bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antiphospholipid syndrome and recurrent thrombosis in children
Authors: Berkun Y. , Padeh S. , Barash J. , Uziel Y. , Harel L. , Mukamel M. , Revel‐Vilk S. , Kenet G.
Published: November 2006

Objective

Few studies have addressed antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) among children. Our aims were to analyze the clinical and laboratory manifestations in a pediatric APS cohort and to assess the influence of inherited thrombophilia factors on the outcome of children with APS.

Methods

This was a multicenter study of children with APS who had no previous systemic autoimmune disease. We retrospectively reviewed their clinical and laboratory data, including hereditary thrombophilic deficits and outcomes.

Results

The cohort comprised 28 patients (17 females, mean ± SD age at onset 10.6 ± 6.1 years). The most common initial manifestations of APS were venous thrombosis, stroke, and thrombocytopenia. Lupus anticoagulant was detected in 96% of those tested. After a mean ± SD followup of 5.7 ± 4.8 years, 16 children (57.1%) had central nervous system disease, 9 exhibited hematologic involvement, and 5 (all females) had systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). None had renal, heart, or new skin disease. Seven of 24 patients exhibiting vascular thrombotic events had recurrences. Infants with perinatal stroke had monophasic disease, and other manifestations of APS did not develop later. Hereditary thrombophilia was more common in children who experienced a single episode of APS (8 [53.3%] of 15 patients) than in those who experienced recurrences (2 [28.6%] of 7 patients). However, only 2 patients in the latter group (28.6%) received anticoagulants after the first manifestation, compared with 12 (70.6%) of the 17 patients without recurrences.

Conclusion

APS in children has unique features. SLE may develop in a significant percentage of girls presenting with APS. Hereditary thrombophilia did not predict recurrent thrombosis, whereas the preventive impact of anticoagulant treatment following the first thrombotic event was noteworthy.
Application of explicit process of care measurement to rheumatoid arthritis: Moving from evidence to practice
Authors: Kahn K. L. , Maclean C. H. , Liu H. , Rubenstein L. Z. , Wong A. L. , Harker J. O. , Chen W. P. , Fitzpatrick D. M. , Bulpitt K. J. , Traina S. B. , Mittman B. S. , Hahn B. H. , Paulus H. E.
Published: November 2006

Objective

To construct quality measures with measurement validity and meaning for clinicians.

Methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study of rates of change in disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) and/or systemic corticosteroid drug or dose for 568 patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) across 6,159 clinical encounters within 12 months to examine how changes in clinical specifications change adherence.

Results

Rates of DMARD change were sensitive to specifications regarding the intensity of disease activity (severe or moderate), duration of specified disease activity, and length of the observation period. Over 12 months, the proportions of 377 patients with severe disease activity observed for 1‐month, 2‐month, and 3‐month time blocks who had a change in DMARD drug or dose were 36%, 57%, and 74%, respectively. Over 12 months, a change in DMARD drug or dose was observed for 44%, 50%, and 68% of 377 patients with severe disease within 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months, respectively, of the patient meeting criteria for severe disease activity. A change in DMARD drug or dose was observed for 21%, 23%, and 34% of 149 patients with moderate disease activity within 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively, of the patient meeting criteria for moderate disease activity.

Conclusion

Rates of pharmacologic interventions for patients with moderate and severe RA disease activity vary substantially by intensity and duration of disease activity and by duration of period for observing change. Lack of precision in explicit process criteria could substantially mislead comparisons of quality of care across comparison groups.
Stability of choices in a risky decision‐making task: a 3‐year longitudinal study with children and adults
Authors: Levin Irwin P. , Hart Stephanie S. , Weller Joshua A. , Harshman Lyndsay A.
Published: November 2006

In a 3‐year follow‐up to Levin and Hart's (2003) study, we observed the same children, now 9–11 years old, and their parents in the same risky decision‐making task. At the aggregate level the same pattern of means was observed across time periods. At the individual level the key variables were significantly correlated across time periods for both children and adults. Taken together with the results from the original study and earlier studies, these results solidify the following conclusions: children utilize both probability and outcome information in risky decision‐making; the tendency to make more risky choices to avoid a loss than to achieve a gain of equal magnitude, which is a major tenet of the leading theories of risky decision‐making, occurs for children as well as adults; children make more risky choices than adults; temperamental predictors of risky choice are valid for children as well as for adults. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel use of the Amplatzer® septal occluder device in the percutaneous closure of ascending aortic pseudoaneurysms: A case series
Authors: Kanani Ronak S. , Neilan Tomas G. , Palacios Igor F. , Garasic Joseph M.
Published: November 2006

Pseudoaneurysms of the ascending aorta are a potentially fatal condition that usually necessitates definitive surgical management. In this series of three cases, we describe the novel use of the Amplatzer® septal occluder device in percutaneously managing this problem. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Two‐year clinical outcome after coronary stenting of small vessels using 2.25‐mm sirolimus‐ and paclitaxel‐eluting stents: Insight into the RESEARCH and T‐SEARCH registries
Authors: Tanimoto Shuzou , Daemen Joost , Tsuchida Keiichi , García‐García Héctor M. , de Jaegere Peter , van Domburg Ron T. , Serruys Patrick W.
Published: November 2006

Objectives:

To evaluate long‐term outcomes after drug‐eluting stents (DES) implantation in small coronary vessels.

Background:

Sirolimus‐eluting stents (SES) and paclitaxel‐eluting stents (PES) have been reported to improve both the angiographic and clinical outcomes compared with bare metal stents even in ‘real world’ settings. Currently, no data is available on long‐term outcomes after DES implantation in small vessels.

Methods:

Since April 2002, our institution has implanted DES, either SES or PES, as a default strategy in all patients irrespective of their clinical presentation. Between October 2002 and September 2003, 197 consecutive patients were enrolled: 107 consecutive patients received at least one 2.25‐mm SES (SES group) and 90 consecutive patients received at least one 2.25‐mm PES (PES group).

Results:

The two cohorts presented with high‐risk characteristics. At 2 years, the cumulative incidence of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) in the SES group was significantly lower than that in the PES group (10.3% vs. 23.3%, P = 0.02). There were two subacute angiographic stent thromboses in the PES group and none in the SES group. By multivariate analysis, PES utilization (HR 2.37, 95% CI 1.07–5.26), presentation with acute coronary syndromes (ACS) (HR 3.34, 95% CI 1.44–7.70) and multi‐vessel disease (MVD) (HR 3.91, 95% CI 1.27–12.0) were identified as independent predictors of MACE.

Conclusions:

In an unselected population treated for small vessel disease, SES were associated with significantly better 2‐year clinical outcomes than PES. The use of PES and the presentation with ACS and MVD were identified as independent predictors of MACE. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Incidence and predictors of recurrent restenosis following implantation of drug‐eluting stents for in‐stent restenosis
Authors: Lee Cheol Whan , Park Chang‐Bum , Kim Young‐Hak , Hong Myeong‐Ki , Kim Jae‐Joong , Park Seong‐Wook , Park Seung‐Jung
Published: November 2006

Objectives: We investigated the incidence and predictors of recurrent restenosis after drug‐eluting stent (DES) implantation for in‐stent restenosis (ISR) in routine clinical practice. Background: Although DESs have been increasingly used for treatment of ISR, little is known about the predictors of DES failure. Methods: We determined the incidence of recurrent restenosis and major adverse cardiac events (MACE) in 224 consecutive patients with 239 lesions treated with sirolimus‐eluting (n = 217 lesions) or paclitaxel‐eluting (n = 22 lesions) stents for the first episode of ISR. Results: The procedural success rate was 99.2%, and in‐hospital complications did not occur in any patient. Follow‐up angiography at 6 months was obtained in 73.7% of patients. Angiographic re‐restenosis rate was 12.6%, and target lesion revascularization was required in 7.6% of patients. Of the 22 incidents of re‐restenosis, 15 were focal (68.2%), 5 were diffuse (22.7%), and 2 were total (9.1%) restenosis. Univariate analysis showed that lesion length, use of paclitaxel‐eluting stent, and number of stents per lesion were significant predictors of re‐restenosis. In multivariate analysis, however, lesion length and use of paclitaxel‐eluting stent were independent predictors of re‐restenosis. During the follow‐up (mean, 18.3 ± 8.1 months), there were 4 deaths (1 cardiac, 3 noncardiac), but no nonfatal myocardial infarctions (MIs). MACE occurred in 18 patients. The cumulative probability of MACE‐free survival was 92.9 ± 1.8% at 1 year and 90.5 ± 2.4% at 2 years. Conclusions: DESs are highly effective for treatment of ISR, with recurrent restenosis related to lesion length and type of DES. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Concurrent implantation of sirolimus‐ and paclitaxel‐eluting stents in the same vessel
Authors: Corbett Simon J. , Cosgrave John , Colombo Antonio
Published: November 2006

Objective: To assess the safety and efficacy of concurrent implantation of sirolimus‐eluting (SES) and paclitaxel‐eluting (PES) stents in the same coronary artery. Background: When it is impossible to deliver multiple drug eluting stents (DES) of the same type, the operator must opt to implant a different DES or a bare metal stent. There are currently no published data evaluating this approach. Methods: We identified all cases in which one or more SES and PES were implanted in either the same lesion or adjacent segments of the same vessel during a single procedure between March 2003 and March 2005. Endpoints analyzed were; in‐hospital major adverse cardiac events (MACE), and follow‐up MACE (including stent thrombosis). Results: We identified 44 patients with 89 lesions. This was a complex cohort of patients with a median of 3.5 stents implanted, 3 lesions and 2 vessels treated and a median stent length implanted of 80.5 mm, while 83% of the lesions were type B2/C. Eight patients had peri‐procedural myocardial infarction. During follow‐up; 1 cardiac death occurred, no patients had a myocardial infarct or stent thrombosis, 11 underwent target lesion and vessel revascularization (25%) and 13 had a major adverse cardiac event (29.5%). Conclusions: In this cohort of patients, the concurrent use of SES and PES in the same vessel was associated with outcomes in keeping with the complexity of disease treated. Our data show that it is not unreasonable to implant different DES in the same vessel, although we would not advocate this as routine practice. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A hybrid alternative for high risk left main disease
Authors: Zimrin David , Reyes Peter A. , Reicher Barry , Poston Robert S.
Published: November 2006

Percutaneous revascularization strategies for bifurcation disease of the left main are complex and carry significant risk. These risks are magnified in the setting of a left main which trifurcates. In a patient with complex ostial disease of two of the three limbs of a left main trifurcation, turned down for conventional bypass surgery, we report on a hybrid approach for complete revascularization, consisting of minimally invasive bypass grafting of the LAD combined with simultaneous drug eluting stent placement. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Superior vena cava thrombectomy with the X‐SIZER® catheter system in a child with Fontan palliation
Authors: Gossett Jeffrey G. , Rocchini Albert P. , Armstrong Aimee K.
Published: November 2006

A 4‐year‐old female with hypoplastic left heart syndrome and Fontan palliation presented with severe neurologic impairment from thrombosis of the superior vena cava (SVC). She underwent successful SVC thrombectomy with the X‐SIZER® Thrombectomy Catheter System, followed by balloon angioplasty. She demonstrated rapid improvement in her neurologic deficits after the procedure. This represents the first published use of the X‐SIZER in a child and its first published use for SVC thrombectomy. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The impact of mitral valve morphology on the long‐term outcome of mitral balloon valvuloplasty
Authors: Fawzy Mohamed Eid , Shoukri Mohamed , Hassan Walid , Nambiar Vijayaraghavan , Stefadouros Miltiadis , Canver, Charles C.
Published: November 2006

Background: The effect of mitral valve morphology (MVM) on the long‐term results of mitral balloon valvuloplasty (MBV) is not well established. The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of MVM on long‐term outcome of MBV. Methods : Five hundred and eighteen consecutive patients (mean age, 31 ± 11 years) who underwent successful MBV were followed up for 0.5–16.5 (mean, 6 ± 4.5) years. Patients were divided into two groups according to their mitral echo score (MES) before MBV: group A (n = 340; MES ≤ 8) and group B (n = 178; MES > 8). Results: We report the immediate and long‐term clinical and echocardiographic results of the above‐mentioned 518 consecutive patients. The mitral valve area was significantly larger in group A than in group B, both immediately after MBV (2.0 ± 0.3 vs. 1.82 ± 0.3 cm2, respectively; P < 0.0001) and also at the last follow‐up (1.8 ± 0.33 vs. 1.5 ± 0.33 cm2, respectively; P < 0.0001). Restenosis occurred in 38/340 (11%) in group A vs. 73/178 (41%) in group B (P < 0.0001). Actuarial freedom from restenosis at 5, 10, 15 years were 92 ± 2%, 85 ± 3%, 65 ± 6% for group A vs. 72 ± 4%, 44 ± 5%, 9 ± 6% for group B (P < 0.001). Event‐free survival rates at 5, 10, 15 years for group A were 93 ± 1%, 88 ± 2%, 66 ± 6% vs. 82 ± 3%, 59± 6%, 8 ± 7% for group B (P < 0.0001). Stepwise Cox multivariate regression analysis identified MES, preprocedure functional class, and postprocedure mitral valve area ≤ 1.8 cm2, as predictors of restenosis (P < 0.0001, P = 0.014, P = 0.0015, respectively); MES and age as predictors of event‐free survival (P < 0.0001, P < 0.0001, respectively). Conclusion: MBV has excellent long‐term results in patients with favorable MVM. Favourable MVM is a strong predictor of good long‐term outcome. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Prevention of contrast induced nephropathy: Recommendations for the high risk patient undergoing cardiovascular procedures
Authors: Schweiger Marc J. , Chambers Charles E. , Davidson Charles J. , Zhang Shaoheng , Blankenship James , Bhalla Narinder P. , Block Peter C. , Dervan John P. , Gasperetti Christine , Gerber Lowell , Kleiman Neal S. , Krone Ronald J. , Phillips William J. , Siegel Robert M. , Uretsky Barry F. , Laskey Warren K.
Published: November 2006

Contrast induced nephropathy (CIN) is the third leading cause of hospital aquired renal failure and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Chronic kidney disease is the primary predisposing factor for CIN. As estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 ml/1.73 m2 represents significant renal dysfunction and defines patients at high risk. Modifiable risk factors for CIN include hydration status, the type and amount of contrast, use of concomitant nephrotoxic agents and recent contrast administration. The cornerstone of CIN prevention, in both the high and low risk patients, is adequate parenteral volume repletion. In the patient at increased risk for CIN it is often appropriate to withhold potentially nephrotoxic medications, and consider the use of n‐acetylcysteine. In patients at increased risk for CIN the use of low or iso‐osomolar contrast agents should be utilized and strategies employed to minimize contrast volume. In these patients serum creatinine should be obtained forty‐eight hours post procedure and it is often appropriate to continue withholding medications such as metformin or non steroidal anti‐inflammatories until renal function returns to normal. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Design of a Practical Fluorescent Probe for Superoxide Based on Protection–Deprotection Chemistry of Fluoresceins with Benzenesulfonyl Protecting Groups
Authors: Maeda Hatsuo , Yamamoto Kayoko , Kohno Iho , Hafsi Leila , Itoh Norio , Nakagawa Shinsaku , Kanagawa Naoko , Suzuki Keiichiro , Uno Tadayuki
Published: November 2006

A strategy for designing probes based on protection–deprotection chemistry involving fluoresceins and their benzenesulfonyl (BES) derivatives has led to the development of a much more practical superoxide (O2−.) probe than the previously reported bis(2,4‐dinitro‐BES) tetrafluorofluorescein (6 a). Examination of various BES derivatives, developed from the starting point of the prototype probe 6 a, yielded 4,5‐dimethoxy‐2‐nitro‐BES tetrafluorofluorescein (BESSo; 7 j) as the optimal reagent. A microtiter plate assay with BESSo showed a tenfold improved detection limit for O2−. compared with such an assay based on 6 a. BESSo showed markedly better specificity for O2−. than for GSH or other reactive oxygen species, and this specificity was significantly higher than that of Fe2+ and some reducing enzymes. These features have resulted in the development of an assay based on BESSo that is capable of providing more unambiguous results for O2−. release from neutrophils, with or without stimulation by phorbol myristate acetate, as compared with an assay based on 6 a. Intracellular generation of O2−. in human Jurkat T cells stimulated by butyric acid has been measured by using flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy utilizing the acetoxymethyl derivative of BESSo.
Platinum(II) Complexes with π‐Conjugated, Naphthyl‐Substituted, Cyclometalated Ligands (RC^N^N): Structures and Photo‐ and Electroluminescence
Authors: Kui Steven C. F. , Sham Iona H. T. , Cheung Cecil C. C. , Ma Chun‐Wah , Yan Beiping , Zhu Nianyong , Che Chi‐Ming , Fu Wen‐Fu
Published: November 2006

The crystal structures and photophysical properties of mononuclear [(RC^N^N)PtX](ClO4)n ((RC^N^N)=3‐(6′‐(2′′‐naphthyl)‐2′‐pyridyl)isoquinolinyl and derivatives; X=Cl, n=0; X=PPh3 or PCy3, n=1), dinuclear [(RC^N^N)2Pt2(μ‐dppm)](ClO4)2 (dppm=bis(diphenyphosphino)methyl) and trinuclear [(RC^N^N)3Pt3(μ‐dpmp)](ClO4)3 (dpmp=bis(diphenylphosphinomethyl)phenylphosphine) complexes are presented. The crystal structures show extensive intra‐ and/or intermolecular π⋅⋅⋅π interactions; the two (RC^N^N) planes of [(RC^N^N)2Pt2(μ‐dppm)](ClO4)2 (R=Ph, 3,5‐tBu2Ph or 3,5‐(CF3)2Ph) are in a nearly eclipsed configuration with torsion angles close to 0°. [(RC^N^N)PtCl], [(RC^N^N)2Pt2(μ‐dppm)](ClO4)2, and [(RC^N^N)3Pt3(μ‐dpmp)](ClO4)3 are strongly emissive with quantum yields of up to 0.68 in CH2Cl2 or MeCN solution at room temperature. The [(RC^N^N)PtCl] complexes have a high thermal stability (Td=470–549 °C). High‐performance light‐emitting devices containing [(RC^N^N)PtCl] (R=H or 3,5‐tBu2Ph) as a light‐emitting material have been fabricated; they have a maximum luminance of 63 000 cd m−2 and CIE 1931 coordinates at x=0.36, y=0.54.
Functionalization of Heteropolyanions—Osmium and Rhenium Nitrido Derivatives of Keggin‐ and Dawson‐Type Polyoxotungstates: Synthesis, Characterization and Multinuclear (183W, 15N) NMR, EPR, IR, and UV/Vis Fingerprints
Authors: Dablemont Céline , Hamaker Christopher G. , Thouvenot René , Sojka Zbigniew , Che Michel , Maatta Eric A. , Proust Anna
Published: November 2006

Reaction of K10[α2‐P2W17O61] or K10[α1‐P2W17O61] or [Bu4N][OsCl4N] in a water/methanol mixture, and subsequent precipitation with (Bu4N)Br provided [α2‐P2W17O61{OsVIN}]7− and [α1‐P2W17O61{OsVIN}]7− Dawson structures as tetrabutylammonium salts. Reactions of [(Bu4N)4][α‐H3PW11O39] with either [ReCl3(N2Ph2)(PPh3)2] or [Bu4N][ReCl4N] are alternatives to the synthesis of [(Bu4N)4][α‐PW11O39{ReVIN}]. 183W and 15N NMR, EPR, IR, and UV‐visible spectroscopies and cyclic voltammetry have been used to characterize these compounds and the corresponding [(Bu4N)4][α‐PW11O39{OsVIN}] Keggin derivative.
Self‐Assembled Ionophores from Isoguanosine: Diffusion NMR Spectroscopy Clarifies Cation's and Anion's Influence on Supramolecular Structure
Authors: Evan‐Salem Tamar , Frish Limor , van Leeuwen Fijs W. B. , Reinhoudt David N. , Verboom Willem , Kaucher Mark S. , Davis Jeffery T. , Cohen Yoram
Published: November 2006

Cation‐templated self‐assembly of the lipophilic isoguanosine (isoG 1) with different monovalent cations (M+=Li+, Na+, K+, NH4+, and Cs+) was studied in solvents of different polarity by using diffusion NMR spectroscopy. Previous studies that did not use diffusion NMR techniques concluded that isoG 1 forms both pentamers (isoG 1)5⋅M+ and decamers (isoG 1)10⋅M+ in the presence of alkali‐metal cations. The present diffusion NMR studies demonstrate, however, that isoG 1 does not form (isoG 1)5⋅M+ pentamers. In fact, the diffusion NMR data indicates that both doubly charged decamers of formula (isoG 1)10⋅2 M+ and singly charged decamers, (isoG 1)10⋅M+, are formed with lithium, sodium, potassium, and ammonium tetraphenylborate salts (LiB(Ph)4, KB(Ph)4, NaB(Ph)4 and NH4B(Ph)4), depending on the isoG 1:salt stoichiometry of the solution. In the presence of CsB(Ph)4, isoG 1 affords only the singly charged decamers (isoG 1)10⋅Cs+. By monitoring the diffusion coefficient of the B(Ph)4− ion in the different mixtures of solvents, we also concluded that the anion is more strongly associated to the doubly charged decamers (isoG 1)10⋅2 M+ than to the singly charged decamers (isoG 1)10⋅M+. The (isoG 1)10⋅2 M+ species can, however, exist in solution without the mediation of the anion. This last conclusion was supported by the finding that the doubly charged decamers (isoG 1)10⋅2 M+ also prevail in 1:1 CD3CN:CDCl3, a solvent mixture in which the B(Ph)4− ion does not interact significantly with the self‐assembled complex. These diffusion measurements, which have provided new and improved structural information about these decameric isoG 1 assemblies, demonstrate the utility of combining diffusion NMR techniques with conventional NMR methods in seeking to characterize labile, multicomponent, supramolecular systems in solution, especially those with high symmetry.
Catalysis of a Peptidic Micellar Assembly Covalently Immobilized within Mesoporous Silica Channels: Importance of Amphiphilic Spatial Design
Authors: Otani Wataru , Kinbara Kazushi , Zhang Qingmin , Ariga Katsuhiko , Aida Takuzo
Published: November 2006

A mesostructured silica/organic composite 1‐MS, constructed from a rodlike micelle of amino acid amphiphile 1 that has a condensable head group and that can be used as a template, was found to be able to catalyze the acetalization of cyclohexanone, in ethanol at 25 °C (50 % in 12 h), whereas no reaction took place with unfunctionalized mesoporous silica. In sharp contrast, hydrolytic removal of the C16 alkyl tail of immobilized 1 resulted in the complete disappearance of the catalytic activity, which suggests the importance of a hydrophobic inner domain for the admission of cyclohexanone. Unsupported peptide amphiphile 2, under identical conditions to those above, was inefficient for acetalization regardless of the absence (2 % in 24 h) or presence of mesoporous silica (7 % in 24 h). Reference composite 2‐MS, which is a noncovalently immobilized peptidic micelle, was virtually inactive (1 % in 24 h). These observations indicate the importance of covalent immobilization of the peptidic rod micelle for catalysis. Mesostructured silicate 3‐MS hybridized with a nonpeptidic, ammonium ion amphiphile (3) showed a certain catalytic activity, but the yield (12 % in 24 h) of the acetal was much lower than that achieved by using 1‐MS as the catalyst. Amorphous silica with immobilized 1 on its surface was much less active than 1‐MS for acetalization (5 % in 24 h).
Effects of 3d–4f Magnetic Exchange Interactions on the Dynamics of the Magnetization of DyIII‐MII‐DyIII Trinuclear Clusters
Authors: Pointillart Fabrice , Bernot Kevin , Sessoli Roberta , Gatteschi Dante
Published: November 2006

[{Dy(hfac)3}2{Fe(bpca)2}]⋅ CHCl3 ([Dy2Fe]) and [{Dy(hfac)3}2{Ni(bpca)2}]⋅CHCl3 ([Dy2Ni]) (in which hfac−=1,1,1,5,5,5‐hexafluoroacetylacetonate and bpca−=bis(2‐pyridylcarbonyl)amine anion) were synthesized and characterized. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction shows that [Dy2Fe] and [Dy2Ni] are linear trinuclear complexes. Static magnetic susceptibility measurements reveal a weak ferromagnetic exchange interaction between NiII and DyIII ions in [Dy2Ni], whereas the use of the diamagnetic FeII ion leads to the absence of magnetic exchange interaction in [Dy2Fe]. Dynamic susceptibility measurements show a thermally activated behavior with the energy barrier of 9.7 and 4.9 K for the [Dy2Fe] and [Dy2Ni] complexes, respectively. A surprising negative effect of the ferromagnetic exchange interaction has been found and has been attributed to the structural conformation of these trinuclear complexes.
Extraction of Proteins from Biological Fluids by Use of an Ionic Liquid/Aqueous Two‐Phase System
Authors: Du Zhuo , Yu Yong‐Liang , Wang Jian‐Hua
Published: November 2006

An ionic liquid/aqueous two‐phase system based on the hydrophilic ionic liquid 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride (BmimCl) and K2HPO4 has been employed for direct extraction of proteins from human body fluids for the first time. Proteins present at low levels were quantitatively extracted into the BmimCl‐rich upper phase with a distribution ratio of about 10 between the upper and lower phase and an enrichment factor of 5. Addition of an appropriate amount of K2HPO4 to the separated upper phase results in a further phase separation, giving rise to an improved enrichment factor of 20. FTIR and UV spectroscopy demonstrated that no chemical (bonding) interactions between the ionic liquid and the protein functional groups were identifiable, while no alterations of the natural properties of the proteins were observed. The partitioning of proteins in the two‐phase system was assumed to have been facilitated by the electrostatic potential difference between the coexisting phases, as well as by salting out effects. The system could be applied successfully for the quantification of proteins in human urine after on‐line phase separation in a flow system. The use of an ionic liquid, as a green solvent, offers clear advantages over traditional liquid–liquid extractions, in which the use of toxic organic solvents is unavoidable.
Fluorescent Streptocyanine Dyes: Synthesis and Photophysical Properties – Synthesis of a New Hemicarboxonium Salt
Authors: Guieu Valérie , Izquierdo Albert , Garcia‐Alonso Sonia , André Chantal , Madaule Yves , Payrastre Corinne
Published: November 2006

Seven new nonacarbon chain carboxonium salts were synthesized from variously substituted arylethanones, except a few which were too deactivated to react. By the action of several amines, thirteen new nonacarbon chain streptocyanine dyes were synthesized. Photophysical properties of these new dyes were evaluated to highlight that they all absorb around 700 nm and emit fluorescence above 720 nm. As the purity of the intermediary carboxonium salt was improved (up to 98 %), a new nonacarbon chain hemicarboxonium salt was synthesized and fully characterized by X‐ray crystallography.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)
Remote Trimethylsilyl Groups Interfering with the ortho Deprotonation of Fluoroarenes and Chloroarenes
Authors: Heiss Christophe , Marzi Elena , Mongin Florence , Schlosser Manfred
Published: November 2006

(2‐Fluorophenyl)trimethylsilane (2‐F) and (2‐chlorophenyl)trimethylsilane (2‐Cl) react with sec‐butyllithium or lithium 2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidide under permutational hydrogen/metal interconversion (metalation) more slowly than, respectively, the corresponding 4‐fluoro‐ and 4‐chloro isomers (1‐F and 1‐Cl, respectively) or, on the other hand, fluorobenzene and chlorobenzene themselves. The bulky silyl substituent impedes the neighboring halogen to get out of the way when the base attacks the ortho position. For the same reason, (2,4‐difluorophenyl)‐ and (2,4‐dichlorophenyl)trimethylsilane (7‐F and 7‐Cl) are less reactive than their 3,5‐isomers (6‐F and 6‐Cl) and metalation occurs more rapidly at the 4‐ rather than 3‐position of (2,5‐difluorophenyl)‐ and (2,5‐dichlorophenyl)trimethylsilane (5‐F and 5‐Cl, respectively). The decrease in kinetic acidity due to buttressing is most pronounced with the congested substrates (2,4,6‐trihalophenyl)trimethylsilanes (8‐F and 8‐Cl) and, particularly (2,4,6‐trihalophenylene)‐1,3‐bis(trimethylsilanes) (9‐F and 9‐Cl). Fluorine being far less effective than chlorine as a transmitter of steric pressure, (3,4‐ and 2,3‐difluorophenyl)trimethylsilane (3‐F and 4‐F) exhibit comparable reactivity whereas (3,4‐dichlorophenyl)trimethylsilane (3‐Cl) clearly surpasses its 2,3‐dichloro isomer (4‐Cl). (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)
The use of CE‐electrochemiluminescence with ionic liquid for the determination of bioactive constituents in Chinese traditional medicine
Authors: Gao Ying , Xiang Qian , Xu Yuanhong , Tian Yiling , Wang Erkang
Published: November 2006

CE / tris(2,2‐bipyridyl) ruthenium(II) (Ru(bpy)32+) electrochemiluminescence (ECL), CE‐ECL, with an ionic liquid (IL) detection system was established for the determination of bioactive constituents in Chinese traditional medicine opium poppy which contain large amounts of coexistent substances. A minimal sample pretreatment which involves a one‐step extraction approach avoids both sample loss and environmental pollution. As the nearby hydroxyl groups in some alkaloid such as morphine may react with borate to form complexes and IL, as a high‐conductivity additive in running buffer, could cause an enhanced field‐amplified effect of electrokinetic injection. Running buffer containing 25 mM borax–8 mM 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (EMImBF4) IL (pH 9.18) was used which resulted in significant changes in separation selectivity and obvious enhancement in ECL intensities for those alkaloids with similar structures. Sensitive detection could be achieved when the distance between the Pt working electrode and the outlet of separation capillary was set at 150 µm and the stainless steel cannula was fixed approximately 1 cm away from the outlet of the capillary. Quantitative analysis of four alkaloids was achieved at a detection voltage of 1.2 V and a separation voltage of 15 kV in less than 7 min. Detection limits of thebaine, codeine, morphine, and narcotine were 2.5×10−7, 2.5×10−7, 1×10&−9 and 1×10−6 M (S/N = 3), respectively. The method was successfully applied to determine the amounts of opium alkaloids in real poppy samples.
Computation of transmission line magnetic field harmonics
Authors: Faria J. A. Brandão , Almeida M. E.
Published: November 2006

This work presents an accurate procedure to evaluate low‐frequency magnetic fields produced by overhead power line distorted currents containing several harmonic orders. The analysis is conducted in the framework of quasi‐stationary regimes where wave‐propagation phenomena are of little relevance. Bearing in mind that international regulations for safe public exposure to electromagnetic fields establish increasingly stringent reference levels for the magnetic‐field intensity as the frequency increases, the key issue addressed here is whether the presence of higher order harmonics may cause those reference levels to be exceeded. Complying with standard power quality requirements, our analysis considers that the harmonics have prescribed small magnitudes. Computation examples, including balanced and non‐balanced loads, are presented. It is shown that the worst‐case scenario corresponds to the injection of harmonics produced by balanced loads whose order is a multiple of three. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of gypsum board type (X or C) on real fire performance of partition assemblies
Authors: Manzello Samuel L. , Gann Richard G. , Kukuck Scott R. , Lenhert David B.
Published: November 2006

This paper compares the responses of wall‐size partition assemblies, composed of either type X or type C gypsum wallboard panels over steel studs, when each was exposed to an intense room fire. The exposures lasted from the time of ignition to beyond flashover. Heat flux gauges provided time histories of the energy incident on the partitions, while thermocouples provided data on the propagation of heat through the partitions and on the progress toward perforation. Visual and infrared cameras were used to image partition behaviour during the fire exposure. Contraction of the seams of the two types of assemblies occurred under similar thermal conditions on the unexposed surface. However, there were noticeable differences in cracking behaviour. Reduced scale experiments were performed in conjunction with the real‐scale fire tests to provide insight into the contraction and cracking behaviour of the different gypsum board types. Results obtained from these experiments are discussed. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Survey of small‐scale flame spread test results of modern fabrics
Authors: Hirschler Marcelo M. , Piansay Timothy
Published: November 2006

The flammability of apparel worn on a person has one of the highest ratios of fire fatalities per fire, and there are few statutory requirements. A series of evaluations was conducted on the flammability of 50 fabrics (both cellulosic and thermoplastic) using the (now withdrawn) NFPA 701 small‐scale test. The fabrics covered a broad range of areal densities (weights) and many were not intended for apparel. A series of conclusions were reached. In particular, it is apparent that the following primary correlation exists between fabric weight and flammability: the heavier the fabric the better it behaves in a fire. Secondarily, however, the type of fabric also strongly affects this conclusion. This paper presents the results of the testing and offers an analysis. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Three‐dimensional instability of axisymmetric flows: solution of benchmark problems by a low‐order finite volume method
Authors: Gelfgat Alexander Y.
Published: November 2006

Several problems on three‐dimensional instability of axisymmetric steady flows driven by convection or rotation or both are studied by a second‐order finite volume method combined with the Fourier decomposition in the periodic azimuthal direction. The study is focused on the convergence of the critical parameters with mesh refinement. The calculations are done on the uniform and stretched grids with variation of the stretching. Converged results are reported for all the problems considered and are compared with the previously published data. Some of the calculated critical parameters are reported for the first time. The convergence studies show that the three‐dimensional instability of axisymmetric flows can be computed with a good accuracy only on fine enough grids having about 100 nodes in the shortest spatial direction. It is argued that a combination of fine uniform grids with the Richardson extrapolation can be a good replacement for a grid stretching. It is shown once more that the sparseness of the Jacobian matrices produced by the finite volume method allows one to enhance performance of the Newton and Arnoldi iteration procedures by combining them with a direct sparse linear solver instead of using the Krylov‐subspace‐based iteration methods. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Numerical simulation of thin airfoil stall by using a modified DES approach
Authors: Li Dong
Published: November 2006

The detached‐Eddy simulation (DES) method was applied to calculate pre‐ and post‐stall aerodynamic characteristics of airfoil stall. A discrepancy between numerical and experimental data was observed near the stall regime for the airfoil NACA64A‐ 006 which is a thin airfoil stall type. The reason of this discrepancy and one possible way for improvement of the numerical model are discussed here. It is shown that the use of the Baldwin–Lomax model in the RANS region improves the DES results in this case. If the relevant factors (grid density, time step, turbulence model, etc.) are appropriately taken into account, the DES approach could reliably predict stall aerodynamical characteristics. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sex‐specific QTL effects on variation in paraoxonase 1 (PON1) activity in Mexican Americans
Authors: Winnier Deidre A. , Rainwater David L. , Cole Shelley A. , Williams Jeff T. , Dyer Thomas D. , Blangero John , MacCluer Jean W. , Mahaney Michael C.
Published: November 2006

Paraoxonase 1 (PON1), a high‐density lipoprotein‐associated enzyme known to protect against cellular damage from toxic agents, may also have antioxidant properties. PON1 activity levels have been reported to differ by sex in human and animal studies with females exhibiting higher basal levels. We measured PON1 activity frozen serum for 1,406 individuals in over 40 extended pedigrees from the San Antonio Family Heart Study (SAFHS). We used a maximum likelihood‐based, variance decomposition approach implemented in SOLAR to test for genotype‐by‐sex (G × S) interaction on variation in PON1 activity and to determine if any of the four PON1 quantitative trait loci (QTL) previously reported by us for this population might account for sex differences in PON1 activity levels. The residual additive genetic correlation (ρG = 0.82) between males and females is significantly different from 1 (P = 0.009), suggesting that some of the genes that influence PON1 activity act differently in females and males or, possibly, that a different combination of genes influences this trait in each sex. In addition to the QTL at or near the PON structural locus on 7q21‐22, three other potential QTLs were evaluated for sex‐specific effects: one each on chromosomes 12, 17 and 19. The QTL on chromosome 17 (LOD = 2.32, P = 0.0003; flanked by microsatellite marker loci D17S974 and D17S969) shows a significant (P = 0.005) sex‐specific effect on PON1 activity; accounting for 6% of the additive genetic variance in males and 20% in females. This study represents the first formal statistical genetic test for G × S interactions on normal quantitative variation in PON1 activity in humans. Genet. Epidemiol. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
ROCK inhibition with Y27632 activates astrocytes and increases their expression of neurite growth‐inhibitory chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans
Authors: Chan Carmen C. M. , Wong Angel K. , Liu Jie , Steeves John D. , Tetzlaff Wolfram
Published: November 2006

Inhibition of Rho‐kinase (ROCK) with Y27632 stimulates sprouting by injured corticospinal tract and dorsal column tract axons, and accelerates functional recovery. However, regeneration of these axons across the glial scar was not observed. Here we examined the effects of Y27632 treatment on chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan (CSPG) expression by astrocytes, which are a key component of the reactive gliosis inhibiting axonal regeneration. In vivo, rats underwent a dorsal column transection and were treated with Y27632 via intrathecal pump infusion. Compared with controls, Y27632‐treated injury sites displayed exaggerated upregulation of glial fibrillary acid protein and neurocan immunoreactivity along the lesion edge. In vitro, astrocytes assumed a reactive morphology (stellate shape) and increased their expression of CSPGs after Y27632 treatment. Neurite growth by dissociated cortical neurons decreased when cultured on the extracellular matrix (ECM) derived from Y27632‐treated astrocytes. This decrease in neurite growth was reversed with chondroitinase‐ABC (ChABC) digestion, indicating that the inhibition was due to CSPG depositions within the ECM. Interestingly, conditioned medium (CM) from untreated astrocytes was inhibitory to neurite growth, which was overcome by ChABC digestion. Such inhibitory activity was not found in the CM of Y27632‐treated astrocytes. Taken together, these data support a model where ROCK inhibition by Y27632 modifies astrocytic processing of CSPGs, and increases the presence of CSPGs within the ECM while reduces CSPGs in the CM (cerebrospinal fluid in vivo). This increased expression of inhibitory CSPGs in the ECM of the glial scar may counteract the growth promoting effects of ROCK inhibition on axonal growth cones. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Rapid detection of metastasis of gastric cancer using reverse transcription loop‐mediated isothermal amplification
Authors: Horibe Daisuke , Ochiai Takenori , Shimada Hideaki , Tomonaga Takeshi , Nomura Fumio , Gun Ma , Tanizawa Tohru , Hayashi Hideki
Published: November 2006

Tailor‐made surgeries for patients with solid malignancies have been under consideration on the basis of the development of new approaches for minor metastatic foci of malignant tumors. Accurate and reliable methods to detect metastases in biopsy specimens with certain rapidity are essential for the performance of these surgeries. The aim of this study was to develop a rapid and practical method to detect metastasis in specimens from patients with gastric carcinoma with the use of reverse transcription loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (RT‐LAMP) reaction, a novel technique for detecting mRNA expressions of targeted sequences with high sensitivity, specificity and rapidity under isothermal conditions. RT‐LAMP primers to detect cytokeratin19 (CK19) mRNA were generated and 92 lymph nodes (LNs) obtained from 9 patients with gastric cancer were tested for tumor metastases with this technique. Among 92 LNs, 15 were metastasis‐positive by routine histopathological examination. RT‐LAMP reaction detected CK19 expression in all of the pathologically positive LNs and in 16 of 77 negative LNs. Nested RT‐PCR assay for CK19 expression was also performed on 2 of the 9 cases including 32 LNs. The agreement rate of CK19 expression detection by RT‐LAMP and RT‐PCR analysis was 31/32 (97%). The RT‐LAMP technique showed similar sensitivity to detect metastases as nested RT‐PCR assay, with a rapidity comparable to that of intraoperative histopathological examination with frozen sectioning and hematoxylin and eosin staining. This method is expected to play an essential role in the performance of tailor‐made surgeries in the near future. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Selection and identification of human Gonadotropin‐releasing hormone promoter binding peptides by phage display‐CEMSA
Authors: Xiao Yichuan , Zhou Yuxun , Wang Jianhui , Yu Minghui , Wang Gang , Jin Jian , Xiao Junhua
Published: November 2006

Specific interactions between transcription factors and cis‐acting DNA sequences form the molecular basis of gene expression regulation. Here, we applied phage display technology to DNA–protein interaction studies. A phage‐displayed peptide library was used to select Gonadotropin‐releasing hormone promoter (GP) binding peptides. After four sequential rounds of biopanning on GP‐conjugated magnetic beads, phage clones encoding GQPTPRNAGLPL (B6), SRLNVEPLTTYS (B3), and TTLHWASLTTGR (B11) were enriched. Phages bearing these peptides showed specific binding to GP in solution by capillary electrophoresis mobility shift assay (CEMSA). In addition, some human transcription factors were speculated as the potential transcription factors or co‐activators of GnRH gene by bioinformatic analysis. These results suggest that phage display‐CEMSA methodology should be a powerful tool to screen and identify site‐specific DNA‐binding peptides. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantifying angiogenesis in VEGF‐enhanced tissue‐engineered bladder constructs by dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI using contrast agents of different molecular weights
Authors: Cheng Hai‐Ling Margaret , Wallis Chad , Shou Zhiping , Farhat Walid A.
Published: November 2006

Purpose

To compare Gadomer, a macromolecular magnetic resonance (MR) contrast agent, and gadolinium diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (Gd‐DTPA) for quantifying angiogenesis in tissue‐engineered bladder constructs.

Materials and Methods

Constructs enhanced with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were grafted onto the bladder of 12 rabbits (N= 3/VEGF, VEGF = 0,10,15,20 ng/g tissue). After eight days dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI (DCE‐MRI) was performed in each animal using Gadomer and Gd‐DTPA, separated by a one‐hour interval. DCE‐MRI parameters were calculated from two‐compartment pharmacokinetics (plasma volume fraction, vp; transfer constant, Ktrans) and model‐free analysis, area under the concentration–time curve (AUC). Histology assessment of microvessel density (MVD) and Evans blue permeability were compared to DCE‐MRI.

Results

MVD was elevated (P < 0.05) at the highest VEGF but not among lower levels; permeability differences were absent. Contrast enhancement increased with VEGF and was better resolved with Gadomer than Gd‐DTPA. Gadomer was the better assay for estimating plasma volume: vp provided the best distinction (P < 0.005), but both vp and AUC were correlated to MVD. With Gd‐DTPA, only AUC distinguished MVD differences (P< 0.05). Changes in Ktrans were insignificant.

Conclusion

Macromolecular contrast agents are valuable for monitoring angiogenesis in tissue‐engineered bladder grafts. Compared to Gd‐DTPA, Gadomer provides more accurate and precise quantification of microvessel function, and is better suited to pharmacokinetic analysis for accurate physiological quantification. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Prostate cancer screening: The clinical value of diffusion‐weighted imaging and dynamic MR imaging in combination with T2‐weighted imaging
Authors: Tanimoto Akihiro , Nakashima Jun , Kohno Hidaka , Shinmoto Hiroshi , Kuribayashi Sachio
Published: November 2006

Purpose

To evaluate the clinical value of diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) and dynamic MRI in combination with T2‐weighted imaging (T2W) for the detection of prostate cancer.

Materials and Methods

A total of 83 patients with elevated serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels (>4.0 ng/mL) were evaluated by T2W, DWI, and dynamic MRI at 1.5 T prior to needle biopsy. The data from the results of the T2W alone (protocol A), combination of T2W and DWI (protocol B), and the combination of T2W+DWI and dynamic MRI (protocol C) were entered into a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, under results of systemic biopsy as the standard of reference.

Results

Prostate cancer was pathologically detected in 44 of the 83 patients. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and the area under the ROC curve (Az) for the detection of prostate cancer were as follows: 73%, 54%, 64%, and 0.711, respectively, in protocol A; 84%, 85%, 84%, and 0.905, respectively, in protocol B; and 95%, 74%, 86%, and 0.966, respectively, in protocol C. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were significantly different between the three protocols (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

In patients with elevated serum PSA levels, the combination of T2W, DWI, and dynamic MRI may be a valuable tool for detecting prostate cancer and avoiding an unnecessary biopsy without missing prostate cancer. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.