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Emotional and social adaptation is a central challenge for women with recently diagnosed breast cancer [1]. Prevalence rates for anxiety and depressive disorders among a heterogeneous sample of cancer patients are estimated to range from 10 to 40% [2,3], and women with newly diagnosed breast cancer demonstrate comparable rates of affective distress [4]. As a result, breast reconstruction outcome studies routinely assess psychological variables and their influence on various patient-specific outcomes such as aesthetic satisfaction and functional status. While these studies typically include measures of preoperative depression and anxiety as possible predictors of clinical outcomes, relatively little attention has been paid to the identification of suicidal ideation (SI) in this cohort. This may seem surprising given evidence that depression is highly prevalent among cancer patients and, when increasingly severe, presents a primary risk for SI and intention [5]. While numerous studies describe the incidence of suicide among cancer patients in general [6], and women with breast cancer more specifically [7], there is sparse information on the prevalence of suicidal ideation among these populations. The assessment of SI in breast cancer patients presenting for reconstruction is in line with the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer guidelines for distress screening of all cancer patients by 2015 [8]. We examined the prevalence of preoperative anxiety and depression among women enrolled in an ongoing prospective study of post-mastectomy breast reconstruction procedure outcomes. The prevalence of moderate-to-severe SI challenged the study team to devise an identification and response system to intervene with potential at-risk patients and triage them to appropriate mental health attention. We describe this system and propose its consideration for future surgical outcome studies where depression and SI are of reasonable concern.

After nearly a century of rigorous investigation and testing, dietary caloric restriction (CR) remains the most robust and reproducible method for slowing aging and maintaining health, function, and vitality. This intervention has been applied to species across the evolutionary spectrum, but for a number of reasons, practical applicability to humans has been questioned. To overcome these issues, we initiated the field of CR mimetics in 1998 and have observed its development into a full-fledged antiaging industry. Basically, strategies that enable individuals to obtain the biological benefits of CR without reducing actual food intake can be considered CR mimetics, whether functional, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, or other. Some of the best known candidates include resveratrol and related agents, the antidiabetic drug metformin, and rapamycin and other mTOR regulators. While the mechanisms of action vary, these and essentially all CR mimetic candidates work through at least some of the same pathways as actual CR. While the entire field continues to evolve rapidly, the current status will be reviewed here, with particular focus on recent developments, the most practical relevance and applicability for potential consumers, and new strategies for the future.

In nature, plants and some bacteria have evolved an ability to convert solar energy into chemical energy usable by the organism. This process involves several proteins and the creation of a chemical gradient across the cell membrane. To transfer this process to a laboratory environment, several conditions have to be met: i) proteins need to be reconstituted into a lipid membrane, ii) the proteins need to be correctly oriented and functional and, finally, iii) the lipid membrane should be capable of maintaining chemical and electrical gradients. Investigating the processes of photosynthesis and energy generation in vivo is a difficult task due to the complexity of the membrane and its associated proteins. Solid, supported lipid bilayers provide a good model system for the systematic investigation of the different components involved in the photosynthetic pathway. In this review, the progress made to date in the development of supported lipid bilayer systems suitable for the investigation of membrane proteins is described; in particular, there is a focus on those used for the reconstitution of proteins involved in light capture.

Unplanned hospital readmissions are common early post-kidney transplantation. We investigated the relationship between early hospital readmissions and clinical outcomes in a single-center retrospective study that included all adult kidney transplant patients between 2004 and 2008 with follow-up to December 2012. The early hospital readmissions within the first 30 d were numbered and the diagnosis ascertained. Patients were grouped as none, once, and twice or more readmissions. Predictors of early readmissions were assessed, and clinical outcomes and patient and death-censored kidney survival were compared. Among 1064 patients, 203 (19.1%) patients had once and 83 (7.8%) patients had twice or more readmissions within 30 d. Surgical complications, infections, and acute kidney injuries/acute rejection were three most common diagnoses. The length of initial hospital stay and African American race were among the variables associated significantly with readmissions. Patients with early readmissions had lower baseline renal function (p

In previous studies, dietary nucleotides have been shown to improve performance in single-stomached animals by promoting the renewal of small intestine epithelial cells and by influencing the activity and composition of the microbial community in the digestive tract. The present experiment was carried out with 12 barrows weaned at the age of 18 days and fitted with a simple T-cannula at the distal ileum. To determine short-term effects of dietary yeast nucleotides, the piglets received a grain-soybean meal-based basal diet with or without supplementation of 1 g/kg of a dried yeast product containing free nucleotides. Dietary supplementation with yeast did not affect bacterial numbers in the ileum as well as ileal concentrations of individual short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), total SCFA and total lactic acid (p > 0.05). Moreover, there was no effect of supplemental yeast nucleotides on ileal α-amylase, leucine amino peptidase, maltase and lactase activities (p > 0.05), as well as on ileal dry matter, crude protein and crude fibre digestibilities (p > 0.05). In conclusion, short-term supplementation with dietary yeast nucleotides did not affect microbial metabolite concentrations, bacterial numbers and enzyme activities in the ileal digesta as well as ileal nutrient digestibilities of newly weaned pigs.

Linezolid is a weak, reversible monoamine oxidase inhibitor. The current practice at most hospitals is to place patients receiving linezolid on a tyramine-restricted diet. This process typically involves both the hospital's pharmacy department and the food and nutrition department. A literature search assessing the interaction between linezolid and tyramine was conducted, and the amount of tyramine in a typical unrestricted diet for a hospitalized patient was reviewed. Although patients receiving linezolid should avoid consuming large amounts of foods containing high concentrations of tyramine, such foods in large amounts are not components of meals for inpatients. Therefore, dietary tyramine restriction in hospitalized patients is not generally required.

Georges Didi-Huberman's study is concerned with epistemological and ethical questions that arise from visual representations of the Shoah, while Michael Fried's is concerned with the ontological possibilities explored by contemporary art photography. The books have two things in common: an argument against postmodern skepticism, and an insistence that photography has become a field in which questions of history, truth, and authenticity are being explored with particular acuity. Rather than reject even the possibility that photographs have something to tell us about the Shoah, Didi-Huberman shows that they can offer important insights into the difficulties and the possibilities of apprehending some aspects of the past. Fried shows that contemporary photographic work has taken on the ambitions of high modernism by accepting the challenge of “to-be-seenness.” Photography as a “historical practice” does not escape from the difficulties of evidence and of the “constructed” nature of historical understanding; photography functions neither as a pure trace of the past, nor as a mere invitation to spectacle.

Bismuth-niobate-based ceramic materials are of interest for embedded elements such as capacitors and filters because they exhibit high relative dielectric permittivities and tend to be processible at temperatures in the 1000°–1200°C range. As part of ongoing studies of phase equilibria and structure–property relations in this class of electroceramics, a limited study of sections in the Bi2O3–Al2O3–FeO3–Nb2O5 system was conducted. In contrast to published reports, a pyrochlore phase was not found in the ternary subsystem Bi2O3–Al2O3–Nb2O5, despite detailed syntheses, which included controlled heatings up to and above the solidus: except for solid solutions of Al2O3 in binary Bi2O3–Nb2O5 phases (i.e., fluorite-related Bi3NbO7 and Bi5Nb3O15), no distinct ternary compounds were observed to form. In the quaternary Bi2O3–Al2O3–FeO3–Nb2O5 system, a pyrochlore solid solution was confirmed along a line from Bi1.657Fe1.092Nb1.150O7 (=42.50:28.00:29.50 Bi2O3:Fe2O3:Nb2O5) up to the limiting composition Bi1.657Al0.328Fe0.764Nb1.150O7 (=42.50:8.400:19.60:29.50 Bi2O3:Al2O3:Fe2O3:Nb2O5), corresponding to substitution of 30% of the Fe3+ with Al3+. This result suggests that the large pyrochlore phase-field in the Bi–Fe–Nb–O system extends into the quaternary Bi–Al–Fe–Nb–O system to form a single-phase volume of pyrochore solid solutions by dissolving appreciable amounts of Al2O3. The Bi–Al–Fe–Nb–O pyrochlore phases exhibited low-temperature dielectric relaxation characteristic of bismuth-based pyrochlores. The substitution of Al for Fe resulted in a small increase in relative dielectric permittivity (from 125 to ≈135 at 1 MHz, ≈200 K), and a decrease in the temperature (from ≈130 to ≈120 K) corresponding to the peak in the dielectric loss.

In addition to = 2.00 signals seen frequently in EPR spectra of SWNT, signals at g = 2.07 of SWNT prepared by CVD were detected, exhibiting a Pauli susceptibility temperature dependence. This Pauli magnetism in combination with the large g shift is taken as evidence that these signals originate from itinerant electrons of metallic nanotubes. At temperatures below 150 K, a dominant narrow signal develops at 9 = 2.00. By applying multi-frequency EPR i ip to 319 GHz, its inhomogeneous nature was confirmed. This signal is assigned to defects of the carbon network of the tubes. Comparing room temperature EPR spectra of CVD arid arc-grown SWNT, we found a much lower concentration of metallic tubes in arc material. No =" 2.07 signals of itinerant spins could be observed, which might be also caused by the high amount of residing catalyst. A drastic increase in nonresonant microwave absorption is observed below lOKforbothtypesof samples, if a threshold microwave power level is passed. In the same temperature range a drop in EPR intensity is also detected. These observations are taken as evidence for a transition into a superconducting phase of part of the sample.

Isolated neuraminidase deficiency is a member of the relatively rare group of storage disorders known as glycoproteinoses. We report the long-term natural history of the disease in one of the first patients described in the literature. An unusual feature of the disease is the abrupt onset and fulminant nature of the nephrotic syndrome, complications of which caused the demise of our patient. Pathological examination of the kidneys from this child revealed renal epithelial cell damage, most marked in the membranes of the glomeruli and proximal tubules, findings which are consistent with the high sialic acid content of the membrane in these areas of the nephron. Chemical analysis indicated that the bulk of the stored material in the kidney was in the form of polar sialyloligosaccharides of high molecular weight. On the basis of our experience, as well as the previous reports of neuraminidase-deficient patients with nephropathy, we propose a nephropathic phenotypic variant of type 2 infantile sialidosis.

In this paper we have investigated the influence of catalysts' activation conditions on their selectivity in carbon nanotubes CVD synthesis by means of methane decomposition reaction using Fe- and FeCo-catalysts synthesized via polymerized complex rout providing homogeneous distribution of catalytic components. It was shown that variation of catalysts' reduction conditions results in formation of different types of NTs (MWNTs or SWNTs). The most effective catalyst activation leading to formation of SWNTs consists in catalyst reduction by reaction mixture at high temperature. That can be explained in terms of carbon deposits nucleation on metals.

In the present work we first report on a successful incorporation of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) into silica matrix prepared using an inorganic sol-gel method. Through this route nonaqueous solvents are avoided and the stability of the carbon nanotubes suspensions is not affected. SWCNTs produced by Catalytic Chemical Vapor Deposition (CCVD) were dispersed in deionized water using an amphilic surfactant. As a precursor for the silica matrix an inexpensive silicic acid was used. By this route SWCNTs/silica composites were produced in the form of films and pellets. Microhardness measurements and electron microscopy suggest an important interaction between SWCNTs and the silica matrix what is important from the application point of view.

We studied the transition from the electrochemical double-layer charging regime to intercalative doping of SWNT buckypaper in KCl aqueous solution. For this purpose we used doping levels by applying constant potentials above 1 V approaching and slightly exceeding the oxidation potential for Cl - ions. At each potential in situ Raman measurements of the radial breathing mode (RBM), the high-energy tangential mode (HEM) and the disorder-induced (D) mode were performed. From a comparative analysis of the Raman spectra we conclude that above 1 V a significant penetration of chlorine species into the interstitial channels of the SWNT bundles and possibly functionalization take place.

NiMn-based Heusler-type multiferroic alloys have attracted intensive attention due to their fascinating multifunctional properties such as magnetic shape memory, magnetocaloric effect, and magnetoresistance. The recently elucidated superparamagnetism and superspin glass behaviors in these alloys could greatly impact their multifunctional properties. This article provides an overview on the recent research progress on superparamagnetism and superspin glass behaviors in NiMn-based multifunctional alloys. The corroboration of these magnetic behaviors in the low-temperature phase is demonstrated and the possible origin of the magnetic clusters responsible for these magnetic behaviors is discussed. The open scientific issues in this research area are highlighted.

Subsolidus phase relations have been determined for the Bi–Co–Nb–O system in air (750–925 °C). Ternary compound formation was limited to pyrochlore (A2B2O6O′), which formed a substantial solid solution region at Bi-deficient stoichiometries (relative to Bi2Co2/3Nb4/3O7) suggesting that about 8 to 25 % of the A sites are occupied by Co. X-ray powder diffraction data confirmed that all Bi–Co–Nb–O pyrochlores exhibit displacive behavior. A structural refinement of the pyrochlore Bi1.56Co0.96Nb1.48O7 using single-crystal X-ray diffraction data is reported with the A and O′ atoms displaced (0.34 A and 0.45 A, respectively) from ideal positions to96g sites and 32e sites, respectively [Fd3m (#227), a = 10.551(1) A]. The displacive structural behavior is similar to that found in analogous Bi–M–Nb–O pyrochlores (M = Zn, Fe, Mn). Bi–Co–Nb–O pyrochlores exhibited overall paramagnetic behavior with negative Curie–Weiss temperature intercepts indicating weak antiferromagnetic interactions. At 250 K and 1 MHz the relative dielectric permittivity of the pyrochlore 0.4400:0.2100:0.3500 Bi2O3:2CoO1+x:Nb2O5 was ca. 115 with tan δ = 0.06; however, at lower frequencies the sample was conductive. Low-temperature dielectric relaxation such as that observed for Bi1.5Zn0.92Nb1.5O6.92 and other bismuth-based pyrochlores was not observed. Consideration of bond lengths, effective magnetic moments, and dielectric properties suggests that the average oxidation state of Co in the pyrochlore phases is close to but slightly higher than 2.0. (© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006)

Thin film Carbon Nanotube (CNT) networks are used as a conductive, transparent and flexible electrode for electrochemically depositing a conducting polymer on it, polypyrrole or polyaniline in the present work. We analyse the properties of the device as an electrochemical sensor, measuring his pH dependence by recording the open circuit potential in various buffer solutions, ranging from pH 1 to 13. The results show a good sensitivity, linearity and stability in both cases. In the case of CNT/polyaniline, it can be used simply as an optical sensor, as the colour of polyaniline changes with pH. The CNT/polypyrrole and CNT/polyaniline devices could have applications as solid state gas sensor or biosensor deposited on any shape of surface that can be transparent and flexible.

We study the effect of Ar + -irradiation on electrical transport in an individual single wall carbon nanotube (SWNT), a thin SWNT network and a thick SWNT film. The damage to SWNT structure induced by Ar + -irradiation is characterized by Raman spectroscopy. The electrical conductance both in an individual SWNT and in a thin SWNT network is strongly reduced by highly energetic Ar + ions. On contrary, a thick SWNT film exhibits an increase of its conductivity as well as of its Young modulus after irradiation.

In a long-term longitudinal study of aging in rhesus monkeys, a primary objective has been to determine the effects of aging and caloric restriction (CR) on behavioral and neural parameters. Through the use of automated devices, locomotor activity can be monitored in the home cages of the monkeys. Studies completed thus far indicate a clear age-related decline in activity consistent with such observations in many other species, including humans. However, no consistent effects of CR on activity have been observed. Selected groups of monkeys have also been involved in brain imaging studies, using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET). MRI studies completed thus far reveal a clear age-related decline in the volumes of the basal ganglia, the putamen, and the caudate nucleus, with no change in total brain volume. PET analysis has revealed an age-related decline in the binding potential of dopamine D2 receptors in the same brain regions. These results are consistent with findings in humans. Although additional longitudinal analysis is needed to confirm the present results, it would appear that locomotor activity, volume of the basal ganglia, as well as dopamine D2 receptor binding potential provide reliable, noninvasive biomarkers of aging in rhesus monkeys.

Dietary caloric restriction (CR) is the only intervention conclusively and reproducibly shown to slow aging and maintain health and vitality in mammals. Although this paradigm has been known for over 60 years, its precise biological mechanisms and applicability to humans remain unknown. We began addressing the latter question in 1987 with the first controlled study of CR in primates (rhesus and squirrel monkeys, which are evolutionarily much closer to humans than the rodents most frequently employed in CR studies). To date, our results strongly suggest that the same beneficial "antiaging" and/or "antidisease" effects observed in CR rodents also occur in primates. These include lower plasma insulin levels and greater sensitivity; lower body temperatures; reduced cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure, and arterial stiffness; elevated HDL; and slower age-related decline in circulating levels of DHEAS. Collectively, these biomarkers suggest that CR primates will be less likely to incur diabetes, cardiovascular problems, and other age-related diseases and may in fact be aging more slowly than fully fed counterparts. Despite these very encouraging results, it is unlikely that most humans would be willing to maintain a 30% reduced diet for the bulk of their adult life span, even if it meant more healthy years. For this reason, we have begun to explore CR mimetics, agents that might elicit the same beneficial effects as CR, without the necessity of dieting. Our initial studies have focused on 2-deoxyglucose (2DG), a sugar analogue with a limited metabolism that actually reduces glucose/energy flux without decreasing food intake in rats. In a six-month pilot study, 2DG lowered plasma insulin and body temperature in a manner analagous to that of CR. Thus, metabolic effects that mediate the CR mechanism can be attained pharmacologically. Doses were titrated to eliminate toxicity; a long-term longevity study is now under way. In addition, data from other laboratories suggest that at least some of the same physiological/metabolic end points that are associated with the beneficial effects of underfeeding may be obtained from other potential CR mimetic agents, some naturally occurring in food products. Much work remains to be done, but taken together, our successful results with CR in primates and 2DG administration to rats suggest that it may indeed be possible to obtain the health- and longevity-promoting effects of the former intervention without actually decreasing food intake.

Dietary caloric restriction is the most reproducible means of extending longevity and maintaining health and vitality. It has been shown to be relevant to a wide rage of species, including primates. Examination of key markers of the calorically restricted phenotype, such as plasma insulin, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, and body temperature, suggest that they may predict longevity in humans as well. However, most people would be unwilling or unable to adopt the 30% to 40% reduction in food intake necessary to achieve optimal health and longevity benefits. For this reason, a number of laboratories are pursuing caloric restriction mimetics: ways to achieve the benefits of restriction without eating less. This approach will undoubtedly remain a major focus of biogerontolgy for the foreseeable future.

Single-crystal X-ray diffraction was used to investigate the structure of the ternary oxide of approximate formula Bi 14 (Sr,Ca) 12 O 33 . The crystal examined was found to have a composition Bi 2 Sr 0.68 Ca 1.07 O 4.75 or Bi 16 Sr 5.44 Ca 8.56 O 38 as a result of refinement. It crystallizes in the monoclinic space group (C2/m), with cell parameters a = 21.764 (4) A, b = 4.3850 (13) A, c = 12.905 (3) A, β = 102.72 (2)°, and V 1201.2 (5) A 3 . Strontium and calcium ions were found to substitute for each other. The structure consists of a network of alkaline-earth oxide polyhedra with broad channels parallel to the b axis, in which the bismuth ions reside. Two out of four crystallographically distinct Bi ions form infinite Bi-O zigzag ribbons of edge-linked Bi-O units, while each of the other two form oxygen corner-shared Bi-O chains along b. The lone pair electrons of the Bi ions point toward each other in the channels.

By applying calorie restriction (CR) at 30-50% below ad libitum levels, studies in numerous species have reported increased life span, reduced incidence and delayed onset of age-related diseases, improved stress resistance, and decelerated functional decline. Whether this nutritional intervention is relevant to human aging remains to be determined; however, evidence emerging from CR studies in nonhuman primates suggests that response to CR in primates parallels that observed in rodents. To evaluate CR effects in humans, clinical trials have been initiated. Even if evidence could substantiate CR as an effective antiaging strategy for humans, application of this intervention would be problematic due to the degree and length of restriction required. To meet this challenge for potential application of CR, new research to create "caloric restriction mimetics" has emerged. This strategy focuses on identifying compounds that mimic CR effects by targeting metabolic and stress response pathways affected by CR, but without actually restricting caloric intake. Microarray studies show that gene expression profiles of key enzymes in glucose (energy) handling pathways are modified by CR. Drugs that inhibit glycolysis (2-deoxyglucose) or enhance insulin action (metformin) are being assessed as CR mimetics. Promising results have emerged from initial studies regarding physiological responses indicative of CR (reduced body temperature and plasma insulin) as well as protection against neurotoxicity, enhanced dopamine action, and upregulated brain-derived neurotrophic factor. Further life span analyses in addition to expanded toxicity studies must be completed to assess the potential of any CR mimetic, but this strategy now appears to offer a very promising and expanding research field.

The crystal structure of Ba11FeTi27O66.5 was determined using single-crystal and powder X-ray diffraction methods. This phase crystallizes in the monoclinic space group C2/m (No. 12) (a = 23.324(1) A, b = 11.388(1) A, c = 9.8499(3) A, β = 90.104(3)°; Z = 2; ρcalcd. = 4.98 g/cm3), and exhibits a 10-layer structure built from close-packed [O,(Ba,O)] layers with a stacking sequence (cchhc)2. Octahedral sites are occupied by a mixture of Fe3+ and Ti4+, with some preferential ordering suggested by analysis of bond valence sums. The structure features vertex-, edge-, and face-sharing of the [Ti(Fe)O6] octahedra. Indexed X-ray powder diffraction data for a polycrystalline specimen are given. Ba11FeTi27O66.5 and the 8-layer phase Ba4Fe2Ti10O27 are built from the same types of polyhedral layers, some of which feature vacant sites between two Ba ions, which substitute for three oxygens in a row. The single-crystal results suggest that the basic structural formula of the phase is A11B28O66+x, with the value of x (and hence the Fe/Ti ratio) determined by partial occupancy of one of these vacant sites. Variation of this occupancy factor with synthesis temperature may account for apparent slight differences in the stoichiometry of this phase in polycrystalline and single-crystal form. However, solid solution formation was not observed for polycrystalline specimens. A comparison of the crystal structure obtained for Ba11FeTi27O66.5 with that previously proposed for “Zr4+-stabilized Ba2Ti5O12” indicates that the phase “Ba2Ti5O12” is actually a ternary compound which forms upon addition (either deliberately or inadvertently) of a trivalent ion such as Fe3+ or Al3+. The specimens Ba11Al2Ti26O66, Ba11Al2Ti24Sn2O66, and Ba11Al2Ti24Zr2O66 were also prepared and were found to form the A11B28O66+x-type phase. Ba11FeTi27O66.5 exhibits paramagnetic behavior that deviates somewhat from the Curie−Weiss Law below 75 K. Application of this formalism to the 1/χ vs. T data above 75 K yields an effective moment consistent with the presence of high-spin Fe3+ (S = 5/2), and a negative Weiss constant (about −25 K) indicating weak cooperative magnetic interactions that are overall antiferromagnetic. The relative permittivity and dielectric loss tangent of a sintered polycrystalline disk were measured at 5.33 GHz, yielding values (corrected for theoretical density) of 55 and 7.7(±0.3) × 10−4, respectively. (© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2004)

Complete removal of failed posterior resin composite fillings is time-expensive and involves the risk of removing sound tooth substance. In any case of failure within the composite material, intra-oral repair would be favourable. This in vitro study was conducted to examine the effect of different preparation and bonding modes on integrity of repaired restorations. Forty-eight direct Class II resin composite restorations (Syntac Classic/Tetric Ceram) were placed in extracted human third molars. The specimens were stored for 365 days and then replaced partially by removing the central part of the proximal box with all margins located in composite. The partial repairs were placed with the same materials after pre-treatment with a silicon carbide bur and Syntac Classic (n = 8). Preparation modes have been (i) box-only parallel, (ii) box-only with undercuts, (iii) box with undercuts and additional occlusal retention. The repairs were performed either with (i) Tetric Ceram or with (ii) Tetric Flow as thin lining covered with Tetric Ceram. Before and after thermomechanical loading (100 000 cycles of 50 N and 2500 cycles between +5 and +55 degrees C in an artificial mouth), marginal quality between aged and freshly applied composite was evaluated by SEM at x200 magnification and microleakage was observed by light microscopy at x50 magnification. Box-only preparations exhibited a better fatigue resistance than preparations with additional occlusal retention. This observation was independent from the presence of undercuts (P < 0.05). An intermediary layer of flowable resin composite tended to result in better marginal quality, however, not being statistically significant.

Six species of Nabidae (Heteroptera) were collected by standardized sweep net sampling in alfalfa fields in Thuringia, Germany, from 1993 to 1995: Nabis pseudoferus, N. ferus, N. brevis, N. major, Nabicula flavomarginata and Aptus mirmicoides. Colonization of a newly cultivated field was studied over a 3-year period. The density of all the studied nabid species was low (less than five individuals per 100 sweeps) and not related to time since colonization started, or to the distance from the margin of the field. Macropterous species were able to colonize the whole field within one season. The density of one macropterous species, N. pseudoferus, varied between the years of study and was mainly affected by the harvest regime. The brachypterous species reached the margin within one season but for density it took three seasons to reach satiated values also in the centre of the field. The abundance of the brachypterous N. brevis was significantly different both between years and sampling sites. This indicates the importance of the surroundings on the succession of this species. Nabis major, a fully winged species, showed a migration pattern intermediate to macropterous and brachypterous nabids. These results suggest that the total abundance of nabid predators cannot be predicted by time or distance from the expansion source (shelter belts). The abundance of brachypterous nabid individuals can be predicted from time since colonization but is best analysed at the species level.

OBJECTIVE To assess the practicability and efficacy of systematic screening for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) by ultrasonography (US), as more small RCCs are being detected incidentally by US. SUBJECTS AND METHODS A 2-year screening programme for RCC was established for the general population (aged ≥ 40 years) in two German cities, Mainz and Wuppertal. In cooperation with different health insurers, the organisers recruited general practitioners, internists and urologists in private practice who were experienced in and equipped to conduct renal US. The screening was offered in the form of cost-free renal US in the first year and a re-examination in the second. For any equivocal or positive renal mass, a reference ultrasonogram was provided by the urology departments at the two university hospitals. RESULTS In all, 9959 volunteers participated in the screening programme (49% men, 51% women, mean age 61 years, range 40–94) in the first year. Of these participants, 79% returned for re-examination in the second year. Thirteen (0.1%) subjects were found to have a renal mass, of which nine were RCC. The sensitivity of the programme was 82% (at the 1-year follow-up), and the predictive value 2% for equivocal findings on initial examination and 50% for positive findings. The incidence of other abnormal findings was 12%. CONCLUSION The screening programme was well accepted by physicians in private practice and by the eligible population. The method was effective, especially if equivocal findings were re-assessed by reference US before using further imaging studies, e.g. computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

Volatile anaesthetics differ in the effects they have on splanchnic haemodynamics and oxygenation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of desflurane and isoflurane as part of a balanced anaesthetic technique on intestinal tissue oxygenation during colorectal surgery. Data were analysed from 44 patients randomly assigned to receive either desflurane (desflurane group, n = 20), or isoflurane (isoflurane group, n = 24) for inhalational anaesthesia. Tissue oxygen pressure (P(tiss)O2) was measured on the serosal side of the large intestine prior to colonic resection (T1) and following the completion of the bowel anastomosis (T2). In addition, haemodynamic and oxygenation parameters were assessed. No difference in mean P(tiss)O2 was observed between the groups at T1 [desflurane group: 8.1 (2.9) kPa vs. isoflurane group: 7.7 (2.7) kPa]. Following completion of the anastomosis (T2) mean P(tiss)O2 was higher in the isoflurane group [9.6 (2.9) kPa] than the desflurane group [7.7 (2.4) kPa, p = 0.025]. During surgery no difference between the groups could be observed with regard to haemodynamics and global oxygenation parameters. The lack of a difference between the groups in P(tiss)O2 before resection of the colon suggests that, under normal conditions, desflurane and isoflurane have comparable effects on intestinal blood flow and oxygenation. However, following local ischaemia, the reactive hyperaemia seems to be better preserved during isoflurane anaesthesia indicated by a local increase in P(tiss)O2blank(p = 0.013) following completion of the bowel anastomosis.

The mechanism(s) underlying predisposition to alcohol abuse are poorly understood but may involve brain dopamine system(s). Here we used an adenoviral vector to deliver the dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2) gene into the nucleus accumbens of rats, previously trained to self-administer alcohol, and to assess if DRD2 levels regulated alcohol preference and intake. We show that increases in DRD2 (52%) were associated with marked reductions in alcohol preference (43%), and alcohol intake (64%) of ethanol preferring rats, which recovered as the DRD2, returned to baseline levels. In addition, this DRD2 overexpression similarly produced significant reductions in ethanol non-preferring rats, in both alcohol preference (16%) and alcohol intake (75%). This is the first evidence that overexpression of DRD2 reduces alcohol intake and suggests that high levels of DRD2 may be protective against alcohol abuse.

In recent years, it has been demonstrated that SPME in polymer-clad optical fibers can be efficiently combined with NIR evanescent-wave spectroscopy for on-site monitoring of apolar hydrocarbons (HCs) in aqueous samples. Typically, the time to reach analyte partition equilibrium between sample matrix and fiber cladding for well-agitated solutions and low-molecular-weight HC species is in the range of 2–20 min. Thus, spectral absorbance data measured in extraction equilibrium are used for calibration and evaluation. However, for samples with no or only low agitation (e.g., in situ measurement in a monitoring well) and even for well-stirred samples containing HCs with higher molecular weight (>C8–C10), it may take several hours to reach equilibrium, which is by far too long for applications in field analysis. In this context, a calibration and evaluation algorithm based on HC extraction kinetics has been developed, which allows performing quantitative measurements of such samples within 20 min. This method uses the initial gradient of the response curve of a given HC compound or mixture recorded by the SPME-NIR instrument, which is linearly dependent on analyte concentration. The algorithm has been implemented in the control and evaluation software of an SPME-NIR photometer system and tested with different aqueous HC samples. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Field Analyt Chem Technol 5: 131–142, 2001

Accuracy of body composition measurements by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was compared with direct chemical analysis in 10 adult rhesus monkeys. DXA was highly correlated (r-values > 0.95) with direct analyses of body fat mass (FM), lean mass (LM) and lumbar spine bone mineral content (BMC). DXA measurements of total body BMC were not as strongly correlated (r-value = 0.58) with total carcass ash content. DXA measurements of body FM, LM and lumbar spine BMC were not different from data obtained by direct analyses (P-values > 0.30). In contrast, DXA determinations of total BMC (TBMC) averaged 15%, less than total carcass ash measurements (P = 0.002). In conclusion, this study confirms the accurate measurement of fat and lean tissue mass by DXA in rhesus monkeys. DXA also accurately measured lumbar spine BMC but underestimated total body BMC as compared with carcass ash determinations.

[19] The single crystals of the Bu4NBr0.6I1.4Cl salt, were obtained by addition of IBr to a solution of Bu4NCl in ethanol at a reagent ratio of 1:0.5. Stoichiometry of the anion has been found by EDX. Based on a Raman study the anion consists of the I2Br ‐ (band at 140 cm ‐1 ), IBr2 ‐ (band at 150‐ 176 cm ‐1 ), BrICl ‐ (band at 225 cm ‐1 ), and ICl2 ‐ (band at 250‐263 cm ‐1 ) trihalide anions. [20] The X-ray diffraction data from single crystals for both trihalide salts were measured using an Enraf Nonius CAD4 diffractometer with graphite monochromatic Mo Ka radiation (k = 0.71073 a) at room temperature. Unit cell parameters of the new a¢¢¢- crystal were determined from a leastsquares analysis of 25 reflections. The intensities of 8106 non-zero reflections were collected by the x-scan method up to 2H = 50. The index range was ‐20 2 r(I), Rint = 0.011, were used in the structure analysis. Absorption correction was applied using the DIFABS algorithm. The main room temperature crystal data for the single crystal of 1 are as follows: a = 17.116(2), b = 8.956(1), c = 16.338(2) a, a = 88.09(2), b = 84.22(1), w = 81.22(2), V = 2462.1(5) a 3 , space group P1 ¯ , Z =3 ,M = 1024.89, dcalc =

A sensitive and selective method for the determination of 2'-beta-fluoro-2',3'-dideoxyadenosine (lodenosine, F-ddA), an experimental anti-AIDS drug, and its major metabolite, 2'-beta-fluoro-2',3'-dideoxyinosine (F-ddI), in human plasma was developed and validated. The procedure employs two internal standards and a simple ultrafiltration step followed by chromatography on a Betasil C(18) minibore column. An in-line valve is used to remove salts before reaching the ion source. Detection is by electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry with selected reaction monitoring. The method has a limit of quantitation of 4 ng ml(-1) (16 nM) for F-ddA and 8 ng ml(-1) (32 nM) for F-ddI with a linear range up to 2000 ng ml(-1) (7.9 microM) for each. Predicted concentrations from a three-day validation study were within 5% of the nominal values for F-ddA and 16% for F-ddI. Intra- and inter-assay precision, as measured by relative standard deviation, was 13% or better for both compounds. To achieve good reproducibility, many variables related to the electrospray ionization were optimized for both precision and sensitivity. The method was successfully employed to analyze samples and evaluate plasma pharmacokinetics from a Phase I clinical trial.

Caloric restriction (CR) is the most successful method of extending both median and maximal lifespans in rodents and other short-lived species. It is not yet clear whether this method of life extension will be successful in longer-lived species, possibly including humans; however, trials in rhesus monkeys are underway. We have examined the cellular proliferative potential of cells from CR and AL (ad libitum fed) monkey skin cells using two different bioassays: colony size analysis (CSA) of dermal fibroblasts isolated and cloned directly from the skin and beta-galactosidase staining at pH 6.0 (BG-6.0) of epidermal cells in frozen sections of skin. Decreases in both proliferative markers occurred with age, but no differences were observed between CR and AL animals. Skin biopsies were obtained from AL and CR rhesus monkeys from two different aging colonies, one at the National Institute on Aging (NIA) and one at the University of Maryland-Baltimore (UMB). These biopsies were used as a source of tissue sections and cells for two biomarkers of aging assays. The CR monkeys had been maintained for 9–12 years on approximately 70% of the caloric intake of control AL animals. In the CSA studies, the fraction of small clones increased significantly and the fraction of large clones decreased significantly with increasing age in AL monkeys. The frequency of epidermal BG-6.0 staining cells increased with age in older (>22 years) AL monkeys, but most predominately in those of the UMB colony, which were somewhat heavier than the NIH AL controls. Old monkeys on CR tended to have fewer BG-6.0-positive cells relative to old AL-derived epidermis, but this effect was not significant. These results indicate that cellular proliferative potential declined with age in Macaca mulatta, but was not significantly altered by CR under these conditions. Although these experiments are consistent with an absence of effect of CR on monkey skin cell proliferative potential, we have found in previous experiments with mice that a longer duration of CR (as a fraction of total lifespan) was needed to demonstrate CR-related improvement in clone size in mice. Further studies on the now mid-aged monkeys will be needed as their age exceeds 20 years to conclusively rule out an effect of CR on proliferative potential of skin cells from these primates. J. Cell. Physiol. 180:123–130, 1999. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

In two fen areas of northeastern Germany, different techniques of re-introduction to establish reed-bed species in formerly intensively used, species-poor, grasslands, after rewetting, were studied under three hydrological regimes (permanent inundation, temporary inundation, border irrigation) with the aims (1) to establish peat-forming vegetation and (2) to enhance species richness. Establishment was successful for nearly all species investigated under all hydrological variants. There were differences between individuals sown and those which had been planted. Wet, but not inundated soil linked with vegetation gaps create ‘safe sites’ which enable successful germination and seedling establishment. The survival rate for both planted and sown individuals was generally high, with the exception of Cladium mariscus, Eupatorium cannabinum and Phragmites australis Recommendations for restoration management include the establishment of the following successful species: Carex acutiformis, C elata and C paniculata to establish peat-forming vegetation; Iris pseudacorus, Lysimachia vulgaris, Lythrum salicaria to enhance species richness.

We used adenoviral-mediated gene transfer of human amyloid precursor proteins (h-APPs) to evaluate the role of various h-APPs in causing neuronal cell death. We were able to infect PC12 cells with very high efficiency because approximately 90% of the cells were cytochemically positive for beta-galactosidase activity when an adenoviral vector containing LacZ cDNA was used to infect cells. Cells infected with adenovirus containing h-APP cDNA showed high-level transcription and expression of h-APP as measured by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and Western immunoblot analyses, respectively. Intracellular and extracellular levels of h-APP were elevated approximately 17-and 24-fold in cultures infected with recombinant adenovirus containing wild-type mutant and 13- and 17-fold with V642F mutant. No elevation in h-APP was seen in cultures infected with antisense h-APP or null adenovirus. H-APP levels were maximal 3 days after infection. Overexpression of V642F mutant h-APP in PC12 cells and hippocampal neurons resulted in about a twofold increase in death compared with overexpression of wild-type h-APP. These results demonstrate the usefulness of recombinant adenoviral mediated gene transfer in cell culture studies and suggest that overexpression of a familial Alzheimer's disease mutant APP may be toxic to neuronal cells.

We have discovered a remarkable correlation between frequency shifts in G+, D and D* Raman modes and changes in the conductivity and Young's modulus of freestanding single-wall carbon nanotube (SWNT) networks. On ion irradiation, all these properties show similar peaks as a function of irradiation dose. On acceptor doping that increases conductivity, increases are also observed in the Raman mode frequencies that are analogous to the irradiation effects. We discuss possible mechanisms for these correlated changes in properties. (© 2008 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

Dietary interventions have proven to be the most robust and consistent means of ameliorating the diseases and dysfunctions of aging. A large literature includes both quantitative (caloric restriction [CR]) and qualitative (micronutrients, antioxidants, etc.) alterations of nutrient and caloric intake and the resulting positive outcomes for age-related disease protection, maintenance of vitality, and quantitative and qualitative life-span extension. In recognition of the importance of this research area, two sessions concerning nutritional interventions in aging and age-associated diseases were organized for this symposium, one dealing with diet and the other with dietary supplements. This brief report covers both, providing selected examples of the most recent research into both these types of interventions and their mechanisms of action.

EGF-stimulated replication of specific genes was examined in primary hepatocyte cultures from mature (6 months) and senescent (24 months) rats. Basal and EGF-stimulated [3H]thymidine incorporation and DNA polymerase α activities, as well as total cellular DNA, were also assessed. The genes examined were dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) and c-myc, as well as total mitochondrial DNA (mt DNA). Although [3H]thymidine incorporation, DNA polymerase α activity, total cellular DNA, DHFR, and c-myc gene specific DNA replication stimulated by EGF are reduced with age, mt DNA replication is not affected by either EGF or age. Chromosomal DNA replication is mediated mainly by DNA polymerase α while mt DNA replication is mediated by its own DNA polymerase γ. Thus, the age-related decline in stimulated DNA replication appears to be associated mainly with the DNA polymerase α activation pathway. J. Cell. Physiol. 176:32–39, 1998. Published 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.1