bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The aggressive peripheral T‐cell lymphomas: 2012 update on diagnosis, risk stratification, and management
Authors: Armitage James O.
Published: April 2012

Background: T‐cell lymphomas make up approximately 10–15% of lymphoid malignancies. The frequency of these lymphomas varies geographically, with the highest incidence in parts of Asia. Diagnosis: The diagnosis of aggressive peripheral T‐cell lymphoma (PTCL) is usually made using the WHO classification. The ability of hematopathologists to reproducibly diagnose aggressive PTCL is lower than for aggressive B‐cell lymphomas, with a range of 72–97% for the aggressive PTCLs. Risk Stratification: Patients with aggressive PTCL are staged using the Ann Arbor Classification. Although somewhat controversial, positron emission tomography (PET) scans appear to be useful as they are in aggressive B‐cell lymphomas. The most commonly used prognostic index is the International Prognostic Index. The specific subtype of aggressive PTCL is an important risk factor, with the best survival seen in anaplastic large‐cell lymphoma—particularly young patients with the anaplastic lymphoma kinase positive subtype. Risk Adapted Therapy: Anaplastic large‐cell lymphoma is the only subgroup to have a good response to a cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, prednisone (CHOP)‐like regimen. Angioimmunoblastic T‐cell lymphoma has a prolonged disease‐free survival in only ∼20% of patients, but younger patients who have an autotransplant in remission seem to do better. PTCL‐not otherwise specified (NOS) is not one disease. Anthracycline containing regimens have disappointing results and a new approach is needed. NK/T‐cell lymphoma localized to the nose and nasal sinuses seems to be best treated with radiotherapy containing regimens. Enteropathy associated PTCL and hepatosplenic PTCL are rare disorders with a generally poor response to therapy, although selected patients with enteropathy associated PTCL seem to benefit from intensive therapy. Am. J. Hematol. 87:511–519, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Leptin and adiponectin: Distribution and associations with cardiovascular risk factors in men and women of the general population
Authors: Andreasson Anna Nixon , Undén Anna‐Lena , Elofsson Stig , Brismar Kerstin
Published: April 2012

Objective:

In view of the increasing prevalence of obesity worldwide, understanding the role of the recently discovered adipokines leptin and adiponectin is of high clinical relevance. The aim of the present study was to assess the association between levels of leptin and adiponectin with age, known cardiovascular risk factors and to establish whether there are differences between men and women of the general population.

Methods:

A total of 98 men and 107 women of the general population, aged between 20 and 74 years, underwent a medical examination at a clinical research center and fasting morning blood samples were also taken.

Results:

Leptin (mean 7.5 μg l−1 in men and 16.0 μg l−1 in women) and adiponectin (mean 7.3 mg l−1 in men and 11.9 mg l−1 in women) levels were higher in women than men (Ps < 0.001). Both leptin and adiponectin levels increased with advancing age in both men and women (Ps < 0.05). Leptin was highly associated with factors for metabolic syndrome in men while in women, leptin was highly associated with inflammatory factors. Adiponectin was associated with blood lipids in both men and women, and glucose homeostasis more in women than in men.

Conclusions:

Leptin and adiponectin levels were ∼2 times and 1.5 times higher in women than in men, respectively. In addition, although leptin and adiponectin were associated to CVD risk factors in both men and women, we observed differences in specific CVD risk factor groups between men and women. These differences may be due to different regulatory mechanisms and effects of these adipokines in men and women. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Primary osteoporosis without features of OI in children and adolescents: Clinical and genetic characteristics
Authors: Laine Christine M. , Koltin Dror , Susic Miki , Varley Talia L. , Daneman Alan , Moineddin Rahim , Cole William G. , Mäkitie Outi , Sochett Etienne
Published: April 2012

Our aim was to characterize clinical findings and familial associations, and to examine candidate genes for disease‐causing mutations in a cohort of children suffering from primary osteoporosis without features of osteogenesis imperfecta. Patients with osteoporosis and their nuclear families were studied. Medical history was reviewed. Calcium homeostasis parameters were measured and spinal radiographs obtained. BMD was determined by DXA for patients, parents and siblings. LRP5, LRP6, and PTHLH genes were sequenced. Twenty‐seven patients (14 males) from 24 families were recruited. Median age at presentation was 10.1 years (range 3.3–15.6 years). One‐third of the children had at least one parent with a BMD below the expected range for age. LRP5, LRP6, and PTHLH showed no causative mutations. Four polymorphisms in LRP5 were overrepresented in patients; the minor allele frequency of Q89R, V667M, N740N, and A1330V was significantly higher than in controls. Age of onset, clinical severity, and inheritance patterns are variable in children with primary osteoporosis. Several patients had evidence suggestive of familial transmission. The underlying genetic factors remain to be elucidated. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
On the interaction between an electric quadrupole moment and electric fields
Authors: Bakke K.
Published: April 2012

In this work, quantum effects are discussed which arise from the interaction between an electric quadrupole moment and electric fields. It is shown that, by choosing a diagonal electric quadrupole tensor whose components are constants, the interaction between an electric quadrupole moment and electric fields gives rise to the scalar Aharonov‐Bohm effect and to bound states analogous to the confinement of a quantum particle to a quantum dot. Moreover, the influence of a constant force field on the confinement analogous to a quantum dot, and the influence of an antidot‐like potential on the Landau levels of an electric quadrupole moment are discussed.
Nonisothermal crystallization and multiple melting behaviors of β‐nucleated impact‐resistant polypropylene copolymer
Authors: Li Xiaoxi , Wu Haiyan , Chen Jingwei , Yang Jinghui , Huang Ting , Zhang Nan , Wang Yong
Published: April 2012

As a substitute of isotactic polypropylene in applications requiring excellent fracture resistance, impact‐resistant polypropylene copolymer (IPC) has attracted much attention in recent years. In this study, a highly effective β‐form nucleating agent (β‐NA; an aryl amide compound) was introduced into IPC, and our attention was focused on the nonisothermal crystallization and subsequent melting behaviors of the nucleated samples. The nonisothermal crystallization behaviors were investigated on the basis of the different cooling rates and different concentrations of β‐NA with differential scanning calorimetry, wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD), and polarized optical microscopy. The results show that both the cooling rate and concentration of β‐NA greatly determined the nonisothermal crystallization process and subsequent multiple melting behaviors. Further results show that the multiple melting behaviors were related to the transition in β crystallites and those between the β and α crystallites. The morphologies of the dispersed particles and the supermolecular structure of the matrix were characterized with scanning electron microscopy. Finally, the effect of the β‐NA concentration on the fracture resistance of IPC was evaluated by measurement of the notched Izod impact strength. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Dependence of the liquid absorption behavior of nonwovens on their material and structural characteristics: Modeling and experiments
Authors: Das Dipayan , Pradhan Arun Kumar , Pourdeyhimi Behnam
Published: April 2012

Nonwovens are widely used as liquid absorbent products. Baby diapers, sanitary napkins, adult incontinence pads, oil sorbents, wet wipes, and wound dressings, to name a few, are excellent examples of the use of nonwovens as absorbent media. The performance of nonwoven absorbent media is determined by its liquid absorption behavior, which is characterized by the capacity of absorption and the rate of absorption. In this article, we report on the effects of the physical characteristics of the constituent fibers and the internal structure of the nonwovens on their liquid absorption behavior. A theoretical model of liquid absorption behavior of nonwovens was developed, and this model was verified with a set of experimental results obtained on real nonwoven materials. The nonwoven materials were prepared with polyester fibers with different cross‐sectional sizes and their liquid absorption properties were measured with the gravimetric absorbency testing system. We observed that the size of fiber cross sections and the porosity of the nonwovens played very important roles in determining their absorbent capacity and rate of absorption. The results of the experiments were discussed in light of the theoretical model. The theoretical results were found to be in good agreement with the experimental results. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Fabrication and characterization of multilayer SiO2/polymethacrylic acid/polypyrrole composites and hollow polypyrrole microspheres
Authors: Wang Wenqin , Lu Linchao , Chen Tianyang , Rao Mian
Published: April 2012

Methacrylic acid was polymerized on the 3‐(methacryloxy)propyl trimethoxysilane‐modified silica core. The carboxylic acid groups of polymethacrylic acid (PMAA) not only provide the “active‐sites” for growth of the pyrrole monomers but also act as doping acids for polypyrrole (PPy). By in situ polymerization route, SiO2/PMAA/PPy multilayer composites and hollow PPy microspheres with controllable shell thickness were fabricated. The morphologies, sizes, and structures of the nanocomposites were investigated in detail by transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier‐transform infrared spectra, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Comparison of the properties of compacted and porous lamellar chitosan–xanthan membranes as dressings and scaffolds for the treatment of skin lesions
Authors: Bellini Márcia Zilioli , Pires Ana Luíza Resende , Vasconcelos Mariana Oliveira , Moraes Ângela Maria
Published: April 2012

Compacted and porous lamellar membranes of xanthan (Xn) and chitosan (Ch) at mass ratios of 1 : 1 and 1.2 : 0.8 were prepared and tested to verify possible applications in the treatment of skin lesions. All membranes were prepared by complexation of the polysaccharides in solution and subsequent casting. The porous membranes were obtained by adding either Tween 80 or Pluronic F68 to the polysaccharide complexes before casting. Membranes prepared in the absence of surfactants at a mass ratio of Xn to Ch of 1 : 1 proved ideal for use as wound dressings, as they were thin (around 0.10 mm in thickness) and transparent and had low in vitro cytotoxicity to L929 cells, a tensile strength at break of 25 MPa, water absorption after 24 h of around 86 g/g and simulated body fluid absorption of 16% and adequate stability in the presence of the same solutions. Membranes prepared at the mass ratio of Xn to Ch of 1 : 1 in the presence of Pluronic F68 showed the most favorable characteristics for application as scaffolds for tissue engineering. These membranes consisted of a matrix with interconnected pores which were distributed homogeneously throughout the structure and had a thickness of 1.84 mm, high capacity for FBS uptake (around 18 g/g) and cell culture medium uptake (8.6 g/g), a loss of mass in the culture medium of 33% after 144 h, and low in vitro toxicity to L929 cells. In conclusion, membranes of Ch and Xn produced in the presence or absence of the surfactant Pluronic F68 have a high potential for use as scaffolds in tissue engineering or as dermal dressings, respectively, whereas in contrast, membranes prepared in the presence of Tween 80, regardless of the mass ratio of Xn to Ch, were very cytotoxic to L929 cells and therefore were not appropriate for any of the proposed applications. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
New method for coupling collagen on biodegradable polyurethane for biomedical application
Authors: He Xianyun , Zhai Zhichen , Wang Yingjun , Wu Gang , Zheng Zhiwen , Wang Qunfang , Liu Yang
Published: April 2012

A two‐step method was used in this article to synthesize a novel biodegradable polyurethane (PU) composed by L‐lysine ethyl ester diisocyanate (LDI) hard segment, poly(ε‐caprolactone) diols (PCL‐diol) soft segment and 1,4:3,6‐dianhydro‐D‐sorbitol (isosorbide) chain extender. FTIR, 1H‐NMR results revealed the products had typical PU structures. GPC result showed that the number average molecular weight of the PU was 36,800 with the heterodisperse index of 2.18. DSC result displayed the PU melting temperature was 42°C. Surface aminolyzing of the PU membrane was performed by reacting it with 1,3‐propanediamine under alkaline condition. Then, type I collagen was grafted on the PU surface by EDC/NHS coupling method. Rhodamine B isothiocyanate (RBITC) fluorescence spectrum presented that both amino group (NH2) and type I collagen were successfully introduced on the PU surface. Furthermore, ninhydrin analysis showed that the maximum surface density of amino groups was 11.4 × 10−7 mol/cm2 after aminolyzing in 12% 1,3‐propanediamine aqueous solution for 1 h. Cell viability experiments indicated both PU‐NH2 and PU‐Col had low cytotoxicity and supported the ATDC5 cell's proliferation on them. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Synthesis of amphiphilic triblock copolymers for the formation of magnesium fluoride (MgF2) nanoparticles
Authors: Bas Serkan , Chatterjee Uma , Soucek Mark D.
Published: April 2012

A series of amphiphilic poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate)‐b‐polydimethylsiloxane‐b‐poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (pHEMA‐b‐PDMS‐b‐pHEMA) (A‐B‐A) triblock copolymers were synthesized from three different carbinol‐terminated polydimethylsiloxanes with varying molecular weight. A carbinol‐terminated polydimethylsiloxane was modified with 2‐bromoisobutyryl bromide to obtain a macroinitiator. The block copolymers were characterized by NMR, GPC, and dynamic light scattering (DLS). Reverse micelles of a copolymer were formed in mixture of benzene/methanol solution which served as nanoreactors for the synthesis of magnesium fluoride (MgF2) nanoparticles. The MgF2 was prepared via chemical precipitation using magnesium chloride and potassium fluoride as reactants. The MgF2‐triblock copolymer composites were synthesized as a function of MgF2–weight ratio (0.5, 5, and 10 wt%) in copolymer. The MgF2 colloids were dissolved in three organic solvents: methanol, isopropanol, and tetrahydrofuran. The polymer nanoparticles were characterized by DLS, transmission electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The formation of MgF2 crystals was observed by XRD. Particle size and particle size distribution showed significant changes in different solvents. The thermal stability of MgF2 colloids increased as the amount of nanoparticle increased in polymeric matrix. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Biodegradable composites from polyester and sugar beet pulp with antimicrobial coating for food packaging
Authors: Li Weili , Coffin David R. , Jin Tony Z. , Latona Nicolas , Liu Cheng‐Kung , Liu Bo , Zhang Jinwen , Liu LinShu
Published: April 2012

Totally biodegradable, double‐layered antimicrobial composite films were introduced for food packaging. The substrate layers of the sheets were prepared from poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and sugar beet pulp (SBP) or poly (butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate (PBAT) and SBP by a twin‐screw extruder. The active layer consisting of antimicrobial in either PLA or chitosan was formed on the surfaces of the substrates by solution coating followed by solvent evaporation. Air‐coupled ultrasonic evaluation and microscopic examination showed a homogeneous structure for the composite sheets. Mechanical analysis and acoustic emission demonstrated the double‐layered composites possessing appropriate tensile strength and fracture characteristics for the use as light weight‐bearing materials. The release of Nisaplin® or allyl isothiocyanate (AIT) effectively suppressed the growth of Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella cells, respectively; the co‐release of Nisaplin® and AIT played a synergistic effect on inhibition of L. monocytogenes. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Aliphatic polycarbonate‐based polyurethane elastomers and nanocomposites. I. The influence of hard‐segment content and macrodiol‐constitution on bottom‐up self‐assembly
Authors: Špírková Milena , Poręba Rafał , Pavličević Jelena , Kobera Libor , Baldrian Josef , Pekárek Michal
Published: April 2012

Aliphatic polycarbonate‐based polyurethane (PC‐PU) elastomers as well as their nanocomposites with organic‐modified clay (bentonite for organic system) were synthesized. Macrodiols (MD) (randomly copolymerized aliphatic PC‐glycols of molecular weight of about 2000: T5652, T4672, and T4692), hexamethylene diisocyanate, and butane‐1,4‐diol were used as starting materials. Solid‐state NMR and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, small‐angle X‐ray scattering, wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy were used for studying the bottom‐up self‐assembly of building units from the segmental level up that of organized structures of micrometer sizes. Contents of hard segments formed by the reaction of chain extender with diisocyanate plays a dominant role for the degree of ordering and related phenomena, while the MD chain has only limited effect on PC‐PU properties. The spectroscopy and scattering experiments suggest that bentonite particles incorporate well in the structure and promote the ordering of hard segment domains in PC‐PU matrix as compared with the nanofiller‐free analogue. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
The Hegelian inquiring system and a critical triangulation tool for the Internet information slave: A design science study
Authors: Wijnhoven Fons
Published: April 2012

This article discusses people's understanding of reality by representations from the Internet. The Hegelian inquiry system is used here to explain the nature of informing on the Internet as activities of information masters to influence information slaves' opinions and as activities of information slaves to become well informed. The key assumption of Hegelianism regarding information is that information has no value independent from the interests and worldviews (theses) it supports. As part of the dialectic process of generating syntheses, we propose a role for information science of offering methods to critically evaluate the master's information, and by this we develop an opinion (thesis) independent from the master's power. For this we offer multiple methods for information criticism, named triangulation, which may help users to evaluate a master's evidence. This article presents also a prototype of a Hegelian information triangulator tool for information slaves (i.e., nonexperts). The article concludes with suggestions for further research on informative triangulation.
Why the interactions of fast ions with foils are distinct from charge exchange
Authors: Träbert E.
Published: April 2012

The intensity patterns of some Rydberg line series in the X‐ray spectra of foil‐excited fast ion beams bear a resemblance to patterns seen with SN remnants or after charge exchange (CX). Closer scrutiny of the ion‐foil interaction process reveals why this is no more than a chance resemblance, because the underlying processes are very different. However, electron beam ion traps are suitable for CX observations (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Exospheric solar wind charge exchange as seen by XMM‐Newton
Authors: Carter J.A. , Sembay S. , Read A.M.
Published: April 2012

We review a selection of recent papers describing solar wind charge exchange emission occurring in the Earth's exosphere as seen by the X‐ray observatory XMM‐Newton. We discuss the detection of this emission, the occurrence with respect to the solar cycle and solar activity, and various spectral signatures observed. We also describe a model developed to predict the X‐ray signal from exospheric charge exchange as would be detected by XMM‐Newton, given the upstream solar wind conditions obtained from in situ solar wind monitors (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Prototyping a global soft X‐ray imaging instrument for heliophysics, planetary science, and astrophysics science
Authors: Collier M.R. , Porter F.S. , Sibeck D.G. , Carter J.A. , Chiao M.P. , Chornay Dj. , Cravens T. , Galeazzi M. , Keller J.W. , Koutroumpa D. , Kuntz K. , Read A.M. , Robertson I.P. , Sembay S. , Snowden S. , Thomas N.
Published: April 2012

We describe current progress in the development of a prototype wide field‐of‐view soft X‐ray imager that employs Lobster‐eye optics and targets heliophysics, planetary, and astrophysics science. The prototype will provide proof‐of‐concept for a future flight instrument capable of imaging the entire dayside magnetosheath from outside the magnetosphere. Such an instrument was proposed for the ESA AXIOM mission (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Solar system X‐rays from charge exchange processes
Authors: Dennerl K. , Lisse C.M. , Bhardwaj A. , Christian D.J. , Wolk S.J. , Bodewits D. , Zurbuchen T.H. , Combi M. , Lepri S.
Published: April 2012

While X‐ray astronomy began in 1962 and has made fast progress since then in expanding our knowledge about where in the Universe X‐rays are generated by which processes, it took one generation before the importance of a fundamentally different process was recognized. This happened in our immediate neighborhood, when in 1996 comets were discovered as a new class of X‐ray sources, directing our attention to charge exchange reactions. Charge exchange is fundamentally different from other processes which lead to the generation of X‐rays, because the X‐rays are not produced by hot electrons, but by ions picking up electrons from cold gas. Thus it opens up a new window, making it possible to detect cool gas in X‐rays (like in comets), while all the other processes require extremely high temperatures or otherwise extreme conditions. After having been overlooked for a long time, the astrophysical importance of charge exchange for the generation of X‐rays is now receiving increased general attention. In our solar system, charge exchange induced X‐rays have now been established to originate in comets, in all the planets from Venus to Jupiter, and even in the heliosphere itself. In addition to that, evidence for this X‐ray emission mechanism has been found at various locations across the Universe. Here we summarize the current knowledge about solar system X‐rays resulting from charge exchange processes (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Approximating the X‐ray spectrum emitted from astrophysical charge exchange
Authors: Smith R.K. , Foster A.R. , Brickhouse N.S.
Published: April 2012

Charge exchange (CX), both onto ions in the solar wind and potentially in other astrophysical contexts, can create X‐ray emission lines largely indistinguishable from those created in collisional or photoionized plasmas. The prime distinguishing characteristic is in the distinctly different line ratios generated by the CX process. A complete astrophysical model of the process would require a vast number of atomic calculations; we describe here an approximate approach that will allow astronomers to evaluate the likely contribution of CX to an observed spectrum. The method relies upon an approximate calculation of the CX cross section paired with detailed atomic structure calculations used to determine the emission lines. Simulated spectra based on observed solar wind CX data are shown for both current (Suzaku) and near‐term (Astro‐H) missions (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effects of glycyrrhizin on biliary transport and hepatic levels of glutathione in rats
Authors: Xu Ruijuan , Zhang Xueying , Yang Jin , Liu Xiaoquan , Davey Andrew K , Wang Jiping
Published: April 2012

The purpose of the current study was to determine whether glycyrrhizin (GL) maintains hepatic glutathione (GSH) levels by inhibiting GSH biliary secretion in normal rats. The effects of glycyrrhizin on hepatic glutathione content, bile flow and biliary secretion of glutathione were examined. Because glutathione is a substrate for multidrug resistance associated protein‐2 (Mrp2/ABCC2), the inhibitory effects of GL on Mrp2 in isolated perfused rat liver and in Mrp2‐expressing Sf9 membrane vesicles were also examined using the Mrp2 substrate methotrexate (MTX) and estradiol‐17‐β‐glucuronide (E217G). The hepatic content of glutathione in rats following GL perfusion (43.7 µmol/l) in isolated liver perfusion and GL intravenous treatment (25 mg/kg) was significantly higher than that for the control. A marked and dose‐dependent decrease in the excretion of glutathione was observed. In addition, the secretion rate of MTX was decreased by 57% in isolated liver perfusion in GL‐treated rats. Moreover the ATP‐dependent uptake of E217G by Mrp2 membrane vesicles was decreased by 75.9% in the 20 µm GL group and by 60.5% in the 2 µm GL group. In conclusion, glycyrrhizin increases hepatic glutathione content possibly through inhibition of Mrp2 which then reduces the biliary excretion of glutathione. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison ofSeggerand other methods for segmentation and rigid‐body docking of molecular components in Cryo‐EM density maps
Authors: Pintilie Grigore , Chiu Wah
Published: April 2012

Segmentation and docking are useful methods for the discovery of molecular components in electron cryo‐microscopy (cryo‐EM) density maps of macromolecular complexes. In this article, we describe the segmentation and docking methods implemented inSegger. For 11 targets posted in the 2010 cryo‐EM challenge, we segmented the regions corresponding to individual molecular components usingSegger. We then used the segmented regions to guide rigid‐body docking of individual components. Docking results were evaluated by comparing the docked components with published structures, and by calculation of several scores, such as atom inclusion, density occupancy, and geometry clash. The accuracy of the component segmentation using Segger and other methods was assessed by comparing segmented regions with docked components. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 97: 742–760, 2012.
A novel environmental chamber for neuronal network multisite recordings
Authors: Biffi E. , Regalia G. , Ghezzi D. , De Ceglia R. , Menegon A. , Ferrigno G. , Fiore G.B. , Pedrocchi A.
Published: April 2012

Environmental stability is a critical issue for neuronal networks in vitro. Hence, the ability to control the physical and chemical environment of cell cultures during electrophysiological measurements is an important requirement in the experimental design. In this work, we describe the development and the experimental verification of a closed chamber for multisite electrophysiology and optical monitoring. The chamber provides stable temperature, pH and humidity and guarantees cell viability comparable to standard incubators. Besides, it integrates the electronics for long‐term neuronal activity recording. The system is portable and adaptable for multiple network housings, which allows performing parallel experiments in the same environment. Our results show that this device can be a solution for long‐term electrophysiology, for dual network experiments and for coupled optical and electrical measurements. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2012; 109: 2553–2566. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Development of a novel ER stress based selection system for the isolation of highly productive clones
Authors: Kober Lars , Zehe Christoph , Bode Juergen
Published: April 2012

Most biotherapeutic drugs are recombinant monoclonal antibodies which are mostly produced in monoclonal cell lines derived from Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. Various clones expressing a monoclonal recombinant antibody were analyzed and a correlation of the antibody concentration and the relative mRNA level of calreticulin (CALR), glucose‐regulated protein 78 and 94 kDa (GRP78, GRP94) and spliced X‐box binding protein 1 (XPB1) was observed. By means of these results we were motivated to establish a novel selection system based on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, which allows the rapid identification and isolation of high‐expressing clones out of a pool mainly consisting of low‐ and medium‐producing cells. Several ER stress responsive elements were tested with the aid of a recombinase mediated cassette exchange (RMCE) procedure. Very surprisingly, only GRP78 reporter constructs were strongly stimulated upon antibody expression. Furthermore we found that GRP78 reporter constructs are very suitable to reflect the level of antibody expression (IgG) in recombinant CHO cells. Based on these results, it is concluded, that the novel ER stress based selection system developed during this study is suitable to identify and isolate clones with a high level of antibody expression. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2012; 109: 2599–2611. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The design of long‐term effective uranium bioremediation strategy using a community metabolic model
Authors: Zhuang K. , Ma E. , Lovley Derek R. , Mahadevan Radhakrishnan
Published: April 2012

Acetate amendment at uranium contaminated sites in Rifle, CO. leads to an initial bloom of Geobacter accompanied by the removal of U(VI) from the groundwater, followed by an increase of sulfate‐reducing bacteria (SRBs) which are poor reducers of U(VI). One of the challenges associated with bioremediation is the decay in Geobacter abundance, which has been attributed to the depletion of bio‐accessible Fe(III), motivating the investigation of simultaneous amendments of acetate and Fe(III) as an alternative bioremediation strategy. In order to understand the community metabolism of Geobacter and SRBs during artificial substrate amendment, we have created a genome‐scale dynamic community model of Geobacter and SRBs using the previously described Dynamic Multi‐species Metabolic Modeling framework. Optimization techniques are used to determine the optimal acetate and Fe(III) addition profile. Field‐scale simulation of acetate addition accurately predicted the in situ data. The simulations suggest that batch amendment of Fe(III) along with continuous acetate addition is insufficient to promote long‐term bioremediation, while continuous amendment of Fe(III) along with continuous acetate addition is sufficient to promote long‐term bioremediation. By computationally minimizing the acetate and Fe(III) addition rates as well as the difference between the predicted and target uranium concentration, we showed that it is possible to maintain the uranium concentration below the environmental safety standard while minimizing the cost of chemical additions. These simulations show that simultaneous addition of acetate and Fe(III) has the potential to be an effective uranium bioremediation strategy. They also show that computational modeling of microbial community is an important tool to design effective strategies for practical applications in environmental biotechnology. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2012; 109: 2475–2483. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fluorescent silica particles for monitoring oxygen levels in three‐dimensional heterogeneous cellular structures
Authors: Acosta Miguel A. , Velasquez Melissa , Williams Katelyn , Ross Julia M. , Leach Jennie B.
Published: April 2012

Bacterial biofilms are a major obstacle challenging the development of more effective therapies to treat implant infections. Oxygen availability to bacterial cells has been implicated in biofilm formation and planktonic cell detachment; however, there are insufficient tools available to measure oxygen concentrations within complex three‐dimensional structures with ∼1 µm resolution. Such measurements may complement measures of biofilm structure and cell activity to provide a more comprehensive understanding of biofilm biology. Thus, we developed oxygen‐sensing microparticles specifically designed to characterize oxygen transport through the volume of bacterial biofilms. The Stöber method was used to synthesize monodisperse silica microparticles of approximately the same size as a bacterium (∼1 µm). Two fluorophores, oxygen‐sensitive Ru(Ph2phen3)Cl2, and the reference fluorophore Nile blue chloride were immobilized on the surface of the particles. We demonstrate application of the microparticles toward measuring the oxygen concentration profiles within a live Staphylococcus aureus biofilm. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2012; 109: 2663–2670. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Electrochemotherapy for disseminated superficial metastases from malignant melanoma
Authors: Campana L G , Valpione S , Mocellin S , Sundararajan R , Granziera E , Sartore L , Chiarion-Sileni V , Rossi C R
Published: April 2012

Background

The aim of the study was to determine predictive factors for effectiveness, toxicity and local disease control in patients with malignant melanoma treated with bleomycin-based electrochemotherapy (ECT).

Methods

Electrochemotherapy was offered to patients with superficially disseminated melanoma metastases unsuitable for resection and unresponsive to chemotherapy.

Results

Eighty-five patients were treated with up to six ECT cycles with minimal, mainly dermatological, toxicity. One month after the first ECT, an objective response was observed in 80 patients (94 per cent). After retreatment because of a partial response in 39 patients, a complete response was achieved in 19 patients. Among the 41 (48 per cent) complete responders at first ECT, 19 patients received a second cycle because of new lesions after a median of 6 (range 2–14) months. After a median follow-up of 26 months, six patients experienced local recurrence with a 2-year local progression-free survival rate of 87 per cent. In multivariable analysis, significant predictive factors for response were tumour size (odds ratio (OR) 0·23, 95 per cent confidence interval (c.i.) 0·19 to 0·86; P = 0·003) and number of lesions (OR 0·38, 0·28 to 0·88; P = 0·002). An increasing number of electrode applications (hazard ratio (HR) 2·18, 95 per cent c.i. 1·22 to 3·44; P = 0·041) and ECT cycles (HR 0·46, 0·22 to 0·95; P = 0·005) were predictors of local control. There were no predictors of toxicity. Melanoma thickness and lower limb location of metastases were prognostic for survival.

Conclusion

The most suitable candidates for ECT were patients with few and small metastases on the lower limb treated with multiple electrode applications and ECT cycles.
Scenting movie theatre commercials: The impact of scent and pictures on brand evaluations and ad recall
Authors: Lwin May O. , Morrin Maureen
Published: April 2012

We utilize a novel advertising context—commercials seen in a simulated movie theater setting while ambient scent is emitted into the atmosphere—to explore the effects of multisensory cues on brand evaluation and advertising recall. Although both pictorial and olfactory cues enhance brand evaluations and ad recall overall, we find that olfactory (vs pictorial) cues generate more positive feelings toward the brand and enhance recall to a greater extent. We also find that, after a long time delay, re‐experiencing the scent activates pictures' ability to facilitate recall. Theoretical and managerial implications are discussed.

Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Beneficial effects of Trigonella foenum graecum and sodium orthovanadate on metabolic parameters in experimental diabetes
Authors: Kumar Pardeep , Taha Asia , Kale R. K. , McLean P. , Baquer Najma Zaheer
Published: April 2012

Oxidative stress in diabetic tissues is accompanied by high‐level of free radicals with simultaneously declined antioxidant enzymes status leading to cell membrane damage. The present study was carried out to observe the effect of sodium orthovanadate (SOV) and Trigonella foenum graecum seed powder (TSP) administration on blood glucose and insulin levels, antioxidant enzymes, lipid peroxidation, pyruvate kinase, lactate dehydrogenase and protein kinase C in heart, muscle and brain of the alloxan‐induced diabetic rats to see whether the treatment with SOV and TSP was capable of reversing the diabetic effects. Diabetes was induced by administration of alloxan monohydrate (15 mg/100 g body weight), and rats were treated with 2 IU insulin, 0.6 mg/ml SOV, 5% TSP in the diet and a combination of 0.2 mg/ml SOV and 5% TSP separately for 21 days. Blood glucose levels increased markedly in diabetic rats, animals treated with a combined dose of SOV and TSP had glucose levels almost comparable with controls, similar results were obtained in the activities of pyruvate kinase, lactate dehydrogenase, antioxidant enzymes and protein kinase C in diabetic animals. Our results showed that lower doses of SOV (0.2 mg/ml) could be used in combination with TSP to effectively reverse diabetic alterations in experimental diabetes. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Most accurate definition of a high femoral artery puncture: Aiming to better predict retroperitoneal hematoma in percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Tremmel Jennifer A. , Tibayan Yen D. , O'Loughlin Aiden J.C. , Chan Trevor , Fearon William F. , Yeung Alan C. , Lee David P.
Published: April 2012

Background: Retroperitoneal hematoma (RPH) increases morbidity and mortality in percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). High femoral arteriotomy is an independent predictor of RPH, but the optimal angiographic criterion for defining a high puncture is unknown. Methods: We retrospectively identified 557 consecutive PCI cases with femoral angiograms. Arteriotomy sites were categorized as high based on three angiographic criteria: at or above the proximal third of the femoral head (criterion A), at or above the most inferior border of the inferior epigastric artery (criterion B), and at or above the origin of the inferior epigastric artery (criterion C). Cases of RPH were then identified. Results: Of the 557 PCI patients, 26 had a high femoral arteriotomy by criterion A, 17 by criterion B, and 6 by criterion C. Among these patients with a high arteriotomy, RPH occurred in four with criterion A, in three with criterion B, and in one with criterion C. Of the three criteria, criterion A most strongly correlated with RPH (odds ratio [OR] 96, 95% confidence interval [CI] 10.3–898.4; p < 0.0001) compared with criterion B (OR 58, 95% CI 8.9 to 372.6; p < 0.0001) or C (OR 27, 95% CI 2.6 to 290.1; p = 0.053). All criteria had high specificity (A, 96%; B, 97%; C, 99%), but the sensitivity was higher with criterion A (80%) than criterion B (60%) or C (20%), and statistically, the use of criterion A led to the most accurate risk‐stratification for RPH (A, κ = 0.79; B, κ = 0.59; C, κ = 0.19). Conclusions: Among the three common definitions of high arteriotomy, femoral artery puncture at or above the proximal third of the femoral head is the landmark that most accurately risk stratifies PCI patients for development of RPH. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Treatment of type‐a aortic dissection using endoprosthesis occurring after coronary artery bypass surgery
Authors: Pires de Morais Gustavo , Rodrigues Alberto , Gama Vasco
Published: April 2012

Type‐A aortic dissection is a rare and often fatal complication following coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG). Corrective surgery seldom improves patient outcome. This report reviews and discusses endoprosthetic correction of type‐A aortic dissection. A case of a transluminal correction of acute type‐A aortic dissection one year after CABG in a 66‐year‐old male with a history of ischemic and severely compromised left ventricular function is presented. A prosthesis originally designed for the abdominal aorta was successfully used. Regular follow‐up was performed and nearly 3 years post prosthesis implantation the patient is stable in New York Heart Association class II. To the authors' knowledge there are no other literature reports of endoprosthetic correction of a type‐A aortic dissection in the context of CABG with saphenous grafts. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Relationship between the intensity of heparin anticoagulation and clinical outcomes in patients receiving glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors during primary percutaneous coronary intervention in acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Rozenman Yoseph , Mehran Roxana , Witzenbichler Bernhard , Dangas George , Desaga Martin , Kochman Janusz , Nilsen Dennis W. , Finkelstein Ariel , Mosseri Morris , Stone Gregg W.
Published: April 2012

Objectives

We sought to determine the impact of the activated clotting time (ACT) in patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with unfractionated heparin (UFH) and a glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitor (GPI).

Background

UFH+GPI is commonly used during primary PCI for STEMI. UFH anticoagulation is titrated with ACT.

Methods

Patients randomized to UFH+GPI in HORIZONS‐AMI who underwent primary PCI are included (N = 1,624). Initial UFH bolus was 60 IU kg−1 (target ACT: 200–250 sec). Patients were divided into three tertiles of peak ACT (cutoffs 240 and 298 sec). The 30‐day rates of major and minor bleeding, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), and net adverse clinical events (NACE; MACE or major bleeding) were determined.

Results

Mortality at 30 days occurred in 2.2, 3.3, and 3.5% of patients in the low to high ACT tertiles, respectively (Ptrend = 0.22). Nor was the peak ACT significantly related to major bleeding, MACE or NACE. However, minor bleeding was increased in the highest ACT tertile (14.7% vs. 14.2% vs. 19.4%, Ptrend = 0.04). By multivariable analysis peak ACT was not significantly related to major bleeding, mortality, MACE, and NACE but was a significant independent predictor of minor bleeding (odds ratio = 1.027 [1.013, 1.042], P < 0.001, for each 10 sec increase in ACT).

Conclusions

In patients undergoing primary PCI for STEMI treated with UFH+GPI, the peak procedural ACT achieved does not have a substantial effect on major bleeding, mortality, or MACE, although lower peak ACT is associated with less minor bleeding. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Left‐to‐right shunt reduction with intra‐aortic balloon pump in postmyocardial infarction ventricular septal defect
Authors: Testuz Ariane , Roffi Marco , Bonvini Robert Francis
Published: April 2012

This case aims to describe the hemodynamic effects of intra‐aortic balloon pump (IABP) in patients with ventricular septal defect (VSD) complicating myocardial infarction (MI). A 79‐year‐old man with no previous cardiovascular history presented to the emergency department with subacute inferior myocardial infarction associated with mild signs of systemic hypoperfusion. A transthoracic echocardiography revealed a large akinesia of the left ventricular inferior wall with preserved global left ventricular ejection fraction, as well as a large VSD in the midinferior portion of the interventricular septum. Coronary angiography showed an occlusion of the mid portion of a dominant circumflex coronary artery. The invasive hemodynamic evaluation showed a sizable left‐to‐right shunt (Qp/Qs = 3.1). Activation of the IABP led to an immediate reduction of the shunt (Qp/Qs = 2.4 = 22% reduction), an increase in systemic cardiac output (from 2.1 L/min to 2.4 L/min = +12%) and a decrease in the systemic vascular resistances (from 2240 to 1920 dyne‐sec/cm5 = 15% reduction). In patients with post‐MI VSD, placement of IABP leads to an immediate reduction in left‐to‐right shunt and as a consequence to an increase in systemic cardiac output, which may allow hemodynamic stabilization of the patient prior to surgical VSD closure. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Successful high‐risk percutaneous coronary intervention with the use of minimal extracorporeal circulation system
Authors: Anastasiadis Kyriakos , Hadjimiltiades Stavros , Antonitsis Polychronis
Published: April 2012

Minimal extracorporeal circulation (MECC) represents a contemporary system which integrates several advances in cardiopulmonary bypass technology in a single circuit. We challenged the efficacy of the MECC system to support the circulation in elective high‐risk percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). A 78‐year‐old patient with complex coronary disease who would have been otherwise rejected for interventional therapy underwent PCI with rotablation on MECC support. The MECC system provided hemodynamic support at a flow of 1.8 L min−1 m−2 while perfusion pressure was kept at a minimum of 70 mm Hg. This allowed for successful angioplasty of the left main stem and a chronically occluded right coronary artery, which otherwise produced significant hemodynamic compromise. This case illustrates that mechanical circulatory support with the MECC system could provide a stable environment and a “safety net” for carrying out complex percutaneous coronary intervention in high‐risk patients. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Predictors of an optimal clinical outcome with alcohol septal ablation for obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Sorajja Paul , Binder Josepha , Nishimura Rick A. , Holmes David R. , Rihal Charanjit S. , Gersh Bernard J. , Bresnahan John F. , Ommen Steve R.
Published: April 2012

Background

Alcohol septal ablation has emerged as a therapy for patients with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). However, there are limited data on the predictors of success with the procedure.

Methods

We examined patient characteristics and cardiac morphology as well as procedural data on 166 HCM patients (mean age, 63 years; 43% men), who underwent ablation at Mayo Clinic. Patients were contacted to determine vital status and symptoms to assess the primary endpoint of survival free of death and severe symptoms (New York Heart Association, class III or IV dyspnea).

Results

The strongest patient characteristics that predicted clinical success were older age, less severe left ventricular outflow tract gradient, lesser ventricular septal hypertrophy, and a smaller left anterior descending (LAD) diameter. Mitral valve geometry or ventricular septal morphology did not predict outcome. Patients with ≥3 characteristics (age ≥65 years, gradient <100 mmHg, septal hypertrophy ≤18 mm, LAD diameter <4.0 mm) had superior 4‐year survival free of death and severe symptoms (90.4%) in comparison to those with two characteristics (81.6%) and ≤1 characteristic (57.5%). Case volume with >50 patients was an independent predictor of survival free of severe symptoms. The volume of alcohol injected, number of arteries injected, or size of septal perforator artery were not predictive of clinical success.

Conclusions

Greater case volume and selection for key patient and anatomic characteristics are associated with superior outcomes with alcohol septal ablation. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Validation of model of multivariate calibration: an application to the determination of biodiesel blend levels in diesel by near‐infrared spectroscopy
Authors: de Carvalho Rocha Werickson Fortunato , Nogueira Raquel , Vaz Boniek Gontigo
Published: April 2012

The practical implementation of multivariate calibration models has been limited in several areas because of the requirement of appropriate development and validation to prove their performance to standardization agencies. This paper describes the development and validation of a multivariate calibration model on the basis of partial least squares and net analyte signal, which can be directly applied to determine biodiesel concentrations between 2–90% in biodiesel/diesel blends analyzed by near‐infrared spectroscopy. The model was validated with regard to accuracy, limit of detection, limit of quantification, sensitivity, and selectivity by calculation of the corresponding figures of merit. This work demonstrated that the proposed method is valid to determine biodiesel in diesel, simple, rapid, sensitive, and economic. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.