bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of genes for aminoglycoside‐modifying enzymes in Staphylococcus epidermidis isolates from orthopedic postsurgical and implant‐related infections
Authors: Campoccia Davide , Montanaro Lucio , Pirini Valter , Ravaioli Stefano , Arciola Carla Renata
Published: March 2008

Staphylococcus epidermidis, a main etiologic agent of implant‐related infections, is showing increasing resistance to several antibiotic substances, among them the aminoglycosides, a class of drugs playing a relevant role in current medical protocols to prevent and treat clinical infections. Here we investigated the prevalence of aac(6′)‐Ie‐aph(2″), aph(3′)‐IIIa, and ant(4′) genes, encoding for the three forms of aminoglycoside‐modifying enzymes (AME), responsible for resistance to aminoglycoside antibiotics, in 70 clinical isolates of S. epidermidis from orthopedic postsurgical and implant‐related infections. In addition, ermA and ermC, the two most common staphylococcal genes conferring antibiotic resistance to macrolides, lincosamides, and streptogramin B (MLSB) were included in this investigation. All isolates were characterized by automated ribotyping, so that the presence of antibiotic resistance determinants was investigated in strains exhibiting different ribopatterns. Interestingly, combinations of coexisting AME genes appeared to be typical of specific ribopatterns. The aac(6′)‐Ie‐aph(2″) gene was the most prevalent AME gene, being observed in 44% of the isolates. As far as the determinants for MLSB antibiotics are concerned, the ermC gene was observed in 33% of the isolates, while ermA was detected in a single isolate. These results provide a detailed characterization in terms of antibiotic resistance determinants of clones of S. epidermidis frequently isolated from implant orthopedic infections, providing useful indications for more effectual future strategies of infection prevention/eradication based on the incorporation of antibiotic drugs in biomaterials. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2009
The effect of the environment on the mechanical properties of medical grade silicones
Authors: Leslie L. J. , Jenkins M. J. , Shepherd D. E. T. , Kukureka S. N.
Published: March 2008

Silicone spacers have been in use as replacement joints in the human hand for over 30 years. Since they were first used there has been a number of designs all of which have had problems with fracture. This may be due to a defect in the material caused during implantation, or by bony intrusions within the arthritic hand after implantation. The aim of this research was to investigate the effect of the environment on the mechanical properties of medical grade silicones used for human implantation. The materials were subjected to static tensile testing after various forms of ageing. The environmental conditions included temperatures of 37 and 80°C and the environments of Ringer's solution, distilled water, and air. The environmental conditions employed resulted in reduced mechanical strength with ageing time of the silicones. This research supports the view that failure of silicone implants in the hand could be partly attributed to the effects of environmental ageing of the material. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 2008
Facial augmentation with porous polyethylene (Medpor®)—Histological evidence of intense foreign body reaction
Authors: Gosau Martin , Draenert Florian G. , Ihrler Stefan
Published: March 2008

In a previous study by our group evaluating the clinical use of Medpor® implants as augmentation material in the facial skeleton, we examined cases with unexpected intense foreign body reaction and focal disintegration of the implant material. The present study evaluates the histological findings in the largest series of explanted Medpor samples from human beings so far. Altogether 10 samples were harvested during revision surgery due to aesthetic contouring or due to infection. The average time from implantation to removal of the implants was 8.1 months. Paraffin embedding was employed for improved histological analysis. Chronic inflammation and foreign body giant cell reaction were seen in all cases. Intracytoplasmatic phagocytosis of disintegrated pieces of Medpor was seen as well as focal destruction of the material. From the histological point of view it is no longer justified to regard Medpor as an immunologically inert material. Nevertheless the reaction does not seem to be severe enough to compromise the stability and volume of the implant from a clinical point of view. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2008
Role and regulation of human XRCC4‐like factor/cernunnos
Authors: Dahm Kirsten
Published: March 2008

In mammalian cells, non‐homologous end joining (NHEJ) is the major double strand break (DSB) repair mechanism during the G1 phase of the cell cycle. It also contributes to DSB repair during the S and G2 phases. Ku heterodimer, DNA PKcs, XRCC4 and DNA Ligase IV constitute the core NHEJ machinery, which joins directly ligatable ends. XRCC4‐like factor/Cernunnos (XLF/Cer) is a recently discovered interaction partner of XRCC4. Current evidence suggests the following model for the role of XLF/Cer in NHEJ: after DSB induction, the XRCC4‐DNA Ligase IV complex promotes efficient accumulation of XLF/Cer at DNA damage sites via constitutive interaction of the XRCC4 and XLF/Cer head domains and dependent on components of the DNA PK complex. Ku alone can stabilise the association of XLF/Cer with DNA ends. XLF/Cer stimulates ligation of complementary and non‐complementary DNA ends by XRCC4‐DNA Ligase IV. This activity involves the carboxy‐terminal DNA binding region of XLF/Cer and could occur via different, non‐exclusive modes: (i) enhancement of the stability of the XRCC4‐DNA Ligase IV complex on DNA ends by XLF/Cer, (ii) modulation of the efficiency and/or specificity of DNA Ligase IV by binding of XLF/Cer to the XRCC4‐DNA Ligase IV complex, (iii) promotion of the alignment of blunt or other non‐complementary DNA ends by XLF/Cer for ligation. XLF/Cer promotes the preservation of 3′ overhangs, restricts nucleotide loss and thereby promotes accuracy of DSB joining by XRCC4‐DNA Ligase IV during NHEJ and V(D)J recombination. J. Cell. Biochem. 104: 1534–1540, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Thickening of the gastric wall on transabdominal sonography: A sign of gastric cancer
Authors: Suk Ki Tae , Lim Dae Wook , Kim Moon Young , Park Dong Hun , Kim Kyu Hong , Kim Jung Min , Kim Jae Woo , Kim Hyun Soo , Kwon Sang Ok , Baik Soon Koo , Park Sung Jin
Published: March 2008

Purpose.

To determine the value of a thickened gastric wall detected during transabdominal sonography (TAS) in the diagnosis of gastric cancer.

Method.

This prospective study comprised 312 patients who underwent both TAS and endoscopy. Transverse TAS scanning was performed using a 3.5‐MHz curved transducer to measure gastric wall thickness in the antrum and body of the stomach. Based on endoscopic and histologic findings, we classified the patients into 3 groups: normal or benign disease (BD), early gastric cancer (EGC), and advanced gastric cancer (AGC). TAS findings were then compared.

Results.

The thickness of the gastric wall was 4.9 ± 1.6 mm in 262 patients with BD, 5.6 ± 2.4 mm in 21patients with EGC, and 10.3 ± 4.7 mm in 29 patients with AGC (p < 0.01). A gastric wall thickness of greater than 7 mm had a 75.0% sensitivity, 92.6% specificity, 50.0% positive predictive value, and 97.4% negative predictive value in the diagnosis of AGC.

Conclusion.

Although not suitable as a screening method for gastric cancer, a thickening of the gastric wall of >7 mm may be a marker for AGC. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2008.
Cyclic AMP concentration and protein kinase A (PKA) gene expression at different developmental stages of the polychaete Hydroides elegans
Authors: Li Hong‐Lei , Song Lin‐Sheng , Qian Pei‐Yuan
Published: March 2008

The phosphodiesterase inhibitor 3‐isobutyl‐1‐methylxanthine (IBMX) showed inductive effect on larval settlement of the polychaete Hydroides elegans. It has been suggested that IBMX triggers larval settlement by elevating the cellular adenosine 3′,5′‐cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) level in this species. To test this hypothesis, we first examined cAMP‐level changes in both the competent (CL) and attached larvae (AL) and then characterized the cAMP‐dependent protein kinase in H. elegans, which is the major mediator of cAMP action. Tissue extracts of the larvae were assayed for cAMP by enzyme immunoassay; the results showed that IBMX increased cAMP production up to approximately two‐folds in the CL. However, there was no significant difference in the cAMP concentration between the CL and AL that were not treated with IBMX. The catalytic subunit of protein kinase A gene from H. elegans (designated HePKAc) was cloned, and its expression in different developmental stages of H. elegans was examined using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. The gene expression level in the pre‐competent trochophore larvae was the lowest, increased in the CL, reached the highest in the larvae undergoing normal and IBMX‐induced metamorphosis, and then decreased in the adult stage. In situ hybridization results showed that HePKAc expressed mainly around eye regions and along body fragments of the CL and AL. Our results indicated that the IBMX‐induced cAMP changes and the cAMP‐dependent protein kinase gene may mediate larval development and settlement of H. elegans. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 310B:417–427, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Introduction: European Union Development Aid Policy—the challenge of implementation
Authors: J. H. Dearden Stephen
Published: March 2008

This paper provides an introduction to a series of articles that review the EU's engagement with a number of regional groupings of developing countries. It provides the context for the following studies by reviewing the response that the European Commission has made to the demands for increased effectiveness in its administration of the EU's collective aid policy and its evolving role in achieving coordination, complementarity and coherence across EU development policy. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Better aid, less ownership: multi‐annual programming and the EU's development strategies in Africa
Authors: Carbone Maurizio
Published: March 2008

This paper explores the changing aid relationship between the European Union (EU) and Africa since the early 2000s, emphasising the existence of a paradox: on the one hand, the EU has been preoccupied with improving the quality of its aid; on the other hand, it has failed to fully take into account the voice of the recipients in the design of the Country Strategy Papers (CSPs). The failure to promote local ownership is due to the excessive preoccupation of the European Commission with showing that it is able to commit and spend money quickly and to the new emphasis on ensuring increased coordination and complementarity with the Member States, which results in a reduced space for negotiations with recipient countries. More controversial are the conclusions on the EU's contribution to the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Implications of antiinflammatory properties of the anticonvulsant drug levetiracetam in astrocytes
Authors: Haghikia Aiden , Ladage Kerstin , Hinkerohe Daniel , Vollmar Patrick , Heupel Katharina , Dermietzel Rolf , Faustmann Pedro M.
Published: March 2008

There is accumulating evidence that epileptic activity is accompanied by inflammatory processes. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of levetiracetam (Keppra), an anticonvulsant drug with decisive antiepileptic features, with regard to its putative antiinflammatory potential. We previously established an in vitro cell culture model to mimic inflammatory conditions: Primary astrocytic cultures of newborn rats were cocultured with 30% (M30) microglial cells. Alternatively, cocultures containing 5% microglia (M5) were incubated with the proinflammatory mediator, the cytokine interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a potent bacterial activator of the immune system. For the M30 cocultures, we observed reduced expression of connexin 43 (Cx43), the predominant gap junction protein. Impaired functional dye coupling and depolarized membrane resting potential (MRP) were monitored in M30 cocultures as well as in M5 cocultures treated with IL‐1β and LPS. We could show that the Cx43 expression, the coupling property, and the membrane resting potential on which we focused our inflammatory coculture model were normalized to noninflammatory level under treatment with levetiracetam (Keppra). Cumulatively, our results provide evidence for antiinflammatory properties of levetiracetam in seizure treatment. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Advanced glycation end products induce in vitro cross‐linking of α‐synuclein and accelerate the process of intracellular inclusion body formation
Authors: Shaikh Shamim , Nicholson Louise F.B.
Published: March 2008

Cross‐linking of α‐synuclein and Lewy body formation have been implicated in the dopaminergic neuronal cell death observed in Parkinson's disease (PD); the mechanisms responsible, however, are not clear. Reactive oxygen species and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) have been found in the intracellular, α‐synuclein‐positive Lewy bodies in the brains of both PD as well as incidental Lewy body disease patients, suggesting a role for AGEs in α‐synuclein cross‐linking and Lewy body formation. The aims of the present study were to determine 1) whether AGEs can induce cross‐linking of α‐synuclein peptides, 2) the progressive and time‐dependent intracellular accumulation of AGEs and inclusion body formation, and 3) the effects of extracellular or exogenous AGEs on intracellular inclusion formation. We first investigated the time‐dependent cross‐linking of recombinant human α‐synuclein in the presence of AGEs in vitro, then used a cell culture model based on chronic rotenone treatment of human dopaminergic neuroblastoma cells (SH‐SY5Y) over a period of 1–4 weeks, in the presence of different doses of AGEs. Cells (grown on coverslips) and cell lysates, collected at the end of every week, were analyzed for the presence of intracellular reactive oxygen species, AGEs, α‐synuclein proteins, and intracellular α‐synuclein‐ and AGE‐positive inclusion bodies by using immunocytochemical, biochemical, and Western blot techniques. Our results show that AGEs promote in vitro cross‐linking of α‐synuclein, that intracellular accumulation of AGEs precedes α‐synuclein‐positive inclusion body formation, and that extracellular AGEs accelerate the process of intracellular α‐synuclein‐positive inclusion body formation. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Transient 5‐(4‐phenylbutoxy)psoralen (PAP‐1) treatment dissociates developing pathologies in autoimmune optic neuritis into two distinct pathology profiles
Authors: Stokely Martha E. , Garg Puja , Bhat Manzoor A. , Koulen Peter
Published: March 2008

Discovery of treatments to protect axonal function of neurons and prevent permanent disability associated with progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) has faced the uphill challenge of assessing relatively small changes in accumulated axon damage within a background environment that is disorganized by CNS inflammation. We hypothesized that transient immunosuppression after initiation of MS‐like autoimmune mechanisms would disassociate development of MS‐like myelinated axon pathology from development of CNS inflammation in a rat model of autoimmune optic neuritis (AON). A rat model of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein peptide‐induced AON was transiently treated (on days 3–7 after antigen exposure) with 5‐(4‐phenylbutoxy)psoralen (PAP‐1), an immunomodulatory drug previously shown specifically to suppress proliferation of effector memory T‐cells and immunoglobulin class‐switched B‐cells. Thirteen days after antigen exposure, optic nerves were harvested for quantitative assessment of 12 MS‐associated pathologies using microfluorimetry. With one exception, the immunoreactivities (‐ir) for eight markers of MS‐like neuroinflammation and immune infiltration were significantly reduced (P< 0.05) by transient PAP‐1 treatment, often to levels significantly below those detected in normal control rat optic nerves. With one exception, four immunoreactive markers of MS‐like myelinated axon pathology were detected at levels indicating increased axon/myelin pathology compared with vehicle‐treated rats with AON (P< 0.05). These data suggest the conclusion that early causative mechanisms in CNS autoimmunity initiate signaling mechanisms that diverge into two separate pathways, one that is strongly associated with inflammatory responses and one that is associated predominantly with disturbed axon‐myelin interactions and impaired fast axonal transport. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Adult human spinal cord harbors neural precursor cells that generate neurons and glial cells in vitro
Authors: Dromard C. , Guillon H. , Rigau V. , Ripoll C. , Sabourin J.C. , Perrin F.E. , Scamps F. , Bozza S. , Sabatier P. , Lonjon N. , Duffau H. , Vachiery‐Lahaye F. , Prieto M. , Tran Van Ba C. , Deleyrolle L. , Boularan A. , Langley K. , Gaviria M. , Privat A. , Hugnot J.P. , Bauchet L.
Published: March 2008

Adult human and rodent brains contain neural stem and progenitor cells, and the presence of neural stem cells in the adult rodent spinal cord has also been described. Here, using electron microscopy, expression of neural precursor cell markers, and cell culture, we investigated whether neural precursor cells are also present in adult human spinal cord. In well‐preserved nonpathological post‐mortem human adult spinal cord, nestin, Sox2, GFAP, CD15, Nkx6.1, and PSA‐NCAM were found to be expressed heterogeneously by cells located around the central canal. Ultrastructural analysis revealed the existence of immature cells close to the ependymal cells, which display characteristics of type B and C cells found in the adult rodent brain subventricular region, which are considered to be stem and progenitor cells, respectively. Completely dissociated spinal cord cells reproducibly formed Sox2+ nestin+ neurospheres containing proliferative precursor cells. On differentiation, these generate glial cells and γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)‐ergic neurons. These results provide the first evidence for the existence in the adult human spinal cord of neural precursors with the potential to differentiate into neurons and glia. They represent a major interest for endogenous regeneration of spinal cord after trauma and in degenerative diseases. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Folic acid deficiency increases delayed neuronal death, DNA damage, platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule‐1 immunoreactivity, and gliosis in the hippocampus after transient cerebral ischemia
Authors: Hwang In Koo , Yoo Ki‐Yeon , Suh Hong‐Won , Kim Young Sup , Kwon Dae Young , Kwon Young‐Guen , Yoo Jun‐Hyun , Won Moo‐Ho
Published: March 2008

Folic acid deficiency increases stroke risk. In the present study, we examined whether folic acid deficiency enhances neuronal damage and gliosis via oxidative stress in the gerbil hippocampus after transient forebrain ischemia. Animals were exposed to a folic acid‐deficient diet (FAD) for 3 months and then subjected to occlusion of both common carotid arteries for 5 min. Exposure to an FAD increased plasma homocysteine levels by five‐ to eightfold compared with those of animals fed with a control diet (CD). In CD‐treated animals, most neurons were dead in the hippocampal CA1 region 4 days after ischemia/reperfusion, whereas, in FAD‐treated animals, this occurred 3 days after ischemia/reperfusion. Immunostaining for 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG) was performed to examine DNA damage in CA1 neurons in both groups after ischemia, and it was found that 8‐OHdG immunoreactivity in both FAD and CD groups peaked at 12 hr after reperfusion, although the immunoreactivity in the FAD group was much greater than that in the CD group. Platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule‐1 (PECAM‐1; a final mediator of neutrophil transendothelial migration) immunoreactivity in both groups increased with time after ischemia/reperfusion: Its immunoreactivity in the FAD group was much higher than that in the CD group 3 days after ischemia/reperfusion. In addition, reactive gliosis in the ischemic CA1 region increased with time after ischemia in both groups, but astrocytosis and microgliosis in the FAD group were more severe than in the CD group at all times after ischemia. Our results suggest that folic acid deficiency enhances neuronal damage induced by ischemia. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Micro‐Raman spectroscopic study of artificially aged natural and dyed wool
Authors: Doherty Brenda , Miliani Costanza , Berghe Ina Vanden , Sgamellotti Antonio , Brunetti Brunetto Giovanni
Published: March 2008

The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of micro‐Raman spectroscopy as a non‐invasive vibrational spectroscopic technique applied to the examination of wool samples, which may be applied to textile materials of cultural heritage interest. In this work, a selection of wool materials were primarily investigated in their unaged states through the utility of a natural wool reference together with selected samples dyed with different natural colorants, namely woad, weld and madder. The identification of the main modes of vibration of the wool fibre keratin was assessed in all the samples, which aided the determination of the changes within the protein structure, in particular, through the cysteine and peptide cross‐linkages brought about by the addition of the dyes that can produce effects similar to degradation. The dye too was assessed importantly to enable its identification through its characteristic scattering or fluorescence emissions on a woollen matrix, as well as to ascertain whether a uniform covering across the surface of the wool was achieved or not. Regarding the artificial degradation of the samples it was possible to observe numerous modifications within the molecular structure of the wool, in particular, within the amide I, CH bending, amide III and S‐S stretchings along with the physical photo‐yellowing of fibres given by the presence of lipids dispersed across the surface of the wool. The effects of ageing on the dyed samples were also investigated, indicating that many of the bands relative to the colorants were still present, yet so too were numerous vibrations from the wool that also indicated a certain level of stress and degradation to the underlying wool. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Raman identification of corrosion products on automotive galvanized steel sheets
Authors: Colomban P. , Cherifi S. , Despert G.
Published: March 2008

Iron oxides (haematite, maghemite, magnetite), (oxy)hydroxides (lepidocrocite), carbonates, as well as zinc carbonate and oxide, have been identified on corroded galvanized steel samples after corrosion accelerating tests in the laboratory and compared with those observed on samples taken from vehicles that have been in circulation for five years in severe weather conditions. Spectra recorded on the corroded parts are compared with synthesized compounds. (Hydroxy)carbonates are clearly evidenced on galvanized and phosphated steel sheets. Corrosion layers beneath the paint could be detected. White regions always correspond to a ZnO‐rich phase but maghemite (γ‐Fe2O3) and sometimes akaganite (β‐FeOOHCl) are observed at the centre (maroon) of very corroded spots. Maghemite is observed in strongly corroded regions. Goethite (α‐) and lepidocrocite (γ‐FeOOH) (and akaganite) are observed at the surface of less corroded regions of phosphate‐free galvanized steel and are absent for phosphate‐coated steel. Green rust is observed only on galvanized samples corroded in the laboratory. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impact of systemic inflammation on outcome following resection for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Gomez Dhanwant , Morris‐Stiff Gareth , Toogood Giles J. , Lodge J. Peter A. , Prasad K. Rajendra
Published: March 2008

Aims

To analyse the results and prognostic factors affecting disease‐free and overall survival following potentially curative resection for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (IHCC).

Methods

Patients undergoing resection for IHCC from January 1996 to December 2006 were included. Data analysed included demographics, clinical and histopathology data.

Results

Twenty‐seven patients were identified with a median age of 57 (32–84) years. The 1‐, 3‐ and 5‐year overall and disease‐free survival rates were 74%, 16% and 16%, and 44%, 15% and 15%, respectively. On univariate analysis, age <65 years, female gender, neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) ≥ 5, micro‐vascular invasion and lymph node involvement were predictors of poorer overall survival. Multivariate analysis did not identify any independent predictors of overall survival. A NLR ≥ 5 was the only adverse predictor of disease‐free survival. The median disease‐free survival of patients with NLR ≥ 5 was 6 months compared to 18 months for those with NLR < 5. There was a significant association between patients with a NLR ≥ 5 and larger tumour size, satellite lesions, micro‐vascular invasion and lymph node involvement.

Conclusion

Long‐term outcome following resection of IHCC is poor. A pre‐operative NLR ≥ 5 was an adverse predictor of disease‐free survival and was associated with an aggressive tumour biology profile. J. Surg. Oncol. 2008;97:513–518. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Are buccal cancers in India and Canada any different?
Authors: Pathak K.A. , Nason R.W. , Talole S.D. , Abdoh A.A.
Published: March 2008

Background and objective

To compare the treatment outcomes of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of buccal mucosa in India and Canada.

Methods

We compared the outcome of 169 patients with SCC of buccal mucosa treated at Tata Memorial Hospital (TMH), India with 64 matched patients from Cancer Care Manitoba (CCMB), Canada. Overall and cause specific survivals for the two geographical groups were calculated by Kaplan–Meir method and compared using log rank test. Cox regression analysis was used to see impact of independent variables.

Results

At 5 years, CCMB patients had lower over all survival (57.4% vs. 67.1%; P = 0.002) than TMH ones but similar cause specific survival (76.4% vs. 74.2%; P = 0.690). Age had an independent influence on both over all and cause specific survival. After adjusting for the age confounding in the Cox proportional hazard model there was no difference in the overall survival of the two groups (HR = 0.84; 95% CI = 0.51, 1.40; P = 0.509). Radiated patients had three times higher risk of dying of disease than surgically treated ones (HR = 3.03; 95% CI = 1.64, 5.60; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

There was no difference in the cause specific survival between the two groups. Apparent difference in the overall survival was due to the difference in the age of presentation. J. Surg. Oncol. 2008;97:529–532. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Long‐term pancreatic endocrine function following pancreatoduodenectomy with pancreaticogastrostomy
Authors: Murakami Yoshiaki , Uemura Kenichiro , Hayashidani Yasuo , Sudo Takeshi , Hashimoto Yasushi , Ohge Hiroki , Sueda Taijiro
Published: March 2008

Background and Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate long‐term pancreatic endocrine function following pancreatoduodenectomy with pancreaticogastrostomy.

Methods

Records of 52 patients who had survived for three or more years following pancreatoduodenectomy with pancreaticogastrostomy were studied retrospectively. Serum HbA1c levels had been measured prior to and at 3‐ to 6‐month intervals after surgery.

Results

Three of 42 patients with normal preoperative serum HbA1c levels (≦5.8%), and five of 10 patients with elevated preoperative serum HbA1c levels (>5.8%) showed deterioration of glucose tolerance. Five of these eight patients developed a pancreatic fistula postoperatively. However, the average serum HbA1c levels of patients with normal preoperative serum HbA1c levels have remained within the normal range for 3–10 years after surgery.

Conclusions

Pancreatic endocrine function was maintained for a long‐term period after pancreatoduodenectomy with pancreaticogastrostomy. Impaired glucose tolerance appeared to be associated with postoperative pancreatic fistula formation. J. Surg. Oncol. 2008;97:519–522. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Quantification of biogenic amines in human plasma based on the derivatization with N‐hydroxy‐succinimidyl fluorescein‐O‐acetate by high‐performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Deng Ying‐Hua , Zhang Hua‐Shan , Du Xiao‐Lan , Wang Hong
Published: March 2008

An HPLC method for the determination of biogenic amines based on the precolumn derivatization with N‐hydroxysuccinimidyl fluorescein‐O‐acetate (SIFA) has been developed. The derivatization was performed at 45°C for 30 min in borate buffer (pH 8.0). The derivatives were separated on a ZORBAX Eclipse XDB‐C8 column (150 mm×4.6 mm id; 5 μm) and monitored by fluorescence detection (excitation, 469 nm; emission, 512 nm). The LODs (S/N = 3) for spermine, spermidine, putrescine, cadaverine, and phenethylamine were 0.4, 0.2, 0.3, 0.5, and 0.4 nM, respectively. The developed method has been successfully applied to the determination of biogenic amines in human plasma of three healthy volunteers and four cancer patients. Average recoveries for plasma samples ranged from 94 to 106% and coefficients of variation ranged from 1.8 to 4.6%. Deproteinization of plasma was accomplished with ACN to precipitate interfering substances and the centrifuged supernatant was used directly for analysis.
Sensitive detection of tumor marker CA15‐3 in human serum by capillary electrophoretic immunoassay with chemiluminescence detection
Authors: Liu Yan‐Ming , Zheng Yan‐Li , Cao Jun‐Tao , Chen Yong‐Hong , Li Fu‐Rong
Published: March 2008

A new and sensitive non‐competitive immunoassay (IA) for tumor marker carbohydrate antigen 15‐3 (CA15‐3) by CE coupling with ECL detection has been developed. This method is based on luminol–H2O2 reaction catalyzed by horseradish peroxidase (HRP). The optimum CE separation and CL detection conditions were investigated. After the non‐competitive immunoreaction, the free HRP‐labeled CA15‐3 antibody (Ab*) and the bound Ab*‐antigen (Ab*‐Ag) complex were separated in a separation capillary and then catalyzed the CL reaction of luminol and H2O2 in a reaction capillary following the separation capillary. The calibration curve based on the peak areas of Ab*‐Ag complex plotted against the concentrations of CA15‐3 is in the range of 0–250 U/mL with a correlation coefficient of 0.9983 and the detection limit is 0.035 U/mL (S/N = 3). The response for five consecutive injections of 125 U/mL CA15‐3 resulted in RSDs of 0.83% and 3.1% for the migration time and the peak area, respectively. The method was successfully used for the quantification of CA15‐3 in human sera obtained from healthy persons and from patients with breast cancer.
Laser operation of LD end-pumped grown-together Nd:YVO4/YVO4 composite crystal
Authors: Li X , Yu X , Gao J , Peng J , Chen F , Yu J , Chen D
Published: March 2008

An effective CW and pulsed laser operation was demonstrated using a grown-together Nd:YVO4/YVO4 composite rod. The slope efficiencies of 72.97% and 57.23% to absorbed pump power in multi-mode and TEM00 mode were reached, respectively. In A-O Q-switched operation, a maximum average output power of about 10.5 W, a pulse width of 19.8 ns and a peak power of about 5.3 kW were achieved at 100 kHz. The pulse width kept less than 33 ns at 200 kHz.
Short pulse duration of a 355-nm laser by extracavity sum-frequency mixing with a LiB3O5 (LBO) crystal
Authors: Wang G , Liu J , Liu S , Liu M , Liu S , Li L
Published: March 2008

A diode-pumped all-solid-state ultraviolet (UV) laser at 355 nm with pulse duration as short as 4.5 ns and peak power of 5.96 kW is proposed. The output UV light at 355 nm is obtained by extracavity sum-frequency mixing and has a power of 536 mW at the incident pump power of 15.65 W, corresponding to an optical-to-optical efficiency of 3.4%, the energy distribution of the UV light is near TEM00 and the power stability in an hour is better than ± 5.2%. Taking into account the thermal effects of the gain medium Nd:YVO4 crystal at high incident pump power, a plane-to-plane cavity is chosen to take advantage of the maximum pump power and obtain the compact configuration.
Impact of Short Chain Branching on Conformations of Metallocene LLDPE Melts: NMR, Light Scattering and MD Simulation Study
Authors: Tukur Nasiru M. , Sharkh Basel F. Abu , Osei‐Twum Emmanuel Y. , Hussein Ibnelwaleed A.
Published: March 2008

Summary: The influence of short chain branching on molecular conformations of melts and solutions of metallocene linear Low‐density polyethylene (m‐LLDPE) was studied by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, light scattering, and Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulation techniques. Both T2 relaxation measurements by NMR and MD simulations suggest the loss of molecular order in m‐LLDPE at temperatures >135°C. Similar trends were observed for the radius of gyration as measured by light scattering and calculated from MD simulations vs. branch content (BC) and type. At high BC (>40 branches/1000 C) m‐LLDPE tends towards self assembly. Neither the branch type nor the BC has significant effect on the intermolecular orientation correlation function. This might be attributed to the fact that the high temperature of the melt results in loss of order in the chains. This lack of order is independent of BC or type. This result is in agreement with the results of the dihedral distribution analysis. Also, it is in agreement with our NMR T2 measurements. The radial distribution functions are nearly identical indicating no effect of branch type at low branch density on the correlation between branches and backbone segments. However, increasing the BC to 80 branches/1000C resulted in a change in the correlation between the branches and backbone segments.
Implications of LDPE Branching and Mw on Thermal and Mechanical Properties of PP/LDPE Blends
Authors: Suleiman Mohammed A. , Hussein Ibnelwaleed A.
Published: March 2008

Summary: The influences of short chain branching (SCB) and molecular (Mw) weight of low density polyethylene (LDPE) on the solid state properties of polypropylene (PP)‐LDPE blends were investigated by mechanical and thermal techniques. DSC analysis of all blends exhibit a double melting peak at all compositions studied thus suggesting that both PP and LDPE crystals exist separately in the solid state. It was found that the SCB and Mw of LDPE influenced the modulus and ultimate tensile strength of the blends. However, elongation at break seems to be independent of the molecular characteristics of the pure homopolymer especially at PP blend composition greater than 50%. LDPE with high SCB showed broader melting peaks. Addition of a small amount of a low Mw LDPE (10%) resulted in a higher elongation at break than a high Mw LDPE. There is likely a correlation between the presence of a new peak in the thermograms of PP‐rich blends and the observed poor elongation at break.
Developments in perforator imaging for the anterolateral thigh flap: CT angiography and CT‐guided stereotaxy
Authors: Rozen W. M. , Ashton M. W. , Stella D. L. , Ferris S. , White D. C. , Phillips T. J. , Taylor G. I.
Published: March 2008

Introduction: The anterolateral thigh flap is an increasingly popular reconstructive option despite uncertainty in its perforator anatomy. Perforators are not always present, vary in size and intramuscular course, and have variable cutaneous courses and supply. As such, preoperative imaging has become favored. Methods: The current study describes the preliminary use of two new modalities for preoperative imaging: computed tomography (CT) Angiography and CT‐guided stereotaxy. These have been utilized in the preoperative imaging of two patients undergoing ALT flap reconstruction. Each patient underwent each of these techniques combined with Doppler ultrasound, the previous standard modality. The size, location, and course of perforators were explored and compared with operative findings. Results: Both techniques are technically feasible, highly accurate, and provide more information to the surgeon than ultrasound. Conclusion: CT Angiography and CT‐guided stereotaxy are useful adjuncts to Doppler ultrasound for imaging perforators prior to ALT flaps. A larger study is suggested to quantify the accuracy of these techniques. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2008.
Pilot study of granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G‐CSF)‐mobilized peripheral blood stem cells in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
Authors: Cashman Neil , Tan Lih‐Yeen , Krieger Charles , Mädler Burkhard , Mackay Alex , Mackenzie Ian , Benny Barrett , Nantel Stephen , Fabros Marife , Shinobu Leslie , Yousefi Masoud , Eisen Andrew
Published: March 2008

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is characterized by degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons in the brain, brainstem, and spinal cord. It has been proposed that bone marrow (BM)‐derived cells might supply motor neurons and other cells with a cellular milieu more conducive to survival in ALS. Direct injection of stem cells in ALS is problematic because of the large expanse of the neuraxis that would need to be injected. We reasoned that transiently increasing the number of circulating hematopoietic stem cells might be a useful therapeutic approach. However, agents stimulating the activation and mobilization of hematopoietic stem cells may have adverse effects such as activation of microglial cells. We conducted a small pilot trial of the collection and reinfusion of granulocyte‐colony stimulating factor (G‐CSF)‐mobilized peripheral blood stem cells (PBSC) in ALS patients and found no adverse effects, paving the way for a properly powered therapeutic trial with an optimized regimen of G‐CSF. Muscle Nerve, 2007
Thigh muscle function in stroke patients revealed by velocity‐encoded cine phase‐contrast magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Wen Hongmei , Dou Zulin , Finni Taija , Havu Marko , Kang Zhuang , Cheng Shumei , Sipilä Sarianna , Sinha Shantanu , Usenius Jussi‐Pekka , Cheng Sulin
Published: March 2008

Current methods of clinical assessment of muscle coordination and function after stroke do not provide information on deep muscles. The objective of this study was to examine how stroke affects both superficial and deep muscles' coordination and whether muscle function improves after rehabilitation. Muscle function, coordination, and activity of quadriceps femoris (QF) and hamstrings were evaluated in 10 stroke patients with mild hemiparesis and in 6 controls using velocity‐encoded cine phase‐contrast magnetic resonance imaging (VE‐PC MRI), surface electromyography (sEMG), and maximal voluntary isometric contraction torque (MVC). At baseline, the peak muscle velocity of the rectus femoris (RF) and the ratio between the peak velocities of the RF and vasti were lower in the affected limb (AL) of stroke patients than in controls. Co‐contraction of agonists and antagonists was higher in the AL than in controls. Muscle activity measured by sEMG showed similar behavior. After rehabilitation, the activity ratio of hamstrings and adductors to QF decreased slightly toward normal so there were no significant differences between the AL and controls. Impaired biarticular RF muscle function in stroke patients is the limiting factor during knee extension–flexion movements. After rehabilitation, improved functional performance was partly explained by the fact that the activities of the RF and vasti became more synchronized. VE‐PC MRI can provide quantitative in vivo measurements of both superficial and deep muscles, and the information acquired after stroke can be utilized to render therapy more efficient and individually tailored. Muscle Nerve, 2008
Maximal versus submaximal intensity stimulation with variable patterns
Authors: Doucet Barbara M. , Griffin Lisa
Published: March 2008

It is essential to determine optimal parameters of stimulation to maintain muscle force during neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES). Protocols that increase in frequency and include doublets can prolong force output over time. However, stimulation intensity level could differentially affect muscle force output during variable‐frequency NMES. We compared three intermittent stimulation patterns at maximal and submaximal intensities of stimulation of the median nerve: (1) a constant 20‐HZ pattern; (2) 90 s at 20 HZ followed by a 90‐s increase from 20 to 40 HZ; and (3) 90 s at 20 HZ followed by 90 s of doublets at 20 HZ. At submaximal intensities, the doublet pattern produced the highest overall force–time integral (FTI). At maximal intensities, the doublet pattern produced the lowest FTI and the increasing frequency pattern produced the least amount of fatigue. Thus, double‐pulse stimulation was more effective during submaximal than maximal intensity NMES. These data demonstrate that intensity level must be taken into consideration when programming frequency patterns for NMES devices. Muscle Nerve, 2008
Scattering by Aggregated Fibres Using a Multiple Scattering T‐Matrix Approach
Authors: Wriedt Thomas , Schuh Roman , Doicu Adrian
Published: March 2008

In this paper we consider electromagnetic wave scattering by aggregated fibres using a multiple scattering approach. Scattering by particles of complex shape such as concave particles, torus, or clusters of fibres can not normally be computed using the T‐matrix method. In this paper we are proposing a decompositioning approach to handle this scattering problem. A scattering particle is decomposed into a number of basic units and scattering by such an ensemble of basic constituents is computed using a multiple scattering T‐matrix approach. The range of validity of this approach is investigated by providing exemplary computation results for single fibres and aggregated fibres.
Recent developments in the molecular discrimination of formae speciales of Fusarium oxysporum
Authors: Lievens Bart , Rep Martijn , Thomma Bart PHJ
Published: March 2008

Rapid and reliable detection and identification of potential plant pathogens is required for taking appropriate and timely disease management measures. For many microbial species of which all strains generally are plant pathogens on a known host range, this has become quite straightforward. However, for some fungal species this is quite a challenge. One of these is Fusarium oxysporum Schlechtend:Fr., which, as a species, has a very broad host range, while individual strains are usually highly host‐specific. Moreover, many strains of this fungus are non‐pathogenic soil inhabitants. Thus, with regard to effective disease management, identification below the species level is highly desirable. So far, the genetic basis of host specificity in F. oxysporum is poorly understood. Furthermore, strains that infect a particular plant species are not necessarily more closely related to each other than to strains that infect other hosts. Despite these difficulties, recently an increasing number of studies have reported the successful development of molecular markers to discriminate F. oxysporum strains below the species level. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Characterization of fatty acid esters of okadaic acid and related toxins in blue mussels (Mytilus edulis) from Norway
Authors: Torgersen Trine , Wilkins Alistair L. , Rundberget Thomas , Miles Christopher O.
Published: March 2008

Marine algal toxins of the okadaic acid group can occur as fatty acid esters in blue mussels, and are commonly determined indirectly by transformation to their parent toxins by alkaline hydrolysis. Some data are available regarding the identity of the fatty acid esters, mainly of palmitic acid (16:0) derivatives of okadaic acid (OA), dinophysistoxin‐1 (DTX1) and dinophysistoxin‐2 (DTX2). Other fatty acid derivatives have been described, but with limited mass spectral data. In this paper, the mass spectral characterization of the [MH]− and [M+Na]+ ions of 16 fatty acid derivatives of each of OA, DTX1 and DTX2 is presented. The characteristic fragmentation of [M+Na]+ ions of OA analogues provided a useful tool for identifying these, and has not been described previously. In addition, a set of negative ion multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) methods was developed for direct determination of 16 fatty acid esters of OA, 16 fatty acid esters of DTX1 and 16 fatty acid esters of DTX2 in shellfish extracts. The MRM methods were employed to study the profiles of fatty acid esters of OA analogues in blue mussels and to compare these with fatty acid ester profiles reported for other groups of marine algal toxins. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Understanding the bond‐making and bond‐breaking of Fe‐filled SWNT on Ni(111)
Authors: David M. Y. , Kasai K. , Moreno J. L. , Kasai H.
Published: March 2008

In the previous studies, the stable structures and magnetic properties of Fe‐filled single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) on Ni (111) were investigated based on first principles calculations. The SWNT transformed into arch‐like structure when the Fe atom was placed inside it near the Ni surface.In order to fully understand the formation of nanoarch when placed near the metal surface, we have provided a detailed mechanism of the bond‐breaking of SWNT and the bond‐making of SWNT‐Fe and Ni surface.The electron distributions and the number of electrons in the majority and minority spins per atomic orbital were discussed. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adaptive Flüssigkeitstilger für Vertikalschwingungen von Ingenieurstrukturen – Teil 2 – Feldversuche
Authors: Reiterer Michael , Altay Okyay , Wendner Roman , Hoffmann Simon , Strauss Alfred
Published: March 2008

Die Schwingungsdämpfung von Ingenieurkonstruktionen gewinnt aufgrund erhöhter dynamischer Belastungszustände und zunehmend schlanker Bauweisen an Bedeutung. Eine effektive Maßnahme zur Reduktion von vertikalen Strukturschwingungen ist der Einsatz von klassischen Masse‐Feder‐Dämpfer‐Tilgern, bei der die Schwingungsantworten von angeregten kritischen Eigenfrequenzen der Konstruktion gezielt bedämpft werden. Das Einsatzgebiet dieser Art von Tilgern reicht vom Bauwesen über den Maschinenbau bis hin zur Luft‐ und Raumfahrt.

Im Beitrag wird in Ergänzung zum Teil 1 (Laborversuche) der erstmalige praktische Einsatz von Vertikal‐Flüssigkeitstilgern zur Schwingungsdämpfung einer Eisenbahnbrücke aus Stahl vorgestellt. Die Flüssigkeitsmasse wird in einem U‐Rohr geführt, wobei eine Gasfeder zur Frequenzabstimmung dient. Die Energiedissipation erfolgt über Turbulenzeffekte in der Wasser und Luftströmung. Mechanische Bauteile wie Federn und viskose Dämpferelemente sind hier nicht vorhanden. Zu Beginn wird das mechanische Modell des gekoppelten Systems Brücke – Flüssigkeits‐tilger dargelegt, und Bewegungsgleichungen sowie die optimale Abstimmung werden ermittelt. Nach Beschreibung der für den Feldversuch ausgewählten Eisenbahnbrücke wird ein FE‐Modell vorgestellt und die Wirkung des Flüssigkeitstilgers numerisch untersucht. Die praktische Umsetzung der Flüssigkeitstilger wird beschrieben, die nach Installation im Feldversuch erzielte Schwingungsdämpfung wird dargelegt. Es zeigt sich, dass durch Anwendung der Vertikal‐Flüssigkeitstilger im Feldversuch erhebliche Reduktionen der Brückenschwingungen erzielt werden können.