bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low‐Density Lipoprotein Apheresis for Prevention and Regression of Atherosclerosis: Clinical Results
Authors: Bambauer R. , Olbricht C.J. , Schoeppe E.
Published: November 2007

Abstract: Hypercholesterolemia can be adequately controlled by appropriate diet and maximum lipid lowering drug therapy in most patients. Nevertheless, there exists a group of patients, including those with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), who remain at high risk for the development or progression of premature coronary heart disease (CHD). For these patients additional measures such as surgery and low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) apheresis have to be considered. The objective of this multicenter trial, which included 30 clinical centers (28 in Germany and one each in Scotland and Luxembourg), was to determine if repeated LDL apheresis using the Liposorber LAIS system (Kaneka Corporation, Osaka, Japan) could lead to an additional acute and time averaged lowering of total cholesterol (TC) and LDL‐cholesterol (LDL‐C) in severely hypercholesterolemic patients whose cholesterol levels could not be controlled by appropriate diet and maximum drug therapy. A total of 6,798 treatments were performed on 120 patients, including 8 with homozygous FH, 75 with heterozygous FH, and 37 with unclassified FH or other hyperlipidemias from 1988 through 1994. The mean TC and mean LDL‐C levels at baseline were 410.0 mg/dl and 333.9 mg/dl, respectively. LDL apheresis was performed once a week or at least once every 2 weeks in all patients. During treatment with the Liposorber system the mean acute percentage reduction was 52.6% for TC and 63.1% for LDL‐C. Very low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL‐C) and triglycerides (TG) were also substantially reduced to 60.6% and 47.5%, respectively. Fibrinogen, a potential risk factor for CHD, was reduced by 26.2%. In contrast, the mean acute reduction of high density lipoprotein (HDL) was only 3.4%. During the course of the treatment, the time averaged levels of TC and LDL‐C were reduced by approximately 39% and 50%, respectively, compared to baseline levels. The adverse events (AEs) were those generally associated with extra‐corporeal treatments. The most common AE was hypotension, with 69 episodes corresponding to 1 % of all treatments reported in 44 of the 120 patients treated. All other kinds of AEs occurred in less than 0.2% of the treatments. The treatment with the Liposorber LA‐15 system was overall well tolerated. It should be noted, however, that a more severe type of hypotensive reaction associated with flush, bradycardia, and dyspnea was reported in patients taking concomitant angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor medication. Except for such anaphylactoid‐like reactions associated with the intake of ACE inhibitors, the Liposorber LA‐15 system represents a safe and effective therapeutic option for patients suffering from severe hypercholesterolemia that could not be adequately controlled by diet and maximum drug therapy.
Therapeutic Plasma Exchange for the Treatment of Rapidly Progressive Glomerulonephritis
Authors: Kaplan Andre A.
Published: November 2007

Abstract: Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) has been widely accepted as a successful means of removing the antiglomerular basement membrane (anti‐GBM) antibodies that result in the rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis (RPGN) of Goodpasture's syndrome. TPE has also been investigated as a means of removing the immune complexes associated with the glomerulonephritides of systemic lupus erythematosus, IgA nephropathy, Henoch Schönlein purpura, and cryoglobulinemia. Recently, an antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of RPGN associated with such diseases such as Wegener's granulomatosis and periarteritis nodosa. ANCA has also been found in many cases of RPGN formally considered to be idiopathic. The identification of this autoantibody has given new credence to the possibility that TPE may be beneficial in the treatment of these diseases. This article reviews the data regarding the use of TPE for RPGN.
Present Status of Apheresis Technologies, Part 3: Adsorbent
Authors: Sueoka Akinori
Published: November 2007

Abstract: This article is the third of a 4 part series describing currently available apheresis devices and technologies. The sections include the following: Part 1: Membrane Plasma Separator (published in Vol. 1, No. 1) (1); Part 2: Membrane Plasma Fractionator (published in Vol. 1, No. 2) (2); Part 3: Adsorbent; and Part 4: Leukocyte Filter.
Spin Doctors: New Innovations for Centrifugal Apheresis
Authors: Kambic Helen E. , Nosé Yukihiko
Published: November 2007

Abstract: The preparation of plasma from blood has a long history dating back to the early 1900s when the concept of blood washing replaced the traditional blood letting. Over the next 57 years landmark discoveries such as centrifugal and membrane filtration systems led to different and rapid plasma, solute, and cell separation. These were not singular events but rather events influenced by the converging chemical, physiological, and engineering advances that have characterized the latter half of the 20th century. These events have led to entire new fields of biomedical research. The biotechnology for on‐line plasma separation and plasma treatment has opened a new era, expanding the application of extracorporeal technology to modern therapeutic medicine. The association of biochemical or cellular abnormalities with various disease states provides the rationale for therapeutic plasma exchange (the removal of large amounts of patient's plasma, alone or with replacement with crystalloid) and therapeutic cytopheresis (removal of cellular elements). The purpose of this review is to provide a historical picture of the innovative ideas of the spin doctors and their devices, which predate the centrifugal blood and cell separators commonplace to any hospital or blood bank worldwide. The emphasis is to define the historical events and their impacts on the development of centrifugal devices and apheresis technologies.
Low‐Density Lipoprotein Apheresis Using the Liposorber System: Features of the System and Clinical Benefits
Authors: Yamamoto T. , Yamashita T.
Published: November 2007

Abstract: LDL apheresis using the Liposorber system is indicated for use to remove selectively LDL from the plasma of hypercholesterolemic patients for whom diet and maximum cholesterol‐lowering drug therapy have been ineffective or not tolerated. The dextran sulfate immobilized to porous cellulose beads is contained in the adsorption column as the adsorbent. The dextran sulfate has a structure similar to that of the LDL receptor and seems to act as a type of pseudoreceptor for LDL. There have been reported a number of clinical benefits using the Liposorber system for drug refractory hypercholesterolemic patients. Among them, the improvement of endothelial cell function of coronary and brachial arteries by a single treatment is the focus of the world's attention. Moreover, it is also noteworthy that LDL apheresis reduced the incidence of the cardiac events by 70% compared to drug therapy alone. In addition to the clinical benefits of the Liposorber system on familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), the preliminary data suggest that LDL apheresis may improve arteriosclerosis obliterans (ASO) of the lower extremities and focal glomerular sclerosis (FGS).
Leukocytapheresis Therapy by Extracorporeal Circulation Using A Leukocyte Removal Filter
Authors: Suemitsu Junsuke , Yoshida Makoto , Yamawaki Naokuni , Yamashita Yasuhiko
Published: November 2007

Abstract: Leukocytapheresis therapy has been used to try to treat such intractable diseases as autoimmune and neurologic diseases, achieving good results. However, a number of problems have been identified in leukocyte removal by thoracic duct drainage or continuous centrifugal separation; namely the high risk, expensive cost, and complicated operation. Asahi Medical Co. has developed an innovative solution for such conventional problems. Its new leukocyte removal filter (Cellsorba) is capable of removing white blood cells by perfusion of whole blood by means of simple extracorporeal circulation. Leukocytapheresis therapy using the Cellsorba column is being confirmed as extremely effective for many inflammatory diseases, as well as in autoimmune and neurologic diseases. This paper outlines information about the Cellsorba column and introduces several reports on therapeutic results.
A New Device for Selective Removal of CD4+ T Cells
Authors: Onodera Hirokazu , Abe Yumi , Yoshida Makoto , Yamawaki Naokuni , Yamashita Yasuhiko , Matsuo Hidenori , Ichinose Katsuhiro , Otsuru Izumi , Shibuya Noritoshi
Published: November 2007

Abstract: To control antigen (Ag)‐specific immune cells is important in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. In particular, a direct solution may be obtained by controlling the CD4+ cell function that controls the immune response of autoimmune T cells. Thus, a technique to selectively remove CD4+ cells has been developed, based on the consideration that the immune system may possibly be modified by selectively removing the CD4+ cells by means of extracorporeal circulation. The currently developed device to selectively remove CD4+ cells uses a material made of nonwoven fabric with monoclonal antibodies immobilized on the surface. With this device, removal of only CD4+ cells from human mononuclear cells suspension can be accomplished. Moreover, CD4+ cells can be specifically removed from peripheral whole blood by direct perfusion. This review outlines a series of procedures for selective cell removal and the results of our research.
Clinical Outcome in Three Patients with Postpartum Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome Treated with Frequent Plasma Exchange
Authors: Shemin Douglas , Dworkin Lance D.
Published: November 2007

Abstract: This study reviewed 3 cases of postpartum hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) at our hospital over a 3 year period. The 3 patients had clinical and laboratory abnormalities similar to those of 12 patients with other causes of thrombotic microangiopathy presenting during the same time span. Both groups were treated with 4–7 plasma exchange treatments/week and prednisone, 60 mg/ day or its intravenous equivalent, until remission. The postpartum HUS patients had a more complicated, prolonged course; 3 of 3 required dialysis compared to 4 of 12 in the nonpostpartum group (p > 0.05), and they required more plasma exchange treatments (49 ± 17 vs. 10 ± 8, p = 0.0001) and a longer duration of therapy (70 ± 31 vs. 19 ± 17 days, p > 0.01) before remission. All postpartum HUS patients discontinued dialysis and survived whereas 4/12 nonpostpartum patients died before attaining remission. Compared to other variants of thrombotic microangiopathy, postpartum HUS requires a longer duration of therapy, but with aggressive therapy, renal and overall prognoses may be better.
Changes in Phenytoin Concentrations in Blood and Cerebrospinal Fluid Caused by Direct Hemoperfusion in a Patient Intoxicated with Phenytoin
Authors: Kanayama Yuki , Itakura Yukihiro , Iwasaki Michio , Hirahara Yutaka , Takasino Suzuko , Kawase Yuko , Katoh Hitoshi , Kinosita Masanobu , Matsumura Osamu , Mitarai Tetsuya , Isoda Kazuo
Published: November 2007

Abstract: We performed direct hemoperfusion (DHP) 5 times on a patient with consciousness disorder and phenytoin intoxication. We then measured the phenytoin concentrations in her cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood at various times. After the first DHP session, consciousness began to improve, and it normalized after the fourth DHP session when the blood concentration of phenytoin had decreased from 54.0 μg/ml to 16.5 μg/ml. The average plasma phenytoin elimination rate of DHP was 18.0% over 120–180 min. The concentration of phenytoin in the CSF decreased as that in the blood was lowered by DHP. The average reduction rate of phenytoin in the CSF after a DHP session was 23.7%, which was similar to the rate of elimination from the blood. The CSF/blood phenytoin ratio was 0.17, and no marked changes were detected before or after a DHP session.
Filter Leukapheresis For Patients with Ulcerative Colitis: Clinical Results and the Possible Mechanism
Authors: Amano Kuniki , Amano Kanzo
Published: November 2007

Abstract: To certify the feasibility of leukapheresis, 37 ulcerative colitis (UC) patients, who had failed to recover by conventional treatment were enrolled in this treatment. Imugard (Terumo Co., Ltd., Tokyo Japan) or Cellsorba (Asahi Medical) filters were used. The schedule was one session weekly for 3 weeks and then twice monthly for 2 months. The laboratory tests performed were complete blood count, complements, immunoglobulins, and lymphocyte subsets. Endoscopic examination was done before and 3 months after initiation. Thirty‐four of thirty‐seven patients had some beneficial effects, and no patient's condition deteriorated. Corticosteroids were tapered or stopped in 18 patients out of 21. Seventeen of twenty patients experienced endoscopical remission. In laboratory data, leukocytes decreased with time. The C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels and erythrocyte sedimentation rates (ESRs) improved. The percentage of CD3+HLA‐DR+ cells, CD8+HLA‐DR+ cells decreased. Six patients discontinued the treatment. Three of them showed no favorable effects. No severe side effects were observed. This treatment is cost effective and will be a feasible treatment.
Current Therapeutic Apheresis Technologies for Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Yatnaji Ken , Fukunaga Ken , Yamane Shingo , Sueoka Akinori , Nose Yukihiko
Published: November 2007

Abstract: A large number of physicians have indicated that patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) respond to current apheresis technology treatment. However, the mechanism of the apheresis procedure is undefined for patients with IBD. IBD appears to be caused by a complex of interactions from the genes, environment, and the immune system; therefore, the immune system plays a crucial role in the inflammatory responses. In this process, lots of interactions occur simultaneously, and they cross relate with each other. This review paper briefly discusses the etiology and pathogenesis of IBD and attempts to elucidate the mechanism that occurs after apheresis treatment.
Predictive Factors of Response to Leukocytapheresis Therapy for Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Yajima Tomoharu , Takaishi Hiromasa , Kanai Takanori , Iwao Yasushi , Watanabe Mamoru , Ishii Hiromasa , Hibi Toshifumi
Published: November 2007

Abstract. Leukocytapheresis (LCAP) using a leukocyte removal filter was performed for 8 patients with moderate to severe ulcerative colitis (UC). Significant clinical improvement was attained in 5 of 8 patients (62.5%). All of them had been suffering from moderately active colitis and Received corticosteroid therapy. On the other hand, 3 patients with severely active disease and treated with little or no corticosteroid were resistant to LCAP. This result indicates that LCAP is an effective treatment for steroid‐resistant cases of UC when combined with steroid therapy. LCAP alone, however, seems to have little efficacy for severely active UC.
Centrifugal Leukocyte Apheresis for Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Ayabe Tokiyoshi , Ashida Toshifumi , Kohgo Yutaka
Published: November 2007

Abstract: Corticosteroids are effective in bringing about clinical remission for ulcerative colitis. However, relapsed cases are frequently refractory to corticosteroids. In addition, the long‐term use of corticosteroids often causes serious side effects. We have already reported that leukocyte apheresis using a centrifugal procedure was effective for patients with corticosteroid‐resistant ulcerative colitis after conducting a pilot study in 14 patients (1). In the present paper, the clinical efficacy of leukocyte apheresis using a centrifugal procedure was evaluated again for corticosteroid‐resistant ulcerative colitis. Twenty‐three patients with corticosteroid‐resistant severely active ulcerative colitis were treated by centrifugal leukocyte apheresis. Eighteen patients (78.3%) achieved clinical remission which was evaluated by the clinical activity index within 4 weeks after apheresis. Both colonoscopic and histological examinations confirmed the beneficial effect of this procedure. No significant side effects were noticed throughout the therapy.
LDL‐Therasorb Immunoadsorption for the Treatment of Severe Hypercholesterolemia Refractory to Conventional Therapy
Authors: Koll Robert A.
Published: November 2007

Abstract: The role of severe hypercholesterolemia (SH) as a major risk factor for coronary heart disease has been well established. Not all patients with SH can be treated sufficiently with diet and drugs. In such circumstances, extracorporeal removal of low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is required in patients with existing atherosclerosis. The chronic regular application of extracorporeal cholesterol removal demands an efficient and selective method not influencing other plasma components. Several methods have been developed for the extracorporeal reduction of LDL cholesterol using different approaches to achieve selectivity. Today the most selective approach is the use of specific antibodies directed against apolipopro‐tein B‐100. For 17 years, this method has been used in the therapy of patients with SH. Numerous publications demonstrate the safety and efficacy of immunoadsorption (IA) with the LDL‐Therasorb System. Within an IA treatment, LDL cholesterol is reduced by 60–70%. The system, however, allows for any desired reduction in the cholesterol levels because the double column system can be alternately loaded and regenerated to enable virtually unlimited treatment of plasma. The treatable plasma quantity is not limited by the nonspecific removal of other plasma components, e.g., coagulation factors, fibrinogen, plasminogen, or immunoglobulins. In long‐term studies, the influence of LDL‐Therasorb IA on coronary and peripheral atherosclerotic disease has been shown to have a favorable influence on the development of stenoses. In the majority of patients, a stop of progression and even a regression of stenoses could be demonstrated.
Plasma Exchange for Thrombocytopenia in Antiphospholipid Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Satomi Akiyo , Koiwa Fumihiko , Ogata Hiroaki , Kinugasa Eriko , Akizawa Tadao , Ideura Terukuni
Published: November 2007

Abstract: The remarkable effect of plasma exchange (PE) was observed on thrombocytopenia in a patient with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) associated with systemic lupus erythematosus. Three times PE led to recovery from severe thrombocytopenia refractory to treatment with corticosteroid, anticoagulant, and antiplatelet drugs accompanied by a decrease in the serum cardiolipin β2 glycoprotein I antibody level. This result suggests that PE is a valuable therapeutic tool for refractory thrombocytopenia in APS.
Postoperative Acute Pulmonary Thromboembolism in Patients with Acute Necrotizing Pancreatitis with Special Reference to Apheresis Therapy
Authors: Asanuma Yoshihiro , Furuya Tomoki , Shibata Satoshi , Shioya Takanobu , Miura Mamoru , Koyama Kenji
Published: November 2007

Abstract: Eight patients with pancreatic abscesses secondary to acute necrotizing pancreatitis underwent drainage of their abscesses under laparotomy. Two of them died of acute pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) within 1 week. Autopsy revealed a large thrombus at the main trunk of the pulmonary artery and in the left common iliac vein. Femoral catheter insertion/indwelling, immobilization, surgery, increased trypsin/kinin/kallikrein, increased endotoxin, and decreased antithrombin‐HI (AT‐IH) were present following drainage of the pancreatic abscesses. With respect to the bedside diagnosis of acute PTE, alveolar‐arterial oxygen gradients obtained by blood gas analysis and mean pulmonary artery pressure estimated by pulsed Doppler echocardiography are very useful. In terms of the treatment, attention should be paid to the following to prevent deep venous thrombosis: prophylactic administration of low molecular weight heparin and administration of AT‐III (AT‐III ≥ 80%), use of the subclavian vein whenever possible as blood access for apheresis therapy, as short a compression time as possible after removing the blood access catheter (≤ s 6 h), and application of intermittent pneumatic compression devices or elastic compression stockings on the lower extremities.
Immunomodulation in Transplant Patients by Cryofiltration
Authors: Kawamura Akio , Osanai Makoto , Yonekawa Motoki
Published: November 2007

Abstract: Cryofiltration was applied to major ABO incompatible bone marrow transplant (BMT), renal transplant, and chronic renal rejection cases. The anti‐ABO titers IgM and IgG pretreatment by cryofiltration were ×64 and ×8 in a major ABO incompatible BMT patient. After treatments, they were decreased to ×16 and ×2, respectively. BMT was performed successfully. In a case of ABO major incompatible renal transplant, anti‐A‐IgM before cryofiltration treatment was ×128, and CH50 was 26.5. Three treatments were performed. As a result, the anti‐A‐IgM and CH50 levels were decreased to ×4 and under 10. After renal transplantation, antibodies appeared again, but because the creatinine level was normal, cryofiltration was not performed again. Five cases of chronic rejection of renal transplants were treated by cryofiltration. They remained hemodialysis (HD) free for an average of 17.4 months, and the longest duration was 32 months. Cryofiltration is a good treatment for extracorporeal immunomodulation in transplantation.
Can Aggressive Lipid Lowering Using Low‐Density Lipoprotein Apheresis Prevent Restenosis After Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty in Patients with Normocholesterolemia?
Authors: Yamashita Kazuhito , Tasaki Hiromi , Tsuda Yuki , Himeno Etsuro , Nakashima Yasuhide
Published: November 2007

Abstract: We examined whether aggressive lipid lowering using low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) apheresis could prevent restenosis after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA). Fifteen patients with 17 lesions underwent LDL apheresis once within a week before and after PTCA and thereafter every 2 or 3 weeks (apheresis group) for about 4 months. The control group consisted of 17 patients with 17 lesions. No patients received additional lipid lowering drugs after PTCA. In the apheresis group, the time interval means of the total and LDL cholesterol levels were significantly lower than those in the control group whereas no significant differences were found between the 2 groups regarding the mean percent diameter stenosis or minimal lumen diameter before and after PTCA and at follow‐up. The restenosis rate was 29.4% in the apheresis group and 47.1% in the control group. The restenosis rate tended to be slightly lower in the apheresis group. The overall results, however, indicated that aggressive lipid lowering does not prevent restenosis.
Double Filtration Plasmapheresis Maintains Normal Adhesion Molecule Levels
Authors: Yamane Shingo , Matsugane Takao , Motohashi Kazuko , Nobuto Takuo , Azuma Nakanobu , Nishide Toshio , Suzuki Mitsuru
Published: November 2007

Abstract: Levels of plasma soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (sVCAM‐1), soluble intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (sICAM‐1), and von Willebrand factor (vWF) increase in patients with peripheral vascular or ischemic heart disease. These factors are related to the progression of atherosclerosis. Furthermore, these substances and thrombomodulin (TM) are indicators for assessing the degree of damage to the endothelium. To evaluate the effect of double filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP) on these molecules, the plasma levels of vWF, sICAM‐1, sVCAM‐1, and TM were measured in 4 familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) patients who underwent treatment with DFPP at 2 week intervals for more than 3 years. The levels of sVCAM‐1 and sICAM‐1 in hypercholesterolemia patients with ischemic heart disease as a control was 773 ± 109 and 334 ± 82 ng/ml. These values were higher than the normal value. In the FH patients who underwent DFPP treatment, the average sICAM‐1 levels were 221 ± 47 and 197 ± 36 ng/ml before and after, respectively. The average sVCAM‐1 levels were 601 ± 87 and 486 ± 60 ng/ml. There were no significant differences between the pre‐ and post‐DFPP values. The activities of plasma vWF before and after DFPP treatment were 158 ± 23 and 45 ± 9%. The levels of plasma TM before and after treatment were 3.0 ± 0.3 and 3.4 ± 0.5 FU/ml. From these results, it is suggested that DFPP treatment does not damage the endothelium and may prevent the progression of atherosclerosis by removing the substances that induce the production of sICAM‐1 and sVCAM‐1 due to long‐term treatment.
Cryofiltration Apheresis in the United States
Authors: Siami Ghodrat A. , Siami Flora S.
Published: November 2007

Abstract: There are approximately 2,000 cases of cryoglobulinemia reported each year in the United States. The number of cases has been and is expected to continue growing exponentially since the advent of its association with the hepatitis C virus (HCV). Cryofiltration apheresis is a specific therapy for the treatment of cryoprotein induced diseases that selectively removes cryoprecipitates. We are currently the only center in the United States performing cryofiltration apheresis. We report on 32 patients treated with over 920 cryofiltration apheresis procedures over the last 6 years under the Investigational Device Exemption of the Food and Drug Administration Office of Orphan Devices. Twenty‐seven patients were treated for cryoglobulinemia. Twelve of these patients received maintenance cryofiltration apheresis at some point, and 5 patients died. Five of the 32 patients were treated for cold IgM agglutinin disease. Only 2 of these patients, having plasma positive for cryoprotein and a high titer antibody, responded to therapy. None of these patients received maintenance therapy. No complement activation was observed using the cryofilter by measuring C3a and C5a. Although cryoproteins were effectively removed from the plasma, the other vital proteins such as immunoglobulins, albumin, and fibrinogen were preserved. Therefore cryofiltration apheresis is safe and effective in treating cryoprotein induced diseases. We would like to see widespread use of this cryofilter so that all patients with cryoprotein induced diseases such as cryoglobulinemia may benefit from this procedure.
The Development of Recombinant Human Serum Albumin
Authors: Kobayashi Kaoru , Nakamura Norifumi , Sumi Akinori , Ohmura Takao , Yokoyama Kazumasa
Published: November 2007

Abstract: We have developed a fermentation process for recombinant human serum albumin (rHSA) production using an expression strain of the methylotrophic yeast Pi‐chia pastoris. The high productivity of the process enables it to compete with the production of plasma derived HSA. After purification of the rHSA, the content of yeast derived contaminants was less than 1 ng/250 mg of rHSA. The results from structural analyses suggested that purified rHSA possessed an identical conformation to plasma derived HSA. Furthermore, no neoantigenicity different from that of plasma derived HSA was observed. The efficacy and safety of rHSA were tested in clinical studies, and it was shown that there was no difference between rHSA and plasma derived HSA in a comparison study. The high efficacy of rHSA with little or no adverse reaction was confirmed in these studies.
Timing of Effective Natural Killer Cell Collection in Cancer Patients After High Dose Chemotherapy, Compared to Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Collection
Authors: Komatsu Fumio , Kajiwara Michiko
Published: November 2007

Abstract: Natural killer (NK) and lymphokine‐activated killer (LAK) activities in patients with seminoma were determined, and the timing of effective NK cell collection was evaluated, compared to autologus peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) collection. After chemotherapy, patients were injected with granulocyte‐colony stimulating factor (G‐CSF). CD56 cells decreased in parallel with white blood cells and then were restored. After discontinuing the G‐CSF, the CD56 cells increased and reached peak 3–5 days after PBSC collection. The peak showed higher levels than those at premedication. Recovery‐peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) which were obtained 4 days after PBSC collection showed higher NK and LAK activities than the PBL obtained before chemotherapy (Before‐PBL). They exhibited a high expression of CD2, CD 18, CD29, and CD49d. Furthermore, the LAK cells generated from the Recovery‐PBL could aquire 9.6 folds of killer unit compared with the Before‐PBL‐LAK. These results suggest that, in order to obtain large numbers of NK cells, Recovery‐PBL collection may be more advantageous than PBL collection in no relation with the chemotherapy.
Basic Clinical Study of an Easy and Effective Leukocytapheresis by the Use of Nonwoven Polyester Filter
Authors: Kawamura Akio , Osanai Makoto , Katori Masamichi , Yonekawa Motoki , Saitoh Masao
Published: November 2007

Abstract: Leukocytapheresis (LCAP) is widely used for the treatment of immunological diseases. We studied a new treatment of LCAP using a nonwoven polyester filter. In a basic study, 30–70% of the lymphocytes were adsorbed. Also, 30–68% of the lymphocyte subsets were removed. This method was applied to 2 patients with corti‐costeroid‐resistant active ulerative colitis. Erosion, edema, bleeding, ulcer formation, and stenosis of the colon were almost completely repaired after 6 LCAP treatments. LCAP using a nonwoven polyester filter will be a very useful treatment for immunological diseases and extracorporeal immunomodulation.
Cryofiltration Apheresis for Major ABO‐Incompatible Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Tamaki Tohru , Tanaka Mitsuko , Katori Masamichi , Osanai Makoto , Yasuhara Mitsuo , Meguro Jun‐ichi , Kukita Kazutaka , Yonekawa Motoki , Kawamura Akio
Published: November 2007

Abstract: The barrier of ABO‐incompatible kidney transplantation is the presence of anti‐A and anti‐B antibodies in the recipient's circulating blood. Double filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP) is usually used to eliminate those antibodies. We tried cryofiltration apheresis (CRYO) in 2 recipients. Patient 1 was a 45‐year‐old male with B, Rh(±). The titers of IgM anti‐A antibody were only reduced from ×64 to ×32 by the end of 3 sessions of standard CRYO. Renal allografting was not performed. Case 2 was a 29‐year‐old male with B, Rh(+). CRYO was introduced for 3 sessions. The initial IgM and IgG titers were ×128 and negative, respectively. The standard CRYO system was modified by temperature, treated volume, and filter pore size. The IgM anti‐A antibody titer was markedly reduced to ×2 after the final session of CRYO. The donor was a 56‐year‐old father with A, Rh(+). Tacrolimus, azathio‐prine, methylprednisolone, and antilymphocyte globulin were used as the introductory immunosuppression therapy.
A Novel Approach to Dynamic Representation of Drill Strings in Test Rigs
Authors: Elsayed M. A.
Published: November 2007

Drill strings are used in oil and gas production as well as geothermal wells. They experience destructive vibrations, many of which are highly dependent on drill string modes. In this paper, we show that the lowest frequency modes are not necessarily the most critical and we delineate a methodology for reducing the number of modes representing the drill string. The frequency response function and stability diagram are used as measures of dynamic similarity between the proposed model and the drill string. We also introduce a novel approach to represent a drill string in laboratory test rigs. This approach not only represents the drill string dynamics but also offers flexibility to modify, remove, or augment the modes representing the system. The underlying principle is that in a multi-degree-of-freedom in-series spring-mass system with Rayleigh damping, dynamic modes can be decoupled. Applying the force to the end node (bit), the modes can then be configured separately in a parallel arrangement where their contributions to bit displacement are added algebraically. A practical arrangement for this purpose is proposed in this paper. Construction of a test rig that accurately represents the drill string dynamics is critical to validation of any test data on bits, bottom hole assemblies, instrument subs, and so on.
Planning 3D Well Trajectories Using Spline-in-Tension Functions
Authors: Sampaio J. H. B.
Published: November 2007

This work presents the mathematical method to design complex trajectories for three-dimensional (3D) wells using spline in tension as coordinate functions. 3D spline-in-tension trajectories are obtained for various end conditions: free end, set end, free inclination/set azimuth, and set inclination/free azimuth. The resulting trajectories are smooth continuous functions which better suit the expected performance of modern rotary steerable deviation tools, in particular, point-the-bit and push-the-bit systems. A continuous and gradual change in path curvature and tool face results in the smoothest trajectory for 3D wells, which, in turn, results in lower torque, drag, and equipment wear. The degree of freedom and the associated parameters of the 3D curves express the commitment between the average curvature to the final length of the path that can be adjusted to fit the design requirements and to optimize the trajectory. Several numerical examples illustrate the various end conditions. This paper also presents the full mathematical expressions for the 3D path for four end conditions. The method is directly applicable to the well planning cycle as well as to automatic and manual hole steering’s. Spline-in-tension functions differ from the cubic functions in the extent that an additional parameter, which represent the “tension” of the curve, can be controlled. A totally “relaxed” curve is identical to a cubic curve, and as the tension increases a shorter curve length is obtained with a consequent effect in the curvature profile along the curve. In the limit, as the tension increases to infinite, the spline-in-tension approaches to a straight line. The tension offers an additional degree of freedom, which can be used to further optimize the final trajectory. The 3D spline-in-tension model provides the most versatile model to plan a 3D well trajectory to date. Suitable manipulation of the curve parameters, namely, L0, L1, and the three tensions, allows to give to the planned trajectory any desired behavior.
Analysis of Energy Harvesting Positive Displacement Motor
Authors: Samuel G. Robello
Published: November 2007

Drilling operations in deep and ultradeep water are increasing around the world. The development of these substantial prospects provides many challenges and requires the integration of knowledge with prudent designs at different stages of the well development. Also, more wells are drilled in rotary steerable mode and other instrumented bottom-hole assemblies. All of these tools need power, which is stored in batteries. Because the downhole power supply is limited for these tools, an alternate mode of energy supply is needed so that these tools can remain downhole for long hours. This paper examines a new energy source extraction method using the hydraulic energy obtained from the circulated drilling fluid when downhole motors are used.
Characterization and Dynamics of Middle Ear Fluid and Nasopharyngeal Isolates of
Streptococcus pneumoniae
from 12 Children Treated with Levofloxacin
Authors: Davies Todd A. , Leibovitz Eugene , Noel Gary J. , McNeeley David F. , Bush Karen , Dagan Ron
Published: November 2007

Children who had acute otitis media and were treated with levofloxacin were assessed for the emergence of fluoroquinolone-resistant
Streptococcus pneumoniae
. Nasopharynx cultures were obtained from patients at the entry to and during levofloxacin therapy. All nasopharynx isolates (
n
= 59) from 12 children were levofloxacin susceptible without
parC/E
or
gyrA/B
mutations. Pneumococcal nasopharynx persistence was not associated with levofloxacin resistance.
Familiarity and mating behavior in the subterranean rodent Ctenomys talarum (tuco-tuco)
Authors: Zenuto Roxana R. , Estavillo Candelaria , Fanjul María Sol
Published: November 2007

Biological odors that convey cues regarding individual identity are known to alter mating behavior in some rodents. Deposition of chemical signals by males on the substrate could give females information about their neighbors’ identity and allow familiarization with their odors. This study tested whether familiarization of females with conspecific male odors affects mating behavior in Ctenomys talarum Thomas, 1898, facilitating mating as a consequence of a decrease in aggressive behavior and an increase in sexual behavior. Tuco-tucos are solitary subterranean rodents that occupy and defend adjacent burrows. Both sexes usually scent-mark burrow openings, providing odor signals to neighbors during their aboveground patrolling and foraging activities. Hence, familiarity by odor cues may represent an important mechanism that mediates neighbor recognition and probably mate selection. In this study, familiarity was established by housing females with male odors for 8 days. In C. talarum, individual recognition by olfactory cues may reduce mating costs when pairing with neighbors, since females showed low aggression towards familiar males and copulations were not repeated in consecutive days. Females that were not exposed to male odors were more aggressive, but surprisingly these pairs copulated repeatedly.
Measuring the response of animals to contemporary drivers of fragmentationThis review is one of a series dealing with some aspects of the impact of habitat fragmentation on animals and plants. This series is one of several virtual symposia focussing on ecological topics that will be published in the Journal from time to time.
Authors: Fleishman Erica , Mac Nally Ralph
Published: November 2007

From the perspective of most animals, fragmentation is a landscape-scale process in which habitat is separated into many smaller patches that have less total area. Here, we examine how two contemporary drivers of fragmentation, anthropogenic climate change and exurbanization, affect movement and responses of animal species to new environmental conditions. We address the definition of fragmentation and how the spatial patterns created by fragmentation can be measured at the scales at which different species of animals respond to their environments. We discuss tools, such as satellite remote sensing, that increasingly make it possible to identify and quantify changes in land cover and vegetation structure across extensive areas. We also describe a range of methods that are available to guide decisions about faunal surveys and monitoring programs in fragments or reference areas. Examination of stochastic changes in land cover and species occurrence over time is important because these shifts can confound detection of systematic responses to fragmentation. Careful evaluation of fragmentation and its influence on the distribution and viability of fauna may help to identify underlying mechanisms and to develop effective strategies for conservation and land use.
ANIONS AND ANOMALIES
Authors: BAWIN M. , COON SIDNEY A. , HOLSTEIN BARRY R.
Published: November 2007

We analyze the recent claim that experimental measurements of binding energies of dipole-bound anions can be understood in terms of a quantum mechanical anomaly. The discrepancy between the experimental critical dipole moments and that predicted by the anisotropic inverse square potential of a static dipole precludes such an explanation. As has long been known, in the physical problem one must include rotational structure so that the long distance behavior changes from 1/r2 to 1/r4. In a simple model this can be shown to lead to a modification of the critical dipole moment of 20% or so, bringing it into agreement with experiment. This, together with the fact that inclusion of finite size effects does not change the critical dipole moment of the static point dipole, strongly suggests that the quantum mechanical anomaly interpretation of the formation of dipole-bound anions cannot be correct.
MIRROR DARK MATTER
Authors: FOOT R.
Published: November 2007

A mirror sector of particles and forces provides a simple explanation of the inferred dark matter of the Universe. The status of this theory is reviewed - with emphasis on how the theory explains the impressive DAMA/NaI annual modulation signal, whilst also being consistent with the null results of the other direct detection experiments.
PARTICLE PHYSICS IN CONDENSED MATTER
Authors: HAMER CHRIS
Published: November 2007

We highlight the surprising similarities between particle physics and condensed matter physics which have been emerging from recent advances in experimantal and theoretical techniques.
QUANTUM COMPUTATION IN SILICON — DEVICE MODELING, TRANSPORT AND FAULT-TOLERANCE
Authors: HOLLENBERG L. C. L.
Published: November 2007

The Kane concept of quantum computation using single phosphorus donors in silicon has revolutionized the way we think about P -doped silicon devices. However, because of the enormous effort required in fabricating such devices using single atom techniques, detailed modeling and assessment of fault-tolerant operation is required to determine and optimize the scalability, and indeed feasibility, of such a vision.
QUARK-LEPTON SYMMETRY AND QUARTIFICATION IN FIVE DIMENSIONS
Authors: MCDONALD KRISTIAN L.
Published: November 2007

We outline some features of higher dimensional models possessing a Quark-Lepton (QL) symmetry. The QL symmetric model in five dimensions is discussed, with particular emphasis on the use of split fermions. An interesting fermionic geography which utilises the QL symmetry to suppress the proton decay rate and to motivate the flavor differences in the quark and leptonic sectors is considered. We discuss the quartification model in five dimensions and contrast the features of this model with traditional four dimensional constructs.
LOOKING FORWARD TO THE LARGE HADRON COLLIDER
Authors: TAYLOR GEOFFREY N.
Published: November 2007

In this paper an overview of the Large Hadron Collider program and status is given, including a brief description of the scientific background from which this ambitious program evolved. The emphasis is on the status of the Standard Model Higgs Boson, searches for which are the key component of the LHC program. A description of the ATLAS one of the two large general purpose experiments designed to detect evidence for the Higgs Boson and other data of interest to searches for physics beyond the standard model.
TIGHTENING: MORPHOLOGICAL SIMPLIFICATION
Authors: WILLIAMS JASON , ROSSIGNAC JAREK
Published: November 2007

Given a two- or three-dimensional set S of arbitrary topology and a radius r, we show how to construct an r-tightening of S, which is a set whose boundary has mean curvature with magnitude less than or equal to 1/r and which only differs from S in a morphologically-defined tolerance zone we call the mortar. The mortar consists of the thin or highly curved parts of S and its complement, such as corners, gaps, and small connected components, while the boundary of a tightening consists of components of locally minimal length (in 2D) or area (in 3D) that lie in the mortar. Tightenings are defined independently of shape representation, and it may be possible to find them using a variety of algorithms. We describe how to approximately compute tightenings for two-dimensional sets represented as binary images and for three-dimensional sets represented as triangle meshes using constrained, level-set curvature flow.
Electrochemical and Spectrophotometric Detection of the Chromo-Diphenylcarbazide Complex using FIA
Authors: García-Dávila Virginia , Alarcón-Ángeles Georgina , Rojas-Hernández Alberto , Ramírez-Silva María Teresa , Palomar-Pardavé Manuel , Romero-Romo Mario
Published: November 2007

Because hexavalent chromium is even more toxic that the trivalent species, there is much interest in its determination in biological samples. The most commonly used method to determine very small chromium quantities, has been through the reaction between Cr(VI) and diphenylcarbazide, DPCi. Therefore, this work presents the results concerning the electrochemical and spectrophotometric detection coupled to a continuous flow injection analysis system, FIA. The results revealed that Cr (VI) determination by means of UV-VIS spectrophotometry is better because the detection limits were lower as compared to those derived of the electrochemical analysis.
Heteroepitaxy of InP on Silicon-on-Insulator for Optoelectronic Integration
Authors: Olsson Fredrik K. , Aubert Amandine , Avella Manuel , Jiménez Juan , Barrios Carlos A. , Berggren Jesper , Lourdudoss Sebastian
Published: November 2007

Epitaxial lateral overgrowth of InP was performed on patterned silicon-on-insulator (SOI) and compared with that on Si substrates in a low pressure hydride vapor phase epitaxy system. The InP was characterized by cathodoluminescence. No red shift of peak wavelength was detected for InP/SOI indicating a negligible thermal strain. Additional low energy peaks were found in some regions with a granular structure on the SOI template. A subsequent growth of an InGaAsP/InP MQW (multi quantum well) structure (λ ~ 1.5 µm) was grown on the SOI template and on a planar InP reference sample by metal- organic phase epitaxy. The MQW was characterized by room temperature photoluminescence. A red shift of 35 nm with respect to the reference sample was attributed to the selective-area effect causing thicker wells and/or an increased indium content. Although the PL intensity was weaker than that obtained for the reference, the FWHMs were comparable.
Origin and functional significance of large-scale chromosomal imbalances in neuroblastoma
Authors: Stallings R.L.
Published: November 2007

Neuroblastoma is characterized by numerous recurrent large-scale chromosomal imbalances and gene amplifications which are associated with poor clinical outcome. The most common include MYCN amplification, loss of 1p, 3p and 11q, and gain of 17q genomic regions. Two of these abnormalities, MYCN amplification and loss of 11q, define different genetic subtypes of the disease with vastly different global gene expression profiles. The progress towards the identification of the genes and genetic pathways that have been affected by these abnormalities is reviewed and high resolution mapping of the chromosomal breakpoint regions using oligonucleotide array CGH (oaCGH) is discussed. oaCGH analysis is proving useful for both defining minimal regions of overlap of imbalances, as well as providing information on the molecular mechanisms that generate the chromosomal imbalances. These high resolution analyses have also permitted the detection of micro-deletions in the tumors that further assist in identifying genes important for neuroblastoma pathogenesis.
Genomic signatures of breast cancer metastasis
Authors: Urquidi V. , Goodison S.
Published: November 2007

Despite significant advances in the treatment of primary cancer, the ability to predict the metastatic behavior of a patient’s cancer, as well as to detect and eradicate such recurrences, remain major clinical challenges in oncology. While many potential molecular biomarkers have been identified and tested previously, none have greatly improved the accuracy of specimen evaluation over routine histopathological criteria and they predict individual outcomes poorly. However, the recent introduction of high-throughput microarray technology has opened new avenues in genomic investigation of cancer, and through application in tissue-based studies and appropriate animal models, has facilitated the identification of gene expression signatures that are associated with the lethal progression of breast cancer. The use of these approaches has the potential to greatly impact our knowledge of tumor biology, to provide efficient biomarkers, and enable development towards customized prognostication and therapies for the individual.