bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing bromocriptine effects with levodopa effects on bladder function in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Uchiyama Tomoyuki , Sakakibara Ryuji , Yamamoto Tatsuya , Ito Takashi , Chiharu Yamaguchi M , Awa Yusuke , Yano Masashi , Yanagisawa Mitsuru , Kobayashi Makoto , Higuchi Yoshinori , Ichikawa Tomohiko , Yamanishi Tomonori , Hattori Takamichi , Kuwabara Satoshi
Published: November 2009

To evaluate the effects of bromocriptine on bladder function in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients and compare these effects with those of (L‐dopa). We recruited 8 patients with PD. Urodynamic study (UDS) was performed before and 1 hour after administering 100 mgL‐dopa/decarboxylase inhibitor (DCI) and 2.5 hours after administering 7.5 mg bromocriptine. After the bromocriptine administration, urinary urgency aggravated. UDS revealed a decreased bladder volume at which detrusor overactivity (DO) was initiated, a decreased bladder volume at first sensation of bladder filling (FSV) (P< 0.05), an increased maximum Watts Factor value (WFmax) (detrusor contractility), a decreased Abrams‐Griffiths (AG) number (urethral obstruction), and a decreased postvoid residual (PVR) (P< 0.01). Similarly, after theL‐dopa administration, urinary urgency aggravated. UDS revealed an aggravated DO (P< 0.05), a decreased FSV and bladder capacity (P< 0.01, 0.05), an increased WFmax (P< 0.05), an increased AG number, and a decreased PVR (P< 0.01). A single dose of bromocriptine proved to exacerbate urinary urgency and DO in the storage phase, and improve bladder emptying through increased detrusor contractility and decreased bladder outlet obstruction, within hours. With the exception of bladder outlet obstruction, these effects of bromocriptine are similar to the effects ofL‐dopa, albeit slightly less pronounced. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
Stereotypical hand movements in 144 subjects with Rett syndrome from the population‐based Australian database
Authors: Carter Philippa , Downs Jenny , Bebbington Ami , Williams Simon , Jacoby Peter , Kaufmann Walter E. , Leonard Helen
Published: November 2009

Stereotypic hand movements are a feature of Rett Syndrome but few studies have observed their nature systematically. Video data in familiar settings were obtained on subjects (n = 144) identified from an Australian population‐based database. Hand stereotypies were demonstrated by most subjects (94.4%), 15 categories were observed and midline wringing was seen in approximately 60% of subjects. There was a median of two stereotypies per subject but this number decreased with age. Clapping and mouthing of hands were more prevalent in girls younger than 8 years and wringing was more prevalent in women 19 years or older. Clapping was commoner in those with p.R306C and early truncating mutations, and much rarer in those with p.R106W, p.R270X, p.R168X, and p.R255X. Stereotypies tended to be less frequent in those with more severe mutations. Otherwise, there were no clear relationships between our categories of stereotypies and mutation. Approximately a quarter each had predominantly right and left handed stereotypies and for the remaining half, no clear laterality was seen. Results were similar for all cases and when restricted to those with a pathogenic mutation. Hand stereotypies changed with increasing age but limited relationships withMECP2mutations were identified. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
A comparison of gray and white matter density in patients with Parkinson's disease dementia and dementia with Lewy bodies using voxel‐based morphometry
Authors: Lee Ji E. , Park Bosuk , Song Sook K. , Sohn Young H. , Park Hae‐Jeong , Lee Phil Hyu
Published: November 2009

Despite clinical and neuropsychological similarities between Parkinson's disease dementia (PDD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), recent studies have demonstrated that structural and pathological changes are more severe in DLB than in PDD. We used voxel‐based morphometry using a 3‐T MRI scanner to compare gray and white matter densities in 20 patients with probable PDD and 18 patients with probable DLB, who had similar overall severity of dementia and similar demographic characteristics. The gray matter density was significantly decreased in the left occipital, parietal, and striatal areas in patients with DLB compared with patients with PDD. The white matter density was significantly decreased in bilateral occipital and left occipito‐parietal areas in patients with DLB compared with those with PDD. The degree of white and gray matter atrophy was similar in patients with DLB; in contrast, there was markedly less atrophy in the white matter than in the gray matter in patients with PDD. On analyzing the change of WM density relative to that of GM density in patients with DLB compared to those with PDD, the area of WM atrophy in the occipital areas was more extensive than that of GM atrophy. Our data demonstrate that atrophy of both gray and white matter was more severe in patients with DLB and that white matter atrophy relative to gray matter atrophy was less severe in patients with PDD. These data may reflect a difference in the underlying nature of PDD and DLB. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
Mutation screening of the DYT6/THAP1 gene in Italy
Authors: Bonetti Monica , Barzaghi Chiara , Brancati Francesco , Ferraris Alessandro , Bellacchio Emanuele , Giovanetti Alessandro , Ialongo Tamara , Zorzi Giovanna , Piano Carla , Petracca Martina , Albanese Alberto , Nardocci Nardo , Dallapiccola Bruno , Bentivoglio Anna Rita , Garavaglia Barbara , Valente Enza Maria
Published: November 2009

Mutations in the THAP1 gene on chromosome 8p21‐p22 (DYT6 locus) have been recently reported as causative of autosomal dominant primary torsion dystonia (PTD) in four Amish–Mennonite families and in 12 additional probands of different ancestry. We sequenced the THAP1 gene in 158 patients with DYT1‐negative PTD who had onset of symptoms below 30 years and/or positive family history. One sporadic Greek male patient, aged 57 years, was found to carry a novel heterozygous missense variant in THAP1 exon 3 (p.Cys170Arg), of likely pathogenic significance. This subject first presented with right writer's cramp at age of 10 years and, subsequently, developed left arm dystonia and an extremely severe left laterocollis, without further spreading to other body districts. Our findings expand the genotypic spectrum of THAP1 and strengthen the association with upper body involvement, including the cranial and cervical districts that are usually spared in DYT1‐PTD. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
Structure elucidation and NMR assignments for two xanthone derivatives from a mangrove endophytic fungus (No. ZH19)
Authors: Huang Zhongjing , Yang Ruiyun , Yin Xianhong , She Zhigang , Lin Yongcheng
Published: November 2009

The structure elucidations and complete 1H and 13C NMR assignments are reported for two new xanthone derivatives: 1,7‐dihydroxy‐2‐methoxy‐3‐(3‐methylbut‐2‐enyl)‐9H‐xanthen‐9‐one (1) and 1‐hydroxy‐4,7‐dimethoxy‐6‐(3‐oxobutyl)‐9H‐xanthen‐9‐one (2). Both of these secondary metabolites were isolated from the fermentation medium of a mangrove endophytic fungus (No. ZH19). High‐resolution electron impact mass spectrometry (HREIMS), Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) absorption spectrometry, and NMR experiments including gCOSY, gHMQC, and gHMBC were used for the determination of the structures and NMR spectral assignments. Preliminary pharmacological test showed that compounds (1) and (2) inhibited KB cells with IC50 values of 20 and 35 µmol/ml, and KBV200 cells with IC50 values of 30 and 41 µmol/ml, respectively. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The “switching on” of mammalian spermatozoa: Molecular events involved in promotion and regulation of capacitation
Authors: Fraser Lynn R.
Published: November 2009

Following the discovery of mammalian sperm capacitation and its fundamental importance for the acquisition of fertilizing potential, it has gradually become possible to identify some specific molecules and molecular events that play pivotal roles in the “switching on” of spermatozoa. These are discussed in the context of the promotion and regulation of capacitation, emphasizing differences between commonly used conditions in vitro and the environment in vivo where spermatozoa normally undergo capacitation. Although typical culture media used in vitro do support capacitation, they do not prevent capacitated cells from undergoing spontaneous acrosome reactions and so losing fertilizing potential. This is not a problem in vitro, but could be in vivo where few spermatozoa reach the site of fertilization. Several small molecules, known to be present in vivo, have been shown in vitro to bind to spermatozoa and to regulate capacitation, first accelerating capacitation and then inhibiting spontaneous acrosome reactions, by regulating cAMP production. Since spermatozoa would contact these molecules during and after ejaculation, it is plausible that they serve a similar function in vivo. The mechanisms whereby the presence or absence of decapacitation factors might alter plasma membrane architecture and so alter functionality of a number of membrane‐associated enzymes involved in capacitation are also considered. Finally, several unresolved issues relating to events during capacitation are discussed. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 77: 197–208, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nucleoli from growing oocytes support the development of enucleolated full‐grown oocytes in the pig
Authors: Kyogoku Hirohisa , Ogushi Sugako , Miyano Takashi
Published: November 2009

Recent research has shown that the maternal nucleolus is essential for embryonic development. The morphology of the nucleolus in growing oocytes differs from that in full‐grown oocytes. We determined the ability of nucleoli from growing oocytes to substitute for nucleoli of full‐grown oocytes in terms of supporting embryonic development in this study. Growing (around 100 µm in diameter) and full‐grown porcine oocytes (120 µm) were collected from small (0.6–1.0 mm) and large antral follicles (4–5 mm), respectively. The nucleolus was aspirated from full‐grown oocytes by micromanipulation, and the resulting enucleolated oocytes were matured to metaphase II; the nucleoli originating from full‐grown and growing oocytes were then injected into the oocytes. The Chromatin of growing oocytes was aspirated with the nucleolus during the enucleolation process. Growing oocytes were thus treated with actinomycin D to release the chromatin from their nucleoli, and the nucleoli were collected and transferred to the enucleolated and matured full‐grown oocytes. After activation by electro‐stimulation, nucleoli were formed in pronuclei of sham‐operated oocytes. Enucleolated oocytes that had been injected with nucleoli from either full‐grown or growing, however, did not form any nucleoli in the pronuclei. No enucleolated oocytes developed to blastocysts, whereas enucleolated oocytes injected with nucleoli from full‐grown oocytes (15%) or growing oocytes (18%) developed to blastocysts. These results indicate that the nucleoli from growing oocytes can substitute for nucleoli from full‐grown oocytes during early embryonic development. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 77: 167–173, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Vertebrate maternal‐effect genes: Insights into fertilization, early cleavage divisions, and germ cell determinant localization from studies in the zebrafish
Authors: Lindeman Robin E. , Pelegri Francisco
Published: November 2009

In the earliest stages of animal development prior to the commencement of zygotic transcription, all critical cellular processes are carried out by maternally‐provided molecular products accumulated in the egg during oogenesis. Disruption of these maternal products can lead to defective embryogenesis. In this review, we focus on maternal genes with roles in the fundamental processes of fertilization, cell division, centrosome regulation, and germ cell development with emphasis on findings from the zebrafish, as this is a unique and valuable model system for vertebrate reproduction. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 77: 299–313, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The expression of leptin and its receptor during different physiological stages in the bovine ovary
Authors: Sarkar M. , Schilffarth Stefanie , Schams Dieter , Meyer Heinrich H.D. , Berisha Bajram
Published: November 2009

Leptin, the hormonal product of the obese (ob) gene, circulates in the blood at levels paralleling those of fat reserves and regulates satiety. In cattle, leptin has also been implicated in the control of ovarian function, but its local production in the ovary and role in the control of ovarian function in autocrine/paracrine manner is unknown. The aims of this study were to document the expression of leptin and its receptor (Ob‐R) in detail in bovine corpus luteum (CL) obtained from different stages of the oestrous cycle and during pregnancy—and to determine if the leptin/Ob‐R system is expressed clearly in bovine follicles during final growth to preovulatory follicles. Real‐time RT‐PCR (qPCR) was applied to investigate mRNA expression of examined factors. In general, we demonstrated leptin and its receptor transcripts and leptin protein are consistent with in vivo luteinisation of bovine CL and decline coincidental with luteal regression. The highest co‐expression of leptin/Ob‐R system was observed in TI and GC of the smallest follicles with E2 concentration <0.5 ng/ml followed by significant down regulation in growing follicles with the increase of follicular size and E2 content in the follicular fluid. Furthermore, expression of the leptin/Ob‐R system does not show any significant variation in the CL throughout pregnancy. To conclude, our results are the first to demonstrate the possible involvement of locally produced leptin/Ob‐R system in the bovine ovary, suggesting roles in the function and/or development of the CL and growth of small follicles in an autocrine/paracrine fashion. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 77: 174–181, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Patients' perceptions of drug information given by a rheumatology nurse: A phenomenographic study
Authors: Larsson Ingrid , Arvidsson Susann , Bergman Stefan , Arvidsson Barbro
Published: November 2009

Background: Pain, stiffness and functional restriction of the joints are the main problems experienced by patients with inflammatory rheumatic conditions. The majority of patients with rheumatic diseases require several drugs every day. Adherence is highest among patients who have repeatedly been given drug information by a nurse from the start of the treatment. When developing patient information, it is essential to utilize patients' experiences.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to describe variations in how patients with rheumatic diseases perceive drug information given by a rheumatology nurse.

Methods: The study had a descriptive qualitative design with a phenomenographic approach. Fifteen inpatients with rheumatic diseases who had received a new drug agreed to take part in the study and were interviewed.

Results: Three descriptive categories emerged: autonomy, power and security. Autonomy was based on patients' experiences of taking responsibility and participating. Power meant gaining knowledge and being motivated to take the drug. Security involved trust, experiencing care and access to a rheumatology nurse.

Conclusions: For patients with a rheumatic disease, drug information from a rheumatology nurse gave them autonomy, power and security. These factors could explain why information from a nurse increases adherence to drug treatment.
Quantification of brain glycogen concentration and turnover through localized 13C NMR of both the C1 and C6 resonances
Authors: van Heeswijk Ruud B. , Morgenthaler Florence D. , Xin Lijing , Gruetter Rolf
Published: November 2009

We have recently shown that at isotopic steady state 13C NMR can provide a direct measurement of glycogen concentration changes, but that the turnover of glycogen was not accessible with this protocol. The aim of the present study was to design, implement and apply a novel dual‐tracer infusion protocol to simultaneously measure glycogen concentration and turnover. After reaching isotopic steady state for glycogen C1 using [1‐13C] glucose administration, [1,6‐13C2] glucose was infused such that isotopic steady state was maintained at the C1 position, but the C6 position reflected 13C label incorporation. To overcome the large chemical shift displacement error between the C1 and C6 resonances of glycogen, we implemented 2D gradient based localization using the Fourier series window approach, in conjunction with time‐domain analysis of the resulting FIDs using jMRUI. The glycogen concentration of 5.1 ± 1.6 mM measured from the C1 position was in excellent agreement with concomitant biochemical determinations. Glycogen turnover measured from the rate of label incorporation into the C6 position of glycogen in the α‐chloralose anesthetized rat was 0.7 µmol/g/h. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Frequency and development of CNS involvement in Chinese children with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis
Authors: Yang Shuang , Zhang Li , Jia Chenguang , Ma Honghao , Henter Jan‐Inge , Shen Kunling
Published: November 2009

Background

We investigated the characteristics, frequency, and prognosis of central nervous system (CNS) involvement in patients with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH).

Procedure

Neurological manifestations were prospectively assessed in 92 children with HLH treated from January 2004 to August 2008 at our center; 82 (89%) had associated viral infections (69 Epstein–Barr virus), one empyema, while no associated disease was identified in the remaining nine. Prior to treatment, all underwent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) evaluation, brain computer tomography (CT) and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Results

At diagnosis, 43 (47%) children had CNS involvement. Twelve patients (13%) had neurological symptoms, including seizures, ataxia, coma, cranial nerve palsy, and hemiplegia. All patients improved after 8 weeks of therapy, but one later developed progressive neurological symptoms and six discontinued therapy due to progressive systemic symptoms and/or other reasons. Fifteen patients had CSF abnormalities that all normalized completely after 6 weeks of treatment. Thirty‐six patients (39%) had neuroradiological abnormalities; with 5 still under treatment, 15 lost to follow‐up, and 16 followed after completion of therapy. Of these 16, 12 improved, 3 were unchanged, and 1 progressed. Among all 21 children with CNS involvement followed after completion of therapy, 10 recovered completely, 10 improved (3 had remaining neuroradiological abnormalities), and 1 progressed clinically and neuroradiologically.

Conclusion

Most patients reported here suffered from secondary HLH and since CNS involvement is frequent in HLH, brain MRI at diagnosis is recommended in all HLH patients. Clinical and CSF abnormalities often improved within 8 weeks of therapy, but CT/MRI abnormalities normalized more slowly and less frequently. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2010;54:408–415. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Neurodegenerative central nervous system Langerhans cell histiocytosis and coincident hydrocephalus treated with vincristine/cytosine arabinoside
Authors: Allen Carl E. , Flores Ricardo , Rauch Ronald , Dauser Robert , Murray Jeffrey C. , Puccetti Diane , Hsu David A. , Sondel Paul , Hetherington Maxine , Goldman Stan , McClain Kenneth L.
Published: November 2009

Background

Central nervous system (CNS) complications of Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) include mass lesions and a neurodegenerative (ND) syndrome with ataxia, dysarthria, dysmetria, learning and behavior difficulties and/or characteristic changes on brain MRIs. Hydrocephalus has rarely been reported in LCH. LCH lesions of the orbit, mastoid and temporal bones (“CNS‐Risk” lesions) and diabetes insipidus predispose patients to ND‐CNS‐LCH. Treatment options have been limited and only a case series using trans‐retinoic acid (ATRA) and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) have been published.

Methods

We have used cytosine arabinoside (ARA‐C) with or without vincristine to treat eight patients with ND‐CNS LCH. Patients: Seven male children and one young adult male with clinical and radiologic ND‐CNS‐LCH were treated with a regimen of vincristine 1.5 mg/m2 on day 1 and ARA‐C 100 mg/m2 daily for 5 days or ARA‐C alone monthly for 4–19 months. Seven patients were evaluated with an ataxia rating scale (ARS) and all with serial MRIs of the brain.

Results

Five of seven patients had decreases in their ARS scores and/or decreased T2 hyperintense lesions on MRI images. Grade 2 neutropenia was the most frequent adverse event. Vincristine‐associated neuropathy occurred in two patients. Hydrocephalus caused symptoms and signs that confounded the diagnosis and management of ND‐CNS‐LCH in all four patients affected with both.

Conclusions

Subtle changes in neurologic function may be complicated by hydrocephalus. Vcr/ARA‐C or ARA‐C were an effective therapies for some ND‐CNS LCH patients. A clinical trial using this and possibly other modalities such as IVIG or ATRA should be done. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2010;54:416–423. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Trilateral retinoblastoma: Potentially curable with intensive chemotherapy
Authors: Dunkel Ira J. , Jubran Rima F. , Gururangan Sri , Chantada Guillermo L. , Finlay Jonathan L. , Goldman Stewart , Khakoo Yasmin , O'Brien Joan M. , Orjuela Manuela , Rodriguez‐Galindo Carlos , Souweidane Mark M. , Abramson David H.
Published: November 2009

Background

Trilateral retinoblastoma has been lethal in virtually all cases previously reported. We describe a series of 13 patients treated with intensive chemotherapy, defined as the intention to include high‐dose chemotherapy with autologous hematopoietic stem cell rescue.

Procedure

Induction chemotherapy generally included vincristine, cisplatin or carboplatin, cyclophosphamide, and etoposide. Hematopoietic stem cells typically were harvested after the first or second cycle of induction chemotherapy, usually from peripheral blood. High‐dose chemotherapy regimens were thiotepa‐based (n = 7) or melphalan and cyclophosphamide (n = 3).

Results

Trilateral sites were pineal (n = 11) and suprasellar (n = 2); 7 patients had localized (M‐0) disease and six had leptomeningeal dissemination (M‐1+). Five patients had trilateral retinoblastoma at original diagnosis of intra‐ocular retinoblastoma; eight later developed trilateral disease at a median of 35 months (range 3–60 months) following diagnosis of intra‐ocular retinoblastoma. One patient died of toxicity (septicemia and multi‐organ system failure) during induction and three developed disease progression prior to high‐dose chemotherapy. Nine patients received high‐dose chemotherapy at a median of 5 months (range 4–9) post‐diagnosis of trilateral disease. Five patients survive event‐free at a median of 77 months (range 36–104 months) and never received external beam radiation therapy. Four of seven patients with M‐0 disease survive event‐free versus only one of six patients with M‐1+ disease.

Conclusions

Intensive chemotherapy is potentially curative for some patients with trilateral retinoblastoma, especially those with M‐0 disease Pediatr Blood Cancer 2010;54:384–387. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Large cell/anaplastic medulloblastoma: Outcome according to myc status, histopathological, and clinical risk factors
Authors: von Hoff Katja , Hartmann Wolfgang , von Bueren André Oscar , Gerber Nicolas Ulrich , Grotzer Michael Andreas , Pietsch Torsten , Rutkowski Stefan
Published: November 2009

Purpose

To evaluate the prognostic impact of large cell/anaplastic (LC/A) histology together with molecular and clinical risk factors in childhood medulloblastoma.

Methods

Three consecutive prospective medulloblastoma trials were screened for patients with the histological diagnosis of LC/A medulloblastoma. Tumors were considered as LC/A if they displayed areas of severe cytological anaplasia or a significant or predominant large cell component. Histology was centrally confirmed. Genomic DNA amplification of c‐myc and n‐myc, and mRNA expression of c‐myc and trkC were analyzed.

Results

Twenty‐eight patients with LC/A medulloblastoma with a median age of 6.1 years (1.4–16.5 years) and a median follow‐up of 4.5 years were identified (5% of all medulloblastoma). Four‐year event‐free (EFS) and overall survival (OS) were 58% and 67%. Young age and metastases (n = 13, 4‐year EFS 31% vs. 82% in 15 children >4 years and without metastases, P = 0.001), large cell histology (n = 9, 4‐year EFS 22% vs. 75%, P = 0.005) and c‐myc amplification (n = 9, 4‐year EFS 22% vs. 89%, P < 0.0001) were negative prognostic factors. C‐myc amplification was highly correlated with young age (P < 0.001), metastases (P = 0.002) and large cell histology (P = 0.007). Outcome of 12 patients with severely anaplastic tumors without these risk factors was not impaired (4‐year EFS 86%).

Conclusion

In a subgroup of patients without clinical and molecular risk factors outcome was favorable despite severely anaplastic histology. In contrast, c‐myc amplification and large‐cell histology were associated with an inferior outcome. Intensified treatment strategies should be considered for children with LC/A medulloblastoma and these characteristics. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2010;54:369–376. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Outcome of chronic idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura in children
Authors: Bansal Deepak , Bhamare Tanmay Anant , Trehan Amita , Ahluwalia Jasmina , Varma Neelam , Marwaha R.K.
Published: November 2009

Background

There is paucity of data on long‐term probability of remission in chronic idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). Aim was to study the course and factors influencing remission of chronic ITP. Chronic ITP was defined as thrombocytopenia persisting >6 months following initial diagnosis.

Procedures

Case‐records of children with chronic ITP, aged <14 years, were reviewed in this retrospective study (1987–2006).

Results

Two hundred seventy children were followed. Median age at diagnosis was 6 years. Median duration of follow up was 30 months (range 6–166). Isolated thrombocytopenia (even if <10 × 109/L) in the absence of “significant” bleeds, by itself was not considered an indication for drug therapy. Sixty‐seven (24.8%) children attained complete remission (CR) over a median period of 18 months (range 7–120). The probabilities of remission at 5 years for males and females were 24% and 39.6%, respectively (P = 0.01). The probability of achieving remission at 10 years in children <8 and ≥8 years was 51.2% and 34%, respectively (P = 0.02). The probability of remission at 5 years for children who received some treatment, versus no treatment was 31.4% and 27%, respectively (P = 0.8). Nine of 18 children, who underwent splenectomy, achieved CR. Intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) occurred in 11 (4%) cases. The time of occurrence of ICH from onset of symptoms varied from 6 to 55 months.

Conclusions

The predicted spontaneous remission rate with chronic ITP was 30% and 44% at 5 and 10 years, respectively. Platelet count at diagnosis and the treatment administered did not influence remission outcomes. Age <8 years and female gender were predictors of a favorable outcome. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2010;54:403–407. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In vivo monitor oxidative burst induced by Cd2+ stress for the oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) based on electrochemical microbiosensor
Authors: Xu Qiao , Wei Fang , Wang Zhan , Yang Qin , Zhao Yuan‐Di , Chen Hong
Published: November 2009

Introduction – Since the mechanism of Cd2+ stress for plants is not clear, an in vivo method to monitor Cd2+ stress for plants is necessary. However, oxidative burst (OB) is a signal messenger in the process of Cd2+ stress for plants.

Objective – To establish an electrochemical method with poly‐o‐phenylenediamine and Pt microparticle modified Pt electrode (POPD–Pt‐MP–Pt) as a microbiosensor for the in vivo detection of oxidative burst induced by Cd2+ stress in oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.).

Methodology – The optimal fabrication of POPD–Pt‐MP–Pt biosensor was achieved. Electrochemical signal was collected by amperometry.

Results – After oilseed rape was exposed to 84.9 mM CdCl2 stress, three oxidative bursts were observed in oilseed rape by amperometry at 3.3 h, 8.4 h and 13.2 h, respectively. However, there was no obvious signal observed in the controlled assay.

Conclusion – This contribution presents the in vivo monitoring of the OB process induced by Cd2+ stress in oilseed rape by POPD–Pt‐MP–Pt microbiosensor in real‐time. The novel electrochemical microbiosensor not only facilitates the real‐time study in plant self‐defence response to the adverse environment such as Cd2+ stress, but also provides an effective tool for probing the self‐defence mechanism in plants. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The analysis of pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Jacobaea vulgaris; a comparison of extraction and detection methods
Authors: Joosten Lotte , Mulder Patrick P. J. , Vrieling Klaas , van Veen Johannes A. , Klinkhamer Peter G. L.
Published: November 2009

Introduction – Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) serve an important function in plant defence.

Objective – To compare different extraction methods and detection techniques, namely gas chromatography with nitrogen phosphorus detection (GC‐NPD) and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) with quadrupole analysers for analysing PAs in Jacobaea vulgaris.

Methodology – Both formic acid and sulfuric acid were tested for PA extraction from dry plant material. For GC‐NPD, reduction is required to transform PA N‐oxides into tertiary amines. Zinc and sodium metabisulfite were compared as reducing agents.

Results – The lowest PA concentration measured with GC‐NPD was approximately 0.03 mg/g and with LC‐MS/MS 0.002 mg/g. The detection of major PAs by both techniques was comparable but a number of minor PAs were not detected by GC‐NPD. With the LC‐MS/MS procedure higher concentrations were found in plant extracts, indicating that losses may have occurred during the sample preparation for the GC‐NPD method. Zinc proved a more effective reducing agent than sodium metabisulfite. The sample preparation for LC‐MS/MS analysis using formic acid extraction without any reduction and purification steps is far less complex and less time consuming compared to GC‐NPD analysis with sulfuric acid extraction and PA N‐oxide reduction with zinc and purification.

Conclusions – In terms of sensitivity and discrimination, formic acid extraction in combination with LC‐MS/MS detection is the method of choice for analysing PAs (both free and N‐oxides forms) in plant material. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effect of montmorillonite and compatibilizer quantities on stiffness and toughness of polyamide nanoblends
Authors: Gallego R , García‐López D , Merino JC , Pastor JM
Published: November 2009

Although polymer blend nanocomposites are widely studied, the balance between stiffness and toughness has not yet been investigated in detail. Some materials producers as well as some sectors in the automotive industry try to improve the toughness of materials without an important loss in stiffness. With this in mind, the aim of the study reported here was to obtain a good balance between toughness and stiffness of polymer blends with different amounts of clay and compatibilizer. In this context, the microstructure of polyamide 6/ethylene–propylene–diene metallocene terpolymer/(ethylene–propylene–diene copolymer)‐graft‐(maleic anhydride) blends with various amounts of clay (2, 3, 4 and 5 wt%) and compatibilizer (10 and 20 wt%) was studied to analyse the achieved morphology to understand the macroscopic properties. The morphology of the rubber phase and the dispersion of the montmorillonite (MMT) are the main factors that influence the mechanical properties. In this sense, the highest Young's modulus is achieved for nanoblends with 5 wt% of MMT, although this nanoblend has the lowest value of notched Izod impact strength. The results obtained suggest that there is a clear trade‐off between stiffness, toughness and temperature behaviour when the ratio of (ethylene–propylene–diene copolymer)‐graft‐(maleic anhydride) to MMT is 5:1. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Interactions between polymer‐grafted particles and bare particles for biocompatibility applications
Authors: Trombly David , Ganesan Venkat
Published: November 2009

We use self‐consistent field theory (SCFT) to study the interactions between a polymer‐grafted spherical particle and a bare spherical particle and explore how these interaction energies depend on the radii of the two particles and the grafting density. We find that the magnitude of the interaction energies increases with the radii of both the grafted and bare particles and with increasing grafting density. We also find a universal scaling law for the interaction potential which exhibits a power‐law dependence on both particle sizes, a linear dependence on grafting density, and a logarithmic dependence on interparticle distance with a range of interaction that scales with brush height. We compare our numerical results to those obtained using the Derjaguin approximation. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 47: 2566–2577, 2009
Common variants at 8q24 are associated with prostate cancer risk in Taiwanese men
Authors: Chen Marcelo , Huang Yu‐Chuen , Yang Stone , Hsu Jong‐Ming , Chang Yen‐Hwa , Huang William Ji‐Shian , Chen Yi‐Ming Arthur
Published: November 2009

BACKGROUND

Recently, independent genome‐wide scans have found multiple genetic variants at 8q24 to be associated with prostate cancer risk. This study was performed to determine whether two of the variants more strongly associated with prostate cancer risk in European and American populations, specifically rs16901979 and rs6983561, were also associated with prostate cancer risk in Taiwanese men.

METHODS

We conducted a case–control study comprising of 340 prostate patients and 336 healthy controls. Genotyping was performed for rs16901979 and rs6983561. Their association with disease stage, tumor grade, PSA level and disease aggressiveness was also determined.

RESULTS

The risk allele A of rs16901979 was associated with a 1.28‐fold increase in prostate cancer risk (P = 0.046), and the risk allele C of rs6983561 was associated with a 1.40‐fold increase in prostate cancer risk (P = 0.006). When compared with controls, the risk allele of rs6983561 was more frequent in patients with more aggressive disease. Analysis of the cumulative risk of rs1447295, a confirmed risk variant, and one of these markers showed that compared to men who do not have any of these risk variants, men who carry any combination of 1 or 2 risk genotypes have a gradually increased prostate cancer risk (P for trend <0.001).

CONCLUSION

The variants rs16901979 and rs6983561 at 8q24 are associated with prostate cancer risk in Taiwanese men. Prostate 70: 502–507, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Insecticide resistance traits differ among and within host races in Aphis gossypii
Authors: Carletto Jérôme , Martin Thibaud , Vanlerberghe‐Masutti Flavie , Brévault Thierry
Published: November 2009

BACKGROUND: The polyphagous cotton‐melon aphid Aphis gossypii Glover is structured into geographically widespread host races comprising a few clones specialised on Cucurbitaceae, cotton, eggplant or pepper. To assess insecticide resistance among and within host races, leaf disc bioassays were conducted on aphid clones collected from Cucurbitaceae (genotypes C4 and C9), cotton (genotypes Burk and Ivo), eggplant (genotype Auber) and pepper (genotype PsP4). Molecular diagnostic (PCR‐RFLP) and enzyme assays were also performed to detect the basic mechanisms underlying insecticide resistance.

RESULTS: All six clones were susceptible to acetamiprid (neonicotinoid) or carbosulfan (carbamate). Conversely, all clones were resistant to dimethoate (organophosphate) (RF = 4.1–38.1) and carried mutation S431F in the acetylcholinesterase gene. Auber, PsP4 and Burk also carried mutation A302S in this gene, which possibly conferred moderate resistance (RF = 3.7–6.8) to profenofos and monocrotophos (organophosphates). Auber and Burk were highly resistant (RF = 41.2 and 473 respectively) to cypermethrin (pyrethroid). This resistance was likely associated with point mutation super‐kdr (M918L) in the voltage‐gated sodium channel gene (para gene) or metabolic detoxification mediated by esterase and oxidase enzymes.

CONCLUSION: Multiple resistance to a broad range of insecticides and multiple mechanisms of resistance in some clones could explain to some extent the low genetic diversity observed within A. gossypii host races. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Identification of a novel antitumor peptide based on the screening of an Ala‐library derived from the LALF32–51 region
Authors: Vallespi Maribel G. , Fernandez Julio R. , Torrens Isis , Garcia Isbel , Garay Hilda , Mendoza Osmani , Granadillo Milaid , Falcon Viviana , Acevedo Boris , Ubieta Raimundo , Guillen Gerardo E. , Reyes Osvaldo
Published: November 2009

Novel therapeutic peptides are increasingly making their way into clinical application. The cationic and amphipathic properties of certain peptides allow them to cross biological membranes in a non‐disruptive way without apparent toxicity increasing drug bioavailability. By modifying the primary structure of the Limulus‐derived LALF32–51 peptide we designed a novel peptide, L‐2, with antineoplastic effect and cell‐penetrating capacity. Interestingly, L‐2 induced cellular cytotoxicity in a variety of tumor cell lines and systemic injection into immunocompetent and nude mice bearing established solid tumor, resulted in substantial regression of the tumor mass and apoptosis. To isolate the gene transcripts specifically regulated by L‐2 in tumor cells, we conducted suppressive subtractive hybridization (SSH) analysis and identified a set of genes involved in biological processes relevant to cancer biology. Our findings describe a novel peptide that modifies the gene expression of the tumor cells and exhibits antitumor effect in vivo, indicating that peptide L‐2 is a potential candidate for anticancer therapy. Copyright © 2009 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Structure‐antigenicity of the V3 region of SIVmac envelope glycoprotein
Authors: Gaston Fabrice , Babas Tahar , Lakhdar‐Ghazal Faouzi , Bahraoui Elmostafa
Published: November 2009

The objective of this study was to analyze the immunogenicity and antigenicity of the V3 domain (Cys313–Cys346) of the external envelope glycoprotein gp125 of SIVmac251. The corresponding peptide was synthesized and characterized as linear and cyclic peptides. Our results showed that this region, as for HIV‐1, contained an immunodominant epitope. The antigenicity was similar for the linear and cyclic peptides when tested against a panel of 15 sera from SIV infected macaques. Similarly, both peptide structures presented similar immunogenicity as shown by the characterization of the anti‐peptide antibodies produced in rabbits against the cyclic and linear forms. But, unexpectedly, the antibodies produced against linear peptides recognized with a relatively higher intensity the native envelope gp140 than those produced against the cyclic structure. Furthermore, we showed that these antibodies recognized better the deglycosylated form of the glycoprotein. But, in contrast to the neutralizing activity obtained with anti‐V3 peptides from HIV‐1, no antiviral activity was obtained with antibodies generated against linear or cyclic SIVmac V3 peptides. Copyright © 2009 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation of 13C single‐walled carbon nanotubes by pulsed laser vaporization
Authors: Stürzl Ninette , Lebedkin Sergei , Malik Sharali , Kappes Manfred M.
Published: November 2009

We describe a facile procedure to obtain 13C single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) in gram quantities. The procedure is based on sintering to obtain 13C graphitic targets from commercially available amorphous 13C‐powder doped with nickel and cobalt metals. The targets are robust enough to be used for the synthesis of SWNTs by pulsed laser vaporization (PLV). This method provides a high degree of conversion of the initial carbon material into nanotubes. Raman and photoluminescence (PL) spectra of the resulting 13C nanotubes are presented.
In vitro effects of SWCNT: Role of treatment duration
Authors: Bruinink Arie , Manser Pius , Hasler Sabrina
Published: November 2009

Despite the growing interest in single carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) for consumer products still little is known about their toxic potential and toxicomechanism. The present study was performed to elucidate the role of treatment duration and catalyst contamination in SWCNT induced effects. For this SWCNT of two different purities were evaluated: SWCNT raw material (SWCNTrm) and purified SWCNT (SWCNTpur). Our data suggest that the presence of an increased quantity of SWCNT contaminants has a negative impact on lung epithelial A549 cell functionality. Evidence was found that the cellular effects of SWCNTpur are based on accumulation within the target compartment of the cell. In case of SWCNTrm adaptations of the cell to the SWCNT exposure may occur reducing the importance of accumulation regarding the observed effects.
Using line group theory for the symmetry assignment of the phonons of single walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Rusznyák Ádám , Koltai János , Zólyomi Viktor , Kürti Jenő
Published: November 2009

Calculating the phonon dispersions of an arbitrary single walled carbon nanotube became cheap in the numerical sense by exploiting the screw axis symmetry. The eigenvectors of the dynamical matrix are the irreducible basis vectors of the representation of the symmetry group of the nanotubes: L(2n)n/mcm for achiral and Lqp22 for chiral tubes. We developed a numerical code which can solve the eigenvalue problem of the dynamical matrix produced by a density functional theory code (VASP), in the helical Brillouin zone. The code represents the symmetry elements of the line group in the helical unit cell. After decomposing the matrix representation we obtain one to one correspondence between the vibrational modes and the irreducible representations of the line group. Thus we obtain first principles level phonon dispersions accompanied by a full line group based symmetry assignment for all the phonon branches.
Raman response of FeCl3 intercalated single‐wall carbon nanotubes at high doping
Authors: De Blauwe Katrien , Kramberger Christian , Plank Wolfgang , Kataura Hiromichi , Pichler Thomas
Published: November 2009

A detailed study on the photoselective Raman response of p‐type intercalated single‐wall carbon nanotube (SWCNT) is presented. Here, we focus on the high doping region. The shift of the G‐line is used to monitor the doping level of the p‐type intercalated SWCNT using irontrichloride. Special emphasis is given on the changes in the dispersion of the D‐ and G′‐lines as a function of doping. For very high doping levels a decrease of the slope is observed.
Polarised Raman measurements on the core complex of crystallised photosystem II
Authors: Brose Katharina , Zouni Athina , Broser Matthias , Müh Frank , Maultzsch Janina
Published: November 2009

In photosynthesis the sunlight is collected by antenna pigments and transmitted to special molecule structures called photosystem I (PS I) and photosystem II (PS II), where the energy of light is transformed into a separation of charge. In the PS II reaction centre (RC), there are two β‐carotene molecules CarD1 and CarD2, which are oriented perpendicular to each other. The role of these molecules in the photosynthesis process is still unknown. We use Raman spectroscopy to study the two β‐carotenes. We present polarised Raman measurements of the β‐carotene vibrational modes in single crystals of photosystem II (PS II) and discuss the possible origin of the observed polarisation dependence. These measurements are important for the basic understanding of the β‐carotene vibrational properties and guide future investigations of PS II.
An approach that can quickly assess product reliability
Authors: Zanoff J. , Ekwaro‐Osire S.
Published: November 2009

One of the ways to determine the inherent reliability of a design is to test it under controlled environments based on the product usage that is understood by the development requirements. This can be accomplished by performing a reliability growth test on the product. A testing approach can be developed that enhances the product reliability and reduces the production testing cycle. Research performed to date points to the fact that this proposed methodology may not exist, and is the focus of continued research to refine the development of an approach to fill this gap. The combining of multiple testing approaches in order to ensure that the reliability requirement is met or exceeded while at the same time having the capability to reduce the testing cycle time when required due to schedule and cost constraints has not been addressed in the open literature till date. The methodology is to utilize a combination of multiple testing approaches to accomplish this task by exploring complementary testing ideas from various technologies that have been utilized previously with documented success. This approach demonstrated that component‐level testing reduced the product‐level failures by greater than 80% while at the same time reducing the schedule to complete all testing. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Removal of nitrite with sulfamic acid for nitrate N and O isotope analysis with the denitrifier method
Authors: Granger Julie , Sigman Daniel M.
Published: November 2009

In environmental water samples that contain both nitrate (NO) and nitrite (NO), isotopic analysis of nitrate alone by all currently available methods requires pretreatment to remove nitrite. Sulfamic acid addition, used previously for this purpose (Wu JP, Calvert SE, Wong CS. Deep‐Sea Research Part I – Oceanographic Research Papers 1997; 44: 287), is shown here to be compatible with the denitrifier method for both N and O isotope analysis of nitrate. Sulfamic acid at a pH of ∼1.7 reduces nitrite to N2. Samples are then neutralized with base prior to isotope analysis, to alleviate the buffering demands of the bacterial media and as a precaution to prevent modification of nitrate during storage with the residual sulfamic acid at low pH. Under appropriate reaction conditions, nitrite is completely removed within minutes. Sulfamic acid treatment does not compromise the completeness of the conversion of nitrate into N2O or the precision and accuracy of N and O isotope measurements by the denitrifier method. Nitrite concentrations upwards of 7 times the ambient nitrate can be removed without affecting the isotope composition of nitrate. The method is applied to analyses of the coupled N and O isotopes of nitrate and nitrite in waters of the Mexican Margin, to illustrate its efficacy and utility when employed either in the field upon sample collection or in the lab after months of frozen sample storage. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.