bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and molecular epidemiology of noroviruses detected in outbreak and sporadic cases of acute gastroenteritis in Bulgaria
Authors: Mladenova Zornitsa , Korsun Neli , Geonova Tsvetelina , Di Bartolo Ilaria , Fiore Lucia , Ruggeri Franco Maria
Published: October 2008

Noroviruses constitute a genetically diverse group of viruses in the Caliciviridae family, and are recognized as an important cause of acute non‐bacterial gastroenteritis worldwide. To date there are no data on the incidence of noroviruses as a cause of gastroenteritis in Bulgaria. Fecal samples from an outbreak, and sporadic cases of diarrhea that occurred between December 2006 and April 2007 were tested for the presence of noroviruses. From a total of 474 stools (341 from sporadic cases and 133 cases from a single outbreak) examined, 72 samples (37 from sporadic cases and 35 from the outbreak) were positive using a norovirus‐specific enzyme immunoassay. Fifty‐nine specimens were confirmed and genotyped by RT‐PCR and sequencing of regions of the RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase and/or capsid. Sequence and phylogenetic analyses of 29 norovirus strains revealed a great diversity of norovirus genotypes among the sporadic cases including: GGII.3, GGII.4/2006a, GGII.4/2006b, GGII.20, and GGII.Karachi. A single norovirus genotype (GGII.4/2006b) was identified as the causative agent of the outbreak. This first investigation on the prevalence and molecular epidemiology of noroviruses demonstrates the significant role of these viruses as etiologic agents in acute gastroenteritis in Bulgaria. J. Med. Virol. 80:2161–2168, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Molecular characterization of a variant virus that caused de novo hepatitis B without elevation of hepatitis B surface antigen after chemotherapy with rituximab
Authors: Miyagawa Masami , Minami Masahito , Fujii Kota , Sendo Rei , Mori Kojiro , Shimizu Daisuke , Nakajima Tomoaki , Yasui Kohichiroh , Itoh Yoshito , Taniwaki Masafumi , Okanoue Takeshi , Yoshikawa Toshikazu
Published: October 2008

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation in hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)‐negative patients following treatment with rituximab has been reported increasingly. The aim of this study was to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying HBV reactivation in an HBsAg‐negative patient. HBV was reactivated in a 75‐year‐old man following chemotherapy with rituximab, without elevation of HBsAg. The patient's full‐length HBV genome was cloned and the entire sequence was determined. Transfection studies were performed in vitro using recombinant wild‐type HBV (wild‐type), the patient's HBV (patient), and two chimeric HBV constructs, in which the preS/S region of the patient and wild‐type virus had been exchanged with one another. Secreted HBsAg and intra‐ and extra‐cellular HBV DNA were measured. The number of amino acid substitutions in HBV from this patient was much higher than in previous reports of HBV mutants, such as occult HBV and vaccine escape HBV mutants. Levels of HBsAg and HBV DNA production in vitro were significantly lower in the patient compared to wild‐type transfections. From analyses of the chimeric constructs, the altered preS/S region was responsible mainly for this impairment. These results show that highly mutated HBV can reactivate after chemotherapy with rituximab, despite an unusually large number of mutations, resulting in impaired viral replication in vitro. Severe immune suppression, probably caused by rituximab, may permit reactivation of highly mutated HBV. These findings have important clinical implications for the prevention and management of HBV reactivation and may explain partially the mechanism of recent, unusual cases of HBV reactivation. J. Med. Virol. 80:2069–2078, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
p53 gene mutational rate, Gleason score, and BK virus infection in prostate adenocarcinoma: Is there a correlation?
Authors: Russo Giuseppe , Anzivino Elena , Fioriti Daniela , Mischitelli Monica , Bellizzi Anna , Giordano Antonio , Autran‐Gomez Anamaria , Di Monaco Franco , Di Silverio Franco , Sale Patrizio , Di Prospero Laura , Pietropaolo Valeria
Published: October 2008

Prostate cancer represents the second leading cause of cancer deaths in Western countries. Viral infections could play a role in prostate carcinogenesis. Human polyomavirus BK (BKV) is a possible candidate because of its transforming properties. In this study, BKV sequences in urine, blood, fresh, and paraffin‐embedded prostate cancer samples from 26 patients were searched using Q‐PCR analysis. T antigen (TAg) and p53 localization in neoplastic cells were evaluated by immunohistochemical analysis. Also, the presence of mutations in 5–9 exons of p53 gene was analyzed. Results showed that BKV‐DNA was found in urine (54%), plasma (31%), and in fresh prostate cancer specimens (85%). The analysis of p53 gene evidenced several mutations in high Gleason patients, according to tumor advanced stage. Immunohistochemical analysis results evidenced the localization of p53 and TAg into cytoplasm, whereas in TAg‐negative tumors, p53 was nuclear. This study suggests that BKV acts as cofactor in the pathogenesis of prostate cancer. These observations emphasize previous studies regarding the cellular pathways that may be deregulated by BKV. J. Med. Virol. 80:2100–2107, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Efficacy and safety of peginterferon alpha‐2a/ribavirin in treatment‐naive Cameroonian patients with chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Njouom Richard , Sartre Michèle Tagni , Timba Isabelle , Nerrienet Eric , Tchendjou Patrice , Pasquier Christophe , Rousset Dominique
Published: October 2008

Data were examined from a day‐to‐day clinical practice in Yaounde, Cameroon to evaluate the efficacy and safety of peginterferon alfa‐2a and ribavirin in treatment‐naive Cameroonian patients with chronic hepatitis C. Ninety adults with chronic hepatitis C (mean age, 53 ± 8 years; 79% males; 37.8% genotype 1; 23.3% genotype 2; and 38.9% genotype 4) were given at least 12 weeks of combination therapy between February 2003 and August 2007. Of these, 54 completed the treatment and the 24‐week follow up. Subsequently, 18 continued treatment and 18 (20%) discontinued the treatment, 6 (6.7%) due to adverse effects. An intention‐to‐treat analysis showed that 38 (52.8%) had an end‐of‐treatment virologic response and 34 (47.2%) had a sustained virologic response. Sustained virologic response were significantly higher among patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 2 (83.4%) than in those with genotype 1 (31%) or genotype 4 (42.3%) (P < 0.05). Non HCV‐2 genotype, pretreatment fibrosis score >2, HCV RNA level >8.0 × 105 IU/ml and a non‐virologic response at 12 weeks of treatment were associated with poor sustained virologic response (P < 0.05). Thus, HCV can be treated in a Sub‐Saharan African country. It indicates that Cameroonian HCV‐1 and ‐4 patients have a poorer sustained virologic response than the published results for Western and Middle‐East countries. Virus subtype may influence the treatment outcome, since there is a great genetic diversity within Cameroonian HCV‐1 and ‐4 genotypes. J. Med. Virol. 80:2079–2085, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
HHV8 a subtype is associated with rapidly evolving classic Kaposi's sarcoma
Authors: Mancuso Roberta , Biffi Renato , Valli Marilena , Bellinvia Monica , Athanasia Tourlaki , Ferrucci Silvia , Brambilla Lucia , Delbue Serena , Ferrante Pasquale , Tinelli Carmine , Clerici Mario
Published: October 2008

The link between human herpesvirus 8 (KSHV) and Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) has been proven, but many important aspects including risk factors, genetic predisposition to tumor development, transmission of KSHV, and the pathogenic potential of different genotypes remain to be elucidated. Possible associations between clinical parameters and antibody levels, viral load fluctuations, and viral genotype were analyzed by quantitative real‐time PCR, an in‐house developed IFA assay, and sequence analysis of ORF K1‐VR1 in blood, serum and saliva of 38 subjects with classic KS (cKS). KSHV lytic antibodies were significantly increased in stage IV compared to stage I and II patients (p = 0.006 and p = 0.041, respectively). KSHV blood, serum, and saliva viral load was comparable in all stages. The highest viral loads were detected in saliva, and they decreased in stages III–IV compared to stages I–II patients. Higher concentrations of lytic antibodies and higher viral loads were observed in fast progressing cKS patients, in whom KSHV detection from blood was also more frequent. Type A KSHV strain was almost exclusively present in rapid progressors (12/17 cases), while C type was mainly present in slow progressing patients (6/7 cases). Finally, detection of type A KSHV strain associated with higher blood viral loads. KSHV lytic antibody levels and viral load can be used to monitor clinical evolution of cKS. Infection supported by KSHV A subtype is associated with more rapid progressive disease. Careful monitoring and aggressive therapeutic protocols should be considered in patients with KSHV A‐supported infection. J. Med. Virol. 80:2153–2160, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Consistency of quantitation of HCV genotype 4 from egypt across three HCV‐RNA amplification assays
Authors: Sharkawi Fathia Zaky El , Chudy Michael , Hanschmann Kay‐Martin , Kress Julia , Nübling C. Micha
Published: October 2008

Different quantitative assays for HCV‐RNA are available that report test results in International Units (IU)/ml based on the WHO International Standard. Thus, assays have been calibrated with standard material containing HCV genotype 1, so the consistency of quantitation might differ between assays for other HCV genotypes. Three commercial HCV nucleic acid amplification techniques (HCV–NAT) were compared for quantitation consistency of genotype 4 and 1 specimens from an Egyptian blood donor panel (n = 92). Consistency of quantitation between HCV–NATs was higher for genotype 1 than for genotype 4. Most quantitative results reported by the assays were in the same range, but some genotype 4 samples were missed by two of the assays. The Abbott assay showed higher concentrations for genotype 4 than the two Roche assays. Follow‐up investigations of individuals should use the same assay unless another assay has been validated properly. Standardization of HCV–NAT assays remains an issue. J. Med. Virol. 80:2086–2091, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Correlation between polymorphisms at interleukin‐6 but not at interleukin‐10 promoter and the risk of human T lymphotropic virus type I‐associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis in Brazilian individuals
Authors: Gadelha Sandra Rocha , Junior Alcântara Luiz Carlos , Costa Gisele Calazans , Acosta Angelina Xavier , Rios Domingos , Kashima Simone , Covas Dimas Tadeu , Galvão‐Castro Bernardo
Published: October 2008

HTLV‐1 is the etiologic agent of ATL and HAM/TSP. The majority of HTLV‐1‐infected individuals remain asymptomatic, indicating that the infection alone is not sufficient to cause the diseases. It has been reported that cytokine gene polymorphisms, including polymorphisms at IL‐6 and IL‐10 gene, might be important. We analyzed SNP in the promoter region of the IL‐6: −174, −572, −597, and −634 positions, and IL‐10: −592 position to evaluate the role of these polymorphisms in the HAM/TSP pathogenesis in 133 HTLV‐1 infected individuals and in 100 healthy individuals from Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. The −634C allele frequencies were higher among HAM/TSP patients (21.2%) than among oligosymptomatic (6.5%; P = 0.038) and asymptomatic (9.5%; P = 0.025) subjects. Similarly, the −174G allele frequencies were higher in HAM/TSP patients than in oligosymptomatic patients (P = 0.02). Moreover, the −634GC/−174GG genotype combination was identified at a higher frequency (38.5%) in the HAM/TSP patients than in subjects with other clinical status (8.7%; P = 0.016 for oligosymptomatic and 15.5%, P = 0.012 for asymptomatic patients). However, the multivariate logistic regression including the genotypes of the three studied loci showed that only −634 C IL‐6 carriers remain as significant and independent TSP/HAM predictor (odds ratio [OR] = 5.31; 95% [CI] = 1.60–17.56; P = 0.006). We suggest that −634 G C in IL‐6 could contribute to HAM/TSP development and that identification of the collective influence of several cytokine polymorphisms, their prevalence, and their interaction could help to better understand this disease. J. Med. Virol. 80:2141–2146, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Different protection of K252a and N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine against amyloid‐β peptide–induced cortical neuron apoptosis involving inhibition of MLK3–MKK7–JNK3 signal cascades
Authors: Xu Yan , Hou Xiao‐Yu , Liu Yong , Zong Yan‐Yan
Published: October 2008

Amyloid‐β peptide (Aβ) has been implicated in the etiopathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the molecular mechanisms underlying Aβ neurotoxicity remain to be elucidated. This study showed that Aβ treatment resulted in the increased phosphorylation (activation) of MLK3, MKK7, and JNK3 in cultured cortical neurons, which characterized as biphasic activation (first peaked at 1 hr and second peaked at 12 hr after Aβ treatment). K252a blocked Aβ‐induced neuronal apoptosis, both early and late phases of MLK3–MKK7–JNK3 activation, as well as downstream signal events involving p‐JNKs nuclear translocation, c‐Jun phosphorylation, and Bad translocation to the mitochondria. The neuroprotective effect of K252a on Aβ‐induced apoptosis was partially dependent on Akt activation. In contrast, antioxidant N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine (NAC) reduced early, but not late, MLK3–MKK7–JNK3 activation by Aβ treatment and provided a weak neuroprotective ability in Aβ‐induced apoptosis. Taken together, Aβ neurotoxicity is mainly due to MLK3–MKK7–JNK3 signal cascades. The late signal events of MLK3 activation after Aβ treatment may play an important role in AD neuronal loss and will be a promising pharmacological target for AD therapeutic intervention. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Content of endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi complex membranes positively correlates with the proliferative status of brain cells
Authors: Silvestre David C. , Maccioni Hugo J.F. , Caputto Beatriz L.
Published: October 2008

Although the molecular and cellular basis of particular events that lead to the biogenesis of membranes in eukaryotic cells has been described in detail, understanding of the intrinsic complexity of the pleiotropic response by which a cell adjusts the overall activity of its endomembrane system to accomplish these requirements is limited. Here we carried out an immunocytochemical and biochemical examination of the content and quality of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and Golgi apparatus membranes in two in vivo situations characterized by a phase of active cell proliferation followed by a phase of declination in proliferation (rat brain tissue at early and late developmental stages) or by permanent active proliferation (gliomas and their most malignant manifestation, glioblastomas multiforme). It was found that, in highly proliferative phases of brain development (early embryo brain cells), the content of ER and Golgi apparatus membranes, measured as total lipid phosphorous content, is higher than in adult brain cells. In addition, the concentration of protein markers of ER and Golgi is also higher in early embryo brain cells and in human glioblastoma multiforme cells than in adult rat brain or in nonpathological human brain cells. Results suggest that the amount of endomembranes and the concentration of constituent functional proteins diminish as cells decline in their proliferative activity. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Modulation of microtubule dynamics by the microtubule‐associated protein 1a
Authors: Faller Elliott M. , Brown David L.
Published: October 2008

Structural microtubule‐associated proteins (MAPs) interact with microtubules to regulate the various dynamic stages of microtubules. The purpose of this study was to measure the impact of myc‐tagged MAP1a fragments on microtubule dynamic phases in vivo. Cells from an epithelial kidney cell line (LLCPK1) that had been permanently transfected with human green fluorescent protein (GFP)‐α‐tubulin were transiently transfected with myc‐tagged MAP1a fragments. Cells expressing MAP1a fragments were used to make direct observations of microtubule dynamics in living cells using fluorescence microscopy. All truncated MAP1a heavy chain fragments that contained the microtubule‐binding domain were shown to associate with microtubules. Truncated fragments containing different regions of the projection domain of MAP1a demonstrated variations in their impact on microtubule dynamic events by promoting growth or inhibition of shortening phases. In contrast to MAP1a, MAP2c bundled microtubules and resulted in a complete arrest of microtubule motility. Results from the present study suggest that MAP1a promotes slow, stable growth of microtubules. This type of growth may be important in the maintenance and restructuring of adult neurons. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Development of a chemiluminescent enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay for five sulfonamide residues in chicken muscle and pig muscle
Authors: Liu Junwei , Fang Guozhen , Zhang Yan , Zheng Wenjie , Wang Shuo
Published: October 2008

BACKGROUND: An enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) based on polyclonal antibodies with enhanced chemiluminescent (ECL) detection of sulfonamides in food samples has been optimised and characterised. The specificity of the assay was assessed by determining cross‐reactivities with a set of 16 sulfonamides. The aim of this study was to develop a method for determining sulfonamides with high sensitivity.

RESULTS: The sensitivity of the developed ECL‐ELISA was higher than that of colorimetric ELISA. The sensitivities of five of the sulfonamides (sulfisozole, sulfathiazole, sulfameter, sulfamethoxypyridazine and sulfapyridine) ranged from 0.73 to 2.92 µg L−1, with limits of detection of 0.10–0.43 µg L−1. The coefficients of variation of intra‐assay and inter‐assay studies carried out over 5 days were mostly less than 10%. Recovery studies of chicken muscle and pig muscle were performed with simple and rapid extraction. Good recoveries (62.1–110.3%) were achieved and the results correlated well with those obtained using high‐performance liquid chromatography analysis.

CONCLUSION: This study has provided an effective analytical technique for the rapid and reliable determination of residues of sulfisozole, sulfathiazole, sulfameter, sulfamethoxypyridazine and sulfapyridine in food samples with high sensitivity. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report on chemiluminescent ELISA for sulfonamide analysis. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Delayed harvest reduces quality of raw and roasted macadamia kernels
Authors: Walton David A , Wallace Helen M
Published: October 2008

BACKGROUND: Macadamia integrifolia, M. tetraphylla and their hybrids are cultivated for their edible kernels. Abscised macadamia fruit is gathered from the ground, and harvest intervals vary due to management decisions or unavoidable delays. In this study, macadamia fruit from cultivar HAES 344 was harvested between May and August in three experiments in south‐east Queensland, Australia. Control fruit was dehusked, dried and evaluated immediately, while delayed harvest fruit remained on the ground under trees for periods of 3 and 5 weeks before processing. Whole kernel weight, shoulder damage and weight of pieces were assessed for raw kernels, and kernel colour mottled colour and surface damage were assessed after roasting.

RESULTS: Delaying harvest for 3 weeks in experiment 1, and 3 or 5 weeks in experiment 2 reduced whole kernel and increased shoulder damage and weight of pieces. Experiment 3 raw kernel was not affected. After‐roast darkening increased in all experiments, and roasting produced severe mottled colour in one experiment, and severe surface damage in two of three experiments.

CONCLUSION: Macadamia kernels may deteriorate rapidly when harvest is delayed, and both raw and roasted kernel quality may be affected. Shorter harvest intervals, preferably less than 3 weeks, will help maintain optimum kernel quality. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Use of preoperative ultrasonography as guidance for neck dissection in patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Roh Jong‐Lyel , Park Jae‐Yong , Kim Jin‐Man , Song Chang‐Jun
Published: October 2008

Background

Preoperative neck ultrasonography (US) may detect nodal metastases of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) but its utility in detecting metastases at specific neck subsites and levels is not known. We therefore evaluated preoperative US in detecting cervical metastases of PTC according to neck subsites and levels.

Methods

Preoperative US was performed in 133 new patients to detect metastases at three central cervical subsites and five lateral cervical levels. All patients underwent total thyroidectomy and bilateral central neck dissection. Thirty‐four patients with lateral nodal metastases underwent modified radical neck dissection.

Results

Lymph node metastases to the central and lateral cervical compartments were identified in 57.9% and 25.6%, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of US for detecting central nodal metastasis were 61.0% and 92.8%, respectively. In the lateral neck, US detected non‐palpable lymph node metastases in 6 of 34 patients (17.6%). Overall, US was >85.0% specific at all cervical subsites and levels.

Conclusion

Preoperative US may detect cervical metastases of PTC and may assist in determining the necessity and extent of neck dissection in PTC patients. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;99:28–31. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Optimum shape design for surface of a porous slider bearing lubricated with couple stress fluid
Authors: Elsharkawy Abdallah A. , Alyaqout Sulaiman F.
Published: October 2008

Porous‐bearing performance can significantly benefit from optimally designing the shape of the bearing. The present paper introduces an approach for designing the optimum shape of a slider bearing using an inverse method. The proposed approach utilises a sequential quadratic programming algorithm to minimise friction subject to load and centre of pressure requirements specified by the designer. Bearing characteristics, such as friction, load and centre of pressure, are obtained by solving a modified Reynolds‐type equation numerically using the finite difference method. The modified Reynolds equation is derived on the basis of Stokes' microcontinuum theory of couple stress fluids, which is used to study non‐Newtonian lubricants. Results show that the optimisation approach reduces the coefficient of friction. In addition, the dimensionless slip parameter is shown to be the most significant parameter affecting optimal friction. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Light‐emitting diode therapy in chemotherapy‐induced mucositis
Authors: Sacono Nancy T. , Costa Carlos A.S. , Bagnato Vanderlei S. , Abreu‐e‐Lima Fabio C.B.
Published: October 2008

Background and Objective

Mucositis is the most common oral complication of cancer chemotherapy, which causes pain on mastication and swallowing, impairs patients' ability to eat and take oral drugs and may determine interruption of the treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of light‐emitting diode (LED) therapy on chemotherapy‐induced mucositis in hamsters.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Animals of both experimental (Group I; n = 32) and positive control (Group II; n = 32) groups received intraperitoneal injections of 5‐fluorouracil on days 0 and 2. All animals had their right and left cheek pouch irritated by superficial scratching on days 3 and 4. In Group I, LED irradiation (630 nm±10 nm, 160 mW, 12 J/cm2) was applied during 37.5 seconds at days 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 14. In Group II, mucositis was induced, but LED therapy was not performed. The oral mucosa was photographed from day 4 to 14 at 2‐day intervals. Photographs were randomly scored according to the severity of induced mucositis (0 to 5). In the negative control group (Group III; n = 6), no mucositis was induced. Biopsies of the cheek pouches of 8 animals (Group I and Group II) were surgically obtained on days 5, 9, 13 and 15 and processed for histological examination.

Results

The statistical analysis showed significant differences between irradiated and non‐irradiated groups (P<0.05). However, muscular degeneration was observed in 18% of the samples of Group I.

Conclusion

It may be concluded that the LED therapy protocol established for this in vivo study was effective in reducing the severity of oral mucositis, although the oral lesions were not completely prevented. Lesers Surg. Med. 40:625–633, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparison of threshold irradiances and online dosimetry for selective retina treatment (SRT) in patients treated with 200 nanoseconds and 1.7 microseconds laser pulses
Authors: Framme Carsten , Walter Andreas , Prahs Philipp , Theisen‐Kunde Dirk , Brinkmann Ralf
Published: October 2008

Background

Selective retina therapy (SRT) solely affecting the RPE while sparing of the photoreceptors is usually performed with a train of repetitive laser pulses of 1.7 microseconds in duration. It was our purpose to evaluate the principle feasibility of SRT with shorter 200 nanoseconds laser pulses in patients.

Methods

Nineteen patients with macular disorders [diabetic maculopathy (DMP), geographic atrophy (GA), drusen maculopathy and central serous chorioretinopathy (CSR)] were treated with a prototype of a SRT laser (Nd:YLF laser; 527 nm; 1.7 microseconds and 200 nanoseconds pulse duration; 30 pulses at 100 Hz; spot size: 200 µm). Test lesions (n = 175) with increasing energy were applied at the lower arcade to determine the individual angiographic and ophthalmoscopic threshold radiant exposures (therapeutic window) before applying the central treatment lesions within these ranges additionally guided by online optoacoustic measurements. Postoperatively RPE damage was visualized and confirmed by fluorescein angiographic leakage and correlated with optoacoustic results. Additionally ED50 damage thresholds were calculated by probit analysis.

Results

None of the short repetitive 200 nanoseconds laser pulses led to retinal hemorrhages or retinal ruptures. Nearly all of the test‐ and treatment lesions could be visualized by angiography indicating desired RPE damage but were ophthalmoscopically invisible suggesting intact neurosensory retinal structures. ED50 cell damage threshold energies were significantly lower using 200 nanoseconds (99.6 µJ; n = 122) instead of 1.7 microseconds (196.3 µJ; n = 53) laser pulses. Optoacoustic and angiographic visibility correlated in 83.7% (200 nanoseconds) and 87.5% (1.7 microseconds).

Conclusions

Selective RPE effects can safely be achieved using shorter 200 nanoseconds laser pulses in patients without adverse effects to the neurosensory retina. The required pulse energy compared to the standard 1.7 microseconds regime was reduced by about a factor of 2 suggesting a reduced heat generation and flow into adjacent tissues during the shorter laser impact and thus possibly enhancing selectivity. Optoacoustics also seem to be a viable alternative in 200 nanoseconds treatment for a non‐invasive online dosimetry control system. Lesers Surg. Med. 40:616–624, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Selective cryolysis: A novel method of non‐invasive fat removal
Authors: Manstein Dieter , Laubach Hans , Watanabe Kanna , Farinelli William , Zurakowski David , Anderson R. Rox
Published: October 2008

Background and Objectives

Excess fat poses a host of local and systemic problems. Various energy sources, for example, laser, ultrasound, and radiofrequency electric current have been studied as potential non‐invasive treatments aimed at local destruction of subcutaneous fat. Cryosurgery at very low temperatures is routinely used for non‐specific tissue destruction, however the potential for tissue‐specific cold injury has not been investigated. This study describes non‐invasive cold‐induced selective destruction of subcutaneous fat.

Materials and Methods

Black Yucatan pigs under general anesthesia were exposed within test sites to preset temperatures of 20, −1, −3, −5, and −7°C for 10 minutes. Gross and histological assessments were performed immediately, 1 day, 2, 7, 14 and 28 days post‐cold exposure for four pigs, and up to 3.5 months for one pig. Additionally, six pigs were exposed between −5°C and −8°C for 10 minutes, at sites covering approximately 15% body surface area, followed by serum lipid level determinations at various time points up to 3 months.

Results

A lobular panniculitis was induced by cooling, followed for some test sites by grossly obvious loss of several mm of subcutaneous fat occurring gradually during the 3.5 months study period. Loss of adipocytes, the appearance of lipid‐laden mononuclear inflammatory cells, and local thickening of fibrous septae were noted. Typically there was no clinical or histological evidence of injury to skin, and no scarring. Serum lipids were not significantly increased.

Conclusions

Prolonged, controlled local skin cooling can induce selective damage and subsequent loss of subcutaneous fat, without damaging the overlying skin. Selective cryolysis warrants further study as a local treatment for removal of adipose tissue. Lesers Surg. Med. 40:595–604, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Heteroarm Star Polystyrene‐block‐Poly(4‐vinylpyridine): Multiple Morphologies in Dilute Solutions
Authors: Lin Chia‐Hung , Chen Wen‐Chang , Chen Hsin‐Lung
Published: October 2008

Synthesis and solution morphologies of four new heteroarm star polystyrene‐block‐poly(4‐vinylpyridine) were studied. As the water content increased, a morphological transformation of heteroarm PS4‐P4VP4 from spheres to cylinders, vesicles, and large compound vesicles was observed. The morphology of PS4‐P4VP4 in the solvent mixture of DMF/water or 1,4‐dioxane/water was spherical, but changed to large compound micelles in THF/water. As the P4VP molar ratio decreased, the morphology changed from spherical mixed with cylindrical to vesicles, giant vesicles, and then to LCMs. The present study demonstrated the formation of multiple morphologies through manipulating solvent polarity and block ratio in dilute solution.

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Synthesis and Thermal Properties of Alternating Copolymers of N‐Methylmaleimide with Olefins Including Cyclic and Polar Groups
Authors: Omayu Akitoshi , Matsumoto Akikazu
Published: October 2008

The radical alternating copolymerization of N‐methylmaleimide with various olefins was carried out to obtain thermally stable and transparent polymers. Cyclic olefins including an exo‐methylene group showed high polymerization reactivities during the copolymerization. The introduction of a polar substituent into the olefin monomers results in the formation of copolymers with a high yield. The polymerization reactivity of the olefins is discussed based on DFT calculations. The introduction of cyclic and polar substituents into the olefin repeating units increased the glass transition temperature of the obtained copolymers, similar to the previously reported results for the introduction of bulkier and polar substituents into the N‐substituents of the maleimide.

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Kink Bands in High‐Performance Fibers Studied by X‐Ray Microdiffraction
Authors: Davies Richard J. , Burghammer Manfred , Riekel Christian
Published: October 2008

This study reports on the investigation of kink bands within a single high performance fiber. Using microfocus XRD in a scanning acquisition mode, kink bands can be visualized along the length of a fiber in a manner similar to other microscopy techniques. Unlike other techniques, however, µXRD also provides access to internal structural information. For example, from the diffraction data it is possible to reconstruct the complete microgeometry of single kink bands based upon experimental results. This capability opens the door to a range of future studies. This could include tracking the formation and evolution of kink bands in situ, or studying kink bands within fibers embedded within a composite material.

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Limit theorems on locally compact Abelian groups
Authors: Barczy Mátyás , Bendikov Alexander , Pap Gyula
Published: October 2008

We prove limit theorems for row sums of a rowwise independent infinitesimal array of random variables with values in a locally compact Abelian group. First we give a proof of Gaiser's theorem [4, Satz 1.3.6], since it does not have an easy access and it is not complete. This theorem gives sufficient conditions for convergence of the row sums, but the limit measure cannot have a nondegenerate idempotent factor. Then we prove necessary and sufficient conditions for convergence of the row sums, where the limit measure can be also a nondegenerate Haar measure on a compact subgroup. Finally, we investigate special cases: the torus group, the group of p ‐adic integers and the p ‐adic solenoid. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Existence and multiplicity results for quasilinear hemivariational inequalities at resonance
Authors: Gasiński Leszek
Published: October 2008

In this paper we consider quasilinear hemivariational inequality at resonance. We prove existence results for strongly resonant quasilinear problem, resonant problem under a Tang‐type condition as well as two multiplicity results. The method of the proofs is based on the nonsmooth critical point theory for locally Lipschitz functions. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Wavelet expansions forBMOρ (w)‐functions
Authors: Harboure Eleonor , Salinas Oscar , Viviani Beatriz
Published: October 2008

We give necessary and sufficient conditions on the wavelet coefficients of a function for being a member of some BMOφ (w) space. We achieve this characterization for a wide variety of wavelet systems. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Slice filtration on motives and the Hodge conjecture (with an appendix by J. Ayoub)
Authors: Huber Annette
Published: October 2008

We clarify the expected properties of the slice filtration on triangulated motives from the point of view of the generalized Hodge conjecture. In the appendix, J. Ayoub proves unconditionally that the slice filtration does not respect geometric motives. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The links of 3‐dimensional singularities defined by Brieskorn polynomials
Authors: Katanaga Atsuko , Nakamoto Kazunori
Published: October 2008

In this paper, we completely determine the diffeomorphism types of the 5‐dimensional links of 3‐dimensional log‐canonical singularities defined by Brieskorn polynomials. Moreover, we show that if k is an integer with 1 ≤ k < 611, then there is no link K defined by a Brieskorn polynomial in ℂ4 such that the order of H2(K) is 6k. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Quarkonial decomposition suitable for functional‐differential equations of delay type
Authors: Sawano Yoshihiro , Yoneda Tsuyoshi
Published: October 2008

In this paper we apply quarkonial decomposition to the ordinary differential equation of delay type f ′(x) = f (x – 1), x ≥ 1. We shall derive an explicit formula in terms of the quarkonial decomposition. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Stationary solutions to an energy model for semiconductor devices where the equations are defined on different domains
Authors: Glitzky Annegret , Hünlich Rolf
Published: October 2008

We discuss a stationary energy model from semiconductor modelling. We accept the more realistic assumption that the continuity equations for electrons and holes have to be considered only in a subdomain Ω0 of the domain of definition Ω of the energy balance equation and of the Poisson equation. Here Ω0 corresponds to the region of semiconducting material, Ω \ Ω0 represents passive layers. Metals serving as contacts are modelled by Dirichlet boundary conditions.

We prove a local existence and uniqueness result for the two‐dimensional stationary energy model. For this purpose we derive a W1,p ‐regularity result for solutions of systems of elliptic equations with different regions of definition and use the Implicit Function Theorem. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
One‐Step Preparation of Electrospun Microfibrous Polystyrene Mats Having Surface Enriched in p‐tert‐Butylcalix[4]arene Fitted with Phosphinoyl Pendant Arms
Authors: Ignatova Milena , Manolova Nevena , Lachkova Victoria , Varbanov Sabi , Rashkov Iliya
Published: October 2008

Polystyrene microfibers containing lower‐rim substituted calix[4]arene with phosphinoyl pendant arms were easily prepared in one‐step procedure by electrospinning. A specific feature of the fibers is the difference in their functionality at the surface and in the bulk. The graded structure of the fibers was shown by XPS analyses. The calix[4]arene concentration in the 3–5 nm surface layer was 50% higher than the theoretically calculated if calix[4]arene was uniformly distributed in the fibers. A six‐coordinated complex was formed between the calix[4]arene included in the fibers and Ni2+ ions. The distribution of phosphorus along the fibers is uniform, as evidenced by X‐ray mapping.

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Enhanced Templating in the Crystallisation of Poly(ε‐caprolactone) Using 1,3:2,4‐di(4‐Chlorobenzylidene) Sorbitol
Authors: Wangsoub Supatra , Davis Fred J. , Mitchell Geoffrey R. , Olley Robert H.
Published: October 2008

We show that small quantities of 1,3:2,4‐di(4‐chlorobenzylidene) sorbitol dispersed in poly(ε‐caprolactone) provide a very effective self‐assembling nanoscale framework which, with a flow field, yields extremely high levels of polymer crystal orientation. During modest shear flow of the polymer melt, the additive forms highly extended nano‐particles which adopt a preferred alignment with respect to the flow field. On cooling, polymer crystallisation is directed by these particles. This chloro substituted dibenzylidene sorbitol is considerably more effective at directing the crystal growth of poly(ε‐caprolactone) than the unsubstituted compound.

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Neue Methoden zur Beurteilung der Betriebsfestigkeit im Fahrzeugauslegungs‐ und ‐absicherungsprozess
Authors: Brune M.
Published: October 2008

Der moderne Auslegungs‐ und Absicherungsprozess in der Automobilindustrie beinhaltet experimentelle, messtechnische und auch rechnerische Methoden. Dieser Beitrag erläutert anhand von Beispielen neue Entwicklungen in der Betriebsfestigkeitsauslegung, insbesondere auf dem Gebiet der virtuellen Methoden. Dies bezieht sich zum einen auf die virtuelle Lastdatenermittlung, zum anderen auf die Verbesserung der rechnerischen Lebensdauerabschätzung. Hier werden zwei aktuelle Beispiele der Methodenentwicklung erläutert. Das erste Beispiel behandelt die Berücksichtigung von Werkstoffinhomogenitäten bei der Berechnung von Aluminium‐Gussbauteilen, das zweite Beispiel beschreibt die Vorgehensweise der Auslegung von Bauteilen aus kurzfaserverstärkten Kunststoffen mittels eines neuen Berechnungsverfahrens.
Ausbreitungsverhalten mikrostrukturell kurzer Ermüdungsrisse – experimentelle Charakterisierung und mechanismenorientierte Simulation
Authors: Christ H.‐J. , Düber O. , Knobbe H. , Fritzen C.‐P. , Krupp U. , Künkler B. , Köster P.
Published: October 2008

In diesem Beitrag werden Ergebnisse eines interdisziplinären Forschungsprojekts präsentiert, welches die Autoren während der letzten sieben Jahren durchgeführt haben. Thema des Projekts war die experimentelle Charakterisierung und mechanismenbasierte Simulation mikrostrukturell kurzer Risse. Es wurden Ermüdungsexperimente an dem austenitisch‐ferritischen Duplexstahl X2 CrNiMoN 22–5‐3 durchgeführt. Dabei konnte gezeigt werden, dass mikrostrukturelle Eigenschaften wie Korngröße, Phasenverteilung oder lokale Fließspannung des Korns, in welchem sich die Rissspitze befindet, den wachsenden Riss beeinflussen.

Auf Basis der experimentellen Ergebnisse wurde ein mechanismenorientiertes Modell entwickelt, welches das Ausbreitungsverhalten kurzer Risse physikalisch begründet beschreiben kann. Mikrostrukturelle Parameter wie Körngröße, Kornverteilung, Kornorientierung usw. sind im Modell berücksichtigt, indem gemessene Werte einer virtuell erzeugten Mikrostruktur zugewiesen werden. Die Simulation findet dann in dieser virtuellen Mikrostruktur statt. Der Vergleich zwischen beobachteten und simulierten Werten zeigt eine ausgezeichnete Übereinstimmung.
Current developments and trends on structural durability
Authors: Bacher‐Höchst M. , Berger C. , Sonsino C. M. , Vormwald M.
Published: October 2008

Basic approaches for assessment of Structural Durability are outlined in principle. Some of their limits in actual application fields and new solutions are shown. Multiaxial Fatigue remains as to be treated very carefully. The superposition of damaging processes known as “Very High Cycle Fatigue” and “Corrosion Fatigue” might be a key for assessment of components at very high load cycles.
Short crack approach for multiaxial fatigue assessment
Authors: Vormwald M. , Hertel O.
Published: October 2008

A significant part of the fatigue life is spent during short crack growth. Therefore, modelling of short fatigue crack growth offers an opportunity to improve the accuracy of numerical life assessment. Besides stating some general remarks on the short crack approach itself and on multiaxial fatigue criteria, a short crack growth based fatigue life prediction approach for multiaxial non‐proportional loading is presented. This approach accounts for the geometrical size effect by considering the geometry correction functions for semi‐elliptical surface cracks in inhomogeneous gradient stress fields. The geometrical size effect is becoming significant for notch radii smaller than four times the defined technical crack size. Additionally, life influencing factors due to the statistical size effect have been taken into account. The comparison of calculated and experimentally observed fatigue lives of shouldered shafts made of S460N with notch radii of 0.2 to 4.0 mm under non‐proportional tension and torsion loading yields a satisfying accuracy.
Crack growth predictions using a strip‐yield model for variable‐amplitude and spectrum loading
Authors: Ziegler B. , Yamada Y. , Newman J. C.
Published: October 2008

Fatigue‐crack‐growth tests were conducted on compact, C(T), specimens made of D16Cz aluminum alloy. Constant‐amplitude tests were conducted over a range of stress ratios (R = Pmin/Pmax = 0.1 to 0.75). Comparisons were made between test data from middle‐crack tension, M(T), specimens from the literature and C(T) specimens. A crack‐closure analysis was used to collapse the rate data from both specimen types into a fairly narrow band over many orders of magnitude in rates using proper constraint factors. Constraint factors were established from single‐spike overload and constant‐amplitude tests. The life‐prediction code, FASTRAN, which is based on the strip‐yield‐model concept, was used to calculate the crack‐length‐against‐cycles under constant‐amplitude (CA) loading and the single‐spike overload (OL) tests; and to predict crack growth under variable‐amplitude (VA) loading on M(T) specimens and simulated aircraft loading spectrum tests on both specimen types. The calculated crack‐growth lives under CA and the OL tests were generally within ±20 % of the test results, the predicted crack‐growth lives for the VA and Mini‐Falstaff tests on the M(T) specimens were short by 30 to 45 %, while the Mini‐Falstaff+ results on the C(T) specimens were within 10 %. Issues on the crack‐starter notch effects under spectrum loading are discussed, and recommendations are suggested on avoiding these notch effects.
Variable amplitude fatigue of autofrettaged diesel injection parts
Authors: Thumser R. , Bergmann J.W. , Herz E. , Hertel O. , Vormwald M.
Published: October 2008

Experimental and analytical investigations of constant and variable amplitude fatigue life of not autofrettaged and autofrettaged components have been performed. In variable amplitude loading the new standardisedCOmmon‐RAil‐Load sequenceCORALhas been used as well as two‐level‐tests with small cycles at high mean stresses interrupted by large cycles for the evaluation of load sequence effects. The results of the two level tests show that small cycles with amplitudes far below the fatigue limit cause fatigue damage. Life calculations have been performed according to

the nominal stress approach with S‐N‐curves and improved Miner’s Rule,

linear‐elastic fracture mechanics with 3D‐weight functions,

elastic‐plastic fracture mechanics applying an extended strip yield‐model, and

explicit 3D‐FE‐simulation of fatigue crack growth with predefined crack fronts.

All approaches are appropriate for predicting realistic variable amplitude lives. From a practical point of view the explicit 3D‐FE‐simulation of fatigue crack growth is too time‐consuming. However, such simulations show that the approaches based on linear‐elastic fracture mechanics and elastic‐plastic fracture mechanics with extended strip yield‐model capture the essential physics of fatigue crack growth in a realistic way.
Fatigue assessment of seam welds of automotive components by local stress approaches
Authors: Bruder T. , Störzel K. , Baumgartner J.
Published: October 2008

In the present paper a method is described for the fatigue assessment of multi‐axial loaded welded joints in structures made from thin steel sheets. The focus is on seam welds under non‐proportional loading, assuming a constant angular phase shift between cycles leading to stress components acting at the seam welds. Fatigue analyses are using a local stress approach based on stresses derived by Theory of Elasticity. Furthermore, potentials of considering statistical size effects in order to analyse weld start and end points are outlined.
Size effects in the fatigue behavior of welded steel tubular bridge joints
Authors: Nussbaumer A. , Costa Borges L. A.
Published: October 2008

Tubular space trusses for bridge applications use thick‐walled tubes. The reduction in fatigue resistance due to geometrical size effects is thus an important issue. In order to carry out a thorough study, both fatigue tests on large‐scale specimens and advanced 3D crack propagation modelling were carried out at ICOM/EPFL. The study is limited to circular hollow sections (CHS) K‐joints. An alternate current potential drop (ACPD) system is used to measure crack depth on nodes of the tested truss specimens. The results obtained from the tests are given in the paper in terms of S‐N data, crack depth versus number of cycles and deduced crack propagation rates. The numerical model was developed using the dual boundary elements method (DBEM), software BEASY™, and was validated with fatigue tests data. The stress intensity factors (SIF) along the doubly curved crack front at different crack depths were obtained. With this model, a parametric study investigates the influence of geometry, size and load case on fatigue life. The results of both proportional and non‐proportional sizing effects on fatigue strength are presented. The paper shows that size effects (proportional and non‐proportional) can be expressed as a function of the non‐dimensional parameters and chord thickness.