically rare objects can only be found by searching a sufficiently large number of stars.
Radiation pressure and absorption in AGN: results from a complete unbiased sample from Swift
Authors: Fabian A. C. , Vasudevan R. V. , Mushotzky R. F. , Winter L. M. , Reynolds C. S.
Published: February 2009

Outward radiation pressure can exceed the inward gravitational pull on gas clouds in the neighbourhood of a luminous active galactic nucleus (AGN). This creates a forbidden region for long-lived dusty clouds in the observed columnn density–Eddington fraction plane. (The Eddington fraction λEdd is the ratio of the bolometric luminosity of an AGN to the Eddington limit for its black hole mass.) The Swift/Burst Alert Telescope catalogue is the most complete hard X-ray selected sample of AGN and has 97 low-redshift AGN with measured column densities NH and inferred black hole masses. Eddington fractions for the sources have been obtained using recent bolometric corrections and the sources have been plotted on the NH–λEdd plane. Only one source lies in the forbidden region and it has a large value of NH due to an ionized warm absorber, for which radiation pressure is reduced. The effective Eddington limit for the source population indicates that the high column density clouds in the more luminous objects lie within the inner few pc, where the central black hole provides at least half the mass. Our result shows that radiation pressure does affect the presence of gas clouds in the inner galaxy bulge. We discuss briefly how the NH–λEdd plane may evolve to higher redshift, when feedback due to radiation pressure may have been strong.
IGR J16351-5806: another close by Compton-thick AGN
Authors: Malizia A. , Bassani L. , Panessa F. , De Rosa A. , Bird A. J.
Published: February 2009

IGR J16351-5806 has been associated with the Seyfert 2 galaxy ESO 137-G34, having been first reported as a high energy emitter in the third INTEGRAL / Imager on Board the INTEGRAL Satellite survey. Using a new diagnostic tool based on X-ray column density measurements versus softness ratios (F2-10 keV/F20-100 keV), we have previously identified this source as a candidate Compton-thick active galactic nuclei (AGN). In the present work, we have analysed combined XMM–Newton and INTEGRAL data of IGR J16351-5806 in order to study its broad-band spectrum and investigate its Compton-thick nature. The prominent Kα fluorescence line around 6.4 keV (EW > 1 keV) together with a flat 2–10 keV spectrum immediately point to a highly obscured source. The overall spectrum can be interpreted in terms of a transmission scenario where some of the high energy radiation is able to penetrate through the thick absorption and be observed together with its reflection from the surface of the torus. A good fit is also obtained using a pure reflection spectrum; in this case, the primary continuum is totally depressed and only its reflection is observed. An alternative possibility is that of a complex absorption, where two layers of absorbing matter each partially covering the central nucleus are present in IGR J16351-5806. All three scenarios are compatible from a statistical viewpoint and provide reasonable AGN spectral parameters; more importantly all point to a source with an absorbing column greater than 1.5 × 1024 cm-2, that is to a Compton-thick AGN. Because of this heavy obscuration, some extra components which would otherwise be hidden are able to emerge at low energies and can be studied; a thermal component with kT in the range 0.6–0.7 keV and free metal abundance is statistically required in all three scenarios while a scattered power law is only present in the pure reflection model. By providing strong evidence for the Compton-thick nature of IGR J16351-5806, we indirectly confirm the validity of the Malizia et al. diagnostic diagram.