bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Response-Guided Peginterferon Therapy in Hepatitis B E Antigen-Positive Chronic Hepatitis B Using Serum Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Levels
Authors: Sonneveld Milan J. , Hansen Bettina E. , Piratvisuth Teerha , Jia Ji-Dong , Zeuzem Stefan , Gane Edward , Liaw Yun-Fan , Xie Qing , Heathcote Jenny E. , Chan Henry L.-Y. , Janssen Harry L.A.
Published: April 2013

On-treatment levels of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) may predict response to peginterferon (PEG-IFN) therapy in chronic hepatitis B (CHB), but previously proposed prediction rules have shown limited external validity. We analyzed 803 HBeAg-positive patients treated with PEG-IFN in three global studies with available HBsAg measurements. A stopping-rule based on absence of a decline from baseline was compared to a prediction-rule that uses HBsAg levels of <1,500 IU/mL and >20,000 IU/mL to identify patients with high and low probabilities of response. Patients with an HBsAg level <1,500 IU/mL at week 12 achieved response (HBeAg loss with HBV DNA <2,000 IU/mL at 6 months posttreatment) in 45%. At week 12, patients without a decline in HBsAg achieved a response in 14%, compared to only 6% of patients with HBsAg >20,000 IU/mL, but performance varied across HBV genotype. In patients treated with PEG-IFN monotherapy (n = 465), response rates were low in patients with genotypes A or D if there was no decline of HBsAg by week 12 (negative predictive value [NPV]: 97%-100%), and in patients with genotypes B or C if HBsAg at week 12 was >20,000 IU/mL (NPV: 92%-98%). At week 24, nearly all patients with HBsAg >20,000 IU/mL failed to achieve a response, irrespective of HBV genotype (NPV for response and HBsAg loss 99% and 100%). Conclusion: HBsAg is a strong predictor of response to PEG-IFN in HBeAg-positive CHB. HBV genotype-specific stopping-rules may be considered at week 12, but treatment discontinuation is indicated in all patients with HBsAg >20,000 IU/mL at week 24, irrespective of HBV genotype. (Hepatology 2013;53:872–880)
Development of aquatic toxicity benchmarks for oil products using species sensitivity distributions
Authors: Barron Mace G , Hemmer Michael J , Jackson Crystal R
Published: April 2013

Determining the sensitivity of a diversity of species to spilled oil and chemically dispersed oil continues to be a significant challenge in spill response and impact assessment. We used standardized tests from the literature to develop species sensitivity distributions (SSDs) of acute aquatic toxicity values for several petroleum products and 2 Corexit oil dispersants. Fifth percentile hazard concentrations (HC5s) were computed from the SSDs and used to assess relative oil product toxicity and in evaluating the feasibility of establishing toxicity benchmarks for a community of species. The sensitivity of mysids (Americamysis bahia) and silversides (Menidia beryllina) were evaluated within the SSDs to determine if these common test species were appropriate surrogates for a broader range of species. In general, SSD development was limited by the availability of acute toxicity values that met standardization criteria for a diversity of species. Pooled SSDs were also developed for crude oil and Corexit dispersants because there was only small variability in the HC5s among the individual oil or dispersant products. The sensitivity of mysids and silversides varied across the oil and dispersant products, with the majority of toxicity values greater than the HC5. Application of SSDs appears to be a reasonable approach to developing oil product toxicity benchmarks, but additional toxicity data are needed for a larger range of species conducted under standardized test conditions. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2013;9:610–615. © 2013 SETAC
Enabling in vivo measurements of nanoparticle concentrations with three‐dimensional optoacoustic tomography
Authors: Tsyboulski Dmitri A. , Liopo Anton V. , Su Richard , Ermilov Sergey A. , Bachilo Sergei M. , Weisman R. Bruce , Oraevsky Alexander A.
Published: April 2013

In this report, we demonstrate the feasibility of using optoacoustic tomography (OAT) to evaluate biodistributions of nanoparticles in animal models. The redistribution of single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) was visualized in living mice. Nanoparticle concentrations in harvested organs were measured spectroscopically using the intrinsic optical absorption and fluorescence of SWCNTs. Observed increases in optoacoustic signal brightness in tissues were compared with increases in optical absorption coefficients caused by SWCNT accumulation. The methodology presented in this report can further be extended to calibrate the sensitivity of an optoacoustic imaging system for a range of changes in optical absorption coefficient values at specific locations or organs in a mouse body to enable noninvasive measurements of nanoparticle concentrations in vivo. Additionally, qualitative information provided by OAT and quantitative information obtained ex vivo may provide valuable feedback for advancing methods of quantitative analysis with OAT. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effect of alginate‐chitosan sustained release microcapsules for transhepatic arterial embolization in VX2 rabbit liver cancer model
Authors: Zhang Guang‐Yu , Zhou Xiao‐Feng , Zhou Xin‐Ying , Wen Qing‐Yi , You Ben‐Gang , Liu Yang , Zhang Xue‐Nong , Jin Yong
Published: April 2013

Two lipid‐solid dispersion loading Norcantharidin sustained‐released microspheres of alginate‐chitosan (NCTD/LSD‐ACMs) were prepared via the emulsification‐gelation method. The effects of microspheres for transarterial hepatic chemoembolization were evaluated in VX2 rabbit liver cancer model. The VX2 animal model was established by biopsy needle, divided randomly into four groups, and disposed with three preparations including NCTD/LSD‐ACMs (60–120 μm), NCTD/LSD‐ACMs(120–200 μm), and NCTD solution through the hepatic arteries compared with the untreated group (control group). The serum of all rabbits before and at 3, 7, and 14 days after embolization was collected to determine the level of aspartate aminotransferase (AST). The AST level increased in the three treated groups on the first day compared with the control group (p < 0.05), and was higher in the two embolization groups (with no significant difference, p >0.05) than that in the NCTD group (p < 0.05). The tumor growth rates, which were significantly decreased in the two embolization groups compared with that in the control group, and the degree of liver cell necrosis assessed by the histopathological specimens, were used to evaluate the embolization effect. Liquefactive necrosis and coagulative necrosis were observed in the two embolization groups. The results showed that NCTD/LSD‐ACMs are a potential candidate for embolization of liver cancer. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 101A: 3192–3200, 2013.
Nitric oxide releasing material adsorbs more fibrinogen
Authors: Lantvit Sarah M. , Barrett Brittany J. , Reynolds Melissa M.
Published: April 2013

One mechanism of the failure of blood‐contacting devices is clotting. Nitric oxide (NO) releasing materials are seen as a viable solution to the mediation of surface clotting by preventing platelet activation; however, NO's involvement in preventing clot formation extends beyond controlling platelet function. In this study, we evaluate NO's effect on factor XII (fibrinogen) adsorption and activation, which causes the initiation of the intrinsic arm of the coagulation cascade. This is done by utilizing a model plasticized poly(vinyl) chloride (PVC), N‐diazeniumdiolate system and looking at the adsorption of fibrinogen, an important clotting protein, to these surfaces. The materials have been prepared in such a way to eliminate changes in surface properties between the control (plasticized PVC) and composite (NO‐releasing) materials. This allows us to isolate NO release and determine the effect on the adsorption of fibrinogen, to the material surface. Surprisingly, it was found that an NO releasing material with a surface flux of 17.4 ± 0.5 × 10−10 mol NO cm−2 min−1 showed a significant increase in the amount of fibrinogen adsorbed to the material surface compared to one with a flux of 13.0 ± 1.6 × 10−10 mol NO cm−2 min−1 and the control (2334 ± 496, 226 ± 99, and 103 ±31% fibrinogen adsorbed of control, respectively). This study suggests that NO's role in controlling clotting is extended beyond platelet activation. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 101A: 3201–3210, 2013.
Orthopedic bioactive implants: Hydrogel enrichment of macroporous titanium for the delivery of mesenchymal stem cells and strontium
Authors: Lopa Silvia , Mercuri David , Colombini Alessandra , De Conti Gennyfer , Segatti Francesco , Zagra Luigi , Moretti Matteo
Published: April 2013

Insufficient implant stability is an important determinant in the failure of cementless prostheses. To improve osseointegration, we aim at generating a bioactive implant combining a macroporous titanium (TT) with a biocompatible hydrogel to encapsulate osteo‐inductive factors and osteoprogenitor cells. Amidation and cross‐linking degree of an amidated carboxymethylcellulose hydrogel (CMCA) were characterized by FT‐IR spectrometry and mechanical testing. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) from osteoarthritic patients were cultured on CMCA hydrogels, TT, and TT loaded with CMCA (TT + CMCA) with an optimized concentration of SrCl2to evaluate cell viability and osteo‐differentiation. Amidation and cross‐linking degree were homogeneous among independent CMCA batches. SrCl2at 5 μg/mL significantly improved BMSCs osteo‐differentiation increasing calcified matrix (P< 0.01), type I collagen expression (P< 0.05) and alkaline phosphatase activity. TT + CMCA samples better retained cells into the TT mesh, significantly improving cell seeding efficiency with respect to TT (P< 0.05). BMSCs on TT + CMCA underwent a more efficient osteo‐differentiation with higher alkaline phosphatase (P< 0.05) and calcium levels compared to cells on TT. Based on these in vitro results, we envision the association of TT with strontium‐enriched CMCA and BMSCs as a promising strategy to generate bioactive implants promoting bone neoformation at the implant site. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 101A: 3396–3403, 2013.
Ubiquitin E3 ligase Wwp1 negatively regulates osteoblast function by inhibiting osteoblast differentiation and migration
Authors: Shu Lei , Zhang Hengwei , Boyce Brendan F , Xing Lianping
Published: April 2013

Ubiquitin E3 ligase-mediated protein degradation promotes proteasomal degradation of key positive regulators of osteoblast functions. For example, the E3 ligases—SMAD-specific E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 1 (Smurf1), Itch, and WW domain–containing E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 1 (Wwp1)—promote degradation of Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), transcription factor jun-B (JunB), and chemokine (C-X-C) receptor type 4 (CXCR-4) proteins to inhibit their functions. However, the role of E3 ligases in age-associated bone loss is unknown. We found that the expression level of Wwp1, but not Smurf1 or Itch, was significantly increased in CD45-negative (CD45−) bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stem cells from 6-month-old and 12-month-old wild-type (WT) mice. Wwp1 knockout (Wwp1−/−) mice developed increased bone mass as they aged, associated with increased bone formation rates and normal bone resorption parameters. Bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) from Wwp1−/− mice formed increased numbers and areas of alkaline phosphatase+ and Alizarin red+ nodules and had increased migration potential toward chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 12 (CXCL12) gradients. Runx2, JunB, and CXCR-4 protein levels were significantly increased in Wwp1−/− BMSCs. Wwp1−/− BMSCs had increased amount of ubiquitinated JunB protein, but Runx2 ubiquitination was no change. Knocking down JunB in Wwp1−/− BMSCs returned Runx2 protein levels to that in WT cells. Thus, Wwp1 negatively regulates osteoblast functions by affecting both their migration and differentiation. Mechanisms designed to decrease Wwp1 levels in BMSCs may represent a new approach to prevent the decrease in osteoblastic bone formation associated with aging.
Bone stiffness and failure load are related with clinical parameters in men with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Romme Elisabeth APM , Rutten Erica PA , Geusens Piet , de Jong Joost JA , van Rietbergen Bert , Smeenk Frank WJM , Wouters Emiel FM , van den Bergh Joop PW
Published: April 2013

Osteoporosis is frequently seen in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Because research on bone structure and bone strength in COPD patients is limited, the objectives of this pilot study were as follows: (1) to compare bone structure, stiffness, and failure load, measured at the peripheral skeleton, between men with and without COPD after stratification for areal bone mineral density (aBMD); and (2) to relate clinical parameters with bone stiffness and failure load in men with COPD. We included 30 men with COPD (normal aBMD, n = 18; osteoporosis, n = 12) and 17 men without COPD (normal aBMD, n = 9; osteoporosis, n = 8). We assessed pack-years of smoking, body mass index (BMI), fat free mass index (FFMI), pulmonary function (forced expiratory volume in 1 second [FEV1], FEV1/forced vital capacity [FVC], diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide [DLCO], and transfer coefficient for carbon monoxide [KCO]), and extent of emphysema. Bone structure of the distal radius and tibia was assessed by high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT), and bone stiffness and failure load of the distal radius and tibia were estimated from micro finite element analysis (µFEA). After stratification for aBMD and COPD, men with osteoporosis showed abnormal bone structure (p < 0.01), lower bone stiffness (p < 0.01), and lower failure load (p < 0.01) compared with men with normal aBMD, and men with COPD had comparable bone structure, stiffness, and failure load compared with men without COPD. In men with COPD, lower FFMI was related with lower bone stiffness, and failure load of the radius and tibia and lower DLCO and KCO were related with lower bone stiffness and failure load of the tibia after normalization with respect to femoral neck aBMD. Thus, this pilot study could not detect differences in bone structure, stiffness, and failure load between men with and without COPD after stratification for aBMD. FFMI and gas transfer capacity of the lung were significantly related with bone stiffness and failure load in men with COPD after normalization with respect to femoral neck aBMD. © 2013 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Enhancing the Color Rendering Index for Phosphor‐converted White LEDs Using Cadmium‐Free CuInS2/ZnS QDs
Authors: Chuang Po‐Hsiang , Lin Chun Che , Yang Heesun , Liu Ru‐Shi
Published: April 2013

CuInS2 (CIS) I‐III‐VI‐type quantum dots (QDs) were synthesized under different growth times by the facile solvothermal method. Emission wavelengths showed a deep red region (630 ‐ 650 nm) with low quantum yields (QYs). The core CIS was effectively passivated by the coating layer of ZnS, thereby remarkably increasing the QYs (48% and 82%) and causing the blue shift of the emission band (580 ‐ 623 nm). Red‐emitting CIS/ZnS QDs that were blended with Y3Al5O12:Ce3+ phosphor‐based white light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) were further demonstrated. The color rendering index of white LEDs was improved (Ra = 86) by using red‐emitting CIS/ZnS QDs with broader spectra. The optical properties were evaluated under various forward currents; these properties included the electroluminescence spectra and luminous efficiency of CIS/ZnS QDs‐assisted white LEDs. These results clearly showed that CIS/ZnS QDs are promising candidates for application in white LEDs.
Base‐Promoted Selective Activation of Benzylic Carbon‐Hydrogen Bonds of Toluenes with Rhodium(III) Porphyrin Chloride: Synthetic Scopes and Mechanism
Authors: Choi Kwong Shing , Chiu Peng Fai , Chan Chung Sum , Chan Kin Shing
Published: April 2013

Toluenes underwent base‐promoted selective benzylic carbon‐hydrogen bond activation (CHA) with rhodium porphyrin chlorides (Rh(por)Cl). In the absence of nucleophilic base, both aryl and benzylic rhodium porphyrins were formed. In the presence of nucleophilic base, the selectivity, rates and functional group compatibilities of benzylic activation reactions were enhanced. K2CO3 was found to be the optimal base to achieve the best yields. Ortho‐, meta‐ and para‐substituted toluenes in the presence of K2CO3 yielded the corresponding rhodium porphyrin benzyls in high yields both in solvent‐free conditions and in benzene solvent. Mechanistically, in the absence of nucleophilic base, a cationic rhodium(III) porphyrin species together with some rhodium(II) porphyrin are the most likely intermediates to account both the aryl and benzylic CHA. In the presence of a base, Rh(por)OH is generated by ligand substitution with Rh(por)Cl and rapidly undergoes reduction to give rhodium(II) porphyin dimer and H2O2. The key rhodium porphyrin intermediates for benzylic CHA were found to be rhodium(II) porphyrin dimer and hydrides as observed by 1H NMR spectroscopy, which underwent parallel benzylic CHA reactions with the rhodium(II) porphyrin dimer being the more reactive intermediate.
Nano‐Gold Modified Genosensor for Direct Detection of DNA Hybridization
Authors: Mousavi‐Sani Seyedeh Zeinab , Raoof Jahan Bakhsh , Ojani Reza , Hamidi‐Asl Ezat
Published: April 2013

In this paper, nano‐gold modified carbon paste electrode (NGMCPE) was employed to develop an electrochemical DNA hybridization biosensor. The proposed sensor was made up by immobilization of 15‐mer single stranded oligonucleotide probe for detection of target DNA. Hybridization detection relies on the alternation in guanine oxidation signal following hybridization of the probe with complementary genomic DNA. The guanine oxidation was monitored using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). Different factors such as activation potential, activation time and probe immobilization conditions were optimized. The selectivity of the sensor was investigated by non‐complementary oligonucleotides. Diagnostic performance of the biosensor was described and the detection limit was found 1.9 × 10−13 M at the NGMCPE surface. All of the investigations were performed in both CPE and NGMCPE and finally their results were compared.
Depletion of Water Molecules Near the End Stage of Steric Zipper Formation
Authors: Cheng Hsin‐Mei , Huang William Y. C. , Tsai Tim W. T. , Mou Yun , Chao John Chin Hao , Chan Jerry C. C.
Published: April 2013

Steric zipper refers to a structural motif where the residues of two neighboring beta‐sheet layers are tightly interdigitated. Recently, steric zippers have been proposed as the fundamental structural units of amyloid fibrils. The steric zipper formed by polypeptides containing the palindromic sequence AGAAAAGA may have considerable biological relevance because the fragment AGAAAAGA is highly conserved in prion proteins of different species. The fibril core formed by AGAAAAGA has a distinctive structural feature that the distance between two interdigitated beta‐sheet layers is comparable to the inter‐strand distance of the individual beta sheet. In this work, the amyloid fibrils formed by the polypeptides of PrP(113‐127), viz. Ac‐AGAAAAGAVVGGLGG‐NH2, are taken as the model compound for the solid‐state NMR study of the formation of steric zipper. Near the end stage of the zipper formation, the NMR data show that there is a layer of water molecules trapped in between the two closely stacking β‐sheet layers. The zipper formation is completed upon the depletion of the water molecules between the interdigitated β‐sheet layers. On the basis of the NMR measurements and molecular dynamics simulations, we suggest that the residues A118 of the two neighboring beta sheets would first come into contact upon the zipper formation.
Coupled economic‐coastline modeling with suckers and free riders
Authors: Williams Zachary C. , McNamara Dylan E. , Smith Martin D. , Murray A Brad. , Gopalakrishnan Sathya
Published: April 2013

Shoreline erosion is a natural trend along most sandy coastlines. Humans often respond to shoreline erosion with beach nourishment to maintain coastal property values. Locally extending the shoreline through nourishment alters alongshore sediment transport and changes shoreline dynamics in adjacent coastal regions. If left unmanaged, sandy coastlines can have spatially complex or simple patterns of erosion due to the relationship of large‐scale morphology and the local wave climate. Using a numerical model that simulates spatially decentralized and locally optimal nourishment decisions characteristic of much of U.S. East Coast beach management, we find that human erosion intervention does not simply reflect the alongshore erosion pattern. Spatial interactions generate feedbacks in economic and physical variables that lead to widespread emergence of “free riders” and “suckers” with subsequent inequality in the alongshore distribution of property value. Along cuspate coastlines, such as those found along the U.S. Southeast Coast, these long‐term property value differences span an order of magnitude. Results imply that spatially decentralized management of nourishment can lead to property values that are divorced from spatial erosion signals; this management approach is unlikely to be optimal.
Frontal dynamics of powder snow avalanches
Authors: Carroll C. S. , Louge M. Y. , Turnbull B.
Published: April 2013

We analyze frontal dynamics of dilute powder snow avalanches sustained by rapid blow‐out behind the front. Such material injection arises as a weakly cohesive snow cover is fluidized by the very pore pressure gradient that the particle cloud induces within the snowpack. We model cloud fluid mechanics as a potential flow consisting of a traveling source of denser fluid thrust into a uniform airflow. Stability analysis of a mass balance involving snow cover and powder cloud yields relations among scouring depth, frontal height, speed, mixed‐mean density, and impact pressure when the frontal region achieves a stable growth rate. We compare predictions with field measurements, show that powder clouds cannot reach steady frontal speed on a uniform snowpack with constant cloud width and derive a criterion for cloud ignition. Because static pressure is continuous across the mean air‐cloud interface and deviatoric stresses are negligible, frontal acceleration is insensitive to local slope, but instead arises from a deficit of flow‐induced suction in the wake. We calculate how far a powder cloud travels until its frontal mixed‐mean density becomes stable, and show how topographic spread can hasten its collapse.
Regioselective Photocyclization Reactions of 3‐Allyloxy‐6‐chloro‐2‐(thiophen‐3‐yl)‐4H‐chromen‐4‐one: Solvent Effect
Authors: Kamboj Ramesh C. , Kumar Dinesh , Arora Rita , Berar Surinder , Sharma Geeta
Published: April 2013

The photo‐irradiation of thienylchromenone resulted in the regioselective cyclization which is exclusively controlled by the nature of solvent used as reaction medium. Compared to nonpolar medium, polar solvent furnished a diverse array of novel angular tetracyclic photoproducts with gem‐dihydro functionality and exocyclic double bonds on the fused pyran ring, which is unprecedented to best of our knowledge.
Nitrogen‐fixing bacteria with multiple plant growth‐promoting activities enhance growth of tomato and red pepper
Authors: Islam Md. Rashedul , Sultana Tahera , Joe M. Melvin , Yim Woojong , Cho Jang‐Cheon , Sa Tongmin
Published: April 2013

As a suitable alternative to chemical fertilizers, the application of plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria has been increasing in recent years due to their potential to be used as biofertilizers. In the present work, 13 nitrogen‐fixing bacterial strains belonging to 11 different genera were tested for their PGP attributes. All of the strains were positive for 1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylate deaminase (ACCD), indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA), salicylic acid, and ammonia production while negative for cellulase, pectinase, and hydrocyanic acid production. The strainsPseudomonassp. RFNB3 andSerratiasp. RFNB14 were the most effective in solubilizing both tri‐calcium phosphate and zinc oxide. In addition, all strains exceptPseudomonassp. RFNB3 were able to oxidize sulfur, and six strains were positive for siderophore synthesis. Each strain tested in this study possesses at least four PGP properties in addition to nitrogen fixation. Nine strains were selected based on their multiple PGP potential, particularly ACCD and IAA production, and evaluated for their effects on early growth of tomato and red pepper under gnotobiotic conditions. Bacterial inoculation considerably influenced root and shoot length, seedling vigor, and dry biomass of the two crop plants. Three strains that demonstrated substantial effects on plant performance were further selected for greenhouse trials with red pepper, and among themPseudomonassp. RFNB3 resulted in significantly higher plant height (26%) and dry biomass (28%) compared to control. The highest rate of nitrogen fixation, as determined by acetylene reduction assay, occurred inNovosphingobiumsp. RFNB21 inoculated red pepper root (49.6 nM of ethylene/h/g of dry root) and rhizosphere soil (41.3 nM of ethylene/h/g of dry soil). Inoculation with nitrogen‐fixing bacteria significantly increased chlorophyll content, and the uptake of different macro‐ and micro‐nutrient contents enhancing also in red pepper shoots, in comparison with uninoculated controls. The population estimation studies showed that nitrogen‐fixing as well as total heterotrophic bacteria were also noticeably increased in soil and plant samples. The findings of this study suggest that certain nitrogen‐fixing strains possessing multiple PGP traits could be applied in the development of biofertilizers.
Studies on salinization in Haryana soils on free‐living nitrogen‐fixing bacterial populations and their activity
Authors: Kayasth Monika , Gera Rajesh , Dudeja Surjit Singh , Sharma Parveen Kumar , Kumar Varun
Published: April 2013

A total of 26 soil samples from saline soils of Haryana were collected. Based on their electrical conductivity (EC) values, which varied from 1.04 to 21.00 dS m−1, the soils were categorized into non‐saline soils (EC 0–2 dS m−1), weakly saline soils (EC 2–4 dS m−1), saline soils (EC 4–8 dS m−1), strongly saline soils (EC 8–16 dS m−1), and very strongly saline soils (EC >16 dS m−1). The pH values of these soil samples ranged from 6.03 to 8.62, while organic C, total N, and available P were in the range of 0.06–0.94%, 0.07–0.15%, and 0.11–0.29 μg g−1 soil, respectively. As a measure of the impact of salinity on free‐living N2 fixers and their activity, the total bacterial populations on four media (Jensen's nitrogen‐free medium, malate medium, Burk's medium, and soil extract agar medium) decreased from 6.12 to 3.70 log CFU g−1 soil with increasing salinity level. PCR amplification of the nifH region of the DNA from 234 selected morphotypes from all the media showed the presence of nifH in 71 isolates. Out of these, 37% of the isolates were obtained using Jensen's medium; 35, 28, and 21% of the isolates were obtained using soil extract medium, Burk's medium, and malate medium, respectively. The majority of the free‐living N2 fixers (67%) were Gram negative. Apart from the acetylene reduction assay (ARA) activity in these isolates, other beneficial traits like ammonia excretion and indole acetic acid (IAA) production were also present. A decreasing trend in the activities was observed with increasing salinity levels. Isolates JN6, BP8, and MJ4 showed the highest ARA activity, ammonia excretion, and IAA production. The performance of isolates like BNC2 with good ARA activity, ammonia excretion, and IAA production and isolated from a very strongly saline soil should be further evaluated under high‐saline conditions.
Water recycle as a must: decolorization of textile wastewaters by plant‐associated fungi
Authors: Tegli Stefania , Cerboneschi Matteo , Corsi Massimo , Bonnanni Marco , Bianchini Roberto
Published: April 2013

Textile dye effluents are among the most problematic pollutants because of their toxicity on several organisms and ecosystems. Low cost and ecocompatible bioremediation processes offer a promising alternative to the conventional and aspecific physico‐chemical procedures adopted so far. Here, microorganisms resident on three real textile dyeing effluent were isolated, characterized, and tested for their decolorizing performances. Although able to survive on these real textile‐dyeing wastewaters, they always showed a very low decolorizing activity. On the contrary, several plant‐associated fungi (Bjerkandera adusta, Funalia trogii, Irpex lacteus, Pleurotus ostreatus, Trametes hirsuta, Trichoderma viride, and Aspergillus nidulans) were also assayed and demonstrated to be able both to survive and to decolorize to various extents the three effluents, used as such in liquid cultures. The decolorizing potential of these fungi was demonstrated to be influenced by nutrient availability and pH. Best performances were constantly obtained using B. adusta and A. nidulans, relying on two strongly different mechanisms for their decolorizing activities: degradation for B. adusta and biosorption for A. nidulans. Acute toxicity tests using Daphnia magna showed a substantial reduction in toxicity of the three textile dyeing effluents when treated with B. adusta and A. nidulans, as suggested by mass spectrometric analysis as well.
Efficacy of Ganoderma sp. JAS4 in bioremediation of chlorpyrifos and its hydrolyzing metabolite TCP from agricultural soil
Authors: Silambarasan Sivagnanam , Abraham Jayanthi
Published: April 2013

A novel fungal strain JAS4 was isolated from agricultural soil and was found to be highly effective in degrading chlorpyrifos and its major degradation product 3,5,6‐trichloro‐2‐pyridinol (TCP). The molecular characterization based on 18S rRNA sequence analysis, revealed strain JAS4 as Ganoderma sp. which could able to degrade chlorpyrifos and its metabolite in an aqueous medium with rate constant of 0.8460 day−1, following first order rate kinetics, and the time in which the initial insecticide concentration was reduced by 50% (DT50) was 0.81 days. Studies on biodegradation in soil with nutrients showed that JAS4 strain exhibited efficient degradation of insecticide with a rate constant of 0.9 day−1, and DT50 was 0.73 day. In contrast, degradation of insecticide in soil without nutrients was characterized by a rate constant of 0.7576 day−1 and the DT50 was 0.91 day.
The junction between hyaline cartilage and engineered cartilage in rabbits
Authors: Komura Makoto , Komura Hiroko , Otani Yushi , Kanamori Yutaka , Iwanaka Tadashi , Hoshi Kazuto , Tsuyoshi Takato , Tabata Yasuhiko
Published: April 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Tracheoplasty using costal cartilage grafts to enlarge the tracheal lumen was performed to treat congenital tracheal stenosis. Fibrotic granulomatous tissue was observed at the edge of grafted costal cartilage. We investigated the junction between the native hyaline cartilage and the engineered cartilage plates that were generated by auricular chondrocytes for fabricating the airway.

Study Design

Controlled, prospecive study.

Methods

In group 1, costal cartilage from New Zealand white rabbits was collected and implanted into a space created in the cervical trachea. In group 2, chondrocytes from auricular cartilages were seeded on absorbable scaffolds. These constructs were implanted in the subcutaneous space. Engineered cartilage plates were then implanted into the trachea after 3 weeks of implantation of the constructs. The grafts in group 1 and 2 were retrieved after 4 weeks.

Results

In group 1, histological studies of the junction between the native hyaline cartilage and the implanted costal cartilage demonstrated chondrogenic tissue in four anastomoses sides out of the 10 examined. In group 2, the junction between the native trachea and the engineered cartilage showed neocartilage tissue in nine anastomoses sides out of 10.

Conclusions

Engineered cartilage may be beneficial for engineered airways, based on the findings of the junction between the native and engineered grafts.

Level of Evidence

1a.
Sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma and esthesioneuroblastoma recurring as nonintestinal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Kang Stephen Y. , McHugh Jonathan B. , Sullivan Stephen E. , Marentette Lawrence J. , McKean Erin L.
Published: April 2013

Numerous distinct neoplasms are encountered at the anterior cranial base. Management of these primary tumors and their locoregional recurrences are dictated by the histopathologic diagnosis. We present two unusual cases of extra‐axial anterior cranial base malignancies with locoregional recurrence where the recurrent tumor encountered was of a distinct histopathologic type. While rare, this report highlights the possibility of encountering a distinct tumor type in the posttreatment surveillance of patients with anterior cranial base malignancies.
Efficacy of “hammock” tympanoplasty in the treatment of anterior perforations
Authors: Peng Robert , Lalwani Anil K.
Published: April 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Surgical repair of large anterior tympanic membrane (TM) perforations continue to be a challenge for the otologic surgeon. Lateral graft tympanoplasty, the recommended treatment, is technically difficult and is plagued with blunting of the anterior sulcus and lateralization of the TM, both of which can lead to conductive hearing loss. In this study, we evaluate the efficacy of “hammock” tympanoplasty in the treatment of anterior perforation.

Study Design/Methods

The “hammock” tympanoplasty, a medial graft tympanoplasty, utilizes a large tympanomeatal flap incorporating anterior ear canal skin and the placement of a graft extending from the anterior to the posterior external auditory canal, akin to a hammock. In this retrospective study, the medical, surgical, audiological, and radiological records of 25 patients treated with hammock tympanoplasty were reviewed.

Results

The average age of the patients was 40.6 ± 20 years. The perforation involved the right ear of 17 patients, and at least two quadrants of the TM in 24 of 25 patients. The TM perforation was successfully closed in 24 of 25 patients, with improvement of the air conduction threshold in 22 of 25 patients. None of the patients experienced SNHL or lateralization of TM. There was one patient with blunting of anterior sulcus and another patient who experienced delayed facial paresis 9 days following surgery, which subsequently resolved.

Conclusion

The hammock tympanoplasty is technically easy, highly effective in restoring the integrity of the TM, and shows improvement in postoperative hearing.

Level of Evidence

4.
A systematic review of surgical outcomes for advanced juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma with intracranial involvement
Authors: Leong Samuel C.
Published: April 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Although transnasal endoscopic resection has become an established treatment for most juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma (JNA), surgical management of JNA with intracranial extension remains challenging. This study systematically reviews the JNA literature to determine surgical outcomes.

Study Design

Systematic review.

Methods

A systematic search of the PubMed was undertaken using a combination of MeSH terms: angiofibroma, nasopharynx. The search was limited to articles published in the English language between January 1990 and April 2012. Each article was reviewed to identify sufficient individual data on patients treated for JNA, defined as reporting on demographics, JNA stage, the specific surgical approach, complications, and length of follow‐up for each patient.

Results

A total of 72 patients from 15 studies were included in this review. The mean age was 15.7 years. The mean follow‐up period was 47 months. Most patients had a craniofacial procedure. The overall mean estimated intraoperative blood loss was 1,709 mL. Preoperative embolization resulted in significantly less blood loss. The most common complications were sinonasal and neurological. Facial paresthesia was reported in 16%, followed by ophthalmoplegia (12%) and intranasal crusting (12%). Recurrence was reported in 13 patients (18%), which were detected between 7 and 26 months during the follow‐up period. Overall, 86% of the cohort was free of disease.

Conclusions

Surgical management of JNA with intracranial extension is complex and requires an expert multidisciplinary team. Although craniofacial approaches appear to be the current standard of treatment, there is increased experienced‐based evidence that endoscopic resection of large tumors or endoscopic‐assisted resection is feasible in expert hands.

Level of Evidence

3a.
The diagnostic value of parathyroid hormone washout after fine‐needle aspiration of suspicious cervical lesions in patients with hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Abdelghani Ramsy , Noureldine Salem , Abbas Ali , Moroz Krzysztof , Kandil Emad
Published: April 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

We aimed to study the diagnostic value of parathyroid hormone (PTH) concentration in the needle washout of fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) compared to cytology of suspicious lesions suggestive of culprit parathyroid glands in patients with recurrent or persistent primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT).

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Methods

Patients with recurrent or persistent PHPT, who were referred to one surgeon and underwent FNA of the culprit parathyroid lesion preoperatively, were included in this study. All patients underwent comprehensive neck ultrasound, and suspicious lesions underwent ultrasound‐guided FNA by the same surgeon. The aspiration cytology was read by a single dedicated cytopathologist blinded to the PTH washout results. A positive cutoff value for PTH washout concentration was defined as superior to serum PTH level obtained at the same time. The final diagnosis after reoperative surgery was confirmed by the same cytopathologist.

Results

Twenty‐four consecutive patients were included. The mean serum PTH and calcium were 111.5 ± 106.25 pg/mL (normal: 15–65 pg/mL) and 10.8 ± 0.5 mg/dL (normal: 8.6–10.2 pg/mL), respectively. Twenty‐two patients (91.6%) had elevated PTH washout concentrations with a positive predictive value (PPV) of 100%. Cytopathology was successful in confirming parathyroid tissue only in seven patients (29%). An adenoma was identified in 19 patients (79.1%); however, five patients (20.8%) were found to have multiglandular disease.

Conclusions

An elevated PTH washout concentration can help identify culprit parathyroid gland lesions with a high PPV in patients requiring reoperative parathyroid surgery. This diagnostic technique allows for targeted surgical approach in reoperative settings, especially in patients with negative preoperative sestamibi scans.

Level of Evidence

4.
Thermische Nutzung von Haldenschwelbränden – Erkenntnisse und Erfahrungen aus einem Pilotprojekt
Authors: Kürten Sylvia , Feinendegen Martin , Noel Yves , Gaschnitz Roland , Klein Andreas , Schwerdt Peter
Published: April 2013

Haldenschwelbrände stellen aufgrund der vorhandenen hohen Temperaturen ein bisher ungenutztes Energiepotenzial dar. In einem vom BMBF gefördertem Verbundprojekt wurde die Möglichkeit der thermischen Nutzung von Haldenschwelbränden mithilfe einer Pilotanlage untersucht. Dazu wurden auf einer Halde im westlichen Ruhrgebiet drei 25 m tiefe koaxiale Erdwärmesonden installiert und über einen Zeitraum von etwa zwei Jahren betrieben. Mit der Pilotanlage konnte eine langfristige Gesamtleistung von ca. 9 kW erreicht werden, was einer Entzugsleistung von ca. 100 W/m entspricht. Durch theoretische Untersuchungen und weiterführende Laboruntersuchungen konnte gezeigt werden, dass die besonderen Standortbedingungen, z.B. die inhomogene Temperaturverteilung im Haldenkörper sowie die schlechte Wärmeleitfähigkeit des Haldenmaterials, maßgebend für die Leistungsfähigkeit der Anlage sind. Darüber hinaus kann durch die Verwendung optimaler Systemparameter (z.B. thermisch verbesserte Verfüllmaterialien, ausreichende Strömungsgeschwindigkeit im Rohrsystem) die Leistung zusätzlich gesteigert werden. Hinweis: Der Beitrag stellt eine Fortführung des Beitrags “Haldengeothermie – Chancen und Risiken bei der thermischen Nutzung von Haldenschwelbränden” (geotechnik 34 (2011), Heft 2, pp. 127–135) dar und wurde in Teilen dort bereits abgedruckt.

Thermal utilization of a smouldering mining dump – findings and experiences from a pilot project. Smouldering mining dumps represent a large source of energy that has not been exploited yet. Using the example of a dumpsite in the western Ruhr‐area, the thermal utilization of a smouldering fire was investigated in the framework of a joint research project. Therefore three coaxial geothermal probes with a depth of 25 m each were installed and operated during a time period of about two years. A long‐term heat extraction with an overall performance of about 9 kW could be achieved. This corresponds to a heat extraction rate of about 100 W/m. In theoretical analyses and laboratory tests it could be shown that the local conditions on the dump site (e.g. temperature distribution, thermal conductivity of the dump material) are the most important factors for the possible heat output. Furthermore, the heat output can as well be increased by choosing optimal system parameters (e.g. thermally improved backfill material, sufficient velocity in the pipe system).
Standsicherheitsuntersuchungen von Etagenwänden im Tagebau
Authors: Pittino Gerhard , Galler Robert , Peyfuß Wilfried
Published: April 2013

Das Kalkwerk Steyrling der Voestalpine Stahl GmbH wird hinsichtlich Abbauverfahren und geologischer Verhältnisse vorgestellt. Vonseiten des Arbeitsinspektorats wurde im Zusammenhang mit der Evaluierung nach sec 4 Arbeitnehmer/‐innenschutzgesetz die Frage des geologisch bedingten Risikos aufgeworfen. Daher wurde vom Kalkwerk Steyrling für die gegenwärtige Abbaumethode, einen Wandabbau mit strossenartigem Verhieb, eine geomechanische Untersuchung der Bruchwand zur Ermittlung und Beurteilung von Gefahren bezüglich geologisch bedingter Risiken in Auftrag gegeben. Im ersten Schritt wird die Standsicherheit von Etagenwänden mittels probabilistischer Betrachtung von Kluftkörpern beurteilt, auf Basis der aus der Literatur entnommenen Trennflächenfestigkeit. Im zukünftigen Schritt wird die Einschätzung von Gebirgskennwerten durch Labor und Feldversuche erfolgen, als Grundlage für numerische Berechnungen zur Abschätzung des Gebirgsverhaltens im Hinblick auf Vorrichtung und Abbaumaßnahmen.

Stability Assessment of a Quarry Face Using the Probabilistic Stability Analysis of Rock Wedges. The Limestone Quarry Steyrling of Voestalpine Stahl GmbH is introduced with regard to the mining method und geological conditions. The question of the geological hazard was raised by the Health and Safety Executive in connection with the evaluation of the sec 4 AschG. Therefore, a geomechanical investigation was ordered for the present mining method. The aim is to assess the danger concerning the geological hazard. In the first step the stability of the quarry face is assessed by using the probabilistic stability analysis of rock wedges on the basis of strength parameter gained by the literature. In the future, the assessment of the rock mass parameters will be done through laboratory and field tests. This should be the input values for the numerical analyses to estimate the rock mass behaviour in reaction to the preparatory works and mining.
Epitope mapping of the major allergen from Atlantic cod in Spanish population reveals different IgE‐binding patterns
Authors: Perez‐Gordo Marina , Pastor‐Vargas Carlos , Lin Jing , Bardina Ludmilla , Cases Barbara , Ibáñez Maria Dolores , Vivanco Fernando , Cuesta‐Herranz Javier , Sampson Hugh A.
Published: April 2013

Scope

IgE‐epitope mapping of allergens reveal important information about antigen components involved in allergic reactions. The peptide‐based microarray immunoassay has been used to map epitopes of some food allergens. We developed a peptide microarray immunoassay to map allergenic epitopes in parvalbumin from Atlantic cod (Gad m 1), the most consumed cod species in Spain.

Methods and results

Sera from 13 fish‐allergic patients with specific IgE to cod parvalbumin were used. A library of overlapping peptides was synthesized, representing the primary sequence of Gad m 1. Peptides were used to analyze allergen‐specific IgE antibodies in patient sera. 100% of the patients recognized one antigenic region of 15 amino acids in length in Gad m 1. This region only partially correlated with one of the three antigenic determinants of Gad c 1 (Allergen M), parvalbumin from Baltic cod (Gadus callarias). In the 3D model of the protein, this region was located on the surface of the protein.

Conclusion

We have identified a relevant antigenic region in Gad m 1. This epitope could be considered as a severity marker and provides additional information to improve fish allergy diagnosis and the design of safe immunotherapeutic tools.
Bisdemethoxycurcumin inhibits PDGF‐induced vascular smooth muscle cell motility and proliferation
Authors: Hua Yinan , Dolence Julia , Ramanan Shalini , Ren Jun , Nair Sreejayan
Published: April 2013

Scope

A key event in the development of plaque in the arteries is the migration and proliferation of smooth muscle cells (SMCs) from the media to the intima of the blood vessel. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of bisdemethoxycurcumin (BC), a naturally occurring structural analog of curcumin (CC), on platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF)‐stimulated migration and proliferation of SMCs.

Methods and results

CC and BC were synthesized by condensing acetyl acetone with vanillin and 4‐hydroxybenzaldehyde, respectively. SMCs isolated from adult rat aorta were stimulated with PDGF in the presence or absence of CC or BC following which, cell migration and proliferation were assessed by monolayer wound healing assay and [3H]‐thymidine incorporation respectively. PDGF‐stimulated phosphorylation of PDGF receptor‐β and its downstream effectors Akt and ERK were assessed by Western blotting. Intracellular reactive oxygen species was assessed using the fluorescent dye 5‐(6)‐chloromethyl‐2′,7′‐dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate. BC elicited a concentration‐dependent inhibition of PDGF‐stimulated phosphorylation of PDGF receptor‐β, Akt and Erk as well as the PDGF‐stimulated SMC migration and proliferation. BC was more potent than CC in inhibiting migration and proliferation and suppressing PDGF‐signaling in SMCs. Both compounds were equipotent in inhibiting PDGF‐stimulated generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species.

Conclusion

BC may be of potential use in the prevention or treatment of vascular disease.
Storage of magnetization as singlet order by optimal control designed pulses
Authors: Laustsen Christoffer , Bowen Sean , Vinding Mads Sloth , Nielsen Niels Chr. , Ardenkjaer‐Larsen Jan H.
Published: April 2013

Purpose

The use of hyperpolarization to enhance the sensitivity of MRI has so far been limited by the decay of the polarization through T1 relaxation. Recently, methods have been proposed that extend the lifetime of the hyperpolarization by storing the spin order in slowly relaxing singlet states.

Methods

With this aim, optimal control theory was applied to create pulses that for near‐equivalent spins accomplish transfers in and out of the singlet state with maximum efficiency while ensuring robustness toward variations in the nuclear spin system Hamiltonian (chemical shift, J‐couplings, B1 and B0 magnetic field inhomogeneity).

Results

The pulses are designed to accomplish efficient transfer with low B1 amplitude, essential for applications on preclinical and clinical MR scanners.

Conclusion

It is demonstrated that significantly improved efficiency and robustness can be obtained within the limitations of typical MR scanner performance. Magn Reson Med 71:921–926, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.