bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of cell‐seeded hydroxyapatite scaffolds on rabbit radius bone regeneration
Authors: Rathbone C. R. , Guda T. , Singleton B. M. , Oh D. S. , Appleford M. R. , Ong J. L. , Wenke J. C.
Published: June 2013

Highly porous hydroxyapatite (HA) scaffolds were developed as bone graft substitutes using a template coating process, characterized, and seeded with bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). To test the hypothesis that cell‐seeded HA scaffolds improve bone regeneration, HA scaffolds without cell seeding (HA‐empty), HA scaffolds with 1.5 × 104 BMSCs (HA‐low), and HA scaffolds with 1.5 × 106 BMSCs (HA‐high) were implanted in a 10‐mm rabbit radius segmental defect model for 4 and 8 weeks. Three different fluorochromes were administered at 2, 4, and 6 weeks after implantation to identify differences in temporal bone growth patterns. It was observed from fluorescence histomorphometry analyses that an increased rate of bone infiltration occurred from 0 to 2 weeks (p < 0.05) of implantation for the HA‐high group (2.9 ± 0.5 mm) as compared with HA‐empty (1.8 ± 0.8 mm) and HA‐low (1.3 ± 0.2 mm) groups. No significant differences in bone formation within the scaffold or callus formation was observed between all groups after 4 weeks, with a significant increase in bone regenerated for all groups from 4 to 8 weeks (28.4% across groups). Although there was no difference in bone formation within scaffolds, callus formation was significantly higher in HA‐empty scaffolds (100.9 ± 14.1 mm3) when compared with HA‐low (57.8 ± 7.3 mm3; p ≤ 0.003) and HA‐high (69.2 ± 10.4 mm3; p ≤ 0.02) after 8 weeks. These data highlight the need for a better understanding of the parameters critical to the success of cell‐seeded HA scaffolds for bone regeneration. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 102A: 1458–1466, 2014.
A comparative study of gelatin sponge scaffolds and PLGA scaffolds transplanted to completely transected spinal cord of rat
Authors: Du Bao‐ling , Zeng Chen‐guang , Zhang Wei , Quan Da‐ping , Ling Eng‐ang , Zeng Yuan‐shan
Published: June 2013

This study sought to investigate whether gelatin sponge (GS) scaffold would produce less acidic medium in injured spinal cord, as compared with poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) scaffold, to determine which of the two scaffolds as the biomaterial is more suitable for transplantation into spinal cord. GS scaffold or PLGA scaffold was transplanted into a transected spinal cord in this study. Two months after transplantation of scaffolds, acid sensing ion channel 1a (ASIC1a) positive cells expressing microtubule associated protein 2 (Map2) were observed as well as expressing adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) in spinal cord. GFAP positive cells were distributed at the rostral and caudal of the injury/graft area in the GS and PLGA groups. Western blot showed ASIC1a and GFAP expression of injured spinal cord was downregulated in the GS group. The number of CD68 positive cells was fewer and NF nerve fibers were more in the GS group. Nissl staining and cell counting showed that the number of survival neurons was comparable between the GS and PLGA groups in the pyramidal layer of sensorimotor cortex and the red nucleus of midbrain. However, in the Clarke's nucleus at L1 spinal segment, the surviving neurons in the GS group were more numerous than that in the PLGA group. H&E staining showed that the tissue cavities in the GS group were smaller in size than that in the PLGA group. The results suggest that GS scaffold is more suitable for transplantation to promote the recovery of spinal cord injury compared with PLGA scaffold. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 102A: 1715–1725, 2014.
Synthesis of SiO2 system via sol–gel process: Biocompatibility tests with a fibroblast strain and release kinetics
Authors: Catauro Michelina , Bollino Flavia , Papale Ferdinando
Published: June 2013

SiO2 glass has been synthesized via sol–gel process and enriched with 5 wt % sodium ampicillin. To verify the biocompatibility of the obtained biomaterial, fibroblasts have been grown on a glass surface and were tested for viability after 24 h. The results of the Water‐Soluble Tetrazolium (WST)‐8 analysis suggest that SiO2 glass has an adequate biocompatibility. The amorphous nature of the gels has been ascertained by X‐ray diffraction analysis. Release kinetics have been subsequently investigated in a simulated body fluid. The amount of sodium ampicillin released has been detected by ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy. The release kinetics seems to occur in more than one stage. High‐performance liquid chromatography analysis has also been carried out to ensure the integrity of ampicillin after the synthesis treatment. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 102A: 1677–1680, 2014.
In vitro and in vivo evaluation of poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)/poly(styrene sulfonate)/dopamine‐coated electrodes for dopamine delivery
Authors: Sui L. , Song X. J. , Ren J. , Cai W. J. , Ju L. H. , Wang Y. , Wang L. Y. , Chen M.
Published: June 2013

Poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) doped with poly(styrene sulfonate) (PSS) has a variety of chemical and biomedical applications. The application of PEDOT/PSS polymers in drug delivery has attracted attention. However, whether conducting polymers of PEDOT/PSS could be used for dopamine delivery has not clear. In the present study, the PEDOT/PSS coatings incorporated with dopamine were fabricated on 0.5 mm diameter platinum electrodes, electrochemical properties, and dopamine delivery capacities of these electrodes were evaluated in vitro and in vivo through implanting these electrodes into brain striatum area. The findings demonstrated that the PEDOT/PSS/dopamine coatings on platinum electrodes could reduce electrodes impedances, increase charge storage capacities, and release significant levels of dopamine upon electrical stimulation of these electrodes. These results indicated that polymers of PEDOT/PSS/dopamine could be used for dopamine delivery, implicating potential application of PEDOT/PSS/dopamine‐coated implantable electrodes in the treatment of some diseases associated with dopamine deficits, such as, electrodes for the treatment of Parkinson's disease during deep brain stimulation. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 102A: 1681–1696, 2014.
Effects of mesoporous SiO2, Fe3O4, and TiO2 nanoparticles on the biological functions of endothelial cells in vitro
Authors: Hou Yanhua , Lai Min , Chen Xiuyong , Li Jinghua , Hu Yan , Luo Zhong , Ding Xingwei , Cai Kaiyong
Published: June 2013

To comparatively investigate the cytotoxicities of nanomaterials in circulation, in this study, three different types of nanoparticles (NPs; mesoporous SiO2, Fe3O4, and TiO2) with diameters of around 100 nm were synthesized. The morphologies, crystalline phases, and zeta potentials of those NPs were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction and zeta potential measurement, respectively. Then, we investigated the influences of different NPs on the biological functions of endothelial cells, in particular of the organelle of cells. The results indicated that different types of NPs had cytotoxic effects in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner, and there was no significant difference in cytotoxicity between SiO2 and Fe3O4 at concentrations <0.20 mg/mL. The shape and surface charges of NPs greatly affected cellular internalization. We found that cytoskeleton and integrity of cells were destroyed by different NPs. Additionally, the production of reactive oxygen species damaged the mitochondria of cells, in turn leading to cells apoptosis and death. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 102A: 1726–1736, 2014.
Biomimetic composites by surface‐initiated polymerization of cyclic lactones at anorganic bone: Preparation and in vitro evaluation of osteoblast and osteoclast competence
Authors: Wiegand Troy , Hiebner Kris , Gauza Lukasz , Schwartz Chris , Song Zheng , Miller Steve , Zacharias Nora , Wooley Paul H. , Redepenning Jody
Published: June 2013

Biomimetic composites were constructed using anorganic bone to initiate the polymerization of cyclic lactones. The resulting anorganic bone/polylactone composites preserve the inorganic structure and the mechanical properties of the original bone. Thermal conditions used to prepare the anorganic bone were shown to control the surface functionalities, surface area, and crystallinity, all of which influence the rates of subsequent polymerizations. Thermal pretreatment of anorganic bone was examined as a function of time and temperature, ranging from 400°C to 800°C. Polymerization rates of different monomers were also compared. Additionally, in vitro evaluations of anorganic bone/poly‐l‐lactide and anorganic bone/polyglycolide composites for osteoblast and osteoclast competence suggest that these composites are good candidates for potential in vivo use, since both composites promoted osteoblast differentiation. The anorganic bone/poly‐l‐lactide composite also promoted osteoclast differentiation. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 102A: 1755–1766, 2014.
Fibronectin adsorption on functionalized electrospun polycaprolactone scaffolds: Experimental and molecular dynamics studies
Authors: Regis Shawn , Youssefian Sina , Jassal Manisha , Phaneuf Matthew D. , Rahbar Nima , Bhowmick Sankha
Published: June 2013

Designing scaffolds to modulate protein adsorption is a key to building advanced scaffolds for tissue regeneration. Protein adsorption to tissue engineering scaffolds is critical in early cell attachment, survival, and eventual proliferation. The goal of this study is to examine the effect of functionalization on fibronectin adsorption to electrospun polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds through experimentation using fluorescently labeled fibronectin and to couple this experimental data with analysis of interaction energies obtained through molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to develop a better understanding of the adsorption process. This study is the first to analyze and compare experimental and MD simulation results of fibronectin adsorption on functionalized electrospun PCL scaffolds. Electrospun nanofiber PCL scaffolds were treated with either 1 N NaOH (hydrolyzed) or 46% hexamethylenediamine (HMD) (aminated) solution to be compared with untreated (control) scaffolds. We found that aminated PCL scaffolds experimentally adsorbed more fibronectin than control scaffolds, whereas hydrolyzed scaffolds showed decreased adsorption. MD simulations carried out with NVT ensemble at a temperature of 310 K indicated a higher work of adhesion for both functionalized scaffolds over control. Also, the simulations revealed different conformations of fibronectin on each scaffold type after adsorption, with the arginine–glycine–aspartic acid sequence appearing most accessible on the aminated scaffolds. This suggests that functionalization affects not only the quantity of protein that will adsorb on a scaffold but how it attaches as well, which could affect subsequent cell attachment. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 102A: 1697–1706, 2014.
Relationship between activity of silica thin films and density of cells occupation
Authors: Jokanović V. , Čolović B. , Jokanović B. , Rudolf R. , Trajković V.
Published: June 2013

The SiO2 thin films (STFs) were deposited on the surfaces of stainless steel tapes and their activity was particularly investigated from the aspect of the number density of hydroxyl groups on their surfaces. The calculation procedure of density of active OH groups includes determination of average length of silica chains that constitute silica sol particles with almost uniform size, on the base of thermogravimetric analysis. The size of SiO2 particles is analyzed by transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering method. Fibroblast (L929) cell densities on the surfaces of these films were investigated using phase contrast microcopy. It was shown that there is a relationship between OH group densities and density of attached cells. Besides, the cytotoxicity effect was studied and compared for various thermally treated STFs. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 102A: 1707–1714, 2014.
3D Assessment of Cortical Bone Porosity and Tissue Mineral Density Using High-Resolution µCT: Effects of Resolution and Threshold Method
Authors: Palacio-Mancheno Paolo E , Larriera Adriana I , Doty Stephen B , Cardoso Luis , Fritton Susannah P
Published: June 2013

Current micro–computed tomography (µCT) systems allow scanning bone at resolutions capable of three-dimensional (3D) characterization of intracortical vascular porosity and osteocyte lacunae. However, the scanning and reconstruction parameters along with the image segmentation method affect the accuracy of the measurements. In this study, the effects of scanning resolution and image threshold method in quantifying small features of cortical bone (vascular porosity, vascular canal diameter and separation, lacunar porosity and density, and tissue mineral density) were analyzed. Cortical bone from the tibia of Sprague-Dawley rats was scanned at 1-µm and 4-µm resolution, reconstructions were density-calibrated, and volumes of interest were segmented using approaches based on edge-detection or histogram analysis. In 1-µm resolution scans, the osteocyte lacunar spaces could be visualized, and it was possible to separate the lacunar porosity from the vascular porosity. At 4-µm resolution, the vascular porosity and vascular canal diameter were underestimated, and osteocyte lacunae were not effectively detected, whereas the vascular canal separation and tissue mineral density were overestimated compared to 1-µm resolution. Resolution had a much greater effect on the measurements than did threshold method, showing partial volume effects at resolutions coarser than 2 µm in two separate analyses, one of which assessed the effect of resolution on an object of known size with similar architecture to a vascular pore. Although there was little difference when using the edge-detection versus histogram-based threshold approaches, edge-detection was somewhat more effective in delineating canal architecture at finer resolutions (1–2 µm). In addition, use of a high-resolution (1 µm) density-based threshold on lower resolution (4 µm) density-calibrated images was not effective in improving the lower-resolution measurements. In conclusion, if measuring cortical vascular microarchitecture, especially in small animals, a µCT resolution of 1 to 2 µm is appropriate, whereas a resolution of at least 1 µm is necessary when assessing osteocyte lacunar porosity. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Effects of High-Impact Training on Bone and Articular Cartilage: 12-Month Randomized Controlled Quantitative MRI Study
Authors: Multanen Juhani , Nieminen Miika T , Häkkinen Arja , Kujala Urho M , Jämsä Timo , Kautiainen Hannu , Lammentausta Eveliina , Ahola Riikka , Selänne Harri , Ojala Risto , Kiviranta Ilkka , Heinonen Ari
Published: June 2013

Osteoarthritis and osteoporosis often coexist in postmenopausal women. The simultaneous effect of bone-favorable high-impact training on these diseases is not well understood and is a topic of controversy. We evaluated the effects of high-impact exercise on bone mineral content (BMC) and the estimated biochemical composition of knee cartilage in postmenopausal women with mild knee osteoarthritis. Eighty women aged 50 to 66 years with mild knee osteoarthritis were randomly assigned to undergo supervised progressive exercise three times a week for 12 months (n = 40) or to a nonintervention control group (n = 40). BMC of the femoral neck, trochanter, and lumbar spine was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). The biochemical composition of cartilage was estimated using delayed gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) cartilage (dGEMRIC), sensitive to cartilage glycosaminoglycan content, and transverse relaxation time (T2) mapping that is sensitive to the properties of the collagen network. In addition, we evaluated clinically important symptoms and physical performance–related risk factors of falling: cardiorespiratory fitness, dynamic balance, maximal isometric knee extension and flexion forces, and leg power. Thirty-six trainees and 40 controls completed the study. The mean gain in femoral neck BMC in the exercise group was 0.6% (95% CI, –0.2% to 1.4%) and the mean loss in the control group was –1.2% (95% CI, –2.1% to –0.4%). The change in baseline, body mass, and adjusted body mass change in BMC between the groups was significant (p = 0.005), whereas no changes occurred in the biochemical composition of the cartilage, as investigated by MRI. Balance, muscle force, and cardiorespiratory fitness improved significantly more (3% to 11%) in the exercise group than in the control group. Progressively implemented high-impact training, which increased bone mass, did not affect the biochemical composition of cartilage and may be feasible in the prevention of osteoporosis and physical performance–related risk factors of falling in postmenopausal women. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Reply to comment by R. L. Lysak on “Improved basis set for low frequency plasma waves”
Authors: Bellan P. M.
Published: June 2013

In a Comment, R. L. Lysak argues against the validity of Bellan (2012) on the grounds that this paper uses fluid rather than kinetic theory. The Comment invokes a commonly used method for reducing the 3×3 wave equation matrix to a 2×2 matrix which then gives approximate dispersion relations. In this Response, it is shown that the same 3×3 wave equation matrix can be obtained from fluid theory and certain mathematical inconsistencies in the method of analysis used in the Comment are identified. It is shown that the dispersion relation derived in Bellan (2012) provides a much better description of the experimental observations reported by Kletzing et al. (2003) than does the dispersion relation proposed in the Comment and in Lysak and Lotko (1996).
Primary and secondary compressible Kelvin‐Helmholtz surface wave instabilities on the Earth's magnetopause
Authors: Turkakin H. , Rankin R. , Mann I. R.
Published: June 2013

Primary and secondary Kelvin‐Helmholtz surface wave modes on the Earth's magnetopause are studied within the framework of warm plasma ideal magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) across an infinitely thin magnetopause tangential discontinuity (TD). With the increase of background flow velocity, a Kelvin‐Helmholtz Instability (KHI) unstable boundary separating two uniform semi‐infinite plasma regions is always ultimately stabilized to KHI growth at an upper cut‐off while inclusion of an inner boundary in one plasma region removes this stabilization. Phase velocity Friedrichs diagrams are presented that allow us to identify unstable fast and slow modes that correspond to growing modes of the KHI under different magnetosphere and magnetosheath conditions. On the nightside magnetosphere, and the magnetotail, new KH unstable intermediate‐fast modes are created, which cannot propagate exactly perpendicular to the magnetic field. In the plasma frame, primary unstable KH waves show fast/fast, while secondary KH waves show slow/fast mode behavior in the magnetosphere/magnetosheath. Secondary KHI occurs at slower flow speeds than the primary KHI and grows more slowly and at a narrow range of propagation angles. Our analysis is placed in the context of in situ satellite observations of the phase speed of KHI‐related waves in the magnetosheath and magnetosphere in the long wavelength regime where our analysis applies. We conclude that KH unstable surface waves on the near‐Earth magnetopause flanks are likely to be secondary KHI waves, while those further down the flanks and on the nightside magnetopause are likely to be primary KHI waves—the latter being the most important for energy transport at the magnetopause.
Effect of the background magnetic field inhomogeneity on generation processes of whistler‐mode chorus and broadband hiss‐like emissions
Authors: Katoh Yuto , Omura Yoshiharu
Published: June 2013

By a series of self‐consistent electron hybrid code simulations, we study the effect of the background magnetic field inhomogeneity on the generation process of whistler‐mode chorus emissions. Chorus with rising tones are generated through nonlinear wave‐particle interactions occurring around the magnetic equator. The mirror force plays an important role in the nonlinear interactions, and the spatial inhomogeneity of the background magnetic field is a key parameter of the chorus generation process. We have conducted numerical experiments with different spatial inhomogeneities to understand properties of the chorus generation process. We assume the same initial condition of energetic electrons at the magnetic equator in all simulation runs. The simulation results reveal that the spectral characteristics of chorus significantly vary depending on the magnetic field inhomogeneity. Whistler‐mode emissions are generated and propagate away from the equator in all simulation runs, but distinct chorus elements with rising tones are only reproduced in the cases of small inhomogeneities. In the simulation that had the smallest inhomogeneity, we find excitation of broadband hiss‐like emission (BHE) whose amplitudes are comparable to discrete chorus elements found in other simulation runs. The BHE consists of many wave elements with rising tones nonlinearly triggered in the region close to the magnetic equator. We show that the small spatial inhomogeneity of the background magnetic field results in the small threshold amplitude for the nonlinear wave growth and allows the triggering process of rising tone elements to emerge easily in the equatorial region of the magnetosphere.
Spatiotemporal variation in the microclimatic edge effect between wetland and farmland
Authors: Liao Xiaoyu , Liu Zhaoli , Wang Yiyong , Jin Jiming
Published: June 2013

The creation of wetland edges associated with anthropogenic fragmentation is common in wetland landscapes and brings about a unique microclimatic change that affects adjacent farmland. However, microclimatic edge effects within this kind of landscape are not well quantified. Thus, using a study site located in the northeastern Sanjiang National Nature Reserve, China, we investigated the spatiotemporal variations in the microclimatic variables of the surface layer across the wetland‐farmland edge. Air temperature and relative humidity data were collected continuously along a horizontal transect at four different heights over different periods, and the relative humidity was converted to specific humidity. Sigmoid models were used to fit the horizontal gradients of microclimatic edge effects. Then, based on the parameters in the fitted models, the characteristics of the edge effects were quantified with two indices, the magnitude of edge effect (MEE) and the spatial range of edge effect (REE). Under a light wind condition, the microclimatic features across the edge generally presented sigmoid ecological gradients in the horizontal direction, with unique spatial and temporal patterns: (1) In a normal year, wetland patches cooled and moistened the adjacent farmlands during the daytime and had a warming‐moistening effect during the nighttime. (2) Vertically, the absolute MEE value of the microclimatic variables decreased, but the REE increased with increasing height. (3) The MEE and REE for air temperature and specific humidity varied with the time of day, both shifting at dawn and dusk when the gradients were absent. (4) At the interannual scale, when compared to the farmland, the wetland was cooler at night in a dry year but warmer in a normal year. The detection of spatiotemporal microclimatic patterns in the wetland‐farmland edge zone may enable further understanding of how wetland degradation affects adjacent farmland ecology under human disturbance and promote better management and restoration of fragmented wetlands.
On “observation minus reanalysis” method: A view from multidecadal variability
Authors: Wang Jun , Yan Zhongwei , Jones Phil D. , Xia Jiangjiang
Published: June 2013

The observation minus reanalysis (OMR) method is widely used to investigate the impact of urbanization and land use change on climate. Here we present the OMR trends for the periods of 1979–1998 and 1989–2008 in eastern China, which appear inconsistent for the regions experiencing rapid urbanization during recent decades. Using Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition, we extract the secular trend and multidecadal variability (MDV) from the temperature observations at stations and the corresponding reanalysis data for the last century and find that, in general, MDV in the reanalysis data is weaker than that in the station observations. This systematic difference considerably modulates the magnitude of the OMR trends during different periods, leading to inconsistent estimates of the impact of urbanization. After MDV adjustment, the OMR trends for Beijing and Shanghai are consistent for the different periods, about 0.04°C–0.1°C/decade, much smaller than some previous estimates. We caution those using OMR methods to estimate the effect of urbanization and also for those using reanalysis data for a limited period in studies of this kind.
Raman spectroscopy: a tool for biomechanical characterization of Stratum Corneum
Authors: Vyumvuhore Raoul , Tfayli Ali , Duplan Hélène , Delalleau Alexandre , Manfait Michel , Baillet‐Guffroy Arlette
Published: June 2013

The mechanical properties of the Stratum Corneum (SC) have been studied by different authors at the macroscopic level, but the modification of its ultra structure during mechanical extension remains unknown. Moreover, little is described about the effect of the mechanical stress on SC barrier function. In this study, we have examined the SC structure changes, at the molecular level, during uniaxial tensile experiments. This was performed on isolated SC samples using Raman spectroscopy. We could identify the strain status of the analyzed samples by using combination of Raman spectra and Partial Least Squares processing. In addition, this approach provided information about lipids and proteins behavior during the sample extension. The structure of the intercellular lipids bilayer became less organized up to ~9% deformation. For higher strains, a plateau corresponding to the minimum organization is observed till the complete failure of the sample. In the same time, protein structures including desmosomes, were characterized by monotonic secondary structure modifications for deformations up to ~9% followed by a plateau. These observations are relevantly demonstrating the effect of extension on the skin barrier state. Such an approach could be objectively used for clinical applications to evaluate skin discomfort degree and skin elastic behavior. This could therefore help with proof of efficacy for cosmetic and dermatologic products. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Serum pancreastatin: The next predictive neuroendocrine tumor marker
Authors: Rustagi Sapna , Warner Richard R.P. , Divino Celia M.
Published: June 2013

Background and Objectives

Pancreastatin is a derived peptide of chromogranin A (CgA). Pancreastatin has the potential to be a diagnostic and predictive tumor marker in detecting NETs.

Methods

Radioimmunoassay tests of pancreastatin and CgA were performed on 103 patient specimens collected at Mount Sinai Medical Center between 1/2010 and 7/2012. Patient demographics, diagnostic tests, surgical procedures, pathologic findings, adjuvant treatments, and survival were retrospectively reviewed. Statistical analysis utilized SPSS v20 software.

Results

Mean pancreastatin levels were significantly higher in the 92 NETs patients than in the 11 non‐NETs patients (227.261 vs. 59.727, P < 0.05). Twenty‐seven of the 92 patients with elevated pancreastatin levels (mean = 240.67), had normal CgA levels (mean = 4.65). Pancreastatin had sensitivity and specificity of 64% (59/92), and 100% (11/11). CgA had lower sensitivity and specificity of 43% (40/92), and 64% (7/11). In all 27 instances the pancreastatin concentration was found to be sole indicator of NET disease. When controlling for the level of CgA for the entire sample, a statistically significant difference was not found in the mean pancreastatin levels between both patient groups (P = 0.139, R = 0.484).

Conclusion

Pancreastatin has greater sensitivity and specificity in diagnosing NETs than CgA. Further investigation of pancreastatin's diagnostic and predictive value is warranted J. Surg. Oncol. 2013; 108:126–128. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Biostimulation of Soil Microbial Activity Through Organic Fertilizer and Almond tree Association
Authors: Macci Cristina , Doni Serena , Peruzzi Eleonora , Mennone Carmelo , Masciandaro Grazia
Published: June 2013

Many studies have confirmed the validity of plant cover and organic farming in ameliorating soil quality. The goal of this study was to investigate the efficiency of rehabilitation practices in a degraded soil ecosystem consisting of: (i) organic or inorganic fertilization; and (ii) presence or absence of almond trees. The experiments were carried out for 2 years in the South of Italy in three fields characterized by different slope (0%, 2%, and 6%). Each field was split up into two parts, one assigned to organic fertilization and the other assigned to mineral fertilization, and planted with almond trees using GF677 or Franco rootstocks. The results showed that the organic fertilization, particularly in the presence of the Franco rootstock, resulted more effective in increasing soil organic matter content and microbial activity especially in the 0% and 2% slopes. However, in the 6% slope, where a lower soil metabolism was observed, an improvement of chemical and biochemical soil properties was generally evident for both fertilization systems. The Franco rootstock improved soil quality and maintaining a good production, whereas the GF677 has exploited more soil resources, resulting in a higher growth and yield; therefore, the use of almond tree with Franco rootstock associated with organic matter application is a useful practice in order to preserve soil quality and to rehabilitate degraded soils. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exploitation of Annual and Perennial Herbaceous Species for the Rehabilitation of a Sand Quarry in a Mediterranean Environment
Authors: Porqueddu Claudio , Re Giovanni Antonio , Sanna Federico , Piluzza Giovanna , Sulas Leonardo , Franca Antonio , Bullitta Simonetta
Published: June 2013

Commercial seeds are widely used for re‐vegetation interventions in Mediterranean areas. These seeds mostly consist of species and varieties of non‐local provenance. The current practice relies mainly on forage or turf and fast growing species, even if it is often inefficient. Twenty‐two local populations or commercial varieties of annual and perennial species belonging to the botanical families Leguminosae, Graminaceae and Compositae were evaluated in a 4‐year field experiment in order to investigate their potential in terms of establishment and persistence in the re‐vegetation of an inactive sand quarry. Native species showed better performances than commercial varieties and encouraged further actions for the valorisation of local plant biodiversity. Among legumes, the best adapted species was the perennial Lotus cytisoides that showed high persistence in combination with other positive traits. A few annual species, that is, Melilotus indica, Trifolium subterraneum and Ornithopus sativus performed well and persisted until the end of the experiment. Among perennial grasses, Cynodon dactylon survived to drought and low soil nutrients. Both native annual grasses Lolium rigidum and Aegilops geniculata performed very well during the first 2 years of experiments. Both forbs, the perennial Cichorium intybus and the annual Chrysanthemum coronarium did not guarantee a satisfactory persistence. Some native species were evidenced, which may play an important role in the re‐vegetation of sand quarries and have good potential to be further characterized before introduction in the seed market. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Strategies of airway management for head and neck photo‐dynamic therapy
Authors: Story William , Sultan Ahmed A. , Bottini Gian , Vaz Francis , Lee Gene , Hopper Colin
Published: June 2013

Introduction

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a minimally invasive treatment modality which has great clinical implications, especially in head and neck oncology. Post‐operative swelling is a well‐documented consequence of PDT. It is paramount the airway remains patent for these patients. A tracheostomy remains the gold standard treatment modality for base of tongue tumours susceptible to post operative PDT inflammation, which can lead to a compromised airway. We have carried out a retrospective study to outline the airway management strategies employed for head and neck cancer patients treated with PDT and suggest recommendations for future management.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective clinical study utilises 88 patients (53 males and 35 females) treated at the UCLH Head and Neck Center, London (between 2006 and 2013), for treatment of various lesions with superficial and/or interstitial PDT, when the airway could potentially be compromised.

Results

Of the 88 patients selected 60 had interstitial PDT (iPDT) and 13 had superficial PDT (sPDT). Fifteen patients were treated with both iPDT and sPDT. Among the iPDT patients 19 had a trachestomy; two patients a Quicktrach; four a Cook Airway Exchange Catheter (CEAC); one a percutaneous tracheostomy; one a needle tracheostomy and 33 patients did not receive any temporary airway pathways. Among the sPDT patients two had a trachestomy.

Although the majority of patients did not suffer any major incidents, one sPDT patient required an emergency tracheostomy two days post‐operatively.

Conclusion

Airway management is vital when planning PDT treatment for tongue based tumours. Consider a more conventional approach when the lesion being targeted is located at a higher risk site: Floor of mouth/posterior tongue/tongue base or when multiple oral sites are being treated. Lasers Surg. Med. 45:370–376, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Calcineurin Inhibitor–Free Mycophenolate Mofetil/Sirolimus Maintenance in Liver Transplantation: The Randomized Spare-the-Nephron Trial
Authors: Teperman Lewis , Moonka Dilip , Sebastian Anthony , Sher Linda , Marotta Paul , Marsh Christopher , Koneru Baburao , Goss John , Preston Dennis , Roberts John P.
Published: June 2013

Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and sirolimus (SRL) have been used for calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) minimization to reduce nephrotoxicity following liver transplantation. In this prospective, open-label, multicenter study, patients undergoing transplantation from July 2005 to June 2007 who were maintained on MMF/CNI were randomized 4 to 12 weeks after transplantation to receive MMF/SRL (n = 148) or continue MMF/CNI (n = 145) and included in the intent-to-treat population. The primary efficacy endpoints were the mean percentage change in the calculated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and a composite of biopsy-proven acute rejection (BPAR), graft lost, death, and lost to follow-up 12 months after transplantation. Patients were followed for a median of 519 days after randomization. MMF/SRL was associated with a significantly greater renal function improvement from baseline with a mean percentage change in GFR of 19.7 ± 40.6 (versus 1.2 ± 39.9 for MMF/CNI, P = 0.0012). The composite endpoint demonstrated the noninferiority of MMF/SRL versus MMF/CNI (16.4% versus 15.4%, 90% confidence interval = −7.1% to 9.0%). The incidence of BPAR was significantly greater with MMF/SRL (12.2%) versus MMF/CNI (4.1%, P = 0.02). Graft loss (including death) occurred in 3.4% of the MMF/SRL-treated patients and in 8.3% of the MMF/CNI-treated patients (P = 0.04). Malignancy-related deaths were less frequent with MMF/SRL. Adverse events caused withdrawal for 34.2% of the MMF/SRL-treated patients and for 24.1% of the MMF/CNI-treated patients (P = 0.06). The use of MMF/SRL is an option for liver transplant recipients who can benefit from improved renal function but is associated with an increased risk of rejection (but not graft loss). Liver Transpl 19:675–689, 2013.. © 2013 AASLD.
Genetic variation in the PNPLA3 gene and hepatocellular carcinoma in USA: Risk and prognosis prediction
Authors: Hassan Manal M. , Kaseb Ahmed , Etzel Carol J. , El‐Serag Hashem , Spitz Margaret R. , Chang Ping , Hale Katherine S. , Liu Mei , Rashid Asif , Shama Mohamed , Abbruzzese James L. , Loyer Evelyne M. , Kaur Harmeet , Hassabo Hesham M. , Vauthey Jean‐Nicolas , Wray Curtis J. , Hassan Basmah S. , Patt Yehuda Z. , Hawk Ernest , Soliman Khalid M. , Li Donghui
Published: June 2013

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an emerging epidemic with high prevalence in Western countries. Genome‐wide association studies had reported that a variation in the patatin‐like phospholipase domain containing 3 (PNPLA3) gene is associated with high susceptibility to NAFLD. However, the relationship between this variation and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has not been well established. We investigated the impact of PNPLA3 genetic variation (rs738409: C>G) on HCC risk and prognosis in the United States by conducting a case−control study that included 257 newly diagnosed and pathologically confirmed Caucasian patients with HCC (cases) and 494 healthy controls. Multivariate logistics and Cox regression models were used to control for the confounding effects of HCC risk and prognostic factors. We observed higher risk of HCC for subjects with a homozygous GG genotype than for those with CC or CG genotypes, the adjusted odds ratio (OR) was 3.21 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.68–6.41). We observed risk modification among individuals with diabetes mellitus (OR = 19.11; 95% CI, 5.13–71.20). The PNPLA3 GG genotype was significantly associated with underlying cirrhosis in HCC patients (OR = 2.48; 95% CI, 1.05–5.87). Moreover, GG allele represents an independent risk factor for death. The adjusted hazard ratio of the GG genotype was 2.11 (95% CI, 1.26–3.52) compared with CC and CG genotypes. PNPLA3 genetic variation (rs738409: C>G) may determine individual susceptibility to HCC development and poor prognosis. Further experimental investigations are necessary for thorough assessment of the hepatocarcinogenic role of PNPLA3. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Metabolic imaging of acute and chronic infarction in the perfused rat heart using hyperpolarised [1‐13C]pyruvate
Authors: Ball Daniel R. , Cruickshank Rachel , Carr Carolyn A. , Stuckey Daniel J. , Lee Philip , Clarke Kieran , Tyler Damian J.
Published: June 2013

Hyperpolarised 13C MRI can be used to generate metabolic images of the heart in vivo. However, there have been no similar studies performed in the isolated perfused heart. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop a method for the creation of 13C metabolite maps of the perfused rat heart and to demonstrate the technique in a study of acute and chronic myocardial infarction. Male Wistar rat hearts were isolated, perfused and imaged before and after occlusion of the left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery, creating an acute infarct group. In addition, a chronic infarct group was generated from hearts which had their LAD coronary artery occluded in vivo. Four weeks later, hearts were excised, perfused and imaged to generate metabolic maps of infused pyruvate and its metabolites lactate and bicarbonate. Myocardial perfusion and energetics were assessed by first‐pass perfusion imaging and 31P MRS, respectively. In both acute and chronically infarcted hearts, perfusion was reduced to the infarct region, as revealed by reduced gadolinium influx and lower signal intensity in the hyperpolarised pyruvate images. In the acute infarct region, there were significant alterations in the lactate (increased) and bicarbonate (decreased) signal ratios. In the chronically infarcted region, there was a significant reduction in both bicarbonate and lactate signals. 31P‐derived energetics revealed a significant decrease between control and chronic infarcted hearts. Significant decreases in contractile function between control and both acute and chronic infracted hearts were also seen. In conclusion, we have demonstrated that hyperpolarised pyruvate can detect reduced perfusion in the rat heart following both acute and chronic infarction. Changes in lactate and bicarbonate ratios indicate increased anaerobic metabolism in the acute infarct, which is not observed in the chronic infarct. Thus, this study has successfully demonstrated a novel imaging approach to assess altered metabolism in the isolated perfused rat heart. © 2013 The Authors. NMR in Biomedicine published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd
Synthesis of cross‐linked homopolymers and copolymers of 1‐vinylimidazole in supercritical carbon dioxide for removal of Cr(VI) from aqueous solution
Authors: Chen Pei , Cao Liqin , Wang Gang , Wang Jide
Published: June 2013

In this work, cross‐linked poly(1‐vinylimidazole) (PVIm) and poly(1‐vinylimidazole‐co‐acrylic acid) [poly(VIm‐co‐AA)] polyampholytes microgel were synthesized by precipitation polymerization in supercritical carbon dioxide at 14 and 20 MPa. The obtained products were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. The results indicate that the functional monomers including 1‐VIm and AA were cross‐linked in polymers successfully. Aggregate particles with diameters of approximately 200 nm were observed by scanning electron microscopy and particle size distribution. Surface area analysis showed that the surface area of microgel prepared at a pressure of 14 MPa are 40.28 m2/g. The swelling behavior of polyampholytes microgel was studied. The cross‐linking degrees of PVIm and copolymers can reach 92.6% and 98.1%. The effect of pH values of solution, contact time, adsorbent dosage, initial Cr(VI) concentration on adsorption capacity were also investigated. The results revealed that cross‐linked polymer has a high adsorption capacity of 306.0 mg/g for Cr(VI) in 130 mg/l solution at pH 2 and cross‐linker ratio of 27.3%. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Vincristine, irinotecan, and temozolomide in patients with relapsed and refractory Ewing sarcoma
Authors: Raciborska Anna , Bilska Katarzyna , Drabko Katarzyna , Chaber Radoslaw , Pogorzala Monika , Wyrobek Elżbieta , Polczyńska Katarzyna , Rogowska Elżbieta , Rodriguez‐Galindo Carlos , Wozniak Wojciech
Published: June 2013

Background

Patients with metastatic, progressive or recurrent Ewing sarcoma (ES) have a dismal outcome. The combination of irinotecan and temozolomide has been proposed as an effective salvage regimen for some pediatric malignancies. Thus, we sought to evaluate this combination with vincristine for patients with relapsed and refractory ES.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐two patients with relapsed or refractory ES were treated with the combination of vincristine (1.5 mg/m2 i.v. day 1), irinotecan (50 mg/m2/day i.v. days 1–5) and temozolomide (125 mg/m2/day p.o. days 1–5) (VIT) during the period 2008–2012. All toxicities were documented.

Results

A total of 91 cycles (median 4.1 cycles/patient) were administered. A complete response (CR) was achieved in five patients, partial response (PR) in seven patients, stable disease (SD) in three patients, and progression disease (PD) in seven patients, with an overall response rate of 68.1%. Median time to progression was 3.0 months (range 1.1–37.1 months). Five patients (22.7%) are alive with no evidence of disease with a median follow‐up of 10.3 months (range 2.1–46.5); four of them received consolidation with high‐dose chemotherapy and autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant after responding to VIT. Outcome was better for patients with relapsed ES compared with patients who progressed to initial therapy (estimated 2 year overall survival 36.4% vs. 0%, respectively). There were no significant toxicities.

Conclusions

The shorter, 5‐day VIT regimen is an active and well‐tolerated regimen in refractory ES. This combination deserves further investigation in the upfront management of patients with metastatic disease. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013;60:1621–1625. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pulmonary disease after treatment for wilms tumor: A report from the national wilms tumor long‐term follow‐up study
Authors: Green Daniel M. , Lange Jane M. , Qu Annie , Peterson Susan M. , Kalapurakal John A. , Stokes Dennis C. , Grigoriev Yevgeny A. , Takashima Janice R. , Norkool Pat , Friedman Debra L. , Breslow Norman E.
Published: June 2013

Purpose

This study was undertaken to evaluate the incidence of pulmonary disease among patients treated with radiation therapy (RT) for pulmonary metastases (PM) from Wilms tumor (WT).

Patients and Methods

We reviewed records of 6,449 patients treated on National Wilms Tumor Studies‐1, ‐2, ‐3, and ‐4 whose flow sheets or annual status reports documented one of several pulmonary conditions. Cases were fully evaluable if pulmonary function test (PFT) results were available, pulmonary fibrosis was identified on a chest radiograph or was listed as the primary or a contributing factor to death. Partially evaluable cases were those for whom PFT results could not be obtained. We evaluated the relationship between RT factors and the occurrence of pulmonary disease using hazard ratios (HRs) and cumulative incidence, treating death as a competing risk.

Results

Sixty‐four fully evaluable and 16 partially evaluable cases of pulmonary disease were identified. The cumulative incidence of pulmonary disease at 15 years since WT diagnosis was 4.0% (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.6–5.4%) among fully evaluable and 4.8% (95% CI 3.3–6.4%) among fully and partially evaluable patients who received lung RT for PM at initial diagnosis. Rates of pulmonary disease were substantially higher among those who received lung RT for PM present at initial diagnosis or relapse compared to those who received no RT or only abdominal RT (HR 30.2, 95% CI 16.9–53.9).

Conclusion

The risk of pulmonary disease must be considered in evaluating the risk:benefit ratio of lung RT for the management of PM from WT. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013;60:1721–1726. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fluorescent probe for high‐throughput screening of membrane protein expression
Authors: Backmark A. E. , Olivier N. , Snijder A. , Gordon E. , Dekker N. , Ferguson A. D.
Published: June 2013

Screening of protein variants requires specific detection methods to assay protein levels and stability in crude mixtures. Many strategies apply fluorescence‐detection size‐exclusion chromatography (FSEC) using green fluorescent protein (GFP) fusion proteins to qualitatively monitor expression, stability, and monodispersity. However, GFP fusion proteins have several important disadvantages; including false‐positives, protein aggregation after proteolytic removal of GFP, and reductions in protein yields without the GFP fusion. Here we describe a FSEC screening strategy based on a fluorescent multivalent NTA probe that interacts with polyhistidine‐tags on target proteins. This method overcomes the limitations of GFP fusion proteins, and can be used to rank protein production based on qualitative and quantitative parameters. Domain boundaries of the human G‐protein coupled adenosine A2a receptor were readily identified from crude detergent‐extracts of a library of construct variants transiently produced in suspension‐adapted HEK293‐6E cells. Well expressing clones of MraY, an important bacterial infection target, could be identified from a library of 24 orthologs. This probe provides a highly sensitive tool to detect target proteins to expression levels down to 0.02 mg/L in crude lysate, and requires minimal amounts of cell culture.