bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel biomimetic polymer scaffold design enhances bone ingrowth
Authors: Geffre Chris P. , Margolis David S. , Ruth John T. , DeYoung Donald W. , Tellis Brandi C. , Szivek John A.
Published: December 2008

There has been recent interest in treating large bone defects with polymer scaffolds because current modalities such as autographs and allographs have limitations. Additionally, polymer scaffolds are utilized in tissue engineering applications to implant and anchor tissues in place, promoting integration with surrounding native tissue. In both applications, rapid and increased bone growth is crucial to the success of the implant. Recent studies have shown that mimicking native bone tissue morphology leads to increased osteoblastic phenotype and more rapid mineralization. The purpose of this study was to compare bone ingrowth into polymer scaffolds created with a biomimetic porous architecture to those with a simple porous design. The biomimetic architecture was designed from the inverse structure of native trabecular bone and manufactured using solid free form fabrication. Histology and μCT analysis demonstrated a 500–600% increase in bone growth into and adjacent to the biomimetic scaffold at five months post‐op. This is in agreement with previous studies in which biomimetic approaches accelerated bone formation. It also supports the applicability of polymer scaffolds for the treatment of large tissue defects when implanting tissue‐engineering constructs. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2009
Controlled release of FGF‐2 using fragmin/protamine microparticles and effect on neovascularization
Authors: Nakamura Shingo , Kanatani Yasuhiro , Kishimoto Satoko , Nakamura Shin‐ichiro , Ohno Chizuko , Horio Takuya , Masanori Fujita , Hattori Hidemi , Tanaka Yoshihiro , Kiyosawa Tomoharu , Maehara Tadaaki , Ishihara Masayuki
Published: December 2008

Water‐insoluble fragmin/protamine microparticles of about 0.5–1 μm in diameter were prepared by simple mixing of low‐molecular‐weight heparin (fragmin) with protamine. We investigated the capability of these microparticles to immobilize fibroblast growth factor (FGF)‐2, to protect FGF‐2 against degradation, to enhance FGF‐2 activity, and to facilitate controlled release of FGF‐2. FGF‐2 bound to the fragmin/protamine microparticles with high affinity (Kd = 2.08 × 10−9 M) and the half‐life of FGF‐2‐activity was prolonged substantially through binding of FGF‐2 to the microparticles, by protection of FGF‐2 from inactivation by heat and proteolysis. After subcutaneous injection into the back of mice, the fragmin/protamine microparticles underwent biodegradation and disappeared in about 2 weeks. A similar injection of FGF‐2‐containing microparticles resulted in significant neovascularization and fibrous tissue formation near the injection site after 1 week. These results indicate that controlled release of biologically active FGF‐2 occurs through both slow diffusion and biodegradation of the microparticles, with subsequent induction of neovascularization. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2009
Degradation studies on biodegradable nanocomposite based on polycaprolactone/polycarbonate (80:20%) polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane
Authors: Raghunath Joanne , Georgiou George , Armitage David , Nazhat Showan N. , Sales Kevin M. , Butler Peter E. , Seifalian Alexander M.
Published: December 2008

The development of biocompatible polymers has greatly advanced the field of tissue engineering. Some tissues can be propagated on a nondegradable scaffold. Tissue such as cartilage, however, is a complex tissue in which the chondrocytes require their own synthesized extracellular matrix (ECM) to function. Suitable scaffolds for tissue engineering cartilage should provide mechanical strength and degrade at a similar rate to that of cell growth and ECM production. We have developed a biodegradable nanocomposite based on polycaprolactone and polycarbonate polyurethane (PCU) with an incorporated polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) (POSS modified Poly(caprolactone/carbonate) urethane/urea). Previous work on POSS incorporated into PCU (POSS‐PCU) has been shown to possess good mechanical strength, elasticity and resistance to degradation. This series of experiments involved exposing this polymer to a selection of accelerated degradative solutions for up to 8 weeks. The samples were analyzed by infra‐red spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray microanalysis, contact angle analysis, and stress‐strain mechanical analysis. Degradation of hard and soft segments of the nanocomposite was evident by infra‐red spectroscopy in all conditioned samples. POSS nanocage degradation was evident in some oxidative/peroxidative systems accompanied by gross changes in surface topography and significant changes in mechanical properties. The hydrophobic polymer became more hydrophilic in all conditions. This biodegradable nanocomposite demonstrated steady degradation with protection of mechanical properties when exposed to hydrolytic enzymes and plasma protein fractions and exhibited more dramatic degradation by oxidation.This pattern may be potentially employed in tissue engineering scaffolds where controlled degradation and retained structural stability of the scaffold is required. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2009
Development and validation of a new figural drawing scale for body‐image assessment: the BIAS‐BD
Authors: Gardner Rick M. , Jappe Leah M. , Gardner Lisa
Published: December 2008

This study describes the development and validation of a new and improved body‐image assessment tool, the BIAS‐BD, based on known body dimensions. The scale's construction consisted of 17 male and 17 female contour‐line drawings that used known anthropometric body dimensions of shoulder, chest, waist, hip breadth, thigh breadth, and upper leg breadth. The figural drawings correspond to a series of body weights ranging from 60% below the known average to 140% above average. Differences between figural drawings represented a 5% change in body weight. Participants were 207 undergraduates, including 66 men and 141 women, who selected drawings that reflected their perceived size and their ideal size. Retesting occurred after a 2‐week interval and resulted in test–retest reliability values of r=.86 for actual perceived size, r=.72 for ideal size, and r=.76 for body dissatisfaction (p<.005). There were no significant differences in reliability values between genders. Mean differences in perceived size, ideal size, and body dissatisfaction between the two test administrations were small. Concurrent validity, measured as the correspondence between perceived and reported size, was r=.76 (p<.005). Participants slightly overestimated their perceived body size, with women overestimating significantly more. Unlike existing scales, the present scale uses figural drawings based on known body dimensions and has better reliability and validity. It avoids several problems inherent in existing scales, including scale coarseness, the presence of ethnic facial and body features, and the lack of documented reliability and validity values. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 65:113–122, 2009.
A meta‐analysis of the effects of internet‐ and computer‐based cognitive‐behavioral treatments for anxiety
Authors: Reger Mark A. , Gahm Gregory A.
Published: December 2008

Internet‐and computer‐based cognitive‐behavioral treatments have been introduced as novel approaches to deliver standard, quality treatment that may reduce barriers to care. The purpose of this review is to quantitatively summarize the literature examining the treatment effects of Internet‐ or computer‐based treatment (ICT) on anxiety. Nineteen randomized controlled ICT trials were identified and subjected to fixed and random effects meta‐analytic techniques. Weighted mean effect sizes (Cohen's d) showed that ICT was superior to waitlist and placebo assignment across outcome measures (ds=.49–1.14). The effects of ICT also were equal to therapist‐delivered treatment across anxiety disorders. However, conclusions were limited by small sample sizes, the rare use of placebo controls, and other methodological problems. In addition, the number of available studies limited the opportunity to conduct analyses by diagnostic group; there was preliminary support for the use of ICT for panic disorder and phobia. Large, well‐designed, placebo‐controlled trials are needed to confirm and extend the results of this meta‐analysis. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 65: 1–21, 2009.
Clinically significant symptom change in children with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder: does it correspond with reliable improvement in functioning?
Authors: Karpenko Veronika , Owens Julie Sarno , Evangelista Nicole M. , Dodds Cassandra
Published: December 2008

This study examined the relation between clinically significant (CS) change in symptoms of attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and of oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and reliable change in multiple domains of functioning in children who participated in the Multimodal Treatment Study of Children with ADHD. Children with CS change in symptoms were significantly more likely than children without CS change to have reliable change across five domains of functioning. Interestingly, however, depending on the measure of functioning, 14 to 52% of children who did not achieve CS change in symptoms showed reliable improvement in functional domains. The results have implications for the definition and measurement of CS change in child treatment‐outcome studies. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 65:1–18, 2009.
Hypoxia response element‐driven cytosine deaminase/5‐fluorocytosine gene therapy system: a highly effective approach to overcome the dynamics of tumour hypoxia and enhance the radiosensitivity of prostate cancer cellsin vitro
Authors: Marignol Laure , Foley Ruth , Southgate Thomas D. , Coffey Mary , Hollywood Donal , Lawler Mark
Published: December 2008

Background

We proposed to exploit hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF)‐1α overexpression in prostate tumours and use this transcriptional machinery to control the expression of the suicide gene cytosine deaminase (CD) through binding of HIF‐1α to arrangements of hypoxia response elements. CD is a prodrug activation enzyme, which converts inactive 5‐fluorocytosine to active 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU), allowing selective killing of vector containing cells.

Methods

We developed a pair of vectors, containing either five or eight copies of the hypoxia response element (HRE) isolated from the vascular endothelial growth factor (pH5VCD) or glycolytic enzyme glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (pH8GCD) gene, respectively. The kinetics of the hypoxic induction of the vectors and sensitization effects were evaluated in 22Rv1 and DU145 cellsin vitro.

Results

The CD protein as selectively detected in lysates of transiently transfected 22Rv1 and DU145 cells following hypoxic exposure. This is the first evidence of GAPDH HREs being used to control a suicide gene therapy strategy. Detectable CD levels were sustained upon reoxygenation and prolonged hypoxic exposures. Hypoxia‐induced chemoresistance to 5‐FU was overcome in both cell lines treated with this suicide gene therapy approach. Hypoxic transfectants were sensitized to prodrug concentrations that were ten‐fold lower than those that are clinically relevant. Moreover, the surviving fraction of reoxygenated transfectants could be further reduced with the concomitant delivery of clinically relevant single radiation doses.

Conclusions

This strategy thus has the potential to sensitize the hypoxic compartment of prostate tumours and improve the outcome of current therapies. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Religious actors, civil society and the development agenda: The dynamics of inclusion and exclusion
Authors: McDuie‐Ra Duncan , Rees John A.
Published: December 2008

This article uses the World Bank's engagement with religious actors to analyse their differentiated role in setting the development agenda raising three key issues. First, engagements between international financial institutions (IFIs) and religious actors are formalised thus excluding many of the actors embedded within communities in the South. Secondly, the varied politics of religious actors in development are rarely articulated and a single position is often presented. Thirdly, the potential for development alternatives from religious actors excluded from these engagements is overlooked, due in part to misrecognition of the mutually constitutive relationship between secular and sacral elements in local contexts. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Controlled release of vancomycin from thin sol‐gel films on implant surfaces successfully controls osteomyelitis
Authors: Adams Christopher S. , Antoci Valentin , Harrison Gerald , Patal Payal , Freeman Terry A. , Shapiro Irving M. , Parvizi Javad , Hickok Noreen J. , Radin Shula , Ducheyne Paul
Published: December 2008

Peri‐prosthetic infection remains a serious complication of joint replacement surgery. Herein, we demonstrate that a vancomycin‐containing sol‐gel film on Ti alloy rods can successfully treat bacterial infections in an animal model. The vancomycin‐containing sol‐gel films exhibited predictable release kinetics, while significantly inhibiting S. aureus adhesion. When evaluated in a rat osteomyelitis model, microbiological analysis indicated that the vancomycin‐containing sol‐gel film caused a profound decrease in S. aureus number. Radiologically, while the control side showed extensive bone degradation, including abscesses and an extensive periosteal reaction, rods coated with the vancomycin‐containing sol‐gel film resulted in minimal signs of infection. µCT analysis confirmed the radiological results, while demonstrating that the vancomycin‐containing sol‐gel film significantly protected dense bone from resorption and minimized remodeling. These results clearly demonstrate that this novel thin sol‐gel technology can be used for the targeted delivery of antibiotics for the treatment of periprosthetic as well as other bone infections. © 2008 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 27: 701–709, 2009
Mobile phase additives for enhancing the chromatographic performance of astaxanthin on nonendcapped polymeric C30‐bonded stationary phases
Authors: Kaiser Philipp , Surmann Peter , Fuhrmann Herbert
Published: December 2008

Astaxanthin shows peak deformation and reduced peak area response when eluted with methanol and methyl tert‐butyl ether on nonendcapped polymeric C30‐bonded HPLC phases. The present study tested different column manufacturers, column batches, and ten mobile phase additives including acids, bases, buffers, complexing and antioxidant agents for improvement of peak shape and peak area response. Concerning chromatographic benefits and feasibility, ammonium acetate was found to be the best additive followed by triethylamine for all columns tested. Variation of the mobile phase pH equivalent and the column temperature showed no synergistic effects on peak shape and peak area response. Results indicate that peak tailing and variation of peak area response are due to different on‐column effects. Possible mechanisms of the observed phenomenon will be discussed.
Extensive fractionation and identification of proteins within nasal lavage fluids from allergic rhinitis and asthmatic chronic rhinosinusitis patients
Authors: Benson Linda M. , Mason Christopher J. , Friedman Oren , Kita Hirohito , Bergen III Harold Robert , Plager Douglas A.
Published: December 2008

Allergic rhinitis (AR), chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), and asthma are prevalent airway diseases that can have a substantial impact on a patient's quality of life. MS analyses of biological fluids can effectively screen for proteins associated with disease processes, however, initial detection of diagnostic proteins is difficult due to protein complexity and dynamic range. To enhance the detection of lower abundance proteins, intact nasal lavage fluid (NLF) proteins from nonpolypoid AR and from asthmatic CRS patients were extensively fractionated prior to LC/MS/MS analysis. Pooled NLF samples were processed to remove low molecular weight molecules and high abundance plasma proteins. Anion exchange (AX) chromatography followed by RP‐LC further separated the remaining intact NLF proteins. The resulting fractions were digested with trypsin and the peptides analyzed by LC/MS/MS. Spectra were searched with MASCOT, SEQUEST, and X!Tandem to obtain peptide identifications and subsequently analyzed by Scaffold software to identify parent proteins with at least 99% confidence. The 197 identified proteins are compared to those previously cited in the literature and the workflow evaluated to determine the usefulness for the detection of lower abundance proteins. This is the first extensive list of NLF proteins generated from CRS patients with coexisting asthma.
Binary Reactive/Inert Non‐Fouling Polymeric Surfaces
Authors: Liu Zhilu , Khan Neelam , Hu Haiyuan , Yu Bo , Liu Jianxi , Chen Miao , Zhou Feng
Published: December 2008

Binary reactive/inert antifouling polymer brushes were grafted via a two step surface initiated polymerization from printed initiator monolayer and provided robust, effective polymeric surfaces for bioattachment with distinguishably reduced non‐specific adsorption. This synthetic strategy can be harnessed to build complex binary polymeric structures on substrate surfaces and the polymer brush surfaces reported in the present paper can be widely used for versatile biological study.

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Cancer chemoprevention and mitochondria: Targeting apoptosis in transformed cells via the disruption of mitochondrial bioenergetics/redox state
Authors: Hail Numsen , Lotan Reuben
Published: December 2008

Cancer chemoprevention employs agents that block, hinder, or reverse tumorigenesis to prevent malignancy. Several putative cancer chemopreventive agents promote apoptosis in transformed cells initiated in animal carcinogenesis models or identified in human subjects, and/or in tumor cells cultured in vitro. Consequently, apoptosis induction is increasingly valued as a biologically significant anticancer mechanism in the arena of chemoprevention. In vitro studies suggest that the permeabilization of mitochondrial membranes is an important mechanistic determinant associated with the apoptosis induced by these agents. Mitochondrial membrane permeabilization (MMP) may occur via the control of proapoptotic Bcl‐2 family members, and/or by the induction of the mitochondrial permeability transition. Both of these cell death‐inducing regulatory mechanisms are ultimately responsive to the bioenergetic status/redox state of mitochondria. Interestingly, in addition to inducing MMP, various chemopreventive agents can directly modulate mitochondrial bioenergetics and/or redox tone in transformed cells. This review will examine prospective mechanisms associated with the disruption of mitochondrial function by chemopreventive agents that affect MMP and apoptosis. In doing so, we will construct a paradigm supporting the notion that the bioenergetic and/or redox characteristics of the mitochondria in transformed cells are important targets in the chemoprevention of cancer.
Exploratory correlations of dietary nutrients with prostate cancer mortality using over two decades of observations in Korea
Authors: Moon Hyun Kyung , Kim Chae Yoon , Lee Seung Wook
Published: December 2008

Prostate cancer is now the eighth leading cause of cancer mortality among Korean males. We investigated the relationship between various nutrients in the diet and prostate cancer deaths. Nutrient intake data were obtained from the Korean Nutrition Survey between 1963 and 1995 and the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey since 1998. Prostate cancer mortality rates for these time periods were obtained from the National Statistics Office. The correlations between different nutrients in the diet and mortality were calculated using Spearman's rank correlation analysis with a lag period. Carbohydrates and grains showed significant negative correlations while protein, fat, iron, and riboflavin, and the food groups including fruits, seafood, seasonings and drinks, meat, eggs, fish, and milk showed significant positive correlations. In addition, the correlation results for age‐specific rates virtually coincided with the crude rate correlations. However, we urge caution in interpreting these results because they could merely be a consequence of the changing patterns of food consumption and the recording of deaths in Korea.
Vascular action of polyphenols
Authors: Ghosh Dilip , Scheepens Arjan
Published: December 2008

Dietary patterns are widely recognised as contributors to cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease. Endothelial function, the elastic properties of large arteries and the magnitude and timing of wave reflections are important determinants of cardiovascular performance. Several epidemiological studies suggest that the regular consumption of foods and beverages rich in flavonoids is associated with a reduction in the risk of several pathological conditions ranging from hypertension to coronary heart disease, stroke and dementia. The impairment of endothelial function is directly related to ageing and an association between decreased cerebral perfusion and dementia has been shown to exist. Cerebral blood flow (CBF) must be maintained to ensure a constant delivery of oxygen and glucose as well as the removal of waste products. Increasing blood flow is one potential way for improving brain function and the prospect for increasing CBF with dietary polyphenols is extremely promising. The major polyphenols shown to have some of these effects in humans are primarily from cocoa, wine, grape seed, berries, tea, tomatoes (polyphenolics and nonpolyphenolics), soy and pomegranate. There has been a significant paradigm shift in polyphenol research during the last decade. This review summarises our current knowledge in this area and points the way for the development of new types of functional foods targeted to brain health through improving vascular health.
Can the Mediterranean diet prevent prostate cancer?
Authors: Itsiopoulos Catherine , Hodge Allison , Kaimakamis Mary
Published: December 2008

Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men worldwide. Despite the global importance of this cancer, until recently little was known about risk factors apart from the well‐established factors: age, family history and country of birth. The large worldwide variation in prostate cancer risk and increased risk in migrants moving from low to high risk countries provides strong support for modifiable environmental factors. We have based our review on the findings of a systematic review undertaken by an expert panel on behalf of the World Cancer Research Fund and the American Institute for Cancer Research, and new data since then, linking identified foods and nutrients with prostate cancer. Evidence indicates that foods containing lycopene, as well as selenium and foods containing it, probably protect against prostate cancer, and excess consumption of foods or supplements containing calcium are a probable cause of this cancer. The expert panel also concluded that it is unlikely that β‐carotene (whether from foods or supplements) has a substantial effect on the risk of this cancer. A recent review on environmental factors in human prostate cancer also found that there were protective effects of vitamin E, pulses, soy foods and high plasma 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D levels. The Mediterranean diet is abundant in foods that may protect against prostate cancer and is associated with longevity and reduced cardiovascular and cancer mortality. Compared with many Western countries Greece has lower prostate cancer mortality and Greek migrant men in Australia have retained their low risk for prostate cancer. Consumption of a traditional Mediterranean diet, rich in bioactive nutrients, may confer protection to Greek migrant men, and this dietary pattern offers a palatable alternative for prevention of this disease.
A multiscale framework for computational nanomechanics: Application to the modeling of carbon nanotubes
Authors: Masud Arif , Kannan Raguraman
Published: December 2008

A multiscale computational framework is presented that provides a coupled self‐consistent system of equations involving molecular mechanics at small scales and quasi‐continuum mechanics at large scales. The proposed method permits simultaneous resolution of quasi‐continuum and atomistic length scales and the associated displacement fields in a unified manner. Interatomic interactions are incorporated into the method through a set of analytical equations that contain nanoscale‐based material moduli. These material moduli are defined via internal variables that are functions of the local atomic configuration parameters. Point defects like vacancy defects in nanomaterials perturb the atomic structure locally and generate localized force fields. Formation energy of vacancy is evaluated via interatomic potentials and minimization of this energy leads to nanoscale force fields around defects. These nanoscale force fields are then employed in the multiscale method to solve for the localized displacement fields in the vicinity of vacancies and defects. The finite element method that is developed based on the hierarchical multiscale framework furnishes a two‐level statement of the problem. It concurrently feeds information at the molecular scale, formulated in terms of the nanoscale material moduli, into the quasi‐continuum equations. Representative numerical examples are shown to validate the model and demonstrate its range of applicability. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Energy payback time of grid connected PV systems: Comparison between tracking and fixed systems
Authors: Perpiñan O. , Lorenzo E. , Castro M. A. , Eyras R.
Published: December 2008

A review of existing studies about life cycle assessment (LCA) of PV systems has been carried out. The data from this review have been completed with our own figures in order to calculate the energy payback time (EPBT) of double and horizontal axis tracking and fixed systems. The results of this metric span from 2 to 5 years for the latitude and global irradiation ranges of the geographical area comprised between –10° to 10° of longitude, and 30° to 45° of latitude. With the caution due to the uncertainty of the sources of information, these results mean that a grid connected PV system (GCPVS) is able to produce back the energy required for its existence from 6 to 15 times during a life cycle of 30 years. When comparing tracking and fixed systems, the great importance of the PV generator makes advisable to dedicate more energy to some components of the system in order to increase the productivity and to obtain a higher performance of the component with the highest energy requirement. Both double axis and horizontal axis trackers follow this way, requiring more energy in metallic structure, foundations and wiring, but this higher contribution is widely compensated by the improved productivity of the system. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Paradoxical effects of sublethal exposure to the naturally derived insecticide spinosad in the dengue vector mosquito,Aedes aegypti
Authors: Antonio Gloria E , Sánchez Daniel , Williams Trevor , Marina Carlos F
Published: December 2008

BACKGROUND:Recent studies have indicated that spinosad, a mixture of two tetracyclic macrolide compounds produced during the fermentation of a soil actinomycete, may be suitable for controlling a number of medically important mosquito species, including the dengue vector,Aedes aegyptiL. The authors determined the effects of a 1 h exposure to a 50% lethal concentration (LC50) of spinosad in the larval stage on the wing length, longevity and reproductive capacity of the adult survivors.

RESULTS:The LC50of spinosad for a wild‐caught population ofAe. aegyptifrom Chiapas, southern Mexico, was estimated to be 0.06 mg AI L−1in late third instars. Paradoxically, the female survivors of exposure to this concentration were significantly larger (as determined by wing length) laid more eggs, but were slightly less fertile than control females. This was probably due to elimination of the smaller and more susceptible fraction of mosquito larvae from the experimental population following spinosad treatment. Male survivors, in contrast, were significantly smaller than controls. No significant differences were detected in the adult longevity of treated and control insects of either sex.

CONCLUSIONS:The increase in reproductive capacity of spinosad‐treated females did not compensate for mortality in the larval stage and would be unlikely to result in population increase in this mosquito under the conditions that were employed. Sustained‐release formulations would likely assist in minimizing the occurrence of sublethal concentrations of this naturally derived product in mosquito breeding sites. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Epilepsy: current drug options and their recommended use
Authors: Cader Sarah , Cockerell Charles
Published: December 2008

The choice of antiepileptic drug should reflect seizure type and take account of other medical conditions and treatment. In our Drug review the authors describe the available drug therapies for epilepsy and their recommended use, followed by an analysis of prescription data and sources of further information. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Interface Ltd
Potent modulation of P‐glycoprotein activity by naturally occurring phenylbutenoids fromZingiber cassumunar
Authors: Chung Soo Yeon , Han Ah‐Reum , Sung Min Kyung , Jung Ho Jin , Nam Joo‐Won , Seo Eun‐Kyoung , Lee Hwa Jeong
Published: December 2008

Five phenylbutenoid derivatives from the rhizomes ofZingiber cassumunarRoxb. (Zingiberaceae) were evaluated for their P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) inhibitory effects in a P‐gp over‐expressing multidrug resistant (MDR) human breast cancer cell line, MCF‐7/ADR. As a result, a phenylbutenoid dimer, (±)‐trans‐3‐(3,4‐dimethoxyphenyl)‐4‐[(E)‐3,4‐dimethoxystyryl]cyclohex‐1‐ene (1), exhibited highly potent P‐gp inhibitory activity, decreasing the IC50value of daunomycin (DNM) to 4.31 ± 0.40 µmin the cells (DNM IC50= 37.1 ± 0.59 µm). The positive control, verapamil decreased the IC50value of DNM to 6.94 ± 0.40 µm. Three phenylbutenoid monomers, 2–4 from this plant, also resulted in a significant decrease in the IC50values of DNM compared with the control. In particular, compound 1 markedly enhanced [3H]‐DNM accumulation and significantly reduced [3H]‐DNM efflux compared with the control, and this effect was more potent than that of verapamil, a well‐known P‐gp inhibitor. These results suggest that compound 1 ofZ. cassumunarcan be developed as a potent chemo‐sensitizing agent that reverses P‐gp‐mediated MDR in human cancer chemotherapy. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of antihyperalgesic effect of curcumin on formalin‐induced orofacial pain in rat
Authors: Mittal Niti , Joshi Rupa , Hota Debasish , Chakrabarti Amitava
Published: December 2008

The present study was planned to evaluate the role of curcumin in the formalin‐induced orofacial pain in rats that mimics typical human orofacial pain. Adult Wistar rats of either sex received an injection of 50 µL of 5% v/v subcutaneous formalin injection into one vibrissal pad and consequent facial grooming behavior was monitored. Animals exhibited two distinct periods of nocifensive grooming: (a) an acute phase lasting 0–6 min; and (b) a tonic phase lasting 6–45 min. The analgesic response of curcumin was observed at doses of 25, 50, 100, 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg i.p., administered 15 min prior to formalin injection. Another group received subanalgesic dose of diclofenac (0.2 mg/kg) and curcumin 25 mg/kg. Curcumin and diclofenac were administered 15 and 5 min prior to formalin injection respectively. Curcumin produced a dose‐dependent inhibition of facial grooming in both acute and tonic phases compared to vehicle and potentiated the subanalgesic dose of diclofenac. The study results for the first time demonstrated the per se antinocifensive effect of curcumin and also exhibited a synergistic interaction with the subanalgesic dose of an NSAID in the facial pain model. More studies are necessary to elucidate the mechanisms of curcumin in this model of pain. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of shock and vibration in truck transport in Japan
Authors: Lu Fei , Ishikawa Yutaka , Shiina Takeo , Satake Takaaki
Published: December 2008

To propose potential lab‐simulated vibration tests for developing appropriate cushioning packaging, we recorded vibration acceleration during truck transport, including large sporadic shocks in regular smaller vibration so that acceleration did not cover a normal probability distribution and could not be considered as random vibration. We extracted all shock acceleration from vibration during local road and highway transport and studied the causes. We found that shocks were caused by road roughness, metal joints, difference in levels on the asphalt‐surfaced road, pedestrian crossings, manholes, road curves, left and right turns, railroad crossings, etc. After removing shock events from all vibration acceleration during transport, we reconstructed remaining acceleration as continuous vibration. Vibration acceleration followed the normal probability distribution and could be considered random. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Environmental data recording, analysis and simulation of transport vibrations
Authors: Kipp Bill
Published: December 2008

Transport vibration has long been recognized as a significant source of potential damage to products in distribution. In order to optimize packages for vibration protection, packaging engineers must understand and quantify this vibration and be able to simulate it in the laboratory.

Random vibration testing, which provides the best laboratory simulation, started being used in packaging laboratories in the late 1970s. Initially, the spectrum shapes and levels were based on simple estimates or crude acceleration data, as at that time there was no way to accurately measure transport vibration in the required format. The first truly portable field data recorders were introduced in the late 1980s and currently have the capability to provide complete and meaningful information. As a result, appropriate technology now supports all portions of the process, from measurement and analysis, through laboratory test simulations.

In recent years, many researchers have studied the worldwide transport vibration environment and its simulation in the laboratory. As these studies become more sophisticated, it is being recognized that improvements can be made to the traditional single‐spectrum, power spectral density (PSD) approach. There is increasing recognition of the non‐stationary aspects of the environment, as well as the fact that a variety of shocks are often superimposed on the vibration.

The papers in this special edition illustrate not only the current established practices in the measurement, analysis, and laboratory simulation of transport vibration but also the new concepts regarding both sources and treatment of the data, as well as possible improvements to laboratory simulations. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Measurement of precision for developing automatic transmission electron microscope
Authors: Hayashida Misa , Kimura Yoshihide , Takai Yoshizo
Published: December 2008

Transmission electron microscope (TEM) is one of the most useful tools for atomic‐level characterization; however, it is not user‐friendly because the condition of the electron beam in TEM changes every time it is started, that is, the reproducibility of the condition is insufficient. One of the reasons for the insufficient reproducibility is the magnetic hysteresis of the magnetic lenses used in TEM. We have found that the dumping oscillation around the set value of the condenser lens current reduces the effect of the magnetic hysteresis, and have determined the reproducibilities of the size and position of the electron beam on a sample. The results show that the reproducibilities were markedly improved. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optically monitored wet‐chemical preparation of SEIRA active Au nanostructures
Authors: Enders Dominik , Nagao Tadaaki , Nakayama Tomonobu , Aono Masakazu
Published: December 2008

The growth process of spherical substrate‐bound Au nanoparticles (AuNP) was investigated with in situ visible (VIS) spectroscopy, in situ Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In the VIS spectra, the redshift and broadening of the AuNP's surface plasmon resonance could be observed, as the size of the AuNP increased. FTIR spectra showed the increasing IR absorption of the surrounding water molecules because of the surface‐enhanced infrared absorption (SEIRA), as well as plasmon absorption. IR spectra of adsorbates were further used to compare the SEIRA activity of the resulting Au films. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Auger spectral shape analysis of Sc‐O/W(100) system during phase transition at high temperature
Authors: Nakanishi Y. , Nagatomi T. , Takai Y.
Published: December 2008

The Auger spectral shape analysis of the Sc‐O/W(100) system was performed in order to investigate the chemical state of surface Sc atoms during the phase transition at high temperatures. The measured Sc‐LMM Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) spectra during the phase transition were reproduced by a liner combination of reference spectra obtained from metallic and oxidized Sc thin films on a W(100) substrate. The results revealed that Sc–O complexes on the (1 × 1)‐Sc‐O/W(100) surface are oxidized up to stoichiometry close to Sc2O3 immediately after starting oxygen exposure and diffuse into bulk W(100) during the transition from the (1 × 1)‐ to (2 × 1)‐(1 × 2)‐Sc‐O/W(100) surfaces at 1500 K. It was also found that the Sc–O complexes existing in bulk W(100) segregate to the (2 × 1)‐(1 × 2)‐Sc‐O/W(100) surface at the beginning of the transition from the (2 × 1)‐(1 × 2) to (1 × 1)‐Sc‐O/W(100) surfaces. The following desorption of surface oxygen atoms and the reconstruction of the Sc–O complexes result in the formation of the (1 × 1) structure. The present results confirmed that the diffusion and surface segregation of Sc–O complexes play an important role in determining surface properties of the Sc‐O/W(100) system. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Real‐time XAFS analysis of Rh/alumina catalyst
Authors: Dohmae Kazuhiko , Nagai Yasutaka , Tanabe Toshitaka , Suzuki Akane , Inada Yasuhiro , Nomura Masaharu
Published: December 2008

Reduction rates of rhodium supported on alumina were investigated with in situ time‐resolved X‐ray absorption fine structure (XAFS). The catalytic sample was prepared with 0.5‐wt% rhodium on the alumina powder by a usual impregnation method. Two types of XAFS techniques were applied for the experiments: energy‐dispersive XAFS and usual step‐scanning XAFS. The reduction rates of the rhodium supported on alumina after oxidizing treatment at 500 °C were measured with dispersive XAFS. The reducing condition was with 3% H2 in He at various temperatures from 100 to 250oC. The spectra of Rh K‐edge X‐ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) were acquired every 0.2 s. The oxidation state of the rhodium was evaluated by the energy shift of Rh K‐edge. The reduction rate of the rhodium was on a line in an Arrhenius plot. Reduction of the rhodium on the alumina in 3% H2 in He at 900 °C after high temperature oxidization at 900 and 1000 °C were measured with step‐scan XAFS. Though a portion of the rhodium was reduced in a few minutes, the residual rhodium was hardly reduced. The hardly reducible rhodium was considered to be reacted with the alumina support and lost catalytic activities. The ratio of the deactivated rhodium has been estimated as a function of the oxidization temperature and period. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A graphical approach to sequentially rejective multiple test procedures
Authors: Bretz Frank , Maurer Willi , Brannath Werner , Posch Martin
Published: December 2008

For clinical trials with multiple treatment arms or endpoints a variety of sequentially rejective, weighted Bonferroni‐type tests have been proposed, such as gatekeeping procedures, fixed sequence tests, and fallback procedures. They allow to map the difference in importance as well as the relationship between the various research questions onto an adequate multiple test procedure. Since these procedures rely on the closed test principle, they usually require the explicit specification of a large number of intersection hypotheses tests. The underlying test strategy may therefore be difficult to communicate. We propose a simple iterative graphical approach to construct and perform such Bonferroni‐type tests. The resulting multiple test procedures are represented by directed, weighted graphs, where each node corresponds to an elementary hypothesis, together with a simple algorithm to generate such graphs while sequentially testing the individual hypotheses. The approach is illustrated with the visualization of several common gatekeeping strategies. A case study is used to illustrate how the methods from this article can be used to tailor a multiple test procedure to given study objectives. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Systems thinking and the use of systemic methodologies in knowledge management
Authors: Paucar‐Caceres Alberto , Pagano Rosane
Published: December 2008

Conceptually, systems thinking (ST) and knowledge management (KM) seem to share similar grounds. At the level of practice, there is some evidence, if still patchy, that established systemic methodologies (SM) developed in the UK have been informing KM practice. This paper discusses the conceptual links between ST and KM, exploring the theoretical approaches that were embedded in the early KM literature. A survey of journals from both systems practice and KM areas is carried out to assess the exposure of SM in KM articles. Titles and abstracts of papers published in a sample of management science (MS)/operational research (OR) and KM journals between 1995 and 2005 were queried for the occurrence of SM typical keywords in order to identify articles that have used ST in general and a SM in particular. Results suggest that methods such as systems dynamics, complexity theory, soft systems methodology, viable systems model and critical systems have started to become visible in KM applications; we discuss some of these articles focusing on the methodological orientations of the approaches used. The paper aims to raise KM and systemic practice researchers' awareness of the benefits of further exchange and conversation between these two fields of management. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Erhöhung der Restnutzungsdauer an ermüdungs‐überbeanspruchten Bauteilen einer Stabbogenbrücke bei Lutherstadt Wittenberg
Authors: Klinger Christian , Braune Gerhard , Lüddecke Falk
Published: December 2008

An einer Eisenbahnbrücke über die Elbe bei Lutherstadt Wittenberg führten windinduzierte Schwingungen zu einer unplanmäßigen und frühzeitigen Ermüdung ausgewählter Bauteile und Verbindungen des Stahltragwerks.

Für die zyklisch bereits vorbelasteten und noch im Bauwerk befindlichen Bauteile konnte rechnerisch eine ausreichende Restnutzungsdauer nicht ermittelt werden. Auf Basis von experimentellen Untersuchungen wurde daher ein ingenieurmäßiges und baustellengeeignetes Sanierungskonzept für die vorbelasteten Bauteile entwickelt, deren Hauptbestandteil das Beschleifen der betroffenen Oberflächen darstellt.

Weiterhin wurden für die ermüdeten Schweißverbindungen bruchmechanische Berechnungen angestellt, um auch deren Restnutzungsdauer abschätzen zu können. Hierfür wurden den im Bereich der Deutschen Bahn AG geltenden Rechenansätzen vergleichend weitere Ansätze aus dem Maschinenbau gegenübergestellt.

Durch die angestellten Berechnungen und Untersuchungen konnte nachgewiesen werden, dass für die betroffenen Bauteile nach deren Sanierung ausreichende Tragsicherheit und Ermüdungssicherheit vorschriftengemäß eingehalten werden.
Time‐dependent protective efficacy of Trolox (vitamin E analog) against microcystin‐induced toxicity in tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
Authors: Prieto Ana Isabel , Jos Angeles , Pichardo Silvia , Moreno Isabel , de Sotomayor María Álvarez , Moyano Rosario , Blanco Alfonso , Cameán Ana María
Published: December 2008

Microcystins (MCs), hepatotoxins from cyanobacteria, induce oxidative stress and pathological changes in fish that can be ameliorated with chemoprotectants such as vitamin E (vit E). This study investigated the time period after MCs exposure in which Trolox, a vitamin E analog, is effective against oxidative and histological damage in different organs of tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Fish were fed Trolox supplement (700 mg/kg diet) for 7 days, or received only commercial fish food, and then were exposed to a single oral dose of 120 μg/fish microcystin‐LR, and sacrificed in 24, 48, or 72 h. The Trolox protective efficacy was evaluated based on lipid peroxidation (LPO), protein oxidation, enzymatic and non‐enzymatic antioxidants, and a morphologic study. Regarding the oxidative stress biomarkers altered by MCs, the higher protective action of Trolox was observed 24 h post toxin exposure, although it extends also until 48 h in gills (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT)), and liver, where glutathione reductase (GR) backed to control values 48 and 72 h after the toxin application. Glutathione‐S‐ transferase (GST) activity in the liver was ameliorated by the chemoprotectant after 24 and 48 h, although control values were not recovered. Trolox modulation of these biomarkers and its ability to quench free radicals explain the recovery of LPO values in all organs at 24 h and also in gills at 48 h. Histopathologically, Trolox efficacy was more evident after 72 h. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2009.