bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Focused Ultrasound-Mediated Drug Delivery From Microbubbles Reduces Drug Dose Necessary for Therapeutic Effect on Neointima Formation—Brief Report
Authors: Phillips Linsey C. , Dhanaliwala Ali H. , Klibanov Alexander L. , Hossack John A. , Wamhoff Brian R.
Published: September 2011

Objective—

We hypothesized that (1) neointima formation in a rat carotid balloon injury model could be reduced in vivo following targeted ultrasound delivery of rapamycin microbubbles (RMBs), and (2) the addition of dual-mode ultrasound decreases the total amount of drug needed to reduce neointima formation.

Methods and Results—

Balloon injury was performed in rat carotids to induce neointima formation. High or low doses of RMBs were injected intravenously and ruptured at the site of injury with ultrasound. Compared with nontreated injured arteries, neointima formation was reduced by 0% and 35.9% with 10
8
RMBs and by 28.7% and 34.9% in arteries treated with 10
9
RMBs with and without ultrasound, respectively.

Conclusion—

Without ultrasound, 10-fold higher concentrations of RMBs were needed to reduce neointima formation by at least 28%, whereas 10
8
RMBs combined with ultrasound were sufficient to achieve the same therapeutic effect, demonstrating that this technology may have promise for localized potent drug therapy.
Obesity and Recurrent Vascular Risk After a Recent Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Ovbiagele Bruce , Bath Philip M. , Cotton Daniel , Vinisko Richard , Diener Hans-Christoph
Published: September 2011

Background and Purpose—

Although obesity is an established risk factor for the occurrence of a primary stroke, little is known about the impact of baseline obesity on recurrent vascular risk among patients with recently symptomatic cerebrovascular disease. We evaluated the association of obesity with future vascular risk in patients with a recent history of stroke.

Methods—

We analyzed the database of a multicenter trial involving 20 332 patients with recent ischemic stroke followed for 2.5 years. Subjects were divided into 3 groups according to recognized body mass index categories representing lean, overweight, and obese. Primary outcome was time to first recurrent stroke and secondary outcome time to stroke, myocardial infarction, or vascular death. The independent association of obesity with outcome was assessed by controlling for other known risk factors.

Results—

Of 20 246 eligible subjects, 4805 (24%) were obese. After adjusting for confounders, compared with the lean group, being overweight (hazard ratio, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.85–1.06) or obese (hazard ratio, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.83–1.08) was not associated with increased recurrent stroke risk, but being overweight (hazard ratio, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.77–0.92) or obese (hazard ratio, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.77–0.96) was associated with lower risk of a major vascular event.

Conclusions—

Obesity is not related to recurrent stroke risk, but obese patients with stroke are at lower overall vascular risk than their leaner counterparts, supporting the widely held notion of the existence of a cardiovascular “obesity paradox.”
Molecular mechanisms of intensive care unit-acquired weakness
Authors: Bloch S. , Polkey M.I. , Griffiths M. , Kemp P.
Published: September 2011

Intensive care unit-acquired weakness (ICUAW) is an increasingly recognised and important clinical consequence of critical illness. It is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The aetiology of this disease is not well understood. The purpose of this article is to review our understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of ICUAW in the context of current knowledge of clinical risk factors and aetiology.

Key features of the disease are loss of muscle mass resulting from a shift in the dynamic balance of muscle protein synthesis and breakdown and a reduction in force-generating capacity. These alternations are secondary to neuropathy, disruption of the myofilament structure and function, a disrupted sarcoplasmic reticulum, electrical inexcitability and bioenergenetic failure.

As knowledge and understanding of ICUAW grows, potential therapeutic targets will be identified, hopefully leading to multiple strategies for prevention and treatment of this important condition.
Genome-wide examination of the transcriptional response to ecdysteroids 20-hydroxyecdysone and ponasterone A in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Gonsalves Sarah E , Neal Scott J , Kehoe Amy S , Westwood J Timothy
Published: September 2011

Background

The 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) hierarchy of gene activation serves as an attractive model system for studying the mode of steroid hormone regulated gene expression and development. Many structural analogs of 20E exist in nature and among them the plant-derived ponasterone A (PoA) is the most potent. PoA has a higher affinity for the 20E nuclear receptor, composed of the ecysone receptor (EcR) and Ultraspiracle proteins, than 20E and a comparison of the genes regulated by these hormones has not been performed. Furthermore, in Drosophila different cell types elicit different morphological responses to 20E yet the cell type specificity of the 20E transcriptional response has not been examined on a genome-wide scale. We aim to characterize the transcriptional response to 20E and PoA in Drosophila Kc cells and to 20E in salivary glands and provide a robust comparison of genes involved in each response.

Results

Our genome-wide microarray analysis of Kc167 cells treated with 20E or PoA revealed that far more genes are regulated by PoA than by 20E (256 vs 148 respectively) and that there is very little overlap between the transcriptional responses to each hormone. Interestingly, genes induced by 20E relative to PoA are enriched in functions related to development. We also find that many genes regulated by 20E in Kc167 cells are not regulated by 20E in salivary glands of wandering 3rd instar larvae and we show that 20E-induced levels of EcR isoforms EcR-RA, ER-RC, and EcR-RD/E differ between Kc cells and salivary glands suggesting a possible cause for the observed differences in 20E-regulated gene transcription between the two cell types.

Conclusions

We report significant differences in the transcriptional responses of 20E and PoA, two steroid hormones that differ by only a single hydroxyl group. We also provide evidence that suggests that PoA induced death of non-adapted insects may be related to PoA regulating different set of genes when compared to 20E. In addition, we reveal large differences between Kc cells and salivary glands with regard to their genome-wide transcriptional response to 20E and show that the level of induction of certain EcR isoforms differ between Kc cells and salivary glands. We hypothesize that the differences in the transcriptional response may in part be due to differences in the EcR isoforms present in different cell types.
Granulomatous hepatitis, choroiditis and aortoduodenal fistula complicating intravesical Bacillus Calmette-Guérin therapy: Case report
Authors: Gao Cindy Q , Mithani Rozina , Leya Jack , Dawravoo Lesley , Bhatia Arvin , Antoine John , De Alba Felipe , Russo Peter A , Fimmel Claus J
Published: September 2011

Background

Intravesical instillation of Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) is the treatment of choice for superficial bladder carcinoma. Complications of BCG therapy include local infections and disseminated BCG infection with multiple endorgan complications.

Case Presentation

We report a case of disseminated, post-treatment BCG infection that initially presented with granulomatous hepatitis and choroiditis. After successful anti-mycobacterial therapy and resolution of the hepatic and ocular abnormalities, the patient developed an acute upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage from an aortoduodenal fistula that required emergency surgery. The resection specimen revealed multifocal, non-caseating granulomas, indicating mycobacterial involvement.

Conclusions

This case highlights the varied end organ complications of disseminated BCG infection, and the need for vigilance even in immuno-competent patients with a history of intravesical BCG treatment.
Virologic and clinical characteristics of HBV genotypes/subgenotypes in 487 Chinese pediatric patients with CHB
Authors: Zhong Yan-Wei , Li Jin , Song Hong-Bin , Duan Zhong-Ping , Dong Yi , Xing Xiao-Yan , Li Xiao-Dong , Gu Mei-Lei , Han Yu-Kun , Zhu Shi-Shu , Zhang Hong-Fei
Published: September 2011

Background

The association of hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotypes/subgenotypes with clinical characteristics is increasingly recognized. However, the virologic and clinical features of HBV genotypes/subgenotypes in pediatric patients remain largely unknown.

Methods

Four hundred and eighty-seven pediatric inpatients with CHB were investigated, including 217 nucleos(t)ide analog-experienced patients. HBV genotypes/subgenotypes and reverse transcriptase (RT) mutations were determined by direct sequencing. The stage of fibrosis and degree of inflammatory activity were evaluated by the Metavir score system.

Results

Among 487 enrolled pediatric patients, HBV genotype C2 and B2 were the most two prevalent (73.7% and 21.1%). Comparing with HBV/B2 infected patients, no significant difference was observed in the incidence rate and mutant patterns of lamivudine- or adefovir-resistant mutations in HBV/C2 infected patients (P > 0.05). Importantly, we found that the degree of hepatic inflammation degree, fibrosis stage and ALT level were significantly higher in HBV/C2-infected HBeAg positive patients than it was in HBV/B2-infected ones.

Conclusions

The pediatric patients with HBV/C2 infection might be more susceptible to develop severe liver pathogenesis.
Facile method to synthesize magnetic iron oxides/TiO2 hybrid nanoparticles and their photodegradation application of methylene blue
Authors: Wu Wei , Xiao Xiangheng , Zhang Shaofeng , Ren Feng , Jiang Changzhong
Published: September 2011

Many methods have been reported to improving the photocatalytic efficiency of organic pollutant and their reliable applications. In this work, we propose a facile pathway to prepare three different types of magnetic iron oxides/TiO2 hybrid nanoparticles (NPs) by seed-mediated method. The hybrid NPs are composed of spindle, hollow, and ultrafine iron oxide NPs as seeds and 3-aminopropyltriethyloxysilane as linker between the magnetic cores and TiO2 layers, respectively. The composite structure and the presence of the iron oxide and titania phase have been confirmed by transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and X-ray photoelectron spectra. The hybrid NPs show good magnetic response, which can get together under an external applied magnetic field and hence they should become promising magnetic recovery catalysts (MRCs). Photocatalytic ability examination of the magnetic hybrid NPs was carried out in methylene blue (MB) solutions illuminated under Hg light in a photochemical reactor. About 50% to 60% of MB was decomposed in 90 min in the presence of magnetic hybrid NPs. The synthesized magnetic hybrid NPs display high photocatalytic efficiency and will find recoverable potential applications in cleaning polluted water with the help of magnetic separation.
A survey of classical methods and new trends in pansharpening of multispectral images
Authors: Amro Israa , Mateos Javier , Vega Miguel , Molina Rafael , Katsaggelos Aggelos K
Published: September 2011

There exist a number of satellites on different earth observation platforms, which provide multispectral images together with a panchromatic image, that is, an image containing reflectance data representative of a wide range of bands and wavelengths. Pansharpening is a pixel-level fusion technique used to increase the spatial resolution of the multispectral image while simultaneously preserving its spectral information. In this paper, we provide a review of the pan-sharpening methods proposed in the literature giving a clear classification of them and a description of their main characteristics. Finally, we analyze how the quality of the pansharpened images can be assessed both visually and quantitatively and examine the different quality measures proposed for that purpose.
Assessments for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: use of objective measurements
Authors: Vogt Carsten , Shameli Amirreza
Published: September 2011

Aims and method

To appraise the value of additional information from objective measurements (QbTest system) in the clinical assessment of children and adolescents with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Two groups of ADHD assessments were compared. In the first group, assessments were undertaken without objective measures, whereas in the second group objective measures were added to the assessment. Practice outcomes were followed up over 1 year.

Results

Objective measures improve differentiating between ADHD and other conditions whose symptoms are known to overlap with ADHD. Objective measurements reduce the risk of unidentified ADHD (P< 0.0035) as measured by subsequent rates of revised diagnosis over a 12-month period.

Clinical implications

Introducing objective measurements into the clinical assessment of ADHD provides an increased robustness of the clinical diagnosis strengthening clinical decisions for treatment interventions.
Improving psychiatry training in the Foundation Programme
Authors: Welch Jan , Bridge Christine , Firth David , Forrest Alastair
Published: September 2011

Aims and method

We explored the views of foundation doctors on psychiatry placements to inform further post development. Following criticism of some South Thames Foundation School (STFS) psychiatry placements, STFS staff reviewed existing information on post quality and 21 foundation doctors in psychiatry posts took part in three focus groups.

Results

Trainees are concerned about the general quality of posts (including supervision and induction); isolation of mental health trusts from ‘acute’ trusts; the professional position of junior psychiatrists; and responsibilities related to the Mental Health Act and risk assessment. Requirements for posts to address these issues have been developed and are now being implemented locally.

Clinical implications

The conclusions are relevant to the quality management of foundation posts in mental health trusts, responses to the Collins Report (2010) and future recruitment into psychiatry.
The transcription factor BELLRINGER modulates phyllotaxis by regulating the expression of a pectin methylesterase in Arabidopsis
Authors: Peaucelle Alexis , Louvet Romain , Johansen Jorunn N. , Salsac Fabien , Morin Halima , Fournet Françoise , Belcram Katia , Gillet Françoise , Höfte Herman , Laufs Patrick , Mouille Grégory , Pelloux Jérôme
Published: September 2011

Plant leaves and flowers are positioned along the stem in a regular pattern. This pattern, which is referred to as phyllotaxis, is generated through the precise emergence of lateral organs and is controlled by gradients of the plant hormone auxin. This pattern is actively maintained during stem growth through controlled cell proliferation and elongation. The formation of new organs is known to depend on changes in cell wall chemistry, in particular the demethylesterification of homogalacturonans, one of the main pectic components. Here we report a dual function for the homeodomain transcription factor BELLRINGER (BLR) in the establishment and maintenance of the phyllotactic pattern in Arabidopsis. BLR is required for the establishment of normal phyllotaxis through the exclusion of pectin methylesterase PME5 expression from the meristem dome and for the maintenance of phyllotaxis through the activation of PME5 in the elongating stem. These results provide new insights into the role of pectin demethylesterification in organ initiation and cell elongation and identify an important component of the regulation mechanism involved.
Neurosteroids in clinical practice: implications for women’s health
Authors: Genazzani Andrea Riccardo , Bucci Fiorella , Russo Natalia , Daino Diana , Santoro Anna Natalizia , Pluchino Nicola
Published: September 2011

The steroidogenic endocrine glands and local synthesis both contribute to the pool of steroids present in the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS). Although the synthesis of neurosteroids in the nervous system is now well established, the spectrum of respective functions in regulating neuronal and glial functions remains to be fully elucidated. From the concept of neurosteroids derives another therapeutical strategy: the use of pharmaceutical agents that increase the synthesis of endogenous neurosteroids within the nervous system. This approach is so far hampered by the lack of knowledge concerning the regulation of the biosynthetic pathways of neurosteroids and their relationship with sex steroids produced by peripheral glands. The present review summarizes some of the available clinical and experimental findings supporting the critical role of neuro-steroids during the fertile life and reproductive aging and their relationship with endogenous and exogenous sex steroids. Brain metabolism of synthethic progestins and the implication of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) treatment in post-menopausal women will be also discussed.
Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome: The Use of Clonidine as a Treatment Option
Authors: Broome Laura , So Tsz-Yin
Published: September 2011

Infants exposed to opioids in utero and postnatally are at risk for developing withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation of the drugs. This condition is known as the neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). Different medications have been used to ameliorate the symptoms of withdrawal, most commonly opioids. Clonidine has also been evaluated both as an additive and alternative option for the treatment of opioid withdrawal symptoms. Data evaluating the use of clonidine for the treatment of NAS are limited; only six studies have been published. The α-2 adrenergic receptor agonist clonidine is believed to reduce the excessive noradrenergic activity that results from opioid withdrawal. Clonidine has the potential to serve as an attractive option to treat NAS because it possesses a favorable adverse effect profile, is easy to administer, and does not require a long tapering period, unlike other agents currently used to treat NAS. Blood pressure and heart rate must be monitored with clonidine use.
Proteomics and Biomarkers in Neonatology
Authors: Ling Xuefeng B. , Sylvester Karl G.
Published: September 2011

Proteomic technologies and disease-specific biomarkers are being increasingly explored across diverse fields of medicine. The care of the neonate is defined by both a unique patient population and acquired postnatal morbidities that are largely a function of failed adaptation to postnatal life. However, most current diagnostic clinical tests for the neonate suffer from poor sensitivity and specificity or simply rely on a morphologic description of end-organ damage. In this review, we discuss proteomic technologies for the discovery and translation of biomarkers to clinical use, emphasizing unique potential neonatal disease applications.
Prediction of advanced oxidation performance in UV/H2O2 reactor systems with LP-UV lamps
Authors: Hofman-Caris C. H. M. , Harmsen D. J. H. , Wols B. A. , Janssen L. J. J. M. , Beerendonk E. F. , Knol A. H. , Hofman J. A. M. H.
Published: September 2011

Advanced oxidation processes, like UV/H2O2 oxidation, are important barriers against organic micro pollutants in drinking water treatment. In order to guarantee safe drinking water, it is important to be able to predict the reactors' performance to adjust the operating conditions to the actual influent water characteristics (like UV transmission) and lamp performance. Therefore, a design tool was developed, which is based on a kinetic model that describes and predicts the direct photolysis and oxidation of organic compounds in pilot experiments, using Low Pressure (LP) UV-lamps. This model has been combined with computational fluid dynamics (CFD), in order to be able to accurately predict the results of pilot and full scale installations, and also to design reactor systems. The model was applied to three model compounds (atrazine, ibuprofen and NDMA) in two different pilot reactors, and it has been shown that reactor performance can be fairly predicted by applying this ‘UVPerox’ model. The model takes into account the water quality and power of the lamps, and the properties of the compounds involved.
U.S. Presidents and Their Roles in Emergency Management and Disaster Policy 1950‐2009
Authors: Kapucu Naim , Van Wart Montgomery , Sylves Richard , Yuldashev Farhod
Published: September 2011

This paper attempts both to rate the quality and breadth of presidential involvement in emergency management, as well as to examine the possible reasons for the differing quality. Using three major factors for evaluation, it is possible to review the presidential records from the second half of the twentieth century to today, and derive broad categorical assessments using a holistic methodology. The major factors are the ability and willingness to appropriately distinguish the needs and priorities of disaster management apart from civil defense needs and priorities, the selection of well‐qualified disaster management leaders with a background in natural and accidental disasters, and the quality of implementation of programs including administrative execution, number and level of presidential disaster declarations, and timely presidential involvement in catastrophes. Using this framework, two presidents emerged as excellent, three as good, four as average, and two as poor. Interestingly, while some presidents learned from previous executive types of experiences, others did not. While some presidents learned from major catastrophes (focusing events) that occurred just before or during their administrations, others were hard‐pressed simply to recover from especially disruptive or new disasters and failed to improve the system as a result. A consistent finding is that the performance of presidents in emergency management has had a growing effect on their overall reputations by the public and experts. Before 1950, presidential roles were extremely modest and expectations almost nonexistent. After Truman and through Regan, roles increased substantially and expectations were modest. From Clinton through Obama, the roles have continued to increase and expectations have become exceedingly high.
Emergency Plans: Are They Really Necessary? Five Steps to Better Response Operations
Authors: Canton Lucien G.
Published: September 2011

The author discusses the development and application of emergency plans, emphasizing the need for flexibility. Suggestions for improving the effectiveness of plans are provided.
Access Survival amongst Hemodialysis Patients Referred for Preventive Angiography and Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty
Authors: Chan Kevin E. , Pflederer Timothy A. , Steele David J. R. , Lilly Michael P. , Ikizler T. Alp , Maddux Frank W. , Hakim Raymond M.
Published: September 2011

Background and objectives

Referring hemodialysis patients for elective access angiography and percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) is commonly done to prevent access failure, yet the effectiveness of this procedure remains unclear.

Design, setting, participants, & measures

An observational matched cohort analysis among 40,132 Medicare beneficiaries receiving hemodialysis with a fistula or graft was performed. Cox regression was used to determine whether access intervention was associated with improved 1-year access survival.

Results

Nonsurgical access intervention was found to be frequent at a rate of 20.9 procedures per 100 access years. In the 1-year period after intervention using angiography and PTA, the overall access failure rate was 53.7 per 100 access years in the intervention group and 49.6 in the nonintervention group (HR = 1.02; 95% CI, 0.96 to 1.08). Similar findings were also seen when the analysis was repeated in only fistulas (HR = 1.06; 95% CI, 0.98 to 1.15) and grafts (HR = 0.95; 95% CI, 0.86 to 1.05). In patients with a low intra-access flow rate (HR = 0.86; 95% CI, 0.75 to 0.99) or a new access (HR = 0.79; 95% CI, 0.71 to 0.89), angiography and PTA significantly increased access survival when compared with nonintervention (P for interaction was <0.0001). Angiography-PTA-related upper-extremity hematoma, vessel injury, or embolism-thrombosis occurred in 1.1% of all patients.

Conclusions

Access characteristics significantly modify the survival benefits of angiography and PTA intervention where the benefits of these interventions are most seen in newer accesses or accesses with insufficient flow.
Adherence to Use of a Home-Based Exercise DVD in People With Huntington Disease: Participants' Perspectives
Authors: Khalil Hanan , Quinn Lori , van Deursen Robert , Martin Richard , Rosser Anne , Busse Monica
Published: September 2011

Background

Individualized exercise instruction on a regular basis may be desirable for people with Huntington disease (HD). Sustained interventions, however, may not be the most feasible for lifelong disease management. It is critical, therefore, for physical therapists to find ways to facilitate engagement in independent exercise programs. The capabilities of DVD technology can make the DVD a useful format to facilitate engagement for people with HD who have motivational and cognitive problems.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to explore how people with HD used a home-based exercise DVD and how it was perceived by the participants and their caregivers.

Design

An exploratory, mixed-method design was used in this study.

Methods

Fifteen participants with HD were provided with an exercise DVD, developed by the authors, to support their engagement in a home-based exercise program. Exercise diaries were used to record adherence rates. Semistructured interviews were conducted to explore what factors affected the usability of the DVD. Conversations were audio recorded and fully transcribed. Content analysis approach was used to analyze the interviews.

Results

Most of the participants (11/15, 73.3%) adhered well to the use of the DVD. Participants felt that the exercises were suitable. Commitment of the caregiver as a key to the success of the program was the main theme that emerged from the data. Participants identified barriers and facilitators that affected adherence to using the exercise DVD and described management strategies that helped promote adherence to the exercise program.

Conclusions

The DVD was perceived to be suitable and supportive. The DVD could be appropriate for use in supporting people with HD to engage in exercise at home, either outside of therapy sessions or upon completion of a therapy program.
Hypodensity of extradural hematomas in children: an ominous sign
Authors: Nayil Khursheed , Ramzan Altaf , Arif Sajad , Wani Abrar , Sheikh Zahoor , Wani Tariq , Laharwal Masood , Dhar Anil
Published: September 2011

Object

The aim of this study was to analyze the correlation of hypodensity in extradural hematomas on CT with the clinical profile in pediatric patients. This is the only study available in this age group.

Methods

This was a prospective study conducted over a period of 3 years in which all children 18 years old or younger with a diagnosis of cranial extradural hematoma were included. The patients were allocated to 2 groups: those with mixed-density clots (17 cases) and those with classically hyperdense clots (52 cases). A comparative analysis between the 2 groups was conducted.

Results

Patients with mixed-density clots presented earlier to the hospital, had poor Glasgow Coma Scale scores at admission, exhibited large clot volumes, had a high incidence of active bleeding at surgery, and had increased morbidity and mortality as compared with the patients with hyperdense extradural hematomas.

Conclusions

Early recognition and rapid evacuation of the mixed-density clot with restoration of hemostasis may result in a decline in morbidity and death in children with this entity.
Combined Hyperthermia and Radiotherapy for the Treatment of Cancer
Authors: Kaur Punit , Hurwitz Mark D. , Krishnan Sunil , Asea Alexzander
Published: September 2011

Radiotherapy is used to treat approximately 50% of all cancer patients, with varying success. Radiation therapy has become an in­tegral part of modern treatment strategies for many types of cancer in recent decades, but is associated with a risk of long-term adverse effects. Of these side effects, car­diac complications are particularly relevant since they not only adversely affect quality of life but can also be potentially life-threat­ening. The dose of ionizing radiation that can be given to the tumor is determined by the sensitivity of the surrounding normal tissues. Strategies to improve radiotherapy therefore aim to increase the effect on the tumor or to decrease the effects on normal tissues, which must be achieved without sensitizing the normal tissues in the first approach and without protecting the tumor in the second approach. Hyperthermia is a potent sensitizer of cell killing by ionizing radiation (IR), which can be attributed to the fact that heat is a pleiotropic damaging agent, affecting multiple cell components to varying degrees by altering protein structures, thus influencing the DNA damage response. Hyperthermia induces heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70; HSPA1A) synthesis and enhances telomerase activity. HSPA1A expression is associated with radioresistance. Inactivation of HSPA1A and telomerase increases residual DNA DSBs post IR exposure, which correlates with increased cell killing, supporting the role of HSPA1A and telomerase in IR-induced DNA damage repair. Thus, hyperthermia influences several molecular parameters involved in sensitizing tumor cells to radiation and can enhance the potential of targeted radiotherapy. Therapy-inducible vectors are useful for conditional expression of therapeutic genes in gene therapy, which is based on the control of gene expression by conventional treatment modalities. The understanding of the molecular response of cells and tissues to ionizing radiation has lead to a new appreciation of the exploitable genetic alterations in tumors and the development of treatments combining pharmacological interventions with ionizing radiation that more specifically target either tumor or normal tissue, leading to improvements in efficacy.
Novo, S. et al. Aliskiren: Just a New Drug for Few Selected Patients or an Innovative Molecule Predestinated to Replace Arbs and Ace-Inhibitors? Pharmaceuticals 2009, 2, 118-124
Authors: Novo Salvatore , Fazio Giovanni , Raccuglia Elena , Mignano Antonino , Novo Giuseppina
Published: September 2011

In the published version “Paladini et al. reported that aliskiren 300 mg provided a sustained BP-lowering effect beyond the 24-h dosing interval, with a significantly smaller loss of BP-lowering effect in the 24-48 h period after dose than irbesartan 300 mg or ramipril 10 mg [25]”. Paladini et al. should be Palatini et al., and the cited reference number should be [10], not [25]..
In the sentence, “Early data suggest a role for aliskiren in preventing end-organ damage but, considering the ONTARGET results with an ACE-I-ARB combination, outcome studies are needed before the use of aliskiren can be recommended in combination with other RAS inhibitors [18–30]” one more citation number was added [5], so the revised sentence is “Early data suggest a role for aliskiren in preventing end-organ damage but, considering the ONTARGET results with an ACE-I-ARB combination, outcome studies are needed before the use of aliskiren can be recommended in combination with other RAS inhibitors [5,18–30]”. [...]
Le terrain, « une manière de vivre et de regarder le monde et les gens »
Authors: Gentelle Pierre
Published: September 2011

Résumé Un entretien avec Yann Calbérac sur le « terrain », la géographie, le monde.
On the origin and diversity of Newcastle disease virus in Tanzania
Authors: Yongolo Mmeta G. , Christensen Henrik , Handberg Kurt , Minga Uswege , Olsen John E.
Published: September 2011

Free-range rural chickens (FRCs) dominate the poultry industry in developing countries and chickens are exposed to multi-host infections, including Newcastle disease virus (NDV). The knowledge about the characteristics of NDV from FRCs is limited. This study investigated the persistence, spread and risks of NDV from FRCs. NDV isolates (n = 21) from unvaccinated FRCs in Tanzania were characterised by conventional intracerebral pathogenicity index (ICPI) and sequence analysis of a partial region of the deduced fusion protein encompassing the cleavage site. Results showed that five isolates were screened as lentogenic, nine as mesogenic and six as velogenic. Phylogenetic analysis of the 21 isolates compared to reference sequences revealed three, four, nine and five isolates in genotypes 1, 2, 3c and 4a, respectively. Genotype 3c also included published sequences of Tanzanian isolates obtained from exotic birds and chicken isolates from Uganda. The analysis showed that NDV were persistently present among chicken populations and possibly spread through live chicken markets or migration of wild birds. Differences in amino acid sequences detected around the cleavage site separated the isolates in six types. However, cleavage site pattern could not fully differentiate mesogenic isolates from velogenic isolates.
The Role of NiO Doping in Reducing the Impact of Humidity on the Performance of SnO2‐Based Gas Sensors: Synthesis Strategies, and Phenomenological and Spectroscopic Studies
Authors: Kim Hae‐Ryong , Haensch Alexander , Kim Il‐Doo , Barsan Nicolae , Weimar Udo , Lee Jong‐Heun
Published: September 2011

The humidity dependence of the gas‐sensing characteristics in SnO2‐based sensors, one of the greatest obstacles in gas‐sensor applications, is reduced to a negligible level by NiO doping. In a dry atmosphere, undoped hierarchical SnO2 nanostructures prepared by the self‐assembly of crystalline nanosheets show a high CO response and a rapid response speed. However, the gas response, response/recovery speeds, and resistance in air are deteriorated or changed significantly in a humid atmosphere. When hierarchical SnO2 nanostructures are doped with 0.64–1.27 wt% NiO, all of the gas‐sensing characteristics remain similar, even after changing the atmosphere from a dry to wet one. According to diffuse‐reflectance Fourier transform IR measurements, it is found that the most of the water‐driven species are predominantly absorbed not by the SnO2 but by the NiO, and thus the electrochemical interaction between the humidity and the SnO2 sensor surface is totally blocked. NiO‐doped hierarchical SnO2 sensors exhibit an exceptionally fast response speed (1.6 s), a fast recovery speed (2.8 s) and a superior gas response (Ra/Rg = 2.8 at 50 ppm CO (Ra: resistance in air, Rg: resistance in gas)) even in a 25% r.h. atmosphere. The doping of hierarchical SnO2 nanostructures with NiO is a very‐promising approach to reduce the dependence of the gas‐sensing characteristics on humidity without sacrificing the high gas response, the ultrafast response and the ultrafast recovery.
Mechanical surface analysis of bone: A case study of cut marks and enamel hypoplasia on a neolithic cranium from Sweden
Authors: During Ebba M. , Nilsson Lennart
Published: September 2011

A method for measuring, recording, and studying fine surface irregularities in three dimensions is presented. The method, which involves recording the movements of a diamond‐tipped stylus as it scans the surface being studied, is demonstrated on a Neolithic cranium from Sweden. The cranium emanates from a pile dwelling dated to about 3000 B.C. Its frontal bone exhibits distinct cut marks indicative of scalping, and the teeth show signs of enamel hypoplasia. The surface topography of the putative cut marks and hypoplastic enamel were investigated using the stylus method. Measurements of enamel hypoplasia were also carried out for comparison on a front tooth from the lower jaw, and the cut mark study was compared with scanning electron micrographs. The results of this case study demonstrate that the stylus method can obtain high‐resolution measurements of fine surface details directly on the original bone without preparation of or damage to the specimen.
Preparation and characterization of EVA/clay Nanocomposites with improved barrier performance
Authors: Wilson Runcy , Plivelic Tomás S. , Aprem Abi Santhosh , Ranganathaiagh C. , Kumar S. Anil , Thomas Sabu
Published: September 2011

Poly (ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate) (EVA)/clay nanocomposites containing two different organoclays with different clay loadings were prepared. The transport of gases (oxygen and nitrogen) through the composite membranes was investigated and the results were compared. These studies revealed that the incorporation of nanoclays in the polymer increased the efficiency of the membranes toward barrier properties. It was also found that the barrier properties of the membranes decreased with clay loadings. This is mainly due to the aggregation of clay at higher loadings. The morphology of the nanocomposites was studied by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and X‐ray scattering. Small angle X‐ray scattering results showed significant intercalation of the polymer chains between the organo‐modified silicate layers in all cases. Better dispersed silicate layer stacking and more homogeneous membranes were obtained for Cloisite® 25A based nanocomposites compared with Cloisite® 20A samples. Microscopic observations (SEM and TEM) were coherent with those results. The dispersion of clay platelets seemed to be maximized for 3 wt % of clay and agglomeration increased with higher clay loading. Wide angle X‐ray scattering results showed no significant modifications in the crystalline structure of the EVA matrix because of the presence of the clays. The effect of free volume on the transport behavior was studied using positron annihilation spectroscopy. The permeability results have been correlated with various permeation models. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Culture temperature modulates aggregation of recombinant antibody in cho cells
Authors: Gomez Natalia , Subramanian Jayashree , Ouyang Jun , Nguyen Mary D.H. , Hutchinson Matthew , Sharma Vikas K. , Lin Andy A. , Yuk Inn H.
Published: September 2011

During production of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAb), it is highly desirable to remove and control antibody aggregates in the manufacturing process to minimize the potential risk of immunogenicity to patients. During process development for the production of a recombinant IgG in a CHO cell line, we observed atypical high variability from 1 to 20% mAb aggregates formed during cell culture that negatively impacted antibody purification. Analytical characterization revealed the IgG aggregates were mediated by hydrophobic interactions likely caused by misfolded antibody during intracellular processing. Strikingly, data analysis showed an inverse correlation of lower cell culture temperature producing higher aggregate levels. All cultures at 37°C exhibited ≤5% aggregates at harvest. Aggregate levels increased 4–12‐fold in 33°C cultures when compared to 37°C, with a corresponding 2–4‐fold increase in heavy chain (HC) and light chain (LC) mRNA. Additionally, 37°C cases showed a greater excess of LC to HC mRNA levels. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) chaperone expression and ER size also increased 25–75% at 33°C versus 37°C but to a lesser extent than LC and HC mRNA, consistent with a potential limiting ER folding capacity at 33°C for this cell line. Finally, we identified a 2–5‐fold increase in mAb aggregate formation at 33°C compared to 37°C cultures for three additional CHO cell lines. Taken together, our observations indicate that low culture temperature can increase antibody aggregate formation in CHO cells by increasing LC and HC transcripts coupled with limited ER machinery. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2012;109: 125–136. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Randomized clinical trial of laparoendoscopic single-siteversusconventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Authors: Bucher P , Pugin F , Buchs N C , Ostermann S , Morel P
Published: September 2011

Background

Conventional laparoscopy with three or more ports remains the ‘gold standard’ for cholecystectomy, but a laparoendoscopic single-site (LESS) approach is emerging, designed to decrease parietal trauma and improve cosmesis. This study compared conventional laparoscopic (CL) with LESS cholecystectomy, with short-term clinical results as the main outcomes.

Methods

A randomized trial of CL and LESS cholecystectomies involving 150 patients was undertaken. Follow-up was for 1 month after surgery. The primary endpoint was body image results evaluated by means of validated scales. Secondary endpoints were: postoperative pain measured on a visual analogue scale, analgesia requirement, morbidity, quality of life (QoL) measured with Short Form 12, duration of operation, hospital stay, time to return to work and cost analysis.

Results

Operating times and complications were similar in the two groups. Two LESS procedures (3 per cent) were converted to two-port laparoscopy owing to difficulties with exposure, and one CL operation was achieved through a single port because extensive fibrous peritoneal adhesions prevented placement of other ports. There were three and four port-site seroma/haematomas in the LESS and CL groups respectively. Better pain profiles and lower analgesia requirements were recorded in the LESS group (P < 0·001). QoL, body image and scar scale results were also better (P < 0·001). Operative costs were higher for LESS procedures (P < 0·001), although median time to return to work was shorter (P = 0·003).

Conclusion

LESS is an alternative to CL cholecystectomy associated with better cosmesis, body image, QoL and an improved postoperative pain profile. Registration number: NCT00904865 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).
MTDH and EphA7 are markers for metastasis and poor prognosis of gallbladder adenocarcinoma
Authors: Liu Dong‐Cai , Yang Zhu‐Lin
Published: September 2011

Gallbladder cancer is an aggressive cancer with extremely poor prognosis. Over 90% of patients are diagnosed at an advanced, inoperable stage with metastasis and invasion to other organs. In this study, the expression of metadherin (MTDH) and erythropoietin‐producing hepatoma‐amplified sequence (Eph) receptor A7 (EphA7) in 96 benign and 108 malignant lesions of gallbladder was determined by immunohistochemistry, and their correlations with pathological features and prognosis were analyzed. Positive expression of EphA7 and MTDH was significantly higher in gallbladder adenocarcinoma than in benign lesions. In adenocarcinoma, the positive expression of EphA7 and MTDH was significantly associated with differentiation, tumor mass, lymphnode metastasis, invasion, and overall survival. Multivariate Cox regression analysis suggested that positive expression of EphA7 and MTDH was an independent poor‐prognostic predictor in gallbladder adenocarcinoma. The elevated expression of EphA7 and/or MTDH is closely related to carcinogenesis, progression, clinical biological behaviors, and prognosis of gallbladder adenocarcinoma. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2013. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Multicentric encapsulated papillary oncocytic neoplasm of the thyroid: A case diagnosed by a combined cytological, histological, immunohistochemical, and molecular approach
Authors: Bellevicine Claudio , Malapelle Umberto , Docimo Giovanni , Ciancia Giuseppe , Mossetti Gennaro , Pettinato Guido , Troncone Giancarlo
Published: September 2011

Fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) diagnosis of oncocytic lesions is challenging. In fact, oncocytic changes occur in inflammatory, hyperplastic, and neoplastic settings, including both benign and malignant tumors. The rare oncocytic variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), shows papillae composed by cells with large oncocytic granular cytoplasm featuring clear PTC nuclear features. A morphological similar, but biologically distinct lesion, is the encapsulated papillary oncocytic neoplasia. Here, we first report on FNA, its cytological features together with histological, immunohistochemical, and molecular correlates. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2011;. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis of novel stimuli‐responsive polyglycerol‐based hydrogels
Authors: Salehpour Somaieh , Zuliani Christopher J. , Dubé Marc A.
Published: September 2011

Temperature and pH‐responsive polyglycerol‐based hydrogels were successfully synthesized and characterized. An increase in polyglycerol molecular weight was achieved by cross‐linking polyglycerol using multifunctional electrophilic epoxide‐containing compounds. The chemical structure of polyglycerol‐based hydrogels was determined by FTIR spectroscopy. The temperature‐dependent swelling behavior of the hydrogels was studied at 293, 310, 333, and 353 K and a negative temperature‐sensitive system was observed. The hydrogels exhibited pH sensitivity at pH 4, 7, and 10. The hydrophilicity and biocompatibility of these hydrogels make them suitable for pharmaceutical, biomedical, and biotechnological applications. They could potentially serve as a replacement for fossil‐based poly(ethylene glycol) and poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogels.

Practical applications: Polyglycerol produced from glycerol consists of an inert polyether backbone with functional hydroxyl side groups which make it very suitable for the design of hydrogels. The structure of this biocompatible hydrogel resembles well‐known fossil‐based hydrogels poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVOH). Polyglycerol‐based hydrogel is suitable for applications in the pharmaceutical, biomedical, and biotechnological fields as drug delivery, tissue engineering, and hydrogel adhesives for wound dressing. Furthermore, since these hydrogels show relatively high swelling ratios, they can be used as moisture absorbents and solvent dryers.
Morality shifting in the context of intergroup violence
Authors: Leidner Bernhard , Castano Emanuele
Published: September 2011

We propose morality shifting as a mechanism through which individuals can maintain a moral image of the ingroup. We argue that a shift from the moral principles of harm and fairness to those of loyalty and authority occurs when assessing a potentially threatening event, particularly among high ingroup glorifiers. Three studies confirmed this hypothesis using three different methodologies. Study 1 compared the use of language related to four moral foundations formulated in moral psychology in response to ingroup‐ and outgroup‐committed wrongdoings. Results showed that loyalty‐ and authority‐related words were used more, whereas harm‐ and fairness‐related words were used less in response to ingroup‐ compared with outgroup‐committed wrongdoings. Study 2 replicated this effect with regards to the cognitive accessibility of these moral principles. Study 3 confirmed that morality shifting is a motivated response to social identity threat, rather than a response to mere activation of social identity. Finally, as predicted, Study 3 demonstrated the effect of morality shifting to be moderated by ingroup glorification but not ingroup attachment. Implications and consequences for intergroup and individual wrongdoings, as well as for intergroup relations, are discussed. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.