bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential detection of PAS-positive inclusions formed by the Z, Siiyama, and Mmalton variants of α1-antitrypsin
Authors: Janciauskiene Sabina , Eriksson Sten , Callea Francesco , Mallya Meera , Zhou Aiwu , Seyama Kuniaki , Hata Satoru , Lomas David A.
Published: October 2004

Several point mutations of α1-antitrypsin cause a perturbation in protein structure with consequent polymerization and intracellular accumulation. The retention of polymers of α1-antitrypsin within hepatocytes results in protein overload that in turn is associated with juvenile hepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The detection of α1-antitrypsin polymers and understanding the molecular basis of polymer formation is of considerable clinical importance. We have used a monoclonal antibody (ATZ11) that specifically recognizes a conformation-dependent neoepitope on polymerized α1-antitrypsin to detect polymers within hepatocytes of individuals with α1-antitrypsin deficiency. Paraffin-embedded liver tissue specimens were obtained from individuals who were homozygous for the Z (Glu342Lys), Mmalton (52Phe del), and Siiyama (Ser53Phe) alleles of α1-antitrypsin that result in hepatic inclusions and profound plasma deficiency. Immunohistological staining with a polyclonal anti-human α1-antitrypsin antibody showed hepatic inclusions in all 3 cases, while ATZ11 reacted with hepatic inclusions formed by only Z α1-antitrypsin. Polymers of plasma M and Z α1-antitrypsin prepared under different conditions in vitro and polymers of recombinant mutants of α1-antitrypsin demonstrated that the monoclonal antibody detected a neoepitope on the polymerized protein. It did not detect polymers formed by a recombinant shutter domain mutant (that mirrors the effects of the Siiyama and Mmalton variants), polymers formed by cleaving α1-antitrypsin at the reactive loop, or C-sheet polymers formed by heating α1-antitrypsin in citrate. In conclusion, the ATZ11 monoclonal antibody detects Z α1-antitrypsin in hepatic inclusions by detecting a neoepitope that is specific to the polymeric conformer and that is localized close to residue 342. (Hepatology 2004;40:1203-1210.)
An immunomodulatory role for CD4+CD25+ regulatory T lymphocytes in hepatitis C virus infection
Authors: Cabrera Roniel , Tu Zhengkun , Xu Yiling , Firpi Roberto J. , Rosen Hugo R. , Liu Chen , Nelson David R.
Published: October 2004

The CD4+CD25+ regulatory T lymphocytes have been implicated in suppressing T cell immune responses. Our aim was to characterize the frequency, phenotype, function, and specificity of CD4+CD25+ T cells in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Peripheral CD4+CD25+ cells from recovered (n = 15), chronic infected (n = 30), and normal control (n = 15) subjects were analyzed ex vivo for quantitation, phenotype, and effect on HCV-specific interferon gamma production and proliferation. CD4+CD25+ specificity was determined by intracellular cytokine staining for interleukin 10 (IL-10). A higher proportion of CD4+CD25+ were found in chronic infection (mean, 3.02%) when compared with recovered (1.64%, P = .001) and normal controls (2.27%, P = .02). CD4+CD25+ cells display CD45ROhigh, CD45RAlow, CD28high, CD62Lhigh, and CD95high phenotype. HCV-specific interferon gamma activity was enhanced in peripheral blood mononuclear cells depleted of CD4+CD25+ and suppressed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells enriched with CD4+CD25+. Depletion of CD4+CD25+ cells also enhanced HCV-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cell proliferation. Cytokine analysis suggested CD4+CD25+ cells secrete transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β1) and IL-10. The inhibitory role for TGF-β1 was confirmed by anti-TGF-β1. Transwell studies showed CD4+CD25+ mediated suppression to be dose dependent and requiring cell contact. CD4+CD25+ cells showed HCV-specificity through IL-10 production, with a frequency ranging from 1.9% to 5.3%. A positive correlation was detected between CD4+CD25+ T cell frequency and HCV RNA titer, whereas an inverse relation was found with liver inflammatory activity. In conclusion, CD4+CD25+ T lymphocytes constitute a highly differentiated population and appear to play a role in viral persistence by suppressing HCV-specific T cell responses in a cell-cell contact manner. (Hepatology 2004;40:1062-1071.)
The impact of glucose ingestion and gluco‐regulatory control on cognitive performance: a comparison of younger and middle aged adults
Authors: Meikle Andrew , Riby Leigh M. , Stollery Brian
Published: October 2004

A great deal of research has been devoted to the issue of whether the ingestion of a glucose containing drink facilitates cognitive performance. However, it remains unclear exactly how age and individual differences in gluco‐regulatory control mediate a boost in cognitive functioning. The present study investigates these issues further. A repeated measures (25 g vs 50 g glucose vs placebo) counterbalanced, double‐blind design was used with 25 younger and middle‐aged adults. A battery of memory and non‐memory tasks was administered; including tests of episodic and semantic memory, attention and visuospatial functioning. Glucose ingestion largely facilitated performance on tasks with a memory component. Notably, task demands and age (young vs middle‐aged) contributed to the magnitude of memory enhancement. This finding suggests an age‐ and load‐specific benefit of glucose intake. In addition, evidence suggests greater facilitation in individuals with good glucose regulation. These data are discussed in relation to the idea that glucose specifically affects neural mechanisms supporting memory functioning (i.e. the hippocampus), which are known to decline in ageing. Importantly, the present investigation adds to the growing body of literature showing the utility of glucose supplementation as memory enhancers. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enzymatic stabilization of gelatin‐based scaffolds
Authors: Broderick Emmett P. , O'Halloran Damien M. , Rochev Yury A. , Griffin Martin , Collighan Russell J. , Pandit Abhay S.
Published: October 2004

The definitive goal of this research is to develop protein‐based scaffolds for use in soft tissue regeneration, particularly in the field of dermal healing. The premise of this investigation was to characterize the mechanical properties of gelatin cross‐linked with microbial transglutaminase (mTGase) and to investigate the cytocompatibility of mTGase cross‐linked gelatin. Dynamic rheological analysis revealed a significant increase in the storage modulus and thermal stability of gelatin after cross‐linking with mTGase. Static, unconfined compression tests showed an increase in Young's modulus of gelatin gels after mTGase cross‐linking. A comparable increase in gel strength was observed with 0.03% mTGase and 0.25% glutaraldehyde cross‐linked gelatin gels. In vitro studies using 3T3 fibroblasts indicated cytotoxicity at a concentration of 0.05% mTGase after 72 h. However, no significant inhibition of cell proliferation was seen with cells grown on lower concentrations of mTGase cross‐linked gelatin substrates. The mechanical improvement and cytocompatibility of mTGase cross‐linked gelatin suggests mTGase has potential for use in stabilizing gelatin gels for tissue‐engineering applications. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 72B: 37–42, 2005
Mechanical resistance of a new biomaterial, ostrich pericardium, and a new method of joining tissues combining suturing and a biological adhesive
Authors: Páez José M. García , Sanmartin Antonio Carrera , Herrero Eduardo Jorge , Millán Isabel , Cordón Angeles , Rocha Aurora , Maestro María A. , Burgos Raul , Téllez Gabriel , Castillo‐Olivares José L.
Published: October 2004

We studied the mechanical behavior in response to tensile stress of samples of ostrich pericardium bonded with a cyanoacrylate glue or sewn with a rectangular, overlapping suture that was subsequently sealed with the same bioadhesive. Seventy‐two trials were performed in three series of 24 samples each: series AG, glued with an overlap of 1 cm2; series ASG, sewn with a rectangular, overlapping suture and sealed; and series AC, control samples that were left intact. The mean stress at rupture in series AG (glued) was 0.1 MPa, much lower than the working stress of a human valve leaflet, which is approximately 0.25 MPa. In the control series, this stress was 26.28 MPa. At rupture in series ASG (sutured/glued), the suture material was being subjected to a stress of 64.91 MPa, thus confirming the existence of an interaction between the suture and the shear stress exerted by the suture on the samples of pericardium. In series ASG, the mean value for the resistance to rupture when measured in machine kg was 8.83 kg, lower than but similar to that recorded in the control series AC (10.26 kg). The percentages of reversible deformation, or elongation, once the samples were torn were similar in series AC (19.15%) and ASG (21.93%). This phenomenon can only be explained by the damage to the collagen fibers in the area around the rupture, while other more distant regions work at a lower load within the elastic limit. We conclude that cyanocrylate adhesives alone are not suitable as bonding materials in cardiac bioprostheses. The results with the rectangular, overlapping suture, when subsequently sealed with an adhesive, can be considered good because, although this approach does not impede shear stress, it does maintain an excellent degree of resistance to rupture of the samples thus joined. We stress the need to take into account the concentration of the load in the design of bioprostheses. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 72B: 9–16, 2005
Effect of growth factors on proliferation and phenotypic differentiation of human fetal neural stem cells
Authors: Tarasenko Yevgeniya I. , Yu Yongjia , Jordan Paivi M. , Bottenstein Jane , Wu Ping
Published: October 2004

Human fetal neural stem cells (hNSCs) can be expanded in vitro by mitogens or growth factors, such as basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF), and/or leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF). Their effects on proliferation rate and differentiation pattern of hNSCs, however, have not been fully characterized. In this study, we cultured hNSCs in seven regimens, including bFGF, EGF, and LIF, either alone or in combinations. Cells were maintained as neurospheres in treatment media for various periods, up to six passages. A combination of bFGF, EGF, and LIF expanded hNSCs more efficiently than any other treatment as determined by counting total cell numbers using a trypan blue exclusion assay, a WST‐1 cell viability assay, and a bromodeoxyuridine incorporation flow cytometric analysis. Differentiation patterns of hNSCs expanded under different conditions were also analyzed. We reported previously that hNSCs primed in vitro with a combination of bFGF, heparin, and laminin (FHL) induced neuronal differentiation toward a cholinergic phenotype. In this study, we show that the FHL priming increases neuronal differentiation while decreasing astroglial generation in all treatment groups as determined by immunostaining. However, cells proliferated under different growth factor conditions do vary in their phenotypic differentiation patterns. Particularly, significant generation of cholinergic cells was observed only in hNSCs expanded with EGF/bFGF or EGF/bFGF/LIF, but not with other treatment regimens, even when they are exposed to the same priming procedure. Our results indicate that hNSCs are highly plastic, with their proliferation and differentiation potential dependent on different growth factor treatments. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Kinetic model of sugar diffusion from sugar beet tissue treated by pulsed electric field
Authors: El‐Belghiti Kamal , Rabhi Zied , Vorobiev Eugene
Published: October 2004

Extraction of sugar from sugar beet slices was studied following various pulsed electric field (PEF) treatments (intensities from 300 to 800 V cm−1 and number of pulses varying between 50 and 1000). Slices treated by PEF were immersed in water at ambient temperature at a liquid/solid ratio of 3. A significant increase in extraction yield was observed. This enhancement was due to permeabilisation of the cellular membrane and to the additional quantity of juice appearing on the surface of slices after PEF treatment being extracted rapidly by convection. The optimal conditions of PEF treatment were an intensity of 670 V cm−1 and 250 pulses. The extraction kinetics was studied on the basis of two approaches: Fick's diffusion equation and a two‐exponential kinetic model. The coefficient of diffusion was only slightly influenced by the conditions of PEF treatment. The two‐exponential model successfully described both the rapid and prolonged stages of extraction. By heating the solution at mild temperatures of 30–50 °C, the coefficient of diffusion was increased and the kinetics of extraction was enhanced. The quality of cellular juice obtained after PEF treatment was higher than that of juice obtained after thermal pretreatment at 75 °C. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Monitoring oxidative quality of pork scratchings, peanuts, oatmeal and muesli by sensor array
Authors: Jensen Pernille N , Bertelsen Grete , van den Berg Frans
Published: October 2004

A sensor array (electronic nose) was successfully applied for predicting the content of hexanal and other volatiles in different dry fat‐containing products, showing the potential of replacing time‐consuming traditional laboratory analysis by faster in‐process monitoring methods. Unfortunately, prediction of free radical content was not successful, making early prediction of oxidation by sensor array infeasible. Owing to the non‐specificity of the sensors, a generic model could not be generated even though a series of standards was shown to have a high correlation between hexanal concentration and individual or multiple sensor responses. PCA models of sensor array responses of eg pork scratchings revealed a clear separation of samples stored in the experimental factor light versus darkness. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Estimation of tea quality by infusion colour difference analysis
Authors: Liang Yuerong , Lu Jianliang , Zhang Lingyun , Wu Shan , Wu Ying
Published: October 2004

The colour differences in terms of ΔL, Δa, Δb and ΔE between distilled water and infusions of 29 green teas, 16 black teas and 13 oolong teas and their correlation with sensory quality attributes of tea were investigated. The results showed that the ΔL value decreased but the Δa, Δb and ΔE increased with the degree of fermentation of the three kinds of tea. The ΔL was positively correlated to quality attributes of green tea and oolong tea but negatively correlated to those of black tea. The Δa of tea infusions is a reliable descriptor to differentiate among green and black teas. The regression of total quality score of green tea (TQSg) upon the Δa was TQSg = −2.26Δa + 77.2 (R2 = 0.22, p < 0.01), that of total quality score of black tea (TQSb) upon Δb was TQSb = 0.70Δb + 44.6 (R2 = 0.31, p < 0.05) and that of total quality score of oolong tea (TQSo) upon ΔL was TQSo = 1.09ΔL + 94.5 (R2 = 0.75, p < 0.01). Because the infusion colour difference indicators of Δa, Δb and ΔL can be done rapidly, it could be very useful for on‐site or on‐line quality monitoring during tea manufacture and storage. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
In vitro anti‐HSV‐2 activity and mechanism of action of proanthocyanidin A‐1 from Vaccinium vitis‐idaea
Authors: Cheng Hua‐Yew , Lin Ta‐Chen , Yang Chien‐Min , Shieh Den‐En , Lin Chun‐Ching
Published: October 2004

The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro anti‐HSV‐2 activity and mechanism of action of proanthocyanidin A‐1, a compound isolated from Vaccinium vitis‐idaea Linn (Ericaceae). The results demonstrated that proanthocyanidin A‐1 exhibited anti‐HSV‐2 activity. The IC50 value for the XTT assay was 73.3 ± 14.5 µM and the IC50 and IC90 values for the plaque reduction assay were 41.9 ± 2.0 and 62.8 ± 6.3 µM respectively. Proanthocyanidin A‐1 showed no cell cytotoxic effect at concentrations that blocked HSV‐2 infection, with a CC50 value of 282.1 ± 27.5 µM. The mechanism studies demonstrated that proanthocyanidin A‐1 did not reduce viral infectivity but inhibited viral attachment and penetration and affected the late stage(s) of HSV‐2 infection. It was concluded that proanthocyanidin A‐1 suppressed HSV‐2 infection through many modes of action and thus merits further investigation. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Sensory, microbial and chemical effects of a slurry ice system on horse mackerel (Trachurus trachurus)
Authors: Rodríguez Óscar , Losada Vanesa , Aubourg Santiago P , Barros‐Velázquez Jorge
Published: October 2004

Slurry ice, a biphasic system consisting of small spherical ice crystals surrounded by seawater, was evaluated in parallel with flake ice for the storage of horse mackerel (Trachurus trachurus). Storage in slurry ice led to a significant enhancement of shelf life (5 days for flake ice to 15 days for slurry ice), better control of pH and lower counts of total aerobes and proteolytic and lipolytic bacteria, these reaching an average difference between batches of 2, 1.43 and 1.98 log units respectively after 8 days of storage. Storage in slurry ice also involved a significantly slower formation of total volatile basic nitrogen and trimethylamine after 8 days of storage. Staphylococcus xylosus and Proteus penneri were identified as the leading proteolytic and lipolytic organisms in horse mackerel muscle. Storage of horse mackerel in slurry ice enhances the shelf life of this medium‐fat fish species through better maintenance of sensory and microbiological quality. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Fast aroma profiling to detect invert sugar adulteration with zNose™
Authors: Veraverbeke Els A , Irudayaraj Joseph , Lammertyn Jeroen
Published: October 2004

Rapid aroma profiling of food products is a potential technique for at‐line food quality evaluation. In this work the potential of zNose™, a surface acoustic wave‐based sensor, was tested for honey quality assessment. Buckwheat honey was purposely adulterated with different levels of beet and cane invert sugar, and its aroma profile was measured after different periods of headspace equilibration. PCA using the relative peak areas as well as the full zNose™ spectra resulted in a clear separation between honey, and beet and cane invert sugar adulterants in the mixtures. PLS models were developed for quantitative estimation of adulterants using the entire spectra as well as the relative peak areas. Better predictions were obtained with the PLS models based on spectra than with those based on relative peak areas. A correlation of validation of 0.98 was obtained between predicted and measured percentage of adulteration. This model was also successfully validated with an external set of honey mixtures, resulting in an average deviation of 3% adulteration between the predicted and reference values. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Selected ion flow tube mass spectrometry (SIFT‐MS) for on‐line trace gas analysis
Authors: Smith David , Španěl Patrik
Published: October 2004

Selected ion flow tube mass spectrometry (SIFT‐MS) is a new analytical technique for the real‐time quantification of several trace gases simultaneously in air and breath. It relies on chemical ionization of the trace gas molecules in air/breath samples introduced into helium carrier gas using H3O+, NO+, and O precursor ions. Reactions between the precursor ions and trace gas molecules proceed for an accurately defined time, the precursor and product ions being detected and counted by a downstream mass spectrometer, thus effecting quantification. Absolute concentrations of trace gases in single breath exhalation can be determined by SIFT‐MS down to ppb levels, obviating sample collection and calibration. Illustrative examples of SIFT‐MS studies include (i) analysis of gases from combustion engines, animals and their waste, and food; (ii) breath and urinary headspace studies of metabolites, ethanol metabolism, elevated acetone during ovulation, and exogenous compounds; and (iii) urinary infection and the presence of tumors, the influence of dialysis on breath ammonia, acetone, and isoprene, and acetaldehyde released by cancer cells in vitro. Flowing afterglow mass spectrometry (FA‐MS) is briefly described, which allows on‐line quantification of deuterium in breath water vapor. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 24:661–700, 2005
Comparative proteomics analysis of human pituitary adenomas: Current status and future perspectives
Authors: Zhan Xianquan , Desiderio Dominic M.
Published: October 2004

This article will review the published research on the elucidation of the mechanisms of pituitary adenoma formation. Mass spectrometry (MS) plays a key role in those studies. Comparative proteomics has been used with the long‐term goal to locate, detect, and characterize the differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in human pituitary adenomas; to identify tumor‐related and ‐specific biomarkers; and to clarify the basic molecular mechanisms of pituitary adenoma formation. The methodology used for comparative proteomics, the current status of human pituitary proteomics studies, and future perspectives are reviewed. The methodologies that are used in comparative proteomics studies of human pituitary adenomas are readily exportable to other different areas of cancer research. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 24:783–813, 2005
Microdissection and SAGE as a combined tool to reveal gene expression in ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast
Authors: Verlinden Ilse , Janssens Jaak , Raus Jef , Michiels Luc
Published: October 2004

The interplay between cancer cells and the normal surrounding tissue is believed to influence the biological behavior of the tumor. However, the presence of multiple cell types within the prelevated tumor specimen may attenuate changes that occur specifically in the malignant cells within their microenvironment. To study gene expression of the malignant cells in situ, we used a new microdissection method to separate ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) cells from the surrounding stroma, immunological infiltrates, and endothelial cells. We applied an adapted microSAGE protocol, without total mRNA amplification, to study their gene expression profile. Three thousand two hundred one different transcripts were identified in a total of 29 534 observed tags. Of these unique tags, 88.3% matched known GenBank sequences and 11.7% represented unknown transcripts. As compared to a total DCIS SAGE library, microdissection combined with SAGE revealed additional genes expressed only in normal surrounding, probably stromal, cells and not or significantly less in DCIS tumor cells. This study demonstrates that microdissection can be combined with SAGE as a tool to study transcriptomes. This approach provides important new information on differential gene expression both in tumor cells and normal surrounding tissue. Several of the observed differences indeed disappear when the total tumor mass is analyzed. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In vivo mutational analysis of liver DNA in gpt delta transgenic rats treated with the hepatocarcinogens N‐nitrosopyrrolidine, 2‐amino‐3‐methylimidazo[4,5‐f]quinoline, and di(2‐ethylhexyl)phthalate
Authors: Kanki Keita , Nishikawa Akiyoshi , Masumura Ken‐ichi , Umemura Takashi , Imazawa Takayoshi , Kitamura Yasuki , Nohmi Takehiko , Hirose Masao
Published: October 2004

In order to cast light on carcinogen‐specific molecular mechanisms underlying experimental hepatocarcinogenesis in rats, in vivo mutagenicity and mutation spectra of known genotoxic rat hepatocarcinogens N‐nitrosopyrrolidine (NPYR), and 2‐amino‐3‐methylimidazo[4,5‐f]quinoline (IQ), as well as the nongenotoxic hepatocarcinogen di(2‐ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) and the noncarcinogen acetaminophen (AAP), were investigated in guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (gpt) delta transgenic rats, a recently developed animal model for genotoxicity analysis. After 13‐wk treatment, glutathione S‐transferase placental form (GST‐P)‐positive liver cell foci were significantly increased in NPYR‐treated and IQ‐treated rats. In the DEHP‐treated rats, marked hepatomegaly with centrilobular hypertrophy of hepatocytes occurred, although GST‐P staining was consistently negative. Positive mutagenicity was detected in IQ‐ and NPYR‐treated rats. Mutant frequencies (MFs) in the liver DNA were 188.0 × 10−6 and 56.5 × 10−6, approximately 35‐fold and 10‐fold higher, respectively, than that of nontreatment control rats (5.5 × 10−6). There were no increases in MFs in the DEHP‐ or AAP‐treated rats as compared to the nontreatment control value. IQ induced mainly base substitutions leading to G:C to T:A transversions (56.9%) and deletions of G:C base pairs. In contrast, NPYR primarily caused specific A:T to G:C transitions (49.3%), which are very rare in the other groups. These data provided support for the conclusion that IQ and NPYR hepatocarcinogenesis depends on genotoxic processes and specific DNA adduct formation while DEHP exerts its influence via a nongenotoxic promotional pathway. Our data also indicate that analysis of specific in vivo mutational responses with transgenic animal models can provide crucial information for understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying chemical carcinogenesis. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Multiple small doses of levodopa plus entacapone produce continuous dopaminergic stimulation and reduce dyskinesia induction in MPTP‐treated drug‐naïve primates
Authors: Smith Lance A. , Jackson Michael J. , Al‐Barghouthy Ghassan , Rose Sarah , Kuoppamaki Mikko , Olanow Warren , Jenner Peter
Published: October 2004

Long‐acting dopamine agonist drugs induce a lower incidence of dyskinesia in MPTP‐treated primates and patients with Parkinson's disease compared to pulsatile treatment with levodopa, supporting the concept of continuous dopaminergic stimulation as a means of dyskinesia avoidance. We examined the effects of L‐dopa administered with or without the COMT inhibitor entacapone on dyskinesia induction in previously untreated MPTP‐treated common marmosets. Administration of L‐dopa (12.5 mg/kg p.o.) plus carbidopa twice daily produced fluctuating improvement in motor behavior coupled with dyskinesia. Coadministration with entacapone produced similar patterns of motor improvement and dyskinesia that were not different from that produced by L‐dopa alone. Treatment with L‐dopa (6.25 mg/kg p.o.) plus carbidopa four times daily reversed motor disability and induced dyskinesia in a manner that was not different from the twice‐daily treatment regimens. However, coadministration with entacapone produced more continuous improvement in locomotor activity with less dyskinesia than animals treated with L‐dopa four times daily alone. These data support the notion that pulsatile stimulation contributes to the development of dyskinesia and suggests that more frequent dosing of L‐dopa plus entacapone may be a useful treatment strategy for patients in the early stages of Parkinson's disease. © 2004 Movement Disorder Society
Changes in voluntary torque and electromyographic activity following oral baclofen
Authors: Hornby T. George , Heckman C. J. , Harvey Richard L. , Rymer W. Zev
Published: October 2004

The consequences of baclofen intake on voluntary motor behaviors remain unclear. We studied the effects of single oral doses of baclofen on voluntary, isometric knee extension torques and surface and single motor unit (MU) electromyographic (EMG) activity from the vastus lateralis in 11 individuals without neurological injury. Examination of submaximal to maximal contractions of varying duration performed pre‐ and post‐baclofen ingestion revealed significant decreases in maximal knee torques and EMG magnitude, accompanied by an increase in slope of the torque–EMG relation. A decreased slope of the torque–MU firing rate relation was also demonstrated post‐baclofen, but without changes in minimal firing rates or recruitment forces. During sustained contractions at ≤25% of maximal voluntary torque elicited after baclofen ingestion, increased EMG activity was observed without significant differences in MU firing rates. Our results demonstrate a clear reduction in the maximal torque‐generating ability following baclofen. Specific changes in MU firing patterns indicate that weakness may be due partly to reduced motoneuronal excitability, although use of MU discharge patterns to assess these effects is limited in its sensitivity. Muscle Nerve, 2004
How do you stretch a bladder? A survey of UK practice, a literature review, and a recommendation of a standard approach
Authors: Turner Kevin J. , Stewart Laurence H.
Published: October 2004

Aims

To assess how and why hydrodistension of the bladder is performed by UK urologists and to compare this practise with the published literature on distension. To suggest a standardised technique for hydrodistension to allow comparison of diagnostic and therapeutic studies.

Methods

A questionnaire was sent to all UK consultant urologists. Questions addressed the indications for short bladder distension (SBD), details of technique, evaluation of outcome, and awareness of evidence base. The literature on bladder distension was reviewed.

Results

The majority of respondents perform SBD, principally in the diagnosis and therapy of interstitial cystitis (IC). There was considerable variation in the duration of distension, repetition of distension, the pressure used for distension, and the measurement of bladder capacity. The literature on the technique of hydrodistension is imprecise and no respondent was able to cite literature to support his or her practice. We suggest a simple, more objective technique for performing hydrodistension.

Conclusions

SBD is widely used. There is marked variability in technique and little more than anecdotal evidence to support any particular approach. Research into the evaluation and treatment of painful bladder syndrome in general and IC in particular would be facilitated by the adoption of a standardised technique. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A spectral stochastic element free Galerkin method for the problems with random material parameter
Authors: Kim H. M. , Inoue J.
Published: October 2004

This paper presents a spectral stochastic element free Galerkin method (SSEFGM) for the problems involving a random material property. The random material property and resulting system response quantity are represented by a probabilistic spectral expansion techniques (Karhunen–Loeve expansion and Polynomical Chaos series, respectively) and implemented into the element free Galerkin (EFG) analysis. Numerical solutions in 1D linear elastic problem with random elastic modulus are introduced, and compared with those of Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) so as to provide the validation of the proposed approach. The present SSEFGM approach can produce a probabilistic density distribution as well as a first‐ and second‐order statistical moments (mean and variance) of response quantity by a single calculation, which is distinguished from an iterative MCS. Moreover, the method is based on an element free analysis so that there is no need of nodal connectivities, which usually require more time and labourious task than main calculations. Thus the proposed SSEFGM approach can provide an alternative analysis tool for the problems contains a stochastic material property, and demands complex mesh structures. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Industry guidelines, laws and regulations ignored: quality of drug advertising in medical journals
Authors: Lankinen Kari S. , Levola Tero , Marttinen Kati , Puumalainen Inka , Helin‐Salmivaara Arja
Published: October 2004

Purpose

To document the quality of evidence base for marketing claims in prescription drug advertisements, to facilitate identification of potential targets for quality improvement.

Methods

A sample of 1036 advertisements from four major Finnish medical journals published in 2002. Marketing claims were classified in four groups: unambiguous clinical outcome, vague clinical outcome, emotive or immeasurable outcome and non‐clinical outcome. Medline references were traced and classified according to the level of evidence available. The statistical variables used in the advertisements were also documented.

Results

The sample included 245 distinct advertisements with 883 marketing claims, 1–10 claims per advertisement. Three hundred thirty seven (38%) of the claims were referenced. Each claim could be supported by one reference or more, so the number of references analysed totalled 381, 1–9 references per advertisement. Nine percent of the claims implied unambiguous clinical outcomes, 68% included vague or emotive statements. Twenty one percent of the references were irrelevant to the claim. There was a fair amount of non‐scientific and scientific support for the 73 unambiguous claims, but not a single claim was supported by strong scientific evidence. Vague, emotive and non‐clinical claims were significantly more often supported by non‐Medline or irrelevant references than unambiguous claims. Statistical parameters were stated only 34 times.

Conclusion

Referenced marketing claims may appear more scientific, but the use of references does not guarantee the quality of the claims. For the benefit of all stakeholders, both the regulatory control and industry's self‐control of drug marketing should adopt more active monitoring roles, and apply sanctions when appropriate. Concerted efforts by several stakeholders might be more effective. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Strategies for identifying pregnancies in the automated medical records of the General Practice Research Database
Authors: Hardy Janet R. , Holford Theodore R. , Hall Gillian C. , Bracken Michael B.
Published: October 2004

Purpose

To develop a method for identifying the beginning and ending records of pregnancies in the automated medical records of the General Practice Research Database (GPRD).

Methods

Women's records from 1991 to 1999 were searched for codes from 17 pregnancy marker and 7 pregnancy outcome categories. Using the retrieved records, all possible pregnancy marker‐outcome combinations were formed per woman. For each combination, the difference in days between record event dates was calculated. Restrictions were applied to select the combination with the earliest pregnancy marker mapped to the first outcome for each pregnancy. Iterations of the algorithm identified multiple pregnancies per woman when present. The algorithm was evaluated by analyzing time between marker and outcome event dates of mapped pregnancies and by analyzing unmapped pregnancy markers and outcomes.

Results

A total of 297 082 pregnancies were identified: 80% by general practitioner (GP) visit codes as the earliest pregnancy marker and 14% by laboratory or procedure codes. Limiting pregnancies to one per woman aged 15–44 years yielded 209 266 pregnancies. Pregnancy mapping success was greater than 80%. Plotting the pregnancies by weeks from earliest pregnancy marker to outcome and by pregnancy marker category showed two peaks in the distribution: 2–3 weeks and 33 weeks.

Conclusions

Arranging codes and time into algorithms provides a useful tool for pregnancy identification in databases whose size prohibits the audit of printed records. Evaluation of our algorithm confirmed a high degree of mapping success and a sensible time distribution from pregnancy marker to outcome. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Histamine2receptor antagonist use and decline in cognitive function among community dwelling elderly
Authors: Hanlon Joseph T. , Landerman Lawrence R. , Artz Margaret B. , Gray Shelly L. , Fillenbaum Gerda G. , Schmader Kenneth E.
Published: October 2004

Purpose

Previous studies have reported mixed results regarding the use of histamine2receptor antagonist use and cognitive function. This study evaluated the relationship between the use of histamine2receptor antagonists and cognitive decline among community dwelling elderly.

Methods

This cohort study included 2082 subjects from the Duke Established Populations for Epidemiologic Studies of the Elderly who were not cognitively impaired at baseline (1989/90). Histamine2receptor antagonist use was determined during in‐home interviews. Cognitive function was assessed at 3 and 7 years after baseline by two measures: (1) incident cognitive impairment defined by the short portable mental status questionnaire (SPMSQ); and (2) cognitive decline (increase in two or more SPMSQ errors). Analyzes used multivariable discrete‐time hazard models with weighted data adjusted for sampling design and controlled for demographic, health behavior characteristics and health status.

Results

At baseline, nearly 5% of participants used a histamine2receptor antagonist. During follow‐up, incident cognitive impairment occurred in 24.0%, whereas 34.5% increased by two or more errors on the SPMSQ. In multivariable models, current histamine2receptor antagonist users compared to never users had a higher risk for cognitive impairment (Adj. RR 1.51; 95%CI 0.93–2.47) and for decline in performance (increase of two or more errors) on the SPMSQ (Adj. RR 1.24; 95%CI 0.74–2.08). A nonsignificant increased risk of cognitive impairment and decline with either higher dose or short‐term use was found whereas a nonsignificant protective effect on cognitive decline with current long‐term use was seen.

Conclusions

These results suggest no beneficial effects, and perhaps a detrimental effect, of histamine2receptor antagonist use on cognitive function in community dwelling elderly. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Starch‐filled ternary polymer composites. II: Room temperature tensile properties
Authors: Lawrence S. St. , Walia P. S. , Felker F. , Willett J. L.
Published: October 2004

The room temperature tensile properties of granular starch‐filled low‐density polyethylene (PE) and starch‐filled blends of PE and poly(hydroxy ester ether) (PHEE) are presented. At low filler contents (ϕf), the filled PE:PHEE blend has a higher yield stress and tensile strength than either the starch/PE composites or the unfilled matrix. The increase in the yield stress indicates that matrix yielding occurs before debonding. At high filler contents, the tensile strength of the filled blend is again greater than the strength of the starch/PE composites. This increase in strength is the result of higher debonding stresses in the ternary composite. In both materials there is a change in the deformation process at a critical filler content, ϕcr. Below ϕcr, deformation involves the growth of debonded regions; above ϕcr, deformation is confined to narrow damaged zones. There is a reduction in the strain at failure when this change in the deformation process occurs. Although the PHEE surface coating affects the debonding stress and the tensile strength, it does not affect the strain at failure or the tensile modulus. For both composite materials, the increase in modulus with ϕf can be adequately described using a simplified form of the Kerner equation. Polym. Eng. Sci. 44:1839–1847, 2004. © 2004 Society of Plastics Engineers.
Preparation and characterization of hyperbranched polyaspartimides from bismaleimides and triamines
Authors: Liu Ying‐Ling , Tsai Shr‐Hau , Wu Chuan‐Shao , Jeng Ru‐Jong
Published: October 2004

Hyperbranched polyaspartimides were successfully prepared from bismaleimides (A2) and triamines (B3) through the Michael addition reaction. Two bismaleimides of 4,4′‐bismaleimidodiphenylmethane (BMDM) and bis(3‐ethyl‐5‐methyl‐4‐ maleimidophenyl)methane (BEMM) and two triamines of tris(3‐aminophenyl)phosphine oxide (TAPPO) and tris(4‐aminophenyl)amine (TAPA) were employed in the preparation of these hyperbranched polyaspartimides. The chemical structures of the polymers were characterized with Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), 1H and 31P NMR, and elemental analysis. Degrees of branching ranging from 0.51 to 0.69 were found with the polyaspartimides, ensuring their hyperbranched structure. The polymers also showed good solubility in common solvents, high glass‐transition temperatures of 256 °C, and excellent thermal stability above 370 °C. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 42: 5921–5928, 2004
Polymerizations of epoxides with microwave energy
Authors: Zhang Dong , Crivello James V. , Stoffer James O.
Published: October 2004

The polymerization of the bisaliphatic epoxy resin, 3,4‐epoxycyclohexylmethyl, 3,4‐epoxycyclohexylcarboxylate initiated by diaryliodonium or triarylsulfonium salts under both microwave energy and conventional thermal heating, was investigated. DSC and FTIR methods to determine the extent of polymerization were established. Some polymerization phenomena such as polymerization selectivity, polymerization temperature shift, and polymerization temperature shift by microwave power setting in microwave fields compared to thermal fields were investigated. To explain the phenomena, a theory that a new partition function existed in microwave fields was proposed with statistical thermodynamics. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 42: 4230–4246, 2004
Treating the polyelectrolytes as polymers with a draining effect. I. The statistical segment length
Authors: Dondos Anastasios
Published: October 2004

The statistical segment length of polyelectrolytes, A, in aqueous salt solutions is derived from the unperturbed dimensions parameter, Kθ, that is obtained from the graphical representations based on the Stockmayer–Fixman–Burchard and Dondos–Benoît equations. In order to obtain A from Kθ we use values of the Flory's parameter, Φ, which are given from an empirical equation established for the polymers presenting a draining effect, such as the wormlike polymers. With these values of Φ, the obtained values of A for different polyelectrolytes in aqueous salt solutions of different ionic strength are found very close to the values obtained from other more complicated methods. This result shows that the polyelectrolytes can be considered as polymers presenting a draining effect. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 42: 4225–4229, 2004
Early demonstrations (1952–64) of the usefulness of high pressure in semiconductor research
Authors: Paul William
Published: October 2004

The usefulness of experiments at high pressure done in the period 1952–64, on the establishment of semiconductor band structures and the explanation of semiconductor properties at atmospheric pressure is reviewed. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Spin dependent momentum density and Fermi surface of ferromagnetic Ni obtained by positron annihilation experiments
Authors: Hamid A. S. , Uedono A.
Published: October 2004

The cover picture of this issue, taken from [1], shows a cross section of the Fermi surface in the basal plane of nickel. The measurements were carried out using 2D angular correlation of annihilation radiation (ACAR) experiments. The intersecting plane is normal to the c‐axis, passing through the Γ and X points. The light regions correspond to a high electron momentum density. The Fermi surface is presented as two hole surfaces around the Γ point and two electron surfaces around the X point.
Calculation of the ground‐state energy and studies of other properties of exotic helium atoms with the use of boundary conditions of wave function
Authors: Eskandari M. R. , Rezaie B.
Published: October 2004

The minimum energy and average distance between particles of doubly muonic helium atoms Heμμ (He2+ + 2μ), are calculated with the use of a wave function that satisfies boundary conditions such as the behavior of the wave function when two particles are close to each other or far away from each other. In this wave function, the muon–muon correlation in doubly muonic helium atoms is described to arrive at the correct behavior for r12 tending to zero and infinity. It is shown that the obtained results are very close to the values calculated by others. Finally, to confirm the method and results, calculated values are compared with a similar electronic system, and it is shown that the small differences in the energies of Heμμ and He are due to the reduced masses, as expected. In addition to being very simple, the proposed wave function provides relatively accurate values for the energy and expectation values of r2n, emphasizing the importance of the local properties of the wave functions. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2005
Self‐consistent shielding in atoms and molecules
Authors: Pearson Ralph G.
Published: October 2004

The orbital exponents of trial wave functions for simple systems can be found from the potential energy terms alone. Shielding of the nuclear charge by one electron on another is determined by the relative values of the nuclear–electron attraction and the electron–electron repulsion. For two electrons in the same orbital, the shielding is divided equally. For different orbitals, only the inner electron shields the outer. The systems tested are first‐row atoms, using Slater orbitals. It appears that if this approach can be generalized, it may not be necessary to calculate kinetic energies in chemical systems, since they will be determined by the orbital exponents. This would be useful if trial wave functions were not available, but trial electron density functions were. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2005
A new 6‐DOF parallel robotic structure actuated by wires: The WiRo‐6.3
Authors: Ferraresi Carlo , Paoloni Marco , Pastorelli Stefano , Pescarmona Francesco
Published: October 2004

This paper describes a novel parallel robotic structure with six degrees of freedom, whose end effector is driven by nine wires operated by motors: the WiRo‐6.3. The ideas that led to the conception of the robot are thoroughly discussed and analyzed. The workspace of WiRo‐6.3 has been numerically analyzed, and it is significantly larger than the one of other analogous seven‐wire structures. The forward and inverse kinematics are both solved in closed form. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Modeling and control for a Gough‐Stewart platform CNC machine
Authors: Ting Yung , Chen Yu‐Shin , Jar Ho‐Chin
Published: October 2004

In this paper, a complete dynamic model on task space for a 6 degrees of freedom (DOF) Gough‐Stewart platform‐type computer numerical control (CNC) machine is derived. The rotation terms of the legs are included for those inertia effects cannot be negligible in the machine tool applications. The formulation derived by means of the Euler‐Lagrange method is convenient for designing the adaptive control law. Also, the average‐type force model for end milling process is derived and included in the dynamic model and control. A composite adaptive control scheme is developed by use of filtering dynamics technique. An appropriate estimator gain is designed in the parameter adaptation law that is useful for estimating the selected important cutting parameters. Experimental results verify the proposed adaptive control scheme can achieve good tracking performance. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.