bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integration of Pig‐a, micronucleus, chromosome aberration, and comet assay endpoints in a 28‐day rodent toxicity study with 4‐nitroquinoline‐1‐oxide
Authors: Stankowski Leon F. , Roberts Daniel J. , Chen Hepei , Lawlor Timothy , McKeon Marie , Murli Hemalatha , Thakur Ajit , Xu Yong
Published: October 2011

As part of the Stage III Pig‐a multilaboratory validation trial, we examined the induction of CD59‐negative reticulocytes and total red blood cells (RETCD59− and RBCCD59−, respectively) in male Sprague Dawley® rats treated with 4‐nitroquinoline‐1‐oxide (4NQO), for 28 consecutive days by oral gavage, at doses of 1.25, 2.50, 3.75, 5.00, and 7.50 mg kg−1 day−1 (the high dose group was sacrificed on Day 15 due to excessive morbidity/mortality). Animals also were evaluated for: micronucleated reticulocytes (mnRET) by flow cytometry; DNA damage in peripheral blood, liver, and stomach using the Comet assay; and chromosome aberrations (CAb) in peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL). All endpoints were analyzed at two or more timepoints where possible. Mortality, body and organ weights, food consumption, and clinical pathology also were evaluated, and demonstrated that the maximum tolerated dose was achieved at 5.00 mg kg−1 day−1. The largest increases observed for the genetic toxicology endpoints (fold‐increase compared to control, where significant; all at 5.00 mg kg−1 day−1 on Day 29) were: RETCD59− (21X), RBCCD59− (9.0X), and mnRET (2.0X). In contrast, no significant increases were observed for the CAb or Comet response, in any tissue analyzed, at any timepoint. Because 4NQO is a well known mutagen, clastogen, and carcinogen, the lack of response for these latter endpoints was unexpected. These results emphasize the extreme care that must betaken in dose and endpoint selection when incorporating genotoxicity endpoints into routine toxicity studies as has been recommended or is under consideration by various regulatory and industrial bodies. Environ. Mol. Mutagen., 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of natural water chemistry on nanosilver behavior and toxicity to Ceriodaphnia dubia and Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata
Authors: McLaughlin Julianne , Bonzongo Jean-Claude J.
Published: October 2011

The success of nanotechnology will undoubtedly lead to the increased introduction of nanoparticles (NPs) into natural systems, and aquatic systems will likely act as sinks for these new pollutants. Differences in the chemistry of these aquatic systems will control changes in surface properties of NPs and therefore could impact their environmental fate and toxicity. A series of batch experiments was conducted to determine the effect of natural waters with different solution chemistries on nanosilver (nAg) particle dispersion, stability, and toxicity. Toxicity assays were performed in tested natural waters as well as in traditional growth media. Briefly, nAg suspended in a natural water with a low ionic strength/dissolved organic carbon (DOC) ratio had an average particle size of 76.8 ± 0.4 nm and was less toxic to Ceriodaphnia dubia and Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata (median lethal concentration [LC50] = 221 ppb and median inhibition concentration [IC50] = 1,600 ppb, respectively), whereas a natural water with a high ionic strength/DOC ratio had an average particle size of 192 ± 5.1 nm and produced a much higher toxicity response (LC50 = 0.433 ppb and IC50 = 22.6 ppb, respectively). These findings help to establish needed correlations between water-matrix-dependent nAg particle properties and toxicity implications and indicate that the use of traditional growth media in toxicity assays concerning engineered NPs might not always be appropriate. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2012;31:168–175. © 2011 SETAC
Influence of a nanoparticle mixture on an arctic soil community
Authors: Kumar Niraj , Shah Vishal , Walker Virginia K.
Published: October 2011

Interest is growing in understanding not only the impact of individual nanoparticles (NPs) on ecosystems but also the effect of NP mixtures. In the present study, the impact of a combination of three different NPs, silver, copper, and silica (all at 0.022%, w/w), on an arctic microbial community was investigated. After adding the NPs, soil microcosms were incubated for 176 d, and subsequent estimates of microbe diversity were obtained using culture-dependent and culture-independent assessments. The treated soil appeared to show a reduction in the ability to use carbohydrate and amino acid substrates and demonstrated an altered pattern of major fatty acid peaks. Polymerase chain reaction–denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis showed consistent differences in the pattern of predominant rRNA gene sequences. Although this is an initial investigation of soil contaminated with mixed NPs, these results demonstrate that even at the relatively modest concentrations used such pollutants have the potential to disrupt microbial communities. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2012;31:131–135. © 2011 SETAC
Multifactor Index Variance: The Case of the SPX 2000 to 2010
Authors: Neururer Thaddeus , Kumiega Andrew
Published: October 2011

Recent work in volatility modeling and options pricing has suggested that index variance may be best described by multifactor models. We utilize Independent Component Analysis to produce independent factors from the SPX sector ETF returns from 2000 to 2010. We find that the independent factors are quite different from the factors produced with Principal Components. After fitting asymmetric GARCH models to each of the factors and applying the sector weightings of the SPX we show that, on average, SPX variance is best modeled with two factors. In addition, we also find that the secondary factor of SPX variance has switched from being technology based to being financial in nature. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 33:158–182, 2013
Claudin k is specifically expressed in cells that form myelin during development of the nervous system and regeneration of the optic nerve in adult zebrafish
Authors: Münzel Eva Jolanda , Schaefer Karin , Obirei Barbara , Kremmer Elisabeth , Burton Edward A. , Kuscha Veronika , Becker Catherina G. , Brösamle Christian , Williams Anna , Becker Thomas
Published: October 2011

The zebrafish has become an important model organism to study myelination during development and after a lesion of the adult central nervous system (CNS). Here, we identify Claudin k as a myelin‐associated protein in zebrafish and determine its localization during development and adult optic nerve regeneration. We find Claudin k in subcellular compartments consistent with location in autotypic tight junctions of oligodendrocytes and myelinating Schwann cells. Expression starts in the hindbrain at 2 days (mRNA) and 3 days (protein) postfertilization and is maintained in adults. A newly generated claudin k:green fluorescent protein (GFP) reporter line allowed us to characterize oligodendrocytes in the adult retina that express Claudin k and olig2, but not P0 and uniquely only form loose wraps of membrane around axons. After a crush of the adult optic nerve, Claudin k protein levels were first reduced and then recovered within 4 weeks postlesion, concomitant with optic nerve myelin de‐ and regeneration. During optic nerve regeneration, oligodendrocytes, many of which were newly generated, repopulated the lesion site and exhibited increasing morphological complexity over time. Thus, Claudin k is a novel myelin‐associated protein expressed by oligodendrocytes and Schwann cells from early stages of wrapping and myelin formation in zebrafish development and adult regeneration, suggesting important functions of the gene for myelin formation and maintenance. Our Claudin k antibodies and claudin k:GFP reporter line represent excellent ways to visualize oligodendrocyte and Schwann cell differentiation in vivo. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diagnostic accuracy of a new instrument for detecting cognitive dysfunction
Authors: Cercy Steven P.
Published: October 2011

Background

Effective screening of cognitive disorders is limited by psychometric and practical properties of available instruments. The Brief Cognitive Screen (BCS) was developed to improve sensitivity and overall diagnostic accuracy of case detection for cognitive dysfunction in a quick and convenient format.

Methods

This validation study compared psychometric properties of the BCS with the Mini mental state examination (MMSE) in 308 patients with suspected or known disorders of cognition. Diagnostic accuracy of the MMSE was determined using the traditional 23/24 clinical cutoff and area under the curve (AUC) from receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analyses. Diagnostic accuracy of BCS summary scores and components was determined by ROC analyses. Comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation served as the criterion standard for determining cognitive dysfunction.

Results

The MMSE sensitivity (34.8%) was inadequate at the 23/24 cutoff. Under ROC analyses, diagnostic accuracy of a BCS summary score was superior (AUC = 0.950) to the MMSE total score (AUC = 0.862) for the total sample. Excluding all patients with a history of cognitive deficit, classification accuracy of the BCS remained high (AUC = 0.936).

Conclusions

Findings suggest that BCS is an effective, convenient alternative screening instrument for use in clinical populations with suspected cognitive dysfunction. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Experimental Investigation To Study the Influence of Handle Diameter on Low‐Frequency, Hand–Arm Vertical Vibration
Authors: Alphin Masilamany Santha , Sankaranarayanasamy Krishnaswamy , Sivapirakasam Suthangathan Paramashivan
Published: October 2011

Handle vibration from equipment or machines influences musculoskeletal activity as well as comfort in handling the same. New technology can be worse than no technology if it was not developed correctly as ergonomic research has clearly demonstrated the relationship between injury risk and poorly designed hand tools. Clinical and epidemiological studies have shown that operators of handheld power tools are prone to develop various vibration‐induced disorders of the hand and arm, which are collectively referred to as “hand–arm vibration syndrome.'' The vibration direction has a great influence on the transmitted vibration. The present study focuses the effects of low‐frequency vertical vibration on hand to shoulder from handles of different size. The electrodynamic exciter is used for simulating vibration to a vertical handles of four different diameters. PULSE LabShop software is used for evaluating the magnitude of vibration in different frequency bands. The vibration characteristic data were acquired in the yh axis at the wrist, elbow, and shoulder for bent arm and extended arm postures with vibration excitation of 4.5 m/s2. Transmissibility characteristics are computed to determine the influence of handle diameter in yh vibration transmitted to the hand–arm system. The magnitude of vibration transmitted within the hand, elbow, and shoulder was observed to be dependent on the handle size; larger handles cause higher vibration transmissibility. The results also show that the human hand–arm system in an extended arm posture amplifies the vibration transmitted than bent arm in a small difference. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ergonomic Analysis of Head‐Mounted Night Vision Goggle Systems in Simulated Ground Operations
Authors: Tai Hung‐Sheng , Lee Yung‐Hui , Liu Bor‐Shong , Kuo Cheng‐Lang
Published: October 2011

This study compared the mounting time and strain on the head‐neck while using an old model (forehead and cheek supported) and a new model (head harness supported) of head‐mounted night vision goggle systems in the postures of standing, sitting, and lying prone. The results showed that effectively reducing the mounting time was attributed to the ease and less time required for length adjustments of the head harness in the new model. The novel device received higher positive subjective ratings for convenience and comfort while wearing than did the old model. Although the weight of the new model was decreased to 0.794 kg and the length was reduced to 0.155 m, the loads on the head‐neck complex remained high. These findings suggest that a rifle should be fitted with the night vision goggle or handheld model to decrease neck‐shoulder workload if the prone position is the most frequent and important posture for soldiers. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Work Environment and the Bottom Line: Survey of Tools Relating Work Environment to Business Results
Authors: Rose Linda Maria , Orrenius Ulf Erik , Neumann Walther Patrick
Published: October 2011

Insufficient knowledge of how the working environment (WE) impacts company performance leads to a poor basis for managerial decision making. The objective of this study was to survey and evaluate available tools relating WE to business results. Nine tools were identified and qualitatively evaluated using 11 criteria. The tools were clustered into three categories, ranging from analysis of WE risks as well as calculation of their economic impact to solely investment analysis. Shortcomings in the tools include insufficient attention to quality and productivity issues and insufficient guidance for users. Although further methodological development is indicated, researchers should also attend to the factors affecting tool uptake and application as well as the potential to integrate such analysis into companies' regular accounting systems. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Contributions of imaging spectroscopy to improve estimates of evapotranspiration
Authors: Rodriguez J. M. , Ustin S. L. , Riaño D.
Published: October 2011

Improved estimates of evapotranspiration (ET) are needed for water resource management and irrigation scheduling. We review the use of imaging spectroscopy to capture estimates of water vapour flux and biophysical components of ET. Remote sensing has long attempted to quantify and predict ET, with most applications relying only on green vegetation indexes from multispectral imagers combined with thermal radiance and weather data. In contrast, imaging spectrometry is an advanced remote sensing technology that measures hundreds of spectral bands in the solar spectrum. Plant pigments, water, and dry matter have unique spectral signatures that can advance estimates of ET and detection of drought stress. This allows analyses based on the physics of spectroscopy and avoids a requirement for continual empirical calibration. These spectral components provide unprecedented information about plant physiological processes, which improve understanding of the regulation of water fluxes and the energy budget. Laboratory, field, and airborne studies of spectral properties in the near‐ and shortwave‐infrared region show strong relationships with plant water relations like water content, relative water content, and water potential. Because water absorption features are spectrally independent of pigment absorptions in the visible region, they provide a new source of information about environmental conditions. These new observations from imaging spectroscopy will lead to better understanding of ecological and hydrological processes. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An infant who was born with a life‐threatening skin disease: Various aspects of triadic psychotherapy
Authors: Keren Miri
Published: October 2011

A longitudinal case study of a 3‐year‐old toddler, born with a congenital, severe, life‐threatening skin disease, with comorbid diagnoses of failure to thrive and feeding disorder, is described and discussed. The referral, diagnostic, and therapeutic processes are described, and the main themes of the treatment sessions are presented in the associative order that they occurred. The understanding of the case is very much based on the “me‐skin'' concept. We have tried, through this case, to show the ways that we work with multidisciplinary team countertransferential reactions to the young child and her parents, the role that the child psychiatrist may take, and the special difficulty in working with cases that raise fear of death in parents as well as in therapists. We raise existential questions about worth of life, infant's will to grow, and infant's drive to live forever a painful life.
A SIMPLIFIED MULTI‐OBJECTIVE GENETIC ALGORITHM OPTIMIZATION MODEL FOR CANAL SCHEDULING
Authors: Peng S. Z. , Wang Y. , Khan S. , Rana T. , Luo Y. F.
Published: October 2011

A simplified Multi‐Objective Genetic Algorithm Optimization Model (MOM‐GA) for canal scheduling under unequal flow rates of distributary canals is presented in this paper. This MOM‐GA was designed for dynamic rotational scheduling with two objectives: to reduce fluctuations of flow rates of superior canals, and to reduce seepage losses of canal systems. This model was programmed in MATLAB using its genetic algorithm functions. Application of this model was demonstrated with a case study of the Nanguan Main Canal system (NMC) in the Gaoyou Irrigation Area, China. The results demonstrated that the MOM‐GA is an effective model for optimizing canal scheduling. NMC keeps running under a relatively steady range, and the seepage losses are reduced by around half that under current and binary optimized scheduling. The MOM‐GA is also sufficiently flexible to be applied to different levels in canal systems as a simplified approach for canal scheduling design and operation. The optimization results given by MOM‐GA can assist irrigators to make better canal scheduling decisions in each irrigation event. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of morphology and function of neonatal mouse ventricular myocytes cultured on a hyaluronan‐based polymer scaffold
Authors: Gallina Clara , Dolgetta Serena , Alloatti Giuseppe , Levi Renzo , Gallo Maria Pia
Published: October 2011

In recent years cardiac tissue engineering has emerged as a promising field aimed at developing suitable techniques to repair the infarcted myocardium with a combination of cells, biomaterials, and regulative factors. In particular it could stand for an alternative strategy to simple in situ cellular implantation. In the present study our purpose was to analyze the interaction between a hyaluronan‐based mesh (HYALONECT®) and neonatal murine ventricular myocytes (NMVMs). Specifically, we investigated morphological and functional characteristics of cardiomyocytes cultured on HYALONECT® in view of its employment in heart repair. Both living and fixed cells analysis was performed on in toto scaffolds with confocal microscopy. NMVMs adhesion on HYALONECT® was studied by tracking sarcomeric α‐actinin immunofluorescence staining. The structural features of NMVMs adherent onto HYALONECT® were investigated at 24, 48, 72 h, and 7 days of culture by immunofluorescence for sarcomeric α‐actinin and connexin‐43. We observed a progressive morphological organization of the cells inside the biopolymer, with both clear sarcomeric arrangement along the scaffold fibers and gap junctions development between adjacent cells. Finally, in vivo intracellular calcium measurements performed using calcium fluorimetric confocal imaging revealed the presence of spontaneous calcium transients and contractile activity of NMVMs adherent onto HYALONECT® up to 48 h from seeding, indicating a progressive differentiation of the cells toward the adult phenotype. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that HYALONECT® allowed NMVMs to adhere to the fibers and to develop functional properties, displaying suitable features as a scaffold to perform heart tissue engineering. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 800–807, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Identification and functional analysis of Zranb2 as a novel Smad‐binding protein that suppresses BMP signaling
Authors: Ohte Satoshi , Kokabu Shoichiro , Iemura Shun‐ichiro , Sasanuma Hiroki , Yoneyama Katsumi , Shin Masashi , Suzuki Seiya , Fukuda Toru , Nakamura Yukio , Jimi Eijiro , Natsume Toru , Katagiri Takenobu
Published: October 2011

Smads 1/5/8 transduce the major intracellular signaling of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). In the present study, we analyzed Smad1‐binding proteins in HEK293T cells using a proteomic technique and identified the protein, zinc‐finger, RAN‐binding domain‐containing protein 2 (ZRANB2). Zranb2 interacted strongly with Smad1, Smad5, and Smad8 and weakly with Smad4. The overexpression of Zranb2 inhibited BMP activities in C2C12 myoblasts in vitro, and the injection of Zranb2 mRNA into zebrafish embryos induced weak dorsalization. Deletion analyses of Zranb2 indicated that the serine/arginine‐rich (SR) domain and the glutamine‐rich domain were required for the inhibition of BMP activity and the interaction with Smad1, respectively. Zranb2 was found to be localized in the nucleus; however, the SR domain‐deleted mutant localized to the cytoplasm. The knockdown of endogenous Zranb2 in C2C12 cells enhanced BMP activity. Zranb2 suppressed Smad transcriptional activity without affecting Smad phosphorylation, nuclear localization, or DNA binding. Taken together, these findings suggested that Zranb2 is a novel BMP suppressor that forms a complex with Smads in the nucleus. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 808–814, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Interferons induce the expression of IFITM1 and IFITM3 and suppress the proliferation of rat neonatal cardiomyocytes
Authors: Lau Samantha Lai‐Yee , Yuen Man‐Leuk , Kou Cecy Ying‐Chuck , Au Ka‐Wing , Zhou Junwei , Tsui Stephen Kwok‐Wing
Published: October 2011

Cardiovascular diseases have been one of the leading killers among the human population worldwide. During the heart development, cardiomyocytes undergo a transition from hyperplastic to hypertrophic growth with an unclear underlying mechanism. In this study, we aim to investigate how interferons differentially stimulate the interferon‐inducible transmembrane (IFITM) family proteins and further be involved in the process of heart development. The expression levels of three IFITM family members, IFITM1, IFITM2, and IFITM3 were investigated during Sprague–Dawley rat myocardial development and differentiation of H9C2 cardiomyocytes. The effects of interferon‐α, ‐β, and ‐γ on DNA synthesis in H9C2 cells were also characterized. Up‐regulation of IFITM1 and IFITM3 were observed during the heart development of Sprague–Dawley rat and the differentiation of H9C2 cells. Moreover, interferon‐α and ‐β induce the expression of IFITM3 while interferon‐γ up‐regulates IFITM1. Finally, interferon‐α and ‐β were demonstrated to inhibit DNA synthesis during H9C2 cell differentiation. Our results indicated interferons are potentially involved in the differentiation and cell proliferation during heart development. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 841–847, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
C‐reactive protein promotes adhesion of monocytes to endothelial cells via NADPH oxidase‐mediated oxidative stress
Authors: Huang Xiuqing , Zhang Jing , Liu Jin , Sun Liang , Zhao Hongye , Lu Yonggang , Wang Jianchang , Li Jian
Published: October 2011

Enhanced monocyte adhesion to endothelial cells is an early event in atherogenesis. It has been shown that C‐reactive protein (CRP) plays a key role in atherogenesis. Here, we investigated the effects of CRP on monocyte‐endothelial cell adhesion and tested the hypothesis that NADPH oxidase (NOX)‐mediated oxidative stress might play a key role in CRP‐induced monocyte‐endothelial cell adhesion. Firstly, 36 patients with carotid intima‐media thickness (IMT) incrassation and 34 controls were enrolled in this study. The levels of glucose, lipids, CRP, monocyte chemotractant protein (MCP‐1), malondialdehyde (MDA), and protein carbonylation were analyzed. The results showed that carotid IMT was associated with abnormal lipid metabolism, including elevated CRP, triglycerides (TG) (P < 0.01) and decreased high density lipoprotein (HDL) level (P < 0.05). The levels of CRP and MCP‐1 in patients with carotid IMT incrassation were increased compared with the controls (P < 0.01). Moreover, patients with carotid IMT incrassation displayed enhanced MDA and protein carbonylation levels (P < 0.01), accompanied by activation and up‐regulation of NOX in monocytes (P < 0.05) compared with the controls. The monocytes isolated from five healthy donors were used for in vitro experiments. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and NOX expression in monocytes were examined. The results also indicated that CRP could promote the adhesion of monocyte‐endothelial cell by up‐regulation of MCP‐1 expression (P < 0.05). Importantly, NFκ B and p38 MAPK signaling pathways, which were activated by NOX‐derived ROS, were involved in CRP‐induced monocyte‐endothelial cell adhesion and up‐regulation of MCP‐1 expression. These data suggested that CRP could promote the adhesion of monocytes to endothelial cells via NOX‐mediated oxidative stress. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 857–867, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis and characterization of bromo‐, arylazo‐, and heterocyclic‐fused troponoids containing a 1,3‐benzodioxole system
Authors: Li Yang , Sun Mingchun , Gao Wentao
Published: October 2011

A facile synthesis of a series of novel bromo‐, arylazo‐, and heterocyclic fused troponoid compounds containing 1,3‐benzodioxole system is described. The 7‐bromo‐, 5,7‐dibromo‐, and 5‐arylazo‐substituted 3‐[(2E)‐3‐(1,3‐benzodioxol‐5‐yl)prop‐2‐enoyl]tropolones (2, 3, and 5, 6, 7) were obtained by direct bromination or azo‐coupling reactions of 3‐[(2E)‐3‐(1,3‐benzodioxol‐5‐yl)prop‐ 2‐enoyl]tropolone (1) with bromine, and diazonium salts of aniline derivatives, respectively. 3‐[(2E)‐3‐(1,3‐Benzodioxol‐5‐yl)prop‐2‐enoyl]‐5‐bromotropolone (4) was obtained from 3‐acetyl‐5‐bromotropolone via one‐pot aldol dehydration reaction with piperonal. Tropolones 2, 3, and 4 were subjected to nucleophilic cyclization with bifunctional hydroxylamine hydrochloride and phenylhydrazine hydrochloride to give the corresponding isoxazolo‐ and pyrazolo‐fused tropones (8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13), respectively. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2012).
Heterocyclization of acylthiosemicarbazides
Authors: Hassan Alaa A. , El‐Sheref Essmat M. , Abou‐Zied Ashraf H.
Published: October 2011

The review summarizes published data on the behavior and reactions of acylthiosemicarbazides and their derivatives, which lead to the formation of heterocyclic systems, including methods of preparation in addition to synthesis of pyrrole, thiazole, thiadiazole, thiadiazolidine, and triazole derivatives as well as fused heterocyclic compounds. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2012).
Radiological findings of primary localized amyloidosis of the ureter
Authors: Tsujioka Yuko , Jinzaki Masahiro , Tanimoto Akihiro , Nakagawa Ken , Akita Hirotaka , Kikuchi Eiji , Okuda Shigeo , Mikami Shuji , Oya Mototsugu , Kuribayashi Sachio
Published: October 2011

Localized amyloidosis is a rare condition, especially that involving the ureter. Because of its rarity and the difficulty in differentiating this condition from urothelial carcinoma by intravenous urography and computed tomography, nephroureterectomy has often been performed unnecessarily for this disease. The authors encountered two cases of this disease, both of which showed a negative urine cytology, no obvious mass effect, and a hypointensity on T2‐weighted imaging. Because these findings are very rare in urothelial carcinoma, ureteroscopy‐guided biopsy was performed, which yielded the diagnosis of amyloidosis. The patients were then treated and followed up at our institute. Primary localized amyloidosis of the ureter should be considered when evaluating ureteric lesions visualized as hypointensities on T2‐weighted images that do not show an obvious mass effect, which could help in the avoidance of unnecessary surgery. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2012;431‐435. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Economic growth and innovation: Lessons in knowledge sharing from bioscience clusters in Ohio and Puerto Rico
Authors: Montalvo Francisco
Published: October 2011

Although regional industrial clusters have been widely researched, our understanding of knowledge creation and dissemination as a driving force for cluster competitiveness remains unclear. This article examines the nature, utilization, evolution, and effects of knowledge sharing in regional clusters by comparing two industrial regional bioscience clusters at different stages of development: first, by focusing on the everyday experiences of each cluster's local agents, and second, by empirically investigating the impact of specialized knowledge on firm performance in each cluster. Contrary to most of the existing research, foreign direct investment (FDI) by multinational companies (MNCs) can affect the development of local entrepreneurial ecosystems, and spatial structure is not a significant factor in the knowledge creation and dissemination process in clusters. Firm‐level knowledge absorption capabilities, social networks, and knowledge spillover mechanisms, in contrast, correlate significantly with an increase in the creation of specialized knowledge in clusters. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Polarization resolved stimulated raman scattering: probing depolarization ratios of liquids
Authors: Munhoz F. , Brustlein S. , Hostein R. , Berto P. , Brasselet S. , Rigneault H.
Published: October 2011

Polarization resolved stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) signal is described in the case of isotropic media and linearly polarized incident fields. The model gives simple expressions for the two perpendicularly polarized SRS signals IX and IY, detected along the X and Y directions, respectively, as a function of the incident pump and Stokes polarization angles. We find that Raman depolarization ratio can be simply obtained from the ratio of the SRS intensities detected along the X and Y axis. These theoretical findings are supported by polarization resolved SRS measurements performed on polarized and depolarized bands of cyclohexane. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Raman spectrum of U4O9: a new interpretation of damage lines in UO2
Authors: Desgranges L. , Baldinozzi G. , Simon P. , Guimbretière G. , Canizares A.
Published: October 2011

Characterisation of uranium oxides in different conditions is a challenge both in nuclear and environment sciences. We focus here on U4O9, which is a superstructure of UO2. Homogeneous U4O9 powder was fabricated and characterised by Raman spectroscopy. The Raman spectrum of a pure‐phase U4O9 is, for the first time, completely described and interpreted. U4O9 Raman spectrum derives from the well characterised one of UO2. Besides reminiscent modes of UO2, a band at 630 cm‐1, which has a specific response to polarised light, was interpreted as characteristic of clusters of interstitial oxygen atoms. These experimental data will help to rationalise the interpretation of UO2 damaged samples. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
P. aeruginosa infection increases morbidity in experimental cholesteatomas
Authors: Jung Jae Y. , Lee Dong H. , Wang Eric W. , Nason Robert , Sinnwell Toni M. , Vogel Joseph P. , Chole Richard A.
Published: October 2011

Objectives:

Clinicians have long noted that infected cholesteatomas are more aggressive than uninfected ones without data to support these observations. The purpose of this study is to determine the etiological role of biofilm forming P. aeruginosa (PA) and the virulence factor, type IV pili (TFP), in the pathogenesis of experimental cholesteatomas.

Design:

We evaluated three different PA strains and one Escherichia coli strain in cholesteatoma progression: PA14, a well‐characterized wound isolate, OPPA8, an otopathogenic strain from a human cholesteatoma, OPPA8‐NP, an isogenic TFP deletion mutant, and DH5α, an E. coli strain.

Methods:

Cholesteatomas were induced in gerbils. We inoculated the right ear with bacteria and the left with vehicle. After 6 weeks their cholesteatomas were evaluated by micro‐CT scanning. Cholesteatoma size and bone resorption were analyzed digitally.

Results:

Results demonstrate that PA infection increases cholesteatoma size when compared to uninfected controls: OPPA8 showed an 8.9‐fold increase, PA14 a 2.6‐fold increase, OPPA8‐NP a 1.9‐fold increase, while DH5α was not increased over controls. Additionally, infected bullae showed 10 to 50% more cholesteatoma‐induced bone resorption.

Conclusions:

In this model, PA infected cholesteatomas enlarge more rapidly and are more destructive than uninfected controls. OPPA8, the strain from a human cholesteatoma, showed the greatest enlargement and bone destruction. Additionally, we demonstrate that TFP is a virulence factor in this model because the nonpiliated isogenic mutant, OPPA8‐NP, was significantly less aggressive than the wild‐type OPPA8 indicating that type IV pili may be a virulence factor in this disease. Laryngoscope, 121:2449‐2454, 2011
Robotic endolaryngeal flexible (Robo‐ELF) scope: A preclinical feasibility study
Authors: Olds Kevin , Hillel Alexander T. , Cha Elizabeth , Curry Martin , Akst Lee M. , Taylor Russell H. , Richmon Jeremy D.
Published: October 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

This article presents a novel robotic endolaryngeal flexible (Robo‐ELF) scope driver for minimally invasive laryngeal surgery. The Robo‐ELF consists of a simple, robust robotic scope driver with three active and two passive degrees of freedom, allowing it to manipulate any standard flexible endoscope. The system is controlled by a joystick‐like three dimensional mouse that interfaces with the scope driver via a laptop. Because the scope is supported and controlled by the robot, motor control and therefore visualization are enhanced. Additionally, because the robot remains stationary when the mouse is not being manipulated, the surgeon can position it and operate bimanually.

Methods:

The system was validated by performing visualization and biopsy procedures on two human cadavers with the Robo‐ELF and comparing this with standard rigid endoscopes with three different angles.

Results:

The Robo‐ELF outperformed the rigid scopes in both image quality and range of motion, overcoming line of site constraints, and allowing visualization of otherwise hidden anatomy. The system also demonstrated a rapid learning curve and enhanced motor control over a manually operated flexible endoscope.

Conclusions:

The Robo‐ELF is a novel robot to assist in driving a flexible endoscope for surgery of the upper aerodigestive tract. Laryngoscope, 121:2371–2374, 2011
Facial nerve outcome with a Peroperative stimulation threshold under 0.05 mA
Authors: Marin Patrick , Pouliot Denis , Fradet Gaétan
Published: October 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To evaluate the facial nerve outcome postoperatively of schwannoma vestibular surgery with a stimulation threshold (ST) lower than 0.05 mA.

Study Design:

Retrospective chart review.

Methods:

A total of 106 patients had undergone schwannoma vestibular surgery between 2002 and 2008 in a tertiary center. The ST near the brainstem was obtained after the tumor removal. Facial nerve function was evaluated according to the House‐Brackmann (HB) scale immediately postoperatively and at 1 year. The results were compared among the different STs used: <0.05 mA, 0.05 mA, and >0.05 mA.

Results:

There were 50 patients who had an ST <0.05 mA, 45 patients who had an ST of 0.05 mA, and 11 patients who had a ST >0.05 mA. Immediately postoperatively, for all of these groups we had a preservation of facial nerve function (HB I‐II) in 94%, 80%, and 36% of patients, respectively (P < .0001). At 1 year in the same groups the preservation of the facial nerve function was 100%, 93%, and 82% of patients, respectively (P < .01).

Conclusions:

A proximal ST of <0.05 mA is a better predictor of facial nerve function immediately postoperatively. Laryngoscope, 121:2295–2298, 2011
The Movement Disorder Society Evidence‐Based Medicine Review Update: Treatments for the motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Fox Susan H. , Katzenschlager Regina , Lim Shen‐Yang , Ravina Bernard , Seppi Klaus , Coelho Miguel , Poewe Werner , Rascol Olivier , Goetz Christopher G. , Sampaio Cristina
Published: October 2011

The objective was to update previous evidence‐based medicine reviews of treatments for motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease published between 2002 and 2005. Level I (randomized, controlled trial) reports of pharmacological, surgical, and nonpharmacological interventions for the motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease between January 2004 (2001 for nonpharmacological) and December 2010 were reviewed. Criteria for inclusion, clinical indications, ranking, efficacy conclusions, safety, and implications for clinical practice followed the original program outline and adhered to evidence‐based medicine methodology. Sixty‐eight new studies qualified for review. Piribedil, pramipexole, pramipexole extended release, ropinirole, rotigotine, cabergoline, and pergolide were all efficacious as symptomatic monotherapy; ropinirole prolonged release was likely efficacious. All were efficacious as a symptomatic adjunct except pramipexole extended release, for which there is insufficient evidence. For prevention/delay of motor fluctuations, pramipexole and cabergoline were efficacious, and for prevention/delay of dyskinesia, pramipexole, ropinirole, ropinirole prolonged release, and cabergoline were all efficacious, whereas pergolide was likely efficacious. Duodenal infusion of levodopa was likely efficacious in the treatment of motor complications, but the practice implication is investigational. Entacapone was nonefficacious as a symptomatic adjunct to levodopa in nonfluctuating patients and nonefficacious in the prevention/delay of motor complications. Rasagiline conclusions were revised to efficacious as a symptomatic adjunct, and as treatment for motor fluctuations. Clozapine was efficacious in dyskinesia, but because of safety issues, the practice implication is possibly useful. Bilateral subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation, bilateral globus pallidus stimulation, and unilateral pallidotomy were updated to efficacious for motor complications. Physical therapy was revised to likely efficacious as symptomatic adjunct therapy. This evidence‐based medicine review updates the field and highlights gaps for research. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
How to compare scores from different depression scales: equating the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ) and the ICD‐10‐Symptom Rating (ISR) using Item Response Theory
Authors: Fischer H. Felix , Tritt Karin , Klapp Burghard F. , Fliege Herbert
Published: October 2011

A wide range of questionnaires for measuring depression are available. Item Response Theory models can help to evaluate the questionnaires exceeding the boundaries of Classical Test Theory and provide an opportunity to equate the questionnaires.

In this study after checking for unidimensionality, a General Partial Credit Model was applied to data from two different depression scales [Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ‐9) and ICD‐10‐Symptom Rating (ISR)] obtained in clinical settings from a consecutive sample, including 4517 observations from a total of 2999 inpatients and outpatients of a psychosomatic clinic. The precision of each questionnaire was compared and the model was used to transform scores based on the assumed underlying latent trait.

Both instruments were constructed to measure the same construct and their estimates of depression severity are highly correlated. Our analysis showed that the predicted scores provided by the conversion tables are similar to the observed scores in a validation sample.

The PHQ‐9 and ISR depression scales measure depression severity across a broad range with similar precision. While the PHQ‐9 shows advantages in measuring low or high depression severity, the ISR is more parsimonious and also suitable for clinical purposes. Furthermore, the equation tables derived in this study enhance the comparability of studies using either one of the instruments, but due to substantial statistical spread the comparison of individual scores is imprecise. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Accurate computer‐aided quantification of left ventricular parameters: Experience in 1555 cardiac magnetic resonance studies from the Framingham Heart Study
Authors: Hautvast Gilion L. T. F. , Salton Carol J. , Chuang Michael L. , Breeuwer Marcel , O'Donnell Christopher J. , Manning Warren J.
Published: October 2011

Quantitative analysis of short‐axis functional cardiac magnetic resonance images can be performed using automatic contour detection methods. The resulting myocardial contours must be reviewed and possibly corrected, which can be time‐consuming, particularly when performed across all cardiac phases. We quantified the impact of manual contour corrections on both analysis time and quantitative measurements obtained from left ventricular short‐axis cine images acquired from 1555 participants of the Framingham Heart Study Offspring cohort using computer‐aided contour detection methods. The total analysis time for a single case was 7.6 ± 1.7 min for an average of 221 ± 36 myocardial contours per participant. This included 4.8 ± 1.6 min for manual contour correction of 2% of all automatically detected endocardial contours and 8% of all automatically detected epicardial contours. However, the impact of these corrections on global left ventricular parameters was limited, introducing differences of 0.4 ± 4.1 mL for end‐diastolic volume, −0.3 ± 2.9 mL for end‐systolic volume, 0.7 ± 3.1 mL for stroke volume, and 0.3 ± 1.8% for ejection fraction. We conclude that left ventricular functional parameters can be obtained under 5 min from short‐axis functional cardiac magnetic resonance images using automatic contour detection methods. Manual correction more than doubles analysis time, with minimal impact on left ventricular volumes and ejection fraction. Magn Reson Med, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Regional homogeneity abnormalities in patients with interictal migraine without aura: a resting‐state study
Authors: Yu Dahua , Yuan Kai , Zhao Ling , Zhao Limei , Dong Minghao , Liu Peng , Wang Guihong , Liu Jixin , Sun Jinbo , Zhou Guangyu , von Deneen Karen M. , Liang Fanrong , Qin Wei , Tian Jie
Published: October 2011

Previous studies have provided evidence of structural and task‐related functional changes in the brains of patients with migraine without aura. Resting‐state brain activity in patients with migraine provides clues to the pathophysiology of the disease. However, few studies have focused on the resting‐state abnormalities in patients with migraine without aura. In the current study, we employed a data‐driven method, regional homogeneity (ReHo), to analyze the local features of spontaneous brain activity in patients with migraine without aura during the resting state. Twenty‐six patients with migraine without aura and 26 age‐, education‐ and gender‐matched healthy volunteers participated in this study. Compared with healthy controls, patients with migraine without aura showed a significant decrease in ReHo values in the right rostral anterior cingulate cortex (rACC), the prefrontal cortex (PFC), the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) and the supplementary motor area (SMA). In addition, we found that ReHo values were negatively correlated with the duration of disease in the right rACC and PFC. Our results suggest that the resting‐state abnormalities of these regions may be associated with functional impairments in pain processing in patients with migraine without aura. We hope that our results will improve the understanding of migraine. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Radiation recall myositis in pediatric Ewing sarcoma
Authors: Hattangadi Jona , Esty Brittany , Winey Brian , Duigenan Shauna , Huang Mary , Yock Torunn
Published: October 2011

Radiation recall is a rare and poorly understood phenomenon, characterized by an acute inflammatory reaction within the previously irradiated area, triggered by a precipitating systemic agent. This reaction typically affects the skin, and radiation recall myositis in the absence of cutaneous involvement has rarely been described in the literature. In this report, we present two cases of radiation recall in pediatric Ewing sarcoma patients receiving successive proton radiotherapy and chemotherapy, with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of muscle edema within the prior radiation fields. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012;59:570–572. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparison of allergic reactions to pegasparaginase given intravenously versus intramuscularly
Authors: Pidaparti Mahati , Bostrom Bruce
Published: October 2011

Background

Pegasparaginase (PEG) is important for treatment of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). Despite conjugation to polyethylene glycol to reduce immunogenicity, allergic reactions still occur and may be severe. Traditionally, PEG is given via intramuscular (IM) injection but recent protocols have shown it can be safely given intravenously (IV), which may be preferred by patients. There is a potential concern that the IV route may result in more severe allergic reactions due to immediate exposure to reactive antibodies in the blood, which is delayed after IM administration. The purpose of our study is to compare the severity and incidence of allergic reactions with IV versus IM PEG. We are unaware of any prior studies examining this.

Procedure

We reviewed all patients with ALL diagnosed from 2005 to 2010 inclusive who received PEG and had an allergic reaction. Reactions were graded using both common toxicity criteria (CTC) 3.0 and 4.0.

Results

Allergic reactions were seen in 17 of 186 (9%) newly diagnosed patients receiving IM PEG and 4 of 11 (36%) receiving IV PEG; P = 0.019. The severity of reaction was not increased with IV versus IM. Allergic reactions occurred more frequently in high‐risk patients (14 of 85; 16%) versus standard risk (7 of 112; 6%), P = 0.034.

Conclusions

There appears to be an increased incidence of allergic reactions in patients who receive IV PEG compared with IM although the severity is similar. In addition high‐risk patients appear to have more allergic reactions than standard risk. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012;59:436–439. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Quality Evaluation of a Herbal Prescription Through Quantification of 40 Components by HPLC–ESI–MS/MS
Authors: Liu Man , Liu Songchen , Shi Xiaowei , Liu Minyan , Zhang Yingfeng Du’ Lantong , Wang Qiao
Published: October 2011

Introduction

The Kang‐nao‐shuai (KNS) capsule is a combined herbal prescription used in the treatment of insomnia, amnesia, neurasthenia, age‐related dementia and brain injuries. Multiple constituents are considered to be responsible for the therapeutic effects of this herbal prescription. However, the quality control of the multicomponents is limited.

Objective

To establish a liquid chromatography–electrospray ionisation–mass spectrometry method for the analysis of 40 constituents in KNS capsules.

Methodology

The optimal chromatographic conditions were achieved on an Agilent C18‐column with a gradient elution that consisted of methanol and 0.1% formic acid in water. The precursor and product ions of analytes were monitored on a hybrid quadrupole linear ion trap mass spectrometer in positive and negative mode respectively using multiple‐reaction monitoring.

Results

A total of 40 constituents including organic acid, flavonoid, quinone, terpene, alkaloid and saponin were quantified, most of the 40 components were determined for the first time in the KNS capsule. A quantitative HPLC–ESI–MS/MS method allowing the quantification of 40 marker compounds was optimised and validated for linearity, precision, accuracy, stability, specificity and limits of detection and quantification. The method was successfully applied to analyse 10 batches of KNS capsule.

Conclusion

The established method is simple and can be used as a tool for quality evaluation and control of this natural product. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The UK government's new mental health strategy: uncosted and unrealistic
Authors: Murphy Baroness
Published: October 2011

Earlier this year, the first ever cross‐governmental mental health strategy was launched, laying out plans for the future of mental healthcare in England.1 The Government has recognised that mental health is not simply a Department of Health issue in isolation but that it affects every area of a person's life and impacts upon their ability to play an active role in society. The strategy, however, is woolly, uncosted and lacks an implementation plan. It also fails to focus on the profound level of unmet service needs of people with serious mental illness. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Interface Ltd