bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Erneuerbare Rohstoffe biotechnologischen oder pflanzlichen Ursprungs für die Oberflächenbehandlung
Authors: Friebel S. , Deppe O.
Published: October 2009

Der wesentliche Beweggrund Beschichtungen auf Basis nachwachsender Rohstoffe (Nawaro) zu entwickeln und zu verwenden ist nach wie vor die Erwartung, dass diese Produkte in Zukunft durch die stetig steigenden Erdölpreise ökonomischer werden. Auch die Endlichkeit des Erdöls und die damit verbundene hohe Abhängigkeit gegenüber den OPEC‐Staaten sind Gründe, alternative Ressourcen zur Herstellung von Beschichtungsstoffen zu finden. Dieser Beitrag soll den derzeitigen Stand der Technik und auch neue Trends der stofflichen Nutzung von nachwachsenden Rohstoffen speziell für die Lackindustrie näher beleuchten. Es werden Möglichkeiten aufgezeigt, die Nawaro bei der Synthese von Lackharzen bieten. Dabei werden die Schwerpunkte auf die Chemie der pflanzlichen Öle und Saccharide gelegt und dabei die klassische Chemie und auch neuere Methoden – wie die enzymatische Katalyse oder die Industrielle Biotechnologie – aufgeführt, die zur Herstellung von Bindemitteln für dauerhafte Industrie‐ und Bautenlacke sowie Druckfarben verwendet werden können. Spezielle Anwendungen, wie z. B. Food‐Coatings, medizinische Beschichtungsstoffe und biologisch abbaubare Beschichtungen, werden nicht berücksichtigt.
Vom Rohstoff zum Produkt – Industrielle Biotechnologie und stoffliche Nutzung nachwachsender Rohstoffe als Beispiel für die verfahrenstechnische Forschung in der Fraunhofer‐Gesellschaft
Authors: Buller U. , Hirth T.
Published: October 2009

Aufgrund der Verknappung und Verteuerung fossiler Ressourcen erfahren die Nutzung nachwachsender Rohstoffe als alternative Kohlenstoffquelle für die Chemieindustrie und die weiße Biotechnologie derzeit weltweit eine Renaissance. Für die verstärkte chemische Nutzung biobasierter Rohstoffe und biotechnologischer Verfahren sind aufgrund hoher Anforderungen an die Qualität der Produkte neue Ansätze in Forschung, Entwicklung und Produktion erforderlich. Die Fraunhofer‐Gesellschaft hat diese Herausforderung mit der Bildung eines interdisziplinären Forschungsverbunds aus acht Instituten angenommen und ihre verfahrenstechnische Forschung entsprechend ausgerichtet. Für ausgewählte Roh‐ und Reststoffe wurden Technologieplattformen zur integrierten Herstellung biobasierter Grundstoffe für die verfahrenstechnische Industrie entwickelt und neue Synthesestrategien sowie Produktionsprozesse etabliert.
A New Electrocardiographic Algorithm to Locate the Occlusion in Left Anterior Descending Coronary Artery
Authors: Fiol Miguel , Carrillo Andrés , Cygankiewicz Iwona , Velasco Julio , Riera Maria , Bayés‐Genis Antoni , Gómez Alfredo , Peral Vicente , Bethencourt Armando , Goldwasser diego , Molina Fredis , Bayés de Luna Antoni
Published: October 2009

Background

Early prediction of proximal left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) occlusion is essential from a clinical point of view

Hypothesis

To develop an electrocardiogram (ECG) algorithm based on ST‐segment deviations to predict the location of occlusion of LAD as a culprit artery.

Methods

ECG and angiographic findings were correlated in 100 patients with an ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (MI) in precordial leads V1, V2, and V4 through V6.

Results

ST‐depression ≥ 2.5 mm in leads III + ventricular fibrillation (VF) presents sensitivity (SE) of 77% and specificity (SP) of 84% for LAD occlusion proximal to the first diagonal artery (D1). ST‐segment in III + VF isoelectric or elevated, presents SE of 44% and SP of 100% for LAD occlusion distal to D1. Subsequent analysis of the equation ∑ of ST‐deviation in VR + V1 − V6 < 0, allows us to predict occlusion distal to first septal artery (S1) with 100% SP. On the other hand, any ST‐depression in III + VF > 0.5 mm + ∑ of ST‐deviation in VR + V1 − V6 ≥ 0 identifies a high‐risk group (lower ejection fraction, worse Killip findings, higher peak of CPK and CK‐MB, and major adverse cardiac events [MACE]: death, reinfarction, recurrent angina, persistent left ventricular failure, or sustained ventricular arrhythmia during hospitalization).

Conclusions

This sequential ECG algorithm based on ST‐segment deviations in different leads allowed us to predict the location of occlusion in LAD with good accuracy. Cases with proximal LAD occlusion present the most markers of poor prognosis. We recommend the use of the algorithm in everyday clinical practice. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Gaucher Disease with Communicating Hydrocephalus and Cardiac Involvement
Authors: Cindik N. , Ozcay F. , Süren D. , Akkoyun I. , Gökdemir M. , Varan B. , Alehan F. , Ozbek N. , Tokel K.
Published: October 2009

A 14‐year‐old female with Gaucher disease presented with hydrocephalus, corneal opacities, cirrhosis, and cardiac valvular involvement. A homozygous D409H mutation was identified. She underwent surgery for aortic and mitral valve replacement. Because of severe calcification of the aortic root, no successful valve replacement was performed. She died on the third day after the explorative cardiac surgery. Cardiac abnormalities represent a life‐threatening presentation of the homozygous D409H mutation. Identification of this type is essential prior to initiating appropriate therapy with enzyme replacement and cardiac corrective surgery. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Myopathy, Left Ventricular Noncompaction, and Tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Stöllberger Claudia , Steger Christina , Finsterer Josef
Published: October 2009

Left ventricular hypertrabeculation, also termed noncompaction (LVHT) is a cardiac abnormality characterized by excessive trabeculations of the left ventricular cavity. LVHT may be associated with extracardiac abnormalities, most frequently neuromuscular disorders (NMDs). LVHT associated with tetralogy of Fallot (ToF), so far, has been reported in 2 cases, but no indication for the presence of NMDs are given.

We present a 47‐year old female who underwent 2 cardiac surgeries because of ToF, and was admitted because of heart failure. She was diagnosed with echocardiographic LVHT. A myopathy was diagnosed by biopsy. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of High Bolus Dose Tirofiban on the Inflammatory Response Following Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Azar Rabih R. , Badaoui Georges , Sarkis Antoine , Kassab Roland , Salamé Elie , Aboujaoudé Simon , Hamdan Righab , Barakett Vanda , Germanos Mirna
Published: October 2009

Background

Tirofiban at the bolus dose of 10 µg/kg does not suppress the inflammatory response following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). This may be due to less than optimal inhibition of platelet aggregation. High bolus dose tirofiban (25 µg/kg) allows better inhibition of platelet aggregation but its anti‐inflammatory effect remains unknown.

Hypothesis

High bolus dose tirofiban exhibits anti‐inflammatory activity.

Methods

A total of 100 patients referred for PCI were randomized to receive high bolus dose tirofiban followed by a 24‐h infusion or a bolus and an infusion of saline. Patients with elevated troponin or with thrombus in the culprit lesion were excluded. Inflammatory markers were measured at baseline and at 24 h.

Results

Levels of soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L) were not affected by PCI while those of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and of high sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) significantly increased. Despite inhibiting platelet's aggregation by > 90%, tirofiban did not suppress the rise of IL‐6 and hs‐CRP. Median (interquartile range) elevation of IL‐6 was 0.6 pg/mL (−1.5–3.6) versus 0.4 pg/mL (−0.7–1.8) and that of hs‐CRP was 2.1 mg/L (0.7–5.2) versus 2.4 mg/L (1–4.7) in the tirofiban and the control groups, respectively (p = ns). However, in patients with diabetes mellitus, tirofiban significantly suppressed the rise of hs‐CRP by 65% (p = 0.01), but did not significantly affect the rise of IL‐6.

Conclusion

In low‐risk patients undergoing PCI, tirofiban did not attenuate the rise of inflammatory markers. However, the significant effect in diabetics suggests that tirofiban may have anti‐inflammatory activity in higher risk patients. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for Acute Myocardial Infarction in a Single Coronary Artery Anomaly
Authors: Shalganov Tchavdar N.
Published: October 2009

We report on a case of an adult male patient with previously unknown coronary anomaly and acute myocardial infarction in the territory of the left anterior descending artery (LAD). The coronary angiography showed a single coronary artery with intertruncal course, arising from the right coronary sinus, and thrombotic occlusion of the LAD. Successful transradial percutaneous coronary intervention was done with implantation of an intracoronary stent in the occluded artery. The postprocedural course was complicated by ventricular tachycardia, congestive heart failure, and mild transient renal failure. In conclusion, transradial percutaneous coronary intervention is safe and feasible in rare coronary artery anomalies even in an emergent setting. The finding of an anomalous coronary artery should not be a reason to decline performing coronary intervention. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Statins as Anti‐Arrhythmics: A Systematic Review Part II: Effects on Risk of Ventricular Arrhythmias
Authors: Abuissa Hussam , O'Keefe James H. , Bybee Kevin A.
Published: October 2009

Background

Recent studies have demonstrated that statins may possess anti‐arrhythmic properties in addition to their lipid‐lowering effects.

Methods

Studies which reported the association of statins with the incidence of ventricular arrhythmias were identified through a systematic review of the published literature.

Results

Statins have been associated with a significant reductions in ventricular arrhythmia in cardiomyopathy patients with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator, although randomized trials have not been completed.

Conclusions

Published data suggests that statins may possess anti‐arrhythmic properties that reduce the propensity for ventricular arrhythmias. Most of this data is observational; more randomized, placebo‐controlled trials are needed. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Serial Analyses of C‐Reactive Protein and Myeloperoxidase in Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Borges Flávia K. , Borges Fernando K. , Stella Steffan F. , Souza Juliana F. , Wendland Andréa E. , Werres Junior Luis Carlos , Ribeiro Jorge P. , Polanczyk Carísi A.
Published: October 2009

Background

C‐reactive protein (CRP) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) are involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, mainly during periods of instabilization. This study aims to test the hypothesis that patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) maintain a persistent inflammatory state, and that this is associated with long‐term mortality.

Hypothesis

We hypothesized that serum C‐reactive protein and myeloperoxidase collected at the index event and later, could add to the prognostic information in patients with ACS.

Methods

In a prospective cohort of 115 consecutive patients with ACS, myeloperoxidase and C‐reactive protein were measured at admission and 2 y later. Patients were followed‐up for the occurrence of cardiac death and other major cardiac events.

Results

Levels of CRP decreased from 26 ± 34 mg/L in the acute phase to 6 ± 8 mg/L in the chronic phase (p < 0.001), and MPO levels decreased from 86 ± 43 pM to 27 ± 32 pM (p < 0.001). After 29 ± 12 mo, 27% patients died, 39% had new episode of ACS, and 30% underwent revascularization procedures. Initial CRP levels above 10 mg/L were associated with higher long‐term mortality (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.43; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.98 to 6.07; p = 0.048). MPO levels were not associated with death or other major events.

Conclusions

Changes over time or absolute values in the chronic phase of both markers were not associated with clinical outcomes. CRP levels, but not MPO levels, in the index event were predictive of long‐term cardiovascular mortality. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Usefulness of Brain Natriuretic Peptide Level at Implant in Predicting Mortality in Patients with Advanced But Stable Heart Failure Receiving Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Authors: El‐Saed Aiman , Voigt Andrew , Shalaby Alaa
Published: October 2009

Background

Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) level has emerged as a predictor of death and hospital readmission in patients with heart failure (HF). The value of baseline BNP assessment in advanced HF patients receiving cardiac resynchronization defibrillator therapy (CRT‐D) has not been firmly established.

Hypothesis

We hypothesized that a baseline BNP level would predict all cause mortality and HF hospitalization in HF patients receiving cardiac resynchronization therapy.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of all patients having BNP assessment prior to implantation of a CRT‐D for standard indications during 2004 and 2005 was conducted at the Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System. The primary endpoint was all‐cause mortality and the secondary endpoint was HF‐related hospitalization. We used findings from the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve to define low (<492 pg/mL) and high (≥492 pg/mL) BNP groups.

Results

Out of 173 CRT‐D recipients, 115 patients (mean age 67.0 ± 10.7 years, New York Heart Association [NYHA] class 2.9 ± 0.3, left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF] 22.5% ± 9.6%, QRS 148.3 ± 30.4 ms) had preimplantation BNP measured (mean 559 ± 761 pg/mL and median 315 pg/mL). During a mean follow‐up time of 17.5 ± 6.5 mo, 27 deaths (23.5%) and 31 HF hospitalizations (27.0%) were recorded. Compared to those with low BNP (n = 74), those of high BNP (n = 41) were older, had lower LVEF, higher creatinine levels, suffered more deaths, and HF hospitalizations. In multivariate regression models, higher BNP remained a significant predictor of both the primary endpoint (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.89, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.06–7.88, p = 0.038) and secondary endpoint (HR: 4.23, 95% CI: 1.68–10.60, p = 0.002).

Conclusions

Baseline BNP independently predicted mortality and HF hospitalization in a predominantly older white male population of advanced HF patients receiving CRT‐D. Elevated BNP levels may identify a vulnerable HF population with a particularly poor prognosis despite CRT‐D. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Transcatheter Closure of Patent Ductus Arteriosus: Experience with a New Device
Authors: Aldo Agnetti , Nicola Carano , Bertrand Tchana , Valentina Allegri , Antonio Saracino , Umberto Squarcia , Donald J Hagler
Published: October 2009

Transcatheter closure is the preferred method of treatment of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). Detachable coils are widely used to close small ducts, while the Amplatzer duct occluder (ADO) is generally employed for moderate or large ducts. Recently a new device, the Amplatzer duct occluder II (ADO II), a nitinol flexible mesh, with a symmetrical design to provide high conformability for treatment of all types of PDA, has received the European Community mark approval. We report on one of the first experience, four cases (1 male, 3 female, age ranging from six months to seven years old) with different type and size of PDA treated with the new device. The use of this new Amplatzer duct occluder in our experience has the advantage of ease and safety of placement, conformability, stability, low profile catheters, adaptability for long ducts as in type E. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Practical Total Synthesis of the Microbial Alkaline Proteinase Inhibitor (MAPI)
Authors: Haebich Dieter , Hillisch Alexander , El Sheikh Sherif
Published: October 2009

Diverse serine and cysteine proteases as well as alkaline proteinases and elastases play a crucial role in numerous biological processes. Natural peptide aldehydes such as the “microbial alkaline proteinase inhibitor” (MAPI, 1) are valuable tools to characterize novel enzymes and to study their function in nature. Within a drug discovery program we wanted to design and explore non‐natural MAPI congeners with novel biological profiles. To that end we devised a simple, practical, and scalable synthesis of MAPI 1 from readily available amino acid building blocks. The modular nature of our approach allows convenient structural modification of the MAPI backbone.
Quantitative Reflection Interference Contrast Microscopy (RICM) in Soft Matter and Cell Adhesion
Authors: Limozin Laurent , Sengupta Kheya
Published: October 2009

Adhesion can be quantified by measuring the distance between the interacting surfaces. Reflection interference contrast microscopy (RICM), with its ability to measure inter‐surface distances under water with nanometric precision and milliseconds time resolution, is ideally suited to studying the dynamics of adhesion in soft systems. Recent technical developments, which include innovative image analysis and the use of multi‐coloured illumination, have led to renewed interest in this technique. Unambiguous quantitative measurements have been achieved for colloidal beads and model membranes, thus revealing new insights and applications. Quantification of data from cells shows exciting prospects. Herein, we review the basic principles and recent developments of RICM applied to studies of dynamical adhesion processes in soft matter and cell biology and provide practical hints to potential users.
Early response to family‐based treatment for adolescent anorexia nervosa
Authors: Doyle Peter M. , Le Grange Daniel , Loeb Katharine , Doyle Angela Celio , Crosby Ross D.
Published: October 2009

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to determine if early weight gain predicted remission at the end of treatment in a clinic sample of adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN).

Method:

Sixty five adolescents with AN (mean age = 14.9 years, SD = 2.1), from two sites (Chicago n = 45; Columbia n = 20) received a course of manualized family‐based treatment (FBT). Response to treatment was assessed using percent ideal body weight (IBW) with remission defined as having achieved ≥95% IBW at end of treatment (Session 20).

Results:

Receiver operating characteristic analyses showed that a gain of at least 2.88% in ideal body weight by Session 4 best predicted remission at end of treatment (AUC = 0.674; p = 0.024).

Discussion:

Results suggest that adolescents with AN, receiving FBT, who do not show early weight gain are unlikely to remit at end of treatment. © 2009 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2010;)
Role of Water and Solvent in the Formation of Three Mononuclear Copper(II) Crystals: A New Type of Hydrate Isomerism in Coordination Chemistry
Authors: Hazra Susanta , Koner Rajesh , Nayak Malabika , Sparkes Hazel A. , Howard Judith A. K. , Dutta Supriya , Mohanta Sasankasekhar
Published: October 2009

Refluxing of the red compound [CuIIL1blabla(H2O)] (1) in acetone forms two new species: green [CuIIL1(H2O)] (2) and brown [CuIIL1] (3) [H2L1 = N,N′‐ethylenebis(3‐ethoxysalicylaldimine)]. Whereas both 1 and 2 are converted into 3 upon heating, 3 is converted back into 1 when exposed to air. The structures of all three compounds were determined crystallographically, from which the interesting hydrate isomerism of 1 and 2 are identified; in 1 a water molecule is encapsulated into the O4 section of the ligand through bifurcated hydrogen bonding, whereas in 2 a water molecule coordinates directly to the metal centre. Despite the metal ion binding to the ligand in the same manner in all three cases, the formation of different mononuclear complexes resulting from the presence or absence of water and its coordination or encapsulation is an interesting observation. Thermogravimetric analyses of compounds 1 and 2 showed that the encapsulated water in the former compound is removed at slightly lower temperature than that of the coordinated water molecule, as expected. Although three crystals 1, 2 and 3 were isolated, the composition of species in solution is probably the same as evidenced by 1H NMR spectroscopy. Therefore, the formation of three crystals and the hydrate isomerism described in this investigation are solid‐state phenomena.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Syntheses, Crystal Structures, Thermal Properties and Spectroscopic Characterization of Complex Chloridotitanates(IV) with Ionic Liquids
Authors: Leye Johann‐Christian , Gjikaj Mimoza , Adam Arnold
Published: October 2009

By the reaction of [EMIm]Cl with TiCl4 in two different solvents the three new chloridotitanate complexes [EMIm]2[TiCl6] (I), [EMIm][TiCl5MeCN] (II) and [EMIm]4[TiCl6][Ti2Cl10] (III) were obtained. The crystal structures and the unit cell parameters were determined. The Raman spectra were measured to investigate the distorted octahedral symmetry of the corresponding anionic unit. Differential scanning calorimetry and thermal gravimetric measurements were accomplished to characterize the thermal stability. In addition, NMR and IR spectroscopy and elemental analysis were made to complete the characterization.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
A Chlorine‐Centered Cluster of Composition [(Me3Si)2NC(NCy)2SmCl2]5(thf)2 and a Comparison with the Heavier Ytterbium Congener [(Me3Si)2NC(NCy)2YbCl2]2(LiCl)2(thf)4
Authors: Zhang Zhensheng , Roesky Herbert W. , Schulz Thomas , Stalke Dietmar , Döring Alexander
Published: October 2009

A unique (guanidinato)samarium dichloride cluster [(Me3Si)2NC(NCy)2SmCl2]5(thf)2 was synthesized from anhydrous SmCl3 and (Me3Si)2NC(NCy)2Li in thf/toluene solution. This cluster exhibits a novel structure containing a chlorine atom with four coordinated samarium atoms. The X‐ray crystal structure was investigated and compared with that of the heavier ytterbium congener [(Me3Si)2NC(NCy)2YbCl2]2(LiCl)2(thf)4. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Ground State Electronic Interactions in Macrocyclic Fullerene Bis‐Adducts Functionalized with Bridging Conjugated Oligomers
Authors: Figueira‐Duarte Teresa M. , Lloveras Vega , Vidal‐Gancedo José , Delavaux‐Nicot Béatrice , Duhayon Carine , Veciana Jaume , Rovira Concepció , Nierengarten Jean‐François
Published: October 2009

Macrocyclic C60‐(π‐conjugated oligomer) dyads have been prepared from the corresponding bis‐malonates by a macrocyclization reaction on the C60 sphere. In both multicomponent systems, the fullerene moiety and the π‐conjugated oligomer subunit are at the van der Waals contact due to the cyclic structure. Interestingly, the characteristic π‐π* electronic transition band of the conjugated system is significantly red‐shifted in both dyads with respect to the corresponding model compounds lacking the fullerene unit (Δλmax = 24 to 34 nm). Whereas the absorption properties are dramatically affected by the intramolecular electronic interactions between the conjugated bridging system and the accepting C60 spheroid, cyclic voltammetry revealed only small changes in their redox potentials. However, these intramolecular interactions have a significant influence on the electronic coupling of the two terminal aniline redox units of the conjugated system in the dyads. Actually, when compared to the corresponding model compound 14·+, delocalization of the positive charge in the mixed‐valence species derived from the dyad 1 is more difficult due to the π‐π interactions of the conjugated system with the electron‐withdrawing fullerene group. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Short Regioselective Chemoenzymatic Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of 1‐O‐Acyl‐2‐O‐(β‐D‐sulfoquinovopyranosyl)‐sn‐glycerols
Authors: Dangate Milind , Franchini Laura , Ronchetti Fiamma , Arai Takanari , Iida Akira , Tokuda Harukuni , Colombo Diego
Published: October 2009

A convenient chemoenzymatic synthesis of a new class of non‐natural sulfo‐glycolipids – 2‐O‐(β‐D‐sulfoquinovosyl)‐monoacylglycerols (2‐O‐β‐D‐SQMG) – derived from 2‐O‐(β‐D‐glucopyranosyl)glycerol and carrying acyl chains ofvarious lengths at the 1‐position of the sn‐glycerol moiety, was performed with the aid of a key step involving regioselective lipase‐catalyzed acylation of 2‐O‐(6‐deoxy‐6‐tosyl‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl)‐sn‐glycerol (4) at its 1‐position, reported here for the first time. Elaboration of the sugar moiety through thioacetate substitution of the selectively inserted tosyl group with subsequent Oxone® oxidation in the presence of unprotected primary and secondary hydroxy groups efficiently afforded the target compounds, the hexanoyl, dodecanoyl, and octadecanoyl derivatives 1a–c, which were active when tested in the EBV‐EA in vitro assay for antitumor promoters. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Imaging the Origins of Coating Degradation and Blistering Caused by Electrolyte Immersion Assisted by SECM
Authors: Souto R. M. , González‐García Y. , González S. , Burstein G. T.
Published: October 2009

A new method to image the origins of coating degradation and the nucleation and subsequent growth of blisters by using SECM in the feedback mode is proposed. The unique role of chloride ions towards coating performance has been established at a very early stage following immersion of the sample. We believe this to show the earlier stages of blistering in a coated metal system ever recorded. The method allowed for the first time to detect the nucleation and to monitor quantitatively the growth process of an individual blister, because it effectively advanced towards the microelectrode when scanned at constant height over the sample.
Electrochemical Oxidation and Detection of Morphine at Ordered Mesoporous Carbon Modified Glassy Carbon Electrodes
Authors: Bo Xiangjie , Xie Wenlin , Ndamanisha Jean Chrysostome , Bai Jing , Guo Liping
Published: October 2009

In this work, three ordered mesoporous carbons (OMCs) with different structural parameters were synthesized by a simple variation of the hydrothermal temperature of the silica templates (SBA‐15). X‐ray diffraction and nitrogen adsorption‐desorption results show these OMCs exhibit an ordered 2D hexagonal mesostructure with tunable pore diameter. OMC‐modified glassy carbon electrodes exhibit efficient electrocatalytic reactivity toward oxidation of morphine (MO). The amperometric detection of MO in pH 7.0 phosphate buffered saline at +0.39 V versus Ag/AgCl is the lowest potential reported to‐date. A linear range from 0.2 to 197.6 μM and a detection limit of 0.03 μM MO were obtained.
Photo‐polymerized lauryl methacrylate monolithic columns for CEC using lauroyl peroxide as initiator
Authors: Bernabé‐Zafón Virginia , Beneito‐Cambra Miriam , Simó‐Alfonso Ernesto F. , Ramis‐Ramos Guillermo , Herrero‐Martínez José Manuel
Published: October 2009

Lauryl methacrylate (LMA)‐ester based monolithic columns photo‐polymerized using lauroyl peroxide (LPO) as initiator were prepared, and their morphological and CEC properties were studied. The composition of the polymerization mixture (i.e. ratios of monomers/porogenic solvents, 1,4‐butanediol/1‐propanol and LMA/crosslinker) was optimized. The morphological and chromatographic properties of LMA columns were evaluated by means of SEM pictures and van Deemter plots of PAHs, respectively. The polymerization mixture selected as optimal provided a fast separation of a mixture of PAHs with excellent efficiencies (minimum plate heights of 8.9–11.1 μm). Satisfactory column‐to‐column (RSD<4.5%) and batch‐to‐batch reproducibilities (RSD<6.3%) were achieved. The LMA columns photo‐polymerized with LPO were compared with those prepared with AIBN. Using PAHs, alkylbenzenes and basic compounds for testing, the columns obtained with LPO gave the best compromise between efficiency, resolution and analysis time.
Forecasting business failure in China using case‐based reasoning with hybrid case respresentation
Authors: Li Hui , Sun Jie
Published: October 2009

Case‐based reasoning (CBR) is a very effective and easily understandable method for solving real‐world problems. Business failure prediction (BFP) is a forecasting tool that helps people make more precise decisions. CBR‐based BFP is a hot topic in today's global financial crisis. Case representation is critical when forecasting business failure with CBR. This research describes a pioneer investigation on hybrid case representation by employing principal component analysis (PCA), a feature extraction method, along with stepwise multivariate discriminant analysis (MDA), a feature selection approach. In this process, sample cases are represented with all available financial ratios, i.e., features. Next, the stepwise MDA is used to select optimal features to produce a reduced‐case representation. Finally, PCA is employed to extract the final information representing the sample cases. All data signified by hybrid case representation are recorded in a case library, and the k‐nearest‐neighbor algorithm is used to make the forecasting. Thus we constructed a hybrid CBR (HCBR) by integrating hybrid case representation into the forecasting tool. We empirically tested the performance of HCBR with data collected for short‐term BFP of Chinese listed companies. Empirical results indicated that HCBR can produce more promising prediction performance than MDA, logistic regression, classical CBR, and support vector machine. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Estimating the impacts of cigarette taxes on youth smoking participation, initiation, and persistence: empirical evidence from Canada
Authors: Sen Anindya , Wirjanto Tony
Published: October 2009

In response to the widespread availability of illegal contraband, the federal and five provincial governments in Canada implemented a 40–60% reduction to cigarette excise taxes in February 1994. We exploit this unique and discrete policy shock by estimating the effects of cigarette taxes on youth smoking with data from the 1992–1996 Waterloo Smoking Prevention Program, 1991 General Social Survey, 1994 Youth Smoking Survey, 1996–1997 and 1998–1999 National population Health Surveys, and the 1999 Canadian Tobacco Use Monitoring Survey. Empirical estimates yield daily and occasional participation elasticities from −0.10 to −0.14, which is consistent with findings from recent U.S.‐based research. A key contribution of this research is in the analysis of lower taxes on a panel of 591 youths from the Waterloo Smoking Prevention Program, who did not smoke in 1993, but 43% of whom confirm smoking participation following the tax reduction. Employing these data reveals elasticities from −0.2 to −0.5, which suggest that even significant and discrete changes in taxes might have limited impacts on the initiation and persistence of youth smoking. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investment in antiviral drugs: a real options approach
Authors: Attema Arthur E. , Lugnér Anna K. , Feenstra Talitha L.
Published: October 2009

Real options analysis is a promising approach to model investment under uncertainty. We employ this approach to value stockpiling of antiviral drugs as a precautionary measure against a possible influenza pandemic. Modifications of the real options approach to include risk attitude and deviations from expected utility are presented. We show that risk aversion counteracts the tendency to delay investment for this case of precautionary investment, which is in contrast to earlier applications of risk aversion to real options analysis. Moreover, we provide a numerical example using real world data and discuss the implications of real options analysis for health policy. Suggestions for further extensions of the model and a comparison with the expected value of information analysis are put forward. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Role of CXC chemokine ligand 13 in oral squamous cell carcinoma associated osteolysis in athymic mice
Authors: Pandruvada Subramanya N.M. , Yuvaraj Sambandam , Liu Xiang , Sundaram Kumaran , Shanmugarajan Srinivasan , Ries William L. , Norris James S. , London Steven D. , Reddy Sakamuri V.
Published: October 2009

Oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCC) are malignant tumors with a potent activity of local bone invasion; however, the molecular mechanisms of tumor osteolysis are unclear. In this study, we identified high level expression of chemokine ligand, CXCL13 and RANK ligand (RANKL) in OSCC cells (SCC1, SCC12 and SCC14a). OSCC cell‐conditioned media (20%) induced osteoclast differentiation which was inhibited by OPG in peripheral blood monocyte cultures indicating that OSCC cells produce soluble RANKL. Recombinant hCXCL13 (10 ng/ml) significantly enhanced RANKL‐stimulated osteoclast differentiation in these cultures. Trans‐well migration assay identified that CXCL13 induces chemotaxis of peripheral blood monocytes in vitro which was inhibited by addition of anti‐CXCR5 receptor antibody. Zymogram analysis of conditioned media from OSCC cells revealed matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) activity. Interestingly, CXCL13 treatment to OSCC cells induced CXCR5 and MMP‐9 expression suggesting an autocrine regulatory function in OSCC cells. To examine the OSCC tumor cell bone invasion/osteolysis, we established an in vivo model for OSCC by subcutaneous injection of OSCC cells onto the surface of calvaria in NCr‐nu/nu athymic mice, which developed tumors in 4–5 weeks. μCT analysis revealed numerous osteolytic lesions in calvaria from OSCC tumor‐bearing mice. Histochemical staining of calvarial sections from these mice revealed a significant increase in the numbers of TRAP‐positive osteoclasts at the tumor‐bone interface. Immunohistochemical analysis confirmed CXCL13 and MMP‐9 expression in tumor cells. Thus, our data implicate a functional role for CXCL13 in bone invasion and may be a potential therapeutic target to prevent osteolysis associated with OSCC tumors in vivo.
GSTT1andGSTM1polymorphisms and myelodysplastic syndrome risk: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Dahabreh Issa J. , Giannouli Stavroula , Gota Vaia , Voulgarelis Michael
Published: October 2009

Glutathione‐S‐transferace polymorphisms may make hematopoietic lineage cells susceptible to genotoxicity following exposure to heavy metals or benzene. We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis to define the effect ofGSTM1andGSTT1null polymorphisms on MDS risk. We searched the PubMed and SCOPUS databases to identify peer‐reviewed published case‐control studies investigating the association betweenGSTT1and/orGSTM1null genotypes and development of MDS. Between‐study heterogeneity was assessed using Cochran's Q statistic and the I2statistic. Odds ratios from individual studies were pooled using fixed and random effects models. Thirteen studies were considered eligible for theGSTT1meta‐analysis (1471 cases, 1907 controls) and 10 were considered eligible for theGSTM1meta‐analysis (1161 cases, 1668 controls). For theGSTT1polymorphism, there was moderate between study heterogeneity (pQ= 0.01; I2= 52.3%) and the null genotype was significantly associated with increased risk of MDS development, random effects OR = 1.43 (95% CI, 1.09–1.89);p= 0.01. For theGSTM1polymorphisms there was moderate between‐study heterogeneity (p= 0.07; I2= 43.1%) and the random effects OR = 1.02 (95% CI, 0.82–1.28) was non‐significant (p= 0.85). TheGSTT1null genotype is a significant risk factor for MDS development. Gene‐environment interactions need to be further explored.
Differential activation of cell death and autophagy results in an increased cytotoxic potential for trifluorothymidine compared to 5‐fluorouracil in colon cancer cells
Authors: Bijnsdorp Irene V. , Peters Godefridus J. , Temmink Olaf H. , Fukushima Masakazu , Kruyt Frank A.
Published: October 2009

Trifluorothymidine (TFT) is part of the oral drug formulation TAS‐102. Both 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) and TFT can inhibit thymidylate synthase and be incorporated into DNA. TFT shows only moderate cross‐resistance to 5‐FU. Therefore, we examined whether mechanistic differences in cell death could underlie their different modes of action in colorectal cancer cell lines (WiDR, Lovo92 and Colo320). Drug cytotoxicity was determined by SRB‐ and clonogenic assays, cell death by flow cytometry (PI and annexin V), caspase cleavage by Western blotting and activity assays and in vivo activity in the hollow fiber assay. The IC50 values of TFT were 1‐6 fold lower than for 5‐FU, and clonogenic survival was less than 0.9% at 3 μM TFT, while 2–20% of the cells still survived after 20 μM 5‐FU. In general, TFT was a more potent inducer of apoptosis than 5‐FU, although the contribution of caspases varied between the used cell lines and necrosis‐like cell death was detected. Accordingly, both drugs induced caspase (Z‐VAD) independent cell death and lysosomal cathepsin B was involved. Activation of autophagy recovery mechanisms was only triggered by 5‐FU, but not by TFT as determined by LC3B expression and cleavage. Inhibition of autophagy by 3‐MA in 5‐FU exposed cells reduced cell survival. Also, in vivo TFT (as TAS‐102) caused more cell death than a 5‐FU formulation. We conclude that TFT and 5‐FU induce cell death via both caspase‐dependent and independent mechanisms. The TFT was more potent than 5‐FU, because it induces higher levels of cell death and does not elicit an autophagic survival response in the cancer cell lines. This provides a strong molecular basis for further application of TFT in cancer therapy.
p38delta/MAPK13 as a diagnostic marker for cholangiocarcinoma and its involvement in cell motility and invasion
Authors: Tan Felicia Li‐Sher , Ooi Aikseng , Huang Dachuan , Wong Jing Chii , Qian Chao‐Nan , Chao Cora , Ooi London , Tan Yu‐Meng , Chung Alexander , Cheow Peng‐Chung , Zhang Zhongfa , Petillo David , Yang Ximing J. , Teh Bin Tean
Published: October 2009

Cholangiocarcinoma (CC) and hepatocellularcarcinoma (HCC) are two main forms of liver malignancies, which exhibit differences in drug response and prognosis. Immunohistotochemical staining for cytokeratin markers has been used to some success in the differential diagnosis of CC from HCC. However, there remains a need for additional markers for increased sensitivity and specificity of diagnosis. In this study, we have identified a p38 MAP kinase, p38δ (also known as MAPK13 or SAPK4) as a protein that is upregulated in CC relative to HCC and to normal biliary tract tissues. We performed microarray gene expression profiling on 17 cases of CC, 12 cases of adjacent normal liver tissue, and three case of normal bile duct tissue. p38δ was upregulated in 16 out of 17 cases of CC relative to normal tissue. We subsequently performed immunohistochemical staining of p38δ in 54 cases of CC and 54 cases of HCC. p38δ staining distinguished CC from HCC with a sensitivity of 92.6% and a specificity of 90.7%. To explore the possible functional significance of p38δ expression in CC, we examined the effects of overexpression and knockdown of p38δ expression in human CC cell lines. Our results indicate that p38δ is important for motility and invasion of CC cells, suggesting that p38δ may play an important role in CC metastasis. In summary, p38δ may serve as a novel diagnostic marker for CC and may also serve as a new target for molecular based therapy of this disease.
Suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid induces viral lytic cycle in Epstein‐Barr virus‐positive epithelial malignancies and mediates enhanced cell death
Authors: Hui K.F. , Chiang Alan K.S.
Published: October 2009

In Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV)‐associated malignancies, the virus is harbored in every tumor cell and persists in tightly latent forms expressing a very limited number of viral latent proteins. Induction of EBV lytic cycle leads to expression of a much larger number of viral proteins, which may serve as potential therapeutic targets. We found that 4 histone deacetylase inhibitors, trichostatin A (TSA), sodium butyrate (SB), valproic acid (VPA) and suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA), all significantly induced EBV lytic cycle in EBV‐positive gastric carcinoma cells (AGS/BX1, latency II) but only weakly induced in Burkitt lymphoma cells (AK2003, latency I) and did not induce in lymphoblastoid cells (LCLs, latency III). Interestingly, SAHA potently induced viral lytic cycle in AGS/BX1 cells at micromolar concentrations (evidenced by 8‐fold increase in viral DNA replication, strong expression of viral lytic proteins and production of infectious virus particles) and mediated enhanced cell death of EBV‐positive AGS/BX1 cells when compared with that of EBV‐negative AGS cells, possibly related to cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase. Furthermore, SAHA effected strong induction of EBV lytic cycle in nasopharyngeal carcinoma but not in NK lymphoma cells (both expressing EBV latency II pattern), indicating preferential viral lytic induction in epithelial rather than lymphoid malignancies. In conclusion, SAHA is found to be a potent EBV lytic cycle inducing agent, which warrants further investigation into its potential application as a novel virus‐targeted drug for treatment of EBV‐associated epithelial malignancies.
Direct and indirect contribution of bone marrow‐derived cells to cancer
Authors: Guest Ian , Ilic Zoran , Ma Jun , Grant Denise , Glinsky Gennadi , Sell Stewart
Published: October 2009

Stromal‐epithelial interactions may control the growth and initiation of cancers. Here, we not only test the hypothesis that bone marrow‐derived cells may effect development of cancers arising from other tissue cells by forming tumor stroma but also that sarcomas may arise by transformation of stem cells from the bone marrow and epithelial cancers may arise by transdifferentiation of bone marrow stem cells to epithelial cancers. Lethally irradiated female FVB/N mice were restored with bone marrow (BM) transplants from a male transgenic mouse carrying the polyoma middle T‐oncoprotein under the control of the mouse mammary tumor virus promoter (MMTV‐PyMT) and followed for development of lesions. All of 8 lethally irradiated female FVB/N recipient mice, restored with BM transplants from a male MMTV‐PyMT transgenic mouse, developed Y‐chromosome negative (Y−) cancers of various organs surrounded by Y+ stroma. One of the female FVB/N recipient mice also developed fibrosarcoma and 1, a diploid breast adenocarcinoma containing Y chromosomes. In contrast, only 1 of 12 control female mice restored with normal male BM developed a tumor (lymphoma) during the same time period. These results indicate not only that the transgenic BM‐derived stromal cells may indirectly contribute to development of tumors in recipient mice but also that sarcomas may arise by transformation of BM stem cells and that breast cancers arise by transdifferentiation of BM stem cells, presumably by mesenchymal‐epithelial transition.
Lysyl oxidase expression is an independent marker of prognosis and a predictor of lymph node metastasis in oral and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC)
Authors: Albinger‐Hegyi Andrea , Stoeckli Sandro J. , Schmid Stephan , Storz Martina , Iotzova Guergana , Probst‐Hensch Nicole M. , Rehrauer Hubert , Tinguely Marianne , Moch Holger , Hegyi Ivan
Published: October 2009

Proteins of the lysyl oxidase (LOX) family are important modulators of the extracellular matrix. However, they have an important role in the tumour development as well as in tumour progression. To evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic value of the LOX protein in oral and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) we performed QRT‐PCR and immunohistochemical analysis on two tissue microarrays (622 tissue samples in total). Significantly higher LOX expression was detected in high grade dysplastic oral mucosa as well as in OSCC when compared to normal oral mucosa (P < 0.001). High LOX expression was correlated with clinical TNM stage (P = 0.020), lymph node metastases for the entire cohort (P < 0.001), as well as in the subgroup of small primary tumours (T1/T2, P < 0.001). Moreover, high LOX expression was correlated with poor overall survival (P = 0.004) and disease specific survival (P = 0.037). In a multivariate analysis, high LOX expression was an independent prognostic factor, predicting unfavourable overall survival. In summary, LOX expression is an independent prognostic biomarker and a predictor of lymph node metastasis in OSCC. Moreover, LOX overexpression may be an early phenomenon in the pathogenesis of OSCC and thus an attractive novel target for chemopreventive and therapeutic strategies.
Is therapeutic plasma exchange indicated for patients with gemcitabine‐induced hemolytic uremic syndrome?
Authors: Gore Ethan McCaleb , Jones Benjamin Scott , Marques Marisa B.
Published: October 2009

Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) has been described as an uncommon complication of gemcitabine. In this review, we discuss the diagnosis of gemcitabine‐induced aHUS (GiHUS) and the published experience with therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE). To illustrate GiHUS, we present a patient who developed hypertension and peripheral edema while receiving gemcitabine and subsequently was found to have thrombocytopenia, hemolytic anemia, renal failure, and normal ADAMTS‐13 activity. Although laboratory parameters improved on suspending gemcitabine, they worsened after reinstitution of the drug. Thrombocytopenia and hemolysis ceased once the drug was permanently discontinued without therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE). The pathological characteristics of GiHUS suggest damage of the glomeruli endothelial lining, leading to occlusion by fibrin‐rich thrombi. Among 26 patients described in the literature not treated with TPE, 56% recovered from GiHUS, whereas only 30% of 18 patients treated with TPE did. The difference in recovery rate may have been confounded by the severity of GiHUS as suggested by the rate of dialysis in each group: 10/26 (38%) patients who did not receive TPE were dialyzed compared with 11/18 (61%) of those who had plasma exchange. Thus, although the currently available evidence is not decisive for use or non use of TPE, we suggest that the most important therapeutic intervention in GiHUS is discontinuation of the drug. Apheresis medicine specialists should be aware of this specific type of aHUS and provide treatment advice based on the currently available evidence. J. Clin. Apheresis 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Postdonation platelet counts are safe when collecting platelets with the Trima Accel using a postdonation platelet count target of ≥50,000 platelets/μL
Authors: Alex Jessie , Roberts Beverly , Raife Thomas
Published: October 2009

In December 2007, the FDA issued a guidance document recommending that apheresis cell separators be configured with a postdonation platelet count target of ≥100,000 platelets/μL. Currently, our Trima Accel apheresis cell separators are configured with a postdonation platelet count target of ≥50,000 platelets/μL. To determine the safety of our current procedure, we analyzed the postdonation platelet counts of 115 donors collected using our current procedure. All of 115 donors had postdonation platelet counts ≥100,000 platelets/μL. On the basis of predonation platelet counts, we calculated that raising the postdonation target platelet count to ≥100,000 platelets/μL would have disqualified 19 out of 225 potential platelet products. We conclude that the current postdonation platelet count target of ≥50,000 platelets/μL is safe for donors collected using the Trima Accel. Efforts to reduce the incidence of TRALI are creating challenges for the platelet supply. Increasing the postdonation platelet count target to ≥100,000 platelets/μL will reduce productivity in apheresis platelet collection and may not enhance donor safety. J. Clin. Apheresis 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.