bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theoretical study on the mechanism of the 1CHCl + NO2 reactions
Authors: Zhang Jia‐Xu , Liu Jing‐Yao , Li Ze‐Sheng , Sun Chia‐Chung
Published: April 2004

The radical‐molecule reaction mechanism of 1CHCl with NO2 has been explored theoretically at the B3LYP/6‐311G(d, p) and CCSD(T)/6‐311G(d, p) (single‐point) levels of theory. Thirteen minimum isomers and 29 transition states are located. The initial association between 1CHCl and NO2 proceeds most likely through the carbon‐to‐middle‐nitrogen attack leading to an energy‐rich adduct a (HClCNO2), which is found to be a barrierless process. Staring from a, the most feasible channel is to undergo a concerted O‐shift and CN bond rupture leading to product P2 (NO + HClCO). The minor product pathways are the direct O‐extrusion of a to P3 (O + HClCNO‐cis) as well as the 1,3‐H‐shift of a to isomer b (ClCNOOH) followed by a concerted OH‐shift leading to d (HOClCNO), which will dissociate to product P8 (NO + ClCOH) via CN cleavage. Because the transition states and isomers involved in the most feasible channel all lie below the reactants, the title reaction is expected to be rapid, as is consistent with the measured rate constant at 296 K. The comparison with the analogous reactions 3CH2 + NO2 are discussed. The present study may be useful for further experimental investigation of the title reaction. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem 25: 1184–1190, 2004
Pleomorphic sarcoma of the adult urinary bladder: Sonographic findings
Authors: Hama Yukihiro , Okizuka Hiromi , Kusano Shoichi
Published: April 2004

Sarcomas with muscular differentiation (eg, rhabdomyosarcoma, leiomyosarcoma, pleomorphic sarcoma) are uncommon in the adult urinary bladder. We report the sonographic findings in a case of pleomorphic sarcoma with muscular differentiation arising from the bladder dome that mimicked urachal carcinoma; findings of correlative imaging are also discussed. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 32:215–217, 2004; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI: 10.1002/jcu.20011
A rare anomalous origin of right vertebral artery: Findings on doppler sonography
Authors: Yanik Bahar , Conkbayir Işik , Keyik Bahri , Hekimoglu Baki
Published: April 2004

Anomalous origin of the right vertebral artery from the right common carotid artery occurs rarely. To the best of our knowledge, the medical literature contains no information about gray‐scale and Doppler sonography findings in this anomaly, despite the extensive information available from angiographic studies and postmortem examinations. We present the case of a 32‐year‐old man who suffered from a sudden onset of hemiparesis on the left side. Doppler sonography revealed a partial thrombosis in the proximal part of right common carotid artery. The right vertebral artery was shown to originate from the proximal part of the right common carotid artery. The right vertebral artery was patent. Thus, the use of color Doppler sonography can aid in the diagnosis of some vascular anomalies. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 32:211–214, 2004; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI: 10.1002/jcu.20013
Cardiothoracic ratio in the first half of pregnancy
Authors: Tongsong Theera , Tatiyapornkul Teerapong
Published: April 2004

Purpose

The present study was conducted to establish the nomogram of fetal cardiothoracic (C/T) ratio in the first half of normal pregnancies (eg, 11–20 weeks of gestation), using conventional sonographic techniques.

Methods

Two hundred thirty‐eight normal pregnant women enrolled in our prenatal care were recruited into this study. All the patients had singleton fetuses whose gestational age could be accurately determined by the patient's last menstrual period and sonographic measurements. All the newborns were proven to be normal at birth. The sonographic measurements used to calculate the C/T ratio were obtained from axial scans at the level of the four‐chamber view. All measurements were made by the same examiner using a single high‐resolution machine.

Results

A total of 238 C/T ratio measurements were made. The mean C/T ratio values increased slightly with gestational age, rising from 0.38 at 11 weeks to 0.45 at 20 weeks. The mean C/T value at each gestational week was never greater than 0.50, and no fetus had a C/T ratio greater than 0.50 at 11–15 weeks of gestation. The means and 5th, 50th, and 95th percentiles of the C/T ratio were calculated for each week of gestation and the nomogram was established.

Conclusions

Calculation of the C/T ratio is a simple, reliable, reproducible, and time‐efficient means of assessing the size of the fetal heart. By comparing the C/T ratio with the normal values presented here, physicians should be able to more easily identify cases of cardiomegaly early in their patients' pregnancies. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 32:186–189, 2004; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI: 10.1002/jcu.20014
Second‐generation tetracycline‐regulatable promoter: repositioned tet operator elements optimize transactivator synergy while shorter minimal promoter offers tight basal leakiness
Authors: Agha‐Mohammadi Siamak , O'Malley Mark , Etemad Abrak , Wang Zhong , Xiao Xiao , Lotze Michael T.
Published: April 2004

Background

The tetracycline‐regulatable system is one of the most valuable tools for controlling gene expression. In its current form, however, the system is less than ideal for in vivo or gene therapy uses due to difficulties in set‐up procedures, high basal leakiness, and unpredictable delivery and efficiency.

Methods

To address these issues, we have devised a second generation of tetracycline‐regulated promoters (TREs). The second‐generation TRE (SG‐TRE) contains a shortened cytomegalovirus (CMV) minimal promoter together with eight tet operator sequences positioned in an optimized manner upstream of the TATA box. This construct displays far greater reduction in basal leakiness than maximal transgene expression. Conversely, maximal transgene expression is increased to a greater degree than basal leakiness by post‐translational stabilization with bovine growth hormone poly A.

Results

In transient studies, the SG‐TRE displays over 100 000‐fold regulation efficiency in HeLa cells at 1:1 ratio of transactivator to reporter plasmid in the Tet‐Off system. This novel promoter achieves a regulation efficiency 500‐ to 1000‐fold higher than that of the original TRE (PhCMV*‐1) in HeLa cells by displaying undetectable levels of basal leakiness without compromised maximal expression. In other cell lines, the SG‐TRE proves to be more efficient than the original PhCMV*‐1 in a cell‐dependent manner. Furthermore, the SG‐TRE preserves its enhanced regulation efficiency and its reduced basal leakiness in the context of a single positive feedback regulatory vector that presents ease of delivery of the system for use in vivo. Finally, in vivo, the biological function of granulocyte‐macrophage colony stimulating factor is tightly regulated in the context of SG‐TRE delivered via adeno‐associated viruses. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Regeneration of a well‐differentiated human airway surface epithelium by spheroid and lentivirus vector‐transduced airway cells
Authors: Castillon Nicolas , Avril‐Delplanque Aurélie , Coraux Christelle , Delenda Christophe , Péault Bruno , Danos Olivier , Puchelle Edith
Published: April 2004

Background

Following injury to the airway epithelium, rapid regeneration of a functional epithelium is necessary in order to restore the epithelial barrier integrity. In the perspective of airway gene/cell therapy, we analyzed the capacity of human airway epithelial cells cultured as three‐dimensional (3‐D) spheroid structures to be efficiently transduced on long term by a pseudotyped lentiviral vector. The capacity of the 3‐D spheroid structures to repopulate a denuded tracheal basement membrane and regenerate a well‐differentiated airway epithelium was also analyzed.

Methods

An HIV‐1‐derived VSV‐G pseudotyped lentiviral vector encoding the enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) was used. Airway epithelial cells were isolated from mature human fetal tracheas and airway xenografts, cultured as 3‐D spheroid structures, and either transduced at multiplicity of infection (MOI) 10 and 100 or assayed in an ex vivo and in vivo model to evaluate their regeneration capacity.

Results

An in vivo repopulation assay in SCID‐hu mice with transduced isolated fetal airway epithelial cells shows that lentiviral transduction does not alter the airway reconstitution. Transduction of the 3‐D spheroid structures shows that 12% of cells were eGFP‐positive for up to 80 days. In ex vivo and in vivo assays (NUDE‐hu mice), the 3‐D spheroid structures are able to repopulate denuded basement membrane and reconstitute a well‐differentiated human airway surface epithelium.

Conclusions

The efficient and long‐term lentiviral transduction of 3‐D spheroid structures together with their capacity to regenerate a well‐differentiated mucociliary epithelium demonstrate the potential relevance of these 3‐D structures in human airway gene/cell therapy. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Changes in the phenolic composition of grape berries during ripening in relation to vineyard nitrogen and potassium fertilisation rates
Authors: Delgado Rubén , Martín Pedro , del Álamo María , González María‐Rosa
Published: April 2004

The aim of this work was to evaluate the interactive effects of different rates of nitrogen and potassium fertilisation on the phenolic composition of grape berries during ripening. To achieve this objective, in 2000 a trial was carried out in a Tempranillo vineyard located in the ‘Ribera de Duero’ Apellation d'Origine area (Spain). The plants were treated with three nitrogen (0, 50 and 200 g N per vine) and three potassium (0, 60 and 120 g K2O per vine) doses, applied as ammonium nitrate and potassium sulphate respectively, in a randomised complete block design with four replications. The rate of fertilisation did not significantly affect either the vigour or productive capacity of the vines or the size of the berries. However, high nitrogen doses caused a substantial delay in the accumulation of sugars during ripening compared with other treatments. High potassium supplies caused decreases in the total acidity of the berries but did not affect the chromatic parameters of the must at harvest. Three different stages could be distinguished in the development of total polyphenol contents in grape skins during ripening: a slow initial increase, a sharp accumulation during the fifth and sixth weeks after veraison and a final period of reduction until harvest. The vines with no added nitrogen showed more accumulation of polyphenols in the skin than those with other treatments, especially during the last few weeks of sampling. These differences between nitrogen treatments became less as the potassium fertilisation dose was increased. The nitrogen dose of 50 g N per vine increased the levels of anthocyanins in the skin (600 mg l−1 standard extract) compared with the untreated control vines (532 mg l−1), and this significantly increased the colour density of the must. The degree of polymerisation of condensed tannins decreased when the ratio N:K was balanced and the amounts of both nutrients applied were high. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Physiological and biochemical changes of fresh‐cut bamboo shoot (Phyllostachys heterocycla var pubescens) during cold storage
Authors: Lu Sheng M , Xu Ya G
Published: April 2004

Different selections along the length of a shoot in fresh‐cut bamboo (Phyllostachys heterocycla var pubescens) were used to study the changes of respiratory rate and the contents of total sugar, reducing sugar, total phenol, lignin, cellulose and malondialdehyde (MDA) and the activities of phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase (PAL) and polyphenoloxidase (PPO) during storage at 4 °C. Respiratory rate increased after mechanical stress resulted from cutting, but decreased gradually during storage. PAL activity and PPO activity were higher in the apical and middle sections than in the basal sections of bamboo shoot. The content of total sugar, reducing sugar, MDA, lignin and cellulose changed differently in the three sections during storage. Total sugar and reducing sugar in the basal and middle sections decreased initially, then increased. In the apical section, total sugar and reducing sugar also decreased initially, but remained low thereafter. MDA levels increased sharply after processing but decreased in the apical section after 4 days and remained at high levels in the middle and basal sections during storage. Cellulose and lignin decomposed more rapidly in the apical and middle sections than in the basal section. Lignin content increased in the basal section at the end of the storage. These results suggest that, while softening occurs in the apical and middle sections, lignification also takes place at the same time in the basal section. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Enhanced lactic acid fermentation of silage by the addition of green tea waste
Authors: Kondo Makoto , Naoki Nishino , Kazumi Kita , Yokota Hiro‐omi
Published: April 2004

The effects of green tea waste (GTW) addition on the ensiling of forage were investigated. Wet and dried GTW added at 10, 50, 100 and 200 g kg−1 of fresh matter (FM) and at 2, 10 and 20 g kg−1 FM, respectively, decreased pH and increased lactic acid concentration of the silages, whereas the butyric acid concentration and ammonia nitrogen content, as a proportion of a total nitrogen, were lowered, compared with silage without additives (control). To investigate the effect of GTW‐associated LAB on silage fermentation, wet GTW was sterilized by autoclaving or gamma irradiation and added at 50 g kg−1 FM. The silages made with sterilized GTW showed higher lactic acid concentrations, and lower pH and butyric acid concentrations than controls. The counts of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were higher in silages made with sterilized GTW than control until 10 days after ensiling. The enhanced lactic acid fermentation was not found when green tea polyphenols (GTP) were added. These data suggested that GTW could enhance LAB growth and lactic acid production of silage, particularly when added at 50 g kg−1 FM in a wet form or at the equivalent in a dry form. Although neither GTW‐associated LAB nor GTP accounted for the enhancement of lactic acid fermentation, GTW would possibly supply some nutrients which are heat‐stable and effective for LAB growth during silage fermentation. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Serum selenium response to maximal anaerobic exercise among sportsmen trained at various levels
Authors: Emre M. Hanifi , Düzova Halil , Sancak Banu , Polat Alaadin , Erdoğan Hasan , Yologlu Saim
Published: April 2004

Serum selenium (Se) is a constitutional part of both major plasma selenoprotein P and glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px), a cytoprotective enzyme against the oxidative damage. It is an accepted fact that any case related to oxidative stress increased by physical exercise changes serum Se levels. In this study serum Se levels were examined in high physical activity (group I), moderate physical activity (group II), and low physical activity (group III) males undertaking a soccer‐training regimen. In addition, Se changes before and after the acute intensive maximal exercise in an anaerobic‐loading coordination tests among groups I, II, and III soccer players were investigated. For a minimum of 3 months, the players in group I (n = 12), exercising more than 5 h a week, group II (n =9 ), exercising less than 5 h but more than 2 h a week, and group III (n = 11), exercising regularly or irregularly less than 2 h were examined. Heart rate monitor 220 (heart rate)‐age formula was used to evaluate the maximal exercising test during the procedure. Serum Se was analyzed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The difference between groups before and after the exercise was tested by Wilcoxon test, and the difference varying in the groups was tested by Kruskal–Wallis variance analyse. The relation between heart rate and serum Se was tested by Sperman's rank correlation analyses. After maximal physical exercise, the serum selenium level decreased significantly compared with pre‐exercise values (P < 0.05) in group I only. In group I, maximal and pre‐exercise heart rates as opposed to pre‐ and postexercise serum Se level were negative correlated (P < 0.05). In conclusion, a nutrition regime rich in selenium may be beneficial for both athletes who exercise regularly and in patients with increasing oxidative stress. J. Trace Elem. Exp. Med. 17:93–100, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Oxidant/Antioxidant status in relation to thyroid hormone metabolism in selenium‐ and/or iodine‐deficient rats
Authors: Giray Belma , Riondel Jacqueline , Richard Marie‐Jean , Favier Alain , Hıncal Filiz
Published: April 2004

Iodine and selenium are essential components of normal thyroid hormone metabolism and are involved in the modulation of antioxidant defense system. This study was designed to evaluate the extent of peroxidation of lipids and activities of antioxidant enzymes (AOEs) in various tissues of iodine‐ and/or selenium‐deficient rats in relation to thyroid hormone metabolism. Iodine deficiency caused marked enhancements in glutathione peroxidase (GSHPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) activities in thyroid but did not cause lipid peroxidation (LP), indicating the occurrence of an adaptive response that protected the gland against oxidative stress induced by high levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Except significant reduction in CAT activity in liver and kidney and an enhancement of SOD in kidney, iodine deficiency did not cause any other alterations in other tissues. Selenium deficiency and combined iodine and selenium deficiency caused significant alterations in AOE activities in all tissues and caused significantly high levels of LP in thyroid, liver, brain, and plasma, but not in kidney. Alterations in selenium‐involved deficiencies appeared to be mainly caused by substantial losses of GSHPx activity; however, compensatory changes in SOD and CAT activities were also observed. J. Trace Elem. Exp. Med. 17:109–121, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Restless legs in Tourette syndrome
Authors: Lespérance P. , Djerroud N. , Diaz Anzaldua A. , Rouleau G.A. , Chouinard S. , Richer F.
Published: April 2004

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) and Tourette's syndrome (TS) share some common features, including the phenomenology of sensations relieved by movements, but few studies have examined the links between RLS and TS. We examined RLS and other TS comorbidities in 144 probands with TS or chronic tics and their parents. RLS was present in 10% of probands and 23% of parents with no gender differences. RLS in probands was linked significantly to maternal RLS but not paternal RLS, suggesting that a maternal RLS factor may contribute to the variable expression of TS. © 2004 Movement Disorder Society
Effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on nerve regeneration in early diabetes
Authors: Aydin Atakan , Özden Burcu Çelet , Karamürsel Sacit , Solakoğlu Seyhun , Aktaş Şamil , Erer Metin
Published: April 2004

Nerve regeneration in diabetes is essential for reversal of neuropathy as well as the recovery of nerves from injury due to acute nerve compression and entrapment. Endoneural hypoxia due to hyperglycemia‐induced blood flow reductions is observed early in the course of diabetes, and the resultant ischemia plays a role in the diminished neural regeneration. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is capable of producing tissue hyperoxia by raising oxygen tensions in ischemic tissues, and was shown to be beneficial in the reversal of experimental ischemic neuropathy. In this study, an experimental diabetes model was used to evaluate the functional and histomorphological effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on early diabetic nerve regeneration. Our results indicate that there is significant histomorphological impairment of nerve regeneration, even in very early stages of diabetes. However, no beneficial effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy could be demonstrated at this stage. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Measurement and reproducibility of strength and voluntary activation of lower‐limb muscles
Authors: Todd Gabrielle , Gorman Robert B. , Gandevia Simon C.
Published: April 2004

Accurate measurement of muscle strength and voluntary muscle activation is important in the assessment of disorders that affect the motor pathways or muscle. We designed a multipurpose system to assess the variability and reproducibility of isometric torque measurements obtained during maximal voluntary efforts of the knee flexor, knee extensor, ankle dorsiflexor, and ankle plantarflexor muscles on each side. It used two isometric myographs mounted on an adjustable frame. Measurements of maximal voluntary torque (range, 25–188 Nm) displayed low variability within a testing session and over five testing sessions (coefficient of variation range, 5–11%). We used the same equipment to measure voluntary activation of the triceps surae muscles. Voluntary activation, measured with a sensitive twitch interpolation method, increased with increasing voluntary contraction torque (P < 0.001) and was very high during maximal efforts (mean, 97.8 ± 2.1%; median, 98.5%). Furthermore, measurements of voluntary activation during maximal efforts were reproducible across testing sessions with very little variability (coefficient of variation, <2%). The myograph system and the testing procedures should allow accurate measurement of strength and voluntary drive in longitudinal patient studies. Muscle Nerve 29: 834–842, 2004
Structural and functional changes in spastic skeletal muscle
Authors: Lieber Richard L. , Steinman Suzanne , Barash Ilona A. , Chambers Hank
Published: April 2004

This review summarizes current information regarding the changes in structure or function that occur in skeletal muscle secondary to spasticity. Most published studies have reported an increase in fiber size variability in spastic muscle. There is no general agreement regarding any shift in fiber type distribution secondary to spasticity. Mechanical studies in whole limbs as well as in isolated single cells support the notion of an intrinsic change in the passive mechanical properties of muscle after spasticity in addition to the more widely reported neural changes that occur. Evidence is presented for changes within both the muscle cell and extracellular matrix that contribute to the overall changes in the tissue. Taken together, the literature supports the notion that, although spasticity is multifactorial and neural in origin, significant structural alterations in muscle also occur. An understanding of the specific changes that occur in the muscle and extracellular matrix may facilitate the development of new conservative or surgical therapies for this problem. Muscle Nerve 29: 615–627, 2004
Variation in urological practice amongst spinal injuries units in the UK and Eire
Authors: Bycroft John , Hamid Rizwan , Bywater Helen , Patki Prasad , Craggs Michael , Shah Julian
Published: April 2004

Aims

To investigate variations in common urological practice between the Spinal Injuries Units (SIU) of UK and Eire.

Methods

In December 2002, each of the 12 SIU in the UK and Eire were sent a questionnaire addressing basic practice relating to urological outpatient follow‐up, management of urinary tract infection, upper tract surveillance, and urodynamic studies.

Results

Regarding frequency of urological review, two units only saw patients when specifically required. One unit reviewed patients every 6 months and six centres reviewed patients annually. The remaining three units had a patient‐specific follow‐up protocol. Regarding urinary tract infection, only five units had a unified departmental management protocol. Four units advocated antibiotic prophylaxis for recurrent UTI. Only one unit would routinely treat asymptomatic UTI in individuals using catheters. The range of recommended duration of treatment for symptomatic UTI was 3–14 days (mean 6.3). All units performed routine upper tract screening, ranging from annually to every 3 years. Six units did not perform routine urodynamic studies; in other units the range of frequency of urodynamics was from annually to every 3 years.

Conclusions

The variation in urological practice amongst SIU in the UK and Eire is considerable. This finding supports the need for an increase in the level of collaboration and research. Neurourol. Urodynam. 23:252–256, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Trans vaginal tape readjustment after unsuccessful tension‐free vaginal tape operation
Authors: Neuman Menahem
Published: April 2004

Aims

This study is aimed at evaluating a new surgical technique to deal with tension‐free vaginal tape (TVT) failure. The TVT operation, described by Ulmsten in 1995, is based on a mid urethral Prolene tape support. TVT is accepted as an easy‐to‐learn and safe minimal invasive surgical technique. Yet, as with other surgical methods for correction of female urinary stress incontinence, therapeutic failures occur with TVT also.

Materials and Methods

Described here is a new approach for addressing this issue. Out of 344 women who underwent TVT and who were followed for up to 55 months, four (1.2%) requested to be reoperated on the grounds of a diagnosis of operative failure. These four women were treated by trans vaginal readjustment of the tape.

Results

Three out of the four reoperated patients reported subjective continence, subsequently confirmed clinically. The fourth patient, although suffering residual minor urinary leakage, declined further interventions. Urodynam.

Conclusions

The readjustment technique seems effective, easy, and safe for the treatment of failed TVT operations. More experience is needed prior to suggesting this technique as a recommended approach. Neurourol. Urodynam. 23:282–283, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Does magnetic stimulation of sacral nerve roots cause contraction or suppression of the bladder?
Authors: Bycroft J.A. , Craggs M.D. , Sheriff M. , Knight S. , Shah P.J.R.
Published: April 2004

Aims

The aim of this study was to resolve the paradox as to whether magnetic stimulation of sacral nerve roots results in contraction or suppression of the bladder, in both normal individuals and patients with spinal cord injury (SCI).

Materials and Methods

Seven males with complete SCI and neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) and five normal males were investigated. Bladder capacity and maximum cystometric capacity were determined, respectively, in these groups. Magnetic stimulation was applied to sacral nerve roots using a multi‐pulse magnetic stimulator and coil. Stimulation was applied at half capacity, near‐full capacity, and during NDO or voiding (in normal individuals). Single and intermittent bursts of stimulation were applied.

Results

Neither single nor intermittent bursts of magnetic stimulation of the sacral nerve roots resulted in significant bladder pressure rises. Occasionally, following cessation of the magnetic stimulation bladder contractions were seen in patients with NDO. These contractions had an unpredictable and variable latency. As previously reported, magnetic stimulation suppressed NDO in patients with SCI, and suppressed voiding in normal individuals.

Conclusions

Bladder contractions are occasionally observed in patients with NDO following withdrawal of stimulation. This phenomenon hypothetically arises as a result of removal of the bladder suppression provided by magnetic stimulation, rather than direct motor pathway stimulation (as has been reported by others). The ability of sacral magnetic stimulation to suppress detrusor contractions is reaffirmed. Neurourol. Urodynam. 23:241–245, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Clinical evaluation of pelvic floor muscle function in continent and incontinent women
Authors: Devreese Annemie , Staes Filip , De Weerdt Willy , Feys Hilde , Van Assche André , Penninckx Freddy , Vereecken Raoul
Published: April 2004

Aims

The aim of the study was to investigate the reliability of a scoring system for the investigation of voluntary and reflex co‐contractions of abdominal and pelvic floor muscles in lying, sitting, and standing positions in continent and incontinent women.

Methods

A visual inspection and digital (strength, tone, speed, and endurance) palpation scale was developed to measure the coordination of the lower abdominal and pelvic floor muscles. Inter‐observer reliability of the scales was investigated in 40 continent and 40 incontinent women. Differences between the continent and incontinent group were analysed.

Results

Inter‐observer reliability for the visual inspection scale showed kappa values between 0.91 and 1.00, for tone percentage of agreement ranged from 95 to 100% (superficial) and 95 to 98% (deep muscle). Weighted Kappa (Kw) varied from 0.77 to 0.95 for strength and 0.75 to 0.98 for the inward movement of superficial and deep pelvic floor muscles. Kw for coordination between the superficial and deep part of the pelvic floor muscles groups was from 0.87 to 0.88 and 0.97 to 1.00 for endurance and global speed of the pelvic floor contraction. The continent women exhibited significantly better coordination between the pelvic floor and lower abdominal muscles during coughing in all three positions. Also the superficial part of the inward movement, the feeling and the coordination of the pelvic floor muscles were significantly better in the continent group.

Conclusions

Visual inspection and digital tests are easy and reliable methods by which insight can be gained into the multi‐muscular activity and coordination of the pelvic floor and lower abdominal muscles in continent and incontinent women. Neurourol. Urodynam. 23:190–197, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Stop test or pressure‐flow study? Measuring detrusor contractility in older females
Authors: Tan Thai Lian , Bergmann Margaret A. , Griffiths Derek , Resnick Neil M.
Published: April 2004

Aims

Impaired detrusor contractility is common in older adults. One aspect, detrusor contraction strength during voiding, can be measured by the isovolumetric detrusor pressure attained if flow is interrupted mechanically (a stop test). Because interruption is awkward in practice, however, simple indices or nomograms based on measurements made during uninterrupted voiding are an appealing alternative. We investigated whether such methods, originally developed for males, might be applicable in female subjects, and attempted to identify a single best method.

Methods

We compared stop‐test isovolumetric pressures with estimates based on pressure‐flow studies in a group of elderly women suffering from urge incontinence. Measurements were made pre‐ and post‐treatment with placebo or oxybutynin, allowing investigation of test–retest reliability and responsiveness to small changes of contractility.

Results

Existing methods of estimating detrusor contraction strength from pressure‐flow studies, including the Schäfer contractility nomogram and the projected isovolumetric pressure PIP, greatly overestimate the isovolumetric pressure in these female patients. A simple modification provides a more reliable estimate, PIP1, equal to pdet.Qmax + Qmax (with pressure in cmH2O and Qmax in ml/sec). Typically PIP1 ranges from 30 to 75 cmH2O in this population of elderly urge‐incontinent women. PIP1, however, is less responsive to a small change in contraction strength than the isovolumetric pressure measured by mechanical interruption.

Conclusions

The parameter PIP1 is simple to calculate from a standard pressure‐flow study and may be useful for clinical assessment of detrusor contraction strength in older females. For research, however, a mechanical stop test still remains the most reliable and responsive method. The Schäfer contractility nomogram and related parameters such as DECO and BCI are not suitable for use in older women. Neurourol. Urodynam. 23:184–189, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of high frequency deep brain stimulation on urine storage and voiding function in conscious minipigs
Authors: Dalmose A.L. , Bjarkam C.R. , Sørensen J.C. , Djurhuus J.C. , Jørgensen T.M.
Published: April 2004

Aims

Suprapontine neural integration during the storage phase is decisive for the timing of voiding. Neurological disorders like Parkinson's disease are thus frequently complicated by bladder dysfunction. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of high frequency deep brain stimulation on the urine storage and voiding function in conscious Parkinsonian minipigs.

Materials and Methods

Five Goettingen minipigs had a Parkinsonism‐like state induced by intoxication with 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). An electrode for chronic stimulation was placed unilaterally in the subthalamic nucleus. The effect of stimulation was determined by the outcome of transurethral cystometries performed with the stimulation in on‐ and off‐mode.

Results

Of 20 planned cystometry‐sessions 18 were completed. Six incomplete voidings occurred in stimulation on‐mode and five in off‐mode. Interruption of the stimulation for 2 days was followed by a significant increase in pressure rise on filling to cystometric capacity, from 7 to 21 cmH2O (P = 0.005), and an insignificant reduction in cystometric capacity from 30 to 26 ml/kg bodywt. (P = 0.370), leading to a significant decrease in bladder compliance from 124 to 34 ml/cmH2O (P = 0.013).

Conclusions

Transurethral cystometry was a feasible examination technique in pigs. The findings demonstrate that high frequency deep brain stimulation changes the bladder characteristics in the storage phase. Since bladder pressure and capacity responded differently to interruption of stimulation distinct neural mechanisms must be involved in the modulation of sensory information on bladder tension and stretch. Neurourol. Urodynam. 23:265–272, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nutrient composition of the diet and the development of overactive bladder: A longitudinal study in women
Authors: Dallosso Helen M. , McGrother Catherine W. , Matthews Ruth J. , Donaldson Madeleine M.K.
Published: April 2004

Aims

Evidence for an association between diet and the symptom syndrome overactive bladder (OAB) would be valuable in understanding its aetiology. The present study investigates prospectively the association between the nutrient composition of the diet and the onset of OAB.

Methods

A random sample of community dwelling women aged 40 years or over was studied. Baseline data on urinary symptoms and diet were collected from 6,371 women using a postal questionnaire and food frequency questionnaire. Follow‐up data on urinary symptoms were collected from 5,816 of the women in a postal survey 1 year later. Logistic regression was used to investigate the association of diet (daily intakes of energy, macro and micronutrients) with 1 year incidence of OAB.

Results

There was evidence that three nutrients may be associated with OAB onset. Higher intakes of vitamin D (P = 0.008), protein (P = 0.03), and potassium (P = 0.05) were significantly associated with decreased risks of onset. Although overall the associations with vitamin B6 and niacin were not significant (P = 0.08 and P = 0.13), there was some evidence of a decreased risk of onset with higher intakes.

Conclusions

The results from this prospective study suggest possible aetiological associations between certain nutrients and OAB onset. The findings need confirmation and possible mechanisms to explain these associations need further investigation. Neurourol. Urodynam. 23:204–210, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Alteration of urothelial‐mediated tone in the ischemic bladder: Role of eicosanoids
Authors: Azadzoi Kazem M. , Heim Vanessa K. , Tarcan Tufan , Siroky Mike B.
Published: April 2004

Aims

Previously we showed that ischemia alters bladder smooth muscle contractility in the rabbit. This study investigates the role of urothelium and eicosanoid‐release in ischemic bladder smooth muscle instability.

Materials and Methods

Male New Zealand white rabbits were divided into treated (n = 12) and age‐matched control (n = 10) groups. The treated group underwent balloon endothelial injury of the iliac arteries, and then received 4 weeks of cholesterol diet, followed by 4 weeks of regular diet. The control group received a regular diet for 8 weeks. After 8 weeks, blood flow for both the iliac arteries and the bladder as well as bladder oxygen tension were recorded. In one‐half of each ischemic and control bladder, the urothelium was removed. Bladder tissues were processed for organ bath and enzyme‐immunoassay (EIA) of prostaglandins (PGs) and leukotrienes (LTs).

Results

A significant decrease in iliac arterial blood flow, bladder wall blood flow, and bladder oxygen tension was found in the treated group. Bladder ischemia increased the frequency and amplitude of baseline spontaneous smooth muscle contractility. Ischemic tissues with urothelium (Uro+) demonstrated significant increases in the contractile response to electrical field stimulation (EFS) and carbachol relative to control Uro+ tissues. Urothelial removal increased smooth muscle contraction in the control tissues but had no significant effect in the ischemic/hypoxic tissues. Contraction of control tissues without urothelium (Uro−) was similar to contraction of ischemic Uro+ tissues. Contractions of ischemic Uro+ and control Uro− tissues were unchanged after treatment with the cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor indomethacin, while they were significantly reduced by the 5‐lipoxygenase (5‐LO) inhibitor NDGA. EIA showed no change in PGs release from the ischemic urothelium, but significant increase in PGF2‐α and thromboxane A2 release from the ischemic suburothelial tissue. Ischemia increased the release of LTB4, LTC4, and LTE4 from both urothelium and suburothelial tissue.

Conclusions

Our studies suggest loss of urothelial‐mediated tone and LTs‐mediated smooth muscle instability in the chronically ischemic/hypoxic bladder. Neurourol. Urodynam. 23:258–264, 2004. Published 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Topographic abnormalities in event‐related potentials in children with monosyptomatic nocturnal enuresis
Authors: Karlidag Rifat , Isin Ozisik Handan , Soylu Ahmet , Kizkin Sibel , Sipahi Birsen , Unal Suheyla , Ozcan Cemal
Published: April 2004

Aims

A functional maturational delay in the central nervous system is dwelled upon in the pathogenesis of monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (MNE). In this study we studied whether according to controls N200 and P300, components of the event‐related potential (ERP), which is related to aspects of cognitive processing, showed any difference in its topographic distribution in children within the age group 10–13 with monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis and discussed its relation to the pathogenesis of MNE.

Methods

We performed P300 in 18 patients with MNE and in 16 age‐matched healthy subjects. P300 were evoked by an auditory oddball paradigm consisting of 150 tone bursts (80% 1 kHz; 20% 2 kHz). The latencies of the N200 and the P300 waves and the amplitude of the P300 wave were measured.

Results

There was no statistical difference between the enuretic group and the controls in N200 and P300 latency and amplitude in the midline frontal (Fz), central (Cz), and parietal (Pz) recording site of the 10–20 International System. In the enuretic group while P300 amplitude in the Fz site was significantly less than the P300 amplitude in the Cz site, there was no statistical difference between the Fz and Pz P300 amplitude values.

Conclusions

When different levels of maturational delay are considered in MNE, it may be claimed that maturational delay in children whose enuresis lasts until older ages will be different from those whose enuresis ends at an early age. The determination of P300 amplitude in parietal records being less in enuretics when compared to the controls may show that there are regional differences in stimuli processing rate/quality. Neurourol. Urodynam. 23:237–240, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A study on preconditioning iterative methods and relativity of pressure in the numerical calculation of fluid flow
Authors: Hirano Hiroyuki , Yoshida Hideto , Ozoe Hiroyuki , Okamoto Naotaka
Published: April 2004

This article presents the effect of preconditioning iterative methods on boundary conditions of the pressure‐correction in the numerical computation of fluid flow with known velocity components on all boundaries using the SIMPLE algorithm. In such computation, a set of solutions of the pressure‐correction is indefinite, because only the Neumann condition is imposed on all boundaries. However, solutions become unique if the value of pressure‐correction is fixed at least on one boundary point, and the Dirichlet condition is additionally imposed. Though both conditions must give exactly the same velocity and temperature fields, this problem arises from the relativity of the pressure. The mathematical illustration for this problem is provided using the numerical computation of the natural convection in an enclosure. It is concluded that the preconditioner adopted and the condition that only the Neumann condition on all boundaries is given are effective to reduce the number of iterations in solving the linear system of equations of the pressure‐correction at the computation of the natural convection. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq, 2004
Error analysis of the L2 least‐squares finite element method for incompressible inviscid rotational flows
Authors: Tsai Chiung‐Chiou , Yang Suh‐Yuh
Published: April 2004

In this article we analyze the L2 least‐squares finite element approximations to the incompressible inviscid rotational flow problem, which is recast into the velocity‐vorticity‐pressure formulation. The least‐squares functional is defined in terms of the sum of the squared L2 norms of the residual equations over a suitable product function space. We first derive a coercivity type a priori estimate for the first‐order system problem that will play the crucial role in the error analysis. We then show that the method exhibits an optimal rate of convergence in the H1 norm for velocity and pressure and a suboptimal rate of convergence in the L2 norm for vorticity. A numerical example in two dimensions is presented, which confirms the theoretical error estimates. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq, 2004
Characterization of a rigid silicone resin
Authors: Chan‐Park M. B. , Katsoulis D. E. , Baney R. H.
Published: April 2004

Silicone resins have been used as binders for ceramic frit coatings and can withstand temperatures of 650°C to 1260°C. Conceptually, silicone resins can potentially be used as matrices for high temperature fiber‐reinforced composites. The mechanical and thermal properties of a commercially available silicone resin, Dow Corning® 6‐2230, were characterized. Neat 6‐2230 resin was found to have inferior room temperature mechanical properties such as flexural, tensile and fracture properties when compared to epoxy. The room temperature flexural properties and short beam shear strength of the silicone/glass composites were also found to be lower than those of epoxy/glass composite with similar glass content. However, the silicone resin had better elevated temperature properties. At an elevated temperature of 316°C, the retentions of flexural modulus and strength were 80% and 40% respectively of room temperature values; these were superior to those of phenolic/glass. Unlike the carbon‐based resins, the drop in flexural properties of the silicon/glass laminates with temperature leveled off with increase in temperature beyond 250°C. The resin weight loss at 316°C in 100 cm3/min of flowing air was small compared to other carbon‐based resins such as PMR‐15 and LaRC TPI. Only Avimid‐N appeared comparable to Dow Corning® 6‐2230.
Determination of in‐plane permeability of fiber preforms by the gas flow method using pressure measurements
Authors: Kim Sun K. , Opperer Jeremy G. , Kim Dae‐Hwan , Daniel Isaac M.
Published: April 2004

A method is described for measuring the in‐plane permeability of orthotropic fibrous preforms using gas flow. The method is based on an optimization process between computed and measured pressures at various locations in the mold during steady state gas flow through the enclosed preform. The computed pressure is obtained by the control volume finite element method (CVFEM). This method was demonstrated by using a specially designed mold with multiple ports for gas injection and pressure measurement and it was shown that it can be implemented easily and yields consistent and reliable results.
Development of high‐pressure composite butt‐weld joints
Authors: Li Guoqiang , Helms Jack E. , Pang Su‐Seng
Published: April 2004

There is currently a need to develop High‐pressure composite butt‐weld joints to meet the needs of deepwater activities. In this study, a tapered butt‐weld composite joint configuration is proposed. Finite element analysis was conducted to validate the proposed structural configuration through stress‐strain distribution analysis. Test samples were assembled using the hand lay‐up technique. The prepared specimens were hydro‐tested. The test results justified the proposed joint configurations. An approximate 35.7% increase in bursting pressure in the tapered butt‐weld composite joint was observed over currently used composite butt‐weld joints.
Characterization of modulus and glass transition phenomena in poly(L‐lactide)/hydroxyapatite composites
Authors: Fambri Luca , Kesenci Kemal , Migliaresi Claudio
Published: April 2004

In order to study the dynamic‐mechanical properties of Poly(L‐lactide)/Hydroxyapatite (PLLA/HA) composites, two different molecular weight (inherent viscosity (ηinh): 4.0 (dL/g), and 7.8 (dL/g)) poly(L‐lactide) (PLLA) were synthesized by bulk polymerization and filled with 10%, 30%, and 50% (w/w) with medical grade HA (size range: 25–45 μm and Ca/P = 1.69). The plain PLLA polymers and PLLA/HA composites were compression molded and machined to yield 50 × 3 × 2 mm3 specimens. The composites were investigated by dynamic mechanical thermal analyzer (DMTA) of imposed bending load on rectangular specimens over a temperature range from 30 to 120°C using multiple frequencies (0.3–50 Hz). The results showed that the bending storage modulus (E′) of the composites increased linearly with the percentage of the filler, reaching at 37°C and 0.1 Hz about 2.5, 3.7 and 5.0 GPa with 10, 30 and 50% of HA respectively. The glass transition temperature, evaluated at the tan δ peaks, were in the range 70–80°C and 50–70°C for PLLA matrix and PLLA composites respectively. The activation energies at the glass transition temperature were calculated from the Arrhenius plot in the range of 102–111 Kcal/mol for the composites, whereas 132 and 148 Kcal/mol were found for low and high molecular weight of PLLA respectively. The content of amorphous phase was evaluated from the intensity of tan δ peak. Results showed that HA causes an amorphous phase with a greater mobility with respect to the pure PLLA.
Processability of LCP‐nylon‐glass hybrid composites
Authors: Pisharath Sreekumar , Wong Shing‐Chung
Published: April 2004

A hybrid composite consisting of rubber toughened nylon 6,6, short glass fibers and thermotropic LCP was investigated by varying the content of LCP. It was found that a hybrid composite offered better processability over the glass fiber reinforced polymers alone. The total torque in melt mixing increased with short glass fiber addition but decreased with an increase in LCP content. The thermal stability of the glass fiber reinforced composite was improved by blending with LCP. However, a minimum of 15 wt% LCP was required to realize reinforcement effect from the hybrid composite. The fracture morphology was examined using SEM techniques. Some LCP fibrils could be observed on the tensile fracture surface.