bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glycogen: The forgotten cerebral energy store
Authors: Gruetter Rolf
Published: February 2004

The brain contains a significant amount of glycogen that is an order of magnitude smaller than that in muscle, but several‐fold higher than the cerebral glucose content. Although the precise role of brain glycogen to date is unknown, it seems affected by focal activation, neurotransmitters, and overall electrical activity and hormones. Based on its relatively low concentration, the role of brain glycogen as a significant energy store has been discounted. This work reviews recent experimental evidence that brain glycogen is an important reserve of glucose equivalents: (1) glial glycogen can provide the majority of the glucose supply deficit during hypoglycemia for more than 100 min, consistent with the proposal that glial lactate is a fuel for neurons; (2) glycogen concentrations may be as high as 10 μmol/g, substantially higher than was thought previously; (3) glucose cycling in and out of glycogen amounts to ∼1% of the cerebral metabolic rate of glucose (CMRglc) in human and rat brain, amounting to an effective stability of glycogen in the resting awake brain during euglycemia and hyperglycemia, (4) brain glycogen metabolism/concentrations are insulin/glucose sensitive; and (5) after a single episode of hypoglycemia, brain glycogen levels rebound to levels that exceed the pre‐hypoglycemic concentrations (supercompensation). This experimental evidence supports the proposal that brain glycogen may be involved in the development of diabetes complications, specifically impaired glucose sensing (hypoglycemia unawareness) observed clinically in some diabetes patients under insulin treatment. It is proposed further that brain glycogen becomes important in any metabolic state where supply transiently cannot meet demand, such conditions that could occur during prolonged focal activation, sleep deprivation, seizures, and mild hypoxia. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Characterization by Raman spectroscopy of conformational changes on guanine–cytosine and adenine–thymine oligonucleotides induced by aminooxy analogues of spermidine
Authors: Ruiz‐Chica A. J. , Medina M. A. , Sánchez‐Jiménez F. , Ramírez F. J.
Published: February 2004

The interactions between aminooxy analogues of the biogenic polyamine spermidine and selected 15‐mer oligodeoxyribonucleotides with alternating purine–pyrimidine base sequences, adenine–thymine (AT) and guanine–cytosine (GC), have been studied using Raman spectroscopy. These analogues resulted from the substitution of the two terminal aminomethylene groups of spermidine, +NH3CH2, by an aminooxy one, H2NO. Since this biogenic polyamine has no centre of symmetry, there are two different isosteric molecules, which have been named AOEPUT and APAPA. However, the pKa of an aminooxy group (about 5) is not high enough to be protonated at neutral pH. Therefore, under physiological conditions, these analogues have a positive charge less than spermidine, which makes them suitable models to investigate the roles of both charge and structure in the polyamine–DNA interactions. Raman spectra of solutions containing different concentrations of the analogues, from 10 to 75 mM, and either a GC and an AT oligonucleotide, at a fixed concentration 60 mM (in phosphate), were recorded. The spectra demonstrated the existence of strong differences in the oligonucleotide‐analogue interactions depending on the base sequences. In the presence of the aminooxy analogues, a 15‐mer GC oligonucleotide adopted a highly ordered tertiary structure (aggregate state or Ψ‐DNA) and, at the same time, it changed its secondary structure (from B to Z‐DNA). Evidence of macromolecular transitions was not achieved from the Raman spectra of a 15‐mer AT oligonucleotide. However, the assignments of the Raman bands indicated that both H2NO groups of the aminooxy analogues and exocyclic NH2 groups of the oligonucleotides could act as preferential binding sites. However, different spectral features were observed between AOEPUT and APAPA in the presence of the oligonucleotides. This fact supports the idea that the two amino terminal groups of spermidine could have different roles in the interaction of this biogenic polyamine with DNA. Our results also confirm that the aminooxy analogues of biogenic polyamines could act as stabilizers of non‐viral transfection vectors, thus improving the efficiency of gene therapy protocols. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Production of monodisperse silver colloids by reduction with hydrazine: the effect of chloride and aggregation on SER(R)S signal intensity
Authors: Nickel U. , Mansyreff K. , Schneider S.
Published: February 2004

SER(R)S spectra with high signal intensity of Nile Blue A sulfate and 1,1′‐diethyl‐2,2′‐cyanine iodide present in low concentration (≤0.05 µM) can be recorded by employing certain silver sols in the absence of any chloride and without highly aggregated particles. The sols have been prepared by reduction of silver nitrate with hydrazine hydrate in a special procedure at a carefully established pH. In the presence of chloride, the maximum SER(R)S signal observed for a ca. 0.5 µM solution of Nile Blue A is of similar magnitude employing either a silver sol according to Lee and Meisel or our sol C, which contains nearly exclusively single silver particles with diameters of about 50 nm. Without added chloride, however, only our sol produces SER(R)S spectra with similar intensity as with chloride. Because the influence of chloride and coagulation on the intensity of the SER(R)S‐signal can be controlled by varying the additives to our silver sol, further experiments of this kind can help to elucidate how these two parameters influence the magnitude of the SERS enhancement. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hydrogen bonding in benzenesulfonic and 4‐toluenesulfonic acids dissolved in N,N′‐dimethylformamide: an FT‐Raman study
Authors: Alía Jose M. , Edwards Howell G. M. , Kiernan Breda M.
Published: February 2004

Solutions of benzenesulfonic acid (BSA) and monohydrated 4‐toluenesulfonic acid (PTSA) in dimethylformamide (DMF) were studied by FT‐Raman spectroscopy in the concentration range 1.0–5.0 mol dm−3. Spectra in the region of the acid S—OH and benzenesulfonate anion SO3− stretching bands were analysed using band‐fitting procedures in order to ascertain the degree of acid dissociation. In BSA solutions, this parameter changes from 0.34 (1.02 M solution) to 0.11 (5.01 M solution) despite the strong character of the acid. Interaction of DMF with undissociated BSA produces a new band in the ν(C′—N—C′) Raman spectral region near 866 cm−1, displaced −11.0 cm−1 and assigned to DMF molecules hydrogen‐bonded to BSA. In PTSA solutions, hydrogen bonds are formed with the oxonium ion (H3O+) dissociated from the acid. In this case, the displacement observed is only −7.0 cm−1, indicating a weaker interaction. From the concentration of hydrogen‐bonded DMF, the mean number of hydrogen‐bonds participating in bonding with each solvent molecule can be calculated. This number changes, in BSA solutions, from ca. 0.5 in the less concentrated solutions up to ca. 1.0 in the most concentrated. This result supports the conclusion that BSA–DMF complexes of fixed stoichiometry are not present in the range of concentrations studied here. On the contrary, the oxonium ions form a stable complex of stoichiometry (DMF)2·H3O+ which does not change with the acid concentration. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Raman spectrum of thiourea–oxocarbon adducts
Authors: Lopes José Guilherme S. , de Oliveira Luiz Fernando C. , Edwards Howell G. M. , Santos Paulo S.
Published: February 2004

The thiourea/squarate/tetraethylammonium adduct and the thiourea/croconate adduct were investigated by Raman spectroscopy. The former had been previously investigated by X‐ray crystallography which revealed an extended network built from squarate and thiourea, connected by hydrogen bonding. The assignment of the vibrational modes in the thiourea/squarate adduct was facilitated by the preparation of the species containing deuterated thiourea. The vibrational shifts observed in the spectrum of the adducts indicate that the involved hydrogen bonds are only of moderate strength. In addition, the well‐known Jahn–Teller pattern present in the Raman spectrum of oxocarbon anions is also observed to a great extent in the spectra of their thiourea adducts. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In vivo fluorescence excitation spectroscopy and in vivo Fourier‐transform Raman spectroscopy in human skin: evidence of H2O2 oxidation of epidermal albumin in patients with vitiligo
Authors: Rokos Hartmut , Moore Jeremy , Hasse Sybille , Gillbro Johanna M. , Wood John M. , Schallreuter Karin U
Published: February 2004

Both fluorescence excitation spectroscopy and Fourier‐transform Raman spectroscopy have been utilised to study in vivo H2O2‐mediated oxidative stress in the depigmented epidermis of untreated patients with vitiligo by following the oxidation of disulfide bridges in human epidermal albumin and the fluorescence maxima of the tryptophan residue in position 214 of this protein. In normal healthy skin, the single tryptophan in albumin fluoresces with a λmax at 295 nm which is in agreement with high concentrations (10−3 M) of this protein. Fluorescence analysis of the depigmented epidermis of untreated patients with vitiligo revealed three distinct patient groups: (a) one with a peak at a λmax of 280 nm (b) one with λmax in the range 300–305 nm and (c) one with three peaks with excitation maxima in the region of a λmax of 280, 290 and 300 nm. The peak at a λmax of 280 nm was in agreement with low albumin concentrations. Epidermal H2O2 concentrations in the mM range, as previously documented in untreated vitiligo, were followed with in vivo FT‐Raman spectroscopy using the O—O stretch at 875 cm−1. Here, we were able to assign the SO2 stretch at 1040 cm−1 to cysteic acid, which was the expected peroxidation product of the disulfide bridges in albumin. Using human albumin we confirmed the oxidation of disulfide bridges as well as the concentration dependent fluorescence excitation maxima for Trp214 in this protein. The removal of epidermal H2O2 from the patients skin with a pseudocatalase (PC‐KUS) yielded the loss of the O—O stretch at 875 cm−1 together with the loss of the SO2 stretch at 1040 cm−1 in the Raman spectrum and a shift of the λmax from 300–305 nm to 290/280 nm was observed in the fluorescence analysis. These new in vivo results add more evidence to the central role for H2O2‐mediated oxidative stress in the pathomechanism of vitiligo. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of the palette of a precious 16th century illuminated Turkish manuscript by Raman microscopy
Authors: Jurado‐López Alicia , Demko Ornela , Clark Robin J. H. , Jacobs David
Published: February 2004

An in situ analysis of the richly decorated Turkish 16th century manuscript called Hürev Ü Sirin was performed by Raman microscopy and the following twelve pigments identified on the illuminations: lapis lazuli, red lead, carbon black, vermilion, indigo, orpiment, realgar, pararealgar, lead white, azurite, malachite and, indirectly, gold. Several mixtures of these pigments were also found to have been used, e.g. indigo and orpiment for green. The study reveals the wide palette used, notably the extensive use of valuable pigments such as lapis lazuli and gold. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of light, oxygen and concentration on vitamin A1
Authors: Failloux Nelly , Bonnet Isabelle , Perrier Eric , Baron Marie‐Hélène
Published: February 2004

Raman spectroscopy was used to demonstrate the effects of UV light and oxygen on vitamin A1 (all‐trans retinol) in an oily solvent. The retinol concentrations tested were those used in cosmetics. UVA light transformed this retinoid into several derivatives in a few hours. UVA light was more destructive than UVB. A UVA filter protected the active principle and confirmed the damage was due to UVA light. Aeration also accelerated retinol photodegradation, while an antioxidant limited the number of photoproducts detected. Thus retinol photodamage is amplified by oxygen. Raman measurements allow ‘in situ’ observation and identification of these complex processes. The changes in retinol, retinal and anhydrovitamin A concentrations were quantified directly. Retinol was converted to an electrocyclized retinoid (1606 cm−1) and a deconjugated oxidized species (1629.5 cm−1). Little anhydrovitamin A was formed and enough accumulated for the formation of carotene‐like species (1527 cm−1). Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Vibrational spectra of Cd2As2O7
Authors: Baran Enrique J. , Weil Matthias
Published: February 2004

The infrared and Raman spectra of Cd2As2O7, belonging to the thortveitite structural type, were recorded and are discussed on the basis of a factor group analysis and by comparisons with related compounds. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lattice vibrations and thermal conductance of Li2O(B2O3)3 crystals
Authors: Xia H. R. , Dong S. M. , Lu Q. M. , Ma C. Q. , Liu W. L. , Li L. X. , Yang Z. H.
Published: February 2004

Li2O·3B2O3 or Li2O(B2O3)3 (LOBO) crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group Pna21 with cell parameters a = 0.73788(6), b = 0.84473(7) and c = 0.51395(5) nm and two formula units in the primitive cell. Raman results show that the characteristic spectra of LOBO are mainly contributed by particularly the B(3)—O tetrahedra and also the B(1)—O and B(2)—O triangles and partly ascribed to the breathing vibrations of the B—O rings. The structural rigidity of LOBO is associated with all B—O bond stretching and bending of especially the B(3)—O bonds. The excellent non‐linear optical properties of LOBO are mainly attributed to the more anionic groups in the primitive cell and their deviations from the Td or D3h symmetry. The short ultraviolet absorption edge is mainly attributable to the tilt of the B—O rings. The lattice thermal vibrations show that the anisotropically thermal conductivity is outstanding especially along the c direction. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Raman microscopy of selected chromate minerals
Authors: Frost Ray L.
Published: February 2004

A series of related chromate‐bearing minerals including crocoite, phoenicocroite, hemihedrite, iranite, macquartite, fornacite and vauquelinite were analysed by Raman microscopy. These minerals are closely related and often have related paragenesis. Raman microscopy allows the selection of individual crystals of these minerals for Raman spectroscopic analysis. This is of importance as often the crystals are found adjacent to each other in the same matrix through paragenetic relationships. The Raman spectrum of crocoite shows three bands in the CrO stretching region at 856, 841 and 825 cm−1, phoenicocroite at 856, 848, 839 and 826 cm−1, hemihedrite at 847, 837 and 824 cm−1, iranite at 865, 846 and 818 cm−1 and macquartite at 857, 840 and 814 cm−1. The Raman spectra of fornacite and vauquelinite are complicated by the presence or AsO4 and PO4 units in the structure and often the spectra are broad and vary with chemical composition. A comparison of the spectra of these minerals is made with that of the hexavalent chromate mineral edoylerite. Raman microscopy is a powerful and underutilized technique in terms of mineralogy for the study of closely related minerals such as these chromate minerals. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thermal behavior in Pr(HCOO)3 crystals
Authors: Moura M. R. , Ayala A. P. , Mendes Filho J. , Guedes I. , Paschoal C. W. A. , Leyva A. G. , Polla G. , Vega D. , de Perazzo P. K. , Lanza H.
Published: February 2004

This paper reports a thermal and spectroscopic study of Pr(HCOO)3 crystal in the range 300–10 K. Room temperature Raman phonons are assigned based on group theory analysis and correlations with other rare earth formates. Differential scanning calorimetric (DSC) measurements show that there is a slight anomaly in the behavior of the heat capacity at around 140 K. Temperature‐dependent Raman spectra were recorded and the changes observed are discussed. These results suggest that Pr(HCOO)3 undergoes a second‐order phase transformation at temperatures lower than 140 K. Based on the group‐to‐subgroup relations, we propose a possible low‐temperature structure and discuss the driving mechanism of the phase transformation. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In situ laser‐induced formation of α‐Fe2O3 from Fe3+ ions in a cylindrical core‐shell polymer brush
Authors: León C. Pérez , Kador L. , Zhang M. , Müller A. H. E.
Published: February 2004

The Raman spectrum of a cylindrical core‐shell polymer brush containing Fe3+ ions was measured in a confocal spectrometer equipped with an He–Ne laser. During irradiation, the polymer matrix decomposed, and carbonaceous compounds containing sp2 and sp3 hybridized carbon were formed. Simultaneously, the strong and narrow Raman lines of crystalline α‐Fe2O3 (hematite) began to show up in the spectrum. After prolonged irradiation, the carbon signals decreased, whereas the hematite peaks remained strong. Similar experiments with the same polymer containing Cu2+ ions resulted only in very weak formation of cupric oxide. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adenine adsorption on and release from meteorite specimens assessed by surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy
Authors: El Amri Chahrazade , Baron Marie‐Hélène , Maurel Marie‐Christine
Published: February 2004

The trapping of organic molecules in minerals is considered to be an initial step in the genesis of life. We have previously explored the adsorption of adenine and RNA on clay. We have now used surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) to characterize adenine adsorption on and release from specimens of two meteorites, the Zagami Martian meteorite and the Murchison meteorite. Powdered meteoritic material was incubated with very dilute adenine solutions. An adenine SER response of the resulting supernatant weaker than that of the initial solution indicated that adenine was bound to the meteorite. A SER signal with the pellet meant that adenine that was initially adsorbed on it was transferred to the silver colloid SER probe. Adenine adsorption on and release from the Murchison carbonaceous chondrite and the mineral Zagami meteorite depended on the composition of the meteorites. Adenine was much more strongly bound to the Murchison meteorite, which contains bioorganic matter, than to the purely mineral Zagami meteorite. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transient ischemic attack after electromotive drug administration for chronic non‐infectious cystitis: Report of two similar cases
Authors: Hinkel Andreas , Pannek Jürgen
Published: February 2004

Electromotive drug administration (EMDA) is a new and promising approach for the treatment of chronic non‐infectious cystitis. In animal studies utilizing EMDA there was evidence for deep penetration of dyes into the muscular layers of the bladder wall. However, besides minor local irritation no systemic side effects have been reported after translation of EMDA into the clinical setting.

Aims

This article reports for the first time systemic neurological alterations after EMDA for chronic non‐infectious cystitis.

Subjects and Methods

Two male patients, aged 72 and 78 years, respectively, were readmitted to the emergency room within few hours after EMDA showing clinical signs of transient ischemic attacks (TIA). After clinical examination, both patients were observed.

Results

Under overnight observation without any specific therapy the symptoms vanished completely in both patients.

Conclusions

In older patients (>70 years of age) undergoing EMDA, cardiac and neurologic function should be monitored. The time of treatment during the first EMDA session should be limited to 15 or 20 min. Neurourol. Urodynam. 23:180–182, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nerve induced responses and force–velocity relations of regenerated detrusor muscle after subtotal cystectomy in the rat
Authors: Frederiksen Hans , Arner Anders , Malmquist Ulf , Scott Rolf Sjuve , Uvelius Bengt
Published: February 2004

Aims

To study the pharmacological and mechanical properties of newly developed detrusor muscle after subtotal cystectomy, to explore if the regenerated detrusor has characteristics similar to the normal bladder base, from which it regenerated, or to the normal bladder body which it replaces.

Methods

Partial cystectomy was performed in female rats. Fifteen weeks later, detrusor strips were cut from supratrigonal and equatorial segments. Unoperated rats served as controls. Responses to field stimulation were obtained in the absence and presence of scopolamine, prazosin, and P2X1 blockade. Dose–response curves were obtained for carbachol, α,β‐methylene‐ATP, and phenylephrine. Force–velocity data were obtained on maximally activated chemically skinned preparations.

Results

Maximal contractile response to field stimulation was 60% of that to high‐K+ with no difference between strips from control and cystectomy bladders. Prazosin had no effect. Scopolamine decreased maximal response of supratrigonal strips to 62 ± 6 (controls) and 61 ± 4% (operated) of that without blocker. For equatorial strips the decrease was to 81 ± 5 (controls) and 58 ± 8% (operated). Frequency–response relations were obtained during blockade with scopolamine, α,β‐methylene‐ATP, and prazosin. Supratrigonal strips showed a pronounced additional inhibition up to 40 Hz. Equatorial strips from controls were completely inhibited at all frequencies. Equatorial strips from operated bladders were inhibited up to 20 Hz but not at 40 and 60 Hz. Carbachol EC50 values were similar in all groups. Maximum response to phenylephrine was 10–20% of high‐K+ response. Maximal shortening velocity (Vmax) was similar in control supratrigonal and equatorial strips, but was significantly lower in the operated bladders.

Conclusions

(1): A regional difference exists in pharmacological properties of control detrusor, with a considerable contractile response to stimulation remaining in the supratrigonal muscle after simultaneous cholinergic, adrenergic, and purinergic blockade. (2): The new detrusor was functionally well innervated with no supersensitivity to muscarinic stimulation. (3): The newly formed bladder body had pharmacological properties specific for the supratrigonal segment from which it had developed. (4): There was no regional difference in force–velocity characteristics of the control detrusor. (5): The lowered Vmax in the newly formed bladder might thus be related to growth and regeneration of muscle cells. Neurourol. Urodynam. 23:159–165, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reliability and validity of King's Health Questionnaire in patients with symptoms of overactive bladder with urge incontinence in Japan
Authors: Uemura Shinichi , Homma Yukio
Published: February 2004

Aims

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Japanese version of the King's Health Questionnaire (KHQ) in patients with symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB) with urge incontinence.

Methods

Data from a 12‐week, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial comparing tolterodine with oxybutynin in patients with symptoms of OAB in Japan were analyzed. Cronbach's alpha coefficient was calculated as a reliability index. Inter‐domain correlation was calculated for convergent and discriminant validity assessment. A factor analysis was conducted to explore the underlying factor structure of the KHQ. Sensitivity to clinical change was also evaluated.

Results

The psychometric properties and clinical validity of the KHQ Japanese version were confirmed in this study population, and were similar between males and females. The KHQ's good reliability was evidenced by Cronbach's alpha coefficients of >0.60, indicating reasonable consistency except for the personal relationship domain in males (0.47) and severity (coping) measure domain in females (0.59). Discriminant, convergent, and construct validity of the KHQ were also good, with the factor analysis identifying those factors which the KHQ was intended to measure. Finally, KHQ domains were generally responsive to clinical efficacy variables; the KHQ also showed statistically significant sensitivity to change in patients' perception of bladder condition in all domains, except General Health Perception.

Conclusions

Our analyses confirm psychometric properties and clinical validity of the KHQ Japanese version, which appears to offer a valid and reliable HRQoL instrument for use in clinical trials of antimuscarinics in Japan. Neurourol. Urodynam. 23:94–100, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A model of intrinsic sphincteric deficiency in the rat: Electrocauterization
Authors: Chermansky Christopher J. , Cannon Tracy W. , Torimoto Kazumasa , Fraser Matthew O. , Yoshimura Naoki , de Groat William C. , Chancellor Michael B.
Published: February 2004

Aims

Intrinsic sphincteric deficiency (ISD) denotes a malfunction of the distal urethral sphincter. Our objective was to produce a durable model of ISD in the rat.

Methods

Surrounding tissues lateral to the mid‐urethra were cauterized to produce sphincteric injury in 24 adult female Sprague–Dawley rats. The rats were divided into four groups of six rats each and followed for 2, 4, 6, and 16 weeks. Sphincteric function was studied by using the vertical tilt table/intravesical pressure clamp model to measure leak point pressures (LPPs). Muscle and nerve damage were assessed with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and anti‐protein gene product (PGP) 9.5 staining, respectively. As a control, 12 rats underwent a sham operation and subsequent LPP testing at 2, 4, 6, and 16 weeks.

Results

The mean LPPs of the rats 2, 4, 6, and 16 weeks after cauterization were 18.7 ± 0.8 cm H2O, 27.6 ± 1.6 cm H2O, 24.3 ± 1.7 cm H2O, and 19.1 ± 2.2 cm H2O, respectively. The mean LPPs of the rats 2, 4, 6, and 16 weeks after the sham operation were 49.8 ± 1.3 cm H2O, 51.2 ± 1.5 cm H2O, 51.6 ± 2.0 cm H2O, and 49.7 ± 0.6 cm H2O, respectively. When compared to time‐matched control groups, the decreased LPPs in each cauterized group were significantly lower (P < 0.001). Histological analysis showed muscle damage and fewer nerves in all cauterized groups.

Conclusions

Cauterization of tissues lateral to the mid‐urethra decreased LPP without affecting bladder function. This electrocauterization model produced low LPPs that, after 2 weeks, were maintained for up to 16 weeks. Histology suggests that damage to striated muscle and nerves might have contributed to the change in LPP in this model for ISD. Neurourol. Urodynam. 23:166–171, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reliability of dynamometric measurements of the pelvic floor musculature
Authors: Dumoulin Chantale , Gravel D. , Bourbonnais D. , Lemieux M.C. , Morin M.
Published: February 2004

Aims

The objective of this study was to evaluate the reliability of strength and endurance dynamometric measurements of the pelvic floor musculature (PFM).

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐nine female participants, primipara and multipara, aged between 27 and 42 and presenting different severity levels of stress urinary incontinence (SUI), participated in the study. They were evaluated using a new pelvic floor dynamometer, an instrumented speculum based on strain‐gauged technology. Strength and endurance evaluations were repeated in three successive sessions, each followed by a 4‐week period. Maximal strength values were recorded at three dynamometer openings (5 mm, 1 cm, and 1.5 cm between the two dynamometer branches). The maximal rate of force development (MRFD) and percentage of strength lost after 10 and 60 sec were computed from the endurance trial. The generalizability theory was applied to estimate the reliability of the PFM measurements. The reliability was quantified by the index of dependability and the corresponding standard error of measurement (SEM) for one and the mean of three trials performed in one session for the strength measurements and one trial completed in one session for the MRFD and endurance measurements.

Results

For the maximal strength measurements, the largest coefficient of dependability was obtained at the 1 cm opening, with a value of 0.88. The corresponding SEM reached 1.49 N. The reliability of the MRFD was also very good with a coefficient of 0.86 and an SEM of 0.056 N/sec. The reliability was minimally affected by the number of trials. The strength loss measurements at 10 and 60 sec were unreliable, with coefficient values of 0.38 and 0.10, respectively.

Conclusions

The results of the present study indicate that the reliability of the strength parameters (maximal strength and MRTD measurements) was high enough for future investigations on pelvic floor rehabilitation programs. Neurourol. Urodynam. 23:134–142, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pubovaginal sling using Duraderm™ graft: Intermediate follow‐up and patient satisfaction
Authors: Owens David C. , Winters J. Christian
Published: February 2004

Aim

To assess outcome and patient satisfaction utilizing Duraderm™ allograft as sling material.

Methods

Twenty five patients undergoing the Duraderm sling procedure were evaluated by pelvic examination, post‐void residual urine, and multi‐channel urodynamics. Follow‐up included repeat examination, stress test, and chart review. Patient satisfaction was assessed by phone interview with an independent examiner. Outcome was defined as dry (no leaking at all and patient perception of satisfaction), improved (minimal leak requiring ≤1 pad daily and patient perception of satisfaction), or failure.

Results

Average age was 62.0 years (30–83); average daily preoperative pad usage was 3.5 (2–8). Duraderm allograft measuring 2 × 12 cm was used. Mean postoperative catheter time was 7.7 days (3–37 days). At 6 months, 17/25 (68%) were dry, 6 (24%) improved, and 2 (8%) failed. Mean intermediate follow‐up at 14.8 months (8–23 months) revealed 8/25 (32%) patients were dry, 9 (36%) were improved, and 8 (32%) failed Duraderm sling. Mean pad use after surgery was 1.4 (0–6). Of the 25, 19 (76%) were satisfied with the surgical outcome, 17 (68%) noted they would have surgery again, and 17 (68%) would recommend the procedure.

Conclusions

Initial results of pubovaginal sling using Duraderm graft are satisfactory; however, longer term follow‐up is disappointing. Graft degeneration previously described after utilization of cadaveric fascia lata may be possible following implantation of cadaveric dermis. Neurourol. Urodynam. 23:115–118, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Are fatigue and disturbances in pre‐programmed activity of pelvic floor muscles associated with female stress urinary incontinence?
Authors: Verelst M. , Leivseth G.
Published: February 2004

Aims

To investigate whether there is a difference between a continent versus a stress urinary incontinent group of women regarding: (i) fatigue in pelvic floor muscles, and (ii) pre‐activation times between pelvic floor and abdominal muscles during coughing.

Methods

Twenty‐six continent and 20 stress urinary incontinent parous women were examined. Fatigue was measured with an intravaginal device. Time to 10% decline of the initial reference force (RF) was defined as time‐to‐fatigue. Simultaneous recordings of force developed in levator ani muscle and electromyographic activity in the external oblique abdominal muscle were performed to determine whether contraction of pelvic floor muscles precedes activity in abdominal muscles during coughing.

Results

Time‐to‐fatigue was identical in the two groups (10.5 sec in the continent and 11.5 sec in the incontinent group, median values). Normalized force was significantly reduced in the incontinent group. The pelvic floor muscles contracted 160 msec before the abdominal muscles in both groups. In 24% of the continent and in 30% of the incontinent women, however, abdominal muscle activity preceded activity of pelvic floor muscles.

Conclusions

Muscular fatigue, defined as rate of force loss, does not seem to be associated with urinary stress incontinence. Moreover, muscular activity recruitment patterns were equal in both groups suggesting that other factors than disturbances of ordered muscle recruitment, that is, pelvic floor followed by abdominal muscles, may be responsible for stress urinary incontinence. It is likely that reduced normalized force, as found in the incontinent group, is an important contributing factor. Neurourol. Urodynam. 23:143–147, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mapping of spinal cord circuits controlling the bladder and external urethral sphincter functions in the rabbit
Authors: Pikov Victor , McCreery Douglas B.
Published: February 2004

Aims

A primary purpose of this study was to evaluate the rabbit as a model for studying the spinal circuitry controlling the bladder emptying. We aimed to map the locations of the neuronal circuitry controlling the external urethral sphincter (EUS) and the detrusor by stimulating at different spinal cord locations with a microelectrode, while recording the responses from these muscles.

Methods

Spinal cord microstimulation was performed in the intermediate zone of the gray matter at the L7–S4 spinal cord levels in eight rabbits with empty and full bladders. Bladder activity was measured as intravesical pressure (IVP) changes and EUS activity was measured via electromyographic (EMG) electrodes positioned within the urethra.

Results

Under both bladder conditions, EUS activation was produced from similar locations in the spinal cord comprising a continuous area in the intermediate zone of the S2–S3 spinal cord. This region extended 25 mm in the rostrocaudal dimension, at least 1 mm lateral to the midline, and 0.5–1 mm in the dorsoventral dimension at a depth of 2–3 mm beneath the dorsal surface. No locations in the intermediate zone produced EUS inhibition. The S2–S3 spinal region, stimulation of which produced the strongest EUS activation, also produced modest bladder contractions.

Conclusions

Overall, the results indicate that spinal cord networks controlling bladder and EUS activation in the rabbit are overlapping and clustered into columns extending rostrocaudally. The lack of spinal locations producing EUS inhibition and large bladder contractions make the rabbit an unattractive model for studies of neuroprosthetic spinal control of micturition. Neurourol. Urodynam. 23:172–179, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Relationship of urethral retro‐resistance pressure to urodynamic measurements and incontinence severity
Authors: Slack M. , Culligan P. , Tracey M. , Hunsicker K. , Patel B. , Sumeray M.
Published: February 2004

Aims

The urethral retro‐resistance pressure (URP) is a retrograde urethral pressure profile measured by a new urodynamic measurement system.1

GYNECARE MoniTorr Urodynamic Measurement System (ETHICON, Inc., Somerville, NJ).

URP is the pressure required to achieve and maintain an open sphincter. This clinical investigation focused on a comparison of URP to standard urodynamic measurements and an examination of their relationship to incontinence severity.

Methods

Twenty‐two centers enrolled 258 stress incontinent women in a randomized, crossover study of two groups: (1) test procedure followed by multichannel urodynamics, (2) multichannel urodynamics followed by test procedure. We defined incontinence severity categories using 24 hr urine loss and assessed these categories using incontinence quality of life (I‐QOL), urinary incontinence severity score (UISS), incontinence visual analogue score (VAS), URP, maximum urethral closure pressure (MUCP), and leak point pressure (LPP).

Results

The mean age was 56.2 (±12) years. No order effect was present. The correlation coefficient between URP and MUCP was 0.31 (95% CI 0.19–1, P < 0.0001); between URP and LPP was 0.28 (95% CI 0.12–1, P = 0.003); and between MUCP and LPP was 0.14 (95% CI−0.04–1, P = 0.101). The mean values for URP across symptom severity categories were significantly different (P = 0.028) and decreased with increasing severity. The mean values for MUCP and LPP did not decrease with increasing severity.

Conclusions

The study demonstrated that URP had a consistent relationship with incontinence severity. The data suggested that URP is a physiological measure of urethral function and may have clinical utility as a diagnostic tool. Future outcomes‐based research is necessary to establish the predictive value of URP, MUCP, and LPP measurements in terms of incontinence cure rates and diagnosis of sphincter dysfunction. Neurourol. Urodynam. 23:109–114, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Elastolytic activity in women with stress urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse
Authors: Chen Bertha , Wen Yan , Polan Mary Lake
Published: February 2004

Aims

Weakening of pelvic supportive tissues is thought to be a contributing etiology in female pelvic floor disorders such as stress urinary incontinence and/or pelvic organ prolapse (SUI/POP). Since elastin modulates the mechanical properties of supportive tissues, we examined elastase activity in vaginal tissue from women with pelvic floor dysfunction compared to asymptomatic controls, by comparing overall elastase activity, human neutrophil elastase, cathepsin K, and alpha‐1 antitrypsin (a serine protease inhibitor) mRNA and protein levels.

Methods

Full‐thickness peri‐urethral vaginal wall tissues were collected from age and menstrual‐phase matched SUI/POP and control women at the time of pelvic surgery. Elastolytic activity in the homogenized tissue was determined by the generation of amino groups from succinylated elastin. To quantify mRNA levels of each protein, quantitative competitive‐PCR and confirmatory Western blot analyses were performed on the samples for human neutrophil elastase, cathepsin K, and alpha‐1 antitrypsin.

Results

The mean elastolytic activity in vaginal tissues from the SUI/POP group was similar to that in the control group. With respect to the proteolytic enzymes, neither human neutrophil elastase nor cathepsin K differed between the two groups. However, alpha‐1 antitrypsin mRNA and protein levels were significantly decreased in tissues from affected women.

Conclusions

A significant decrease in alpha‐1 antitrypsin expression was seen in tissues from women with SUI/POP compared to controls. This data suggest that altered elastin metabolism may contribute to the connective tissue alterations observed in pelvic floor dysfunction. Future investigations are warranted to help define the role of elastin turnover in pelvic floor dysfunction. Neurourol. Urodynam. 23:119–126, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Urinary function in patients with corticobasal degeneration; Comparison with normal subjects
Authors: Sakakibara Ryuji , Uchiyama Tomoyuki , Yamanishi Tomonori , Hattori Takamichi
Published: February 2004

Aims

Corticobasal degeneration (CBD) is a rare neurodegenerative disorder affecting cerebral cortex and basal ganglia, both of which are crucial for regulating the lower urinary tract function. However, urinary function of this disorder has not been fully delineated. We investigated urinary function in patients with CBD.

Methods

A questionnaire for storage and voiding urinary symptoms was performed in all 10 patients with CBD (four men, six women; mean age, 67.3 years; mean duration of disease, 3.9 years) and 11 age‐matched control subjects (four men and seven women; mean age, 73.0 years). Urodynamic studies were performed in six of the patients and all control subjects, including electromyography (EMG)‐cystometry and analysis of motor unit potentials of the external sphincter.

Results

As compared to the control subjects (27%), patients with CBD had more common urinary symptoms (80%, P < 0.05). The urinary symptoms appeared 1–3 years after the onset of the disease, and were more common in patients with longer disease duration (>5 years) and in patients with forced grasp reflex. Nocturnal frequency was the most common and tended to be the initial urinary symptom (seven), followed by urinary incontinence (six), urinary urgency (six), diurnal frequency (five), and difficulty in voiding (five). None was in a state of urinary retention. While, one asymptomatic patient showed normal urodynamic finding, all five symptomatic patients showed various abnormalities, including decreased bladder capacity (four), detrusor overactivity (DO) (three), which was noted only in one of the control subjects, detrusor hypocontractility on voiding (three), and low compliance detrusor (one). None of the patients had post‐void residuals, detrusor‐sphincter dyssynergia, or neurogenic motor unit potentials of the external sphincter muscles.

Conclusion

Although the number of our patients was small, the present study suggests that urinary dysfunction is a common feature in patients with CBD. Since decreased bladder capacity and DO were common in the symptomatic patients, lesions in the supranuclear parasympathetic system are mainly responsible for their dysfunction. Neurourol. Urodynam. 23:154–158, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Functional magnetic stimulation of the spinal cord—a urodynamic study in healthy humans
Authors: Reitz Andre , Knapp Peter A. , Frey Susanne , Schurch Brigitte
Published: February 2004

Aims

To study the effects of functional magnetic stimulation of the spinal cord in healthy subjects on somatic and autonomic pathways innervating the anal and the external urethral sphincter, bladder, bladder neck, and rectum.

Methods

Eight healthy male volunteers gave their written informed consent and underwent functional magnetic stimulation of the thoracolumbar and sacral spinal cord. A two‐channel microtip pressure transducer catheter was placed rectally measuring the abdominal and anal sphincter pressure. A three‐channel microtip pressure transducer catheter was inserted into the urethra measuring the bladder, the bladder neck, and the external urethral sphincter pressure. A comprehensive protocol of single and repetitive magnetic stimulations was performed. Frequency, location, and duration of stimulation were varied while the intensity of stimulation was adapted to the maximum the subjects could tolerate. In four subjects, the degree of bladder filling was changed and the protocol was repeated when the subjects reported a full bladder and desire to void.

Results

Continuous magnetic stimulation of the thoracolumbar spinal cord and the sacral roots applied with different frequencies (5, 15, 30, 60, 100 Hz) and different duration of stimulation (10, 30, 120 sec) evoked sphincter contraction of both anal and urethral sphincters. The stimulation could not evoke contractions of the bladder, the bladder neck, or the rectum. Also with filled bladder and present desire to void, the magnetic stimulation could not activate autonomic pathways innervating these structures.

Conclusions

Considering our results, we suggest that in individuals with preserved sensibility magnetic stimulation of the spinal cord with intensities below the pain threshold is ineffective in activating autonomic nerve fibres innervating bladder, bladder neck, and rectum. Neurourol. Urodynam. 23:148–153, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pressure flow study: A useful diagnostic test of female lower urinary tract symptoms
Authors: Digesu G. Alessandro , Hutchings Anna , Salvatore Stefano , Selvaggi Luigi , Milani R. , Khullar Vik
Published: February 2004

Aims

To compare pressure flow parameters in the different urodynamic diagnoses in women with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).

Materials and Methods

Urodynamic traces of women with LUTS were prospectively studied. Detrusor pressures at the start of flow (ODP), detrusor pressure at peak flow rate (PdetQmax), peak flow rate (Qmax) and detrusor pressure at the end of flow (CDP) were measured and compared with different urodynamic diagnoses.

Results

Six hundred and twenty one women were prospectively investigated between September 2000 and February 2002. Only 85% (529/621) of women had good quality pressure flow studies and was included in the study. Women with detrusor overactivity have higher ODP, CDP and PdetQmax than women with urethral sphincter incompetence. All these pressure flow parameters are significantly lower in women with urethral sphincter incompetence than continent women (P < 0.05, Bonferroni test). Qmax was significantly greater in women with urodynamic stress incontinence compared to women who had detrusor overactivity (P < 0.05, Bonferroni test). Women with mixed incontinence had pressure flow parameters intermediate between women with detrusor overactivity and those with urodynamic stress incontinence.

Conclusions

Pressure flow parameters appear to be useful urodynamic tools in the evaluation of women with LUTS as they help the clinician in assessing the urethral and detrusor function. Neurourol. Urodynam. 23:104–108, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Degree of bother caused by nocturia in women
Authors: Fiske Joshua , Scarpero Harriette M. , Xue Xiaonan , Nitti Victor W.
Published: February 2004

Aims

The prevalence of nocturia in women has been studied, but its severity has not been categorized based on degree of bother. The number of nighttime voids that defines clinically significant nocturia has not been established. The objective of this study was to establish how bothersome nocturia is in women and to determine whether number of nighttime voids correlates with the degree of bother. We also sought to determine if this correlation was affected by age or continence status.

Materials and Methods

The charts of 1,214 neurologically healthy women that presented to a female urology office were reviewed. All women completed the American Urological Association Symptom Index (AUASI) and the symptom problem index (SPI). Question no. 7 of the AUASI assesses the number of voids per night and question no. 3 of the SPI assesses the bother of nighttime voiding. The correlation of these two variables was evaluated using a proportional odds model.

Results

Mean age was 54.6 years (18–93). 87.3% complained of waking at least one time per night to void. Bother score increased as the number of nightly voids increased, irrespective of age or continence status. The proportional odds model showed that as the number of voids increases 1 value on AUASI, the odds of having an increase in bother increases 2.7 times (P<0.0001).

Conclusions

As the number of nighttime voiding episodes increases, the bother increases, independent of age or continent status. Based on the degree of bother, we propose that clinically significant nocturia in women be classified as two or more episodes per night. Neurourol. Urodynam. 23:130–133, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The role of foundations in informing policymakers
Authors: Jackson‐Elmoore Cynthia
Published: February 2004

In an era when health policymaking is a cacophony of conflicting agendas and the media's focus is constantly
shifting, how does a private foundation that is committed to producing valuable health policy information place that
material into the hands of people most in need of it? And what measures should a foundation employ to
determine whether its communication efforts are achieving this effect? These questions have become more
important for a number of foundations that award most of their grants for health‐related purposes and have
concluded that providing information to health policymakers and the media should be a major priority of their
organization.
Marks & Spencer implements an ethical sourcing program for its global supply chain
Authors: Johnson Muriel
Published: February 2004

As part of its commitment to socially responsible business practices, retailer Marks & Spencer has worked
aggressively with its global supply chain, particularly suppliers in developing countries, to implement more
enlightened employment standards and create better work environments. After significant investments in
processes, training, systems, and people, the company gauges its progress towards a sustainable
solution—empowering suppliers at the local level to improve the lives of their workers. ©
2003 Marks & Spencer
HR systems drive successful postacquisition integration at general mills
Authors: Wilde Kevin D.
Published: February 2004

When General Mills acquired larger rival Pillsbury in 2001, it structured its transition strategy around key
HR systems and methodologies that it believed would build strong employee commitment to the new organization and
a shared culture for success. Two years later all signs indicate the strategy was a winner. © 2003
General Mills