bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analgesic effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation of the motor cortex in neuropathic pain: Influence of theta burst stimulation priming
Authors: Lefaucheur J.‐P. , Ayache S.S. , Sorel M. , Farhat W.H. , Zouari H.G. , Ciampi de Andrade D. , Ahdab R. , Ménard‐Lefaucheur I. , Brugières P. , Goujon C.
Published: April 2012

Background

‘Conventional’ protocols of high‐frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) delivered to M1 can produce analgesia. Theta burst stimulation (TBS), a novel rTMS paradigm, is thought to produce greater changes in M1 excitability than ‘conventional’ protocols. After a preliminary experiment showing no analgesic effect of continuous or intermittent TBS trains (cTBS or iTBS) delivered to M1 as single procedures, we used TBS to prime a subsequent session of ‘conventional’ 10 Hz‐rTMS.

Methods

In 14 patients with chronic refractory neuropathic pain, navigated rTMS was targeted over M1 hand region, contralateral to painful side. Analgesic effects were daily assessed on a visual analogue scale for the week after each 10 Hz‐rTMS session, preceded or not by TBS priming. In an additional experiment, the effects on cortical excitability parameters provided by single‐ and paired‐pulse TMS paradigms were studied.

Results

Pain level was reduced after any type of rTMS procedure compared to baseline, but iTBS priming produced greater analgesia than the other protocols. Regarding motor cortex excitability changes, the analgesic effects were associated with an increase in intracortical inhibition, whatever the type of stimulation, primed or non‐primed.

Conclusions

The present results show that the analgesic effects of ‘conventional’ 10 Hz‐rTMS delivered to M1 can be enhanced by TBS priming, at least using iTBS. Interestingly, the application of cTBS and iTBS did not produce opposite modulations, unlike previously reported in other systems. It remains to be determined whether the interest of TBS priming is to generate a simple additive effect or a more specific process of cortical plasticity.
Transcriptional repression of the Dspp gene leads to dentinogenesis imperfecta phenotype in Col1a1-Trps1 transgenic mice
Authors: Napierala Dobrawa , Sun Yao , Maciejewska Izabela , Bertin Terry K , Dawson Brian , D'Souza Rena , Qin Chunlin , Lee Brendan
Published: April 2012

Dentinogenesis imperfecta (DGI) is a hereditary defect of dentin, a calcified tissue that is the most abundant component of teeth. Most commonly, DGI is manifested as a part of osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) or the phenotype is restricted to dental findings only. In the latter case, DGI is caused by mutations in the DSPP gene, which codes for dentin sialoprotein (DSP) and dentin phosphoprotein (DPP). Although these two proteins together constitute the majority of noncollagenous proteins of the dentin, little is known about their transcriptional regulation. Here we demonstrate that mice overexpressing the Trps1 transcription factor (Col1a1-Trps1 mice) in dentin-producing cells, odontoblasts, present with severe defects of dentin formation that resemble DGI. Combined micro–computed tomography (µCT) and histological analyses revealed tooth fragility due to severe hypomineralization of dentin and a diminished dentin layer with irregular mineralization in Col1a1-Trps1 mice. Biochemical analyses of noncollagenous dentin matrix proteins demonstrated decreased levels of both DSP and DPP proteins in Col1a1-Trps1 mice. On the molecular level, we demonstrated that sustained high levels of Trps1 in odontoblasts lead to dramatic decrease of Dspp expression as a result of direct inhibition of the Dspp promoter by Trps1. During tooth development Trps1 is highly expressed in preodontoblasts, but in mature odontoblasts secreting matrix its expression significantly decreases, which suggests a Trps1 role in odontoblast development. In these studies we identified Trps1 as a potent inhibitor of Dspp expression and the subsequent mineralization of dentin. Thus, we provide novel insights into mechanisms of transcriptional dysregulation that leads to DGI. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Cartilage-specific β-catenin signaling regulates chondrocyte maturation, generation of ossification centers, and perichondrial bone formation during skeletal development
Authors: Dao Debbie Y , Jonason Jennifer H , Zhang Yongchun , Hsu Wei , Chen Di , Hilton Matthew J , O'Keefe Regis J
Published: April 2012

The WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway is a critical regulator of chondrocyte and osteoblast differentiation during multiple phases of cartilage and bone development. Although the importance of β-catenin signaling during the process of endochondral bone development has been previously appreciated using a variety of genetic models that manipulate β-catenin in skeletal progenitors and osteoblasts, genetic evidence demonstrating a specific role for β-catenin in committed growth-plate chondrocytes has been less robust. To identify the specific role of cartilage-derived β-catenin in regulating cartilage and bone development, we studied chondrocyte-specific gain- and loss-of-function genetic mouse models using the tamoxifen-inducible Col2CreERT2 transgene in combination with β-cateninfx(exon3)/wt or β-cateninfx/fx floxed alleles, respectively. From these genetic models and biochemical data, three significant and novel findings were uncovered. First, cartilage-specific β-catenin signaling promotes chondrocyte maturation, possibly involving a bone morphogenic protein 2 (BMP2)-mediated mechanism. Second, cartilage-specific β-catenin facilitates primary and secondary ossification center formation via the induction of chondrocyte hypertrophy, possibly through enhanced matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression at sites of cartilage degradation, and potentially by enhancing Indian hedgehog (IHH) signaling activity to recruit vascular tissues. Finally, cartilage-specific β-catenin signaling promotes perichondrial bone formation possibly via a mechanism in which BMP2 and IHH paracrine signals synergize to accelerate perichondrial osteoblastic differentiation. The work presented here supports the concept that the cartilage-derived β-catenin signal is a central mediator for major events during endochondral bone formation, including chondrocyte maturation, primary and secondary ossification center development, vascularization, and perichondrial bone formation. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Marrow fat and preadipocyte factor-1 levels decrease with recovery in women with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Fazeli Pouneh K , Bredella Miriam A , Freedman Lauren , Thomas Bijoy J , Breggia Anne , Meenaghan Erinne , Rosen Clifford J , Klibanski Anne
Published: April 2012

Women with anorexia nervosa (AN) have elevated marrow fat mass despite low visceral and subcutaneous fat depots, which is inversely associated with bone mineral density (BMD). Whether marrow fat mass remains persistently elevated or decreases with recovery from AN is currently unknown. In this study, we investigated changes in marrow fat in women who have recovered from AN (AN-R). We also studied the relationship between preadipocyte factor (Pref)-1—a member of the EGF-like family of proteins and regulator of adipocyte and osteoblast differentiation—and fat depots and BMD in AN-R compared with women with AN and healthy controls (HC). We studied 29 women: 14 with active or recovered AN (30.7 + 2.2 years [mean ± SEM]) and 15 normal-weight controls (27.8 ± 1.2 years). We measured marrow adipose tissue (MAT) of the L4 vertebra and femur by 1H-magnetic resonance spectroscopy; BMD of the spine, hip, and total body by DXA; and serum Pref-1 and leptin levels. We found that MAT of the L4 vertebra was significantly lower in AN-R compared with AN (p = 0.03) and was comparable to levels in HC. Pref-1 levels were also significantly lower in AN-R compared with AN (p = 0.02) and comparable to levels in healthy controls. Although Pref-1 was positively associated with MAT of the L4 vertebra in AN (R = 0.94; p = 0.002), we found that it was inversely associated with MAT of the L4 vertebra in HC (R = −0.71; p = 0.004). Therefore, we have shown that MAT and Pref-1 levels decrease with recovery from AN. Our data suggest that Pref-1 may have differential effects in states of nutritional deprivation compared with nutritional sufficiency. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Therapeutic apheresis: When things go wrong
Authors: Sergio Torloni A. , Lumadue Jeanne , Zubair Abba
Published: April 2012

Therapeutic apheresis medicine requires in‐depth knowledge of physiology, disease mechanisms as well as a thorough understanding of the parameters that can be adjusted in the instrument that are used. We report two cases where critical decision making was crucial during management of patients being treated with therapeutic apheresis. Case 1 involves an adult patient with severe circulating cryoglobulins and Case 2 describes a patient with Waldenström's macroglobulinemia and hyperviscosity. Both cases demonstrate the importance of readily available expert supervision of therapeutic apheresis procedures. J. Clin. Apheresis, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Tunable Multicolor Photoluminescent Nanocarbon Prepared from Castor Oil Soot
Authors: Prasad K.S. , Fan Nien‐Chu , Wu Li‐Chen , Chang Heng‐Chia , Wang Li‐Sheng , Hwang Kuo‐Chu , Hwu Reuben Jih‐Ru , Horng Jia‐Cherng , Lin Chun‐Cheng , Ho Ja‐an Annie
Published: April 2012

We herein report a straightforward soot‐based synthesis and characterization of the negatively charged, hydrophilic, photoluminescent nanocarbon. The photoluminescent nanocarbon was prepared by refluxing castor oil soot in nitric acid. The as‐obtained fluorescent nanocarbon shows multiple colors under UV exposure and was characterized with surface morphological and spectral studies. Additionally, the photoluminescence nature of the nanocarbon was tunable by changing the pH or the dilution factor. During the course of the investigation, it has been found that, the photoluminescence nature observed here is not attributed to the presence of poly aromatic hydrocarbons, but solely due to the trait of the fluorescent nanocarbon. These results indicate that interparticle surface plasmon resonance plays a key role in the exhibition of photoluminescence. Furthermore, the feasibility of photoluminescent nanocarbon as a plausible tool for cell imaging and electrochemical application of the oxidized nanocarbon has also been examined.
Experimental design of the kinetic resolution of a key precursor of high‐value bioactive myo‐inositols by an immobilized lipase
Authors: Cunha Aline G. , da Silva Angelo A. T. , Godoy Mateus G. , Almeida Rodrigo V. , Simas Alessandro B. C. , Freire Denise M. G.
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: The response surface methodology was successfully applied to the optimization of the reaction variables for the kinetic resolution of a precursor of high‐value myo‐inositols, ( ± )‐1,2‐O‐isopropylidene‐3,6‐di‐O‐benzyl‐myo‐inositol (( ± )‐1), by Novozym 435. The resolutions were run separately, with two acylating agents, ethyl acetate and vinyl acetate, in a solvent‐free system. The variables analyzed were reaction temperature, substrate concentration, water concentration and enzyme activity. A statistical model was employed for the evaluation of the influence of the variables on conversion and enantiomeric excess (ee).

RESULTS: The optimal conditions for this resolution using vinyl acetate as acylating agent were 45 °C, 5 mg mL−1 of substrate, 71 U of enzyme activity and 0%w/w of water concentration. The high conversion (49.2 %) and ee (>99%) reached in the chemoenzymatic synthesis of acylated product, L‐(−)‐5‐O‐Acetyl‐3,6‐di‐O‐benzyl‐1,2‐O‐isopropylidene‐myo‐inositol, secure the efficient synthesis of the D enantiomorph present in the original racemic mixture (( ± )‐1) as well.

CONCLUSIONS: The use of the experimental design strategy was productive, leading to a 14‐fold increase in the productivity of the reaction compared with the non‐optimized conditions. Both derivative L‐(−)‐2 and remaining substrate D‐(+)‐1 were obtained at high ee. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Treatment of wastewaters from the olive mill industry by sonication
Authors: Oztekin Rukiye , Sponza Delia Teresa
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: In this study, the effects of additives (manganese (III) oxide (Mn3O4), Cu+2, Fe0 and potassium iodate (KIO3)) and radical scavengers (sodium carbonate (Na2CO3), perfluorohexane (C6F14) and t‐buthyl alcohol (C4H10O)) on the dephenolization, decolorization, dearomatization and detoxification of olive mill wastewater (OMW) by sonication were investigated because wastewaters from this industry are not removed effectively.

RESULTS: The maximum COD, color, total phenol and total aromatic amines (TAAs) removal efficiencies were 63, 82, 78 and 71%, respectively, at 60 °C with sonication only. The TAAs and phenol yields were increased to 96 and 97% with 6 mg L−1 KIO3 and 3 mg L−1 Fe0 while color removal reached 97% with 6 mg L−1 C6F14. The total annual cost with sonication only was 665 € m−3 year−1 while the cost slightly increased (666€ m3 year−1) with C6F14. The maximum acute toxicity removals were 97‐98% in Daphnia magna and Vibrio fischeri The Microtox acute toxicity test was more sensitive than the Daphnia magna to the OMW samples.

CONCLUSION: COD, color, total phenol, TAAs and toxicity in an OMW were removed efficiently and cost‐effectively by sonication. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Acclimation of an anaerobic consortium capable of effective biomethanization of mechanically‐sorted organic fraction of municipal solid waste through a semi‐continuous enrichment procedure
Authors: Bertin Lorenzo , Bettini Cristina , Zanaroli Giulio , Fraraccio Serena , Negroni Andrea , Fava Fabio
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: Municipal solid waste is generally disposed of by incineration or landfilling. Higher combustion efficiencies or lower waste amounts to be dumped, respectively, can be obtained through recovery of the waste wet fraction, which could be valorized by means of anaerobic digestion processes with the production of a CH4‐rich biogas. However, such a fraction is typically poorly digestible. The aim of this work was to obtain a methanogenic consortium capable of effective biomethanization of the wet fraction collected from a municipal solid waste.

RESULTS: An up‐flow recirculated column bioreactor (0.36 L) was initially filled with cattle manure and then, after a short batch working period, fed with the above mentioned target substrate according to a semicontinuous scheme. More than 90% of the overall COD fed during the whole 5‐months experiment was depleted. The methane production yield gradually increased throughout the process to 0.35 L g−1 of depleted COD. Molecular analysis of the microbial consortium indicated that the archaeal population, which consisted of two acetoclastic Methanosarcina sp. strains, persisted during the whole experiment, whereas several hydrolytic and acidogenic Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes were enriched throughout the process, concomitantly to the increase of the biomethanization potential of the consortium.

CONCLUSIONS: An anaerobic consortium capable of efficiently converting the wet fraction of municipal solid waste into methane was obtained through a dedicated enrichment procedure in an up‐flow anaerobic recirculated reactor. This result was mainly ascribed to the acclimation and enrichment of bacterial species. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Excessive running induces cartilage degeneration in knee joints and alters gait of rats
Authors: Beckett Jeffrey , Jin Wu , Schultz Melissa , Chen Andrew , Tolbert Daniel , Moed Berton R. , Zhang Zijun
Published: April 2012

The goal of this study was to develop an aggressive running regimen for modeling osteoarthritis (OA) in rats. Twelve Wistar rats were randomly placed into either a running group or a non‐running group to serve as the control. The running rats used a motorized treadmill to run either 30 km in 3 weeks or 55 km in 6 weeks. Each week, the prints of hind paws were obtained when rats were made to walk through a tunnel. The resulting prints were digitalized for analyses of stride length and step angle. The histology of the knees was examined at 3 and 6 weeks and the OA pathology in the knees was quantified by Mankin's score. Osteoarthritic pathology developed in the knees of the running rats, including decreased proteoglycan content, uneven type II collagen distribution in the cartilage matrix, increased MMP‐13 expression, expanded calcified cartilage zone, and clefts and defects in articular cartilage. The pathology worsened from running for 3 to 6 weeks. Gait analysis revealed an inverse correlation between paw angle and the grades of OA pathology. In conclusion, excessive running induces joint degeneration and a unique gait pattern in rats. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:1604–1610, 2012
Multi‐investigator collaboration in orthopaedic surgery research compared to other medical fields
Authors: Brophy Robert H. , Smith Matthew V. , Latterman Christian , Jones Morgan H. , Reinke Emily K. , Flanigan David C. , Wright Rick W. , Wolf Brian R.
Published: April 2012

An increasing emphasis has been placed across health care on evidence‐based medicine with higher level studies, such as randomized trials and prospective cohort studies. Historically, clinical research in orthopaedic surgery has been dominated by studies with low patient numbers from a limited number of surgeons. The purpose of this study was to test our hypothesis that orthopaedics has fewer multi‐center collaborative studies as compared to other medical disciplines. We chose three leading journals from general medicine, a leading journal from the surgical subspecialties of obstetrics and gynecology, ophthalmology and otolaryngology, and three leading journals from orthopaedic surgery based on highest impact factor. We compared the percentage of collaborative studies and the number of contributing institutions and authors in original research manuscripts published in 2009 between general medical, surgical subspecialty and orthopaedic surgery journals. A significantly higher percentage of manuscripts resulted from multicenter collaborative efforts in the general medical literature (p < 0.000001) and the other surgical subspecialty literature (p < 0.000001) compared to the orthopaedic surgery literature. Manuscripts published in the general medical journals came from more institutions (p < 0.0001) and had significantly more authors (p < 0.000001) than those published in the orthopaedic surgery journals. There is an opportunity to stimulate greater multicenter collaborative research, which correlates with increased patient numbers, a higher level of evidence and more generalizable findings, in the orthopaedic surgery community. These efforts can be supported through increased funding, surgeon participation, and appropriate expansion of authorship for multicenter studies in orthopaedic journals. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:1523–1528, 2012
miR‐21 expression is related to particle‐induced osteolysis pathogenesis
Authors: Zhou Yingchuan , Liu Yi , Cheng Li
Published: April 2012

Previous studies have found that microRNA‐21 (miR‐21) is an important functional factor during osteoclast differentiation. Abnormal osteoclastogenesis induced by wear particles is the main cause of aseptic loosening in joint replacements. The aim of the present study is to investigate the possible role of miR‐21 in the pathogenesis of particle‐induced osteolysis (PIO). miR‐21 expression was examined in a PIO mouse model using real‐time (RT‐PCR). Osteoclastogenesis was determined by a tartrate resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) quantification method. A toluidine blue staining assay was used to examine calvarial osteolysis. The results demonstrated that miR‐21 was significantly upregulated in the PIO animal model. Knocking out miR‐21 in the particle‐stimulated tissue could ameliorate osteolysis symptoms. Additionally, through our analysis of PDCD4 and AP‐1 expression, we suggest that the feedback loop of AP‐1, miR‐21, and PDCD4 might have an important influence on the development of PIO and that miR‐21 is a potential target for implant loosening therapies. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:1837–1842, 2012
Effects of endothelial cells on proliferation and survival of human mesenchymal stem cells and primary osteoblasts
Authors: Steiner Dominik , Lampert Florian , Stark G. Björn , Finkenzeller Günter
Published: April 2012

Angiogenesis is a fundamental process in bone formation, remodeling, and regeneration. Moreover, for the regeneration of bone in tissue engineering applications, it is essential to support neovascularization. This can be achieved by cell‐based therapies using primary endothelial cells, which are able to form functional blood vessels upon implantation. In bone composite grafts, coimplanted endothelial cells do not only support neovascularization but also support osteogenic differentiation of osteoblasts and osteoprogenitor cells. In this study, we investigated the effect of endothelial cells on proliferation and cell survival of human primary osteoblasts (hOBs) and human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) stimulated hOB and MSC proliferation, whereas proliferation of HUVECs was unaffected by cocultured hOBs or MSCs. The effect of HUVEC cocultivation on hOB and MSC proliferation was more pronounced in direct cocultures than in indirect cocultures, indicating that this effect is at least partially dependent on the formation of heterotypic cell contacts between HUVECs and hOBs or MSCs. Furthermore, HUVEC cocultivation reduced low‐serum induced apotosis of hOBs and MSCs by a mechanism involving increased phosphorylation and inactivation of the proapoptotic protein Bad. In summary, our experiments have shown that cocultured HUVECs increase the proliferation and reduce low‐serum induced apoptosis of hOBs and MSCs. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:1682–1689, 2012
Soil chemical properties and nutritional status of trees in pure and mixed‐species stands in south Ethiopia
Authors: Lemma Bekele
Published: April 2012

Interest in mixed‐species plantations in the tropics has increased because they appear to provide a wider range of options, such as yield, biodiversity, nutrient cycling, and C sequestration than pure stands. Pure stands of Pinus patula Schlecht. and Charm., Juniperus procera Hochst., and Grevillea robusta A. Cunn., and mixed stands of P. patula/G. robusta, P. patula/J. procera, and P. patula/Podocarpus falcatus R. Br. at Wondo Genet in S Ethiopia were studied to examine (1) the impact of mixed‐species plantations on soil chemical properties, and (2) the impact of mixed‐species plantations on the nutritional status of constituent trees. Soil (0–50 cm depth) and foliage samples were collected from four random plots (100 m2) in each of the pure and mixed‐species plantations. Soil samples were analyzed for organic C, N, and base cations. Foliage samples were analyzed for nutrients (N, P, K, Ca, and Mg). There were little significant differences in soil chemical properties and foliar nutrient concentrations of trees between the pure and mixed stands. Among pure stands, J. procera and G. robusta differed in soil exchangeable Ca++ and K+ at 0–5 cm soil depth and in foliar P and Ca concentration. After 18 and 24 y, mixed stands did not influence soil chemical properties and tree nutrition differently than pure stands. This may be due to additive interaction in mixed‐species stands and the similarity of the constituent tree species in foliar nutrient concentration and their impact on soil chemical properties.
Chromatographic separation of clenbuterol by bonded phases bearing nano‐baskets of p‐tert‐calix[4]‐1,2‐crown‐3, ‐crown‐4, ‐crown‐5 and ‐crown‐6
Authors: Mokhtari Bahram , Pourabdollah Kobra
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: Clenbuterol (salbutamol), which increases muscle mass and decreases adipose tissue, is misused as a nutrient‐repartitioning agent in livestock. In this paper a new sensitive method for determining clenbuterol in livestock is presented. The novelty of this approach is the separation and determination of salbutamol enantiomers with marked quantitative merits.

RESULTS: Four proton di‐ionisable Nano‐baskets, namely 5,11,17,23‐tetrakis(1,1‐dimethylethyl)‐25,26‐bis(carboxy‐methoxy)calix[4]arene‐27,28‐crown‐3, ‐crown‐4, ‐crown‐5 and ‐crown‐6 in the cone conformation, were synthesised and used to prepare bonded phases for high‐performance liquid chromatography separation. The new synthesised bonded phases were characterised and optimised. The bonding interactions of solute/bonded phases were examined and the main interactions are reported.

CONCLUSION: The clenbuterol levels in six samples of livestock meat (pork, pork casing, beef, beef casing, mutton and mutton casing) were analysed and the results revealed that for the best bonded phases the limits of detection and quantitation were 0.06 and 0.2 µg mL−1 respectively. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Donor-specific human leukocyte antigen antibodies of the immunoglobulin G3 subclass are associated with Chronic rejection and graft loss after liver transplantation
Authors: Kaneku Hugo , O'Leary Jacqueline G. , Taniguchi Michiko , Susskind Brian M. , Terasaki Paul I. , Klintmalm Göran B.
Published: April 2012

In a previous study, we found that 92% of patients with chronic rejection had donor-specific human leukocyte antigen antibodies (DSAs), but surprisingly, 61% of comparator patients without rejection also had DSAs. We hypothesized that immunoglobulin G (IgG) subclasses were differentially distributed between the 2 groups. A modified single-antigen bead assay was used to detect the presence of individual IgG subclasses against human leukocyte antigen in 39 chronic rejection patients and 66 comparator patients. DSAs of the IgG1 subclass were most common and were found in 45% of all patients; they were followed by IgG3 DSAs (21%), IgG4 DSAs (14%), and IgG2 DSAs (13%). The percentage of patients with multiple IgG subclasses was significantly higher in the chronic rejection group versus the comparator group (50% versus 14%, P < 0.001). Patients with normal graft function in the presence of DSAs mostly had isolated IgG1, whereas patients with chronic rejection had a combination of IgG subclasses. Patients who developed DSAs of the IgG3 subclass showed an increased risk of graft loss (hazard ratio = 3.35, 95% confidence interval = 1.39-8.05) in comparison with patients with DSAs of other IgG subclasses or without DSAs. Although further study is needed, the determination of the IgG subclass in DSA-positive patients may help us to identify patients with a higher risk of chronic rejection and graft loss. Liver Transpl, 2012. © 2012 AASLD.
Is it safe to use a liver graft from a chagas disease–seropositive donor in a human immunodeficiency virus–positive recipient? A case report addressing a novel challenge in liver transplantation
Authors: Goldaracena Nicolás , Wolf Michelle Mayer , Quiñonez Emilio , Anders Margarita , Mastai Ricardo , McCormack Lucas
Published: April 2012

This is the first report presenting a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–positive patient with fulminant hepatic failure receiving a liver graft from a Chagas disease–seropositive deceased donor. We describe the history of a 38-year-old HIV-positive female patient who developed fulminant hepatic failure of an autoimmune etiology with rapid deterioration of her clinical status and secondary multiorgan failure and, therefore, needed emergency liver transplantation (LT) as a lifesaving procedure. Because of the scarcity of organs and the high mortality rate for emergency status patients on the LT waiting list, we decided to accept a Chagas disease–seropositive deceased donor liver graft for this immunocompromised Chagas disease–seronegative patient. The recipient had a rapid postoperative recovery and was discharged on postoperative day 9 without prophylactic treatment for Chagas disease. Fifteen months after LT, she was still alive and had never experienced seroconversion on periodic screening tests for Chagas detection. Although there is an inherent risk of acute Chagas disease developing in seronegative recipients, our report suggests that these infected organs can be safely used as a lifesaving strategy for HIV patients with a high need for LT. Liver Transpl, 2012. © 2012 AASLD.
Lewy pathology and neurodegeneration in premotor Parkinson's disease
Authors: Del Tredici Kelly , Braak Heiko
Published: April 2012

The foremost motor manifestations of Parkinson's disease are resting tremor, cogwheel rigidity, hypokinesia/bradykinesia, and postural instability. Epidemiological and clinical data reveal that a wide variety of additional complaints (nonmotor symptoms), also considerably impar patients' quality of life parallel to the chronic‐progressive neurodegenerative disorder. This article reviews the neuropathology and anatomy of Lewy pathology‐related neurodegeneration in relation to selected nonmotro and prodromal dysfunctions. © 2012 Movement Disorder Society
Neuroimaging: Current role in detecting pre‐motor Parkinson's disease
Authors: Godau Jana , Hussl Anna , Lolekha Praween , Stoessl A. Jon , Seppi Klaus
Published: April 2012

Convergent evidence suggests a pre‐motor period in Parkinson's disease (PD) during which typical motor symptoms have not yet developed although dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra have started to degenerate. Advances in different neuroimaging techniques have allowed the detection of functional and structural changes in early PD. This review summarizes the state of the art knowledge concerning structural neuroimaging techniques including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and transcranial B‐mode‐Doppler‐sonography (TCS) as well as functional neuroimaging techniques using radiotracer imaging (RTI) with different radioligands in detecting pre‐motor PD. © 2012 Movement Disorder Society
Defining at‐risk populations for Parkinson's disease: Lessons from ongoing studies
Authors: Berg Daniela , Marek Ken , Ross George W. , Poewe Werner
Published: April 2012

It is currently widely acknowledged that the natural history of PD includes a preclinical phase, and there are increasing efforts to identify markers that would allow the identification of individuals at risk for PD. Here, we discuss the issues related to defining at‐risk populations for PD and review findings of current population‐based cohorts that have reported potential biomarkers for PD, such as the Honolulu‐Asia Aging Study (HAAS) and the PRIPS (Prospective Validation of Risk factors for the development of Parkinson Syndromes) study. We also discuss enriched risk cohorts designed to evaluate specificity and predictive value of markers exemplified by the PARS (Parkinson Associated Risk Study) and the TREND (Tübinger evaluation of Risk factors for the Early detection of NeuroDegeneration) study. Although there is still a long way to go, studies designed according to these concepts might eventually provide sufficient data to form the basis for future screening programs for PD risk to be applied at a population level. © 2012 Movement Disorder Society
Microelectrode targeting of the subthalamic nucleus for deep brain stimulation surgery
Authors: Montgomery Erwin B.
Published: April 2012

Though microelectrode recordings likely increase the risks and costs of DBS, incremental improvement in accuracy may translate into improved outcomes that justify these risks and costs. Clinically based, controlled studies to resolve these issues are problematic. Until such studies are reported, physicians must rely on indirect evidence. The spatial variability of physiologically defined optimal targets, as determined by microelectrode recording (MER), necessary for targeting the STN was calculated. Study of the effectiveness of a MER algorithm was based on the number of penetrations required. The radius of the volume with a 99% chance of including the physiologically defined optimal target, based on 108 cases, was 4.5 mm. This is larger than the estimated radius of the DBS effect, which is variously estimated to be 2 to 3.9 mm. The 99% confidence radius in the plane orthogonal to the lead was 3.2 mm. In 70% of cases, the imaging‐based trajectories corresponded to the physiologically defined optimal target. For the remaining 30% of cases, 70% required only a single additional MER tract. The radii of the 99% confidence volume and area may be larger than the effective radius of stimulation. Surveying within those volumes or areas is therefore necessary to assure that at least 99% of cases will cover the physiologically defined target. The MER algorithm was robust in detecting the physiologically defined optimal target. However, there are significant caveats in interpretation of the data. © 2012 Movement Disorder Society
Prerequisites to launch neuroprotective trials in Parkinson's disease: An industry perspective
Authors: Streffer Johannes R. , Grachev Igor D. , Fitzer‐Attas Cheryl , Gomez‐Mancilla Baltazar , Boroojerdi Babak , Bronzova Juliana , Ostrowitzki Susanne , Victor Stephen J. , Fontoura Paulo , Alexander Robert
Published: April 2012

Realizing that 60% to 80% of dopaminergic nigrostriatal neurons are nonfunctional at the time of clinical diagnosis, there is an emerging consensus that disease‐modifying treatments should be initiated in the earliest stages of Parkinson's disease (PD). To date, clinical trial designs and metrics in PD have been focused on motor symptoms as the core feature of the clinical disease. To identify earlier or “pre‐motor” populations in PD, new markers have been proposed. We address the prerequisites needed to use these pre‐motor markers in clinical trials for the selection of subjects, definition of populations, and monitoring of disease progression. This may require the development of new diagnostic criteria potentially based on non‐motor clinical signs, imaging techniques, or biological features, all requiring discussion in a regulatory framework. Questions addressed include: Which steps must be taken to gain a broad consensus in the field from academic opinion leaders, patient advocacy groups, regulatory bodies, and industry? How do we prevent the selection of subgroups, which may not be representative of the full disease spectrum? Is there a way forward in personalized medicine? How do we balance risk and benefit in an at‐risk population? While many tools are available, a concerted effort is required to develop integrated data sets, as well as to achieve the necessary standardization for multicenter clinical trials. To this end, public‐private consortia (including academic centers, patient advocacy groups, and industry) will be of crucial importance to prospectively investigate and define the best tools and treatment paradigms. © 2012 Movement Disorder Society
Orthogonal PLS (OPLS) Modeling for Improved Analysis and Interpretation in Drug Design
Authors: Eriksson Lennart , Rosén Josefin , Johansson Erik , Trygg Johan
Published: April 2012

Partial least squares (PLS) regression is a flexible data analytical approach, which can be made even more versatile and useful by various modifications. In this article we describe the extension into orthogonal PLS modeling, in terms of two new methods, called OPLS and O2PLS, with similar prediction capacity but improved model interpretation.
Stereochemical assignments of aldol products of 2‐arylimino‐3‐aryl‐thiazolidine‐4‐ones by 1H NMR
Authors: Erol Sule , Dogan Ilknur
Published: April 2012

The aldol reactions of 2‐arylimino‐3‐aryl‐thiazolidine‐4‐ones with benzaldehyde carried out at −78 °C were found to produce sec‐carbinols. Intramolecular hydrogen bonding within the aldol products forming a six‐membered ring enabled the assignment of stereochemistries of the major and minor diastereomers via analysis of the syn and anti 3JH,H 1H NMR coupling constants. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparative proteomic analysis of proteins involved in oocyte meiotic maturation in mice
Authors: Cao Senyang , Guo Xuejiang , Zhou Zuomin , Sha Jiahao
Published: April 2012

After birth, oocytes stay at the diplotene stage in prophase of meiosis I. Meiosis resumes about 1 day before ovulation, and arrests in metaphase II (MII) after ovulation. The mature, MII oocytes are then ready for fertilization and to provide materials for early embryonic development. Proteomic characterization of oocytes can help identify proteins that are important for female meiotic maturation and early embryonic development. In this study, we compared the proteomic profiles between the germinal vesicle and MII mouse oocytes by two‐dimensional electrophoresis; 95 differentially expressed protein spots corresponding to 63 proteins were identified. Many of these proteins are known to be essential for oocyte meiosis and early embryonic development, such as adenylosuccinate synthetase, nucleoplasmin‐2, and protein–arginine deiminase type‐6. Of the 12 proteins that were identified and are highly expressed in oocytes, a novel protein, E330034G19Rik, was found to be oocyte‐specific. According to analysis by bioinformatics, it may regulate chromosome segregation during meiosis or cleavage. An in‐depth study of these proteins will help us better understand the mechanisms of oocyte meiotic maturation, fertilization, and early embryogenesis. It will also help us understand the mechanisms of diseases that stem from abnormal oocyte maturation, such as polycystic ovary syndrome and premature ovary failure. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 79:413–422, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pregnant women's and their partners' perception of an information model on prenatal screening
Authors: Wätterbjörk Inger , Blomberg Karin , Nilsson Kerstin , Sahlberg‐Blom Eva
Published: April 2012

Objective

Extended verbal information on prenatal screening was given when combined ultrasound and biochemistry screening test was offered at Örebro County Council, Sweden, in 2008. The aim of this study was to describe pregnant women's and her partners' perceptions of this information model.

Method

The interviews were semi‐structured, and altogether, 26 interviews were performed with pregnant women and partners. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyze the data.

Results

The result consists of two main categories, ‘form and content’ and ‘managing the information’, to describe the couples' perceptions of the information given. Nine categories describe the information model in: voluntariness, a separate visit, a special midwife, the content, missing information, ethical considerations, a visit on equal terms, communication within the couple, communication with other people, and emotional management.

Conclusion

The information model helps expecting parents to focus on prenatal screening. Only information about prenatal screening and diagnosis was not enough for everybody; some couples want this to be an opportunity to discuss with a professional the pros and cons of prenatal screening as well as ethical considerations. The information visit gives the partner a chance to be involved and an opportunity for the couple to discuss the subject. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Measurement of intracranial translucency using three‐dimensional ultrasound and Volume IT™
Authors: Lee Mi‐Young , Won Hye‐Sung , Jeong Ba‐Da , Hyun Min‐Kyung , Lee Hee‐Young , Shim Jae‐Yoon , Lee Pil‐Ryang , Kim Ahm
Published: April 2012

Objectives

To establish the reference range of intracranial translucency (IT) in the Korean population, and to evaluate whether Volume IT™ is a reliable technique for measuring IT.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the IT of 93 singleton fetuses at 10.5 to 12.6 weeks of gestation using previously obtained three‐dimensional volume data. The IT was measured manually and automatically using Volume IT™ in each fetus by one experienced and one beginner operator. We measured the IT values according to the crown–rump length and evaluated whether Volume IT™ can successfully measure the IT. Inter‐observer agreement and intra‐observer reproducibility were analyzed using the intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), and the IT measurements obtained by the experienced operator using the manual and automated methods were then compared using the Bland–Altman plot and ICC.

Results

Among 93 cases, 2 were lost to follow‐up after the first trimester scan and were excluded from further evaluation. Both operators identified the fourth ventricle in all 91 cases using Volume IT™. The experienced and beginner operators were able to measure the IT in 89 (98%) fetuses, with 4 and 13, respectively, requiring adjustments. The IT values increased with gestational age (correlation coefficient, r = 0.491, P <0.0001). Inter‐operator agreement was moderate (ICC = 0.580 for automated and 0.546 for manual measurements), and intra‐operator reproducibility was highest for automated measurements by the experienced operator (ICC = 0.944). Agreement of the IT values between the manual and automated methods was high (ICC = 0.950).

Conclusions

Our results provide the reference range of IT in the Korean population. The Volume IT™ may be a reliable technique for measuring IT. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Maternal anxiety and pain during prenatal diagnostic techniques: a prospective study
Authors: Bot‐Robin Virginie , Sendon Sylvie , Bourzoufi Karim , Vaast Pascal , Deken Valérie , Dutoit Patricia , Houfflin‐Debarge Véronique
Published: April 2012

Objective

To explore anxiety and pain felt by women undergoing chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and amniocentesis (AC).

Method

We prospectively questioned 254 women (67 undergoing CVS, 187 AC) before the procedure on their anxiety, after the procedure on their pain felt, and the support they received or desired. The medical team collected technical information concerning each procedure.

Results

The level of anxiety was significantly higher in women undergoing CVS than AC, in those who had received complete information before the procedure, and when indication for the procedure was fetal structural abnormalities. The level of pain was significantly higher in cases of anxious women, those undergoing a CVS rather than AC, those who had undergone invasive prenatal diagnostic procedures in previous pregnancies, in procedures deemed difficult by the operator, and with needle insertion in the lateral part of the uterus. About 30% of women undergoing CVS and 8% of those undergoing AC would have desired some form of pain prevention, mostly with nonpharmacologic therapy.

Conclusion

Prenatal diagnosis is frequently associated with anxiety and pain. We identified factors that could exacerbate either one. When questioned, patients would desire a nonpharmacologic means for pain prevention. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Wrinkling instabilities in polymer films and their applications
Authors: Chen Chi‐Mon , Yang Shu
Published: April 2012

Surface wrinkles are commonly observed in polymer films driven by mechanical instability when the stress exceeds a critical value. Recently, wrinkling instability has been utilized as a versatile patterning platform to create unique surface patterns for a wide range of applications that are related to surface topography and its dynamic tuning. In this review, we discuss three mechanisms to create large‐area surface wrinkles via thermal stress, osmotic pressure and mechanical stress applied on bilayer and gradient polymer films. We briefly compare the governing physics in each system, and how to control the wrinkle pattern order, characteristic wavelength and amplitude, orientation and interactions under different geometrical confinements. We then present various technological applications that harness wrinkling effects, including optical components, responsive microfluidic channels, thin‐film metrology, tunable wetting and directed assembly of liquid crystal molecules, flexible electronics and particle sorting.
Environmental life cycle assessment of roof‐integrated flexible amorphous silicon/nanocrystalline silicon solar cell laminate
Authors: Mohr N. J. , Meijer A. , Huijbregts M. A. J. , Reijnders L.
Published: April 2012

This paper presents an environmental life cycle assessment of a roof‐integrated flexible solar cell laminate with tandem solar cells composed of amorphous silicon/nanocrystalline silicon (a‐Si/nc‐Si). The a‐Si/nc‐Si cells are considered to have 10% conversion efficiency. Their expected service life is 20 years. The production scale considered is 100 MWp per year. A comparison of the a‐Si/nc‐Si photovoltaic (PV) system with the roof‐mounted multicrystalline silicon (multi‐Si) PV system is also presented. For both PV systems, application in the Netherlands with an annual insolation of 1000 kWh/m2 is considered. We found that the overall damage scores of the a‐Si/nc‐Si PV system and the multi‐Si PV system are 0.012 and 0.010 Ecopoints/kWh, respectively. For both PV systems, the impacts due to climate change, human toxicity, particulate matter formation, and fossil resources depletion together contribute to 96% of the overall damage scores. Each of both PV systems has a cumulative primary energy demand of 1.4 MJ/kWh. The cumulative primary energy demand of the a‐Si/nc‐Si PV system has an uncertainty of up to 41%. For the a‐Si/nc‐Si PV system, an energy payback time of 2.3 years is derived. The construction for roof integration, the silicon deposition, and etching are found to be the largest contributors to the primary energy demand of the a‐Si/nc‐Si PV system, whereas encapsulation and the construction for roof integration are the largest contributors to its impact on climate change. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Controllable synthesis of novel sandwiched polyaniline/ZnO/polyaniline free‐standing nanocomposite films
Authors: Huang Gui‐Wen , Xiao Hong‐Mei , Shi Han‐Qiao , Fu Shao‐Yun
Published: April 2012

Controllable synthesis of novel sandwiched polyaniline (PANI)/ZnO/PANI free‐standing nanocomposite films is reported via spin coating of ZnO quantum‐dot interlayer on PANI base layer and then PANI surface layer on the ZnO interlayer. The thickness of the ZnO interlayer and the PANI surface layer can be easily controlled by adjusting spin time and spin speed, respectively. The effects of the ZnO interlayer thickness and the PANI surface layer thickness are examined in detail on the photoluminescence (PL) property. It is worth noting that coverage of the PANI surface layer on the ZnO interlayer can not only lead to great enhancement in the PL property but also to a maximum PL intensity at a medium PANI surface layer thickness. This maximum PL property is caused by the combined ZnO/PANI carrier transportation and PANI shielding effects. In addition, the nanocomposite films show reasonably good conductivity. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
Fampridine for the improvement of walking in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Chaplin Steve , Dobson Ruth
Published: April 2012

Fampridine (Fampyra) is a selective potassium channel blocker licensed for the improvement of walking in multiple sclerosis. In our New products review, Steve Chaplin presents the clinical data relating to its efficacy and adverse effects and Dr Ruth Dobson discusses its potential role in the treatment of walking disability in multiple sclerosis. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Interface Ltd