bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of diet on stool signal in dark lumen magnetic resonance colonography
Authors: Goehde Susanne C. , Ajaj Waleed , Lauenstein Thomas , Debatin Joerg F. , Ladd Mark E.
Published: July 2004

Purpose

To examine the magnetic resonance (MR) properties of different foods and their effect on the colonic stool signal to potentially support fecal tagging strategies for dark lumen MR colonography (MRC).

Materials and Methods

T1 relaxation times of 120 different foods (partially diluted with sufficient water) were determined by use of a multi‐flip‐angle two‐dimensional gradient echo (GRE) sequence and correlated to the foods' signal in a three‐dimensional GRE volumetric interpolated breath‐hold examination (VIBE) sequence. Different dilutions of six foods were examined. VIBE stool signal was determined in six volunteers under two different conditions: after a three‐day diet of short T1 food and of long T1 food, respectively.

Results

Most foods exhibit short to very short T1 relaxation times. T1 correlates well with the fat‐saturated VIBE signal except for fatty products. Diluted food exhibits T1 times similar to water; concentrated food strongly varies according to their T1 values. No significant difference in stool signal could be found in the in vivo examination comparing the two diets.

Conclusion

According to our results, a restricted diet strategy to reduce fecal signal for dark lumen MRC is unlikely to be successful. Moreover, the stool signal reduction found in the other fecal tagging studies can be explained at least to a great extent by the relative content of other material with long T1 relaxation times, such as water or oral barium. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2004;20:272–278. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Functional MRI using multiple receiver coils: BOLD signal changes and signal‐to‐noise ratio for three‐dimensional‐PRESTO vs. single shot EPI in comparison to a standard quadrature head coil
Authors: Hesselmann Volker , Girnus Ralf , Wedekind Christoph , Hunsche Stefan , Bunke Juergen , Schulte Oliver , Sorger Bettina , Lasek Kathrin , Krug Barbara , Sturm Volker , Lackner Klaus
Published: July 2004

Purpose

To compare the performance of single shot echo planar imaging (SSEPI) with three‐dimensional‐multishot echo‐planar imaging (EPI) based on principles‐of‐echo‐shifting‐with‐a‐train‐of‐observations (PRESTO) in combination with a standard quadrature head coil and, as an alternative, a multiple receiver coil in intraoperative functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).

Materials and Methods

Six healthy subjects underwent fMRI with visual stimulation using a SSEPI and a PRESTO‐sequence with both coil systems. Statistical evaluation was done with a scanner‐based post‐processing software and SPM 99. The number of activated voxels in the visual cortex, the percent signal change between rest and activation, and finally the signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) during time course were measured and compared for both coil systems and both sequences, used in four different combinations.

Results

Blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) signal changes were the lowest with PRESTO and standard head coil and the highest for SSEPI and phased array coil. For the latter combination, a significantly higher signal change and larger activation size was observed together with a better SNR. SSEPI yielded similar performance using both coils.

Conclusion

SSEPI was superior due to its better SNR and a higher BOLD signal change in the defined settings, irrespective of the coil used. In a stereotactical setup the phased array coil can be used to generate fMRI data without loss of image quality. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2004;20:321–326. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sensitivity of femoral orientation estimates to condylar surface and MR image plane location
Authors: Shibanuma Nao , Sheehan Frances T. , Lipsky Peter E. , Stanhope Steven J.
Published: July 2004

Purpose

To define the femoral anatomic region that provides the most reliable reference for measuring femoral orientation, from which patellofemoral and tibiofemoral orientation can be measured.

Materials and Methods

After a three‐dimensional image‐based osteo‐alignment procedure, two independent estimates of distal femoral orientation, the anterior (AFA) and posterior femoral angles (PFA), were acquired. These sets were comprised of 31 axial femoral orientation estimates each (obtained across a region 10 mm above to 20 mm below the patellar center) from 42 normal axial magnetic resonance (MR) image sets. An analysis of variance was conducted to determine the influence of image plane location, sex, and side on femoral orientation measures.

Results

The AFA presented greater variability across subjects (average SD = 3.13°) as compared to the PFA (average SD = 1.78°). There were significant differences in the AFA based on image plane location and sex. In contrast, no differences were found between sides, sexes, or image plane locations for the PFA.

Conclusion

In total, the posterior femoral condylar surface is more reliable than the anterior condylar surface for measuring femoral orientation and is best measured at least 8 mm below the patellar center. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2004;20:300–305. Published 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Combined magnetic resonance urography and targeted helical CT in patients with renal colic: A new approach to reduce delivered dose
Authors: Blandino Alfredo , Minutoli Fabio , Scribano Emanuele , Vinci Sergio , Magno Carlo , Pergolizzi Stefano , Settineri Nicola , Pandolfo Ignazio , Gaeta Michele
Published: July 2004

Purpose

To determine whether magnetic resonance urography (MRU), obtained before helical computed tomography (CT) in patients with acute renal colic, can help delimit the obstructed area to be subsequently examined by a targeted CT scan, thus reducing the dose of radiation.

Materials and Methods

Patients (51) with symptoms of acute renal colic underwent MRU and a total urinary tract helical CT. CT images from the 5 cm below the level of ureteral obstruction as demonstrated by MRU were selected out. Combined interpretation of MRU and selected CT images constituted protocol A. Protocol B consisted of the entire unenhanced helical CT of the urinary tract. The two protocols were compared regarding the following points: 1) sensitivity in diagnosing the presence of obstructing urinary stones, and 2) the delivered radiation dose.

Results

Protocol A and protocol B had, respectively, 98% and 100% sensitivity in demonstrating ureteral stone as a cause of renal colic. Estimated average dose calculated from phantom study was 0.52 mSv for protocol A and 2.83 mSv for protocol B. Therefore, the effective radiation dose was 5.4 times lower in protocol A compared to protocol B.

Conclusion

Combined MRU and short helical CT has a high sensitivity in detecting ureteral calculi with a reduced radiation dose. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2004;20:264–271. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Infragenual cuff‐compression reduces venous contamination in contrast‐enhanced MR angiography of the calf
Authors: Bilecen Deniz , Schulte Anja‐Carina , Bongartz Georg , Heidecker Hanns‐Georg , Aschwanden Markus , Jäger Kurt A.
Published: July 2004

Purpose

To reduce venous contamination at the calf level in three‐dimensional contrast‐enhanced MR angiography (CE‐MRA) by applying continuous infragenual cuff‐compression.

Materials and Methods

Ten patients with clinically relevant peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD) underwent dynamic three‐dimensional CE‐MRA of the calf. Six consecutive measurements were acquired with the first measurement serving as mask. Cuff‐compression of 50 mmHg was attached below the knee. To allow intra‐individual comparison, compression was applied unilaterally. The cuff was inflated three minutes before scanning and was continued throughout the MRA session. Venous contamination and arterial visualization scores were ranked using a five‐point rating scale. Contrast‐to‐noise ratios (CNRs) of superficial enhancing calf‐veins on the uncompressed and compressed calf sides were evaluated. An asymmetry index (AI) defined by CNR/CNR was introduced to describe the ratio in venous contrast agent supply between both sides quantitatively.

Results

Three‐dimensional CE‐MRA of the calves demonstrated significantly lower superficial venous contamination scores (P < 0.004) and clearly improved arterial visualization (P < 0.009) on the compressed side. Additionally, AI values were larger than 1 (P < 0.02), indicating a higher contrast agent supply in the superficial veins on the uncompressed side.

Conclusion

Infragenual cuff‐compression minimizes venous overlay in three‐dimensional CE‐MRA at calf level by reduction of contrast agent supply in the superficial veins. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2004;20:347–351. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Combined quantitative dynamic contrast‐enhanced MR imaging and 1H MR spectroscopic imaging of human prostate cancer
Authors: van Dorsten Ferdinand A. , van der Graaf Marinette , Engelbrecht Marc R.W. , van Leenders Geert J.L.H. , Verhofstad Albert , Rijpkema Mark , de la Rosette Jean J.M.C.H. , Barentsz Jelle O. , Heerschap Arend
Published: July 2004

Purpose

To differentiate prostate carcinoma from healthy peripheral zone and central gland using quantitative dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and two‐dimensional 1H MR spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) combined into one clinical protocol.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐three prostate cancer patients were studied with a combined DCE‐MRI and MRSI protocol. Cancer regions were localized by histopathology of whole mount sections after radical prostatectomy. Pharmacokinetic modeling parameters, Ktrans and kep, as well as the relative levels of the prostate metabolites citrate, choline, and creatine, were determined in cancer, healthy peripheral zone (PZ), and in central gland (CG).

Results

Ktrans and kep were higher (P < 0.05) in cancer and in CG than in normal PZ. The (choline + creatine)/citrate ratio was elevated in cancer compared to the PZ and CG (P < 0.05). While a (choline + creatine)/citrate ratio above 0.68 was found to be a reliable indicator of cancer, elevated Ktrans was only a reliable cancer indicator in the diagnosis of individual patients. Ktrans and (choline + creatine)/citrate ratios in cancer were poorly correlated (Pearson r2 = 0.07), and thus microvascular and metabolic abnormalities may have complementary value in cancer diagnosis.

Conclusion

The combination of high‐resolution spatio‐vascular information from dynamic MRI and metabolic information from MRSI has excellent potential for improved localization and characterization of prostate cancer in a clinical setting. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2004;20:279–287. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Human and murine lymphocyte neurotrophin expression is confined to B cells
Authors: Edling Andrea E. , Nanavati Tania , Johnson Justin M. , Tuohy Vincent K.
Published: July 2004

Recent reports indicate that autoreactive T cells may produce neurotrophic factors capable of mediating repair and regeneration of damaged neurons. By using semiquantitative RT‐PCR, we examined gene expression of nerve growth factor (NGF), brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), neurotrophin‐3 (NT‐3), and the trkB BDNF receptor in autoreactive T cells from SWXJ mice immunized with the p104–117 encephalitogen of myelin proteolipid protein (PLP 104–117). We observed antigen‐inducible expression of NGF and BDNF, but not NT‐3 and trkB, in lymph node cells activated with PLP 104–117. To determine which leukocyte subpopulation expressed neurotrophins, CD4+, CD8+, B220+, CD11b+, and NK1.1+ cells were purified from activated primary cultures, and their mRNAs were analyzed. Neurotrophin expression was also measured in CD3+ T cells purified from mouse CNS during acute onset of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis as well as in resting and activated human T cells and B cells purified from peripheral blood of normal subjects. In all cases, we found that neurotrophin expression was confined exclusively to B cells (B220+) in both mouse and human. CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ T cells as well as NK1.1+ cells and CD11b+ monocytes and macrophages did not express any detectable BDNF, NGF, NT‐3, or trkB under any conditions. Our data indicate that B cells rather than T cells are the predominant if not the only source of leukocyte‐derived neurotrophins and as such may provide “protective autoimmunity” in repair and regeneration of the injured nervous system. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Screening of filamentous fungi for the decolorization of a commercial reactive dye
Authors: dos Santos Alessandra Zacarias , Cândido Neto José Maximiano , Granhen Tavares Célia Regina , Gomes da Costa Sandra Maria
Published: July 2004

The aim of this work is to verify the ability of 19 isolates of 13 different fungal species to decolorize the reactive dye blue‐BF‐R. The isolates of Pleurotus pulmonarius, P. ostreatus, P. ëous, P. citrinopileatus, Lentinus edodes, Phanerochaete chrysosporium, Schizophyllum commune, Agaricus blazei, Ganoderma sp. and four isolates obtained from textile effluent were evaluated in minimum liquid medium. In addition, seven of them were also evaluated on solid medium, and both media were both added 0.5 g dye/l. All isolates evaluated on solid medium decolorized the dye. The isolates Phanerochaete chrysosporium CCB478 and Lentinus edodes CCB047 were the ones that presented the fastest and slowest growth, respectively. Despite the isolate of the textile effluent had grown on solid medium, it did not decolorize the dye. All the isolates of the genus Pleurotus, except the isolate Pleurotus ëous CCB440, decolorized the dye in liquid medium. They presented decolorization percentage ranging from 39% to 51%. The absorbance ratio (Abs590/Abs455) of the culture medium inoculated with these isolates decreased throughout the experiment indicating the fungal dye degradation. The others presented decolorization percent below 8%. The isolates of Pleurotus, except the isolate Pleurotus ëous CCB440, were able to decolorize and to degrade the commercial reactive dye blue‐BF‐R. The results indicate their potential to be used in the treatment of effluents containing this dye. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A new microimmunofluorescence test for the detection of Chlamydia pneumoniae specific antibodies
Authors: Fernández F. , Gutiérrez J. , Mendoza J. , Linares J. , Soto M. J.
Published: July 2004

To evaluate a microimmunofluorescence (MIF) test (Chlamydia pneumoniae IgG, Vircell, Spain) that detects IgG against Chlamydophila pneumoniae (Cp), MRL Diagnostics MIF was used as reference test. Cross‐reactivity against Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) and Chlamydophila psittaci (Cps) was investigated. Eighty sera were analysed from 22 subjects with vascular disease, 38 with multiple sclerosis and 20 healthy individuals. Vircell and MRL MIF tests assessed 58.75% and 60% of the samples as positive, respectively, and their results coincided (positive/negative) in 98.75% of samples. One major (>1 IgG titre) and 32 minor (1 titre) discrepancies were observed. Correlation between tests was significant. Vircell MIF test demonstrated 97.9% sensitivity and 100% specificity. Differences in simultaneous reactivity to Ct and Cps between the tests were not significant. Vircell MIF test showed a good performance to detect the IgG against Cp. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Biosynthesis of proteases by Rhizopus oligosporus IHS13 in low‐cost medium by solid‐state fermentation
Authors: Haq Ikramul , Mukhtar Hamid
Published: July 2004

The present study describes the biosynthesis of proteases by a locally isolated mould culture of Rhizopus oligosporus IHS13 in a low‐cost medium by solid‐state fermentation technique. The fermentation was carried out in a low‐cost medium such as sunflower meal, wheat bran and rice bran. Sunflower meal and wheat bran in a ratio of 1:1 and moistened with distilled water was found to be the best substrate for protease synthesis. All the three substrates are very cheap agricultural by‐products found in Pakistan. The production of proteases in sunflower meal and rice bran was also investigated but the results were unsatisfactory. Different cultural conditions such as rate of fermentation, effect of incubation temperature, effect of pH and depth of the fermentation medium were also optimized. The maximum enzyme synthesis was found after 72 h of fermentation at a temperature of 30 °C. The optimum pH and depth of the medium for protease synthesis were found to be 5.0 and 20 mm respectively. The maximum enzyme biosynthesis found during the course of present studies was 7.0 U ml–1. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Astrazon Red dye decolorization by growing cells and pellets of Funalia trogii
Authors: Cing Seval , Yesilada Ozfer
Published: July 2004

The dye decolorization activity of fungal pellets has been compared with another method based on the decolorization of dye by growing cells. The pellet method was more advantageous than the growing cell method. The growing cells of F. trogii decolorized 21% of the dye in distilled water medium and 16% in stock basal medium in 24 h. On the other hand, Funalia trogii pellets rapidly decolorized the Astrazon Red dye, mono‐azo textile dye, in 24 h, without any visual sorption of any dye to the pellets. The effect of various supplements on longevity of decolorization by free pellets was also tested. Glucose and cheese whey supplementation improved dye decolorization performance of the pellets and remained high and stable for 10 days. We also tested the dye decolorization ability of pellets immobilized on activated carbon. These pellets showed the stable dye decolorization activity during the repeated batch experiments. The study revealed that dye decolorization by pellets is more effective method than the growing cell method. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Wired to inspire: Leading organizations through adversity
Authors: Wilson Meena S. , Rice Susan S.
Published: July 2004

Times of adversity often give rise to unpredictability, fear, anxiety, and loss of confidence. Such circumstances call for inspirational leadership, which gives employees the motivation, commitment, and productivity to take advantage of the opportunities lying on the other side of what seems to be a dark curtain of misfortune.
Making it click: Strategies for helping computer‐challenged leaders
Authors: Fleenor John
Published: July 2004

Some senior executives who were schooled in less technologically oriented times break into a cold sweat at the mere sight of a computer. But organizations can take steps to help such leaders overcome the social stigma without sneaking around.
Changes in the DNA methylation profile of the rat H19 gene upstream region during development and transgenic hepatocarcinogenesis and its role in the imprinted transcriptional regulation of the H19 gene
Authors: Manoharan Herbert , Babcock Karlee , Pitot Henry C.
Published: July 2004

Monoallelic expression of the imprinted H19 and insulin‐like growth factor‐2 (Igf2) genes depends on the hypomethylation of the maternal allele and hypermethylation of the paternal allele of the H19 upstream region. Previous studies from our laboratory on liver carcinogenesis in the F1 hybrid of Fischer 344 (F344) and Sprague–Dawley Alb SV40 T Ag transgenic rat (SD) strains revealed the biallelic expression of H19 in hepatomas. We undertook a comparative study of the DNA methylation status of the upstream region of H19 in fetal, adult, and neoplastic liver. Bisulfite DNA sequencing analysis of a 3.745‐kb DNA segment extending from 2950 to 6695 bp of the H19 upstream region revealed marked variations in the methylation patterns in fetal, adult, and neoplastic liver. In the fetal liver, equal proportions of hyper‐ and hypomethylated strands revealed the differentially methylated status of the parental alleles, but in neoplastic liver a pronounced change in the pattern of methylation was observed with a distinct change to hypomethylation in the short segments between 2984 and 3301 bp, 6033–6123 bp, and 6518–6548 bp. These results indicated that methylation of all cytosines in this region may contribute to the imprinting status of the rat H19 gene. This phenomenon of differential methylation‐related epigenetic alteration in the key cis‐regulatory domains of the H19 promoter influences switching to biallelic expression in hepatocellular carcinogenesis. Similar to mouse and human, we showed that the zinc‐finger CCTCC binding factor (CTCF) binds to the unmethylated CTCF binding site in the upstream region to influence monoallelic imprinted expression in fetal liver. CTCF does not appear to be rate limiting in fetal, normal, and neoplastic liver. 3′ to the CTCF binding sites, another DNA region exhibits methylation of CpG's in both DNA strands in adult liver, retention of the imprint in fetal liver, and complete demethylation in neoplastic liver. In this region is also a putative binding site for a basic helix‐loop‐helix leucine‐zipper transcription factor, TFEB. The differential CpG methylation seen in the adult that involves the TFEB binding site may explain the lack of expression of the H19 gene in adult normal liver. Furthermore, these findings demonstrate that the loss of imprinting of the H19 gene in hepatic neoplasms of the SD Alb SV40 T Ag transgenic rat is directly correlated with and probably the result of differential methylation of CpG dinucleotides in two distinct regions of the gene that are within 4 kb 5′ of the transcription start site. Cytogenetic analysis of hepatocytes in the transgenic animal prior to the appearance of nodules or neoplasms indicates a role of such loss of imprinting in the very early period of neoplastic development, possibly the transition from the stage of promotion to that of progression. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Opioid binding in DYT1 primary torsion dystonia: An 11C‐diprenorphine PET study
Authors: Whone Alan L. , Von Spiczak Sarah , Edwards Mark , Valente Enza‐Maria , Hammers Alexander , Bhatia Kailash P. , Brooks David J.
Published: July 2004

The opioid transmitters enkephalin and dynorphin are known to regulate pallidal output and consequently cortical excitability. Indeed, abnormal basal ganglia opioid transmission has been reported in several involuntary movement disorders, including levodopa‐induced dyskinesias in Parkinson's disease (PD), tardive dyskinesias/dystonia, Huntington's disease, and Tourette's syndrome. Moreover, a previous 11C‐diprenorphine PET study investigating levodopa‐induced dyskinesias found reduced opioid receptor availability in PD with but not without dyskinesias. We wished to investigate if a similar alteration in basal ganglia opioid binding was present in DYT1 primary torsion dystonia (PTD). Regional cerebral 11C‐diprenorphine binding was investigated in 7 manifesting carriers of the DYT1 gene and 15 age‐matched normal controls using a region‐of‐interest (ROI) approach and statistical parametric mapping (SPM). No difference in regional mean 11C‐diprenorphine binding was found between DYT1‐PTD and controls, and no correlation between the severity of dystonia and opioid binding was seen. We conclude that aberrant opioid transmission is unlikely to be present in DYT1‐PTD and altered opioid transmission is not a common mechanism underlying all disorders of involuntary movement. © 2004 Movement Disorder Society
Postural tremor in Wilson's disease: A magnetoencephalographic study
Authors: Südmeyer Martin , Pollok Bettina , Hefter Harald , Gross Joachim , Wojtecki Lars , Butz Markus , Timmermann Lars , Schnitzler Alfons
Published: July 2004

The following study included 5 Wilson's disease (WD) patients showing a right‐sided postural forearm tremor (4–6 Hz) and addressed the question of whether the primary motor cortex (M1) is involved in tremor generation. Using a 122‐channel whole‐head neuromagnetometer and surface electromyogram (EMG), we investigated cerebromuscular coupling. Postural tremor was observed in a sustained 45‐degree posture of the right‐sided forearm. Data were analyzed using dynamic imaging of coherent sources (DICS), revealing cerebromuscular coupling between EMG and cerebral activity. Coherent sources were superimposed on individual high‐resolution T1‐weighted magnetic resonance images (MRI). Phase lags between EMG and cerebral areas showing strongest coherence were determined by means of a Hilbert transform of both signals. In all patients, postural tremor was associated with strong coherence between tremor EMG and activity in contralateral primary sensorimotor cortex (S1/M1) at tremor or double tremor frequency. Phase lag values between S1/M1 activity and EMG revealed efferent and afferent components in the corticomuscular coupling. Taken together, our results indicate that postural tremor in WD is mediated through a pathological oscillatory drive from the primary motor cortex. © 2004 Movement Disorder Society
Chronic bilateral subthalamic deep brain stimulation in a patient with homozygous deletion in the Parkin gene
Authors: Capecci Marianna , Passamonti Luca , Annesi Ferdinanda , Annesi Grazia , Bellesi Michele , Candiano Innocenza Claudia Cirò , Ricciuti Riccardo , Iacoangeli Maurizio , Scerrati Massimo , Zappia Mario , Tarantino Patrizia , De Marco Elvira Valeria , Civitelli Donatella , Carrideo Sara , Provinciali Leandro , Ceravolo Maria Gabriella , Quattrone Aldo
Published: July 2004

Chronic subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation (STN‐DBS) is an efficacious treatment for idiopathic Parkinson's disease (PD) that cannot be further improved by medical therapy. We present a case of an individual with juvenile parkinsonism caused by homozygous deletion of exon 3 in the parkin gene with disabling long‐term side‐effects from levodopa who underwent bilateral STN neuromodulation. Parkin‐linked parkinsonism may show clinical features different from sporadic PD, yet it shares levodopa responsiveness. Because levodopa responsiveness is a predictor of STN‐DBS efficacy, we argued that this kind of surgical approach might be efficacious in hereditary parkin‐linked juvenile parkinsonism. We evaluated clinical and functional assessment before and 12 months after surgery. The results showed that the Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scales Motor score improved by 84% in our patient, the levodopa equivalent daily dose medication (LEDD) was reduced by 66%, and, finally, disabling and severe dyskinesias disappeared. © 2004 Movement Disorder Society
A Vlasov–Poisson plasma model with non‐L1 data
Authors: Caprino S.
Published: July 2004

It is considered the Vlasov–Poisson equation for a plasma confined in an unbounded cylinder and it is proven an existence and uniqueness result for non‐L1 (but almost L1) initial charge distribution. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
GAP‐43 mRNA in growth cones is associated with HuD and ribosomes
Authors: Smith Catherine L. , Afroz Rownak , Bassell Gary J. , Furneaux Henry M. , Perrone‐Bizzozero Nora I. , Burry Richard W.
Published: July 2004

The neuron‐specific ELAV/Hu family member, HuD, interacts with and stabilizes GAP‐43 mRNA in developing neurons, and leads to increased levels of GAP‐43 protein. As GAP‐43 protein is enriched in growth cones, it is of interest to determine if HuD and GAP‐43 mRNA are associated in developing growth cones. HuD granules in growth cones are found in the central domain that is rich in microtubules and ribosomes, in the peripheral domain with its actin network, and in filopodia. This distribution of HuD granules in growth cones is dependent on actin filaments but not on microtubules. GAP‐43 mRNA is localized in granules found in both the central and peripheral domains, but not in filopodia. Ribosomes were extensively colocalized with HuD and GAP‐43 mRNA granules in the central domain, consistent with a role in the control of GAP‐43 mRNA stability in the growth cone. Together, these results demonstrate that many of the components necessary for GAP‐43 mRNA translation/stabilization are present within growth cones. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Neurobiol, 2004
Development of the mouse retina: Emerging morphological diversity of the ganglion cells
Authors: Diao Ling , Sun Wenzhi , Deng Qiudong , He Shigang
Published: July 2004

The time course and regulatory mechanisms of dendritic development are subjects of intense interest. We approached these problems by investigating dendritic morphology of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) at four early postnatal stages. The RGCs develop from a diffusely stratified and poorly differentiated group at birth (P0), to 16 distinct, morphologically well‐defined subtypes before eye opening (P13). Even before bipolar cells make synaptic contacts with the RGCs (P8), most adultlike RGC subtypes are already present. Similar to previous studies in other mammalian species, our results indicate that the initiation of the RGC morphological maturation is independent of light stimulation and of formation of glutamatergic synapses. This study narrowed down the window of RGCs morphological maturation and highlighted a few early postnatal events as potential factors controlling the developmental process. Because mouse is the most popular mammalian model for genetic manipulation, this study provided a foundation for further exploring regulatory mechanisms of RGC dendritic development. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Neurobiol, 2004
Computing general companion matrices and stability regions of multirate methods
Authors: Rodríguez‐Gómez Gustavo , González‐Casanova Pedro , Martínez‐Carballido Jorge
Published: July 2004

We obtain the necessary and sufficient conditions that guarantee the absolute stability of semi‐implicit multirate linear discretizations of 2 × 2 differential systems. This result is based on the construction of a general companion matrix that characterizes the class of multirate discretizations built from, linear and zero‐order interpolation. These results are numerically verified for particular examples whose stability regions are graphically displayed. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Radiotherapeutical innovations in pediatric solid tumors
Authors: Habrand Jean‐Louis , Abdulkarim B. , Roberti H.
Published: July 2004

There have been considerable technical improvements in radiation therapy for the past two decades. In children affected with cancer, these have been likely overshadowed by concommittant major chemotherapy‐based advances, and at least in part ignored and misused. This article outlines principles, technological requirements, and clinical applications of innovations that aim at improving ballistical selectivity (such as conformal, intensity modulation, stereotactic photons, charged particles, and intraoperative therapies), as well as at influencing tumors and normal tissues sensitivity to radiations (such as high LET particles, and altered fractionations). © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Prophylaxis of acute chemotherapy‐induced nausea and vomiting in children with cancer: What is the evidence?
Authors: Antonarakis Emmanuel S. , Evans Jamie L. , Heard Gemma F. , Noonan Lucy M. , Pizer Barry L. , Hain Richard D.W.
Published: July 2004

Background

Nausea and vomiting are preventable side effects of cancer chemotherapy for children. Antiemetics are essential, especially as treatment becomes more intensive. Many drugs are available, but adequate evidence‐based recommendations are lacking. We aimed (1) to consider an evidence‐based approach for pharmacological prophylaxis of chemotherapy‐induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) in children, and (2) to compare this approach with antiemetic prescribing in two paediatric oncology centres.

Procedure

Relevant publications (Medline, Embase, CancerLit:1966–2002) were critically evaluated using pre‐defined criteria. Evidence‐based statements summarising their findings were formulated, and evidence basis proposed. Current prescribing practice was then compared with this evidence basis in Welsh children under 16 receiving chemotherapy at Llandough Hospital, Cardiff or Alder Hey Children's Hospital, Liverpool between 1 January 2001 and 31 December 2001.

Results

Of 213 studies retrieved, 82 provided evidence. Our evidence basis recommends combination 5HT3‐antagonist/corticosteroid for highly emetogenic chemotherapy, 5HT3‐antagonist alone for moderate emetogenicity, and no antiemetic for other chemotherapy. Forty‐four children in Cardiff (0.6–16.9 yrs) and 14 in Liverpool (0.8–16.2 yrs) were included in the audit. Differences in prescribing practice between the centres were not significant. In 109/159 (69%) of chemotherapy courses (35, 87 and 100% of high, moderate and low emetogenicity, respectively), antiemetics were selected in accordance with evidence basis. Seventy percent of prescribed doses were as evidence basis recommended.

Conclusions

We present an evidence basis for prescribing prophylactic antiemetics to children undergoing chemotherapy. Prescribing practices in these two centres treating Welsh children were similar. Both differed from the evidence basis we propose. Deviations were greatest for regimens of high emetogenicity, where effective emetic control is most crucial. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Teratocarcinosarcoma of the oral cavity
Authors: Crazzolara Roman , Puelacher Wolfgang , Ninkovic Milomir , Zelger Bettina , Buchberger Wolfgang , Meister Bernhard , Zimmerhackl Lothar B. , Klein‐Franke Andreas
Published: July 2004

Teratocarcinosarcoma (TCS) is a very rare and aggressive neoplasm characterized by teratoma and carcinosarcoma components. The authors report on a case of TCS in the oral cavity of a child. Rapid growth and extensive local destruction were prominent features prior to treatment. Histologic examination revealed various tissue elements, such as epithelial, mesenchymal, and neuroectodermal components. Chemotherapy was effective in reducing tumor mass, followed by partial anterior mandibulectomy and reconstruction with composite microvascular tissue transfer. The approach allowed radical resection of the tumor and functional reconstruction with excellent aesthetic results. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Assessment of doctor‐shopping for high dosage buprenorphine maintenance treatment in a French region: development of a new method for prescription database
Authors: Pradel Vincent , Thirion Xavier , Ronfle Eléonore , Masut Alain , Micallef Joëlle , Bégaud Bernard
Published: July 2004

Purpose

To assess the extent of doctor‐shopping for buprenorphine maintenance therapy in a French region with a specific indicator.

Methods

Use of a quasi‐exhaustive prescription database in a French region (information system of the French General Health Insurance Scheme). Extraction of all buprenorphine prescriptions between September 1999 and December 2000. Definition and calculation of three quantities for each patient: delivered, prescribed and doctor‐shopping quantity. The calculation of these three quantities is done by an automated and reproducible method determining the overlaps in prescription periods of different physicians for a given patient. Calculation of the corresponding daily dose was done for each quantity.

Results

A total of 64 326 prescriptions of buprenorphine by 1313 physicians to 3259 patients were extracted. Quantities and doses were calculated for 2587 patients. The total doctor‐shopping quantity represented 18.6% of the delivered quantity. Doctor‐shopping involved a minority of patients and was highly concentrated: 87 patients with doctor‐shopping doses superior to 16 mg/day were responsible for 45.4% of the total doctor‐shopping quantity.

Conclusions

Doctor‐shopping appears to be an important problem for buprenorphine maintenance treatment in France but may be resolved by regulatory interventions. The use of adequate indicators on prescription databases may help to limit the effects of such interventions on legitimate care. The method presented here may be used with slight adaptations for other medications to assess their abuse potential. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Venous thromboembolism associated with cyproterone acetate in combination with ethinyloestradiol (Dianette®): observational studies using the UK General Practice Research Database
Authors: Seaman H. E. , de Vries C. S. , Farmer R. D. T.
Published: July 2004

Purpose

To derive risk estimates for venous thromboembolism (VTE) in women prescribed cyproterone acetate combined with ethinyloestradiol (CPA/EE), a drug licensed in the UK for the treatment of women with acne or hirsutism. CPA/EE provides a treatment option for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). CPA/EE has been associated with an increased risk of VTE.

Methods

Using the General Practice Research Database, we conducted cohort and case‐control analyses in all women aged 15–39 and then nested in a population of women of the same age with acne, hirsutism or PCOS.

Results

The incidence rate ratio (IRR) for VTE in women exposed to CPA/EE versus conventional combined oral contraceptives (COCs) was significantly raised (all women: 1.92; 95% CI: 1.22,2.88; nested: 2.51; 95% CI: 1.07,5.75). Using exposure to conventional COCs as the reference, the adjusted odds ratio (ORadj) for VTE associated with CPA/EE was 1.45 (95% CI: 0.80,2.64) in all women and 1.71 (95% CI: 0.31,9.49) in women with acne, hirsutism or PCOS.

Conclusions

The risk of VTE associated with CPA/EE use does not differ significantly from that associated with the use of conventional COCs. These data are reassuring and together with knowledge of the risks associated with other treatments for acne, in particular, should influence prescribing practice. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pharmacists' role in reporting adverse drug reactions in an international perspective
Authors: van Grootheest Kees , Olsson Sten , Couper Mary , de Jong‐van den Berg Lolkje
Published: July 2004

Introduction

The participation of the pharmacist in national spontaneous reporting systems for adverse drug reactions (ADRs) has not always been a matter of course. Even today, there are a number of countries, in particular the Scandinavian countries, where pharmacists are not authorised to report ADRs. In those countries in which they are allowed to report, they do not always use this opportunity.

Methods

We have conducted a review of the literature to investigate the involvement of pharmacists in ADR reporting. In addition, we evaluated the pharmacists' actual contributions in 2001 by means of an international questionnaire‐based survey among the countries participating in the WHO Drug Monitoring Programme in September 2002. Apart from the numbers of pharmacists' reports, respondents were asked to indicate their assessment of both the quality and the significance of the contribution. Of the 68 participating countries, 41 responded by returning the questionnaire.

Results and conclusions

The appreciation of pharmacists' ADR reports is high in those countries that have more experience with greater numbers of pharmacists' reports. The countries that received fewer reports from pharmacists gave lower scores to their contribution. If the specific contribution pharmacists can make to the quantity and quality of ADR reports were to be exploited to a greater extent, this could lead to a substantial improvement of the international adverse drug reactions reporting system. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Does uncollected medication reduce the validity of pharmacy dispensing data?
Authors: Tobi Hilde , van den Heuvel Nico‐Jan N , de Jong‐van den Berg Lolkje TW
Published: July 2004

Purpose

When using pharmacy data as collected in the InterAction database (IADB) for pharmacoepidemiology studies, we tend to ignore the fact that filled prescriptions are not always collected by the patient. This study investigated whether unclaimed prescriptions pose a validity threat for pharmacy data, by estimating the percentage of filled prescriptions that are not collected, the percentage of patients who do not collect their filled prescriptions and describing the items remaining unclaimed.

Methods

Prospective study in three independent pharmacies in the region that is covered by the IADB. All prescriptions that entered these pharmacies on 3 days in 1 week in October 2002 were monitored for a month with respect to whether and when they were claimed.

Results

A total of 3946 prescriptions concerning 3082 patients were filled. The majority of prescriptions were collected the day they were filled. In total 18 prescription items (0.46%) were not collected within 1 month; excluding health products and homeopathic drugs 13 remained. These 13 covered a variety of drug groups; 0.45% of the patients did not claim their medication within 1 month.

Conclusions

Primary non‐compliance due to not claiming medication has little impact on the validity of pharmacy dispensing data in the region under study. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proteomic analysis of proteins altered by dibenzoylmethane in human prostatic cancer LNCaP cells
Authors: Frazier Monica C. , Jackson Kimberly M. , Jankowska‐Stephens Ewa , Anderson Mark G. , Harris Wayne B.
Published: July 2004

This paper explores the use of proteomics as a tool for identifying protein species whose expression has been altered by dibenzoylmethane (DBM) in LNCaP cells. Although DBM, a constituent of licorice, has been shown to induce cell cycle arrest and regulate androgen receptor (AR) expression, the mechanism by which these events occur is unknown. To develop a better understanding of the effect of DBM on cancer cells, we analyzed changes in protein expression induced by DBM in LNCaP cells using two‐dimensional (2‐D) gel electrophoresis. The proteomic approach used to study LNCaP cells has lead to the analysis and identification of a number of protein species that increase or decrease as a result of exposure to DBM. In particular, twenty features were found to be differentially expressed in this study based on the quantitation of two separate 2‐D‐fluorescence difference gel electrophoresis analyses. Thirteen of these features were identified through mass spectrometric analysis. The intensity of 10 out of the 13 spots identified increased 2‐ to 3‐fold in response to 25 µM and 50 µM DBM and the remaining three spots decreased 2‐fold in response to the same DBM treatment. This study investigates proteomic changes induced by treatment of cells with DBM in order to develop a model for the mechanism by which DBM induces cell cycle arrest and represses AR expression.
Novel fluorinated polymers by radical polyaddition: Inspiration and progress
Authors: Narita Tadashi
Published: July 2004

The story of the outset and the growth of radical polyaddition of bisperfluoroisopropenyl derivatives [CF2C(CF3)R C(CF3) CF2] with several organic compounds possessing carbon–hydrogen bonds is described. The reaction afforded novel fluorinated polymers bearing such organic segments in polymer main chains as 1,4‐dioxane, diethyl ether, dimethoxyethane, 18‐crown‐6, triethylamine, glutaraldehyde, and alkanes which have never been supposed as direct starting compounds for preparation of polymers. The facile method for preparation of fluorinated hybrid polymers bearing alkylsilyl groups was developed with diethoxydimethylsilane and silsesquioxanes. Taking advantage of the high reactivity of the perfluoroisopropenyl group as a radical acceptor, self‐polyaddition and cyclopolymerization were investigated. Triethysilyl perfluoroisopropenyl ether [CF2 C(CF3)OSi(C2H5)3] was proved to be the most probable candidate for self‐polyaddition. Cyclopolymerization of perfluoroisopropenyl vinylacetate [CF2C(CF3) OCO CH2CH CH2] was investigated to afford polymers possessing five‐membered‐ring units in main chains. The interconversion of the unstable fluorinated carbon radical and the stable hydrocarbon radical had an important role in the reaction. The radical addition reaction presented herein may be developed for preparation of a wide variety of novel fluorinated polymers and organic compounds possessing functional groups. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 42: 4101–4125, 2004
Peculiarities of core–valence luminescence of CsBr and Rb1−xCsxBr crystals
Authors: Voloshinovskii A. , Pashuk I. , Chornodol'skyi Ya. , Stryganyuk G. , Rodnyi P.
Published: July 2004

The study of the emission and excitation spectra as well as the decay kinetics for the intrinsic core–valence luminescence of CsBr and the impurity core–valence luminescence of Rb1−xCsxBr solid solution under excitation in the 10–20 eV energy range has been carried out in the temperature range of 10–300 K. The change of coordination number for the Cs+ ion from n = 8 to n = 6 at the transformation of CsBr to Rb0.9Cs0.1Br solid solution is accompanied by significant modification of the core–valence luminescence spectra shape. The temperature dependence of the excitation efficiency in the threshold region observed for Rb0.9Cs0.1Br could be caused by the decay of the 5d3/2 excited state of the Cs+ ion due to thermostimulated electron transition from this state into the conduction band, which leads to the appearance of unbounded 5p Cs+ core holes. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Crystal field analysis of energy level structure of LiAlO2:Cr4+ and LiGaO2:Cr4+
Authors: Brik M. G. , Avram C. N. , Tanaka I.
Published: July 2004

A detailed analysis of the energy level structure of tetrahedrally coordinated Cr4+ ion in lithium aluminium oxide LiAlO2 (γ‐phase) and lithium dioxogallate LiGaO2 is performed using the exchange charge model of crystal field theory. The parameters of the crystal field acting on the Cr4+ optical electrons are calculated from crystal structure data assuming C2 point symmetry of the [CrO4]4− impurity center in LiAlO2 and C1 point symmetry in LiGaO2. The energy levels obtained are compared with experimental absorption spectra and literature data on application of other crystal field models (the angular overlap model and Racah theory) to the considered crystals; good agreement with experimental data is demonstrated. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effect of static electric field on the HF band structure of a guanine stack
Authors: Martinez A. , Bogar F. , Otto P. , Ladik J.
Published: July 2004

Putting dipoles in different arrangements in the planes of the guanine molecules in a stack in DNA B conformation, in a model calculation the effect of the electric field on the ab initio Hartree–Fock band structure was studied. The calculations were performed at the stacking distances 3.12, 3.36, and 3.60 Å, respectively. The electric fields of the dipoles decreased the very broad conduction band of a guanine stack, caused some shifts in the band structure, but hardly influenced the fundamental gap. The computed effective masses at the physically interesting band edges correspond to the bandwidth changes due to the electric field. The electric field significantly influences the deformation potentials at the band edges and with it the transport properties of the guanine stack. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2004
Quantum dynamics of clusters on experimental potential energy surfaces: Triplet and quintet O2‐O2 surfaces and dimers of para‐N2 with ortho‐ and para‐N2 and with O2
Authors: Carmona‐Novillo Estela , Pirani Fernando , Aquilanti Vincenzo
Published: July 2004

The potential energy surfaces for the dimers of the major components of the atmosphere had been previously characterized through a combined analysis of scattering experiments and second virial coefficient data and represented as a spherical harmonic expansion functional form, which permits us to describe the intermolecular features in the salient geometries of the complexes and account for the relative contributions arising from interaction components of different nature. The present quantum mechanical calculations on these surfaces extend our studies aimed at the full characterization of structure and internal dynamics of the clusters. Bound states and eigenfunctions are obtained. Here, we consider specific aspects of excited electronic states (such as the O2‐O2 triplet and quintet surfaces) and odd–odd and even–odd rotovibrational combination of levels of the N2‐N2 dimer, and the odd–odd combination for the N2‐O2 system, providing a guidance for the analysis of spectra of interest for atmospheric monitorings. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2004