bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adequacy of androgen replacement influences bone density response to testosterone in androgen-deficient men
Authors: Aminorroaya Ashraf , Kelleher Sharyn , Conway Ann J , Ly Lam P , Handelsman David J
Published: June 2005

Objective: Androgen deficiency (AD) leads to bone loss and contributes to osteoporotic fractures in men. Although low bone mineral density (BMD) in AD men is improved by testosterone replacement, the responses vary between individuals but the determinants of this variability are not well defined.

Design and methods: Retrospective review of dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) of the lumbar spine and proximal femur in men with established AD requiring regular androgen replacement therapy (ART). After a DEXA scan all men were treated with testosterone implants (800 mg, ~6 month intervals). Patients were classified as having a congenital, childhood, or post-pubertal onset, as well as according to the adequacy of treatment prior to their first DEXA scan as untreated, partially treated or well treated.

Results: Men with AD requiring regular ART (n = 169, aged 46.3±1.1 years, range 22–84 years) underwent a DEXA scan prior to being treated with testosterone implants (800 mg, ~6 month intervals). In cross-sectional analysis at the time of the first DEXA scan untreated men (n = 24) had significantly reduced age-adjusted BMD at all four sites (L1–L4, femoral neck, Ward’s triangle and trochanter). Well-treated men (n = 77) had significantly better age-adjusted BMD at all four sites compared with those who were partially treated (n = 66) or untreated (n = 24) with their age-adjusted BMD being normalized. In a longitudinal assessment of men (n = 60) who had two or more serial DEXA scans, at the second DEXA scan after a median of 3 years, men who were previously partially treated (n = 19) or untreated (n = 11) had proportionately greater improvements in BMD, significantly for Ward’s triangle (P = 0.025) and the trochanter (P = 0.044) compared with men (n = 30) previously well treated.

Conclusions: The present study demonstrates a positive relationship between adequacy of testosterone replacement and BMD in men with overt organic AD. Additionally, the BMD of well-treated AD men approximates that of age-matched non-AD controls. The greatest BMD gains are made by those who have been either untreated or partially treated, and optimal treatment over time (median 3 years) normalizes BMD to the level expected for healthy men of the same age.
The utility of three different methods for measuring urinary 18-hydroxycortisol in the differential diagnosis of suspected primary hyperaldosteronism
Authors: Reynolds R M , Shakerdi L A , Sandhu K , Wallace A M , Wood P J , Walker B R
Published: June 2005

Objective: Urine 18-hydroxycortisol (18-OHF) measurements are claimed to discriminate between primary hyperaldosteronism due to Conn’s syndrome/adrenal adenoma or idiopathic bilateral adrenal hyperplasia (BAH), and also to identify cases of glucocorticoid-suppressible hyperaldosteronism (GSH). We have evaluated three urine 18-OHF methods using a panel of urine samples from patients with hypertension.

Design: Clinical methods comparative study.

Methods: Urine samples from patients with primary hyperaldosteronism due to either adenoma (n= 6), BAH (n= 6), GSH (n= 9), or essential hypertension (n= 38) were analysed without knowledge of the diagnosis using three different methods in different laboratories. These included ‘in-house’ radioimmunoassay (RIA), ‘in-house’ time-resolved fluorometric assay (DELFIA), and gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS).

Results: The three assays showed good correlation, but there were large bias differences: RIA bias was greater than DELFIA which was greater than GC-MS. Discrimination between adenoma and BAH patients was best for the DELFIA method, with no overlap between results for these two groups. All three methods gave significantly elevated results for the GSH group compared with the BAH and essential hypertension groups. No assay distinguished BAH from essential hypertension.

Conclusion: Measurement of urine 18-OHF may be a useful additional test in the differential diagnosis of primary hyperaldosteronism. The clinical diagnostic value of urinary 18-OHF measurements is method-dependent with the DELFIA assay having the best discriminatory value.
Estimation of the false-negative rate in newborn screening for congenital adrenal hyperplasia
Authors: Votava Felix , Török Dóra , Kovács József , Möslinger Dorothea , Baumgartner-Parzer Sabina M , Sólyom János , Pribilincová Zuzana , Battelino Tadej , Lebl Jan , Frisch Herwig , Waldhauser Franz , _ _
Published: June 2005

Objective: Newborn screening based on measurement of 17α-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) in a dried blood spot on filter paper is an effective tool for early diagnosis of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency. Its most important rationale is prevention of a life-threatening salt-wasting (SW) crisis; in moderate forms of CAH, early diagnosis and treatment may prevent permanent negative effects of androgen overproduction. Our target was to analyse if all CAH patients who had been identified clinically before puberty would have been detected by the newborn screening.

Methods: Newborn screening cards of 110 CAH patients born between 1988 and 2000 in five Middle-European countries and diagnosed prior to puberty (77 SW and 33 moderate) and cards from 920 random, healthy newborn controls were analysed. CAH screening had not yet been introduced during this time. The diagnosis was based on clinical and laboratory signs and, in most cases, on CYP21 gene mutation analysis. All 17-OHP measurements in dried blood spots were carried out using a time-resolved fluoroimmunoassay kit.

Results: In the newborn screening blood spots, the median of 17-OHP levels was 561 nmol/l (range 91–1404 nmol/l) in subjects with the SW form and 40 nmol/l (4–247 nmol/l) in the moderate form. All 77 SW patients would have been detected by newborn screening using the recommended cut-off limits (30 nmol/l). However, 10 of 33 patients with moderate CAH would have been missed. 17-OHP levels of all controls were below the cut-off.

Conclusion: Newborn screening is efficient for diagnosing the SW form of CAH, but is inappropriate for identifying all patients with a moderate form of CAH. It appears that the false-negative rate is at least one-third in children with the moderate form of CAH.
Daily Duration of Vitamin D Synthesis in Human Skin with Relation to Latitude, Total Ozone, Altitude, Ground Cover, Aerosols and Cloud Thickness
Authors: Engelsen Ola , Brustad Magritt , Aksnes Lage , Lund Eiliv
Published: June 2005

Vitamin D production in human skin occurs only when incident UV radiation exceeds a certain threshold. From simulations of UV irradiances worldwide and throughout the year, we have studied the dependency of the extent and duration of cutaneous vitamin D production in terms of latitude, time, total ozone, clouds, aerosols, surface reflectivity and altitude. For clear atmospheric conditions, no cutaneous vitamin D production occurs at 51 degrees latitude and higher during some periods of the year. At 70 degrees latitude, vitamin D synthesis can be absent for 5 months. Clouds, aerosols and thick ozone events reduce the duration of vitamin D synthesis considerably, and can suppress vitamin D synthesis completely even at the equator. A web page allowing the computation of the duration of cutaneous vitamin D production worldwide throughout the year, for various atmospheric and surface conditions, is available on the Internet at http://zardoz.nilu.no/~olaeng/fastrt/VitD.html and http://zardoz.nilu.no/~olaeng/fastrt/VitD‐ez.html. The computational methodology is outlined here.
Development of Practical Culture Methods for Rainbow Smelt Larvae
Authors: Ayer Matthew H , Benton Christopher , King William , Kneebone Jeffrey , Elzey Scott , Toran Marcos , Grange Katherine , Berlinsky David L
Published: June 2005

Rainbow smelt Osmerus mordax, collected in the wild and strip-spawned during the 2002 and 2003 spawning seasons, produced fertilization and hatching rates as high as 99% and 86%, respectively. During the 2002 spawning season, embryos were stocked into petri dishes and the effects of temperature (5, 10, 15, and 20°C) and salinity (0, 10, 20, and 30‰) on hatching success were determined. Hatching was significantly greater at 10°C and 15°C than at 5°C and 20°C, regardless of salinity. No hatching occurred at 20‰ or 30‰ salinity at any temperature. In separate experiments, the effects of light intensity, green water (200,000 microalgal cells/mL), temperature, and salinity on larval growth and survival were tested. Growth and survival were significantly improved by the addition of green water, but no significant differences were found between light intensity treatments. In studies conducted during the 2003 spawning season, there was no difference in survival between rainbow smelt larvae reared at 15°C and 20°C or among salinity levels of 2, 10, or 20‰. Larval growth was inversely proportional to salinity level. As salinity decreased, larval growth rates increased significantly. Larvae were reared for 77 d at 20°C and sequentially fed enriched rotifers, nauplii of brine shrimp Artemia spp., and a commercial marine finfish diet. The results from this study suggest that rainbow smelt are tolerant of a wide range of environmental conditions and are a good baitfish candidate for culture in the northeastern United States.
“Whistle While You Work”: A Historical Account of Some Associations Among Music, Work, and Health
Authors: le Roux Gordon Marc
Published: June 2005

Music has long been a uniting force among workers. Music can improve team spirit and provide an enjoyable diversion, but it is most useful in expressing the true feelings of a sometimes desperate community.

Over time, a variety of musical media have emerged to match the prevailing conditions at work: the folk songs of 19th-century handloom weavers, the songs of industrial Britain’s trade union members, the workers’ radio programs of the 1940s.

Associations have arisen to encourage and coordinate musical activities among workers, and public awareness of the hazards of some occupations has been promoted through music.
Contribution of geophysics to outlining the foundation structure of the Islamic Museum, Cairo, Egypt
Authors: Abbas A. M. , Kamei H. , Helal A. , Atya M. A. , Shaaban F. A.
Published: June 2005

The Islamic museum was erected in 1896. The building is situated in the heart of Cairo (capital of Egypt) and holds marvellous Islamic antiquities and priceless ancient hand‐writing and rare books. Recently, a restoration scheme has been planned to secure the old building which suffers from weakened foundations. In addition, the wooden roofs will be replaced by concrete ones and an extra floor will be integrated into the building. Unfortunately, the architecture construction charts were neither available nor obtainable. Therefore, the structure of the foundations and the base walls of the building had to be outlined. At the time of construction, three major fundamental wall designs were dominant and were to be considered during the work approach.

Ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) and dipole–dipole resistivity imaging have been integrated to (define the structure of the foundation walls of the building. A Ramac2 system connected to a 500 MHz antenna has been utilized for conducting the GPR survey. In addition, a Terrameter SAS 1000 single channel device has been used for performing the resistivity profiles. At accessible spaces around the building GPR and resistivity profiles were obtained. The GPR analysis has revealed the depth of the foundation walls to be about 0.9 m from the ground surface with a width close to 0.6 m. The wall design is close to a straight wall style. Furthermore, the analysis of the dipole–dipole resistivity measurements has matched the geology of the area, where subsoil anomalies may be due to the scattered limestone blocks that occur in the area. Moreover, the foundation walls have resistivity values that fall into the range of fractured limestone or limestone blocks. A step‐wise or inclined foundation wall style has not been indicated through the parallel resistivity profiles. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of two methods for assessing gene‐environment interactions using data from the Danish case‐control study of facial clefts
Authors: Etheredge Analee J. , Christensen Kaare , del Junco Deborah , Murray Jeffrey C. , Mitchell Laura E.
Published: June 2005

BACKGROUND

Epidemiological investigations have begun to consider gene‐environment (GE) interactions as potential risk factors for many diseases, including several different birth defects. However, traditional methodological approaches for the analysis of case‐control data tend to have low power for detection of interaction effects. A log‐linear approach that can impose the assumption that the genotype and exposure of interest occur independently in the population has been proposed as a potentially more powerful method for assessing GE interactions but has not been widely applied in the published literature.

METHODS

The present analyses were undertaken to compare the results obtained when stratified analyses and a log‐linear approach were used to assess potential GE interactions. The analyses were conducted using data from a population‐based, case‐control study conducted in Denmark and considered associations between nonsyndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CL±P), infant genotype for variants of RAR‐α, TGF‐α, TGF‐β3, and MSX1, and maternal exposure to smoking, alcohol, and multivitamins.

RESULTS

Neither the stratified nor the log‐linear analyses provided evidence that that risk of CL±P is influenced by any of the GE interactions that were evaluated, despite the potential increase in power offered by the latter approach. Further, the analyses highlight concerns regarding the power to reject the assumption of independence of the genetic and environmental factor of interest in the controls and related concerns regarding the validity of results obtained using the log‐linear approach when the underlying assumption is violated.

CONCLUSIONS

The potential increase in power offered by the log‐linear approach is offset by concerns regarding the validity of this approach when the independence assumption is violated. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Characterization of a human Rhomboid homolog, p100hRho/RHBDF1, which interacts with TGF‐α family ligands
Authors: Nakagawa Takatoshi , Guichard Annabel , Castro Carolina Perez , Xiao Yang , Rizen Michael , Zhang Hong‐Zhong , Hu Diane , Bang Anne , Helms Jill , Bier Ethan , Derynck Rik
Published: June 2005

The activity of the TGF‐α‐like ligand Spitz in Drosophila depends on Rhomboid, a seven‐transmembrane spanning protein that resides in the Golgi and acts as a serine protease to cleave Spitz, thereby releasing the soluble ligand. Several rhomboids in Drosophila have been implicated in the processing of TGF‐α‐like ligands, and consequent EGF receptor activation. The larger number of TGF‐α‐like ligands in vertebrates raises the possibility that they too might be subject to regulation by rhomboid‐like proteins. We present the cDNA cloning and polypeptide sequence of an atypically long human rhomboid, which, based on the absence of critical residues for serine protease activity, is not predicted to act as a serine protease. We examined its tissue distribution, in comparison with TGF‐α and the TGF‐α‐related protein HB‐EGF, and the EGF/TGF‐α receptor, in mouse embryo. This rhomboid, named p100hRho or RHBDF1, is a seven‐transmembrane protein with a long N‐terminal cytoplasmic extension that comprises half of the polypeptide sequence, and is found in the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi, but not on the cell surface. It is expressed as two forms with different lengths, forms dimers and interacts with TGF‐α ligands through a luminal interaction with the EGF core ectodomain. Finally, we evaluated the function of p100hRho/RHBDF1 in Drosophila, demonstrating that the short, but not the full‐length form has functional activity. The characterization of this protein extends our understanding of the rhomboid family of regulatory proteins. Developmental Dynamics 233:1315–1331, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ex ovo electroporation for gene transfer into older chicken embryos
Authors: Luo Jiankai , Redies Christoph
Published: June 2005

In ovo electroporation is an excellent method to ectopically induce or inhibit gene expression in chicken embryos and to study the in vivo function of genes during embryonic development. However, the application of electroporation in ovo to date is limited to an early stage of incubation (< stage 20). In older embryos (> stage 22), the vitelline and allantoic vessels have developed extensively and the in ovo manipulation of the embryo becomes exceedingly difficult. Therefore, in this study, we validate an ex ovo electroporation system, by which the time for performing electroporation can be extended up to at least day 7 of incubation. The application of this method will help to study gene function and regulation at later stages of development in the living chicken embryo. Developmental Dynamics 233:1470–1477, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
An Unexpected Crystal‐Chemical Principle for the Pyrochlore Structure
Authors: Vanderah Terrell A. , Levin Igor , Lufaso Michael W.
Published: June 2005

Phase equilibrium studies of the Bi–Zn–Nb–O system show that pyrochlore does not form at chemical compositions predicted by the traditional formula for this crystal structure, A2B2O6O', where A denotes large (8‐coordinated, e.g. Bi3+) and B small (6‐coordinated, e.g. Zn2+, Nb5+) cation sites. Instead, pyrochlore forms only at compositions with excess B cations which, surprisingly, occupy the large A‐cation sites. Reports of similar behavior in other pyrochlores suggest a previously unrecognized inherent structural feature (displacive disorder) which allows the formation of a large family of cubic pyrochlores with small B cations occupying up to ca. 25 % of the large A‐cation sites. Many pyrochlores can now be synthesized by deliberately combining large and small metal ions on the A sites. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2005)
Flufenamic Acid Determination in Human Serum by Adsorptive Voltammetry with In Situ Surfactant Modified Carbon Paste Electrodes
Authors: Amor‐García I. , Blanco‐López M. C. , Lobo‐Castañón M. J. , Miranda‐Ordieres A. J. , Tuñón‐Blanco P.
Published: June 2005

A simple and sensitive adsorptive‐ differential pulse‐ voltammetric method for the determination of flufenamic acid (FFA) is presented. The method is based on the preconcentration of FFA on carbon paste electrodes modified in situ with cationic surfactants, dodecyltrimethylammonium chloride (DTAC) or cetyltrimethylammonium chloride (CTAC), at submicellar concentrations. The best results were obtained with DTAC‐modified electrodes. After optimization, with these electrodes and using an accumulation step at 0 V for 3 minutes in 0.1 M phosphate solutions pH 7, the peak current of the main oxidation process of FFA varies linearly with its concentration from 1×10−9 M to 5×10−5 M, with a limit of detection of 0.64 nM (0.2 ng/mL). The proposed method has been applied to the determination of FFA in spiked serum samples, treated with acetonitrile to separate the proteins. In the concentration range studied (3 μM to 65 μM) the recovery was near 100 % and the lowest concentration attainable in these samples is below 3 μM (0.8 ppm).
Modeling Methanol Crossover by Diffusion and Electro‐Osmosis in a Flowing Electrolyte Direct Methanol Fuel Cell
Authors: Kjeang E. , Goldak J. , Golriz M. R. , Gu J. , James D. , Kordesch K.
Published: June 2005

A CFD model is created to analyze methanol transport in a flowing electrolyte direct methanol fuel cell (FE‐DMFC) by solving the 3D advection‐diffusion equation, with consideration of electro‐osmosis. The average methanol flux at the anode and cathode surfaces is simulated and compared to equivalent direct methanol fuel cells. Methanol crossover is defined as methanol flux at the cathode surface, and the results reveal that methanol crossover can be drastically reduced by the flowing electrolyte. The performance of the FE‐DMFC at peak power current density is evaluated, and diffusion is shown to be the dominant contribution, although electro‐osmosis increases with current density. The power consumption of the electrolyte pump is shown to be negligible compared to the cell power output. This indicates that thin electrolyte channels with high flow rates could further improve the efficiency.
In vitro interaction between surface‐treated Ti‐6Al‐4V titanium alloy and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells
Authors: Martinesi Maria , Bruni Sara , Stio Maria , Treves Cristina , Borgioli Francesca
Published: June 2005

The Ti‐6Al‐4V titanium alloy is widely employed as an implant material. The effects of Ti‐6Al‐4V samples, tested in both an untreated state and one in which the samples were subjected to a glow‐discharge treatment performed with the use of air, on human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were studied. Apoptosis, undetectable after 24‐h contact of PBMC with the two sample types, is induced after 48 h by treated samples, and, after 48 h, but in the presence of 1.5 μg/mL PHA, by both sample types. The expression of intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1) always increases, in comparison with control, in PBMC put in contact with the two sample types. In the same way, a remarkable increase in tumor necrosis‐alpha (TNF‐α) release in the culture medium is registered, when PBMC are put in contact with the two sample types for 24 and 48 h. Human umbilical‐vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) cocultured for 48 h with PBMC, previously incubated with the two sample types for 24 h, show an increase in ICAM‐1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (VCAM‐1) protein expression in comparison with control (HUVEC cocultured with control PBMC), indicating that inflammatory phenomena might occur. Taken together, these results suggest that, although plasma‐treated titanium alloy shows a better biocompatibility in comparison with the untreated one, attention must be paid to the careful control of the first signs of inflammation. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2005
Interactions of acinar cells on biomaterials with various surface properties
Authors: Chen Min‐Huey , Hsu Yuan‐Hua , Lin Chun‐Pin , Chen Yi‐Jane , Young Tai‐Horng
Published: June 2005

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the interactions of rat parotid acinar cells on biomaterials with different surface properties. The biomaterials used in this study included polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), chitosan, poly (ethylene‐co‐vinyl alcohol) (EVAL), and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). Cell morphology was observed by photomicroscope. Cell growth and differentiated characteristic function were separately assayed with 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) reduction activity and amylase activity. Results indicated that behaviors of acinar cells on materials might differ to a great extent depending on the surface hydrophilicity and morphology of the materials. On the relatively hydrophobic materials, the abilities of acinar cells to adhere and proliferate increased simultaneously. In addition, porous PVDF had higher cell growth compared with dense PVDF. Therefore, the hydrophobic PVDF with a porous structure was the best substrate for culturing acinar cells. According to our findings, a tubular PVDF scaffold with dense outer surface to prevent saliva leakage and with porous inner surface for the cell growth was proposed to serve as an artificial salivary gland for future use in the treatment of patients with salivary hypofunction. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2005
Microstructural effects on the wear resistance of wrought and as‐cast Co‐Cr‐Mo‐C implant alloys
Authors: Saldívar‐García A. J. , López H. F.
Published: June 2005

The tribological behavior of two cobalt‐base alloys—an as‐cast high‐carbon and a wrought low‐carbon Co alloy—that are used as hip implant materials is examined in this work. This work discusses the experimental results of cobalt–cobalt wear pairs, in wrought and as‐cast conditions, where the amount of hexagonal phase is systematically modified through an isothermal aging treatment. Fully FCC and HCP Co alloys are tested versus alloys with various volume fractions of HCP phase (0.05 to 1.0 volume fractions). Preliminary results indicate that Co‐Cr‐Mo/Co‐Cr‐Mo alloy pairs both possessing an HCP matrix microstructure tend to exhibit outstanding wear properties. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2005
Teach our students well: A call for training models that embrace the wisdom of the past
Authors: Tennen Howard
Published: June 2005

C.R. Snyder and T.R. Elliott's forward‐looking clinical training model (this issue) assumes that traditional clinical theories, particularly psychoanalytic theories, have little to offer the study of human strengths. Yet the psychoanalytic literature reveals many insights into the nature of strengths and weaknesses. This essay describes a three‐pronged habit of thinking that has led positive psychology advocates, including Snyder and Elliott, to underestimate the potential contribution of psychoanalytic models to our understanding of human strengths and to training models that stress their importance. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol.
Toward promoting generative cultures of intentional mentoring within academic settings
Authors: Ponce Allison N. , Williams Michelle K. , Allen George J.
Published: June 2005

Mentoring promotes ongoing learning of clinical psychologists, regardless of their expertise and experience. Most academic programs, however, do not possess vigorous mentoring cultures in which mentors simultaneously are learners. Academic programs are largely based on “mastery” philosophies that tacitly aim mentoring at less‐experienced peers. This orientation can make stigmatizing mentoring opportunities, especially for psychologists from underrepresented populations. Using concepts from experiential learning theory, we articulate interventions to invigorate mentoring cultures and make mentoring less stigmatizing. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol.
The return of science to education in clinical psychology: A reply to Snyder and Elliott
Authors: Rand Kevin L.
Published: June 2005

Clinical psychology currently exists in a state of isolation from the other scientific domains. This disconnect is explained, in part, by the continued adherence to mind–body dualism by many clinical psychologists and the rift between researchers and practitioners within the discipline. However, natural science researchers are reasserting the connection between physical and biological properties and psychological phenomena. As a result, knowledge and skill pertaining to the scientific method will become increasingly important in the education of future clinical psychologists. Modifications to both undergraduate and graduate training are suggested. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol.
Subcellular distribution of calcium‐sensitive potassium channels (IK1) in migrating cells
Authors: Schwab Albrecht , Wulf Andrea , Schulz Christoph , Kessler Wolfram , Nechyporuk‐Zloy Volodymyr , Römer Michael , Reinhardt Jürgen , Weinhold Dietmar , Dieterich Peter , Stock Christian , Hebert Steven C.
Published: June 2005

Cell migration is crucial for wound healing, immune defense, or formation of tumor metastases. In addition to the cytoskeleton, Ca2+ sensitive K+ channels (IK1) are also part of the cellular “migration machinery.” We showed that Ca2+ sensitive K+ channels support the retraction of the rear part of migrating MDCK‐F cells by inducing a localized shrinkage at this cell pole. So far the molecular nature and in particular the subcellular distribution of these channels in MDCK‐F cells is unknown. We compared the effect of IK1 channel blockers and activators on the current of a cloned IK1 channel from MDCK‐F cells (cIK1) and the migratory behavior of these cells. Using IK1 channels labeled with a HA‐tag or the enhanced green fluorescent protein we studied the subcellular distribution of the canine (cIK1) and the human (hIK1) channel protein in different migrating cells. The functional impact of cIK1 channel activity at the front or rear part of MDCK‐F cells was assessed with a local superfusion technique and a detailed morphometric analysis. We show that it is cIK1 whose activity is required for migration of MDCK‐F cells. IK1 channels are found in the entire plasma membrane, but they are concentrated at the cell front. This is in part due to membrane ruffling at this cell pole. However, there appears to be only little cIK1 channel activity at the front of MDCK‐F cells. In our view this apparent discrepancy can be explained by differential regulation of IK1 channels at the front and rear part of migrating cells. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Polyamine depletion inhibits apoptosis following blocking of survival pathways in human chondrocytes stimulated by tumor necrosis factor‐α
Authors: Stanic Ivana , Facchini Annalisa , Borzì Rosa Maria , Vitellozzi Roberta , Stefanelli Claudio , Goldring Mary B. , Guarnieri Carlo , Facchini Andrea , Flamigni Flavio
Published: June 2005

Chondrocyte apoptosis can be an important contributor to cartilage degeneration, thereby making it a potential therapeutic target in articular diseases. To search for new approaches to limit chondrocytic cell death, we investigated the requirement of polyamines for apoptosis favored by tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF), using specific polyamine biosynthesis inhibitors in human chondrocytes. The combined treatment of C‐28/I2 chondrocytes with TNF and cycloheximide (CHX) resulted in a prompt effector caspase activation and internucleosomal DNA fragmentation. Pre‐treatment of chondrocytes with α‐difluoromethylornithine (DFMO), an ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) inhibitor, markedly reduced putrescine and spermidine content as well as the caspase‐3 activation and DNA fragmentation induced by TNF and CHX. DFMO treatment also inhibited the increase in effector caspase activity provoked by TNF plus MG132, a proteasome inhibitor. DFMO decreased caspase‐8 activity and procaspase‐8 content, an apical caspase essential for TNF‐induced apoptosis. Although DFMO increased the amount of active, phosphorylated Akt, inhibitors of the Akt pathway failed to restore the TNF‐induced increase in caspase activity blunted by DFMO. DFMO also reduced the increase in caspase activity induced by staurosporine, but in this case Akt inhibition prevented the DFMO effect. Pre‐treatment with CGP 48664, an S‐adenosylmethionine decarboxylase (SAMDC) inhibitor markedly reduced spermidine and spermine levels, and provoked effects similar to those caused by DFMO. Finally DFMO was effective even in primary osteoarthritis (OA) chondrocyte cultures. These results suggest that the intracellular depletion of polyamines in chondrocytes can inhibit both the death receptor pathway by reducing the level of procaspase‐8, and the apoptotic mitochondrial pathway by activating Akt. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Genomic convergence to identify candidate genes for Parkinson disease: SAGE analysis of the substantia nigra
Authors: Noureddine Maher A. , Li Yi‐Ju , van der Walt Joelle M. , Walters Robert , Jewett Rita M. , Xu Hong , Wang Tianyuan , Walter Jeffrey W. , Scott Burton L. , Hulette Christine , Schmechel Don , Stenger Judith E. , Dietrich Fred , Vance Jeffery M. , Hauser Michael A.
Published: June 2005

Genomic convergence is a multistep approach that combines gene expression with genomic linkage to identify and prioritize susceptibility genes for complex disease. As a first step, we previously performed linkage analysis on 174 multiplex Parkinson's disease (PD) families, identifying five peaks for PD risk and two for genes affecting age at onset (AAO) in PD [Hauser et al., Hum Mol Genet 2003;12:671–677]. We report here the next step: serial analysis of gene expression [SAGE; Scott et al., JAMA 2001;286:2239–2242] to analyze substantia nigra tissue from three PD patients and two age‐matched controls. We find 933 differentially expressed genes (P < 0.05) between PD and controls, but of these, only 50 genes represented by unique SAGE tags map within our previously described PD linkage regions. Furthermore, genes encoded by mitochondrial DNA are expressed 1.5‐fold higher in PD patients versus controls, without an increase in the corresponding nuclear‐encoded mitochondrial components, suggesting an increase in mtDNA genomes in PD or a disjunction with nuclear expression. The next step in the genomic convergence process will be to screen these 50 high‐quality candidate genes for association with PD risk susceptibility and genetic effects on AAO. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society
Lung volumes in healthy Afro‐Caribbean children aged 4–17 years
Authors: Sylvester Karl P. , Milligan Peter , Patey Richard A. , Rafferty Gerrard F. , Greenough Anne
Published: June 2005

Lung volumes in healthy children differ according to their ethnic origin. We wished to determine if any differences in the lung volumes of Afro‐Caribbean (AC) children from those predicted by Caucasian reference values disappeared if the results were related to sitting height or to 90% or 77% of lung volumes predicted for height from Caucasian reference values based on standing height. We took, as our working hypothesis, that it is inappropriate to use Caucasian reference values to interpret data from Afro‐Caribbean children, and that ethnic‐specific reference values are required. This was a prospective, observational study. Subjects included 80 AC children with a median age of 9 (range, 4.3–17.8) years. Standing and sitting height were measured. Lung volumes were measured by body plethysmography (total lung capacity, TLCpleth; functional residual capacity, FRCpleth; and vital capacity, VCpleth), helium gas dilution (functional residual capacity, (FRCHe), spirometry (forced expiratory volume in 1 sec, FEV1), and forced vital capacity (FVC). The lung volumes of AC children correlated significantly with standing height, but differed significantly from values predicted from Caucasian reference values based on standing height (P < 0.05). Significant differences remained for TLCpleth, FRCpleth, FRCHe, RVpleth, VCpleth, FEV1, and FVC when the results were related to sitting height or 90% or 77% of values predicted from Caucasian reference values based on height (P < 0.05). Lung volumes in Afro‐Caribbean children should be compared to ethnic‐specific reference values. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2005; 40:109–112. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Technical Aspects of Peripheral Nerve Repair
Authors: JABALEY MICHAEL E.
Published: June 2005

This essay describes the internal topographical anatomy of peripheral nerves and outlines the use of this information in the specific steps of nerve suture. Repair is detailed in the context of overall wound management and those factors are emphasized which can be controlled by the surgeon and which have a definite effect on the functional outcome.
Transfer of Sensory Nerves in Hand Surgery
Authors: BEDESCHI P. , CELLI L. , BALLI A.
Published: June 2005

The transfer of sensitive dorsal rami of the ulnar nerve (two cases) and of two sensitive dorsal rami of the radial nerve (five cases) was accomplished in order to restore the sensitivity of the first three finger tips in patients suffering from serious and longstanding inveterate lesions of the median nerve.

The Authors describe the two surgical techniques in detail and, according to the satisfactory results obtained, specify the indications and advantages of this operation.
Unusual Complication of a Silicone Implant Arthroplasty at the Base of the Thumb
Authors: WOOD VIRCHEL E.
Published: June 2005

Pain developed after arthroplasty of the carpometacarpal joint of the thumb. It was due to perforation of the shaft of the metacarpal by the prosthesis, and was cured by a bone graft.
Some Observations on Knuckle Pads.
Authors: HUESTON J. T.
Published: June 2005

Although knuckle pads are histologically similar to the palmar nodules in Dupuytren’s Disease, they do not produce contraction. By considering the anatomical situation of the knuckle pad overlying the joint line and comparing it with a unique case of a dorsal nodule occurring between the joint lines, an explanation is profferred for this lack of contraction by knuckle pads. That contraction in the extensor mechanism was produced by the nodule between the joint lines is used to support further the “extrinsic” hypothesis of the pathogenesis of Dupuytren’s Disease.
Aneurysmal Bone Cyst of the Hand an Unusual Situation
Authors: BARBIERI C. H.
Published: June 2005

Three cases of aneurysmal bone cyst affecting the hand are reported. Some aspects of incidence, aetiology and treatment are discussed.
Fast-Growing Pseudomalignant Osseous Tumour (Myositis Ossificans) of the Finger. A Case Report.
Authors: DE SMET L. , VERCAUTEREN M.
Published: June 2005

A case of pseudomalignant osseous tumour of the soft tissues of the finger is reported. The benign diagnosis is confirmed by the histologically characteristic zone phenomenon.
CT in Established Volkmann's Contracture in Forearm Muscles
Authors: Landi A. , De Santis G. , Torricelli P. , Colombo A. , Bedeschi P.
Published: June 2005

Differential diagnosis between true and pseudo-Volkmann's contracture should not be based on clinical grounds alone, because clinical data are often insufficient in determining the severity and the extent of muscle damage. CT has been utilised in 11 cases where a flexion contracture of the forearm muscles was present and corresponded closely with the surgical findings. True and pseudo-Volkmann's contracture can thus be distinguished and the severity and extent of the muscle damage determined.
Surgical Treatment of the Clasped Thumb
Authors: Lipskeir Esther , Weizenbluth M.
Published: June 2005

We report a series of 12 patients (19 hands) with clasped thumb who underwent surgical treatment. The series is divided into three groups. In the first group, the prominent pathological feature was hypoplasia of the extensor tendons which was treated by tendon transfer. The second group, the arthrogryphotic type, had contracture of the intrinsic muscles of the thumb and shortening of the skin; these needed mainly release operations. In only three hands out of nine was tendon transfer performed. The third group was defined by a combination of skeletal, muscular and tendon hypoplasia. Instability of the M.P. joint and adduction contracture of the first ray were found in all hands of this group. The adduction deformity was corrected by skin-plasty of the first web and the extension was improved by tendon transfers. Only one case needed stabilisation of the M.P. joint. The final results were related to the extent of the contractures and to the age of the patient when treatment started.
Clenched Fist Human Bite Injuries
Authors: Phair I. C. , Quinton D. N.
Published: June 2005

A prospective study has been made of 29 human bite injuries caused by the clenched fist, 27 over M.P. joints and two over P.I.P. joints.

All were treated by surgical exploration, within 24 hours in 84% of cases. In 62% the wound had entered the underlying joint and in 58% the bone was injured. Significantly less morbidity was noted in those cases where there was no joint injury (P < 0.001). Early surgical exploration to identify and to treat the joint injury is recommended.
Bilateral Spontaneous Scapho-Lunate Subluxation Treated by Limited Carpal Fusion
Authors: WITT J. D. , McCULLOUGH C. J.
Published: June 2005

The case of a 19 year-old-girl who developed spontaneous bilateral snapping scapho-lunate subluxation is described. Her symptoms were successfully treated by bilateral triscaphoid fusion.
First Metacarpal Osteotomy for Carpo-Metacarpal Osteoarthritis
Authors: MOLITOR P. J. A. , EMERY R. J. H. , MEGGITT B. F.
Published: June 2005

The results of basal osteotomy of the first metacarpal in the treatment of carpo-metacarpal osteoarthritis have been analysed from two small studies, one retrospective and one prospective. Assessment included clinical examination, standardised radiography and computerised pinch-grip analysis. Surgery reduces the subluxation at the first metacarpal base and provides good pain relief and restoration of function in the majority of cases. It is concluded that this relatively simple technique produces very good results without reducing power grip
Drivers’ Elbow: A Cause of Ulnar Neuropathy
Authors: ABDEL-SALAM A. , EYRES K. S. , CLEARY J.
Published: June 2005

The ulnar nerve is vulnerable to compression and vibration injury in drivers who have the shoulder abducted and elbow flexed with the arm lying against the lower edge of the window. Three cases of ulnar neuropathy at the elbow are described in vehicle drivers.
Ulnar Nerve Palsy Following Fractures of the Distal Radius: Clinical and Anatomical Studies
Authors: CLARKE A. C. , SPENCER R. F.
Published: June 2005

We report three cases of progressive ulnar nerve palsy following fractures of the distal radius. One was an open injury and one involved dorsal displacement of the nerve through a dislocated distal radio-ulnar joint. All were associated with dense scar tissue formation around the nerve. Early surgical decompression was successful in all cases. An anatomical study indicated that the relative immunity of the nerve to injury in this region may be due to its greater excursion and mobility compared with the median nerve.
Distraction Lengthening of the Forearm
Authors: CHENG J. C. Y.
Published: June 2005

Seven patients aged six to 25 underwent progressive distraction lengthening of the forearm. Five had lengthening of the ulna and two of the radius. Four cases had multiple exostoses, two had posttraumatic distal epiphyseal arrests and one had dyschondrosteosis. Two methods were used: the Wagner technique of diaphyseal distraction and bone grafting, or diaphyseal corticotomy and callus distraction without bone grafting. The average lengthening achieved was 3 cm. Review after one to three year’s follow-up showed satisfactory improvement in appearance and function in all cases, with minimal complications.
The Collagen Changes of Dupuytren’s Contracture
Authors: MURRELL G. A. C. , FRANCIS M. J. O. , BROMLEY LINDA
Published: June 2005

In Dupuytren’s contracture there is an increase in the ratio of type III to type I collagen. The objective of this study was to determine if fibroblasts from patients with Dupuytren’s contracture have an intrinsic aberration in collagen production or whether local factors govern the collagen changes in Dupuytren’s contracture. Using a new collagen micro-method, we found that fibroblasts cultured from palmar fascia affected by Dupuytren’s contracture produced similar collagen to fibroblasts derived from the palmar fascia of age- and sex-matched patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. Furthermore, the collagen changes of Dupuytren’s contracture could be reproduced in all cell lines by increasing fibroblast density. At high fibroblast density, type I collagen production was inhibited: a finding that could account for the increased types III/I collagen ratio in Dupuytren’s contracture. These results suggest that a genetic defect in collagen production is unlikely and that the important phenomenon is an increase in fibroblast density.
A Long-Term Review of the Harrison-Nicolle Peg in Digital Arthrodesis
Authors: SANDERSON P. L. , MORRIS M. A. , FAHMY N. R. M.
Published: June 2005

Fifty arthrodeses of the digital joints using the Harrison-Nicolle peg in 22 patients have been reviewed at a mean of 8.5 years after operation. 96% of these operations were judged to have been successful by our patients, most of whom were suffering from inflammatory joint disease. 66% went on to bony union, 30% to fibrous union and 4% to non-union. There was no difference in clinical outcome between the bony and fibrous union groups and only those with non-union were disappointed. All arthrodeses remained in the same angle of flexion as that in which they were originally fixed.
Infraclavicular Ulnar Nerve Entrapment Due to a Chondroepitrochlearis Muscle
Authors: SPINNER R. J. , CARMICHAEL S. W. , SPINNER M.
Published: June 2005

The chondroepitrochlearis muscle is an extremely rare muscle, arising from the pectoralis major, crossing over the neurovascular bundle in the axilla and inserting into the brachial fascia and medial epicondyle of the humerus. This paper presents the first known neurological complication due to the chondroepitrochlearis muscle.
The Medial Upper Arm Fasciocutaneous Flap
Authors: BHATTACHARYA S. , BHAGIA S. P. , BHATNAGAR S. K. , PANDEY S. D. , CHANDRA R.
Published: June 2005

Cutaneous defects on the palmar aspect of the hand and distal forearm can usually be covered by split skin grafts or, if the defect is small, by local flaps. However, for larger defects, especially in acute injuries where preservation of functional parts like nerves and tendons is in jeopardy and particularly when further surgery is contemplated, flap coverage becomes essential. Such a flap, besides being uniformly dependable and cosmetically acceptable, must have a reasonable position of immobilization, must be easy to nurse and must not hamper the daily routine of the patient. The medial upper arm fasciocutaneous flap, both distally based and proximally based appears, after a critical evaluation, to be the best answer to this problem short of a microvascular free flap.
Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide and Nerve Regeneration
Authors: RAYAN G. M. , SAID S. I. , CAHILL S. L. , DUKE J.
Published: June 2005

The role of vasoactive intestinal peptide (V.I.P.) in nerve regeneration was investigated by assessing the changes in immunoreactive V.I.P. levels in rat sciatic nerves following injury and repair. 60 rats were divided into three surgical groups and one control group: In group I (primary repair), sciatic nerves were divided and immediately repaired; in group II (secondary repair), sciatic nerves were divided and repaired two weeks later; in group III (no repair), sciatic nerves were divided and not repaired; and in group IV (controls), sciatic nerves were exposed but not divided. Animals were sacrificed at three days and at weekly intervals. Their sciatic nerves were extracted and assayed for V.I.P. concentrations by a specific radioimmunoassay. The mean V.I.P. concentration varied between 22 and 46 pg./mg. protein in the control nerves and between 60 and 529 pg./mg. protein in all other groups. In the three surgical groups the levels were significantly higher in proximal than in distal stumps. Following nerve injury, there was an increase in V.I.P. concentration in the injured and repaired areas. This increase was greater in injured non-repaired areas and was highest in the first 48 hours, but continued during regeneration. The accumulation of V.I.P. in divided nerves occurred in response to nerve injury.
Indications and Results of Skin Flaps in Painful Digital Neuroma
Authors: FOUCHER G. , SAMMUT D. , GREANT P. , MARIN BRAUN F. , EHRLER S. , BUCH N.
Published: June 2005

Of the many procedures for treating painful neuromas, resection and proximal translocation are the most usual techniques, but these can decrease distal sensibility increasing deafferentation pain. In cases of intricate pain (nociception plus deafferentation), certain types of flaps allow the treatment of both components of the pain. We have used 30 such flaps in 28 patients: local flaps (exchange, advancement or lasso island flaps) and distant flaps (free “custom-made” toe flaps).The results of the different techniques provides 86.6% excellent or good results.
Primary Palmaris Longus Transfer as an Opponensplasty in Carpal Tunnel Release
Authors: FOUCHER G. , MALIZOS C. , SAMMUT D. , MARIN BRAUN F. , MICHON J.
Published: June 2005

Seventy three Camitz-Littler operations combining carpal tunnel release and palmaris longus oppenens transfer provided 90.7% good long term results. A technical modification can provide pronation.