bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distribution of neurotrophin and TrK receptor‐like immunoreactivity in the adrenal gland of birds
Authors: Arcamone Nadia , Lucini Carla , Maruccio Lucianna , Castaldo Luciana , Gargiulo Giuliana , De Girolamo Paolo
Published: February 2006

The occurrence and localization of neurotrophins and their specific TrK receptor‐like proteins in the adrenal gland of chicken, duck and ostrich were examined by immunohistochemical methods. In all species studied NGF‐, TrK A‐ and TrK C‐like immunoreactivity was observed in neurons and fibers of adrenal ganglia. Thin TrK A‐ and TrK C‐like immunoreactive fibers were also observed among chromaffin cells. NT‐3‐like immunoreactivity was detected in chromaffin cells as revealed by the double immunolabelings NT‐3/chromogranin A and NT‐3/DβH. The interrenal tissue never showed IR to any neurotrophins and TrK tested, and none of the adrenal structures displayed immunoreactivity to BDNF and TrK B. Double immunolabelings NGF/TrK A, NGF/TrK C and TrK A/TrK C showed colocalization in some neurons and fibers in adrenal ganglia. In adrenal glands of the species studied, the distribution of neurotrophins and TrK receptors could suggest an involvement of NT‐3 on neuronal populations innervating adrenal ganglia by means of its high affinity receptor TrK C and low affinity receptor TrK A. In addition, NGF could be utilized by neuronal populations of adrenal ganglia through its preferential receptor TrK A by an autocrine or paracrine modality of action. Microsc. Res. Tech. 69:130–137, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of crosslinking on the elasticity of polyelectrolyte multilayer films measured by colloidal probe AFM
Authors: Francius Grégory , Hemmerlé Joseph , Ohayon Jacques , Schaaf Pierre , Voegel Jean‐Claude , Picart Catherine , Senger Bernard
Published: February 2006

A homemade colloidal probe atomic force microscope was used to perform nanoindentation with a spherical probe of 5 μm in diameter, at different approach velocities in order to extract the Young's modulus, E0, of poly(L‐lysine)/hyaluronan (PLL/HA) films. This parameter is of prime importance to control cellular adhesion. The films were either kept in their native form or cross‐linked with a mixture of 1‐ethyl‐3‐(3‐dimethyl aminopropyl)carbodiimide (EDC) and N‐hydrosulfosuccinimide (sulfo‐NHS), where the EDC concentration was varied from 1 up to 100 mg mL−1 (approximately from 5 to 500 mM). A model based on Hertz mechanics was used to account for the interactions between film and probe. It is shown that the Young's modulus varies with the approach velocity for the native (PLL/HA) films, whereas for cross‐linked ones, E0 is independent from the velocity over the whole range investigated. It is found that for native films, E0 takes a value of 3 kPa at low approach velocities, a velocity domain that should be relevant in cellular adhesion processes. The Young's modulus increases with the EDC concentration used to cross‐link the films and levels off at a value of about 400 kPa for EDC concentrations exceeding 40 mg mL−1. Thus, it is possible by crosslinking PLL/HA films to control their elastic properties with the aim to alter their behavior as to the cellular adhesion. Microsc. Res. Tech. 69:84–92, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Bordetella adenylate cyclase toxin induces a cascade of morphological changes of sheep erythrocytes and localizes into clusters in erythrocyte membranes
Authors: Vojtová Jana , Kofroňová Olga , Šebo Peter , Benada Oldřich
Published: February 2006

Adenylate cyclase toxin (CyaA) of Bordetella pertussis penetrates the membrane of eukaryotic cells, producing high levels of intracellular cAMP, as well as hemolysis that results from the formation of cation‐selective toxin channels in the membrane. Using several microscopical approaches we studied the effects of CyaA action on the morphology of sheep erythrocytes during early phases preceding lysis and examined localization of CyaA molecules within the erythrocyte membrane. CyaA induced a cascade of morphological changes of erythrocytes, such as shrinkage, formation of membrane projections, and blebs and swelling. The use of an enzymatically inactive CyaA‐AC− toxoid that is unable to produce cAMP and of a CyaA‐E581K mutant exhibiting higher hemolytic activity than with CyaA showed that the hemolytic activity is responsible for the induction of morphological changes of erythrocytes. Further, immunolabeling of inserted CyaA‐232/FLAG molecules with specific anti‐FLAG antibodies and IgG‐gold particles indicated a clustered distribution of CyaA molecules in erythrocyte membrane. This was confirmed by immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy, which revealed uniform stoichiometry of CyaA clusters, suggesting CyaA binding into specific domains in erythrocyte membrane. Indeed, a decrease of CyaA binding after cholesterol depletion of erythrocytes suggests toxin targeting and binding to membrane microdomains (rafts). Microsc. Res. Tech. 69:119–129, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of veratrine on skeletal muscle mitochondria: Ultrastructural, cytochemical, and morphometrical studies
Authors: Freitas Erika Maria Silva , Fagian Márcia M. , Höfling Maria Alice Da Cruz
Published: February 2006

The alkaloid veratrine is a lipid‐soluble neurotoxin, which target voltage‐gated Na+ channels for their primary action. Recently, we showed that this alkaloid may cause myonecrosis and evidences suggest mitochondria as one of its cell targets. Herein, we investigate the effects caused by variable concentration of veratrine (250 and 550 μg/mL) on mitochondrial oxygen consumption, respiratory chain enzymes activities, and ultrastructure, combining electron microscopy with cytochemical and biochemical approaches. The results showed different sort of ultrastructural changes, both in isolated and intramuscular mitochondria. Veratrine decreased mitochondrial nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide dehydrogenase (NADH‐d), succinic dehydrogenase (SDH), and cytochrome oxidase (COX) activities, significantly and dose‐dependently inhibited the state 3 respiration rate, respiratory control ratio (RCR), and ADP/O on isolated rat skeletal muscle mitochondria, whereas state 4 was unaffected. A tendency of increase in mitochondria diameter was seen with 250 μg/mL veratrine. We conclude that the alkaloid would probably act on mitochondrial membrane phospholipid configuration, which would explain the changes observed. Microsc. Res. Tech. 69:108–118, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Waking‐up the sleeping beauty: recovery of the ancestral bird odontogenic program
Authors: Mitsiadis Thimios A. , Caton Javier , Cobourne Martyn
Published: February 2006

Recent advances in molecular and developmental genetics have provided tools for understanding evolutionary changes in the nature of the epithelial–mesenchymal interactions regulating the patterned outgrowth of the tooth primordia. Tissue recombination experiments in mice have identified the oral epithelium as providing the instructive information for the initiation of tooth development. Teeth were lost in birds for more than 80 million years ago, but despite their disappearance, a number of gene products and the requisite tissue interactions needed for tooth formation are found in the avian oral region. It is believed that the avian ectomesenchyme has lost the odontogenic capacity, whilst the oral epithelium retains the molecular signaling required to induce odontogenesis. In order to investigate the odontogenic capacity of the neural crest‐derived mesenchyme and its potential activation of the avian oral epithelium, we have realized mouse neural tube transplantations to chick embryos to replace the neural crest cells of chick with those of mouse. Teeth are formed in the mouse/chick chimeras, indicating that timing is critical for the acquisition of the odontogenic potential by the epithelium and, furthermore, suggesting that odontogenesis is initially directed by species‐specific mesenchymal signals interplaying with common epithelial signals. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 306B, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of Gd‐DTPA‐BMA on blood and myocardial T1 at 1.5T and 3T in humans
Authors: Sharma Puneet , Socolow Josh , Patel Salil , Pettigrew Roderic I. , Oshinski John N.
Published: February 2006

Purpose

To compare T1 values of blood and myocardium at 1.5T and 3T before and after administration of Gd‐DTPA‐BMA in normal volunteers, and to evaluate the distribution of contrast media between myocardium and blood during steady state.

Materials and Methods

Ten normal subjects were imaged with either 0.1 mmol/kg (N = 5) or 0.2 mmol/kg (N = 5) of Gd‐DTPA‐BMA contrast agent at 1.5T and 3T. T1 measurements of blood and myocardium were performed prior to contrast injection and every five minutes for 35 minutes following contrast injection at both field strengths. Measurements of biodistribution were calculated from the ratio of ΔR1 (ΔR1myo/ΔR1blood).

Results

Precontrast blood T1 values (mean ± SD, N = 10) did not significantly differ between 1.5T and 3T (1.58 ± .13 sec, and 1.66 ± .06 sec, respectively; P > 0.05), but myocardium T1 values were significantly different (1.07 ± .03 sec and 1.22 ± .07 sec, respectively; P < 0.05). The field‐dependent difference in myocardium T1 postinjection (T1@3T – T1@1.5T) decreased by approximately 72% relative to precontrast T1 values, while the field‐dependent difference of blood T1 decreased only 30% postcontrast. Measurements of ΔR1myo/ΔR1blood were constant for 35 minutes postcontrast, but changed between 1.5T and 3T (0.46 ± .06 vs. 0.54 ± .06, P < 0.10).

Conclusion

T1 is significantly longer for myocardium (but not blood) at 3T compared to 1.5T. The differences in T1 due to field strength are reduced following contrast administration, which may be attributed to changes in ΔR1myo/ΔR1blood with field strength. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Partial‐volume model for determining white matter and gray matter cerebral blood volume for analysis of gliomas
Authors: Lee Michael C. , Cha Soonmee , Chang Susan M. , Nelson Sarah J.
Published: February 2006

Purpose

To model the partial voluming of gray matter (GM) and white matter (WM) in perfusion imaging, and to use this model to estimate the cerebral blood volume (CBV) of pure WM and GM, which could then be used to normalize data across patients in preparation for analyzing tumor perfusion.

Materials and Methods

Dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC) perfusion imaging was performed on 20 glioma patients. The perfusion data were registered to the T1 image using rigid‐body and non‐rigid algorithms. The rCBV for each voxel was computed by gamma‐variate fitting and then fit as a linear function of the estimated fractional WM content. The estimated CBV of pure WM was used to normalize across patients, and the resulting tumor CBV values were compared with expectations.

Results

Rigid registration improved the correlation between the fractional WM content and CBV for all patients, with non‐rigid registration yielding further improvements for all but two patients. The mean GM‐to‐WM CBV ratio was estimated at 2.15 ± 0.33 (mean ± SD). Voxels that exhibited both T1‐Gd contrast enhancement and an abnormal proton spectrum were found to have a CBV 2.53 ± 0.89 times higher than that in the WM.

Conclusion

A partial‐volume model is demonstrated for estimating pure WM and GM CBV. It is also shown that the relationship between the tumor CBV as estimated with this model is generally consistent with expectations based on spectroscopy and imaging. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Papillary renal carcinoma: Diagnostic approach by chemical shift gradient‐echo and echo‐planar MR imaging
Authors: Yoshimitsu Kengo , Kakihara Daisuke , Irie Hiroyuki , Tajima Tsuyoshi , Nishie Akihiro , Asayama Yoshiki , Hirakawa Masakazu , Nakayama Tomohiro , Naito Seiji , Honda Hiroshi
Published: February 2006

Purpose

To elucidate whether MRI can detect fat in interstitial histiocytes and hemosiderin (Hs) deposition (both of which are histological characteristics of papillary renal carcinoma (RCpap)) within RCpap.

Materials and Methods

Preoperative MR images of nine surgically confirmed RCpap and 57 clear cell renal carcinoma (RCcc) cases were retrospectively studied. Solid components of the lesions were evaluated. For fat detection, signal reduction on opposed‐phase images of chemical shift MRI (CSI) was used. For Hs detection, signal reduction on echo‐planar images or in‐phase images of CSI was used. The prevalence of fat and Hs detection was compared between RCpap and RCcc.

Results

In five of nine RCpap (54%), and 38 of 57 RCcc (67%), the presence of fat within the tumor was suggested by CSI (P = 0.71). Hs deposition within tumors was suggested by either EPI or CSI in nine of nine RCpap (100%), and 28 of 57 RCcc (51%) (P = 0.0036). Hs in RCpap was observed without or apart from necrosis or hemorrhage, whereas Hs in RCcc was located predominantly around necrosis.

Conclusion

Detecting intratumoral Hs by EPI or CSI, particularly that unrelated to necrosis or hemorrhage, may help differentiate RCpap from RCcc. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Elimination of residual blood flow‐related signal in 3D volume‐selective TSE arterial wall imaging using velocity‐sensitive phase reconstruction
Authors: Crowe Lindsey A. , Varghese Anitha , Mohiaddin Raad H. , Yang Guang Zhong , Firmin David N.
Published: February 2006

Purpose

To improve 3D volume‐selective turbo spin–echo (TSE) arterial wall imaging by introducing velocity phase sensitivity to the sequence.

Materials and Methods

Slow or recirculating blood may give incomplete nulling in 3D vessel wall imaging, hindering differentiation between arterial wall and lumen. Reconstructed phase images are used to reduce the residual blood signal with postprocessing. A volume‐selective 3D TSE (1) sequence with increased velocity sensitivity perpendicular to the slab was developed. Sensitivity was introduced by modifying the gradient waveforms such that residual signal from slow or recirculating blood is distinguished from the wall by the phase shift introduced. This was tested on a pulsatile flow phantom and the carotid artery wall of six healthy volunteers and 17 patients. Images were acquired on a Siemens Magnetom Sonata 1.5T scanner. A quantitative comparison of the lumen/wall contrast was made using images acquired with and without modification.

Results

Velocity sensitivity produces significantly reduced residual signal by intravoxel dephasing. Phantom “lumen/tissue” contrast improved by 0.10 (P < 0.01), with a similar change in vivo (0.69–0.73, P < 0.01). Postprocessing removal of the blood signal using phase signal provided further improvement.

Conclusion

Introducing velocity sensitivity reduces unwanted, potentially misleading residual blood in 3D volume‐selective vessel wall imaging. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis: Relationship between clinical stage and diffusion‐weighted imaging findings
Authors: Alkan Alpay , Korkmaz Levent , Sigirci Ahmet , Kutlu Ramazan , Yakinci Cengiz , Erdem Gulnur , Yologlu Saim
Published: February 2006

Purpose

To investigate the relationship between clinical stages and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) changes in the brain of patients with subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE).

Materials and Methods

A total of 18 patients with stage II (N = 11) and III (N = 7) SSPE and 11 age‐matched controls underwent routine MRI and diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI). The ADC values were automatically calculated. Seven distinct neuroanatomic structures (frontal, parieto‐occipital, and cerebellar white matter; deep white matter; thalamus; basal ganglia; and brainstem) were selected for analysis in the patient and control groups.

Results

Hyperintensities in the periventricular and subcortical white matters on T2‐weighted images and ADC maps were detected in 63.6% of patients with stage II and in all patients with stage III. There were significant differences between stage II and III patients and also between patients and control group in ADC values that obtained from all locations. The highest mean ADC values were calculated in stage III patients. Although MRI and DWI findings were normal in four patients with stage II disease, ADC values were significantly increased when compared with controls.

Conclusion

The stage of disorder may be independent of DWI appearance during the early stage (stages I and II), even though the brain is affected. Therefore, DWI and ADC values supplemental to routine MRI should also be utilized for lesion detection and definition to enhance diagnostic accuracy in patients with SSPE. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Improved temporal clustering analysis method for detecting multiple response peaks in fMRI
Authors: Lu Na , Shan Bao‐Ci , Li Ke , Yan Bin , Wang Wei , Li Kun‐Cheng
Published: February 2006

Purpose

To develop an improved temporal clustering analysis (TCA) method for detecting multiple active peaks by running the method once.

Materials and Methods

Two cases of simulation data and a set of actual fMRI data from nine subjects were used to compare the traditional TCA method with the new method, termed extremum TCA (ETCA). The first case of simulation data simulated event‐related activation and block activation in one cerebral area, and the second case simulated event‐related activation and block activation in two cerebral areas. An in vivo visual stimulating experiment was performed on a 1.5T MR scanner. All imaging data were processed using both traditional TCA and the new method.

Results

The results of both the simulated and actual fMRI data show that the new method is more sensitive and exact than traditional TCA in detecting multiple response peaks.

Conclusion

The new method is effective in detecting multiple activations even when the timing and location of the brain activation are completely unknown. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of experimental suprascapular nerve block on active glenohumeral translations in vivo
Authors: Werner Clément M. L. , Weishaupt Dominik , Blumenthal Stephan , Curt Armin , Favre Philippe , Gerber Christian
Published: February 2006

Static superior shoulder instability is associated with long‐standing rotator cuff tears. Factors or mechanisms which can prevent superior migration of the humeral head, and therefore allow preservation or restoration of shoulder function despite nonanatomical cuff repair, are poorly understood. The question has therefore arisen, whether centering of the humeral head was the result of active shoulder muscle function. It was the goal of this experimental investigation to (1) determine the pattern of glenohumeral translations during active shoulder abduction measured by open‐magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques, and to (2) determine the influence of experimental paralysis of the infra‐ and supraspinatus muscles on these translations. In contrast to prior experimental investigations, the humeral head remained always centered in the glenoid fossa during active abduction. No superior migration of the humeral head could be provoked with experimental paralysis of the supra‐ and/or infraspinatus muscles. The hypothesis that static or dynamic superior humeral head displacement is prevented by active‐supra‐ and/or infraspinatus muscle function must therefore be rejected, for the shoulder with a structurally intact muscle–tendon–bone unit. © 2006 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 24:491–500, 2006
Nonweight‐bearing anterior knee laxity is related to anterior tibial translation during transition from nonweight bearing to weight bearing
Authors: Shultz Sandra J. , Shimokochi Yohei , Nguyen Anh‐Dung , Ambegaonkar Jatin P. , Schmitz Randy J. , Beynnon Bruce D. , Perrin David H.
Published: February 2006

We examined the relationship between anterior knee laxity (AKL), evaluated while the knee was nonweight bearing, and anterior translation of the tibia relative to the femur (ATT), evaluated when the knee transitioned from nonweight‐bearing to weight‐bearing conditions in response to an applied compressive load at the foot. Twenty subjects with normal knees (10 M, 10 F; 25.2 ± 4.1 years, 169.8 ± 11.5 cm, 71.6 ± 16.9 kg) underwent measurements of AKL and ATT of the right knee on 2 days. AKL was measured at 133N with the KT‐2000™. ATT was measured with the Vermont Knee Laxity Device and electromagnetic position sensors attached to the patella and the anteromedial aspect of the proximal tibia. Three trials for each measure were averaged and analyzed. Measurement consistency was high for both AKL (ICC = 0.97; SEM = 0.44 mm) and ATT (ICC = 0.88; SEM = 0.84 mm). Linear regression revealed that AKL predicted 35.5% of the variance in ATT (p = 0.006), with a prediction equation of YATT = 3.20 + 0.543(XAKL). Our findings suggest that increased AKL is associated with increased ATT as the knee transitions from nonweight‐bearing to weight‐bearing conditions. The potential for increased knee joint laxity to disrupt normal knee biomechanics during activities such as landing from a jump, or the foot strike phase of gait deserves further study. © 2006 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 24:516–523, 2006
Cells seeded on MBG scaffold survive impaction grafting technique: Potential application of cell‐seeded biomaterials for revision arthroplasty
Authors: Mushipe Moses T. , Chen Xi , Jennings David , Li Gang
Published: February 2006

The objective of this study was to investigate the potential application of cell‐seeded biomaterials for revision arthroplasty and the reconstruction of major joints using the impaction grafting technique. Using morselized cancellous bone graft as a porous scaffold, MG63 cells were seeded on the scaffold and impacted into an acetabulum cup model using a mechanical device constructed from data obtained during impaction grafting by an orthopedic surgeon. Immediately after impaction, cells were trypsinized from the scaffold and processed for cell survival rates using the double‐stranded DNA PicoGreen® assay. Significant reductions in viable cells were observed between the fifth impact and both the first and second impacts ( p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively). Cell survival rate was 21.5% after five impacts. The biological performance of cell‐seeded biomaterials may be enhanced by these surviving cells. Compared to allograft bone that is not osteogenic, a cell‐seeded biomaterial might also be a suitable substitute for allograft bone for major joint reconstruction at revision arthroplasty. © 2006 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 24:501–507, 2006
The role of M. popliteus in unpredictable and in self‐initiated balance provocations
Authors: Stensdotter Ann‐Katrin , Holmgren Christer , Dalén Tore , Häger‐Ross Charlotte
Published: February 2006

The purpose of this study was to determine whether m. popliteus (POP) activity would contribute to the control of knee joint position in unpredictable and in self‐initiated provocations of standing balance. Ten healthy women (age 25.2 ± 4.5 years, means and SD) without known knee pathology were tested for postural reactions (1) to unpredictable support surface translations in anterior and posterior directions, and (2) in self‐initiated balance provocations in a reaction time (RT) forward reach‐and‐grip task. Electromyographic activity was recorded from POP and other leg muscles plus the deltoid muscle. Three‐dimensional kinematics were captured for the knee joint and the body centre of mass was calculated. POP was active first of all the muscles recorded, regardless of translation direction, and knee joint movements elicited were either knee extension or external rotation of the tibia. In the RT task, the POP was active after initiation of reaching movement, and there was little consistency in the kinematic response. POP activity was not direction specific in response to support surface translation, but appeared triggered from reactive knee joint movement. The response to the support‐surface translation suggests that POP served to control knee joint position rather than posture. In the RT task, we could not deduce whether POP activity was attributed to knee joint control or to postural control. © 2006 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 24:524–530, 2006
Characteristics of the rat supraspinatus tendon during tendon‐to‐bone healing after acute injury
Authors: Galatz Leesa M. , Sandell Linda J. , Rothermich Stefan Y. , Das Rosalina , Mastny Ava , Havlioglu Necat , Silva Matthew J. , Thomopoulos Stavros
Published: February 2006

Rotator cuff repair is known to have a high failure rate. Little is known about the natural healing process of the rotator cuff repair site, hence little can be done to improve the tendon's ability to heal. The purpose of this study was to investigate the collagen formation at the early repair site and to localize TGFβ‐1 and 3 during early healing and compare their levels to cell proliferation and histological changes. Bilateral supraspinatus tendons were transected and repaired in 60 rats. Specimens were harvested and evaluated at 0, 1, 3, 7, 10, 28, and 56 days. Histological sections were evaluated for cell morphology. Immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization was performed to localize protein and mRNA for collagen types I and III and TGFβ‐1 and 3. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) assay was performed to measure cell proliferation, and cells were counted to determine cell density. Biomechanical properties were evaluated. Repair tissue demonstrated an initial inflammatory response with multinucleated cells present at 1 and 3 days, and lymphocytes and plasma cells presents at 7 and 10 days. Capillary proliferation began at 3 days and peaked at 10 days. Ultimate force increased significantly over the time period studied. Collagen I protein and mRNA significantly increased at 10 days, and reached a plateau by 28 and 56 days. Collagen III showed a similar trend, with an early increase, and remained high until 56 days. TGFβ‐1 was localized to the forming scar tissue and showed a distinct peak at 10 days. TGFβ‐3 was not seen at the healing insertion site. Cell proliferation and density followed the same trend as TGFβ‐1. A wound healing response does occur at the healing rotator cuff insertion site, however, the characteristics of the tendon after healing differ significantly from the uninjured tendon insertion site at the longest time‐point studied. A distinctive collagen remodeling process occurred with an initial increase in the formation of collagen types I and III followed by a decrease toward baseline levels seen at time 0. Growth factor TGFβ‐1 was localized to repair tissue and coincided with a peak in cell proliferation and cellularity. Repair sites remained unorganized histologically and biomechanically inferior in comparison to previously described uninjured insertion sites.. © 2006 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 24:541–550, 2006
Determination and removal of impurities in 2‐D LC‐MS of peptides
Authors: Mihailova Albena , Lundanes Elsa , Greibrokk Tyge
Published: February 2006

Problems occurring during operation of a 2‐D LC‐MS system for separation and identification of neuropeptides, such as contamination of the used salts and column bleed, are described. When using polysulfoethyl aspartamide, which is widely used as a strong cation exchange stationary phase in the first dimension, interfering peaks were observed in the second‐dimension reversed‐phase chromatograms. The observed peaks, found to be caused by column bleeding, had abundance above the threshold value and influenced the quality of the analyses. The origin of the peaks was verified and appropriate measures are proposed. Additionally, peaks caused by polyethylene glycols (PEGs), covering approximately 5 min of feasible chromatographic time in every fraction, were observed. The commercial ammonium formate salts used to prepare the first‐dimension mobile phase were found to contain PEG impurities, and in subsequent work the salt solutions were prepared from formic acid and ammonia to avoid any additional contaminations.
Scattering of ultrashort laser pulse by atomic systems
Authors: Golovinski P A , Mikhailov E M
Published: February 2006

The simple analytical formula for description of the
scattering of ultrashort laser pulse with the shape of the Meyer
wavelet by atomic system is obtained. The dependence of the
scattered pulse shape as a function of the system spectral width
is discussed.
Precise laser refractometry of liquids
Authors: Gonchukov S , Vakurov M , Yermachenko V
Published: February 2006

The results of development of two versions of the
intracavity laser refractometry in reflection (ILRR) are reviewed
in this paper. The ILRR method is based on the use of the
properties of two-mode lasers with broken cavity and allows the
precise refractive investigations of turbid media to be fulfilled
in real time. The ILRR applications are primarily planed to
biological liquids study. The results of blood refractometry are
offered.
Effects of materials with negative refraction and active
impurities upon optical gain from 1-D PCFs
Authors: Shen T G , Li Zh , Wu B
Published: February 2006

Optical amplification from 1-D photonic crystal fibers
(PCFs) with layered structure composed of positive and negative
refraction materials is studied with FDTD method in this paper.
And we find out that the amplitudes of the separated narrow
transmission spectra of surface waves at the interfaces between
positive- and negative-refraction materials are greater than one,
which differ from those of conventional optical fibers. Therefore,
the unusual properties of these PCFs suggest a possibility of
diverse applications to the super dense wavelength-division
multiplexed communication systems, such as optical signal
transmission and optical amplification.
Electro-optic Q-switched Yb:YAG slab laser
Authors: Liu Q , Gong M , Wu H , Lu F , Li C
Published: February 2006

A novel side-pumped structure with microlens-free diode
arrays and a lensduct was demonstrated. This structure is much
more robust and simple than traditional approach of a
microlens-conditioned diode arrays with a lensduct. A quasi-CW
diode arrays side-pumped KD*P Q-switched Yb:YAG slab laser has
been demonstrated. An output energy of ∼10 mJ/pulse with
pulse width as short as ∼20ns is obtained at 1–10 Hz
repetition rate. To our knowledge, this is the shortest pulse
width of Electro-optic Q-switched laser output by using Yb:YAG as
the gain medium.
A new side effect of immunosuppression: High incidence of hearing impairment after liver transplantation
Authors: Rifai Kinan , Kirchner Gabriele I. , Bahr Matthias J. , Cantz Tobias , Rosenau Jens , Nashan Björn , Klempnauer Jürgen L. , Manns Michael P. , Strassburg Christian P.
Published: February 2006

Little is known about hearing impairment in patients after organ transplantation. We conducted a single-center study to evaluate hearing impairment in patients after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). A questionnaire was sent to 695 adult patients after OLT to assess characteristics and course of auditory impairment. Risk factors such as ototoxic drugs were taken into consideration. Clinical follow-up, including immunosuppressive therapy, was analyzed in detail. The questionnaire was completed by 521 patients (75%). Hearing impairment was reported by 184 patients (35%). A total of 43 patients (8%) suffered from hearing abnormalities prior to OLT. The remaining 141 patients (27%) developed hearing impairment after transplantation. Main problems were hearing loss (52%), tinnitus (38%), and otalgia (30%). There was no association of post-OLT hearing disorders with age or known risk factors. In 43% of patients, onset of hearing impairment was within 2 yr post-OLT. Hearing loss was positively associated with tacrolimus immunosuppression in univariate (P < 0.05) and multivariate analysis (P < 0.02). Patients using a hearing aid received tacrolimus more frequently than cyclosporine (P < 0.05). In conclusion, subjective hearing impairment is frequent in patients after OLT and contributes to post-OLT morbidity. Calcineurin inhibitor-related neurotoxicity appears as a possible mechanism. Further prospective investigations with objective hearing tests are necessary to confirm these results and to evaluate the role of immunosuppression.
Liver Transpl, 2006.

© 2006 AASLD.
Curing Behavior of Epoxy Resin Using Controllable Curing Agents Based on Nickel Complexes
Authors: Omrani Abdollah , Ghaemy Mousa , Rostami Abbas A.
Published: February 2006

Summary: The curing reaction kinetics and mechanism of the diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) with three complexes of Ni(II) with diethylentriamine (Dien), Pyrazole (Pz) and Pyridine (Py) as ligands have been studied using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The curing reaction was characterized by high cure onset and peak maximum temperatures. The kinetics of the curing reaction were evaluated using the Ozawa method. The average values of activation energy for the three nickel complexes increased in the order: Dien‐based curing agent > Pz‐based curing agent > Py‐based curing agent. Three main curing mechanisms (catalytic, complex cation and free ligand polymerization path) have been proposed depending on the cure temperature. It was also shown that the cure kinetics of DGEBA with Dien‐ and Py‐based complexes could be described by the Sestak‐Berggren equation. The water absorption, chemical resistance and thermal stability of the thermosets were also studied. The results showed that the thermoset obtained with the Py‐based complex was more thermally stable than those obtained with the other two curing agents.

Activation energy versus conversion plots for the epoxy systems studied.

image

Activation energy versus conversion plots for the epoxy systems studied.
Adult‐onset primary lower limb dystonia
Authors: Schneider Susanne A. , Edwards Mark J. , Grill Stephen E. , Goldstein Suzanne , Kanchana Su , Quinn Niall P. , Bhatia Kailash P. , Hallett Mark , Reich Stephen G.
Published: February 2006

The lower extremity is affected infrequently in adult‐onset primary dystonia in contrast to childhood‐onset dystonia, which typically begins in the foot. When dystonia affects the foot in an adult, it is usually on a secondary basis. We present findings on 17 patients (11 women, 6 men; average age of onset 48.4 years; average time to diagnosis 2.7 years) with adult‐onset primary foot dystonia. Prior to diagnosis, most patients underwent extensive testing and treatment, including unnecessary surgeries. Only the left lower extremity was involved in 8 patients, only the right in 7, and both in 2. The most common patterns were plantar flexion of all toes and inversion of the foot, typically activated with standing or walking. Only 2 patients had dystonia elsewhere. There was a family history of possible dystonia in 2 patients. One of five tested for DYT1 was positive, in the absence of a family history. One of eight patients treated with levodopa experienced mild improvement. Six of eight treated with botulinum toxin improved. No patient has been observed to have a secondary cause of dystonia. The prognosis, with regard to progression or spread to other body parts, has been favorable. Although uncommon, foot dystonia on a primary basis, not due to DYT1, can begin in adulthood. In this series of patients, the diagnosis was often not recognized, leading to extensive and unnecessary testing and treatment and emphasizing the need for wider recognition. © 2006 Movement Disorder Society
The numerical modelling of advective transport in the presence of fluid pressure transients
Authors: Selvadurai A. P. S. , Dong W.
Published: February 2006

Conventional modelling of transport problems for porous media usually assumes that the Darcy flow velocities are steady. In certain practical situations, the flow velocity can exhibit time‐dependency, either due to the transient character of the flow process or time dependency in the boundary conditions associated with potential flow. In this paper, we consider certain one‐ and three‐dimensional problems of the advective transport of a chemical species in a fluid‐saturated porous region. In particular, the advective flow velocity is governed by the piezo‐conduction equation that takes into account the compressibilities of the pore fluid and the porous skeleton. Time‐ and/or mesh‐refining adaptive schemes used in the computational modelling are developed on the basis of a Fourier analysis, which can lead to accurate and optimal solutions for the advective transport problem with time‐ and space‐dependent advective flow velocity distributions. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Minimizing the makespan in open‐shop scheduling problems with a convex resource consumption function
Authors: Shabtay Dvir , Kaspi Moshe
Published: February 2006

We consider open‐shop scheduling problems where operation‐processing times are a convex decreasing function of a common limited nonrenewable resource. The scheduler's objective is to determine the optimal job sequence on each machine and the optimal resource allocation for each operation in order to minimize the makespan. We prove that this problem is NP‐hard, but for the special case of the two‐machine problem we provide an efficient optimization algorithm. We also provide a fully polynomial approximation scheme for solving the preemptive case. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2006
An accurate multigrid solver for computing singular solutions of elliptic problems
Authors: Köstler H. , Rüde U.
Published: February 2006

In this article we present a method to solve partial differential equations (PDE) containing generalized functions as source terms. Typical applications are point sources and sinks in porous media flow that are described by Dirac δ‐functions or point loads and dipoles as source terms for electrostatic potentials.

For analysing the accuracy of such computations, standard techniques cannot be used, since they rely on global smoothness. This is true for both Sobolev space arguments for finite element based methods, and for continuity and differentiability arguments in finite difference analysis. At the singularity, the solution and its derivatives tend to infinity and therefore standard error norms will not even converge.

We will demonstrate that these difficulties can be overcome by using a mesh‐dependent representation of the singular sources constructed by appropriate smoothing and by using other metrics to measure accuracy and convergence of the numerical solution. In the standard case our technique is equivalent to representing singular distributions by properly scaled finite element basis functions. Only minor modifications to the discretization and solver are necessary to obtain the same asymptotic accuracy and efficiency as for regular and smooth solutions. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A multilevel adaptive solver based on second‐generation wavelet thresholding techniques
Authors: Limon Alfonso , Morris Hedley
Published: February 2006

In this manuscript, we introduce a second‐generation wavelet thresholding technique used to construct a numerically stable non‐dyadic sparse grid representation. The resulting second‐generation wavelet projectors, when coupled to a multigrid solver, provide an elegant method for integrating the numerical solution. The combined method is then utilized in the solution of a singular perturbation problem that arises when modelling an n‐MOS gate exhibiting quantum tunnelling. The resulting solution is compared with the full Schrödinger–Poisson system, and the two solutions are shown to be in good agreement. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Remission of aplastic anemia induced by treatment for Graves disease in a pediatric patient
Authors: Das Prabodh Kumar , Wherrett Diane , Dror Yigal
Published: February 2006

Aplastic anemia (AA) is mediated by T‐cell autoimmunity in the majority of cases; it is rare and mostly idiopathic in children. We describe a child, who developed AA following Graves' disease which could not be attributed to antithyroid drugs. We hypothesized that both diseases were caused by similar autoimmune process. We monitored the blood counts and did not administer any conventional treatment for AA assuming that the existing anti‐ hematopoietic stem cell humoral and cellular immunity might subside with induction of remission of Grave's disease. The child went into complete remission with the treatment of the Graves' disease. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2007;49:210–212. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Outcome for children <4 years of age with malignant central nervous system tumors treated with high‐dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell rescue
Authors: Thorarinsdottir Halldora K. , Rood Brian , Kamani Naynesh , Lafond Debbie , Perez‐Albuerne Evelio , Loechelt Brett , Packer Roger J. , MacDonald Tobey J.
Published: February 2006

Background

Children <4 years of age (yo) with malignant central nervous system (CNS) tumors have a dismal prognosis. In an attempt to delay or obviate radiation therapy (XRT) and improve outcome, our institution has treated children <4 yo with newly diagnosed malignant CNS tumors with high‐dose chemotherapy (HDC) and autologous stem cell rescue (ASCR) followed by selective XRT.

Procedure

Fifteen children (age 4–38 months) with malignant CNS tumors have completed treatment with HDC/ASCR. All patients received three cycles of induction chemotherapy (cisplatin 3.5 mg/kg‐ day 0, cyclophosphamide 60 mg/kg‐ day 1 and 2, etoposide 2.5 mg/kg‐ day 0–2, vincristine 0.05 mg/kg, day 0, 7, 14) followed by three cycles of HDC (carboplatin 17 mg/kg and thiotepa 6 mg/kg, day 0 and 1) with ASCR. Histology included five medulloblastomas, four primitive neuroectodermal tumors (PNET), five malignant gliomas, and one ependymoma. Outcome and treatment toxicities were evaluated by retrospective chart review.

Results

Median follow‐up time of the 15 patients is 22 months (range 8–82 months). The 1‐ and 2‐year progression‐free survival (PFS) is 86.1% and 52.2% and overall survival (OS) 91.6% and 72.1%, respectively. Ten patients are alive and disease free 3–77 months (median 18 months) after having completed HDC/ASCR, thereoff five received XRT. Toxicity was primarily myelosuppression. There was no treatment mortality.

Conclusions

We are encouraged by the outcome of 15 children <4 yo with malignant CNS tumors treated with tandem cycles of HDC and ASCR at our institution. The treatment regimen is relatively well tolerated. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2007;48:278–284. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Spontaneous splenic rupture in a patient with factor XIII deficiency and a novel mutation
Authors: Khalife Hassan , Muwakkit Samar , Al‐Moussawi Hayfa , Dabbous Ibrahim , Khoury Ruby , Peyvandi Flora , Abboud Miguel R.
Published: February 2006

We report a novel mutation in factor XIIIA gene that caused severe congenital factor XIII deficiency in a 6 year and 8 month old male. The mutation is a GA deletion in the core domain leading to a premature stop at codon 502. The child had severe deficiency with two episodes of intracerebral hemorrhage. He also developed spontaneous splenic rupture, an unusual complication of this disorder. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2008;50:113–114. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fluorinated and ring‐substituted bisbenzimidazole copper complexes for ethylene/acrylate copolymerization
Authors: Baugh Lisa Saunders , Sissano Joseph A. , Kacker Smita , Berluche Enock , Stibrany Robert T. , Schulz Donald N. , Rucker Steven P.
Published: February 2006

Bisbenzimidazole copper dichloride complexes (CuBBIMs), when activated with methylaluminoxane, catalyze the random copolymerization of ethylene with acrylates to produce highly linear functional copolymers. To probe the sensitivity of the copolymerization to the catalyst structure, a series of CuBBIM catalysts with various steric, electronic, and geometric ligand characteristics was prepared, including CuBBIMs having benzimidazole ring substituents and ligand backbones of various lengths. Four different acrylates were also evaluated as comonomers (t‐butyl acrylate, methyl acrylate, t‐butyl methacrylate, and methyl methacrylate). Although no obvious ligand‐based influences on copolymerization were identified, the structure of the acrylate comonomer was found to exert significant effects. Copolymers prepared with t‐butyl methacrylate comonomer exhibited the highest ethylene contents (31–63%), whereas those prepared with methyl acrylate contained only minor amounts of ethylene (<15%). Copolymerizations carried out at lowered acrylate feed levels generally had increased ethylene contents but showed smaller yields, lowered molecular weights, and increased branching. Unusual ketoester structures were also observed in the methyl acrylate and methyl methacrylate containing copolymers, suggesting that the acrylate ester group size may be an important controlling factor for copolymerization. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 1817–1840, 2006
Novel approach to preparing epoxy/polyhedral oligometric silsesquioxane hybrid materials possessing high mass fractions of polyhedral oligometric silsesquioxane and good homogeneity
Authors: Liu Ying‐Ling , Chang Gung‐Pei
Published: February 2006

Epoxy/polyhedral oligometric silsesquioxane (POSS) hybrid materials, containing 50 wt % POSS and exhibiting good homogeneity, were obtained in a two‐step preparation. Monoamine‐functionalized POSS was first reacted with diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A to form an epoxy POSS precursor, which was then cured. Curing agents such as 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylmethane, dicyandiamide (DICY), and diethylphosphite (DEP) were used for the synthesis of the epoxy–POSS hybrid materials. The use of small‐molecule curing agents, such as DICY and DEP, efficiently avoided macrophase separations and enhanced the thermal properties of the hybrid materials. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 1869–1876, 2006
Oxygen inhibition in thiol–acrylate photopolymerizations
Authors: O'Brien Allison K. , Cramer Neil B. , Bowman Christopher N.
Published: February 2006

The overall effects of oxygen on thiol–acrylate photopolymerizations were characterized. Specially, the choice of thiol monomer chemistry, functionality, and concentration on the extent of oxygen inhibition were considered. As thiol concentration was increased, the degree of oxygen inhibition was greatly reduced because of chain transfer from the peroxy radical to the thiol. When comparing the copolymerization of 1,6‐hexanediol diacrylate with the alkane‐based thiol (1,6‐hexane dithiol) to the copolymerization with the propionate thiol (glycol dimercaptopropionate), it was found that the propionate system was much more reactive and polymerized to a greater extent in the presence of oxygen. In addition, the functionality was considered where the glycol dimercaptopropionate was compared to a tetrafunctional propionate of similar chemistry (pentaerythritol tetrakis(mercaptopropionate)). Given the same thiol concentration, the higher functionality thiol imparted a faster polymerization rate, due to the increased polymer system viscosity, which limited oxygen diffusion and decreased the extent of overall oxygen inhibition. Thus, preliminary insight is provided into how thiol monomer choice affects the extent of oxygen inhibition in thiol–acrylate photopolymerization. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 2007–2014, 2006