bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cyclophosphamide‐induced teratogenesis in ICR mice: The role of apoptosis
Authors: Torchinsky Arkady , Savion Shoshana , Gorivodsky Marat , Shepshelovich Jeanne , Zaslavsky Zeev , Fein Amos , Toder Vladimir 
Published: February 2006

AbstractIt is known that programmed cell death (apoptosis) is an important physiological determinant of embryonic development. In parallel, it may be one of the major events involved in induced teratogenesis. The present study was designated to evaluate to what extent is apoptosis involved in the formation of some final abnormalities induced by cyclophosphamide (CP) in ICR mice. The level of apoptosis in limbs, tail, liver, and whole embryo was assessed 24 h after administration of various doses of CP (day 12 of pregnancy) by flow cytometric analysis and by DNA fragmentation assay. In parallel, the rate of limb and tail malformations, resorptions, and growth retardation induced by various doses of CP was evaluated in animals sacrificed on day 19 of pregnancy using routine teratological methods. A striking correlation between the rate of CP‐induced apoptosis in limb and tail cells and the severity of limb and tail anomalies was found after administration of CP ranging from 10 to 40 mg/kg. Thus, the percent of apoptotic cells collected from limbs and tails increased from 18 to 78%. In parallel, the severity of limb and tail anomalies increased from digit anomalies to amely and from crooked to short or absent tail. CP‐induced embryolethality and fetal growth retardation also correlated with the level of apoptosis in cells collected from whole embryos but to a lesser extent. These results claim that CP‐induced apoptosis is one of the inevitable events in the pathway leading to the formation of CP‐induced abnormalities and also suggest that the extent of the involvement of apoptosis in the formation of different types of final abnormalities, may be different. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cellular and subcellular localization of transforming growth factor‐α and epidermal growth factor receptor in normal and diseased human and hamster pancreas
Authors: Tomioka Tsutomu , Toshkov Ilia , Kazakoff Katherine , Andrén‐Sandberg Åke , Takahashi Toshiyuki , Büchler Markus , Friess Helmut , Vaughn Rick , Pour Parviz M. 
Published: February 2006

AbstractFour normal pancreas, 8 chronic pancreatitis specimens, and 30 non‐endocrine pancreatic tumors from humans and 6 normal and 6 induced pancreatic cancers in hamsters were examined immunohistochemically by antibodies against human transforming growth factor‐α (TGF‐α) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Two normal pancreas and two pancreatic cancer specimens from each species were also studied immunoelectron microscopically by the immunogold method. In chronic pancreatitis, the reactivity and intensity of the staining with both antibodies were much greater in ductal/ductular cells than in the normal pancreas. All 30 pancreatic cancers reacted with both antibodies with a variable degree of reactivity and staining intensity. No correlation was found between the histological type of tumors, the degree of tumor differentiation, and the incidence and patterns of reactivity of either antibody. Immunoelectron microscopically, both EGFR and TGF‐α were demonstrated primarily on the basal membrane. In the normal hamster pancreas, TGF‐α was overexpressed in the α‐cells but not in any other islet cells. Both TGF‐α and EGFR were marginally detectable in the exocrine pancreas and in induced pancreatic lesions. This is the first demonstration of subcellular localization of TGF‐α and EGFR in the normal and diseased human and hamster pancreas © 1996 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Repetitive low‐energy shock wave application without local anesthesia is more efficient than repetitive low‐energy shock wave application with local anesthesia in the treatment of chronic plantar fasciitis
Authors: Rompe Jan D. , Meurer Andrea , Nafe Bernhard , Hofmann Alexander , Gerdesmeyer Ludger 
Published: February 2006

AbstractBackground: It remains unclear whether application of local anesthesia (LA) interferes with clinical efficacy of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) for chronic plantar fasciitis.Aims: To evaluate the effect of local anesthesia on the clinical outcome after repetitive low‐energy ESWT for chronic plantar fasciitis.Methods: Eighty‐six patients with chronic plantar fasciitis were randomly assigned to receive either low‐energy ESWT without LA, given weekly for three weeks (Group I, n = 45; 3 × 2000 pulses, total energy flux density per shock 0.09 mJ/mm2) or identical ESWT with LA (Group II, n = 41). Primary outcome measure was: Reduction of pain from baseline to month 3 post‐treatment in a pain numeric rating scale [0–10 points] during first steps in the morning, evaluated by an independent blinded observer. Calculations were based on intention‐to‐treat.Results: No difference was found between the groups at baseline. At 3 months, the average pain score was 2.2 ± 2.0 points for patients of Group I, and 4.1 ± 1.5 points for patients of Group II. The mean between‐group difference was 1.9 points (95% Cl: [1.1–2.7 points]; P < .001). Significantly more patients of Group I achieved ⩾ 50% reduction of pain compared to Group II (67% vs 29%. P < .001).Conclusion: ESWT as applied should be done without LA in patients suffering from chronic heel pain. LA applied prior treatment reduced the efficiency of low‐energy ESWT. © 2004 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Calcitonin release system in the treatment of experimental osteoporosis. Histomorphometric evaluation
Authors: Aldini N. Nicoli , Caliceti P. , Lora S. , Fini M. , Giavaresi G. , Rocca M. , Torricelli P. , Giardino R. , Veronese F. M. 
Published: February 2006

AbstractBioabsorbable polyphosphazene matrices charged with 250 μg calcitonin were evaluated as calcitonin delivery systems for the controlled release of this drug in an in vivo experimental model.Matrices were implanted under general anesthesia in osteopenic female rats, while a group of osteopenic animals (control group) received unloaded matrices. After 30 days a second series of matrices, loaded and unloaded was, respectively, implanted in both groups. In a third group of osteopenic female rats (positive control), 10 IU calcitonin were injected daily for two months. A baseline group and a sham operated group of animals were also included in the study. The explanted matrices were histologically evaluated together with the surrounding tissues, and bone histomorphometry was performed on undecalcified sections from femurs. The results showed the good biocompatibility of the matrices. Bone histomorphometry revealed that bone architecture in the treatment group was improved and results were not different from those observed after calcitonin injection. These data confirm a good in vivo behavior of the system, as well as a therapeutic effect of the released calcitonin in the osteopenic condition. © 2001 Orthopaedic Research Society. Punlished by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Functional morphology of the supraspinatus tendon
Authors: Fallon Jonathan , Blevins Field T. , Vogel Kathryn , Trotter John 
Published: February 2006

AbstractGrossly normal supraspinatus tendons were analyzed by stereomicroscope dissection and three‐dimensional serial‐section reconstruction. Four structurally independent subunits were identified: the tendon proper extended from the musculotendinous junction to approximately 2.0 cm medial to the greater tuberosity. It was composed of parallel collagen fascicles oriented along the tensional axis and separated by a prominent endotenon region. There was no interdigitation of fascicles, and an 18% incidence of fascicle convergence as the fascicles coursed from muscle toward greater tuberosity. The attachment fibrocartilage extended from the tendon proper to the greater tuberosity, consisted of a complex basket‐weave of collagen fibers, and stained diffusely with alcian blue. The densely packed unidirectional collagen fibers of the rotator cable extended from the coracohumeral (CH) ligament posteriorly to the infraspinatus, coursing both superficial and deep to the tendon proper. The capsule was composed of thin collagen sheets each with uniform fiber alignment that differed slightly between sheets. These data describe a specialized tendon capable of internally compensating for changing joint angles through fascicles which are structurally independent and can slide past one another. The tendon attachment exhibits a structure adapted to tensional load dispersion and resistance to compression.© 2002 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
The role of the cytoskeleton in the viscoelastic properties of human articular chondrocytes
Authors: Trickey Wendy R. , Vail T. Parker , Guilak Farshid 
Published: February 2006

AbstractBiomechanical factors are believed to play an important role in regulating the metabolic activity of chondrocytes in articular cartilage. Previous studies suggest that cytoskeletal proteins such as actin, vimentin, and tubulin influence cellular mechanical properties, and may therefore influence the mechanical interactions between the chondrocyte and the surrounding tissue matrix. In this study, we investigated the role of specific cytoskeletal components on the mechanical properties of individual chondrocytes isolated from normal or osteoarthritic hip articular cartilage. Chondrocytes were exposed to a range of concentrations of chemical agents that disrupt the primary cytoskeletal elements (cytochalasin D for F‐actin microfilaments, acrylamide for vimentin intermediate filaments, and colchicine for microtubules). Chondrocyte mechanical properties were determined using the micropipette aspiration technique coupled with a viscoelastic solid model of the cell. Chondrocyte stiffness (elastic modulus) was significantly increased with osteoarthritis. With increasing cytochalasin D treatment, chondrocyte stiffness decreased by up to 90% and apparent viscosity decreased by up to 80%. The effect of cytochalasin D was greater on normal chondrocytes than those isolated from osteoarthritic cartilage. Treatment with acrylamide also decreased the moduli and viscosity, but only at the highest concentration tested. No consistent changes in cell mechanical properties were observed with colchicine treatment. These findings suggest that microfilaments and possibly intermediate filaments provide the viscoelastic properties of the chondrocyte, and changes in the structure and properties of these cytoskeletal elements may reflect changes in the chondrocyte with osteoarthritis. © 2003 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
CYCLIC COHOMOLOGY OF PROJECTIVE LIMITS OF TOPOLOGICAL ALGEBRAS
Authors: Lykova Zinaida A. 
Published: February 2006

AbstractWe present methods for the computation of the Hochschild and cyclic continuous cohomology and homology of some locally convex topological algebras. Let $(A_{\alpha},T_{\alpha,\beta})_{(\varLambda,\le)}$ be a reduced projective system of complete Hausdorff locally convex algebras with jointly continuous multiplications, and let $A$ be the projective limit algebra $A=\lim_{\substack{\raisebox{-3pt}{\tiny$\leftarrow$}\\ \raisebox{2pt}{\tiny$\,\alpha$}}} A_\alpha$. We prove that, for the continuous cyclic cohomology $HC^*$ and continuous periodic cohomology $HP^*$ of $A$ and $A_\alpha$, $\alpha\in\varLambda$, for all $n\ge0$, $HC^n(A)=\lim_{\substack{\raisebox{-3pt}{\tiny$\rightarrow$}\\ \raisebox{2pt}{\tiny$\!\alpha\,$}}} HC^n(A_\alpha)$, the inductive limit of $HC^n(A_\alpha)$, and, for $k=0,1$, $HP^k(A)=\lim_{\substack{\raisebox{-3pt}{\tiny$\rightarrow$}\\ \raisebox{2pt}{\tiny$\!\alpha\,$}}} HP^k(A_\alpha)$. For a projective limit algebra $A=\lim_{\substack{\raisebox{-3pt}{\tiny$\leftarrow$}\\ \raisebox{2pt}{\tiny$\,m$}}}A_m$ of a countable reduced projective system $(A_m,T_{m,\ell})_{\mathbb{N}}$ of Fréchet algebras, we also establish relations between the cyclic-type continuous homology of $A$ and $A_m$, $m\in\mathbb{N}$. For example, we show the exactness of the following short sequence for all $n\ge0$:$$ 0\rightarrow {\lim_{\substack{\leftarrow\\ \raisebox{2pt}{\scriptsize$\,m$}}}}^{1}HC_{n+1}(A_m)\rightarrow HC_n(A)\rightarrow \lim_{\substack{\leftarrow\\ \raisebox{2pt}{\scriptsize$\,m$}}} HC_{n}(A_m)\rightarrow0. $$We present a class of Fréchet algebras $A$ for which the continuous periodic cohomology $HP^k(A)$, $k=0,1$, is isomorphic to the continuous cyclic cohomology $HC^{2\ell+k}(A)$ starting from some integer $\ell$. We apply the above results to calculate the continuous cyclic-type homology and cohomology of some Fréchet locally $m$-convex algebras.
LARGE-TIME BEHAVIOUR OF THE SOLUTIONS FOR A MULTIDIMENSIONAL NON-ISENTROPIC HYDRODYNAMIC MODEL FOR SEMICONDUCTORS
Authors: Li Yeping 
Published: February 2006

AbstractWe investigate the multidimensional non-isentropic Euler–Poisson (or full hydrodynamic) model for semiconductors, which contain an energy-conserved equation with non-zero thermal conductivity coefficient. We first discuss existence and uniqueness of the non-constant stationary solutions to the corresponding drift–diffusion equations. Then we establish the global existence of smooth solutions to the Cauchy problem with initial data, which are close to the stationary solutions. We find that these smooth solutions tend to the stationary solutions exponentially fast as $t\rightarrow+\infty$.
HYPONORMAL OPERATORS, WEIGHTED SHIFTS AND WEAK FORMS OF SUPERCYCLICITY
Authors: Bayart Frédéric , Matheron Etienne 
Published: February 2006

AbstractAn operator $T$ on a Banach space $X$ is said to be weakly supercyclic (respectively $N$-supercyclic) if there exists a one-dimensional (respectively $N$-dimensional) subspace of $X$ whose orbit under $T$ is weakly dense (respectively norm dense) in $X$. We show that a weakly supercyclic hyponormal operator is necessarily a multiple of a unitary operator, and we give an example of a weakly supercyclic unitary operator. On the other hand, we show that hyponormal operators are never $N$-supercyclic. Finally, we characterize $N$-supercyclic weighted shifts.
Applying innovations and new technologies for international collaborative wheat improvement
Authors: REYNOLDS M. P. , BORLAUG N. E. 
Published: February 2006

Despite the successes of the Green Revolution, about a billion people are still undernourished and food security in the developing world faces new challenges in terms of population growth, reduced water resources, climate change and decreased public sector investment. It is also becoming widely recognized that poverty is a cause of environmental degradation, conflict and civil unrest. Internationally coordinated agricultural research can play a significant role in improving food security by deploying promising new technologies as well as adapting those with well-established impact.In addition to the genetic challenges of crop improvement, agriculturalists must also embrace the problems associated with a highly heterogeneous and unpredictable environment. Not only are new genetic tools becoming more accessible, but a new generation of quantitative tools are available to enable better definition of agro-ecosystems, of cultivar by environment interactions, and of socio-economic issues, while satellite imagery can help predict crop yields on large scales. Identifying areas of low genetic diversity – for example as found in large tracts of South Asia – is an important aspect of reducing vulnerability to disease epidemics. Global strategies for incorporating durable disease resistance genes into a wider genetic background, as well as participatory approaches that deliver a fuller range of options to farmers, are being implemented to increase cultivar diversity.The unpredictable effects of environment on productivity can be buffered somewhat by crop management practices that maintain healthy soils, while reversing the consequences of rapid agricultural intensification on soil degradation. Conservation agriculture is an alternative strategy that is especially pertinent for resource-poor farmers.The potential synergy between genetic improvement and innovative crop management practices has been referred to as the Doubly Green Revolution. The unique benefits and efficiency of the international collaborative platform are indisputable when considering the duplications that otherwise would have been required to achieve the same impacts through unilateral or even bilateral programmes. Furthermore, while the West takes for granted public support for crucial economic and social issues, this is not the case in a number of less-developed countries where the activities of International Agricultural Research Centres (IARCs) and other development assistance organizations can provide continuity in agricultural research and infrastructure.
Can we do without routine fenestration in extracardiac total cavopulmonary connections? Report on 84 consecutive patients
Authors: Schreiber Christian , Kostolny Martin , Hörer Jürgen , Cleuziou Julie , Holper Klaus , Tassani-Prell P. , Eicken Andreas , Lange Rüdiger 
Published: February 2006

Fenestration is still widely used in right heart bypass operations. Our study was conducted to assess its need in the most recent modification, the completion of a total cavopulmonary connection with an extracardiac tube.The extracardiac approach was introduced at our institution in January, 1999. Since June of 2000, no patient had a fenestration. If more than 1 risk factor amongst ventricular function being more than moderately impaired, atrioventricular valvar regurgitation more than moderate, mean pulmonary arterial pressure more than 15 millimetres of mercury, mean atrial pressure higher than 12 millimetres of mercury, pulmonary arterial distortion, or other than sinus rhythm was present preoperatively, the patient was considered a “high risk” candidate. Postoperatively elevated pulmonary arterial pressure higher than 16 millimetres of mercury, prolonged effusions and requirement for drainage longer than 7 days, and death were considered endpoints in the statistical analysis.Our study group included 84 patients who underwent surgery up to August, 2004. A previous bidirectional cavopulmonary anastomosis had been accomplished in 73 patients at a mean age of 27.01 plus or minus 32.60 months, with a median of 11.5 months, without creating an additional source of flow of blood to the lungs.At the time of the total cavopulmonary connection, the mean age was 66.4 plus or minus 60.1 months, with a median of 37.1 months, and a range from 17.3 to 251.2 months, with 50 patients being younger than 48 months.We deemed 16 patients to be at “high risk”. These patients were older at the time of bidirectional cavopulmonary anstomosis (p smaller than 0.016), at the time of completion (p smaller than 0.019), and also differed in size at time of completion (p smaller than 0.020). They required a longer time on cardiopulmonary bypass (p smaller than 0.015), and reached higher early postoperative pulmonary arterial pressures after completion (p smaller than 0.025). There were no differences between groups of patients having up to 1 or more risk factors in regard to need for intubation (p smaller than 0.511), pulmonary arterial pressures after extubation (p smaller than 0.817), and duration of chest drainage (p smaller than 0.650). Three patients died, one in the group deemed at high risk. There was no death in the last 38 patients.We conclude that a total cavopulmonary connection with an extracardiac tube can be performed without fenestration, even if the patients are deemed to be at increased risk. Early staging of patients with functionally univentricular physiology might be one of the keys for these findings.
Cost Reduction With Successful Implementation of an Antibiotic Prophylaxis Program in a Private Hospital in Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
Authors: Fonseca Silvia N. Szente , Melon Kunzle Sônia R. , Silva Sheila A. Barbosa , Schmidt Jorge G. , Mele Roberto R. 
Published: February 2006

Abstract

Objective:
To describe the implementation and results of a perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis (PAP) program.

Design:
A protocol for correct use of PAP was implemented in December 1994. For selected months we measured the PAP protocol compliance of a random sample of clean and clean-contaminated procedures and calculated the cost of incorrect use of PAP.

Setting:
A 180-bed general hospital in Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.

Results:
The cost of unnecessary PAP in the obstetric and gynecologic, cardiothoracic, and orthopedic services dropped from $4,224.54 ($23.47/procedure) in November 1994 to $1,147.24 ($6.17/procedure, January 1995), $544.42 ($3.58/procedure, May 1995), $99.06 ($0.50/procedure, August 1995), and $30 ($0.12/procedure, March 1996). In November 1994, only 13.6% of all surgical procedures were done with correct use of PAP, compared to 59% in January 1995, 73% in August 1995, 78% in March 1996, 92% in November 1996, and 98% in May 1997.

Conclusions:
Incorrect PAP use wastes resources, which is a particular problem in developing countries. Our program is simple and can be implemented without the use of computers and now is being adopted in other hospitals in our region. We credit the success of our program to the commitment of all participants and to the strong support of the hospital directors.
Hepatitis B Vaccination of Personnel Employed in Victorian Hospitals: Are Those at Risk Adequately Protected?
Authors: Thompson Sandra C. , Norris Maureen 
Published: February 2006

AbstractObjective:To examine the policies and practices in hospitals within the state of Victoria, Australia, with respect to vaccination of staff against hepatitis B infection.Design:A written self-administered questionnaire to be completed by the infection control officer (or designated officer for hepatitis B vaccination) within each hospital.Setting:Public (teaching and nonteaching) and private hospitals, including metropolitan and rural institutions in Victoria.Participants:A random sample of 30% of Victorian hospitals were asked to participate in the survey. Of 78 eligible institutions, 69 (88%) completed and returned questionnaires.Results:There was no consistent hepatitis B prevention policy in place across Victoria. Of the 69 responding hospitals, 63 (91%) offered hepatitis B vaccination to staff, and 58 (84%) of these also paid all costs of vaccination. Of the 63 hospitals offering vaccination to staff, 39 offered vaccination to all staff, 23 offered vaccination based on job title, and one offered vaccination based on anticipated exposure. In many institutions, postexposure protocols were recalled more readily than preexposure vaccination guidelines. Numerous respondents indicated a need for clear guidelines on policy and clarification on practical matters of management, such as acceptable immune levels, management of nonresponders to the primary series, and the need for, and timing of, booster doses of vaccine. Eleven (18%) of the 63 hospitals offering hepatitis B vaccination to staff undertook routine prevaccination screening, a practice not generally regarded as cost-effective in Australia. Fifty-five of these hospitals (91%) also undertook postvaccination screening.Conclusions:It is evident from this study that a considerable number of potentially susceptible healthcare personnel in Victorian hospitals remain unprotected against hepatitis B infection. A more reliable and consistent approach to preexposure hepatitis B vaccination is recommended