bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Goldman Consensus statement on depression in multiple sclerosis
Authors:   Goldman Consensus Group
Published: May 2005

Background. In January 2002 the New York City Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society convened a panel of experts to review the issue of depressive affective disorders associated with multiple sclerosis (MS). This Consensus Conference was supported by a grant from the Goldman family of New York City. Results. The panel reviewed summaries of current epidemiologic, neurobiologic, and therapeutic studies having to do with depressive disorders among MS patient populations. Depressive disorders occur at high rates among patients with MS, and there is reason to believe that the immunopathology of the disease is involved in the clinical expression of affective disorders. The depressive syndromes of MS have a major, negative impact on quality of life for MS sufferers, but are treatable. At the present time, most MS patients with depression do not receive adequate recognition and treatment. Conclusions. The Goldman Consensus Conference Study Group provides recommendations for improved screening, diagnosis, and clinical management for depressive affective disorders among patients suffering from MS.
Longitudinal single-cell cytokine responses reveal recurrent autoimmune myelin reactivity in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Moldovan I R , Rudick R A , Cotleur A C , Born S E , Lee J-C , Karafa M T , Pelfrey C M
Published: May 2005

The relationship between multiple sclerosis (MS) disease activity and myelin protein-induced cytokine responses over time is not elucidated. We addressed this relationship by examining longitudinal cytokine responses to myelin proteins every three months for one year, in the context of gadolinium (gad)-enhancing brain lesions and of clinical relapses. The ELISPOT assay was used to determine the ex vivo cytokine production in response to nine amino acid long peptides spanning the entire proteolipid protein (PLP) and myelin basic protein (MBP) molecules in relapsing—remitting (RR) MS patients and matched healthy controls. We identified three longitudinal levels of myelin-induced cytokine secretion by adding up the positive responses for all PLP or MBP peptides obtained for five timepoints, at three- month intervals: low reactivity (<200 cumulative cytokine-secreting cells), isolated peptide reactivity (201-450 cumulative cytokine- secreting cells) and recurrent protein-wide bursts of cytokine reactivity (> 451 cumulative cytokine-secreting cells). The majority of MS patients showed recurrent bursts to PLP and MBP. In contrast, controls showed a more even distribution between all levels of cytokine reactivity. The majority of patients with gad-enhancing lesions showed PLP/IFNg and MBP/IFNg recurrent burst responses. This is the first longitudinal study on MS patients in which nine amino acid long myelin peptides are used to reveal the broad range of PLP- and MBP- peptide cytokine reactivity across the whole molecule of these two major myelin proteins. This study also reveals the extremely dynamic nature of the immune reactivity to numerous regions of myelin, which can fluctuate dramatically over time. Such fluctuation could hamper the efficacy of antigen-based therapies for MS.
Emergence of thalamic magnetization transfer ratio abnormality in early relapsing—remitting multiple sclerosis
Authors: Davies G R , Altmann D R , Rashid W , Chard D T , Griffin C M , Barker G J , Kapoor R , Thompson A J , Miller D H
Published: May 2005

While there is now evidence for thalamic abnormality in established secondary progressive and relapsing—remitting multiple sclerosis (MS), it remains unclear when such abnormality begins. This study investigated the emergence of thalamic abnormality in relapsing—remitting MS by assessing the thalamic magnetization transfer ratio (MTR) in a cohort with clinically early disease. Twenty-three patients with early relapsing—remitting MS (mean age 37; mean disease duration 1.9 years; Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) range 0-3) and 19 healthy controls (mean age 34) were imaged yearly with a magnetization transfer imaging sequence. Twenty-two MS patients and 14 controls completed two-year follow-up. Regions of interest were placed in both thalami and mean thalamic MTR calculated. At baseline, significant differences between patient and control thalamic MTR were not observed. However, at years one and two, the thalamic MTR in patients was significantly lower than control MTR. Although baseline lesion volume did not correlate with baseline thalamic MTR, at year one, an association between baseline lesion volume and year one thalamic MTR emerged. There was also a significant inverse correlation between EDSS and thalamic MTR (r= −0.47, P=0.02). The study suggests that thalamic involvement occurs within the first five years of MS onset, when most patients are still minimally disabled.
Validation of the NARCOMS Registry: pain assessment
Authors: Marrie Ruth Ann , Cutter Gary , Tyry Tuula , Hadjimichael Olympia , Vollmer Timothy
Published: May 2005

The North American Research Committee on Multiple Sclerosis (NARCOMS) Registry is a multiple sclerosis (MS) self-report registry with more than 24 000 participants. Participants report disability status upon enrolment, and semi-annually using Performance Scales (PS), Patient Determined Disease Steps (PDDS) and a pain question. In November 2000 and 2001, we also collected the Pain Effects Scale (PES). Our aim was to validate the NARCOMS pain question using the PES as our criterion measure. We measured correlations between the pain question and age, disease duration, various PS subscales and PDDS to assess construct validity. We correlated pain question responses in participants who reported no change in PDSS or the PS subscales between questionnaires to determine test—retest reliability. We measured responsiveness in participants who reported a substantial change in the sensory, spasticity PS subscales. The correlation between the pain question and PES was r=0.61 in November 2000, and r=0.64 in November 2001 (both P<0.0001). Correlations between the pain question and age, and disease duration were low, indicating divergent validity. Correlations between the pain question and spasticity, sensory PS subscales and PDSS were moderate, indicating convergent validity. Test—retest reliability was r=0.84 (P<0.0001). Responsiveness was 70.7%. The pain question is a valid self-report measure of pain in MS.
Serum ferritin, transferrin and soluble transferrin receptor levels in multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Sfagos Constantinos , Makis Alexandros C , Chaidos Aristeidis , Hatzimichael Eleftheria C , Dalamaga Androniki , Kosma Katerina , Bourantas Konstantinos L.
Published: May 2005

Over the last few years, increased evidence has supported the role of iron dysregulation in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS), as iron is essential for myelin formation and oxidative phosphorylation. We studied indices of iron metabolism, such as serum iron, ferritin, transferrin and soluble transferrin receptor (sTFR) levels in 27 MS patients. Seven patients had chronic progressive active disease (CP-A), six had chronic progressive stable (CP-S), ten had relapsing—remitting active (RR-A) and four had relapsing—remitting stable (RR-S) disease. sTFR levels were found to be significantly higher in CP-A (P=0.021) and RR-A (P= 0.004) patients than in controls. sTFR levels were also elevated in CP-S patients but did not reach significance (P=0.064). sTFR values in RR-S patients were comparable to those found in controls (P=0.31). Ferritin levels were significantly elevated only in CP-A patients (P= 0.002). Patients of the CP group had significantly higher ferritin values than the RR patients (P= 0.004). Haemoglobin values as well as iron and transferrin levels were within normal limits in all patients. In conclusion, the increased serum sTFR and ferritin levels in nonanaemic MS patients with active disease reflect the increased iron turnover. The mild elevation of sTFR levels in CP-S patients may indicate active inflammation with ongoing oxidative damage that is not detectable by history or examination.
One-year cyclophosphamide treatment combined with methylprednisolone improves cognitive dysfunction in progressive forms of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Zéphir H , de Seze J , Dujardin K , Dubois G , Cabaret M , Bouillaguet S , Ferriby D , Stojkovic T , Vermersch P
Published: May 2005

We conducted an evaluation of changes in cognition in progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) patients receiving monthly intravenously pulse of cyclophosphamide (700 mg/m2) with methylprednisolone (1 g). Twenty-eight consecutive progressive MS patients (10 primary progressive, 18 secondary progressive MS) were evaluated before and after six and 12 months of treatment. The WAIS-R score, memory and executive functions were evaluated. Under treatment we found a significant improvement in global cognitive efficiency, encoding abilities, planning abilities and inhibition after six and 12 months. However, mechanisms of action of the positive effect of these anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive treatments on cognition remain unclear.
The influence of sex hormones on cytokines in multiple sclerosis and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis: a review
Authors: van den Broek Hans HLP , Damoiseaux Jan GMC , De Baets Marc H , Hupperts Raymond MM
Published: May 2005

The female predominance of multiple sclerosis (MS) has suggested that hormonal differences between the sexes must confer some protective effect on males or enhance the susceptibility of females to this disease. There has been evidence that gonadal hormones can modulate the immune response regulated by antigen presenting cells and T cells. These cells control the immune response by the production of interacting pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. The first include the acute phase pro-inflammatory cytokines of the innate immune response as well as the T-helper 1 (Th1) cytokines, while the later contain the Th2 cytokines as well as the suppressor cytokines. There is some evidence that MS and experimental autoimmune encephalitis (EAE) are Th1 cell-mediated diseases. For this reason many studies have been done to influence the pro-inflammatory cytokine production of these Th1 cells in favour of an anti-inflammatory immune response as mediated by Th2 cells. However the role of the regulatory T cells in this context is not clearly understood. Here we review the studies concerning the role of sex hormones on the cytokine production in relation to the disease course of MS and EAE and in particular in the light of the recent revival of the regulatory T cells and their suppressive cytokines.
Autologous stem cell transplantation as rescue therapy in malignant forms of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Mancardi Giovanni Luigi , Murialdo Alessandra , Rossi Paolo , Gualandi Francesca , Martino Gianvito , Marmont Alberto , Ciceri Fabio , Schenone Angelo , Parodi Roberto Carlo , Capello Elisabetta , Comi Giancarlo , Uccelli Antonio
Published: May 2005

Malignant forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) represent a limited group of very aggressive demyelinating diseases, which rapidly progress to severe disability leading often to life-threatening conditions. On these clinical entities, currently available therapies for MS are not very effective. Recently, it has been demonstrated that intense immunosuppression followed by autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) can affect the clinical course of individuals with severe MS and completely abrogate the inflammatory activity detected by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We report on the treatment with intense immune ablation followed by ASCT of three patients with malignant MS whose clinical course indicated a dramatically poor prognosis. This procedure succeeded in halting the rapidly worsening course of disease. The effect was long lasting, as demonstrated by a sustained efficacy over a two-year period in two subjects and 12 months in the third case. In addition, a striking effect on inflammation-related MRI findings was obtained. These results support a role for intense immunosuppression followed by ASCT as treatment in rapidly evolving malignant MS cases unresponsive to conventional therapies.
Trigeminal involvement in multiple sclerosis: magnetic resonance imaging findings with clinical correlation in a series of patients
Authors: da Silva C J , da Rocha A J , Mendes M F , Maia A CM , Braga F T , Tilbery C P
Published: May 2005

Trigeminal involvement detected by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients is usually associated with trigeminal neuralgia (TN) or painless paraesthesia in the trigeminal distribution. Our aim is to review the incidence of trigeminal involvement on MRI in a series of patients with MS at our institution, with further clinical correlation. We reviewed MRI scans of 275 MS patients for the presence of gadolinium enhancement on postcontrast T1-weighted images, anatomical and signal abnormalities on different sequences at the pontine trigeminal root entry zone (REZ) and in the cisternal portion of the nerves. We observed enhancement in the cisternal portion of the nerves and signal abnormalities (with or without enhancement) at the pontine trigeminal REZ in 8 (2.9%) patients, and enhancement was bilateral in 6 (75%) of those. Despite the inflammatory activity, none of them had TN and 3 (37.5%) had only painless paraesthesias in the correspondent V3 distribution. We also found a marked trigeminal hypertrophy in 2 (25%) patients, both with a longer period of disease. Our results confirm a high and clinically silent incidence of trigeminal involvement in MS patients, and suggest a simultaneous role of the central and peripheral type of myelin in trigeminal demyelination.
Paclitaxel After Doxorubicin Plus Cyclophosphamide As Adjuvant Chemotherapy for Node-Positive Breast Cancer: Results From NSABP B-28
Authors: Mamounas Eleftherios P. , Bryant John , Lembersky Barry , Fehrenbacher Louis , Sedlacek Scot M. , Fisher Bernard , Wickerham D. Lawrence , Yothers Greg , Soran Atilla , Wolmark Norman
Published: May 2005

Purpose

The primary aim of National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (NSABP) B-28 was to determine whether four cycles of adjuvant paclitaxel (PTX) after four cycles of adjuvant doxorubicin/cyclophosphamide (AC) will prolong disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) compared with four cycles of AC alone in patients with resected operable breast cancer and histologically positive axillary nodes.

Patients and Methods

Between August 1995 and May 1998, 3,060 patients were randomly assigned (AC, 1,529; AC followed by PTX [AC → PTX], 1,531). Patients ≥ 50 years and those younger than 50 years with estrogen receptor (ER) or progesterone receptor (PR) -positive tumors also received tamoxifen for 5 years, starting with the first dose of AC. Postlumpectomy radiotherapy was mandated. Postmastectomy or regional radiotherapy was prohibited. Median follow-up is 64.6 months.

Results

The addition of PTX to AC significantly reduced the hazard for DFS event by 17% (relative risk [RR], 0.83; 95% CI, 0.72 to 0.95; P = .006). Five-year DFS was 76% ± 2% for patients randomly assigned to AC → PTX compared with 72% ± 2% for those randomly assigned to AC. Improvement in OS was small and not statistically significant (RR, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.78 to 1.12; P = .46). Five-year OS was 85% ± 2% for both groups. Subset analysis of the effect of paclitaxel according to hormone receptors or tamoxifen administration did not reveal statistically significant interaction (for DFS, P = .30 and P = .44, respectively). Toxicity with the AC → PTX regimen was acceptable for the adjuvant setting.

Conclusion

The addition of PTX to AC resulted in significant improvement in DFS but no significant improvement in OS with acceptable toxicity. No significant interaction between treatment effect and receptor status or tamoxifen administration was observed.
Epigenetic Profiling of Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma: Promoter Hypermethylation of Multiple Tumor Suppressor Genes Including BCL7a, PTPRG, and p73
Authors: van Doorn Remco , Zoutman Willem H. , Dijkman Remco , de Menezes Renee X. , Commandeur Suzan , Mulder Aat A. , van der Velden Pieter A. , Vermeer Maarten H. , Willemze Rein , Yan Pearlly S. , Huang Tim H. , Tensen Cornelis P.
Published: May 2005

Purpose

To analyze the occurrence of promoter hypermethylation in primary cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) on a genome-wide scale, focusing on epigenetic alterations with pathogenetic significance.

Materials and Methods

DNA isolated from biopsy specimens of 28 patients with CTCL, including aggressive CTCL entities (transformed mycosis fungoides and CD30-negative large T-cell lymphoma) and an indolent entity (CD30-positive large T-cell lymphoma), were investigated. For genome-wide DNA methylation screening, differential methylation hybridization using CpG island microarrays was applied, which allows simultaneous detection of the methylation status of 8640 CpG islands. Bisulfite sequence analysis was applied for confirmation and detection of hypermethylation of eight selected tumor suppressor genes.

Results

The DNA methylation patterns of CTCLs emerging from differential methylation hybridization analysis included 35 CpG islands hypermethylated in at least four of the 28 studied CTCL samples when compared with benign T-cell samples. Hypermethylation of the putative tumor suppressor genes BCL7a (in 48% of CTCL samples), PTPRG (27%), and thrombospondin 4 (52%) was confirmed and demonstrated to be associated with transcriptional downregulation. BCL7a was hypermethylated at a higher frequency in aggressive (64%) than in indolent (14%) CTCL entities. In addition, the promoters of the selected tumor suppressor genes p73 (48%), p16 (33%), CHFR (19%), p15 (10%), and TMS1 (10%) were hypermethylated in CTCL.

Conclusion

Malignant T cells of patients with CTCL display widespread promoter hypermethylation associated with inactivation of several tumor suppressor genes involved in DNA repair, cell cycle, and apoptosis signaling pathways. In view of this, CTCL may be amenable to treatment with demethylating agents.
Phase I Study of an Oral Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor, Suberoylanilide Hydroxamic Acid, in Patients With Advanced Cancer
Authors: Kelly William Kevin , O'Connor Owen A. , Krug Lee M. , Chiao Judy H. , Heaney Mark , Curley Tracy , MacGregore-Cortelli Barbara , Tong William , Secrist J. Paul , Schwartz Lawrence , Richardson Stacy , Chu Elaina , Olgac Semra , Marks Paul A. , Scher Howard , Richon Victoria M.
Published: May 2005

Purpose

To determine the safety, dosing schedules, pharmacokinetic profile, and biologic effect of orally administered histone deacetylase inhibitor suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA) in patients with advanced cancer.

Patients and Methods

Patients with solid and hematologic malignancies were treated with oral SAHA administered once or twice a day on a continuous basis or twice daily for 3 consecutive days per week. Pharmacokinetic profile and bioavailibity of oral SAHA were determined. Western blots and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays of histones isolated from peripheral-blood mononuclear cells (PBMNCs) pre and post-therapy were performed to evaluate target inhibition.

Results

Seventy-three patients were treated with oral SAHA and major dose-limiting toxicities were anorexia, dehydration, diarrhea, and fatigue. The maximum tolerated dose was 400 mg qd and 200 mg bid for continuous daily dosing and 300 mg bid for 3 consecutive days per week dosing. Oral SAHA had linear pharmacokinetics from 200 to 600 mg, with an apparent half-life ranging from 91 to 127 minutes and 43% oral bioavailability. Histones isolated from PBMNCs showed consistent accumulation of acetylated histones post-therapy, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay demonstrated a trend towards a dose-dependent accumulation of acetylated histones from 200 to 600 mg of oral SAHA. There was one complete response, three partial responses, two unconfirmed partial responses, and 22 (30%) patients remained on study for 4 to 37+ months.

Conclusions

Oral SAHA has linear pharmacokinetics and good bioavailability, inhibits histone deacetylase activity in PBMNCs, can be safely administered chronically, and has a broad range of antitumor activity.
Transcriptional Regulation by Steroid Receptor Coactivator Phosphorylation
Authors: Wu Ray-Chang , Smith Carolyn L. , O’Malley Bert W.
Published: May 2005

The basic mechanisms underlying ligand-dependent transcriptional activation by nuclear receptors (NRs) require the sequential recruitment of various coactivators. Increasing numbers of coactivators have been identified in recent years, and both biochemical and genetic studies demonstrate that these coactivators are differentially used by transcription factors, including NRs, in a cell/tissue type- and promoter-specific manner. However, the molecular basis underlying this specificity remains largely unknown. Recently, NRs and coregulators were shown to be targets of posttranslational modifications activated by diverse cellular signaling pathways. It is argued that posttranslational modifications of these proteins provide the basis for a combinatorial code required for specific gene activation by NRs and coactivators, and that this code also enables coactivators to efficiently stimulate the activity of other classes of transcription factors. In this review, we will focus on coactivators and discuss the recent progress in understanding the role of phosphorylation of the steroid receptor coactivator family and the potential ramifications of this posttranslational modification for regulation of gene expression.
Role of Aldose Reductase and Oxidative Damage in Diabetes and the Consequent Potential for Therapeutic Options
Authors: Srivastava Satish K. , Ramana Kota V. , Bhatnagar Aruni
Published: May 2005

Aldose reductase (AR) is widely expressed aldehyde-metabolizing enzyme. The reduction of glucose by the AR-catalyzed polyol pathway has been linked to the development of secondary diabetic complications. Although treatment with AR inhibitors has been shown to prevent tissue injury in animal models of diabetes, the clinical efficacy of these drugs remains to be established. Recent studies suggest that glucose may be an incidental substrate of AR, which appears to be more adept in catalyzing the reduction of a wide range of aldehydes generated from lipid peroxidation. Moreover, inhibition of the enzyme has been shown to increase inflammation-induced vascular oxidative stress and prevent myocardial protection associated with the late phase of ischemic preconditioning. On the basis of these studies, several investigators have ascribed an important antioxidant role to the enzyme. Additionally, ongoing work indicates that AR is a critical component of intracellular signaling, and inhibition of the enzyme prevents high glucose-, cytokine-, or growth factor-induced activation of protein kinase C and nuclear factor-κ-binding protein. Thus, treatment with AR inhibitors prevents vascular smooth muscle cell growth and endothelial cell apoptosis in culture and inflammation and restenosis in vivo. Additional studies indicate that the antioxidant and signaling roles of AR are interlinked and that AR regulates protein kinase C and nuclear factor-κB via redox-sensitive mechanisms. These data underscore the need for reevaluating anti-AR interventions for the treatment of diabetic complications. Potentially, the development of newer drugs that selectively inhibit ARmediated glucose metabolism and signaling, without affecting aldehyde detoxification, may be useful in preventing inflammation associated with the development of diabetic complications, particularly micro- and macrovascular diseases.
Automatic wheeze detection based on auditory modelling
Authors: Qiu Y , Whittaker A R , Lucas M , Anderson K
Published: May 2005

Automatic wheeze detection has several potential benefits compared with reliance on human auscultation: it is experience independent, an automated historical record can easily be kept, and it allows quantification of wheeze severity. Previous attempts to detect wheezes automatically have had partial success but have not been reliable enough to become widely accepted as a useful tool. In this paper an improved algorithm for automatic wheeze detection based on auditory modelling is developed, called the frequency- and duration-dependent threshold algorithm. The mean frequency and duration of each wheeze component are obtained automatically. The detected wheezes are marked on a spectrogram. In the new algorithm, the concept of a frequency- and duration-dependent threshold for wheeze detection is introduced. Another departure from previous work is that the threshold is based not on global power but on power corresponding to a particular frequency range. The algorithm has been tested on 36 subjects, 11 of whom exhibited characteristics of wheeze. The results show a marked improvement in the accuracy of wheeze detection when compared with previous algorithms.
Development of a shape memory alloy multiple-point injector for chemotherapy
Authors: Xu W , Frank T G , Cuschieri A
Published: May 2005

A medical needle is described that allows injection to take place at multiple sites through a single stab wound. This is achieved by extruding multiple, thin, and curved internal needles from a larger, straight, outer needle. The development and finite element modelling of the shape memory alloy (SMA) inner needles is presented in this paper. A non-linear elastic element model was used in this process to allow for the non-linear properties of the alloy and the large deformations that occur. The model provided maximum strain values and penetration forces for the inner needles. The deformation force on the tip of the needle was measured against displacement to confirm the predicted penetration force. Applications for the device include the treatment of liver cancer by direct injection of alcohol into the tumours.
The computer-aided design and rapid prototyping fabrication of removable partial denture frameworks
Authors: Eggbeer D , Bibb R , Williams R
Published: May 2005

This study explores the application of computer-aided design and manufacture (CAD/CAM) to the process of electronically surveying a scanned dental cast as a prior stage to producing a sacrificial pattern for a removable partial denture (RPD) metal alloy framework. These are designed to retain artificial replacement teeth in the oral cavity. A cast produced from an impression of a patient's mouth was digitally scanned and the data converted to a three-dimensional computer file that could be read by the computer-aided design (CAD) software. Analysis and preparation were carried out in the digital environment according to established dental principles. The CAD software was then used to design the framework and generate a standard triangulation language (STL) file in preparation for its manufacture using rapid prototyping (RP) methods. Several RP methods were subsequently used to produce sacrificial patterns, which were then cast in a chromium-cobalt alloy using conventional methods and assessed for accuracy of fit.

This work demonstrates that CAD/CAM techniques can be used for electronic dental cast analysis, preparation, and design of RPD frameworks. It also demonstrates that RP-produced patterns may be successfully cast using conventional methods and that the resulting frameworks can provide a satisfactory fit.
A semi-active milling procedure in view of preparing implantation beds in robot-assisted orthopaedic surgery
Authors: Van Ham G , Denis K , Vander Sloten J , Van Audekercke R , Van der Perre G , De Schutter J , Simon J-P , Fabry G
Published: May 2005

Bone cutting in total joint reconstructions requires a high accuracy to obtain a well-functioning and long-lasting prosthesis. Hence robot assistance can be useful to increase the precision of the surgical actions. A drawback of current robot systems is that they autonomously machine the bone, in that way ignoring the surgeon's experience and introducing a safety risk. This paper presents a semi-active milling procedure to overcome that drawback. In this procedure the surgeon controls robot motion by exerting forces on a force-controlled lever that is attached to the robot end effector. Meanwhile the robot constrains tool motion to the planned motion and generates a tool feed determined by the feed force that the surgeon executes. As a case study the presented milling procedure has been implemented on a laboratory set-up for robot-assisted preparation of the acetabulum in total hip arthroplasty. Two machining methods have been considered. In the first method the surgeon determines both milling trajectory and feed by the forces that he/she executes on the force-controlled lever. In the second method the cavity is machined contour by contour, and the surgeon only provides the feed. Machining experiments have shown that the first method results in large surface irregularities and is not useful. The second method, however, results in accurate cavity preparation and has therefore potential to be implemented in future robot systems.
Development of Functional Imidazole Derivatives: A Potential Chemiluminescent Chemosensor
Authors: Kimura Masaru , Tsunenaga Mitsuru , Takami Shizuka , Ohbayashi Yukiko
Published: May 2005

A potential functional chemiluminescent (CL) bidentate chemosensor, 2-[4-(N-salicylidene)aminophenyl]-4,5-diphenylimidazole (1a), was prepared. The chemiluminescence (CL) efficiency of the corresponding bidentate peroxide 2a was independent of bridge length between the CL and acceptor centers. The peroxide was 10 times as efficient as the monodentate peroxide 2b. Ionic ZnII worked as a CL enhancer of 2a, whereas transition metals CoII, FeIII, and CuII worked as quenchers.
Synthesis of Biliverdin Derivative Bearing the Sterically Fixed E-anti C/D-Ring Component
Authors: Kinoshita Hideki , Hammam Mostafa A S , Inomata Katsuhiko
Published: May 2005

Biliverdin (BV) derivative bearing the E-anti C/D-ring component, which is sterically fixed by 8-membered ring, was synthesized toward investigation of the structure and function of the chromophore in phytochrome.
Decomposition of Trichlorobenzene with Different Radicals Generated by Alternating Current Electrolysis in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Nakamura Akinobu , Hirano Keiji , Iji Masatoshi
Published: May 2005

Trichlorobenzenes can be easily decomposed by alternating current electrolysis in aqueous solution. The mechanism of the decomposition was found to be based on selective redox reactions with different radicals—hydrogen atoms and hydroxyl radicals—generated by water electrolysis.
Flexible Metallic Substrates for TiO2 Film of Dye-sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Kang Man Gu , Park Nam-Gyu , Ryu Kwang Sun , Chang Soon Ho , Kim Kang-Jin
Published: May 2005

The effects of metallic supporting substrates in nanocrystalline TiO2 working electrodes of dye-sensitized solar cells on photocurrent–voltage (J–V) characteristics were investigated. For W, Ti, stainless steel, and Zn that can produce semiconductor oxides during annealing, the short-circuit photocurrent density (Jsc) is related to the conduction band energy levels of the metal oxides. The metals that produce insulating oxides, Al, Co, and Ni, were found to be also useful supporting substrates when both thin layers of ITO and SiOx were sputtered on the metal surfaces.
Mineralization of Cholesterol-based Nanotube with Ni and its Magnetic Property
Authors: Jung Jong Hwa , Jung Myung-Hwa
Published: May 2005

The self-assembled cholesterol-based nanotube 1 was mineralized with Ni nanocrystal, and measured its magnetic property to survery the advanced applications in the nanometre scale.
Fabrication and Magnetic Properties of Ternary Alloy Co–Ni–Pb Nanowire Arrays
Authors: Ji G B , Cao J M , Zhang F , Xu G Y , Tang S L , Gu B X , Du Y W
Published: May 2005

Ferromagnetic–nonmagnetic heterogeneous ternary alloy Co–Ni–Pb nanowire arrays having composition, Co, 15 atom%; Ni, 45 atom%; Pb, 40 atom%, were successfully fabricated by alternating current (AC) electrodeposition into nanoporous alumina templates. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) observations revealed that the Co–Ni–Pb nanowries were polycrystalline with uniform diameters of around 20 nm and lengths up to several micrometers. Magnetic measurements showed that the coercivity of the samples increased with the annealing temperature up to 550 °C and reached a maximum (1020 Oe).
Preparation of Mg/Al Layered Double Hydroxide–Oleate Intercalation Compound by a Reconstruction Method under Hydrothermal Condition
Authors: Ogawa Makoto , Inomata Kazuya
Published: May 2005

A layered double hydroxide–oleate intercalation compound was successfully synthesized by a reconstruction method under a hydrothermal condition from calcined hydrotalcite. The LDH–oleate intercalation compound exhibits attractive properties such as the reversible themoresponsive change in the basal spacing and the swelling in organic solvents.
Efficient Photochemical Conversion of N2O into N2 and O2 by 193-nm-ArF-excimer Laser in N2 or Air at Atmospheric Pressure
Authors: Tsuji Masaharu , Sako Hiroshi , Noda Kenji , Senda Makoto , Hamagami Taro , Tsuji Takeshi
Published: May 2005

N2O removal by using 193-nm-ArF-excimer laser has been studied at a low N2O concentration of 100 ppm in N2 or air. N2O was decomposed into N2 and O2 without any NOx emission at atmospheric pressure. After 10 min laser irradiation, the N2O conversion was 95% in N2, while it was 100% in air. The decomposition mechanism of N2O in N2 and air was discussed from a kinetic model.
Photodegradative Surfactants: p-Dodecylbenzyltrimethylammonium Bromide as a Photodegradative Emulsifier for Microemulsion Polymerization
Authors: Itoh Yoshihiro , Horiuchi Satoshi , Yamamoto Kenji
Published: May 2005

A photodegradative surfactant, p-dodecylbenzyltrimethylammonium bromide, was used as an emulsifier for micro-emulsion polymerization of methyl methacrylate in water. The resulting polymer latex was coagulated during UV irradiation. The analysis of the centrifuged solid after irradiation indicated almost perfection of both recovery of the polymer and removal of surface-active species from it.
A Highly Sensitive Spectrophotometric Method for the Determination of Cr(VI) Concentration
Authors: Lee Soo-Keun , Choi Wonyong
Published: May 2005

A highly sensitive spectrophotometric method, which is based on the oxidation of leuco methylene blue (colorless) to methylene blue (colored) by Cr(VI), was developed for the determination of the dissolved hexavalent chromium concentrations in water.
Photocrosslinking and Thermal Degradation of Epoxy-containing Polymers Using Photobase Generators
Authors: Ohba Tadahiro , Nakai Daisuke , Suyama Kanji , Shirai Masamitsu
Published: May 2005

A new system consisting of a photobase generator and an oligomer bearing both epoxy and tertiary ester units was prepared as a photocrosslinkable and thermally de-crosslinkable polymer system. The sample film became insoluble on UV-irradiation and followed by baking at 100–160 °C. The crosslinked film became soluble in methanol when baked at 180–200 °C.
Photocatalytic Performance of Ba5Ta4O15 to Decomposition of H2O into H2 and O2
Authors: Otsuka Harumi , Kim Kiyoung , Kouzu Asuka , Takimoto Ikuharu , Fujimori Hirotaka , Sakata Yoshihisa , Imamura Hayao , Matsumoto Takako , Toda Kenji
Published: May 2005

The photocatalytic performance of barium tantalates in the decomposition of H2O into H2 and O2 was investigated. Ba5Ta4O15 that was prepared under Ta rich atmosphere exhibited remarkable photocatalytic activity. Under the same reaction conditions, its activity was the highest among all of the alkali earth-tantalum mixed-oxide photocatalysts prepared.
Two-step Synthesis of Eu-doped Lu2O3 Ultrathin Nanorods and its Luminescent Property
Authors: Wang Jiacheng , Liu Qingfeng , Liu Qian
Published: May 2005

Ultrathin Eu-doped lutetium hydroxide oxide (LuOOH:Eu) nanorods with different sizes in diameter about 10 nm have been synthesized for the first time via hydrothermal treatment of colloidal Lu(OH)3:Eu nanoparticles. After calcining, the Eu-doped Lu2O3 nanorods were obtained.
Patient-acquired hepatitis B and HIV following erectile dysfunction therapy
Authors: Dinsmore W W
Published: May 2005

This is believed to be the first reported case of HIV and hepatitis B acquired heterosexually using erectile dysfunction drugs.
Audit on the management of epididymo-orchitis by the Department of Urology in Edinburgh
Authors: Manavi K , Turner K , Scott G R , Stewart L H
Published: May 2005

Epididymo-orchitis among men younger than 35 years is mainly caused by chlamydial infection. National guidelines for the management of this condition have been published. The aim of this study was to audit the management of epididymo-orchitis in a major teaching hospital. To this end we performed a retrospective study of patients with epididymo-orchitis admitted to the Department of Urology in the Western General Hospital, Edinburgh between 1998 and 2003. Case-notes of 108 cases of epididymo-orchitis were reviewed. The diagnosis was established by ultrasound in 94% of cases. Patients were not tested routinely for chlamydial infection and the majority of men younger than 35 years were treated inappropriately with ciprofloxacin. The management of patients younger than 35 years was not in accordance with the recommendations of national guidelines. Chlamydia trachomatis is sexually transmissible and is not responsive to ciproflcxacin. As a result of this audit, each patient will be tested for chlamydial infection and men younger than 35 years will be treated with ofloxacin. Sexual partners of patients with chlamydial infection will be treated in the department of genitourinary medicine.
A study of the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections and related conditions in pregnant women attending a sexual health service
Authors: Barney O J , Nathan M
Published: May 2005

A retrospective study was undertaken of all women attending a sexual health service during their pregnancies in the year 2000 in order to find the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and other conditions commonly screened for in sexual health services among this population. Data relating to demographics, sexual health screen and infections diagnosed were collected. All new female registrations during the same period were additionally identified. The prevalence of disease in the two groups was compared. Data on 164 patients who attended during their pregnancies in the year 2000 were analysed. One STI was identified in 59 patients (36%), two infections in nine patients (5%) and three infections in three patients (2%). An increased prevalence of STIs was noted in those aged 25 and under, compared with those over 25 ( P <0.001). Prevalence of STIs increased with gestation (0.01 < P>0.05). Prevalence of STIs was higher in pregnant women (63/164; 38.4%) compared with all new female registrations (1094/5273; 20.7%; P <0.001) during the same period. Additionally, 8.5% of pregnant women had a negative screen compared with 20% of all new female cases. This study shows the prevalence of STIs to be significantly higher among the pregnant women as compared with all women attending. A trend towards more frequent occurrence of an STI was seen with increasing gestation and young age. Prospective studies are needed to verify these results among an unselected population of pregnant women.
Genital warts in a transsexual
Authors: Wasef W , Sugunendran H , Alawattegama A
Published: May 2005

Genital warts are the commonest sexually transmitted viral infection seen in genitourinary medicine clinics. As common as warts are, with extensive previous studies, literature searches on genital warts in transsexuals were unfruitful. Due to the nature and rarity of such a case, it was felt that it would be interesting to detail its management.
Screening, diagnosis and management of early syphilis in genitourinary medicine clinics in the UK
Authors: Rogstad K E , Simms I , Fenton K A , Edwards S , Fisher M , Carne C A
Published: May 2005

New diagnoses of syphilis in the UK increased eight-fold between 1997 and 2002. This study, conducted in 2002, demonstrated that 31% of clinics were not confident of their expertise to obtain an adequate specimen for dark ground microscopy (DGM), and 35% were not confident of their expertise to detect treponemes on DGM. In all, 64% of clinics had observed adherence problems in HIV-positive patients treated with parenteral regimens, as against 42% with oral regimens. Also, 51% of clinics waited more than a week for the results of initial serological tests for syphilis, and 88% of clinics waited more than a week for confirmatory test results. Other concerns include the failure to perform syphilis serology consistently whenever HIV-positive patients were at risk, and the widespread use of doxycycline as a therapy for syphilis in HIV-positive patients despite concerns that this is not known to be fully treponemicidal in cerebrospinal fluid.
Microbial Formation of a Halloysite-Like Mineral
Authors: Tazaki Kazue
Published: May 2005

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) has been used to demonstrate the biological formation of a hollow spherical halloysite-like mineral in freshwater systems. The interaction between clays and microbes was investigated in microbial films from laboratory cultures derived from natural sediments. Optical and electron microscopic observations of cultured microbes revealed that thin clay films covered areas of the bacterial cell wall. X-ray diffraction of the thin films after 2 y of ageing showed a 7.13 Å d spacing, consistent with a 7 Å halloysite-like phase [Al2Si2O5(OH)4 H2O]. Fourier transform infrared analysis of the thin film exhibited the characteristic adsorption bands for O−H (3651 cm−1), C−H and C−N (2925, 1454 and 1420 cm−1, respectively), suggesting that the phase was closely associated with adhesive organics. Observation by TEM of the thin films revealed that spherical, hollow, halloysite-like material formed on both coccus- and bacillus-type bacterial cells. Electron diffraction analysis of this material showed 2.9, 2.5, 2.2 and 1.5 Å d spacings. The present investigation strongly suggests that the thin film wall of the spherical halloysite-like material was associated with bacteria as a bio-organic product. This material, referred to hereafter as bio-halloysite, is further evidence for the microbially-mediated formation of clay minerals. The identity of the bacteria responsible for bio-halloysite formation is unknown, but is tentatively assigned to sulfate-reducing bacteria on the basis of morphology and the presence of reducing conditions in the microcosm at the end of the experiments.
Losses of Radiogenic 40Ar in the Fine-Clay Size Fractions of Sediments
Authors: Lerman Abraham , Clauer Norbert
Published: May 2005

The common observation that smaller particle-size fractions of sedimentary rocks yield younger K-Ar apparent ages than the larger particle-size fractions of the same stratigraphic age was analyzed with the aid of the 40Ar/40K ratio from 14 stratigraphically and regionally different sections. Estimation of the loss of radiogenic 40Ar from varied clay-rich size fractions was based on two models: a relationship between particle size and the 40Ar/40K ratio, and a theoretical diffusional loss from spherical particles. The differences between the two models and reconciliation of their results are discussed. For the smallest fractions (up to <0.5 μm), percent-wise losses of 40Ar from the spherical particles model increase from Upper Carboniferous and Permian (38±10%), to Late Triassic (47±10%), and to Miocene and Late Neogene (65±8%). This trend suggests that escape of 40Ar from the smaller particles in older sediments decreased or even stopped after deposition of the sedimentary sections.

The large 40Ar losses derived from small 40Ar/40K ratios in the younger Tertiary sediments, indicate that addition of K to the small fractions is, at least in part, responsible for the young K-Ar apparent ages in geologically different settings. In several 102–103 m thick sections, authigenic illite in the <0.1 to <2 μm fractions yields young K-Ar apparent ages resulting from simultaneous 40Ar production and release during clay authigenesis. In a production and loss model, a first-order escape-rate parameter (e) was estimated at 0.2 × 10−8 to 4 × 10−8 y−1, depending on the K-Ar apparent age of the size fractions and the stratigraphic age of the section. The limitations and uncertainties of the methods of evaluating diagenetic 40Ar losses from fine clay particles are discussed.
Thermal Characterization of Surfactant-Modified Montmorillonites
Authors: He Hongping , Ding Zhe , Zhu Jianxi , Yuan Pen , Xi Yunfei , Yang Dan , Frost Ray L.
Published: May 2005

The thermal stability of surfactant-modified clays plays a key role in the synthesis and processing of organoclay-based nanocomposites. Differential thermal analysis (DTA), thermogravimetric measurement and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) were used in this study to characterize the thermal stability of hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide-modified montmorillonites prepared at different surfactant concentrations. Analysis by DSC shows that the molecular environment of the surfactant within the montmorillonite galleries is different from that in the bulk state. The endothermic peak at 70–100°C in the DTA curves of the modified montmorillonites is attributed to both the surfactant phase transformation and the loss of free and interlayer water. With an increase of surfactant-packing density, the amount of water residing in the modified montmorillonite decreases gradually, reflecting the improvement of the hydrophobic property for the organoclay. However, the increase in the surfactant packing density within the galleries leads to a decrease in the thermal stability of the organoclays.

With an increase of initial surfactant concentration for the preparation of organoclays, the surfactant- packing density increases gradually to a ‘saturated’ state. It was found that the cationic surfactant was introduced into the montmorillonite interlayer not only by cation exchange but also by physical adsorption.
Synthesis, Flame-Retardant and Smoke-Suppressant Properties of a Borate-Intercalated Layered Double Hydroxide
Authors: Shi Ling , Li Dianqing , Wang Jianrong , Li Sufeng , Evans David G. , Duan Xue
Published: May 2005

Reaction of a Mg-Al carbonate layered double hydroxide (LDH) with boric acid leads to a borate-pillared LDH with the stoichiometry [Mg0.65Al0.35(OH)2][B3O5]0.35.0.65H2O and an interlayer spacing of 1.07 nm. Infrared and 11B magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance data are consistent with the presence of polymeric triborate anions of the type [B3O4(OH)2]nn- in the interlayer galleries so that the material can be formulated as [Mg0.65Al0.35(OH)2][B3O4(OH)2]0.35.0.30H2O. The flame-retardant properties of the borate-pillared material and the carbonate precursor in composites with ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer were compared. Introduction of the borate anion leads to a significant enhancement in smoke suppression during combustion without compromising the flammability of the material. This is related to the synergistic effect between the host layers of the LDH and the borate anions uniformly distributed in the interlayer region.