bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonlinear twitch torque summation by motor units activated at M‐wave and H‐reflex latencies
Authors: Dean Jesse C. , Collins David F.
Published: July 2009

We have suggested previously that motor units recruited reflexively contribute to torque produced during neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), but this has not been tested directly. The current experiments were designed to quantify the contributions to twitch torque made by motor units recruited at M‐wave and H‐reflex latencies. The relationship between M‐wave amplitude and torque was not linear. Rather, increases in M‐wave amplitude caused the largest torque increases when M‐waves were small. In addition, the torque contributions made by motor units recruited at M‐wave and H‐reflex latencies did not sum linearly, as changes in H‐reflex amplitude only caused significant changes in torque when M‐waves were small (<18% Mmax). This nonlinear summation of torque can be explained by the different latencies of twitches evoked by M‐waves and H‐reflexes. Large M‐waves produce strong contractions at a short latency, possibly introducing slack into adjacent muscle fibers and reducing the ability of motor units recruited reflexively to generate torque. Muscle Nerve 40: 221–230, 2009
Quality of life and pain in patients with facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy
Authors: Padua Luca , Aprile Irene , Frusciante Roberto , Iannaccone Elisabetta , Rossi Monica , Renna Rosaria , Messina Sonia , Frasca Giuseppina , Ricci Enzo
Published: July 2009

The aim of this study was to assess quality of life (QoL) and evaluate the occurrence and characteristics of pain in facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) patients. No study has yet assessed QoL in a large group of FSHD patients and, overall, few studies have assessed pain in neuromuscular diseases. We performed a prospective study using a multidimensional protocol including: clinical (according to the Clinical Severity Scale Rev1); genetic (p13E‐11 EcoRI fragments Rev1); QoL (Short Form‐36); pain (Visual Analog Scale and Portenoy‐6 questions); and depression (Beck Depression Inventory) assessment. QoL measures of FSHD were compared with those of Italian norms. Moreover, we correlated QoL and pain measurements with clinical findings. Sixty‐five patients were enrolled in the study. QoL was statistically significantly reduced with respect to the Italian normative sample, mainly in physical domains. Our study demonstrated that pain is frequent in FSHD patients. More than half of the patients complained of at least moderate pain. Women complained of slightly higher levels of deterioration in the emotional aspects of QoL than men. Clinical pattern (as assessed by Clinical Severity Scale) was closely related to physical QoL domains: the higher the clinical involvement, the more severe the QoL deterioration. This study provided information that may be crucial in clinical practice: pain may be a relevant aspect in FSHD patients, and prevention strategies or relevant therapies should be considered as appropriate. Moreover, we must pay more attention to gender differences: women can suffer far greater deterioration in the emotional aspects of QoL. Further multidimensional observations are needed. Muscle Nerve 40: 200–205, 2009
Perceived pain and temporomandibular disorders in neuromuscular diseases
Authors: Fischer Michael J. , Riedlinger Kathrin , Schoser Benedikt , Bernateck Michael
Published: July 2009

Little is known about pain associated with temporomandibular disorders (TMD) in neuromuscular diseases. Inpatients (N = 134) with neuromuscular disorder diagnoses were given questionnaires to estimate pain localization and intensity. Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders and the Temporomandibular Index (TMI) were utilized to assess TMD. Pain was reported by 116 patients (86%). Legs (52%) and arms (33%) were the most common locations for pain localization, but the highest Pearson correlations (TMI vs. perceived pain) appeared for pain located in the trunk and arms (0.861, P < 0.01). No correlation between TMI and diagnosis group existed except for “acquired myopathy” and “miscellaneous neuromuscular diseases.” These results suggest that the degree of TMD does not correlate with pain according to disease, although common mechanisms might be responsible for pain development in specific body regions connected with TMD. Most important, higher levels of TMD are associated with higher levels of perceived pain. Muscle Nerve, 2009
Atypical deep peroneal neuropathy in the setting of an accessory deep peroneal nerve
Authors: Kayal Rana , Katirji Bashar
Published: July 2009

We report a case of deep peroneal neuropathy resulting in foot drop with preserved toe extension. These unexpected findings were the result of the presence of an accessory deep peroneal nerve that provided total innervation of the extensor digitorum brevis. We review the literature on total innervation of the extensor digitorum brevis by the accessory deep peroneal nerve with and without an associated deep peroneal nerve lesion. Muscle Nerve 40: 313–315, 2009
Persistent multifocal pseudo‐conduction blocks in vasculitic neuropathy without antiganglioside antibodies
Authors: Ahdab Rechdi , Michel Marc , Neves Danusa O. , Andre Chantal , Lefaucheur Jean‐Pascal
Published: July 2009

A woman presented with severe multifocal acute axonal neuropathy due to necrotizing vasculitis. Six years later, electrophysiological examination revealed features suggestive of persistent conduction block (CB) with increased temporal dispersion (ITD) affecting the right median and tibial nerves. A clinical case characterized by multifocal CBs that were observed several years after an initial episode of vasculitic neuropathy was recently reported. The occurrence of CBs paralleled clinical deterioration and was attributed to superimposed antiganglioside antibody‐mediated demyelination. In contrast, our patient was clinically stable and did not have antiganglioside antibodies. Nerve conduction studies showed pseudo‐CBs rather than true CBs. We suggest that pseudo‐CBs with ITD can reveal heterogeneous axonal regeneration as a sequel of a severe multifocal vasculitic neuropathy. This condition should be distinguished from the occurrence of pseudo‐CB in the acute phase of vasculitis or from superimposed immune‐mediated demyelination. Muscle Nerve 40: 290–293, 2009
Hereditary inclusion‐body myopathy: Clues on pathogenesis and possible therapy
Authors: Broccolini Aldobrando , Gidaro Teresa , Morosetti Roberta , Mirabella Massimiliano
Published: July 2009

Hereditary inclusion‐body myopathy (h‐IBM), or distal myopathy with rimmed vacuoles (DMRV), is an autosomal recessive disorder with onset in early adult life and a progressive course leading to severe disability. h‐IBM/DMRV is due to mutations of a gene (GNE) that codes for a rate‐limiting enzyme in the sialic acid biosynthetic pathway. Despite the identification of the causative gene defect, it has not been unambiguously clarified how GNE gene mutations impair muscle metabolism. Although numerous studies have indicated a key role of hyposialylation of glycoproteins in h‐IBM/DMRV pathogenesis, others have demonstrated new and unpredicted functions of the GNE gene, outside the sialic acid biosynthetic pathway, that may also be relevant. This review illustrates the clinical and pathologic characteristics of h‐IBM/DMRV and the main clues available to date concerning the possible pathogenic mechanisms and therapeutic perspectives of this disorder. Muscle Nerve, 2009
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis—Evolutionary and other perspectives
Authors: Eisen Andrew
Published: July 2009

In this study some particular and puzzling aspects of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are discussed, with an emphasis on the role of neocortical evolution. Other issues explored include the nature of the clinical deficit in ALS; anatomical and evolutionary aspects of the neocortex, motor cortex, and corpus callosum; and some discussion as to when ALS begins. In common with other neurodegenerative diseases, ALS may result from dysfunctional neocortical circuitry. It is suggested that the disease starts some years prior to clinical onset, possibly in adolescence, or even earlier, when there is marked alteration of anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry of the neocortex. The failure of naturally occurring animal models of ALS or models that truly replicate the human disease may reflect the unique, continued, and increased neocortical evolution of modern humans. Muscle Nerve 40: 297–304, 2009
Axonal sensory motor neuropathy in copper‐deficient Wilson's disease
Authors: Foubert‐Samier Alexandra , Kazadi Annabelle , Rouanet Marie , Vital Anne , Lagueny Alain , Tison FrançOis , Meissner Wassilios
Published: July 2009

Copper deficiency may cause myeloneuropathy or progressive limb weakness. By contrast, Wilson's disease (WD) is characterized by progressive copper accumulation with hepatic and neurological impairment and requires life‐long treatment with zinc and/or chelator agents. We report a WD patient who developed axonal sensory motor neuropathy in the context of copper deficiency due to his treatment with zinc and chelators. Exhaustive testing for other etiologies was negative. After treatment adjustment, only mild clinical improvement was noted during long‐term follow‐up. Muscle Nerve 40: 294–296, 2009
Biomechanical findings in rats undergoing fascial reconstruction with graft materials suggested as an alternative to polypropylene
Authors: Konstantinovic M.L. , Ozog Y. , Spelzini F. , Pottier C. , De Ridder D. , Deprest J.
Published: July 2009

Aims

Graft materials used for pelvic floor reinforcement should still be considered as investigational and, therefore, evaluated experimentally and within clinical trials. The present report describes our biomechanical findings in rats implanted with selected novel implant materials, which in recent years have been suggested as alternatives to plain polypropylene (PP) meshes.

Methods

Full thickness abdominal wall defects were primarily repaired by the implant of interest. Experiments involved eight different implant materials: two partly degradable synthetic implants, that is, a hybrid of polyglactin 910 with PP (Vypro II) and collagen coated PP (Pelvitex); two non‐cross linked (Surgisis, InteXēn LP) and two cross‐linked materials (Pelvicol, Pelvisoft) and two porous modifications of InteXēn LP and Pelvicol implants. At different time points (7, 14, 30, and 90 days), the implants and surrounding host tissue (explant) were harvested and tensiometry was performed. Tensile strength and location of breakage were recorded.

Results

In general resorbable non‐cross linked collagen matrices and porous materials were weaker after 90 days; similar behavior was seen for implant materials alone and their construction with the surrounding native tissue. Both non‐porous and porous modification of InteXēn LP appeared at 90 days as a very thin layer of collagen that was two‐thirds, respectively one‐third of the initial thickness.

Conclusions

In experimental conditions, sufficient strength was obtained only after 3 months, and PP containing constructs appeared as the strongest though reconstruction with Pelvicol showed comparable outcomes. Lower values for strength of non‐cross linked and porous collagen materials are questioning their efficacy for pelvic floor reconstruction. Neurourol. Urodynam. 29:488–493, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
On scheduling a single machine to minimize a piecewise linear objective function: A compact MIP formulation
Authors: Baptiste Philippe , Sadykov Ruslan
Published: July 2009

We study the scheduling situation in which a set of jobs subjected to release dates and deadlines are to be performed on a single machine. The objective is to minimize a piecewise linear objective function ∑jFj where Fj(Cj) corresponds to the cost of the completion of job j at time Cj. This class of function is very large and thus interesting both from a theoretical and practical point of view: It can be used to model total (weighted) completion time, total (weighted) tardiness, earliness and tardiness, etc. We introduce a new Mixed Integer Program (MIP) based on time interval decomposition. Our MIP is closely related to the well‐known time‐indexed MIP formulation but uses much less variables and constraints. Experiments on academic benchmarks as well as on real‐life industrial problems show that our generic MIP formulation is efficient. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2009
Understanding and manipulating the RF fields at high field MRI
Authors: Ibrahim Tamer S. , Hue Yik‐Kiong , Tang Lin
Published: July 2009

This paper presents a complete overview of the electromagnetics (radiofrequency aspect) of MRI at low and high fields. Using analytical formulations, numerical modeling (computational electromagnetics), and ultrahigh field imaging experiments, the physics that impacts the electromagnetic quantities associated with MRI, namely (1) the transmit field, (2) receive field, and (3) total electromagnetic power absorption, is analyzed. The physical interpretation of the above‐mentioned quantities is investigated by electromagnetic theory, to understand ‘What happens, in terms of electromagnetics, when operating at different static field strengths?’ Using experimental studies and numerical simulations, this paper also examines the physical and technological feasibilities by which all or any of these specified electromagnetic quantities can be manipulated through techniques such as B1 shimming (phased array excitation) and signal combination using a receive array in order to advance MRI at high field strengths. Pertinent to this subject and with highly coupled coils operating at 7 T, this paper also presents the first phantom work on B1 shimming without B1 measurements. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐accuracy differential quadrature finite element method and its application to free vibrations of thin plate with curvilinear domain
Authors: Xing Yufeng , Liu Bo
Published: July 2009

Based on the differential quadrature (DQ) rule, the Gauss Lobatto quadrature rule and the variational principle, a DQ finite element method (DQFEM) is proposed for the free vibration analysis of thin plates. The DQFEM is a highly accurate and rapidly converging approach, and is distinct from the differential quadrature element method (DQEM) and the quadrature element method (QEM) by employing the function values themselves in the trial function for the title problem.

The DQFEM, without using shape functions, essentially combines the high accuracy of the differential quadrature method (DQM) with the generality of the standard finite element formulation, and has superior accuracy to the standard FEM and FDM, and superior efficiency to the p‐version FEM and QEM in calculating the stiffness and mass matrices.

By incorporating the reformulated DQ rules for general curvilinear quadrilaterals domains into the DQFEM, a curvilinear quadrilateral DQ finite plate element is also proposed. The inter‐element compatibility conditions as well as multiple boundary conditions can be implemented, simply and conveniently as in FEM, through modifying the nodal parameters when required at boundary grid points using the DQ rules. Thus, the DQFEM is capable of constructing curvilinear quadrilateral elements with any degree of freedom and any order of inter‐element compatibilities. A series of frequency comparisons of thin isotropic plates with irregular and regular planforms validate the performance of the DQFEM. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Smooth finite strain plasticity with non‐local pressure support
Authors: Areias P. M. A. , Rabczuk T.
Published: July 2009

The aim of this work is to introduce an alternative framework to solve problems of finite strain elastoplasticity including anisotropy and kinematic hardening coupled with any isotropic hyperelastic law. After deriving the constitutive equations and inequalities without any of the customary simplifications, we arrive at a new general elasto‐plastic system. We integrate the elasto‐plastic algebraico‐differential system and replace the loading–unloading condition by a Chen–Mangasarian smooth function to obtain a non‐linear system solved by a trust region method. Despite being non‐standard, this approach is advantageous, since quadratic convergence is always obtained by the non‐linear solver and very large steps can be used with negligible effect in the results. Discretized equilibrium is, in contrast with traditional approaches, smooth and well behaved. In addition, since no return mapping algorithm is used, there is no need to use a predictor. The work follows our previous studies of element technology and highly non‐linear visco‐elasticity. From a general framework, with exact linearization, systematic particularization is made to prototype constitutive models shown as examples. Our element with non‐local pressure support is used. Examples illustrating the generality of the method are presented with excellent results. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The chronology of epiphyseal union in the hand and foot from dry bone observations
Authors: Cardoso H. F. V. , Severino R. S. S.
Published: July 2009

Dry bone data for epiphyseal union at the hand and foot are scarce, incomplete or inexistent. This study documents the timing of fusion of secondary ossification centres at the hand and foot in a sample of known‐age human skeletons. The sample comprises 92 individuals (49 females and 43 males), between the ages of 9 and 22 years, from the identified skeletal collection curated at the National Museum of Natural History in Lisbon, Portugal. Epiphyseal union was recorded on the right and left side at the long bones of the hand (metacarpus and phalanges) and foot (metatarsus and phalanges), and also at the talus and calcaneus, using a three stage scheme (non‐fused; partially fused and completely fused). In the hand, intra‐observer agreement was 99% and inter‐observer agreement was 98%. In the foot, both intra‐ and inter‐observer agreement reached 100%. Lateral asymmetry was not significant and only 1.1% of the individuals in the sample were found to be asymmetric in the stage of epiphyseal fusion (1.8% in the hand and 0.3% in the foot). A minimum mean advancement of 1–2 years in females relative to males was observed. In the hand bones, epiphyseal union occurred between 12–18 years in females and 16–18 years in males. Comparatively, in the foot bones, epiphyseal union occurred slightly later, with the exception of the talus and calcaneus, which are the earliest bones to mature. Data in this study can be used to estimate the age of unidentified skeletal remains, either directly or by aiding in the modification of incomplete or imprecise data that have been collected over the years. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The impact of CD34+ cell dose on platelet engraftment in pediatric patients following unmanipulated haploidentical blood and marrow transplantation
Authors: Chang Ying‐Jun , Xu Lan‐Ping , Liu Dai‐Hong , Liu Kai‐Yan , Han Wei , Chen Yu‐Hong , Wang Yu , Chen Huan , Wang Jing‐Zhi , Zhang Xiao‐Hui , Zhao Xiang‐Yu , Huang Xiao‐Jun
Published: July 2009

Objective

Unmanipulated haploidentical blood and marrow transplantation has been developed as an alternative transplant strategy for pediatric patients with hematological diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of donor and recipient characteristics on hematopoietic recovery in pediatric patients following unmanipulated haploidentical transplantation.

Methods

Factors correlating with hematopoietic recovery in 133 pediatric patients after unmanipulated haploidentical transplantation were analyzed retrospectively.

Results

All patients reached an absolute neutrophil count of 500/µl in a median of 12 days (range, 9–49 days). One hundred thirty‐three patients reached an untransfused platelet count of more than 20,000/µl in a median of 15 days (range, 7–180 days). Univariate analysis showed five factors associated with platelet engraftment. These were time to transplantation after diagnosis (P = 0.072), infused nuclear cells/kg of recipient weight (P = 0.028), CD3+ cells/kg of recipient weight (P = 0.082), CD4+ cells/kg of recipient weight (P = 0.083), and CD34+ cells/kg of recipient weight (P = 0.012). Multivariate analysis showed that infused CD34+ cells/kg of recipient weight (CD34+ cells more than 2.42 × 106/kg vs. less than or equal to 2.42 × 106/kg, HR = 1.733; 95% CI 1.222–2.549; P = 0.002) were significantly associated with an increased risk of platelet engraftment. Patients receiving a CD34+ cell dose more than 2.42 × 106/kg had a short time [12 days (range, 7–176 days)] to achieve an untransfused platelet engraftment, compared to 18 days (range, 7–180 days) in patients receiving a lower dose (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that low number of CD34+ cells in allografts is a critical factor associated with delayed platelet engraftment after unmanipulated haploidentical transplantation in pediatric patients. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:1100–1106. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Increased vulnerability of the spinal cord to radiation or intrathecal chemotherapy during adolescence: A report from the Children's Oncology Group
Authors: Bleyer Archie , Choi Mehee , Wang Samuel J. , Fuller Clifton D. , Raney R. Beverly
Published: July 2009

Purpose

To assess the rate of spinal cord toxicity in adolescents resulting from chemoradiotherapy of parameningeal sarcoma.

Methods and Materials

Of 152 patients with parameningeal sarcoma treated per the Intergroup Rhabdomyosarcoma Study Group protocol from 1977 through 1989, eight developed paralyzing ascending myelitis after intrathecal chemotherapy with cytosine arabinoside, methotrexate, and hydrocortisone administered during and after radiation therapy to volumes that included part of the spinal cord. The eight cases include three not previously published.

Results

Of eight patients who developed CNS toxicity after intrathecal chemotherapy and radiotherapy for parameningeal rhabdomyosarcoma, all but one were between 13 and 18 years of age when treated. This severe toxicity occurred in one quarter of 28 adolescents treated with the regimen in comparison with one of 123 children 12 years of age or less (P < 0.0001), a rate that was as much as 30 times higher in the adolescents. Lengthening of the spinal cord during the pubertal growth spurt may account for the apparent increased vulnerability.

Conclusions

Chemoradiotoxicity‐associated spinal cord injury appears to be more likely to occur in adolescents than in younger or older ages. This observation appears to reverse a conventional wisdom in which the central nervous system is thought to become more resistant to the neurotoxic effects of chemoradiotherapy as it matures. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009; 53:1205–1210. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Treatment of children with acute promyelocytic leukemia: Results of the first North American intergroup trial INT0129
Authors: Gregory John , Kim Haesook , Alonzo Todd , Gerbing Rob , Woods William , Weinstein Howard , Shepherd Lois , Schiffer Charles , Appelbaum Frederick , Willman Cheryl , Wiernik Peter , Rowe Jacob , Tallman Martin , Feusner James
Published: July 2009

Background

This report focuses on the children enrolled on the first North American Intergroup study of APL (INT0129). This study was designed to compare the rates of CR, disease‐free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS) and toxicity of therapy with all‐trans‐retinoic acid (ATRA) for remission induction and/or maintenance compared to conventional chemotherapy in patients with previously untreated APL.

Procedure

Fifty‐three patients who were documented to have the t(15;17) translocation were able to be evaluated for toxicity of treatment, outcome of induction, and survival.

Results

The overall CR rate was 81%. The estimated 5‐year DFS from time of CR was 41% for all patients. The estimated 5‐year OS for all patients from entry into the study was 69%. The 5‐year DFS from time of CR for patients who were randomized to ATRA for induction or maintenance or both was 48% compared to 0% for patients who never received ATRA (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

The most important finding of our study is that a significant DFS advantage exists for children with APL who received ATRA during induction or maintenance or both compared to children who received no ATRA. Furthermore, remissions in these children appear durable as the OS rates are stable at 10 years. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:1005–1010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pattern recognition and genetic algorithms for discrimination of orange juices and reduction of significant components from headspace solid‐phase microextraction
Authors: Rinaldi Maurizio , Gindro Roberto , Barbeni Massimo , Allegrone Gianna
Published: July 2009

Introduction – Orange (Citrus sinensis L.) juice comprises a complex mixture of volatile components that are difficult to identify and quantify. Classification and discrimination of the varieties on the basis of the volatile composition could help to guarantee the quality of a juice and to detect possible adulteration of the product.

Objective – To provide information on the amounts of volatile constituents in fresh‐squeezed juices from four orange cultivars and to establish suitable discrimination rules to differentiate orange juices using new chemometric approaches.

Methodology – Fresh juices of four orange cultivars were analysed by headspace solid‐phase microextraction (HS‐SPME) coupled with GC‐MS. Principal component analysis, linear discriminant analysis and heuristic methods, such as neural networks, allowed clustering of the data from HS‐SPME analysis while genetic algorithms addressed the problem of data reduction. To check the quality of the results the chemometric techniques were also evaluated on a sample.

Results – Thirty volatile compounds were identified by HS‐SPME and GC‐MS analyses and their relative amounts calculated. Differences in composition of orange juice volatile components were observed. The chosen orange cultivars could be discriminated using neural networks, genetic relocation algorithms and linear discriminant analysis. Genetic algorithms applied to the data were also able to detect the most significant compounds.

Conclusions – SPME is a useful technique to investigate orange juice volatile composition and a flexible chemometric approach is able to correctly separate the juices. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Genetic considerations in the prenatal diagnosis of overgrowth syndromes
Authors: Vora Neeta , Bianchi Diana W.
Published: July 2009

Large (>90%) for gestational age (LGA) fetuses are usually identified incidentally. Detection of the LGA fetus should first prompt the provider to rule out incorrect dates and maternal diabetes. Once this is done, consideration should be given to certain overgrowth syndromes, especially if anomalies are present. The overgrowth syndromes have significant clinical and molecular overlap, and are associated with developmental delay, tumors, and other anomalies. Although genetic causes of overgrowth are considered postnatally, they are infrequently diagnosed prenatally. Here, we review prenatal sonographic findings in fetal overgrowth syndromes, including Pallister‐Killian, Beckwith‐Wiedemann, Sotos, Perlman, and Simpson‐Golabi‐Behmel. We also discuss prenatal diagnosis options and recurrence risks. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effectiveness of prenatal serum biomarker screening for neural tube defects in second trimester pregnant women: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Zhi‐Ping , Li Hui , Hao Lian‐Zheng , Zhao Zhong‐Tang
Published: July 2009

Background

Neural tube defects (NTDs) are common and serious birth defects all over the world. Prenatal screening for NTDs using maternal serum alpha‐fetoprotein (MSAFP) during the second trimester of pregnancy has been widely used, but its effectiveness remains unclear.

Methods

We evaluated the studies published in the English and Chinese on MSAFP screening for NTDs. The homogeneity of the studies was evaluated by the forest graph. Meta‐analysis was applied to calculate the combined effect values and their 95% confidence intervals.

Results

As many as 22 articles were selected according to the criteria and were included in the meta‐analysis, for a total of 684 140 pregnant women screened during the second trimester. All the studies selected were homogenous according to the forest graph (χ2 = 25.17, P > 0.10). The combined relative risk estimate was 0.25 and its 95% confidence interval was 0.21 to 0.29. The combined protective rate was 75%. The sensitivity and specificity of MSAFP screening were 75.1 and 97.7%, respectively.

Conclusion

Use of MSAFP during the second trimester in pregnant women is an effective measure for the screening of NTDs. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inter‐ and intrapersonal processes underlying authoritarianism: The role of social conformity and personal need for structure
Authors: Jugert Philipp , Cohrs J. Christopher , Duckitt John
Published: July 2009

Several personality constructs have been theorised to underlie right‐wing authoritarianism (RWA). In samples from New Zealand and Germany (Ns = 218, 259), we tested whether these constructs can account for specific variance in RWA. In both samples, social conformity and personal need for structure were independent predictors of RWA. In Sample 2, where also openness to experience was measured, social conformity and personal need for structure fully mediated the impact of the higher‐order factor of openness on RWA. Our results contribute to the integration of current approaches to the personality basis of authoritarianism and suggest that two distinct personality processes contribute to RWA: An interpersonal process related to social conformity and an intrapersonal process related to rigid cognitive style. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Addressing the effects of Salmonella internalization in host cell signaling on a reverse‐phase protein array
Authors: Molero Cristina , Rodríguez‐Escudero Isabel , Alemán Ainel , Rotger Rafael , Molina María , Cid Víctor J.
Published: July 2009

Through acute enteric infection, Salmonella invades host enterocytes and reproduces intracellularly into specialized vacuolae. This involves changes in host cell signaling elicited by bacterial proteins delivered via type III secretion systems (TTSS). One of the two TTSSs of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium encoded by the Salmonella pathogenicity island‐1, triggers bacterial internalization. Among the effector proteins translocated by this TTSS, the GTPase modulator SopE/E2 and the phosphoinositide phosphatase SigD are known to play key roles in these processes. To better understand their contribution to re‐programming host cell pathways, we used ZeptoMARK reverse‐phase protein array technology, which allows printing 32‐sample lysate arrays that can be analyzed with phospho‐specific antibodies to evaluate the phosphorylation of signaling proteins. Lysates were obtained at different times after infection of HeLa cells with WT, TTSS‐deficient, sopE/E2 and sigD single and double deletants, as well as different sigD Salmonella mutants. Our analysis detected activation of p38, JNK and ERK mitogen‐activated protein kinases, mainly dependent on SopE/E2, as well as SigD‐dependent phosphorylation of PKB/Akt and its targets GSK‐3β and FKHR/FoxO. This is the first time that reverse‐phase protein array technology is used in the cellular microbiology field, demonstrating its value to screen for host signaling events through bacterial infection.
2‐D DIGE analysis of the proteome of extracts from peanut variants reveals striking differences in major allergen contents
Authors: Schmidt Hendrik , Gelhaus Christoph , Latendorf Ties , Nebendahl Melanie , Petersen Arnd , Krause Susanne , Leippe Matthias , Becker Wolf‐Meinhard , Janssen Ottmar
Published: July 2009

Over the last decade, an increasing prevalence of peanut allergies was observed worldwide. Peanuts are meanwhile categorized among the most dangerous food allergens. This is particularly relevant since peanut‐derived ingredients are widely used in industrial food production. To minimize the problem of hidden food allergens causing severe anaphylactic reactions, pre‐packaged food containing peanut components needs to be classified according to European ruling since 2005. Food companies search for strategies to reduce the allergenicity of peanut‐derived food additives either by genetically altering the allergen content or by identifying peanut varieties with low levels of major allergens. In our study, we focused on peanut extracts from Indonesia that apparently contain lower levels of the major Arachis hypogaea allergen 1 (Ara h 1). Basic extracts of Virginia‐type and Indonesian peanuts were compared by 1‐ and 2‐DE. We identified more than hundred individual components in these extracts by MS and provide a high‐resolution allergen map that also includes so far unknown fragments of major peanut allergens. The reduced level of Ara h 1 associated with a significantly lower abundance of the most potent peanut allergen Ara h 2 in various Indonesian peanuts was also confirmed by Western blotting with monoclonal antibodies and sera of allergic patients.
A combined 15N tracing/proteomics study in Brassica napus reveals the chronology of proteomics events associated with N remobilisation during leaf senescence induced by nitrate limitation or starvation
Authors: Desclos Marie , Etienne Philippe , Coquet Laurent , Jouenne Thierry , Bonnefoy Josette , Segura Raphaël , Reze Sandrine , Ourry Alain , Avice Jean‐Christophe
Published: July 2009

Our goal was to identify the leaf proteomic changes which appeared during N remobilisation that were associated or not associated with senescence of oilseed rape in response to contrasting nitrate availability. Remobilisation of N and leaf senescence status were followed using 15N tracing, patterns of chlorophyll level, total protein content and a molecular indicator based on expression of senescence‐associated gene 12/Cab genes. Three phases associated with N remobilisation were distinguished. Proteomics revealed that 55 proteins involved in metabolism, energy, detoxification, stress response, proteolysis and protein folding, were significantly induced during N remobilisation. Four proteases were specifically identified. FtsH, a chloroplastic protease, was induced transiently during the early stages of N remobilisation. Considering the dynamics of N remobilisation, chlorophyll and protein content, the pattern of FtsH expression indicated that this protease could be involved in the degradation of chloroplastic proteins. Aspartic protease increased at the beginning of senescence and was maintained at a high level, implicating this protease in proteolysis during the course of leaf senescence. Two proteases, proteasome beta subunit A1 and senescence‐associated gene 12, were induced and continued to increase during the later phase of senescence, suggesting that these proteases are more specifically involved in the proteolysis processes occurring at the final stages of leaf senescence.
Morphometry and Late Holocene activity of solifluction landforms in the Sierra Nevada, southern Spain
Authors: Oliva Marc , Schulte Lothar , Ortiz Antonio Gómez
Published: July 2009

Numerous solifluction landforms in two valleys of the western part of the Sierra Nevada range in the southern Iberian Peninsula were classified according to morphology and used to reconstruct solifluction activity for the Late Holocene. Lobes are almost inactive under the current semiarid climate and water availability appears to be the crucial control on activity within the high‐elevation study areas. The presence of numerous inactive solifluction lobes suggests that past climate conditions must have been more favourable for lobe development. Chronostratigraphic profiles of several lobes indicate that colder and/or wetter periods (e.g. the Little Ice Age) tend to promote slope movements, with sparser vegetation cover and higher solifluction rates whereas a denser vegetation cover spreads across valley floors and soils develop during warmer periods (e.g. the Medieval Warm Period). Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Abelmoschus moschatus (Malvaceae), an aromatic plant, suitable for medical or food uses to improve insulin sensitivity
Authors: Liu I.‐M. , Tzeng Thing‐Fong , Liou Shorong‐Shii
Published: July 2009

Abelmoschus moschatus (Malvaceae) is an aromatic and medicinal plant, distributed in many parts of Asia, including south Taiwan. The present study was undertaken to clarify whether the herb is effective in improving insulin resistance. Insulin resistance in rats was induced by a diet containing 60% fructose for 6 weeks. The degree of insulin resistance was measured by homeostasis model assessment of basal insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR). Insulin sensitivity was calculated using the composite whole body insulin sensitivity index (ISIcomp) during the oral glucose tolerance test. Insulin receptor‐related signaling mediators in soleus muscles of rats were evaluated by immunoprecipitation or immunoblotting. The extract of A. moschatus had a higher level of polyphenolic flavonoids. A. moschatus extract (200 mg/kg per day) displayed the characteristics of rosiglitazone (4 mg/kg per day) in reducing the higher HOMA‐IR index as well as elevating ISIcomp in fructose chow‐fed rats after a 2‐week treatment. Treatment with moschatus extract for 2 weeks increased post‐receptor insulin signaling mediated by enhancements in insulin receptor substrate‐1‐associated phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase step and glucose transporter subtype 4 translocation in insulin‐resistant soleus muscles. A. moschatus is therefore proposed as potentially useful adjuvant therapy for patients with insulin resistance and/or the subjects wishing to increase insulin sensitivity. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gallic acid protects RINm5F β‐cells from glucolipotoxicity by its antiapoptotic and insulin‐secretagogue actions
Authors: Sameermahmood Zaheer , Raji Lenin , Saravanan Thangavel , Vaidya Ashok , Mohan Viswanathan , Balasubramanyam Muthuswamy
Published: July 2009

Gallic acid is claimed to possess antioxidant, antiinflammatory and cytoprotective effects. Since pancreatic islets from Type 2 diabetic patients have functional defects, it was hypothesized that glucolipotoxicity might induce apoptosis in β‐cells and gallic acid could offer protection. To test this, RINm5F β‐cells were exposed to high glucose (25 μM) or palmitate (500 μM) or a combination of both for 24 h in the presence and absence of gallic acid. Cells subjected to glucolipotoxicity in the absence and presence of gallic acid were assessed for DNA damage by comet assay. Apoptosis was inferred by caspase‐3 protein expression and caspase‐3 activity and changes in Bcl‐2 mRNA. RT‐PCR was used to analyse PDX‐1, insulin and UCP‐2 mRNA expression in RINm5F β‐cells and insulin levels were quantified from the cell culture supernatant. NFκB signal was studied by EMSA, immunofluorescence and Western blot analysis. While RINm5F β‐cells subjected to glucolipotoxicity exhibited increased DNA damage, apoptotic markers and NFκB signals, all these apoptotic perturbations were resisted by gallic acid. Gallic acid dose‐dependently increased insulin secretion in RINm5F β‐cells and upregulated mRNA of PDX‐1 and insulin. It is suggested that the insulin‐secretagogue and transcriptional regulatory action of gallic acid is a newly identified mechanism in our study. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Betulinic acid protects against ischemia/reperfusion‐induced renal damage and inhibits leukocyte apoptosis
Authors: Ekşioğlu‐Demiralp Emel , Kardaş E. Rıza , Özgül Seçkin , Yağcı Tayfur , Bilgin Hüseyin , Şehirli Özer , Ercan Feriha , Şener Göksel
Published: July 2009

The possible protective effect of betulinic acid on renal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury was studied. Wistar Albino rats were unilaterally nephrectomized and subjected to 45 min of renal pedicle occlusion followed by 6 h of reperfusion. Betulinic acid (250 mg/kg, i.p.) or saline was administered at 30 min prior to ischemia and immediately before the reperfusion. Creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and TNF‐α as well as the oxidative burst of neutrophil and leukocyte apoptosis were assayed in blood samples. Malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH) levels, Na+, K+‐ATPase and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activities were determined in kidney tissue which was also analysed microscopically. I/R caused significant increases in blood creatinine, BUN, LDH and TNF‐α. In the kidney samples of the I/R group, MDA levels and MPO activity were increased significantly, however, GSH levels and Na+, K+‐ATPase activity were decreased. Betulinic acid ameliorated the oxidative burst response to both formyl‐methionyl‐leucyl‐phenylalanine (fMLP) and phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (PMA) stimuli, normalized the apoptotic response and most of the biochemical indices as well as histopathological alterations induced by I/R. In conclusion, these data suggest that betulinic acid attenuates I/R‐induced oxidant responses, improved microscopic damage and renal function by regulating the apoptotic function of leukocytes and inhibiting neutrophil infiltration. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of Bupleurum falcatum and its combination with an angiotensin II receptor blocker on cytokine and chemokine expression in human mesangial cells
Authors: Cho Byoung‐Soo , Kim Sung‐Do , Park Jae‐Kyung , Chung Joo‐Ho , Hong Mee‐Suk , Lee Byung‐Cheol , Ihm Chun‐Gyoo
Published: July 2009

This study aimed to investigate the inhibitory effect of Bupleurum falcatum and its combination with angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) on cytokine and chemokine production in cultured human mesangial cells. Human mesangial cells were isolated and cultured in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium culture medium. Bupleurum falcatum, ARB, and the combination of the two were added to human mesangial cells. Cytokine and chemokine levels were analysed using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. There were no significant differences in the expression of IL‐1ß, IL‐2 or TNF‐a between controls and the experimental groups. However, IL‐11 and monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 (MCP‐1) levels were significantly reduced in response to ARB, Bupleurum falcatum, or their combination when compared with controls. IL‐8 expression was reduced significantly only in cells treated with ARB. Both Bupleurum falcatum and ARB treatments alone reduced the cytokine concentration, but there was not a stronger reduction when the two drugs were combined. It was shown that Bupleurum falcatum inhibited cytokine production in human mesangial cells. However, there were no additive effects on the suppression of cytokine production when Bupleurum falcatum was combined with ARB. Further studies are needed to elucidate the renoprotective effects of Bupleurum falcatum. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Neuroprotective effect of luteolin on amyloid β protein (25–35)‐induced toxicity in cultured rat cortical neurons
Authors: Cheng Hao‐Yuan , Hsieh Ming‐Tsuen , Tsai Fan‐Shiu , Wu Chi‐Rei , Chiu Chuan‐Sung , Lee Min‐Min , Xu Hong‐Xi , Zhao Zhong‐Zhen , Peng Wen‐Huang
Published: July 2009

The present study was carried out to investigate the neuroprotective effect of luteolin on amyloid β (Aβ) (25–35)‐induced neurotoxicity using cultured rat cortical neurons. After exposure of primary cultures of rat cortical cells to 10 μM Aβ (25–35) for 48 h, cortical cell cultures exhibited marked apoptotic death. Pretreatment with luteolin (1, 10 μM) significantly protected cortical cell cultures against Aβ (25–35)‐induced toxicity. Luteolin (1, 10 μM) showed a concentration‐dependent inhibition on 10 μM Aβ (25–35)‐induced apoptotic neuronal death, as assessed by MTT assay. Furthermore, luteolin reduced apoptotic characteristics by DAPI staining. For Western blot analysis, the results showed that the protective effect of luteolin on Aβ (25–35)‐induced neurotoxicity was mediated by preventing of ERK‐p, JNK, JNK‐p, P38‐p and caspase 3 activations in rat primary cortical cultures. Taken together, the results suggest that luteolin prevents Aβ (25–35)‐induced apoptotic neuronal death through inhibiting the protein level of JNK, ERK and p38 MAP kinases and caspase 3 activations. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chemoprevention of skin cancer by the flavonoid fraction of Saraca asoka
Authors: Cibin T. R. , Devi D. Gayathri , Abraham Annie
Published: July 2009

Saraca asoka (Family – Caesalpiniaceae) has been widely used in the Ayurvedic (traditional Indian) system of medicine especially due to its wound healing property. The present study investigated the chemopreventive property of flavonoids from the flowers of Saraca asoka on 7,12 dimethyl benz(a)anthracene (DMBA) induced skin cancer in mice models. A single topical application of DMBA (100 mg/50 μL of acetone) followed after 2 weeks by three times a week treatment with croton oil (1% in acetone), for 20 weeks resulted in tumor induction. The topical application of the flavonoid fraction of S. asoka (FF S. asoka), 30 min prior to the application of croton oil thrice weekly for 20 weeks, caused a significant reduction in the number of tumors per mouse and the percentage of tumor‐bearing mice. Also the latency period for the appearance of the first tumor was delayed by S. asoka pretreatment. In the flavonoid fraction (5 μg and 10 μg/kg body weight) treated animals, the levels of biochemical markers – rhodanese, myeloperoxidase, β‐D‐glucuronidase, sialic acid, hexokinase and caspase 3 were significantly restored to near normal levels. These findings suggest the chemopreventive activity of flavonoids from S. asoka on two stage skin carcinogenesis. Histological data also support the chemopreventive potential of S. asoka. Copyright ” 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Wireless ventilation control for large‐scale systems: The mining industrial case
Authors: Witrant E. , D'Innocenzo A. , Sandou G. , Santucci F. , Di Benedetto M. D. , Isaksson A. J. , Johansson K. H. , Niculescu S.‐I. , Olaru S. , Serra E. , Tennina S. , Tiberi U.
Published: July 2009

This paper describes a new industrial case on automation, for large‐scale systems with high environmental impact: the mining ventilation control systems. Ventilation control is essential for the operation of a mine in terms of safety (CO and NOx regulation) and energy optimization. We first discuss a novel regulation architecture, highlighting the interest for a model‐based control approach and the use of distributed sensing capabilities thanks to a wireless sensor network (WSN). We propose a new model for underground ventilation. The main components of the system dynamics are described with time‐delays, transmission errors, energy losses and concentration profiles. Two different model‐based control approaches, which can embody the complex dynamics of the system, are proposed. The first one resorts to a nonlinear model predictive control strategy (receding horizon) and aims to energy minimization, thanks to a continuous operation of the fans. The second one, based on a hybrid description of the model and fans operation, provides automatic verification of the wireless control thanks to abstraction techniques. These control strategies are compared with simulations, in terms of regulation efficiency, energy consumption and the need for computational capabilities. The industrial case description and control strategies open new vistas for the development of global system approaches that allow for the optimization of energy consumption of complex large‐scale systems. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.