bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Testosterone Supplementation Reverses Sarcopenia in Aging through Regulation of Myostatin, c-Jun NH2-Terminal Kinase, Notch, and Akt Signaling Pathways
Authors: Kovacheva Ekaterina L. , Sinha Hikim Amiya P. , Shen Ruoqing , Sinha Indranil , Sinha-Hikim Indrani
Published: December 2009

Aging in rodents and humans is characterized by loss of muscle mass (sarcopenia). Testosterone supplementation increases muscle mass in healthy older men. Here, using a mouse model, we investigated the molecular mechanisms by which testosterone prevents sarcopenia and promotes muscle growth in aging. Aged mice of 22 months of age received a single sc injection of GnRH antagonist every 2 wk to suppress endogenous testosterone production and were implanted subdermally under anesthesia with 0.5 or 1.0 cm testosterone-filled implants for 2 months (n = 15/group). Young and old mice (n = 15/group), of 2 and 22 months of age, respectively, received empty implants and were used as controls. Compared with young animals, a significant (P < 0.05) increase in muscle cell apoptosis coupled with a decrease in gastrocnemius muscles weight (by 16.7%) and muscle fiber cross-sectional area, of both fast and slow fiber types, was noted in old mice. Importantly, such age-related changes were fully reversed by higher dose (1 cm) of testosterone treatment. Testosterone treatment effectively suppressed age-specific increases in oxidative stress, processed myostatin levels, activation of c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase, and cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21 in aged muscles. Furthermore, it restored age-related decreases in glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase levels, phospho-Akt, and Notch signaling. These alterations were associated with satellite cell proliferation and differentiation. Collectively these results suggest involvement of multiple signal transduction pathways in sarcopenia. Testosterone reverses sarcopenia through stimulation of cellular metabolism and survival pathway together with inhibition of death pathway.
Diagnostic Usefulness of Fluorescent Cytogenetics in Differentiating Chromophobe Renal Cell Carcinoma From Renal Oncocytoma
Authors: Brunelli Matteo , Delahunt Brett , Gobbo Stefano , Tardanico Regina , Eccher Albino , Bersani Samantha , Cossu-Rocca Paolo , Parolini Claudia , Balzarini Piera , Menestrina Fabio , Cheng Liang , Eble John Nelson , Martignoni Guido
Published: December 2009

We investigated the usefulness of interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis to differentiate between 11 chromophobe renal carcinomas and 12 renal oncocytomas, showing different clinical outcomes, when compared with conventional metaphase cytogenetics by karyotyping.

Karyotypically, 3 chromophobe renal cell carcinomas showed losses of chromosomes, 3 were polyploid, 1 was normal, and 4 failed to grow. Of 12 oncocytomas, 5 showed a normal numeric karyotype and 6 additional structural rearrangements. FISH on chromophobe renal cell carcinomas showed a high percentage of cases (10/11 [91%]) with multiple numeric losses among chromosomes 1, 2, 6, 10, and 17; this interphase pattern was observed irrespective of the 3 different metaphase karyotypes. Of 12 oncocytomas, 11 (92%) revealed a normal numeric chromosomal status showing at least 2 chromosomes without aneusomy by interphase FISH.

The study demonstrates that indeed FISH performed on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue can provide clinically useful information more reliably than karyotyping of most of these tumors.
Phonology and Reading: A Response to Wang, Trezek, Luckner, and Paul
Authors: Allen Thomas E. , Clark M. Diane , del Giudice Alex , Koo Daniel , Lieberman Amy , Mayberry Rachel , Miller Paul
Published: December 2009

Four critical responses to an article, “The Role of Phonology and Phonologically Related Skills in Reading Instruction for Students Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing” (Wang, Trezek, Luckner, & Paul, 2008), are presented. Issue is taken with the conclusions of the article by Wang and colleagues regarding the “necessary” condition of phonological awareness for the development of reading skills among deaf readers. Research findings (not cited by Wang and colleagues) are pointed out that reveal weak correlations between phonemic awareness and reading comprehension, and stronger correlations between other variables such as overall language skill and early exposure to a visual language.
(Meta)communication Strategies in Inclusive Classes for Deaf Students
Authors: Kelman Celeste Azulay , Branco Angela Uchôa
Published: December 2009

How can an inclusive classroom for deaf students be successful? The use of metacommunication strategies by teachers and hearing peers seems promising. Schools that promote this approach tend to improve deaf students’ psychosocial development and academic achievement. However, this is not a general rule. The present study identifies the elements of success, with the investigators basing their analysis on extensive observation of 4 bilingual classes conducted by regular education and specialized teachers. The study was conducted in 3 public elementary schools in Brasília, Brazil. Data were collected through direct observation (156 hours) and video recording (34 hours). Results were qualitatively analyzed from a microgenetic perspective. The investigators devised 14 categories of social interaction, e.g., visual contact and responsivity, multimodal communication, co-construction of meanings, flexible use of space, and sign language instruction for hearing students.
Preliminary Report of the Humayma Excavation Project, 2002, 2004–2005: The Roman Fort: Part I: Geophysical Surveys, Praetorium and Horreum
Authors: Sherwood Andrew N. , Oleson John P. , de Bruijn Erik , Bevan George , Baker Greg , Ambrose Heather
Published: December 2009

Les études géophysiques et les fouilles effectuées en 2002, 2004 et 2005 sur le site Nabathéen, Romain, Byzantin et Abbaside de Humayma en Jordanie nous ont permis de progresser considérablement dans notre compréhension du site et de sa chronologie. Deux saisons de relevés géophysiques ont confirmé quelques-unes des hypothèses concernant l'intérieur du fort Romain et nous ont fourni des indications quant à des caractéristiques jusqu'ici inconnues comme un système de fossés potentiel et un titulum à l'extérieur des fortifications. Les fouilles concentrées sur l'intérieur du fort ont presque établi le plan du Praetorium avec sa décoration de mosaïques ainsi que recouvré, y attenant, un petit bain auquel on ne s'attendait pas. En continuant l'excavation dans la partie orientale du fort, on a découvert l'existence d'un Horrea d'une certaine importance et de style occidental. Finalement, l'examen des des parties moins examinées ont fourni la preuve d'un petit complexe de latrines dans le secteur sud-ouest, établi une meilleure compréhension du réservoir et du système de distribution des eaux dans le secteur nord-ouest et révélé l'existence d'un escalier ou d'une plateforme d'artillerie dans le secteur sud-est.
Preliminary Report of the Humayma Excavation Project, 2002, 2004–2005: The Roman Fort: Part II: Latrine, Plaster Bins/Basins, Hydraulic Probes, Weapon-Platform/ Ascensus and Defensive Ditch
Authors: Sherwood Andrew N. , Oleson John P. , de Bruijn Erik , Nikolic Milorad
Published: December 2009

Les études géophysiques et les fouilles effectuées en 2002, 2004 et 2005 sur le site Nabathéen, Romain, Byzantin et Abbaside de Humayma en Jordanie nous ont permis de progresser considérablement dans notre compréhension du site et de sa chronologie. Deux saisons de relevés géophysiques ont confirmé quelques-unes des hypothèses concernant l'intérieur du fort Romain et nous ont fourni des indications quant à des caractéristiques jusqu'ici inconnues comme un système de fossés potentiel et un titulum à l'extérieur des fortifications. Les fouilles concentrées sur l'intérieur du fort ont presque établi le plan du Praetorium avec sa décoration de mosaïques ainsi que recouvré, y attenant, un petit bain auquel on ne s'attendait pas. En continuant l'excavation dans la partie orientale du fort, on a découvert l'existence d'un Horrea d'une certaine importance et de style occidental. Finalement, l'examen des des parties moins examinées ont fourni la preuve d'un petit complexe de latrines dans le secteur sud-ouest, établi une meilleure compréhension du réservoir et du système de distribution des eaux dans le secteur nord-ouest et révélé l'existence d'un escalier ou d'une plateforme d'artillerie dans le secteur sud-est.
Fake or Folly?: A Black Figure Column Crater in Ottawa
Authors: Holden Antonia
Published: December 2009

L'étude d'un cratère à colonnettes à figures noires exposé au Musée des Antiquités gréco-romaines (Université d'Ottawa) a révélé plusieurs contradictions qui justifièrent d'entreprendre une analyse de thermoluminescence afin de déterminer si le vase était antique. Cette analyse démontra que le vase n'était pas antique; cependant ce cratère s'avère un exemple pédagogique intéressant tant du point de vue de la découverte de l'intention initiale de l'artiste que de celui de la méthodologie utilisée pour bien mettre en relief ses caractéristiques. L'analyse stylistique du vase indique que le peintre puisa son inspiration dans une gamme de sources visuelles, disparates et distinctes. La fluorescence induite par ultraviolet laissa aussi apparaître La fluorescence induite par ultraviolet dévoila aussi que l'objet fut lourdement surpeint, suggérant la restauration d'un vase ancien. On prévoit soumettre le cratère à colonnettes à des analyses afin d'identifier les composants du surpeint et de déterminer aussi la technique de sa reconstitution.
Selected Reaction Monitoring–Mass Spectrometric Immunoassay Responsive to Parathyroid Hormone and Related Variants
Authors: Lopez Mary F , Rezai Taha , Sarracino David A , Prakash Amol , Krastins Bryan , Athanas Michael , Singh Ravinder J , Barnidge David R , Oran Paul , Borges Chad , Nelson Randall W
Published: December 2009

Background: Parathyroid hormone (PTH) assays able to distinguish between full-length PTH (PTH1–84) and N-terminally truncated PTH (PTH7–84) are of increasing significance in the accurate diagnosis of endocrine and osteological diseases. We describe the discovery of new N-terminal and C-terminal PTH variants and the development of selected reaction monitoring (SRM)-based immunoassays specifically designed for the detection of full-length PTH [amino acid (aa)1–84] and 2 N-terminal variants, aa7–84 and aa34–84.

Methods: Preparation of mass spectrometric immunoassay pipettor tips and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometric analysis were carried out as previously described. We used novel software to develop SRM assays on a triple-quadrupole mass spectrometer. Heavy isotope-labeled versions of target peptides were used as internal standards.

Results: Top-down analysis of samples from healthy individuals and renal failure patients revealed numerous PTH variants, including previously unidentified aa28–84, aa48–84, aa34–77, aa37–77, and aa38–77. Quantitative SRM assays were developed for PTH1–84, PTH7–84, and variant aa34–84. Peptides exhibited linear responses (R2 = 0.90–0.99) relative to recombinant human PTH concentration limits of detection for intact PTH of 8 ng/L and limits of quantification of 16–31 ng/L depending on the peptide. Standard error of analysis for all triplicate measurements was 3%–12% for all peptides, with <5% chromatographic drift between replicates. The CVs of integrated areas under the curve for 54 separate measurements of heavy peptides were 5%–9%.

Conclusions: Mass spectrometric immunoassays identified new clinical variants of PTH and provided a quantitative assay for these and previously identified forms of PTH.
β-cell development and turnover during prenatal life in humans
Authors: Meier Juris J , Köhler Christina U , Alkhatib Bacel , Sergi Consolato , Junker Theresa , Klein Harald H , Schmidt Wolfgang E , Fritsch Helga
Published: December 2009

Introduction

β-cell regeneration is an area under active investigation for the future treatment of diabetes, but little is known about the patterns and dynamics of prenatal β-cell development in humans. In particular, the quantitative changes in β-cell mass in the developing pancreas have not been elucidated in detail. We addressed the following questions in prenatal humans: i) what is the timing of β-cell occurrence and islet growth? ii) What are the dynamics of β-cell replication and apoptosis?

Methods

Pancreatic tissue was obtained from 65 human embryos and foetuses aged between 8 weeks post conception (p.c.) and birth. Sections were stained for insulin, glucagon, Ki67 (proliferation marker), TUNEL (apoptosis marker) and CD31 (blood vessel marker), and morphometric analyses were performed.

Results

β-cells were detected from gestational week 9 onward, whereas glucagon expression was detected already at week 8. The fractional β-cell area of the pancreas increased in a linear fashion until birth (r=0.60, P<0.001). The first endocrine cells were found within or adjacent to the primitive ductal epithelium. β-cell replication was readily detected in the newly forming islets already starting at week 9 p.c. (average frequency 2.8±0.4%). A small percentage of cells co-expressed insulin and glucagon during the early foetal period. There was a close relationship between the development of endocrine islets and blood vessels during all stages of prenatal pancreas development suggesting a possible interaction between both cell types. The frequency of β-cell apoptosis was relatively high throughout all ages (1.5±0.3%).

Conclusions

β-cell differentiation in humans occurs from week 9 p.c. onward. The first endocrine cells are closely associated with the ductal epithelium suggesting differentiation from precursor cells. High rates of β-cell replication suggest that this mechanism plays an important role in the prenatal expansion of β-cell mass.
Developing and testing solar collectors
Authors: Patay István , Erdélyi Miklós , Gulyás László
Published: December 2009

A relatively new trend is the development of concentrator-type solar collectors and cells for the use in micro-concentrators. The geometry of these concentrators is simple, the reflexion surfaces or mirrors are usually flat-plate surfaces. The relations of radiation in the inner spaces of these collectors are complicated. The OSLO optical edition software can be used to study and simulate the light paths in the concentrator elements and resonators, using the laws of geometrical optics. Based on the results of study and simulation, a pilot collector was built for energetic testing. In the applied arrangement, the absorber surface was the heated tube itself and fitted exactly to the inlet concentration surfaces. By this way, the relation of the absorber surface and collecting surface was reduced to 0.25. Since the radiation losses decreased, the efficiency of the pilot collector was relatively high even at high outlet temperature conditions (50% at 50 °C outlet temperature and Δ
T
= 18 °C). The optical concentration of solar radiation energy is a possible way to increase the liquid heat transporter collector efficiency and the outlet temperature. Importance of air solar collectors is lower, but their application in some agricultural post-harvest processes (drying, desiccating) may be useful and profitable. A flat-plate-plate solar air collector was built and tested, with special absorber geometry and material. The results of tests are also shown in this study. The proved daily ΔT-asymmetry at both of pilot collectors is an important result for the practice. Practically it means that the afternoon hours are more favorable for the energy production than the morning hours. Since this effect probably exists in all types of solar collectors, the practice of horizontal direction of collectors needs modifying.
Dynamic Principles of Gait and Their Clinical Implications
Authors: Kuo Arthur D. , Donelan J. Maxwell
Published: December 2009

A healthy gait pattern depends on an array of biomechanical features, orchestrated by the central nervous system for economy and stability. Injuries and other pathologies can alter these features and result in substantial gait deficits, often with detrimental consequences for energy expenditure and balance. An understanding of the role of biomechanics in the generation of healthy gait, therefore, can provide insight into these deficits. This article examines the basic principles of gait from the standpoint of dynamic walking, an approach that combines an inverted pendulum model of the stance leg with a pendulum model of the swing leg and its impact with the ground. The heel-strike at the end of each step has dynamic effects that can contribute to a periodic gait and its passive stability. Biomechanics, therefore, can account for much of the gait pattern, with additional motor inputs that are important for improving economy and stability. The dynamic walking approach can predict the consequences of disruptions to normal biomechanics, and the associated observations can help explain some aspects of impaired gait. This article reviews the basic principles of dynamic walking and the associated experimental evidence for healthy gait and then considers how the principles may be applied to clinical gait pathologies.
Gait Parameters Associated With Responsiveness to Treadmill Training With Body-Weight Support After Stroke: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Mulroy Sara J. , Klassen Tara , Gronley JoAnne K. , Eberly Valerie J. , Brown David A. , Sullivan Katherine J.
Published: December 2009

Background

Task-specific training programs after stroke improve walking function, but it is not clear which biomechanical parameters of gait are most associated with improved walking speed.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to identify gait parameters associated with improved walking speed after a locomotor training program that included body-weight–supported treadmill training (BWSTT).

Design

A prospective, between-subjects design was used.

Methods

Fifteen people, ranging from approximately 9 months to 5 years after stroke, completed 1 of 3 different 6-week training regimens. These regimens consisted of 12 sessions of BWSTT alternated with 12 sessions of: lower-extremity resistive cycling; lower-extremity progressive, resistive strengthening; or a sham condition of arm ergometry. Gait analysis was conducted before and after the 6-week intervention program. Kinematics, kinetics, and electromyographic (EMG) activity were recorded from the hemiparetic lower extremity while participants walked at a self-selected pace. Changes in gait parameters were compared in participants who showed an increase in self-selected walking speed of greater than 0.08 m/s (high-response group) and in those with less improvement (low-response group).

Results

Compared with participants in the low-response group, those in the high-response group displayed greater increases in terminal stance hip extension angle and hip flexion power (product of net joint moment and angular velocity) after the intervention. The intensity of soleus muscle EMG activity during walking also was significantly higher in participants in the high-response group after the intervention.

Limitations

Only sagittal-plane parameters were assessed, and the sample size was small.

Conclusions

Task-specific locomotor training alternated with strength training resulted in kinematic, kinetic, and muscle activation adaptations that were strongly associated with improved walking speed. Changes in both hip and ankle biomechanics during late stance were associated with greater increases in gait speed.
Saline infusion sonohysterography – an effective tool for evaluation of the endometrial cavity in women with abnormal uterine bleeding
Authors: MATHEW MARIAM , GOWRI VAIDYANATHAN , RIZVI SYED GAUHAR
Published: December 2009

We evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of saline infusion sonohysterography (SISH) over transvaginal sonography (TVS) for the detection of intrauterine abnormalities using hysteroscopy as the gold standard in a retrospective study of 70 women mostly presenting with abnormal uterine bleeding. TVS was normal in 32 women, while in the others polyps or fibroids projecting into the cavity (n = 19) or a thick endometrium (n = 19) were suspected. On performing SISH the uterine cavity was found to be normal in 29 women, while 35 had suspected polyps/fibroids and 6 had other abnormalities. Hysteroscopy proved to be normal in 28 women, 35 had polyps/fibroids and 7 had other abnormalities. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values for TVS were 72.4%, 100%, 100% and 74%, respectively, while for SISH the corresponding figures were 91.4%, 92.6%, 89.3% and 94.1%. SISH is a simple, minimally invasive and cost‐effective investigative tool enhancing the diagnostic accuracy of TVS and can be an effective screening test prior to hysteroscopy.
Does low molecular weight heparin shorten term labor?
Authors: EKMAN‐ORDEBERG GUNVOR , ÅKERUD ANNA , DUBICKE AURELIJA , MALMSTRÖM ANDERS , HELLGREN MARGARETA
Published: December 2009

Dalteparin, a low molecular weight heparin (LMWH), is given to pregnant women with thrombotic disorders. Clinical observations together with the documented changes of heparan sulfate proteoglycans in normal and protracted labor fostered the idea that LMWH shortens delivery time. Labor time was retrospectively determined among nulliparous pregnant women treated with dalteparin because of previous venous thromboembolism (VTE), thrombophilia or acute VTE during current pregnancy. Their labor time was compared to matched untreated controls. The proportion of instrumental deliveries and neonatal outcome was also compared. The dalteparin‐treated group showed a significantly (30%) shorter labor time compared to matched controls. Total instrumental deliveries were the same in the two groups but operative intervention due to protracted labor was significantly less common in dalteparin‐treated women. There was no difference in neonatal outcome. Dalteparin most likely shortens parturition time and may decrease the number of operative interventions due to protracted labor.
Laparoscopic versus ultraminilaparotomic myomectomy for the treatment of large uterine myomas
Authors: CIAVATTINI ANDREA , TSIROGLOU DIMITRIOS , TRANQUILLI ANDREA LUIGI , LITTA PIETRO
Published: December 2009

We compared short‐term surgical outcomes of laparoscopic and ultraminilaparotomic procedures for the treatment of large uterine myomas in a retrospective matched‐control study (Canadian Task Force classification II‐2) of 32 women with large myomas who underwent laparoscopic myomectomy and 32 women who had ultraminilaparotomic myomectomy (≤4 cm incision). Myomectomies were successfully performed for all women in both groups, but time to discharge was significantly lower after laparoscopic than after ultraminilaparotomic myomectomy (p = 0.01). Laparoscopic myomectomy seems to be the preferable approach for the treatment of large myomas of ≥5 cm, providing a more rapid recovery compared to the ultraminilaparotomic approach. Ultraminilaparotomy may be a valid alternative in case of laparoconversion instead of the classic laparotomy approach.
Downregulated CD44 and hyaluronan expression in vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia and squamous cell carcinomas
Authors: HÄMÄLÄINEN KIRSI , KOSMA VELI‐MATTI , ELORANTA MARJA‐LIISA , TAMMI RAIJA , TAMMI MARKKU , LEPPÄNEN MARJO , LEPPÄNEN MERJA , HEINONEN SEPPO , ANTTILA MAARIT
Published: December 2009

Objective. To investigate the expression of CD44 and hyaluronan in vulvar squamous cell carcinomas, vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN) and lichen sclerosus (LS) cases. Design. Retrospective study. Setting. Kuopio University Hospital in Finland. Samples and methods. A total of 18 vulvar squamous cell carcinomas, 22 VIN and 14 LS cases were studied by immunohistochemistry and histochemistry. Co‐localization of these markers was also studied by dual fluorescence staining. Main outcome measures. Expression and cellular localization of CD44 and hyaluronan. Results. In the normal squamous cell epithelium and in most LS samples, CD44 and hyaluronan were expressed homogeneously along plasma membranes with extensive co‐localization. In carcinomas and VIN, both CD44 and hyaluronan were mostly irregular and without co‐localization. In most VIN samples, CD44 was membranous, while hyaluronan was intracellular in 45% of the cases. CD44 showed both plasma membrane and intracellular localization in 39% of the carcinomas and in 94% of the cases hyaluronan was located only intracellularly. In LS, stromal hyaluronan staining was stronger than in carcinomas (p = 0.01). CD44 and hyaluronan staining was not associated with the grade of VIN, while there was good differentiation in carcinomas associated with preserved membranous CD44 (p = 0.012). Hyaluronan was not associated with the grade or stage of cancer. Conclusions. Differences in hyaluronan and CD44 expression in VIN and squamous cell carcinomas compared to normal epithelium suggest that they have a role in vulvar malignancy.
Young girls with malignant ovarian germ cell tumors can undergo normal menarche and menstruation after fertility‐preserving surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: YOO SEUNG‐CHUL , KIM WOO YOUNG , YOON JONG‐HYUCK , CHANG SUK‐JOON , CHANG KI‐HONG , RYU HEE‐SUG
Published: December 2009

Objective. To evaluate the long‐term outcome and ovarian function in premenarchal and adolescent patients with malignant ovarian germ cell tumors after fertility‐preserving surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy. Design. Retrospective review of medical records. Setting. Ajou University Hospital, a tertiary care hospital in South Korea. Population. Forty‐five patients with malignant ovarian germ cell tumors. Methods. A retrospective analysis of patients with malignant ovarian germ cell tumors was conducted and a statistical analysis was performed. Main outcome measures. There were 9 premenarchal and 16 adolescent patients; the median ages at diagnosis were 7 and 18 years, respectively. All patients were treated with fertility‐preserving surgery. Seventeen of the patients received adjuvant chemotherapy with bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin (68.0%). There were no disease recurrences or deaths. Of the nine premenarchal patients, eight (88.9%) subsequently had normal menarche. Among the 16 adolescent patients, 15 (93.8%) resumed normal menstruation and 1 had premature ovarian failure. Conclusion. Premenarchal and adolescent patients with malignant ovarian germ cell tumors have excellent survival with fertility‐preserving surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy. The majority of these patients can have normal menarche and menstruation.
Radical excision of rectovaginal endometriosis results in high rate of pain relief – results of a long‐term follow‐up study
Authors: TARJANNE SATU , SJÖBERG JARI , HEIKINHEIMO OSKARI
Published: December 2009

Objective. To evaluate the long‐term results of radical excision for rectovaginal endometriosis (RVE) with special emphasis on current symptoms and risk factors as regards recurrence. Methods. A total of 116 patients operated upon because of RVE were offered a clinical follow‐up evaluation visit; 60 (52%) consented. The time (mean ± SD) from the index surgery to the follow‐up visit was 4.0 ± 0.5 years. Main outcome measures. Daily symptoms using a visual analogue scale for 30 consecutive days prior to clinical assessment; the amount of uterine bleeding was also assessed. Endometriosis recurrence was evaluated via clinical and ultrasonographic examination. Results. The symptom sum scores (maximum 300) were low with median scores (range) of 3 (0–32) for dysmenorrhea and 9 (0–72) for pelvic pain. Evidence of RVE recurrence was found or suspected in 29 (48%) of the 60 women assessed. Clinical recurrence was not associated with pain symptoms. In univariable analysis, amenorrhea at the time of clinical assessment was associated with a lower risk of recurrence (odds ratio; OR 0.13; 95% CI (confidence interval) 0.02–0.65, p = 0.01); the effect of bowel resection was not significant (OR 0.37: 95% CI 0.13–1.07, p = 0.07). In multivariable analysis, the protective effect of bowel resection on recurrence was significant (OR 0.23; 95% CI 0.06–0.89, p = 0.03). Conclusions. Radical surgery may result in long‐term pain relief in cases of RVE. Bowel resection is associated with a lower risk of RVE recurrence. Therapy that induces amenorrhea may be effective in preventing recurrence following surgical treatment of RVE.
Venous thromboembolism in pregnancy: prophylaxis and treatment with low molecular weight heparin
Authors: ANDERSEN ANITA SYLVEST , BERTHELSEN JØRGEN G. , BERGHOLT THOMAS
Published: December 2009

Objective. To evaluate the safety of individually dosed low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) for prophylaxis and treatment of thromboembolic complications in pregnancy. Design. Cohort study with a chronologic register‐based control group. Setting. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hillerød Hospital, Denmark. Population. All 166 women treated with LMWH in pregnancy between 1 January 2001 and 31 December 2005. Methods. Women treated with LMWH in pregnancy were identified and individual case records reviewed retrospectively. General data on the LMWH‐treated women were compared to the 18,020 untreated pregnancies within the same period and with 306 matched controls as regards to postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). Main outcome measures. Side effects of treatment, thromboembolic manifestations, postpartum bleeding and obstetric outcome. Results. There were no thromboembolic events during therapy, few side effects of treatment and no osteoporotic fractures or episodes of heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia. The 166 pregnancies resulted in 159 live infants. There was a significantly higher risk of preterm delivery (13% vs. 6%) and intrauterine growth restriction (4.4% vs. 3.5%). Delivery by cesarean section was more common in these high‐risk LMWH‐treated pregnancies (33.1%) than in untreated pregnancies (19.2%). In the LMWH‐group, the occurrence of PPH was 7.2% compared with 8.8% in the matched untreated control group (p = 0.675). None of the events in the LMWH group were serious and all 166 women were in good health at discharge. Conclusions. Individually dosed LMWH is well tolerated and safe for prophylaxis and treatment of thromboembolic complications during pregnancy, delivery and the postpartum period.
Cervical tissue changes in women with miscarriage: A morphological and biochemical investigation
Authors: RADULOVIC NINA VUKAS , EKERHOVD ERLING , ABRAHAMSSON GUN , NORSTRÖM ANDERS
Published: December 2009

Objective. To evaluate morphological and inflammatory events in the uterine cervix in first trimester miscarriages. Design. Experimental study. Setting. Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden. Population. Nulliparous women with first trimester symptomatic (n = 7) or silent (n = 11) miscarriage scheduled for surgical evacuation and nulliparous women scheduled for surgical termination of first trimester pregnancies (control group n = 11). Methods. Before evacuation, biopsies were obtained from the cervix. The specimens were either fixed in glutaraldehyde for electron microscopy or snap‐frozen in liquid nitrogen and stored at –70°C until analyses of interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Main outcome measures. Ultrastructure of cervical tissue, cervical tissue levels of IL‐8, immunohistochemistry of MMP‐1, MMP‐8, MMP‐9 and IL‐8. Results. The organization of the cervical collagen framework was deranged, the fibroblasts were reactive and the number of activated mast cells appeared to be increased in specimens from women with miscarriage compared with controls. IL‐8 was significantly increased in women with miscarriage. Immunohistochemistry of MMP‐1 and MMP‐8 did not demonstrate any significant difference between the groups. MMP‐9 was significantly lower in specimens from women with symptomatic miscarriage compared to women with silent miscarriage and women in the control group. Conclusions. An inflammatory‐like response takes place in the cervix both in women with symptomatic and silent miscarriage. The intensity of the inflammatory response seems to be similar in the two groups. Therefore, inadequate cervical remodeling does not seem to be the reason why some miscarriages remain silent.
Umbilical cord plasma levels of growth‐arrest specific protein 6 in intrauterine growth restriction
Authors: LINDQVIST PELLE G. , BALOGH ISTWAN , DAHLBÄCK BJÖRN
Published: December 2009

Objective. Growth arrest specific protein 6 (GAS6) is a newly discovered antiapoptotic protein related to cell survival. We hypothesized that GAS6 might be involved in the fetal adaptation to intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). Design. A nested case‐control study. Setting. A retrospective study of 25 small‐for‐gestational age and 36 appropriate‐for‐gestational age pregnancies. Sample. Frozen samples from cases and controls in a prospective cohort study. Methods. GAS6 was measured with an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay method in umbilical cord plasma taken immediately after delivery. Main outcome measure. Differences in GAS6 levels between pregnancies with placental insufficiency and those without. Results. GAS6 levels were significantly higher among newborns with abnormal umbilical cord Doppler tracings (19.5 ± 5.3 vs. 15.0 ± 3.2, p = 0.02). Among those with abnormal umbilical cord tracings (n = 9), the two with umbilical venous pulsations had significantly lower GAS6 levels (mean 14.4 vs. 21.1, p = 0.04) and one of them died after delivery. Conclusions. GAS6 levels are raised in IUGR fetuses and we speculate that GAS6 might be involved in the fetal adaptation to placental insufficiency.
Analysis of 136 ureteral injuries in gynecological and obstetrical surgery from completed insurance claims
Authors: HOVE LARS DAHLGAARD , BOCK JOHANNES , CHRISTOFFERSEN JENS KROGH , ANDREASSON BENNY
Published: December 2009

Objective. Iatrogenic ureteral injury during pelvic surgical procedures is a well‐known complication and important cause of morbidity. The authors investigated the circumstances surrounding registered ureteral injuries in order to identify potential opportunities to prevent such injuries. Design. Evaluation of claims concerning ureteral injuries reported to the Danish Patient Insurance Association. Setting. Danish Patient Insurance Association. Sample. All registered claims for ureteral injuries from 1996 to 2006. Methods. Retrospective study of medical records and data from Danish Patient Insurance Association. Main outcome measures. Preventable ureteral injuries. Results. From 1996 to 2006, 136 submitted claims concerning ureteral injuries were registered. Among these, 73 claims were approved (54%), and compensation paid. In 44 of these, the injury was caused by negligence. Failure to dissect the ureter despite indications for this procedure was the most common type of negligence. Laparotomy procedures were associated with 107 injuries (79%) and 29 injuries (21%) were caused during laparoscopic procedures. Thirty‐four patients suffered from chronic renal dysfunction on the affected side. Only 17 of the ureteral injuries were discovered during the procedure. Conclusions. Forty‐four ureteral injuries could potentially have been avoided using established surgical practices, most importantly by exposing the ureter via dissection when indicated. Most of the ureteral injuries were discovered postoperatively.
Female gametophyte and early seed development in Peperomia (Piperaceae)
Authors: Madrid Eric N. , Friedman William E.
Published: December 2009

The evolution of female gametophyte development provides an example of how minor ontogenetic modifications can impact the functional biology of seeds. Mature Peperomia‐type female gametophytes are normally depicted as 16‐nucleate, nine‐celled structures. However, recent ultrastructural data have demonstrated that many previous reports were incorrect, suggesting that our understanding of the Peperomia‐type ontogeny is incomplete. In this investigation, female gametophyte and early seed development is described in Peperomia dolabriformis, P. jamesoniana, and P. hispidula. Nuclear positioning, nuclear division, and vacuole morphology are documented during the syncytial stages of development, and two mature female gametophyte cellular configurations are described. Endosperm ploidy is measured in each species using microspectrofluorometry. We conclude that a 10‐celled construction is likely the most common cellular configuration in Peperomia and that a three‐celled female gametophyte exists in P. hispidula. We also describe how developmental modifications of wall formation could produce the diverse cellular configurations observed throughout Peperomia. Interestingly, the onset of female gametophyte diversification within Piperales correlates with the origin of the perisperm in the common ancestor of Piperaceae + Saururaceae. We posit that the origin of the perisperm may have relaxed selection on endosperm genetic constructs, thereby promoting diversification of female gametophyte ontogeny.
Stigma closure and re‐opening in Oroxylum indicum (Bignoniaceae): Causes and consequences
Authors: Sritongchuay Tuanjit , Bumrung Sara , Meesawat Upatham , Mazer Susan J.
Published: December 2009

The study of plant responses to touch, particularly the responses of leaves, stems, and roots, has a long history. By contrast, floral responses are relatively unexplored. Stigma closure is common in the Bignoniaceae, but the factors influencing it are not well understood. We investigated factors influencing stigma closure and reopening and its effects on pollen receipt in seven Oroxylum indicum trees near Hat Yai, Thailand. The effects of pressure, conspecific and heterospecific pollen, and pollen load (the amount of pollen deposited) on stigma behavior were examined in 270 flowers (of the total 430 flowers evaluated in the entire study). Pressure alone resulted in faster closure than did conspecific pollination and faster reopening than did heterospecific pollination. Stigmas never reopened after conspecific pollination. Pollen load had no effect on stigma behavior. Stigmas discriminated between conspecific and foreign pollen; they reopened only after pollination with the latter. A manipulative experiment revealed that stigma closure did not affect the number of conspecific pollen grains received. We also counted pollen tubes in styles that were either hand‐supplemented with outcross conspecific pollen or open‐pollinated. Pollen tube numbers were highest after light pollination (∼900 grains), indicating that interference among pollen grains may occur after pollination with very heavy loads (>6000 grains). Possible fitness consequences of these responses are discussed.
Multiple causes of seedling rarity in scrub plum, Prunus geniculata (Rosaceae), an endangered shrub of the Florida scrub
Authors: Weekley Carl W. , Zaya David N. , Menges Eric S. , Faivre Amy E.
Published: December 2009

Conservation of an imperiled plant often requires an understanding of its reproductive ecology. Scrub plum (Prunus geniculata) is an endangered Florida shrub endemic to pyrogenic xeric uplands. Although plants are long‐lived and may flower profusely, particularly after burning, fruit yield is sparse and seedlings are rare. We investigated potential causes of seedling rarity in scrub plum by studying its floral sex and breeding systems, fruit development, and germination ecology. We also developed a flow chart based on two time‐since‐fire scenarios to illustrate the cumulative impact of these factors on seedling recruitment. Breeding system experiments suggested partial gametophytic self‐incompatibility in this functionally andromonoecious species, with inbreeding depression in self‐compatible individuals. Predispersal seed predation, the major constraint on seedling recruitment, was lower in the first postburn season. In two field experiments, seed germination was <11% irrespective of treatment. These results indicate that seedling recruitment in scrub plum may be limited by multiple factors, including sexual reproductive failure, high predispersal seed predation, and low seed germination. The chance of a bisexual flower producing a seedling ranges from 5 in 1000 to 5 in 100000, depending on the time since fire. Restoration of scrub plum's historical fire regime may mitigate some of these factors.
Ontogenetic changes in the numbers of short‐ vs. long‐shoots account for decreasing specific leaf area inAcer rubrum(Aceraceae) as trees increase in size
Authors: Niklas Karl J. , Cobb Edward D.
Published: December 2009

Specific leaf area (SLA) is reported to decrease with increasing plant size among dicot tree species despite a strong positive correlation between SLA and relative growth rate. This diminishing returns in SLA may result from changes in the relative numbers of different shoot types bearing leaves with different SLAs as trees increase in overall size. This ontogenetic shift hypothesis was examined for 15Acer rubrumtrees differing in basal stem diameter (0.01 m ≤D≤ 0.62 m). Detailed analyses of the largest tree showed that short‐shoots produced leaves with significantly smaller SLA than the leaves produced by long‐shoots regardless of the location of shoots within the canopy. A combination of random effect and split‐plot (main‐effect) ANOVA models showed that >94% of the variance observed for SLA was attributable to shoot type rather than to the location of leaves in the canopy. Further, with increasing trunk diameter, the number of short‐shoots increased rapidly relative to the number of long‐shoots. Although the leaves of short‐shoots gain disproportionately more surface area per unit mass investment compared to the leaves produced by long‐shoots, our data show that ontogenetic shifts occurring at the shoot and whole plant level account for size‐dependent decreases in total canopy SLA.
Immunohistochemical Detection of Receptor-Associated Protein in Normal Human Brain and Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Provias John , Jeynes Brian
Published: December 2009

This study is one of the few to characterize immunohistochemically the distribution and localization of Receptor-Associated Protein (RAP) in human autopsy brain. The results show prominent cortical neuronal localization. RAP is clearly identified in large neuronal dendritic/axonal processes. RAP is expressed in both large pyramidal and smaller interneurons. Occasional, much less frequent RAP is detectable in glial cells in white matter, which appear to be predominantly astrocytic. Although RAP is detectable immunohistochemically in Alzheimer's disease autopsy brain, the level of expression appears significantly reduced relative to age-matched control brains. These results suggest, at the immunohistochemical level, that there is a reduction of RAP protein in Alzheimer's disease brain (cortex). In terms of Alzheimer's disease pathophysiology, a reduction of neuronal RAP could then lead to reduced membrane expression of LRP, since RAP has also been shown to be an LRP antagonist.
Comparison of polyamide 66–organoclay binary and ternary nanocomposites
Authors: Mert Miray , Yilmazer Ulku
Published: December 2009

Polyamide 66–Lotader® 2210 blends (95/5 w/w), polyamide 66–Cloisite® 15A binary nanocomposites (98/2 w/w), and polyamide 66–Lotader® 2210–Cloisite® 15A ternary nanocomposites (93/5/2 w/w) were prepared by twin‐screw extrusion, and the changes in mechanical properties, morphology, and flow properties of the materials prepared by different mixing sequences were investigated in this study. Lotader® 2210, which is a random terpolymer of ethylene, butyl acrylate, and maleic anhydride, was used as the impact modifier for polyamide 66 blends as well as polyamide 66 based nanocomposites. The best dispersion level, highest mechanical properties, highest viscosity values, and smallest elastomeric domain sizes were obtained for the mixing sequence in which all the components forming the ternary nanocomposites were compounded simultaneously. Incorporation sequence of either the organoclay or the impact modifier into the polymeric matrix was varied in the other mixing sequences, and this resulted in poorer distribution of the organoclay platelets and elastomeric domains in the matrix owing to insufficient shear intensity applied on the components in a single extrusion step. Toughness values of the ternary nanocomposites were improved compared with the binary nanocomposites upon addition of the impact modifier into polymer–organoclay combination. It was concluded that the compounding sequence of the components plays a significant role in the dispersion of organoclay and the properties of the nanocomposites, because it directly affects the interaction between the different phases. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 28:155–164, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/adv.20158
A stochastic formulation for the description of the crystal size distribution in antisolvent crystallization processes
Authors: Grosso M. , Galan O. , Baratti R. , Romagnoli J. A.
Published: December 2009

A stochastic approach to describe the crystal size distribution dynamics in antisolvent based crystal growth processes is here introduced. Fluctuations in the process dynamics are taken into account by embedding a deterministic model into a Fokker‐Planck equation, which describes the evolution in time of the particle size distribution. The deterministic model used in this application is based on the logistic model, which shows to be adequate to suit the dynamics characteristic of the growth process. Validations against experimental data are presented for the NaCl–water–ethanol antisolvent crystallization system in a bench‐scale fed‐batch crystallization unit. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2010
Airways obstruction among older construction and trade workers at Department of Energy nuclear sites
Authors: Dement John M. , Welch Laura , Ringen Knut , Bingham Eula , Quinn Patricia
Published: December 2009

Background

A study of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) among 7,579 current and former workers participating in medical screening programs at Department of Energy (DOE) nuclear weapons facilities through September 2008 was undertaken.

Methods

Participants provided a detailed work and exposure history and underwent a respiratory examination that included a respiratory history, respiratory symptoms, a posterior–anterior (P–A) chest radiograph classified by International Labour Office (ILO) criteria, and spirometry. Statistical models were developed to generate group‐level exposure estimates that were used in multivariate logistic regression analyses to explore the risk of COPD in relation to exposures to asbestos, silica, cement dust, welding, paints, solvents, and dusts/fumes from paint removal. Risk for COPD in the study population was compared to risk for COPD in the general US population as determined in National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III).

Results

The age‐standardized prevalence ratio of COPD among DOE workers compared to all NHANES III data was 1.3. Internal analyses found the odds ratio of COPD to range from 1.6 to 3.1 by trade after adjustment for age, race, sex, smoking, and duration of DOE employment. Statistically significant associations were observed for COPD and exposures to asbestos, silica, welding, cement dusts, and some tasks associated with exposures to paints, solvents, and removal of paints.

Conclusions

Our study of construction workers employed at DOE sites demonstrated increased COPD risk due to occupational exposures and was able to identify specific exposures increasing risk. This study provides additional support for prevention of both smoking and occupational exposures to reduce the burden of COPD among construction workers. Am. J. Ind. Med. 53:224–240, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.