bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Channel noise enhancement in small geometry MOSFET and its influence on phase noise calculation of integrated voltage‐controlled oscillator
Authors: Itoh Nobuyuki , Kojima Kenji , Ohguro Tatsuya
Published: May 2005

Channel noise enhancement due to MOSFET scaling and its influence on phase noise estimation of fully integrated VCO have been studied. The channel noise of MOSFET increases due to the hot electron effect of small geometry MOSFET is obvious. The channel noise coefficient,γ, of NMOS is 3.5 for 40‐nm gate length, 2.0 for 90‐nm gate length in spite of being ⅔ for long channels MOSFET. Simultaneously, calculation of phase noise of fully integrated VCO shows large difference usingγ=⅔ because the part of noise performance of VCO gain‐cell depends on channel noise of MOSFET. Calculated phase noise showed good agreement with measured data when the optimum value of channel noise of MOSFET was adopted. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Regulation of microglial behavior by ion channel activity
Authors: Eder Claudia
Published: May 2005

Microglia play an important role in the central nervous system, where these cells, it is believed, have both neuroprotective and neurotoxic effects. In response to acute brain injury or during neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory diseases, activated microglial cells undergo shape changes, migrate to the affected sites of neuronal damage, proliferate, and release a variety of substances, such as cytokines and reactive oxygen species (ROS). This review summarizes the physiological mechanisms underlying microglial activation and deactivation processes, with particular focus on the involvement of microglial ion channels. Microglial ion channels have been shown to be capable, by regulating membrane potential, cell volume, and intracellular ion concentrations, of modulating or facilitating proliferation, migration, cytokine secretion, shape changes, and the respiratory burst of microglial cells. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Importance of glutamate‐generating metabolic pathways for memory consolidation in chicks
Authors: Gibbs Marie E. , Hertz Leif
Published: May 2005

Glutamatergic and noradrenergic stimulation is essential for formation of memory of single‐trial discriminative avoidance of colored beads in the 1‐day‐old chick. Transmitter glutamate is released soon after training and again before memory consolidation 30 min after training. Memory consolidation is abolished by posttraining injection of iodoacetate, which inhibits glycolysis and thus not only energy metabolism but also pyruvate carboxylase‐dependent glucose conversion to glutamate, needed for consolidation; a similar effect is evoked by the antagonists propranolol acting at β2‐adrenoceptors or SR59230A acting at β3‐adrenoceptors. This paper shows that the effect of these inhibitors can be overcome by central injection of glutamine, providing an alternate source of transmitter glutamate and compensating for the inhibition of glycolysis by iodoacetate or the blockade of adrenergic stimulation of glycogenolysis by propranolol or of glucose uptake by SR59230A. Conversely, inhibition of memory consolidation by methionine sulfoximine (MSO), an inhibitor of glutamine synthetase and thus of the glutamate‐glutamine cycle, essential for neuronal reaccumulation of previously released transmitter glutamate, could be challenged by noradrenaline, stimulating glucose uptake and glycogenolysis and providing glutamate synthesis from glucose to compensate for the lack of return of previously released glutamate. Also, administration of either glutamine or noradrenaline could prevent the spontaneous decay of labile memory 30 min after training on a weakened stimulus, suggesting that direct supply of glutamate from glucose may secure sufficient supplies of transmitter glutamate for release prior to memory consolidation at 30 min. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Differential regulation of ceramide in lipid‐rich microdomains (rafts): Antagonistic role of palmitoyl:protein thioesterase and neutral sphingomyelinase 2
Authors: Goswami R. , Ahmed M. , Kilkus J. , Han T. , Dawson S.A. , Dawson G.
Published: May 2005

Cell differentiation and myelination involve a fine balance between stasis and programmed cell death, yet the genes that regulate this have not been clearly defined. We therefore studied two key gene products involved in oligodendrocyte plasma membrane lipid metabolism and their antagonistic role in ceramide‐mediated cell death signaling. Overexpression of palmitoyl:protein thioesterase (PPT1; verified by Western blot of the V5‐tagged protein and increased enzyme activity) resulted in decreased ceramide in the detergent‐resistant microdomain (DRM, or raft) relative to cholesterol and sphingomyelin (SM). This PPT1 overexpression also resulted in protection against cell death induced by either staurosporine or C2‐ceramide. In contrast, overexpression of neutral sphingomyelinase 2 (NSMase2; verified by Western blot of the FLAG‐tagged protein and increased enzyme activity) resulted in increased membrane NSMase and increased ceramide in rafts relative to cholesterol and SM. The difference in SM and ceramide turnover was quantitated by [3H]palmitate pulse‐chase labeling. Furthermore, when NBD‐SM was added to cells, it was hydrolyzed by NSMase‐transfected cells at more than twofold the rate in untransfected cells. NSMase2 overexpression enhanced cell death induced by staurosporine or C2‐ceramide, in contrast to the protective effect of PPT1 overexpression. The presence of a fraction of both PPT1 and NSMase2 in rafts together with their substrates (palmitoylated proteins and SM, respectively) suggests a mechanism for dynamic palmitoylation/depalmitoylation of certain proteins in controlling cell death via NSMase activation. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Performance, carcass cut‐up and fatty acids deposition in broilers fed different levels of pellet‐processed flaxseed
Authors: Shen Yingran , Feng Dingyuan , Fan Ming Z , Chavez Eduardo R
Published: May 2005

The effects of flaxseed (FS) processing and inclusion levels on broiler performance and fatty acid deposition were examined. FS was provided as whole seed, ground or pellet‐then‐mashed at a dietary level of 0, 12 or 14% during days 1 to 21. These levels represented control, threshold and over‐threshold, respectively. During days 22 to 40, the threshold level was increased to 15%, while the over‐threshold level increased to 17%. After 21 days of feeding, the performance of birds fed a diet with 12% pellet‐then‐mashed FS were comparable (p > 0.05) with those fed mashed control diet, but superior to those fed a diet of whole FS (p < 0.05). There was interaction (p < 0.05) between diet processing and FS level on weight gain, with pellet‐then‐mash processing being more effective at the 12% FS inclusion level than at the 14% level in improving performance. The beneficial processing effect on performance diminished during days 22 to 40. Furthermore, carcass cut‐up percentage was not affected (p > 0.05) by the treatments, except that increased FS level resulted in smaller fat‐pad and larger liver (p < 0.05). Birds deposited omega‐3 (n‐3) fatty acids in breast and thigh muscle the most with higher FS inclusion and pellet‐then‐mash processing. On day 40, the total n‐3 fatty acids made up 22.1 and 24.4% in the muscle lipids of breast and thigh samples from birds fed pellet‐then‐mashed FS at the level of 12% during days 1 to 21 and at the level of 15% during days 22 to 40, respectively. These values were higher (p < 0.05) than those found in birds fed diets of similar FS levels but as whole seed or ground seed. Up to 12% pellet‐processed FS can be incorporated into broiler diets with satisfactory growth, while maximizing n‐3 fatty acid deposition in the tissues. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Changes in amino acid and fatty acid composition during shelf‐life of marinated fish
Authors: Özden Özkan
Published: May 2005

Quality aspects of marinated fish were examined over a 120 day period. Nutritional quality parameters (proximate composition, fatty acid profile and amino acid profile) were determined. Changes in amino acids and fatty acids were examined in the muscle of marinated fish during storage. Aspartic acid, threonine, proline, glycine, tyrosine and lysine concentrations in marinated anchovy and rainbow trout greatly influenced their quality. Polyunsaturated fatty acid concentrations decreased significantly (p< 0.05) in marinated anchovy but not (p> 0.05) in marinated rainbow trout, while total saturated fatty acid concentrations increased significantly (p< 0.05) in both marinated fish during storage. These changes in fatty acid and amino acid concentrations were found to be useful as an index of freshness and decomposition of marinated fish in storage. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Cover Picture: Macromol. Chem. Phys. 11/2005
Authors: Zhang Yanxi , Vyazovkin Sergey
Published: May 2005

Cover: Isoconversional kinetic analysis is applied to a stoichiometric system (E:A = 2:1) and a system with excess of amine (E:A = 1:2). The activation energy is ca. 50 kJ · mol−1 at E:A = 1:2, and increases to ca. 100 kJ · mol−1 at E:A = 2:1. The increase suggests that the two NH2 groups differ significantly in reactivity due to their different positions with respect to NO2. Further details can be found in the Full Paper by Y. Zhang and S. Vyazovkin* on page 1084.
Mammary glands of sexually immature rats are more susceptible than those of mature rats to the carcinogenic, lethal, and mutagenic effects of N‐nitroso‐N‐methylurea
Authors: Ariazi Jennifer L. , Haag Jill D. , Lindstrom Mary J. , Gould Michael N.
Published: May 2005

Knowing that the prepubertal period is a time of enhanced susceptibility for radiation‐induced human breast cancer, we used the Fischer 344 rat model to explore the age‐differential susceptibility of the mammary gland to the carcinogenic, lethal, and mutagenic effects of two structurally diverse chemical carcinogens, N‐nitroso‐N‐methylurea (NMU), and 7,12‐dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA). Mammary carcinoma incidences and multiplicities were significantly greater in immature than mature NMU‐treated rats while mammary carcinoma incidences and multiplicities were significantly lower in immature than mature DMBA‐treated rats. The survival of mammary clonogens of mature NMU‐treated rats in limiting dilution transplantation assays was greater than that of the survival of mammary clonogens of immature NMU‐treated rats. No differences were found in the survival of mammary cells from immature and mature rats exposed to DMBA. Although there were no mutation spectra differences, mammary epithelial cells of immature NMU‐treated rats had greater mutation frequencies than those of mature NMU‐treated rats. Together these results support the hypothesis that the mammary gland of immature rats is more susceptible to the carcinogenic, lethal, and mutagenic effects of alkylating agents represented by NMU in a carcinogen‐class‐specific manner. Further, the results suggest the importance of mechanistic and epidemiological studies of the susceptibility of the prepubertal breast to specific carcinogens such as alkylating agents. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Epoxide hydrolase and CYP2C9 polymorphisms, cigarette smoking, and risk of colorectal carcinoma in the Nurses' Health Study and the Physicians' Health Study
Authors: Tranah Gregory J. , Chan Andrew T. , Giovannucci Edward , Ma Jing , Fuchs Charles , Hunter David J.
Published: May 2005

Microsomal epoxide hydrolase (mEH) and cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) are involved in the bioactivation and detoxification of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) derived from tobacco smoke. Two coding‐region mEH variants (Tyr113His, His139Arg) and CYP2C9 variants (Arg144Cys, Ile359Leu) have been described and affect enzyme specific activity. We investigated these polymorphisms and tested interactions with smoking in relationship to risk of colorectal carcinoma in two case‐control studies nested in the Nurses' Health Study (NHS) and Physicians' Health Study (PHS) cohorts. mEH Tyr113His and His139Arg polymorphisms were not associated with the risk of cancer among 197 incident cases and 490 controls from the NHS. Among 273 incident cases and 453 controls from the PHS, carrying one or two copies of the ‘rapid’ 139Arg allele was associated with a significantly reduced risk of colorectal cancer (OR = 0.70, 95% CI 0.49–0.99) when compared with His139 wild‐type individuals. Risk of colorectal cancer was significantly reduced among men carrying the CYP2C9 *1/*2 genotype (OR = 0.62, 95% CI 0.42–0.92) or at least one CYP2C9 variant allele (OR = 0.72, 95% CI 0.52–1.00) when compared with *1/*1 wild‐type individuals. For women, carrying at least one variant CYP2C9 allele was inversely associated with the risk of colorectal cancer (OR = 0.85, 95% CI, 0.57–1.27) when compared with *1/*1 wild‐type individuals. No statistically significant genotype‐smoking or gene‐gene interactions were found in this study. Our results indicate that individuals exposed to tobacco carcinogens were at increased risk of colorectal cancer and that overall risk is related to mEH and CYP2C9 genotype, although the results were not consistent between men and women. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Apigenin inhibits oxidative stress‐induced macromolecular damage in N‐nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA)‐induced hepatocellular carcinogenesis in Wistar albino rats
Authors: Jeyabal Prince Vijeya Singh , Syed Mumtaz Banu , Venkataraman Magesh , Sambandham Jamuna Kumari , Sakthisekaran Dhanapal
Published: May 2005

Apigenin (4′,5,7‐trihydroxyflavone), a flavone subclass of flavonoid widely distributed in many herbs, fruits, and vegetables is a substantial component of the human diet and has been shown to possess a variety of biological activities including tumor growth inhibition and chemoprevention. Recent studies in several biological systems have shown that apigenin induces tumor growth inhibition, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis. Free radical‐induced degradation of polyunsaturated fatty acid results in electrophilic products and causes severe oxidative stress. Oxidative stress induced by free radicals, nonoxidizing species, electrophiles, and associated DNA damages have been frequently coupled with carcinogenesis. In the present study, the protective role of apigenin was examined against the oxidative stress caused by N‐nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) and phenobarbital (PB) in Wistar albino rats. Oxidative stress was measured in terms of lipid peroxidation (LPO) and protein carbonyl formation. Oxidative stress‐induced DNA damage was measured by single cell gel electrophoresis (comet assay). Apigenin exhibited its antioxidant defense against NDEA‐induced oxidative stress. We have observed minimal levels of LPO and DNA damage in apigenin‐treated hepatoma bearing animals. Based on the results, we suggest that apigenin may be developed as a promising chemotherapeutic agent against the development of chemical carcinogenesis. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Suprabasal α5β1 integrin expression stimulates formation of epidermal squamous cell carcinomas without disrupting TGFβ signaling or inducing spindle cell tumors
Authors: Owens David M. , Broad Simon , Yan Xiaohong , Benitah Salvador A. , Watt Fiona M.
Published: May 2005

During epidermal chemical carcinogenesis benign papillomas convert to squamous cell carcinomas, some of which undergo epithelial‐mesenchymal conversion to highly malignant spindle cell tumors. TGFβ inhibits early stages of carcinogenesis but promotes the spindle cell phenotype in later stages. One hallmark of spindle cell tumors is upregulation of the α5β1 integrin fibronectin receptor. To examine the significance of altered α5β1 integrin expression, we induced tumors in transgenic mice expressing α5β1 in the suprabasal epidermal layers. Invα5β1 mice developed threefold more papillomas and squamous cell carcinomas than wild‐type (Wt) littermates; however, no spindle cell tumors or increased metastases were observed. Suprabasal expression of the α6β4 integrin increases squamous cell carcinoma formation and decreases TGFβ sensitivity while α3β1 may have the opposite effect. In contrast, nuclear phosphoSmad2 labeling in Invα5β1 epidermis and tumors was indistinguishable from Wt, and suprabasal α5β1 did not block TGFβ‐induced Smad2/3 translocation or growth inhibition in cultured keratinocytes. We conclude that upregulation of α5β1 does not predispose the epidermis to undergo conversion to spindle cell tumors and that the mechanism by which α5β1 influences susceptibility to carcinogenesis is independent of perturbed TGFβ signaling. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Treadmill walking as an external pacemaker to improve gait rhythm and stability in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Frenkel‐Toledo Silvi , Giladi Nir , Peretz Chava , Herman Talia , Gruendlinger Leor , Hausdorff Jeffrey M.
Published: May 2005

Recent reports suggest that external cueing improves stride length and gait speed in Parkinson's disease (PD). The purpose of the present study was to examine the influence of treadmill walking on gait variability. The 36 PD patients (Hoehn and Yahr stage 2–2.5) were compared to 30 controls. Subjects walked three times for 2 minutes each: (1) walking on level ground (unassisted), (2) walking on level ground while using a walker, and (3) walking on a treadmill. Stride time variability and swing time variability were significantly increased in the patients compared to the control subjects when walking on level ground with a walker. In both groups, the use of a walking aid did not significantly affect stride time variability or swing time variability, but the treadmill reduced stride time variability and swing time variability in the patients and in the controls. These results indicate that, during treadmill walking, PD subjects are able to walk with a less variable and more stable gait. Because the treadmill walking speed was set to the gait speed on level ground and because this effect was not seen with a walking aid, we suggest that the treadmill may be acting as an external cue to enhance gait rhythmicity and reduce gait variability. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society
Premutations in the FMR1 gene as a modifying factor in Parkin‐associated Parkinson's disease?
Authors: Hedrich Katja , Pramstaller Peter P. , Stübke Katrin , Hiller Anja , Kabakci Kemal , Purmann Sabine , Kasten Meike , Scaglione Cesa , Schwinger Eberhard , Volkmann Jens , Kostic Vladimir , Vieregge Peter , Martinelli Paolo , Abbruzzese Giovanni , Klein Christine , Zühlke Christine
Published: May 2005

Premutations in the FMR1 gene may be associated with some cases of parkinsonism. To test this hypothesis, we determined the CGG repeat number in FMR1 in 673 individuals with and without parkinsonism and detected 3 premutation carriers (2 patients, 1 control). Of note, 1 of the affected premutation carriers had a heterozygous Parkin mutation. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society
Palatal myoclonus: An unusual presentation
Authors: Ross Shelly , Jankovic Joseph
Published: May 2005

We describe a 16‐year‐old woman with an unusual clinical presentation of palatal myoclonus after a severe upper respiratory infection. Besides the postinfectious onset, this case is unique in that the rhythmical contractions of her oropharynx, larynx, and esophagus occur in couplets rather than single contractions of typical essential palatal myoclonus. Additionally, these contractions are present only during the inspiratory phase of respiration. Imaging and other diagnostic studies show no evidence of cerebellar or brainstem pathology. This case broadens the phenomenology of palatal myoclonus and illustrates the occasional overlap in clinical features between essential and symptomatic palatal myoclonus. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society
Platysmal myoclonus in subclinical hyperthyroidism
Authors: Teoh Hock‐Luen , Lim Erle Chuen‐Hian
Published: May 2005

Hyperthyroidism is associated with various movement disorders, such as chorea and tremors. We report on a young Chinese woman with an unusual presentation of myoclonus, involving both platysmal muscles, in association with subclinical hyperthyroidism. The myoclonus was preceded by symptoms of hyperthyroidism, namely weight loss, menstrual disturbances, and heat intolerance. The movements abated with clonazepam and hyperthyroidism was treated with carbimazole. The myoclonus recurred briefly when she stopped taking clonazepam, but she has since remained well and euthyroid. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society
Dietary fibre, glycaemic response, and diabetes
Authors: Brennan Charles S.
Published: May 2005

The much publicised global trend in rising levels of obesity and diabetes has refuelled interest in the dietary intake of the macronutrients (fat, protein, and carbohydrates) necessary to maintain the state of normalcy (good health) of an individual. Both scientific and public attention have focused on the dietary mediation of chronic health syndromes, either through use of dietary supplements, or a review of the whole diet situation. Dietary supplements have been used extensively both as pharmacological supplements, food ingredients, in processed foods to aid weight control, and the regulation of glucose control for diabetic patients. Particular interest has focused on the use of dietary fibres, especially soluble dietary fibres (such as guar gum, locust bean gum, and psyllium fibres), resistant starch, and slowly digestible carbohydrates. These have been shown to alter food structure, texture, and viscosity, and hence the rate of starch degradation during digestion. Research has also illustrated an association between the rate of carbohydrate degradation during digestion, and the regulation of postprandial blood sugar and insulin levels. The current paper explores the potential use of dietary fibres in the treatment of obesity and diabetes.
Dietary fiber as a versatile food component: An industrial perspective
Authors: Redgwell Robert J. , Fischer Monica
Published: May 2005

The continued emphasis on the importance of dietary fibers to the Western diet and the need for products with a lower calorific content is pressuring food companies to allocate more resources to the development of fiber‐enriched products. The challenge to the industry is to accomplish this goal without sacrificing the organoleptic appeal of some of their core offerings. As future research details specific nutritional benefits of individual components of dietary fiber, food companies will need flexible alternatives in order to validate new ‘functional’ food claims and to respond rapidly to emerging trends in fiber‐enriched products. These objectives will be achieved by understanding the physicochemical basis for the biotechnical functionality of fibers and by developing, and making available fibers which provide a broad spectrum of bioactive and texture modulating properties.
A randomized comparison of post‐operative pain, quality of life, and physical performance during the first 6 weeks after abdominal or vaginal surgical correction of descensus uteri
Authors: Roovers J.P.W.R. , van der Bom J.G. , van der Vaart C.H. , van Leeuwen J.H. Schagen , Scholten P.C. , Heintz A.P.M.
Published: May 2005

Aims

With respect to urogenital function, vaginal hysterectomy combined with anterior and/or posterior colporraphy has been shown to be superior to abdominal sacrocolpopexy with preservation of the uterus. We performed a randomized trial to compare the effects of both procedures on pain, quality of life and physical performance during the first six weeks after surgery.

Methods

Eighty‐two patients were randomized to have surgery either by vaginal or abdominal approach. All patients were asked to complete the RAND‐36 before surgery and 6 weeks after surgery and to keep a diary for the first 6 weeks after surgery. This diary assessed the pain perception and use of pain medication, bother of limitations due to the surgery and performance of daily activities after surgery. These outcomes were compared.

Results

All patients completed the RAND‐36 and 68 patients completed the diary. Patients who had undergone abdominal surgery had a statistically lower score on the health change domain (56 vs 68), bodily pain domain (63 vs 80) and mental health domain (74 vs 81) of the RAND‐36, as compared to patients who had undergone vaginal prolapse surgery. During hospital stay, the abdominal group experienced on average more days of pain (4.5 vs 3.0) and impaired mobility (3.7 vs 2.9) as compared to the vaginal group. Patients received more pain medication following abdominal surgery as compared to vaginal surgery.

Conclusions

The vaginal operation to correct a descensus uteri is associated with less pain, better quality of life and better mobility during the first 6 weeks of the recovery period as compared to the abdominal approach. Neurourol. Urodynam. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Multiple‐signaling pathways are involved in the inhibitory effects of galangin on urinary bladder contractility
Authors: Dambros Miriam , de Jongh Rik , van Koeveringe Gommert A. , van Deutekom Marjanka , De Mey Jo G.R. , Palma Paulo C.R. , van Kerrebroeck Philip E.V.
Published: May 2005

Aims

Flavonoids comprise a large group of natural polyphenolic compounds, which possess a wide spectrum of physiological and pharmacological effects. Recently, the flavonoid galangin was found to modulate smooth muscle contractility. The aim of the present study was to investigate the mechanism of actions of galangin on pig bladder smooth muscle and to characterize its potential as an alternative inhibitor of bladder smooth muscle contraction.

Materials and Methods

Strips of pig detrusor muscle were mounted in separate 6‐ml organ baths containing Krebs solution. The contractile response to carbachol (10−8–10−4M), potassium (2 × 10−2–10−1M), and electrical field stimulation—EFS (2–32 Hz) were determined before and after the addition of galangin (3 × 10−5M). The contractile responses to carbachol in calcium‐free Krebs' solution plus EGTA and L‐type channel blocker were determined in the absence and presence of the flavonoid. Furthermore, the effect of galangin was also evaluated after the administration in the bath of a number of antagonists/inhibitors including a combination of propranolol, phentolamine, capsazepine, and verapamil. Student's t‐test and one factor ANOVA were used to determine the statistical significance of the effects.

Results

Galangin inhibited the maximal contractile response to carbachol and potassium by 57.41% (P < 0.01) and 33.52% (P < 0.05), respectively. The maximum force of the carbachol‐evoked contractions in calcium‐free solution after incubation with galangin was 32% of the maximum initial force (Emax · initial: 5.8387 ± 0.72 mN, Emax · Galangin: 1.9157 ± 0.30 mN, P < 0.01). The maximal contractile responses to EFS at 2, 4, 8, 16, and 32 Hz were reduced, compared to control, by 91.61% (P < 0.01), 79.46% (P < 0.01), 70.54% (P < 0.01), 61.10% (P < 0.01), and 9.8% (P > 0.05), respectively. The inhibitory effect of galangin was unaffected by a combination of propranolol, phentolamine, and capsazepine (P > 0.05). However, when verapamil was added to the medium, the inhibitory effects of galangin were partially blocked.

Conclusions

Galangin, at high concentrations, exerts an inhibitory effect on pig bladder smooth muscle contractility through the inhibition of calcium influx and the modulation of intracellular calcium movement. Furthermore, we have demonstrated that the inhibitory effect of galangin involves, at least in part, L‐type calcium channels pathways. Neurourol. Urodynam. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
GAP‐43 immunoreactivity of subepithelial and detrusor muscle nerve fibres in patients with refractory idiopathic detrusor overactivity
Authors: Schofield E.C. , Clausen J.A. , Burcher E. , Moore K.H.
Published: May 2005

Aims

To determine the relative density of nerve fibres immunoreactive to growth associated protein‐43 (GAP‐43, an indicator of neuronal sprouting) in the subepithelium and detrusor of patients with idiopathic detrusor overactivity (IDO). To investigate the effect, if any, of age and previous recurrent bacterial cystitis on neuronal sprouting in such patients.

Materials and Methods

A series of 18 women with urodynamically proven IDO (median age 62 years, range 39–85), who were refractory to treatment, underwent cystoscopy and cold cup biopsy. Controls (n = 26, median age 65, range 32–79) were females without urgency/urge incontinence, undergoing cystoscopy for other indications. Recurrent proven bacterial cystitis (rUTI) was documented. Frozen sections were stained with specific antibodies to GAP‐43 and protein gene product 9.5 (PGP, a general neuronal marker). The area represented by immunoreactive (ir) subepithelial or muscle nerve fibres was measured.

Results

The density of GAP‐43ir and PGPir nerves did not differ significantly between IDO patients and controls, in either subepithelium or detrusor. The GAP‐43ir nerve density (as percent of PGPir) increased significantly with advancing age amongst patients with IDO in the detrusor muscle but not in the subepithelium; density in controls was unaltered. In IDO patients with rUTI, a significant increase in GAP‐43 (as percent of PGPir) was observed in the subepithelium.

Conclusions

Although we found no evidence of increased neuronal proliferation in patients with IDO generally, the increase in GAP‐43 with age and with previous cystitis history suggests that neuronal sprouting is important in some subsets of patients with IDO. Neurourol. Urodynam. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Markers of collagen synthesis and degradation in urogenital tissue from women with and without stress urinary incontinence
Authors: Edwall Lena , Carlström Kjell , Jonasson Aino Fianu
Published: May 2005

Aims

Multiparity and obesity are risk factors for stress urinary incontinence (SUI), but collagen synthesis and metabolism in the urogenital tissue itself may also affect its function and control of micturition. Whether changes in synthesis or degradation of collagen are part of the etiology of SUI is not known and published studies show diverging results. The aims of the present study was to investigate collagen turnover in urogenital tissue in women with SUI (n = 71) and in urologically healthy women (n = 31).

Methods

Markers of collagen synthesis and breakdown, the carboxy‐terminal propeptide of type I procollagen (PICP), the carboxy‐terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (ICTP), and the amino‐terminal propeptide of procollagen III (PIIINP) were assayed in urogenital tissue homogenates and peripheral serum.

Results

In the total clinical material SUI patients were significantly older, had a significantly higher body mass index (BMI) and significantly lower serum PICP and tissue ICTP levels than the controls. When healthy controls were compared with SUI patients matched for age, BMI, parity, and hormonal/menopausal status (31 women in each group), the SUI patients had significantly lower serum concentrations of PICP and significantly lower tissue concentrations of PIIINP and ICTP than the controls. Within the total material of SUI patients, post‐menopausal women with weak and strong HRT and pre‐menopausal women had significantly lower S‐ICTP concentrations than untreated post‐menopausal patients. Significant negative correlations to parity were found for T‐PIIINP and T‐PICP and to BMI for T‐ICTP.

Conclusions

The low tissue collagen marker levels in women with SUI suggest a reduced collagen turnover, which may negatively affect tissue strength and elasticity. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A local defect correction technique for time‐dependent problems
Authors: Minero R. , Anthonissen M. J. H. , Mattheij R. M. M.
Published: May 2005

In this article a local defect correction technique for time‐dependent problems is presented. The method is suitable for solving partial differential equations characterized by a high activity, which is mainly located, at each time, in a small part of the physical domain. The problem is solved at each time step by means of a global uniform coarse grid and a local uniform fine grid. Local and global approximation are improved iteratively. Results of numerical experiments illustrate the accuracy, the efficiency, and the robustness of the method. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq, 2006
Defect correction method for viscoelastic fluid flows at high Weissenberg number
Authors: Ervin Vincent J. , Lee Hyesuk
Published: May 2005

We study a defect correction method for the approximation of viscoelastic fluid flow. In the defect step, the constitutive equation is computed with an artificially reduced Weissenberg parameter for stability, and the resulting residual is corrected in the correction step. We prove the convergence of the defect correction method and derive an error estimate for the Oseen‐viscoelastic model problem. The derived theoretical results are supported by numerical tests for both the Oseen‐viscoelastic problem and the Johnson‐Segalman model problem. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq, 2006
Error estimate in L2 of a covolume method for the generalized Stokes problem
Authors: Kang Kab Seok , Kwak Do Young
Published: May 2005

We investigate an L2‐error estimate of a covolume scheme for the Stokes problem recently introduced by Chou (Math Comp 66 (1997), 85–104). We show the error in L2 norm is of second order provided the exact velocity is in H3 and the exact pressure is in H2. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq, 2006
A numerical method for computing radially symmetric solutions of a dissipative nonlinear modified Klein‐Gordon equation
Authors: Macías‐Díaz J. E. , Puri A.
Published: May 2005

In this article we develop a finite‐difference scheme to approximate radially symmetric solutions of a dissipative nonlinear modified Klein‐Gordon equation subject to smooth initial conditions ϕ and ψ in an open sphere D around the origin, with constant internal and external damping coefficients—β and γ, respectively—, and nonlinear term of the form G′(w) = wp, with p > 1 an odd number. The functions ϕ and ψ are radially symmetric in D, and ϕ, ψ, rϕ, and rψ are assumed to be small at infinity. We prove that our scheme is consistent order 𝒪(Δt2) + 𝒪(Δr2) for G′ identically equal to zero and provide a necessary condition for it to be stable order n. Part of our study will be devoted to compare the physical effects of β and γ. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq, 2005
Evaluation of left ventricular function in long‐term survivors of childhood Hodgkin disease
Authors: Iarussi Diana , Pisacane Carlo , Indolfi Paolo , Casale Fiorina , Martino Vincenzo , Di Tullio Maria Teresa
Published: May 2005

Background

Data on the presence of myocardial abnormalities in long‐term Hodgkin disease survivors are contradictory. The purpose of this study was to determine if myocardial performance index (MPI) was capable of discovering cardiac abnormalities.

Procedure

Echocardiographic evaluation was performed in 31 survivors of Hodgkin disease (mean age 17.0 years), who received doxorubicin as part of chemotherapeutic treatment (median dose 164.8 ± 42.5 mg/m2). Control group comprised 22 healthy subjects (mean age 16.7 years).

Results

Peak A velocity was increased (P = 0.004) and peak E/A velocity ratio was lower (P = 0.002) in patients compared to controls. Mean isovolumetric contraction time was longer in patients than in controls (P = 0.0001). Ejection time was significantly shorter in patients than in the controls (P = 0.001). Consequently, the MPI was significantly greater in the patients than in the controls (P = 0.0001). Abnormal MPI was found in 25/31 patients (83%).

Conclusions

The Doppler‐derived index of combined systolic and diastolic myocardial performance demonstrates the presence of subtle cardiac abnormalities in the majority of Hodgkin disease survivors. Pediatr Blood Cancer © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Rhabdomyoblastic pulmonary lesions in a patient with Wilms Tumor: choristomas or metastases?
Authors: Zwerdling Ted , Ducore Jonathan , Taylor Douglas , West Daniel C. , Konia Thomas
Published: May 2005

New lesions that occur while patients are receiving treatment for malignant tumors may represent not only difficulties in arriving at the correct diagnosis, but also impact on subsequent therapeutic options. We encountered a patient developing new pulmonary lesions during and after receiving treatment for Stage II Wilms tumor (WT). The presence of mature rhabdomyoblasts in multiple biopsy specimens allowed rational decisions to be made regarding subsequent therapy. This and other published experiences suggest that patients with WT may develop choristomas or have tumors, which undergo cytodifferentiation. Methodologies are now available allowing differentiation of these two processes. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Opioid selection during sickle cell pain crisis and its impact on the development of acute chest syndrome
Authors: Buchanan Iris D. , Woodward Maribel , Reed George W.
Published: May 2005

Background

The hallmark of sickle cell disease (SCD) is recurrent, painful vaso‐occlusive episodes (VOC) and is the most common reason for hospitalization in SCD patients. Narcotics, particularly morphine, along with fluid hydration are standard treatments for painful episodes but have been associated with the development of acute pulmonary events commonly referred to as acute chest syndrome (ACS). The development of ACS is often preceded by acute infections, painful episodes, rib infarction, bone marrow infarction, and fat embolism. Its pathophysiology remains multifactorial and has become the most common reason for early mortality. Previous episodes of ACS increase the likelihood of repeated acute pulmonary events and subsequent pulmonary hypertension. Nalbuphine hydrochloride (Nubain) is an opioid with the pain relieving potency of morphine but has not been studied for its association in the development of ACS or compared with morphine in its efficacy of pain control in the sickle cell population.

Procedure

We reviewed the medical records retrospectively of patients between the age of 5 and 19 years, admitted for vaso‐occlusive crisis to the three children's hospitals in Atlanta between January 1999 and December 2002. A computerized search tool was used to identify patients using the International Classification of Diseases Ninth Revision (ICD‐9) diagnosis code 282.60 and 282.62. The final discharge diagnosis of ACS was defined as a new pulmonary infiltrate on chest radiograph after admission and before discharge. We calculated the need for 160 patient admissions for 85% power to detect a difference of approximately 20% in incidence of ACS between the two treatment groups.

Results

There were a total of 37 (21%) episodes of ACS. Of these, 26 (29%) were in the morphine group and 11 (12%) were in the Nubain group (P < 0.01). Patients receiving morphine were more likely to have higher white cell counts on admission (P < 0. 05), and to use continuous infusion for medication administration (49% vs. 3%), P < 0. 001. They also had longer hospital stays than patients who received Nubain (median stay 3 days vs. 4 days, morphine), P < 0. 001.

Conclusions

The development of ACS during painful episodes is multi‐factorial, but opioid selection may increase this rate. Patients on Nubain were less likely to develop ACS, and they had shorter hospital stays. These results were confounded by use of continuous analgesia infusion with PCA. However, Nubain may provide an alternative to morphine in the treatment of sickle cell pain episodes. A prospective clinical trial comparing these two analgesics would be a preferable next step. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Successful treatment of MYCN amplified, progressive stage 4S neuroblastoma in a neonate with hepatic artery embolization in addition to multimodality treatment
Authors: Boztug Kaan , Kiely Edward , Roebuck Derek J. , Gaze Mark , Begent Joanna , Brock Penelope , Michalski Antony
Published: May 2005

Stage 4S metastatic neuroblastoma (NB) has a favorable prognosis due to a high rate of spontaneous regression. Young infants risk lethal complications arising from hepatomegaly, which can develop rapidly despite treatment. MYCN oncogene amplification confers a significantly worse prognosis. We describe a 4‐week‐old neonate with MYCN‐amplified stage 4S NB complicated by gross hepatomegaly causing rapidly progressive respiratory, hepatic, and renal failure. The child remains in remission 3 years after hepatic artery embolization, radiotherapy, standard, and high‐dose chemotherapy. Embolization of the hepatic artery, with classical treatment, is feasible and safe at this age and may contribute substantially to the management of high‐risk patients. Pediatr Blood Cancer © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Health‐related quality of life and coping strategies of children after treatment of a malignant bone tumor: A 5‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Koopman Hendrik M. , Koetsier Jitske A. , Taminiau Antonie H.M. , Hijnen Karin E. , Bresters Dorine , Egeler R. Maarten
Published: May 2005

Purpose

This study was designed to evaluate the development of health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) and coping strategies of children and young adults, who have undergone surgery for a malignant bone tumor in childhood.

Patients and Instruments

In this single center follow‐up study 20 patients were included. The patients were tested 3 and 8 years after treatment. At the 3‐year mark the parents participated as well. To measure the HRQoL and coping strategies the TACQOL and the TAAQOL questionnaires and the Utrecht Coping List for Adolescents (UCLA) were used. All measurements were compared to a control group of healthy peers (n = 1,122 and n = 272, respectively).

Results

At the first measurement (3 years after treatment) both the study patients and their parents reported significantly lower HRQoL scores on two domains: motor functioning and autonomy (P < 0.05). In addition parents reported their children to have significantly lower HRQoL scores on cognitive functioning and experiencing positive emotions. Five years later (8 years after treatment) the young adults reported comparable HRQoL on motor functioning and autonomy, and significantly higher HRQoL scores on cognitive functioning, social contacts and negative emotions (less depressive moods). With regard to coping strategies no significant differences between the two measurements in the study population and the reference group were found.

Conclusions

Three years after surgery for a malignant bone tumor, patients and their parents reported lower HRQoL scores on different domains compared with a reference group. Eight years after surgery the young adults surprisingly reported comparable or higher HRQoL scores. These patients treated for bone cancer were able to adapt well after treatment and showed no long‐term emotional or social problems. Pediatr Blood Cancer © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Qualitative versus quantitative blood cultures in the diagnosis of catheter‐related bloodstream infections in children with malignancy
Authors: Germanakis Ioannis , Christidou Athanasia , Galanakis Emmanouil , Kyriakakis Iraklis , Tselentis Yiannis , Kalmanti Maria
Published: May 2005

Background

Paired quantitative and qualitative blood cultures have been introduced for the diagnosis of catheter‐related bloodstream infections (CRBI) with the catheter in situ. The aim of the study was to compare the diagnostic performance and the prognostic value of the two methods in the evaluation of febrile episodes without an apparent source in children with cancer.

Procedure

During a 4‐year period, in every febrile episode without an apparent focus, blood was drawn simultaneously from the catheter lumen and a peripheral vein in order to perform paired quantitative (Isolator) as well as qualitative (BacT/Alert) blood cultures. The diagnosis of a CRBI was defined as either a case of greater (at least 10 fold) or earlier (differential time to positivity >2 h) bacterial growth from the catheter compared to the peripheral blood sample, respectively.

Results

Nineteen febrile episodes manifested in 16 children (total period of observation 11,150 catheter‐days) were evaluated with both methods. A concordant diagnosis of CRBI was stated with both methods in six episodes; one episode was diagnosed as CRBI only with qualitative culture criteria. Treatment failure resulted in catheter removal in five out of the seven episodes defined as CRBI with either method. Episodes where a CRBI was ruled out with both methods had a favorable outcome.

Conclusions

In this study the two methods showed comparable results in the diagnosis of CRBI and both were of prognostic significance, regarding the outcome of the treatment. However, large scale studies are required in order to evaluate the clinical relevance and the cost effectiveness of performing routinely paired blood cultures with either method. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Standards of nutritional care in pediatric oncology: Results from a nationwide survey on the standards of practice in pediatric oncology. a Children's Oncology Group study
Authors: Ladas Elena J. , Sacks Nancy , Brophy Pat , Rogers Paul C.
Published: May 2005

Background

The prevalence of malnutrition in children with cancer ranges between 8% and 60%. Malnutrition is strongly associated with the nature of treatment and increases an individual's risk of infection. Clinical studies have suggested that nutrition intervention may decrease toxicity and improve survival in the oncology population. In order to identify the standards of practice in the nutritional management of a child with cancer, we conducted an international survey in institutions that are part of the Children's Oncology Group (COG) consortium.

Procedure

Surveys were submitted to 233 participating COG institutions. We requested one member in three disciplines complete the survey: physician, registered dietitian, and nurse or nurse practitioner. The survey was returned to the nutrition sub‐committee of COG.

Results

Fifty‐four percent of institutions responded to the survey. We found no consistency in the provision of nutrition services. Assessment of nutritional status does not routinely occur and different indices are employed to indicate the nutrition status of a patient. Institutions rely upon different guidelines when categorizing malnutrition. When nutrition intervention is clinically indicated, a variety of approaches are employed.

Conclusions

This survey did not find standardized nutrition protocols being employed in the pediatric oncology population. The effect of varied nutrition practices on the quality of life, toxicity, and outcome in children with cancer is unknown. Prior to the initiation of clinical trials, uniform guidelines need to be developed and validated. Future clinical trials need to investigate the most efficacious method of nutrition assessment and intervention and its effect on quality of life, toxicity, and survival in children with cancer. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Follicular dendritic cell tumour in a 9‐year‐old child
Authors: Bradshaw E.J. , Wood K.M. , Hodgkinson P. , Lucraft H. , Windebank K.P.
Published: May 2005

Follicular dendritic cell tumour (FDCT) or sarcoma is a rare tumour first described in 1986. Some 80 cases have been reported, the youngest being in teenagers. Our patient first presented at 9 years of age with a cervical mass that was removed and revealed an apparently benign, but florid reactive process. At age 14 the lump recurred and biopsy was diagnostic of FDCT. Radical block dissection showed disease to level III and 6 weeks of radiotherapy was followed by 6 months adjuvant chemotherapy. Three years after completing his final treatment he shows no signs of recurrent disease. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.