bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Genetic Variations in X‐Ray Repair Cross‐Complementing Group 1 and Tourette Syndrome
Authors: Lin Wei‐Yong , Lee Cheng‐Chun , Liu Hsin‐Ping , Chou I‐Ching , Sheu Jim Jinn‐Chyuan , Wan Lei , Lin Ying‐Ju , Tsai Yuhsin , Tsai Fuu‐Jen
Published: September 2012

Background

X‐ray repair cross‐complementing group 1 (XRCC1) plays a central role in mammalian DNA repair process. The polymorphism rs25487 (Arg>Gln at codon 399) of this gene is common in Han Chinese population.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to analyze the association between this functional SNP of XRCC1 and Tourette syndrome (TS) in Han Taiwan Chinese population.

Methods

Genotyping was performed by using PCR–RFLP method on 73 TS patients and 158 normal controls.

Results

Our data indicated that genotype frequency of A/G polymorphism at codon 399 of the patients differed from the controls (P = 0.026, OR: 2.22, 95% CI: 1.22–4.03). The allele frequency analysis also showed significant differences with higher A allele frequency in patients (P = 0.015, OR: 1.70, 95% CI: 1.11–2.62).

Conclusion

Our study indicates that the functional SNP at codon 399 of XRCC1 is associated with TS development. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 26:321‐324, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Development of a Bioassay System for Human Growth Hormone Determination with Close Correlation to Immunoassay
Authors: Maimaiti M. , Tanahashi Y. , Mohri Z. , Fujieda K.
Published: September 2012

Serum growth hormone (GH) level is measured largely through immunoassays in clinical practice. However, a few cases with bioinactive and immunoreactive GH have also been reported. We describe here a new bioassay system for GH determination using the BaF/GM cell line, which proliferates in a dose‐dependent manner on hGH addition; cell proliferation was blocked by anti‐hGH antibody. This bioassay had the lowest detection limit (∼0.02 ng/ml) reported thus far and the highest specificity for GH. The bioassay results were compared with those of an immunoradiometric assay across 163 patient samples in various endocrine states. A close correlation (the ratio of bioactivity/immunoreactivity was 1.04 ± 0.33, mean ± SD) was observed between bioactivity and immunoreactivity in these samples. The newly developed system is a specific, sensitive, easy, and fast bioassay system for GH determination; we consider it useful for evaluating GH bioactivity in various endocrine states. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 26:328‐335, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Relationship of Fat Distribution With Adipokines in Patients With Acquired Immunodeficiency Virus Infection
Authors: de Luis Daniel A. , Bachiller Pablo , Palacios Teresa , Conde Rosa , Izaola Olatz , de la Fuente Beatriz , Eiros Bouza Jose M.
Published: September 2012

Background

The aim was to examine the relationship of fat distributions with adipokines concentrations in HIV‐infected patients.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional analysis of 36 HIV (free of lipodystrophy) infected patients. Dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry was used.

Results

In the multivariate analysis, basal adiponectin concentration was a dependent variable, whereas waist to hip ratio and abdominal fat mass were independent predictors in the model (F = 5.1; P < 0.05). Adiponectin concentration decreases by 5.541.2 μg/ml (CI 95%: 8,071.9–3,029.1) for each unit of waist to hip ratio and 561.9 ng/ml (CI 95%: 918.2–213.4) for each kilogram of fat mass of abdominal area. In the multivariate analysis, basal leptin concentration was a dependent variable, whereas waist circumference remained an independent predictor in the model (F = 6.3; P < 0.05), with a direct correlation. Leptin concentration increases by 0.067 ng/ml (CI 95%: 0.001–0.12) for each centimeter of waist circumference.

Conclusions

Leptin and adiponectin are related with adiposity in HIV‐infected patients. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 26:336‐341, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Simple, Rapid Atmospheric Pressure Chemical Ionization Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry Method for the Determination of 25‐Hydroxyvitamin D2 and D3
Authors: Garg Uttam , Munar Ada , Frazee Clinton , Scott David
Published: September 2012

Vitamin D plays a vital role not only in bone health but also in pathophysiology of many other body functions. In recent years, there has been significant increase in testing of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25‐OH vitamin D), a marker of vitamin D deficiency. The most commonly used methods for the measurement of 25‐OH vitamin D are immunoassays and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS‐MS). Since immunoassays suffer from inaccuracies and interferences, LC‐MS‐MS is a preferred method. In LC‐MS‐MS methods, 25‐OH vitamin D is extracted from serum or plasma by solid‐phase or liquid‐phase extraction. Because these extraction methods are time consuming, we developed an easy method that uses simple protein precipitation followed by injection of the supernatant to LC‐MS‐MS. Several mass‐to‐charge (m/z) ratio transitions, including commonly used transitions based on water loss, were evaluated and several tube types were tested. The optimal transitions for 25‐OH vitamin D2 and D3 were 395.5 > 269.5 and 383.4 > 257.3, respectively. The reportable range of the method was 1–100 ng/mL, and repeatability (within‐run) and within‐laboratory imprecision were <4% and <6%, respectively. The method agreed well with the solid‐phase extraction methods. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 26:349‐357, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Measurement of Urinary Cystatin C with a Particle‐Enhanced Turbidimetric Immunoassay on Architect Ci8200
Authors: Noraddin Feria Hikmet , Flodin Mats , Fredricsson Annika , Sohrabian Azita , Larsson Anders
Published: September 2012

Background

Cystatin C is a low‐molecular‐weight protein that is freely filtered by the glomerulus and catabolized after reabsorption by the proximal tubular cells in healthy subjects. Urinary cystatin C is a potential biomarker for tubular damage including acute kidney injury (AKI) in the acute phase when patients are submitted to the intensive care unit.

Methods

The aim of this study was to perform a method validation of urinary analysis of cystatin C by particle‐enhanced turbidimetric immunoassay (PETIA) on a high‐throughput chemical analyzer. Total assay time was 10 min. The antigen excess, linearity, lower limit of quantification (LoQ), recovery, assay precision, stability, and interference caused by hemoglobin were evaluated.

Results

The LoQ was calculated to 0.020 mg/l with a coefficient of variation (CV) ≤ 10%. No hook effect was observed and the assay was linear over the studied interval less than 0.020–0.950 mg/l with a regression of R2 = 0.9994. The assay had a recovery between 93–100% and the assay precision had a total CV of less than 3.5%. Cystatin C was stable for 3 days in room temperature and 14 days in +4C. The assay did not show any major interference with hemoglobin at a hemoglobin concentration of 10 g/L. The reference interval for urine cystatin C was less than 0.166 mg/l.

Conclusion

The urinary cystatin C PETIA showed good precision and performance characteristics including short test turnaround times that are necessary qualifications for a biomarker at a routine laboratory. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 26:358‐364, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Stability of Electrolyte Determinations on the Siemens Advia 1800 Analyzer
Authors: Garcia Rafael , Li Geling , Wang Zhenglong , Cabanero Michael , Pincus Matthew R.
Published: September 2012

Background

It is sometimes necessary for the laboratory to re‐test samples for critical serum electrolyte levels. It is important to assure reproducibility of results when testing is performed on stored, refrigerated samples. We have tested the reproducibility of results for the critical electrolytes, Na, K, Cl and Ca, from ten randomly selected patients'sera over our maximum storage period of nine (9) days on the Siemens Advia 1800 analyzer. The ranges for each electrolyte were 131–150 meq/L (Na), 3.4–5.2 meq/L (K), 101–123 meq/L (Cl) and 7.3–9.9 mg/dL (Ca).

Methods

We used ion‐selective electrodes for Na, K and Cl and the ortho‐cresolphthalein dye method for Ca.

Results

We find that the reproducibility of determinations for all of these electrolytes was excellent, i.e. the coefficients of variation for each electrolyte determination for each patient were low.

Conclusion

The methods of measurement for these electrolytes on the Advia 1800 are reliable and reproducible. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 26:372‐375, 2012. Published 2012. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain the USA.
Increased MPV Is Not a Significant Predictor for Preeclampsia During Pregnancy
Authors: Altınbas Sibel , Toğrul Cihan , Orhan Anıl , Yücel Munihe , Danısman Nuri
Published: September 2012

Background

Preeclampsia, defined as the presence of hypertension and proteinuria, is usually related with maternal and neonatal adverse effects. However, the exact predictor of preeclampsia is still lacking. Even though there are some conflicting data, mean platelet value or MPV, that is, platelet ratio with or without Doppler velocimetry was determined as highly sensitive markers for preeclampsia. We aimed to investigate the utility of MPV in prediction of preeclampsia.

Methods

Seventy‐four preeclamptic pregnant women (21 in mild, 53 in severe preeclampsia groups) were included in the study. To assess the difference of MPV between preeclamptic, normal pregnant, and healthy control rather than mild and severe preeclamptic pregnant women, we included in the analysis 31 healthy pregnant women and 35 healthy nonpregnant women.

Results

Mean age of the preeclamptic patients was 25.3 (17–38) years. Platelet levels were higher in mild preeclampsia (group 1) than severe preeclampsia (group 2), whereas alanine aminotransferase (AST), hemoglobin, and hematocrit level was higher in group 2. MPV levels were found to be similar in groups 1 and 2, MPV level increased from healthy control to preeclamptic women (P = 0.003). MPV:platelet ratio was similar according to the severity of preeclampsia (P = 0.123). Doppler velocimetry did not add an additional benefit to predict preeclampsia or its severity.

Conclusion

Our results showed that MPV level was higher in the pregnant than the control group. However, MPV did not differ both between mild and severe preeclampsia, and preeclampsia and non‐preeclamptic pregnant women. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 26:403‐406, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Differential mechanisms of tumor progression in clones from a single heterogeneous human melanoma
Authors: Croteau Walburga , Jenkins Molly H. , Ye Siying , Mullins David W. , Brinckerhoff Constance E.
Published: September 2012

We used vertical growth phase (VGP) human VMM5 melanoma cells to ask whether the tumor microenvironment could induce matrix metalloproteinase‐1 (MMP‐1) in vivo, and whether this induction correlated with metastasis. We isolated two clones from parental VMM5 cells: a low MMP‐1 producing clone (C4) and high producing clone (C9). When these clones were injected orthotopically (intradermally) into nude mice, both were equally tumorigenic and produced equivalent and abundant amounts of MMP‐1. However, the tumors from the C4 clones displayed different growth kinetics and distinct profiles of gene expression from the C9 population. The C4 tumors, which had low MMP‐1 levels in vitro, appeared to rely on growth factors and cytokines in the microenvironment to increase MMP‐1 expression in vivo, while MMP‐1 levels remained constant in the C9 tumors. C9 cells, but not C4 cells, grew as spheres in culture and expressed higher levels of JARID 1B, a marker associated with melanoma initiating cells. We conclude that VMM5 melanoma cells exhibit striking intra‐tumor heterogeneity, and that the tumorigenicity of these clones is driven by different molecular pathways. Our data suggest that there are multiple mechanisms for melanoma progression within a tumor, which may require different therapeutic strategies. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 773–780, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A dedicated automated injection system for dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI experiments in mice
Authors: Sedlacik Jan , Myers Adrianne , Loeffler Ralf B. , Williams Regan F. , Davidoff Andrew M. , Hillenbrand Claudia M.
Published: September 2012

Purpose:

To develop a reproducible small‐animal dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) MRI set‐up for mice through which volumes <100 μL can be accurately and safely injected and to test this set‐up by means of DCE measurements in resting muscle and tumor tissue.

Materials and Methods:

The contrast agent (CA) injection system comprised 2 MR‐compatible syringe pumps placed 50 cm from the 7T magnet bore where the fringe field is approximately 40 mT. Microbore tubing and T‐connector, close to the injection site, minimized dead volume (<10 μL). For DCE‐MRI measurements in 8 CB‐17 SCID mice with 1500–2500 mm3 large orthotopic neuroblastoma, a bolus of 10‐fold‐diluted Gd‐DTPA CA solution (0.1 mmol/kg) was delivered (5 μL/s), followed by a 50‐μL saline flush. Retro‐orbital injections were given instead of tail vein injections, because the peripheral vasculature was reduced because of large tumor burden.

Results:

The CA injection was successful in 19 of 24 experiments. Optical assessment showed minimal dispersion of ink‐colored CA bolus. Mean (±SD) pharmacokinetic parameters retrieved from DCE‐MRI examinations in resting muscle (Ktrans = 0.038 ± 0.025 min−1, kep = 0.66 ± 0.48 min−1, ve = 0.060 ± 0.014, vp = 0.033 ± 0.021) and tumor (Ktrans = 0.082 ± 0.071 min−1, kep = 0.82 ± 0.80 min−1, ve = 0.121 ± 0.075, vp = 0.093 ± 0.051) agreed with those reported previously.

Conclusion:

We successfully designed and implemented a DCE‐MRI set‐up system with short injection lines and low dead volume. The system can be used at any field strength with the syringe pumps placed at a sufficiently low fringe field (<40 mT). J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2013;37:746–751. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Evidence‐based sample size estimation based upon an updated meta‐regression analysis
Authors: Rotondi Michael A. , Donner Allan , Koval John J.
Published: September 2012

A traditional meta‐analysis examines the overall effectiveness of an intervention by producing a pooled estimate of treatment efficacy. In contrast to this, a meta‐regression model seeks to determine whether a study‐level covariate (X) is a plausible source of heterogeneity in a set of treatment effects.

Upon performing such an analysis, the results may suggest the presence of a meaningful amount of variation in the treatment effects because of the covariate; however, the current set of trials may not provide sufficient statistical power for such a conclusion.

The proposed approach provides quantitative insight into the amount of support that a new trial may provide to the hypothesis that X is a meaningful source of variation in an updated meta‐regression model, which includes both the previously completed and the proposed trial. This empirical algorithm allows examination of the potential feasibility of a planned study of various sizes to further support or refute the hypothesis that X is a statistically significant source of variation.

A detailed example illustrates the sample size estimation algorithm for both a planned individually or cluster randomized trial to investigate the now commonly accepted impact of geographical latitude on the observed effectiveness of the Bacillus Calmette‐Guérin vaccine in the prevention of tuberculosis. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A review of technologies for sensing contact location on the surface of a display
Authors: Walker Geoff
Published: September 2012

Touchscreen interactive devices have become increasingly important in both consumer and commercial applications. This paper provides a broad overview of all touchscreen technologies in use today, organized into 13 categories with 38 variations. The 13 categories are projected capacitive, analog resistive, surface capacitive, surface acoustic wave, infrared, camera‐based optical, liquid crystal display in‐cell, bending wave, force sensing, planar scatter detection, vision‐based, electromagnetic resonance, and combinations of technologies. The information provided on each touchscreen technology includes a little history, some basic theory of operation, the most common applications, the key advantages and disadvantages, a few current issues or trends, and the author's opinion of the future outlook for the technology. Because of its dominance, this paper begins with projected capacitive; more information is provided on this technology than on any of the other touch technologies that are discussed. This paper covers only technologies that operate by contact with a display screen; this excludes technologies such as 3D gesture recognition, touch on opaque devices such as interactive whiteboards, and proximity sensing. This is not a highly technical paper; it sacrifices depth of information on any one technology for breadth of information on multiple technologies.
In vitro cell compatibility study of rose bengal–chitosan adhesives
Authors: Barton Mathew , Piller Sabine C. , Mahns David A. , Morley John W. , Mawad Damia , Longo Leonardo , Lauto Antonio
Published: September 2012

Background and Objectives

Photochemical tissue bonding (PTB) using rose bengal (RB) in conjunction with light is an alternative technique to repair tissue without suturing. It was recently demonstrated that laser‐irradiated chitosan films, incorporating RB, bonded firmly to calf intestine in vitro. It is thus required to investigate the possible cytotoxic effects of the RB–chitosan adhesive on cells before testing its application to in vivo models.

Materials and Methods

Adhesive films, based on chitosan and containing ∼0.1 wt% RB were fabricated. Their cytotoxicity was assessed by growing human and murine fibroblasts either in media in which adhesive strips had been incubated, or directly on the adhesive. The adhesive was either laser‐irradiated or not. Cells were stained after 48 hours with Trypan blue and the number of live and dead cells was recorded for cell viability.

Results

Murine and human fibroblasts grew confluent on the adhesives with no apparent morphological changes or any exclusion zone. Cell numbers of murine fibroblasts were not significantly different when cultured in media that was extracted from irradiated (86 ± 7%) and non‐irradiated adhesive (89 ± 4%). A similar result was obtained for the human fibroblasts.

Conclusions

These findings support that the RB–chitosan films induced negligible toxicity and growth retardation in murine and human fibroblasts. Lasers Surg. Med. 44: 762–768, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Anion Responsive Imidazolium‐Based Polymers
Authors: Texter John
Published: September 2012

Stimuli responsiveness in polymer design is providing basis for diversely new and advanced materials that exhibit switchable porosity in membranes and coatings, switchable particle formation and thermodynamically stable nanoparticle dispersions, polymers that provide directed mechanical stress in response to intensive fields, and switchable compatibility of nanomaterials in changing environments. The incorporation of ionic liquid monomers has resulted in many new polymers based on the imidazolium group. These polymers exhibit all of the above‐articulated material properties. Some insight into how these anion responsive polymers function has become empirically available. Much opportunity remains for extending our understanding as well as for designing more refined stimuli‐responsive materials.
Involvement of annexin A8 in the properties of pancreatic cancer
Authors: Hata Harumi , Tatemichi Masayuki , Nakadate Toshio
Published: September 2012

Although Annexin A8 (ANXA8), a member of a superfamily of calcium and phospholipid binding proteins, is physiologically expressed in a tissue‐specific manner, recent microarray studies reported that ANXA8 was also ectopically expressed in pancreatic cancers. We investigated the molecular mechanism of expression of ANXA8 in cancer cells and its functional role in pancreatic cancer cells. ANXA8 was diversely expressed in human cancer cell lines. Expression was enhanced by treatment with 5‐aza‐dC and butyrate, and correlated with methylation status at CpG in the promoter‐exon 1 region. Inhibition of ANXA8 using siRNA in BxPC‐3 cells which express ANXA8 at a high level elevated caspase‐3 and ‐7 activities. In in vitro invasion assay, inhibition of ANXA8 using siRNA in BxPC‐3 reduced the numbers of migrating cells, and down‐regulated HIF‐1α mRNA transcription. Overexpression of ANXA8 increased the number of viable cells and BrdU incorporation in PANC‐1 cells, which express ANXA8 at a low level. Expression of ANXA8 was induced under conditions of nutrient deprivation, and overexpression of ANXA8 showed resistance against serum starvation in PANC‐1 cells. In a promoter assay, co‐transfection with the expression vector of ANXA8 and the vector of a reporter gene containing the promoter of HIF‐1α enhanced HIF‐1α promoter activity. In contrast, this effect of ANXA8 was inhibited by administration of BAPTA‐AM, an intracellular Ca2+ chelator. These results suggest that ectopic ANXA8 expression in cancer cells might involve an epigenetic mechanism. ANXA8 might play an important role in calcium fluctuation‐mediated HIF‐1α transcriptional activation and cell viability. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
In vivo measurement of CBF using 17O NMR signal of metabolically produced H217O as a perfusion tracer
Authors: Zhu Xiao‐Hong , Zhang Yi , Wiesner Hannes M. , Ugurbil Kamil , Chen Wei
Published: September 2012

The cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen of small animals can be reliably imaged using the in vivo 17O magnetic resonance approach at high field. However, a separate measurement is required for imaging the cerebral blood flow in the same animal. In this study, we demonstrate that the 17O NMR signal of metabolically produced H217O in the rat brain following an 17O2 inhalation can serve as a perfusion tracer and its decay rate can be used to determine the absolute values of cerebral blood flow across a wide range of animal conditions. This finding suggests that the in vivo 17O magnetic resonance approach is capable of imaging both cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen and cerebral blood flow simultaneously and noninvasively; and it provides new utilities for studying the cerebral oxygen metabolism and perfusion commonly associated with brain function and diseases. Magn Reson Med 70:309–314, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Independent component analysis tractography combined with a ball–stick model to isolate intravoxel crossing fibers of the corticospinal tracts in clinical diffusion MRI
Authors: Jeong Jeong‐Won , Asano Eishi , Yeh Fang‐Cheng , Chugani Diane C. , Chugani Harry T.
Published: September 2012

The independent component analysis (ICA) tractography method has improved the ability to isolate intravoxel crossing fibers; however, the accuracy of ICA is limited in cases with voxels in local clusters lacking sufficient numbers of fibers with the same orientations. To overcome this limitation, the ICA was combined with a ball–stick model (BSM) [“ICA+BSM”]. An ICA approach is applied to identify crossing fiber components in voxels of small cluster, which are maximally independent in orientation. The eigenvectors of these components are numerically optimized via the subsequent BSM procedure. Simulation studies for two or three crossing fibers demonstrate that ICA+BSM overcomes the limitation of the original ICA method by refining regional ICA solutions in diffusion measurement of a single voxel. It shows 2°–5° of angular errors to isolate two or three fibers, providing a better recovery of simulated fibers compared with ICA alone. Human studies show that ICA+BSM achieves high anatomical correspondence of corticospinal tracts compared with postmortem corticospinal histology, yielding 92.2% true positive detection including both lateral and medial projections, compared with 84.1% for ICA alone. This study demonstrates that the intravoxel crossing fiber problem in clinical diffusion MRI may be sorted out more efficiently by combining ICA with BSM. Magn Reson Med 70:441–453, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Reliability of ambulatory urodynamics in patients with spinal cord injuries
Authors: Vírseda Miguel , Salinas Jesús , Esteban Manuel , Méndez Santiago
Published: September 2012

Objective

To determine the test–retest repeatability of the urodynamic parameters commonly utilized in ambulatory urodynamics (AM) for patients with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD).

Methods

A test–retest repeatability study was performed on 64 consecutive patients with stable spinal cord injuries who underwent two AM studies 24 hr apart.

Results

The mean age was 43.2 years, with 47 males and 17 females. A significant intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was found between the two studies with respect to the functional bladder capacity (FBC; 0.74), the maximum detrusor pressure during the involuntary detrusor contraction (PdetmaxIDC; 0.84), and the post‐void residual (PVR; 0.76). Of note, the ICC of the end filling detrusor pressure (Pdetfill) was not significant (0.25). The correlation with respect to the presence of involuntary detrusor contraction (IDC) was significant but low (κ = 0.40). Based on the logistic regression analysis, the variables that influenced the concordance with respect to the presence of the IDC were PdetmaxIDC (directly) and Pdetmax (inversely). The variable that that influenced the concordance with respect to PdetmaxIDC was PVR (directly). The variable that influenced the concordance with respect to PVR was the FBC (directly).

Conclusions

AM is reliable for the reproduction of the main urodynamic parameters investigated in patients with NLUTD, except for the end filling detrusor pressure, which was a non‐reliable parameter. The concordance of AM can be improved primarily by taking into account the values of the maximum detrusor pressure during involuntary detrusor contraction (PdetmaxIDC). Neurourol. Urodynam. 32: 387–392, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Evolution of midurethral and other mesh slings – a critical analysis
Authors: Petros Peter , Papadimitriou John
Published: September 2012

We analyzed our original experimental studies on which the midurethral sling was based with reference to FDA mesh warnings.

We concluded that

Vascular/organ damage could be avoided by first penetrating the urogenital diaphragm.

A non‐stretch tape minimizes obstruction and urethral damage.

A non‐obstructive musculoelastic mechanism closes the urethra.

The strength of neocollagen (>92.8 lbs/sq inch) indicates that little mesh is required for prolapse repair.

Foreign body (mesh) reaction is different from infection and is related to volume implanted

Urgency is potentially curable by repairing the suspensory ligaments

“Minislings” are promising for incontinence and POP, but more development is required.

Neurourol. Urodynam. 32: 399–406, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Finding unrecognized information in overactive bladder clinical trial data: A new approach to understanding placebo and treatment effects
Authors: Zinner Norman R. , Ammann Larry P. , Haas Gabriel P. , Janning Stephen W. , He Weizhong , Bukofzer Stan
Published: September 2012

Aims

To identify combinations of variables among overactive bladder (OAB) clinical trial subjects that allow prediction of those who are more—or less—likely to respond strongly to placebo, or to medication.

Methods

Data from two Phase IIIb clinical trials of solifenacin in OAB were combined. Predictive models for placebo and treatment responses were constructed using baseline variables including individual items from the OAB questionnaire. These models were reduced to an essential subset of predictor variables. Two outcome measures are reported: urgency and incontinence.

Results

In placebo subjects, 14 selected variables permitted distinction between those who responded with significant reductions in urgency and those who did not. A subset of nine variables in treated subjects permitted distinction between those more—or less—likely to respond to medication. Data for urgency were combined from both placebo and actively treated subjects to identify those who had one of the previously identified clusters of variables. It was possible to predict, among all subjects, who would be likely to experience a strong placebo or active treatment response and who would not. This process was also applied to incontinence data.

Conclusions

We have developed a new process to help understand placebo and treatment responses and their relationships to baseline conditions. The effectiveness of these methods was indicated using data from two solifenacin clinical trials and would benefit from future validation using other data sets. Methods used here are suitable for predicting the placebo effect in other clinical trials. Neurourol. Urodynam. 32: 308–313, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The myofibroblast matrix: implications for tissue repair and fibrosis
Authors: Klingberg Franco , Hinz Boris , White Eric S
Published: September 2012

Myofibroblasts, and the extracellular matrix (ECM) in which they reside, are critical components of wound healing and fibrosis. TheECM, traditionally viewed as the structural elements within which cells reside, is actually a functional tissue whose components possess not only scaffolding characteristics, but also growth factor, mitogenic, and other bioactive properties. Although it has been suggested that tissue fibrosis simply reflects an ‘exuberant’ wound‐healing response, examination of theECMand the roles of myofibroblasts during fibrogenesis instead suggest that the organism may be attempting to recapitulate developmental programmes designed to regenerate functional tissue. Evidence of this is provided by the temporospatial re‐emergence of embryonicECMproteins by fibroblasts and myofibroblasts that induce cellular programmatic responses intended to produce a functional tissue. In the setting of wound healing (or physiological fibrosis), this occurs in a highly regulated and exquisitely choreographed fashion which results in cessation of haemorrhage, restoration of barrier integrity, and re‐establishment of tissue function. However, pathological tissue fibrosis, which oftentimes causes organ dysfunction and significant morbidity or mortality, likely results from dysregulation of normal wound‐healing processes or abnormalities of the process itself. This review will focus on the myofibroblastECMand its role in both physiological and pathological fibrosis, and will discuss the potential for therapeutically targetingECMproteins for treatment of fibrotic disorders.
Early cisplatin induced ototoxicity profile may predict the need for hearing support in children with medulloblastoma
Authors: Lafay‐Cousin Lucie , Purdy Eve , Huang Annie , Cushing Sharon L. , Papaioannou Vicky , Nettel‐Aguirre Alberto , Bouffet Eric
Published: September 2012

Background

Cisplatin (CDDP) ototoxicity is a significant side effect of the current treatment of medulloblastoma (MB). Cumulative dose of CDDP and age are recognized risk factors for hearing loss, but inter‐individual susceptibility limits our ability to identify patients at risk for hearing loss. We describe the kinetics of early audiometric changes during therapy and identify profiles associated with a higher risk of needing hearing aids.

Procedure

Serial audiometric evaluations were performed during and after completion of therapy in children with average risk (AR) and high‐risk (HR) MB. Each audiogram was scored according to five grading systems. Variations of pure tone thresholds were analyzed at each frequency for each consecutive audiogram. CDDP dose modifications and hearing outcome were recorded.

Results

A total of 258 audiograms from 35 patients (22 AR, 13 HR) were analyzed. Eighteen AR patients (81.3%) required dose reduction and the median cumulative dose of CDDP administered was 412.5 mg/m2 (150–600), corresponding to 68% of the intended dose. Three HR patients (23.0%) required dose reduction. At a median follow‐up of 67 months (11–117), nine patients (25.7%) required hearing support: After two cycles of CDDP (150 mg/m2), the average hearing loss at 8,000 Hz was twice higher in the group that eventually required hearing support.

Conclusion

Early alteration of high‐frequency thresholds may help identify individuals who will require hearing support. In the MB population, alternative strategies should be developed to limit the cumulative dose of CDDP to prevent significant ototoxicity. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013;60:287–292. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Project Management Knowledge and Effects on Construction Project Outcomes: An Empirical Study
Authors: Chou Jui-Sheng , Yang Jung-Ghun
Published: September 2012

This study examines the relationships among the PMBOK® Guide, project performance, customer satisfaction, and project success by assessing the efficacy of management techniques, tools, and skills for implementing infrastructure and building construction. Experienced interviewees from private engineering firms and public agencies were asked to complete a questionnaire, and the responses were analyzed by means of a structural equation model. The analytical results indicate the appropriateness of prioritizing the practice of the PMBOK® Guide in the construction industry. This study contributes to the literature by providing insight into interactions among the PMBOK® Guide and construction project outcomes in engineering practices. Particularly, the “bidder's conference” and “procurement negotiations” are the priority techniques to minimize bidding and legal procurement problems. Moreover, the study recommends the use of “stakeholder analysis,” “communication requirements analysis,” and the “communication methods” to perform effective communication management. Although the conclusions are based on the sample collected in Taiwan, the research findings can be used by project managers and educators to tailor the PMBOK® Guide to their unique needs and to design effective training programs for construction specialists.
The role of solvent‐ligated metal(II) complexes incorporating (fluoroalkoxy)aluminates as weakly coordinating anions in isobutylene polymerization
Authors: Yeong Hui Yee , Li Yang , Kühn Fritz E. , Voit Brigitte
Published: September 2012

Nitrile‐ligated copper(II) and zinc(II) complexes comprising (fluoroalkoxy)aluminates as weakly coordinating anions (WCAs) have been synthesized and applied for the polymerization of isobutylene at room temperature (30°C). The polymers obtained are in the low and moderate molecular weight range and show characteristics of the highly reactive polyisobutylene. Results indicate that the fluoroalkoxy aluminate WCAs have even a higher tolerance toward water in IB polymerization than the earlier tested perfluoroborate WCAs. Studies showed that water plays an important role in the polymerization process, which indicates a polymerization mechanism similar to a proton‐initiated carbocation polymerization. The role of the WCAs and their importance for the room‐temperature polymerization process was re‐examined, and the effect of the addition of proton and electron donors including proton traps (2,6‐di‐tert‐butyl‐4‐methylpyridine or DTBP) was studied in detail. The polymerization reaction seems to be dominated by transfer reactions that lead to the high content of exo double bonds while propagation proceeds via conventional cationic polymerization. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2013
Easy and effective method to produce functionalized particles for cellular uptake
Authors: Collette Floraine , Delatouche Régis , Blanquart Christophe , Gueugnon Fabien , Grégoire Marc , Bertrand Philippe , Héroguez Valérie
Published: September 2012

In this contribution, a versatile approach for the synthesis of functionalized particles for drug delivery is presented, using two nonaggressive standardized procedures. The first procedure considered is the functionalization of an azido‐terminated α‐norbornenyl poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) macromonomer with an alkyne‐containing active molecule via the copper catalyzed azide alkyne cycloaddition, click type reaction. The functionalized macromonomer is then polymerized by Ring‐Opening Metathesis Polymerization (ROMP) in dispersion to form functionalized particles. The second procedure consists in synthesizing particles by ROMP in dispersed media of norbornene with azido‐terminated α‐norbornenyl PEO macromonomer. The ROMP was initiated by the first generation Grubbs catalyst. Such functionalized core‐shell particles have stealthy properties due to their PEO shell and can be viewed as universal nanocarriers on which any alkyne‐modified active molecule can be grafted by click chemistry. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2013
Poly(γ‐glutamic acid) esters with reactive functional groups suitable for orthogonal conjugation strategies
Authors: Pacini Aurora , Caricato Marco , Ferrari Stefania , Capsoni Doretta , Martínez de Ilarduya Antxon , Muñoz‐Guerra Sebastián , Pasini Dario
Published: September 2012

We report on a series of novel poly(γ‐glutamic acid) (PGGA) esters, in which the chemical structure and composition, and the molecular weight are systematically changed. Modification of PGGA of microbial origin, used either as the sodium salt or in the free acid form, by means of alkylation with highly reactive bromides under SN2 conditions, affords copolymers with an essentially random microstructure. These reaction conditions are applied iteratively to achieve full esterification, obtaining allyl or propargyl ester functionalities within the polymer backbone, diluted with inert functional groups, such as benzyl, ethyl, or hexyl ester functionalities. The copolymers have been characterized regarding their chemical structure and thermal and bulk properties using nuclear magnetic resonance, thermogravimetry, differential scanning calorimetry, and X‐ray diffraction techniques. We demonstrate that allyl and propargyl ester groups can be efficiently transformed using click chemistries, such as thiol‐ene or copper(I)‐catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition reactions; such efficient conjugation strategies will be required to transform the native bacterial biopolymer into a material with tailored properties for bulk scale or biomedical applications. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
Thiol‐ene photopolymerization for efficient curing of vinyl esters
Authors: Mautner Andreas , Qin Xiaohua , Wutzel Harald , Ligon Samuel C. , Kapeller Barbara , Moser Doris , Russmueller Guenter , Stampfl Juergen , Liska Robert
Published: September 2012

Monomers for radical photopolymerization based on vinyl esters (VEs) have recently been identified as suitable alternatives to (meth)acrylates on account of their low irritancy and cytotoxicity. The drawback of most VEs with abstractable hydrogens is their relatively low reactivity compared with (meth)acrylates. Within this article, we proved by photo‐differential scanning calorimetry measurements and real‐time Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy that the thiol‐ene concept is able to improve the photoreactivity of these VEs to a large extent to a level between those of acrylates and methacrylates. Other VEs have now a reactivity of at least the level of similar acrylates. Mechanical properties as determined by Dynamic Mechanical Analysis and Charpy impact tests showed significant toughening of these materials. Furthermore, we were able to confirm low toxicity of all components by osteoblast cell culture experiments. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2013
Bead‐spring models of entangled polymer melts: Comparison of hard‐core and soft‐core potentials
Authors: Sliozberg Yelena R. , Sirk Timothy W. , Brennan John K. , Andzelm Jan W.
Published: September 2012

Two bead‐spring models of flexible chains for generic coarse graining of entangled polymer melts, the excluded volume Kremer–Grest (KG) model and the modified segmental repulsive potential (mSRP) combined with a weakly repulsive potential, are compared. For chains containing an equivalent number of entanglements, we compare the chain characteristics of the KG and mSRP polymer models by determining the ratios of the entanglement lengths$ N_{\rm e}^{{\rm KG}} /N_{\rm e}^{{\rm mSRP}} $, the required total number of particles to capture comparable entanglement phenomena$ N_{{\rm tot}}^{{\rm KG}} /N_{{\rm tot}}^{{\rm mSRP}} $, and the time scaling ratiosτmSRP/τKG. Our findings show that systems using the mSRP polymer model require half the number of particles and relax four times faster compared to the KG polymer model. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2012
Effect of Wuzhi Tablet (Schisandra sphenanthera extract) on the Pharmacokinetics of Cyclosporin A in Rats
Authors: Xue Xin‐ping , Qin Xiao‐ling , Xu Chenshu , Zhong Guo‐ping , Wang Ying , Huang Min , Bi Hui‐chang
Published: September 2012

In our previous reports, Wuzhi tablet (an herbal preparation of ethanol extract of Wuweizi (Schisandra sphenanthera)) can significantly increase the blood concentration of tacrolimus and paclitaxel in rats by inhibiting the CYP3A‐mediated metabolism and the P‐gp‐mediated efflux. Cyclosporin A (CsA), a well‐known immunosuppressant agent, is also a substrate of CYP3A and P‐gp. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate whether and how WZ affects pharmacokinetics of CsA in rats. The AUC0–48h and Cmax of CsA were increased by 40.1% and 13.1%, respectively, with a single oral co‐administration of WZ and high dose of CsA (37.8 mg/kg). Interestingly, after a single oral co‐administration of WZ and low dose of CsA (1.89 mg/kg), the AUC0–36 h and Cmax of CsA were dramatically increased by 293.1% (from 1103.2 ± 293.0 to 4336.5 ± 1728.3 ng.h/mL; p < 0.05) and 84.1% (from 208.5 ± 67.9 to 383.1 ± 92.5 ng/mL; p < 0.05), respectively. The CL/F was decreased from 1.7 L/h/kg to 0.5 L/h/kg. Thus, the effect of WZ on high dose of CsA was not significant, but pharmacokinetic parameters of CsA at low dose were significantly influenced by co‐administration of WZ. The herb–drug interaction should be taken into consideration at this situation. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Low‐frequency processes and turbulence structure in a perturbed boundary layer
Authors: Mortarini L. , Ferrero E. , Falabino S. , Trini Castelli S. , Richiardone R. , Anfossi D.
Published: September 2012

An analysis of the turbulence structure in a perturbed boundary layer and in low‐wind regimes is presented. The study is based on 15 months of continuous wind and turbulence measurements gathered, within the framework of the Urban Turbulence Project, at three levels (5, 9 and 25 m) on a mast located in the outskirts of the city of Turin (Italy). The aim of the work is to investigate low‐frequency processes in a perturbed boundary‐layer. In fact, the urban canopy and the heat island, together with frequent low‐wind conditions, interact with and modify the turbulence structure. In order to investigate this modification, the velocity Eulerian autocorrelation functions together with both the Eulerian and Lagrangian time‐scales are shown and compared with the classical theory. The comparisons show that in low‐wind cases the velocity autocorrelation functions are not simply exponential but present an oscillating behaviour. A method of normalization is proposed together with an analysis on the applicability of this function. The estimated Lagrangian time‐scales are compared with two widely used parametrizations. It is found that the presence of the urban fabric influences the turbulence time‐scales and suggests the development of new parametrizations. Finally, higher‐order statistics are evaluated and the relationship between higher‐order and lower‐order moments are analysed, pointing out the effects due to the urban environment. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
Comparison of Lorenz and Charney–Phillips vertical discretisations for dynamics–boundary layer coupling. Part II: Transients
Authors: Holdaway D. , Thuburn J. , Wood N.
Published: September 2012

A numerical comparison of the Lorenz and Charney–Phillips vertical grids for capturing the steady state of a set of equations that models the large‐scale dynamics of the atmosphere and the planetary boundary layer (Part I of this article) has revealed important differences between the grids. Due to suppression of a negative feedback, Charney–Phillips grids that involve averaging of shear in the boundary‐layer terms are not able to capture the structure of the boundary layer accurately. The Lorenz grid performs well in terms of capturing the boundary layer on its own, but the Charney–Phillips grids that use averaging of potential temperature gradient are generally preferred once dynamics are included. Any finite‐difference approximation of the problem must be capable of accurately representing both the steady‐state and time‐dependent parts of the solution. In this Part II of the article, the ability of the Lorenz and Charney–Phillips configurations to capture the transient part of the system is considered. The configurations are compared in terms of their ability to capture the eigenmodes of the solution. Full comparison between Lorenz and Charney–Phillips grids is limited by non‐normality of the linearised system, associated with the boundary layer. The Lorenz grid computational mode is examined. The structure is modified by the boundary layer but it still exists. For the modes that could be accurately examined, it is found that both grids perform well in terms of capturing spatial and temporal mode structure. Some Lorenz grid modes are identified that have spurious computational mode‐like behaviour occurring near the top of the boundary layer. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
The performance of functional methods for correcting non‐Gaussian measurement error within Poisson regression: corrected excess risk of lung cancer mortality in relation to radon exposure among French uranium miners
Authors: Allodji Rodrigue S. , Thiébaut Anne C.M. , Leuraud Klervi , Rage Estelle , Henry Stéphane , Laurier Dominique , Bénichou Jacques
Published: September 2012

A broad variety of methods for measurement error (ME) correction have been developed, but these methods have rarely been applied possibly because their ability to correct ME is poorly understood. We carried out a simulation study to assess the performance of three error‐correction methods: two variants of regression calibration (the substitution method and the estimation calibration method) and the simulation extrapolation (SIMEX) method. Features of the simulated cohorts were borrowed from the French Uranium Miners’ Cohort in which exposure to radon had been documented from 1946 to 1999. In the absence of ME correction, we observed a severe attenuation of the true effect of radon exposure, with a negative relative bias of the order of 60% on the excess relative risk of lung cancer death. In the main scenario considered, that is, when ME characteristics previously determined as most plausible from the French Uranium Miners’ Cohort were used both to generate exposure data and to correct for ME at the analysis stage, all three error‐correction methods showed a noticeable but partial reduction of the attenuation bias, with a slight advantage for the SIMEX method. However, the performance of the three correction methods highly depended on the accurate determination of the characteristics of ME. In particular, we encountered severe overestimation in some scenarios with the SIMEX method, and we observed lack of correction with the three methods in some other scenarios. For illustration, we also applied and compared the proposed methods on the real data set from the French Uranium Miners’ Cohort study. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.