bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth and survival of four strains of Francisella tularensis in a rich medium preconditioned with Acanthamoeba palestinensis
Authors: Gustafsson Kersti
Published: November 2009

The hypothesis of positive interactions between Francisella tularensis LVS (live vaccine strain) and Acanthamoeba palestinensis was tested. Pregrowth of the amoebae, in a rich (autoclaved and filtered) medium, from which they were subsequently removed by filtration, conditioned the medium so that growth of the live vaccine strain of F. tularensis occurred and the growth rate of one other strain was increased.Key words: preconditioning of substrate, growth, survival.
Effect of yeast extract on the degradation of organophosphorus insecticides by soil enrichment and bacterial cultures
Authors: Sharmila M. , Ramanand K. , Sethunathan N.
Published: November 2009

Soil enrichment cultures were prepared by repeated additions of methyl parathion to flooded alluvial and laterite soils incubated at 35 °C. These cultures were tested for their ability to degrade methyl parathion in a mineral salts medium in the presence and absence of yeast extract. Addition of yeast extract (0.05% w/v) accelerated the degradation of methyl parathion by both enriched cultures. Methyl parathion was degraded by the enrichment culture from alluvial soil essentially by hydrolysis in the absence of yeast extract and by nitro group reduction in its presence. The enrichment culture from laterite soil degraded methyl parathion (by hydrolysis) only in the presence of yeast extract. A Bacillus sp., isolated from laterite soil, degraded methyl parathion essentially by hydrolysis in the presence of a concentration (w/v) of yeast extract of 0.05%, by both hydrolysis and nitro group reduction at 0.1 and 0.25%, and exclusively by nitro group reduction at 0.5%. A similar trend was also noticed with parathion. However, fenitrothion was degraded by Bacillus sp. mainly by hydrolysis at all concentrations of yeast extract, whereas diazinon was not degraded.Key words: organophosphorothioates, biodegradation, yeast extract dependent pathway.
Isopenicillin N synthase and desacetoxycephalosporin C synthase activities during defined medium fermentations of Streptomyces clavuligerus: effect of oxygen and iron supplements
Authors: Rollins Malcolm J. , Jensen Susan E. , Westlake Donald W. S.
Published: November 2009

When the level of dissolved oxygen was increased to saturation in defined media fermentations of Streptomyces clavuligerus, the total duration of activity of the penicillin ring cyclization enzyme, isopenicillin N synthase (IPNS), was extended by at least 20 h; however, no increase in the stability of the ring expansion enzyme, desacetoxycephalosporin C synthase (DAOCS), was observed. Consequently, the conversion of the excreted intermediate penicillin N to cephamycin C was 15–20% less efficient at this high oxygen concentration. The increased dissolved oxygen level also led to the complete loss of IPNS and DAOCS activities for 4 h during the period of fastest growth, and the rate of specific cephamycin C production fell to zero. A several hundred fold increase in the level of iron in the defined media resulted in a sixfold improvement in the rate of specific cephamycin C production after 60 h fermentation. This increased rate appeared to be due to an elevation in the in vivo activities of a number of the cephamycin biosynthetic enzymes, particularly those catalysing later pathway steps.Key words: Streptomyces clavuligerus, isopenicillin N synthase, desacetoxycephalosporin C synthase, oxygen, iron.
Relationship of Rhizoctonia solani inoculum density to incidence of hypocotyl rot and damping-off in dry beans
Authors: Phillips A. J. L.
Published: November 2009

The effect of inoculum density on preemergence disease incidence was described by linear regression. Variations in virulence among 10 isolates formed a continuum. The effect of inoculum density on hypocotyl disease incidence was described by a limiting site model and variations in virulence among the isolates also formed a continuum. The ability of an isolate to cause preemergence disease was not necessarily related to its ability to cause hypocotyl disease. Both saprophytic colonization and preemergence infection arose from propagules in the spermosphere, while depending on the isolate, infection of hypocotyls was from propagules in either the rhizosphere or the rhizoplane. The observed number of hypocotyl lesions was greater than that estimated from the percentage of plants infected. This effect was more pronounced when seeds were sown at 4 than at 1 cm depth.Key words: beans, epidemiology, Phaseolus vulgaris, Rhizoctonia solani.
Human buccal epithelial cell receptors of Pseudomonas aeruginosa: identification of glycoproteins with pilus binding activity
Authors: Doig Peter , Paranchych William , Sastry Parimi A. , Irvin Randall T.
Published: November 2009

Adherence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to a patient's epithelial surface is thought to be an important first step in the infection process. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is capable of attaching to epithelial cells via its pili, yet little is known about the epithelial receptors of this adhesin. Using nitrocellulose replicas of polyacrylamide gels of solubilized human buccal epithelial cells (BECs), glycoproteins (Mz: 82 000, and four bands between 40 000 and 50 000) that bound purified pili from P. aeruginosa strain K (PAK) were identified by immunoblotting with a pilus-specific monoclonal antibody that does not affect pilus binding to BECs (PK3B). All pilus-binding glycoproteins were surface localized, as determined by surface radioiodination of intact BECs. Binding of pili to all of the glycoproteins was inhibited by Fab fragments of monoclonal antibody PK99H, which inhibits PAK pili binding to BECs by binding to or near the binding domain of the pilus, but not by Fab fragments of monoclonal antibody PK41C, which binds to PAK pilin but does not inhibit pili binding to BECs, demonstrating that pilus binding to these glycoproteins is likely via the same region of the pilus that binds to intact BECs. Periodate oxidation of the blot eliminated pili binding to all glycoproteins, indicating that a carbohydrate moiety is an important determinant for pilus-binding activity. However, not all of the glycoproteins exhibited the same degree of sensitivity to periodate oxidation. Furthermore, monosaccharide inhibition of pilus binding to BECs implicated L-fucose and N-acetylneuraminic acid as receptor moieties.Key words: Pseudomonas aeruginosa, pili, receptor, adhesion.
MONTE CARLO SIMULATIONS OF THE THERMAL COMPTONIZATION PROCESS IN A TWO-COMPONENT ACCRETION FLOW AROUND A BLACK HOLE
Authors: GHOSH HIMADRI , CHAKRABARTI SANDIP K. , LAURENT PHILIPPE
Published: November 2009

We compute the effects of thermal Comptonization of soft photons emitted from a Keplerian disk around a black hole by the postshock region of a sub-Keplerian flow, known as the CENtrifugal-pressure-dominated BOundary Layer (CENBOL). We show that the spectral state transitions of black hole candidates could be explained either by varying the outer boundary of the CENBOL, which also happens to be the inner edge of the Keplerian disk, or by changing the central density of the CENBOL, which is governed by the rate of the sub-Keplerian flow. We confirm the conclusions of the previous theoretical studies that the interplay between the intensity of the soft photons emitted by the Keplerian flow, the optical depth and electron temperature of the Comptonizing cloud is responsible for the state transitions in a black hole.
TOPOLOGICAL SOLUTION TO THE CYLINDRICAL EINSTEIN–MAXWELL EQUATIONS
Authors: GOGBERASHVILI MERAB
Published: November 2009

A new exact solution to the cylindrically symmetric Einstein–Maxwell equations is presented. The solution is singular on the axis of symmetry and at the radial infinity, where sources should be placed. The accepted source at the origin can be interpreted as a charged domain wall shell.
TOPOLOGICAL BLACK HOLES IN BRANS–DICKE–MAXWELL THEORY
Authors: SHEYKHI A. , ALAVIRAD H.
Published: November 2009

We derive a new analytic solution of (n + 1)-dimensional (n ≥ 4) Brans–Dicke–Maxwell theory in the presence of a potential for the scalar field, by applying a conformal transformation to the dilaton gravity theory. Such solutions describe topological charged black holes with unusual asymptotics. We obtain the conserved and thermodynamic quantities through the use of the Euclidean action method. We also study the thermodynamics of the solutions and verify that the conserved and thermodynamic quantities of the solutions satisfy the first law of black hole thermodynamics.
DYNAMICAL EVOLUTION OF INTERACTING MODIFIED CHAPLYGIN GAS
Authors: LI SONG , MA YONGGE , CHEN YUN
Published: November 2009

The cosmological model of the modified Chaplygin gas (MCG) interacting with cold dark matter is studied. Our attention is focused on the final state of the universe in the model. It turns out that there exists a stable scaling solution, which provides the possibility of alleviating the coincidence problem. In addition, we investigate the effect of the coupling constants c1 and c2 on the dynamical evolution of this model from the statefinder viewpoint. It is found that the coupling constants play a significant role during the dynamical evolution of the interacting MCG model. Furthermore, we can distinguish this interacting model from other dark energy models in the s–r plane.
THE CO-ADSORPTION OF BENZENE ANDCOONCo(0001)
Authors: GONZÁLEZ ESTELA A. , JASEN PAULA V. , PIERINI JORGE , BRIZUELA GRACIELA , JUAN ALFREDO
Published: November 2009

The co-adsorption of carbon monoxide and benzene on Co (0001) has been studied using density functional calculations. We used the ordered [Formula: see text] surface unit cell. A comparison of the co-adsorption with CO and benzene two-dimensional networks is also given. The electronic structure reveals that the CO orbitals interact with benzene and Co layer. Regarding the bonding, the Co–Co overlap population decrease 18% after benzene adsorption and increase a little after CO adsorption with a net 14.6% decrease in the co-adsorption system. The CO –benzene interaction is shown by the changes in the C – O ( CO ) and C – H (benzene) bonds.
KINETICS OF CATALYTIC REACTIONS ON A UNIFORM SURFACE AND SINGLE SITES: SIMILARITY AND DIFFERENCE
Authors: ZHDANOV VLADIMIR P.
Published: November 2009

To illustrate typical similarities and differences in the reaction kinetics occurring on a uniform surface and single sites (e.g. on single metal atoms incorporated into the inner walls of zeolite), we analyze a generic reaction scheme of N2O decomposition running in the presence of oxygen. In both cases, there are three reaction regimes, (i) controlled exclusively by the N2O -decomposition step, (ii) partly inhibited by oxygen, or (iii) limited by oxygen desorption. Regime (i) is kinetically similar (first order in N2O ) in the two cases. The states of the catalytic sites are however different. Regime (ii) exhibits different reaction orders in oxygen (-0.5 for the surface and -1 for single sites). Regime (iii) is fully identical in both the cases.
PREPARATION OF NICKEL ULTRATHIN FILM BY THE LANGMUIR–BLODGETT TECHNIQUE AND CHEMICAL REDUCTION
Authors: TANG DONGYAN , LI JI
Published: November 2009

The nickel ion containing Langmuir–Blodgett (LB) multilayer was prepared by transferring first dissolving nickel acetate and the solution was poured into a subphase of ultrapure water and stearic acid-chloroform. The resultant mixture was then spread onto a hydrophilic water or glass plate. Then the multilayer was converted into nickel ultrathin film after chemical reduction by sodium borohydride. The optimized parameters for monolayer formation, such as concentration of subphase, pH value, barrier speed and standing time, were determined by the measurement of the surface pressure–surface area (Π–A) isotherms. The expended areas after deposition with nickel ions inferred the interaction of stearic acid with nickel ion during the formation of monolayer at air–water interface. The optimized parameters for multilayer deposition, such as surface pressure and dipping speed were determined by the measurement of the transfer coefficient. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to investigate the interactions of nickel ions with stearic acid at air–water interface and in nickel ion/stearic acid LB film, as well as the metal transformations of nickel ion in ultrathin film. The disappearance of peak at 1689 cm-1 verified the interactions between stearic acid and nickel ion. The further reduction made the organic phase dissolve and remove from the multilayer mostly. The surface morphologies of the LB multilayer and ultrathin film after reduction were detected by atomic force microscopy (AFM). A uniform and flat surface of nickel ultrathin film within nanometer ranges were obtained after reduction. The particle sizes of nickel were approximately 50 nm.
INFLUENCE OF A Cr LAYER ON THE GLASS SUBSTRATE ON THE GROWTH OF CARBON NANOTUBES BY CHEMICAL VAPOR DEPOSITION
Authors: IKARI T. , KOGA H. , KOJIMA K. , UEMURA I. , MIYAZAKI H. , NAITOH M. , NISHIGAKI S.
Published: November 2009

We report the effect of a Cr layer on the glass substrate during the growth of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) by chemical vapor deposition. When Fe was used as a catalyst in the CNT growth, longer CNTs were obtained by increasing the thickness of the Cr layer. However, CNTs were not grown on the surface with a thick Cr film and Co or Ni catalyst. These results arise from a difference in the mechanism of CNT formation when using different catalyst metals.
SUPERHYDROPHOBIC SURFACES FOR WATER-REPELLENT OR SELF-CLEANING BEHAVIOR: CHEMICAL EFFECT
Authors: ZHOU Y. P. , LIN Z. W. , BROWN J.
Published: November 2009

In this study, a thermodynamic analysis is conducted to investigate the chemical effect, in terms of intrinsic contact angle (CA), on the superhydrophobic behavior. It is theoretically revealed that the essential effect of intrinsic CA is to promote the composite transition. In particular, a large intrinsic CA more than 90° is necessary for such transition. Furthermore, for a pillar system with an intrinsic CA smaller than 90°, composite states are not impossible but is thermodynamically unstable. Once composite states are achieved, the advancing or maximum CA always approaches 180° whether an intrinsic CA is larger or smaller than 90°. In addition, the role of intrinsic CA in the water-repellent or self-cleaning behavior such as contact angle hysteresis (CAH) and equilibrium CA has been discussed in detail.
Photoinduced electron transfer in supramolecules composed of porphyrin/phthalocyanine and nanocarbon materials
Authors: Sandanayaka Atula S. D. , Ito Osamu
Published: November 2009

Photoinduced electron transfer in supramolecules composed of porphyrin/phthalocyanine and nanocarbon materials such as fullerenes, single-walled carbon nanotubes, and single-walled carbon nanohorns have been reviewed. With the aid of highly efficient visible-light harvesting porphyrin/phthalocyanine, the photosensitized electron transfer takes place from the photoexcited porphyrin/phthalocyanine to fullerene, which acts as a strong electron acceptor. In the case of nanocarbon materials such as single-walled carbon nanotubes and nanohorns, they may act as electron-trapping sites. From the holes and electrons generated on porphyrin/phthalocyanine-nanocarbons, electron pooling takes place at the strong and stable electron trapper (viologen dication) in solution.
Respiratory restriction and elevated pleural and esophageal pressures in morbid obesity
Authors: Behazin Negin , Jones Stephanie B. , Cohen Robert I. , Loring Stephen H.
Published: November 2009

To explore mechanisms of restrictive respiratory physiology and high pleural pressure (PPl) in severe obesity, we studied 51 obese subjects (body mass index = 38–80.7 kg/m2) and 10 nonobese subjects, both groups without lung disease, anesthetized, and paralyzed for surgery. We measured esophageal and gastric pressures (PEs, PGa) using a balloon-catheter, airway pressure (PAO), flow, and volume. We compared PEs to another estimate of PPl based on PAO and flow. Reasoning that the lungs would not inflate until PAO exceeded alveolar and pleural pressures (PAO > PAlv > PPl), we disconnected subjects from the ventilator for 10–15 s to allow them to reach relaxation volume (VRel) and then slowly raised PAO until lung volume increased by 10 ml, indicating the “threshold PAO” (PAO-Thr) for inflation, which we took to be an estimate of the lowest PAlv or PPl to be found in the chest at VRel. PAO-Thr ranged from 0.6 to 14.0 cmH2O in obese and 0.2 to 0.9 cmH2O in control subjects. PEs at VRel was higher in obese than control subjects (12.5 ± 3.9 vs. 6.9 ± 3.1 cmH2O, means ± SD; P = 0.0002) and correlated with PAO-Thr ( R2 = 0.16, P = 0.0015). Respiratory system compliance (CRS) was lower in obese than control (0.032 ± 0.008 vs. 0.053 ± 0.007 l/cmH2O) due principally to lower lung compliance (0.043 ± 0.016 vs. 0.084 ± 0.029 l/cmH2O) rather than chest wall compliance (obese 0.195 ± 0.109, control 0.223 ± 0.132 l/cmH2O). We conclude that many severely obese supine subjects at relaxation volume have positive Ppl throughout the chest. High PEs suggests high PPl in such individuals. Lung and respiratory system compliances are low because of breathing at abnormally low lung volumes.
Early Gastric Cancer: Clinical Characteristics and Results of Surgery
Authors: Nieminen A. , Kokkola A. , Ylä-Liedenpohja J. , Louhimo J. , Mustonen H. , Puolakkainen P.
Published: November 2009

Background: Early gastric cancer (EGC) is associated with better prognosis than advanced cancer of the stomach. Unfortunately, EGC accounts for a minority of operated gastric cancers in Europe. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical characteristics of EGC and the outcome after surgery. Methods: The study group comprised 94 EGC patients having undergone surgery at Helsinki University Central Hospital between April 1983 and July 2007. Results: The overall 5-year survival rate of EGC patients was 92.4%. Tumor location in the upper part of the stomach and mixed histological type impaired the prognosis (p = 0.043 and 0.008, respectively). The probability of lymph node metastasis was significantly higher when the tumor infiltrated gastric submucosa rather than mucosa (p = 0.012). Existence of lymph node or distant metastases decreased the survival rates (both p < 0.001). Total gastrectomy, pancreatic resection, and extended D2 lymph node dissection increased the complication rate, but did not have effect on survival. Conclusion: The overall prognosis of EGC is favorable. The survival rates of EGC decreased when the tumor was located in the upper part of the stomach or was of mixed histological type, or the patient had lymph node or distant metastasis.
Second Primary Cancer in Patients with Colorectal Cancer after a Curative Resection
Authors: Noura Shingo , Ohue Masayuki , Seki Yosuke , Tanaka Koji , Motoori Masaaki , Kishi Kentaro , Miyashiro Isao , Ohigashi Hiroaki , Yano Masahiko , Ishikawa Osamu , Tsukuma Hideaki , Murata Kohei , Kameyama Masao
Published: November 2009

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) patients have an increased risk of developing other malignancies. Understanding the characteristics of the second primary cancer is important to establish an effective surveillance program. Methods: This study investigated 301 CRC patients to assess the risk factors for postoperative primary cancers arising from organs distinct from the colorectal area (extracolorectal cancers). The observed/expected ratio (O/E ratio) was calculated using the Osaka Cancer Registry, to determine the rate of increase in extracolorectal cancers. Results: The frequency of postoperative extracolorectal cancers was 12.6%. A logistic regression analysis showed only age to be an independent risk factor for postoperative extracolorectal cancer development. The O/E ratio of overall postoperative extracolorectal cancer was significantly higher than one (O/E ratio 2.6, p < 0.01). In each organ, the frequency of lung and gastric cancers were significantly higher than one, with O/E ratios of 3.2 and 2.7 (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively). Conclusion: The frequency of postoperative extracolorectal cancers in CRC patients was significantly higher than that in the normal population, especially for lung and gastric cancers. Clinicians should carefully follow patients for a possible recurrence of CRC and educate CRC patients with regard to the high risk of a second primary cancer.
Ontogeny of Oxytocin-Like Immunoreactivity in the Cuttlefish, Sepia officinalis, Central Nervous System
Authors: Bardou Isabelle , Maubert Eric , Leprince Jérôme , Chichery Raymond , Dallérac Glenn , Vaudry Hubert , Agin Véronique
Published: November 2009

In vertebrate species, the neuropeptide oxytocin (OT) has been implicated in neural and behavioral development. Although several OT-like peptides have been characterized in invertebrate species, the ontogenesis of the OT-like system has not yet been described in these species. Thus, the aim of the present study was to perform an immunohistochemical investigation of the spatiotemporal distribution of OT-like elements in the central nervous system (CNS) of a decapod cephalopod mollusc, the cuttlefish, Sepia officinalis, during the first 3 months of postembryonic development. On the day of birth, OT-like immunoreactivity was detected throughout the whole CNS. Some nervous structures (e.g. the magnocellular lobes) exhibited a stained pattern in newborns similar to that reported in our previous study in adult cuttlefish whereas other lobes (e.g. the vertical lobe complex) showed maturation during the first weeks of life. Finally, at the age of 60 days, the general pattern of staining in the CNS was comparable to the adult distribution. The putative roles of the OT-like system with regard to the development of some behaviors in juvenile cuttlefish are discussed. The present study provides a neurochemical basis for the investigation of postnatal development of complex behaviors in cephalopods and suggests, for the first time in an invertebrate species, important organizational effects for the OT-like system in the course of the first weeks of life.
Evaluation of Postoperative Long-Term Quality of Life after Laparoscopic Anterior Partial Fundoplication in the Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Authors: Raue Wieland , Menenakos Charalambos , Braumann Chris , Trache Diana , Hartmann Jens
Published: November 2009

Background: In the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), anterior fundoplications are emphasized for their lower risk of complications compared to the posterior approach. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term results of laparoscopic anterior 180° fundoplication in consideration of quality of life and reflux control. Methods: One hundred and twenty-four patients suffering from GERD underwent laparoscopic anterior 180° fundoplication and were enrolled in this observational trial. After a mean follow-up of 52 months, 95 patients remained in the study. The success of reflux control and the quality of life were assessed using standardized questionnaires (Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index and Reflux Activity Index scores). Results: Seventy-one patients (75%) reported that the operation was fully successful. Three patients (2%) had no clear opinion, while 21 patients (22%) reported they were poorly or not satisfied. Statistical evaluation of the questionnaires showed a clear difference (p < 0.001) in quality of life scores of patients who needed a continuous postoperative treatment for GERD compared to completely satisfied patients. Conclusion: The laparoscopic anterior 180° partial fundoplication for the treatment of GERD can result in satisfying reflux control in long-term outcome, but the postoperative quality of life is severely affected by the success of the treatment.
Redo Procedure for Prolapse and Haemorrhoids (PPH) for Persistent and Recurrent Prolapse after PPH
Authors: Festen S. , van Geloven A.A.W. , Gerhards M.F.
Published: November 2009

Background/Aims: Procedures for haemorrhoidal prolapse that maintain functional haemorrhoidal anatomy are progressively used. The procedure for prolapse and haemorrhoids (PPH) has advantages over conventional haemorrhoidectomy, but is associated with a higher recurrence rate. The feasibility and efficiency of a second PPH instead of haemorrhoidectomy in case of recurrent symptoms were studied. Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted of all patients that were treated with PPH for haemorrhoidal prolapse in our hospital between May 2002 and November 2008. All patients in need for a second PPH because of persistent or recurrent symptoms of prolapse were identified and analyzed. Results: Out of 137 patients who underwent a PPH, 22 patients (16%) were in need of a reoperation for symptoms of prolapse. Of these, 12 (55%) were treated with a second PPH. Successful prolapse reduction was achieved in 11 out of 12 patients. No postoperative complications were encountered during a median follow-up of 35 months. Conclusion: Redo PPH, in case of persisting or recurrent symptoms of haemorrhoidal prolapse after PPH, is feasible and is a good alternative for excisional haemorrhoidectomy. It possesses the same advantages over haemorrhoidectomy as the initial PPH and does not lead to more morbidity.
Relationship between Quality of Life and Weight Loss 1 Year after Gastric Bypass
Authors: Klingemann Jennifer , Pataky Zoltan , Iliescu Ileana , Golay Alain
Published: November 2009

Background/Aims: Improving health-related quality of life (HRQoL) along with decreasing obesity-related morbidity is one of the cornerstones of bariatric surgery. The aim of the study was to investigate how losing weight influences the HRQoL 1 year after gastric bypass and whether HRQoL prior to surgery predicts the amount of weight loss 1 year after gastric bypass. Methods: One hundred and thirty-nine obese women [median (range): age 45 years (20–71), BMI 44 (29–88)] admitted for gastric bypass were selected prospectively and completed the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP) quality of life questionnaire before and 1 year after surgery. Results: Weight loss 1 year after gastric bypass was significant [–37 kg (9–74), p < 0.001] and led to an improvement of quality of life [NHP total score before surgery 62 (39–76) and after surgery 20 (7–65), p < 0.001]. Conclusions: HRQoL improves dramatically 1 year after gastric bypass. This HRQoL improvement is not influenced by the amount of weight loss, but rather by the BMI achieved at that time.
Blocking Pro-Cell-Death Signal Pathways to Conserve Hearing
Authors: Dinh Christine T. , Van De Water Thomas R.
Published: November 2009

The programmed cell death of stress-damaged auditory hair cells can occur through a variety of signal pathways, and therapeutic modalities that block pro-cell-death pathways are being developed and evaluated for hearing preservation. Because of their ability to have both anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic actions, corticosteroids have long been used to protect against several types of acute sensorineural hearing loss. Other anti-apoptotic drugs that target the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/c-Jun-N terminal kinase (JNK) signal cascade, such as D-JNKI-1 (AM-111) and SP600125, have produced promising results both in vitro and in laboratory animal studies, with AM-111 showing promise in preliminary clinical trials. Antioxidant drugs, e.g. sodium thiosulfate, N-acetylcysteine, and D-methionine, have been shown in animal studies to attenuate permanent threshold shifts in hearing by reducing oxidative stress. In addition to reviewing selected therapeutic trends for the conservation of hearing, we review our experiences with dexamethasone and D-JNKI-1 and report results from our current research.
Targeted Therapy of the Inner Ear
Authors: Maini Sangeeta , Lisnichuk Halina , Eastwood Hayden , Pinder Darren , James David , Richardson Rachael T. , Chang Andrew , Connolly Tim , Sly David , Kel Gordana , O’Leary Stephen J.
Published: November 2009

Background: There is experimental evidence that targeted delivery of steroids to the inner ear can protect hearing during cochlear implant surgery. The best protection appears to be achieved through pre-treatment of the cochlea, but the time period required for treatment is long compared with the duration of surgery, and needs further optimization. The stability of hearing thresholds is determined over a 3-month period after hearing preservation cochlear implantation. Methods: Adult guinea pigs were implanted with a miniature cochlear implant electrode, and pure tone auditory brainstem response (ABR) thresholds were estimated in response to pure tones of 2–32 kHz immediately after surgery and at 1 week, 1 month and 3 months. Spiral ganglion cell (SGC) densities were estimated from mid-modular histological sections of the cochlea. Thirty minutes prior to implantation, a polymeric sponge (SeprapackTM, Genzyme) was loaded with either a 2% solution of dexamethasone phosphate or normal saline (control) and placed onto the round window. Results: Implantation was associated with an immediate elevation in thresholds across frequencies, with a full recovery below 2 kHz over the next week and a partial recovery of thresholds at higher frequencies. These thresholds remained unchanged for the next 3 months. There was an immediate and sustained reduction in the elevation of thresholds at 32 kHz in dexamethasone-treated animals. SGC densities were greater in steroid-treated animals than controls in the basal turn of the cochlea (at the region of implantation) 3 months after implantation. Conclusion: It is concluded that ABR thresholds remain stable for 3 months after cochlear implantation in the guinea pig, and that local application of steroids to the inner ear prior to implantation is an effective method of preserving SGC populations when there is residual hearing at the time of implantation.
Development of a Microfluidics-Based Intracochlear Drug Delivery Device
Authors: Sewell William F. , Borenstein Jeffrey T. , Chen Zhiqiang , Fiering Jason , Handzel Ophir , Holmboe Maria , Kim Ernest S. , Kujawa Sharon G. , McKenna Michael J. , Mescher Mark M. , Murphy Brian , Leary Swan Erin E. , Peppi Marcello , Tao Sarah
Published: November 2009

Background: Direct delivery of drugs and other agents into the inner ear will be important for many emerging therapies, including the treatment of degenerative disorders and guiding regeneration. Methods: We have taken a microfluidics/MEMS (MicroElectroMechanical Systems) technology approach to develop a fully implantable reciprocating inner-ear drug-delivery system capable of timed and sequenced delivery of agents directly into perilymph of the cochlea. Iterations of the device were tested in guinea pigs to determine the flow characteristics required for safe and effective delivery. For these tests, we used the glutamate receptor blocker DNQX, which alters auditory nerve responses but not cochlear distortion product otoacoustic emissions. Results: We have demonstrated safe and effective delivery of agents into the scala tympani. Equilibration of the drug in the basal turn occurs rapidly (within tens of minutes) and is dependent on reciprocating flow parameters. Conclusion: We have described a prototype system for the direct delivery of drugs to the inner ear that has the potential to be a fully implantable means for safe and effective treatment of hearing loss and other diseases.
Effects of N-Butyl-2-Cyanoacrylate on High-Level Jejunojejunostomy
Authors: Ensari C.Ö. , Genc V. , Cakmak A. , Erkek B. , Karayalcin K.
Published: November 2009

Background: Morbidity and mortality due to anastomotic complications in gastrointestinal surgery remain important problems. The tissue adhesive N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (NB2CA) is used in many fields of surgery. This study was designed to assess the effects of NB2CA on high-level jejunojejunostomy. Materials and Methods: Forty male albino Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups of 10 each. The groups were treated as follows: group 1 underwent only a jejunojejunostomy, group 2 underwent jejunojejunostomy followed by NB2CA application around the anastomosis, group 3 underwent jejunojejunostomy after a 60-min ischemia and a 60-min reperfusion, and group 4 underwent jejunojejunostomy after a 60-min ischemia and a 60-min reperfusion followed by NB2CA application around the anastomosis. At postoperative day 7, the subjects in all groups were sacrificed. Intra-abdominal adhesions, anastomotic complications and anastomotic burst pressures (ABP) were recorded. Results: The analysis of all the groups for adhesion scores and ABP showed statistical significance (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The use of NB2CA had positive effects in terms of increasing ABP both with and without the initial ischemia- reperfusion insult. However, it had the adverse effect of significantly increasing the number of intra-abdominal adhesions.
Activity of Thalidomide and Lenalidomide in Mantle Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Richardson S.J. , Eve H.E. , Copplestone J.A. , Dyer M.J. , Rule S.A.J.
Published: November 2009

Thalidomide and lenalidomide are immunomodulatory drugs that show promise in mantle cell lymphoma (MCL). In this study, their potential mechanisms of action against MCL cells were investigated, both alone and in combination with rituximab. Thalidomide, lenalidomide and rituximab have no direct effect on MCL cell viability. However, both immunomodulatory drugs indirectly affect viability by enhancing peripheral blood mononuclear cell-mediated cytotoxicity, with lenalidomide inducing significantly higher levels of toxicity than thalidomide. Rituximab induces both complement-dependent and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) against MCL cells. Rituximab-induced ADCC is enhanced by lenalidomide and, to a lesser extent, thalidomide. Preliminary in vivo findings in MCL patients treated with thalidomide support a role for natural killer cells in the efficacy of these drugs. In conclusion, our data support a role for immunomodulatory drugs in the treatment of MCL.
Anxiety and Cardiovascular Symptoms: The Modulating Role of Insomnia
Authors: Olafiranye O. , Jean-Louis G. , Magai C. , Zizi F. , Brown C.D. , Dweck M. , Borer J.S.
Published: November 2009

Background: Anxiety and insomnia are associated with cardiovascular (CV) symptoms. We assessed whether the relation between anxiety and CV symptoms is modulated by insomnia. Methods: Independently living women (n = 1,440; mean age = 59.36 ± 6.53 years) were recruited by cluster sampling technique. We obtained data on demographic characteristics, health beliefs, access to health care, CV symptoms, sleep, stress and anxiety levels. Results: Overall, 56% of the sample reported insomnia; 46% reported CV symptoms, and 54% were highly anxious. There was a greater likelihood for highly anxious women and those experiencing insomnia to report CV symptoms (rs = 0.31* and rs = 0.32*, respectively). In logistic regression analysis, the adjusted odds ratios for reporting CV symptoms were 1.39 for patients with insomnia and 2.79 for those with anxiety. With control for insomnia, we observed a 3-fold reduction in the magnitude of the association between anxiety and CV symptoms (rp = 0.09*). Stepwise adjustments for sociodemographic factors, CV risk markers, and factors anchoring health beliefs and access to health care showed lesser impact on the relationships. With simultaneous control for those covariates, the correlation was rp = 0.13*; * p < 0.01. Conclusion: The association of CV symptoms with anxiety is partly accounted for by insomnia.
MRI-Based Definition of a Stereotactic Two-Dimensional Template of the Human Insula
Authors: Afif Afif , Hoffmann Dominique , Becq Guillaume , Guenot Marc , Magnin Michel , Mertens Patrick
Published: November 2009

Objective: This study aimed to create a stereotactic two-dimensional description of the human insula based on accurate radiological morphometric studies. Methods: Seventy-five normal cerebral MRIs were selected and drawings of the insula then obtained from serial sagittal slices. These drawings were digitalized before superimposing the anterior (AC) and posterior (PC) commissures as references. This allowed us to quantify interindividual anatomical variations in a large cohort of subjects. Results: The morphometric analysis of the insula revealed a more complex shape than previously described. This structure is delimited by four peri-insular sulci (anterior, superior, posterior and inferior) instead of the three sulci classically mentioned. Males have a statistically larger surface area than females, according to a correlated index. Precise measurements of the different insular components allowed us to quantify their potential interindividual anatomical variations and to define their average shapes and stereotactic locations. Conclusion: These data create a two-dimensional template of the human insula, with regard to the classical AC-PC stereotactic reference system. They furthermore allow us to quantify the probability that a given element of this structure is located at a predefined position. This should be useful in functional neuroimaging studies and in insular surgery for diagnostic and therapeutic goals.
Validity and Reproducibility of ICDAS II in Primary Teeth
Authors: Shoaib L. , Deery C. , Ricketts D.N.J. , Nugent Z.J.
Published: November 2009

The aim of this in vitro study was to assess the validity and reproducibility of the ICDAS II (International Caries Detection and Assessment System) criteria in primary teeth. Three trained examiners independently examined 112 extracted primary molars, ranging from clinically sound to cavitated, set up in groups of 4 to mimic their anatomical positions. The most advanced caries on the occlusal and approximal surfaces was recorded. Subsequently the teeth were serially sectioned and histological validation was undertaken using the Downer and Ekstrand-Ricketts-Kidd (ERK) scoring systems. For occlusal surfaces at the D1/ERK1 threshold, the mean specificity was 90.0%, with a sensitivity of 75.4%. For approximal surfaces, the specificity and sensitivity were 85.4 and 66.4%, respectively. For occlusal surfaces at ICDAS code ≥3 (ERK3 threshold), the mean specificity and sensitivity were 87.0 and 78.1%, respectively. For approximal surfaces, the equivalent values were 90.6 and 75.3%. At the D3 threshold for occlusal surfaces, the mean specificity and sensitivity were 92.8 and 63.1%, and for approximal surfaces 94.2 and 58.3%, respectively. Mean intraexaminer reproducibility (Cohen’s kappa) ranged from 0.78 to 0.81 at the ICDAS code ≥1 cut-off and at the ICDAS code ≥3 cut-off from 0.74 to 0.76. Interexaminer reproducibility was lower, ranging from 0.68 to 0.70 at the ICDAS code ≥1 cut-off and from 0.66 to 0.73 at the ICDAS code ≥3 cut-off. In conclusion, the validity and reproducibility of the ICDAS II criteria were acceptable when applied to primary molar teeth.
Searching Susceptibility Loci for Bipolar Disorder: A Sib Pair Study on Chromosome 12
Authors: Lorenzi Cristina , Delmonte Dario , Pirovano Adele , Marino Elena , Bongiorno Fanny , Catalano Marco , Colombo Cristina , Bramanti Placido , Smeraldi Enrico
Published: November 2009

Background/Aims: Several linkage studies demonstrated that different chromosomal regions are involved in the susceptibility to bipolar disorder. In particular, some genome scans evidenced the role of chromosome 12. For this reason, our group chose this chromosome for a preliminary genome scan on a sample of 137 Italian sib pairs, including at least 1 bipolar subject. Methods: The analyses were carried out by means of DNA extracted from whole blood. DNA samples were genotyped by 19 simple tandem repeat markers (microsatellites). Starting from the genetic data, we performed two- and multipoint linkage analyses (both parametric and nonparametric) by means of Easy Linkage plus package (version 5.05). Results: The multipoint linkage analyses pointed out a region suggestive of linkage between the markers D12S310 and D12S364, at locus 12p12. In particular, we reached the best evidence of linkage performing multipoint analyses and assuming a recessive model, under the hypothesis of genetic heterogeneity (heterogeneity LOD score = 2.01 and α = 0.77). Conclusion: It is interesting to notice that the region at the marker D12S364 is located inside the gene coding for the glutamatergic receptor GRIN2B. Therefore, our finding not only confirmed the role of genetics in determining liability to bipolar disorder, but suggested glutamatergic transmission impairment as a possible cause. Nevertheless, we acknowledge that our study is heavily underpowered. Therefore, independent replication is needed.
Sex Ratio at Birth and Age-Reversed Dominance among Female Varecia
Authors: White Frances J.
Published: November 2009

Analysis of 283 offspring born at the Duke University Primate Center show that young female ruffed lemurs, Varecia variegata, produce significantly more daughters, whereas old mothers produce more sons than expected. Data are compared to 3 hypotheses for sex ratio bias: the Trivers-Willard hypothesis which predicts that dominant females produce more males, the local resource competition (LRC) hypothesis which predicts that subordinate females produce more males, and the local resource enhancement (LRE) extension of the LRC hypothesis that females produce the sex that provides later cooperative benefits. In the case of Varecia, this may include alloparenting or cooperative breeding. The results are more consistent with the LRC model. However, observations of 8 mother-daughter relationships show that female dominance rank in free-ranging Varecia groups is age reversed, with daughters aggressively outranking their mothers. Daughters born into the group were not beneficial as future supporters in within-group intermatriline competition as assumed by the LRE model, or as subordinate alloparents, cooperative breeders or aids in territorial defense. Both sex ratio and ranking observations are consistent, however, with the hypothesis that mothers produce daughters when they are young and able to invade elsewhere and sons as they age and are less able to do so. This is supported by a single observation of a mother dispersing which resulted in her daughter inheriting the natal territory. These data are supportive of the LRE model with female alliances and cooperative breeding among dispersed females.
Localized Cutaneous Leishmaniasis due to Leishmania infantum in a Patient Treated with Infliximab
Authors: Hakimi S. , Rivière S. , Del Giudice P. , Dereure J. , Le Quellec A.
Published: November 2009

We report the first case of cutaneous leishmaniasis in a patient treated with infliximab. The species was Leishmania infantum, agent of both cutaneous leishmaniasis and visceral leishmaniasis. Cutaneous leishmaniasis occurred after the 9th infusion of infliximab in a patient who was suffering from ankylosing spondylitis.
Biochemical Predictors of Outcome of Pituitary Surgery for Cushing’s Disease
Authors: Alwani R.A. , de Herder W.W. , van Aken M.O. , van den Berge J.H. , Delwel E.J. , Dallenga A.H.G. , De Jong F.H. , Lamberts S.W.J. , van der Lely A.J. , Feelders R.A.
Published: November 2009

Objective: Transsphenoidal surgery (TS) is the primary therapy for Cushing’s disease (CD). The aims of this retrospective study were twofold: (i) investigate early and late results of TS for CD, and (ii) evaluate various postoperative tests in order to predict the outcome of TS. Methods: We reviewed the long-term outcome in 79 patients with CD who underwent TS (median follow-up 84 months, range 6–197). Within 2 weeks after surgery, morning serum cortisol concentrations were obtained (n = 78) and corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) (n = 53) and metyrapone tests (n = 72) were performed. Three groups of outcome were identified: sustained remission, early failure (persistent CD), and late relapse. Results: Immediate postoperative remission was achieved in 51 patients (65%), whereas 28 patients (35%) had persistent CD after TS. Ten patients developed recurrent CD after initial remission (20%). Morning cortisol: all relapses but one recorded serum cortisol >50 nmol/l. A cortisol threshold value of 200 nmol/l has a positive predictive value of 79% for immediate surgical failure (negative predictive failure [NPV] 97%). CRH test: CRH-stimulated peak cortisol ≧600 nmol/l predicted early failure in 78% (NPV 100%). All relapses recorded CRH-stimulated peak cortisol ≧485 nmol/l. Metyrapone test: 11-deoxycortisol ≧345 nmol/l predicted an early failure in 86% of cases (NPV 94%). Conclusion: Predictive factors of surgical failure are morning cortisol ≧200 nmol/l, 11-deoxycortisol ≧345 nmol/l after metyrapone and CRH-stimulated cortisol ≧600 nmol/l. CRH and/or metyrapone testing are not superior to morning cortisol concentration in the prediction of outcome of TS. Careful long-term follow-up remains necessary independent of the outcome of biochemical testing.
Sarcomeric Myosin Expression in the Tongue Body of Humans, Macaques and Rats
Authors: Rahnert Jill A. , Sokoloff Alan J. , Burkholder Thomas J.
Published: November 2009

Expression of developmental and unconventional myosin heavy chain (MHC) isoforms in some adult head and neck muscles is thought to reflect specific contractile demands of muscle fibers active during kinematically complex movements. Mammalian tongue muscles are active during oromotor behaviors that encompass a wide range of tongue movement speeds and tongue shape changes (e.g. respiration, oral transport, swallowing, rejection), but the extent to which tongue muscles express developmental and unconventional MHC is not known. Quantitative PCR was used to determine the mRNA content of conventional MHC-beta, MHC-2a, MHC-2b and MHC-2x, the developmental isoforms embryonic MHC and neonatal MHC and the unconventional isoforms atrial/cardiac-α MHC (MHC-alpha), extraocular MHC, masseter MHC and slow tonic MHC in tongue body muscles of the rat, macaque and human. In all species, conventional MHC isoforms predominate. MHC-2b and MHC-2x account for 98% of total MHC mRNA in the rat. MHC-2a, MHC-2x and MHC-beta account for 94% of total MHC mRNA in humans and 96% of total MHC mRNA in macaque. With the exception of MHC-alpha in humans (5%), developmental and unconventional MHC mRNA represents less than 0.3% of total MHC mRNA. We conclude that in these species, there is limited expression of developmental and unconventional MHC and that diversity of tongue body muscle fiber contractile properties is achieved primarily by MHC-beta, MHC-2a, MHC-2x and MHC-2b. Whether expression of MHC-alpha mRNA in tongue is unique to humans or present in other hominoids awaits further investigation.