Variation in spatial dependencies across the cortical mantle discriminates the functional behaviour of primary and association cortex

Recent theories of cortical organisation suggest features of function emerge from the spatial arrangement of brain regions. For example, association cortex is located furthest from systems involved in action and perception. Association cortex is also 'interdigitated' with adjacent regions having different patterns of functional connectivity. It is assumed that topographic properties, such as distance between regions, constrains their functions, however, we lack a formal description of how this occurs. Here we use variograms, a quantification of spatial autocorrelation, to profile how function changes with the distance between cortical regions. We find function changes with distance more gradually within sensory-motor cortex than association cortex. Importantly, systems within the same type of cortex (e.g., fronto-parietal and default mode networks) have similar profiles. Primary and association cortex, therefore, are differentiated by how function changes over space, emphasising the value of topographical features of a region when estimating its contribution to cognition and behaviour.

The role of the lateral orbitofrontal cortex in creating cognitive maps

We use mental models of the world-cognitive maps-to guide behavior. The lateral orbitofrontal cortex (lOFC) is typically thought to support behavior by deploying these maps to simulate outcomes, but recent evidence suggests that it may instead support behavior by underlying map creation. We tested between these two alternatives using outcome-specific devaluation and a high-potency chemogenetic approach. Selectively inactivating lOFC principal neurons when male rats learned distinct cue-outcome associations, but before outcome devaluation, disrupted subsequent inference, confirming a role for the lOFC in creating new maps. However, lOFC inactivation surprisingly led to generalized devaluation, a result that is inconsistent with a complete mapping failure. Using a reinforcement learning framework, we show that this effect is best explained by a circumscribed deficit in credit assignment precision during map construction, suggesting that the lOFC has a selective role in defining the specificity of associations that comprise cognitive maps.

A Multifaceted Surgical Site Infection Prevention Bundle for Cesarean Delivery

OBJECTIVE

Surgical site infections (SSI, including wound infections, endometritis, pelvic abscess, and sepsis) may complicate cesarean section (C/S). We report outcomes before and after the introduction of an SSI prevention bundle that did not include antibiotics beyond routine prophylaxis (cefazolin, or gentamicin/clindamycin for penicillin-allergic patients).

STUDY DESIGN

The prevention bundle was introduced following an increase in C/S-associated SSI, which itself was associated with an institutional switch in preoperative scrub from povidone-iodine to chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG)/isopropanol. Components of the bundle included: (1) full-body preoperative wash with 4% CHG cloths; (2) retraining on surgeon hand scrub; (3) retraining for surgical prep; and (4) patient education regarding wound care. Patients delivered by C/S at ≥24 weeks of gestation were segregated into four epochs over 7 years: (1) baseline (18 months when povidone-iodine was used); (2) CHG scrub (18 months after skin prep was switched to CHG); (3) bundle implementation (24 months); and (4) maintenance (24 months following implementation).

RESULTS

A total of 3,637 patients were included (n = 667, 796, 1098, and 1076, respectively, in epochs 1-4). A rise in SSI occurred with the institutional switch from povidone-iodine to CHG (i.e., from baseline to the CHG scrub epoch, 8.4-13.3%, p < 0.01). Following the intervention (maintenance epoch), this rate decreased to below baseline values (to 4.5%, p < 0.01), attributable to a decline in wound infection (rates in the above three epochs 6.9, 12.9, and 3.5%, respectively, p < 0.01), with no change in endometritis. In multivariable analysis, only epoch and body mass index (BMI) were independently associated with SSI. The improvement associated with the prevention bundle held for stratified analysis of specific risk factors such as chorioamnionitis, prior C/S, obesity, labor induction, and diabetes.

CONCLUSION

Implementation of a prevention bundle was associated with a reduction in post-C/S SSI. This improvement was achieved without the use of antibiotics beyond standard preoperative dosing.

Labour in the Board and Good Work: How to Measure and Evidence From GermanyDate submitted: December 18, 2019Date accepted after double-blind review: May 3, 2021

Can board-level co-determination promote Good Work? Good Work can be characterised by fair income, job security, opportunities for personal development, low stress and misuse, and high-quality work equipment. Good Work is not easy to measure, in part since it has a subjective aspect. For this reason, the indicators used in this paper are derived from data on corporate and personnel structures that are supportive of Good Work. Supplementing the numerous studies that exist on the impact of works councils on Good Work, this paper highlights how board-level co-determination can also have a strong positive influence. The paper uses data from the co-determination index (Mitbestimmungsindex), a new and innovative indicator that measures the extent to which co-determination is institutionally embedded within firms. Three examples illustrate the impact of board-level co-determination on Good Work: first, on the linking of elements of Good Work with the remuneration of directors in a highly co-determined corporation; second, on the independence of the member of the management board responsible for the personnel department; and third, on the level of vocational training in the companies.

When elephants fall asleep: A literature review on elephant rest with case studies on elephant falling bouts, and practical solutions for zoo elephants

Little attention has been paid to the resting and sleeping behavior of zoo elephants so far. An important concern is when elephants avoid lying down, due to degenerative joint and foot disease, social structure, or stressful environmental changes. Inability or unwillingness to lie down for resting is an important welfare issue, as it may impair sleep. We emphasize the importance of satisfying rest in elephants by reviewing the literature on resting behavior in elephants (Loxodonta africana and Elephas maximus) as well as the documentation of four cases from European zoos and our own direct observations in a zoo group of four female African elephants during 12 entire days. The common denominator in the case reports is the occurrence of a falling bout out of a standing position subsequently to a cessation of lying rest for different periods of time. Although well-known in horses as "episodic collapse" or "excessive drowsiness," this syndrome has not been described in elephants before. To enable its detection, we recommend nocturnal video monitoring for elephant-keeping institutions. The literature evaluation as well as own observational data suggest an inverse relationship between lying rest and standing rest. Preventative measures consist of enclosure modifications that facilitate lying rest (e.g., sand hills) or standing rest in a leaning position as a substitute. Anecdotal observations suggest that the provision of appropriate horizontal environmental structures may encourage safe, sleep-conducive standing rest. We provide drawings on how to install such structures. Effects of providing such structures should be evaluated in the future.

Die endoprothetische Versorgung des oberen Sprunggelenkes bei hämophiler Arthropathie

Die endoprothetische Versorgung des oberen Sprunggelenkes aufgrund einer ausgeprägten Arthrose hat in den vergangenen Jahren deutlich zugenommen. Gegenüber der etablierten Arthrodese hat sich die Alloarthroplastik zu einer guten Alternative entwickelt. Die Hauptindikationen zur Implantation einer Sprunggelenksendoprothese sind die sekundären Arthrosen bei rheumatischen Erkrankungen und posttraumatischen Zuständen. Kasuistische Berichte über den endoprothetischen Ersatz bei hämophiler Arthropathie zeigen übereinstimmend mit den eigenen Fällen, dass der Kunstgelenkersatz am oberen Sprunggelenk unter bestimmten Voraussetzungen ein erfolgreiches Behandlungsverfahren auch in dieser Klientel sein kann. Der besondere Vorzug ist im Erhalt einer für Alltagsbewegungen ausreichenden Beweglichkeit und damit einer physiologischeren Gangabwicklung zu sehen. Mit neuen Osteosynthesetechniken ist im Versagensfall eine relativ sichere Rückzugsmöglichkeit bei den meist noch jüngeren Patienten gegeben. Bei schmerzhafter und funktionsbehindernder fortgeschrittener Arthrose am oberen Sprunggelenk kann auch bei hämophiler Arthropathie die endoprothetische Versorgung erwogen werden.

Microfluidic Devices Made of Glass

Mikroglas is a young, innovative and highly-specialized enterprise, which has special know-how in the development of microstructured glass components. Due to its unique properties, glass plays an important role in the field of microtechnology. Most important for many of these new applications are:

• its optical transparency and good fluorescence properties, allowing the user to carry out in-situ-measurements, e.g., to detect products after a chemical reaction directly in the device • its stability at high temperatures so that reactions can be influenced by heating different zones of the device • its chemical resistivity, e.g., to handle aggressive substances • its high electrical resistivity, e.g., to transport liquids by electrophoresis or to carry out electrical measurements • its good biological compatibility which is necessary for medical and biological applications

The process of structuring FOTURAN will be described. With this technology different microfluidic devices have been manufactured. The channels have a width and depth of 50 μm up to 1 mm and a length of 20 mm up to 280 mm. Various parameters have been measured, e. g., the heat exchange and transfer coefficient for pure water as a function of the temperature. Also optical and thermal analysis techniques have been used to characterize the fluidic components. The results combined with advanced computational fluidic simulations lead to new solutions for different tasks.

Exciton size and binding energy limitations in one-dimensional organic materials

In current organic photovoltaic devices, the loss in energy caused by the charge transfer step necessary for exciton dissociation leads to a low open circuit voltage, being one of the main reasons for rather low power conversion efficiencies. A possible approach to avoid these losses is to tune the exciton binding energy to a value of the order of thermal energy, which would lead to free charges upon absorption of a photon, and therefore increase the power conversion efficiency towards the Shockley-Queisser limit. We determine the size of the excitons for different organic molecules and polymers by time dependent density functional theory calculations. For optically relevant transitions, the exciton size saturates around 0.7 nm for one-dimensional molecules with a size longer than about 4 nm. For the ladder-type polymer poly(benzimidazobenzophenanthroline), we obtain an exciton binding energy of about 0.3 eV, serving as a lower limit of the exciton binding energy for the organic materials investigated. Furthermore, we show that charge transfer transitions increase the exciton size and thus identify possible routes towards a further decrease of the exciton binding energy.

[Percentile Values for the Anthropometric Dimensions of Triplet Neonates - Analysis of German Perinatal Survey Data of 2007-2011 from all States of Germany]

AIM

We aimed to develop national reference values for birth weight, length, head circumference, and weight for length for newborn triplets based on data from the German perinatal survey of 2007-2011.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Perinatal survey data of 3,690 newborn triplets from all the states of Germany were kindly provided to us by the AQUA Institute in Göttingen, Germany. Data of 3,567 newborn triplets were included in the analyses. Sex-specific percentile values were calculated using cumulative frequencies. Percentile values at birth were computed for the 3rd, 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th, 90th, and 97th percentiles for 21-36 completed weeks of gestation.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

We present the first German reference values (tables and curves) for the anthropometric dimensions of triplet neonates and compare selected birth weight and length percentiles of triplets (after 32 and 34 completed weeks of gestation) to those of singletons and twins. The differences in the 50th birth weight percentiles between singletons and triplets after 32 completed weeks of gestation were 180 g for girls and 210 g for boys; after 34 weeks of gestation the differences were 320 and 325 g, respectively. The differences between twins and triplets after 32 weeks of gestation were 100 g for girls and 120 g for boys; after 34 weeks of gestation they were 130 and 135 g, respectively. The data presented here enable the classification of newborn triplets according to somatic parameters making reference to German perinatal data.

Technology modules from micro- and nano-electronics for the life sciences

The capabilities of modern semiconductor manufacturing offer remarkable possibilities to be applied in life science research as well as for its commercialization. In this review, the technology modules available in micro- and nano-electronics are exemplarily presented for the case of 250 and 130 nm technology nodes. Preparation procedures and the different transistor types as available in complementary metal-oxide-silicon devices (CMOS) and BipolarCMOS (BiCMOS) technologies are introduced as key elements of comprehensive chip architectures. Techniques for circuit design and the elements of completely integrated bioelectronics systems are outlined. The possibility for life scientists to make use of these technology modules for their research and development projects via so-called multi-project wafer services is emphasized. Various examples from diverse fields such as (1) immobilization of biomolecules and cells on semiconductor surfaces, (2) biosensors operating by different principles such as affinity viscosimetry, impedance spectroscopy, and dielectrophoresis, (3) complete systems for human body implants and monitors for bioreactors, and (4) the combination of microelectronics with microfluidics either by chip-in-polymer integration as well as Si-based microfluidics are demonstrated from joint developments with partners from biotechnology and medicine. WIREs Nanomed Nanobiotechnol 2016, 8:355-377. doi: 10.1002/wnan.1367 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.

[Recommendations of the German Society for Rheumatology on the perioperative approach under therapy with DMARDs and biologicals in inflammatory rheumatic diseases]

BACKGROUND

The perioperative administration of antirheumatic medication can lead to an increased risk of infection and to a malfunction in wound healing up to a manifest infection; however, the termination of antirheumatic therapy can result in a flare up of the disease. Both situations can endanger the success of the operation, particularly in arthroplasty.

METHOD

The recommendations have been developed and approved by the Pharmacotherapy Commission of the German Society for Rheumatology following a systematic literature search (as of 30 April 2013) and a consensus process.

RESULTS

As very little data with sufficiently high evidence are available, the present recommendations should be considered as having an advisory quality and an individual risk assessment should always be carried out. Classical disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARD), such as methotrexate can be continued in normal cases but whether this is also true for leflunomide is still undecided. For biologicals a break of two half-life periods before the operation is recommended. The therapy can be continued after wound healing has been completed and when there are no signs of infection.

[New percentile values for the anthropometric dimensions of singleton neonates: analysis of perinatal survey data of 2007-2011 from all 16 states of Germany]

AIM

The aim of this study was to derive percentile values for birth weight, length, head circumference, and weight for length for singleton neonates based on the German perinatal survey of 2007-2011 (using data from all 16 states of Germany). We also compared these new percentile values with the percentile values of 1995-2000 that so far have been considered standard values.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Data of 3 187 920 singleton neonates from the German perinatal survey of the years 2007-2011 were kindly provided to us by the AQUA Institute in Göttingen, Germany. Sex specific percentile values were calculated using cumulative frequencies. Percentile values at birth were computed for the 3(rd), 10(th), 25(th), 50(th), 75(th), 90(th), and 97(th) percentiles for 21-43 completed weeks of gestation. Percentile curves and tabulated values for the years 2007-2011 were compared with the published values of 1995-2000.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Overall the new percentile curves closely resemble the previous ones. Minimal differences can be found for the 10(th) percentile and generally for early weeks of gestation. Values for the 10(th) percentile in the 2007-2011 dataset are somewhat higher than values of 1995-2000 for birth weight, length, and weight for length.

CONCLUSIONS

We recommend the use of these new percentile values instead of the old ones.

Analysis of the German perinatal survey of the years 2007-2011 and comparison with data from 1995-1997: neonatal characteristics and duration of pregnancy

BACKGROUND AND AIM

We have previously analysed neonatal characteristics and duration of pregnancy in Germany based on data from the German Perinatal Survey of 1995-1997. Here we describe neonatal characteristics and duration of pregnancy based on the German Perinatal Survey of 2007-2011.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We had been provided with data from the German Perinatal Survey of 1995-1997 by the chambers of physicians of all the states of Germany except Baden-Württemberg (1 815 318 singleton neonates). We were also provided with access to the perinatal survey data of 2007-2011 by the AQUA Institute in Göttingen, Germany (3 187 920 singleton neonates). We investigated regional differences within Germany and also compared the 2 periods of time. We used the computer programme SPSS for data analysis and performed plausibility checks on the survey data.

RESULTS

Comparing the states of Germany, we found that birth weight was largest for neonates born in Schleswig-Holstein (3 407 g) and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania (3 392 g); the lowest mean birth weight was observed in the Saarland (3 283 g). Preterm birth rate varied between 6.3% (Saxony) and 8.1% (Bremen, Saarland). Comparing 1995-1997 vs. 2007-2011, deliveries after 37 and 38 weeks of gestation were more common and deliveries after 39 and more weeks of gestation were less common in the later period of time.

CONCLUSIONS

Regional differences in the anthropometric characteristics of neonates exist between the states of Germany. The proportion of deliveries after 39 and more weeks of gestation has decreased.

Analysis of the German Perinatal Survey of the Years 2007-2011 and Comparison with Data From 1995-1997: Maternal Characteristics

Background and Aim: We have previously presented analyses of data obtained from the German Perinatal Survey for the years 1995-1997. Here we present an analysis of data from the years 2007-2011 and compare the data to the previous data from the 1990s. Material and Methods: For the years 1995-1997, the data on 1 815 318 singleton pregnancies were provided by the Chambers of Physicians of all the states of Germany except Baden-Württemberg. For the years 2007-2011, the data on 3 187 920 singleton pregnancies from the German Perinatal Survey (all states of Germany) were obtained from the AQUA Institute in Göttingen, Germany. SPSS was used for data analysis. Plausibility checks were performed on the data. Results: Mean maternal age has increased over the years, from 28.7 years in 1995 to 30.2 years in 2011. We observed a decrease in smoking. While not all cases included data on maternal smoking after the pregnancy was known, when the cases with data on smoking were analysed, in 1995-1997 23.5 % of pregnant women were smokers compared to 11.2 % smokers in 2007-2011. Maternal body mass index (BMI) also changed; 8.2 % of women were obese (BMI: 30-40 kg/m²), while 13.0 % were obese in 2011. In 1995, 0.6 % of women were morbidly obese (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m²) compared to 1.8 % of women in 2011. The mean maternal body weight at the time of the first obstetric consultation also increased from 65.9 kg in 1995 to 68.7 kg in 2011. Conclusions: While the decrease in the number of women smoking over time is clearly a positive development, increasing maternal age and obesity present challenges in clinical practice.

Quantitative allocation of Bragg scattering effects in highly efficient OLEDs fabricated on periodically corrugated substrates

Bragg scattering effects in bottom-emitting organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) grown on corrugated aluminum-doped zinc oxide electrodes are analyzed. Periodic corrugation is introduced by structuring the oxide electrode via UV laser ablation, a process that enables flexible adjustment of the period and height of corrugation. We demonstrate that fabrication of stable and electrically efficient OLEDs on these rough substrates is feasible. Sharp spectral features are superimposed onto the broad emission spectra of the OLEDs, providing clear evidence for Bragg scattering of light from guided modes into the air cone. Theoretical analysis based on an emissive dipole model and conservation of momentum considerations allows a quantitative description of scattering and the associated dispersion relations.

Self-heating, bistability, and thermal switching in organic semiconductors

We demonstrate electric bistability induced by the positive feedback of self-heating onto the thermally activated conductivity in a two-terminal device based on the organic semiconductor C(60). The central undoped layer with a thickness of 300 nm is embedded between thinner n-doped layers adjacent to the contacts, minimizing injection barriers. The observed current-voltage characteristics follow the general theory for thermistors described by an Arrhenius-like conductivity law. Our findings include hysteresis phenomena and are of general relevance for the entire material class since most organic semiconductors can be described by a thermally activated conductivity.

Increased rate of amygdala growth in children aged 2 to 4 years with autism spectrum disorders: a longitudinal study

CONTEXT

Precocious amygdala enlargement is commonly observed in young children with autism. However, the age at which abnormal amygdala enlargement begins and the relative growth trajectories of the amygdala and total brain remain unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether the rate of amygdala growth is abnormal and disproportionate to total brain growth in very young children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs).

DESIGN

Longitudinal structural magnetic resonance imaging study.

SETTING

Neuroimaging and diagnostic assessments were performed at an academic medical center. Participants were recruited from the community.

PARTICIPANTS

Baseline scans were acquired in 132 boys (85 with ASD and 47 control subjects with typical development [TD]; mean age, 37 months). Longitudinal magnetic resonance images were acquired in 70 participants (45 with ASD and 25 TD controls) 1 year later.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Amygdala volumes and total cerebral volumes (TCVs) were evaluated at both time points, and 1-year growth rates were calculated.

RESULTS

The amygdala was larger in children with ASD at both time points, but the magnitude of enlargement was greater at time 2. The TCV was also enlarged in the children with ASD by the same magnitude at both time points. When we controlled for TCV, amygdala enlargement remained significant at both time points. The rate of amygdala growth during this 1-year interval was faster in children with ASD than in TD controls. The rate of TCV growth did not differ between groups. Post hoc exploratory analyses revealed 3 patterns of amygdala and TCV growth rates in the ASD group.

CONCLUSIONS

Disproportionate amygdala enlargement is present by 37 months of age in ASD. The amygdala continues to grow at an increased rate, but substantial heterogeneity exists in amygdala and TCV growth patterns. Future studies aimed at clinical characterization of different growth patterns could have implications for choice and outcomes of treatment and behavioral therapy.

Superlattice Calculation in an Empirical spds* Tight-Binding Model

We propose an empirical tight-binding method for tetrahedrally coordinated cubic materials and apply it to group IV and III-V semiconductors, extending existing calculations by the inclusion of all five d-orbitals per atom in the basis set. The symmetry character of the conduction states at the surface of the Brillouin zone is considerably improved compared to calculations in smaller bases, and the corresponding band positions can be obtained within the experimental uncertainties. Because the distance dependence of the tight-binding parameters is derived from deformation potentials, the model is particularly suited for an investigation of strained superlattices where the states at direct or pseudo-direct conduction band minima are composed of wavefunctions of all the minima at Γ, X, and L of the constituents. Investigations of GaAs/AlAs and short-period superlattices indicate a strong mixing between the conduction band valleys in the miniband structure, and the results are in better agreement with experiments than state-of-the-art empirical pseudopotential calculations.

Real-time changes in the optical spectrum of organic semiconducting films and their thickness regimes during growth

We present real-time in situ studies of optical spectra during thin film growth of several prototype organic semiconductors (pentacene, perfluoropentacene, and diindenoperylene) on SiO2. These data provide insight into surface and interface effects that are of fundamental importance and of relevance for applications in organic electronics. With respect to the bulk, the different molecular environment and structural changes within the first few monolayers can give rise to significant optical changes. Similar to interface-driven phenomena in, e.g., magnetism, spectral changes as a function of thickness d are a very general effect, decaying as 1/d in the simplest approximation. We observe energy shifts of 50-100 meV, rather small changes of the exciton-phonon coupling, and new transitions in specific systems, which should be considered as general features of the growth of organics.

Nanoscale spectroscopic imaging of organic semiconductor films by plasmon-polariton coupling

Tip-enhanced near-field optical images and correlated topographic images of an organic semiconductor film (diindenoperylene, DIP) on Si have been recorded with high optical contrast and high spatial resolution (17 nm) using a parabolic mirror with a high numerical aperture for tip illumination and signal collection. The DIP molecular domain boundaries being one to four molecular layers (1.5-6 nm) high are resolved topographically by a shear-force scanning tip and optically by simultaneously recording the 6x10{5} times enhanced photoluminescence (PL). The excitation is 4x10{4} times enhanced and the intrinsically weak PL-yield of the DIP-film is 15-fold enhanced by the tip. The Raman spectra indicate an upright orientation of the DIP molecules. The enhanced PL contrast results from the local film morphology via stronger coupling between the tip plasmon and the exciton-polariton in the DIP film.

Silicon nanowire oxidation: the influence of sidewall structure and gold distribution

The oxidation behavior of Si nanowires (SiNWs) grown by the gold (Au) catalyzed vapor-liquid-solid (VLS) growth process in an electron beam evaporation (EBE) reactor is studied. The VLS SiNWs exhibit hexagonal shape with essentially {112} facets where each facet shows a saw-tooth faceting itself, consisting of alternating {111} and {113} facets. Depending on growth temperatures (450-750 degrees C) and evaporation currents (40-80 mA) that determine the silicon vapor supply, this facet formation is more or less pronounced. The diffusion of Au atoms on the faceted SiNW surfaces and the formation of Au nanoparticles on the SiNW facets during growth and during ex situ annealing are studied. Upon diffusion, the Au atoms agglomerate and form Au nanoparticles that preferably arrange themselves on {113} facets. Upon annealing in air at temperatures between 800 and 950 degrees C the gold nanoparticles agglomerate further and form bigger particles of a few tens of nm in diameter that reside at the interface between the growing silica (SiO(2)) layer and the SiNW itself, which in turn shrinks during SiNW oxidation. The oxide layer thickness and the oxide appearance depend on the annealing conditions (time and temperature) and systematically varied oxidation processing is described in this paper as investigated by cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy (TEM) including high resolution studies as well as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) studies. Our results strongly suggest that the SiNWs can be fully oxidized, thus forming silica NWs that can either keep their initial shape or, under certain annealing conditions, do not keep their initial wire shape but assume a bamboo-like shape that forms most likely as a result of locally high stresses that are related to nanocrack formation. The nanocracks form in the growing oxide layer mediated by the presence of Au nanoparticles that yield gold-enhanced SiNW oxidation and thus a faster oxidation rate.

Clinical hyperthermia of prostate cancer using magnetic nanoparticles: Presentation of a new interstitial technique

The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate whether the technique of magnetic fluid hyperthermia can be used for minimally invasive treatment of prostate cancer. This paper presents the first clinical application of interstitial hyperthermia using magnetic nanoparticles in locally recurrent prostate cancer. Treatment planning was carried out using computerized tomography (CT) of the prostate. Based on the individual anatomy of the prostate and the estimated specific absorption rate (SAR) of magnetic fluids in prostatic tissue, the number and position of magnetic fluid depots required for sufficient heat deposition was calculated while rectum and urethra were spared. Nanoparticle suspensions were injected transperineally into the prostate under transrectal ultrasound and flouroscopy guidance. Treatments were delivered in the first magnetic field applicator for use in humans, using an alternating current magnetic field with a frequency of 100 kHz and variable field strength (0-18 kA m(-1)). Invasive thermometry of the prostate was carried out in the first and last of six weekly hyperthermia sessions of 60 min duration. CT-scans of the prostate were repeated following the first and last hyperthermia treatment to document magnetic nanoparticle distribution and the position of the thermometry probes in the prostate. Nanoparticles were retained in the prostate during the treatment interval of 6 weeks. Using appropriate software (AMIRA), a non-invasive estimation of temperature values in the prostate, based on intra-tumoural distribution of magnetic nanoparticles, can be performed and correlated with invasively measured intra-prostatic temperatures. Using a specially designed cooling device, treatment was well tolerated without anaesthesia. In the first patient treated, maximum and minimum intra-prostatic temperatures measured at a field strength of 4.0-5.0 kA m(-1) were 48.5 degrees C and 40.0 degrees C during the 1st treatment and 42.5 degrees C and 39.4 degrees C during the 6th treatment, respectively. These first clinical experiences prompted us to initiate a phase I study to evaluate feasibility, toxicity and quality of life during hyperthermia using magnetic nanoparticles in patients with biopsy-proven local recurrence of prostate cancer following radiotherapy with curative intent. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report on clinical application of interstitial hyperthermia using magnetic nanoparticles in the treatment of human cancer.

Difficidin and bacilysin produced by plant-associated Bacillus amyloliquefaciens are efficient in controlling fire blight disease

Representatives of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens were shown to possess biocontrol activity against fire blight, a serious disease of orchard trees caused by Erwinia amylovora. Genome analysis of B. amyloliquefaciens FZB42 identified gene clusters responsible for synthesis of several polyketide compounds with antibacterial action. We show here that the antibacterial polyketides difficidin and to a minor extent bacillaene act efficiently against E. amylovora. Surprisingly, a mutant strain blocked in the production of difficidin (CH8 Deltadfn) inhibited growth of E. amylovora and suppressed fire blight disease nearly in the same range as the wild type. In addition, a sfp mutant (CH3 Deltasfp) unable to synthesize non-ribosomally lipopeptides and polyketides did still suppress growth of E. amylovora, suggesting that besides action of polyketides another antagonistic principle exist. A double mutant (RS06 Deltasfp Deltabac) devoid in polyketide and bacilysin synthesis was unable to suppress growth of E. amylovora indicating that the additional inhibitory effect is due to production of bacilysin, a dipeptide whose synthesis does not depend on Sfp. We propose to use B. amyloliquefaciens strains with enhanced synthesis of difficidin and/or bacilysin for development of biocontrol agents efficient against fire blight disease.

[The total ankle replacement for severe arthropathy in haemophilia]

The endoprosthetic surgery of the upper ankle joint in profound arthrosis has significantly increased over the last years. Along with the established arthodesis the alloarthroplastic became a good alternative. The main indication for the implantation of an ankle joint endoprosthesis is a secondary arthrosis in patients with rheumatic diseases or post-traumatic status. In accordance with our experience case reports on the total ankle arthroplasty in haemophilic arthropathy show that the artificial substitute of the upper ankle joint can be a successful treatment of these patients under certain conditions. The outstanding benefit is to be seen in the preservation of a sufficient mobility for everyday movements and a more physiological process of walking. In case of endoprosthetic failure a relatively save opportunity for revision in the mostly younger patients can be found in the new osteosynthesis techniques. Also in haemophilic arthropathy with painful advanced arthrosis and functional limitation of the upper ankle joint the endoprosthetic care can be taken into consideration.

Fabrication and characterization of a flow-through nanoporous gold nanowire/AAO composite membrane

The fabrication of a composite membrane of nanoporous gold nanowires and anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) is demonstrated by the electrodeposition of Au-Ag alloy nanowires into an AAO membrane, followed by selective etching of silver from the alloy nanowires. This composite membrane is advantageous for flow-through type catalytic reactions. The morphology evolution of the nanoporous gold nanowires as a function of the diameter of the Au-Ag nanowire 'precursors' is also investigated.

Enhanced surface-excitonic emission in ZnO/Al(2)O(3) core-shell nanowires

We report the influence of an Al(2)O(3) shell on the photoluminescence emission of ZnO nanowires. At room temperature, the spectrum of the core-shell nanowires shows a strong reduction of the relative intensity of the green defect emission with respect to the near-band-edge emission. At 5 K an increase of the relative intensity of the surface exciton band with respect to the donor-bound exciton emission is observed. Annealing the core-shell nanowires at 500 °C does not increase the green defect luminescence at 5 K. We propose a model explaining the spectral changes.

[Short-stemmed endoprostheses in total hip arthroplasty]

Short-stemmed endoprostheses in total hip arthroplasty are anchored exclusively in the metaphysis and the proximal part of the diaphysis. Therefore, they are much shorter than the classic standard stems. These implants are specially favourable in terms of eventual revision surgery, and also due to the fact that with close diaphyseal bone marrow spaces a sufficient proximal size dimensioning is possible. In this study, the best known short-stemmed systems in clinical use are introduced. Positive long-term results are so far available only with the Pipino and Mayo stems, short and partially medium-term experience with the remaining short stems (C.F.P.(R), Metha, PROXIMA, ESKA) are--with the available learning curve--encouraging. Despite the call for sufficient experience and scientific evaluation, short-stemmed endoprostheses already represent a valuable alternative in endoprosthetics for younger patients.

Morbidity and quality of life during thermotherapy using magnetic nanoparticles in locally recurrent prostate cancer: results of a prospective phase I trial

PURPOSE

To investigate the treatment-related morbidity and quality of life (QoL) during thermotherapy using superparamagnetic nanoparticles in patients with locally recurrent prostate cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ten patients with biopsy-proven locally recurrent prostate cancer following primary therapy with curative intent and no detectable metastases were entered on a prospective phase I trial. Endpoints were feasibility, toxicity and QoL. Following intraprostatic injection of a nanoparticle dispersion, six thermal therapy sessions of 60 min duration were delivered at weekly intervals using an alternating magnetic field. National Cancer Institute (NCI) common toxicity criteria (CTC) and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QLQ-C30 and QLQ-PR25 questionnaires were used to evaluate toxicity and QoL, respectively. In addition, prostate specific antigen (PSA) measurements were carried out.

RESULTS

Maximum temperatures up to 55 degrees C were achieved in the prostates at 25-30% of the available magnetic field strength. Nanoparticle deposits were detectable in the prostates one year after thermal therapy. At a median follow-up of 17.5 months (3-24), no systemic toxicity was observed. Acute urinary retention occurred in four patients with previous history of urethral stricture. Treatment-related morbidity was moderate and QoL was only temporarily impaired. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) declines were observed in eight patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Interstitial heating using magnetic nanoparticles was feasible and well tolerated in patients with locally recurrent prostate cancer. Deposition of nanoparticles in the prostate was highly durable. Further refinement of the technique is necessary to allow application of higher magnetic field strengths.