bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term prognostic significance of early molecular response to imatinib in newly diagnosed chronic myeloid leukemia: an analysis from the International Randomized Study of Interferon and STI571 (IRIS)
Authors: Hughes Timothy P. , Hochhaus Andreas , Branford Susan , Müller Martin C. , Kaeda Jaspal S. , Foroni Letizia , Druker Brian J. , Guilhot François , Larson Richard A. , O'Brien Stephen G. , Rudoltz Marc S. , Mone Manisha , Wehrle Elisabeth , Modur Vijay , Goldman John M. , Radich Jerald P. ,   on behalf of the IRIS investigators
Published: August 2010

This study examines the prognostic significance of early molecular response using an expanded dataset in chronic myeloid leukemia patients enrolled in the International Randomized Study of Interferon and STI571 (IRIS). Serial molecular studies demonstrate decreases in BCR-ABL transcripts over time. Analyses of event-free survival (EFS) and time to progression to accelerated phase/blast crisis (AP/BC) at 7 years were based on molecular responses using the international scale (IS) at 6-, 12-, and 18-month landmarks. Patients with BCR-ABL transcripts > 10% at 6 months and > 1% at 12 months had inferior EFS and higher rate of progression to AP/BC compared with all other molecular response groups. Conversely, patients who achieved major molecular response [MMR: BCR-ABL (IS) ≤ 0.1%] by 18 months enjoyed remarkably durable responses, with no progression to AP/BC and 95% EFS at 7 years. The probability of loss of complete cytogenetic response by 7 years was only 3% for patients in MMR at 18 months versus 26% for patients with complete cytogenetic response but not MMR (P < .001). This study shows a strong association between the degree to which BCR-ABL transcript numbers are reduced by therapy and long-term clinical outcome, supporting the use of time-dependent molecular measures to determine optimal response to therapy. This study is registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00006343.
Screening for pre-clinical disability in different residential settings
Authors: Gibson Kate , Day Lesley , Hill Keith D , Jolley Damien , Newstead Stuart , Cicuttini Flavia , Segal Leonie , Flicker Leon
Published: August 2010

Background

Preventing disability and offering effective interventions to older people during early decline in function is most likely to be effective if those most at risk of progressive disablement are able to be identified. Similarly the ability to easily identify a group with similar functional profile from disparate sectors of the community is of significant benefit to researchers. This study aimed to (1) describe the use of a pre-clinical disability screening tool to select a functionally comparable group of older men and women with early functional limitation from different settings, and (2) explore factors associated with function and disability.

Methods

Self-reported function and disability measured with the Late-Life Function and Disability Instrument along with a range of physical performance measurements were compared across residential settings and gender in a sample of 471 trial participants identified as pre-clinically disabled after being screened with the Fried pre-clinical disability tool. Factors that might lie on the pathway to progressive disablement were identified using multiple linear regression analysis.

Results

We found that a sample population, screened for pre-clinical disability, had a functional status and disability profile reflecting early functional limitation, regardless of residential setting or gender. Statistical models identified a range of factors associated with function and disability which explained a greater degree of the variation in function, than disability.

Conclusions

We selected a group of people with a comparable function and disability profile, consistent with the pre-clinical stage of disability, from a sample of older Australian men and women from different residential settings using the Fried pre-clinical disability screening tool. The results suggest that the screening tool can be used with greater confidence for research, clinical and population health purposes. Further research is required to examine the validity of the tool. These findings offer insight into the type of impairment factors characterising early functional loss that could be addressed through disability prevention initiatives.

Trial Registration

ACTRN01206000431527
Tumor suppressor genes are frequently methylated in lymph node metastases of breast cancers
Authors: Feng Weiwei , Orlandi Rosaria , Zhao Naiqing , Carcangiu Maria Luisa , Tagliabue Elda , Xu Jia , Bast Robert C , Yu Yinhua
Published: August 2010

Introduction

Metastasis represents a major adverse step in the progression of breast carcinoma. Lymph node invasion is the most relevant prognostic factor; however little is known on the molecular events associated with lymph node metastasis process. This study is to investigate the status and role of methylation in lymph node metastatic tumors.

Materials and methods

Bisulfite pyrosequencing is used to screen 6 putative tumor suppressor genes (HIN-1, RASSF1A, RIL, CDH13, RARβ2 and E-cadherin) in 38 pairs of primary breast tumors and lymph node metastases.

Results

We found that HIN-1, CDH13, RIL, RASSF1A and RARβ2 were frequently methylated both in primary and metastatic tissues (range: 55.3%~89.5%). E-cadherin was not frequently methylated in either setting (range: 18.4%~23.7%). The methylation status of HIN-1, CDH13, RIL, and RARβ2 in lymph nodes metastasis were correlated with that in primary tumors. The Pearson correlation values ranged from 0.624 to 0.472 (p values < 0.01 to 0.001). Interestingly, we observed an association between HIN-1 methylation and hormone status in metastatic lymph nodes. Hypermethylation of HIN-1 in metastasis lymph nodes was significantly associated with expression of ER (odds ratio, 1.070; P = 0.024) and with PR (odds ratio, 1.046; P = 0.026).

Conclusions

This study suggests that hypermethylation of tumor suppressor genes is extended from primary to metastatic tumors during tumor progression.
Singing teaching as a therapy for chronic respiratory disease - a randomised controlled trial and qualitative evaluation
Authors: Lord Victoria M , Cave Phoene , Hume Victoria J , Flude Elizabeth J , Evans Amanda , Kelly Julia L , Polkey Michael I , Hopkinson Nicholas S
Published: August 2010

Background

Despite optimal pharmacological therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation, patients with COPD continue to be breathless. There is a need to develop additional strategies to alleviate symptoms. Learning to sing requires control of breathing and posture and might have benefits that translate into daily life.

Methods

To test this hypothesis we performed a randomised controlled trial, comparing a six week course of twice weekly singing classes to usual care, in 28 COPD patients. The experience of singing was assessed in a qualitative fashion, through interviews with a psychologist. In addition, we surveyed patients with chronic respiratory conditions who participated in a series of open singing workshops.

Results

In the RCT, the physical component score of the SF36 improved in the singers (n = 15) compared to the controls (n = 13); +7.5(14.6) vs. -3.8(8.4) p = 0.02. Singers also had a significant fall in HAD anxiety score; -1.1(2.7) vs. +0.8(1.7) p = 0.03. Singing did not improve single breath counting, breath hold time or shuttle walk distance. In the qualitative element, 8 patients from the singing group were interviewed. Positive effects on physical sensation, general well-being, community/social support and achievement/efficacy emerged as common themes. 150 participants in open workshops completed a questionnaire. 96% rated the workshops as "very enjoyable" and 98% thought the workshop had taught them something about breathing in a different way. 81% of attendees felt a "marked physical difference" after the workshop.

Conclusion

Singing classes can improve quality of life measures and anxiety and are viewed as a very positive experience by patients with respiratory disease; no adverse consequences of participation were observed.

Trial Registration

Current Controlled Trials - ISRCTN17544114.
Characterisation of recombinant pyranose oxidase from the cultivated mycorrhizal basidiomycete Lyophyllum shimeji (hon-shimeji)
Authors: Salaheddin Clara , Takakura Yoshimitsu , Tsunashima Masako , Stranzinger Barbara , Spadiut Oliver , Yamabhai Montarop , Peterbauer Clemens K , Haltrich Dietmar
Published: August 2010

Background

The flavin-dependent enzyme pyranose 2-oxidase (P2Ox) has gained increased attention during the last years because of a number of attractive applications for this enzyme. P2Ox is a unique biocatalyst with high potential for biotransformations of carbohydrates and in synthetic carbohydrate chemistry. Recently, it was shown that P2Ox is useful as bioelement in biofuel cells, replacing glucose oxidase (GOx), which traditionally is used in these applications. P2Ox offers several advantages over GOx for this application, e.g., its much broader substrate specificity. Because of this renewed interest in P2Ox, knowledge on novel pyranose oxidases isolated from organisms other than white-rot fungi, which represent the traditional source of this enzyme, is of importance, as these novel enzymes might differ in their biochemical and physical properties.

Results

We isolated and over-expressed the p2ox gene encoding P2Ox from the ectomycorrhizal fungus Lyophyllum shimeji. The p2ox cDNA was inserted into the bacterial expression vector pET21a(+) and successfully expressed in E. coli Rosetta 2. We obtained active, flavinylated recombinant P2Ox in yields of approximately 130 mg per L of medium. The enzyme was purified by a two-step procedure based on anion exchange chromatography and preparative native PAGE, yielding an apparently homogenous enzyme preparation with a specific activity of 1.92 U/mg (using glucose and air oxygen as the substrates). Recombinant P2Ox from L. shimeji was characterized in some detail with respect to its physical and catalytic properties, and compared to the well-characterised enzymes from Phanerochaete chrysosporium and Trametes multicolor.

Conclusion

L. shimeji P2Ox shows properties that are comparable to those of P2Ox from white-rot fungal origin, and is in general characterised by lower Km and k
cat values both for electron donor (sugar) as well as electron acceptor (ferrocenium ion, 1,4-benzoquinone, 2,6-dichloroindophenol). While L. shimeji P2Ox is the least thermostable of these three enzymes (melting temperature T
m of 54.9°C; half-life time of activity τ1/2 of 0.12 at 50°C and pH 6.5), P. chrysosporium P2Ox showed remarkable thermostability with T
m of 75.4°C and τ1/2 of 96 h under identical conditions.
Plasmodium falciparum PfA-M1 aminopeptidase is trafficked via the parasitophorous vacuole and marginally delivered to the food vacuole
Authors: Azimzadeh Omid , Sow Cissé , Gèze Marc , Nyalwidhe Julius , Florent Isabelle
Published: August 2010

Background

The Plasmodium falciparum PfA-M1 aminopeptidase, encoded by a single copy gene, displays a neutral optimal activity at pH 7.4. It is thought to be involved in haemoglobin degradation and/or invasion of the host cells. Although a series of inhibitors developed against PfA-M1 suggest that this enzyme is a promising target for therapeutic intervention, the biological function(s) of the three different forms of the enzyme (p120, p96 and p68) are not fully understood. Two recent studies using PfA-M1 transfections have also provided conflicting results on PfA-M1 localization within or outside the food vacuole. Alternative destinations, such as the nucleus, have also been proposed.

Methods

By using a combination of techniques, such as cellular and biochemical fractionations, biochemical analysis, mass-spectrometry, immunofluorescence assays and live imaging of GFP fusions to various PfA-M1 domains, evidence is provided for differential localization and behaviour of the three different forms of PfA-M1 in the infected red blood cell which had not been established before.

Results

The high molecular weight p120 form of PfA-M1, the only version of the protein with a hydrophobic transmembrane domain, is detected both inside the parasite and in the parasitophorous vacuole while the processed p68 form is strictly soluble and localized within the parasite. The transient intermediate and soluble p96 form is localized at the border of parasitophorous vacuole and within the parasite in a compartment sensitive to high concentrations of saponin. Upon treatment with brefeldin A, the PfA-M1 maturation is blocked and the enzyme remains in a compartment close to the nucleus.

Conclusions

The PfA-M1 trafficking/maturation scenario that emerges from this data indicates that PfA-M1, synthesized as the precursor p120 form, is targeted to the parasitophorous vacuole via the parasite endoplasmic reticulum/Golgi, where it is converted into the transient p96 form. This p96 form is eventually redirected into the parasite to be converted into the processed p68 form that is only marginally delivered to the parasite food vacuole. These results provide insights on PfA-M1 topology regarding key compartments of the infected red blood cells that have important implications for the development of inhibitors targeting this plasmodial enzyme.
Herpes simplex virus UL56 interacts with and regulates the Nedd4-family ubiquitin ligase Itch
Authors: Ushijima Yoko , Luo Chenhong , Kamakura Maki , Goshima Fumi , Kimura Hiroshi , Nishiyama Yukihiro
Published: August 2010

Background

Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) is one of many viruses that exploits and modifies the cellular ubiquitin system. HSV-2 expresses the tegument protein UL56 that has been implicated in cytoplasmic transport and/or release of virions, and is a putative regulatory protein of Nedd4 ubiquitin ligase. In order to elucidate the biological function of UL56, this study examined the interaction of UL56 with the Nedd4-family ubiquitin ligase Itch and its role in the regulation of Itch. Additionally, we assessed the similarity between UL56 and regulatory proteins of Itch and Nedd4, Nedd4-family-interactins proteins (Ndfip).

Results

UL56 interacted with Itch, independent of additional viral proteins, and mediated more striking degradation of Itch, compared to Nedd4. Moreover, it was suggested that the lysosome pathway as well as the proteasome pathway was involved in the degradation of Itch. Other HSV-2 proteins with PY motifs, such as VP5 and VP16, did not mediate the degradation of endogenous Itch. Ndfip1 and Ndfip2 were similar in subcellular distribution patterns to UL56 and colocalized with UL56 in co-transfected cells.

Conclusions

We believe that this is the first report demonstrating the interaction of a HSV-specific protein and Itch. Thus, UL56 could function as a regulatory protein of Itch. The mechanism, function and significance of regulating Itch in HSV-2 infection remain unclear and warrant further investigation.
Four small supernumerary marker chromosomes derived from chromosomes 6, 8, 11 and 12 in a patient with minimal clinical abnormalities: a case report
Authors: Fernández-Toral Joaquín , Rodríguez Laura , Plasencia Ana , Martínez-Frías María Luisa , Ewers Elisabeth , Hamid Ahmed B , Ziegler Monika , Liehr Thomas
Published: August 2010

Introduction

Small supernumerary marker chromosomes are still a problem in cytogenetic diagnostic and genetic counseling. This holds especially true for the rare cases with multiple small supernumerary marker chromosomes. Most such cases are reported to be clinically severely affected due to the chromosomal imbalances induced by the presence of small supernumerary marker chromosomes. Here we report the first case of a patient having four different small supernumerary marker chromosomes which, apart from slight developmental retardation in youth and non-malignant hyperpigmentation, presented no other clinical signs.

Case presentation

Our patient was a 30-year-old Caucasian man, delivered by caesarean section because of macrosomy. At birth he presented with bilateral cryptorchidism but no other birth defects. At age of around two years he showed psychomotor delay and a bilateral convergent strabismus. Later he had slight learning difficulties, with normal social behavior and now lives an independent life as an adult. Apart from hypogenitalism, he has multiple hyperpigmented nevi all over his body, short feet with pes cavus and claw toes. At age of 30 years, cytogenetic and molecular cytogenetic analysis revealed a karyotype of 50,XY,+min(6)(:p11.1-> q11.1:),+min(8)(:p11.1->q11.1:),+min(11)(:p11.11->q11:),+min(12)(:p11.2~12->q10:), leading overall to a small partial trisomy in 12p11.1~12.1.

Conclusions

Including this case, four single case reports are available in the literature with a karyotype 50,XN,+4mar. For prenatally detected multiple small supernumerary marker chromosomes in particular we learn from this case that such a cytogenetic condition may be correlated with a positive clinical outcome.
A comparison of foot arch measurement reliability using both digital photography and calliper methods
Authors: Pohl Michael B , Farr Lindsay
Published: August 2010

Background

Both calliper devices and digital photographic methods have been used to quantify foot arch height parameters. The purpose of this study was to compare the reliability of both a calliper device and digital photographic method in determining the arch height index (AHI).

Methods

Twenty subjects underwent measurements of AHI on two separate days. On each day, AHI measurements during both sitting and standing were taken using the AHIMS and digital photographic methods by the same single tester. The intra‐tester reliability of each measurement technique was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and standard error of measurement (SEM). Additionally, the relationship between AHI measurements derived from the two different methods was assessed using a correlation analysis.

Results

The reliability for both the AHIMS and digital photographic methods was excellent with ICC values exceeding 0.86 and SEM values of less than 0.009 for the AHI. Moreover, the reliability of both measurement techniques was equivalent. There was a strong positive correlation between the AHI values collected using both methods. AHI values calculated using the digital photographic method tended to be greater than those derived using the AHIMS.

Conclusion

Digital photographic methods offer equivalent intra‐tester reliability to previously established calliper methods when assessing AHI. While AHI measurements calculated using both methods were highly related, the greater AHI values in the photographic method implied caution should be exercised when comparing absolute values between the two methods. Future studies are required to determine whether digital photographic methods can be developed with improved validity.
Fatty Acid Synthase Polymorphisms, Tumor Expression, Body Mass Index, Prostate Cancer Risk, and Survival
Authors: Nguyen Paul L. , Ma Jing , Chavarro Jorge E. , Freedman Matthew L. , Lis Rosina , Fedele Giuseppe , Fiore Christopher , Qiu Weiliang , Fiorentino Michelangelo , Finn Stephen , Penney Kathryn L. , Eisenstein Anna , Schumacher Fredrick R. , Mucci Lorelei A. , Stampfer Meir J. , Giovannucci Edward , Loda Massimo
Published: August 2010

Purpose

Fatty acid synthase (FASN) regulates de novo lipogenesis, body weight, and tumor growth. We examined whether common germline single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the FASN gene affect prostate cancer (PCa) risk or PCa-specific mortality and whether these effects vary by body mass index (BMI).

Methods

In a prospective nested case-control study of 1,331 white patients with PCa and 1,267 age-matched controls, we examined associations of five common SNPs within FASN (and 5 kb upstream/downstream, R2 > 0.8) with PCa incidence and, among patients, PCa-specific death and tested for an interaction with BMI. Survival analyses were repeated for tumor FASN expression (n = 909).

Results

Four of the five SNPs were associated with lethal PCa. SNP rs1127678 was significantly related to higher BMI and interacted with BMI for both PCa risk (Pinteraction = .004) and PCa mortality (Pinteraction = .056). Among overweight men (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2), but not leaner men, the homozygous variant allele carried a relative risk of advanced PCa of 2.49 (95% CI, 1.00 to 6.23) compared with lean men with the wild type. Overweight patients carrying the variant allele had a 2.04 (95% CI, 1.31 to 3.17) times higher risk of PCa mortality. Similarly, overweight patients with elevated tumor FASN expression had a 2.73 (95% CI, 1.05 to 7.08) times higher risk of lethal PCa (Pinteraction = .02).

Conclusion

FASN germline polymorphisms were significantly associated with risk of lethal PCa. Significant interactions of BMI with FASN polymorphisms and FASN tumor expression suggest FASN as a potential link between obesity and poor PCa outcome and raise the possibility that FASN inhibition could reduce PCa-specific mortality, particularly in overweight men.
Clinical Value of Fluorine-18 2-Fluoro-2-Deoxy-D-Glucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography in Bladder Cancer
Authors: Apolo Andrea B. , Riches Jamie , Schöder Heiko , Akin Oguz , Trout Alisa , Milowsky Matthew I. , Bajorin Dean F.
Published: August 2010

Purpose

Fluorine-18 2-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) has been approved for imaging in many malignancies but not for bladder cancer. This study investigated the value of FDG-PET/CT imaging in the management of patients with advanced bladder cancer.

Patients and Methods

Between May 2006 and February 2008, 57 patients with bladder cancer at our center underwent FDG-PET/CT after CT (n = 52) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI; n = 5). The accuracy of FDG-PET/CT was assessed using both organ-based and patient-based analyses. FDG-PET/CT findings were validated by either biopsy or serial CT/MRI. Clinician questionnaires performed before and after FDG-PET/CT assessed whether those scan results affected management.

Results

One hundred thirty-five individual lesions were evaluable in 47 patients for the organ-based analysis. Overall sensitivity and specificity were 87% (95% CI, 76% to 94%) and 88% (95% CI, 78% to 95%), respectively. In the patient-based analysis, malignant disease was correctly diagnosed in 25 of 31 patients, resulting in a sensitivity of 81% (95% CI, 63% to 93%). FDG-PET/CT was negative in 15 of 16 patients without malignant lesions for a specificity of 94% (95% CI, 71% to 100%). Pre- and post-PET surveys revealed that FDG-PET/CT detected more malignant disease than conventional CT/MRI in 40% of patients. Post-PET surveys showed that clinicians changed their planned management in 68% of patients based on the FDG-PET/CT results.

Conclusion

FDG-PET/CT has excellent sensitivity and specificity in the detection of metastatic bladder cancer and provides additional diagnostic information that enhances clinical management more than CT/MRI alone. FDG-PET/CT scans may provide better accuracy in clinical information for directing therapy.
Demonstrating polymorphic miRNA-mediated gene regulation in vivo: Application to the g+6223G→A mutation of Texel sheep
Authors: Takeda Haruko , Charlier Carole , Farnir Frédéric , Georges Michel
Published: August 2010

We herein describe the development of a biochemical method to evaluate the effect of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in target genes on their regulation by microRNAs in vivo. The method is based on the detection of allelic imbalance in RNAs coimmunoprecipitated with AGO proteins from tissues of heterozygous individuals. We characterize the performances of our approach using a model system in a cell culture, and then apply it successfully to prove that the 3′UTR g+6223G→A mutation operates by promoting RISC-dependent down-regulation of myostatin (MSTN) in skeletal muscle of Texel sheep.
Retrospective analysis of 88,429 serum and urine glucose EQA results obtained from professional laboratories and medical offices participating in surveys organized by three European EQA centers between 1996 and 2007
Authors: Morandi Pierre-Alain , Deom André , Kesseler Dagmar , Cohen Richard
Published: August 2010

Background: The aim of this study was to provide inter-laboratory imprecision comparisons of different groups of diagnostic systems as well as a comparison of professional laboratories with medical offices performance on the basis of 88,429 glucose results obtained in external quality assessment (EQA) schemes organized by three European EQA centers between 1996 and 2007.

Methods: A simple, non-parametrical statistical model suited to all EQA results, including outliers, was used to calculate yearly and global performance.

Results: The best performance was obtained from professional laboratories with a group of three diagnostic systems – Hitachi, Integra, and Vitros, followed by Cobas Mira, and finally by Reflotron. For medical offices, the best performance was achieved with the Cobas Mira diagnostic systems, followed by the Reflotron, SpotChem, and Vitros DT60 diagnostic systems. A slight but overall improvement in performance over time was observed for most diagnostic devices.

Conclusions: The analysis of glucose EQA results collected over a 12-year period showed that professional laboratories obtained better performances than medical offices, and that a general improvement in yearly performance was observed for both types of laboratories.

Clin Chem Lab Med 2010;48:1255–62.
Preparation of Visible-Light-Responsive Nitrogen-carbon Co-doped Titania by Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Tseng Yao-Hsuan , Kuo Chien-Sheng , Huang Chia-Hung , Li Yuan-Yao
Published: August 2010

Nitrogen-doped titania (N-doped TiO2) and nitrogen-carbon co-doped titania (N-C-doped TiO2) were prepared in metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) processes under the controlled reaction atmosphere. The N-doped TiO2 and N-C-doped TiO2 with anatase phase were prepared at 600Â oC under N2-O2-NH3 and N2-NH3 atmospheres respectively. The N-C-doped TiO2 exhibited the high photocatalytic activity for the oxidation of NO under visible-light illuminations. The chamber atmosphere in the MOCVD process plays an important role on the surface lattice structure and nitrogen and carbon content of TiO2. The nitrogen and carbonaceous species on the TiO2 surface, evidenced from X-ray diffractometry (XRD), UV-VIS, and Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), were inferred as important factors for narrowing band gap of titania and enhancement of its visible-light-responsive activity.
On the Interaction of Ionic Liquid 1-Butyl-3-Methylimidazolium Hexafluorophosphate with β-Cyclodextrin in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Rak Jakub , Ondo Daniel , Tkadlecova Marcela , Dohnal Vladimir
Published: August 2010

The formation of inclusion complex of β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) with the hydrophobic room temperature ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate (bmimPF6) in aqueous solutions was studied at 298.15 K using 1H, 13C, 19F and 31P NMR spectroscopy and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). Currently, there is a disagreement in the literature concerning the structure of the complex formed. In contrast to some results published recently in the literature, we found no reasonable support for β-CD to form an inclusion complex with 1-butyl-3-methyl-imidazolium cation of bmimPF6 in water. Our measurements on bmimPF6, the ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride (bmimCl), and the inorganic salt potassium hexafluorophosphate (KPF6) consistently support the formation of a weak 1:1 inclusion complex of β-CD with hexafluorophosphate anion instead of the bmim+ cation. The thermodynamic parameters of the respective complexation were calculated. The binding constant was evaluated from ITC and proton, fluorine and phosphorus NMR measurements, and the complex formation enthalpy and entropy were obtained from ITC.
Kinetics and Products of the Reaction O2(1Σg
+) with N2O
Authors: Dunlea Edward J. , Talukdar Ranajit K. , Ravishankara A. R.
Published: August 2010

Previous studies have suggested that the reaction of O2(1Σg
+) + N2O → NO + NO2 may be a significant source of NOx in the atmosphere if the branching ratio of this channel is greater than ~1%. We have measured the overall rate coefficient (k1) for the reaction of O2(1Σg
+) with N2O to be k1(295 K) = (1.06±0.14)×10−13 cm3 molecule−1 s−1 at 295 K and k1(T) = (7.48±1.66)×10−14 exp[(87±40)/T] cm3 molecule−1 s−1 as a function of temperature over the range 210–370 K. The yields of NO, NO2 or O3 that are possible reaction products from the title reaction were undetectably small. Also, the net loss of N2O from the title reaction was negligibly small. We report upper limits for the yields for the production of NOx, the production of O3 and the loss of N2O (all at 298 K) to be < 2×10−4, < 1×10−3, and < 3×10−3, respectively. We conclude that the reaction of O2(1Σg
+) + N2O is neither a significant source of NOx in the atmosphere nor a significant sink for N2O.
Photolysis of Trichloronitromethane (Chloropicrin) under Atmospheric Conditions
Authors: Vera Teresa , Munoz Amalia , Ródenas Milagros , Vázquez Mónica , Mellouki Abdelwahid , Treacy Jack , Al Mulla Ismael , Sidebottom Howard
Published: August 2010

An experimental investigation on the photolysis of the pesticide chloropicrin, (trichloronitromethane, CCl3NO2), under atmospheric conditions was carried out at the outdoor European Photoreactor, (EUPHORE), in Valencia, Spain. The photodissociation rate coefficient, J
obs(CCl3NO2), was determined directly under sunlight conditions during spring and summer months. Values in the range J
obs(CCl3NO2) = (3.9–5.1)×10−5 s−1 were obtained, corresponding to photolysis lifetimes of 7.1–5.4 hours. Absorption cross-sections for chloropicrin were determined over the wavelength range 260–370 nm, and together with the measured solar flux intensity, were used to calculate the maximum photolysis rate for chloropicrin, J
max. Comparison of the observed photolysis rate with the calculated maximum photolysis rate showed that the effective quantum yield of photodissociation, Φ = J
obs(CCl3NO2)/J
max, was 0.94±0.08. Photolysis of chloropicrin in air or nitrogen gave phosgene as the major carbon-containing product with a yield close to unity based on the loss of chloropicrin. The product yield data were shown to be consistent with a mechanism in which the photolysis channel produces a CCl3 radical and NO2. Kinetic studies on the reactions of hydroxyl radicals and ozone with chloropicrin suggest that, as expected, loss of CCl3NO2 by reaction with these species will be negligible under atmospheric conditions compared to photolysis. Photolysis of chloropicrin in air in the presence of isopropanol gave significant yields of ozone and is consistent with the generation of Cl atoms and NOx following the photodissociation of CCl3NO2. The atmospheric implications of the use of chloropicrin as a pesticide are discussed.
Probing the Equilibrium Size and Hydrogen Bonding Structure in Aqueous Aerosol Droplets
Authors: Treuel Lennart , Butler Jason R. , Hargreaves Graham , Reid Jonathan P.
Published: August 2010

Comparative measurements on two or more optically trapped aerosol droplets can allow the hygroscopic properties of aerosol to be investigated in exquisite detail. In this paper we consider two methods for assessing the dependence on relative humidity of the water activity and solute concentration in the condensed phase. We demonstrate in this paper that using a control droplet as a microprobe of relative humidity in the vicinity of a second droplet of interest can allow the RH to be determined with an accuracy of between 0.01 to 0.1 %. Not only is such a probe highly responsive, but the accuracy of the RH determination improves with increase in GF or RH, counter to the performance of macroscopic RH probes. We also demonstrate that spontaneous Raman scattering recorded from excitation of the OH stretching vibration in supersaturated solution droplets of sodium chloride shows the considerable perturbation induced by the chloride ion on the hydrogen bonding network. Chloride is recognised as a hydrogen bonding structure breaker and these observations are shown to be consistent with measurements on more dilute solutions.
Temperature and Ionic Strength Dependence of NO3-radical Reactions with Substituted Phenols in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Weller C. , Hoffmann D. , Schaefer T. , Herrmann Hartmut
Published: August 2010

NO3 oxidation reactions contribute to the chemical conversion processes of organic compounds in the tropospheric multiphase system. Substituted phenols are known pollutants in cloud droplets, rain, fog and (deliquescent) particles. This study presents rate constants obtained from kinetic investigations of NO3 reactions with different substituted phenolic compounds in the aqueous solution. Effects of the temperature as well as the ionic strength on the reaction rates were measured using a laser flash photolysis – laser long path absorption (LP-LLPA) set-up. The following rate constants at T = 298 K in M-1s-1 were obtained for reactions of the NO3 radical with 4-nitrophenol (k = (8.8±4.6) · 108), 2-nitrophenol (k = (8.3±1.4) · 108), 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (k = (1.5±0.4) · 109), 4-methylphenol (k = (1.7±0.3) · 109), 4-methoxyphenol (k = (2.5±0.4) · 109), 4-aminophenol (k = (2.0±0.3) · 109), 2,6-dichlorophenol (k = (1.3±0.2) · 109), 2,6-dihydroxyphenol (k = (1.7±0.2) · 109), 2,6-dimethylphenol (k = (1.8±0.3) · 109), 2,6-dimethoxyphenol (k = (1.6±0.4) · 109), 2,6-dinitrophenol (k = (2.8±0.9) · 108), 4-hydroxy-3,5-dimethoxybenzaldehyde (k = (1.7±0.3) · 109), 4-hydroxy-3,5-dimethoxybenzoic acid (k = (1.4±0.6) · 109), 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde (k = (1.1±0.2) · 109), 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzoic acid (k = (1.0±0.3) · 109), 3-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzoic acid (k = (1.3±0.4) · 109). Averaged activation energies of: para-substituted phenols are EAߙpara = 11±6 kJ mol-1; 2,6-substituted phenols EAߙ2,6 = 15±4 , poly-substituted phenols EAߙpoly = 16±4 kJ mol-1. From reactivity correlations it is concluded that 4-nitrophenol, 2,6-dinitrophenol and 4-hydroxybenzoic acid react via direct electron transfer. The majority of investigated compounds react in a mixed regime with contribution of both electron transfer and H-atom abstraction. Surprisingly, changes in ionic strength do not affect the reactions dominated by electron transfer but have an influence on the rate constants of reactions with a mixed mechanism.
Metformin is associated with improved left ventricular diastolic function measured by tissue Doppler imaging in patients with diabetes
Authors: Andersson Charlotte , Søgaard Peter , Hoffmann Søren , Hansen Peter R , Vaag Allan , Major-Pedersen Atheline , Hansen Thomas Fritz , Bech Jan , Køber Lars , Torp-Pedersen Christian , Gislason Gunnar H
Published: August 2010

Objective

To examine the association between selected glucose-lowering medications and left ventricular (LV) diastolic function in patients with diabetes.

Design

Retrospective cohort study (years 2005–2008).

Methods

Echocardiograms of 242 patients with diabetes undergoing coronary angiography were analyzed. All patients had an LV ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥20% and were without atrial fibrillation, bundle branch block, valvular disease, or cardiac pacemaker. Patients were grouped according to the use of metformin (n=56), sulfonylureas (n=43), insulin (n=61), and combination treatment (n=82).

Results

Mean age (66±10 years) and mean LVEF (45±11%) were similar across the groups. Mean isovolumic relaxation time (IVRT) was 66±31, 79±42, 69±23, and 66±29 ms in metformin, sulfonylureas, insulin, and combination treatment groups respectively (P=0.4). Mean early diastolic longitudinal tissue velocity (e′) was 5.3±1.6, 4.6±1.6, 5.3±1.8, and 5.4±1.7 cm/s in metformin, sulfonylureas, insulin, and combination treatment groups (P=0.04). In adjusted linear regression models, the use of metformin was associated with a shorter IVRT (parameter estimate −9.9 ms, P=0.049) and higher e′ (parameter estimate +0.52 cm/s, P=0.03), compared with no use of metformin. The effects of metformin were not altered by concomitant use of sulfonylureas or insulin (P for interactions >0.4).

Conclusions

The use of metformin is associated with improved LV relaxation, as compared with no use of metformin.
Respiratory Arrest From Ascaris lumbricoides
Authors: Bailey J. Kevin , Warner Petra
Published: August 2010

We report here the successful treatment of a 9-year-old boy who suffered a high-voltage electrical injury and a hospital course complicated by unexpected airway obstruction from Ascaris lumbricoides. Review of the literature revealed 4 previous reports of this complication. We also discuss options for prevention and treatment of this rare complication of a common infestation.
Non‐Surgical Periodontal Therapy Improves Serum Levels of C‐Reactive Protein and Edematous States in Female Patients With Idiopathic Edema
Authors: Joseph Rosamma , Narayan Vivek , Krishnan Rajaratnam , Melemadathil Sreelatha
Published: August 2010

Background: The relationship between periodontal disease and systemic disease is revealing new and exciting associations. Idiopathic edema presents a clinical syndrome with obscure pathophysiology. The present study investigates whether non‐surgical periodontal therapy is beneficial in patients who are not responding to conventional treatment of idiopathic edema.

Methods: Thirty patients with idiopathic edema were allocated to intervention and control groups. All the subjects were assessed for systemic (body weight, body mass index, visual scale of edema, serum C‐reactive protein, and serum albumin) and periodontal (plaque index, calculus index, and gingival index) parameters. Non‐surgical periodontal therapy, including oral hygiene instructions, scaling and root planing, and systemic antibiotic therapy, was provided in the intervention group. Both groups were reevaluated after 4 weeks.

Results: Both groups were comparable at baseline. All parameters, except serum albumin, showed significant improvement after periodontal therapy. The control group showed further worsening of these parameters.

Conclusions: This study shows that sources for systemic inflammation, such as periodontal disease, could affect the pathogenesis of idiopathic edema. Successful elimination of such covert sources of inflammation leads to a clinical benefit in patients who are distressed by this condition.
The influence of city water consumption on the water balance and quality of drinking water supply with implications for altered operating rules
Authors: Pedusaar T. , Loigu E. , Pyrh A. , Pihlak M.
Published: August 2010

In the period 1990–2006, the decrease in water consumption of Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, determined both the input and output of the water balance of Lake Ülemiste, the drinking water reservoir of the city as well as its hydraulic retention time (HRT). In 2006, the city's water consumption accounted for only a quarter of that in 1990.The role of regulated inflow in the water balance decreased and that of catchment run-off increased. Lake HRT increased four-fold. Before the 1990s, Lake Ülemiste resembled a river, now it is more lake-like. Changes in the water regime were correlated with the decline in concentrations of organic matter and chloride suggesting a likely causal relationship between them. Managerial challenges turned on finding new functions for upstream reservoirs and on the opportunity to refill the lake with better quality raw water.
Ancient water supply system of the old town of Lijiang, Yunnan Province, China
Authors: Koenig A. , Fung S. C. C.
Published: August 2010

Lijiang City is located at 2,400 m altitude in the northwest of Yunnan Province, China. Lijiang's old town, with an area of 3.8 km2 and about 25,000 inhabitants, was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List on 6 December 1997 noting in particular that it “possesses an ancient water supply system of great complexity and ingenuity that still functions effectively today.” In this paper, the water supply system of the Old Town of Lijiang is described, analyzed and then evaluated in light of challenges from modern developments.
Microbial and chemical assessment of ceramic and BioSand water filters in rural Cambodia
Authors: Murphy H. M. , Sampson M. , Farahbakhsh K. , McBean E.
Published: August 2010

Unless significant advances are made in the water and sanitation sector, it is unlikely that Cambodia will meet the United Nations Millennium Development Goal (MDG) target #7 for water and sanitation. Point-of-use technologies (POU), also termed “household water treatment technologies”, have been identified as successful options for providing safe water to rural households. Ceramic water filters and BioSand filters are two major POU technologies that are currently implemented across Cambodia. This paper presents data on the microbial performance of these two technologies in the field on various Cambodian source waters. In addition, data are presented on the occurrence of nitrite in treated water. Results showed that 61% and 88% of BioSand filters and ceramic filters, respectively, produced water in the low risk range for E. coli as defined by the WHO (0–10 CFU/100 mL). In addition, 83% of BioSand filters and 75% of ceramic filters were not meeting the WHO guideline value for chronic exposure to nitrite in drinking water (0.2 mg/L).
Factors influencing public perception and use of municipal drinking water
Authors: Proulx F. , Rodriguez M. J. , Sérodes J. B. , Miranda L. F.
Published: August 2010

Despite more stringent regulations concerning drinking water quality in many countries, the public is increasingly concerned about the safety of municipal tap water. For this reason, acquiring a better understanding of consumer perception of tap water is an important issue for water authorities and utility managers. In this study, water consumption choice and profile were investigated. The case under study is the territory of a water supply system in Québec City (Canada). Data on drinking water consumption was obtained through a questionnaire-based survey. Survey results showed that an important proportion (about one third) of the population under study do not drink tap water. To explain consumption choice (tap water or not) and consumption profile (levels of tap water consumption), binary and ordinal logistic regression analyses (LGA) were performed based on survey responses and complementary data resulting from measurements of water quality parameters in 32 locations throughout the water distribution system. Water quality information was managed through a water quality index (WQI). The WQI of each sampling point was associated with the location of each survey respondent using a geographical information system (GIS). LGA results showed that the geographical location of the consumer within the distribution system, the WQI and perceived risk toward water consumption were the main factors explaining both the water consumption choice and tap water consumption profile.
Joint Metabonomic and Instrumental Analysis for the Classification of Migraine Patients with 677-MTHFR Mutations
Authors: Giustetto Pierangela , Liboni William , Mana Ornella , Allais Gianni , Benedetto Chiara , Molinari Filippo
Published: August 2010

Migraine is a neurological disorder that correlates with an increased risk of cerebrovascular lesions. Genetic mutations of the MTHFR gene are correlated to migraine and to the increased risk of artery pathologies. Also, migraine patients show altered hematochemical parameters, linked to an impaired platelet aggregation mechanism. Hence, the vascular assessment of migraineurs is of primary importance.

Transcranial Doppler sonography (TCD) is used to measure cerebral blood flow velocity (CBFV) and vasomotor reactivity (by an index measured during breath-holding – BHI). Aim of this study was the metabolic profiling of migraine subjects with T/T677-MTHFR and C/T677-MTHFR mutations and its correlation with CBFV and BHI.

Metabonomic multidimensional techniques were used to describe and cluster subjects. Fifty women suffering from migraine (age: 18-64; 21 with aura) underwent TCD examination, hematochemical blood analysis, Born test, and genetic tests for MTHFR mutation. Fourteen (7 with aura) had T/T677, 18 (8 with aura) had C/T677, and 18 (6 with aura) had no mutation. The total number of variables was 24.

Unsupervised and supervised techniques_showed the correlation between CBFV and BHI with mutation. Discriminant analysis allowed for classifying the subjects with 95.9% sensitivity and 89.0% specificity. Aura was not correlated to mutation or variations of instrumental data.

Our study showed that metabonomics could be effectively applied in clinical problems to show the overall correlation structure of complex systems in pathology. Specifically, our results confirmed the importance of TCD in the metabolic profiling and follow-up of migraine patients.
Analytical solution of equations describing slow axonal transport based on the stop-and-go hypothesis
Authors: Kuznetsov Andrey
Published: August 2010

This paper presents an analytical solution for slow axonal transport in an axon. The governing equations for slow axonal transport are based on the stop-and-go hypothesis which assumes that organelles alternate between short periods of rapid movement on microtubules (MTs), short on-track pauses, and prolonged off-track pauses, when they temporarily disengage from MTs. The model includes six kinetic states for organelles: two for off-track organelles (anterograde and retrograde), two for running organelles, and two for pausing organelles. An analytical solution is obtained for a steady-state situation. To obtain the analytical solution, the governing equations are uncoupled by using a perturbation method. The solution is validated by comparing it with a high-accuracy numerical solution. Results are presented for neurofilaments (NFs), which are characterized by small diffusivity, and for tubulin oligomers, which are characterized by large diffusivity. The difference in transport modes between these two types of organelles in a short axon is discussed. A comparison between zero-order and first-order approximations makes it possible to obtain a physical insight into the effects of organelle reversals (when organelles change the type of a molecular motor they are attached to, an anterograde versus retrograde motor).
Water Desalination Using Geothermal Energy
Authors: Goosen Mattheus , Mahmoudi Hacene , Ghaffour Noreddine
Published: August 2010

The paper provides a critical overview of water desalination using geothermal resources. Specific case studies are presented, as well as an assessment of environmental risks and market potential and barriers to growth. The availability and suitability of low and high temperature geothermal energy in comparison to other renewable energy resources for desalination is also discussed. Analysis will show, for example, that the use of geothermal energy for thermal desalination can be justified only in the presence of cheap geothermal reservoirs or in decentralized applications focusing on small-scale water supplies in coastal regions, provided that society is able and willing to pay for desalting.
2-(Penta-1,3-diynyl)-5-(3,4-dihydroxybut-1-ynyl)thiophene, a Novel NQO1 Inducing Agent from Echinops grijsii Hance
Authors: Shi Jing , Zhang Xiaoyu , Jiang Hai
Published: August 2010

A natural alkynol group-substituted thiophene, 2-(penta-1,3-diynyl)-5-(3,4-dihydroxybut-1-ynyl)-thiophene (PDDYT), was isolated from the roots of Echinops grijsii Hance. It possessed potent NAD(P)H: quinone oxidoreductase1 (NQO1) inducing activity and could activate Keap1-Nrf2 pathway effectively in murine hepatoma Hepa 1c1c7 cells. Further investigations indicated that the activation of Keap1-Nrf2 pathway by PDDYT might be attributed to the activation of Akt and depleting the cellular glutathione (GSH).