bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measuring and managing progress in the establishment of basic health services: the Afghanistan health sector balanced scorecard
Authors: Hansen Peter M. , Peters David H. , Niayesh Haseebullah , Singh Lakhwinder P. , Dwivedi Vikas , Burnham Gilbert
Published: April 2008

The Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) of Afghanistan has adopted the Balanced Scorecard (BSC) as a tool to measure and manage performance in delivery of a Basic Package of Health Services. Based on results from the 2004 baseline round, the MOPH identified eight of the 29 indicators on the BSC as priority areas for improvement. Like the 2004 round, the 2005 and 2006 BSCs involved a random selection of more than 600 health facilities, 1700 health workers and 5800 patient‐provider interactions. The 2005 and 2006 BSCs demonstrated substantial improvements in all eight of the priority areas compared to 2004 baseline levels, with increases in median provincial scores for presence of active village health councils, availability of essential drugs, functional laboratories, provider knowledge, health worker training, use of clinical guidelines, monitoring of tuberculosis treatment, and provision of delivery care. For three of the priority indicators—drug availability, health worker training and provider knowledge—scores remained unchanged or decreased between 2005 and 2006. This highlights the need to ensure that early gains achieved in establishment of health services in Afghanistan are maintained over time. The use of a coherent and balanced monitoring framework to identify priority areas for improvement and measure performance over time reflects an objectives‐based approach to management of health services that is proving to be effective in a difficult environment. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identifying the differential effects of silymarin constituents on cell growth and cell cycle regulatory molecules in human prostate cancer cells
Authors: Deep Gagan , Oberlies Nicholas H. , Kroll David J. , Agarwal Rajesh
Published: April 2008

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the leading cause of cancer‐related deaths in men; urgent measures are warranted to lower this deadly malignancy. Silymarin is a known cancer chemopreventive agent, but the relative anticancer efficacy of its constituents is still unknown. Here, we compared the efficacy of 7 pure flavonolignan compounds isolated from silymarin, namely silybin A, silybin B, isosilybin A, isosilybin B, silydianin, isosilydianin, silychristin and isosilychristin, in advanced human PCa PC3 cells. Silybin A, silybin B, isosilybin A, isosilybin B, silibinin and silymarin strongly inhibited the colony formation by PC3 cells (p < 0.001), while silydianin, silychristin and isosilychristin had marginal effect (p < 0.05). Using cell growth and death assays, we identified isosilybin B as the most effective isomer. FACS analysis for cell cycle also showed that silybin A, silybin B, isosilybin A, isosilybin B, silibinin and silymarin treatment resulted in strong cell cycle arrest in PC3 cells after 72 hr of treatment, while the effect of silydianin, silychristin and isosilychristin was marginal (if any). Western blot analysis also showed the differential effect of these compounds on the levels of cell cycle regulators‐cyclins (D, E, A and B), CDKs (Cdk2, 4 and Cdc2), CDKIs (p21 and p27) and other cell cycle regulators (Skp2, Cdc25A, B, C and Chk2). This study provided further evidence for differential anticancer potential among each silymarin constituent, which would have potential implications in devising better formulations of silymarin against prostate and other cancers. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Towards accurate in vivo spectroscopy of the human prostate
Authors: Svensson Tomas , Alerstam Erik , Einarsdóttír Margrét , Svanberg Katarina , Andersson‐Engels Stefan
Published: April 2008

The recent interest in photodynamic therapy of human prostate cancer is accompanied by a need for techniques for in vivo monitoring of optical and physiological characteristics. We propose time‐of‐flight (TOF) spectroscopy in combination with Monte Carlo evaluation as a reliable optical technique for quantitative assessment of absorption, scattering, hemoglobin content and tissue oxygenation in the human prostate. For the first time, we demonstrate Monte Carlo‐based evaluation of in vivo TOF photon migration data. We show that this approach is crucial in order to avoid the large errors associated with the use of time‐resolved diffusion theory of light propagation in prostate‐like tissues. This progress also allows us to present the first in vivo scattering spectroscopy of human prostate tissue. Furthermore, TOF spectroscopy, in contrast to the more common steady‐state approach, is insensitive to bleedings, and has been found highly reliable (100% success rate). (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Interaction of Sr‐doped hydroxyapatite nanocrystals with osteoclast and osteoblast‐like cells
Authors: Capuccini C. , Torricelli P. , Boanini E. , Gazzano M. , Giardino R. , Bigi A.
Published: April 2008

This article reports the effect of strontium incorporation into hydroxyapatite nanocrystals on bone cells response. Hydroxyapatite nanocrystals were synthesized at strontium contents of 0, 1, 3, 7 atom %. Strontium incorporation for calcium is confirmed by the linear increase of the unit cell parameters of hydroxyapatite, in agreement with the different ionic radii of the two ions. Moreover, strontium substitution slightly affects hydroxyapatite structural order and the shape of the nanocrystals. Osteoblast‐like MG63 cells cultured on the nanocrystals display good proliferation and increased values of the differentiation parameters. In particular, when cultured on samples with Sr concentration in the range 3–7 atom %, osteoblasts display increased values of ALP activity, collagen type I, and osteocalcin production. Moreover, the osteoclast number on all the Sr‐doped samples is significantly smaller than on hydroxyapatite, and it decreases on increasing strontium content. The data indicate that strontium stimulates osteoblast activity and exerts its inhibitory effect on osteoclast proliferation even when incorporated into hydroxyapatite. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2009
A library of tunable poly(ethylene glycol)/poly(L‐lysine) hydrogels to investigate the material cues that influence neural stem cell differentiation
Authors: Hynes Sara R. , Rauch Millicent F. , Bertram James P. , Lavik Erin B.
Published: April 2008

Neural stem cells (NSCs) have the potential to replace the major cell types of the central nervous system (CNS) and may be important in therapies for injuries to and diseases of the CNS. However, for such treatments to be safe and successful, NSCs must survive and differentiate appropriately following transplantation. A number of polymer scaffolds have shown promise in improving the survival and promoting the differentiation of NSCs. To capitalize on the interaction between scaffolds and NSCs, we need to determine the fundamental material properties that influence NSC behavior. To investigate the role of material properties on NSCs, we synthesized a library of 52 hydrogels composed of poly(ethylene glycol) and poly(L‐lysine) (PLL). This library of hydrogels allows independent variation of chemical and mechanical properties across a wide range of values. By culturing NSCs on this library, we have identified a subset of gels that promotes NSC migration and a further subset that promotes NSC differentiation. By combining the material properties of these subsets with the cell behavior, we determined that mechanical properties play a critical role in NSC behavior with elastic moduli promoting NSC migration and neuronal differentiation. Amine concentration is less critical, but PLL molecular weight also plays a role in NSC differentiation. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2009
Bone‐like tissue formation on a biomimetic titanium surface in an explant model of osteoconduction
Authors: Isaac Juliane , Loty Sabine , Hamdan Ahmad , Kokubo Tadashi , Kim Hyun‐Min , Berdal Ariane , Sautier Jean‐Michel
Published: April 2008

The clinical use of titanium in dental and orthopedic applications is limited. Over recent years, implant surfaces have undergone numerous modifications to enhance bone integration. In this study, we experimented a bioactive titanium using a simple chemical and moderate heat treatment that led to the formation of a bone‐like apatite layer on its surface in simulated body fluids. We used a bone explant model to demonstrate that cells can migrate from the explants and subsequently differentiate to form a mineralized nodular structure. Furthermore, these cells expressed alkaline phosphatase, bone sialoprotein, osteocalcin and the transcription factor, Runx2. Using this model of osteoconduction, we showed that bioactive titanium bonds directly to bone, while pure titanium cannot. These findings show the importance of implant surface composition in promoting osteogenic cell differentiation and subsequent apposition of the bone matrix, allowing strong bonds to form. This model could be particularly beneficial to closely mimic bone formation adjacent to endosseous implants. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2009
Decellularized, xenogeneic small‐diameter arteries: Transition from a muscular to an elastic phenotype in vivo
Authors: Bergmeister Helga , Plasenzotti Roberto , Walter Ingrid , Plass Christian , Bastian Fabienne , Rieder Erwin , Sipos Wolfgang , Kaider Alexandra , Losert Udo , Weigel Guenter
Published: April 2008

Reports regarding the biocompatibility of xenogeneic, decellularized bioprosthetic implants differ between bioinertness and complete graft degradation. We investigated heparin‐crosslinked and nonheparinized, xenogeneic vascular substitutes in a rat model. Porcine arteries (15 × 1.5 mm) were decellularized by multistep detergent and enzymatic techniques, which were followed by heparin‐crosslinking in 50% of the implants. Prostheses were implanted into the abdominal aorta of 76 rats for 1 day and up to 6 months. Retrieved specimens were evaluated by histology, immunohistochemistry, laser scanning, and scanning electron microscopy. Graft patency did not differ between groups (97.3%). Heparinized grafts showed a statistically significant lower rate of aneurysm formation (p = 0.04 %). Implants revealed infiltration with granulocytes and macrophages up to 3 months. Recellularization with endothelial cells and myofibroblasts was detectable within 1 month. After 6 months elastin biosynthesis and complete graft remodeling toward an elastic vessel was evident. These results indicate that temporary inflammation does not interfere with long‐term vascular remodeling. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 2008
Sol–gel processed porous silica carriers for the controlled release of diclofenac diethylamine
Authors: Czarnobaj Katarzyna , Czarnobaj Joanna
Published: April 2008

Silica xerogels doped with diclofenac diethylamine were prepared by the sol–gel method from a hydrolysed tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) solution containing diclofenac diethylamine. Two different catalysts, drying conditions and levels of water content were used to alter the microstructure of the silica xerogels. The aim of this study was to determine the rate of Diclofenac release from the silica xerogels. This in vitro study showed that the sol–gel method is useful for entrapping Diclofenac in the pores of xerogels. It also showed that, in vitro, Diclofenac is released from the silica xerogel, through the pores, by diffusion. Base‐catalysed gels proved to be much more effective than acid‐catalyzed gels. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 2008
Fabrication of porous, drug‐releasing, biodegradable, polymer scaffolds for sustained drug release
Authors: Uttarwar Mayur , Aswath Pranesh
Published: April 2008

Two different approaches were used to fabricate porous scaffolds, and their in vitro drug releasing characteristics were examined. In the first method, a poly(L‐lactic acid) (PLLA) solution and poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) + acetaminophen solution was homogenized. The emulsion was then blended with a PLLA solution in chloroform. The resultant emulsion was freeze‐dried to form porous scaffolds. Various combinations were obtained by varying homogenizer speed and blender speed, and by varying the concentration of PVA and acetaminophen solutions. The in vitro drug‐release study was performed for 6 days in a phosphate buffer. The influence of structure, porosity, and drug concentration of the scaffolds on drug‐release rate was examined using design of experiments. In the second approach, scaffolds were prepared in layered constructs, with either a three‐layered or five‐layered structure. The PVA + acetaminophen solution was blended with PLLA solution using a blender. The drug‐release study was performed for 19 days. The effect of drug concentration, blender speed, and the thickness of the layers on drug‐release rate was examined. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 2008
Evaluation of a synthetic vertebral body augmentation model for rapid and reliable cyclic compression life testing of materials for balloon kyphoplasty
Authors: Lewis Gladius , Schwardt Jeffrey D. , Slater Thomas A. , Janna Si
Published: April 2008

Screening of augmentation materials for use in balloon kyphoplasty (BKP) may be carried out using vertebral bodies (VBs) prepared from fresh cadaveric or animal model spines, but this approach has many drawbacks. Alternatively, a validated synthetic VB augmentation model may be used. In the present work, such a model—a cube (26 mm sides) of low‐density polyurethane foam with a centrally located through‐thickness cylindrical hole (diameter = 4 mm) completely filled with a bolus of augmentation material—was used to compare two BKP augmentation materials with very different chemistries (a high‐viscosity acrylic bone cement (PMMA) and a calcium phosphate bone substitute (CP)) in cyclic compression life tests. The test conditions were considered physiologically relevant: the model was immersed in phosphate buffered saline solution, at 37°C; the frequency was 3 Hz; and the maximum load was either 1150 N or 2300 N (corresponding to a maximum stress of 1.7 or 3.4 MPa). At the high load, all four PMMA and two out of seven CP specimens ran out to 1 million cycles. CP specimens consistently ran out at the low load. The use of this model for rapid and reliable ex vivo screening of BKP augmentation materials was considered both valid (because of the clear demarcation seen in the qualitative and quantitative results obtained with the two materials tested) and appropriate (that is, clinically relevant to BKP). © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 2008
Biomechanical and histomorphometric study of dental implants with different surface characteristics
Authors: Yeo In‐Sung , Han Jung‐Suk , Yang Jae‐Ho
Published: April 2008

The aim of this study was to investigate the early bone response to the titanium dental implants with different surface characteristics using the rabbit tibia model. Calcium metaphosphate coated, anodic oxidized, hydroxyapatite particle‐blasted, and turned (control) surfaces were compared. Surface topography was evaluated by field emission scanning electron microscope and optical interferometer. Eighteen rabbits received 72 implants in the tibia. Resonance frequency was analyzed every week for 6 weeks. Removal torque values were measured 2 and 6 weeks after placement. The implant–bone interfaces were directly observed by light microscope and bone‐to‐implant contact ratios were measured 2 and 6 weeks after insertion. All the surface‐modified implants showed superior initial bone responses to the control. No significant differences were found among the surface‐modified groups. Data suggest that various surface modification methods can provide favorable bone responses for early functioning and healing of dental implants. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2008
New polymer for intra‐abdominal meshes—PVDF copolymer
Authors: Conze Joachim , Junge Karsten , Weiß Claudia , Anurov Michael , Oettinger Alexander , Klinge Uwe , Schumpelick V.
Published: April 2008

Purpose:

Full tissue integration without adhesion formation is still a challenge for intra‐abdominal mesh materials. Purpose of this study was to investigate the adhesive potential and fibrocollagenous ingrowth of a polymer blend of polyvinylidene fluoride and hexafluorpropylene (co‐PVDF), an established suture material in vascular surgery, when placed as a mesh in the intra‐abdominal position. The results were compared with a matching polypropylene (PP) mesh.

Methods:

In an established rabbit model, mesh implantation was performed by laparoscopy in the intraperitoneal onlay mesh technique. After 7, 21, and 90 days the degree of adhesion formation, foreign body reaction, bridging, and shrinkage of mesh area were investigated.

Results:

In the early phase after 7 and 21 days we found significantly more adhesions for PP, but no differences after 90 days. Analysis of tissue reaction showed a significantly lower fibrotic reaction for co‐PVDF. The degree of shrinkage revealed no significant difference.

Conclusion:

Large‐pore PP and co‐PVDF‐meshes showed comparable good results in the intra‐abdominal position, with a reduced inflammatory tissue reaction for co‐PVDF. Large pore meshes should be considered an alternative for the development of intraperitoneal onlay meshes. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 2008
Control of the blood–polymer interface by plasma treatment
Authors: Dumitrascu Nicoleta , Borcia Catalin , Borcia Gabriela
Published: April 2008

Plasma that is generated using dielectric barrier discharge is used to modify the surface properties of polymers used in medicine, at atmospheric pressure. Treatments are performed on films of polyamide‐6, high density polyethylene, polymethylmetacrylate, and polytetrafluorethylene, selected for their medical applications. The plasma treatment conditions are discussed, in relation with relevant parameters for the adhesion properties, like the surface energy components, interfacial tension, surface topography, structural changes, and chemical composition. The interface properties are analyzed using the most important fluids implicated in the interfacial events related to the coagulation process at the interface of blood–polymer surface, respectively, water, whole blood, fibrinogen, and albumin. The physical and chemical modification of the surface is theoretically favorable to the interaction of the polymer with the blood and its components, by means of interfacial tension reduction, polarity increase, cleaning, ordering of molecular chains, functionalization, and stabilization effects. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 2008
Novel composite hyaluronan/type I collagen/fibrin scaffold enhances repair of osteochondral defect in rabbit knee
Authors: Filová Eva , Jelínek František , Handl Milan , Lytvynets Andriy , Rampichová Michala , Varga Ferdinand , Činátl Jaroslav , Soukup Tomáš , Trč Tomáš , Amler Evžen
Published: April 2008

A new composite scaffold containing type I collagen, hyaluronan, and fibrin was prepared with and without autologous chondrocytes and implanted into a rabbit femoral trochlea. The biophysical properties of the composite scaffold were similar to native cartilage. The macroscopic, histological, and immunohistochemical analysis of the regenerated tissue from cell‐seeded scaffolds was performed 6 weeks after the implantation and predominantly showed formation of hyaline cartilage accompanied by production of glycosaminoglycans and type II collagen with minor fibro‐cartilage production. Implanted scaffolds without cells healed predominantly as fibro‐cartilage, although glycosaminoglycans and type II collagen, which form hyaline cartilage, were also observed. On the other hand, fibro‐cartilage or fibrous tissue or both were only formed in the defects without scaffold. The new composite scaffold containing collagen type I, hyaluronan, and fibrin, seeded with autologous chondrocytes and implanted into rabbit femoral trochlea, was found to be highly effective in cartilage repair after only 6 weeks. The new composite scaffold can therefore enhance cartilage regeneration of osteochondral defects, by the supporting of the hyaline cartilage formation. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 2008
Runoff sediment particle sizes associated with soil erosion in the Lake Tahoe Basin, USA
Authors: Grismer M. E. , Ellis A. L. , Fristensky A.
Published: April 2008

Runoff sediment from disturbed soils in the Lake Tahoe Basin has resulted in light scattering, accumulation of nutrients, and subsequent loss in lake clarity. Little quantified information about erosion rates and runoff particle‐size distributions (PSDs) exists for determining stream and lake loading associated with land management. Building on previous studies using rainfall simulation (RS) techniques for quantifying infiltration, runoff, and erosion rates, we determine the dependence and significance of runoff sediment PSDs and sediment yield (SY, or erodibility) on slope and compare these relationships between erosion control treatments (e.g., mulch covers, compost, or woodchip incorporation, plantings) with bare and undisturbed, or ‘native’ forest soils. We used simulated rainfall rates of 60–100 mm h−1 applied over replicated 0·64 m2 plots. Measured parameters included time to runoff (s), infiltration and runoff rates (mm h−1), SY (g mm−1 runoff), and average sediment concentration (SC, g L−1) as well as PSDs in runoff samples. In terms of significant relationships, granitic soils had larger particle sizes than volcanic soils in bulk soil and runoff samples. Consequently, runoff rates, SCs, and SYs were greater from bare volcanic as compared to that from bare granitic soils at similar slopes. Generally, runoff rates increased with increasing slope on bare soils, while infiltration rates decreased. Similarly, SY increased with slope for both soil types, though SYs from volcanic soils are three to four times larger than that from granitic soils. As SY increased, smaller particle sizes are observed in runoff for all soil conditions and particle sizes decreased with increasing slope. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Factors affecting the dissolution of copper in transformer oils
Authors: Kalantar A. , Levin M.
Published: April 2008

The effect of addition of acids, peroxides and model N‐containing compounds to the oils on the rate of the copper dissolution from a copper strip into the oils was studied. The oils used were poly‐alpha‐olefin 2 (PAO‐2) and a highly refined naphthenic oil. Acids and peroxides were found to increase the copper dissolution into the oil, whereas the model nitrogen‐containing compounds exhibited a surface passivatory effect. The presence of the oil's partial oxidation products was found to increase the dissolution of the copper into the oil. The reasons for these observations are discussed. The relative contribution of the electrochemical and chemical processes to the copper corrosion is discussed. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantification of free and protein‐bound trans‐resveratrol metabolites and identification of trans‐resveratrol‐C/O‐conjugated diglucuronides – Two novel resveratrol metabolites in human plasma
Authors: Burkon Alexander , Somoza Veronika
Published: April 2008

The polyphenol trans‐resveratrol (t‐RES) is present as t‐RES‐3‐O‐β‐D‐glycoside, termed piceid, in several plant‐derived foods. Although data on the metabolism and on in vivo effects of t‐RES have been reported, quantitative data on the metabolites formed after dietary intake of t‐RES or piceid are still lacking. In this study, 85.5 mg of piceid per 70 kg of body weight (bw) were administered to healthy volunteers in a bolus dose. t‐RES metabolites formed in plasma and urine were identified and quantified by LC‐MS/MS, NMR, and HPLC‐DAD analysis using chemically synthesized t‐RES conjugate standards. In addition, the amount of t‐RES metabolites bound noncovalently to plasma proteins was determined for the first time in humans. The metabolites identified and quantified were t‐RES‐3‐sulfate, t‐RES‐3,4′‐disulfate, t‐RES‐3,5‐disulfate, t‐RES‐3‐glucuronide and t‐RES‐4′‐glucuronide, with t‐RES‐sulfates being the dominant conjugates in plasma and urine. Besides these metabolites, two novel t‐RES‐C/O‐conjugated diglucuronides have been identified and quantified in plasma and urine. Moreover, it could be shown that up to 50% of the plasma t‐RES‐3‐sulfate, t‐RES‐disulfates, and the novel t‐RES‐C/O‐diglucuronides were bound to proteins. Total recovery of the dietary administered piceid in urine ranged between 13.6 and 35.7%.
Rotationally oscillating drill (Ros‐Drill©) for mouse icsi without using mercury
Authors: Ergenc Ali Fuat , Li Ming‐Wen , Toner Mehmet , Biggers John D. , Lloyd K.C. Kent , Olgac Nejat
Published: April 2008

Intracytxoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is an important assisted reproductive technology (ART). Due to deployment difficulties and low efficiency of the earlier (conventional) version of ICSI, especially in the mouse, a piezo‐assisted ICSI technique had evolved as a popular ART methodology in recent years. An important and remaining problem with this technique, however, is that it requires small amounts of mercury to stabilize the pipette tip when piezoelectric force pulses are applied. To eliminate this problem we developed and tested a completely different and mercury‐free technology, called the “Ros‐Drill©” (rotationally oscillating drill). The technique uses microprocessor‐controlled rotational oscillations on a spiked micropipette without mercury or piezo. Preliminary experimental results show that this new microinjection technology gives high survival rate (>70% of the injected oocytes) and fertilization rate (>80% of the survived oocytes), and blastocyst formation rates in early trials (∼50% of the survived oocytes). Blastocysts created by Ros‐Drill© ICSI were transferred into the uteruses of pseudopregnant surrogate mothers and healthy pups were born and weaned. The Ros‐Drill© ICSI technique is automated and therefore; it requires a very short preliminary training for the specialists, as evidenced in many successful biological trials. These advantages of Ros‐Drill© ICSI over conventional and piezo‐assisted ICSI are clearly demonstrated and it appears to have resolved an important problem in reproductive biology. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 75: 1744–1751, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Serum leptin in first‐trimester Down syndrome pregnancies
Authors: Hedley Paula , Christiansen Michael
Published: April 2008

Background

Leptin is a key regulator of satiety; and the serum concentration is considered to reflect nutritional status. Expressed predominantly by the adipocytes, leptin is also expressed in placenta, which is a major source of both leptin and the leptin receptor in pregnancy serum. As a placenta protein, leptin serum concentrations may be perturbed in Down syndrome (DS) pregnancies as seen for pregnancy‐associated plasma protein‐A (PAPP‐A) and human chorionic gonadotrophin‐β (hCGβ). We examined whether leptin is a maternal serum marker for foetal DS in the first trimester.

Materials and Methods

Serum samples from 44 pregnant women with a DS foetus, and 135 control pregnant women in week 8 to 14 had the leptin concentration determined by immunoassay and the concentrations were converted into multiples of the median (MoM) of controls based on log‐regression analysis. The distributions of log10 MoM leptin was compared in DS and control pregnancies.

Results

Serum leptin increased significantly with gestational age in controls (p = 0.02). The mean log10 MoM in controls was − 0.0486, with a median empirical MoM of 0.89, and − 0.0618, with a median empirical MoM of 0.80, in DS pregnancies. This difference was not significant. The log10 MoM leptin values in DS pregnancies did not change with gestational age (p = 0.32).

Conclusion

Leptin is not a first‐trimester marker for foetal DS. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polymorphisms in genes related to folate and cobalamin metabolism and the associations with complex birth defects
Authors: Brouns R. , Ursem N. , Lindemans J. , Hop W. , Pluijm S. , Steegers E. , Steegers‐Theunissen R.
Published: April 2008

Objective

To investigate the associations between biomarkers and genetic variants involved in homocysteine metabolism and the risk of complex birth defects.

Methods

Total homocysteine (tHcy), folate, cobalamin, apo‐transcobalamin (apo‐TC) and apo‐haptocorrin (apo‐HC) were measured in the amniotic fluid of 82 women who were pregnant with a child having a complex birth defect, such as neural tube defect, cleft lip and/or palate, heart defect or omphalocele, and in 110 women pregnant with a non‐malformed child. The determined genotypes of the child comprised of 5, 10‐methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR 677C > T, 1298A > C), methionine synthase (MTR 2756A > G), methionine synthase reductase (MTRR 66A > G) and transcobalamin (TCN2 776C > G). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed.

Results

Significantly lower cobalamin and higher apo‐TC, apo‐HC, tHcy and folate concentrations were determined in amniotic fluids of cases compared with controls (p⩽0.001). Logistic regression analysis revealed that after adjustment for maternal age, children carrying the MTHFR 677T allele showed a four‐fold increased risk of having a complex birth defect, OR (95% CI) = 4.0 (1.1–15.4). Other genotypes did not show significant associations.

Conclusion

The MTHFR 677C > T polymorphism in conjunction with reduced folate‐ and/or cobalamin status may increase the risk of complex birth defects. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enrichment of collagen plugs with platelets and amniotic fluid cells increases cell proliferation in sealed iatrogenic membrane defects in the foetal rabbit model
Authors: Liekens Daisy , Lewi Liesbeth , Jani Jacques , Heyns Liesbeth , Poliard Eline , Verbist Godelieve , Ochsenbein‐Kölble Nicole , Hoylaerts Marc , Deprest Jan
Published: April 2008

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate cell proliferation in platelet‐enriched collagen plugs with and without addition of amniotic fluid‐derived heterologous foetal cells to seal an iatrogenic membrane defect in the foetal rabbit model.

Methods

Amniotic fluid cells were harvested from three donor does at 23 days of gestation (term = 32 days) and labelled with carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinimidyl ester (CFDA‐SE). In 42 other does, foetal membrane defects were induced by foetoscopic needle puncture at 23 days of gestation, and closed with either a platelet‐enriched collagen plug with (n = 44) or without (n = 32) amniotic fluid cells. At 30 days of gestation, the defects were harvested and assessed microscopically.

Results

The plugs enriched with heterologous amniotic fluid cells more commonly had proliferating cells in the centre of the plug than those without cell addition. CFDA‐SE labelling confirmed the presence of heterologous amniotic fluid cells over the entire membrane plug. Cell typing showed a mixture of fibroblasts and epithelial cells at the wound edges, whereas in the centre, there was an abundance of fibroblasts.

Conclusion

When sealing iatrogenic membrane defects in the foetal rabbit model, enrichment of collagen plugs with platelets and amniotic fluid‐derived heterologous foetal cells increases local cell proliferation. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
What is the role of “pressure” in the use of capillary and slit flows to determine the shear‐rate dependent viscosity of a viscoelastic fluid?
Authors: Han Chang Dae
Published: April 2008

The purpose of this review article is to clear the confusion created by some investigators, who erroneously thought that the pressure transducers mounted on the wall of a capillary or slit die measured a quantity that could meaningfully be called “pressure,” accurately stated “indeterminate isotropic contribution to the total stress,” and then reported on the effect of “pressure” on the shear‐rate dependent viscosity of a viscoelastic fluid. On the other hand, reference to such a quantity is not needed to calculate the wall shear stress and thus shear viscosity in fully developed flow of incompressible, viscoelastic polymer melts in a capillary or slit die; instead only information on the gradient of the total wall normal stress is needed. Further, it is pointed out that much of the literature discussing “pressure shift factor” to describe the effect of “pressure” on the viscosity of polymer melts in flow through a capillary or slit die is based on an erroneous belief that there exists a physically meaningful isotropic “pressure” that can be measured. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2008. © 2008 Society of Plastics Engineers.
Modeling and measurement of glass transition temperatures of energetic and inert systems
Authors: Jaidann Mounir , Abou‐Rachid Hakima , Lafleur‐Lambert Xavier , Lussier Louis‐Simon , Gagnon Nicole , Brisson Josée
Published: April 2008

In this article, measurements of glass transition temperature (Tg) changes of two energetic material blend systems were carried out using the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) technique. On one hand, experimental Tg values were compared to those predicted by the additivity model, Fox and Pochan equations, and, on other hand, to atomistic molecular dynamics simulation results performed in this work. The two blend systems studied were both composed of a polymer, either the inert hydroxyl‐terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) or the energetic polyglycidylazide (GAP), and smaller molecules, which acted as plasticizers, dioctyl adipate (DOA), or glycidylazide oligomers (Gp1). Modeling results show deviations from experimental data, which varied from 5 to 20 K over an absolute scale for pure components and blends. A good fit was found when predicting the effect of adding smaller molecules to HTPB. Simulations were particularly useful for the blend in which the glass transition temperature of one component, DOA, was not experimentally measurable, due to the high crystallinity of the small DOA molecule. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2008. © 2008 Society of Plastics Engineers.
Improvement of compression set property of ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer/ethylene‐1‐butene copolymer/organoclay nanocomposite foams
Authors: Park Keun‐Wan , Kim Gue‐Hyun , Chowdhury Subhendu Ray
Published: April 2008

To chemically bond polymer and organoclay, low molecular weight trimethoxysilyl‐modified polybutadiene (Silane) was used in this study. When Silane was added, ethylene‐vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA)/ethylene‐1‐butene copolymer (EtBC)/methyl tallow bis‐2‐hydroxyethyl quaternary ammonium‐modified montmorillonite (OH‐MMT)/Silane foams with and without maleic anhydride grafted EtBC (EtBC‐g‐MAH) display lower compression set than EVA/EtBC foams. According to the compression set result, OH‐MMT is more effective in improvement of compression set than dimethyl dihydrogenated tallow quaternary ammonium‐modified montmorillonite (DM‐MMT) because in addition of OH groups in the organoclay surface, the OH groups of the alkylammonium ion existed in interlayer of OH‐MMT may react with silanol group of Silane. The possible chemical reactions between Silanol groups of Silane and the hydroxyl groups of OH‐MMT and DM‐MMT were proved by ATR‐FTIR experiments. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2008. © 2008 Society of Plastics Engineers.
A polarity‐activation strategy for the high incorporation of 1‐alkenes into functional copolymers via RAFT copolymerization
Authors: Ma Jun , Cheng Chong , Sun Guorong , Wooley Karen L.
Published: April 2008

A new synthetic methodology for the preparation of copolymers having high incorporation of 1‐alkene together with multifunctionalities has been developed by polarity‐activated reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) copolymerization. This approach provides well‐defined alternating poly(1‐decene‐alt‐maleic anhydride), expanding the monomer types for living copolymerizations. Although neither 1‐decene (DE) nor maleic anhydride (MAn) has significant reactivity in RAFT homopolymerization, their copolymers have been synthesized by RAFT copolymerizations. The controlled characteristics of DE‐MAn copolymerizations were verified by increased copolymer molecular weights during the copolymerization process. Ternary copolymers of DE and MAn, with high conversion of DE, could be obtained by using additive amounts (5 mol %) of vinyl acetate or styrene (ST), demonstrating further enhanced monomer reactivities and complex chain structures. When ST was selected as the third monomer, copolymers with block structures were obtained, because of fast consumption of ST in the copolymerization. Moreover, a wide variety of well‐defined multifunctional copolymers were prepared by RAFT copolymerizations of various functional 1‐alkenes with MAn. For each copolymerization, gel permeation chromatography analysis showed that the resulting copolymer had well‐controlled Mn values and fairly low polydispersities (PDI = 1.3–1.4), and 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopies indicated strong alternating tendency during copolymerization with high incorporation of 1‐alkene units, up to 50 mol %. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 46: 3488–3498, 2008
Does inhaling menthol affect nasal patency or cough?
Authors: Kenia Priti , Houghton Tom , Beardsmore Caroline
Published: April 2008

Objective

There is widespread use of menthol in over‐the‐counter medications, despite scant information on any beneficial effects. Our aim was to assess the effect of menthol on nasal air flow, perception of nasal patency and cough challenge testing.

Materials and Methods

Subjects comprised 42 healthy children aged 10 and 11 in a school setting. We used a single‐blind pseudo‐randomized cross‐over trial to compare the effect of an inhalation of either menthol or placebo(eucalyptus oil). Baseline and post‐intervention measurements were made on each of 2 consecutive days. Main outcome measures were (i) nasal expiratory and inspiratory flows and volumes, measured by spirometer, (ii) perception of nasal patency, assessed with a visual analogue scale (VAS), and (iii) the number of coughs in response to nebulized citric acid.

Results

There was no effect of menthol on any of the spirometric measurements. Following menthol, there was a significant increase in the perception of nasal patency (mean difference in log VAS (menthol‐placebo) = −0.207, 95%CI −0.329, −0.085). The cough count after menthol inhalation was reduced when compared to baseline but the change was not different from that after placebo (mean difference in cough count (menthol‐placebo) = −1.71, 95%CI −4.11, 0.69).

Conclusion

Menthol has no effect on objective measures of flow but significantly increases the perception of nasal patency. It may not be possible to extrapolate these findings to younger children and those with rhinitis. Extending the study of menthol to these groups, including investigations of the efficacy and safety profiles, will provide further valuable evidence for its common use. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2008; 43:532–537. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lung function and bronchial responsiveness after Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection in early childhood
Authors: Kjaer Birgitte B. , Jensen Jørgen S. , Nielsen Kim G. , Fomsgaard Anders , Böttiger Blenda , Dohn Birthe , Bisgaard Hans
Published: April 2008

Mycoplasma (M.) pneumoniae has been associated with exacerbation of symptoms in asthmatic school children and adults; and an etiological role in asthma has been suggested. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether infection with M. pneumoniae in early childhood has a long‐term influence on lung function and bronchial responsiveness. In a retrospective, clinical cohort‐study children younger than 5 years‐of‐age when PCR‐tested for M. pneumoniae were enrolled. Sixty‐five children with clinical symptoms suggesting infection with M. pneumoniae during an epidemic season completed a clinical follow‐up examination including lung function testing (28 PCR‐positive and 37 PCR‐negative). In addition to the PCR‐test for M. pneumoniae all respiratory tract specimens were additionally tested for other atypical bacteria and for viruses by PCR. Lung function was measured as specific airway resistance by whole‐body plethysmography and bronchial hyperresponsiveness was assessed by cold, dry air hyperventilation. Neither baseline lung function nor bronchial response to cold dry air hyperventilation differed between M. pneumoniae‐positive and ‐negative children: mean baseline lung function were 1.17 versus 1.21 (kPa sec), P = 0.45; and mean change in specific resistance was 13% versus 9%, P = 0.42. In conclusion, M. pneumoniae infection in early childhood was not associated with long‐term effects on lung function and bronchial hyperresponsiveness 2 years after infection. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2008; 43:567–575. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Chronic wet cough: Protracted bronchitis, chronic suppurative lung disease and bronchiectasis
Authors: Chang A.B. , Redding G.J. , Everard M.L.
Published: April 2008

The role of persistent and recurrent bacterial infection of the conducting airways (endobronchial infection) in the causation of chronic respiratory symptoms, particularly chronic wet cough, has received very little attention over recent decades other than in the context of cystic fibrosis (CF). This is probably related (at least in part) to the (a) reduction in non‐CF bronchiectasis in affluent countries and, (b) intense focus on asthma. In addition failure to characterize endobronchial infections has led to under‐recognition and lack of research. The following article describes our current perspective of inter‐related endobronchial infections causing chronic wet cough; persistent bacterial bronchitis (PBB), chronic suppurative lung disease (CSLD) and bronchiectasis. In all three conditions, impaired muco‐ciliary clearance seems to be the common risk factor that provides organisms the opportunity to colonize the lower airway. Respiratory infections in early childhood would appear to be the most common initiating event but other conditions (e.g., tracheobronchomalacia, neuromuscular disease) increases the risk of bacterial colonization. Clinically these conditions overlap and the eventual diagnosis is evident only with further investigations and long term follow up. However whether these conditions are different conditions or reflect severity as part of a spectrum is yet to be determined. Also misdiagnosis of asthma is common and the diagnostic process is further complicated by the fact that the co‐existence of asthma is not uncommon. The principles of managing PBB, CSLD and bronchiectasis are the same. Further work is required to improve recognition, diagnosis and management of these causes of chronic wet cough in children. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2008; 43:519–531. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Vasculature‐targeted tumor necrosis factor‐alpha increases the therapeutic index of doxorubicin against prostate cancer
Authors: Bertilaccio Maria T.S. , Grioni Matteo , Sutherland Brent W. , Degl'Innocenti Elena , Freschi Massimo , Jachetti Elena , Greenberg Norman M. , Corti Angelo , Bellone Matteo
Published: April 2008

BACKGROUND

Poor penetration and uneven distribution of doxorubicin in tumors limits the efficacy of this drug in patients with prostate cancer (PC). Aim of the study was to investigate whether pre‐treatment with NGR‐TNF, a tumor necrosis factor‐α derivative able to target tumor vessels and alter vessel permeability, increases the penetration and the efficacy of doxorubicin in pre‐clinical models of PC.

METHODS

Wild type C57BL/6 mice bearing androgen‐independent TRAMP‐C1 PC and transgenic adenocarcinoma of the mouse prostate (TRAMP) mice, which spontaneously develop PC and metastasis, were treated with repeated cycles of doxorubicin, administered either alone or following NGR‐TNF. Tumor growth and drug uptake by cancer cells was evaluated.

RESULTS

Doxorubicin as a single agent blocked the growth of TRAMP‐C1 cells in vitro but not in vivo. Pre‐treatment of mice bearing subcutaneous TRAMP‐C1 tumors with NGR‐TNF favored doxorubicin penetration into the tumor mass, and in both TRAMP‐C1 and TRAMP models significantly delayed tumor growth without increasing drug‐related toxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

Pre‐treatment with NGR‐TNF significantly expanded the therapeutic index of doxorubicin in mouse models of hormone‐dependent and ‐independent PC. Prostate 68:1105–1115, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Current treatment options in the management of stable angina
Authors: Cruden Nick , Fox Keith
Published: April 2008

Current angina management focusses on the control of symptoms, identifying risk factors and preventing future cardiac events. Our Drug review describes the various anti‐anginal drugs available, followed by an analysis of prescription data, sources of further information and the Datafile. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Interface Ltd
Linkage position and residue identification of disaccharides by tandem mass spectrometry and linear discriminant analysis
Authors: Zhang Hui , Brokman Steve M. , Fang Ning , Pohl Nicola L. , Yeung Edward S.
Published: April 2008

The discrimination of isomeric disaccharides with different linkage types and different monosaccharide residues – glucose (Glc), galactose (Gal), and mannose (Man) at the non‐reducing end – was investigated with tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA). Conventional matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI)‐MS has strong interference peaks from matrix ions in the low mass region (<500 Da). This greatly limits the application of MALDI‐MS for the analysis of small molecules such as saccharides. We solved this problem by using LDI with acidic fullerene matrix, which gives a very clean background in the low‐mass region. Disaccharides with different linkage types give different tandem mass spectral profiles from various cross‐ring fragmentation pathways. Disaccharides with the same linkage type but with three different kinds of monosaccharide residues bear the same fragmentation profiles. However, the relative ratios of the fragment ion intensities were found to be distinctly different among the three disaccharide isomers. By employing statistical tools such as LDA to classify the tandem mass spectra, disaccharide isomers with either different linkages or different monosaccharide residues were successfully classified. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Kirschner wire placement in scaphoid bones using fluoroscopic navigation: a cadaver study comparing conventional techniques with navigation
Authors: Liverneaux Philippe A. , Gherissi Anes , Stefanelli Matthieu Beustes
Published: April 2008

Background

During scaphoid fixation, a pin guide is first inserted along the axis of the scaphoid, and then a cannulated screw is inserted around the pin guide. At least, the pinguide is removed. To verify the position of the pin guide, fluoroscopy is typically used, with the disadvantage of irradiation. Thus, it is impossible to visualize the pin guide in more than one view simultaneously. The goal of this study was to compare two pin guide placement techniques in scaphoid fixation: conventional (CF) vs. fluoroscopic navigation (FN).

Methods

Eleven upper limbs of cadavers were divided into two groups. The CF group included four scaphoids which were to be fixed with pin guide. The FN group included seven scaphoids which were to be fixed with the same technique under FN.

Results

The accuracy of screw insertion in both groups does not differ. In the CF group, the X‐ray exposure time is four times higher. The total duration of the surgical procedure is slightly higher in the FN group.

Conclusions

We are of the opinion that FN could be applied in clinical practice and could offer significant benefits in the treatment of fixation of the scaphoid. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.