bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reduced tumor‐antigen density leads to PD‐1/PD‐L1‐mediated impairment of partially exhausted CD8+ T cells
Authors: Kaiser Andrew D. , Schuster Kerstin , Gadiot Jules , Borkner Lisa , Daebritz Henry , Schmitt Clemens , Andreesen Reinhard , Blank Christian
Published: December 2011

Clinical progression of cancer patients is often observed despite the presence of tumor‐reactive T cells. Co‐inhibitory ligands of the B7 superfamily have been postulated to play a part in this tumor‐immune escape. One of these molecules, PD‐L1 (B7‐H1, CD274), is widely expressed on tumor cells and has been shown to mediate T‐cell inhibition. However, attempts to correlate PD‐L1 tumor expression with negative prognosis have been conflicting. To better understand when PD‐1/PD‐L1‐mediated inhibition contributes to the functional impairment of tumor‐specific CD8+ T cells, we varied the levels of antigen density and/or PD‐L1 expression at the surface of tumor cells and exposed them to CD8+ T cells at different levels of functional exhaustion. We found that the gradual reduction of cognate antigen expression by PD‐L1‐expressing tumor cells increased the susceptibility of partially exhausted T cells to PD‐1/PD‐L1‐mediated inhibition in vitro as well as in vivo. In conclusion, chronically stimulated CD8+ T cells become sensitive to PD‐1/PD‐L1‐mediated functional inhibition upon low antigen detection; a setting which is likely involved during tumor‐immune escape.
Post‐earthquake damage assessment using residual displacements
Authors: Yazgan Ufuk , Dazio Alessandro
Published: December 2011

This paper presents a new, improved, post‐earthquake damage assessment method that takes into account residual deformations attained by the damaged structure during the earthquake. Local and global residual deformations and visual damage indicators are considered to estimate the maximum deformations experienced by the structure. As a particular development, the method allows measured displacements and rotations to be considered jointly. Uncertainties associated with both the excitation and the damaged structure are explicitly accounted for. The resulting maximum displacement estimates allow a more accurate evaluation of the extent of structural damage when judging the usability/reparability of the investigated structure. A trial application of the method to a real structure tested on a shaking table is presented. The results confirm the capability of the method to estimate the maximum displacement and the residual stiffness of the damaged structure. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of multiple‐input single‐output single‐user ultra‐wideband systems with pre‐distortion
Authors: Angélico B.A. , Jeszensky P.J.E. , Burt P.M.S. , Hodgkiss W.S. , Abrão T.
Published: December 2011

This paper presents a performance analysis of a baseband multiple‐input single‐output ultra‐wideband system over scenarios CM1 and CM3 of the IEEE 802.15.3a channel model, incorporating four different schemes of pre‐distortion: time reversal, zero‐forcing pre‐equaliser, constrained least squares pre‐equaliser, and minimum mean square error pre‐equaliser. For the third case, a simple solution based on the steepest‐descent (gradient) algorithm is adopted and compared with theoretical results. The channel estimations at the transmitter are assumed to be truncated and noisy. Results show that the constrained least squares algorithm has a good trade‐off between intersymbol interference reduction and signal‐to‐noise ratio preservation, providing a performance comparable to the minimum mean square error method but with lower computational complexity. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Forecasting Monetary Policy Decisions in Australia: A Forecast Combinations Approach
Authors: Vasnev Andrey , Skirtun Margaret , Pauwels Laurent
Published: December 2011

This paper applies a triple‐choice ordered probit model, corrected for nonstationarity to forecast monetary decisions of the Reserve Bank of Australia. The forecast models incorporate a mix of monthly and quarterly macroeconomic time series. Forecast combination is used as an alternative to one multivariate model to improve accuracy of out‐of‐sample forecasts. This accuracy is evaluated with scoring functions, which are also used to construct adaptive weights for combining probability forecasts. This paper finds that combined forecasts outperform multivariable models. These results are robust to different sample sizes and estimation windows. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proposal of a reference section and point for the Cambrian Series 2–3 boundary in the Mediterranean subprovince in Murero (NE Spain) and its intercontinental correlation
Authors: Gozalo Rodolfo , Álvarez María Eugenia Dies , Vintaned José Antonio Gámez , Zhuravlev Andrey Yu. , Bauluz Blanca , Subías Ignacio , Chirivella Martorell Juan B. , Mayoral Eduardo , Gursky Hans‐Jürgen , Andrés José Antonio , Liñán Eladio
Published: December 2011

The classical lower‐middle Cambrian boundary is approximately equivalent with the boundary of the Cambrian Series 2 and 3, which is now in the process of definition by the International Subcommission on Cambrian Stratigraphy. Currently, there are two oryctocephalid trilobite species first appearance data (FAD) that are suggested as possible markers of this level: Ovatoryctocara granulata Tchernysheva, 1962 and Oryctocephalus indicus (Reed, 1910), respectively. Until now neither of these two species has been recorded in the Mediterranean subprovince or Baltica. As a result, in these regions a level potentially correlating with either the FAD of Ovatoryctocara granulata or Oryctocephalus indicus has to be located using the available bio‐, isotope‐, and event‐stratigraphy data.

Carbon isotope signatures reveal global oceanic perturbations adjacent to the Cambrian Series 2 and Series 3 (former lower‐middle Cambrian) boundary. This event, first called the Valdemiedes Event (it was defined in Murero, NE Spain; Liñán et al., 1993a), caused a noticeable extinction of trilobites, mostly olenellids and protolenids (which were replaced in some regions by paradoxidids), as well as an almost complete extermination of some other early Cambrian marine animals. Both isotope and palaeontological evidence show that the disappearance of olenellids in Laurentia, protolenids in Siberia and the appearance of the first Acadoparadoxides in Western Gondwana, Baltica, Avalonia, and Siberia, which was formerly thought to be a series of diachronous regional perturbations, were nearly contemporaneous events. Features of a global ecological crisis and faunal replacement being taken together with a pronounced global δ13Corg negative excursion would serve as the best indicator of the lower boundary of the Cambrian Series 3 and Stage 5 in the Mediterranean subprovince and is correlatable with the Ovatoryctocara granulata FAD. Another δ13Corg negative excursion followed by a positive shift occurs at a slightly younger level, which coincides with a transgression maximum and roughly is coeval with the Oryctocephalus indicus FAD, also proposed as a possible base of the Cambrian Series 3. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Phytoplankton Cell Lysis after Water Bloom in a Eutrophic Freshwater Lake Taihu (China)
Authors: Ye Linlin , Shi Xiaoli , Wu Xiaodong , Kong Fanxiang
Published: December 2011

The phytoplankton lysis rates in the different eutrophic regions of Lake Taihu were determined based on the activities of particle and dissolved esterase, as well as the decay rate of the latter, from August 2009 to March 2010. Two peaks were observed for the chlorophyll a concentration, one in September 2009 and another in January 2010. The highest phytoplankton lysis rates observed in October were associated with the decay of the summer bloom, whereas the minimum lysis rates observed in January were associated with the winter bloom. The highest cell lysis rates in Meiliang Bay, Lake centre, and Gonghu Bay were 0.67, 0.77, and 0.68 d–1, respectively, whereas the lowest lysis rates in these regions were 0.03, 0.01, and 0.05 d–1, respectively. Water temperature showed an apparent indirect effect on lysis rate. In addition, a significant inverse relationship was observed between lysis rates and nitrate concentration in the three lake regions, which suggests that phytoplankton cell lysis is associated with changes in nitrate concentration. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Apa is a trimeric autotransporter adhesin of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae responsible for autoagglutination and host cell adherence
Authors: Xiao Longwen , Zhou Liang , Sun Changjiang , Feng Xin , Du ChongTao , Gao Yu , Ji Qun , Yang Shuxin , Wang Yu , Han Wenyu , PR Langford , Lei Liancheng
Published: December 2011

Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae is the causative agent of porcine pleuropneumonia, and adherence to host cells is a key step in the pathogenic process. Although trimeric autotransporter adhesins (TAAs) were identified in many pathogenic bacteria in recent years, none in A. pleuropneumoniae have been characterized. In this study, we identified a TAA from A. pleuropneumoniae, Apa, and characterized the contribution of its amino acid residues to the adhesion process. Sequence analysis of the C‐terminal amino acid residues of Apa revealed the presence of a putative translocator domain and six conserved HsfBD1‐like or HsfBD2‐like binding domains. Western blot analysis revealed that the 126 C‐terminal amino acids of Apa could form trimeric molecules. By confocal laser scanning microscopy, one of these six domains (ApaBD3) was determined to mediate adherence to epithelial cells. Adherence assays and adherence inhibition assays using a recombinant E. coli‐ ApaBD3 strain which expressed ApaBD3 on the surface of E. coli confirmed that this domain was responsible for the adhesion activity. Moreover, cellular enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays demonstrated that ApaBD3 mediated high‐level adherence to epithelial cell lines. Intriguingly, autoagglutination was observed with the E. coli‐ ApaBD3 strain, and this phenomenon was dependent upon the association of the expressed ApaBD3 with the C‐terminal translocator domain. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Nutritional requirements and strain heterogeneity in Ashbya gossypii
Authors: Ribeiro Orquídea , Domingues Lucília , Penttilä Merja , Wiebe Marilyn G.
Published: December 2011

Colony radial growth rates and specific growth rates of three related Ashbya gossypii strains ATCC10895, IMI31268, MUCL29450 and an unrelated strain, CBS109.26, were measured on various carbon and nitrogen sources at pH 4.5 and pH 6.5 to elucidate physiological growth requirements and strain differences. All strains grew on yeast extract or ammonium as nitrogen sources, but not on nitrate. Substantial growth at pH 4.5 was observed only on complex medium. D‐Glucose, glycerol and starch were utilised as carbon sources. Ethanol was produced during growth on glycerol. Conversion of xylose into xylitol demonstrates that the xylose reductase is active. Phenotypic differences between related strains were greater than expected. We demonstrate that A. gossypii utilizes ammonium as sole nitrogen source at pH 6.5, facilitating further physiological studies using chemically defined media in the future. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Polypyrrole/polyamide electrospun‐based sorbent for microextraction in packed syringe of organophosphorous pesticides from aquatic samples
Authors: Bagheri Habib , Ayazi Zahra , Aghakhani Ali , Alipour Noshin
Published: December 2011

A novel method based on microextraction in packed syringe (MEPS) as sample preparation technique coupled off‐line with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry was developed using electrospun nanofibers as sorbent. For electrospinning of polypyrrole/polyamide‐based nanofiber, a homogeneous solution containing nylon 6, ferric chloride and pyrrole monomer was prepared and then was drawn into a 2.5‐mL syringe. By applying a voltage of 13 kV between the needle of the syringe and an aluminum‐foil collector, the nanofibers could be formed on the surface of the collector. The prepared sheet was used as the sorbent for MEPS to analyze some selected organophosphorous pesticides. Important parameters influencing the extraction and desorption processes were optimized. Limits of detection were in the range of 0.04–0.1 ng/mL using time scheduled selected ion monitoring mode, and the relative standard deviation (RSD %) values with four replicates were in the range of 3.7–11.8% at a concentration level of 5 ng/mL. The linearity of the method was in the range of 0.5–500 ng/mL for diazinon and fenithrothion and 0.5–200 ng/mL for the rest of the analytes. The developed method was successfully applied to Zayandeh‐roud river water samples, whereas the matrix factors were in the range of 0.87–0.98.
Recipient-Donor race mismatch for African American liver transplant patients with chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Saxena Varun , Lai Jennifer C. , O'Leary Jacqueline G. , Verna Elizabeth C. , Brown Robert S. , Stravitz Todd R. , Trotter James F. , Krishnan Kartik , Terrault Norah A.
Published: December 2011

African American (AA) recipient-donor race mismatch has been associated with graft loss and mortality, but studies of an association between race mismatch and hepatitis C virus (HCV) disease severity are lacking. HCV-infected adults from 4 US centers who underwent liver transplantation for the first time (n = 1093) were followed for a median of 3.05 years to determine the rates of advanced HCV disease (bridging fibrosis or cirrhosis) and graft failure; 11% of the patients were AA. The unadjusted cumulative rate of advanced fibrosis was higher in AAs than non-AAs (56% and 40% at 4 years, respectively, (P < 0.01), and 59% and 56% for AA recipient-donor–matched patients and AA recipient-donor–mismatched patients, respectively (P = 0.89). In adjusted models, both AA recipient race [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.06-2.03, P = 0.02] and AA recipient-donor mismatch (versus match; HR = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.03-2.12, P = 0.03) were significant predictors of advanced fibrosis; other independent predictors were donor age (HR = 1.21, P < 0.01) and cytomegalovirus infection (HR = 1.55, P < 0.01). The 4-year unadjusted cumulative rates for HCV-associated graft loss were 10% and 17% for non-AAs and AAs, respectively (P < 0.01), and 0% and 21% for AA recipient-donor–matched patients and AA recipient-donor–mismatched patients, respectively (P < 0.01). In adjusted models, AA recipient-donor–mismatched patients had a 62% higher rate of graft loss than non-AA recipients (HR = 1.62, 95% CI = 1.14-2.29, P < 0.01), and AA recipient-donor–matched patients had a 76% lower rate of graft loss/mortality (HR = 0.24, 95% CI = 0.06-0.97, P = 0.05). In conclusion, AA recipient-donor–mismatched patients who are infected with HCV are at high risk for advanced HCV disease and HCV-related graft loss and constitute a patient group that will benefit from new therapeutic strategies for preventing graft loss. Liver Transpl, 2012. © 2012 AASLD.
Impact of neoadjuvant chemoradiation on the tumor burden before liver transplantation for unresectable cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Panjala Chakri , Nguyen Justin H. , Al-Hajjaj Ali N. , Rosser Barry A. , Nakhleh Raouf E. , Bridges Mellena D. , Ko Stephen J. , Buskirk Steven J. , Kim George P. , Harnois Denise M.
Published: December 2011

The very early experience with liver transplantation (LT) for cholangiocarcinoma (CC) was dismal because of the poor survival outcomes and the high recurrence rates. However, LT for CC in conjunction with neoadjuvant chemoradiation recently has shown encouraging results, although the data are extremely limited. At our institution between 2001 and 2008, 22 CC patients underwent protocol orthotopic LT at a median age of 45 years (range = 24-63 years). At a median follow-up of 601.5 days (range = 111-1388 days), the median survival time of the cohort was 3.3 years. The 1-, 2-, and 3-year Kaplan-Meier survival probabilities were 90%, 70%, and 63%, respectively, whereas the historical 5-year survival rates were 0% to 18% for intrahepatic CC and 23% to 26% for extrahepatic CC when patients underwent transplantation without neoadjuvant therapy. These encouraging survival rates for patients with this type of tumor, which is difficult to diagnose and treat, are no less significant when they are compared to the national 1- and 3-year survival rates (86% and 68%, respectively) of patients undergoing deceased donor LT for malignant neoplasms of the liver (as reported by the United Network for Organ Sharing). In our series, disease recurrence was significantly associated with a larger residual tumor [6.3 versus 2.0 cm (mean values), P = 0.008] and with a shorter waiting time for LT after the chemoradiation protocol [18 versus 56 days (mean values), P = 0.04]. Our LT protocol for CC was found to be promising for patients with truly extrahepatic CC and for patients within stages I to IIB of the American Joint Committee on Cancer Staging system (100% survival at a median follow-up of 2.2 years), but the results were notably poor for patients with stage III extrahepatic CC (median survival = 1.2 years). These observations highlight the need for accurate preoperative staging of CC for ideal LT recipient selection and the importance of a low tumor burden and a longer wait after neoadjuvant therapy. More effective chemoradiation regimens for reducing the tumor burden and the appropriate timing of LT after neoadjuvant chemoradiation require further research. Liver Transpl, 2012. © 2012 AASLD.
Reconstruction of inferior right hepatic veins in living donor liver transplantation using right liver grafts
Authors: Hwang Shin , Ha Tae-Yong , Ahn Chul-Soo , Moon Deok-Bog , Kim Ki-Hun , Song Gi-Won , Jung Dong-Hwan , Park Gil-Chun , Namgoong Jung-Man , Jung Sung-Won , Yoon Sam-Youl , Sung Kyu-Bo , Ko Gi-Young , Cho Byungchul , Kim Kyoung Won , Lee Sung-Gyu
Published: December 2011

Because revascularization of the inferior right hepatic vein (IRHV) is a major component of right liver graft (RLG) reconstruction, we assessed the surgical techniques and clinical outcomes of IRHV reconstruction so that we could formulate practical guidelines for standardized procedures. From July 2004 to February 2010, we performed separate IRHV reconstructions in 487 of 1142 adult RLG recipients (42.7%). These recipients included 364 patients with a natural single IRHV and 123 patients with multiple IRHVs; in the latter group, the IRHVs were unified by venoplasty, which enabled a single anastomosis. The 1-year stenosis rates for the single-vein and venoplasty groups were 23% and 18.9%, respectively, and the early stent insertion rates were 7.1% and 9.8%, respectively (P = 0.09). Late IRHV occlusion did not lead to graft dysfunction, and all large major IRHVs were patent. A morphometric analysis showed that IRHV stenosis was associated with IRHV stretching and an anastomotic level discrepancy. This led to refinements of the surgical techniques: IRHV orifices were shaped into funnels, and the IRHV anastomosis was accurately placed at the recipient inferior vena cava (IVC). In an ongoing prospective study of 35 patients, our funneling unification venoplasty resulted in only 1 episode (2.9%) of early IRHV stenosis requiring stenting at a median follow-up of 8 months. The final configurations of the reconstructed IRHVs after funneling unification venoplasty and extensive IVC dissection were very similar to those of the native donor liver. In conclusion, we suggest that in combination with extensive recipient IVC dissection, funneling and unification venoplasty techniques are useful for securely reconstructing single or multiple IRHVs during the implantation of RLGs. Liver Transpl 18:238–247, 2012. © 2011 AASLD.
Cumulative Risk of Cardiovascular Events After Orthotopic Liver Transplantation
Authors: Albeldawi Mazen , Aggarwal Ashish , Madhwal Surabhi , Cywinski Jacek , Lopez Rocio , Eghtesad Bijan , Zein Nizar N.
Published: December 2011

As survival after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) improves, cardiovascular (CV) disease has emerged as the leading cause of non–graft-related deaths. The aims of our study were to determine the cumulative risk of CV events after OLT and to analyze predictive risk factors for those experiencing a CV event after OLT. We identified all adult patients who underwent OLT at our institution for end-stage liver disease between October 1996 and July 2008. The cumulative risk of CV events after OLT was analyzed with the Kaplan-Meier method. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors independently associated with CV events after OLT. In all, 775 patients were included in our study cohort (mean age of 53.3 years, female proportion = 44%, Caucasian proportion = 84%, median follow-up = 40 months). The most common indications for OLT were hepatitis C virus (33.2%), alcohol (14.5%), and cryptogenic cirrhosis (12.7%). Eighty-three patients suffered 1 or more CV events after OLT. Posttransplant metabolic syndrome was more prevalent in patients with CV events versus patients with no CV events (61.4% versus 34.1%, P < 0.001). According to a multivariate analysis, independent predictors of CV events were an older age at transplantation [odds ratio (OR) = 1.2, addition of 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.1-1.3, P = 0.006], male sex (OR = 2.0, 95% CI = 1.2-3.3, P = 0.01), posttransplant diabetes (OR = 2.0, 95% CI = 1.3-3.3, P = 0.003), posttransplant hypertension (OR = 1.8, 95% CI = 1.1-3.0, P = 0.02), and mycophenolate mofetil (OR = 2.0, 95% CI = 1.3-3.2, P = 0.003). Among post-OLT patients, the cumulative risk at 5 years of 13.5%, respectively. In conclusion, cardiac complications after liver transplantation are common (Approximately 10% of patients experience 1 or move cv events). Patients with posttransplant hypertension and diabetes, which are modifiable risk factors, are approximately twice as likely to experience a CV event.
Liver Transpl 18:370–375, 2012.
© 2012 AASLD.
Implications of a positive crossmatch in liver transplantation: A 20-year review#
Authors: Ruiz Richard , Tomiyama Koji , Campsen Jeffrey , Goldstein Robert M. , Levy Marlon F. , McKenna Greg J. , Onaca Nicholas , Susskind Brian , Tillery Glenn W. , Klintmalm Goran B.
Published: December 2011

Whether a positive crossmatch result has any relevance to liver transplantation (LT) outcomes remains controversial. We assessed the impact of a positive crossmatch result on patient and graft survival and posttransplant complications. During a 20-year period, 2723 LT procedures with crossmatch results were identified: 2479 primary transplants and 244 retransplants. The rates of positive B cell and T cell crossmatches were 10.1% and 7.4%, respectively, for primary transplants and 14.6% and 6.4%, respectively, for retransplants (P = 0.049 for a B cell crossmatch). Across all primary transplants, females (P < 0.001) and patients with autoimmune hepatitis (P < 0.001) had greater frequencies of positive crossmatches. There was no effect from race or age. For both primary transplants and retransplants, patient survival and graft survival were not affected by the presence of a positive crossmatch. With respect to posttransplant complications, there were no differences in rejection episodes (hyperacute, acute, or chronic) or technical complications (biliary and vascular) between negative and positive crossmatch groups. However, there were significant differences in the pathological findings of preservation injury (PI) on liver biopsy samples taken at the time of transplantation and within the first week of transplantation (P = 0.003 for B cells and P = 0.03 for T cells). In summary, a positive crossmatch had no significant impact on patient survival or graft outcomes. However, there was a significantly higher incidence of PI in primary LT recipients with a positive crossmatch. This finding is important for a broader understanding of PI, which may include a significant immunological component. Liver Transpl 18:455–460, 2012. © 2011 AASLD.
A 7-Gene Signature of the Recipient Predicts the Progression of Fibrosis After Liver Transplantation for Hepatitis C Virus Infection
Authors: do O Nicole T. , Eurich Dennis , Schmitz Petra , Schmeding Maximilian , Heidenhain Christoph , Bahra Marcus , Trautwein Christian , Neuhaus Peter , Neumann Ulf P. , Wasmuth Hermann E.
Published: December 2011

Fibrosis recurrence after liver transplantation (LT) for hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a universal event and strongly determines a patient's prognosis. The recipient risk factors for fibrosis recurrence are still poorly defined. Here we assess a genetic risk score as a predictor of fibrosis after LT. The cirrhosis risk score (CRS), which comprises allele variants in 7 genes (adaptor-related protein complex 3 S2, aquaporin 2, antizyme inhibitor 1, degenerative spermatocyte homolog 1 lipid desaturase, syntaxin binding protein 5-like, toll-like receptor 4, and transient receptor potential cation channel M5), was calculated for 137 patients who underwent LT for HCV infection and experienced HCV reinfection of the graft. The patients were stratified into 3 CRS categories: <0.5, 0.5 to 0.7, and >0.7. All patients underwent protocol biopsy after LT (median follow-up = 5 years), and liver fibrosis was assessed according to the Desmet and Scheuer score. The data were analyzed with univariate and multivariate analyses. The results showed that the highest CRS category was strongly associated with the presence of F2 or F3 fibrosis in protocol biopsy samples 1, 3, and 5 years after LT (P = 0.006, P = 0.001, and P = 0.02, respectively). Overall, 75.0% of the patients with a CRS > 0.7 developed at least F2 fibrosis, whereas 51.5% developed F3 fibrosis during follow-up. The predictive value of the CRS for fibrosis progression was independent of known clinical risk factors, including the age of the donor, the sex of the recipient, and the occurrence of acute rejection. A Kaplan-Meier analysis confirmed the prognostic value of the CRS with respect to the recurrence of severe liver fibrosis in HCV-infected patients after LT (log rank = 6.23, P = 0.03). In conclusion, the genetic signature of the recipient predicts the likelihood of severe liver fibrosis in the graft after HCV recurrence. The CRS might help with early clinical decision making (eg, the selection of patients for antiviral therapy after LT).
Liver Transpl 18:298–304, 2012.
© 2012 AASLD.
Living Donor Liver Transplantation Versus Deceased Donor Liver Transplantation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Comparable Survival and Recurrence
Authors: Sandhu Lakhbir , Sandroussi Charbel , Guba Markus , Selzner Markus , Ghanekar Anand , Cattral Mark S. , McGilvray Ian D. , Levy Gary , Greig Paul D. , Renner Eberhard L. , Grant David R.
Published: December 2011

Several studies have reported higher rates of recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) versus deceased donor liver transplantation (DDLT). It is unclear whether this difference is due to a specific biological effect unique to the LDLT procedure or to other factors such as patient selection. We compared the overall survival (OS) rates and the rates of HCC recurrence after LDLT and DDLT at our center. Between January 1996 and September 2009, 345 patients with HCC were identified: 287 (83%) had DDLT and 58 (17%) had LDLT. The OS rates were calculated with the Kaplan-Meier method, whereas competing risks methods were used to determine the HCC recurrence rates. The LDLT and DDLT groups were similar with respect to most clinical parameters, but they had different median waiting times (3.1 versus 5.3 months, P = 0.003) and median follow-up times (30 versus 38.1 months, P = 0.02). The type of transplant did not affect any of the measured cancer outcomes. The OS rates at 1, 3, and 5 years were equivalent: 91.3%, 75.2%, and 75.2%, respectively, for the LDLT group and 90.5%, 79.7%, and 74.6%, respectively, for DDLT (P = 0.62). The 1-, 3-, and 5-year HCC recurrence rates were also similar: 8.8%, 10.7%, and 15.4%, respectively, for the LDLT group and 7.5%, 14.8%, and 17.0%, respectively, for the DDLT group (P = 0.54). A regression analysis identified microvascular invasion (but not the graft type) as a predictor of HCC recurrence. In conclusion, in well-matched cohorts of LDLT and DDLT recipients, LDLT and DDLT provide similarly low recurrence rates and high survival rates for the treatment of HCC.
Liver Transpl 18:315–322, 2012.
© 2012 AASLD.
Polystyrene‐block‐poly(methyl methacrylate): Initiation Issues with Block Copolymer Formation Using ARGET ATRP
Authors: Aitchison Tony J. , Ginic‐Markovic Milena , Clarke Stephen , Valiyaveettil Suresh
Published: December 2011

The synthesis, kinetics, and characterization of polystyrene and poly(methyl methacrylate) block copolymers produced by ARGET ATRP are discussed. Halogen exchange is used and the polymerization appears to be living in the generation of the second block. On further investigation, the GPC traces exhibit a shoulder, which suggests poor initiation of the macroinitiator. Previous reports suggest that to increase the initiation efficiency of the second block, 10% styrene monomer should be added to the mixture. Upon adding the 10% styrene for the second block ARGET ATRP polymerization, the appearance of a well‐initiated polymer is observed. However, at greater conversions the results clearly demonstrate the production of a homopolymer/block copolymer mixture.
Morphological changes of the epineurium in leprosy: A new finding detected by high‐resolution sonography
Authors: Visser Leo H. , Jain Suman , Lokesh B. , Suneetha Sujai , Subbanna J.
Published: December 2011

Introduction: From histopathological studies of peripheral nerves in leprosy, it is known that the epineurium can be thickened. We measured the epineurial thickness of the ulnar nerve by high resolution sonography (HRUS). Methods: The epineurium of the ulnar nerve was measured above the elbow on transverse scan in 25 healthy controls and 26 leprosy patients. Results: The mean epineurial thickness was 0.77 mm (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.66–0.88) in symptomatic ulnar nerves (n = 20), 0.58 mm (CI 0.51–0.65) in asymptomatic nerves (n = 30), and 0.49 mm (CI 0.44–0.54) in healthy controls (n = 25) (P = 0.0001). This thickening was related to the cross‐sectional area of the ulnar nerve, but not with increased blood flow. Conclusions: The epineurium of the ulnar nerve can be measured with the use of HRUS, and it is often strikingly thickened in leprosy patients, especially in those with ulnar involvement. Muscle Nerve 46:38–41, 2012
The subcellular proteome of undifferentiated human embryonic stem cells
Authors: Sarkar Prasenjit , Collier Timothy S. , Randall Shan M. , Muddiman David C. , Rao Balaji M.
Published: December 2011

We have characterized the subcellular proteome of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) through MS analysis of the membrane, cytosolic, and nuclear fractions, isolated from the same sample of undifferentiated hESCs. Strikingly, 74% of all proteins identified were detected in a single subcellular fraction; we also carried out immunofluorescence studies to validate the subcellular localization suggested by proteomic analysis, for a subset of proteins. Our approach resulted in deeper proteome coverage – peptides mapping to 893, 2475, and 1185 proteins were identified in the nuclear, cytosolic, and membrane fractions, respectively. Additionally, we used spectral counting to estimate the relative abundance of all cytosolic proteins. A large number of proteins relevant to hESC biology, including growth factor receptors, cell junction proteins, transcription factors, chromatin remodeling proteins, and histone modifying enzymes were identified. Our analysis shows that components of a large number of interacting signaling pathways are expressed in hESCs. Finally, we show that proteomic analysis of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and Golgi compartments is a powerful alternative approach to identify secreted proteins since these are synthesized in the ER and transit through the Golgi. Taken together, our results show that systematic subcellular proteomic analysis is a valuable tool for studying hESC biology.
Crystal structure of the Kar3‐like kinesin motor domain from the filamentous fungus Ashbya gossypii
Authors: Duan Da , Hnatchuk Daniel J. , Brenner Jillian , Davis Darlene , Allingham John S.
Published: December 2011

Kar3 kinesins are microtubule (MT) minus‐end‐directed motors with pleiotropic functions in mitotic spindle formation and nuclear movement in budding and fission yeasts. A Kar3‐like kinesin is also expressed by the filamentous fungus Ashbya gossypi, which exhibits different nuclear movement challenges from its yeast relatives. Presented here is a 2.35 Å crystal structure and enzymatic analysis of the AgKar3 motor domain (AgKar3MD). Compared to the previously published Saccharomyces cerevisiae Kar3MD structure (ScKar3MD), AgKar3MD displays differences in the conformation of some of its nucleotide‐binding motifs and peripheral elements. Unlike ScKar3MD, the salt bridge between Switch I and Switch II in AgKar3MD is broken. Most of the Switch I, and the adjoining region of helix α3, are also disordered instead of bending into the active site cleft as is observed in ScKar3MD. These aspects of AgKar3MD are highly reminiscent of the ScKar3 R598A mutant that disrupts the Switch I–Switch II salt bridge and impairs MT‐stimulated ATPase activity of the motor. Subtle differences in the disposition of secondary structure elements in the small lobe (β1a, β1b, and β1c) at the edge of the MD are also apparent even though it contains approximately the same number of residues as ScKar3. These differences may reflect the unique enzymatic properties we measured for this motor, which include a lower MT‐stimulated ATPase rate relative to ScKar3, or they could relate to its interactions with different regulatory companion proteins than its budding yeast counterpart. Proteins 2011;. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Spreadsheet‐based modeling of ISCO with permanganate
Authors: Cha Ki Young , Simpkin Thomas , Borden Robert C.
Published: December 2011

CDISCO, a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet–based model, can be used to assist with the design of in situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) systems using permanganate (MnO4−). The model inputs are the aquifer characteristics (porosity, hydraulic conductivity, effective aquifer thickness, natural oxidant demand, kinetic parameters, contaminant concentrations, etc.), injection conditions (permanganate injection concentration, flow rate, and duration), and unit costs for reagent, drilling, and labor. MnO4− transport in the aquifer is simulated and used to estimate the effective radius of influence (ROI) and required injection point spacing. CDISCO then provides a preliminary cost estimate for the selected design conditions. The user can perform multiple runs of CDISCO to optimize the cost of the ISCO design. Comparisons with analytical and numerical models of nonreactive and reactive transport demonstrate that CDISCO accurately simulates MnO4− transport and consumption. Comparison of CDISCO results with the three‐dimensional heterogeneous simulations show that aquifer volume contact efficiency and contaminant mass treatment efficiency are closely correlated with the ROI overlap factor. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diagnosing imputation models by applying target analyses to posterior replicates of completed data
Authors: He Yulei , Zaslavsky Alan M.
Published: December 2011

Multiple imputation fills in missing data with posterior predictive draws from imputation models. To assess the adequacy of imputation models, we can compare completed data with their replicates simulated under the imputation model. We apply analyses of substantive interest to both datasets and use posterior predictive checks of the differences of these estimates to quantify the evidence of model inadequacy. We can further integrate out the imputed missing data and their replicates over the completed‐data analyses to reduce variance in the comparison. In many cases, the checking procedure can be easily implemented using standard imputation software by treating re‐imputations under the model as posterior predictive replicates. Thus, it can be applied for non‐Bayesian imputation methods. We also sketch several strategies for applying the method in the context of practical imputation analyses. We illustrate the method using two real data applications and study its property using a simulation. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Syntheses and Crystal Structures of Two 3D Lead(II) Coordination Polymers with Isonicotinic Acid N‐Oxide and Pseudohalides
Authors: Marandi Farzin , Hassanmohammadi Parisa , Fun Hoong‐Kun , Quah Ching Kheng
Published: December 2011

Two novel 3D lead(II)‐azido and ‐thiocyanato coordination polymers with isonicotinate acid N‐oxide (INO) as the coligand were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, IR, and 1H NMR spectroscopy and were also studied using X‐ray crystallography technique. These complexes have the formulas [Pb(INO)(NCS)]n (1) and [Pb(INO)(N3)(H2O)]n (2).
Reflections on Sixty Years of Solid State Chemistry
Authors: Goodenough John B.
Published: December 2011

In celebration of Rudolf Hoppe's 90th birthday, three developments in solid state chemistry that have occurred over his tenure are personally recalled: (1) The recognition that long‐range orbital order‐disorder transitions introduce cooperative electron‐lattice interactions has (a) accounted for numerous phase transitions in solids, (b) led to formulation of the rules for the sign, ferromagnetic vs. antiferromagnetic, of interatomic spin‐spin interactions, and (c) provides a rationale for single‐ion magnetostriction and magnetocrystalline anisotropy in transition‐metal compounds. Moreover, the further recognition that short‐range cooperative orbital ordering extends to temperatures well above the long‐range orbital ordering temperature or critical concentration of orbitally degenerate cations has (a) led to the introduction of chemical inhomogeneties into a single crystallographic phase to achieve a technical objective and (b) consideration of their role in determining the sign of spin‐spin interactions in a paramagnetic phase containing orbital fluctuations. (2) Exploration of the transition from localized to itinerant 3d‐electron behavior in transition‐metal oxides showed it to be first‐order, which has allowed interpretation of (a) charge‐density waves in single‐valent systems and (b) dynamic phase segregations in mixed‐valent systems to be manifestations of a different type of long‐range vs. short‐range cooperative electron‐lattice coupling. (3) The study of Li‐insertion chemistry has led (a) to Li‐ion rechargeable batteries, (b) an appreciation of the influence of counter cations in solids on d‐electron redox energies, and (c) the concept of Fermi energy pinning and its consequences as the energy of a d‐electron couple in a transition‐metal compound descends across the top of the anion‐p bands.
European Psychiatric Association guidance on the conflicts of interest
Authors: Höschl C. , Fialová L.
Published: December 2011

Conflict of interest (COI) is a set of circumstances that creates a risk that professional judgments or actions regarding a primary interest will be unduly influenced and compromised by a secondary interest. It might arise in clinical practice, research, and education, and might include individuals and institutions. Primary interests include the pursuit of well-being of patients, ensuring the independence of medical education, and protecting the objectivity and integrity of medical research. Secondary interests might involve financial interests, pursuit of recognition and professional career advancement. COI might result from the multiple roles of physicians in patient care, research, administration, provision of expert opinion and policy advice, and consultancy to commercial organizations. The purpose of the COI policy is to protect the interests of the patients, strengthen the integrity of the profession, and preserve public trust in medicine and psychiatry. The aim of the guidance is to eventually prevent these conflicts from arising rather than remediate them ex post. It is desirable to identify factors that might lead to their occurrence, offer a framework for their recognition and assessment, introduce the principles and standards of their disclosure, and provide recommendations for their transparent resolution.
Foot Pressure Comparison between Hallux Rigidus Patients and Normal Asymptomatic Matched Individuals using Pedobarograph
Authors: Hadi Mohammed , Assef Alani , Fahad Attar , Akinwande Adedepo
Published: December 2011

Background/Purpose

We present a study comparing the plantar pressures of hallux rigidus patients with that of asymptomatic feet. The aim was to find new means that could be used in further assessment and management of this condition.

Methods

We assessed foot pressure distributions in eight patients with hallux rigidus using the foot pressure pedobarograph system. This was compared with eight asymptomatic matched individuals. The foot pressures were assessed in the five key areas.

Results

The differences between the affected foot pressures and the normal foot pressures were statistically significant with a p value less than 0.05. The pressure under the hallux in the hallux rigidus patients was significantly less and associated with a significantly increased pressures in the hind foot and under the third, fourth, and the fifth metatarsal heads when compared with the asymptomatic matched individuals suggesting weight transfer onto the lateral and hind foot regions.

Conclusion

This study has demonstrated an increased pressure transmitted through the outer aspect of the sole of the foot in the patients suffering from hallux rigidus. This is helpful in choosing treatment options and managing hallux rigidus patients particularly when using conservative and foot wear considerations.
Preliminary results of dancing exercise on postural stability in adolescent females
Authors: Cheng Hsu‐Sheng , Law Cheung‐Lun , Pan Hui‐Fang , Hsiao Yueh‐Ping , Hu Jeng‐Ho , Chuang Fu‐Kai , Huang Mao‐Hsiung
Published: December 2011

Twenty‐six female student dancers of Chung‐hua school of Art (mean age 17.5 ± 0.5 years) and twenty‐five healthy active female collegiate students (mean age 18.1 ± 1.0 years) participated in this study to investigate the effects of dancing exercise on postural stability of adolescent female through a comparison study of two cohorts. The groups were matched in height and weight. Participants were excluded for left‐side dominance, sustained lower extremity injury, any known vestibular system dysfunction, uncorrected visual problems, and other neurological conditions. Static and dynamic standing balances were measured by means of Biodex Stability System in six conditions include bilateral, dominant, and nondominant single leg stances with eye‐open and eye‐closed conditions. To investigate the difference between static and dynamic stabilities, two protocols were performed: the first protocol consisted of four positions including static position, Level 8, Level 4, and Level 1, respectively. They were instructed to maintain a level platform as stably as possible for a period of 30 seconds for each test and given a 30‐second rest between tests. The second protocol was descending stability level that was gradually changed from Level 12 to Level 1 for 60 seconds. Balance indices included overall stability index, anterior–posterior stability index (APSI), and medial–lateral stability index. The results of first protocol showed that there were significant differences in overall stability index score between study and control groups at Level 8 with dominant single leg standing in the eye‐open condition and the APSI score at Level 8 and at Level 4 with dominant single‐leg standing in the eye‐closed condition. There was no significant difference in the second protocol. The possible explanation is loss of familiarization adaptation because of level change consequently in both the groups, not step‐by‐step as in the first protocol study. Furthermore, a positive correlation was found between the dancing experience and the APSI at Level 8 and Level 4 with dominant single‐leg standing in the eye‐closed condition. In conclusion the findings implied that dancing exercise results in better postural stability and less visual dependence on postural control in adolescent females.
Non-steady columnar motions in rotating stratified Boussinesq fluids: exact Lagrangian and Eulerian description
Authors: Yakubovich Evsei I. , Shrira Victor I.
Published: December 2011

This paper aims to narrow the gap between the Lagrangian and Eulerian descriptions of rotating stratified fluids. To this end, without loss of generality the primitive Lagrangian equations with arbitrary oriented time-dependent rotation $\mbit{\Omega} (t)$ and arbitrary stable stratification have been simplified and made more amenable for analysis. The bulk of the work is concerned with developing in parallel exact Lagrangian and Eulerian descriptions of a particular interesting class of motions of rotating stratified incompressible Boussinesq fluids: the vertically uniform columnar motions. The Lagrangian description is confined to ideal fluids, while the Eulerian one includes viscosity and diffusivity. Assuming the rotation axis to be parallel to gravity, with the rotation rate being an arbitrary function of time, and the buoyancy frequency to be constant, it is found that for vertically uniform motions there is always an exact split into horizontal and vertical subsystems. Evolution of the horizontal velocities and displacements is governed by the classical equations of two-dimensional incompressible hydrodynamics, only slightly modified by accounting for the variable rotation rate. These equations are independent of stratification and vertical motions. The Coriolis term is potential and can be incorporated into pressure. The vertical motions represent a manifestation of packets of inertia–gravity waves with strictly horizontal wavevectors, and are exactly described by linear equations independently of the wave amplitudes. They do not depend on rotation, either constant or variable. The wavepackets do not interact with each other or with horizontal motions. For ideal fluids or those with Rayleigh friction there are explicit solutions describing these motions for arbitrary initial conditions. The Cauchy problem for the columnar motions in ideal fluids is found to be well posed. Thus there is a natural extension of well-studied two-dimensional incompressible hydrodynamics which retains the property of the absence of vortex stretching: all two-dimensional flows could be ‘dressed up’ by adding appropriate vertical motions of a rotating stratified fluid. All the columnar motions could be described in such a way. The examined columnar motions exist under arbitrary relations between the parameters of rotation and stratification and, in particular, without rotation. In the limit of strong rotation one recovers the results known in the literature, in particular, under additional assumptions of small amplitude and steadiness of motions the solutions describe the classical Taylor–Proudman columns.