bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Collagen-covered autologous chondrocyte implantation for osteochondritis dissecans of the knee
Authors: Krishnan S. P. , Skinner J. A. , Carrington R. W. J. , Flanagan A. M. , Briggs T. W. R. , Bentley G.
Published: January 2006

We prospectively studied the clinical, arthroscopic and histological results of collagen-covered autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI-C) in patients with symptomatic osteochondritis dissecans of the knee. The study included 37 patients who were evaluated at a mean follow-up of 4.08 years.

Clinical results showed a mean improvement in the modified Cincinnati score from 46.1 to 68.4. Excellent and good clinical results were seen in 82.1% of those with juvenile-onset osteochondritis dissecans but in only 44.4% of those with adult-onset disease.

Arthroscopy at one year revealed International Cartilage Repair Society grades of 1 or 2 in 21 of 24 patients (87.5%). Of 23 biopsies, 11 (47.8%) showed either a hyaline-like or a mixture of hyaline-like and fibrocartilage, 12 (52.2%) showed fibrocartilage.

The age at the time of ACI-C determined the clinical outcome for juvenile-onset disease (p = 0.05), whereas the size of the defect was the major determinant of outcome in adult-onset disease (p = 0.01).
Selenium yeast: Composition, quality, analysis, and safety
Authors: Schrauzer G. N.
Published: January 2006

Selenium yeast, produced by growing select strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae in Se-rich media, is a recognized source of organic food-form Se, but the determination of its exact composition with respect to the Se species present produced conflicting results. Improved methods of analysis have since revealed it to contain 90+ % of its Se in the form of selenomethionine, the principal organic nutritional form of Se for higher animals and humans. The safety record of Se yeast is excellent: During the three decades of its world-wide use as a source of supplemental Se, no cases of Se poisoning have occurred due to dosage or formulation errors.
Reference materials as crucial tools for quality assurance and control in food analysis
Authors: Emons Hendrik , Held Andrea , Ulberth Franz
Published: January 2006

The role of reference materials (RMs) in analytical quality assurance (QA) is outlined with special emphasis on trace element analysis of foodstuff. Crucial aspects for the development of such food RMs are illustrated by a recent example of trace elements in rice flour. Major influences on the uncertainty of certified values are discussed and possibilities to enhance the availability and fitness-for-purpose of RMs as well as their proper use are indicated.
Hematopoietic Cells Are a Source of Nidogen-1 and Nidogen-2 during Mouse Liver Development
Authors: Tomte Laurice T. , Annatshah Yaser , Schlüter Nadine K. , Miosge Nicolai , Herken Rainer , Quondamatteo Fabio
Published: January 2006

Nidogen-1 and −2 are key components of basement membranes (BMs). Despite the presence of nidogen molecules in the parenchyma of the developing liver, no BMs are formed therein. This suggests that, in the liver, nidogens may also have functions other than BM formation. As a first step toward the elucidation of the possible cell biological functions of nidogens in the developing liver, we aimed to study their cellular origin. We localized expression of nidogen-1 and nidogen-2 on prenatal days 12, 14, and 16 in the developing mouse liver using in situ hybridization at the light and electron microscopic level and light microscopic immunohistochemistry. Our results show that nidogens are produced both in portal anlagen and in the parenchyma during liver development. In the parenchyma, transcripts can be found in hepatocytes, precursors of stellate cells, endothelial cells and, most interestingly, hematopoietic cells. Using real-time PCR, we found that the gene expression for both proteins shows a decrease from day 14 to day 16 concomitant with a decrease in the hepatic hematopoiesis. We suggest that nidogens may, to some extent, take part in the regulation of hepatic hematopoiesis. (J Histochem Cytochem 54:593-604, 2006)
Signalamplifizierung über allosterische Katalyse
Authors: Zhu Lei , Anslyn Eric V.
Published: January 2006

In diesem Kurzaufsatz fassen wir eine Reihe neuerer Studien über Bio‐ und Chemosensoren im Rahmen einer einzigen Signalübertragungsstrategie zusammen: der Signalamplifizierung über allosterische Katalyse (SAAC). Die SAAC‐Strategie imitiert biologische Signaltransduktionsprozesse, bei denen die molekulare Erkennung zwischen einem externen Signal und einem Proteinrezeptor allosterisch in eine katalytisch verstärkte chemische Information (normalerweise sekundäre Botenstoffe) umgewandelt wird. Dazu werden modifizierte allosterische Enzyme, Ribozyme oder regulierbare organische Katalysatoren eingesetzt. Die wesentlichen Faktoren, die zu hoher Empfindlichkeit und Spezifität in den SAAC‐Strategien führen, werden analysiert. Diese frühen Studien eröffnen einen neuen Zugang zu Nachweisverfahren, in denen molekulare Erkennung und Katalyse miteinander gekoppelt werden können.
Task‐Specific Ionic Liquids Bearing 2‐Hydroxybenzylamine Units: Synthesis and Americium‐Extraction Studies
Authors: Ouadi Ali , Gadenne Benoît , Hesemann Peter , Moreau Joel J. E. , Billard Isabelle , Gaillard Clotilde , Mekki Soufiane , Moutiers Gilles
Published: January 2006

The synthesis of two task‐specific ionic liquids (TSILs) bearing 2‐hydroxybenzylamine entities is described. These compounds are based on an imidazolium substructure onto which one hydrobenzylamine‐complexing moiety is grafted. We have demonstrated that, whether pure or diluted, TSIL is able to extract americium ions. Furthermore, recovery of americium from the IL phase into a receiving phase can be achieved under acidic conditions. A possible mechanism for the metal‐ion partitioning is presented, in which the extraction system is driven by an ion‐exchange mechanism.
Stereoselective binding of human serum albumin
Authors: Chuang Victor Tuan Giam , Otagiri Masaki
Published: January 2006

Stereoselectivity in binding can have a significant effect on the drug disposition such as first‐pass metabolism, metabolic clearance, renal clearance, and protein and tissue binding. Human serum albumin (HSA) is able to stereoselectively bind a great number of various endogenous and exogenous compounds. Various experimental data suggested that the two major drug‐binding cavities, namely, site I and site II, do not seem to be the stereoselective binding sites of HSA. Stereoselective binding of HSA under disease conditions such as renal and hepatic diseases was found to be enhanced. In addition, site‐to‐site displacement of a site II‐specific drug by another site II‐specific drug was found to be stereoselective, too. Endogenous compounds such as long‐chain fatty acids and uremic toxins are likely to cause combined direct and cascade effects that contribute to the preferential binding of a particular drug enantiomer. Taking together the findings of other studies, it is highly possible that the stereoselective binding site exists at the interface of the subdomains. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Chirality
Radiowellenerwärmung von Adsorbenzien und Katalysatoren – Teil 1: Grundlagen und technische Realisierung
Authors: Buchenhorst D. , Toufar H. , Kopinke F.‐D. , Roland U.
Published: January 2006

Die direkte dielektrische Erwärmung von Festbetten mit elektromagnetischen Wellen besitzt eine Reihe von Vorteilen gegenüber konventionellen Heizverfahren. In der Praxis wurde bisher vor allem die Mikrowellenerwärmung erprobt, was insbesondere auf die gute Verfügbarkeit von entsprechenden Geräten zurückzuführen ist. Der dielektrischen Erwärmung mit Radiowellen liegen dieselben physikalischen Wirkmechanismen zugrunde. Die Untersuchungen in dieser Arbeit sind auf die technisch relevanten Feststoffe Aktivkohle und Zeolithe beschränkt, wobei die Realisierbarkeit der Erwärmung, die Ermittlung typischer Betriebsparameter sowie die energetische Effizienz der Aufheizung im Mittelpunkt des Interesses stehen.
Katalytische oxidative Dehydrierung von 2‐Butanol zu 2‐Butanon in der Gasphase
Authors: Brüning R. , Scholz P. , Ondruschka B. , Hollstein F. , Morgenthal I.
Published: January 2006

Vorgestellt wird die oxidative Dehydrierung (ODH) von 2‐Butanol zu 2‐Butanon mit Hilfe von neuartigen innovativen Selektivoxidationskatalysatoren in der Gasphase. Dabei werden metallische Kurzfasern und beschichtete Eisenhohlkugeln als Katalysatoren eingesetzt. Der am besten geeignete Katalysator setzt 2‐Butanol bei 340 °C vollständig um. Dabei wird eine Selektivität zu 2‐Butanon von deutlich mehr als 95 % erreicht.
Charakterisierung von Wechselwirkungseinflüssen auf die Partikeldiffusion mittels Photonenkorrelationsspektroskopie
Authors: Kätzel U. , Stintz M. , Barthel H.
Published: January 2006

Messsysteme der Photonenkorrelationsspektroskopie, die Mehrfachstreueffekte unterdrücken können, ermöglichen die Untersuchung von Partikelwechselwirkungen in kolloidalen Systemen. Dabei zeigen sich sowohl DLVO‐Wechselwirkungseffekte als auch Struktureffekte, z. B. bei Aggregaten pyrogener Kieselsäure. Ergänzend zum mittleren Diffusionskoeffizienten konnte die Verteilungsbreite als wichtiger Informationsträger identifiziert werden.
Fine‐needle aspiration cytology of the thyroid gland: Comparative analysis of experience at three hospitals
Authors: Berner Aasmund , Sigstad Eva , Pradhan Manohar , Grøholt Krystyna K. , Davidson Ben
Published: January 2006

Fine‐needle cytology is an effective and accurate diagnostic method for the assessment of thyroid lesions. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the role of thyroid cytology at a tertiary where cytopathologists with experience in thyroid cytology participate in the procedure and compare it with results in two community hospitals lacking pathology departments and on‐site cytopathologists. A total of 1,770 specimens were diagnosed between 1998 and 2003. Of these, 425 were from the two local hospitals. The fraction of unsatisfactory specimens was 24% for submitted specimens and 9.5% for those taken in the presence of a cytopathologist. The percentage of malignant specimens was 4.1% at the tertiary center compared with 2.2% of submitted cases. These data highlight the need to centralize thyroid fine needle cytology to specialized centers with experienced cytopathologists. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2006; 34:97–100. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cytopathologic analysis of thyroid lesions in the pediatric population
Authors: Hosler Gregory A. , Clark Ian , Zakowski Maureen F. , Westra William H. , Ali Syed Z.
Published: January 2006

Fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) of the thyroid is seldom performed in the pediatric population. Therefore, the clinical utility of thyroid FNA in this patient group has not been adequately addressed. A 15 yr retrospective review of the cytopathology archives at the participating institutions was performed to identify cases of thyroid FNA performed in pediatric patients. The medical records of these cases were reviewed, including the surgical pathology reports of those patients who had subsequently undergone surgical resection. One hundred one specimens from 82 patients were identified. Of these, 40 had a cytopathologic diagnosis of carcinoma, “suspicious” for carcinoma, neoplasm, or atypia, 48 were benign, and 13 were unsatisfactory. Of the 82 patients, 45 underwent partial or total thyroidectomy. Twenty‐two (49%) of these were found to harbor a malignant neoplasm (18 papillary carcinomas). The diagnostic sensitivity for identifying a lesion was 87% (26/30) and the diagnostic specificity was 92% (47/51). There were four false‐positives and four false‐negatives in the review, yielding a positive predictive value of 87% and a negative predictive value of 92%. We conclude that FNA is a useful adjunct to the management of thyroid lesions in the pediatric population, with good diagnostic accuracy. Although thyroid neoplasms are relatively rare in children, our experience demonstrated that 40% of thyroid masses referred for FNA had an interpretation that caused concern, ranging from “atypical” to carcinoma. Additionally, a benign diagnosis by FNA may avoid unnecessary surgery with its potential complications, a significant consideration for this age group. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2006; 34:101–105. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Intranasal lipopeptide primes lung‐resident memory CD8+ T cells for long‐term pulmonary protection against influenza
Authors: Deliyannis Georgia , Kedzierska Katherine , Lau Yuk Fai , Zeng Weiguang , Turner Stephen J. , Jackson David C. , Brown Lorena E.
Published: January 2006

The longevity of the influenza virus‐specific CD8+ T cell response following intranasal delivery of a synthetic lipopeptide was investigated and the characteristics and location of the cells associated with viral clearance examined. The lipopeptide, incorporating an epitope for CD8+ T cells and another for CD4+ T cells with the lipid moiety S‐[2,3‐bis(palmitoyloxy)propyl]cysteine (Pam2Cys) attached, induced potent and long‐lived pulmonary protection. Both the lipopeptide and its largely unprotective non‐lipidated counterpart elicited comparable numbers of CD8+ T cells in the spleen, which was the main location of the memory pool. However, the lipopeptide, unlike the non‐lipidated peptide, also induced a substantial memory population that remained in the lungs and was rapidly activated upon viral challenge months later. These lipopeptide‐induced lung‐resident CD8+ T cells were also very similar in number and IFN‐γ‐secreting potential to those induced by prior exposure to the virus itself and are likely mediators of initial viral clearance prior to recruitment from the expanding lymph node T cell pool. Significant clearing responses were demonstrated as late as 9 months post‐lipopeptide vaccination. This study shows that CD8+ T cells primed by the lipopeptide are not only long‐lived but can take up residence in the lung where they are important early mediators of pulmonary protection.
Diastereomeric Enols and Enol Derivatives of 8‐Fluoro‐5,11‐dihydro‐10H‐dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten‐10‐one with a Chiral 11‐Substituent
Authors: Compernolle Frans , Toppet Suzanne , Brossette Thierry , Mao Hua , Koukni Mohamed , Kozlecki Tomasz , Medaer Bart , Guillaume Michel , Lang Yolande , Leurs Stef , Hoornaert Georges J.
Published: January 2006

Aldol condensation of 8‐fluoro‐5,11‐dihydro‐10H‐dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten‐10‐one and (4S)‐2,2‐dimethyl‐1,3‐dioxolane‐4‐carbaldehyde provides access to the corresponding (E,Z)‐α,β‐unsaturated ketones with a (4R)‐chiral 11‐substituent. Subsequent hydrogenation affords a mixture of (11R)/(11S)‐epimeric ketones, which undergoes base‐catalysed equilibration resulting in selective crystallisation of the (11R) epimer. The enol intermediate and acyclic enol derivatives are shown to exist as two slowly interconverting conformers with a high inversion barrier of the 10,11‐disubstituted ring. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006)
One‐Pot Synthesis of Heterocycles Initiated by Chemoselective Reduction of Bifunctional Carbonyl Compounds
Authors: Kato Hirofumi , Shibata Ikuya , Kanazawa Nobuaki , Yasuda Makoto , Baba Akio
Published: January 2006

One‐pot syntheses of a variety of heterocyclic compounds initiated by the chemoselective reduction of the formyl groups in bifunctional carbonyl compounds 1 with the Bu3SnH/HMPA system have been achieved. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006)
Determination of Mercury by Chronopotentiometric Stripping Analysis Using Glassy Carbon Vessel as a Working Electrode
Authors: Švarc‐Gajić Jaroslava , Suturović Zvonimir , Marjanović Nikola , Kravić Snežana
Published: January 2006

In this work chronopotentiometric stripping analysis of mercury was performed using a process vessel of glassy carbon as a working electrode. Experimental parameters for both steady and rotating vessel were investigated and compared. Relative sensitivity as well as the sharpness of the analytical signal was better when the rotation of the process vessel was performed. The new design provided better sensitivity when compared to both stationary and rotating glassy carbon disk electrodes. Detection limit obtained for the electrolysis time of 600 s was 0.1 ng/L of Hg(II). The accuracy of the technique was confirmed by analyzing the standard reference material – tomato leaves.
Application of Nanoparticles in Electrochemical Sensors and Biosensors
Authors: Luo Xiliang , Morrin Aoife , Killard Anthony J. , Smyth Malcolm R.
Published: January 2006

The unique chemical and physical properties of nanoparticles make them extremely suitable for designing new and improved sensing devices, especially electrochemical sensors and biosensors. Many kinds of nanoparticles, such as metal, oxide and semiconductor nanoparticles have been used for constructing electrochemical sensors and biosensors, and these nanoparticles play different roles in different sensing systems. The important functions provided by nanoparticles include the immobilization of biomolecules, the catalysis of electrochemical reactions, the enhancement of electron transfer between electrode surfaces and proteins, labeling of biomolecules and even acting as reactant. This minireview addresses recent advances in nanoparticle‐based electrochemical sensors and biosensors, and summarizes the main functions of nanoparticles in these sensor systems.
Expression pattern and functional characterization of connexin29 in transgenic mice
Authors: Eiberger Jürgen , Kibschull Mark , Strenzke Nicola , Schober Andreas , Büssow Heinrich , Wessig Carsten , Djahed Sina , Reucher Harald , Koch Dirk Alex , Lautermann Jürgen , Moser Tobias , Winterhager Elke , Willecke Klaus
Published: January 2006

Using newly generated transgenic mice in which the coding region of the connexin29 (Cx29) gene was replaced by the lacZ reporter gene, we confirmed previous immunochemical results that Cx29 is expressed in Schwann cells, oligodendrocytes and Bergmann glia cells. In addition, we detected lacZ/Cx29 in Schwann cells of the sciatic nerve and in particular of the spiral ganglion in the inner ear, as well as at low abundance in the stria vascularis. Furthermore, we found lacZ/Cx29 expression in nonmyelinating Schwann cells of the adrenal gland, in chondrocytes of intervertebral discs and the epiphysis of developing bones. Electron microscopic analyses of myelin sheaths in the central and peripheral nervous system of Cx29‐deficient mice detected no abnormalities. The nerve conduction in the sciatic nerve of adult Cx29‐deficient mice and the auditory brain stem response as well as visually evoked potentials in 4‐ to 10‐week‐old Cx29‐deficient mice were not different from wild‐type littermate controls. Thus, in contrast to connexin32 and connexin47, which are also expressed in myelinating cells, Cx29 does not contribute to the function of myelin in adult mice. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Regionally specific distribution of the binding of anti‐glutamine synthetase and anti‐S100 antibodies and of Datura stramonium lectin in glial domains of the optic lobe of the giant prawn
Authors: Allodi Silvana , Bressan Cristine M. , Carvalho Sergio L. , Cavalcante Leny A.
Published: January 2006

We previously characterized some crustacean glial cells by markers such as 2′,3′‐cyclic nucleotide 3′‐phosphodiesterase and glial fibrillary acidic protein. Here we use antibodies against glutamine synthetase full‐length molecule (anti‐GS/FL), a GS C‐terminal peptide (anti‐GS/20aa‐C), and brain S100 (anti‐S100), as well as the binding of the insect glia and rat astrocytic marker Datura stramonium lectin (DSL), in the optic lobe of the prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii. All markers label the lamina ganglionaris cartridge region (lighter: anti‐GS/FL; heavier: DSL). In addition, anti‐GS/FL labels superficial somata of external and internal medullas and internal chiasm cells. Both anti‐GS/20aa‐C and anti‐S100 label heavily the glial sheaths of the lamina ganglionaris. In addition, anti‐S100 binds to the perineurial glia of medullary parenchymal vessels. Western blot analyses show that both anti‐GS/FL and anti‐GS/20aa‐C bind mostly to a band of 50–55 kDa, compatible with a long isoform of vertebrate GS, and accessorily to a possible dimer and, in the case of anti‐GS/20aa‐C, to an ill‐defined band of intermediate mass. Binding of anti‐S100 is selective for a single band of about 68 kDa but shows no protein in the weight range of the canonical S100 protein superfamily. DSL reveals two bands of about 75 and about 120 kDa, thus within the range of maximal recognition for rat astrocytes. Our results suggest that phenotype protein markers of the optic lobe glia share antigenic determinants with S100 and (a long form of) GS and that, similarly to vertebrate and insect glia, crustacean glia protein and N‐glycan residue markers display regional heterogeneity. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A functional hypothesis for adult hippocampal neurogenesis: Avoidance of catastrophic interference in the dentate gyrus
Authors: Wiskott Laurenz , Rasch Malte J. , Kempermann Gerd
Published: January 2006

The dentate gyrus is part of the hippocampal memory system and special in that it generates new neurons throughout life. Here we discuss the question of what the functional role of these new neurons might be. Our hypothesis is that they help the dentate gyrus to avoid the problem of catastrophic interference when adapting to new environments. We assume that old neurons are rather stable and preserve an optimal encoding learned for known environments while new neurons are plastic to adapt to those features that are qualitatively new in a new environment. A simple network simulation demonstrates that adding new plastic neurons is indeed a successful strategy for adaptation without catastrophic interference. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Development of the tentacular apparatus in sipunculans (Sipuncula): I. Thysanocardia nigra (Ikeda, 1904) and Themiste pyroides (Chamberlin, 1920)
Authors: Adrianov Andrey V. , Malakhov Vladimir V. , Maiorova Anastassya S.
Published: January 2006

The development and arrangement of the tentacular apparatus of Thysanocardia nigra (Ikeda, 1904) and Themiste pyroides (Chamberlin, 1920) are described and illustrated using scanning electron microscopy. In T. nigra, the tentacular apparatus is composed of two crowns: the nuchal arc enclosing the nuchal organ and a crown of numerous oral tentacles arranged in U‐shaped festoons. In early juveniles, two dorsal horn‐like protrusions develop into the first, or primary, pair of tentacles of the nuchal arc. The second pair of tentacles of the nuchal arc develops dorsolaterally on the bases of the primary tentacles. Two ventrolateral lobes of the oral disk grow and become subdivided by the longitudinal ciliary groove into anlages of one set of dorsal and one set of ventral tentacles, thus forming a first oral festoon. Later, a pair of dorsolateral lobes develop between the first festoons and the nuchal arc to form a second pair of oral festoons. The third and following pairs of oral festoons develop in the dorsolateral growth zones lateral to the borders of the nuchal arc, where they meet the oral crown. The growing festoons extend down the oral disk and run alongside the head. A new oral tentacle appears directly at/on the base of the previous tentacle, thus giving rise to a typical sympodium with an alternating arrangement of tentacles. In T. pyroides, a second pair of tentacles develops from two ciliary lobes that are ventrolateral outgrowths of the circumoral ciliary field around the terminal mouth opening. The third pair of tentacles appears from the dorsolateral lobes at the base of primary tentacles, between the first two pairs of tentacles. These six tentacles determine the position of six main stems of the tentacular apparatus designated the first tentacles in the corresponding stems. The second tentacle in every stem appears as a ventrolateral outgrowth at the base of the first tentacle. The third and following tentacles in the stem are developed between the two previous tentacles according to a sympodial pattern. In both species, the distinct sympodial pattern in the arrangement of tentacles in the tentacular apparatus is well evidenced by the outlines of the ciliary oral grooves. The branched stems of T. pyroides may be homologized structurally and functionally to the oral festoons of T. nigra. J. Morphol. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Raman identification of ancient stained glasses and their degree of deterioration
Authors: Colomban Philippe , Etcheverry Marie‐Pierre , Asquier Magali , Bounichou Mathieu , Tournié Aurélie
Published: January 2006

The aim of this investigation was to establish a Raman procedure for on‐site identification of stained‐glass windows and their deterioration level. This study of a representative series of stained‐glass pieces dating from the thirteenth to seventeenth, nineteenth and twenty‐first centuries made it possible to classify the glasses into four types: Type 1 (rare, Ca‐rich Na silicate), Type 2 (rare, Na‐rich, Ca silicate), Type 3 (more frequent, KCa silicate) and a variant of Type 3, referred to as 3bis. Ion exchange of the alkali cations was made in boiling sulfuric acid and related to structural and compositional changes, which were analyzed with IR and Raman spectroscopy, optical microscopy and EDS. Measurements of the film thickness showed a great discrepancy between the ion‐exchange rates of KCa (Type 3: 60 µm/h) and NaCa (Type 2: 15 µm/h) silicates with that of Type 1 Ca‐silicate (0.05 µm/h). IR and Raman spectra provided proof that the nanostructure of the glass was modified, chiefly by the downward (Raman) and upward (IR) shift of the position of the main SiO stretching peak and a decrease in the intensity of the Boson peak, as well as the Raman 580 cm−1 SiO bending peak. The decrease in intensity of the narrow ∼950 cm−1 Raman peak, assigned to (earth)alkali nano crystallites in the glassy network, is correlated with the K/Na ion loss and glass weathering. Consequently Type 3bis samples are in fact glasses, in which the surface is depleted of K/Na ions. Optical micrographs support the macroscopic compositional and structural heterogeneity of the ancient glasses. This work demonstrates the potential of Raman scattering for in situ measurements of the degree of weathering of ancient stained glasses. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Growth of poly(methyl methacrylate) brushes on silicon surfaces by atom transfer radical polymerization
Authors: Ramakrishnan A. , Dhamodharan R. , Rühe J.
Published: January 2006

Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) brushes are grown by surface‐initiated atom transfer radical polymerization on silicon surfaces at various polymerization temperatures. Kinetic studies show that the layer thickness scales linearly with the degree of polymerization of the polymers under some conditions, indicating a constant graft density of the surface‐attached chains. At high temperatures, the layer growth is a controlled process only for short reaction times, and after a rapid increase, the film growth levels off, and a constant thickness is obtained. At lower reaction temperatures, polymers with a lower polydispersity are obtained, but at the expense of a much slower growth rate. Accordingly, intermediate temperatures yield the highest film thickness on experimentally feasible timescales. The reinitiation of these surface‐grafted PMMA chains at room temperature to either extend the chains or grow a chemically different polyglycidylmethacrylate block demonstrates the presence of active ends and the living nature of the surface‐grafted PMMA chains. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 1758–1769, 2006
Towards computing with proteins
Authors: Unger Ron , Moult John
Published: January 2006

Can proteins be used as computational devices to address difficult computational problems? In recent years there has been much interest in biological computing, that is, building a general purpose computer from biological molecules. Most of the current efforts are based on DNA because of its ability to self‐hybridize. The exquisite selectivity and specificity of complex protein‐based networks motivated us to suggest that similar principles can be used to devise biological systems that will be able to directly implement any logical circuit as a parallel asynchronous computation. Such devices, powered by ATP molecules, would be able to perform, for medical applications, digital computation with natural interface to biological input conditions. We discuss how to design protein molecules that would serve as the basic computational element by functioning as a NAND logical gate, utilizing DNA tags for recognition, and phosphorylation and exonuclease reactions for information processing. A solution of these elements could carry out effective computation. Finally, the model and its robustness to errors were tested in a computer simulation. Proteins 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A Case‐based Decision Support System for Flooding Crises Onboard Ships
Authors: Ölçer A. İ. , Majumder J.
Published: January 2006

This paper presents the development of an integrated system, namely the COMAND‐DSS (Decision Support System created under project COMAND), for crisis management and real‐time decision support in shipboard flooding emergencies. It employs the case‐based reasoning approach to provide swift and effective decision‐making support for shipboard personnel during an emergency on ship. The developed system, which focuses on decision support for flooding control, is also thought to be useful as a crew training system. In order to deal with a flooding damage in the COMAND‐DSS, a multiple attribute decision‐making methodology—Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS)—is used to be able to choose the set of counter‐flooding tanks that should be filled in order to achieve an optimal response to a flooding accident. The COMAND‐DSS is composed of a knowledge base, a reasoning process and a graphical user interface for the shipboard personnel to interact with the system. The friendly windows‐based user interface of the COMAND‐DSS enables the user to take full advantage of the capabilities of the system in order to make quick decisions. Using this system, when a crisis occurs the optimal decisions and responses can be made in a short time, thereby reducing the risk to life, property and environment. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reliability and Availability Analysis of Complex Port Transportation Systems
Authors: Kołowrocki Krzysztof , Soszyńska Joanna
Published: January 2006

A semi‐Markov model of a system operation process is proposed and its selected parameters are determined. A series–parallel multi‐state system is considered and its reliability and risk characteristics are found. Next, the joint model of the system operation process and the system multi‐state reliability and risk is constructed. Finally, the asymptotic approach to reliability, availability and risk evaluation of the multi‐state series–parallel system in its operation process is applied to the port grain transportation system. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Predicting and preventing post‐herpetic neuralgia: Are current risk factors useful in clinical practice?
Authors: Coen Pietro G. , Scott Fiona , Leedham‐Green Mary , Nia Tiffany , Jamil Akeel , Johnson Robert W. , Breuer Judith
Published: January 2006

Post‐herpetic neuralgia (PHN) following acute herpes zoster remains a significant cause of neuropathic pain especially in the elderly. Early treatment of the zoster rash with antiviral agents, such as aciclovir remains one of the few measures proven to reduce the incidence and duration of PHN albeit only in a subset of patients. It is therefore crucial that the physician who first sees a case of zoster identifies those patients who are most likely to develop long‐term pain and treats them accordingly. In particular, prodrugs such as famciclovir and valaciclvoir may be more beneficial in reducing PHN than the shorter acting aciclovir, but can be more expensive. Measures that could be used to predict patients likely to develop PHN would also facilitate the evaluation of early use of antiepileptic, anti‐inflammatory and analgesic agents in the prevention of PHN. In a prospective study of 280 herpes zoster (HZ) cases seen by the general practitioner (GP) we evaluated the predictive value of five clinical factors identified in clinical trials as associated with a higher likelihood of PHN. A visual analogue score (VAS) over 5 and/or age over 50 correctly identified all subjects with PHN at 3 and 6 months, respectively. However, the specificity of this prediction was low because as many as 81% and 85% of those aged over 50 recovered within 3 and 6 months, respectively. Better methods are needed to identify patients over 50 at most risk of PHN that enable GPs to better allocate their resources with respect to HZ treatment.
Interdigital Pilonidal Sinus in a Hairdresser
Authors: BALLAS K. , PSARRAS K. , RAFAILIDIS S. , KONSTANTINIDIS H. , SAKADAMIS A.
Published: January 2006

Pilonidal sinus of the interdigital web space of the hand is a rare occupational disease which occurs in hairdressers and professionals working with animals. This paper reports such a sinus in the hand of a male hairdresser and reviews the treatment of this condition.
The Effect of Mitek Anchor Insertion Angle to Attachment of FDP Avulsion Injuries
Authors: SCHREUDER F. B. , SCOUGALL P. J. , PUCHERT E. , VIZESI F. , WALSH W. R.
Published: January 2006

Flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) tendon avulsions, although uncommon, are not infrequent injuries. A widely accepted method of treating Type 1 FDP avulsions is a pullout suture tied over a button on the nail plate. The external dorsal button is often a source of inconvenience for the patient. Potential risks associated with button use include nail plate deformities, nail fold necrosis and infections tracking along the sutures. The use of small suture anchors provides a satisfactory alternative, because buried fixation avoids these potential complications. This in vitro, biomechanical study examined the influence of the anchor orientation on the properties of the repaired FDP tendon using human cadavers.
Health Status and the Worlds of Welfare
Authors: Bambra Clare
Published: January 2006

One of the most substantial additions made by the ‘three worlds of welfare’ thesis to the welfare state modelling business is that comparisons should examine what welfare states actually do rather than how much they are afforded or which services they provide. This paper extends this basic principle by comparing the health outcomes (measured in terms of infant mortality rates) of welfare states and welfare state regimes. It examines whether there are significant differences in health status between the ‘three worlds of welfare’ and to what extent a relationship exists between health and decommodification. It concludes by reflecting upon the implications for the ‘three worlds of welfare’.
Themed Section: National and international responses to gendered violence against women Introduction
Authors: Pantazis Christina , Bibbings Lois
Published: January 2006

Over the last 30 or so years the problem of violence against women and how states should respond to it, in its myriad of forms, has become increasingly prevalent in academic and policy debates at both the national and international level. An active international women's movement, spanning Europe, the United States and many parts of the Southern hemisphere, including in particular Latin America and South Asia, has facilitated this growing awareness of gendered violence as a social problem requiring intervention. In a separate, but ultimately related, development there has been a growing global concern with extending human rights protection to women as a distinct group with specific concerns and needs. As a consequence of these twin developments, the tendency for gendered violence to be seen as an essentially private affair requiring limited state interfe-rence has slowly, but increasingly, been superseded by the recognition that the state has been failing victims.
Sexual Violence against Women in Armed Conflicts: Standard Responses and New Ideas
Authors: Zinsstag Estelle
Published: January 2006

This article aims to assess ways in which different justice schemes may operate together for an improved legal and political response to victims of sexual crimes in the aftermath of armed conflicts. The article will briefly present the problem of sexual violence against women in armed conflict. It will then consider the evolution of criminal justice in regard to this crime, the results of recent attempts to implement truth and reconciliation processes, as well as briefly assess reparation schemes. Finally it will suggest a series of measures for coordinating the various schemes of justice in a way that guarantees women's rights in the aftermath of a conflict.
Antioxidant and Anti-atherogenic Activities of Olive Oil Phenolics
Authors: Turner Rufus , Etienne Nicolas , Garcia Alonso Maria , de Pascual-Teresa Sonia , Minihane Anne Marie , Weinberg Peter D. , Rimbach Gerald
Published: January 2006

The aim of the current study was to investigate the antioxidant and cellular activity of the olive oil phenolics oleuropein, tyrosol, hydroxytyrosol, and homovanillic alcohol (which is also a major metabolite of hydroxytyrosol). Well-characterized chemical and biochemical assays were used to assess the antioxidant potential of the compounds. Further experiments investigated their influence in cell culture on cytotoxic effects of hydrogen peroxide and oxidized low-density lipoprotein (LDL), nitric oxide production by activated macrophages, and secretion of chemoattractant and cell adhesion molecules by the endothelium. Inhibitory influences on in vitro platelet aggregation were also measured. The antioxidant assays indicated that homovanillic alcohol was a significantly more potent antioxidant than the other phenolics, both in chemical assays and in prolonging the lag phase of LDL oxidation. Cell culture experiments suggested that the olive oil phenolics induce a significant reduction in the secretion of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (and a trend towards a reduced secretion of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1), and protect against cytotoxic effects of hydrogen peroxide and oxidized LDL. However, no influence on nitric oxide production or platelet aggregation was evident. The data show that olive oil phenolics have biochemical and cellular actions, which, if also apparent in vivo, could exert cardioprotective effects.
Moderate Exercise Combined with Dietary Vitamins C and E Counteracts Oxidative Stress in the Kidney and Lens of Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Rat
Authors: Kutlu Mehmet , Naziroglu Mustafa , Simsek Halil , Yilmaz Turgut , Kükner A. Sahap
Published: January 2006

Oxidative stress has a key role in the pathogenesis of diabetes-induced cataract formation and nephropathy. Daily moderate exercise and vitamins C and E (VCE) supplementation can be beneficial to diabetes due to reducing blood glucose and free radical production The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of moderate exercise with vitamin VCE on lipid peroxidation (LP) and antioxidative systems in the kidneys and lens of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Forty female Wistar rats were used. They were randomly divided into four groups. The first and second groups were used as control and diabetic groups. The third group was the diabetic-exercise group. VCE-supplemented feed was given to diabetic-exercise rats constituting the fourth group. Animals in the exercised groups were moderately exercised daily on a treadmill for three weeks (five days a week). Diabetes was induced on day zero of exercise. Body weights in the four groups were recorded weekly. Lens and kidney samples were taken from all animals on day 20. Glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), reduced glutathione (GSH), vitamin E, and β-carotene levels in kidney and lens, albumin in plasma, and body weight were significantly lower in the diabetic group than in the control group, whereas there was a significant increase in LP of kidney and lens as well as plasma glucose, urea, and creatinine levels in the diabetic group. The decrease in antioxidant enzymes, vitamins, and albumin and the increase in LP and glucose levels in diabetic rats were significantly improved with exercise and VCE supplementation. In the diabetic animals, the decreased β-carotene and vitamins A levels in kidney did not improve through exercise only, although their levels were increased by exercise plus VCE supplementation. In conclusion, these data demonstrate that lipid peroxidation increases in the lens and kidney of diabetic animals and this could be due to decreases in antioxidant vitamins and enzymes. However, dietary VCE with moderate exercise may strengthen the antioxidant defense system through the reduction of ROS and blood glucose levels. The VCE supplementations with exercise may play a role in preventing the development of diabetic nephropathy and cataract formation in diabetic animals.
Effects of the Tibetan herbal preparation PADMA 28 on blood lipids and lipid oxidisability in subjects with mild hypercholesterolaemia
Authors: Brunner-La Rocca  , Schindler  , Schlumpf  , Saller  , Suter
Published: January 2006

Background: Previous studies showed an anti-atherosclerotic effect of PADMA 28, an herbal formula based on Tibetan medicine. As the mechanisms of action are not fully understood, we investigated whether PADMA 28 may lower blood lipids and lipid oxidisability, and affect early endothelial dysfunction. Patients and methods: Sixty otherwise healthy subjects with total cholesterol ≥5.2 mmol/l and < 8.0 mmol/l were randomly assigned to placebo or PADMA 28, 3 x 2 capsules daily, for 4 weeks (double-blind). Blood lipids (total, LDL-, and HDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, Apo-lipoprotein A1 and B) and ex vivo lipid oxidisability were measured before and after treatment. In a subset of 24 subjects, endothelial function was assessed using venous occlusion plethysmography with intraarterial infusion of acetylcholine. Isolated LDL and plasma both untreated and pre-treated with PADMA 28 extract were oxidised by the radical generator AAPH. Conjugated diene formation was measured at 245 nm. Results: Blood lipids did not change during the study in both groups. In contrast to previous reports in mild hypercholesterolaemia, no endothelial dysfunction was seen and, consequently, was not influenced by therapy. Ex vivo blood lipid oxidisability was significantly reduced with PADMA 28 (area under curve: 5.29 ± 1.62 to 4.99 ± 1.46, p = 0.01), and remained unchanged in the placebo group (5.33 ± 1.88 to 5.18 ± 1.78, p > 0.1). This effect persisted one week after cessation of medication. In vitro experiments confirmed the prevention of lipid peroxidation in the presence of PADMA 28 extracts. Persistent protection was also seen for LDL isolated from PADMA 28-pretreated blood after being subjected to rigorous purification. Conclusions: This study suggests that the inhibition of blood lipid oxidisability by PADMA 28 may play a role in its anti-atherosclerotic effect.
Secondary prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism
Authors: Schellong
Published: January 2006

Making decisions about any modality of secondary prophylaxis in patients with venous thromobembolism (VTE) has to balance the risk of bleeding induced by anticoagulants against the benefit of reducing the risk of recurrent disease. It has to be kept in mind that the magnitude of risk is not only defined by the number of events per time period but also by the impact of the event on the fate of the patient. With standard intensity Vitamin K antagonists, the risk of bleeding is more closely related to comorbidities than to other factors, e.g. age. The risk of VTE recurrence differs largely between patient groups. The criterion of presence or absence of a permanent or transient clinical trigger factor for the actual VTE episode has a greater impact than an abnormal result in thrombophilia testing. The standard period of secondary prophylaxis for proximal deep vein thrombosis and for pulmonary embolism is three to six months. The concept of prolonging this period for several months according to the risk of recurrence is seriously challanged by the observation that the prolongation period seems to delay recurrencies rather than truly avoiding them. For this reason, patients who clearly are threatened by recurrent episodes should receive indefinitive secondary prophylaxis. This is the case for cancer patients, patients with the antiphospholipid syndrome, and those who belong to families with severe and symptomatic protein C, protein S, or antithrombin deficiencies. Patients with recurrent VTE, with idiopathic VTE, or with combined thrombophilic conditions may only benefit from indefinitive secondary prophylaxis if the bleeding risk of the anticoagulant regimen under consideration is very low.
Acroparesthesia and acral arterial occlusions as first manifestations of essential thrombocythemia
Authors: Husmann  , Schenk Romer  , Amann-Vesti  , Spada  , Koppensteiner
Published: January 2006

Thrombocytosis is either caused by a reactive process (secondary thrombocytosis) or by a clonal bone marrow disorder. The latter category includes essential thrombocythemia with bleedings and thrombotic complications as major causes of illness and death in this patients. We describe a 43-year-old man with a 6 months history of acroparesthesia in his toes. Half a year after onset of these symptoms, he noticed a bluish discoloration of digit V of his left foot. On first presentation physical examination revealed a bluish discoloration of all toes and a cold and blue digit V of the left foot. Peripheral pulses were all palpable, normal ankle systolic pressure measurements and normal pulse volume recordings except for digit V of the left foot were found. Laboratory tests revealed thrombocytosis of 800 000/microliter. On treatment with acetylsalicylacid, prostanoids intravenously and low molecular weight heparin, the patient became asymptomatic and pulse volume recording of digit V was normalized. After exclusion of cardial or vascular sources of embolism by utrasonography bone marrow aspirate and biopsy supported the diagnosis of essential thrombocythemia.
Thromboseprävention im pflegerischen Alltag an einer Universitätsklinik
Authors: Fritz Elfriede , Them Christa , Hackl Johann Michael
Published: January 2006

Eine Literaturrecherche zum Thema Thromboseprävention zeigte Veränderungen der präventiven Pflegemaßnahmen in den letzten drei Jahrzehnten. Mit einer schriftlichen Befragung (192 diplomierte Pflegepersonen und 111 Auszubildende) wurde der Istzustand an den Universitätskliniken Innsbruck in Bezug auf pflegerische Thrombosepräventionsmaßnahmen erhoben, um die Praxis von dort aus positiv zu beeinflussen. Die Ergebnisse zeigten u.a.: 56,9% der Befragten ist der Entsorgungszeitpunkt für Antithrombosestrümpfe (ATS) nicht bekannt. 72,7% der Befragten messen die Beine des Patienten vor dem Anlegen der ATS «nie» oder «selten» ab. Laut 77,5% der befragten Pflegenden lehnen Patienten das Tragen von ATS in der Nacht ab. Nur 22,3% der Befragten geben an, dass ATS von Patienten während 24 Stunden getragen werden. 82,5% der Befragten besuchten in den letzten fünf Jahren keine Fortbildung zur Thromboseprävention. Die Anordnung pflegerischer Thrombosepräventionsmaßnahmen sollte laut 42,3% gemeinsam durch «Arzt und Pflegeperson» erfolgen. Aufgrund der Untersuchung wurde ein neues Skriptum für die Ausbildung erstellt, der hauseigene Pflegestandard dem aktuellen Stand angepasst und Fortbildungen für Pflegepersonen zur Thromboseprävention durchgeführt. An Folgeuntersuchungen werden in unserer Klinik die Erhebung des Istzustandes pflegerischer Thromboseprävention im Intensivbereich sowie eine Befragung von Patienten vorgeschlagen. Diese Befragung könnte u.a. Gründe für die Ablehnung von ATS in der Nacht aufzeigen.