bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cover Picture: Macromol. Rapid Commun. 6/2005
Authors: Gallyamov Marat O. , Khokhlov Alexei R. , Möller Martin
Published: March 2005

Cover: The cover picture shows the dynamics of the conformational transformation of individual P2VP molecules (highlighted by colours) that were adsorbed on mica and exposed either to water or to ethanol vapour. The macromolecules extend in water vapour (top, left), and transform to compact round particles when exposed to ethanol‐saturated vapour (top, right). When the collapsed molecules are exposed again to water vapour, the extended conformation is restored (bottom). This cycle can be observed repeatedly and illustrates a new means to manipulate the conformation of single polymer molecules under real‐time control.

Further details can be found in the Communication by M. O. Gallyamov,* A. R. Khokhlov, and M. Möller* on page 456.
Dys‐regulation of clusterin in human hepatoma is not associated with tumorigenesis but is secondary to cell response to external tresses
Authors: Hsieh Sen‐Yung , Chen Wai‐Ying , Shih Tsung‐Chieh , Yeh Jin‐Yu , Jeng Ju‐Ting
Published: March 2005

It becomes feasible to perform genome‐wide differential gene or protein expression in the post genome era. However, little has been addressed on the effects of external stresses and microenvironment alterations on the outcomes of gene and protein expression. To identify downregulated genes during hepatoma development, we combined the cDNA representational difference analysis (RDA) and reverse Northern blot analysis identifying eight genes. Of interest, the expression of the clusterin gene was either down or upregulated in 8 and 7 out of the 20 hepatoma tissues, respectively. Further analysis revealed that its expression was independent of patients' age, gender, causes of liver disease, tumor size, tumor histological stage, or clinical outcome, but was strongly associated with the methods of hepatectomy procedures. In vitro studies disclosed that the clusterin mRNA was increased twofold in early exponential phase of cell proliferation followed by downregulation in the subsequent quiescence phase, whereas it was rapidly increased up to twelvefold upon UV‐induced apoptosis. These results suggest that dys‐regulation of the clusterin gene in human hepatoma was most likely due to cellular responses to external stresses especially during the procedures for sample collection rather than any correlation to hepatoma development or progression. Our findings that external stresses or microenvironmental changes could greatly affect gene or protein expression offer a general caution to all the studies conducted via genomic and proteomic approaches. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Detrusor mitochondrial lipid peroxidation and superoxide dismutase activity in partial bladder outlet obstruction of rabbits
Authors: Lin Alex Tong‐Long , Yang C.H. , Chen Kuang‐Kuo , Chang Luke S.
Published: March 2005

Objectives

Bladder outlet obstruction has shown to damage detrusor mitochondria with impaired detrusor contractility. One likely cause for mitochondrial injury is reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐induced damages, including lipid peroxidation injury. We designed this study to examine this hypothesis.

Materials and Methods

Placing a silicon ring around the bladder neck of male New Zealand rabbits induced bladder outlet obstruction. The bladders were removed 3 (N = 6), 7 (N = 6), and 14 days (N = 8) later. Sham operated animals (N = 6 for each time period) served as the controls. Contractile function of the bladder was assessed by the response of the detrusor strips to bethanechol and field stimulation. Detrusor mitochondrial superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and mitochondrial content of malondialdehyde (MDA) were determined. Detrusor contents of phosphocreatine and adenine triphosphate (ATP) were assayed.

Results

(1) Outlet obstruction induced an increase in the bladder weight and a decrease in the contractile function; (2) mitochondrial SOD activity significantly elevated in every time period of the obstruction, indicating a persistently increased ROS generation; (3) detrusor MDA level increased in 3‐day obstruction animals. It returned to the control level in 7‐ and 14‐day groups; (4) phosphocreatine content was significantly reduced in every time period of the obstruction; (5) ATP content was significantly decreased in 3‐ and 7‐day groups; while 14‐day obstruction group contained similar level as the sham‐operated group.

Conclusions

This study shows that bladder outlet obstruction increases generation of ROS and enhances lipid peroxidation of detrusor mitochondria. The resulted mitochondrial damages might sustain, leading to persistently depressed energy production and impaired detrusor contractility. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Phosphorylation of the amyloid precursor protein (APP): Is this a mechanism in favor or against Alzheimer's disease?
Authors: Pastorino Lucia , Lu Kun Ping
Published: March 2005

This review discusses the phosphorylation of the Amyloid Precursor Protein (APP) and the possible role of this phosphorylation in Alzheimer's disease (AD). AD is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the deposition of β‐amyloid plaques in the brain parenchyma and neurofibrillary tangles comprised of hyperphosphorylated tau. APP plays a primary role in the pathogenesis of AD, because its processing generates the amyloid beta peptide (Aβ), the core of the amyloid plaque. APP has a large N‐terminal extracellular domain and a short intracellular C‐terminal domain that can be phosphorylated by various protein kinases. This review summarized recent work describing the phsphorylation of APP and the downstream events induced by this phosphorylation as well as the impact of APP phosphorylation on APP function and on the production of Aβ peptide.
Prenatal diagnosis of megacystis‐microcolon‐intestinal hypoperistalsis syndrome: contribution of amniotic fluid digestive enzyme assay and fetal urinalysis
Authors: Muller Françoise , Dreux Sophie , Vaast Pascal , Dumez Yves , Nisand Israel , Ville Yves , Boulot Pierre , Guibourdenche Jean
Published: March 2005

Objectives

Megacystis‐microcolon‐intestinal hypoperistalsis syndrome (MMIHS) is a usually lethal disease during the first year of life. There is no specific ultrasound prenatal diagnosis and no identified genetic locus. The value of amniotic fluid digestive enzyme assay and fetal urine biochemistry in the prediction of MMIHS was analysed.

Methods

Retrospective study of 14 MMIHS cases. Amniotic fluid digestive enzymes and fetal urine biochemistry were compared in MMIHS and megabladder (63 and 264 cases respectively).

Results

Abnormal amniotic fluid digestive enzyme profile (vomiting of bile or digestive secretion leakage) was observed in 8/10 MMIHS cases. These profiles were observed in 7/63 controls; 80% sensitivity (95%CI = 55%–100%); 89% specificity (95%CI = 81%–96%). Fetal urinalysis was normal in 12/12 MMIHS cases except high calcium (>0.6 mmol/l). This profile was observed in 33/264 megabladder control cases; 100% sensitivity; 98.7% specificity (95%CI = 83.5%–91.5%).

Conclusion

For the first time, we propose a prenatal diagnosis of MMIHS based on amniotic fluid digestive enzyme assay and on fetal urinalysis. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Triploidy identified through second‐trimester serum screening
Authors: Huang Tianhua , Alberman Eva , Wald Nicholas , Summers Anne M.
Published: March 2005

Objectives

To describe the maternal serum marker patterns of triploid pregnancies and estimate the second‐trimester prevalence of triploidy.

Methods

Forty‐two cases of triploidy were identified in six serum screening programmes, five in the United Kingdom, one in Canada. This study describes the serum marker patterns, serum screening results for Down syndrome, trisomy 18 and open neural tube defects, and maternal age of these triploidy cases. The risk cut‐off levels were ≥ 1 in 250 for Down syndrome, ≥2.5 MoMs alpha‐fetoprotein for open neural tube defects and ≥1:100 for trisomy 18 screening. The estimated second‐trimester prevalence of triploidy was based on 22 triploidy cases ascertained in 599 934 pregnancies from three routine screening programmes, which attempted complete ascertainment of aneuploidy cases.

Results

The observed second‐trimester rate of triploidy was 0.37 per 10 000 fetuses. Two different serum marker patterns were seen in triploid pregnancies, distinguished from each other by typically very high or very low levels of total hCG or free β‐hCG. The median maternal ages were respectively 33 years for triploidy with human chorionic gonadotrophin levels < 1.0 MoM, and 26 years for those with hCG levels ≥1.0 MoM. Fifty‐seven percent of the pregnancies with a triploid fetus had a risk estimate ≥1:100 for trisomy 18 alone, 10% had an alpha‐fetoprotein ≥2.5 MoM, 5% were screen positive for Down syndrome alone, and 19% had an increased risk or positive results for more than one anomaly.

Conclusion

The simultaneous use of maternal serum tests designed to screen prenatally for Down syndrome, neural tube defects, and an increased risk of trisomy 18 resulted in a screen‐positive result for 90% of pregnancies with triploidy. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prenatally detected trisomy 20 mosaicism
Authors: Robinson W. P. , McGillivray B. , Lewis M. E. S. , Arbour L. , Barrett I. , Kalousek D. K.
Published: March 2005

Background

Trisomy 20 is one of the more common mosaic trisomies detected on amniocentesis and presents with a normal outcome in over 90% of reported cases. Trisomic cells are almost never confirmed in newborn blood and are only rarely found in other fetal or placental samples. Nonetheless, some abnormal outcomes have been reported, including unexplained fetal demise, intrauterine growth restriction, and multiple congenital anomalies. Because of the lack of molecular studies on such cases, it is unknown whether the origin of trisomy or presence of uniparental disomy (UPD) could have some influence on outcome.

Methods

We present data on six cases of trisomy mosaicism, two detected by chorionic villous sampling (CVS) and four by amniocentesis (AF), submitted to our laboratory for molecular studies.

Results and Conclusions

A meiotic origin of the trisomy could be confirmed in only one of these cases. In addition, uniparental disomy was excluded in all four cases for which parents were available for testing. The four cases with low levels of trisomy in amniotic fluid (0%, 10%, 11%, and 12%) were associated with a normal outcome. The remaining two cases of trisomy 20 had high levels of trisomy in amniotic fluid (96% and 58%) and had abnormal outcomes (developmental delay in one and stillbirth with IUGR and severe oligohydramnios in the other). Including previously published cases, there is a clear association with the level of trisomy and outcome, with only 4% abnormal outcomes when <40% trisomic cells were detected. Higher levels of trisomy were also observed in male fetuses as compared to female fetuses (p = 0.01); however, there were no sex differences in frequency of abnormal outcomes. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prenatal diagnosis of a cystic type IV sacrococcygeal teratoma mimicking a cloacal anomaly: contribution of MR
Authors: Garel C. , Mizouni L. , Menez F. , Luton D. , Guibourdenche D. , Aigrain Y. , Sebag G.
Published: March 2005

Objective

To report a case of pelvic midline cystic mass in a female fetus without visibility of the rectum and which is not a cloacal anomaly.

Methods

Ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were performed respectively at 27 and 27.5 weeks' gestation and the findings of these examinations were compared with post‐mortem examination after termination of pregnancy (TOP).

Results

US showed a pelvic midline cystic mass in a female fetus with mild enlargement of the left ureter and renal pelvis. MRI did not show the T1 hypersignal of meconium in the rectum. The analysis of MR findings were suggestive of the diagnosis of a sacrococcygeal teratoma. Pregnancy was terminated because of the possibility of severe sphincterial disorders and the fetopathological examination confirmed this diagnosis.

Conclusion

This observation illustrates the diagnostic problems generated by the detection of a pelvic midline cystic mass in a female fetus. The absence of visibility of the T1 hypersignal of the meconium in the rectum is traditionally supposed to be highly suggestive of a cloaca, but may also be explained by the emptiness of the rectum, compressed by the mass. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thermal degradation of poly(acrylic acid) containing metal nitrates and the formation of YBa2Cu3O7−x
Authors: Dubinsky Stanislav , Lumelsky Yulia , Grader Gideon S. , Shter Gennady E. , Silverstein Michael S.
Published: March 2005

The use of polymers containing metal salts as ceramic high‐temperature superconductor (HTSC) precursors may provide a relatively simple and rapid method for producing materials that can take advantage of advanced polymer processing and then be pyrolyzed to HTSCs. The mechanisms of thermal degradation in these precursors, which have not been characterized, can be used to optimize the pyrolysis conditions for HTSC production. This article describes the degradation of a precursor based on poly(acrylic acid) (PAAc) containing yttrium, barium, and copper nitrates in the proportions needed for the formation of the HTSC YBa2Cu3O7−x (YBCO). This article also describes the effects of the pyrolysis process on the resulting materials. The degradation of the precursor is a complex, multistage process. The presence of the metal ions and HNO3 reduces the thermal stability of PAAc and increases the degradation rate. The results indicate that the initial stages of the pyrolysis should be conducted in argon or nitrogen to inhibit BaCO3 formation and that the final stages should be conducted in air/oxygen to enhance oxidation. Optimization of the pyrolysis conditions produces a YBCO film with minimal contamination. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J PolymSci Part B: Polym Phys 43: 1168–1176, 2005
Plasma Chemistry in an Atmospheric Pressure Ar/NH3 Dielectric Barrier Discharge
Authors: Fateev Alexander , Leipold Frank , Kusano Yukihiro , Stenum Bjarne , Tsakadze Erekle , Bindslev Henrik
Published: March 2005

Summary: An atmospheric pressure dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) in Ar/NH3 (0.1–10%) mixtures with a parallel plate electrode geometry was studied. The plasma was investigated by emission and absorption spectroscopy in the UV spectral range. Discharge current and voltage were measured as well. UV absorption spectroscopy was also employed for the detection of stable products in the exhaust gas. To clarify the different processes for ammonia decomposition, N2 (2–10%) was added to the plasma. Modeling of the chemical kinetics in an Ar/NH3 plasma was performed as well. The dominant stable products of an atmospheric pressure Ar/NH3 DBD are H2, N2 and N2H4. The hydrazine (N2H4) concentration in the plasma and in the exhaust gases at various ammonia concentrations and different discharge powers was measured. Thermal N2H4 decomposition into NH2 radicals may be used for NOx reduction processes.

The differences in the optical emission spectra of NH radicals formed in Ar/NH3 plasma with various ammonia concentrations (0.7, 2, and 10%) were associated with different excitation mechanisms of NH radicals.

magnified image

The differences in the optical emission spectra of NH radicals formed in Ar/NH3 plasma with various ammonia concentrations (0.7, 2, and 10%) were associated with different excitation mechanisms of NH radicals.
Influence of Dimensions and Materials of Coplanar Arrangements on Ozone Production
Authors: Hulka Lutz , Pietsch Gerhard J.
Published: March 2005

Summary: Coplanar discharge arrangements consist of one or several pairs of parallel electrodes that are embedded in a dielectric close to a surface. The discharge occurs on the surface of the dielectric in between the electrodes. The influence of electrode distance, thickness, and the type of dielectric on ozone yields has been investigated. The working gas was dry air and oxygen at atmospheric pressure. The power‐voltage characteristic and its effect on ozone concentration have been studied for different devices. The kinetic curves of ozone formation show a distinct maximum in ozone concentration if air is used as feed gas. The value of this maximum depends on the configuration. The ozone concentration is about four times higher in oxygen than in air. The electric characteristics change, when different dielectrics are used. Photographs of the discharge activity on the dielectric surface taken were compared with the corresponding energy density and ozone production. The production was compared with those in other dielectric barrier discharge arrangements as well.

Sketch of a coplanar discharge arrangement.

magnified image

Sketch of a coplanar discharge arrangement.
Removal of 2‐Heptanone by Dielectric Barrier Discharges – The Effect of a Catalyst Support
Authors: Blin‐Simiand Nicole , Tardiveau Pierre , Risacher Aurore , Jorand François , Pasquiers Stéphane
Published: March 2005

Summary: 2‐heptanone is representative of a class of odorous molecules. Recent studies have shown that by adding a catalyst to a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma, the elimination of 90% of this molecule can be achieved with low consumption of electric energy, at room temperature, for concentrations below 1 000 ppm. In the presented work, the removal of the ketone by DBD, both in dry air and within a slice of a honeycomb monolith of cordierite without a catalyst, was studied. In both experiments, the discharge was operated in a plane‐to‐plane geometry with a discharge volume of 10 cm3. A high voltage, bipolar pulse generator (40 kV max, 1–140 Hz frequency range) was used. In dry air, it was found that 2‐heptanone is almost totally removed (>95%) for a specific deposited energy of about 500 J · l−1, but this elimination is less effective in the porous cordierite reactor (80%) for the same energy. This effect is explained by the very different spatial distribution of the plasma within the discharge volume, as seen using a CCD camera. Moreover, the adsorption‐desorption equilibrium of the molecule at the surface of the material is greatly influenced by the discharge.

2‐Heptanone removal as a function of the specific energy for the DBD both in dry air and in the cordierite catalyst support.

magnified image

2‐Heptanone removal as a function of the specific energy for the DBD both in dry air and in the cordierite catalyst support.
Atmospheric Pressure Deposition of Micropatterned Nitrogen‐Rich Plasma‐Polymer Films for Tissue Engineering
Authors: Girard‐Lauriault Pierre‐Luc , Mwale Fackson , Iordanova Mihaela , Demers Caroline , Desjardins Patrick , Wertheimer Michael R.
Published: March 2005

Summary: A novel atmospheric‐pressure plasma‐polymerised thin film material has been deposited on various substrates using a pilot scale dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) reactor. Deposition kinetics and physico‐chemical characterisation data of nitrogen‐rich plasma‐polymerised ethylene (PPE:N) films, obtained using feed gas mixtures of N2 (ca. 10 slm) and C2H4 (ca. 10 sccm) are described. Nitrogen concentrations, [N], in the PPE:N films up to ca. 40% were determined by XPS; the concentrations of N‐functionality of greatest interest, primary amines, were determined by chemical derivatisation with 4‐trifluoromethylbenzaldehyde. The PPE:N films were further characterised by attenuated total reflectance infra‐red spectroscopy (ATR‐FTIR), contact angle goniometry, and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Square arrays of PPE:N “islands”, for example 30 μm in diameter repeated every 200 μm, were deposited on polymers, for example biaxially oriented poly(propylene) (BOPP), through specially‐prepared Kapton® polyimide masks. Cell culture experiments were then conducted on these micro‐patterned surfaces, using various cell types of interest in orthopaedics, for example growth plate and articular chondrocytes, or human U937 macrophages, the latter of which do not adhere to existing cell culture dishes. In all these cases the cells rapidly adhered and proliferated on the PPE:N islands, but not elsewhere on the polymer surfaces. In an effort to gain insight into cell adhesion mechanisms, adhesion of both macrophages and chondrocytes was tested against films with different [N] values. U‐937 macrophages adhered to films containing 25% or more [N], but not at all to films with lower values of [N], suggesting the existence of a “critical” value, [N]crit, necessary to induce cell adhesion.

Adhesion of U‐937 macrophages on PPE:N‐micropatterned biaxially oriented poly(propylene) substrates.

magnified image

Adhesion of U‐937 macrophages on PPE:N‐micropatterned biaxially oriented poly(propylene) substrates.
A tele‐experiment on rover motor control via internet
Authors: Schilling Klaus , Roth Hubert , Spilca Cristina
Published: March 2005

Modern Internet and multimedia techniques enable experiments with remote hardware. This way engineering students can gather practical experience even in areas where their own university does not have the related equipment in place. The focus of this paper is on an experiment to develop a motor controller for a remote mobile robot. Implementation details of such an experiment are addressed with emphasis placed on the subject of tuning a PID controller for steering and speed adaptation of a rover. The complete experiment is conceived as a self‐explaining learning unit on the web. The learning unit comprises material on theory, exercises to provide feedback to the student about his learning progress, simulations to study motor control effects, and finally the experiment with remote robot hardware. This paper presents software techniques to realize a robust system implementation, the educational considerations necessary to present the experiment material properly for the tele‐education context, and experiences obtained during the use of this remote experiment in previously taught classes. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Development of system thinking skills in the context of earth system education
Authors: Assaraf Orit Ben‐Zvi , Orion Nir
Published: March 2005

The current study deals with the development of system thinking skills at the junior high school level. The sample population included about 50 eighth‐grade students from two different classes of an urban Israeli junior high school who studied an earth systems‐based curriculum that focused on the hydro cycle. The study addressed the following research questions: (a) Could the students deal with complex systems?; (b) What has influenced the students' ability to deal with system perception?; and (c) What are the relationship among the cognitive components of system thinking? The research combined qualitative and quantitative methods and involved various research tools, which were implemented in order to collect the data concerning the students' knowledge and understanding before, during, and following the learning process. The findings indicated that the development of system thinking in the context of the earth systems consists of several sequential stages arranged in a hierarchical structure. The cognitive skills that are developed in each stage serve as the basis for the development of the next higher‐order thinking skills. The research showed that in spite of the minimal initial system thinking abilities of the students most of them made some meaningful progress in their system thinking skills, and a third of them reached the highest level of system thinking in the context of the hydro cycle. Two main factors were found to be the source of the differential progress of the students: (a) the students' individual cognitive abilities, and (b) their level of involvement in the knowledge integration activities during their inquiry‐based learning both indoors and outdoors. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Psychological outcome in women undergoing termination of pregnancy for ultrasound‐detected fetal anomaly in the first and second trimesters: a pilot study
Authors: Davies V. , Gledhill J. , McFadyen A. , Whitlow B. , Economides D.
Published: March 2005

Objective

To ascertain and compare psychological morbidity following first‐ and second‐trimester termination for fetal anomaly.

Methods

This was a cohort study of 30 women aged 20–40 years in a north London teaching hospital, 14 of whom had had a first‐trimester termination and 16 a second‐trimester termination for fetal anomaly. The main outcome measures were questionnaire data (General Health Questionnaire‐28, Beck Depression Inventory, Perinatal Grief Scale, Impact of Event Scale (IES)) at 6 weeks, 6 months and 12 months after termination.

Results

There were high levels of psychological distress in both groups at each time point, and for the combined group the mean total scores on the IES remained above the cut‐off for the entire study period. Those having second‐trimester terminations had a significantly higher level of post‐traumatic stress symptomatology 6 weeks after termination (14/16 vs. 6/14; odds ratio = 9.3; 95% CI, 1.5–57.7).

Conclusions

Psychological morbidity following termination of pregnancy for fetal anomaly is prevalent and persistent. Our data suggest that in the short term (as assessed at a 6‐week follow‐up), second‐trimester termination may be more stressful compared with first‐trimester termination. Copyright © 2005 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ultrasound‐assisted laparoscopic cryomyolysis: two‐ and three‐dimensional findings before, during and after treatment
Authors: Exacoustos C. , Zupi E. , Marconi D. , Romanini M. E. , Szabolcs B. , Piredda A. , Arduini D.
Published: March 2005

Objective

To investigate the role of two‐ and three‐dimensional (2D and 3D) ultrasound and power Doppler before, during and after surgery in monitoring the effects of uterine fibroid laparoscopic cryomyolysis.

Methods

This prospective study involved 10 premenopausal patients with a sonographic diagnosis of a single subserosal and/or intramural uterine myoma, who underwent laparoscopic cryomyolysis. All patients suffered from symptoms due to fibroids (menometrorrhagia, bulk‐related symptoms, pelvic pain). During laparoscopy transvaginal sonography was performed to guide the insertion of the cryoprobe, monitor extension of the iceball and evaluate the reduction of the blood supply of the myoma. All patients underwent 2D and 3D sonographic and power Doppler imaging evaluation of the myoma 1 week before treatment, during cryomyolysis, and 1, 3 and 6 months after treatment; size, echostructure and vascularization were recorded.

Results

With cryomyolysis, we achieved selective vessel and tissue damage within the fibroid alone. Eight patients were free of symptoms and two had improved after 3 months. Progressive shrinkage of the treated myoma was observed during follow‐up with a reduction percentage after 1 month of 22.2%, after 3 months of 37.5% and after 6 months of 52.6%. After cryomyolysis a significant reduction in central blood flow of the myoma was observed. 2D and 3D power Doppler evaluation of vascularization did not differ although subjectively findings were best evaluated by 3D images.

Conclusion

Sonography can aid the safe accomplishment of cryomyolysis by assessing myomata preoperatively, guiding the freezing procedure during laparoscopy, and helping to monitor postoperative progress. The use of ultrasound in this new treatment of fibroids will permit the physician to modulate and individualize treatment. Copyright © 2005 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The prevalence and clinical significance of amniotic fluid ‘sludge’ in patients with preterm labor and intact membranes
Authors: Espinoza J. , Gonçalves L. F. , Romero R. , Nien J. K. , Stites S. , Kim Y. M. , Hassan S. , Gomez R. , Yoon B. H. , Chaiworapongsa T. , Lee W. , Mazor M.
Published: March 2005

Objective

To determine the prevalence and clinical significance of amniotic fluid (AF) ‘sludge’ observed during transvaginal ultrasound examination of the cervix in patients with preterm labor and intact membranes, and in those with uncomplicated pregnancies.

Methods

This retrospective study included patients with preterm labor and intact membranes (n = 84) and those with uncomplicated term pregnancies (n = 298). The outcome variables included the occurrence of documented microbial invasion of the amniotic cavity (MIAC), histological chorioamnionitis, examination‐to‐delivery interval, admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), a composite neonatal morbidity, perinatal death, and delivery within 48 h, 7 days, and < 35 weeks and < 32 weeks. Statistical analysis included Chi‐square test, stepwise logistic regression analysis and survival analysis.

Results

The prevalence of AF ‘sludge’ was 1% (3/298) in patients with uncomplicated term pregnancies and 22.6% (19/84) in those with preterm labor and intact membranes. Among patients with preterm labor and intact membranes: (1) cervical length ⩽ 15 mm was present in 58.3% (49/84) of the patients; (2) the prevalence of MIAC and histological chorioamnionitis was 12.1% (7/58) and 32.9% (25/76), respectively; (3) the rate of spontaneous preterm delivery within 48 h, 7 days, and < 32 weeks and < 35 weeks of gestation was 13.6% (8/59), 28.8% (17/59), 39.5% (17/43) and 50.8% (30/59), respectively; (4) patients with AF ‘sludge’ had a higher frequency of positive AF cultures [33.3% (6/18) vs. 2.5% (1/40), P = 0.003] and histological chorioamnionitis [77.8% (14/18) vs. 19% (11/58), P < 0.001] than those without AF ‘sludge’; (5) a higher proportion of neonates born to patients with AF ‘sludge’ was admitted to the NICU [64.3% (9/14) vs. 12.9% (8/62), P < 0.01], had a composite neonatal morbidity [36.8% (7/19) vs. 13.8% (9/65), P = 0.04] and died in the perinatal period [36.8% (7/19) vs. 4.6% (3/65), P = 0.001] than those born to women without ‘sludge’; (6) a higher proportion of patients with AF ‘sludge’ had spontaneous delivery within 48 h [42.9% (6/14) vs. 4.4% (2/45), P = 0.001], within 7 days [71.4% (10/14) vs. 15.6% (7/45), P < 0.001], < 32 weeks [75% (9/12) vs. 25.8% (8/31), P = 0.005] and < 35 weeks [92.9% (13/14) vs. 37.8% (17/45), P < 0.001] than those without AF ‘sludge’; and (7) patients with AF ‘sludge’ had a shorter examination‐to‐delivery interval than those without AF ‘sludge’ [AF ‘sludge’ median, 1 (IQR, 1–5) days vs. no AF ‘sludge’ median, 33 (IQR, 18–58) days; P < 0.001].

Conclusion

The presence of AF ‘sludge’ in patients with preterm labor and intact membranes is a risk factor for MIAC, histological chorioamnionitis and impending preterm delivery. Copyright © 2005 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Severe ductal constriction in the third‐trimester fetus following maternal self‐medication with nimesulide
Authors: Paladini D. , Marasini M. , Volpe P.
Published: March 2005

Objective

This was a multicenter series of 10 cases of constriction of the fetal ductus arteriosus occurring after maternal ingestion of one or two oral doses of nimesulide, which led to emergency delivery in four cases.

Methods

The computerized databases of three referral centers were searched for all cases of ductal constriction detected during the last 8 years in association with maternal ingestion of nimesulide. Ten cases were retrieved and represent the study population. The following variables were analyzed: gestational age at diagnosis, reason for nimesulide ingestion, total nimesulide dose, time interval between drug intake and ultrasound examination, indication for echocardiography, presence of right ventricular hypertrophy, presence of tricuspid valve regurgitation, ductal systolic and diastolic peak velocities, ductal pulsatility index, signs of fetal heart failure, pregnancy and feto‐neonatal outcome, and ductal status at neonatal echocardiography.

Results

Nimesulide ingestion was the result of self‐medication in all cases. The mean gestational age at diagnosis was 36.3 weeks and the mean time interval between nimesulide intake and echocardiographic examination was 2.9 days. The five cases with ductal peak velocities > 2.5 m/s showed right ventricular dysfunction with significant tricuspid regurgitation. At echocardiography performed immediately after birth, the ductus appeared closed in all cases and two neonates showed persistent pulmonary hypertension requiring intermittent positive pressure ventilation and nitric oxide therapy for 1 week.

Conclusions

Although the true incidence of the adverse effect of nimesulide ingestion during pregnancy cannot be deduced, we believe that patients and their clinicians should be alerted to the possibility that clinically significant ductal constriction may follow maternal self‐medication with just one or two oral doses of nimesulide, at least if the drug is taken near term. Copyright © 2005 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cloning and disruption of the Pichia pastoris ARG1, ARG2, ARG3, HIS1, HIS2, HIS5, HIS6 genes and their use as auxotrophic markers
Authors: Nett Juergen H. , Hodel Nikolai , Rausch Sebastian , Wildt Stefan
Published: March 2005

Screening of a partial genomic database of Pichia pastoris allowed us to identify the ARG1, ARG2, ARG3, HIS1, HIS2, HIS5 and HIS6 genes, based on homology to their Saccharomyces cerevisiae counterparts. Based on the cloned sequences, a set of disruption vectors was constructed, using the previously described PpURA5‐blaster as a selectable marker, and the cloned genes were individually disrupted. All disruptants exhibited the expected auxotrophic phenotypes, with only the his2 knockouts displaying a bradytroph phenotype. To allow their use as auxotrophic markers, we amplified the open reading frames and respective promoters and terminator regions of PpARG1, PpARG2, PpARG3, PpHIS1, PpHIS2 and PpHIS5. We then designed a set of integration vectors harbouring cassettes of the ARG pathway as selectable markers, to disrupt the genes of the HIS pathway and vice versa. Employing this strategy, we devised a scheme allowing for the rapid and stable introduction of several heterologous genes into the genome of P. pastoris without the need for recyclable markers or strains with multiple auxotrophies. Furthermore, simple replica‐plating, instead of cost‐consuming and labour‐intensive colony PCR or Southern analysis, can be used to identify positive transformants, making this approach amendable for initial high‐throughput applications, which can then be followed up by a more careful analysis of the selected transformants. The sequences presented here have been submitted to the EMBL data library under Accession Nos/AY532165 (ARG1), AY532166 (ARG2), AY532167 (ARG3), AY532168 (HIS1), AY532169 (HIS2), AY532170 (HIS5), AY532171 (HIS6). Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Expression of GCR1, the transcriptional activator of glycolytic enzyme genes in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, is positively autoregulated by Gcr1p
Authors: Sasaki Hiromi , Kishimoto Tomoko , Mizuno Takayuki , Shinzato Tomoko , Uemura Hiroshi
Published: March 2005

When regulation of GCR1 expression was analysed using a GCR1–lacZ fusion, lacZ expression levels were decreased in the Δgcr1 or Δgcr2 mutant. RT–PCR analysis of genomic GCR1 transcript confirmed the dependency of GCR1 expression on the Gcr1p–Gcr2p complex. Examination of the 5′ non‐coding region of GCR1 identified three putative Gcr1p binding sites (CT‐boxes) in the −100 to −200 region of GCR1, and the putative binding sites for Rap1p (RPG‐box) and Abf1p were also identified nearby. The region containing putative cis‐elements was analysed by cloning it upstream of the CYC1TATA–lacZ fusion. The GCR1UAS–CYC1TATA–lacZ fusion showed a moderate activity and, as expected, the activity was drastically reduced in the Δgcr1 or Δgcr2 mutant. Systematic deletion and mutation analyses of cis‐elements in this region demonstrated that the putative binding sites for Rap1p and Abf1p were not involved in the promoter activity of GCR1UAS and only one of the three CT‐boxes showed GCR1‐ and GCR2‐dependent promoter activity. In contrast to the expression of glycolytic genes, where a RPG‐box adjacent to the CT‐box is required for strong promoter activities, CT‐box‐dependent expression of GCR1 did not require the RPG‐box. Also, a contribution of Sgc1p, an E‐box binding transcription factor, to the expression of GCR1 was suggested, based on its disruption analysis. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surgically induced uremia in rats I: Effect on bone strength and metabolism
Authors: Jablonski G. , Klem K. H. , Attramadal A. , Dahl E. , Rønningen H. , Gautvik K. M. , Haug E. , Gordeladze J. O.
Published: March 2005

During the course of chronic renal failure (CRF) in man, renal osteodystrophy (osteitis fibrosa and/or osteomalacia) gradually develops. The present study aimed to establish a similar type of CRF leading to renal osteodystrophy in rats.

During progressive CRF development over 225 days after 5/6 nephrectomy, the following serum variables were measured: creatinine, immunoreactive parathryoid hormone (iPTH), 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3), a25-hydroxyvitamin D3, (25(OH)D3), alkaline phosphatase, albumin, phosphate, urea nitrogen, total calcium, and other blood electrolytes. Subsequent to sacrifice, mechanical properties of the rat femur, bone histomorphometry (osteoid and eroded surfaces) and bone contents of calcium, phosphate and hydroxyproline were also examined.

Serum creatinine in rats with CRF gradually escalated by some 70%, while circulating 1,25(OH)2D3 was reduced beneath detection level. Total plasma calcium and phosphate concentrations were, however, almost unchanged indicating that PTH-induced bone remodeling due to moderate hyperparathyroidism sustained calcium homeostasis. Alkaline phosphatase levels were reduced by some 50%, which reflects chronically impeded bone formation. Bone histomorphometry assessment revealed substantial elevation of resorption with moderate accompanying fibrosis in about 70% of afflicted animals. Bone calcium, phosphate and hydroxpyroline contents remained unaltered. However, hydroxoproline/calcium ratio was marginally reduced. These results, together with altered mechanical bending stress characteristics and diminished diaphysis cross section area, confirm development of mixed bone lesions in the uremic animals.

Our results are compatible with the early development of CRF in man. The established rat model is therefore useful in elucidating the precipitation and early treatment of renal osteodystrophy in humans.
Myosin light chain kinase expression during smooth muscle development
Authors: Libera Luciano Dalla , Collins John H.
Published: March 2005

The expression of smooth muscle myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) was investigated during chicken gizzard development. The molecular weight and the antigenic properties of MLCK did not change during development. The use of anion exchange high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) enabled us to distinguish between MLCKs from post-hatched and adult chickens. A partial amino acid sequence determination of 4-day-old gizzard MLCK failed to disclose differences in the primary sequences of the two proteins. The results suggest that MLCK has the same primary sequence in all sequences of the two proteins. The results suggest that MLCK has the same primary sequence in all stages of gizzard development, although charge variants due to post-translational modifications may exist.
Impact of sleep‐related breathing disorders on health‐related quality of life in patients with chronic heart failure
Authors: Skobel Erik , Norra Christine , Sinha Anil , Breuer Christian , Hanrath Peter , Stellbrink Christoph
Published: March 2005

Background

Quality of life in patients with chronic heart failure (HF) is often severely compromised. Sleep‐related breathing disorders (SRBD) like Cheyne–Stokes Respiration (CSR) or obstructive sleep apnea (OSAS) are often observed in patients with severe HF resulting in fragmentation of sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness and an increased mortality. While an apnea/hypopnea‐index (AHI) >30/h represents an independent predictor of poor prognosis, clinical relevance of even minor SRBD with an AHI <30/h remains unclear with respect to quality of life, exercise capacity or depression rate.

Methods

Sixty‐nine consecutive ambulatory patients with stable HF (NYHA II–III, EF 25%) underwent two night polygraphies with a six‐channel ambulatory recording. Spiroergometry was performed, and patients were examined for sleep quality (PSQI), depressed mood (BDI) and health‐related quality of life (SF‐36). The data were compared to 10 age‐matched healthy controls and 11 patients with OSAS (AHI 14–29/h) not suffering from HF.

Results

Fifty‐one patients completed follow up. 52% were positively diagnosed for SRBD (AHI 16–30/h: 12 patients CSR, 5 patients OSAS, 9 patients mixed); 25 patients (48%) showed no relevant SRBD. Patients with HF and SRBD had lower quality of life than patients without SRBD and HF. The severity of SRBD as indicated by the AHI significantly correlated with quality of life measures: Bodily pain, physical functioning and social functioning showed largest impairment in patients with HF and SRBD. Furthermore, elevated depression rates in correlation to the AHI were only observed in patients with SRBD similar to patients with OSAS without HF.

Conclusion

Even minor SRBD in patients with HF independently influence quality of life and correlate with estimation of depression and sleep disturbances.
The additive prognostic value of restrictive pattern and dipyridamole‐induced contractile reserve in idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Pratali Lorenza , Otasevic Petar , Rigo Fausto , Gherardi Sonia , Neskovic Aleksandar , Picano Eugenio
Published: March 2005

Background

Diastolic dysfunction and lack of contractile reserve are unfavorable prognostic predictors in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).

Aims

This study aims to assess whether diastolic dysfunction and lack of dipyridamole‐induced contractile reserve were additive predictors of poor outcome in patients with DCM.

Methods

A total of 116 patients with DCM and ejection fraction (EF<35%) were studied by dipyridamole echo (0.84 mg/kg over 10 min). At rest, a restrictive filling pattern was defined as: E/A ratio >2 and an E‐wave deceleration time of <140 ms on transmitral flow velocity profile.

Results

Rest wall motion score index (WMSI) was 2.2±0.3 and decreased to 1.9±0.41 after dipyridamole (p<0.001). During follow‐up (median 26.5 months), 22 cardiac deaths occurred. At multivariate analysis, dipyridamole‐induced contractile reserve yielded significant incremental prognostic value (RR=0.275, p<0.006) over NYHA class (RR=1.971, p<0.03), angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor therapy (RR=0.173, p<0.001), and left ventricular end‐diastolic diameter (RR=1.131, p<0.001). The worst prognostic combination was the presence of restrictive pattern at rest and the absence of contractile reserve (ΔWMSI<0.15).

Conclusion

In patients with DCM, the ominous combination of restrictive transmitral flow pattern and lack of contractile reserve during dipyridamole stress predicts an unfavourable outcome.
Lévy trajectories of Peruvian purse-seiners as an indicator of the spatial distribution of anchovy (Engraulis ringens)
Authors: Bertrand Sophie , Burgos Julian M. , Gerlotto François , Atiquipa Jaime
Published: March 2005

Analogous to other top predators foraging on patchy resources, the spatial behaviour of fishers provides information on the spatial organization of fish. Focusing on the Peruvian anchovy purse-seine fishery, vessel monitoring system data are used to describe fishing vessels' trajectories, and acoustic survey data to characterize anchovy spatial distribution. Vessel trajectories were analysed in terms of move-length distribution, whereas fish distribution was characterized by spatial extent, concentration, and fractal dimension. Fishers perform Lévy flights that can be characterized by a single statistic (μ); μ is significantly correlated with the fractal dimension of fish distribution. It is argued that the Lévy statistic is a good candidate for an ecosystem indicator that might contribute to real-time monitoring of ecosystems.
Leaching losses of N under grazed irrigated and non-irrigated pastures
Authors: PAKROU N. , DILLON P. J.
Published: March 2005

High spatial and temporal variability of nitrogen application via livestock urine on grazed pasture make meaningful measurement of leaching of nitrate very difficult. The present study was aimed at estimating the mean annual nitrogen loadings and concentrations leached to an underlying aquifer beneath unfertilized irrigated and non-irrigated paddocks of a dairy farm at OB Flat 10 km south of the city of Mount Gambier (37°50′S, 140°40′E), South Australia. Urine was collected in the milking shed and applied to 1 m deep monolith lysimeters in three separate seasons in 1992. Some lysimeters received two applications. Drainage and N fluxes and concentrations were recorded 1 year before urine application and for 3 years following urine applications. A negative binomial function was used to specify the appropriate proportions of pasture subject to 0, 1 or 2 loadings in a year, and the lysimeter drainage measurements were then scaled across seasons and paddock area to estimate mean annual leaching under the whole of each paddock. It was found that the timing of urine application had a profound effect on the leaching of nitrogen. Results indicated that the nitrate flux leaching from the root zone in the irrigated paddock was 26–33 kg N/ha/year at 13–17 mg N/litre and in the non-irrigated paddock, 10–13 kg N/ha/year at 9–11 mg N/litre. These estimates are not inconsistent with nitrate concentrations measured in groundwater but cannot be independently verified. The current transition from non-irrigated to irrigated pastures is likely to double nitrogen loads to the aquifer and cause nitrate concentrations in groundwater to exceed drinking water guidelines, unless alternative pasture management strategies are developed.
Lessons at the roadside
Authors: Davies Colin
Published: March 2005

Architects should learn to communicate more through their architecture. The commercial vernacular architecture of the American ‘strip’ – motels, gas stations, fast food outlets – communicates loud and clear. In comparison, high architecture, particularly the high architecture of Modernism, is sullen and silent. This, roughly, is the thesis of Learning from Las Vegas by Robert Venturi, Denise Scott Brown and Stephen Izenour (1972 and 1977), one of the key texts of the Post-Modernist movement in architectural theory of the early 1970s. Venturi et al thought architects could learn a lot about symbolism and communication from the sort of non-judgmental study of roadside architecture that their students had undertaken at Yale. In the second half of the book the idea was developed into a theory and encapsulated into a universal building concept, ‘the decorated shed’, which has since become a cliché of architectural criticism. The decorated shed was designed to overthrow the most cherished beliefs and rituals of Modernism. Expression through form was to be replaced by the ‘persuasive heraldry’ of the totem and the billboard; articulation of detail was to be replaced by old-fashioned applied ornament; and the ‘heroic and original’ was to be replaced by the ‘ugly and ordinary’. But the emphasis was on the decoration rather than the shed. Learning from Las Vegas did not have much to say about the way that the sheds of the commercial strip were constructed, other than describing them vaguely as ‘system built’, or about the implications that the technology of their construction might have for architectural practice.