bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of transposable element clusters in genome evolution and loss of synteny in the rice blast fungus Magnaporthe oryzae
Authors: Thon Michael R , Pan Huaqin , Diener Stephen , Papalas John , Taro Audrey , Mitchell Thomas K , Dean Ralph A
Published: March 2006

Background

Transposable elements are abundant in the genomes of many filamentous fungi, and have been implicated as major contributors to genome rearrangements and as sources of genetic variation. Analyses of fungal genomes have also revealed that transposable elements are largely confined to distinct clusters within the genome. Their impact on fungal genome evolution is not well understood. Using the recently available genome sequence of the plant pathogenic fungus Magnaporthe oryzae, combined with additional bacterial artificial chromosome clone sequences, we performed a detailed analysis of the distribution of transposable elements, syntenic blocks, and other features of chromosome 7.

Results

We found significant levels of conserved synteny between chromosome 7 and the genomes of other filamentous fungi, despite more than 200 million years of divergent evolution. Transposable elements are largely restricted to three clusters located in chromosomal segments that lack conserved synteny. In contradiction to popular evolutionary models and observations from other model organism genomes, we found a positive correlation between recombination rate and the distribution of transposable element clusters on chromosome 7. In addition, the transposable element clusters are marked by more frequent gene duplications, and genes within the clusters have greater sequence diversity to orthologous genes from other fungi.

Conclusion

Together, these data suggest that transposable elements have a profound impact on the M. oryzae genome by creating localized segments with increased rates of chromosomal rearrangements, gene duplications and gene evolution.
Recent Advances in the Treatment of Malignant Astrocytoma
Authors: Reardon David A. , Rich Jeremy N. , Friedman Henry S. , Bigner Darell D.
Published: March 2006

Malignant gliomas, including the most common subtype, glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), are among the most devastating of neoplasms. Their aggressive infiltration in the CNS typically produces progressive and profound disability—ultimately leading to death in nearly all cases. Improvement in outcome has been elusive despite decades of intensive clinical and laboratory research. Surgery and radiotherapy, the traditional cornerstones of therapy, provide palliative benefit, while the value of chemotherapy has been marginal and controversial. Limited delivery and tumor heterogeneity are two fundamental factors that have critically hindered therapeutic progress. A novel chemoradiotherapy approach, consisting of temozolomide administered concurrently during radiotherapy followed by adjuvant systemic temozolomide, has recently demonstrated a meaningful, albeit modest, improvement in overall survival for newly diagnosed GBM patients. As cell-signaling alterations linked to the development and progression of gliomas are being increasingly elucidated, targeted therapies have rapidly entered preclinical and clinical evaluation. Responses to therapies that function via DNA damage have been associated with specific mediators of resistance that may also be subject to targeted therapies. Other approaches include novel locoregional delivery techniques to overcome barriers of delivery. The simultaneous development of multiple advanced therapies based on specific tumor biology may finally offer glioma patients improved survival.
The PAR-aPKC system: lessons in polarity
Authors: Suzuki Atsushi , Ohno Shigeo
Published: March 2006

Ten years ago, par-1 and par-3 were cloned as two of the six par genes essential for the asymmetric division of the Caenorhabditis elegans zygote. PAR-1 is a protein kinase, whereas PAR-3 is a PDZ-domain-containing scaffold protein. Work over the past decade has shown that they are part of an evolutionarily conserved PAR-aPKC system involved in cell polarity in various biological contexts. Recent progress has illustrated the common principle that the PAR-aPKC system is the molecular machinery that converts initial polarity cues in the establishment of complementary membrane domains along the polarity axis. In most cases, this is achieved by mutually antagonistic interactions between the aPKC-PAR-3-PAR-6 complex and PAR-1 or PAR2 located opposite. However, accumulating evidence has also revealed that mechanisms by which the asymmetrically localized components of the PAR-aPKC system are linked with other cellular machinery for developing polarity are divergent depending on the cell type.
Sulfolobus solfataricus translation initiation factor 1 stimulates translation initiation complex formation
Authors: HASENÖHRL DAVID , BENELLI DARIO , BARBAZZA ALESSANDRA , LONDEI PAOLA , BLÄSI UDO
Published: March 2006

The eukaryotic translation initiation factor 1 binds to the ribosome during translation initiation. It is instrumental for initiator-tRNA and mRNA binding, and has a function in selection of the authentic start codon. Here, we show that the archaeal homolog aIF1 has analogous functions. The aIF1 protein of the archaeon Sulfolobus solfataricus is bound to the small ribosomal subunit during translation initiation and accelerates binding of initiator-tRNA and mRNA to the ribosome. Accordingly, aIF1 stimulated translation of an mRNA in a S. solfataricus in vitro translation system. Moreover, this study suggested that the C terminus of the factor is of relevance for its function.
General Motors Increases Its Production Throughput
Authors: Alden Jeffrey M. , Burns Lawrence D. , Costy Theodore , Hutton Richard D. , Jackson Craig A. , Kim David S. , Kohls Kevin A. , Owen Jonathan H. , Turnquist Mark A. , Veen David J. Vander
Published: March 2006

In the late 1980s, General Motors Corporation (GM) initiated a long-term project to predict and improve the throughput performance of its production lines to increase productivity throughout its manufacturing operations and provide GM with a strategic competitive advantage. GM quantified throughput performance and focused improvement efforts in the design and operations of its manufacturing systems through coordinated activities in three areas: (1) it developed algorithms for estimating throughput performance, identifying bottlenecks, and optimizing buffer allocation, (2) it installed real-time plant-floor data-collection systems to support the algorithms, and (3) it established common processes for identifying opportunities and implementing performance improvements. Through these activities, GM has increased revenue and saved over $2.1 billion in over 30 vehicle plants and 10 countries.
Histidine Decarboxylase, DOPA Decarboxylase, and Vesicular Monoamine Transporter 2 Expression in Neuroendocrine Tumors: Immunohistochemical Study and Gene Expression Analysis
Authors: Uccella Silvia , Cerutti Roberta , Vigetti Davide , Furlan Daniela , Oldrini Rita , Carnevali Ileana , Pelosi Giuseppe , Rosa Stefano La , Passi Alberto , Capella Carlo
Published: March 2006

Histidine decarboxylase (HDC) and vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (v-MAT2) are involved in the biosynthesis and storage of histamine. DOPA decarboxylase (DDC) is involved in the biosynthesis of a variety of amines and shares a high degree of homology with HDC. HDC and v-MAT2 immunoreactivities (IR) have recently been detected in well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors (WDNETs) and poorly differentiated neuroen-docrine carcinomas (PDNECs) of various sites and have been proposed as general endocrine markers. We evaluated HDC and v-MAT2 IR in a series of 117 WDNETs and PDNECs from different sites. Western blotting analysis was performed to verify the specificity of anti-DDC and anti-HDC antibodies. Real-time RT-PCR was performed using specific probes for HDC and DDC on 42 cases, examined also for DDC IR. HDC and v-MAT2 IR were observed in the majority of WDNETs and PDNECs of all sites and HDC-IR cases were always also DDC-IR. In contrast, high levels of HDC mRNA were detected only in the gastroenteropancreatic WDNETs, which did not show increased DDC mRNA levels. On the other hand, bronchial carcinoids and lung PDNECs showed high DDC mRNA levels, but nearly undetectable HDC mRNA levels. Western blotting analysis showed a cross-reaction between anti-HDC and anti-DDC antibodies. HDC should not be considered as a general endocrine marker and HDC IR in bronchial carcinoids and PDNECs of the lung can probably be attributed to a cross-reaction with DDC.
The Secretory Granule Protein Syncollin Localizes to HL-60 Cells and Neutrophils
Authors: Bach Jan-Philipp , Borta Heike , Ackermann Waltraud , Faust Floriane , Borchers Oliver , Schrader Michael
Published: March 2006

The secretory granule protein syncollin was first identified in the exocrine pancreas where a population of the protein is associated with the luminal surface of the zymogen granule membrane. In this study we provide first morphological and biochemical evidence that, in addition to its pancreatic localization, syncollin is also present in neutrophilic granulocytes of rat and human origin. By immunohistological studies, syncollin was detected in neutrophilic granulocytes of the spleen. Furthermore, syncollin is expressed by the promyelocytic HL-60 cells, where it is stored in azurophilic granules and in a vesicular compartment. These findings were confirmed by fractionation experiments and immunoelectron microscopy. Treatment with a phorbol ester triggered the release of syncollin indicating that in HL-60 cells it is a secretory protein that can be mobilized upon stimulation. A putative role for syncollin in host defense is discussed.
Phosphorylated Extracellular Signal-regulated Kinases Are Significantly Increased in Malignant Mesothelioma
Authors: Melo Merivane de , Gerbase Margaret W. , Curran Joseph , Pache Jean-Claude
Published: March 2006

Tumorigenesis is associated with the activation of mitogenic signal transduction pathways. The expression of activated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (p-ERK) may play an important role in cell proliferation of malignant mesothelioma (MM). We compare the expression of p-ERK in 50 biopsy specimens of MM, non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and normal lung tissue. We hypothesized that phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase is increased in MM. We stained the sections by immunohistochemistry for activated ERK-1 and −2 and performed the quantification of the stained nuclei. Quantitative analysis of p-ERK showed a high percentage score in MM (30.3 ± 4.6%) as compared with NSCLC (12.2 ± 2.1%) ( p<0.01) and control lung tissue (6.4 ± 1.3%) ( p=0.0002). Furthermore, p-ERK was found significantly higher in poorly differentiated NSCLC (17.7 ± 3.1%) as compared with well-differentiated NSCLC (5.4 ± 1.2%) ( p<0.01). Our data show that the nuclear quantification of p-ERK is significantly increased in MM and poorly differentiated NSCLC in comparison to well-differentiated NSCLC and normal lung tissue. These results corroborate previous experimental studies that suggest a critical role of p-ERK in cell proliferation of malignant disease and may represent new targets for therapeutic agents.
Heterogeneity of Cellular Proliferation within Transitional Cell Carcinoma: Correlation of Protein Kinase C Alpha/betal Expression and Activity
Authors: Aaltonen Vesa , Koivunen Jussi , Laato Matti , Peltonen Juha
Published: March 2006

A total of 18 histological samples containing both transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) and normal urothelial epithelium were analyzed for protein kinase C (PKC)-α and -βI expression, and for their phosphorylated substrates. The results showed an increased expression of PKC-α in 13 out of 18 samples and -βI in 11 out of 18 TCC samples when compared with normal urothelium. In addition, 11 out of 18 of the TCC tumors displayed heterogeneous expression of the PKC isoenzymes, with different levels of immunosignal in different areas of the tumor. Within the same sample, areas of highest PKC isoenzyme expression also showed highest classical PKC activity, as estimated by immunodetection of phosphorylated forms of PKC substrates. The areas of highest expression of PKC-α and/or -βI isoenzymes showed also the highest number of cells positive for Ki67, an indicator of proliferation. Immunofluorescence and Western blotting demonstrated that in cultured TCC cells, PKC-α was located in the cytoplasm, whereas PKC-βI was located primarily in the nucleus as a 65-kDa fragment and in the cytoplasm as a full-size 79-kDa protein. Our results indicate that increased expression of PKC-α and -βI leads to increased total classical PKC kinase activity and suggest that increased activity of the isoenzymes plays a role in accelerated growth of TCC. Furthermore, these results suggest that even in carcinoma tissue, PKC expression and activity are under strict control.
Integrin-αvβ6, a Putative Receptor for Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus, Is Constitutively Expressed in Ruminant Airways
Authors: Brown Jeremy K. , McAleese Sybil M. , Thornton Elisabeth M. , Pate Judith A. , Schock Alexandra , Macrae Alistair I. , Scott Philip R. , Miller Hugh R.P. , Collie David D.S.
Published: March 2006

Evolved functions of integrin-αvβ6 include roles in epithelial cell-extracellular matrix protein interactions and in the binding and activation of latent TGF-β1. Integrin-αvβ6 is also exploited as a receptor by foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) and may play a significant role in its transmission and pathogenesis. The ovine β6 integrin subunit was cloned and sequenced (EMBL accession no. AJ439062). Screening of normal ovine tissues by RT-PCR and immunocytochemistry confirmed that integrin-αvβ6 is restricted to sheep epithelial cells. Integrin-αvβ6 expression was detected in epithelia of the airways, oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract, kidney, sweat glands, hair follicle sheaths, and the epidermis of pedal coronary band (PB) but not of normal skin. Consistent with FMDV tropism, integrin-αvβ6 was detected within the basal layers of the stratified squamous epithelium of the oral mucosa and PB. In addition, integrin-αvβ6 appears to be constitutively expressed in the normal airways of both cattle and sheep. The latter finding suggests that ruminant airway epithelium presents a highly accessible target for initiation of infection with FMDV by inhalation.
Improved RT-PCR Amplification for Molecular Analyses with Long-term Preserved Formalin-fixed, Paraffin-embedded Tissue Specimens
Authors: Hamatani Kiyohiro , Eguchi Hidetaka , Takahashi Keiko , Koyama Kazuaki , Mukai Mayumi , Ito Reiko , Taga Masataka , Yasui Wataru , Nakachi Kei
Published: March 2006

Recently, in addition to DNA, RNA extracted from archival tissue specimens has become an invaluable source of material for molecular biological analysis. Successful amplification with PCR/RT-PCR is problematic when using amplicons of short size due to degradation of DNA or RNA. We established an improved method for efficient RT-PCR amplification of RNA extracted from archival formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue by the elimination of RNA modification and the restoration of RNA template activity. Namely, the preheating in citrate buffer (pH 4.0) of RNA extracted from long-term preserved tissue specimens resulted in significantly increased efficiency of RT-PCR.
AM-3K, an Anti-macrophage Antibody, Recognizes CD163, a Molecule Associated with an Anti-inflammatory Macrophage Phenotype
Authors: Komohara Yoshihiro , Hirahara Junko , Horikawa Tomohiro , Kawamura Kyoko , Kiyota Emi , Sakashita Naomi , Araki Norie , Takeya Motohiro
Published: March 2006

CD163 is a member of the scavenger receptor cysteine-rich superfamily restricted to the monocyte/macrophage lineage and is thought to be a useful marker for anti-inflammatory or alternatively activated macrophages. In this study we used mass spectrometric analysis to determine that the antigen recognized by the antibody AM-3K, which we previously generated as a tissue macrophage-specific monoclonal antibody, was CD163. An anti-inflammatory subtype of macrophages stimulated by dexamethasone or interleukin-10 showed strong reactivity for AM-3K and increased expression of CD163 mRNA. Immunohistochemical staining of routinely processed pathological specimens revealed that AM-3K recognized a specialized subpopulation of macrophages. In granulomatous diseases such as tuberculosis, sarcoidosis, or foreign body reactions, tissue macrophages around granulomas, but not component cells of the granulomas such as epithelioid cells and multinucleated giant cells, showed positive staining for AM-3K. In atherosclerotic lesions, scattered macrophages in diffuse intimal lesions were strongly positive for AM-3K, whereas foamy macrophages in atheromatous plaques demonstrated only weak staining. We therefore suggest that, in routine pathological specimens, AM-3K is a useful marker for anti-inflammatory macrophages because these cells can be distinguished from inflammatory or classically activated macrophages. Because AM-3K cross-reacts with macrophage subpopulations in different animal species including rats, guinea pigs, rabbits, cats, dogs, goats, pigs, bovine species, horses, monkeys, and cetaceans, it will have wide application for detection of CD163 in various animals.
Internalization and Transcytosis of Pancreatic Enzymes by the Intestinal Mucosa
Authors: Cloutier Maryse , Gingras Diane , Bendayan Moïse
Published: March 2006

As early as the beginning of the twentieth century some data indicated that macromolecules are able to cross the intestinal mucosa to reach the blood. Further evidence was added over the years; however, pathways for this transport still remain to be established. We report here the transfer of two pancreatic enzymes, amylase and lipase, from the intestinal lumen to the blood. Both are present in higher concentrations in the intestinal mucosa and in blood of fed rats. Upon cholinergic stimulation of pancreatic secretion, there was not only an increase in blood enzyme concentrations, but evidence for internalization by duodenal enterocytes was obtained. Following insertion of fluorochrome-tagged amylase and lipase into the duodenal lumen of fasting rats, blood and intestinal tissues were sampled at different time points. Serum activities for both enzymes clearly increased with time. Light microscopy established internalization of both proteins by duodenal enterocytes, and immunogold outlined the pathway taken by both proteins across the enterocytes. From the intestinal lumen, enzymes are channeled through the endosomal compartment to the Golgi apparatus and to the basolateral membrane reaching the interstitial space and blood circulation. Transcytosis through the intestinal mucosa thereby represents an access route for pancreatic enzymes to reach blood circulation. (J Histochem Cytochem 54:781-794, 2006)
Characterization of Anti-TIMP-1 Monoclonal Antibodies for Immunohistochemical Localization in Formalin-fixed, Paraffin-embedded Tissue
Authors: Sorensen Irene Vejgaard , Fenger Claus , Winther Henrik , Foged Niels T. , Lademann Ulrik , Brünner Nils , Usher Pernille A.
Published: March 2006

The aim of this study was to evaluate seven anti-TIMP-1 (tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1) monoclonal antibodies by immunohistochemical (IHC) staining of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue. Detection of the TIMP-1 protein was studied by IHC in FFPE human archival normal and neoplastic samples. Indirect IHC technique was used, and the seven antibodies (clones VT1, VT2, VT4, VT5, VT6, VT7, and VT8) were tested in various concentrations using different pretreatment protocols. All seven VT antibodies specifically immunostained the cytoplasm of islets of Langerhans cells in normal pancreas, epithelial cells of hyperplastic prostate, tumor cells of medullary thyroid carcinoma, and fibroblast-like cells of malignant melanoma. Specificity of the anti-TIMP-1 antibodies was confirmed by several controls, e.g., Western blotting on proteins extracted from FFPE tissue showed that the VT7 antibody reacted specifically with a protein band of ~28 kDa, corresponding to the molecular mass of TIMP-1. However, sensitivity varied with the different antibodies. Use of heat-induced epitope retrieval (HIER) and the VT7 clone applied at low concentrations demonstrated more intense immunoreactivity with the TIMP-1-positive cell types compared to the other six clones. Furthermore, when tested on a range of normal and neoplastic endocrine tissues, the VT7 clone demonstrated immunoreactivity with all neuroendocrine cell types. In conclusion, all seven antibodies detected TIMP-1 protein in various normal and neoplastic FFPE tissues, but one clone, VT7, was superior for IHC staining of TIMP-1 in FFPE tissue sections when using HIER.
d-Aspartate Regulates Melanocortin Formation and Function: Behavioral Alterations in d-Aspartate Oxidase-Deficient Mice
Authors: Huang Alex S. , Beigneux Anne , Weil Zachary M. , Kim Paul M. , Molliver Mark E. , Blackshaw Seth , Nelson Randy J. , Young Stephen G. , Snyder Solomon H.
Published: March 2006

D-Aspartate, an abundantd-amino acid enriched in neuroendocrine tissues, can be degraded byd-aspartate oxidase (Ddo). To elucidate the function ofd-aspartate, we generated mice with targeted deletion ofDdo(Ddo−/−) and observe massive but selective augmentations ofd-aspartate in various tissues. The pituitary intermediate lobe, normally devoid ofd-aspartate from endogenousDdoexpression, manifests pronounced increases of immunoreactived-aspartate inDdo−/−mice.Ddo−/−mice show markedly diminished synthesis and levels of pituitary proopiomelanocortin/α-MSH, associated with decreased melanocortin-dependent behaviors. Therefore, Ddo is the endogenous enzyme that degradesd-aspartate, and Ddo-enriched organs, low ind-aspartate, may represent areas of high turnover whered-aspartate may be physiologically important.
Determination of band gap in polycrystalline Si/Ge thin film multilayers
Authors: Tripathi S. , Brajpuriya R. , Mukharjee C. , Chaudhari S.M.
Published: March 2006

The valence band (VB) photoemission supported by ultraviolet–visible–near infrared spectroscopy techniques were used to determine the band gap values of polycrystalline Si and Ge single layers as well as of Si/Ge multilayer structures. The band gap values obtained from VB photoemission measurements for these structures were found to be much larger than their corresponding bulks and to match well with those determined from standard optical absorption measurements. In each case, the VB offset values were obtained by considering the corresponding VB maximum as a reference. The increase in band gap in case of thin single layers of Si and Ge with respect to bulks were interpreted in terms of quantum confinement effect, while in case of multilayer sample, the effect of various factors such as (i) intermixing leading to the formation of SiGe alloy, (ii) roughness at the interface, (iii) particle size, and (iv) strain seem to play an important role in the observed change in band gap.
Outcomes in Pharyngoplasty: A 10-Year Experience
Authors: Pryor Landon S. , Lehman James , Parker Michael G. , Schmidt Anna , Fox Lynn , Murthy Ananth S.
Published: March 2006

Objective

The outcomes of 61 patients who underwent a pharyngoplasty for velopharyngeal insufficiency were reviewed to determine potential risk factors for reoperation.

Design

This was a retrospective chart review of 61 consecutive patients over approximately 10 years (1993 to 2003). Variables analyzed included gender, cleft type, age at the time of pharyngoplasty, length of time between palate repair and pharyngoplasty, and associated syndromes.

Participants

Of the 61 patients, 20 (34%) had a unilateral cleft lip and palate, 5 (8%) had a bilateral cleft lip and palate, 13 (21%) had an isolated cleft palate, 7 (11%) had a submucous cleft palate, and 16 (26%) were diagnosed with noncleft velopharyngeal insufficiency.

Results

Of the 61 patients, 10 (16%) required surgical revision. No statistically significant difference was found among gender, cleft type, age at the time of pharyngoplasty, the length of time between palate repair and pharyngoplasty, and associated congenital syndromes, with respect to the need for surgical revision (p > .05). Of the surgical revisions, 50% (5) were performed for a pharyngoplasty that was placed too low.

Conclusions

Because 50% of the pharyngoplasty revisions had evidence of poor velopharyngeal closure and associated hypernasality resulting from low placement of the sphincter, the pharyngoplasty needs to be placed at a high level to reduce the risk for revisional surgery. The pharyngoplasty is a good operation for velopharyngeal insufficiency with an overall success rate of 84% (51 of 61) after one operation and greater than 98% (60 of 61) after two operations.
Mutational Screening of FGFR1, CER1, and CDON in a Large Cohort of Trigonocephalic Patients
Authors: Jehee Fernanda Sarquis , Alonso Luis G. , Cavalcanti Denise P. , Kim Chong , Wall Steven A. , Mulliken John B. , Sun Miao , Jabs Ethylin Wang , Boyadjiev Simeon A. , Wilkie Andrew O. M. , Passos-Bueno Maria Rita
Published: March 2006

Objective

Screen the known craniosynostotic related gene, FGFR1 (exon 7), and two new identified potential candidates, CER1 and CDON, in patients with syndromic and nonsyndromic metopic craniosynostosis to determine if they might be causative genes.

Design

Using single-strand conformational polymorphisms (SSCPs), denaturing high-performance liquid chromatography, and/or direct sequencing, we analyzed a total of 81 patients for FGFR1 (exon 7), 70 for CER1, and 44 for CDON.

Patients

Patients were ascertained in the Centro de Estudos do Genoma Humano in São Paulo, Brazil (n = 39), the Craniofacial Unit, Oxford, U.K. (n = 23), and the Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland (n = 31). Clinical inclusion criteria included a triangular head and/or forehead, with or without a metopic ridge, and a radiographic documentation of metopic synostosis. Both syndromic and nonsyndromic patients were studied.

Results

No sequence alterations were found for FGFR1 (exon 7). Different patterns of SSCP migration for CER1 compatible with the segregation of single nucleotide polymorphisms reported in the region were identified. Seventeen sequence alterations were detected in the coding region of CDON, seven of which are new, but segregation analysis in parents and homology studies did not indicate a pathological role.

Conclusions: FGFR1

(exon 7), CER1, and CDON are not related to trigonocephaly in our sample and should not be considered as causative genes for metopic synostosis. Screening of FGFR1 (exon 7) for diagnostic purposes should not be performed in trigonocephalic patients.
New Scaphocephaly Severity Indices of Sagittal Craniosynostosis: A Comparative Study with Cranial Index Quantifications
Authors: Ruiz-Correa Salvador , Sze Raymond W. , Starr Jacqueline R. , Lin Hen-Tzu J. , Speltz Matthew L. , Cunningham Michael L. , Hing Anne V.
Published: March 2006

Objective

To describe a novel set of scaphocephaly severity indices (SSIs) for predicting and quantifying head- and skull-shape deformity in children diagnosed with isolated sagittal synostosis (ISS) and compare their sensitivity and specificity with those of the traditional cranial index (CI).

Methods

Computed tomography head scans were obtained from 60 patients diagnosed with ISS and 41 age-matched control patients. Volumetric reformations of the skull and overlying skin were used to trace two-dimensional planes defined in terms of skull-base plane and internal or surface landmarks. For each patient, novel SSIs were computed as the ratio of head width and length as measured on each of these planes. A traditional CI was also calculated and a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was applied to compare the sensitivity and specificity of the proposed indices with those of CI.

Results

Although the CI is a sensitive measure of scaphocephaly, it is not specific and therefore not a suitable predictor of ISS in many practical applications. The SSI-A provides a specificity of 95% at a sensitivity level of 98%, in contrast with the 68% of CI. On average, the sensitivity and specificity of all proposed indices are superior to those of CI.

Conclusions

Measurements of cranial width and length derived from planes that are defined in terms of internal or surface landmarks and skull-base plane produce SSIs that outperform traditional CI measurements.
Social Acceptance and Facial Behavior in Children with Oral Clefts
Authors: Slifer Keith J. , Pulbrook Valerie , Amari Adrianna , Vona-Messersmith Natalie , Cohn Jeffrey F. , Ambadar Zara , Beck Melissa , Piszczor Rachel
Published: March 2006

Objective

To examine and compare social acceptance, social behavior, and facial movements of children with and without oral clefts in an experimental setting.

Design

Two groups of children (with and without oral clefts) were videotaped in a structured social interaction with a peer confederate, when listening to emotional stories, and when told to pose specific facial expressions.

Participants

Twenty-four children and adolescents ages 7 to 161/2 years with oral clefts were group matched for gender, grade, and socioeconomic status with 25 noncleft controls.

Main Outcome Measures

Specific social and facial behaviors coded from videotapes; Harter Self-Perception Profile, Social Acceptance subscale.

Results

Significant between-group differences were obtained. Children in the cleft group more often displayed “Tongue Out,” “Eye Contact,” “Mimicry,” and “Initiates Conversation.” For the cleft group, “Gaze Avoidance” was significantly negatively correlated with social acceptance scores. The groups were comparable in their ability to pose and spontaneously express facial emotion.

Conclusions

When comparing children with and without oral clefts in an experimental setting, with a relatively small sample size, behavior analysis identified some significant differences in patterns of social behavior but not in the ability to express facial emotion. Results suggest that many children with oral clefts may have relatively typical social development. However, for those who do have social competence deficits, systematic behavioral observation of atypical social responses may help individualize social skills interventions.
Cleft Palate in Kabuki Syndrome: A Report of Six Cases
Authors: Iida Takuya , Park Susam , Kato Kogo , Kitano Ichiko
Published: March 2006

Kabuki syndrome is a syndrome of rare congenital anomalies that was named after its characteristic appearance, a face resembling that of an actor in a Kabuki play. Although cleft palate is a feature that is sometimes observed in patients with Kabuki syndrome, there are few clinical reports of cleft palate associated with Kabuki syndrome. This report presents six cases of Kabuki syndrome with cleft palate and reviews their clinical features. Our results suggest that (1) patients with cleft palate in Kabuki syndrome tend to fail in acquiring normal velopharyngeal function and (2) submucous cleft palate might be more common in patients with Kabuki syndrome than previously was reported.
Modification to Endotracheal Tube Connectors for Cleft Lip and Palate Anesthesia
Authors: Kumar G. S. Satish , Kumar J. Ravindra
Published: March 2006

Endotracheal tube connectors occasionally get blocked by the chest wall after the circuit is disconnected in children undergoing cleft lip and palate surgeries. This paper presents a modification to the connectors designed to maintain patient airway patency in such a circumstance.
Size and Constraining Effects in Lead‐Free Solder Joints
Authors: Cugnoni J. , Botsis J. , Janczak‐Rusch J.
Published: March 2006

A novel in‐situ characterization technique combining Digital Image Correlation strain measurement and inverse numerical identification was developed to determine the plastic constitutive properties of Sn‐Ag‐Cu lead‐free soldering material inside real joints. The effects of size and geometrical constraints on the constitutive and apparent stress‐strain response of 0.1, 0.5 and 1mm joints were studied, showing clearly the important constraining and size effects in thin solder joints.
Relief of the Residual Stresses in Ceramic‐Metal Joints by a Layered Braze Structure
Authors: Galli M. , Botsis J. , Janczak‐Rusch J.
Published: March 2006

The potential of active brazing filler metal modification by ceramic particle addition, with the aim of reducing the stresses in ceramic‐metal joints is studied. A layered braze structure is proposed: layers of reinforced and un‐reinforced filler are combined in an optimal manner to minimize residual stress. The joints are tested in 4‐point bend tests. The evaluation of residual stresses and the optimization of the braze layout are carried out by FE modelling.
Comparison of Three Different Active Filler Metals Used for Brazing Ceramic‐to‐Ceramic and Ceramic‐to‐Metal
Authors: Bissig V. , Galli M. , Janczak‐Rusch J.
Published: March 2006

Three active filler metals were studied to determine their suitability for joining Si3N4‐TiN composite ceramics. The evolution of the bend strength in the different setups could be explained using microstructural analysis, micro‐hardness measurement and finite element modelling. It was observed that residual stresses in ceramic‐to‐metal joints can be decreased more effective with plastic deformation than by reducing the brazing temperature.
Residual Stresses, Thermomechanical Behavior and Interfaces in the Weld Joint of Ni‐based Superalloys
Authors: Barabash O. M. , Barabash R. I. , David S. A. , Ice G. E.
Published: March 2006

The paper relates aspects of interfaces, residual stresses and dislocations with joint behaviour in the Ni–based single crystals. It is focused on the understanding the fundamental driving forces and response of the materials which leads to the formation of dislocation structure during local melting and solidification. Oscillations in the dislocation structure are observed at both macro and micro scales. The underlying mechanism of these processes is essential to real world applications.
Tensile Deformation Behaviour of the Titanium Alloy with Hard Elastic Coating
Authors: Ziaja W. , Sieniawski J.
Published: March 2006

Various surface engineering techniques are used to modify the surface layer of the Ti alloys to improve their tribological properties. The life of the coating can be increased by introducing intermediate hardened surface layer reducing plastic deformation of substrate material. In this paper, the tensile behaviour of Ti alloy with hard elastic coating was investigated to enable tailoring the resistance to plastic deformation and increase load bearing capacity and fatigue resistance.
Local Fatigue in Lead‐Free SnAg3.8Cu0.7 Solder
Authors: Jud P. P. , Grossmann G. , Sennhauser U. , Uggowitzer P. J.
Published: March 2006

It has been shown that in thin SnAg3.8Cu0.7 solder samples, strain concentration in shear bands is the dominant mechanism of fatigue damage. The development of degradation results from the interplay of lattice defect accumulation and recrystallization. Localized recrystallization is assumed to enhance the lifetime of the samples. Line patterns superimposed by FIB are useful in tracking the deformation and in localizing slip planes in the solder.
The Experimental and Theoretical Study of Phase Equilibria in the Pd–Zn (‐Sn) System
Authors: Vizdal J. , Kroupa A. , Popovic J. , Zemanova A.
Published: March 2006

The binary Pd‐Zn system was assessed in the scope of this paper. The experimental data from the literature were used for the assessment, together with our own data obtained by SEM‐EDS analysis and by the DTA. The paper is focused particularly on the Pd‐Zn system, but the Pd‐Sn and Sn‐Zn systems are also analysed in this paper. Finally, first prediction of the isothermal sections of the ternary Pd‐Sn‐Zn system was made.
Tensile Strengths of Metal‐Containing Joints Fabricated by Focused Electron Beam Induced Deposition
Authors: Utke I. , Friedli V. , Fahlbusch S. , Hoffmann S. , Hoffmann P. , Michler J.
Published: March 2006

The tensile strength of joints fabricated by focused electron beam (FEB) induced deposition is studied with a cantilever‐based set‐up in a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Two positioning tables allow for contacting a freestanding deposit with the cantilever. A metal/carbon nano‐composite joint is formed by scanning the contact area with the FEB decomposing the precursor molecules W(CO)6 and Co2(CO)8. The tensile strength can be measured by retracting the cantilever until deposit rupture.
The Effect of Intermetallic Compound on Shear Strength of Diffusion Soldered Interconnection
Authors: Wojewoda J. , Onderka B. , Zieba P.
Published: March 2006

The mechanical properties of diffusion soldered Cu/Cu interconnections were examined. Application of the indium‐tin eutectic alloy as a solder material and different manufacturing temperatures resulted in creation of the intermetallics in the interconnection area. The calculated cross‐sections of the Cu‐In‐Sn diagram combined with Scanning Electron Microscopy investigation allowed for the detailed description of the joints before the shear test and after it.
Evaluation of Lead Free Soldering Development by Means of a Holistic Consideration
Authors: Türpe M.
Published: March 2006

Engineering is still mainly oriented towards step‐by‐step‐processes. Due to ongoing challenges such as increasing complexity or shortened time for product developments, connections and correlations have to be understood and used as an important part of work in engineering practice as well as in research. Therefore, a tool derived form a holistic model based on a material approach is explained. The subject of lead‐free electronic soldering is taken for illustrating its practical use and potential.
Cover Picture: Residual Stresses, Thermomechanical Behavior and Interfaces in the Weld Joint of Ni‐based Superalloys (Adv. Eng. Mater. 3/2006)
Authors: Barabash O. M. , Barabash R. I. , David S. A. , Ice G. E.
Published: March 2006

The cover shows in the background a typical X‐ray polychromatic microdiffraction (PXM) image obtained from the heat affected zone of a Ni‐based superalloy weld with strong plastic deformation, while the inserts show a PXM image of the nondeformed material (upper insert) and the strong oscillations of the geometrically necessary dislocation slip systems and densities across the weld (lower inserts). More about X‐ray polychromatic microdiffraction together with orientation imaging microscopy, electron scanning microscopy, and optical microscopy for studying residual stresses, thermomechanical behavior and interfaces in the weld joint of Ni‐based superalloys can be found in the paper by O. M. Barabash et al on page 202.
LEOPARD syndrome: Clinical diagnosis in the first year of life
Authors: Digilio M. Cristina , Sarkozy Anna , de Zorzi Andrea , Pacileo Giuseppe , Limongelli Giuseppe , Mingarelli Rita , Calabrò Raffaele , Marino Bruno , Dallapiccola Bruno
Published: March 2006

LEOPARD syndrome (LS) is an autosomal dominant syndrome characterized by multiple lentigines and café‐au‐lait spots, electrocardiographic‐conduction abnormalities, ocular hypertelorism/obstructive cardiomyopathy, pulmonary stenosis, abnormalities of the genitalia in males, retardation of growth, and deafness. LS shares many features with Noonan syndrome (NS), in which lentigines and deafness are usually not present. Molecular studies have shown that LS and NS are allelic disorders, caused by different missense mutations in PTPN11, a gene encoding the protein tyrosine phosphatase SHP‐2 located at chromosome 12q22‐qter. The clinical diagnosis of LS is generally difficult in the first months of life because the distinctive lentigines are generally not present at birth and develop during childhood. From January 2002 to December 2004, we suspected LS clinically in 10 patients admitted to our genetic counseling services in the first 12 months of life. A PTPN11 gene mutation was detected in 8/10 (80%) patients. In one patient without a PTPN11 mutation a subsequent clinical diagnosis of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) was made, following the evaluation of the mother, who had previously undiagnosed classic NF1. The age of LS patients with PTPN11 mutation ranged between 1 and 11 months (mean age ± SD 7.5 ± 3.96 months). Review of the clinical characteristics of patients with LS confirmed by molecular study during the first year of life demonstrates that the diagnosis of LS in the first months of age can be clinically suspected in patients presenting with three main features, that is, characteristic facial features (100%), hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) (87%), and cafe‐au‐lait spots (75%). Characteristic facial features can be mild or severe, and consist of hypertelorism, downslanting palpebral fissures, ptosis, and dysmorphic ears. The clinical suspicion of LS may be confirmed by molecular screening for PTPN11 mutations. An early diagnosis of the disease is useful for the prospective care of associated medical problems and for precise genetic counseling. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dural ectasia in children with Marfan syndrome: A prospective, multicenter, patient‐control study
Authors: Knirsch Walter , Kurtz Claudia , Häffner Nicole , Binz Gudrun , Heim Peter , Winkler Peter , Baumgartner Daniela , Freund‐Unsinn Karin , Stern Heiko , Kaemmerer Harald , Molinari Luciano , Kececioglu Deniz , Uhlemann Frank
Published: March 2006

The clinical diagnosis of Marfan syndrome in childhood is difficult, because symptoms may not have developed to their full expression until adulthood. The Ghent nosology for the diagnosis of Marfan syndrome classifies dural ectasia as a major diagnostic criterion. More than two thirds of adult patients with Marfan syndrome show dural ectasia, while the frequency in childhood is unknown. This prospective multicenter observational patient‐control study was performed to identify pathologic changes of the lumbosacral spine in young patients with Marfan syndrome. Design: Prospective clinical trial, multicentric, cross‐sectional. Setting: MRI of the lumbosacral spine. Patients: Twenty patients with proven Marfan syndrome, 20 patients suspicious for Marfan syndrome and 38 healthy controls. Outcome measures: Vertebral body diameter (VBD) from L1 to S1, dural sac diameter (DSD) from L1 to S1, dural sac ratio (DSR), qualitative assessment of the lumbosacral spine. Results: DSD and VBD in different age groups were higher in patients with proven or suspected Marfan syndrome than in healthy controls (DSD: L1, 6–8 years, P < 0.05). VBD related to body height showed a similar growth related increase in patients with proven or suspected Marfan syndrome and controls. DSD related to body height was elevated in patients with proven or suspected Marfan syndrome at different levels of the lumbar spine. DSD at levels L1, L5, and S1, and DSR at levels L5 and S1 of patients with proven Marfan syndrome were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than in controls. Conclusion: Even during childhood pathologic changes inside the lumbosacral spine of patients with Marfan syndrome can be observed. Dural ectasia, which occurs at different levels of the lumbar spine, can be detected at levels L5 and S1 in up to 40% of patients with Marfan syndrome. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Downstaging colorectal liver metastases by concomitant unilateral portal vein ligation and selective intra-arterial chemotherapy
Authors: Selzner N , Pestalozzi B C , Kadry Z , Selzner M , Wildermuth S , Clavien P-A
Published: March 2006

Background

Although selective intrahepatic arterial chemotherapy successfully downstaged irresectable colorectal liver metastases in a previous study, curative resection was rarely possible, as the remnant healthy liver volume was inadequate. This pilot study evaluated the efficacy of concomitant unilateral portal vein ligation and selective intrahepatic arterial chemotherapy in downstaging such tumours.

Methods

The study included 11 patients with irresectable colorectal liver metastases. Selective intrahepatic arterial chemotherapy was delivered using a subcutaneous pump, and each patient underwent concomitant unilateral portal vein ligation of the hemiliver judged to have the higher tumour load. Chemotherapy involved serial administration of floxuridine for 2 weeks every 4 weeks.

Results

All patients developed significant atrophy of the hemiliver subjected to portal vein ligation and contralateral hypertrophy. There was no increase in tumour load within 6 months of therapy, and the load decreased by 60 per cent in the hemiliver ipsilateral to the ligated vein. At 3 months, six of 11 patients showed a significant response to chemotherapy. In four patients, downstaging allowed curative resection after only three cycles of chemotherapy. These patients survived at least 20 months afterwards.

Conclusion

Combined unilateral portal vein ligation and selective intrahepatic arterial chemotherapy produced substantial atrophy of the ipsilateral hemiliver along with contralateral hypertrophy, without increased tumour growth in the regenerating hemiliver.
Surgical intervention in patients with necrotizing pancreatitis
Authors:   Dutch Acute Pancreatitis Study Group, Besselink M G , de Bruijn M T , Rutten J P , Boermeester M A , Hofker H S , Gooszen H G
Published: March 2006

Background

This study evaluated the various surgical strategies for treatment of (suspected) infected necrotizing pancreatitis (INP) and patient referrals for this condition in the Netherlands.

Methods

This retrospective study included all 106 consecutive patients who had surgical treatment for INP in the period 2000–2003 in one of eight Dutch university medical centres including three teaching hospitals. Surgical approaches included an open abdomen strategy, laparotomy with continuous postoperative lavage, minimally invasive procedures or laparotomy with primary abdominal closure. The National Hospital Registration System was searched to identify patients with acute pancreatitis who were admitted to the 90 Dutch hospitals that did not participate in the present study.

Results

The overall mortality rate was 34·0 per cent, 70 per cent (16 of 23) for the open abdomen strategy, 25 per cent (13 of 53) for continuous peritoneal lavage, 11 per cent (two of 18) for minimally invasive procedures and 42 per cent (five of 12) for primary abdominal closure (P < 0·001). During the study interval, 44 (12·2 per cent) of 362 patients with acute pancreatitis who were likely to require surgical intervention had been referred to university medical centres.

Conclusion

Laparotomy with continuous postoperative lavage is the surgical strategy most often used in the Netherlands. The results of the open abdomen strategy are poor whereas a minimally invasive approach seems promising.
Performance characteristics of an analytical procedure for determining chloramphenicol residues in muscle tissue by gas chromatography–electron capture detection
Authors: Cerkvenik‐Flajs Vesna
Published: March 2006

Validation of an analytical method for determining chloramphenicol residues in muscle tissue by gas chromatography–electron capture detection (GC‐ECD) was performed according to the latest European Union criteria for the analysis of veterinary drugs in food, laid down by Commission Decision 2002/657/EC. The method using the meta isomer of chloramphenicol as an internal standard proved to be very selective, specific to other related phenicols and accurate to within +3.6% at a concentration level of 8.9 µg/kg, as present in the certified reference material available. The correlation coefficient of the calibration curve was 0.9991. At all three fortification levels studied (0.3, 0.45 and 0.6 µg/kg), repeatability and intra‐laboratory reproducibility were <8 and ≤9%, respectively. The decision limit (CCα) and detection capability (CCβ) were 0.07 and 0.12 µg/kg, respectively. The validation results and the results of participation in an international inter‐laboratory proficiency test indicate that the method presented is completely suited for regulatory control to screen and quantify chloramphenicol residues in various muscle tissues on a routine basis. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.