bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combination of fillet and triangular flaps for the web reconstruction in pollicization: A case report
Authors: Karacaoglu Ercan , Baran Cihat N. , Baran Namik Kemal
Published: July 2008

Thumb hypoplasia represents a major disability requiring sophisticated reconstructive procedures. One of the basic criteria of the pollicization to construct a functional thumb is scar free web reconstruction. In this article, a technique to avoid excessive scarring in the first web space reconstruction by filleting out the hypoplasic thumb combining with a triangular flap is presented. A 5‐year‐old girl was presented. She had a Back‐Gramcko type IV thumb hypoplasia. A triangular flap was planned on radial border of the long finger. Floating thumb was filleted out with preservation of the neurovascular bundle and transferred to the first web space while cooperating with triangular flap. Patient was followed up for 18 months. No early or late major complication was seen. Flap healed without any necrosis. The ratio of active motion in pollicized finger was measured 60% after cerebral reorientation. A satisfactory grip and pinch were seen in pollicized finger. Patient as well as her parents was satisfied with the results. Filleting out the floating thumb and combining with a triangular flap harvested by a V‐Y flap design is a good option to avoid excessive scarring in reconstruction of the first web space in pollicization. It is strongly recommended that floating thumb should be preserved for future pollicization, and any attempt to amputate it in early years of life should be postponed till the time of definitive surgery. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2008.
Existence of global solutions to a model of chondrogenesis
Authors: Kazmierczak B.
Published: July 2008

The paper considers conditions sufficient for the existence of classical C solutions to a new model of chondrogenesis during the vertebrate limb formation. We assume that the diffusion coefficient of the fibronectin is positive and that the function describing the interaction between the fibronectin and cells satisfies some additional properties. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A critical evaluation of drug interactions with Echinacea spp.
Authors: Freeman Camille , Spelman Kevin
Published: July 2008

Accurate information concerning drug–herb interactions is vital for both healthcare providers and patients. Unfortunately, many of the reviews on drug–herb interactions contain overstated or inaccurate information. To provide accurate information on drug–herb interactions healthcare providers must account for product verification, dosage, medicinal plant species, and plant part used. This critical review assessed the occurrence of drug interactions with one of the top selling botanical remedies, echinacea including Echinacea angustifolia, E. pallida, and E. purpurea. Only eight papers containing primary data relating to drug interactions were identified. Herbal remedies made from E. purpurea appear to have a low potential to generate cytochrome P450 (CYP 450) drug–herb interactions including CYP 450 1A2 (CYP1A2) and CYP 450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Currently there are no verifiable reports of drug–herb interactions with any echinacea product. However, further pharmacokinetic testing is necessary before conclusive statements can be made about echinacea drug–herb interactions. Given our findings, the estimated risk of taking echinacea products (1 in 100 000), the number of echinacea doses consumed yearly (> 10 million), the number of adverse events (< 100) and that the majority of use is short term, E. purpurea products (roots and/or aerial parts) do not appear to be a risk to consumers.
Effects of the mycotoxin deoxynivalenol on human primary hepatocytes
Authors: Königs Maika , Schwerdt Gerald , Gekle Michael , Humpf Hans‐Ulrich
Published: July 2008

Toxic effects of the mycotoxin deoxynivalenol (DON) observed in animals range from diarrhea, vomiting, gastro‐intestinal inflammation to necrosis of several tissues. In the last years, DON has been tested in hepatocytes of several animal species for its cytotoxicity. However, these tests are limited to the use of animal cells. No studies using human hepatocytes are available. Further investigations with the human hepatocellular liver carcinoma cell line HepG2 might be limited due to the disadvantages of cell lines (e. g.immortalization, tumor derivation, longtime cultivation) and do not necessarily reflect the response of normal human cells. In order to overcome this problem and to be closer to the human situation, we studied the effect of DON in human primary hepatocytes and compared these data to the effects in the HepG2 cell line. Cell viability, apoptotic and necrotic cell death, albumin secretion and metabolic activity were determined. It could be demonstrated that DON has a distinct cytotoxic effect on human primary hepatocytes. Viability, protein content and albumin secretion were reduced in a dose‐dependent manner. The apoptotic key enzyme caspase‐3 was activated, while LDH release occurred only after long incubation time due to a secondary necrosis. Furthermore, we studied the metabolism of DON using LC‐MS/MS. DON was neither metabolized by primary hepatocytes cells nor by the HepG2 cell line.
The influence of metabolism on the genotoxicity of catechol estrogens in three cultured cell lines
Authors: Gerstner Silke , Glasemann Dörte , Pfeiffer Erika , Metzler Manfred
Published: July 2008

The 2‐ and 4‐hydroxy metabolites of 17β‐estradiol (E2) and estrone (E1) are important for E2‐mediated carcinogenesis due to the formation of genotoxic ortho‐quinone metabolites. To assess the importance of metabolic conjugation for their genotoxicity, the DNA strand‐breaking activity of the four catechol estrogens was determined in three cell lines with different activities of catechol‐O‐methyltransferase (COMT) and UDP‐glucuronosyltransferase (UGT). Most DNA strand breaks were observed in V79 cells, which lack these metabolic activities. 2‐ and 4‐hydroxy‐E2 were 2.5 times more genotoxic than 2‐ and 4‐hydroxy‐E1. MCF‐7 cells exhibit COMT activity, and the incidence of DNA strand breaks decreased with increasing methylation; only the 4‐hydroxy metabolites of E1 and E2, which were poor substrates of COMT, exhibited low genotoxicity. HepG2 cells converted the catechol and methoxy metabolites of E2 to the respective E1 metabolites by 17β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD). Moreover, methylation and glucuronidation took place. Only 4‐hydroxy‐E1 elicited a weak genotoxic response in these cells. The extensive metabolism in HepG2 cells is proposed to account for the failure of catechol estrogens to induce DNA strand breaks. Thus, metabolism by COMT and UGT and, to a minor extent, by HSD is a major determinant for the genotoxicity of catechol estrogens in target cells.
Model experiments mimicking the human intestinal transit and metabolism of D‐galacturonic acid and amidated pectin
Authors: Knaup Bastian , Kempf Michael , Fuchs Jan , Valotis Anagnostis , Kahle Kathrin , Oehme Anett , Richling Elke , Schreier Peter
Published: July 2008

In order to study the human intestinal transit and metabolism of D‐galacturonic acid and amidated pectin a number of model experiments were carried out. Both substrates were incubated under aerobic conditions at 37°C using saliva (2 min) and simulated gastric juice (4 h). Under anaerobic conditions the substrates were incubated at 37°C using human ileostomy and colostomy fluids, each obtained from three different donors, for 10 and for 24 h, respectively. D‐Galacturonic acid, SCFA (acetic acid, propionic acid, and butyric acid), as well as methanol were analyzed photometrically after carbazole reaction, GC‐flame ionization detection (GC‐FID), and headspace solid‐phase microextraction GC/MS (HS‐SPME‐GC/MS), respectively. D‐Galacturonic acid and amidated pectin were found to be stable during incubations with saliva and simulated gastric juice, whereas both substrates underwent degradation in the course of human ileostomy and colostomy fluid incubations. D‐Galacturonic acid was practically completely decomposed within 10 h and SCFA, with acetic acid as the major representative, were formed up to 98% of the incubated substrate in colostomy effluent. The amidated pectin was only degraded in part, revealing stable amounts of 22–35% and 3–17% in ileostomy (after 10 h) and colostomy fluid (after 24 h), respectively. SCFA were generated up to 59% of the applied amidated pectin. In parallel, 19–60% and 52–67% of the available methyl ester groups were cleaved in the course of incubations with ileostomy and colostomy fluids, respectively. The results demonstrate for the first time that D‐galacturonic acid and amidated pectin are stable in human saliva and simulated gastric juice. The degradation of both compounds during incubation with ileostomy effluent is highlighted, providing evidence for a considerable metabolic potential of the small intestine.
1H and 13C NMR assignments for new heterocyclic TAM leuco dyes, (2Z,2′E)‐2,2′‐(2‐phenyl propane‐1,3‐diylidene) bis(1,3,3‐trimethylindoline) derivatives. Part II
Authors: Keum Sam‐Rok , Roh Se‐Jung , Lee Min‐Hyung , Sauriol Francoise , Buncel Erwin
Published: July 2008

The 1H and 13C NMR spectra of the novel heterocyclic Leuco‐TAM dyes, (2Z, 2′E)‐2,2′‐(2‐phenyl propane‐1,3‐diylidene) bis(1,3,3‐trimethylindoline) derivatives 1–4 as precursors of triarylmethane (TAM)+ (Malachite Green FB‐analog) dyes were completely assigned by 1D and 2D NMR experiments, including DEPT, COSY, HSQC, HMBC, and NOESY. Especially, the diastereotopic gem‐dimethyl protons at the C3 and C3′ positions of the FB rings were definitively assigned. The (Z,E) isomers adopt the energetically favored three‐bladed propeller conformation in solution. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A preliminary study of soft cheese degradation in different packaging conditions by 1H‐NMR
Authors: Lamanna Raffaele , Piscioneri Ilario , Romanelli Valeria , Sharma Neeta
Published: July 2008

This preliminary work deals with the influence of packaging on the degradation of an Italian soft cheese studied by NMR. The NMR profiles of aqueous cheese extracts were acquired as a function of time during storage of cheese inside and outside the original package. From the NMR spectra 15 metabolites are quantified and used in a kinetic degradation model and in a multivariate algorithm in order to evaluate the changes in the metabolic composition of cheese stored under different conditions. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Structure elucidation of an unprecedented alkaloid and a new limonoid from Xylocarpus granatum
Authors: Cui Jianxin , Ouyang Jie , Deng Zhiwei , Lin Wenhan
Published: July 2008

An unprecedented new limonoid‐based alkaloid, granatoine (1), and a new phragmalin, xylocarpin L (2), along with xyloccensin Y were isolated as minor components from the fruits of the Chinese mangrove plant Xylocarpus granatum. Their structures were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic data (1D and 2D NMR) analysis. A possible biogenetic pathway for granatoine was also depicted. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
NMR studies of novel Schiff bases derived from L‐α‐amino methyl esters and 3‐hydroxypyridin‐4‐carboxaldehyde
Authors: Perona Almudena , Sanz Dionisia , Claramunt Rosa M. , Elguero José
Published: July 2008

Schiff bases of 3‐hydroxypyridin‐4‐carboxaldehyde and L‐α‐amino esters as well as those derived from the structurally related amines lacking the ester function have been synthesised. In two cases a tetrahydro‐1H‐imidazo[4,5‐c]pyridine was formed as a by‐product. 1H, 13C, 15N‐NMR spectral data and density functional theory (DFT) calculations established the structure of all compounds. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pyruvate and oxygen consumption throughout the growth and development of murine oocytes
Authors: Harris Sarah E. , Leese Henry J. , Gosden Roger G. , Picton Helen M.
Published: July 2008

Growing oocytes in vitro from the most immature stages until they are developmentally competent is a major goal of reproductive technology, requiring fundamental knowledge of metabolic processes. Carbohydrate metabolism and oxygen consumption have been analysed in a series of experiments designed to investigate important energy substrates for mouse oocytes and to reveal any qualitative or quantitative changes between the primordial and ovulatory follicle stages. Primordial follicles were incubated in groups in modified‐KSOM medium, whereas growing or ovulated oocytes were studied singly and, in both cases, the depletion or accumulation of metabolites in spent medium were analysed using ultramicrofluorometric assays. The rates of glucose (0.014 ± 0.006 pmol/hr) and pyruvate (0.028 ± 0.009 pmol/hr) consumption and l‐lactate (0.058 ± 0.023 pmol/hr) production by primordial follicles suggested that energy production was supported by a combination of metabolic pathways, including glycolysis. Pyruvate and oxygen consumption per oocyte increased two‐ and ninefold, respectively, between the primary and pre‐ovulatory stages (0.82 ± 0.1 and 1.67 ± 0.1 pmol pyruvate/hr, respectively and 1.4 ± 0.3 and 7 ± 0.6 pmol oxygen/hr) after which oxygen (12.7 ± 1.1 pmol/hr) utilisation nearly doubled. Oxygen consumption by fully grown oocytes was in excess of oxidation requirements for pyruvate. When pyruvate and oxygen consumption rates were normalised for oocyte cellular volume, which increased over 130‐fold during growth, oocyte metabolism was higher in primary follicles than at any subsequent stage, indicating that energy needs are greater during a developmental transition. To conclude, pyruvate and oxygen were consumed throughout oocyte development at increasing rates. When oocyte cellular volume was accounted for, oocytes from primary follicles displayed greatest metabolic rates. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 76: 231–238, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The de Quervain's screening tool: Validity and reliability of a measure to support clinical diagnosis and management
Authors: Batteson Rachel , Hammond Alison , Burke Frank , Sinha Shiladitya
Published: July 2008

Background: Studies into the effectiveness of interventions for upper limb soft tissue disorders have been hampered by a lack of consistently used diagnostic criteria, meaning that comparison of research results is a problem. To aid homogeneous recruitment into a study of de Quervain's disease, a de Quervain's screening tool (DQST) was developed. This could also be used to facilitate clinical diagnosis and management in practice.

Aims: To provide evidence for the content and construct validity and test–retest and inter‐rater reliability of the DQST.

Method: The study was conducted in an acute care, outpatient hand unit in a district general hospital. Three convenience samples of: 59 people with de Quervain's disease; 18 with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and 16 with osteoarthritis (OA) of the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint were recruited. The DQST diagnostic criteria were initially generated from a literature review. Content validity was then established by expert doctors with an interest in upper limb musculoskeletal disorders (n = 7) rating the relevance of the seven items included. The DQST was then tested in people either already diagnosed with, or reported as having some of the symptoms of, de Quervain's disease. Construct validity was tested with people with CTS or OA of the CMC joint.

Results: The median DQST score was 5 (Interquartile range IQR = 4–6) out of a possible seven diagnostic criteria. Inter‐rater reliability was excellent (Intra‐class coefficient [ICC] = 0.85; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.75, 0.91). Test retest reliability was good (ICC = 0.64; 95% CI = 0.20, 0.87). Sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) testing (Se = 1.00; Sp = 1.00) demonstrated that the DQST discriminated between people with de Quervain's disease, CTS or OA of the CMC joint.

Conclusions: The DQST is a valid, reliable tool which could be of assistance in aiding correct diagnosis for recruitment to clinical trials and in clinical practice. Future research is recommended to further examine retest reliability with a larger sample size and to identify the commonest diagnostic criteria required for inclusion. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A survey of foot problems in juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Hendry G. , Gardner‐Medwin J. , Watt G.F. , Woodburn J.
Published: July 2008

Background: Evidence suggests that foot problems are common in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), with prevalence estimates over 90%. The aim of this survey was to describe foot‐related impairment and disability associated with JIA and foot‐care provision in patients managed under modern treatment paradigms, including disease‐modifying anti‐rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologic therapies.

Methods: The Juvenile Arthritis Foot Disability Index (JAFI), Child Health Assessment Questionnaire (CHAQ), and pain visual analogue scale (VAS) were recorded in 30 consecutive established JIA patients attending routine outpatient clinics. Foot deformity score, active/limited joint counts, walking speed, double‐support time (s) (DS) and step length symmetry index % (SI) were also measured. Foot‐care provision in the preceding 12 months was determined from medical records.

Results: Sixty‐three per cent of children reported some foot impairment, with a median (range) JAFI subscale score of 1 (0–3); 53% reported foot‐related activity limitation, with a JAFI subscale score of 1 (0–4); and 60% reported participation restriction, with a JAFI subscale score of 1 (0–3). Other reported variables were CHAQ 0.38 (0–2), VAS pain 22 (0–79), foot deformity 6 (0–20), active joints 0 (0–7), limited joints 0 (0–31), walking speed 1.09 m/s (0.84–1.38 m/s), DS 0.22 s (0.08–0.26 s) and SI ±4.0% (±0.2–±31.0%). A total of 23/30 medical records were reviewed and 15/23 children had received DMARDS, 8/23 biologic agents and 20/23 multiple intra‐articular corticosteroid injections. Ten children received specialist podiatry care comprising footwear advice, orthotic therapy and silicone digital splints together with intrinsic muscle strengthening exercises.

Conclusion: Despite frequent use of DMARD/biologic therapy and specialist podiatry‐led foot care, foot‐related impairment and disability persists in some children with JIA. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effectiveness of an integrated outpatient care programme compared with present‐day standard care in early rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Esselens Greet , Westhovens René , Verschueren Patrick
Published: July 2008

Objectives: To investigate the effectiveness of an integrated care programme in daily practice compared with present‐day standard care for ambulatory early rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Methods: In this cross‐sectional study, group A received programmed multidisciplinary outpatient care and group B standard rheumatologist‐centred care. Demographics, disease duration, initial and actual treatment, disease activity (Disease Activity‐28 Score), general health (Short Form‐36 [SF‐36]), functionality (Health Assessment Questionnaire [HAQ]), coping style (Utrecht's Coping List), illness perception (Dutch–Revised Illness Perception Questionnaire) and satisfaction about care were recorded.

Results: Eight‐nine patients were included in group A and 102 in group B. Demographics, rheumatoid factor, antibodies against cyclic citrullinated peptides and disease duration were comparable. More patients in group A received initial combination therapy (35% versus 3%). Actual treatment regimens were comparable. More patients were in remission (69% versus 39%) or had low disease activity (80% versus 60%), mean HAQ‐scores were lower (0.52 versus 0.80), more patients had no functional impairment (38% versus 15%) and SF‐36 scores were higher in group A. Coping style and illness perception were similar, except for illness coherence. Satisfaction differed only for aspects typically favouring a care programme. Participation in a care programme independently predicted remission and absence of disability in a regression model, including gender and initial treatment as other predictors.

Conclusion: Disease activity was better controlled and functionality and general health better preserved in patients following an outpatient care programme. This was partly due to the easier implementation of an intensive initial treatment strategy but apparently also to other aspects of organized pharmacological and non‐pharmacological care, to be defined in randomized, controlled studies. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Defeaturing: A posteriori error analysis via feature sensitivity
Authors: Turevsky Inna , Gopalakrishnan Sankara Hari , Suresh Krishnan
Published: July 2008

It is well known that small geometric features within a CAD model can significantly impact the computational cost, and often undermine the reliability, of finite element analysis. Engineers therefore resort to defeaturing or detail removal, wherein the offending features are suppressed prior to computational analysis. However, this results in a defeaturing‐induced analysis error.

In this paper, we estimate this error in an a posteriori sense through the novel concept of feature sensitivity. The latter determines the first‐order change in quantities of interest when an arbitrary cluster of small geometric features is deleted from a model. A formal theory and a set of associated algorithms are provided to compute the feature sensitivity associated with a scalar elliptic partial differential equation. The theory is supported through numerical experiments in 2‐D, involving both internal and boundary features. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bounds for quantities of interest and adaptivity in the element‐free Galerkin method
Authors: Vidal Yolanda , Parés Núria , Díez Pedro , Huerta Antonio
Published: July 2008

A novel approach to implicit residual‐type error estimation in mesh‐free methods and an adaptive refinement strategy are presented. This allows computing upper and lower bounds of the error in energy norm with the ultimate goal of obtaining bounds for outputs of interest. The proposed approach precludes the main drawbacks of standard residual‐type estimators circumventing the need of flux‐equilibration and resulting in a simple implementation that avoids integrals on edges/sides of a domain decomposition (mesh). This is especially interesting for mesh‐free methods. The adaptive strategy proposed leads to a fast convergence of the bounds to the desired precision. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A combined global and local search method to deal with constrained optimization for continuous tabu search
Authors: Chen Xi , Yang Jing , Li Zhaohua , Tian Daqing , Shao Zhijiang
Published: July 2008

Heuristic methods, such as tabu search, are efficient for global optimizations. Most studies, however, have focused on constraint‐free optimizations. Penalty functions are commonly used to deal with constraints for global optimization algorithms in dealing with constraints. This is sometimes inefficient, especially for equality constraints, as it is difficult to keep the global search within the feasible region by purely adding a penalty to the objective function. A combined global and local search method is proposed in this paper to deal with constrained optimizations. It is demonstrated by combining continuous tabu search (CTS) and sequential quadratic programming (SQP) methods. First, a nested inner‐ and outer‐loop method is presented to lead the search within the feasible region. SQP, a typical local search method, is used to quickly solve a non‐linear programming purely for constraints in the inner loop and provides feasible neighbors for the outer loop. CTS, in the outer loop, is used to seek for the global optimal. Finally, another local search using SQP is conducted with the results of CTS as initials to refine the global search results. Efficiency is demonstrated by a number of benchmark problems. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A polynomial dimensional decomposition for stochastic computing
Authors: Rahman Sharif
Published: July 2008

This article presents a new polynomial dimensional decomposition method for solving stochastic problems commonly encountered in engineering disciplines and applied sciences. The method involves a hierarchical decomposition of a multivariate response function in terms of variables with increasing dimensions, a broad range of orthonormal polynomial bases consistent with the probability measure for Fourier‐polynomial expansion of component functions, and an innovative dimension‐reduction integration for calculating the coefficients of the expansion. The new decomposition method does not require sample points as in the previous version; yet, it generates a convergent sequence of lower‐variate estimates of the probabilistic characteristics of a generic stochastic response. The results of five numerical examples indicate that the proposed decomposition method provides accurate, convergent, and computationally efficient estimates of the tail probability of random mathematical functions or the reliability of mechanical systems. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A singular‐value decomposition (SVD)‐based generalized finite difference (GFD) method for close‐interaction moving boundary flow problems
Authors: Ang S. J. , Yeo K. S. , Chew C. S. , Shu C.
Published: July 2008

In this paper, we present a study on a singular‐value decomposition (SVD)‐based generalized finite difference (GFD) method and a nodal selection scheme for moving body/boundary flow problems formulated on a hybrid Cartesian cum meshfree grid system. The present study shows that the SVD‐based method is more robust and accurate than the conventional least‐squares‐based GFD scheme. A nodal selection scheme is also introduced to overcome the problem of numerical instability associated with the clustering of computational nodes. Such nodal clustering occurs dynamically when moving bodies or boundaries approach within close proximity of each other, resulting in the overlap of their meshfree grids. The nodal scheme is applied to close‐interaction flow problems as exemplified by the squeezing action of a circular cylinder through a very narrow slot and the close proximity bypass interaction of two oscillating circular cylinders. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Locally enhanced Voronoi cell finite element model (LE‐VCFEM) for simulating evolving fracture in ductile microstructures containing inclusions
Authors: Hu Chao , Ghosh Somnath
Published: July 2008

Ductile heterogeneous materials such as cast aluminum alloys undergo catastrophic failure that initiates with particle fragmentation, which evolves with void growth and coalescence in localized bands of intense plastic deformation and strain softening. The Voronoi cell finite element model (VCFEM), based on the assumed stress hybrid formulation, is unable to account for plastic strain‐induced softening. To overcome this shortcoming of material softening due to plastic strain localization, this study introduces a locally enhanced VCFEM (LE‐VCFEM) for modeling the very complex phenomenon of ductile failure in heterogeneous metals and alloys. In LE‐VCFEM, finite deformation displacement elements are adaptively added to regions of localization in the otherwise assumed stress‐based hybrid Voronoi cell finite element to locally enhance modeling capabilities for ductile fracture. Adaptive h‐refinement is used for the displacement elements to improve accuracy. Damage initiation by particle cracking is triggered by a Weibull model. The nonlocal Gurson–Tvergaard–Needleman model of porous plasticity is implemented in LE‐VCFEM to model matrix cracking. An iterative strain update algorithm is used for the displacement elements. The LE‐VCFEM code is validated by comparing with results of conventional FE codes and experiments with real materials. The effect of various microstructural morphological characteristics is also investigated. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hyper‐reduction of mechanical models involving internal variables
Authors: Ryckelynck D.
Published: July 2008

We propose to improve the efficiency of the computation of the reduced‐state variables related to a given reduced basis. This basis is supposed to be built by using the snapshot proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) model reduction method. In the framework of non‐linear mechanical problems involving internal variables, the local integration of the constitutive laws can dramatically limit the computational savings provided by the reduction of the order of the model. This drawback is due to the fact that, using a Galerkin formulation, the size of the reduced basis has no effect on the complexity of the constitutive equations. In this paper we show how a reduced‐basis approximation and a Petrov–Galerkin formulation enable to reduce the computational effort related to the internal variables. The key concept is a reduced integration domain where the integration of the constitutive equations is performed. The local computations being not made over the entire domain, we extrapolate the computed internal variable over the full domain using POD vectors related to the internal variables. This paper shows the improvement of the computational saving obtained by the hyper‐reduction of the elasto‐plastic model of a simple structure. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stress update algorithm for elastoplastic models with nonconvex yield surfaces
Authors: Pedroso Dorival M. , Sheng Daichao , Sloan Scott W.
Published: July 2008

A stress update algorithm for elastoplastic models with nonconvex yield surfaces is presented. An explicit algorithm based on the Runge–Kutta embedded method of second‐order accuracy is developed. The crossing of the yield surface is properly taken into account by means of a robust intersection‐finding algorithm. This algorithm is based on a simple multiple‐root‐finding technique, which requires the yield function, evaluated along a given secant stress path, to be continuously differentiable to the second order. The accuracy of the intersection‐finding algorithm is illustrated through examples using simple yield functions similar to the ones adopted in models for unsaturated soils and the modified Cam clay model yield surface with a nonconvex Argyris et al. failure criterion. Isoerror surfaces and finite element simulations are used to investigate the accuracy and efficiency of the stress update algorithm. It is observed that although the algorithm for nonconvex surfaces is slower than its equivalent for convex surfaces, the accuracy can be controlled locally by means of specified tolerances. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Time‐dependent shape functions for modeling highly transient geothermal systems
Authors: van der Meer F. P. , Al‐Khoury R. , Sluys L. J.
Published: July 2008

This paper presents new time‐dependent finite element shape functions suitable for modeling high‐gradient transient conductive heat flow in geothermal systems. The shape functions are made adaptive by enhancing the approximation functions with time‐dependent variables, which may vary according to the transient process without adding extra degrees of freedom or applying mesh adaptation. Two different approaches are presented. First, an iterative method is proposed, in which an exponential approximation function, which is optimized continually during the transient process, is incorporated in the shape function. Second, an analytical method is suggested, in which an analytical solution of a simplified process is incorporated in the shape function, enabling an explicit update of the shape functions in each time step. A methodology for modeling the variation of temperature in one and two dimensions is introduced. The ability of the method to capture high‐gradient temperature profiles using relatively large elements is illustrated with numerical examples of cases in which equally large standard finite elements fail. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fourth‐order compact scheme for the one‐dimensional sine‐Gordon equation
Authors: Cui Mingrong
Published: July 2008

Finite difference scheme to the generalized one‐dimensional sine‐Gordon equation is considered in this paper. After approximating the second order derivative in the space variable by the compact finite difference, we transform the sine‐Gordon equation into an initial‐value problem of a second‐order ordinary differential equation. Then Padé approximant is used to approximate the time derivatives. The resulting fully discrete nonlinear finite‐difference equation is solved by a predictor‐corrector scheme. Both Dirichlet and Neumann boundary conditions are considered in our proposed algorithm. Stability analysis and error estimate are given for homogeneous Dirichlet boundary value problems using energy method. Numerical results are given to verify the condition for stability and convergence and to examine the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed algorithm. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq, 2009
Comparing numerical methods for Boussinesq equation model problem
Authors: Bulut Hasan
Published: July 2008

This article applies three methods to solve a class of nonlinear differential equations. We obtain the exact solution and numerical solution of the Boussinesq equation for certain initial condition. Comparsion of the results with those of other methods have led us to significant consequences. The numerical solutions are compared with the known analytical solutions. The numerical results demonstrate that those methods are quite accurate and readily implemented. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq, 2009
Development and psychometric testing of the nurses' attitudes toward obesity and obese patients (NATOOPS) scale
Authors: Watson Lorraine , Oberle Kathleen , Deutscher Danielle
Published: July 2008

This study was designed to develop and test an instrument to measure nurses' attitudes towards obesity and obese adult patients. Items were based on an earlier version of the instrument, obesity discrimination research, and clinical experience. After content validation of items, the instrument was sent to 1,400 randomly selected Registered Nurses. Factor analysis yielded a 5‐factor solution, with 36 items reaching loadings of .4 or greater. Cronbach's alpha was .81 for the reduced scale, with a range of .45 to .79 on the five factors. Construct validity was supported by significant differences between contrast groups on three factors and consistency with underlying theory. Overall the instrument demonstrated acceptable psychometric properties and could be used in future research. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 31:586–593, 2008
Medizinische Chemie der α1‐Blocker. Bei Bluthochdruck nicht mehr erste Wahl
Authors: Ude Christian , Schubert‐Zsilavecz Manfred
Published: July 2008

Adrenerge α1‐Rezeptor‐Antagonisten mit Chinazolin‐ und Arylpiperazin‐Grundstrukur wurden aufgrund ihrer vasodilatierenden Wirkungen in der Vergangenheit häufig als Antihypertensiva eingesetzt. Heute spielen sie in diesem Indikationsbereich nur mehr eine untergeordnete Bedeutung. In der glatten Muskulatur der Prostata und des Blasenhalses führt die Blockade der α1‐Rezeptoren zu einer Steigerung des Urinflusses und zu einer Abnahme des Restharnvolumens, weshalb α1‐Rezeptor‐Antagonisten neben den 5α‐Reduktasehemmern als Mittel der Wahl bei der Behandlung von Miktionsstörungen beim benignen Prostatasyndrom gelten.
High‐Throughput‐Screening für Inhibitoren der bakteriellen Transglykosylase
Authors: Steri Ramona , Schubert‐Zsilavecz Manfred
Published: July 2008

Vor dem Hintergrund zahlreicher bestehender und sich schnell neu entwickelnder Resistenzen von Keimen gegenüber Antibiotika – klinisch besonders relevant bei multiresistenten Problemkeimen wie Staphylococcus aureus oder Streptococcus pneumoniae – kommt der Suche nach neuen Antibiotika und der Aufklärung von Wirkmechanismen höchste Priorität zu. Ein wichtiger Schritt ist nun Forschern in Taiwan gelungen, indem sie die Bindung von Moenomycin an sein Target, die bakterielle Transglykosylase, charakterisiert und aus den erhaltenen Ergebnissen eine Methode für ein High‐Throughput‐Screening für neue Antibiotika entwickelt haben.
Massenspektrometrie zur Detektion von Biomarkern
Authors: Sinz Andrea , Deininger Sören‐Oliver
Published: July 2008

Durch eine neue Entwicklung in der Massenspektrometrie (MALDI‐Imaging) können Moleküle direkt im Gewebe sichtbar gemacht werden, wodurch sich neue Möglichkeiten für die Zelltypisierung und die Erforschung von Arzneistoffen ergeben. Die Korrelation histologischer Phänomene mit molekularen bildgebenden Verfahren führt somit zu einer neuen Qualität von Daten für die medizinische Diagnostik, die es erlaubt, molekulare Ursachen von Krankheiten zu verstehen.
Dose intensive melphalan and cyclophosphamide with autologous hematopoietic stem cells for recurrent medulloblastoma or germinoma
Authors: Kadota Richard P. , Mahoney Donald H. , Doyle John , Duerst Reggie , Friedman Henry , Holmes Emi , Kun Larry , Zhou Tianni , Pollack Ian F.
Published: July 2008

Purpose

To determine the response, toxicity, and survival for children with progressive or recurrent medulloblastoma and germinoma using a single myeloablative course of chemotherapy supported by autologous hematopoietic stem cells.

Patients and Methods

Subjects were in second remission or had minimal residual disease at the time of study entry. The conditioning regimen consisted of cyclophosphamide 6,000 mg/m2 plus melphalan 180 mg/m2.

Results

Twenty‐nine evaluable pediatric patients were accrued. The most frequent major toxicities were myelosuppression, infections, and stomatitis, but no toxic deaths were recorded. Best responses were: CR = 6, CCR = 13, PR = 6, SD = 2, and PD = 2. There were 6 medulloblastoma and 3 germinoma survivors with a median follow‐up of 7.5 years (range = 2.8–10). Two germinoma survivors received radiotherapy after autografting for presumptive progressive disease.

Conclusion

Myeloablative chemotherapy consisting of cyclophosphamide and melphalan was tolerable in the relapsed brain tumor setting with 19/29 cases achieving CR or CCR status and 9/29 becoming long‐term survivors. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2008;51:675–678. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Antioxidant status in pediatric acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) and solid tumors: The impact of oxidative stress
Authors: Mazor Dalia , Abucoider Abed , Meyerstein Naomi , Kapelushnik Joseph
Published: July 2008

Background

Pediatric ALL patients are subjected to an aggressive and continuous chemotherapy protocol, while solid tumor patients have a less intensive treatment. We studied the antioxidant status of children from the two groups and hypothesized that the antioxidant status will differ in concert with their treatment.

Procedure

The antioxidant status in plasma of seven ALL children and that of six children treated for different solid tumors, in regard to the different treatment regimen, was compared with healthy controls. These samples were taken during therapy, just before the next cyclophosphamide treatment, to determine the accumulative oxidative stress.

Results

Children from the ALL group (n = 7) had significantly lower thiol plasma levels than controls (P < 0.01) and their antioxidant capacity as measured by the ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) was significantly lower (P < 0.01). These parameters were normal in the solid tumors group (n = 6) but plasma antioxidant capacity as measured by the 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay was significantly lower (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Both groups had impaired plasma antioxidant status. The higher oxidative stress of children with ALL is associated with the protocol for treating ALL which is much more aggressive and frequent than that of the solid tumors. The lower antioxidant status in plasma with ALL children is probably associated with increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) as indicated by the decrease of the antioxidant activity. This oxidative stress may lead to cell death or greater sensitivity of the tumor cell to therapy, with better outcome for pediatric patients with ALL. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2008;51:613–615. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Characterization of childhood precursor T‐lymphoblastic lymphoma by immunophenotyping and fluorescent in situ hybridization: A report from the Children's Oncology Group
Authors: Smock Kristi J. , Nelson Marilu , Tripp Sheryl R. , Sanger Warren G. , Abromowitch Minnie , Cairo Mitchell S. , Perkins Sherrie L.
Published: July 2008

Background

T‐lymphoblastic lymphoma (T‐LBL) accounts for 25–30% of childhood non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma and is closely related to T‐lymphoblastic leukemia (T‐ALL). Recently, we demonstrated distinct differences in gene expression between childhood T‐LBL and T‐ALL, but molecular pathogenesis and relevant protein expression patterns in T‐LBL remain poorly understood.

Procedure

Children with T‐LBL with disseminated disease were registered and treated on COG protocol 5971. Paraffin‐embedded tumor tissue was obtained at diagnosis for immunohistochemistry (IHC) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) studies. We determined the pattern and intensity of staining for c‐Myc, Skp2, Mib‐1, p53, TCL‐1, bcl‐2, and bcl‐6 proteins by IHC and c‐Myc, p53, bcl‐2, bcl‐6, and TCR α/δ molecular alterations by FISH in 22 pediatric T‐LBL cases.

Results

The majority of T‐LBL samples expressed Mib‐1 (59%) and c‐Myc (77%) proteins in greater than 50% of the cells, but Skp2 (14%), p53 (14%), and bcl‐2 (23%) expression was less common. FISH studies demonstrated 18% gains and 10% losses in c‐Myc, 16% gains in p53, 12% gains and 6% losses in bcl‐2, and 6% gains and 19% losses in bcl‐6 with little direct correlation between the IHC and FISH studies.

Conclusions

Childhood T‐LBL is a highly proliferative tumor associated with enhanced expression of c‐Myc protein, but without detectable c‐Myc molecular alterations. FISH studies did not identify consistent etiologies of molecular dysregulation, and future studies with other molecular approaches may be required to elucidate the molecular pathogenesis of childhood T‐LBL. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2008;51:489–494. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
An acylated flavonol glycoside and hydrolysable tannins from Callistemon lanceolatus flowers and leaves
Authors: Marzouk Mohamed S. A.
Published: July 2008

Introduction – Callistemon lanceolatus DC. (Myrtaceae) is a plant rich in polyphenols, and is used as anticough, antibronchitis and insecticide in folk medicine. Because of the biological importance of plant polyphenols, particularly tannins, a phytochemical study was of interest to investigate the constitutive poyphenols in the extracts of flowers and leaves.

Objective – To avoid time‐consuming methodology for isolation of a complex mixture of known metabolites, HPLC‐ESI/MS was employed for fast picking up of the new compounds followed by identification of the structures with UV and one‐ and two‐dimensional NMR.

Methodology – Flowers and leaves were separately extracted with hot aqueous methanol under reflux (70°C). Pre‐isolation of the total extracts was achieved through column chromatographic fractionation on polyamide with water–methanol for gradient elution. The main fractions were purified using repeated column chromatography on cellulose and/or Sephadex LH‐20 with suitable eluents. HPLC‐ESI/MS analyses were carried out in the single ion monitoring (SIM) and negative ion modes. The pure compounds in methanol–water (1:1) were analysed by direct infusion ESI/MS. Final structure elucidation was obtained by one‐ and two‐dimensional NMR.

Results – Two new metabolites namely quercetin 3‐O‐β‐D‐glucuronopyranoside n‐butyl ester (1) and n‐butylgallate 4‐O‐(2′,6′‐di‐O‐galloyl)‐β‐d‐glucopyranoside (4) along with nine known ones were identified from the aqueous methanol extracts of flowers and leaves.

Conclusion – The study has shown that Callistemon lanceolatus is rich in polyphenols. HPLC‐ESI/MS may be used, in negative ion mode, as an efficient and rapid analytical tool for investigating complex plant extracts. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chemical fingerprinting of Lawsonia inermis L. using HPLC, HPTLC and densitometry
Authors: Gallo Francesca Romana , Multari Giuseppina , Giambenedetti Massimo , Federici Elena
Published: July 2008

Introduction – Lawsonia inermis L. is a natural red colouring agent, commonly named “Henna”, which is used to dye skin and hair. The aim of this study was to evaluate the quality of L. inermis that is commercially available as a raw plant material or preparation in order to guarantee good quality products.

Objective − To develop a simple protocol for the qualification of different samples labelled as L. inermis by using the HPTLC densitometry method and to identify possible adulterations with other plants.

Methodology − Samples of leaves of L. inermis were extracted with methanol. Two chromatographic methods were developed to determine the chemical fingerprinting of L. inermis. The first was based on HPTLC identification followed by densitometric measurements at 337 nm. The second was based on RP‐HPLC separation with gradient elution and photodiode array detection at 337 nm. Samples of Cassia obovata Collad., and Indigofera tinctoria L., were treated in the same way.

Results – The simplicity of the sample preparation, and the possibility of analysing several samples of herbal products simultaneously in a short time, make HPTLC the method of choice. The HPTLC method was feasible for the comprehensive quality evaluation of herbal products. From the comparison of their “fingerprint”, it was possible to detect substitution of plants that are different from those declared on the label.

Conclusion − The HPTLC may be used as a rapid method by which to control the quality of raw plant materials and formulations based on the title plant. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Study on the extraction, purification and quantification of jasmonic acid, abscisic acid and indole‐3‐acetic acid in plants
Authors: Zhang Feng Juan , Jin You Ju , Xu Xing You , Lu Rong Chun , Chen Hua Jun
Published: July 2008

Introduction – Jasmonic acid (JA), abscisic acid (ABA) and indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA) are important plant hormones. Plant hormones are difficult to analyse because they occur in small concentrations and other substances in the plant interfere with their detection.

Objective – To develop a new, inexpensive procedure for the rapid extraction and purification of IAA, ABA and JA from various plant species.

Methodology – Samples were prepared by extraction of plant tissues with methanol and ethyl acetate. Then the extracts were further purified and enriched with C18 cartridges. The final extracts were derivatised with diazomethane and then measured by GC‐MS. The results of the new methodology were compared with those of the Creelman and Mullet procedure.

Results – Sequential elution of the assimilates from the C18 cartridges revealed that IAA and ABA eluted in 40% methanol, while JA subsequently eluted in 60% methanol. The new plant hormone extraction and purification procedure produced results that were comparable to those obtained with the Creelman and Mullet's procedure. This new procedure requires only 0.5 g leaf samples to quantify these compounds with high reliability and can simultaneously determine the concentrations of the three plant hormones.

Conclusion – A simple, inexpensive method was developed for determining endogenous IAA, ABA and JA concentrations in plant tissue. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.