bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Generation and characterization of a human acellular meniscus scaffold for tissue engineering
Authors: Sandmann G. H. , Eichhorn S. , Vogt S. , Adamczyk C. , Aryee S. , Hoberg M. , Milz S. , Imhoff A. B. , Tischer T.
Published: November 2008

Meniscus tears are frequent indications for arthroscopic evaluation which can result in partial or total meniscectomy. Allografts or synthetic meniscus scaffolds have been used with varying success to prevent early degenerative joint disease in these cases. Problems related to reduced initial and long‐term stability, as well as immunological reactions prevent widespread clinical use so far. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop a new construct for tissue engineering of the human meniscus based on an acellular meniscus allograft. Human menisci (n = 16) were collected and acellularized using the detergent sodium dodecyl sulfate as the main ingredient or left untreated as control group. These acellularized menisci were characterized biomechanically using a repetitive ball indentation test (Stiffness N/mm, residual force N, relative compression force N) and by histological (hematoxylin‐eosin, phase‐contrast) as well as immunohistochemical (collagen I, II, VI) investigation. The processed menisci histologically appeared cell‐free and had biomechanical properties similar to the intact meniscus samples (p > 0.05). The collagen fiber arrangement was not altered, according to phase‐contrast microscopy and immunohistochemical labeling. The removal of the immunogenic cell components combined with the preservation of the mechanically relevant parts of the extracellular matrix could make these scaffolds ideal implants for future tissue engineering of the meniscus. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 2009
Transforming growth factor β‐3 bound with sulfate polysaccharide in synthetic extracellular matrix enhanced the biological activities for neocartilage formation in vivo
Authors: Park Ji Sun , Woo Dae Gyun , Yang Han Na , Na Kun , Park Keun‐Hong
Published: November 2008

The thermoreversible hydrogel of poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐acrylic acid) [p(NiPAAm‐co‐AAc)] was utilized in an injectable protein (growth factor) delivery system for use in tissue regeneration protocols. The transforming growth factor β (TGF β) proteins, which have been shown to bind to heparin, have been well established to induce chondrogenic differentiation in chondrocytes. In this study, we assessed the effects of heparin on the TGF β‐3 activities in rabbit chondrocytes embedded in thermoreversible hydrogel. The hydrogels embedded with chondrocytes and heparin‐bound TGF β‐3 were injected subcutaneously into nude mice, which were monitored for up to 8 weeks after injection. P(NiPAAm‐co‐AAc) hydrogels with TGF β‐3 were compared with the hydrogels with heparin bound to TGF β‐3 for the assessment of the effects of heparin binding on chondrogenic differentiation. To monitor the release of growth factor via in vivo analysis, we assessed the Cy5.5‐NHS‐conjugated growth factors via the bioimaging method. In terms of the release of growth factors, the release of heparin‐binding growth factor was slower than that of the growth factor itself. Additionally, the proliferation rate and cartilage‐specific ECM production were both found to be significantly higher in the presence of heparin binding than was observed with the controls. The quantity of cartilage‐associated ECM proteins was assessed via immunohistochemical staining (collagen type II) and safranin‐O staining. These data indicate the potential use of heparin‐binding TGF β‐3 for the reconstruction of neocartilage formation. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2009
Antimicrobial modification of polyester by admicellar polymerization
Authors: Ren Xuehong , Kou Lei , Kocer Hasan B. , Worley S. D. , Broughton R. M. , Tzou Y. M. , Huang T. S.
Published: November 2008

The N‐halamine monomer 3‐(4′‐vinylbenzyl)‐5,5‐dimethylhydantoin (VBDMH) was synthesized and employed to form thin films on the surfaces of polyester fibers by surface polymerization with the aid of a cationic surfactant. The coated samples were characterized by FTIR and SEM. The thin film coatings could be rendered biocidal by exposure to dilute sodium hypochlorite. The antimicrobial polyesters were challenged with Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli O157:H7. Complete inactivation of S. aureus and E. coli O157:H7 was observed within 10 and 30 min of contact time, respectively. The chlorine bonded to the coatings was very stable under standard washing tests and UVA irradiation tests, and much of the lost chlorine could be regenerated by rechlorination. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
Assessment in vitro of the active hemostatic properties of wound dressings
Authors: Jesty Jolyon , Wieland Martin , Niemiec Jack
Published: November 2008

The development of actively hemostatic wound dressings for use in severe trauma remains a major public‐health and military goal. But, although some manufacturers claim that existing dressings activate platelets and/or blood coagulation, mechanistic evidence is often lacking. We describe a method for assessing the active hemostatic properties of dressings in vitro, entailing measurement of the flow of recalcified platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) through a dressing sample. If the dressing is hemostatically active, flow is reduced. This flow is then compared with the flow‐through of PRP in which both platelet and coagulation function are blocked with EDTA. The ratio of the two generates a hemostatic index that ranges from 1.0 (no active hemostasis) to 0 (highly potent). The method is applicable to porous or semiporous dressings, whether fabric, sponge, fleece, or granules. For an active dressing, the test is easily modified to differentiate between the contributions of platelet and coagulation to overall hemostasis. The method is illustrated for fabrics, over‐the‐counter gauze and sponge dressings, collagen‐based sheets, and an absorbent granule dressing. One active collagen dressing is used to illustrate discrimination between platelet and coagulation function. The ability to assess hemostatic properties may significantly enhance the development of advanced active dressings. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
Surface characterization and force relaxation of retrieved silk sutures
Authors: Zinelis S. , Eliades T. , Dimitrakopoulos I. , Silikas N. , Eliades G.
Published: November 2008

Aim:

To investigate the relaxation of as‐received and retrieved silk sutures and characterize the compositional and structural changes occurred during service.

Materials and Methods:

Silk sutures were tested in three conditions: (a) as‐received, (b) retrieved from the oral cavity of patients, and (c) retrieved from extraoral sites of patients following 4 days. Specimens of the first group were fabricated by tying a knot on a plastic cable of 5 mm diameter. Specimens (n = 6) of groups (b) and (c) were placed in the appropriate surgical site and retrieved. Specimens were subjected to Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy for the characterization of molecular composition; low vacuum scanning electron microscopy (LV‐SEM) to investigate the morphological variation; and energy dispersive X‐ray microanalysis to assess the elemental composition of integuments formed onto the materials. To investigate the stress relaxation of elastics, a portable test assembly was developed to monitor the force exerted by a stretched suture for a period of 4 days.

Results:

Retrieved specimens demonstrated absorption of proteinaceous matter comprising of amide I and II and alcohol, as well as precipitation of Mg, Si, Cl, and Ca for the extraorally aged specimens and additional K and P for the intraorally exposed sutures. Aged specimens showed swelling and disorganization and rupture of suture bundles. Stress relaxation data were indicative of no difference between the three groups, which relaxed at 30% of the initial value, whereas the curves showed similar slopes.

Significance:

Significant relaxation was found for silk sutures, which seems to be independent of surgical site. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
Development of a bioresorbable self‐hardening bone adhesive based on a composite consisting of polylactide methacrylates and β‐tricalcium phosphate
Authors: Heiss C. , Kraus R. , Peters F. , Henn W. , Schnabelrauch M. , Berg A. , Pautzsch T. , Weisser J. , Schnettler R.
Published: November 2008

In this work, a novel bioresorbable bone adhesive based on radically polymerizable polylactide with methacrylate endgroups known from polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) cements and varying amounts of bioresorbable/biodegradable lactide moieties was developed. The swelling and degradation properties as well as the hardening time, viscosity, and adhesion properties (tension and shear resistance) were subsequently measured in vitro and optimized. For a broad use in surgery the handling properties, the shelf life and the storage temperature are important issues. The finally developed material consists of three substances that have to be mixed to start the reaction: a highly viscous mixture of oligomers and two β‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP, Cerasorb®) powders with the radical starter and the promoter. The material has a processing time of 2 min and is completely cured after another minute. The tension and shear resistance of the material is 3.1–13.9 MPa that will decrease by storing the substance in a humid atmosphere. Degradation experiments showed a mass loss of 20–35% during the first 5 weeks. Tests with MC3T3‐E1 cells showed an increase of the alkaline phosphatase activity over a period of 14 days. The mechanical and handling properties and the in vitro data are showing a promising biomaterial for bone regeneration. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
In vitro evaluation of cytotoxicity of soft lining materials on L929 cells by MTT assay
Authors: Ozdemir Kutlu Gokhan , Yılmaz Handan , Yılmaz Sukran
Published: November 2008

The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate five commonly used soft lining materials, Viscogel (VG), Ufi Gel P (UGP), Softliner (S), Coe‐Soft (CS), and Molloplast‐B (MB) in terms of cytotoxicity by MTT assay, using L929 mouse fibroblasts. Sixteen disk‐shaped specimens from each material were prepared (according to the manufacturer's instructions) in stainless steel mold (10 mm diameter and 1.5 mm thick). The specimens were incubated for 24, 48, 72, and 96 h in Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium Ham's F12 (DMEM/F12) and following each incubation interval, cytotoxicity of the extracts to cultured mouse fibroblasts (L929) were measured by MTT assay. Data were statistically analyzed by two‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Duncan's test, at a significance level of p < 0.05. Group CS revealed significantly high cytotoxic effect at all incubation periods (p < 0.05). Although no cytotoxic effect for Group S was found at 24, 48, 72 h periods, it has been raised at 96‐h incubation period (p > 0.05). Group VG, UGP, S (except at 96 h period), and Group MB demonstrated high cell survival rates at incubation periods. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
Hydroxyapatite fiber material with BMP‐2 gene induces ectopic bone formation
Authors: Oda Mitsumasa , Kuroda Shinji , Kondo Hisatomo , Kasugai Shohei
Published: November 2008

Collagen containing bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (BMP‐2) expression vector, which is called “gene‐activated matrix,” promotes bone regeneration when transplanted to the bone defect. We speculated that hydroxyapatite fiber (HF) would be an ideal matrix for “gene‐activated matrix” especially for bone regeneration, because it is oseteoconductive and has high affinity to DNA. The purpose of this study is to clarify whether HF containing BMP‐2 expression vector induces ectopic bone formation. We prepared HF containing 0, 10, 50, and 100 μg BMP‐2 expression vector. Wistar male rats (8 weeks) were used and each rat received two HF implants in the left and right dorsal muscle. The rats were sacrificed 4, 8, and 12 weeks after the operation, and implants were analyzed radiographically by softex, dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry, and they were histologically examined. At 4 weeks, HF containing 50 or 100 μg BMP‐2 expression vector showed high bone mineral contents and large radiopaque volume compared to the other implants. At 8 and 12 weeks, HF containing 50 μg BMP‐2 expression vector exerted the highest values in the radiographic analyses. Bonelike tissue was histologically observed in HF containing 50 and 100 μg BMP‐2 expression vector groups but not detected in the other implants. The present results suggest that HF is potential as a matrix for “gene‐activated matrix” for bone tissue engineering. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
Tensile and tribological properties of high‐crystallinity radiation crosslinked UHMWPE
Authors: Bistolfi Alessandro , Turell Mary Beth , Lee Ying‐Lung , Bellare Anuj
Published: November 2008

Osteolysis due to particulate wear debris associated with ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) components of total joint replacement prostheses has been a major factor determining their in vivo lifetime. In recent years, radiation crosslinking has been employed to decrease wear rates in PE components, especially in acetabular cups of total hip replacement prostheses. A drawback of radiation crosslinking is that it leads to a crosslinked PE (or XPE) with lower mechanical properties compared with uncrosslinked PE. In contrast, high‐crystallinity PEs are known to have several mechanical properties higher than conventional PE. In this study, we hypothesized that increasing the crystallinity of radiation crosslinked and remelted XPE would result in an increase in tensile properties without compromising wear resistance. High‐pressure crystallization was performed on PE and XPE and analyzed for the resulting morphological alterations using differential scanning calorimeter, low voltage scanning electron microscopy, and ultrasmall angle X‐ray scattering. Uniaxial tensile tests showed that high‐pressure crystallization increased the tensile modulus and yield stress in both PE and XPE, decreased the ultimate strain and ultimate stress in PE but had no significant effect on ultimate strain or ultimate stress in XPE. Multidirectional wear tests demonstrated that high‐pressure crystallization decreased the wear resistance of PE but had no effect on the wear resistance of XPE. In conclusion, this study shows that high‐pressure crystallization can be effectively used to increase the crystallinity and modulus of XPE without compromising its superior wear resistance compared with PE. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
Mitogenic roles of Gab1 and Grb10 as direct cellular partners in the regulation of MAP kinase signaling
Authors: Deng Youping , Zhang Manchao , Riedel Heimo
Published: November 2008

Functions of signaling mediators Grb10 or Gab1 have been described in mitogenesis but remained disconnected. Here, we report the peptide hormone‐dependent direct association between Grb10 and Gab1 and their functional connection in mitogenic signaling via MAP kinase using cultured fibroblasts as a model. In response to PDGF‐, IGF‐I, or insulin increased levels of Grb10 potentiated cell proliferation or survival whereas dominant‐negative, domain‐specific Grb10 peptide mimetics attenuated cell proliferation. This response was sensitive to p44/42 MAPK inhibitor but not to p38 MAPK inhibitor. In response to IGF‐I or insulin Raf‐1, MEK 1/2, and p44/42 MAPK were regulated by Grb10 but not Ras or p38 MAPK. In response to PDGF MEK 1/2, p44/42 MAPK and p38 MAPK were regulated by Grb10 but not Ras or Raf‐1. Peptide hormone‐dependent co‐immunoprecipitation of Grb10 and Gab1 was demonstrated and specifically blocked by a Grb10 SH2 domain peptide mimetic. This domain was sufficient for direct, peptide hormone‐dependent association with Gab1 via the Crk binding region. In response to PDGF, IGF‐I, or insulin, in a direct comparison, elevated levels of mouse Grb10 delta, or human Grb10 beta or zeta equally potentiated fibroblast proliferation. Proliferation was severely reduced by Gab1 gene disruption whereas an elevated Gab1 gene dose proportionally stimulated Grb10‐potentiated cell proliferation. In conclusion, Gab1 and Grb10 function as direct binding partners in the regulation of the mitogenic MAP kinase signal. In cultured fibroblasts, elevated levels of human Grb10 beta, zeta or mouse Grb10 delta comparably potentiate mitogenesis in response to PDGF, IGF‐I, or insulin. J. Cell. Biochem. 105: 1172–1182, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sequential decolourization of reactive textile dyes by laccase mediator system
Authors: Tavares Ana P. M. , Cristóvão Raquel O. , Gamelas José A. F. , Loureiro José M. , Boaventura Rui A. R. , Macedo Eugénia A.
Published: November 2008

BACKGROUND: The use of enzymes has attracted much interest for the decolourization of dyes from wastewater as an alternative to conventional treatments, which have limitations. Laccase can be used to decolourize dyes and its substrate range can be extended by inclusion of mediators.

RESULTS: Sequential decolourization of reactive dyes was carried out by a laccase mediator system using as mediators violuric acid and 1‐hydroxybenzotriazole. Violuric acid resulted in a high level of decolourization on the first and second cycles for reactive blue 114 (≥95%), reactive yellow 15 and reactive red 239 (≥80%), while for reactive black 5 a slightly lower value was observed (70%) on the second cycle. The degree of reactive blue decolourization remained at 90% after the third cycle, and at about 60% after seven cycles. With the other dyes decolourization decreased to 50–70% on the third cycle and further up to the final cycle (lower than 20%). When using 1‐hydroxybenzotriazole as mediator a slight decrease in decolourization efficiency was obtained. Correlation between dye oxidation peak potential and dye degradation after 10 min reaction was obtained for both mediators.

CONCLUSIONS: These results show that sequencing batch decolourization by laccase mediator system is a useful methodology for treating textile dying wastewaters with a high potential for application at industrial level. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Bio‐oxidation of ferrous ions by Acidithioobacillus ferrooxidans in a monolithic bioreactor
Authors: Alemzadeh Iran , Kahrizi Ehsan , Vossoughi Manouchehr
Published: November 2008

BACKGROUND: The bio‐oxidation of ferrous iron is a potential industrial process in the regeneration of ferric iron and the removal of H2S in combustible gases. Bio‐oxidation of ferrous iron may be an alternative method of producing ferric sulfate, which is a reagent used for removal of H2S from biogas, tail gas and in the pulp and paper industry. For practical use of this process, this study evaluated the optimal pH and initial ferric concentration. pH control looks like a key factor as it acts both on growth rate and on solubility of materials in the system.

RESULTS: Process variables such as pH and amount of initial ferrous ions on oxidation by A. ferrooxidans and the effects of process variables dilution rate, initial concentrations of ferrous on oxidation of ferrous sulfate in the packed bed bioreactor were investigated. The optimum range of pH for the maximum growth of cells and effective bio‐oxidation of ferrous sulfate varied from 1.4 to 1.8. The maximum bio‐oxidation rate achieved was 0.3 g L−1 h−1 in a culture initially containing 19.5 g L−1 Fe2+ in the batch system. A maximum Fe2+ oxidation rate of 6.7 g L−1 h−1 was achieved at the dilution rate of 2 h−1, while no obvious precipitate was detected in the bioreactor. All experiments were carried out in shake flasks at 30 °C.

CONCLUSION: The monolithic particles investigated in this study were found to be very suitable material for A. ferrooxidans immobilization for ferrous oxidation mainly because of its advantages over other commonly used substrates. In the monolithic bioreactor, the bio‐oxidation rate was 6.7 g L−1 h−1 and 7 g L−1 h−1 for 3.5 g L−1 and 6 g L−1 of initial ferrous concentration, respectively. For higher initial concentrations 16 g L−1 and 21.3 g L−1, bio‐oxidation rate were 0.9 g L−1 h−1 and 0.55 g L−1 h−1, respectively. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
The mammalian yolk sac placenta
Authors: Freyer Claudia , Renfree Marilyn B.
Published: November 2008

There are three fetal membranes in mammals, namely the yolk sac, allantois and amnion, but only the first two form a placenta. In Monotremata (monotremes), Marsupialia (marsupials) and Placentalia (eutherians), the yolk sac transfers nutrients originating from uterine glandular secretion or the maternal blood. Ontogenetically, the yolk sac of most eutherians loses contact with the peripheral chorion and forms a free splanchnopleuric yolk sac that transfers substances from the exocoelomic cavity, not directly from the endometrium as in marsupials and rodents. This free yolk sac has been preserved in humans and substances originating from glandular secretions are transferred from the exocoelomic cavity to the embryo via this route. The therian yolk sac expresses numerous growth and transcription factors, associated binding proteins and receptors that control its differentiation and function, including hematopoiesis and angiogenesis. Errors in yolk sac development and function could contribute to embryonic malformation, miscarriage and growth diseases. Factors regulating transfer and metabolism, notably insulin and IGF2, are imprinted in the human yolk sac, as in all therians so far studied. This suggests persistence of a strong selective pressure for parentally controlled allocation of resources to the growing embryo via this fetal membrane. The metabolic and biosynthetic functions of the yolk sac of the ancestral therian stem species, as well as hematopoiesis in the eutherian ancestor, appear to have been retained by the human yolk sac. Thus, the yolk sac of humans, like that of all viviparous mammals, is a true placenta crucial for early embryonic development and survival. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 312B:545–554, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A disaggregated empirical analysis of the determinants of IMF arrangements: Does one model fit all?
Authors: Bird Graham , Rowlands Dane
Published: November 2008

Does one model fit all when it comes to the determinants of IMF programs? Certainly claims have been made by the IMF that capital account crisis (CAC) countries are discernibly different in terms of the characteristics that lead them to borrow from it, while other research has claimed that it is only Asian economies that are different from the rest. This paper sets out to examine these issues. It tests various forms of a fairly conventional model to see whether some forms better fit certain groups of countries than others. It then uses the favoured models to estimate the probability of countries having an IMF arrangement. In particular it examines countries that have been identified by the Fund as CAC countries, but it also looks at a number of comparator countries. The findings suggest that there are some differences between low income and middle income countries. Pressures in the foreign exchange market are significant for the latter but not for the former. The paper also discusses differences between regions and within regions. Broadly speaking the findings confirm that Asian economies around the time of the 1997/1998 crisis tended to turn to the IMF for financial support more quickly than would have been anticipated on the basis of the existing best‐fitting models. The paper also discusses the implications of the findings for policy and for the reform of the IMF. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fiscal reform and monetary union in West Africa
Authors: Hefeker Carsten
Published: November 2008

This paper explores the interaction between the proposed monetary union for ECOWAS and structural reforms of fiscal policy. In a monetary union among symmetric countries members run a more distortionary fiscal policy and structural reform efforts fall. This can also follow in countries that adopt a unilateral peg or a foreign currency. In a monetary union with asymmetric countries reforms increase in countries that are relatively less distorted and the reverse happens in more distorted economies. Most West African Economic and Monetary Union members are thus likely to have a less distortionary fiscal policy after forming a monetary union with other ECOWAS members. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Options for enforcing labour standards: Lessons from Bangladesh And Cambodia
Authors: Berik Günseli , Rodgers Yana Van Der Meulen
Published: November 2008

This study examines labour standards enforcement and compliance in two Asian economies (Bangladesh and Cambodia) that have amongst the lowest labour costs in the world but are experiencing strong pressures to improve the price competitiveness of their textile and garment exports. Analysis of survey, focus group and inspection data indicate differing trajectories in compliance with basic labour standards. While extremely low wages and poor working conditions have persisted in Bangladesh, compliance has begun to improve in Cambodia following a trade agreement with the United States that linked positive trade incentives with labour standards enforcement. These contrasting experiences suggest that in less developed countries, governments consider trade‐linked schemes to achieve improvements in working conditions without hindering export growth or job growth. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The morphologic characteristics of nerve shortening following traumatic bone loss
Authors: Abe Ichiro , Hara Yuki , Nishiura Yasumasa , Ochiai Naoyuki
Published: November 2008

Little is known about peripheral nerve shortening secondary to joint contracture or traumatic bone loss. We used the rat sciatic nerve as a model to study nerve shortening secondary to leg shortening. Nerve shortening was induced by surgically removing 16 mm of the femur. The histology of the ipsilateral and contralateral (control) sciatic nerves were compared at 1 h, 3 weeks, and 6 weeks. Transverse semithin sections of sciatic nerve were prepared and examined; single fibers also were teased from the nerve for study. The epineurium was shortened about 25% at 6 weeks. Axonal diameter was unchanged at 1 h, but increased over time, and was 0.68 µm larger than controls at 6 weeks (p < 0.05). In teased‐fiber preparations, internodal length decreased 2.3% at 6 weeks, but not significantly. Peripheral nerve shortening secondary to leg shortening shortens the epineurium, but does not effect on internodal length. © 2008 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 27: 472–476, 2009
Improving vastus medialis obliquus function reduces pressure applied to lateral patellofemoral cartilage
Authors: Elias John J. , Kilambi Srianjana , Goerke Derek R. , Cosgarea Andrew J.
Published: November 2008

The current study was performed to characterize how improving vastus medialis obliquus (VMO) function influences the pressure applied to patellofemoral cartilage. An additional focus was characterizing how lateral and medial cartilage lesions influence cartilage pressures. Ten knees were flexed to 40°, 60°, and 80° in vitro, and forces were applied to represent the VMO and other muscles of the quadriceps group while a thin film sensor measured joint pressures. The knees were loaded with a normal VMO force, with the VMO force decreased by approximately 50%, and with the VMO unloaded. After tests were performed with the cartilage intact, all tests were repeated with a 12‐mm‐diameter lesion created within the lateral cartilage, with the lateral lesion repaired with silicone, and with a medial lesion created. Based on a two‐way repeated measures ANOVA and post‐hoc tests, increasing the force applied by the VMO significantly (p < 0.05) decreased the maximum lateral pressure and significantly increased the maximum medial pressure at each flexion angle. A lateral cartilage lesion significantly increased the maximum lateral pressure, while a medial lesion did not significantly influence the maximum medial pressure. Improving VMO function can reduce the pressure applied to lateral cartilage when lateral lesions are present. © 2008 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 27: 578–583, 2009
Cellular and epigenetic features of a young healthy and a young osteoarthritic cartilage compared with aged control and OA cartilage
Authors: da Silva Marco A. , Yamada Norikazu , Clarke Nicholas M.P. , Roach Helmtrud I.
Published: November 2008

Osteoarthritis (OA) is generally a disease of the elderly population, but can occur in young patients in exceptional cases. This study compares the cellular and epigenetic features of primary old‐age OA with those of secondary OA in a 23‐year‐old patient with developmental dysplasia of the hip. In addition, control cartilage from a 14‐year‐old was compared with that from patients with a fracture of the neck of femur (#NOF) to establish to what extent the latter is a useful control for OA. Articular cartilage was obtained from discarded femoral heads after hip arthroplasty. MMP‐3, MMP‐9, MMP‐13, and ADAMTS‐4 were immunolocalized and the methylation status of specific promoter CpG sites was determined. Both primary and secondary OA were characterized by loss of aggrecan, formation of clones, and abnormal expression of the proteases that correlated with epigenetic DNA demethylation. The latter indicated that the abnormal expression of the cartilage‐degrading proteases was not due to a short‐term up‐regulation, but a heritable, permanent alteration in gene expression. Comparing cell densities in young and old control cartilage estimated an age‐related cell loss of ∼1% per year. In aged #NOF cartilage, some superficial‐zone chondrocytes expressed the proteases, but the majority of cells were immunonegative and their promoters were hypermethylated. The cellular and epigenetic features of the intermediate and deep zones of #NOF cartilage are thus similar to those of young healthy cartilage, justifying the use of #NOF cartilage as control cartilage for OA, providing the superficial zone is removed. © 2008 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 27: 593–601, 2009
Characterization of hepatocellular carcinoma developed after achieving sustained virological response to interferon therapy for hepatitis C
Authors: Sanefuji Kensaku , Kayashima Hiroto , Iguchi Tomohiro , Sugimachi Keishi , Yamashita Yo‐ichi , Yoshizumi Tomoharu , Soejima Yuji , Nishizaki Takashi , Taketomi Akinobu , Maehara Yoshihiko
Published: November 2008

Background

Interferon (IFN) reduces the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC). However, HCC develops in the some patients who have achieved a sustained virological response (SVR). The aim of this study was to clarify the features and prognosis of SVR patients who developed HCC.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐six patients who underwent curative hepatectomy for initial HCC after IFN therapy were closely investigated. Twenty patients who were seropositive for HCV‐RNA (non‐SVR), and a further 6 patients who achieved SVRs (SVR) were included. We analyzed the clinicopathological features, immunological expression levels of p53 and whether HCV‐RNA is present in the excised liver.

Results

The liver functions of the SVR group were almost better than those of the non‐SVR group. However, there was no significant difference in pathological features, surgical factors and prognosis between the groups. In one case with SVR out of eight specimens tested was HCV‐RNA detected in the non‐cancerous tissue. Immunohistochemistry revealed overexpression of p53 in eight HCCs (100%) from SVR patients.

Conclusion

Recurrent HCC still developed after the curative hepatectomy, even if viral elimination had been successful. And molecular alterations in hepatocarcinogenesis of SVR patients might be different from those of CHC patients. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;99:32–37. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
End‐to‐end versus end‐to‐side stapled anastomoses after anterior resection for rectal cancer
Authors: Brisinda Giuseppe , Vanella Serafino , Cadeddu Federica , Civello Ignazio Massimo , Brandara Francesco , Nigro Casimiro , Mazzeo Pasquale , Marniga Gaia , Maria Giorgio
Published: November 2008

Background and Aims

Sphincter‐saving procedures for resection of mid and, in some cases, of distal rectal tumors have become prevalent as their safety have been established. Increased anastomotic leak rate, associated with the type of anastomosis and the distance from the anal verge, has been reported. To compare surgical outcomes of end‐to‐end and end‐to‐side anastomosis after anterior resection for T1–T2 rectal cancer.

Methods

During the study period, a total of 298 rectal cancer patients were treated. Patients with T1–T2 rectal cancer (i.e., tumor level ≤15 cm from the anal verge) fit for surgery were asked to participate in the study. Patients were randomized to receive either an end‐to‐end anastomosis or an end‐to‐side anastomosis using the left colon. Surgical results and complications were recorded.

Results

Seventy‐seven patients were randomized. Thirty‐seven end‐to‐end anastomoses and 40 end‐to‐side anastomoses were performed. Anastomotic leakage after end‐to‐end anastomosis was 29.2%, while after end‐to‐side anastomosis was 5% (P = 0.005). In the end‐to‐end group 11 patients had anastomotic leaks: nine patients needed a re‐intervention with colostomy creation subsequently closed in seven cases. Two patients of the end‐to‐side group experienced anastomotic leakage and were successfully treated conservatively.

Conclusions

Regarding postoperative surgical complications, end‐to‐side anastomosis is a safe procedure. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;99:75–79. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Capillary electrophoretic separation of tricyclic antidepressants using a polymer‐coated capillary and β‐cyclodextrin as an electrolyte additive
Authors: Lin Shih‐Chung , Whang Chen‐Wen
Published: November 2008

A new method for the CE separation of nine tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), viz. amitriptyline, clomipramine, desipramine, doxepin, fluphenazine, imipramine, nortriptyline, promazine, and thioridazine, is described. The capillary was statically coated with a layer of poly(N,N‐dimethylacrylamide) (PDMA) to suppress the EOF, and β‐CD was used as an additive in the BGE solution. The optimal resolution of nine TCAs was obtained by using a 1% v/v PDMA‐coated capillary and a BGE solution of 50 mM sodium phosphate buffer (pH 3.0) containing 0.5 mM β‐CD. Efficiencies were typically >105 plates/m. Complete separation of nine TCAs could be achieved in about 28 min; the two diastereomers of doxepin and the two enantiomers of thioridazine could also be separated. The RSD values of migration time and peak area of the TCAs were in the ranges 0.5–0.8 and 3.3–4.9% (n = 10), respectively. In combination with a suitable sample clean‐up technique, such as hollow fiber‐based liquid phase microextraction (HF‐LPME), the polymer‐coated capillary can be employed for the CE‐UV analysis of TCAs in human plasma.
Participants' characteristics and economic benefits of visiting friends and relatives (VFR) tourism — an international survey of the literature with implications for Ghana
Authors: Asiedu Alex Boakye
Published: November 2008

This article surveys the literature on visiting friends and relatives (VFR) tourism, identifying and describing its variant forms and the main characteristics of participants. This characterisation involves a discussion on socio‐demographic and economic traits as well as travel characteristics of VFR trip makers. The study further reviews VFR tourism's economic contributions to destination areas with specific focus on foreign exchange earnings, local revenue mobilisation, multiplier effects of tourism expenditures and employment generation. This background review provides the basis for assessing the possibilities for developing a viable and sustainable VFR tourism in Ghana by highlighting and evaluating critical factors such as seasonality of VFR tourists inflows, income leakages, host and guest relationships, and destination image. Appropriate recommendations based on the above insights have been provided to enhance Ghana's competitive edge in the promotion of this tourism category. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Erosion modelling approach to simulate the effect of land management options on soil loss by considering catenary soil development and farmers perception
Authors: Brunner A. C. , Park S. J. , Ruecker G. R. , Vlek P. L. G.
Published: November 2008

The prevention of soil erosion is one of the most essential requirements for sustainable agriculture in developing countries. In recent years it is widely recognized that more site‐specific approaches are needed to assess variations in erosion susceptibility in order to select the most suitable land management methods for individual hillslope sections. This study quantifies the influence of different land management methods on soil erosion by modelling soil loss for individual soil‐landscape units on a hillslope in Southern Uganda. The research combines a soil erosion modelling approach using the physically based Water Erosion Prediction Project (WEPP)‐model with catenary soil development along hillslopes. Additionally, farmers' perceptions of soil erosion and sedimentation are considered in a hillslope mapping approach. The detailed soil survey confirmed a well‐developed catenary soil sequence along the hillslope and the participatory hillslope mapping exercise proved that farmers can distinguish natural soil property changes using their local knowledge. WEPP‐model simulations show that differences in soil properties, related to the topography along the hillslope, have a significant impact on total soil loss. Shoulder and backslope positions with steeper slope gradients were most sensitive to changes in land management. Furthermore, soil conservation techniques such as residue management and contouring could reduce soil erosion by up to 70 percent on erosion‐sensitive slope sections compared to that under tillage practices presently used at the study site. The calibrated model may be used as a tool to provide quantitative information to farmers regarding more site‐specific land management options. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The oxidative stability of biodiesel: Effects of FAME composition and antioxidant
Authors: Tang Haiying , De Guzman Rhet C. , Salley Steven O. , Ng Simon K.Y.
Published: November 2008

A significant problem associated with the commercial acceptance of biodiesel is poor oxidative stability. This study investigated the effectiveness of individual and binary antioxidants to improve the oxidative stability of different types of biodiesel and distilled biodiesel. Results indicate that different types of biodiesel have different levels of oxidative stability, and that natural antioxidants and FAME composition play significant roles in determining oxidative stability. Synthetic antioxidants can enhance the oxidative stability of different types of biodiesel, and antioxidant activity increases as a function of its concentration. However, the effective activity level of antioxidant is dependent on biodiesel feedstock. Binary antioxidant formulations (TBHQ and PY) have a synergistic effect on oxidative stability of biodiesel. After long‐term storage at room temperature, the oxidative stability of untreated SBO‐based biodiesel significantly decreases as a function of time, while the addition of the antioxidant TBHQ can improve and maintain oxidative stability of biodiesel over an 18‐month period. However, the effectiveness of PY significantly decreases even after 2‐months.
Estolides: From structure and function to structured and functionalized
Authors: Zerkowski Jonathan A.
Published: November 2008

Oligomeric fatty acid esters, known as estolides, have been studied for close to a century. It has only been in the last few years, however, that efficient methods for preparing estolides have been developed that also allow some control over their molecular structures. By varying the bio‐based feedstocks and reaction conditions, the functional properties, particularly those geared toward lubrication, can be modified. More recently, synthetic advances have permitted stepwise construction of estolides with functional groups (hydrophilic or reactive) positioned at specific sites within the chain.
Monounsaturated fat and vascular function
Authors: Stanley John C.
Published: November 2008

Dietary intervention trials are cause effect studies with the disadvantage of measuring disease risk factor endpoints as opposed to disease endpoints. One approach towards overcoming this disadvantage is to use a measure of vascular function as an endpoint. There are two dietary strategies for lowering the intake of saturated fat. One is to replace the saturated fat with monounsaturated fat and the other is to replace it with carbohydrate. It is difficult to decide from the results of intervention trials with disease risk factor endpoints, which of these strategies is better for health. After allowance has been made for defects in design, measurements of vascular function suggest that replacing saturated fat with monounsaturated fat is better for the cardiovascular system.
On the Π11‐separation principle
Authors: Montalbán Antonio
Published: November 2008

We study the proof‐theoretic strength of the Π11‐separation axiom scheme, and we show that Π11‐separation lies strictly in between the Δ11‐comprehension and Σ11‐choice axiom schemes over RCA0. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Polish group actions, nice topologies, and admissible sets
Authors: Majcher‐Iwanow Barbara
Published: November 2008

Let G be a closed subgroup of S∞ and X be a Polish G ‐space. To every x ∈ X we associate an admissible set Ax and show how questions about X which involve Baire category can be formalized in Ax . (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
On non‐compact logics in NEXT(KTB)
Authors: Kostrzycka Zofia
Published: November 2008

In this paper we construct a continuum of logics, extensions of the modal logic T2 = KTB ⊕ □2p → □3p, which are non‐compact (relative to Kripke frames) and hence Kripke incomplete. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A note on stationarity of types over models in simple theories
Authors: Kobayashi Makoto , Tsuboi Akito
Published: November 2008

We investigate stationarity of types over models in simple theories. In particular, we show that in simple theories with finite SU‐rank, any complete type over a model having Cantor‐Bendixson rank is stationary. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Unions and the axiom of choice
Authors: Cruz Omar De la , Hall Eric J. , Howard Paul , Keremedis Kyriakos , Rubin Jean E.
Published: November 2008

We study statements about countable and well‐ordered unions and their relation to each other and to countable and well‐ordered forms of the axiom of choice. Using WO as an abbreviation for “well‐orderable”, here are two typical results: The assertion that every WO family of countable sets has a WO union does not imply that every countable family of WO sets has a WO union; the axiom of choice for WO families of WO sets does not imply that the countable union of countable sets is WO. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A general Mitchell style iteration
Authors: Krueger John
Published: November 2008

We work out the details of a schema for a mixed support forcing iteration, which generalizes the Mitchell model [7] with no Aronszajn trees on ω2. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Addendum to “A definable nonstandard enlargement”
Authors: Herzberg Frederik
Published: November 2008

Łoś's theorem for bounded D ‐ultrapowers, D being the ultrafilter introduced by Kanovei and Shelah [4], is established. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The impact of atmospheric composition on plants: A case study of ozone and poplar
Authors: Renaut Jenny , Bohler Sacha , Hausman Jean‐François , Hoffmann Lucien , Sergeant Kjell , Ahsan Nagib , Jolivet Yves , Dizengremel Pierre
Published: November 2008

Tropospheric ozone is the main atmospheric pollutant that causes damages to trees. The estimation of the threshold for ozone risk assessment depends on the evaluation of the means that this pollutant impacts the plant and, especially, the foliar organs. The available results show that, before any visible symptom appears, carbon assimilation and the underlying metabolic processes are decreased under chronic ozone exposure. By contrast, the catabolic pathways are enhanced, and contribute to the supply of sufficient reducing power necessary to feed the detoxification processes. Reactive oxygen species delivered during ozone exposure serve as toxic compounds and messengers for the signaling system. In this review, we show that the contribution of genomic tools (transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics) for a better understanding of the mechanistic cellular responses to ozone largely relies on spectrometric measurements. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 28:495–516, 2009
Financial factors and company investment decisions in transitional China
Authors: Liu Jia , Pang Dong
Published: November 2008

We investigate the propensity of Chinese publicly listed firms to invest in response to financial factors, according to the a priori degree of a firm's information problems: industry sector, ownership structure and firm size. The firms in primary and tertiary industries are found to be liquidity‐constrained in their investment decisions. The investment‐cash flow sensitivity of the firms in secondary industry indicates that they lost privileged access to credit in the course of China's market transition. However, we find no evidence that financial liberalization resulted in an easing of financing constraints for small‐ and medium‐sized firms. Our result indicates that agency problems, stemming from a state‐controlling pyramidal ownership structure, are responsible for the misallocation of internal funds. The importance of bankruptcy and agency costs in relation to debt finance for certain types of borrowers reflects the transitional nature of the financial environment facing Chinese firms. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A “FOXO” in sight: Targeting Foxo proteins from conception to cancer
Authors: Maiese Kenneth , Chong Zhao Zhong , Shang Yan Chen , Hou Jinling
Published: November 2008

The successful treatment for multiple disease entities can rest heavily upon the ability to elucidate the intricate relationships that govern cellular proliferation, metabolism, survival, and inflammation. Here we discuss the therapeutic potential of the mammalian forkhead transcription factors predominantly in the O class, FoxO1, FoxO3, FoxO4, and FoxO6, which play a significant role during normal cellular function as well as during progressive disease. These transcription factors are integrated with several signal transduction pathways, such as Wnt proteins, that can regulate a broad array of cellular process that include stem cell proliferation, aging, and malignancy. FoxO transcription factors are attractive considerations for strategies directed against human cancer in light of their pro‐apoptotic effects and ability to lead to cell cycle arrest. Yet, FoxO proteins can be associated with infertility, cellular degeneration, and unchecked cellular proliferation. As our knowledge continues to develop for this novel family of proteins, potential clinical applications for the FoxO family should heighten our ability to limit disease progression without clinical compromise. © 2008 Wiley periodicals, Inc. Med Res Rev, 29, No. 3, 395‐418, 2009