bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antioxidant liposomes protect against CEES‐induced lung injury by decreasing SAF‐1/MAZ‐mediated inflammation in the guinea pig lung
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Sutapa , Mukherjee Shyamali , Ray Bimal K. , Ray Alpana , Stone William L. , Das Salil K.
Published: June 2010

We reported earlier in a guinea pig model that exposure of 2‐chloroethyl ethyl sulfide (CEES), a mustard gas analog, causes lung injury associated with the activation of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α), mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPK) signaling, and activator protein‐1 (AP‐1) transcription factor. Our earlier studies also revealed that antioxidant liposomes can be used as antidotes. Proinflammatory cytokines IL‐1, IL‐6, and TNF‐α, either alone or in combination, can induce the activation of another group of transcription factors, namely SAF‐1 (serum accelerator factor‐1)/MAZ (Myc‐associated zinc finger protein). Phosphorylation of SAF‐1 via MAPK markedly increases its DNA‐binding and transactivational potential. The objective of the present study was to investigate whether CEES exposure causes activation of IL‐1β, IL‐6, and SAF‐1/MAZ and whether these effects can be prevented by antioxidant liposomes. A single dose (200 μL) of the antioxidant liposome mixture was administered intratracheally after 5 min of exposure of CEES (0.5 mg/kg). The animals were sacrificed either 1 h or 30 days after CEES exposure. CEES exposure caused an upregulation of proinflammatory cytokines IL‐6 and IL‐1β in the lung along with an increase in the activation of transcription factor SAF‐1/MAZ. The antioxidant liposomes treatment significantly blocked the CEES‐induced activation of IL‐6, IL‐1β, and SAF‐1/MAZ. This might suggest that antioxidant liposomes might offer a potential therapeutic strategy against inflammatory diseases associated with activation of these bioactive molecules. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 24:187–194, 2010; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/jbt.20329
Value of diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance images for discrimination of focal benign and malignant hepatic lesions: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Xia Dong , Jing Jiyong , Shen Haiping , Wu Jianjun
Published: June 2010

Purpose:

To evaluate the ability of DW‐MRI in differentiating malignant hepatic tumors from benign lesions.

Materials and Methods:

Meta‐analysis of 14 diagnostic studies was used. A systematic search in Medline, Embase, Web of Science (from January, 1966, to October, 2009), and Cochrane Controlled Clinical Trials Register Database (through third Quarter 2009) was used with screening of the literature.

Results:

A meta‐analysis of all 95 published studies was performed. Fourteen studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria (804 patients with 1665 hepatic lesions). The global sensitivity was 0.91 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.86–0.94), the specificity was 0.93 (95% CI, 0.86–0.97), the positive likelihood ratio (PLR) was 13.10 (95% CI, 6.30–27.26), the negative likelihood ratio (NLR) was 0.10 (95% CI, 0.06–0.15), and the diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) was 133.76 (95% CI, 49.77–359.45). The area under the curve of the summary receiver operator characteristic (SROC) was 0.96 (95% CI 0.94–0.98).

Conclusion:

Diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging is potential technically feasible to differentiate malignant from benign focal liver lesions. Apparent diffusion coefficient measurements can be useful in providing rapid quantifiable information. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2010;32:130–137. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Optimism and the boundaryless career: The role of developmental relationships
Authors: Higgins Monica , Dobrow Shoshana R. , Roloff Kathryn S.
Published: June 2010

This research explores an important psychological capacity in the current boundaryless career environment—optimism. Optimism is associated with flexibility and adaptability amid stressful situations, which, we argue here may be particularly useful in the current unpredictable career environment. We explore the relationship between optimism and the structure and quality of individuals' developmental networks in a sample of young adults. Analyses are based on a 10‐year longitudinal study (1996–2006) of a cohort of 136 individuals who graduated from business school in 1996. Cross‐sectional analyses show that the amount of psychosocial support, but not career support, received by individuals is positively associated with optimism. Then, considering the long‐term nature of help‐giving, longitudinal relational data suggest that the greater one's early‐career psychosocial and career support, the greater one's optimism many years hence. In addition, we examined how the rate of change in developmental network support over time is associated with optimism. Findings show that increasing amounts of career and psychosocial support over time were associated with greater optimism later in career. Implications for future research on the boundaryless career, optimism, and developmental relationships are discussed. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
At the crossroads of agency and communion: Defining the shared career
Authors: Svejenova Silviya , Vives Luis , Alvarez José Luis
Published: June 2010

This article extends the predominant depiction of careers as individual undertakings and advances insights on collective careers. It defines the shared career as the co‐evolving sequence of work collaboration and jointly pursued career opportunities by two or more career actors. It proposes that this new career construct mixes agency and communion. Furthermore, it conceptualizes a life cycle model of shared careers, using supporting illustrations. Finally, it articulates how focusing on shared careers could open up avenues for the advancement of research on boundaryless careers. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gender role differences in reactions to unemployment: Exploring psychological mobility and boundaryless careers
Authors: Forret Monica L. , Sullivan Sherry E. , Mainiero Lisa A.
Published: June 2010

Using Sullivan and Arthur's (Sullivan & Arthur,2006) refinement of the boundaryless career concept, this study examines whether there are gender role differences in psychological mobility (i.e., the career actor's capacity to envision a variety of career options) in response to the same physical transition of unemployment. We surveyed 1095 individuals across numerous organizations and industries, and analyzed our data by generational cohort in light of evolving societal attitudes toward child rearing and breadwinning responsibilities. We found that for both Gen Xers and Baby Boomers, men with children were more likely to perceive unemployment as a defeat than women with children; and women with children were more likely to perceive unemployment as an opportunity than men with children. Despite the many historical, economic, social, and cultural changes in the environment over the past decades, traditional gender roles remain pervasive in response to unemployment. Based on the study's empirical findings, we suggest critical issues for the future study of gender role differences and psychological mobility. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Finding a place in history: Symbolic and social networks in creative careers and collective memory
Authors: Jones Candace
Published: June 2010

Boundaryless careers are pervasive, and yet we have little understanding of the boundaries imposed by categorization processes upon those engaged in boundaryless careers such as in creative industries and cultural fields. Categorization processes underlie symbolic and social boundaries and this study examines whether transgressing symbolic and social boundaries enhances the likelihood of soaring to eminence or sliding into relative obscurity. This study examined a relatively under‐research area—the effects of boundary crossing at specific career stages and the capacity to attain eminence—a place in history. The study reveals the importance of symbolic networks and expanding symbolic boundaries though boundary objects such as buildings for attaining recognition and securing eminence in one's career. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Crossing national boundaries: A typology of qualified immigrants' career orientations
Authors: Zikic Jelena , Bonache Jaime , Cerdin Jean‐Luc
Published: June 2010

This qualitative study examines objective–subjective career interdependencies within a sample of 45 qualified immigrants (QIs) in Canada, Spain and France. The particular challenges in this type of self‐initiated international careers arise from the power of institutions and local gatekeepers, the lack of recognition for QIs' foreign career capital, and the need for proactivity. Resulting from primary data analysis, we identify six major themes in QIs' subjective interpretations of objective barriers: Maintaining motivation, managing identity, developing new credentials, developing local know‐how, building a new social network and evaluating career success. Secondary data analysis distinguishes three QI career orientations—embracing, adaptive and resisting orientations—with each portraying distinct patterns of motivation, identity and coping. This study extends the boundaryless career perspective by providing a more fine‐grained understanding of how qualified migrants manage both physical and psychological mobility during self‐initiated international career transitions. With regards to the interdependence between objective and subjective career aspects, it illustrates the importance of avoiding preference to one side at the neglect of the other, or treating the two sides as independent of one another. Practical implications are proposed for career management efforts and receiving economies. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
New directions for boundaryless careers: Agency and interdependence in a changing world
Authors: Tams Svenja , Arthur Michael B.
Published: June 2010

This paper reconnects to the intellectual climate from which the formulation of the boundaryless career perspective emerged in the 1990s. Based on 17 years of cumulative research, we develop the case for extending beyond a primary focus on boundaryless careers as forms (e.g., contractor or global itinerant). We argue that opportunities for further theory development in this field can emerge from addressing some of its fundamental debates, and developing a more systematic understanding of career agency. In this respect, we see promise in research that develops our understanding of interdependent notions of career agency. To guide further research, the paper identifies six features of agency related to individual variation, social referencing, practice, outcomes, contexts, and learning. We propose that each of these illustrates contrasting assumptions about independent and interdependent views of the career. We discuss how the other papers of this special issue inform our understanding of these six features and identify promising directions for further research. We conclude that the future relevance of the boundaryless career perspective will depend on its openness to the challenges of careers within the inherently dynamic, uncertain, and complex arena of an interdependent global society. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bacteriology of manganese nodules. VI. Fate of copper, nickel, cobalt, and iron during bacterial and chemical reduction of the manganese (IV)
Authors: Ehrlich H. L. , Yang S. H. , Mainwaring J. D.
Published: June 2010

Copper, nickel, and cobalt entered into seawater solution while the manganese (IV) oxide matrix of marine ferromanganese nodules to which they were bound was being reduced by glucose in the presence of peptone. Negligible amounts of iron were solubilized under similar conditions. Bacillus GJ 33 significantly accelerated the reduction and solubilization of manganese (IV) oxide by chemical means and thereby also accelerated the solubilization of nickel and cobalt, and, in advanced stages, of copper. Nickel and cobalt solubilization were directly dependent on manganese (IV) oxide reduction and solubilization while copper solubilization was only partly dependent on it. Some copper in the ferromanganese nodule substance was solubilized as a result of complexing by peptone without concurrent manganese (IV) oxide reduction. The release of manganese, copper, or nickel (cobalt was not tested) could not be attributed to acid formation during glucose oxidation by manganese (IV) oxide regardless of whether the reaction was purely chemical or catalyzed by bacteria. These findings suggest that nickel and cobalt are more tightly bound to the manganese (IV) oxide matrix than copper. An adsorption experiment showed that manganese, copper and nickel could originally have entered the nodule matrix by adsorption.
Bildung von Dicarbonsäuren durch Candida guillier mondii, Stamm H 17, aus n‐Alkanen
Authors: Krauel H. , Kunze R. , Weide H.
Published: June 2010

Bei Kulturen von Candida guilliermondii, Stamm H 17, wurden n‐Alkane definierter Kettenlängen, die Alkangemische Mepasin I und II sowie in Kontrollen Acetat und Glucose als C‐Quellen angeboten.

Im Kulturfiltrat konnten gaschromatographisch Glutar‐, Adipin‐, Pimelin‐ und Azelainsäure nachgewiesen werden.

Die Beziehungen zwischen den Substraten mit gerad‐ oder ungeradzahliger C‐Kettenläge und den gebildeten Dicarbonsäuren werden erörtert.
Ökologische Untersuchungen über nitratreduzierende Bakterien im Wasser des Plußsees (Schleswig‐Holstein)
Authors: Tan T. L. , Overbeck J.
Published: June 2010

Nitrate reducing bacteria are always available in the water of the Pluß‐See. Their number varies from 10 to 2000 cells/ml. The denitrifying bacteria with only 0 to 50 cells/ml are less represented, but under favourable conditions, e. g. high nitrate supply, lack of oxygen, an enrichment of these microorganisms is possible. The influence of oxygen, nitrate, nitrite, and ammonium concentration on the activity of the nitrate reducing bacteria was examined. In the summer months, cell number and activity are correlated. During the winter, a correlation does not exist, although high cell numbers and activities are also found. It is likely that oxygen and the relatively low nitrate value repress the nitrate reduction. Between activity and the presence of nitrite no relation has been found. From the course of the nitrate and nitrite curves (0–650 μg N‐NO/l, and 0–100 μg N‐NO/l, reap.) and from the cell‐numbers and activities we can make the conclusion that, at least for the summer months, a bacterial nitrate reduction in the oxygen free zone has occurred. The presence of ammonium ions in the water of the Pluß‐See (50–3000 μg N‐NO/l,) could probably influence the activity.
Violamycin, a new red‐pigment antibiotic
Authors: Fleck W. , Strauss D. , Koch W. , Prauser H.
Published: June 2010

The detection, fermentation, isolation, physicochemical and biological properties of violamycin, a new antibiotic produced by a strain of Streptomyces violaceus IMET JA 6844 are described. Violamycin is a mixture of the complexes violamycin A and violamycin B. Violamycin A is mainly a complex of aminoglycosides of ϵ‐isorhodomycinone, β‐rhodomycinone, and α2‐rhodomycinone. The sugar component is rhodosamine. Violamycin B is mainly a complex of di‐ and triglycosides of ϵ‐isorhodomycinone, β‐rhodomycinone, and α2‐rhodomycinone. The sugar components of the diglycoside are rhodosamine and deoxy‐L‐fucose, the sugar components of the triglycoside are rhodosamine, deoxy‐L‐fucose, and rhodinose. Violamycin complexes A and B consist of constituents which are similar to other known members of anthracycline antibiotics but can be differentiated from them by physicochemical and biological properties, specially ϵ‐isorhodomycinone which so far has not been determined as a constituent of an antibiotic. The producer of violamycin was detected by means of the “BIP” test method. Violamycin can be isolated from fermentation filtrates and mycelium by extraction with lower aliphatic alcohols and can be purified by gel filtration methods. Violamycin has indicator properties and has been shown to possess a strong antimicrobial activity against grampositive bacteria and mycobacteria, including such strains which produce inactivating enzymes for different commercial antibiotics. Violamycin has growth inhibiting activity to a lower extent also in respect of gramnegative bacteria but has no antibiotic action in respect of yeasts and fungi. In addition to its antimicrobial activity, violamycin shows cytostatic action on mammalian cells in vitro and experimentally induced tumors of the mouse. Violamycin inhibited bacterial viruses in their multiplication by intracellular action without simultaneous blocking of the metabolism and growth of the host cells. The LD50 of violamycin A in mice was 15 mg/kg when administered intraperitoneally and 2 mg/kg on intraperitoneal administration of violamycin B.
Verhalten der Enzyme des Citratzyklus während der n‐Alkan‐Assimilation bei Acinetobacter calcoaceticus
Authors: Kleber H.‐P. , Aurich H.
Published: June 2010

Der Einfluß von n‐Alkanen und anderen C‐Quellen auf die Synthese der Enzyme des Citratzyklus in Acinetobacter calcoaceticus wird untersucht.

Von den Enzymen des Citratzyklus zeigt nur die Malatdehydrogenase eine Abhängigkeit von der C‐Quelle. Die spezifische Aktivität des Enzyms ist nach Wachstum auf n‐Alkanen oder Acetat etwa 4fach höher als nach Wachstum auf Malat und Succinat. Ein Zusatz von Glucose ‐ aber auch von Antibiotica ‐ zum Nährmedium verhindert den durch n‐Alkane oder Acetat bedingten Aktivitätsanstieg.

Um Aussagen über die Kontrollmechanismen des Citrat‐ und Glyoxylatzyklus in Acinetobacter calcoaceticus zu machen, werden die erhaltenen Befunde im Zusammenhang mit den Ergebnissen über die Regulation der Enzyme des Glyoxylatzyklus sowie des Malatenzyms diskutiert.
Nucleotide degrading enzymes in Neurospora crassa
Authors: Mattoo A. K. , Shah Zarna M.
Published: June 2010

Considerable amounts of GTP, GMP, adenosine, guanine, and adenine accumulated in Neurospora crassa when a culture grown on low phosphate (0.01%) medium was transferred to a high phosphate (1%) medium. The levels of alkaline phosphatase, nucleotidase, and nucleosidase decreased by 2.4, 5.4, and 3 folds, respectively, in cultures grown on high phosphate medium. Substrate kinetics of these enzymes revealed that: (1) alkaline phosphatase isolated from the organism grown on low phosphate medium demonstrates nonlinear reciprocal plots with two distinct apparent Km values for β‐glycerophosphate compared to one apparent Km value (associated with 32% decrease in the apparent Vmax value) obtained with that grown on high phosphate medium; (2) nucleotidases and nucleosidases isolated from organisms cultivated on low phosphate and high phosphate media showed the same apparent Km values, 0.25 mM for nucleotidase and 0.909 mM for nucleosidase. There was, however, >3 times decrease in the catalytic activity of the latter enzymes isolated from organisms grown on high phosphate medium as compared to those grown on low phosphate. Inclusion of inorganic phosphate in standard assay mixtures of the three enzymes resulted in a considerable inhibition in the catalytic activities of all of them. High levels of phosphate in the medium caused marked repression of three out of six of alkaline phosphatase, two out of three of nucleotidase, and one out of two of nucleosidase isozymic forms detected in the low phosphate grown culture.
Thermophilic fungi from stacks of oil palm kernels in Nigeria
Authors: Oso B. A.
Published: June 2010

Seven thermophilic fungi have been isolated from stacks of oil palm kernels in parts of the Western State of Nigeria. These include Humicola lanuginosa (GRIFFON and MAUBLANC) BUNCE, Mucor pusillus LINDT, Talaromyces emersonii STOLK, Chaetomium thermophile var coprophile COONEY and EMERSON, Chaetomium thermophile var. dissitum COONEY and EMERSON, Thermoascus aurantiacus MIEHE sensu APINIS, and Thermoascus crustaceus (APINIS and CHESTERS) STOLK. While the last four are new records for Nigeria, they, together with H. lanuginosa and M. pusillus, are also reported on palm kernels for the first time. All are shown to be strongly thermophilic.
Carbon source requirements of the thermophilic ascomycete Chaetomium thermophile var. coprophile
Authors: Oso B. A.
Published: June 2010

The ability of Chaetomium thermophile var. coprophile COONEY and EMERSON to utilize carbohydrates as carbon sources for growth has been studied in stationary liquid medium at 45 °C. Among the monosaccharides, the highest growth was obtained on mannose, followed by xylose, glucose, and fructose. There was apparently no growth on galactose, sorbose, arabinose, and rhamnose. The oligosaccharides, cellobiose and maltose supported good growth even though growth on the former was much better. The other oligosaccharides tested (sucrose, lactose, melibiose, and raffinose) were not utilized by the fungus. The polysaccharides dextrin and starch were readily available to the fungus, but growth on dextrin was higher. Out of the two remaining carbon sources tested, there was very good growth on malt extract while mannitol was not utilized. The rate of growth and the accompanying pH changes on glucose, mannose, maltose, dextrin, starch, and malt extract were also studied. There was an initial drop, then a rise, and finally a levelling of the pH as growth progressed on all the six carbon sources. The organism grew well and produced abundant fruiting bodies on cellulose, both in liquid and on solid media. Further evidence of its cellulolytic nature was supplied by its ability to clear cellulose in an agar medium.
Nachweis des M‐Proteins von Streptococcus pyogenes auf der Zelloberfläche durch Immun‐Gefrierätzung
Authors: Wagner M. , Roth J. , Wagner Barbara , Meyer H. W.
Published: June 2010

By combination of indirect immunoferritin technique and freeze‐etching (immuno freeze‐etching) M‐protein of Streptococcus pyogenes was demonstrated on the surface of the bacterial cells. The distribution of the ferritin particles shows that the antigen is bound on thread‐like structures. The results correspond to the localization of the M‐protein observed in ultrathin sections from the same material.
Photodynamic therapy selectively enhances liposomal doxorubicin uptake in sarcoma tumors to rodent lungs
Authors: Cheng Cai , Debefve Elodie , Haouala Amina , Andrejevic‐Blant Snezana , Krueger Thorsten , Ballini Jean‐Pierre , Peters Solange , Decosterd Laurent , van den Bergh Hubert , Wagnieres Georges , Perentes Jean Y. , Ris Hans‐Beat
Published: June 2010

Background

In specific conditions, photodynamic therapy (PDT) can enhance the distribution of macromolecules across the endothelial barrier in solid tumors. It was recently postulated that tumor neovessels were more responsive to PDT than the normal vasculature. We hypothesized that Visudyne®‐mediated PDT could selectively increase liposomal doxorubicin (Liporubicin™) uptake in sarcoma tumors to rodent lungs while sparing the normal surrounding tissue.

Materials and Methods

Sarcoma tumors were generated subpleurally in the left lower lung lobe of 66 Fischer rats. Ten days following sarcoma implantation, tumors underwent different pre‐treatment schemes: no PDT (controls), low‐dose PDT (0.0625 mg/kg Visudyne®, 10 J/cm2 and 35 mW/cm2) and high‐dose PDT (0.125 mg/kg Visudyne®, 10 J/cm2 and 35 mW/cm2). Liporubicin™ was then administered and allowed to circulate for 1, 3, or 6 hours. At the end of each treatment scheme, we assessed the uptake of Liporubicin™ in tumor and lung tissues by high‐performance liquid chromatography and fluorescence microscopy.

Results

In all PDT‐treated groups, there was a significant enhancement of Liporubicin™ uptake in tumors compared to controls after 3 and 6 hours of drug circulation. In addition, Liporubicin™ distribution within the normal lung tissue was not affected by PDT. Thus, PDT pre‐treatment significantly enhanced the ratio of tumor‐to‐lung drug uptake compared to controls. Finally, fluorescence microscopy revealed a well‐detectable Liporubicin™ signaling throughout PDT‐treated tumors but not in controls.

Conclusions

PDT is a tumor‐specific enhancer of Liporubicin™ distribution in sarcoma lung tumors which may find a translation in clinics. Lasers Surg. Med. 42:391–399, 2010. © 2010 Wiley–Liss, Inc.
Two‐dimensional changes and surface characteristics from an erbium laser used for root canal preparation
Authors: Roper M.J. , White J.M. , Goodis H.E. , Gekelman D.
Published: June 2010

Background and Objective

Erbium lasers have been advocated for use in root canal because of their ability to ablate dentin and remove biologic debris in the root canal space. This study evaluated the ability of an Er:YAG laser to remove dentin predictably in the root canal system and its cleaning ability.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Twenty‐eight single‐rooted extracted teeth were assigned into two groups. The first group was cleaned and shaped using crown‐down technique with GT rotary files (control). The second group used an Er:YAG laser with ceramic tip, above the dentin ablation threshold for root canal shaping. A separate group of three teeth was evaluated for cleanliness using an Er:YAG laser with spiral tips. Amount of dentin removed in the buccal–lingual and mesial–distal directions was measured, the data analyzed by ANOVA. Surface characteristics were qualitatively examined.

Results

The control group produced cleaner, better shaped root canals, faster than the Er:YAG group. The Er:YAG group removed more dentin in the coronal portion but less in the middle and apical thirds. The Er:YAG with spiral tip group left a dense smear layer in the middle and apical thirds. The Er:YAG group was subject to procedural errors more often than the control group.

Conclusion

The Erbium laser studied was equivalent to rotary files in the coronal and middle thirds but not in the apical thirds of the root canal system. Lasers Surg. Med. 42:379–383, 2010. © 2010 Wiley–Liss, Inc.
Photodynamic inactivation of Acinetobacter baumannii using phenothiazinium dyes: In vitro and in vivo studies
Authors: Ragàs Xavier , Dai Tianhong , Tegos George P. , Agut Montserrat , Nonell Santi , Hamblin Michael R.
Published: June 2010

Background and Objective

Phenothiazinium dyes have been reported to be effective photosensitizers inactivating a wide range of microorganisms in vitro after illumination with red light. However, their application in vivo has not extensively been explored. This study evaluates the bactericidal activity of phenothiazinium dyes against multidrug‐resistant Acinetobacter baumannii both in vitro and in vivo.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

We report the investigation of toluidine blue O, methylene blue, 1,9‐dimethylmethylene blue, and new methylene blue for photodynamic inactivation of multidrug‐resistant A. baumannii in vitro. The most effective dye was selected to carry out in vivo studies using third‐degree mouse burns infected with a bioluminescent A. baumannii strain, upon irradiation with a 652 nm noncoherent light source. The mice were imaged daily for 2 weeks to observe differences in the bioluminescence–time curve between the photodynamic therapy (PDT)‐treated mice in comparison with untreated burns.

Results

All the dyes were effective in vitro against A. baumannii after 30 J/cm2 irradiation of 635 or 652 nm red light had been delivered, with more effective killing when the dye remained in solution. New methylene blue was the most effective of the four dyes, achieving a 3.2‐log reduction of the bacterial luminescence during PDT in vivo after 360 J/cm2 and an 800 µM dye dose. Moreover, a statistically significant reduction of the area under the bioluminescence–time curve of PDT‐treated mice was observed showing that the infection did not recur after PDT.

Conclusions

Phenothiazinium dyes, and especially new methylene blue, are potential photosensitizers for PDT to treat burns infected with multidrug‐resistant A. baumannii in vivo. Lasers Surg. Med. 42:384‐390, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Human liver autofluorescence: An intrinsic tissue parameter discriminating normal and diseased conditions
Authors: Croce Anna C. , De Simone Uliana , Freitas Isabel , Boncompagni Eleonora , Neri Daniele , Cillo Umberto , Bottiroli Giovanni
Published: June 2010

Background and Objective

Autofluorescence (AF) emission is an intrinsic parameter that can provide real‐time information on morpho‐functional properties of biological tissue, being strictly related with their biochemical composition and structural organization. The diagnostic potentials of AF‐based techniques have been investigated on normal, fibrotic, and steatotic liver tissues, in reference to histological features as evidenced by specific histochemical stainings.

Materials and Methods

AF emission under excitation at 366 nm has been examined on cryostatic tissue sections obtained from biopsies collected during surgical operation, by means of fluorescence imaging and microspectrofluorometric techniques.

Results

NAD(P)H, collagen, and vitamin A were found to be the endogenous fluorophores characterizing normal, fibrotic, and steatotic liver tissue AF, respectively. The differences of their photo‐physical properties, in terms of emission amplitude, spectral shape, and response to irradiation, give rise to modifications of overall AF signal collected from tissues that allow the liver conditions to be distinguished.

Conclusion

The study provides a valid premise for a development of AF‐based optical biopsy techniques for a real‐time discrimination of liver anatomo‐pathological patterns. Lasers Surg. Med. 42:371‐378, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hyperthermic injury to adipocyte cells by selective heating of subcutaneous fat with a novel radiofrequency device: Feasibility studies
Authors: Franco Walfre , Kothare Amogh , Ronan Stephen J. , Grekin Roy C. , McCalmont Timothy H.
Published: June 2010

Background and Objective

The main objective of the present study is to demonstrate the feasibility of utilizing a novel non‐invasive radiofrequency (RF) device to induce lethal thermal damage to subcutaneous adipose tissue only by establishing a controlled electric field that heats up fat preferentially.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Adipocyte cells in six‐well plates were subjected to hyperthermic conditions: 45, 50, 55, 60, and 65°C during 1, 2, and 3 minutes. Cell viability was assessed 72 hours after exposure. Two groups of abdominoplasty patients were treated with the RF device during and days before their surgical procedure. Temperatures of cutaneous and subcutaneous tissues were measured during treatment (3 minutes) of the first group. The immediate tissue response to heating was assessed by acute histology. The delayed tissue response was assessed by histology analysis of the second group, 4, 9, 10, 17, and 24 days after treatment (22 minutes). A mathematical model was used to estimate treatment temperatures of the second group. The model uses patient‐based diagnostic measurements as input and was validated with in vivo clinical temperature measurements.

Results

Cell viability dropped from 89% to 20% when temperature increased from 45 to 50°C during 1 minute exposures. Three minutes at 45°C resulted in 40% viability. In vivo, the temperature of adipose tissue at 7–12 mm depth from the surface increased to 50°C while the temperature of cutaneous tissues was <30°C during RF exposure. Acute and longitudinal histology evaluations show normal epidermal and dermal layers. Subcutaneous tissues were also normal acutely. Subcutaneous vascular alterations, starting at day 4, and fat necrosis, starting at day 9, were consistently observed within 4.5–19 mm depth from the skin surface. Subcutaneous tissue temperatures were estimated to be 43–45°C for 15 minutes.

Conclusions

A controlled internal electric field perpendicular to the skin–fat interface is selective in heating up fat and, consequently, has the ability to induce lethal thermal damage to subcutaneous adipose tissues while sparing overlying and underlying tissues. In vitro adipocyte cells are heat sensitive to thermal exposures of 50 and 45°C on the order of minutes, 1 and 3 minutes, respectively. In vivo, 15 minutes thermal exposures to 43–45°C result in a delayed adipocyte cellular death response—in this study, 9 days. The novel RF device presented herein effectively delivers therapeutic thermal exposures to subcutaneous adipose tissues while protecting epidermal and dermal layers. Lasers Surg. Med. 42:361–370, 2010. © 2010 Wiley–Liss, Inc.
Optimization of the excimer laser assisted non‐occlusive anastomosis (ELANA) flap retrieval rate
Authors: van Doormaal Tristan P.C. , van der Zwan Albert , van der Tweel Ingeborg , Verdaasdonk Rudolf , Verweij Bon H. , Regli Luca , Tulleken Cornelius A.F.
Published: June 2010

Background and Objectives

A key element in the Excimer Laser Assisted Non‐occlusive Anastomosis (ELANA) technique is the retrieval of a disc (“flap”) of artery wall from the anastomosis by the laser catheter tip. We assessed if the flap retrieval rate could be optimized.

Methods

We used a specially designed in vitro model using rabbit aortas. We tested three essential elements of the technique: (1) laser energy (10, 13, 15, or 18 mJ), (2) pressure on the catheter (0, 0.1, 0.2, or 0.4 N), and (3) number of lasing episodes (1 or 2). We made 2,280 anastomoses using different combinations of settings. With a logistic regression model we assessed the influence of each parameter. Current clinical settings (10 mJ, 0.2 N, 1 episode) were reference categories.

Results

Flap retrieval rate using conventional settings was 86.7%, equivalent to earlier reported clinical data. A significantly higher flap retrieval appeared when laser energy was increased to 13 mJ (OR 3.0, 95% CI 1.8–4.8), 15 mJ (OR 3.2, 95% CI 1.9–5.3), and 18 mJ (OR 3.7, 95% CI 2.2–6.2). A second lasing episode also significantly increased flap retrieval (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.4–3.0). However, if we increased energy to 15 or 18 mJ, the effect of a second laser episode was insignificant. When the catheter was pushed down with 0.4 N, flap retrieval decreased significantly in all subgroups (OR 0.07, 95% CI 0.04–0.14).

Conclusion

The flap retrieval of the ELANA anastomosis technique can be optimized to 100% by setting the laser energy at 15 mJ. However, safety studies are necessary before clinical application. A second lasing episode of 10 mJ is a good alternative to increase the flap retrieval. Moreover, the surgeon should be trained to apply not more than 0.2 N on the catheter. Lasers Surg. Med. 42:418‐424, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Temporal heating profile influence on the immediate bond strength following laser tissue soldering
Authors: Rabi Yaron , Katzir Abraham
Published: June 2010

Background

Bonding of tissues by laser heating is considered as a future alternative to sutures and staples. Increasing the post‐operative bond strength remains a challenging issue for laser tissue bonding, especially in organs that have to sustain considerable tension or pressure. In this study, we investigated the influence of different temporal heating profiles on the strength of soldered incisions. The thermal damage following each heating procedure was quantified, in order to assess the effect of each heating profile on the thermal damage.

Materials and Methods

Incisions in porcine bowel tissue strips (1 cm×4 cm) were soldered, using a 44% liquid albumin mixed with indocyanine green and a temperature controlled laser (830 nm) tissue bonding system. Heating was done either with a linear or a step temporal heating profile. The incisions were bonded by soldering at three points, separated by 2 mm. Set‐point temperatures of Tset = 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 150°C and dwell times of td = 10, 20, 30, 40 seconds were investigated. The bond strength was measured immediately following each soldering by applying a gradually increased tension on the tissue edges until the bond break.

Results

Bonds formed by linear heating were stronger than the ones formed by step heating: at Tset = 80°C the bonds were 40% stronger and at Tset = 90°C the bonds strength was nearly doubled. The bond strength difference between the heating methods was larger as Tset increased.

Conclusion

Linear heating produced stronger bonds than step heating. The difference in the bond strength was more pronounced at high set‐point temperatures and short dwell times. The bond strength could be increased with either higher set‐point temperature or a longer dwell time. Lasers Surg. Med. 42:425‐432, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Assessment of tissue alteration in skin after interaction with photomechanical waves used for gene transfection
Authors: Terakawa Mitsuhiro , Tsuda Hitoshi , Ashida Hiroshi , Sato Shunichi
Published: June 2010

Background and Objective

We previously delivered a therapeutic gene to skin grafts of rats by using photomechanical waves (PMWs), also called laser‐induced stress waves (LISWs), with the objective of enhancing adhesion of grafted tissue. The objective of this study was to evaluate tissue alterations that are possibly caused by PMWs used for gene delivery on the basis of immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy.

Materials and Methods

PMWs were generated by irradiating an elastic laser target (rubber disk) with 532 nm nanosecond laser pulses from a (of) Q‐switched Nd:YAG laser. Tissue alterations were evaluated by histological analysis using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and immunohistochemical stainings, including anti‐rat CD68 antibody staining to identify macrophages for detection of inflammation and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase biotin‐dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining for assessment of apoptosis. Morphological changes of cell membranes and organelles were evaluated by transmission electron microscopy.

Results

Skin exposed to PMWs that were generated at a laser fluence of 1.2 J/cm2 (42 MPa in peak pressure), which is the optimum laser fluence (pressure) for therapeutic gene delivery to skin graft, showed no noticeable damage. At fluences higher than 1.8 J/cm2 (>51 MPa), fragmentation of nuclei was observed and the number of CD68‐positive cells increased remarkably. No significant increases in the numbers of TUNEL‐positive keratinocytes and fibroblasts were observed at 1.2 J/cm2. At fluences higher than 1.8 J/cm2, the averaged ratio of TUNEL‐positive cells also increased. The results of electron microscopy revealed that PMWs generated at 1.2 J/cm2 caused neither damage to the cell membrane, nuclear membrane, or organelles.

Conclusion

We observed no noticeable tissue alteration under the optimum laser irradiation conditions used for therapeutic gene delivery to a skin graft, demonstrating low invasiveness of our PMW‐based gene transfection. Lasers Surg. Med. 42:400–407, 2010. © 2010 Wiley–Liss, Inc.
Depth of tissue ablation and residual thermal damage caused by a pixilated 2,940 nm laser in a swine skin model
Authors: Regan Thomas D. , Uebelhoer Nathan S. , Satter Elizabeth , Ross E. Victor
Published: June 2010

Background/Objective

The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of fluence, pulse stacking, and multiple passes on the depth of injury caused by a fractionated Er:YAG laser in an in vivo farm pig model.

Design/Material/Methods

A fractionated 2,940 nm Er:YAG laser (Pixel, Alma Lasers, Caesarea, Israel) was applied to the flank skin of a Yorkshire cross pig. The 11 mm×11 mm handpiece was comprised of either 49 or 81 microbeams (200 µm diameter), depending on the tip configuration. There were six different parameter sets divided according to total energy per pulse (150, 285, and 500 mJ) and tip type (81 or 49 microbeams per 11 mm×11 mm macrospot). Each of these six groups was subdivided according to number of stacked pulses (1, 3, and 6) and number of passes (1, 3, and 6). This resulted in a total of 36 treatment parameters.

Results

With the 49 microbeam configuration, a single pulse resulted in partial epidermal ablation at 150 mJ, complete epidermal ablation at 285 mJ and partial dermal ablation at 500 mJ to a depth of 90 µm. Stacking the pulses resulted in a significant increase in ablation with each fluence with the maximal depth of ablation measured at 140 µm after six stacked pulses at 500 mJ. Increasing the number of passes did not result in a significant increase in ablative depth, but did create a larger surface area of ablation. Residual thermal damage (RTD) was minimal and remained between 10 and 20 µm.

Conclusions

The fractionated Er:YAG laser exhibited some of the same tissue interactions as its fully ablative counterparts. An increase in fluence resulted in an increase in ablative depth with minimal RTD. Additionally, RTD was unaffected by pulse stacking or by additional passes. Differences were that pulse stacking appeared to yield a more rapid decrease in ablation efficiency and additional passes did not seem to increase the depth of ablation. Lasers Surg. Med. 42:808–811, 2010. © 2010 Wiley–Liss, Inc.
A physical method to enhance transdermal delivery of a tissue optical clearing agent: Combination of microneedling and sonophoresis
Authors: Yoon Jinhee , Park Donghee , Son Taeyoon , Seo Jongbum , Nelson J. Stuart , Jung Byungjo
Published: June 2010

Background and Objectives

Various physical methods, such as microneedling, laser ablation, sonophoresis, and sandpaper, have been widely studied to enhance the transdermal delivery of tissue optical clearing (TOC) agents. A previous study demonstrated that the microneedling method could effectively enhance the permeability of a TOC agent through the skin barrier.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

In this study, we introduce a new physical combination method which utilizes both microneedling and sonophoresis to further enhance the transdermal delivery of a TOC agent, glycerol. Porcine skin samples were divided into a control group treated only with the microneedle roller and a test group treated with both the microneedle roller and sonophoresis. Glycerol was applied topically after microneedling. The optimal concentration and transdermal delivery efficacy of glycerol were quantitatively evaluated.

Results

A 70% glycerol solution was determined to be the optimal concentration for the combination method. The combination method resulted in approximately a 2.3‐fold higher transdermal diffusion rate of glycerol when compared to the microneedling method alone.

Conclusion

The combination method and optimal glycerol concentration effectively enhanced transdermal delivery of glycerol by accelerating the diffusion rate through the skin barrier. Lasers Surg. Med. 42:412–417, 2010. © 2010 Wiley–Liss, Inc.
Increase in matrix metalloproteinase‐2 level in the chicken retina after laser photocoagulation
Authors: Takeyama Masayuki , Yoneda Masahiko , Takeuchi Makoto , Isogai Zenzo , Ohno‐Jinno Akiko , Kataoka Takuya , Li Huili , Sugita Iichiro , Iwaki Masayoshi , Zako Masahiro
Published: June 2010

Background and Objective

We investigated the levels of matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (MMP‐2), which has been implicated in various vitreoretinal diseases, in the retina after laser photocoagulation (LPC).

Materials and Methods

The time course of MMP‐2 expression in 2‐day‐old chicken retinas before and 6 hours, 12 hours, 1 day, 2 days, 4 days, 8 days, 16 days, and 32 days after LPC was determined by real‐time PCR and gelatin zymography. The basal level of MMP‐2 in the retina and vitreous was also measured by gelatin zymography. MMP‐2 localization in the retina was examined by immunohistochemistry. The localization of MMP‐2 mRNA was determined by fluorescent in situ hybridization. The internal limiting membrane (ILM) was observed by scanning electron microscopy.

Results

MMP‐2 mRNA expression in the retina peaked at day 4, but gelatin zymography showed that MMP‐2 peaked 6 hours after LPC and the significant increase in the level of active MMP‐2 lasted for more than 4 days. The concentration of MMP‐2 in the vitreous was significantly higher than that in the retina. A distinct MMP‐2 signal around the ILM was identified 6 hours after LPC, but MMP‐2 mRNA was not detected there. Electron microscopy showed a damaged retinal surface after LPC.

Conclusion and Outlook

The significant increase in retinal MMP‐2 which lasted for more than 4 days after LPC may be induced by influx from the vitreous into the retina. This MMP‐2 dynamics may contribute to pathological processes in the retina after LPC. Lasers Surg. Med. 42:433‐441, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
New technique using combined pulsed dye laser and fractional resurfacing for treating facial angiofibromas in tuberous sclerosis
Authors: Weiss Elliot T. , Geronemus Roy G.
Published: June 2010

Background and Objective

Tuberous sclerosis (TS) is a well‐described genetic disorder that is classically associated with up to hundreds of facial angiofibromas. Due to the progressive nature of the skin lesions and the early clinical presentation, a safe and effective technique for treating these disfiguring skin lesions is needed.

Study Design/Patients and Methods

We report a combinatorial technique for treating the angiofibromas of TS. We present a case series of three TS patients treated with this technique combining pinpoint electrosurgery, pulsed‐dye laser treatment, and ablative fractional resurfacing (AFR).

Results

In all presented cases, improvement in the number and appearance of facial angiofibromas and erythema is noted. No scarring or adverse events were reported.

Conclusion

The technique of electrosurgery, pulsed‐dye laser treatment, and AFR represents a new and safe therapeutic option for treating facial angiofibromas associated with TS. Lasers Surg. Med. 42:357–360, 2010. © 2010 Wiley–Liss, Inc.
Use of Model For End-Stage Liver Disease Exception Points For Early Liver Transplantation and Successful Reversal of Hepatic Myelopathy with A Review of the Literature
Authors: Caldwell Cary , Werdiger Norman , Jakab Sofia , Schilsky Michael , Arvelakis Antonios , Kulkarni Sanjay , Emre Sukru
Published: June 2010

Hepatic myelopathy (HM) is a rarely reported disorder characterized by progressive spastic paraparesis due to impaired corticospinal tract function in the setting of cirrhosis or portosystemic shunting. HM has not to date been recognized as a Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) exception for transplantation. Outcomes for a small number of patients from Europe and Asia who have undergone liver transplantation (LT) for HM suggest a potential neurological benefit, especially with earlier transplantation. We report the first use of MELD exception points for the condition of HM to enable early LT resulting in the reversal of marked spastic paraparesis. Our patient, whose myelopathy had markedly progressed without further hepatic decompensation, underwent LT 14 months after the diagnosis of HM with an adjusted MELD score of 30, which was granted as a United Network for Organ Sharing exception. After LT, there was significant neurological improvement as the patient progressed from wheelchair dependency to full ambulation. We reviewed the literature of other HM patients who had undergone LT. With our patient, there were in all 15 reported cases of LT in individuals with HM. LT can lead to a marked improvement in HM, particularly in the earlier clinical stages of the disorder. Early LT can be accomplished, as in our case, by the submission of an appeal for a MELD upgrade. Liver Transpl 16:818–826, 2010. © 2010 AASLD.