bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementing Vehicle-Infrastructure Integration
Authors: Sharafsaleh Mohammad (Ashkan) , VanderWerf Joel , Misener James A. , Shladover Steven E.
Published: January 2009

In recent years, much attention in the field of intelligent transportation systems has been devoted to conceptualizing and starting development of vehicle-infrastructure integration (VII), which would provide new vehicles with the capability to communicate data with each other and with roadside transceivers located throughout the roadway network. The bulk of the federal VII activities have focused on defining an overall architecture and the wireless vehicle-infrastructure communication link, while exploring the institutional challenges to deployment. A somewhat different perspective to VII focuses on the real-world challenges that have been encountered and overcome in implementing the first VII test bed environment in California. It is important to understand these practical aspects of installing, operating, and maintaining the VII communications infrastructure when developing plans and cost estimates for large-scale national VII deployment. Lessons learned from the initial VII California test bed development and operations are provided in the hope that they can contribute to decisions about VII design and development.
Effectiveness and Acceptance of Adaptive Intelligent Speed Adaptation Systems
Authors: Arhin Stephen , Eskandarian Azim , Blum Jeremy , Delaigue Pierre , Soudbakhsh Damoon
Published: January 2009

Intelligent speed adaptation (ISA) systems face significant consumer acceptance hurdles that limit the likelihood of widespread adoption, particularly in the United States. However, if these systems are designed as speed management systems rather than speed limiting systems, with adaptability to individual driving behavior, they may be more likely to meet with consumer acceptance. The results of a fixed-based driving simulator experiment that tested the acceptance and effectiveness of a new type of ISA, called an Advanced Vehicular Speed Adaptation System (AVSAS), are reported. The results of the experiment showed that AVSAS resulted in reductions in driver speeds across a range of roadway types. AVSAS is a speed management system that adapts to an individual driver's speed behavior and the current driving situation. AVSAS resulted in an average reduction of 5% of the maximum speeds and 3% of the average speeds of the drivers on four road segments. As expected, AVSAS did not reduce driver speeds as much as the mandatory control ISA system, and the experiment confirmed the results of tests conducted on ISA systems largely in Europe. Conversely, the results revealed that more participants were willing to purchase AVSAS compared with the information or mandatory ISAs. Although these results show the promise of a trade-off between system effectiveness and acceptability that has been missing in mandatory and information ISA research, AVSAS suggests that a range of ISA system design requirements could encourage the adoption of ISA systems in the United States.
Cisternal segments of the glossopharyngeal, vagus, and accessory nerves: detailed magnetic resonance imaging–demonstrated anatomy and neurovascular relationships
Authors: Linn Jennifer , Moriggl Bernhard , Schwarz Friederike , Naidich Thomas P. , Schmid Urs D. , Wiesmann Martin , Bruckmann Hartmut , Yousry Indra
Published: January 2009

Object

The aim of this study was to determine whether high-resolution MR imaging is suitable for identifying and differentiating among the nerve root bundles of the glossopharyngeal (cranial nerve [CN] IX), vagus (CN X), and accessory nerves (CN XI) as well as any adjacent vessels.

Methods

Twenty-five patients (50 sides) underwent MR imaging using the 3D constructive interference in steady-state (CISS) sequence, as well as noncontrast and contrast-enhanced 3D time-of-flight (TOF) MR angiography. Two individuals scored these studies by consensus to determine how well these sequences displayed the neurovascular contacts and nerve root bundles of CNs IX and X and the cranial and spinal roots of CN XI. Landmarks useful for identifying each lower CN were specifically sought.

Results

The 3D CISS sequence successfully depicted CNs IX and X in 100% of the sides. Nerve root bundles of the cranial segment of CN XI were identified in 88% of the sides and those of the spinal segment of CN XI were noted in 93% of the sides. Landmarks useful in identifying the lower CNs included the vagal trigone, the choroid plexus of the lateral recess, the glossopharyngeal and vagal meatus, the inferior petrosal sinus, and the vertebral artery. The combined use of 3D CISS and 3D TOF sequences demonstrated neurovascular contacts at the nerve root entry or exit zones in 19% of all nerves visualized.

Conclusions

The combined use of 3D CISS MR imaging and 3D TOF MR angiography (with or without contrast) successfully displays the detailed anatomy of the lower CNs and adjacent structures in vivo. These imaging sequences have the potential to aid the preoperative diagnosis of and the presurgical planning for pathology in this anatomical area.
Neuronal nitric oxide synthase expression in resected epileptic dysplastic neocortex
Authors: González-Martínez Jorge A. , Möddel Gabriel , Ying Zhong , Prayson Richard A. , Bingaman William E. , Najm Imad M.
Published: January 2009

Object

Nitric oxide has been associated with epileptogenesis. Previous studies have shown increased expression of N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) subunit NR2B receptors in epileptic dysplastic human neocortex. The expression of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), and its relation to this subunit NR2B in epileptic dysplastic tissue has never been addressed.

Methods

Ten patients with medically intractable epilepsy caused by focal cortical dysplasia (CD), and 2 patients with mesial temporal sclerosis (control group) underwent pre- and/or intraoperative invasive monitoring evaluations. Cortical samples from epileptogenic and nonepileptogenic areas were collected from each patient intraoperatively. Samples were processed for cresyl violet staining, immunocytochemical tests with nNOS, NeuN, and NR2B, and immunofluorescence analyses to evaluate colocalized immunoreactivity between nNOS and NR2B.

Results

. All samples obtained in the patients with epilepsy revealed CD in various degrees. In the nonepileptic sample group, cresyl violet staining revealed normal cortical architecture in 9 samples, but a mild degree of CD in 3. The density and intensity of nNOS-stained neurons was remarkably increased in the epileptic tissue compared with nonepileptic samples (p < 0.05). Two types of nNOS-stained neurons were identified: Type I, expressing strong nNOS immunoreactivity in larger neurons; and Type II, expressing weak nNOS immunoreactivity in slightly smaller neurons. Different from Type I neurons, Type II nNOS-stained neurons revealed immunoreactivity colocalized with NR2B antibody.

Conclusions

The overexpression of nNOS in the epileptic samples and the immunoreactivity colocalization between nNOS and NR2B may suggest a possible role of nNOS and NO in the pathophysiological mechanisms related to in situ epileptogenicity.
Limitations of the transcallosal transchoroidal approach to the third ventricle
Authors: Ulm Arthur J. , Russo Antonino , Albanese Erminia , Tanriover Necmettin , Martins Carolina , Mericle Robert M. , Pincus David , Rhoton Albert L.
Published: January 2009

Object

The aim of this study was to determine the anatomical limitations of the transcallosal transchoroidal approach to the third ventricle.

Methods

Twenty-six formalin-fixed specimens were studied. Sagittal dissections were used to determine the anatomical relationships of the foramen of Monro, the angle of approach to landmarks, and placement of a callosotomy. Lateral ventricular dissections were performed to quantitate the forniceal anatomy.

Results

The foramen of Monro was found 1.07 ± 0.11 cm superior and slightly anterior to the mammillary bodies, 1.48 ± 0.16 cm posterosuperior to the optic recess, and 2.26 ± 0.16 cm anterosuperior to the aqueduct. Relative to the genu, a callosal incision 2.64 ± 0.53 cm long and angled 37 ± 4.3° anterior was needed to access the aqueduct, and an incision 4.92 ± 0.71 cm long and angled 49 ± 7.4° posterior was needed to access the optic recess. The fornix progressively widened within the lateral ventricle, from 1.25 ± 0.63 mm at the foramen of Monro to > 7 mm at 2 cm behind the foramen. Three zones of exposure were identified, requiring unique craniotomies, callosotomies, and angles of approach. The major limiting factors in the approach included the columns of the fornix anteriorly, the width of the fornix posteriorly, and the draining veins of the parietal cortex. The choroidal fissure opening was limited to 1.5 cm posterior to the foramen of Monro; this limited opening created an aperture effect that required an anterior-to-posterior angle, an anterior craniotomy, and an anteriorly placed callosotomy to access the posterior landmarks. In contrast, a posterior-to-anterior angle, posteriorly placed craniotomy, and posteriorly placed callosotomy were required to access anterior landmarks.

Conclusions

The transcallosal transchoroidal approach was ideally suited to access the foramen of Monro and the middle and posterior thirds of the third ventricle. Exposure of the anterior third ventricle was limited by the columns of the fornix and by the presence of parietal cortical draining veins.
Introduction: Peripheral Nerve Surgery—Biology, Entrapment, and Injuries
Authors: Friedman Allan H. , Elias W. Jeffrey , Midha Rajiv
Published: January 2009

Surgery aimed at repairing damaged peripheral nerves has a long history. Refuting the timehonored nihilism of Hippocrates and Galen that an injured nerve cannot regain function, a few adventurous medieval surgeons attempted to repair severed nerves.6,8 However, the ability of a peripheral nerve repair to restore function was not generally accepted until 1800.1,4 Neurosurgeons, beginning with Harvey Cushing, have had an interest in repairing damaged peripheral nerves.2 Significant progress in the treatment of peripheral nerve injuries resulted from experience with the numerous injuries that occurred during World Wars I and II.3,7,12 Surgeons steadily defined the anatomy of peripheral nerves and developed techniques for decompressing and repairing peripheral nerves.9,11 Kline and Dejonge5 developed an intraoperative electrophysiological technique for detecting axons regenerating across a damaged segment of nerve. In the second 2 decades of the 20th century, distal nerve transfers were rediscovered whereby the proximal end of a less essential nerve is used to reinnervate the distal end of a nerve, providing a more vital function.10
Adherence of intraneural ganglia of the upper extremity to the principles of the unifying articular (synovial) theory
Authors: Wang Huan , Terrill Robert Q. , Tanaka Shota , Amrami Kimberly K. , Spinner Robert J.
Published: January 2009

Object

Intraneural ganglia are nonneoplastic mucinous cysts contained within the epineurium of peripheral nerves. Their pathogenesis has been controversial. Historically, the majority of authors have favored de novo formation (degenerative theory). Because of their rarity, intraneural ganglia affecting the upper limb have been misunderstood. This study was designed to critically analyze the literature and to test the hypothesis that intraneural ganglia of the upper limb act analogously to those in the lower limb, being derived from an articular source (synovial theory).

Methods

Two patients with digital intraneural cysts were included in the study. An extensive literature review of intraneural ganglia of the upper limb was undertaken to provide the historical basis for the study.

Results

In both cases, the digital intraneural ganglia were demonstrated to have joint connections; the one patient in whom an articular branch was not appreciated initially had evidence on postoperative MR images of persistence of intraneural cyst after simple decompression was performed. Eighty-six cases of intraneural lesions were identified in varied locations of the upper limb: the most common sites were the ulnar nerve at the elbow and wrist, occurring 38 and 22 times, respectively. Joint connections were present in only 20% of the cases published by other groups.

Conclusions

The authors believe that the fundamental principles of the unifying articular (synovial) theory (that is, articular branch connections, cyst fluid following a path of least resistance, and the role of pressure fluxes) previously described to explain intraneural ganglia in the lower limb apply to those cases in the upper limb. In their opinion, the joint connection is often not identified because of the cysts' rarity, radiologists' and surgeons' inexperience, and the difficulty visualizing and demonstrating it because of the small size of the cysts. Furthermore, they believe that recurrence (subclinical or clinical) is not only underreported but also predictable after simple decompression that fails to address the articular branch. In contrast, intraneural recurrence can be eliminated with disconnection of the articular branch.
High-resolution ultrasonography in evaluating peripheral nerve entrapment and trauma
Authors: Koenig Ralph W. , Pedro Maria T. , Heinen Christian P. G. , Schmidt Thomas , Richter Hans-Peter , Antoniadis Gregor , Kretschmer Thomas
Published: January 2009

High-resolution ultrasonography is a noninvasive, readily applicable imaging modality, capable of depicting real-time static and dynamic morphological information concerning the peripheral nerves and their surrounding tissues. Continuous progress in ultrasonographic technology results in highly improved spatial and contrast resolution. Therefore, nerve imaging is possible to a fascicular level, and most peripheral nerves can now be depicted along their entire anatomical course. An increasing number of publications have evaluated the role of high-resolution ultrasonography in peripheral nerve diseases, especially in peripheral nerve entrapment.

Ultrasonography has been shown to be a precious complementary tool for assessing peripheral nerve lesions with respect to their exact location, course, continuity, and extent in traumatic nerve lesions, and for assessing nerve entrapment and tumors. In this article, the authors discuss the basic technical considerations for using ultrasoniography in peripheral nerve assessment, and some of the clinical applications are illustrated.
Practical considerations concerning the use of stem cells for peripheral nerve repair
Authors: Walsh Sarah , _ _ , Midha Rajiv
Published: January 2009

In this review the authors intend to demonstrate the need for supplementing conventional repair of the injured nerve with alternative therapies, namely transplantation of stem or progenitor cells. Although peripheral nerves do exhibit the potential to regenerate axons and reinnervate the end organ, outcome following severe nerve injury, even after repair, remains relatively poor. This is likely because of the extensive injury zone that prevents axon outgrowth. Even if outgrowth does occur, a relatively slow growth rate of regeneration results in prolonged denervation of the distal nerve. Whereas denervated Schwann cells (SCs) are key players in the early regenerative success of peripheral nerves, protracted loss of axonal contact renders Schwann cells unreceptive for axonal regeneration. Given that denervated Schwann cells appear to become effete, one logical approach is to support the distal denervated nerve environment by replacing host cells with those derived exogenously. A number of different sources of stem/precursor cells are being explored for their potential application in the scenario of peripheral nerve injury. The most promising candidate, transplant cells are derived from easily accessible sources such as the skin, bone marrow, or adipose tissue, all of which have demonstrated the capacity to differentiate into Schwann cell–like cells. Although recent studies have shown that stem cells can act as promising and beneficial adjuncts to nerve repair, considerable optimization of these therapies will be required for their potential to be realized in a clinical setting. The authors investigate the relevance of the delivery method (both the number and differentiation state of cells) on experimental outcomes, and seek to clarify whether stem cells must survive and differentiate in the injured nerve to convey a therapeutic effect. As our laboratory uses skin-derived precursor cells (SKPCs) in various nerve injury paradigms, we relate our findings on cell fate to other published studies to demonstrate the need to quantify stem cell survival and differentiation for future studies.
Transplantation of autologous Schwann cells for the repair of segmental peripheral nerve defects
Authors: Hood Brian , Levene Howard B. , Levi Allan D.
Published: January 2009

Peripheral nerve injuries are a source of chronic disability. Incomplete recovery from such injuries results in motor and sensory dysfunction and the potential for the development of chronic pain. The repair of human peripheral nerve injuries with traditional surgical techniques has limited success, particularly when a damaged nerve segment needs to be replaced. An injury to a long segment of peripheral nerve is often repaired using autologous grafting of “noncritical” sensory nerve. Although extensive axonal regeneration can be observed extending into these grafts, recovery of function may be absent or incomplete if the axons fail to reach their intended target. The goal of this review was to summarize the progress that has occurred in developing an artificial neural prosthesis consisting of autologous Schwann cells (SCs), and to detail future directions required in translating this promising therapy to the clinic.

In the authors' laboratory, methods are being explored to combine autologous SCs isolated using cell culture techniques with axon guidance channel (AGC) technology to develop the potential to repair critical gap length lesions within the peripheral nervous system. To test the clinical efficacy of such constructs, it is critically important to characterize the fate of the transplanted SCs with regard to cell survival, migration, differentiation, and myelin production. The authors sought to determine whether the use of SC-filled channels is superior or equivalent to strategies that are currently used clinically (for example, autologous nerve grafts). Finally, although many nerve repair paradigms demonstrate evidence of regeneration within the AGC, the authors further sought to determine if the regeneration observed was physiologically relevant by including electrophysiological, behavioral, and pain assessments. If successful, the development of this reparative approach will bring together techniques that are readily available for clinical use and should rapidly accelerate the process of bringing an effective nerve repair strategy to patients with peripheral nerve injury prior to the development of pain and chronic disability.
Designing ideal conduits for peripheral nerve repair
Authors: de Ruiter Godard C. W. , Malessy Martijn J. A. , Yaszemski Michael J. , Windebank Anthony J. , Spinner Robert J.
Published: January 2009

Nerve tubes, guides, or conduits are a promising alternative for autologous nerve graft repair. The first biodegradable empty single lumen or hollow nerve tubes are currently available for clinical use and are being used mostly in the repair of small-diameter nerves with nerve defects of < 3 cm. These nerve tubes are made of different biomaterials using various fabrication techniques. As a result these tubes also differ in physical properties. In addition, several modifications to the common hollow nerve tube (for example, the addition of Schwann cells, growth factors, and internal frameworks) are being investigated that may increase the gap that can be bridged. This combination of chemical, physical, and biological factors has made the design of a nerve conduit into a complex process that demands close collaboration of bioengineers, neuroscientists, and peripheral nerve surgeons. In this article the authors discuss the different steps that are involved in the process of the design of an ideal nerve conduit for peripheral nerve repair.
Understanding the mechanisms of entrapment neuropathies
Authors: Pham Khoa , Gupta Ranjan
Published: January 2009

Compression neuropathies are highly prevalent, debilitating conditions with variable functional recovery following surgical decompression. Due to the limited amount of human nerve tissue available for analysis, a number of animal models have been created to help investigators understand the molecular and cellular pathogenesis of chronic nerve compression (CNC) injury. Evidence suggests that CNC injury induces concurrent Schwann cell proliferation and apoptosis in the early stages of the disorder. These proliferating Schwann cells downregulate myelin proteins, leading to local demyelination and remyelination in the region of injury. In addition, the downregulation of myelin proteins, in particular myelin-associated glycoprotein, allows for axonal sprouting. Interestingly, these changes occur in the absence of both morphological and electrophysiological evidence of axonal damage. This is in direct contrast to acute injuries, such as transection or crush, which are characterized by axonal injury followed by Wallerian degeneration. Because the accepted trigger for Schwann cell dedifferentiation is axonal injury, an alternate mechanism for Schwann response must exist in CNC injury. In vitro studies of pure Schwann cells have shown that these cells can respond directly to mechanical stimuli by downregulating myelin proteins and proliferating. These studies suggest that although the reciprocal relationship between neurons and glial cells is maintained, chronic nerve compression injury is a Schwann cell-mediated disease.
Phototherapy in peripheral nerve regeneration: From basic science to clinical study
Authors: Rochkind Shimon
Published: January 2009

Object

This review summarizes the continuous study of low-power laser radiation treatment of a severely injured peripheral nerve. Laser phototherapy was applied as a supportive factor for accelerating and enhancing axonal growth and regeneration after injury or a reconstructive peripheral nerve procedure. In nerve cell cultures, laser phototherapy was used to stimulate activation of nerve cells.

Methods

Low-power laser radiation was used for treatment of peripheral nerve injury using a rat sciatic nerve model after crush injury, neurorrhaphy, or neurotube reconstruction. Nerve cell growth and axonal sprouting were investigated using laser phototherapy on embryonic rat brain cultures. The outcome in animal studies facilitated a clinical double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study that measured the effectiveness of 780-nm laser phototherapy on patients suffering from incomplete peripheral nerve injuries for 6 months to several years.

Results

Animal studies showed that laser phototherapy has an immediate protective effect, maintains functional activity of the injured nerve, decreases scar tissue formation at the injury site, decreases degeneration in corresponding motor neurons of the spinal cord, and significantly increases axonal growth and myelinization. In cell cultures, laser irradiation accelerates migration, nerve cell growth, and fiber sprouting. A pilot clinical double-blind, placebocontrolled, randomized study showed that in patients with incomplete long-term peripheral nerve injury, 780-nm laser radiation can progressively improve peripheral nerve function, which leads to significant functional recovery.

Conclusions

Using 780-nm laser phototherapy accelerates and enhances axonal growth and regeneration after injury or a reconstructive peripheral nerve procedure. Laser activation of nerve cells, their growth, and axonal sprouting can be considered as potential treatment of neuronal injury. Animal and clinical studies show the promoting action of phototherapy on peripheral nerve regeneration, making it possible to suggest that the time for broader clinical trials has arrived.
Standortkartierung im Lehr- und Forschungswald der ETH in Sedrun | Site mapping in the ETH Research Forest of Sedrun
Authors: Doutaz Jacques , Frey Hans-Ulrich , Bugmann Harald
Published: January 2009

Phytosociology has advanced in various respects since the fundamental groundwork was laid, which was mainly concerned with developing a classification system of vegetation units. Current site classification methods for forests consider not only floristic aspects, but also pedological, topographic and structural characteristics of forest stands. During the summer of 2007, a site mapping was carried out in the ETH Research Forest near Sedrun (Switzerland). This paper describes the methods employed, and it evaluates the applicability thereof based on case studies. Site mapping is based on expert opinion, and as such it includes a certain degree of generalization and subjectivity in the evaluation of stands and their assignment to a site type. However, we propose that site classification constitutes a suitable tool for describing and characterizing the complexity of forest sites. The accurate description of site types strongly facilitates the interpretation and the applicability of a classification system in decision support for sustainable forest management.
Traditionelle und neue Berichtskonzepte in der Forst- und Holzwirtschaft | New and traditional concepts in business reporting in the forest and timber industries
Authors: Hartebrodt Christoph , von Wedel Konrad , Bitz Silke , Kenntner Claudia
Published: January 2009

Reports from enterprises play an important role in external communication. The article presents for the first time an extensive analysis of the present state of business reporting in the forest and timber sectors, as seen from the point of view of the enterprises concerned. In addition to information on the present state of affairs in report-writing, the article analyses the ways in which enterprises evaluate new multi-dimensional concepts in reporting. Furthermore, the attitudes of enterprises towards some of the individual components of these concepts are assessed. The results are presented separately for public and private forest enterprises, for forest contractors and for the secondary wood-processing sector. The results of the survey are qualitatively compared with other national and international reference values, as far as these are available. In the forest and timber sectors a very traditional perception of reporting can be recognised and new approaches are regarded, on the whole, with scepticism. In particular both the increased participation of stakeholder groups and the obligation to report on problematical subjects, as required by standardised reporting schemes, are at present but little implemented. In conclusion starting points for a reorientation of reporting in the forest sector are proposed.
Glyceryl trinitrate: The management of chronic anal fissure in patients who are unfit for surgery
Authors: Irkorucu Oktay , Ucan Bulent Hamdi , Comert Mustafa
Published: January 2009

Keywords: Anal fissure; Glyceryl trinitrate; Sphincterotomy; SurgeryOnline: 29-1-2009DOI: 10.3329/bmrcb.v34i3.1648Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2008; 34: 111-111
Acute and long-term neurological complications in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Rahman A.T.M. Atikur , Mannan M.A. , Sadeque Samia
Published: January 2009

The pattern of acute and long-term neurological complications in 133 children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) treated with two treatment protocol was reviewed. Twenty patients developed neurological complications. Nine out of 20 patients received MRC UK ALL X and the remaining 11 received MRC UK ALL XI protocol. There was no difference of neurological complications between MRC UKALL X and UK ALL XI protocol groups. The numbers of patients who developed neurological complications during induction of remission period were 11 of 133 patients (8.2%). 122 patients were observed during the maintenance period of treatment (from 6 months to 36 months). Six out of 122 patients developed neurological complications during this period. 88 patients were followed for a period of up to 6 months after the cessation of chemotherapy, i.e., in the late period. Neurological complications were found in 3 during this period. Neurological complications rate was 4 times higher in the relapsed group than in the no relapsed group (p < 0.05). Systemic chemotherapy (including vincristine, high-dose methotrexate) and intrathecal chemotherapy seem to be the most common predisposing factors.Keywords: Acute lymphoblastic leukemia; children; neurological complicationOnline: 29-1-2009DOI: 10.3329/bmrcb.v34i3.1858Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2008; 34: 90-93
Immune thrombocytopenic purpura among the children attending at two teaching hospitals
Authors: Hafiz Md. Golam , Mannan M.A. , Amin Syed Khairul , Islam Afiqul , Rahman Fazlur
Published: January 2009

The presenting features, diagnostic evaluation, seasonal variation and management performed in 110 children with immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) attending at two tertiary level hospitals were evaluated. A peak incidence of children with ITP was observed during the month of June, July and the first step was found in May and lowest in the month of October to December. Mean initial platelet count was 65.5 x 109/L.Â  35 patients with ITP did not require any treatment who were kept under observation and the rest 75 children who were admitted to hospital given platelet count enhancing treatment- intravenous immunoglobulin in 9, corticosteroids in 60 or both in 6 children with ITP. Intracranial hemorrhages were noticed in two children with ITP. So, this study suggests that ITP had special predilection during summer season and the least in winter along with variable approaches to management of these children.Keywords: Bangladesh; children; Immune thrombocytopenic purpura; teaching hospital;Online 29-1-2009DOI: 10.3329/bmrcb.v34i3.1859Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2008; 34: 94-98
Post-operative analgesic in children
Authors: Alam Shoheli , Waliullah A.S.M. , Shamsuddin A.K.M.
Published: January 2009

Keywords: Analgesic; Children; Post-operativeOnline: 29-1-2009DOI: 10.3329/bmrcb.v34i3.1860Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2008; 34: 109-111
Protective effect of tomato against adrenaline-induced myocardial infarction in rats
Authors: Parvin Roksana , Akhter Nargis
Published: January 2009

Lycopene, a carotenoid rich in tomato fruit (ripe), is an effective antioxidant and free radical scavenger. In this study n-hexane extract of tomato was evaluated for its protective action against oxidative stress in experimental myocardial infarction induced by administration of adrenaline in rats. Adrenaline produced significant elevation of malondialdehyde content of heart, an indicator of lipid peroxidation, with a significant rise in serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) level and different grades of necrotic changes in myocardium. Rats were treated with two doses of n-hexane extract of tomato, intragastrically daily for one month prior to administration of adrenaline on the 31st and 32nd day. Pretreatment of tomato extract (1 mg/kg, 2 mg/kg) and vitamin E (50 mg/kg) significantly reduced the malondialdehyde concentration in heart and significantly lowered the serum AST level in adrenaline treated rats. Myocardial necrosis was significantly prevented by pretreatment. These results suggest that n-hexane extract of tomato possesses antioxidative property that may protect heart against catecholamine induced myocardial infarction.Â Â Â Â Â Â  Keywords: Adrenaline; Myocardial infarction; Rat; TomatoOnline: 29-1-2009DOI:Â 10.3329/bmrcb.v34i3.1974Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2008; 34: 104-108.
Pattern Discovery in Expression Profiling Data
Authors: Katagiri Fumiaki , Glazebrook Jane
Published: January 2009

In expression profiling studies, it is often necessary to identify groups of genes with similar expression profiles in a variety of samples, and/or groups of samples with similar expression profiles. Each profile can be expressed as a single data point in a space with the same number of dimensions as there are parameters in the profiles. In this way, pattern discovery among expression profiles is translated into pattern discovery in the spatial distribution of data points: the similarity between profiles is defined by the distance between the corresponding data points. Various multivariate analysis methods, such as clustering and dimensionality reduction methods, are used to summarize the data point distribution to help the investigator recognize major trends. As different methods may identify different features of the distribution, it is important to analyze a particular data set with multiple methods. Curr. Protoc. Mol. Biol. 85:22.5.1‐22.5.15. © 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Recombineering‐Based Procedure for Creating Cre/loxP Conditional Knockouts in the Mouse
Authors: Bouvier Jason , Cheng Jr‐Gang
Published: January 2009

Gene targeting in the mouse is an essential tool for studying gene function and creating models of human disease. The method described in this unit takes advantage of bacterial artificial chromosomes, Cre/loxP and FLPe/FRT systems, and recently evolved recombineering approaches to simplify the preparation of targeting constructs for generation of conditional knockout (CKO) animals. This method has been used to generate >30 CKO constructs, most of them successfully used to target mouse ES cells and establish mutant mice. Design and preparation of the CKO construct, as well as step‐wise troubleshooting guidelines, are described in detail. Curr. Protoc. Mol. Biol. 85:23.13.1‐23.13.27. © 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Characterization of Supercomplex Crude Oil Mixtures: What Is Really in There?
Authors: Panda Saroj K. , Andersson Jan T. , Schrader Wolfgang
Published: January 2009

Inhaltsangabe: Eine große Hürde für eine optimale Energiegewinnung aus Erdöl ist die Komplexität und Vielfalt der darin enthaltenen Verbindungen. Eine Untersuchung verschiedener Ionisierungsmethoden für die Massenspektrometrie ergibt, dass das Massenspektrum einer Erdölprobe stark von der jeweils verwendeten Methode abhängt.

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Wasserspaltung durch Licht mit Osmocen als Photokatalysator
Authors: Kunkely Horst , Vogler Arnd
Published: January 2009

Das Wichtigste zum Schluss: Ein einfaches molekulares Redoxsystem spaltet Wasser photochemisch in Wasserstoff und Sauerstoff. Dabei ergänzen sich zwei getrennte Photolysen zu einem Kreisprozess (siehe Schema). Als Photokatalysator dient Osmocen ([Cp2OsII]; Cp−=C5H5−).

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Total Synthesis of Azithromycin
Authors: Kim Hyoung Cheul , Kang Sung Ho
Published: January 2009

Quartär ist nicht schwer: Azithromycin (1) hat ein besseres pharmakologisches Profil als die Erythromycine. Die Verbindung ist mithilfe einer enantioselektiven Synthese zugänglich, bei der alle quartären Kohlenstoffstereozentren durch Desymmetrisierung 2‐substituierter Glycerinderivate mit CuCl2 und einem chiralen Imin als Katalysator eingeführt wurden.

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Die Verknüpfung von Boran mit N‐heterocyclischen Carbenen: effektive Wasserstoffdonoren für Radikalreaktionen
Authors: Walton John C.
Published: January 2009

Günstiger Einfluss: N‐heterocyclische Carbene (NHCs) schwächen die starken B‐H‐Bindungen von Boran in überraschend hohem Maße durch Bildung von NHC‐BH3‐Komplexen. Diese Eigenschaft wurde zur Entwicklung einer Reihe von NHC‐Boran‐Komplexen für die Reduktion von Xanthaten in radikalischen Barton‐McCombie‐Desoxygenierungen genutzt (siehe Schema; AIBN = Azobisisobutyronitril, Bn = Benzyl).

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Near‐IR Remote Release from Assemblies of Liposomes and Nanoparticles
Authors: Volodkin Dmitry V. , Skirtach Andre G. , Möhwald Helmuth
Published: January 2009

Laserlicht im Nahinfrarot(NIR)‐Bereich löst die Freisetzung eines Fluoreszenzfarbstoffs aus Liposom‐Goldnanopartikel‐Aggregaten aus (siehe Fluoreszenzbilder). Komplexe mit bestimmter Größe eignen sich zur Verwendung als neue vesikelbasierte Wirkstofftransportsysteme, die durch bioverträgliche NIR‐Strahlung manipuliert werden können.

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An Ugi Reaction in the Total Synthesis of (−)‐Dysibetaine
Authors: Isaacson Jerry , Kobayashi Yoshihisa
Published: January 2009

Einen einfachen Zugang zu (−)‐Dysibetain bietet eine elfstufige Reaktion ausgehend von L‐Äpfelsäure (siehe Schema). Der Schlüsselschritt ist eine einzigartige Vier‐Zentren‐drei‐Komponenten‐Ugi‐Cyclisierung, bei der eine Estereinheit als Carbonsäurekomponente fungiert. Mit 1,1,1,3,3,3‐Hexamethyldisilazan als Ammoniakäquivalent und einem maßgeschneiderten Isocyanid gelingt die rasche Synthese.

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Thallium(I) as a Coordination Site Protection Agent: Preparation of an Isolable Zero‐Valent Nickel Tris‐Isocyanide
Authors: Fox Brian J. , Millard Matthew D. , DiPasquale Antonio G. , Rheingold Arnold L. , Figueroa Joshua S.
Published: January 2009

Abgeschirmt: Niedervalente Nickelzentren binden leicht und synthetisch reversibel Thallium(I)‐Ionen, die wiederum die Koordinationsstellen des Nickelzentrums vor angreifenden Lewis‐basischen Liganden schützen. Diese Synthesesequenz ermöglicht die Isolierung eines reaktiven, nullwertigen Nickel‐ Tris(isocyanid)‐Komplexes.

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Innentitelbild: Self‐Assembly of One‐ and Two‐Dimensional Hemoprotein Systems by Polymerization through Heme–Heme Pocket Interactions (Angew. Chem. 7/2009)
Authors: Kitagishi Hiroaki , Kakikura Yasuaki , Yamaguchi Hiroyasu , Oohora Koji , Harada Akira , Hayashi Takashi
Published: January 2009

Supramolekulare Proteinpolymere aus Cytochrom‐b562‐Monomeren, die Häm kovalent an die Proteinoberfläche gebunden haben, werden von T. Hayashi et al. in der Zuschrift auf S. 1297 ff. vorgestellt. Es wurden zum einen eindimensionale submikrometerlange Hämoproteinfasern hergestellt, zum anderen bildeten sich in Gegenwart einer Hämtriade als Gelenkmolekül zweidimensionale Proteinnetzwerke von mehr als 100 Quadratmikrometern.

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Water Splitting by Light with Osmocene as Photocatalyst
Authors: Kunkely Horst , Vogler Arnd
Published: January 2009

Last but not least: A simple molecular redox system is used to split water into hydrogen and oxygen photochemically. Two separate photolyses are combined to a cyclic process (see scheme). Osmocene ([Cp2OsII] with Cp−=C5H5−) serves as photocatalyst.

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Reversible σ‐Borane‐to‐Borylene Transformation: A Little Something For Everyone
Authors: Braunschweig Holger , Dewhurst Rian D.
Published: January 2009

A reaction with many facets: The facile dehydrogenative synthesis of a borylene complex (left in scheme) from a dihydroborane (right), proceeds reversibly at room‐temperature. The implications of this reaction for the fields of inorganic, main‐group, and hydrogen‐storage chemistry are covered in this Highlight.

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Near‐IR Remote Release from Assemblies of Liposomes and Nanoparticles
Authors: Volodkin Dmitry V. , Skirtach Andre G. , Möhwald Helmuth
Published: January 2009

Set free by light: Near‐IR (NIR) laser‐initiated remote release of fluorescent dye from complexes of liposome–gold‐nanoparticle aggregates is demonstrated (see fluorescence images). Complexes of the desired size are shown to be a viable approach to the construction of vesicle‐based drug‐delivery systems with light‐triggered remote release characteristics. This opens up a new method to manipulate liposome‐based drug‐delivery systems in a biocompatible way by using the near‐IR spectral range.

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Physicochemical processes involved in migration of bisphenol A from polycarbonate
Authors: Mercea P.
Published: January 2009

Results of experiments, conducted by different polycarbonate (PC) producing companies, on migration of bisphenol A (BPA) from PC into different liquids, were supplied to the author for compilation, review, and discussion. The observed BPA migration levels were found to be nearly independent of the concentration of residual BPA in the PC resins. Hydrolysis of PC is the dominant mechanism responsible for the release of BPA from the polymer surface into the contacting aqueous liquid. Experiments with PC spiked with deuterated BPA revealed that diffusion‐controlled migration play a minor role in the overall release of BPA from PC. The influence of a number of experimental parameters on the migration of BPA into aqueous liquids was studied. Factors found to be of importance included the temperature, pH, and ozone concentration of the liquids, as well as the surface ageing of the PC. All of the BPA migration levels obtained from experiments performed under standard conditions as given in the EU legislation and its associated guidance documents were found to be well below the EU specific migration limit of 600 μg/kg food which applies to plastics in contact with foodstuffs (EU Directive 2002/72/EC as amended). Migration is lower in oil than in the aqueous food‐simulants water, 3% acetic acid, and 10 or 50% ethanol. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
A simple one‐step chemical route to gold/polymer core/shell composites and polymer hollow spheres
Authors: Han Jie , Liu Yan , Guo Rong
Published: January 2009

Au/poly(o‐toluidine) (POT) core/shell composite spheres have been successfully fabricated by chemical polymerization route in aqueous solution without the aid of surfactant or functional acids using HAuCl4 as the oxidant. By altering the concentration of oxidant, the amount of Au nanoparticles inside each POT sphere can be tuned from tens to one. Moreover, uniform POT hollow spheres with one opening in each polymer surface can be obtained under extremely low concentration of oxidant. The chemical structures of Au/POT composites were confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), UV‐vis, and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) spectroscopies. Moreover, the formation mechanisms of Au/POT core/shell composites and POT hollow spheres were also discussed. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Polypropylene/clay nanocomposites: Effect of different clays and compatibilizers on their morphology
Authors: Palza Humberto , Vergara Rodrigo , Yazdani‐Pedram Mehrdad , Quijada Raúl
Published: January 2009

A set of organically modified clays (OLS) were mixed with different compatibilizers to alter their interactions with either homopolymer or heterophasic polypropylenes when they were melt‐mixed, and the relation between the OLS/compatibilizer system and the composite morphology was studied. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) showed that depending on the specific OLS/compatibilizer system, it is possible to obtain several morphologies in the composites. In particular, some samples prepared with compatibilizers based on itaconic acid and OLSs, which had the highest cation exchange capacity and were organically modified with a set of quaternary ammonium salts, presented longer clay interlayer distances than the original OLSs, whereas other composites showed a clay collapse associated with shorter interlayer distances. Moreover, some composites presented both kinds of morphologies together. By means of diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis, it was possible to show that the OLSs were stable under the operating conditions, so the decrease in the interlayer distance found in some samples was not related to degradation processes. On the other hand, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR‐TEM) showed that collapsed clays were formed by tactoid and immiscible structures with poor dispersion in the polymer matrix. However, samples with intercalate state from XRD presented very well dispersed multilayer stacks about 10 nm thick. Finally, those samples with both collapsed and intercalate morphologies presented tactoid and immiscible structures together with well dispersed multilayer stacks in the corresponding HR‐TEM images. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Increased endothelial cell adhesion on plasma modified nanostructured polymeric and metallic surfaces for vascular stent applications
Authors: Pareta Rajesh A. , Reising Alexander B. , Miller Tiffany , Storey Dan , Webster Thomas J.
Published: January 2009

Techniques to regenerate the vasculature have risen considerably over the last few decades due to the increased clinical diagnosis of artery narrowing and blood vessel blockage. Although initially re‐establishing blood flow, current small diameter vascular regenerative materials often eventually cause thrombosis and restenosis due to a lack of initial endothelial cell coverage on such materials. The objective of this in vitro study was to evaluate commonly used vascular materials (specifically, polyethylene terephthalate, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyurethane, nylon, commercially pure titanium, and a titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V)) modified using an ionic plasma deposition (IPD) process and a nitrogen ion implantation plasma deposition (NIIPD) process. Such surface modifications have been previously shown to create nanostructured surface features which mimic the natural nanostructured surface features of blood vessels. The modified and unmodified surfaces were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy and surface energy measurements. Furthermore, in vitro endothelial cell adhesion tests (a key first step for vascular material endothelialization) demonstrated increased endothelial cell adhesion on many modified (with IPD and NIIPD + IPD) compared to unmodified samples. In general, endothelial cell adhesion increased with nanoroughness and surface energy but demonstrated a decreased endothelial cell adhesion trend after an optimal coating surface energy value was reached. Thus, results from this study provided materials and a versatile surface modification process that can potentially increase endothelialization faster than current unmodified (conventional) polymer and metallic vascular materials. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2009;103: 459–471. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The arterial anatomy of the Achilles tendon: Anatomical study and clinical implications
Authors: Chen Tony M. , Rozen Warren M. , Pan Wei‐ren , Ashton Mark W. , Richardson Martin D. , Taylor G. Ian
Published: January 2009

The Achilles tendon is the most frequently ruptured tendon in the lower limb and accounts for almost 20% of all large tendon injuries. Despite numerous published studies describing its blood supply, there has been no uniformity in describing its topography. The current study comprises a detailed anatomical study of both the intrinsic and extrinsic arterial supply of the Achilles tendon, providing the detail sought from studies calling for improved planning of surgical procedures where damage to the vascularity of the Achilles tendon is likely. A dissection, microdissection, histological, and angiographic study was undertaken on 20 cadaveric lower limbs from 16 fresh and four embalmed cadavers. The Achilles tendon is supplied by two arteries, the posterior tibial and peroneal arteries. Three vascular territories were identified, with the midsection supplied by the peroneal artery, and the proximal and distal sections supplied by the posterior tibial artery. The midsection of the Achilles tendon was markedly more hypovascular that the rest of the tendon. The Achilles tendon is at highest risk of rupture and surgical complications at its midsection. Individuals with particularly poor supply of the midsection may be at increased risk of tendon rupture, and approaches to the tendon operatively should consider the route of supply by the peroneal artery to this susceptible part of the tendon. Clin. Anat. 22:377–385, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.