bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reproducibility of MR perfusion and 1H spectroscopy of bone marrow
Authors: Griffith James F. , Yeung David K.W. , Chow Steven K.K. , Leung Jason Chi Shun , Leung Ping Chung
Published: May 2009

Purpose

To determine the reproducibility of proton (1H) magnetic resonance (MR) spectroscopy and dynamic contrast‐enhanced MR imaging in a clinical setting for the assessment of marrow fat fraction and marrow perfusion in longitudinal studies.

Materials and Methods

In all, 36 subjects (17 females, 19 males, mean age 72.9 ± 2.9 years) who underwent MR spectroscopy and/or dynamic contrast‐enhanced perfusion imaging of the proximal femur were asked to return after 1 week for a repeat MR examination.

Results

Reproducibility of 1H MR spectroscopy in all bone areas tested was high, ranging from 0.78–0.85, with the highest reproducibility being in the femoral head and lowest in the femoral neck. Reproducibility of paired perfusion measurements ranged from 0.59 (enhancement slope femoral head) to 0.98 (enhancement maximum acetabulum). Overall reproducibility of 1H MR spectroscopy and dynamic contrast‐enhanced imaging tended to be best in areas with the highest inherent fat fraction or perfusion.

Conclusion

Reproducibility of 1H MR spectroscopy or perfusion imaging is sufficiently high to warrant these techniques being applied to the longitudinal study of bone diseases. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;29:1438–1442. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Division scheme optimization for the molecular evaluation of the intervertebral disc by gadolinium‐enhanced MRI
Authors: Vaga Stefania , Raimondi Manuela T. , Perona Franco , Fornari Maurizio , Caiani Enrico G.
Published: May 2009

Purpose

To evaluate the effects of reducing the number of segments in which the intervertebral disc (IVD) can be subdivided on the accuracy in estimating its sGAG content by computation of the parameter ΔT1 from delayed Gadolinium‐Enhanced MRI of Cartilage (dGEMRIC) protocol.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐three herniectomy patients underwent dGEMRIC acquisitions for IVD. Thirty‐one tissue samples were obtained at herniectomy from the same patients and biochemically analysed for their sGAG content. Eleven different division schemes (DS) were applied by processing dGEMRIC images, and ΔT1 values of the segments related to the surgical sampling locations were computed and correlated to the corresponding biochemical data. For each DS, the linear regression and Pearson's coefficient were computed.

Results

Reducing the number of segments from 48 (4 annular rings and 12 angular sectors) to 12 (2 rings and 6 sectors), correlation with sGAG biochemical data did not decline (r > 0.7).

Conclusion

A 12‐segment DS provided the best compromise between preserving accuracy and reducing the number of segments. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;29:1443–1449. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Potential in reducing scan times of HARDI by accurate correction of the cross‐term in a hemispherical encoding scheme
Authors: Cho Kuan‐Hung , Yeh Chun‐Hung , Chao Yi‐Ping , Wang Jiun‐Jie , Chen Jyh‐Horng , Lin Ching‐Po
Published: May 2009

Purpose

To reduce the scan time of high angular resolution diffusion imaging (HARDI) by using the hemispherical encoding scheme with the cross‐term correction.

Materials and Methods

Unidirectional and 45° crossing phantoms were built to evaluate the accuracy of the fiber orientation estimation when using a hemispherical encoding scheme with and without the cross‐term correction. The q‐ball imaging using the spherical harmonic basis was adopted for estimation of fiber orientation. By recalculating the diffusion gradient strengths, we make the actual b value in all directions equal to the expected b value for the correction of the cross‐term.

Results

The separation angles measured on the crossing phantom are 42.67° ± 1.50°, 42.75° ± 2.10°, and 42.93° ± 2.78° for cross‐term‐free results, for the results from the hemispherical encoding scheme with and without the cross‐term correction. The angular errors in mapping the unidirectional phantom are 1.87°–2.29° and 4.01°–4.92° for the results using the hemispherical encoding scheme with and without correcting for the cross‐term at different b values.

Conclusion

Using the hemispherical encoding scheme with the cross‐term correction can potentially halve the scan time of HARDI and obtain accurate fiber orientation estimation simultaneously. This will be helpful in the clinical application of HARDI. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;29:1386–1394. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lower extremities magnetic resonance angiography with blood pressure cuff compression: Quantitative dynamic analysis
Authors: Koenigkam‐Santos Marcel , Sharma Puneet , Kalb Bobby , Carew John , Oshinski John N. , Martin Diego
Published: May 2009

Purpose

To quantitatively evaluate changes induced by the application of a femoral blood‐pressure cuff (BPC) on run‐off magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), which is a method generally previously proposed to reduce venous contamination in the leg.

Materials and Methods

This study was Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)‐ and Institutional Review Board (IRB)‐compliant. We used time‐resolved gradient‐echo gadolinium (Gd)‐enhanced MRA to measure BPC effects on arterial, venous, and soft‐tissue enhancement. Seven healthy volunteers (six men) were studied with the BPC applied at the mid‐femoral level unilaterally using a 1.5T MR system after intravenous injection of Gd‐BOPTA. Different statistical tools were used such as the Wilcoxon signed rank test and a cubic smoothing spline fit.

Results

We found that BPC application induces delayed venous filling (as previously described), but also induces significant decreases in arterial inflow, arterial enhancement, vascular‐soft tissue contrast, and delayed peak enhancement (which have not been previously measured).

Conclusion

The potential benefits from using a BPC for run‐off MRA must be balanced against the potential pitfalls, elucidated by our findings. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;29:1450–1456. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Inter‐ and intraobserver reliability of five MRI sequences in the evaluation of the final volume of cerebral infarct
Authors: Sibon Igor , Ménégon Patrice , Orgogozo Jean‐Marc , Asselineau Julien , Rouanet François , Renou Pauline , Tourdias Thomas , Pachai Chahin , Chêne Genevieve , Dousset Vincent
Published: May 2009

Purpose

To evaluate the reproducibility of fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) and four other magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences in the quantitative assessment of final cerebral infarct volume.

Materials and Methods

FLAIR, T1‐3D, magnetization transfer ratio (MTR)‐map, diffusion‐weighted trace (DWI)‐trace, and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC)‐map, were acquired and measured in 33 patients 30–45 days after onset of a first‐ever ischemic stroke. The infarct area was visually detected and manually delineated two times by two readers separately after images and sequences randomization. The reliability was assessed by using an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and its two‐sided 95% confidence interval (95% CI).

Results

DWI‐trace had the best reliability, with an ICC of 0.96 (95% CI = 0.93–0.98). FLAIR had an ICC of 0.86 (95% CI = 0.73–0.93), and a much higher volume. T1‐3D, MTR‐map and ADC‐map had lower reliability or excessive volume values equal to 0 in comparison to DWI‐trace.

Conclusion

DWI‐trace performed within 30th and 45th day following onset of acute ischemic stroke was the most reliable sequence for final infarct volume quantification. This sequence should be added to FLAIR evaluation to strengthen the statistical results of the pharmacological trials and reduce their variability. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;29:1280–1284. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Spiral imaging artifact reduction: A comparison of two k‐trajectory measurement methods
Authors: Lechner Silke M. , Sipilä Pekka T. , Wiesinger Florian , Kerr Adam B. , Vogel Mika W.
Published: May 2009

Purpose

To compare an external sensor‐based k‐space calibration technique with a routine precalibration method for quantification of method accuracy and reduction of spiral imaging artifacts to obtain improved image quality.

Materials and Methods

Recently, magnetic field monitoring (MFM) has been introduced as a new calibration technique of gradient field‐related imperfections. External sensors are placed near the observed object to measure magnetic field variations during image acquisition. The measured field data are used to determine the actual k‐space trajectory and for image reconstruction to reduce artifacts. In the past, precalibration techniques have been proposed where the k‐space trajectory is measured by means of special calibration sequences directly in the object of interest. In this study, MFM is introduced as an effective correction technique for spiral imaging. On the basis of a comparison, whether MFM is as viable as the chosen reference method presented by Duyn et al (J Magn Reson [1998] 132:150–153) is analyzed in terms of detecting imperfections of spatial encoding gradients in order to correct for these in image reconstruction. As this technique is used as a reference method, it is given the acronym Duyn calibration technique (DCT). MFM and DCT are compared and timing delays, k‐space offsets, eddy current effects, k‐trajectory error propagation, image distortions, and signal‐to‐noise ratio were determined for different spiral sequences in two different phantoms.

Results

Both techniques effectively detect k‐space offsets and k‐trajectory error propagation and correct for general error sources like timing delays. In object border areas, artifacts such as deformations and blurring were dramatically reduced. Within all tested categories, MFM performed as well as DCT. In terms of k‐trajectory error propagation and image distortion quantification, MFM was more accurate.

Conclusion

We introduce MFM as an effective and accurate correction technique for spiral imaging, where a comparison of MFM and DCT has shown that both techniques are accurate correction techniques for spiral imaging. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;29:1485–1492. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Relaxation times of skeletal muscle metabolites at 7T
Authors: Wang Ligong , Salibi Nouha , Wu Yan , Schweitzer Mark E. , Regatte Ravinder R.
Published: May 2009

Purpose

To demonstrate the feasibility of quantitatively evaluating and measuring T1 and T2 relaxation times of human tibialis anterior (TA) muscles metabolites in vivo at 7T and to compare these results with those of 3T.

Materials and Methods

A model lipid phantom (corn oil) and healthy volunteers (n = 4, mean ± SD age 35.6 ± 5.6 years) were scanned on 3T and 7T whole‐body MR scanners. A voxel of 10 × 10 × 10 mm3 was positioned on the lipid phantom and right calf TA muscles using the single‐voxel stimulated echo acquisition mode (STEAM) pulse sequence. All magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) data were processed with Java‐based Magnetic Resonance User Interface (JMRUI) using Hankel Lanczos Singular Value Decomposition (HLSVD) filtering to remove the residual water signal.

Results

T1 shows a steady increase while T2 shows a slight decrease with B0 and the spectra show larger spectral resolution at 7T than at 3T in the lipid phantom. T1 values of all the metabolites are higher, while T2 values are slightly lower at 7T than those of 3T compared to reported results in TA. The maximum percentage of increase in T1 is about ≈488%, the maximum percentage of decrease in T2 is about ≈65%.

Conclusion

The preliminary results can potentially be used for calculating relaxation correction factors required for absolute quantitation of skeletal muscle metabolite concentrations and for further protocol and sequence optimization. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;29:1457–1464. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Settling properties of venous blood demonstrated in the peripheral vasculature using susceptibility‐weighted imaging (SWI)
Authors: Barnes Samuel , Haacke E. Mark
Published: May 2009

Purpose

To evaluate the settling properties of venous blood in the peripheral vasculature during periods of immobility.

Materials and Methods

Susceptibility‐weighted imaging (SWI) was performed for nine subjects at two time points: within 10 minutes of entering the magnet and after 40 minutes spent stationary in the magnet. Changes in the phase and in the distribution of phase of the veins were used to draw conclusions about the separation of red blood cells from plasma over time.

Results

Settling was observed to occur in eight of the nine subjects, the only exception being the youngest subject (18 years old). The bottom half of some veins was seen to darken while the top half showed little change often with a clear dividing line between the two. Phase values measured in the bottom layer were consistent with the layer consisting entirely of red blood cells. Settling was seen to increase with time spent stationary and to correlate with the size of veins in the calf.

Conclusion

Older subjects tended to have larger veins and consequently more settling of the red blood cells. Our results show that even 40 minutes of rest can easily lead to settling of the blood depending on the position of the leg. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;29:1465–1470. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Timing bolus dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) MRI assessment of hepatic perfusion: Initial experience
Authors: Baxter Simon , Wang Zhen J. , Joe Bonnie N. , Qayyum Aliya , Taouli Bachir , Yeh Benjamin M.
Published: May 2009

Purpose

To assess whether dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) MRI timing bolus data from routine clinical examinations can be postprocessed to obtain hepatic perfusion parameters for diagnosing cirrhosis.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively identified 57 patients (22 with cirrhosis and 35 without cirrhosis) who underwent abdominal MRI, which included a low‐dose (2 mL gadodiamide) timing bolus using a volumetric spoiled gradient echo T1‐weighted sequence through the abdomen. Using a dual‐input single‐compartment model, the following perfusion parameters were measured: arterial, portal, and total blood flow; arterial fraction; mean transit time; and distribution volume. Those parameters were compared between patients with and without cirrhosis using t‐tests. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to identify the perfusion parameters that can best predict the presence of cirrhosis.

Results

The hepatic arterial fraction, arterial flow, and distribution volume in patients with cirrhosis (27.7 ± 8.3%, 44.8 ± 14.1 mL/minute/100 g, and 16.3 ± 4.5%, respectively) were significantly higher than those without cirrhosis (18.7 ± 4.4%, 28.5 ± 11.7 mL/minute/100 g, and 14.0 ± 4.2%, respectively; P < 0.05 for all). ROC analysis showed arterial fraction as the best predictor of cirrhosis, with sensitivity of 73% and specificity of 86%.

Conclusion

Timing bolus DCE MR images from routine examinations can be postprocessed to yield potentially useful hepatic perfusion parameters. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;29:1317–1322. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Assessment of hepatic extraction fraction and input relative blood flow using dynamic hepatocyte‐specific contrast‐enhanced MRI
Authors: Nilsson Henrik , Nordell Anders , Vargas Roberto , Douglas Lena , Jonas Eduard , Blomqvist Lennart
Published: May 2009

Purpose

To assess the feasibility to use dynamic hepatocyte‐specific contrast‐enhanced MRI (DHCE‐MRI) as an imaging‐based liver function test, and to compare two methods for deconvolutional analysis (DA) in healthy human subjects.

Materials and Methods

T1‐weighted DHCE‐MRI with the hepatocyte‐specific contrast medium Gd‐EOB‐DTPA was performed in 20 healthy volunteers. DA was performed using truncated singular value decomposition (TSVD) and Fourier analysis with an appended tail (FA+Tail). Hepatic extraction fraction (HEF) and input relative blood flow (irBF) were calculated for each liver segment. A computer simulation comparing the standard deviation (SD) of TSVD and FA+tail at different levels of signal‐to‐noise (SNR) ratio was performed. The results obtained were compared using descriptive statistics, the Wilcoxon matched pairs test and the variance ratio test.

Results

Median HEF was 0.201 and 0.205 using TSVD and FA+tail, respectively (P = 0.086). The corresponding results for irBF was 0.240 and 0.239 (P = 0.51). TSVD yielded a smaller SD, although the difference was not significant (P = 0.068 for HEF and P = 0.84 for irBF). The computer simulation showed that TSVD is more stable than FA+tail at most levels of SNR.

Conclusion

DHCE‐MRI with Gd‐EOB‐DTPA enables the calculation of HEF and irBF. We regard these parameters as being markers of hepatic parenchymal function. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;29:1323–1331. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of extracellular matrix molecules on the growth properties of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells in vitro
Authors: Hu Jianguo , Deng Lingxiao , Wang Xiaofei , Xu Xiao‐Ming
Published: May 2009

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a component of neural cell niches and regulates multiple functions of diverse cell types. To date, limited information is available concerning its biological effects on the growth properties of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs). In the present study, we examined effects of several ECM components, i.e., fibronectin, laminin, and Matrigel, on the survival, proliferation, migration, process extension, and purity of OPCs isolated from embryonic day 15 rat spinal cords. All three ECM components enhanced these biological properties of the OPCs compared with a non‐ECM substrate, poly‐D‐lysine. However, the extents of their effects were somewhat different. Among these ECMs, fibronectin showed the strongest effect on almost all aspects of the growth properties of OPCs, implying that this molecule is a better substrate for the growth of OPCs in vitro. Because of its survival‐ and growth‐promoting effects on OPCs, fibronectin may be considered as a candidate substrate for enhancing OPC‐mediated repair under conditions when exogenous delivery or endogenous stimulation of OPCs is applied. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sema4D deficiency results in an increase in the number of oligodendrocytes in healthy and injured mouse brains
Authors: Taniguchi Yoshitaka , Amazaki Mayumi , Furuyama Tatsuo , Yamaguchi Wataru , Takahara Mizue , Saino Orie , Wada Takeshi , Niwa Hitoshi , Tashiro Fumi , Miyazaki Jun‐ichi , Kogo Mikihiko , Matsuyama Tomohiro , Inagaki Shinobu
Published: May 2009

Semaphorins, a family of secreted and membrane‐bound proteins, are known to function as repulsive axon guidance molecules. Sema4D, a class 4 transmembrane‐type semaphorin, is expressed by oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system, but its role is unknown. In this study, the effects of Sema4D deficiency on oligodendrocytes were studied in intact and ischemic brains of adult mice. As observed in previous studies, Sema4D marked by β‐galactosidase in Sema4D mutant mice was localized exclusively on myelin‐associated glycoprotein (MAG)‐positive oligodendrocytes but not on NG2‐positive oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs). Although there was no difference in the number of the latter cells between Sema4D‐deficient and wild‐type mice, the number of MAG‐positive cells was significantly increased in the cerebral cortex of both nonischemic and postischemic brains of Sema4D‐deficient mice. Cell proliferation, observed by using bromodeoxyuridine incorporation, was evident in the MAG‐positive cells that developed after cerebral ischemia. These data indicate that Sema4D is involved in oligodendrogenesis during development and during recovery from ischemic injury. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Amelioration of enteric neuropathology in a mouse model of Niemann‐Pick C by Npc1 expression in enteric glia
Authors: Kapur Raj , Donohue Carolyn , Jelinek David , Erickson Robert P.
Published: May 2009

Niemann‐Pick C (NPC) disease is an autosomal recessive, lethal, neurodegenerative disorder caused by mutations in NPC1. By using the glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) promoter, we demonstrated previously that astrocyte‐specific expression of Npc1 decreased neuronal storage of cholesterol in Npc1−/− mice; reduced numbers of axonal spheroids; and produced less degeneration of neurons, reactive astrocytes, and loss of myelin tracts in the central nervous system. GFAP‐Npc1, Npc1−/− mice exhibited markedly enhanced survival, and death was not associated with the severe terminal weight loss observed in Npc1−/− mice. Intestinal transit is delayed in Npc1−/− mice but is normal in GFAP‐NPC1, Npc1−/− until late in the course of their disease. Because glia play an important role in the enteric nervous system, we studied morphology and cholesterol content of intestines from Npc1−/− mice and examined the effect of GFAP‐promoted restoration of Npc1 in enteric glia. Although the number of neurons was not altered, the total amount of cholesterol stored in the small intestine was decreased, as were the number of neurons with inclusions and the number of inclusions per neuron. We conclude that expression of Npc1 by enteric glial cells can ameliorate the enteric neuropathology, and we speculate that dysfunction of the enteric nervous system contributes to the retarded intestinal transit, weight loss, and demise of Npc1−/− mice. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Glutamatergic neurotransmission in the procerebrum (Olfactory center) of a terrestrial mollusk
Authors: Matsuo Ryota , Kobayashi Suguru , Watanabe Satoshi , Namiki Shigeyuki , Iinuma Sho , Sakamoto Hirokazu , Hirose Kenzo , Ito Etsuro
Published: May 2009

The terrestrial slug Limax has the ability to learn odor associations. This ability depends on the function of the procerebrum, the secondary olfactory center in the brain. Among the various neurotransmitters that are thought to be involved in the function of the procerebrum, glutamate is one of the most important molecules. However, the existence and function of glutamate in this system have been proposed solely on the basis of a few lines of indirect evidence from pharmacological experiments. In the present study, we demonstrated the existence and release of glutamate as a neurotransmitter in the procerebrum of Limax, by using three different techniques: 1) immunohistochemistry of glutamate, 2) in situ hybridization to mRNA of the vesicular glutamate transporter, and 3) real‐time imaging of glutamate release within the procerebrum using the glutamate optical sensor EOS2. The release of glutamate within the cell mass layer of the procerebrum was synchronized with oscillation of the local field potential and had the same physiological properties as this oscillation; both were blocked by a serotonin antagonist and were propagated in an apical to basal direction in the procerebrum. Our observations suggest strongly that the oscillation of the local field potential is driven by the glutamate released by bursting neurons in the procerebrum. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Towards a multi‐foci approach to workplace aggression: A meta‐analytic review of outcomes from different perpetrators
Authors: Hershcovis M. Sandy , Barling Julian
Published: May 2009

Using meta‐analysis, we compare three attitudinal outcomes (i.e., job satisfaction, affective commitment, and turnover intent), three behavioral outcomes (i.e., interpersonal deviance, organizational deviance, and work performance), and four health‐related outcomes (i.e., general health, depression, emotional exhaustion, and physical well being) of workplace aggression from three different sources: Supervisors, co‐workers, and outsiders. Results from 66 samples show that supervisor aggression has the strongest adverse effects across the attitudinal and behavioral outcomes. Co‐worker aggression had stronger effects than outsider aggression on the attitudinal and behavioral outcomes, whereas there was no significant difference between supervisor, co‐worker, and outsider aggression for the majority of the health‐related outcomes. These results have implications for how workplace aggression is conceptualized and measured, and we propose new research questions that emphasize a multi‐foci approach. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characteristics of monsoon precipitation systems in and around Bangladesh
Authors: Rafiuddin M. , Uyeda Hiroshi , Islam M. Nazrul
Published: May 2009

Characteristics of precipitation systems in and around Bangladesh are analysed using 6 years of radar data from the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD). Precipitation systems are classified as arc, line, or scattered types according to their shape; then as small, medium, or large according to their length; and as stationary, slow, or fast according to their propagation speed. Arc‐, line‐, and scattered‐type systems are found 230 (29%), 117 (15%), and 442 (56%) times, respectively, from April to September during the analysis period (2000–2005). These arc‐, line‐, and scattered‐type systems have average speeds of 11.0, 7.1, and 5.8 m/s, horizontal lengths of 185, 184, and 268 km, and approximate lifetimes of 4.3, 4.0, and 4.8 h, respectively. Scattered‐type systems dominate in the monsoon period (June, July, August, and September), while arc‐type systems dominate in the pre‐monsoon period (April and May). Line‐type systems occur with nearly equal frequency in both periods. The monsoon systems are large and stationary or slow moving. In contrast, pre‐monsoon systems are small and fast moving. Pre‐monsoon systems propagate southeastward whereas monsoon systems propagate to the northeast, northwest, or southeast. A large number of systems occur in the southern, eastern, and northern parts of Bangladesh. Of the 442 scattered‐type systems, 244 are scattered‐type systems having wide areal coverage (SWAC), which extends out of radar range, and speeds too small to calculate. About 97% of SWACs develop during the monsoon period and contribute greatly to monsoon rainfall in this region. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Glenoid loosening after total shoulder arthroplasty: An in vitro CT‐scan study
Authors: Gregory Thomas , Hansen Ulrich , Taillieu Fabienne , Baring Toby , Brassart Nicolas , Mutchler Céline , Amis Andrew , Augereau Bernard , Emery Roger
Published: May 2009

Glenoid fixation failure has only been grossly characterized. This lack of information hinders attempts to improve fixation because of a lack of methodologies for detecting and monitoring fixation failure. Our goal was twofold: to collect detailed data of glenoid fixation fracture, and to investigate computed tomography (CT)‐scanning as a tool for investigations of fixation failure. Six cadaver scapulas and six bone‐substitute specimens were cyclically loaded and CT‐scanned at clinical settings after 0, 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, 30,000, 50,000 and 70,000 load cycles. The fixation status was evaluated by inspection of the scans. After 70,000 cycles, the specimens were sectioned, and the fixation inspected by microscopy. The results of the microscopy analysis were compared to the CT‐scan analysis. Fracture of the glenoid fixation initiated at the edge of the glenoid rim and propagated towards and around the keel of the implant. The entire process from initiation to complete fracture took place at the polyethylene implant–cement interface, while the cement, the adjacent bone, and the cement–bone interface remained intact. Thus, strengthening the polyethylene–cement interface should improve glenoid fixation. Microscopy results validated the CT methodology, suggesting that the CT technique is reliable. © 2009 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 27:1589–1595, 2009
Berberine inhibits Staphylococcus Epidermidis adhesion and biofilm formation on the surface of titanium alloy
Authors: Wang Xiaoqing , Qiu Shijing , Yao Xiao , Tang Tingting , Dai Kerong , Zhu Zhen'an
Published: May 2009

Biofilm formed by Staphylococcus epidermidis (S. epidermidis) is a common cause of periprosthetic infection. Recently, we have discovered that berberine is bacteriostatic for S. epidermidis. The purpose of the present study was to examine the effect of berberine on S. epidermidis adhesion and biofilm formation on the surface of titanium alloy, which is a popular material for orthopedic joint prostheses. Three strains of S. epidermidis (ATCC 35984, ATCC 12228, and SE 243) were used for in vitro experiment. Direct colony counting showed that berberine significantly inhibited S. epidermidis adhesion on the titanium alloy disk in 2 h at the concentration of 45 µg/mL. When examined with crystal violet staining, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy, we found that higher concentrations (>30 µg/mL) of berberine effectively prevented the formation of S. epidermidis biofilm on the surface of the titanium disk in 24 h. These findings suggest that berberine is a potential agent for the treatment of periprosthetic infection. © 2009 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 27:1487–1492, 2009
A meta‐analysis of design‐ and manufacturing‐related parameters influencing the wear behavior of metal‐on‐metal hip joint replacements
Authors: Kretzer Jan Philippe , Kleinhans Jennifer A. , Jakubowitz Eike , Thomsen Marc , Heisel Christian
Published: May 2009

This article aims to clarify the influence of design‐ and manufacturing‐related parameters on wear of metal‐on‐metal (MoM) joint bearings. A database search for publications on wear simulator studies of MoM bearings was performed. The results of published studies were normalized; groups with individual parameters were defined and analyzed statistically. Fifty‐six investigations studying a total of 200 implants were included in the analysis. Clearance, head size, carbon content, and manufacturing method were analyzed as parameters influencing MoM wear. This meta‐analysis revealed a strong influence of clearance on running‐in wear for implants of 36‐mm diameter and an increase in steady‐state wear of heat treated components. © 2009 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 27:1473–1480, 2009
Influence of Quercus ilex trees on herbaceous production and nutrient concentrations in southern PortugalElena Cubera1, 2
Authors: Manuel Nunes Jorge , Madeira Manuel , Gazarini Luíz
Published: May 2009

In an open woodland in Portugal, the nature of interactions between Quercus ilex trees and herbaceous plants was assessed during 2 years by studying how manipulation of incident solar radiation, water and nutrient supply affect the herbaceous biomass and N, K, P, Ca, Mg, and Mn concentrations. Measurements were carried out in three environments consisting of (1) open grassland, (2) beneath the tree canopy, and (3) under artificial shade. Each of these environments was subjected to two regimes of fertilization and two water levels in a factorial design. The fertilizer treatment consisted of application of no fertilizer or a combination of 200 kg calcium ammonium nitrate ha–1 (26% N) and 350 kg superphosphate ha–1 (8% P), while the water‐supply treatment consisted of either no irrigation or irrigation fortnightly from February 1 to April 30. Grasses showed significantly lower nutrient concentrations than forbs. However, nutrient concentrations of the whole herbaceous community were within the recommended ranges for cattle nutrition. A negative effect of shade on herbaceous biomass production was observed. The effect of watering on herbaceous biomass was less prominent than the effect of fertilization, irrespective of the environment, suggesting that Q. ilex does not compete for soil‐water resources with herbaceous biomass in this ecosystem. Fertilization increased total biomass by 106%, 49%, and 97% in the open grassland, beneath the tree canopy, and under artificial shade, respectively. During the first and second year, fertilization increased herbaceous P concentrations by 24% and 83%, respectively, if compared with concentrations obtained at the unfertilized plots. Higher K and Mg concentrations were observed in herbaceous plants beneath the tree canopy than in the open areas, indicating a positive effect of trees on pasture quality. The positive and negative effects of trees on understory forage are discussed.
A multi‐proxy palaeoecological and palaeoclimatic record within full glacial lacustrine deposits, western Tennessee, USA
Authors: Grimley David A. , Larsen Daniel , Kaplan Samantha W. , Yansa Catherine H. , Curry B. Brandon , Oches Eric A.
Published: May 2009

The Fulton Section, along the Mississippi River in western Tennessee, USA, is a 1 km continuous exposure (∼20 m vertically) of Quaternary fluvial and lacustrine deposits, inset within Eocene sediments and buried by thick loess. Fossiliferous slackwater lake sediments record maximum aggradation during the last two major glaciations, with deposition between ca. 190–140 ka and 24– 1814C ka BP, based on amino acid and radiocarbon chronology, respectively. During the onset of full glacial conditions (ca. 24–2214C ka BP), a relatively permanent shallow lake environment is indicated by ostracods, aquatic molluscs, and both pollen and macrofossils of aquatic plants. By 21.814C ka BP, increasing emergent plants, amphibious gastropods (Pomatiopsis) and heavierδ18O compositions suggest marsh‐like conditions in a periodically drying lake. The surrounding uplands consisted ofPicea–Pinuswoodlands mixed with cool‐temperate hardwoods (e.g.Quercus,Populus,Carya), grasses and herbs. More open conditions ensued ca. 2014C ka BP, with loess and slopewash gradually infilling the former lake by 1814C ka BP. Modern analogue analyses of ostracods and palaeontological evidence imply a full glacial climate similar to today's mixed‐boreal zone in central Minnesota, USA, about 9°C cooler in mean annual temperature than present‐day western Tennessee. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Holocene relative sea‐level changes in Harris, Outer Hebrides, Scotland, UK
Authors: Jordan Jason T. , Smith David E. , Dawson Sue , Dawson Alastair G.
Published: May 2009

Evidence for relative sea‐level changes during the middle and late Holocene is examined from two locations on the Atlantic coast of Harris, Outer Hebrides, Scotland, using morphological mapping and survey, stratigraphical, grain size and diatom analysis, and radiocarbon dating. The earliest event identified is a marine flood, which occurred after 7982–8348 cal. a (7370 ± 80 14C a) BP, when the sea crossed a threshold lying at −0.08 m Ordnance Datum Newlyn (OD) (−2.17 m mean high water springs (MHWS)) before withdrawing. This could have been due to a storm or to the Holocene Storegga Slide tsunami. By 6407–6122 cal. a (5500 ± 60 14C a) BP, relative sea levels had begun to fall from a sandflat surface with an indicated MHWS level of between 0.08 and −1.96 m (−2.01 to −4.05 m). This fall reached between −0.30 and −2.35 m (−2.39 to −4.44 m) after 5841–5050 cal. a (4760 ± 130 14C a) BP, but was succeeded by a relative sea‐level rise which reached between 0.54 and −1.57 m (−1.55 to −3.66 m) by 5450–4861 cal. a (4500 ± 100 14C a) BP. This rise continued, possibly with an interruption, until a second sandflat surface was reached between 2.34 and −0.26 m (0.25 to −2.35 m) between 2952–3375 cal. a (3000 ± 80 14C a) and 1948–2325 cal. a (2130 ± 70 14C a) BP, before present levels were reached. The regressive episode from the earliest sandflat is correlated with the abandonment of the Main Postglacial Shoreline. It is maintained that the fluctuations in relative sea level recorded can be correlated with similar events elsewhere on the periphery of the glacio‐isostatic centre and may therefore reflect secular changes in nearshore sea surface levels. Despite published evidence from trim lines of differential ice sheet loading across the area, no evidence of variations in uplift between the locations concerned could be found. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Structure and vibrational analysis of 1‐hydroxy naphthalene based on density functional theory calculations
Authors: Krishnakumar V. , Mathammal R.
Published: May 2009

The solid phase mid‐FTIR and FT‐Raman spectra of 1‐hydroxy naphthalene (HNP) were recorded in the regions 4000–400 and 4000–50 cm, respectively. The spectra were interpreted with the help of normal coordinate analysis following full structure optimization and force field calculations based on the density functional theory (DFT) using the standard B3LYP/6‐31G** method and basis set combination. The results of the calculations were applied to simulate infrared and Raman spectra of the title compound which showed excellent agreement with the observed spectra. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inclusion compounds of phenol derivatives with cyclodextrins: a combined spectroscopic and thermal analysis
Authors: Sardo Mariana , Amado Ana M. , Ribeiro‐Claro Paulo J. A.
Published: May 2009

Inclusion compounds involving α‐, β‐ and γ‐cyclodextrins (α‐, β‐ and γCD) and phenol derivatives, namely 3‐methoxyphenol (3MeOPh), 2‐methoxyphenol (2MeOPh) and 3‐methylphenol (3MePh), were investigated and characterized by combining Raman spectroscopy, ab initio calculations, DSC and TG analysis.

The effects of the inclusion process on the guest molecules and on the hydrogen bond interactions of the guests were studied by monitoring sensitive modes, such as CC and CH ring stretching modes. Moreover, the combined use of the data available from Raman spectra, computational methods and the known x‐ray structures of similar compounds, allowed the proposal of most probable structures for the αCD inclusion compounds.

Both inclusion compounds of meta‐substituted guests in αCD present unusual 1:2 or 2:3 stoichiometries. The Raman spectra of these inclusion compounds reveal the split of several modes, spread over the entire spectral range, indicating the presence of guest molecules inside and outside the CD cavity. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Creating maximum coherence using chirped pulses without adiabatic elimination of excited states
Authors: Malinovsky Vladimir S.
Published: May 2009

We demonstrate the adiabatic passage based method to maximize coherent anti‐Stokes Raman scattering coherence. We present numerical results of the roof scheme implementation without making an assumption of adiabatic elimination of detuned excited electronic states. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Formation and Raman scattering of seed‐like ZnO nanostructure
Authors: Lo Shih‐Shou , Huang, Dison , Tu Chun‐Hsiang , Jan Der‐Jun
Published: May 2009

This work demonstrates seed‐like ZnO nanostructure aggregated with nano‐entities using the colloid chemical method. The formation mechanism and optical properties of the ZnO nanostructure are studied. The X‐ray diffraction spectrum indicates that the ZnO nanostructures are polycrystalline pure wurtzite phase. Multiphonon processes in the nanostructure are identified from the Raman scattering spectra in the spectral range of 300–2000 cm−1. A strong violet photoluminescence band emission was visible in the room temperature photoluminescence spectra. This work determines the quality of such crystals and extends the optical applications of ZnO nanostructures. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Essential elements and contaminants in tissues of commercial pelagic fish from the Eastern Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Ersoy Beyza , Çelik Mehmet
Published: May 2009

BACKGROUND: It is important to determine the concentrations of essential and non‐essential metals in fish for human health. The essential elements and contaminants (Pb and Cd) were determined seasonally in the muscle and liver of some pelagic fish species round herring (Etrumeus teres), chub mackerel (Scomber japonicus), golden grey mullet (Liza aurata) and Mediterranean horse mackerel (Trachurus mediterraneus) from the Iskenderun Bay, Eastern Mediterranean Sea.

RESULTS: The Na, K, Ca and Mg were the most abundant elements in muscle and liver tissues. The Na, K, Ca and Mg concentrations in fish tissues were between 51.7 and 3426 mg kg−1. Muscle accumulated the lowest levels of elements. Trace element and contaminant levels in muscle were highest in spring and summer. The Cu, Zn and Cr concentrations were highest in summer. The Ni, Mn and Fe concentrations were highest in spring. The maximum Pb concentrations in the muscle and liver of fish species was 0.39 and 0.80 mg kg−1 in autumn. The maximum Cd concentration in the muscle of fish was 0.27 mg kg−1 in spring and the maximum Cd concentration in the liver was 0.78 mg kg−1 in summer.

CONCLUSION: The Cr, Pb, Cd, Cu and Zn levels in muscle were found to be lower than permissible limits reported by various authorities. Estimated weekly and daily intake for Pb and Cd by consumption of fish muscle were far below the PTWI and PTDI values established by FAO/WHO. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
The role of the hospital registry in achieving outcome benchmarks in cancer care
Authors: Greene Frederick L. , Gilkerson Sharon , Tedder Paige , Smith Kathy
Published: May 2009

The hospital registry is a valuable tool for evaluating quality benchmarks in cancer care. As payment for performance standards are adopted, the registry will assume a more dynamic and economically important role in the hospital setting. At Carolinas Medical Center, the registry has been a key instrument in the comparison of state and national benchmarks and for program improvement in meeting standards in the care of breast and colon cancer. One of the significant successes of the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer (CoC) Hospital Approvals Program is the support of hospital registries, especially in small and midsized community hospitals throughout the United States. To become a member of the Hospital Approvals Program, a registry must be staffed appropriately and include analytic data for patients who have their primary diagnosis or treatment at the facility 1. The current challenge for most hospitals is to prove that the registry has specific worth when many facets of care are not compensated. Unfortunately a small number of hospitals have disbanded their registries because of the short‐sighted decision that the registry and its personnel are a drain on the hospital system and do not generate revenue. In the present era of meeting benchmarks for care as a prelude to being paid by third party and governmental agencies 2,3, a primary argument is that the registry can be revenue‐enhancing by quantifying specific outcomes in cancer care. Without having appropriate registry and abstract capability, the hospital leadership cannot measure the specific outcome benchmarks required in the era of “pay for performance” or “pay for participation”. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;99:497–499. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Volume‐ or outcome‐based referral to improve quality of care for esophageal cancer surgery in The Netherlands
Authors: Wouters M.W.J.M. , Krijnen P. , Le Cessie S. , Gooiker G.A. , Guicherit O.R. , Marinelli A.W.K.S. , Kievit J. , Tollenaar R.A.E.M.
Published: May 2009

Recently, in The Netherlands esophageal resections for cancer are banned from hospitals with an annual volume less than 10. In this study we evaluate the validity of this specific volume cut‐off, based on a review of the literature and an analysis of the available data on esophagectomies in our country. In addition, we compare the expected benefits of volume‐based referral to the results of a regional centralization process based on differences in outcome (outcome‐based referral). J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;99:481–487. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
National quality measurement using clinical indicators: The danish national indicator project
Authors: Mainz Jan , Hansen Anne‐Marie , Palshof Torben , Bartels Paul D.
Published: May 2009

This article describes the Danish National Indicator Project that aims to document and improve the quality of care at national level. Specific clinical indicators, standards, and prognostic factors have been developed for eight diseases (e.g. lung cancer). It has been implemented in all clinical departments in Denmark. Participation is mandatory. Results related to lung cancer are presented and discussed. The experiences from 2000 to 2008 indicate that the quality of care related to the eight diseases improve over time and that that performance and outcome measurement will get paid in terms of quality improvement. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;99:500–504. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Recognition of biomarkers and cell‐specific molecular signatures: Aptamers as capture agents
Authors: Nery Arthur A. , Wrenger Carsten , Ulrich Henning
Published: May 2009

RNA and DNA aptamers developed by systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX) have turned into important tools in diagnostics, research, and therapeutics. Unlike antibodies, high‐affinity and specific aptamers identified through an in vitro selection process can be chemically modified to gain nuclease resistances in biological fluids and to extend their bioavailability in animals. Aptamers can be raised against virtually any target including those which are toxic or do not elicit any immune response in animals. They can be developed in automated processes against various protein targets and then easily modified by attaching fluorescence reporters, nanoparticles or biotin moieties, rival antibodies in high‐throughput proteomics and cell separations. In this review, we will discuss the high competence of aptamers in recognizing biomarkers and molecular signatures of cell surfaces, and how these unique features can be exploited for the identification and isolation of cancer, stem cells and even detection of parasite‐infected cells.
Optimization of antibody immobilization for on‐line or off‐line immunoaffinity chromatography
Authors: Beyer Natascha Helena , Hansen Morten Zoega , Schou Christian , Højrup Peter , Heegaard Niels H. H.
Published: May 2009

The covalent immobilization of antibodies to solid supports for immunoaffinity (IA) purification is widely used in the biological sciences. However, relative immobilization yields, immobilization stability, and antigen‐binding capacity vary significantly with the antibody and protocol used. A systematic study was conducted to determine the most versatile antibody immobilization method for use in on‐line and off‐line IA chromatography applications using commonly accessible immobilization methods. Four chemistries were examined using polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies and antibody fragments. We evaluated a method to survey optimal elution conditions and estimated immobilization yields, matrix stability, antigen binding capacities, and antigen recovery of different IA matrices. Some mAbs were sensitive to aminogroup‐based immobilization, i.e., losing antigen binding capabilities after immobilization especially using epoxy chemistry. In general, the most optimal covalent antibody immobilization for on‐line IA‐LC‐MS was achieved using aminogroup immobilization of intact antibodies by epoxy‐ or aldehyde‐activated POROS R20‐matrices and in some cases by chemical crosslinking to Protein G‐POROS. Protein G‐based matrices are very stable showing essentially no decline in performance after 50 application–wash–elution–reequilibration cycles and being easily prepared within 2–3 h of working time with a typical antibody coupling yield of above 80%. In off‐line applications where constant flow conditions are not used, covalent crosslinking onto Protein G‐POROS or Protein G‐agarose is to be recommended.