bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the Cytotoxic Effect of Prednimustine in Cultured Cells with High or Low Levels of Metallothionein
Authors: Endresen Liv
Published: July 2010

Abstract: The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the ability of the cysteinyl‐rich protein metallothionein (MT) to protect cells against the cytotoxic effects of prednimustine, an ester of chlorambucil and prednisolone. The cells studied were MT‐rich substrains of murine fibroblasts (CI 1D100) and human epithelial cells (HE100), both demonstrated in an earlier report to exhibit an approximate 3‐fold increase in resistance to chlorambucil compared to their parent lines (C) 1D and HE) (Endresen et al. 1983). Both in cloning and in growth rate studies the MT‐rich strains proved to be significantly more resistant also to predinimustine. E.g. in cloning studies D0 for C11D cells (D0 = the dose of drug reducing survival to 1/e) was 8.7 μg/ml prednimustine, whereas D0 for C11D 100 was 12.4 μg/ml, representing an approximate 1.5‐fold increase in resistance, P<0.001, t‐test. Other cloning studies revealed that prednimustine had a significantly higher cell killing activity in the resistant cells than equimolar concentrations of its components, single or in combination. Following treatment with 3H, l4C‐prednimustine (3H in the prednisolone moiety, 14C in the chlorambucil moiety) and subsequent gel filtration, about 40% of the cytosolic chlorambucil eluted with MT. However, no intact prednimustine was recovered in the MT fractions. The data indicate that the MT‐rich cells possess increased resistance to prednimustine due to a sequestration by MT of the alkylating moiety. Since the interaction probably does not take place until after hydrolysis, it is possible that the intact conjugate may bypass this cellular defence mechanism.
Vestibulo‐Ocular Disturbances in Rats Exposed to Organic Solvents
Authors: Tham R. , Bunnfors I. , Eriksson B. , Larsby B. , Lindgren S. , Ödkvist L. M.
Published: July 2010

Abstract: The influence of different kinds of industrial solvents on the vestibular function of rats has been studied by recording nystagmus, induced by accelerated rotation. The effect was related to the blood levels of the solvents. One group of solvents, including halogenated saturated hydrocarbons like dichloromethane, caused depression of the vestibulo‐oculomotor reflex (VOR). Another group, including benzene compounds like xylene, toluene, styrene and cumene and halogenated unsaturated hydrocarbons like trichloroethylene caused an excitation of the VOR. The most striking chemical similarity between the different solvents in the last group is the occurence of double‐bonds. If the animals were exposed simultaneously to solvents from both groups the excitatory effect prevailed and was even potentiated. It is suggested that solvents cause depression or excitation of the VOR by interaction with central pathways in the reticular formation and the cerebellum.
Effect of Lindane on Synaptosomal Na+/K+‐ATPase in Relation to its Subcellular Distribution in the Brain
Authors: Magour S. , Mäser H. , Steffen I.
Published: July 2010

Abstract: Mouse brain synaptosomal Na +/K + ‐ATPase was inhibited by 23%, 18 hrs after a single intraperitoneal dose of 40 mg lindane (dissolved in olive oil) per kg. The inhibition was of a non‐competitive type with respect to ATP. Pretreatment with lindane also potentiated the inhibitory effect of ethanol on this enzyme. It is suggested to consider this interaction at the synaptosomal level when evaluating the anaesthetic effect of ethanol in contaminated persons. Although the synaptosomal Na +/K + ‐ATPase was inhibited after pretreatment with lindane in vivo, neither lindane nor its metabolites were present in the synaptosomal fraction when determining the subcellular distribution of U‐[14C]‐lindane in the brain. These results raise some questions regarding the current opinion that lindane exerts some of its central effects through binding to the synaptosomal membrane.
Distribution of 1,2,3,4‐Tetrahydro‐β‐carboline and 6‐Methoxy‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydro‐β‐carboline in Mice
Authors: Leino Markku , Airaksinen Mauno M. , Antikaínen Riitta , Gynther Jukka , Karí Eija , Karí Ilkka , Peura Pekka
Published: July 2010

Abstract: The distribution of radioactivity after intravenous injection of 14C‐labelled 1,2,3,4‐tetrahydro‐β‐carboline (THBC) and 6‐methoxy‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydro‐β‐carboline (6‐MeO‐THBC) was studied on mice by whole‐body autoradiography and by liquid scintillation counting (LSC). Following intravenous injection they rapidly distributed into different organs and were excreted into urine and the gut contents. A considerable uptake of the compounds was seen in the lungs, kidney, liver, bone marrow, urinary bladder, gastrointestinal tract and in various glands e.g. adrenal, Harderian and salivary glands. THBC moderately penetrated the blood‐brain barrier and the placenta but 6‐MeO‐THBC seemed to penetrate poorly both. At early stages of the experiment the values of tissue radioactivity in LSC were generally much higher in the THBC group but 24 hours following injections the reverse was true with higher activities in the 6‐MeO‐THBC group. The initial excretion of 6‐MeO‐THBC seemed to be more rapid judged by the superfluous accumulation of activity in the bladder and a high accumulation of activity into the gut contents.:
Comparison of Gas Chromatography and Receptor Bioassay in the Determination of Diazepam in Plasma after Conventional Tablets and Controlled Release Capsules
Authors: Tuomisto Jouko , Tuomainen Päivi , Saano Veijo
Published: July 2010

Abstract: Plasma levels of diazepam and its metabolites were compared after a controlled release formulation and a regular tablet. Both gas chromatographic analysis of plasma diazepam and desmethyldiazepam and radioreceptor assay of total benzodiazepine activity were used. Also the concentrations of benzodiazepine in saliva samples were analyzed by radioreceptor assay. A typical initial plasma peak was seen after the regular tablet but not after the controlled release capsule. Hence the excessive initial sedation can be avoided and the risk of abuse reduced. Desmethyldiazepam increased for about two days after a single dose of diazepam. The receptor assay correlated in general with the sum of diazepam and its desmethyl derivative. The saliva assay gave about 2.5% of the plasma total benzodiazepine which correlates well with the expected free benzodiazepine. It seems that both the plasma radioreceptor assay and the saliva assay can be used to monitor the total benzodiazepine concentration.
Melanin Affinity of Manganese
Authors: Lydén Annika , Larsson Bengt S. , Lindquist Nils Gunnar
Published: July 2010

Abstract: The melanin affinity of manganese was studied in vitro using melanin isolated from beef eyes or human hair, and synthetic dopamine melanin, which is known to be structurally similar to the melanin present in the pigmented nerve cells in the human substantia nigra. In addition, the uptake of manganese in melanin containing tissues in vitro and in vivo was studied by whole body autoradiography. Manganese was bound to beef eye, human hair and synthetic dopamine melanin, and was taken up in pigmented tissues in mice and a monkey. Long‐time exposure to manganese may cause a chronic extrapyramidal disorder. It is suggested that manganese, due to its neurotoxicity, may cause lesions in pigment containing neurones in the substantia nigra secondary to its accumulation on the neuromelanin.
Hyperactivity in Silver Exposed Mice
Authors: Rungby Jørgen , Danscher Gorm
Published: July 2010

Abstract: The functional implications of the presence of silver in the central nervous system are unknown. Since silver is present in the environment and since systemic silver poisoning leads to intraneuronal accumulations of the metal we have evaluated the possible effects of silver on the open field behaviour of mice. Argyric mice have been compared with controls in three experiments, one including long term administration of 0.015% silver nitrate in the drinking water and two in which the reactions of male and female mice to shock doses of silver lactate have been studied. In all experiments the silver treated mice were hypoactive. We suggest that this hypoactivity is due to an influence of silver upon the functional status of the CNS.
Tumours from a Cell Strain with a High Content of Metallothionein Show Enhanced Resistance against Cis‐Dichlorodiammineplatinum
Authors: Endresen Liv , Schjerven Leif , Rugstad Hans Erik
Published: July 2010

Abstract: Cultured cells with a high content of the extremely cysteine‐rich protein metallothionein (MT) have previously been shown to exhibit resistance when exposed to otherwise lethal doses of cis‐dichlorodiammineplatinum (cis‐DDP), chlorambucil or prednimustine, and to have a significant proportion of intracellular drug associated with MT after such treatment. In order to study this protective mechanism in vivo, cells from a MT‐rich variant of a murine fibroblast line resistant to cis‐DDP and its parent sensitive line with only trace amounts of MT, were injected subcutaneously into nude mice (24 animals in each group), and tumour growth was compared during cis‐DDP treatment. Animals in the treatment groups received 3 intravenous doses of either 4 mg/kg or 8 mg/kg of cis‐DDP on day 12, 26 and 33 after inoculation of cells, whereas the control groups received saline. The 8 mg/kg dose produced an almost complete growth inhibition of the tumours derived from the parent cells, as well as from the MT‐rich variant. However, following the injections with 4 mg/kg of cw‐DDP, tumour volume was reduced by approximately 80% in tumours from the parent cells, whereas the tumours from MT‐rich cells were almost completely resistant. This study provides for the first time evidence that metallothionein‐conferred protection against cis‐DDP toxicity also is mediated in tumours in vivo.
Dose‐response Curve for the Ergotamine‐induced Decrease of Peripheral Systolic Blood Pressure in Man
Authors: Tfelt‐Hansen Peer , Manniche Poul M.
Published: July 2010

Abstract: Ergotamine tartrate (approximately 0.05, 0.125, 0.25 and 0.5 mg per 70 kg body weight) was given intravenously to 5 volunteers in a double‐blind cross‐over study. For 6 hours the following parameter were studied: Arm, ankle and big toe systolic blood pressures. A dose‐dependent but transient increase of arm systolic blood pressure was found. For changes of ankle‐arm systolic gradients no dose‐response curve could be established. Toe‐arm systolic gradients showed a dose‐dependent decrease, which at 4 to 6 hours seems suitable for pharmacodynamic comparison of different doses or routes of administration of ergotamine tartrate.
Intraerythrocyte sodium content and transmembrane sodium flux in hypertensive patients treated with diuretics or β‐adrenoceptorblockers
Authors: Herlitz Hans , Jonsson Olof , Elmfeldt Dag , Nauclér Jacob , Berglund Göran
Published: July 2010

Abstract:Forty‐seven male patients with essential hypertension were randomized to treatment with either a ß‐adrenoceptorblocker (metoprolol), (n = 24), or a diuretic (hydrochlorothiazide), (n = 23). If their diastolic blood pressure was not lowered below 95 mm Hg by the maximum dose of either drug, hydralazine (15 patients) and in a few cases (6 patients) spironolactone was given.

After five years of treatment all the patients were examined with respect to intraerythrocyte sodium (IeNa) and potassium (leK). sodium influx and sodium efflux. Patients treated with the diuretic (D) tended to have a higher leNa (9.8±0.4 mmol/l red cells) and sodium influx (0.044±0.002 mmol Na/1 X min) compared with those taking the ß‐adrenoceptoblocker (B) (8.9±0.3 mmol/l and 0.041±0.002 mmol Na/l X min). but neither of these differences was statistically significant. Sodium efflux, however, was significantly increased in D (0.073+0.003 mmol Na/l X min vs 0.061 ± 0.003 mmol/l X min). No difference in leK was noted between the two groups. Six patients taking spironolactone had a low leNa (7.3±0.4 mmol/l), sodium influx (0.039±0.001 mmol Na/l X min) and sodium efflux (0.050±0.006 mmol Na/l X min).
Esterase Activities and Soman Toxicity in Developing Rat
Authors: Sterri Sigrun H. , Berge Gunnar , Fonnum Frode
Published: July 2010

Abstract: The activity of carboxylesterase and cholinesterase in plasma, liver and lung of young rats at different ages (5–31 days old) have been measured. The cholinesterase activity in the tissues of both sexes were almost constant during the development, and were similar to adult male activity. The carboxylesterase activity towards methyl butyrate and 4–nitrophenyl butyrate in plasma of both sexes increased from negligible (5 days old) to adult male value (31 days old). The carboxylesterase activities in liver increased markedly during the period, whereas the lung activities increased only slightly. The toxicity of soman was 6–7 fold higher in 5 days old rats compared to 30 days old rats. The decrease in toxicity correlated well with the increase in plasma carboxylesterase
Age–Dependent Effects of Ethanol on Central Monoamine Synthesis in the Male Rat
Authors: Engel Jörgen A. , Rydberg Ulf
Published: July 2010

Abstract: In the present study, the effect of ethanol on central monoamine synthesis in developing and adult male rats was studied by measuring the accumulation of DOPA and 5–hydrotryptophan after inhibition of aromatic amino acid decarboxylase. Before adolescence, ethanol caused a decrease of DOPA accumulation in the whole rat brain, while after adolescence ethanol increased the DOPA synthesis. Ethanol had no effect on the serotonin synthesis at any of the ages studied. It is suggested that hormonal events occuring during puberty may be of importance for the stimulatory properties of ethanol observed at adult age
Reduction in Locomotor Activity of Arthritic Rats as Parameter for Chronic Pain: Effect of Morphine, Acetylsalicylic Acid and Citalopram
Authors: Larsen Jens‐Jørgen , Arnt Jørn
Published: July 2010

Abstract: Arthritis was induced in rats by plantar injection of a suspension of killed mycobacteria in Viscoleo. Non–treated rats served as controls. The locomotor activities of the rats were measured weekly during the following four weeks. The exploratory activity was determined in the daytime in activity cages and spontaneous locomotor activity was measured during the night in the same cages. From one week to four weeks after treatment in one hind paw the arthritic rats showed significantly lower exploratory activity than the control rats, whereas the spontaneous locomotor activity in the arthritic rats was not significantly reduced. After treatment in two hind paws both activities were significantly smaller in the arthritic group than in the control group. The low exploratory activity level of the arthritic rats was not changed by acetylsalicylic acid but was significantly increased by morphine and citalopram in doses which did not influence the exploratory activity of the control rats. The results suggest that reduction of the locomotor activity of arthritic rats might be a reliable parameter for chronic pain
Effects of Light and BAY K 8644, a New 1,4‐Dihydropyridine, on Mechanical Responses of Rat Thoracic Aorta
Authors: Mikkelsen E. , Kazda S. , Nyborg N. C. B.
Published: July 2010

The effect of day light and ultraviolet radiation (360 nm) on mechanical responses to BAY K 8644 (methyl‐1,4‐dihydro‐2,6‐dimethyl‐3‐nitro‐4‐(‐2‐trifluoromethylphenyl)‐pyridine‐5‐carboxylate), potassium (K+) and noradrenaline (NA) of rat aorta rings was investigated. The contractile response to BAY K 8644 (10−6M) obtained before and after exposure of the BAY K 8644 stock solution to ultraviolet radiation was unchanged and equal to that of K+, 125 mM. Ultraviolet radiation and day light did not affect responses evoked by K+ (125 mM) and NA (1.8 × l0−5M). In contrast to this both types of light relaxed vessels contracted by BAY K 8644 (10−6M). The light induced relaxations were reversible, unaffected by addition of propranolol (3 × 10−6M) and could not be eliminated by washing the preparations repeatedly with Krebs solution. In vessels contracted by K+ (125 mM) and NA (1.8 × 10−5M) ultraviolet radiation induced a reversible relaxation in the presence of BAY K 8644. BAY K 8644 (10−4M) and nifedipine (10−8M) relaxed preparations contracted by K+. Nifedipine (10−6M) totally relaxed preparations contracted by BAY K 8644 (10−6M). Ultraviolet radiation eliminated the relaxant effect of nifedipine and decreased the relaxant effect of BAY K. 8644 (10−4M). The results indicate that BAY K 8644 is more light‐stable than nifedipine and that BAY K 8644 sensitized the vascular smooth muscle to ultraviolet radiation as well as day light. Consequently this should be taken into account when BAY K 8644 is studied.
Convulsive Syndrome Induced by the Intracerebroventricular Injection of α‐Difluoromethylornithine in rats
Authors: Genedani S. , Bernardi M. , Botticelli A. , Bertolini A.
Published: July 2010

In adult rats, the intracerebroventricular injection of α‐difluoromethylornithine (DFMO), a polyamine antimetabolite which specifically inhibits ornithine‐decarboxylase, induces a typical convulsive syndrome (ED50= 100 μg/rat) and death (LD50 = 300 μg/rat). Histological lesions are seen only with the highest doses and are essentially restricted to the Ammon's horn neurones. Since DFMO is currently undergoing clinical trials for use in cancer chemotherapy, including brain tumours, its CNS toxicity should be carefully considered.
Carbon Monoxide is Not Responsible for the Cigarette Smoke‐induced Changes in the Pulmonary Metabolism of Arachidonic Acid and Prostaglandin E2
Authors: Männistö Jussi , Puustinen Tapio , Uotila Pekka
Published: July 2010

Cigarette smoke is known to interfere with the pulmonary metabolism of arachidonic acid and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). We investigated the possible role of carbon monoxide in these cigarette smoke‐induced alterations. 14C‐Arachidonic acid (50 nmol) was infused into the pulmonary circulation of isolated perfused hamster lungs, and the radioactive metabolites in the perfusion effluent, as well as the distribution of incorporated radioactive arachidonic acid within the lung lipids, were analysed. Carbon monoxide, added into the ventilatory air, had no effect on the oxidative metabolism of arachidonic acid or on the distribution of radioactive arachidonic acid within the lung. In addition, carbon monoxide had no effect on the metabolism of PGE2 following infusion of 100 nmol of 14C‐PGE2 into the rat pulmonary circulation. The present study suggests that carbon monoxide is not responsible for the cigarette smoke‐induced changes in the pulmonary metabolism of arachidonic acid and PGE2.
The Effect of Indomethacin on the Motility of Isolated Sheep Ureters
Authors: Thulesius Olav , Angelo‐Khattar Maria
Published: July 2010

The possible spasmolytic effect of indomethacin was studied on isolated sheep ureteral preparations. Ureteral ring preparations suspended in an organ bath exhibited long lasting rhythmic contractions quite similar to the in vivo situation. This spontaneous motility was unaffected by hyoscine, phenoxybenzamine, propranolol, mepyramine and methysergide. Addition of indomethacin resulted in a dose dependent reduction in amplitude and frequency of the contractions, the threshold value being 10−8 M. Washing reestablished motility and both PGE2 and PGF2α were powerful stimulators of rhythmic contractions. Our conclusion is that in vitro rhythmic activity of the ureter is dependent on endogeneous PG‐synthesis and the cyclo‐oxygenase inhibitor indomethacin dose‐dependently blocks this.
Auranofin Treatment of Rats: Adaptation to Intestinal Adverse Effects and Observations on the Cytosolic Distribution of Gold in the Intestines, Liver and Kidneys
Authors: Glennås Anne
Published: July 2010

The possibility of development of adaptation to intestinal adverse effects of auranofin (AF), a gold‐containing anti‐arthritic drug, was investigated in rats. Groups of 6 rats received orally 0.0, 2.5 or 10.0 mg AF/kg daily for one week, and 20.0 mg AF/kg daily the next week. During the first week all animals had normal stools. During the second week, those on 0.0 or 2.5 mg AF/kg the preceeding week developed persistent loose stools, whereas those on 10.0 mg AF/kg the preceeding week did not. At the end of the second week, no differences in the intestinal cytosolic gold concentrations were detected, which could be related to the dose regimen or the loose stools. Gel filtration profiles of gold from intestinal, liver and kidney cytosols following AF treatment, were compared with gold profiles following in vitro incubation of AF with cytosols obtained from non‐treated rats. In the in vivo situation, but not in vitro, gold peaked with proteins of mol. wt. about 10,000 in the small intestine and kidneys. Up to 20% of the cytosolic gold was recovered in these fractions in the small intestine. These proteins eluted slightly different from metallothionein on gel filtration. The cellular mechanisms involved in the demonstrated adaptation to intestinal adverse effects from AF, are not clear, judged from the present study.
The Immediate Haemodynamic and Electrophysiological Response to Prenalterol during Fixed Rate Pacing in Patients with Chronic Ischaemic Heart Disease
Authors: Sire Svein , Amlie Jan P. , Simonsen Svein
Published: July 2010

Abstract:The immediate haemodynamic and electrophysiologic effects of intravenous prenalterol 2.5–75μg/kg in patients with coronary heart disease without clinical heart failure were investigated during fixed rate atrial pacing. Right ventricular peak dP/dt increased pronounced and serum concentration dependent after prenalterol concomitant with an increase in stroke volume and a moderate decrease in peripheral vascular resistance. The effects on haemodynamics after prenalterol were thus serum concentration dependent but with marked interindividual variation. AV nodal conduction velocity increased significantly. It is concluded that prenalterol possess pronounced inotropic properties. The haemodynamic response to prenalterol intravenously is to a lesser degree dependent on the chronotropic effects of the drug and it is often unpredictable.
Acute Electrophysiologic and Blood Pressure Effects of Amiodarone and its Solvent in the Dog
Authors: Platou Eivind S. , Refsum Helge
Published: July 2010

Abstract: Amiodarone has repeatedly been shown to have potent class III antiarrhythmic properties. It has, however, been questioned whether the acute and chronic effects of the drug are due to the same mechanism. In order to investigate the acute electrophysiologic and blood pressure effect of the drug, amiodarone (Cordarone®) was given intravenously in cumulative doses of 2.5, 5.0 and 10.0 mg/kg to seven pentobarbital (mebumalum NFN) anaesthetized dogs. Corresponding volumes of the solvent, polysorbatum 80 (Tween 80), were given to two dogs. Cardiac electrophysiologic effects were studied by His bundle electrography and programmed electrical stimulation. Amiodarone decreased heart rate and AV nodal conduction velocity and increased atrial, AV nodal and ventricular refractoriness. A pronounced but transient fall in mean aortic blood pressure (MABP) occurred after the first injection of amiodarone. No fall in MABP occurred, however, after the subsequent two doses. Intravenous injection of the solvent exactly reproduced the effects on MABP, but not the electrophysiologic effects. The present study supports the concept that amiodarone also has acute class III antiarrhythmic effect. After the initial injection, a pronounced fall in blood pressure due to the solvent may be seen, but rapid tachyphylaxis occurs.
Characterization of Desmethylimipramine 2‐Hydroxylation in Human Foetal and Adult Liver Microsomes
Authors: Spina Edoardo , Pacifici Gian Maria , von Bahr Christer , Rane Anders
Published: July 2010

Abstract: The rate of formation of 2‐hydroxydesmethylimipramine was studied in microsomes from four human foetal and adult livers. The concentrations of desmethylimipramine ranged between 5 and 100 μM. The concentration of 2‐hydroxydesmethylimipramine was measured by high pressure liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection. The kinetic parameters (Vmax and Km) were measured by Eadie‐Hofstee plot. The Vmax (mean ± S.E.M.) was 2.80 ± 0.84 (foetal liver) and 73.1 ± 11.6 (adult liver) pmol × min.−1 × mg−1. The corresponding values for Km (μM) were 36.3 ± 6.5 (foetal liver) and 14.1 ± 1.3 (adult liver). Both parameters were significantly different in foetal and in adult liver. The inhibitory effects of thioridazine, metoprolol, carbamazepine and cimetidine on the 2‐hydroxylation of desmethylimipramine were studied in the foetal liver microsomes. Thioridazine and carbamazepine were the most powerful inhibitors.
Calcium Channel Blockade: Central Hemodynamic Effects
Authors: Ekelund Lars‐Göran
Published: July 2010

Abstract: Despite differences in vasodilatation, inotropy and chronotropy between verapamil, nifedipine and diltiazem when tested in vitro, these drugs will produce similar central hemodynamic effects in healthy young or middle‐aged individuals, provided they are given in equipotent doses. The individual profiles of hemodynamic action of these calcium channel blockers are briefly reviewed and discussed.
Evaluation of effects of nitroglycerin therapy by echocardiography
Authors: Lindvall Kaj
Published: July 2010

Abstract: Echocardiography (Echo) is a convenient method in diagnozing and in quantification of cardiac abnormalities, although dependent on registration quality. M‐mode and two‐dimensional Echo give adequate information regarding heart dimensions and cavity volume but only indirect information of pressures. M‐mode Echo gives an ideal opportunity to study left ventricular wall motion as an expression of systolic and diastolic function. Both inter and intra patient comparisons will be possible to perform.

Improved wall function after intake of nitroglycerine and other nitrate preparations, has been reported in Echo studies both in resting state and in induced acute myocardial ischemia during exercise in man or in acute coronary occlusion in dogs.
Improvement of developmental outcome between 24 and 36 months corrected age in very preterm infants
Authors: Houtzager Bregje A , Gorter‐Overdiek Bianca , Van Sonderen Loekie , Tamminga Pieter , Van Wassenaer Aleid G
Published: July 2010

Aim:  To study early developmental course in preschool‐aged very preterm infants and its association with perinatal risk factors and test‐taking behaviour.

Methods:  Children born <30 weeks gestation and/or <1000 g in the Academic Medical Center of Amsterdam were assessed at 24 and 36 months corrected age with the Dutch Bayley Scales of Infant Development‐II (BSID‐II‐NL) and neurological examination. Linear regression analyses for developmental change were performed with perinatal risk factors.

Results:  One hundred and forty‐six children, mean GA 28 weeks and mean birth weight 1043 g, participated. Mental and psychomotor scores improved significantly with 6 and 7 points, respectively, from 24 to 36 months (p < 0.01). Mild to severe problems on at least one domain occurred less often at 36 (32%) compared to 24 months (63%) (p < 0.01), using corrected scores. Mental improvement was associated with being born very small for gestational age or <28 weeks; psychomotor improvement was associated with not being treated with indomethacin. Difficult test behaviour occurred mostly at 24 months and was associated with non‐optimal development at 36 months.

Conclusion:  Improved developmental outcome and test behaviour were found at 36 compared to 24 months in a cohort of very preterm children. Long‐term outcome studies and retesting of behaviourally difficult children are recommended.
An intense and unforgettable experience: the lived experience of malignant wounds from the perspectives of patients, caregivers and nurses
Authors: Alexander Susan J
Published: July 2010

Malignant wounds occur infrequently, but are typically described as devastating and overwhelming. However, there has been little formalised research, and the vast majority of existing malignant wound literature comprises reports of health care professionals from their management of the physical symptoms. Few studies have investigated the lived experience from the perspectives of patients and nurses and none have investigated the experiences of lay caregivers caring for a patient with a malignant wound. As a result, there has been little mention in existing literature of the non physical issues associated with malignant wounds or how they might be addressed. The purpose of this study was to address this gap in knowledge by investigating the lived experience of malignant wounds from the perspectives of those living it. In‐depth interviews were conducted with patients, caregivers and nurses. The data were analysed thematically within a hermeneutic phenomenological methodology to show four themes: (i) malodour; (ii) new mode of being‐in‐the‐world; (iii) still room for hope and (iv) enduring memories. Although this study confirmed previous findings that malodour was one of the worst aspects of malignant wounds, it was significant that the other three themes occurred in the previously largely overlooked psychosocial domain.
Enhanced Bactericidal Activity of Modified Titania in Sunlight against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a Water‐Borne Pathogen
Authors: Swetha S. , Santhosh S. M. , Geetha Balakrishna R.
Published: July 2010

Photocatalyst‐mediated inactivations generate reactive oxygen species and OH radicals, which induce oxidative destruction of membrane integrity, causing damage to membrane phospholipids of gram negative bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Nanosized TiO2 was synthesized by gel to crystalline conversion and Zr‐doped TiO2 was synthesized by pulverization using appropriate precursor. The doped nanocrystals retained the anatase phase with a marginal increase in crystallite size, averaging at 25 nm. SEM–EDX analysis of the doped sample depicts the substantial growth of grain size with 1.33 atomic weight % of zirconium. The created electron states in the doped sample act as charge carrier traps suppressing recombination which later detraps the same to the surface of the catalyst causing enhanced interfacial charge transfer. Zr‐doped TiO2 at the molecular scale exhibits better photocatalytic activity with lower bandgap energy that can respond to visible light. The redshift caused by the dopants in absorption spectra of TiO2 facilitated the nonintrinsic sample to exhibit nearly 2‐fold enhancement of photoinactivation in sunlight. Extent of photoinactivation of P. aeruginosa was observed to be complete (100%) within 150 min of sunlight exposure in the presence of modified TiO2.
Transition Metal Ions or Acid‐induced Suppression of Photoinduced Proton Transfer and Electron Transfer Reaction in 5‐(4‐Fluorophenyl)‐2‐hydroxypyridine: A Molecule of Dual Mode Fluorosensitivity
Authors: Samanta Anuva , Paul Bijan Kumar , Jana Sankar , Guchhait Nikhil
Published: July 2010

The photophysical properties of 5‐(4‐fluorophenyl)‐2‐hydroxypyridine (FP2HP) at different pH and its fluorescence response toward different transition metal ions have been studied by steady‐state absorption and emission spectroscopy in combination with quantum chemical calculations. Although keto‐enol tautomerization is observed in the excited state, the molecule is weakly fluorescent due to the presence of electron‐rich nitrogen atom and relatively electron‐deficient fluorine atom, which may lead to photoinduced electron transfer process. In the presence of the transition metal ions, such as Zn2+, Cd2+, Hg2+, etc., the studied molecule exhibits changes in its absorption and emission properties. The present system shows fluorescence enhancement instead of usual quenching in presence of the transition metal ions, such as Fe2+ and Cu2+. Spectral observation leads to the interpretation that this structurally simple molecule can be effectively utilized as a chelation‐enhanced fluorescence‐based chemosensor for the detection of transition metal ions. The experimental findings corroborate well with theoretical calculations at Hartree–Fock level using 6‐31G** and lanl2dz basis sets.
Comparison of Hospital Mortality With Intra‐Aortic Balloon Counterpulsation Insertion Before vs After Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for Cardiogenic Shock Complicating Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Harris Scott , Tepper David , Ip Randy
Published: July 2010

Abstract.  Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and intra‐aortic balloon pump counterpulsation (IABP) are established treatment modalities in acute myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock. We hypothesized that the insertion of the IABP before primary PCI might result in better survival of patients with cardiogenic shock compared with postponing the insertion until after primary PCI. We, therefore, retrospectively studied 48 patients who had undergone primary PCI with IABP because of cardiogenic shock complicating acute myocardial infarction (26 patients received the IABP before and 22 patients after primary PCI). No significant differences were present in the baseline clinical characteristics between the 2 groups. The mean number of diseased vessels was greater in the group of patients treated with the IABP before primary PCI (2.8±0.5 vs 2.3±0.7, P=.012), but the difference in the number of treated vessels was not significant. The peak creatine kinase and creatine kinase‐MB levels were lower in patients treated with the IABP before primary PCI (median, 1077; interquartile range, 438–2067 vs median, 3299; interquartile range, 695–6834; P=.047 and median, 95; interquartile range, 34–196 vs median, 192; interquartile range, 82–467; P=.048, respectively). In‐hospital mortality and the overall incidence of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events were significantly lower in the group of patients receiving the IABP before primary PCI (19% vs 59% and 23% vs 77%, P=.007 and P=.0004, respectively). Multivariate analysis identified renal failure (odds ratio, 15.2; 95% confidence interval, 3.13–73.66) and insertion of the IABP after PCI (odds ratio, 5.2; 95% confidence interval, 1.09–24.76) as the only independent predictors of in‐hospital mortality. In conclusion, the results of the present study suggest that patients with cardiogenic shock complicating acute myocardial infarction who undergo primary PCI assisted by IABP have a more favorable in‐hospital outcome and lower in‐hospital mortality than patients who receive IABP after PCI. Abdel‐Wahab M, Saad M, Kynast J, et al. Comparison of hospital mortality with intra‐aortic balloon counterpulsation insertion before versus after primary percutaneous coronary intervention for cardiogenic shock complicating acute myocardial infarction. Am J Cardiol. 2010;105:967–971.
Negatively Buoyant Plume Flow in a Baffled Heat Exchanger
Authors: Boetcher Sandra K. S. , Kulacki F. A. , Davidson Jane H.
Published: July 2010

A numerical simulation of transient two-dimensional negatively buoyant flow into a straight baffle situated below an isothermal circular cylinder in an initially isothermal enclosure is presented for both an adiabatic and a highly conducting baffle for Rayleigh numbers from 106 to 107. Results show the effects of baffle offset, width, and length on the point where viscous flow develops and on velocity profiles within the baffle. Results are interpreted to guide the design of straight baffles to reduce destruction of stratification in thermal stores using an immersed heat exchanger. The preferred geometry is a low-conductivity baffle of width equal to the effective width of the heat exchanger and 15 or more cylinder diameters in length to ensure nearly fully developed flow at the baffle outlet.
HIFU Lesion Volume as a Function of Sonication Time, as Determined by MRI, Histology, and Computations
Authors: Dasgupta Subhashish , Wansapura Janaka , Hariharan Prasanna , Pratt Ron , Witte David , Myers Matthew R. , Banerjee Rupak K.
Published: July 2010

Characterization of high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) systems using ex vivo tissues is an important part of the preclinical testing for new HIFU devices. In ex vivo characterization, the lesion volume produced by the absorption of HIFU energy is quantified as operational parameters are varied. This paper examines the three methods used for lesion-volume quantification: histology, magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, and numerical calculations. The methods were studied in the context of a clinically relevant problem for HIFU procedures—that of quantifying the change in the lesion volume with changing sonication time. The lesion volumes of sonicated samples of porcine liver were determined using the three methods, at focal intensities ranging from 800 W/cm2 to 1700 W/cm2 and sonication times between 20 s and 40 s. It was found that histology consistently yielded lower lesion volumes than the other two methods, and the calculated values were below magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at high applied energies. Still, the three methods agreed with each other to within a ±10% difference for all of the experiments. Increasing the sonication time produced much larger changes in the lesion volume than increasing the acoustic intensity, for the same total energy expenditure, at lower energy (less than 1000 J) levels. At higher energy levels, (around 1500 J), increasing the sonication time and increasing the intensity produced roughly the same change in the lesion volume for the same total energy expenditure.
Synergistic Compositions of Colloidal Nanodiamond as Lubricant-additive
Authors: Ivanov M. G. , Pavlyshko S. V. , Ivanov D. M. , Petrov I. , Shenderova O.
Published: July 2010

Results of tribological testing of stable colloidal dispersions of detonation nanodiamond (DND) in combination with other lubricant additives in mineral oil, greases as well as in polyalphaolefin (PAO) oil are reported. The synergistic effect of combining DND with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), copper nanoparticles or a commercial additive Vanlube (non-phosphor containing anti-wear additive) is reported. Testing of the formulations using ring-on-ring, shaft/bushing and four ball test techniques was performed. The test results reveal more than 80-90% decrease of friction coefficient, about 50% decrease of a diameter of wear spot as well as several times increase of extreme pressure failure load for certain formulations. A strong synergistic effect when using a combination of DND/PTFE additives was observed by a sharp decrease of friction coefficient. It was also demonstrated that the use of smaller DND aggregate size (10nm versus 120nm) resulted in better lubricating performance of PAO-based oil formulation.
To Reform U.S. Health Care, Start with Systematic Reviews
Authors: Dickersin Kay
Published: July 2010

Before initiating new research, a formal synthesis of currently available knowledge should determine whether it is necessary.
The Wnt Signaling Pathway as a Potential Target for Therapies to Enhance Bone Repair
Authors: Einhorn Thomas A.
Published: July 2010

Modulating the Wnt signaling pathway might provide an effective and affordable means of enhancing skeletal healing after fractures or surgery.
Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Typing of Global
Salmonella enterica
Serovar Typhi Isolates by Use of a Hairpin Primer Real-Time PCR Assay
Authors: Octavia Sophie , Lan Ruiting
Published: July 2010

Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhi is highly homogeneous. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been shown to be valuable markers for molecular typing of
S. enterica
serovar Typhi. Here, we used a hairpin primer real-time PCR assay for SNP typing of
S. enterica
serovar Typhi isolates. Forty-two SNPs were selected from a comparison of 19 published
S. enterica
serovar Typhi genomes and sequences from other studies. The SNPs were used to type 71 global
S. enterica
serovar Typhi isolates and differentiated these
S. enterica
serovar Typhi isolates and the 19 genome sequenced strains into 25 SNP profiles. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that these SNP profiles were grouped into six major clusters. These clusters can be identified by using five SNPs, while the full differentiation of the 25 SNP profiles requires a minimum of 24 SNPs. This real-time PCR-based SNP typing method will be useful for global epidemiological analysis.
Use of Nucleotide Composition Analysis To Infer Hosts for Three Novel Picorna-Like Viruses
Authors: Kapoor A. , Simmonds P. , Lipkin W. I. , Zaidi S. , Delwart E.
Published: July 2010

Nearly complete genome sequences of three novel RNA viruses were acquired from the stool of an Afghan child. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that these viruses belong to the picorna-like virus superfamily. Because of their unique genomic organization and deep phylogenetic roots, we propose these viruses, provisionally named calhevirus, tetnovirus-1, and tetnovirus-2, as prototypes of new viral families. A newly developed nucleotide composition analysis (NCA) method was used to compare mononucleotide and dinucleotide frequencies for RNA viruses infecting mammals, plants, or insects. Using a large training data set of 284 representative picornavirus-like genomic sequences with defined host origins, NCA correctly identified the kingdom or phylum of the viral host for >95% of picorna-like viruses. NCA predicted an insect host origin for the 3 novel picorna-like viruses. Their presence in human stool therefore likely reflects ingestion of insect-contaminated food. As metagenomic analyses of different environments and organisms continue to yield highly divergent viral genomes NCA provides a rapid and robust method to identify their likely cellular hosts.
Analysis of Genetic Diversity and Sites of Recombination in Human Rhinovirus Species C
Authors: McIntyre Chloe L. , McWilliam Leitch E. Carol , Savolainen-Kopra Carita , Hovi Tapani , Simmonds Peter
Published: July 2010

Human rhinoviruses (HRVs) are a highly prevalent and diverse group of respiratory viruses. Although HRV-A and HRV-B are traditionally detected by virus isolation, a series of unculturable HRV variants have recently been described and assigned as a new species (HRV-C) within the picornavirus
Enterovirus
genus. To investigate their genetic diversity and occurrence of recombination, we have performed comprehensive phylogenetic analysis of sequences from the 5′ untranslated region (5′ UTR), VP4/VP2, VP1, and 3Dpol regions amplified from 89 HRV-C-positive respiratory samples and available published sequences. Branching orders of VP4/VP2, VP1, and 3Dpol trees were identical, consistent with the absence of intraspecies recombination in the coding regions. However, numerous tree topology changes were apparent in the 5′ UTR, where >60% of analyzed HRV-C variants showed recombination with species A sequences. Two recombination hot spots in stem-loop 5 and the polypyrimidine tract in the 5′ UTR were mapped using the program GroupingScan. Available HRV-C sequences showed evidence for additional interspecies recombination with HRV-A in the 2A gene, with breakpoints mapping precisely to the boundaries of the C-terminal domain of the encoded proteinase. Pairwise distances between HRV-C variants in VP1 and VP4/VP2 regions fell into two separate distributions, resembling inter- and intraserotype distances of species A and B. These observations suggest that, without serological cross-neutralization data, HRV-C genetic groups may be equivalently classified into types using divergence thresholds derived from distance distributions. The extensive sequence data from multiple genome regions of HRV-C and analyses of recombination in the current study will assist future formulation of consensus criteria for HRV-C type assignment and identification.
How do tobacco retail displays affect cessation attempts? Findings from a qualitative study: Table 1
Authors: Hoek J , Gifford H , Pirikahu G , Thomson G , Edwards R
Published: July 2010

Background

Tobacco retail displays promote smoking experimentation among youth; however, little is known about their effect on smokers making a quit attempt. Calls to ban tobacco retail displays would be strengthened if this measure would deter initiation and support cessation.

Methods

Semistructured in-depth interviews were conducted with 20 individuals, from two New Zealand provincial cities, who had attempted to quit smoking in the last 6 months.

Results

Tobacco products had high visibility, and elicited emotional and physical reactions that created on-going temptation, complicated cessation attempts and stimulated impulse purchases. Participants strongly supported banning tobacco retail displays primarily because they thought this would reduce youth initiation, promote greater consistency with smoke-free promotions and assist those attempting to quit.

Conclusions

The effects of tobacco retail displays on smokers making a cessation attempt are explored. The findings are consistent with experimental and survey research, and expand a growing evidence base that supports government-mandated bans on tobacco retail displays.
NOISE CORRUPTION OF EMPIRICAL MODE DECOMPOSITION AND ITS EFFECT ON INSTANTANEOUS FREQUENCY
Authors: KASLOVSKY DANIEL N. , MEYER FRANÇOIS G.
Published: July 2010

Huang's Empirical Mode Decomposition (EMD) is an algorithm for analyzing nonstationary data that provides a localized time-frequency representation by decomposing the data into adaptively defined modes. EMD can be used to estimate a signal's instantaneous frequency (IF) but suffers from poor performance in the presence of noise. To produce a meaningful IF, each mode of the decomposition must be nearly monochromatic, a condition that is not guaranteed by the algorithm and fails to be met when the signal is corrupted by noise. In this work, the extraction of modes containing both signal and noise is identified as the cause of poor IF estimation. The specific mechanism by which such "transition" modes are extracted is detailed and builds on the observation of Flandrin and Goncalves that EMD acts in a filter bank manner when analyzing pure noise. The mechanism is shown to be dependent on spectral leak between modes and the phase of the underlying signal. These ideas are developed through the use of simple signals and are tested on a synthetic seismic waveform.
First-Principles Calculations of Complex Metal-Oxide Materials
Authors: Rabe Karin M.
Published: July 2010

The application of first-principles methods to the study of complex-structured oxides, primarily spinels and pyrochlores, is reviewed. The primary focus is on the crystal structure and structural energetics, and on the magnetic ordering when present. Results are presented for the structure and magnetic exchange interactions of a wide range of systems. The first-principles results for phonon frequencies and eigenvectors are seen to compare well to values from infrared and Raman spectroscopy. The first-principles investigation of magnetostructural coupling is discussed. The first-principles results presented can provide valuable information and insight into the physics of these systems, especially in the case of magnetic and/or structural frustration. Challenges and prospects for future research are identified.