bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phase I/II Trial of Metronomic Chemotherapy With Daily Dalteparin and Cyclophosphamide, Twice-Weekly Methotrexate, and Daily Prednisone As Therapy for Metastatic Breast Cancer Using Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Soluble Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor Levels As Markers of Response
Authors: Wong Nan Soon , Buckman Robert A. , Clemons Mark , Verma Shailendra , Dent Susan , Trudeau Maureen E. , Roche Kathie , Ebos John , Kerbel Robert , DeBoer Gerrit E. , Sutherland Donald J.A. , Emmenegger Urban , Slingerland Joyce , Gardner Sandra , Pritchard Kathleen I.
Published: December 2009

Purpose

Preclinical studies indicate that metronomic chemotherapy is antiangiogenic and synergistic with other antiangiogenic agents. We designed a phase I/II study to evaluate the safety and activity of adding dalteparin and prednisone to metronomic cyclophosphamide and methotrexate in women with measurable metastatic breast cancer (MBC).

Patients and Methods

Patients received daily dalteparin and oral cyclophosphamide, twice-weekly methotrexate, and daily prednisone (dalCMP). The primary study end point was clinical benefit rate (CBR), a combination of complete response (CR), partial response (PR), and prolonged stable disease for ≥ 24 weeks (pSD). Secondary end points included time to progression (TTP), duration of response, and overall survival (OS). Biomarker response to treatment was assessed by using plasma vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and soluble VEGF receptors (sVEGFRs) –1 and –2.

Results

Forty-one eligible patients were accrued. Sixteen (39%) had no prior chemotherapy for MBC; 15 (37%) had two or more chemotherapy regimens for MBC. Toxicities were minimal except for transient grade 3 elevation of liver transaminases in 11 patients (27%) and grade 3 vomiting in one patient (2%). One patient (2%) had CR, six (15%) had PR, and three (7%) had pSD, for a CBR of 10 (24%) of 41 patients. Median TTP was 10 weeks (95% CI, 8 to 17 weeks), and median OS was 48 weeks (95% CI, 32 to 79 weeks). VEGF levels decreased but not significantly, whereas sVEGFR-1 and -2 levels increased significantly after 2 weeks of therapy. There was no correlation between response and VEGF, sVEGFR-1, or sVEGFR-2 levels.

Conclusion

Metronomic dalCMP is safe, well tolerated, and clinically active in MBC.
Favorable Prognostic Impact of NPM1 Mutations in Older Patients With Cytogenetically Normal De Novo Acute Myeloid Leukemia and Associated Gene- and MicroRNA-Expression Signatures: A Cancer and Leukemia Group B Study
Authors: Becker Heiko , Marcucci Guido , Maharry Kati , Radmacher Michael D. , Mrózek Krzysztof , Margeson Dean , Whitman Susan P. , Wu Yue-Zhong , Schwind Sebastian , Paschka Peter , Powell Bayard L. , Carter Thomas H. , Kolitz Jonathan E. , Wetzler Meir , Carroll Andrew J. , Baer Maria R. , Caligiuri Michael A. , Larson Richard A. , Bloomfield Clara D.
Published: December 2009

Purpose

To analyze the prognostic significance of NPM1 mutations, and the associated gene- and microRNA-expression signatures in older patients with de novo, cytogenetically normal acute myeloid leukemia (CN-AML) treated with intensive chemotherapy.

Patients and Methods

One hundred forty-eight adults age ≥ 60 years with de novo CN-AML, enrolled onto Cancer and Leukemia Group B protocols 9720 and 10201, were studied at diagnosis for NPM1, FLT3, CEBPA, and WT1 mutations, and gene- and microRNA-expression profiles.

Results

Patients with NPM1 mutations (56%) had higher complete remission (CR) rates (84% v 48%; P < .001) and longer disease-free survival (DFS; P = .047; 3-year rates, 23% v 10%) and overall survival (OS; P < .001; 3-year rates, 35% v 8%) than NPM1 wild-type patients. In multivariable analyses, NPM1 mutations remained independent predictors for higher CR rates (P < .001) and longer DFS (P = .004) and OS (P < .001), after adjustment for other prognostic clinical and molecular variables. Unexpectedly, the prognostic impact of NPM1 mutations was mainly observed in patients ≥ 70 years. Gene- and microRNA-expression profiles associated with NPM1 mutations were similar across older patient age groups and similar to those in younger (< 60 years) patients with CN-AML. These profiles were characterized by upregulation of HOX genes and their embedded microRNAs and downregulation of the prognostically adverse MN1, BAALC, and ERG genes.

Conclusion

NPM1 mutations have favorable prognostic impact in older patients with CN-AML, especially those age ≥ 70 years. The gene- and microRNA-expression profiles suggest that NPM1 mutations constitute a marker defining a biologically homogeneous entity in CN-AML that might be treated with specific and/or targeted therapies across age groups.
The long-term survival in adrenocortical carcinoma with active surgical management and use of monitored mitotane
Authors: Wängberg B , Khorram-Manesh A , Jansson S , Nilsson B , Nilsson O , Jakobsson C E , Lindstedt S , Odén A , Ahlman H
Published: December 2009

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare tumour disease with sinister prognosis also after attempts to radical surgery; better prognosis is seen for low-stage tumours. Adjuvant treatment with the adrenolytic drug mitotane has been attempted, but not proven to prevent from recurrence. The drug may offer survival advantage in case of recurrence. The aim of this single-centre study (1979–2007) of 43 consecutive patients was to evaluate the long-term survival after active surgical treatment combined with monitored mitotane (to reduce side effects of the drug). The series is unique, since all patients were offered a period of mitotane as adjuvant or palliative treatment; six patients refused mitotane. Despite a high proportion of high-stage tumours (67%), the complete resection rate was high (77%). The disease-specific 5-year survival was high (64.1%); very high for patients with low-stage tumours without evident relation to mitotane levels. Patients with high-stage tumours had a clear survival advantage with mitotane levels above a threshold of 14 mg/l in serum. The hazard ratio for patients with high mitotane levels versus all patients indicates a significant effect of the drug. The results indicate that adjuvant mitotane may be the standard of care for patients with high-stage ACC after complete resection.
Rethinking Texts
Authors: Holley Karri A. , Colyar Julia
Published: December 2009

This article outlines how a theory of narrative can be used to deconstruct qualitative research texts. Although research texts are a distinct genre in comparison with works of fiction, the basic components of literary activity are similar. Researchers structure and emphasize data and participants in various ways to tell a logical story. Narrative analysis offers a specific framework and terminology that researchers can use to construct texts. Ultimately, such tools can prepare qualitative researchers to make intentional choices in regard to writing. The authors define the narratological concepts of character, plot, story, and focalization. They discuss how these concepts can be used to teach qualitative research methods.
Malaria-Infected Mice Are Cured by a Single Low Dose of a New Silylamide Trioxane Plus Mefloquine
Authors: Woodard Lauren E. , Mott Bryan T. , Singhal Vandana , Kumar Nirbhay , Shapiro Theresa A. , Posner Gary H.
Published: December 2009

Three thermally and hydrolytically stable silylamide trioxanes have been prepared from the natural trioxane artemisinin in only five simple chemical steps and in at least 56% overall yield. Two of these new chemical entities completely cured malariainfected mice at a single oral dose of only 8 mg/kg combined with 24 mg/kg of mefloquine hydrochloride. The high efficacy of this ACT chemotherapy is considerably better than the efficacy using the popular trioxane drug artemether plus mefloquine hydrochloride.
Sustainability: Living within One’s Own Ecological Means
Authors: Liu Lee
Published: December 2009

This paper provides a critical review of sustainability, including its definitions, dimensions, measurements, and practices, as well as approaches to achieve sustainability. It raises questions about conventional definitions and argues for taking into account the geographic dimension of sustainability for better understanding of the regional differences in sustainability and transition to sustainability. The paper proposes that sustainability should be defined as "living within one’s own ecological means." This definition pays attention to regional disparities in biocapacity and ecological footprint. It realizes that not all people’s present and future needs may be met in all regions of the world.
Human Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells Support Th17 Cell Effector Function in Response to TLR7 Ligation
Authors: Yu Chun-Feng , Peng Wen-Ming , Oldenburg Johannes , Hoch Jochen , Bieber Thomas , Limmer Andreas , Hartmann Gunther , Barchet Winfried , Eis-Hübinger Anna Maria , Novak Natalija
Published: December 2009

Signals involved in the commitment of Th17 differentiation are of substantial interest for our understanding of antimicrobial defense mechanisms and autoimmune disorders. Various ways in which myeloid dendritic cells modulate Th17 differentiation have been identified. However, although plasmacytoid dendritic cells (PDCs) are regarded as important players in antiviral/antimicrobial host defense and autoimmune diseases, a putative modulatory role of PDCs in Th17 differentiation has not yet been elucidated in detail. We demonstrated that PDCs are capable of promoting Th17 differentiation in response to TLR7 stimulation. Further, both the differentiation of Th17 cells from naive T cells and the amplification of Th17 effector functions of memory T cells are promoted by PDCs after TLR7 activation. Our data are of strong clinical relevance because TLR7 activation in PDCs might represent one of the missing links between innate and adaptive immune mechanisms and contribute to the amplification of Th17-driven autoimmune disorders as well as viral host defense.
Lactic Acid and Acidification Inhibit TNF Secretion and Glycolysis of Human Monocytes
Authors: Dietl Katrin , Renner Kathrin , Dettmer Katja , Timischl Birgit , Eberhart Karin , Dorn Christoph , Hellerbrand Claus , Kastenberger Michael , Kunz-Schughart Leoni A. , Oefner Peter J. , Andreesen Reinhard , Gottfried Eva , Kreutz Marina P.
Published: December 2009

High concentrations of lactic acid (LA) are found under various pathophysiological conditions and are accompanied by an acidification of the environment. To study the impact of LA on TNF secretion, human LPS-stimulated monocytes were cultured with or without LA or the corresponding pH control. TNF secretion was significantly suppressed by low concentrations of LA (≤10 mM), whereas only strong acidification had a similar effect. This result was confirmed in a coculture model of human monocytes with multicellular tumor spheroids. Blocking synthesis of tumor-derived lactate by oxamic acid, an inhibitor of lactate dehydrogenase, reversed the suppression of TNF secretion in this coculture model. We then investigated possible mechanisms underlying the suppression. Uptake of [3-13C]lactate by monocytes was shown by hyphenated mass spectrometry. As lactate might interfere with glycolysis, the glycolytic flux of monocytes was determined. We added [1,2-13C2]glucose to the culture medium and measured glucose uptake and conversion into [2,3-13C2]lactate. Activation of monocytes increased the glycolytic flux and the secretion of lactate, whereas oxygen consumption was decreased. Addition of unlabeled LA resulted in a highly significant decrease in [2,3-13C2]lactate secretion, whereas a mere corresponding decrease in pH exerted a less pronounced effect. Both treatments increased intracellular [2,3-13C2]lactate levels. Blocking of glycolysis by 2-deoxyglucose strongly inhibited TNF secretion, whereas suppression of oxidative phosphorylation by rotenone had little effect. These results support the hypothesis that TNF secretion by human monocytes depends on glycolysis and suggest that LA and acidification may be involved in the suppression of TNF secretion in the tumor environment.
Tumor Microenvironments Direct the Recruitment and Expansion of Human Th17 Cells
Authors: Su Xinming , Ye Jian , Hsueh Eddy C. , Zhang Yanping , Hoft Daniel F. , Peng Guangyong
Published: December 2009

Although Th17 cells play critical roles in the pathogenesis of many inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, their prevalence among tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and function in human tumor immunity remains largely unknown. We have recently demonstrated high percentages of Th17 cells in TILs from ovarian cancer patients, but the mechanisms of accumulation of these Th17 cells in the tumor microenvironment are still unclear. In this study, we further showed elevated Th17 cell populations in the TILs obtained from melanoma and breast and colon cancers, suggesting that development of tumor-infiltrating CD4+ Th17 cells may be a general feature in cancer patients. We then demonstrated that tumor microenvironmental RANTES and MCP-1 secreted by tumor cells and tumor-derived fibroblasts mediate the recruitment of Th17 cells. In addition to their recruitment, we found that tumor cells and tumor-derived fibroblasts produce a proinflammatory cytokine milieu as well as provide cell–cell contact engagement that facilitates the generation and expansion of Th17 cells. We also showed that inflammatory TLR and nucleotide oligomerization binding domain 2 signaling promote the attraction and generation of Th17 cells induced by tumor cells and tumor-derived fibroblasts. These results identify Th17 cells as an important component of human TILs, demonstrate mechanisms involved in the recruitment and regulation of Th17 cells in tumor microenvironments, and provide new insights relevant for the development of novel cancer immunotherapeutic approaches.
Projectors on the Generalized Eigenspaces for Neutral Functional Differential Equations in Lp Spaces
Authors: Ducrot Arnaud , Liu Zhihua , Magal Pierre
Published: December 2009

We present the explicit formulas for the projectors on the generalized eigenspaces associated with some eigenvalues for linear neutral functional differential equations (NFDE) in Lp spaces by using integrated semigroup theory. The analysis is based on the main result established elsewhere by the authors and results by Magal and Ruan on non-densely defined Cauchy problem. We formulate the NFDE as a non-densely defined Cauchy problem and obtain some spectral properties from which we then derive explicit formulas for the projectors on the generalized eigenspaces associated with some eigenvalues. Such explicit formulas are important in studying bifurcations in some semi-linear problems.
The Langlands Correspondence on the Generic Irreducible Constituents of Principal Series
Authors: Kuo Wentang
Published: December 2009

Let G be a connected semisimple split group over a p-adic field. We establish the explicit link between principal nilpotent orbits and the irreducible constituents of principal series in terms of L-group objects.
Cooperative Activation in the Hydrolytic Kinetic Resolution of Epoxides by a Bis‐Cobalt(III)salen‐Calix[4]arene Hybrid
Authors: Wezenberg Sander J. , Kleij Arjan W.
Published: December 2009

A chiral, bimetallic cobalt(III)salen‐calix[4]arene hybrid structure was prepared and tested in the hydrolytic kinetic resolution (HKR) of racemic epoxides. Kinetic studies have revealed that the two catalytic units on the upper rim of the calixarene scaffold are able to activate the reactants in a cooperative and primarily intramolecular mode. High enantioselective behaviour was observed and besides, a higher stability was found for the bimetallic catalyst as compared to a monometallic reference complex.
The inhibitory effects of rosiglitazone on cardiac hypertrophy through modulating the renin‐angiotensin system in diet‐induced hypercholesterolemic rats
Authors: Ren Liqun , Li Yingjuan , Li Yanzhi , Tang Rining , Hu Dingbo , Sheng Zulong , Liu Naifeng
Published: December 2009

Cardiac hypertrophy is not only an adaptational state before heart failure but also is an independent risk factor for ischemia, arrhythmia, and sudden death. However, the direct effects of hypercholesterolemia on the myocardium and mechanisms are not completely understood. It has been demonstrated that peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ (PPARγ) ligand agonists attenuate cardiac hypertrophy through anti‐inflammatory effects. The present study investigated the effects of PPARγ agonists on hypercholesterolemia‐dependent, renin‐angiotensin‐system‐related cardiac hypertrophy. The findings showed that left ventricular hypertrophy, eminent cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, and lipid deposits in myocardium were observed in the rats fed a cholesterol‐rich diet for 6 months, while these characteristic pathological alterations and the increase in angiotensin II (ANG II) level and over‐expression of angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) in the left ventricular tissues induced by the cholesterol‐rich diet were significantly suppressed to equal extents by rosiglitazone and irbesartan. In contrast, expression of angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2R) was upregulated by these two drugs. In addition, lipid metabolism was markedly improved. The above findings suggest that the cardioprotection of the PPARγ agonist against cardiac hypertrophy evoked by hypercholesterolemia in rats is mediated partially by the improvement of lipid profile, the reduction of ANG II level in the local tissue along with the downregulation of AT1R expression, and upregulation of AT2R expression. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Iridium‐Catalyzed Coupling Reaction of Primary Alcohols with 2‐Alkynes Leading to Hydroacylation Products
Authors: Hatanaka Shintaro , Obora Yasushi , Ishii Yasutaka
Published: December 2009

A novel iridium‐catalyzed intermolecular coupling reaction of primary alcohols or aldehydes with 2‐alkynes was successfully achieved with high regioselectivity to give hydroacylation products such as α,β‐unsaturated ketones in good yields. The mechanistic investigation of the reaction strongly indicated that the coupling proceeds through the initial formation of homoallylic alcohols followed by dehydrogenation to β,γ‐unsatutated ketones and then isomerisation, which leads to the hydroacylation products.
Quantitative assessment of cardiorespiratory fitness, skeletal muscle function, and body composition in adults with primary malignant glioma
Authors: Jones Lee W. , Friedman Allan H. , West Miranda J. , Mabe Stephanie K. , Fraser Jennifer , Kraus William E. , Friedman Henry S. , Tresch Maura I. , Major Nancy , Reardon David A.
Published: December 2009

BACKGROUND:

The study was undertaken to evaluate cardiorespiratory fitness, skeletal muscle function, and body composition of patients with newly diagnosed and untreated, postsurgical primary malignant glioma.

METHODS:

By using a cross‐sectional design, patients with clinically stable (10 ± 7 days postsurgery) high‐grade glioma (HGG; n = 25) or low‐grade glioma (LGG; n = 10) were studied. Participants performed a cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) with expired gas analysis to assess cardiorespiratory fitness (peak oxygen consumption, VO2peak). Other physiological outcomes included skeletal muscle cross‐sectional area (CSA; magnetic resonance imaging), isokinetic muscle strength (isokinetic dynamometer), and body composition (air displacement plethysmography). Quality of life was assessed with the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy‐Brain scale.

RESULTS:

CPET was a feasible and safe procedure to assess VO2peak, with no serious adverse events. VO2peak indexed to total body weight and lean body mass (LBM) for both groups was 13.0 mL · weight · min−1 and 19 mL · LBM · min−1, the equivalent to 59% and 38% below age‐ and sex‐predicted normative values, respectively. Skeletal muscle strength and mid‐thigh CSA were lower in HGG relative to LGG patients (83 vs 125 Nm, P = .025; 94 vs 119 cm2, P = .171, respectively). Skeletal muscle isokinetic strength, CSA, and body composition outcomes predicted VO2peak (r = −0.59 to 0.68, P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS:

Postsurgical glioma patients have markedly reduced cardiorespiratory fitness, isokinetic strength, and CSA. Prospective studies are now required to determine whether such abnormalities influence treatment toxicity and clinical outcome as well as to test the effect of appropriately selected interventions to prevent and/or mitigate dysfunction. Cancer 2010. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Chemoenzymatic Dynamic Kinetic Resolution of Alcohols and Amines
Authors: Lee Jin Hee , Han Kiwon , Kim Mahn‐Joo , Park Jaiwook
Published: December 2009

Dynamic kinetic resolution (DKR) is an attractive process for the transformation of racemic mixtures into optically active compounds. For successful DKR, efficient racemization is required while the kinetic resolution is proceeding. This Microreview mainly summarizes the recent developments in the DKR of alcohols and amines, based on metal‐catalyzed racemization and enzymatic acylation in a single reaction vessel. Related reactions involving precursors of alcohols and amines such as ketones, enol acetates, and ketoximes are also described. Reaction conditions are arranged according to racemization catalysts, and substrates employed in the DKR are tabulated. Suggested mechanisms for metal‐catalyzed racemizations are also summarized.
Essential oils and aromatic plants in animal feeding – a European perspective. A review.
Authors: Franz C. , Baser KHC , Windisch W.
Published: December 2009

The last two decades have seen a substantial increase in the use of aromatic herbs and essential oils as feed additives in animal nutrition. One of the main reasons for this trend is to substitute antibiotic growth promoters, which have been completely banned as feed additives in the European Union since 2006 because they are suspected of contributing substantially to increasing resistance among human pathogens. Recent investigations have shown significant antimicrobial effects of several essential oils and essential oil compounds against enteropathogenic organisms in farm animals. Porcine proliferative enteropathy caused by specific Escherichia coli strains could be controlled by in‐feed application of carvacrol‐rich essential oils, and the effect of some essential oil components against Clostridium perfringens and necrotic enteritis was confirmed in poultry. In ruminants, an improvement of the digestion was observed, resulting in reduced methanogenesis and nitrogen excretion. In addition, the antioxidative activity of aromatic plants and essential oil compounds contributes to the stability and palatability of animal feed and has, moreover, resulted in an improved shelf‐life and quality of animal products, due to reduced oxidation. The ‘growth‐promoting effect’ of essential oils (feed conversion rate, daily weight gain, etc.) is not as evident, since a large number of publications are (commercial) product‐driven, lacking data on the starting material. Nonetheless, the overall efficacy of essential oils and aromatic herbs, especially their non‐nutritive value with impact on the health status and benefit of animals and humans (via the food chain), is encouraging further research and development in this field. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Incidence and circumstances of cervical hematoma complicating thyroidectomy and its relationship to postoperative vomiting
Authors: Bononi Marco , Bonapasta Stefano Amore , Vari Alessandra , Scarpini Massimo , De Cesare Alessandro , Miccini Michelangelo , Meucci Massimo , Tocchi Adriano
Published: December 2009

Background.

Cervical hematoma is hardly a predictable complication of thyroid surgery. Postoperative vomiting has been reported as a likely risk factor.

Methods.

Five hundred sixty‐two patients undergoing thyroidectomy were prospectively enrolled in the study and divided into 2 groups. Patients in group A received ondansetron to prevent postoperative vomiting. In group B, patients with low vomiting risk received ondansetron whereas patients at high risk received ondansetron plus dexamethasone. Postoperative outcomes of the groups were analyzed and compared.

Results.

Cervical hematomas developed in 3 patients (0.53%): 2 in group A and 1 in group B. All hematomas occurred after 6 hours. The incidence of postoperative vomiting was 11.4% in group A and 6.4% in group B (p = .04).

Conclusion.

Careful hemostasis remains of prime importance in preventing cervical hematoma. Postoperative vomiting has not been confirmed by this study as a risk factor for the development of hematoma. Ambulatory thyroid surgery is not advisable. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2010
High circulating levels of N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide and interleukin 6 in patients with mixed cryoglobulinemia
Authors: Antonelli Alessandro , Ferri Clodoveo , Ferrari Silvia Martina , Ghiri Emiliano , Galetta Fabio , Franzoni Ferdinando , Santoro Gino , Fallahi Poupak
Published: December 2009

Many patients with mixed cryoglobulinemia and chronic HCV infection experience symptoms, such as dyspnea, which sometimes do not seem to indicate the involvement of the liver but rather the symptoms of heart failure. To our knowledge, there has been no other study evaluating the serum levels of N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NTproBNP) and Interleukin 6 (IL‐6) in such patients. Serum NTproBNP and IL‐6 were assayed in 54 patients with mixed cryoglobulinemia and chronic HCV infection, and in 54 sex‐ and age‐matched controls. Cryoglobulinemic‐patients showed significantly higher mean NTproBNP and IL‐6 levels than the controls (P = 0.005). By defining a high NTproBNP level as a value higher than 125 pg/ml (the single cut‐off point for patients under 75 years of age), 30% of patients with mixed cryoglobulinemia and chronic HCV infection and 7% of controls had high NTproBNP (chi‐square; P < 0.003). With a cut‐off point of 300 pg/ml (used to rule out heart failure in patients under 75 years of age), 5/49 patients with mixed cryoglobulinemia and chronic HCV infection and 0/54 controls had high NTproBNP (chi‐square; P < 0.04). With a cut‐off point of 900 pg/ml (used for including heart failure in patients aged between 50 and 75, such as the patients in this study) 3/51 of patients with mixed cryoglobulinemia and chronic HCV infection and 0/54 controls had high NTproBNP (chi‐square; P = 0.07). The study revealed high levels of circulating NTproBNP and IL‐6 in patients with mixed cryoglobulinemia and chronic HCV infection. The increase in NTproBNP could indicate the presence of a subclinical cardiac dysfunction. J. Med. Virol. 82:297–303, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
No evidence of porcine endogenous retrovirus in patients with type 1 diabetes after long‐term porcine islet xenotransplantation
Authors: Valdes‐Gonzalez Rafael , Dorantes Luis M. , Bracho‐Blanchet Eduardo , Rodríguez‐Ventura Ana , DJG White
Published: December 2009

Xenotransplantation is a promising alternative for donor shortage to ameliorate physiologic and metabolic disorders. The major concern for xenotransplant is the risk of zoonosis mainly by the porcine endogenous retrovirus (PERV), presentation in the piglet genome. Twenty‐three patients with type 1 diabetes were transplanted with porcine islets using collagen‐generating devices which were implanted subcutaneously in the anterior wall of the abdomen. Clinical characteristics and metabolic tests were recorded in each visit. They were tested for PERV using PCR and RT‐PCR from blood pretransplantation and every 3 months during a 4.6‐ to 8‐year follow‐up after their first xenotransplant. Tests by PCR of every DNA sample (780 samples) revealed that there was no PERV infection in the DNA of white cells. No evidence of PERV activation was found in this group of patients with type 1 diabetes during clinical long‐term follow‐up. J. Med. Virol. 82:331–334, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Molecular detection and characterization of noroviruses from children in Botswana
Authors: Mattison Kirsten , Sebunya Teresa K. , Shukla Anu , Noliwe Lebani N. , Bidawid Sabah
Published: December 2009

Stool specimens were collected from 100 children in Botswana. RT‐PCR analysis detected noroviruses (NoVs) in 24% of samples tested. Genogroup I and genogroup II strains were identified. There was no association between NoV detection and age or gender. This study is the first indication that NoVs circulate widely in Botswana. J. Med. Virol. 82:321–324, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Differentiation and behavior of human neural progenitors on micropatterned substrates and in the developing retina
Authors: Blong Christopher C. , Jeon Chang‐Jin , Yeo Ji‐Youn , Ye Eun‐Ah , Oh Jisun , Callahan John M. , Law William D. , Mallapragada Surya K. , Sakaguchi Donald S.
Published: December 2009

In this study we investigated the differentiation of human neural progenitor cells (hNPCs) in vitro to evaluate their differentiation potential and in vivo to explore their viability and behavior following transplantation. Progenitors were maintained as neurospheres in media containing basic fibroblast growth factor and epidermal growth factor. Micropatterned polystyrene substrates were fabricated and coated with ECL (entactin, collagen, and laminin) to provide physical and chemical guidance during the differentiation of the hNPCs. The hNPCs growing on the micropatterned substrates showed no differences in proliferation or differentiation potential compared with those hNPCs growing on the nonpatterned substrates. However, hNPCs cultured on the micropatterned substrates were aligned in the direction of the micropattern compared with those cells growing on the nonpatterned substrates. Furthermore, hNPC migration was directed in alignment with the micropatterned substrates. Transplantation of the hNPCs into the developing retina was used to evaluate their behavior in vivo. Cells displayed extensive survival, differentiation, and morphological integration following xenotransplant into the retina, even in the absence of immunosuppression. Taken together, our results show that these multipotent hNPCs are a neurogenic progenitor population that can be maintained in culture for extended periods. Although the micropatterned substrates have no major effect on the proliferation or differentiation of the hNPCs, they clearly promoted alignment and directed neurite outgrowth along the pattern as well as directing migration of the cells. These approaches may provide important strategies to guide the growth and differentiation of NPCs in vitro and in vivo. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Organometallic‐Mediated Radical Polymerization: Developing Well‐Defined Complexes for Reversible Transition Metal‐Alkyl Bond Homolysis
Authors: Smith Kevin M. , McNeil W. Stephen , Abd‐El‐Aziz Alaa S.
Published: December 2009

Organometallic‐mediated radical polymerization (OMRP) has emerged as a powerful new class of living controlled radical polymerization. In order to fulfill its potential in the polymerization of vinyl acetate (VOAc) and other challenging monomers, the effects of ancillary ligands on the metal‐alkyl bond dissociation energy in OMRP reagents must be thoroughly explored. Recent results investigating structure‐activity relationships in well‐defined cobalt, iron and chromium complexes will be discussed. The involvement of radical intermediates in oxidative addition of secondary alkyls for catalytic cross‐coupling reactions catalyzed by first row transition metals will also be examined for relevant design concepts.

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Geodesic finite elements for Cosserat rods
Authors: Sander Oliver
Published: December 2009

We introduce geodesic finite elements as a new way to discretize the non‐linear configuration space of a geometrically exact Cosserat rod. These geodesic finite elements naturally generalize standard one‐dimensional finite elements to spaces of functions with values in a Riemannian manifold. For the special orthogonal group, our approach reproduces the interpolation formulas of Crisfield and Jelenić. Geodesic finite elements are conforming and lead to objective and path‐independent problem formulations. We introduce geodesic finite elements for general Riemannian manifolds, discuss the relationship between geodesic finite elements and coefficient vectors, and estimate the interpolation error. Then we use them to find static equilibria of hyperelastic Cosserat rods. Using the Riemannian trust‐region algorithm of Absil et al. we show numerically that the discretization error depends optimally on the mesh size. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Caenorhabditis elegans proteomics comes of age
Authors: Shim Yhong‐Hee , Paik Young‐Ki
Published: December 2009

Caenorhabditis elegans, a free‐living soil nematode, is an ideal model system for studying various physiological problems relevant to human diseases. Despite its short history, C. elegans proteomics is receiving great attention in multiple research areas, including the genome annotation, major signaling pathways (e.g. TGF‐β and insulin/IGF‐1 signaling), verification of RNA interference‐mediated gene targeting, aging, disease models, as well as peptidomic analysis of neuropeptides involved in behavior and locomotion. For example, a proteome‐wide profiling of developmental and aging processes not only provides basic information necessary for constructing a molecular network, but also identifies important target proteins for chemical modulation. Although C. elegans has a simple body system and neural circuitry, it exhibits very complicated functions ranging from feeding to locomotion. Investigation of these functions through proteomic analysis of various C. elegans neuropeptides, some of which are not found in the predicted genome sequence, would open a new field of peptidomics. Given the importance of nematode infection in plants and mammalian pathogenesis pathways, proteomics could be applied to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying plant– or animal–nematode pathogenesis and to identify novel antinematodal drugs. Thus, C. elegans proteomics, in combination of other molecular, biological and genetic techniques, would provide a versatile new tool box for the systematic analysis of gene functions throughout the entire life cycle of this nematode.
Advantages of a Pulsed Electrical Excitation Mode on the Corrosion Performance of Organosilicon Thin Films Deposited on Aluminium Foil by Atmospheric Pressure Dielectric Barrier Discharge
Authors: Boscher Nicolas D. , Choquet Patrick , Duday David , Verdier Stéphane
Published: December 2009

Atmospheric pressure dielectric barrier discharge deposition of organosilicon thin films on aluminium foils was investigated for different electrical excitations. The plasma reactor was fed with nitrogen and hexamethyldisiloxane as film precursor. Scanning electron microscopy observations and secondary ion mass spectrometry associated with X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy showed how the modulation of the electrical excitation can affect the morphology and the chemistry of the coatings. The corrosion behaviour of the films obtained was characterised by means of electrochemical techniques. Relationships between the electrical excitation and the electrochemical properties of the films are reported and these results have been correlated with the morphology and chemistry modifications of the films.

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Axial behavior of concrete‐filled carbon fiber‐reinforced polymer composite columns
Authors: Kim Heecheul , Lee Kyoung Hun , Lee Young Hak , Lee Junbok
Published: December 2009

Concrete‐filled carbon fibre‐reinforced polymer (CFRP) composite columns without longitudinal and transverse reinforcing steels were tested to perform both experimental and analytical investigations of the axial behaviour of circular columns confined with CFRP composite tubes. The tubes were manufactured by wrapping the CFRP sheets with 90° + 90°, 90° ± 75°, 90° ± 60°, 90° ± 45°, 90° ± 30° wrapping angles with respect to longitudinal axis of the tube. Monotonic axial loads were applied to the gauge‐instrumented concrete‐filled CFRP tubes. The effects of fibre‐wrapping angle, thickness of tube, as well as transverse dilation on stress–strain relationships of the confined columns, were identified and discussed. Proposed models to predict both the strength and the ductility of columns confined with CFRP composite tubes show good agreement with the test results. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Some Parameters of Correlated Current and Radiated Field Pulses from Lightning to the Gaisberg Tower
Authors: Pichler Hannes , Diendorfer Gerhard , Mair Martin
Published: December 2009

Simultaneous measurements of lightning current and associated radiated electromagnetic field are of fundamental interest for various applications in lightning research. These data can be used for the evaluation of return stroke (RS) models or to investigate the so‐called tower effect when lightning hits an elevated object. In this paper, we show the results of simultaneous measurements of current pulses from lightning strikes on the instrumented Gaisberg tower (Austria) and the correlated vertical E‐field components at a distance of 78.8 and 108.7 km, respectively. We have analyzed some main lightning current parameters (peak current Ip, 30–90% rise time TI_30‐90, and full width at half maximum TI_FWHM and the time‐correlated field waveform parameters (Ep, 30–90% rise time TE_30‐90, TE_FWHM, and the peak‐to‐zero time TE_PTZ. With a geometric mean of TI_FWHM = 19 μs and Ip = 9.6 kA (N = 73) of the RS current pulses used in this study, those strokes are very similar to the strokes in triggered lightning in Florida and Alabama1. With a TE_PTZ of about 10 µs, the zero‐crossing time of the radiated E‐fields from the tower strokes are significantly shorter than the typical values of 30 − 40 µs (e.g.2). Correlation between the current and field parameters TI_FWHM versus TE_FWHM and TE_PTZ, respectively, is low (R2 = 0.29 and 0.14). We assume that the relatively short lightning channel in the case of the RSs in object‐triggered upward flashes is the main reason for the observed short zero‐crossing time. Copyright © 2010 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Process Planning and Scheduling in Distributed Manufacturing System Using Multiobjective Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Wenqiang , Gen Mitsuo
Published: December 2009

This paper proposed a multiobjective genetic algorithm approach for solving process planning and scheduling (PPS) problems in a distributed manufacturing system (DMS) environment. In this environment, factories processing various machines and tools at different geographical locations are often combined to produce various parts with different resource constraints. This paper proposed a fast multiobjective genetic algorithm with archive (fmoGA‐A) mechanism to deal with PPS problem with considering the minimization of the maximum total processing time and minimization of the maximum variation of workload of machine in DMS. The proposed algorithm has been compared with other approaches to testify and benchmark the optimization reliability on several PPS problems. These comparisons demonstrate the importance of PPS in DMS and indicate fmoGA‐A is better than adaptive weight approach genetic algorithm (awaGA) did on efficacy and efficient; the efficacy is not less than non‐dominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA‐II) and strength Pareto evolutionary algorithm 2 (SPEA2) and the efficient is better than NSGA‐II and SPEA2. Copyright © 2010 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Screening for twin–twin transfusion syndrome at 11–14 weeks of pregnancy: the key role of ductus venosus blood flow assessment
Authors: Matias A. , Montenegro N. , Loureiro T. , Cunha M. , Duarte S. , Freitas D. , Severo M.
Published: December 2009

Objectives

A discrepancy in crown–rump length (CRL) and/or nuchal translucency thickness (NT) between monochorionic twins has been found to be associated with an increased risk of twin–twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). As one of the most plausible mechanisms for increased NT is hemodynamic imbalance and cardiac dysfunction, indirectly manifested by abnormal blood flow in the ductus venosus (DV), we aimed to clarify the role of DV blood flow assessment in identifying those monochorionic twins more prone to develop TTTS.

Methods

We present 99 cases of monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies in which CRL, NT and DV blood flow were evaluated at 11–14 weeks' gestation.

Results

Discrepant values of CRL were not predictive of TTTS development. Intertwin NT discrepancy ≥ 0.6 mm had a sensitivity of 50.0% and a specificity of 92.0%. The presence of at least one abnormal blood flow waveform in the DV was associated with a relative risk for developing TTTS of 11.86 (95% CI, 3.05–57.45), with a sensitivity of 75.0% and a specificity of 92.0%. The combination of abnormal DV blood flow with NT discrepancy ≥ 0.6 mm yielded a relative risk for the development of TTTS of 21 (95% CI, 5.47–98.33).

Conclusions

Both intertwin discrepancy in NT and abnormal flow in the DV in monochorionic twins may represent early manifestations of hemodynamic imbalance between donor and recipient. In these pregnancies, in addition to NT measurement at 11–14 weeks, the Doppler assessment of DV blood flow significantly increases the performance of screening for those at risk of developing TTTS. Copyright © 2010 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The EU emissions trading scheme
Authors: Bailey Ian
Published: December 2009

As the centrepiece of the European Union's Climate Change Programme, the European Union Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS) has attracted significant attention from scholars interested in the regulatory and technical issues raised by the scheme. This article reviews the current state of knowledge about emissions trading arising from this research. Three broad strands of enquiry are identified: studies of the international and EU‐domestic pressures that led to the EU's conversion to emissions trading; analyses of the political processes that accompanied negotiation of the emissions trading directives; and investigations into regulatory problems encountered during the scheme's early years. From this, avenues for further research on emissions trading are proposed: (1) analyses of the consequences for the scheme of political decisions made during its negotiation, (2) further analysis of the behaviour of traders in the EU ETS market, (3) greater investigation of the scheme's implications for equity issues,and(4) comparison of emissions trading against nonmarket instruments. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

This article is categorized under:

The Carbon Economy and Climate Mitigation > Policies, Instruments, Lifestyles, Behavior

Policy and Governance > Multilevel and Transnational Climate Change Governance
Writing in Hope and Fear
Authors: McLaren John
Published: December 2009

For most of the postwar period, Australian literary debate was marked by the division between radical nationalists on the Left and cultural conservatives on the Right. John McLaren's broad cultural history traces the origins of these conflicts, discusses key literary works and major journals, and focuses on the individuals involved in various sagas and struggles. McLaren shows that writing became a form of politics itself, expressing either hope or fear about the revolution that was perceived to be imminent, as well as reflecting society more broadly. The work of politically committed writers is closely examined, as is the response to ostensibly unpolitical writers. McLaren also considers the new journalism and the work of younger poets. He shows that it was not until the changes brought by the 1960s and the Whitlam government that literature was truly freed from these constraints.
French Renaissance Tragedy
Authors: Jondorf Gillian
Published: December 2009

The principle aim of this 1990 book is to encourage readers to find pleasure in sixteenth-century tragedies. To this end, Gillian Jondorf examines a range of plays (all accessible in modern editions) in two ways. She suggests, by means of comparisons with other works, that techniques such as allusiveness need be no more forbidding in humanist tragedy than in, say, Racine or Lamartine. She shows how other features, such as characterization, structure, and the use of Choruses, become not only comprehensible but satisfying when the guiding theme or idée maîtresse of a play has been identified and its organizing principles understood. Dr Jondorf argues that these plays should be seen not as pardonably clumsy experiments by the first practitioners of a genre, but as competent works which display skilful deployment of technique in the service of dramatic aims which are, in the broadest sense, didactic. French Renaissance tragedy has too often been treated, even by its defenders, merely as a staging post on the road that leads to Corneille and Racine. This book corrects that perspective.
Preaching the Tradition
Authors: Mason Rex
Published: December 2009

The aim of this study is to examine the speeches given to leading characters in the Books of Chronicles, including those which formed the basis of Gerhard von Rad's book The Levitical Sermon in the Books of Chronicles. These are compared with similar material in the Books of Ezra and Nehemiah and in the post-exilic prophets. It is Dr Mason's contention that recurring themes and homiletical devices suggest that these 'addresses' (while not to be classified as 'Sermons') do reveal something of the exegetical and teaching methods employed in the Second Temple period, which are here echoed. By studying the contents and aims of this preaching, the author tries to clarify the process by which pre-exilic Davidic Yahwism became the living faith of the post-exilic community in the challenging circumstances of the Persian and Greek periods through the careful reinterpretation of earlier scriptural material.
Byzantium and the Early Islamic Conquests
Authors: Kaegi Walter E.
Published: December 2009

This is a study of how and why the Byzantine Empire lost many of its most valuable provinces to Islamic (Arab) conquerors in the seventh century, provinces which included Syria, Palestine, Mesopotamia, and Armenia. It investigates conditions on the eve of those conquests, mistakes in Byzantine policy toward the Arabs, the course of the military campaigns, and the problem of local official and civilian collaboration with the Muslims. It also seeks to explain how, after terrible losses, the Byzantine government achieved some intellectual rationalisation of its disasters and began the complex process of transforming and adapting its fiscal and military institutions and political controls in order to prevent further disintegration.
Pragmatism in the Age of Jihad
Authors: Gomez Michael A.
Published: December 2009

Bundu was an anomaly among the precolonial Muslim states of West Africa. Founded during the jihads which swept the savannah in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, it developed a pragmatic policy, unique in the midst of fundamentalist, theocratic Muslim states. Located in the Upper Senegal and with access to the Upper Gambia, Bundu played a critical role in regional commerce and production and reacted quickly to the stimulus of European trade. Drawing upon a wide range of sources both oral and documentary, Arabic, English and French, Dr Gomez provides the first full account of Bundu's history. He analyses the foundation and growth of an Islamic state at a crossroads between the Saharan and trans-Atlantic trade, paying particular attention to the relationship between Islamic thought and court policy, and to the state's response to militant Islam in the early nineteenth century.