bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Revisiting the geometry of nd10 (n+1)s0 [M(H2O)]p+ complexes using four‐component relativistic DFT calculations and scalar relativistic correlated CSOV energy decompositions (Mp+ = Cu+, Zn2+, Ag+, Cd2+, Au+, Hg2+)
Authors: Gourlaouen Christophe , Piquemal Jean‐Philip , Saue Trond , Parisel Olivier
Published: November 2005

Hartree–Fock and DFT (B3LYP) nonrelativistic (scalar relativistic pseudopotentials for the metallic cation) and relativistic (molecular four‐component approach coupled to an all‐electron basis set) calculations are performed on a series of six nd10 (n+1)s0 [M(H2O)]p+ complexes to investigate their geometry, either planar C2v or nonplanar Cs. These complexes are, formally, entities originating from the complexation of a water molecule to a metallic cation: in the present study, no internal reorganization has been found, which ensures that the complexes can be regarded as a water molecule interacting with a metallic cation. For [Au(H2O)]+ and [Hg(H2O)]2+, it is observed that both electronic correlation and relativistic effects are required to recover the Cs structures predicted by the four‐component relativistic all‐electron DFT calculations. However, including the zero‐point energy corrections makes these shallow Cs minima vanish and the systems become floppy. In all other systems, namely [Cu(H2O)]+, [Zn(H2O)]2+, [Ag(H2O)]+, and [Cd(H2O)]2+, all calculations predict a C2v geometry arising from especially flat potential energy surfaces related to the out‐of‐plane wagging vibration mode. In all cases, our computations point to the quasi‐perfect transferability of the atomic pseudopotentials considered toward the molecular species investigated. A rationalization of the shape of the wagging potential energy surfaces (i.e., single well vs. double well) is proposed based on the Constrained Space Orbital Variation decompositions of the complexation energies. Any way of stabilizing the lowest unoccupied orbital of the metallic cation is expected to favor charge‐transfer (from the highest occupied orbital(s) of the water ligand), covalence, and, consequently, Cs structures. The CSOV complexation energy decompositions unambiguously reveal that such stabilizations are achieved by means of relativistic effects for [Au(H2O)]+, and, to a lesser extent, for [Hg(H2O)]2+. Such analyses allow to numerically quantify the rule of thumb known for Au+ which, once again, appears as a better archetype of a relativistic cation than Hg2+. This observation is reinforced due to the especially high contribution of the nonadditive correlation/relativity terms to the total complexation energy of [Au(H2O)]+. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem 27: 142–156, 2006
Prediction of spectroscopic constants for diatomic molecules in the ground and excited states using time‐dependent density functional theory
Authors: Falzon Chantal T. , Chong Delano P. , Wang Feng
Published: November 2005

Spectroscopic constants of the ground and next seven low‐lying excited states of diatomic molecules CO, N2, P2, and ScF were computed using the density functional theory SAOP/ATZP model, in conjunction with time‐dependent density functional theory (TD‐DFT) and a recently developed Slater type basis set, ATZP. Spectroscopic constants, including the equilibrium distances re, harmonic vibrational frequency ωe, vibrational anharmonicity ωexe, rotational constant Be, centrifugal distortion constant De, the vibration–rotation interaction constant αe, and the vibrational zero‐point energy E were generated in an effort to establish a reliable database for electron spectroscopy. By comparison with experimental values and a similar model with an established larger Slater‐type basis set, et‐QZ3P‐xD, it was found that this model provides reliably accurate results at reduced computational costs, for both the ground and excited states of the molecules. The over all errors of all eight lowest lying electronic states of the molecules under study using the effective basis set are re(±4%), ωe(±5% mostly without exceeding ±20%), ωexe(±5% mostly without exceeding 20%, much more accurate than a previous study on this constant of ±30%), Be(±8%), De(±10%), αe(±10%), and E(±10%). The accuracy obtained using the ATZP basis set is very competitive to the larger et‐QZ3P‐xD basis set in particular in the ground electronic states. The overall errors in re, ωexe, and αe in the ground states were given by ±0.7, ±10.1, and ±8.4%, respectively, using the efficient ATZP basis set, which is competitive to the errors of ±0.5, ±9.2, and ±9.1%, respectively for those constants using the larger et‐QZ3P‐xD basis set. The latter basis set, however, needs approximately four times of the CPU time on the National Supercomputing Facilities (Australia). Due to the efficiency of the model (TD‐DFT, SAOP and ATZP), it will be readily applied to study larger molecular systems. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem 27: 163–173, 2006
Arsenite pre‐conditioning reduces UVB‐induced apoptosis in corneal epithelial cells through the anti‐apoptotic activity of 27 kDa heat shock protein (HSP27)
Authors: Shi Biao , Isseroff R. Rivkah
Published: November 2005

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light poses a health risk for eye disease, and solar ultraviolet in the B range (UVB, 280–320 nm) is known to be related to various corneal disorders. In this study, we investigated whether pre‐conditioning of cells with arsenite (AsO) can reduce UVB‐induced apoptosis in human corneal epithelial cells, and whether the anti‐apoptotic activity of 27 kDa heat shock protein (HSP27), a small heat shock protein, plays a role in this protection. UVB at levels comparable to physiologic solar exposure induces apoptosis of corneal epithelial cells in culture, demonstrated by activation of caspase 9 and caspase 3, and DNA fragmentation. When cells were pre‐conditioned with arsenite prior to UVB exposure, the UVB‐induced cell death was reduced, and UVB‐induced activation of caspases and DNA fragmentation was inhibited. When cells were pre‐treated with SB 203580, which inhibits HSP27 phosphorylation through inhibition of p38 MAP kinase activation, the arsenite‐induced reduction of UVB‐induced apoptosis was partially reversed. Arsenite pre‐conditioning inhibited UVB‐induced apoptosis in a two‐phase pattern, which was temporally correlated with arsenite‐induced HSP27 expression and phosphorylation. Neutralization of intracellular HSP27 with its antibody reduced arsenite's inhibition of UVB‐induced caspase3 activation. Our results suggest that forms of stress that upregulate HSP27 and its phosphorylation may be useful as novel approaches to prevent adverse ocular effects arising from UV exposure in humans. J. Cell. Physiol. 206: 563–563, 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sustained and therapeutic levels of human factor IX in hemophilia B mice implanted with microcapsules: key role of encapsulated cells
Authors: Wen Jianping , Vargas Andrew Gómez , Ofosu Frederick A. , Hortelano Gonzalo
Published: November 2005

Background

A gene therapy delivery system based on microcapsules enclosing recombinant cells engineered to secrete a therapeutic protein was explored in this study. In order to prevent immune rejection of the delivered cells, they were enclosed in non‐antigenic biocompatible alginate microcapsules prior to being implanted intraperitoneally into mice. We have shown that encapsulated C2C12 myoblasts can temporarily deliver therapeutic levels of factor IX (FIX) in mice, but the C2C12 myoblasts elicited an immune response to FIX. In this study we report the use of mouse fetal G8 myoblasts secreting hFIX in hemophilia mice.

Methods

Mouse G8 myoblasts were transduced with MFG‐FIX vector. A pool of recombinant G8 myoblasts secreting ∼1500 ng hFIX/106 cells/24 h in vitro were enclosed in biocompatible alginate microcapsules and implanted intraperitoneally into immunocompetent C57BL/6 and hemophilic mice.

Results

Circulating levels of hFIX in treated mice reached ∼400 ng/ml for at least 120 days (end of experiment). Interestingly, mice treated with encapsulated G8 myoblasts did not develop anti‐hFIX antibodies. Activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) of plasmas obtained from treated hemophilic mice was reduced from 107 to 82 sec on day 60 post‐treatment, and whole blood clotting time (WBCT) was also corrected from 7–9 min before treatment to 3–5 min following microcapsule implantation. Further, mice were protected against bleeding following major trauma. Thus, the FIX delivery in vivo was biologically active.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that the type of cells encapsulated play a key role in the generation of immune responses against the transgene. Further, a judicious selection of encapsulated cells is critical for achieving sustained gene expression. Our findings support the feasibility of encapsulated G8 myoblasts as a gene therapy approach for hemophilia B. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ultrastructural organization of the anal organs in the anal capsule of Craterostigmus tasmanianus Pocock, 1902 (Chilopoda, Craterostigmomorpha)
Authors: Rosenberg Jörg , Müller Carsten H.G. , Hilken Gero
Published: November 2005

We describe the ultrastructural organization of the anal organs of Craterostigmus tasmanianus, which are located on the ventral side of the bivalvular anal capsule. Each part of the capsule bears four pore fields with several anal pores. The pores lead into a pore canal, which is surrounded by the single‐layered epithelium of the anal organs. Each anal organ is composed of four different cell types: transporting cells of the main epithelium, junctional cells, isolated epidermal glands, and the cells forming the pore canal. The transporting cells exhibit infoldings of the outer cell membranes, forming a basal labyrinth and a poorly developed apical complex. The cells are covered by a specialized cuticle with a widened subcuticular layer. Only the cuticle of the main epithelium is covered by a mucous layer, secreted by the epidermal glands. The ultrastructural organization of the anal organ is comparable to the coxal and anal organs of other pleurostigmophoran Chilopoda. It is likely that the coxal and anal organs of the Pleurostigmophora are homologous, due to their identical ultrastructural organization. Differences concerning the location on the trunk of Pleurostigmophora are not sufficient to reject a hypothesis of homology. Anal organs are found not only in Craterostigmomorpha, but also in most adult Geophilomorpha, and in larvae and most adults of Lithobiomorpha. The anal organs of C. tasmanianus are thought to play an important role in the uptake of atmospheric water. J. Morphol. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Base‐pairing potential identified by in vitro selection predicts the kinked RNA backbone observed in the crystal structure of the alfalfa mosaic virus RNA‐coat protein complex
Authors: Boyce Michael , Scott Felicia , Guogas Laura M. , Gehrke Lee
Published: November 2005

The three‐dimensional structure of the 3′ terminus of alfalfa mosaic virus RNA in complex with an amino‐terminal coat protein peptide revealed an unusual RNA fold with inter‐AUGC basepairing stabilized by key arginine residues (Guogas, et al., 2004). To probe viral RNA interactions with the full‐length coat protein, we have used in vitro genetic selection to characterize potential folding patterns among RNAs isolated from a complex randomized pool. Nitrocellulose filter retention, electrophoretic mobility bandshift analysis, and hydroxyl radical footprinting techniques were used to define binding affinities and to localize the potential RNA–protein interaction sites. Minimized binding sites were identified that included both the randomized domain and a portion of the constant regions of the selected RNAs. The selected RNAs, identified by their ability to bind full‐length coat protein, have the potential to form the same unusual inter‐AUGC Watson‐Crick base pairs observed in the crystal structure, although the primary sequences diverge from the wild‐type RNA. A constant feature of both the wild‐type RNA and the selected RNAs is a G ribonucleotide in the third position of an AUGC‐like repeat. Competitive binding assays showed that substituting adenosine for the constant guanosine in either the wild‐type or selected RNAs impaired coat protein binding. These data suggest that the interactions observed in the RNA–peptide structure are likely recapitulated when the full‐length protein binds. Further, the results underscore the power of in vitro genetic selection for probing RNA‐protein structure and function. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Anterior–inferior labral lesions of recurrent shoulder dislocation evaluated by MR arthrography in an adduction internal rotation (ADIR) position
Authors: Song Ho‐Taek , Huh Yong‐Min , Kim Sungjun , Lee Sung Ah , Kim Sung‐Jae , Shin Kyoo‐Ho , Suh Jin‐Suck
Published: November 2005

Purpose

To introduce and evaluate the usefulness of the adduction internal rotation (ADIR) position in MR arthrography for discriminating the following subtypes of Bankart lesions: classic Bankart lesions, anterior labroligamentous periosteal sleeve avulsion (ALPSA) lesions, and Perthes lesions.

Materials and Methods

The study group consisted of 25 patients who had been referred for MR arthrography of the shoulder and then underwent arthroscopy due to recurrent episodes of shoulder dislocation. MR arthrography was performed in three different positions: neutral, abduction external rotation (ABER), and ADIR. The authors evaluated the statistical significance of the method's discriminative diagnostic ability for the subtypes of Bankart lesions according to the position changes.

Results

Twenty‐three patients had the following single or complex labral lesions: classic Bankart (N = 8), ALPSA (N = 3), complex classic Bankart/ALPSA (N = 8), and complex ALPSA/Perthes (N = 4). Two patients had no visible anteroinferior labral lesions. The performance of ADIR positioning for differentiating ALPSA lesions was superior to the neutral or ABER positioning. The difference of the discriminative lesion detection ability was statistically significant (P <.01) only for detecting ALPSA lesions in the ADIR position.

Conclusion

MR arthrography in the ADIR position provides high accuracy for the diagnosis of ALPSA lesions, and complements routine MR arthrography when used to diagnose labroligamentous lesions in patients with recurrent shoulder dislocations. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Relaxation times of breast tissue at 1.5T and 3T measured using IDEAL
Authors: Rakow‐Penner Rebecca , Daniel Bruce , Yu Huanzhou , Sawyer‐Glover Anne , Glover Gary H.
Published: November 2005

Purpose:

To accurately measure T1 and T2 of breast fibroglandular tissue and fat at 1.5T and 3T, and note the partial volume effects of the admixture of fibroglandular tissue and fat on the relaxation rates using an approach termed iterative decomposition of water and fat with echo asymmetry and least squares estimation (IDEAL) imaging.

Materials and Methods:

T1 and T2 values were measured on the right breasts of five healthy women at 1.5T and 3T. T1 data were collected using two sequences: inversion recovery without IDEAL, and inversion recovery with IDEAL. T2 data were collected using Hahn Echo scans. SNR and CNR analyses were conducted on collected data.

Results:

T1 increased for both fat (21%) and glandular tissue (17%) from 1.5T to 3T. Thus, the TR and TI of breast protocols at 3T should be lengthened accordingly. SNR more than doubled for both tissue types from 1.5T to 3T. IDEAL imaging demonstrated the partial volume effects of fat and glandular tissue on measuring relaxation rates of independent tissue types.

Conclusion:

With separated fat and water images, more precise measurements can be made for the lipid component in fat, and the water component in fibroglandular tissue. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fat‐suppressed three‐dimensional dual echo dixon technique for contrast agent enhanced MRI
Authors: Ma Jingfei , Vu Anthony T. , Son Jong Bum , Choi Haesun , Hazle John D.
Published: November 2005

Purpose

To develop a fast T1‐weighted, fat‐suppressed three‐dimensional dual echo Dixon technique and to demonstrate its use in contrast agent enhanced MRI.

Materials and Methods

A product fast three‐dimensional gradient echo pulse sequence was modified to acquire dual echoes after each RF excitation with water and fat signals in‐phase (IP) and opposed‐phase (OP), respectively. An on‐line reconstruction algorithm was implemented to automatically generate separate water and fat images. The signal to noise ratio (SNR) of the new technique was compared to that of the product technique in phantom. In vivo abdomen and breast images of cancer patients were acquired at 1.5 Tesla using both techniques before and after intravenous administration of gadolinium contrast agent.

Results

In phantom, the new technique yields a close to the theoretically predicted 41% increase in SNR in comparison to the product technique without fat suppression (FS). In vivo images of the new technique show noticeably improved FS and image quality in comparison to the images acquired of the same patients using the product technique with FS.

Conclusion

The three‐dimensional dual echo Dixon technique provides excellent image quality and can be used for T1‐weighted, fat‐suppressed imaging with contrast agent injection. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Zero filled partial fourier phase contrast MR imaging: In vitro and in vivo assessment
Authors: Szarf Gilberto , Dori Yoav , Rettmann Dan , Tekes Aylin , Nasir Khurram , Amado Luciano , Foo Thomas K.F. , Bluemke David A.
Published: November 2005

Purpose

To validate partial Fourier phase contrast magnetic resonance (PC MR) with full number of excitation (NEX) PC MR measurements in vitro and in vivo.

Materials and Methods

MR flow measurements were performed using a partial Fourier and a full NEX PC MR sequence in a flow phantom and in 10 popliteal and renal arteries of 10 different healthy volunteers. Average velocity, peak velocity, and flow results were calculated and compared with regression analysis.

Results

Excellent correlations in average velocities (r = 0.99, P < 0.001), peak velocities (r = 0.99, P < 0.001), and flow rates (r = 0.98, P < 0.001) were demonstrated in vitro between the two different acquisitions. For the popliteal arteries there was excellent correlation between peak velocities for both acquisitions (r = 0.98, P < 0.0001); the correlation of average velocity measurements when using all data points in the cardiac cycle for all volunteers was 0.96 (P < 0.001). For the renal arteries the same comparison resulted in a good correlation for average velocity (0.93, P < 0.001) and peak velocity measurements (r = 0.91, P = 0.002), although the correlation coefficient for flow rates was 0.88 (P = 0.004). Blurring of the vessel margins was consistently observed on magnitude images acquired with the partial Fourier method, causing overestimation of the vessel area and some error in the flow measurements.

Conclusion

Partial Fourier PC MR is able to provide comparable average and peak velocity values when using 1 NEX PC MRI as a reference. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A case of mesenteric cystic lymphangioma: Fat saturation and chemical shift MR imaging
Authors: Yoo Eunhye , Kim Myeong‐Jin , Kim Ki Whang , Chung Jae‐Joon , Kim Seung Hyoung , Choi Jin‐Young
Published: November 2005

Mesenteric cystic lymphangioma is an uncommon lesion that may be difficult to diagnose radiologically. In our case, a septate cystic mass showed fluid attenuation on a computed tomography scan. We were able to define the fat content within the cystic tumor by magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. The presence of fat within an intra‐abdominal cystic mass is suggestive of a dermoid cyst, cystic lymphangioma, or lymphocele. The pathologic diagnosis revealed a cystic lymphangioma, which originated from the mesentery. Although the MR imaging features of dermoid cysts and lymphangiomas are well known, the demonstration of fat content by chemical shift and fat saturation MRI has not yet been reported for a cystic lymphangioma. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
MRI‐compatible incubation chamber for cell culture experiments
Authors: Schwenzer Nina F. , Grönewäller Eckart F. , Rodegerdts Enno , Kehlbach Rainer , Duda Stephan H. , Claussen Claus D.
Published: November 2005

Purpose

To develop an incubation chamber that is compatible with MRI, while avoiding sources of error due to the experimental setup.

Materials and Methods

Two identical and gas‐tight chambers were constructed of Plexiglas™. The temperature and the CO2 concentration were adjustable. Temperature variations within and between both chambers were measured. The pH values of the cell culture media were measured under different environmental settings. For each environment a colony formation test was carried out. The homogeneity of the magnetic field inside the chambers was estimated by phantom tests.

Results

The temperature variations within the chambers were <0.3°C, and the variation between the chambers was on average <0.05°C. After eight hours the pH values of the cell culture media were 7.47 and 7.48 in the reference and measurement chambers, respectively; 7.41 in the CO2 incubator; and 8.73 in ambient air. In colony formation tests the survival fraction in the Plexiglas™ chamber was comparable to that in the CO2 incubator. No distortions of the magnetic field from the incubation chamber were observed.

Conclusion

The incubation system presented can provide the conditions of a CO2 incubator without alteration of the magnetic flux density. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2006. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reduction or delay of post‐harvest physiological deterioration in cassava roots with higher carotenoid content
Authors: Sánchez T , Chávez AL , Ceballos H , Rodriguez‐Amaya DB , Nestel P , Ishitani M
Published: November 2005

Post‐harvest physiological deterioration (PPD) is one of the most important constraints in cassava production and commercialization. It has been hypothesized that the antioxidant properties of carotenoids in yellow cassava roots may help reduce or delay PPD. The industrial sector prefers cassava with a high dry matter content. The latter has also been reported to have a positive correlation with PPD. The objective of this study was to determine the correlation between both the dry matter and total carotenoid contents and PPD in the roots of 101 cassava clones. PPD was positively but weakly associated with dry matter content (R2= 0.100,P< 0.01), and inversely associated with the total carotenoid content in roots (R2= 0.515,P< 0.01). In addition, total carotenoid content and color intensity were strongly and positively associated (R2= 0.769,P< 0.01), suggesting that the roots of cassava clones with a relatively high total carotenoid content can be selected through a simple visual inspection of the color intensity in the parenchyma. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
The use of image analysis in observing mechanically deforming notched and un‐notched onion epidermal cellular structures
Authors: Piggott RB , Beckert M , Foxall R , Smith AC
Published: November 2005

The use of image analysis tools to study the deformation of cells in biological plant tissue is described. The tissue was taken from upper onion epidermal layers, chosen because they form a single structural layer and are relatively large and easy to work with. The paper describes image analysis techniques to investigate the structure of deforming notched and un‐notched onion epidermal cellular structures and compares the influence of vertically and horizontally oriented cells. Image processing was used to track and quantify dimensions on a cell‐by‐cell basis. Changes in the cell size are described quantitatively as a function of time for tissues stretched parallel and perpendicular to the cell axis. Tissue orientation has a marked effect on cell deformation and failure for an edge‐notched sample. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Transfer of phenolic compounds during olive oil extraction in relation to ripening stage of the fruit
Authors: Artajo Luz S , Romero Maria P , Motilva Maria J
Published: November 2005

The transfer of phenolic compounds of Olea europaea L. cv. Arbequina variety during olive oil extraction in relation to ripening stage was investigated. The parameters of oil extraction by the Abencor system are shown together with mass balances of the products and by products from the olive oil extraction in relation to olive paste. The phenolic compounds in olive paste, pomace, oil and wastewater were identified and measured by HPLC. Throughout the study, the concentrations of simple phenols, secoiridoids and flavonoids were higher in the olive paste and pomace phases than in oil and wastewater phases. High concentrations of 4‐(acetoxyethyl)‐1,2‐dihydroxybenzene (3,4‐DHPEA‐AC) and secoiridoid derivatives such as the dialdehydic form of elenolic acid linked to 3,4‐DHPEA (hydroxytyrosol) or p‐HPEA (tyrosol) (3,4‐DHPEA–EDA, p‐HPEA–EDA, where EDA is elenolic acid dialdehyde) and an isomer of oleuropein aglycone (3,4‐DHPEA–EA, where EA is elenolic acid aldehyde) were found in olive oil, together with lignan compounds. It was observed that 3,4‐DHPEA–EDA was the most abundant polyphenol present in the wastewater phase. This indicates that biotransformation occurred during olive extraction, especially in the crushing and malaxation operations, and reflects the possible chemical changes that lead to the formation of new compounds. Moreover, the distribution of compounds showed their affinities toward different phases. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Biogenic amines in Spanish fermented sausages as a function of diameter and artisanal or industrial origin
Authors: Miguélez‐Arrizado M Jesús , Bover‐Cid Sara , Latorre‐Moratalla M Luz , Vidal‐Carou M Carmen
Published: November 2005

The distribution of biogenic amines in three types of fermented meat sausages (chorizo, fuet and salchichón) was examined with respect to the degree of acidification. The aim was to determine whether low‐acid sausages (artisanal/traditional) have a different biogenic amine profile than more acidic products (industrial). Despite wide variability, tyramine was always found and was generally the major amine, followed by putrescine. Their contents in both industrial and artisanal sausages were similar, but correlated with the diameter of the product. In contrast, industrial sausages showed a higher average content of cadaverine and histamine, especially in chorizo, which also showed the highest content of free amino acids. Moreover, a multiple analysis of variance confirmed that the processing plant had a significant influence on the overall biogenic amine composition of products, histamine being the most important amine accounting for this effect. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Determination of volatile compounds to characterize fish spoilage using headspace/mass spectrometry and solid‐phase microextraction/gas chromatography/mass spectrometry
Authors: Duflos Guillaume , Coin Vincent Marcel , Cornu Marie , Antinelli Jean‐Francois , Malle Pierre
Published: November 2005

Changes in volatile compounds were monitored in whiting (Merlangius merlangus), cod (Gadus morhua) and mackerel (Scomber scombrus) and related to spoilage. Data are presented from headspace/mass spectrometric (HS/MS) analysis and solid‐phase microextraction/gas chromatographic/mass spectrometric (SPME/GC/MS) analysis at two time points (day 0 and day 10) during storage at 4 °C. HS/MS revealed 24 ions that could be used as markers of spoilage. SPME/GC/MS identified 86 compounds, 20 of which could perhaps be used to characterize freshness: principally alcohols, ketones, aldehydes and C2–C11 esters. Compounds common to the three species studied appear to be generated by microbial degradation. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Difference in in vitro fermentability of four carbohydrates and two diets, using ileal and faecal inocula from unweaned piglets
Authors: Awati Ajay , Bosch Marlou W , Tagliapietra Franco , Williams Barbara A , Verstegen Martin WA
Published: November 2005

An experiment was conducted to examine differences in the in vitro fermentability of four carbohydrate‐rich feed ingredients and two weaning piglet diets with and without these ingredients, using both the ileal contents and the faeces of unweaned piglets as inocula. In the first part of the experiment, cumulative gas production was measured over time, using faecal inocula mixed from nine specially raised crossbred piglets (no creep feed or antibiotics) at 3 weeks of age. Inulin, lactulose, unmolassed sugar beet pulp, wheat starch and the two diets were used as substrates and fermented in vitro for 72 h. Gas production was measured as an indicator of the kinetics of fermentation. Fermentation end‐products, including volatile fatty acids and ammonia, and organic matter loss, were also measured. For the fermentations of feed ingredients, samples were also collected for polymerase chain reaction/denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis analyses initially and after the fermentation process, to study changes in the composition of the bacterial community. This procedure was repeated 1 week later, using ileal contents from the same piglets as inoculum. There were significant differences between the inocula, in terms of both overall fermentation characteristics and composition and between the substrates. There was also a significant interaction between inocula and substrates, which suggests that there were potentially important differences in the microbial activity occurring in these two areas of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). For the two diets, one with and one without addition of these fermentable ingredients, there were significant differences in terms of the kinetics, but less so in terms of the end‐products of fermentation. It was concluded that inocula from both the small and large intestine should be used to obtain a more accurate assessment of potential feed ingredients which will stimulate fermentation in the piglet GIT. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Comparative effect of red yeast rice (Monascus purpureus), red beet root (Beta vulgaris) and betanin (E‐162) on colour and consumer acceptability of fresh pork sausages packaged in a modified atmosphere
Authors: Martínez Luis , Cilla Irene , Beltrán José Antonio , Roncalés Pedro
Published: November 2005

Fresh pork sausages containing natural colorants, red yeast rice powder (Monascus purpureus; Frame®) or a crude red beet root (Beta vulgaris) juice or commercial betanin (E‐162), at different concentrations, were packaged in an atmosphere containing 80% O2 and 20% CO2 and stored in the dark for 20 days. The following parameters were measured at 4 day intervals: instrumental colour (CIE L*, a*, b*, a*/b*, C* and h*), reflectance spectra, sensory discoloration (trained panel) and acceptability and willingness to purchase (habitual and non‐habitual consumer panels) under two different lighting displays (standard fluorescent and Promolux® lamp). The use of colorants improved the colour properties of fresh pork sausages. Sausages with red yeast rice, red beet root juice and betanin had lower L* and h* and higher a* and a*/b* values than control samples. The colour properties of sausages with red beet root were the closest to control sausages, while sausages with red yeast rice had significantly lower b* values. Both natural colorants and betanin protected sausages from discoloration and extended acceptability and willingness to purchase by about 4 days, according to evaluation by habitual consumers under two different types of lighting display. Therefore, red beet root juice may be envisaged as the most suitable natural colorant for use in fresh pork sausages. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Orthotopic liver transplantation in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patients: Outcome of 7 patients from the Bonn cohort
Authors: Vogel Martin , Voigt Esther , Schäfer Nico , Goldmann Georg , Schwarz Nicolas , Kalff Jörg C. , Sauerbruch Tilman , Wolff Martin , Rockstroh Jürgen Kurt , Spengler Ulrich
Published: November 2005

The outcome and clinical features of 7 HIV-positive patients who were liver transplanted at Bonn University in the era of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) between 1997 and 2004, analyzed by retrospective chart review, are reported. Reasons for orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) were end-stage liver disease due to chronic hepatitis C (n = 4) or hepatitis B (n = 1) or acute liver failure due to fulminant hepatitis B (n = 2). Immunosuppression was based on cyclosporine A and prednisone. HAART was reinitiated 1 month after transplantation, and immunosuppression was carefully adapted to account for drug-drug interactions between cyclosporine A and protease inihibitors. Prednisone was withdrawn 5 months (median) after OLT when immunosuppression had been reliably established in the presence of HAART. One patient died 95 days after OLT due intrathoracic hemorrhage, whereas 6 patients were alive at a median of 24 months. A single episode of acute rejection was observed. The spectrum of postoperative complications was no different from HIV-negative patients apart from Kaposi's sarcoma and multicentric Castleman's disease in a single patient. Recurrent hepatitis B infection was efficiently prevented, whereas hepatitis C reinfection occurred in all 4 patients who had preexisting hepatitis C. Earlier reports on fatal courses of recurrent hepatitis C infection, high rates of organ rejection, and HAART-related liver toxicity were not observed in our patients. In conclusion, even though preliminary, our data suggest that outcomes after liver transplantation of HIV-infected patients can be improved. (Liver Transpl 2005;11:1515–1521.)
Preincubation of rat and human hepatocytes with cytoprotectants prior to cryopreservation can improve viability and function upon thawing
Authors: Terry Claire , Dhawan Anil , Mitry Ragai R. , Lehec Sharon C. , Hughes Robin D.
Published: November 2005

Cryopreservation of human hepatocytes is important for the treatment of liver disease by hepatocyte transplantation and also for the use of hepatocytes as an in vitro model of the liver. One factor in the success of cryopreservation is the quality of cells before freezing. Preincubation of hepatocytes with cytoprotective compounds to allow recovery from the isolation process prior to cryopreservation, such as those that will boost cellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content or antioxidants, may improve the viability and function of cells upon thawing. Rat hepatocytes were used to investigate the effects of preincubation with 10 compounds: precursors (glucose, fructose, glutathione, and

S
-adenosyl-L-methionine), antioxidants (ascorbic acid and α-lipoic acid), and compounds with multiple effects (N-acetylcysteine, pentoxifylline, prostaglandin E1, and tauroursodeoxycholic acid). Human hepatocytes were then used to investigate 5 of the original 10 compounds (glucose, fructose, α-lipoic acid,

S
-adenosyl-L-methionine, and pentoxifylline). Glucose preincubation (100 - 300 mM) improved the viability and attachment efficiency of rat hepatocytes and improved the viability and reduced lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage of human hepatocytes. Fructose preincubation (100 - 300 mM) improved the viability and attachment efficiency of rat hepatocytes and improved the attachment efficiency of human hepatocytes. α-lipoic acid preincubation (0.5 - 5 mM) improved the viability and attachment efficiency of both rat and human hepatocytes. At a concentration of 2.5 mM α-lipoic acid also improved the albumin production of human hepatocytes. In conclusion, preincubation of hepatocytes prior to cryopreservation can improve the viability and function of thawed cells and may provide a method of obtaining better-quality cryopreserved hepatocytes for transplantation. (Liver Transpl 2005;11:1533–1540.)
Recurrent hepatitis C after retransplantation: Factors affecting graft and patient outcome
Authors: Carmiel-Haggai Michal , Fiel Isabel M. , Gaddipati Himabindu C. , Abittan Chaim , Hossain Sabera , Roayaie Sasan , Schwartz Myron E. , Gondolesi Gabriel , Emre Sukru , Schiano Thomas D.
Published: November 2005

Retransplantation (re-LT) of patients with recurrent hepatitis C virus (HCV) carries significant morbidity and mortality, negatively impacting on an already scarce donor allograft pool. In this study, we investigated the outcome of allografts and patients after re-LT due to recurrent HCV. Between 1989 and 2002, 47 patients were retransplanted at our institution due to HCV-related graft failure. Clinical HCV recurrence after re-LT was diagnosed when patients had acute liver enzyme elevation correlated with histological recurrence. The independent influence of these variables on survival was tested using Cox regression model. Chi-squared tests were used to examine the influence of individual demographic and pre/perioperative variables on recurrence. Thirty-one (66%) patients died after re-LT (median 2.2 months). Donor age >60, clinical HCV recurrence, and graft failure due to cirrhosis were significant risk factors for mortality (risk ratios of 3.6, 3.3, and 2.4, respectively). Pre-LT MELD score was lower among survivors (22± 5 vs. 27± 8). Following re-LT, 38 patients had at least one biopsy due to acute liver dysfunction; 19 of them (50%) had recurrence within the first 3 months. High-dose solumedrol was correlated with early recurrence. No association was found between time of recurrence after the first LT and time of recurrence after re-LT. In conclusion, patients with cirrhosis due to recurrent HCV undergoing re-LT have an extremely high mortality rate; older allografts should be avoided in retransplanting these patients. The timing of clinical recurrence after initial liver transplantation is not predictive of the timing of recurrence after re-LT. Patients experiencing early graft failure due to accelerated forms of HCV should not be denied re-LT with the expectation that a similar disease course will occur after re-LT. (Liver Transpl 2005;11:1567–1573.)
Activation pattern of mitogen-activated protein kinases in early phase of different size liver isografts in rats
Authors: Liang Tingbo , Xu Shiguo , Yu Jun , Shen Kezhen , Li Donglin , Zheng Shusen
Published: November 2005

Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) play a pivotal role in ischemia reperfusion injuries of heart and liver, but the activation pattern of MAPKs in the early phase of different size liver isografts remains unclear. The experiment is designed to investigate the activation pattern and role of MAPKs in isografts of the rat with different size liver transplantation. The animal models of different size graft liver transplantation (whole graft, 50% size, or 30% size, respectively) were established and the sham operation group served as a control. The recipients were sacrificed at 0.5-, 2-, 6-, and 24-hour time points after transplantation to harvest the graft specimens and blood samples. The serum aspartate amino transferase (AST), alanine amino transferase (ALT) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels, and histological findings were evaluated. The expressions of the total and phosphorylated p46/p54 JNKs, p38 MAPK, and p42/p44 ERKs were detected by Western blot. The serum ALT and AST levels increased significantly at the 0.5-hour time point and maintained high with the peak levels at the 6-hour time point after liver transplantation. The different sizes of liver isografts did not change the expressions of total p46/p54JNKs, p38MAPK, and p42/p44 ERKs. While the expressions of phosphorylated p46/p54JNKs, p38 MAPK, and p42/p44 ERKs were either negative or mildly up-regulated in the sham operation group, they were significantly activated in the transplanted liver at the 0.5-hour time point, especially in the 30% size liver transplantation group. In conclusion, the activation of three MAPKs in liver isografts correlates with graft size and the JNK and p38 MAPK are responsible for the graft injury while the ERK signal pathway maybe participate in the regulation of cell growth and differentiation after small-for-size liver transplantation. (Liver Transpl 2005;11:1527–1532.)
Changes in liver volume from birth to adulthood: A meta-analysis
Authors: Johnson Trevor N. , Tucker Geoffrey T. , Tanner Stuart M. , Rostami-Hodjegan Amin
Published: November 2005

A diversity of equations is available for the estimation of liver volume (LV), derived from studies in populations of ethnically homogeneous individuals and using a variety of methods of measurement. The aim of this study was to integrate all published pediatric data and to define a general equation for estimating LV from birth onward. Data were collated from 5,036 subjects (birth to 18 yr old). Equations were developed based on simple regression against body surface area (BSA) and multiple regression of LV with weight, height, BSA, age, gender, race, methodology, and year of publication as covariates. These equations, together with those reported in the literature, were compared for accuracy of prediction of LV from birth to 18 yr old. The most parsimonious equation to describe LV was selected according to the Akaike information criteria (AIC), precision and bias and following visual inspection of residual errors and observed vs. predicted plots: LV = 0.722 * BSA1.176. The multiple regression models indicated that Japanese have up to 19% larger livers compared to Caucasians for a given body weight. Radiographic and ultrasonic measurements were associated with up to 8% lower estimates of liver size compared to measurements made at autopsy. There was no evidence that gender or the year in which a study was published (1933–1999) influenced the estimation of LV. The general equation was also applied to predict adult LV, and its precision and accuracy was found to be superior to those of 10/11 published adult models. In conclusion, we have developed a more general model to predict LV in pediatric populations and young adults, and have investigated a range of covariates. (Liver Transpl 2005;12:1481–1493.)
A prospective study on downstaging of hepatocellular carcinoma prior to liver transplantation
Authors: Yao Francis Y. , Hirose Ryutaro , LaBerge Jeanne M. , Davern Timothy J. , Bass Nathan M. , Kerlan Robert K. , Merriman Raphael , Feng Sandy , Freise Chris E. , Ascher Nancy L. , Roberts John P.
Published: November 2005

In patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) exceeding conventional (T2) criteria for orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT), the feasibility and outcome following loco-regional therapy intended for tumor downstaging to meet T2 criteria for OLT are unknown. In this first prospective study on downstaging of HCC prior to OLT, the eligibility criteria for enrollment into a downstaging protocol included 1 lesion >5 cm and ≤8 cm, 2 or 3 lesions at least 1 >3 cm but ≤5 cm with total tumor diameter of ≤8 cm, or 4 or 5 nodules all ≤3 cm with total tumor diameter ≤8 cm. Patients were eligible for living-donor liver transplantation (LDLT) if tumors were downstaged to within proposed University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) criteria.
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A minimum follow-up period of 3 months after downstaging was required before cadaveric OLT or LDLT, with imaging studies meeting criteria for successful downstaging. Among the 30 patients enrolled, 21 (70%) met criteria for successful downstaging, including 16 (53%) who had subsequently received OLT (2 with LDLT), and 9 patients (30%) were classified as treatment failures. In the explant of 16 patients who underwent OLT, 7 had complete tumor necrosis, 7 met T2 criteria, but 2 exceeded T2 criteria. No HCC recurrence was observed after a median follow-up of 16 months after OLT. The Kaplan-Meier intention-to-treat survival was 89.3 and 81.8% at 1 and 2 yr, respectively. In conclusion, successful tumor downstaging can be achieved in the majority of carefully selected patients, but longer follow-up is needed to further access the risk of HCC recurrence after OLT. (Liver Transpl 2005;11:1505–1514.)
Chicken pox after pediatric liver transplantation
Authors: Levitsky Josh , Kalil Andre C. , Meza Jane L. , Hurst Glenn E. , Freifeld Alison
Published: November 2005

Previous case series have reported serious complications of chicken pox (CP) after pediatric liver transplantation (PLT), mainly due to visceral dissemination. The goal of our study was to determine the incidence, risk factors, and outcomes of CP after PLT. A case-control study of all CP infections in pediatric transplant recipients followed at our center from September 1993 to April 2004 was performed. Data were collected before and after infection and at the same time points in age-, gender-, and transplant year-matched controls. Potential risk factors prior to CP and adverse outcomes after infection were compared between cases and controls. Twenty (6.2%) developed CP at a median of 1.8 yr (0.6–4.8) after PLT. All CP infections were cutaneous, with no evidence of organ involvement. Twelve were hospitalized: 9 only to receive intravenous acyclovir and 3 stayed ≥2 weeks for other complications. Risk factors were not statistically different among cases and controls. Of the outcomes analyzed, cases were significantly more likely to develop non-CP infections within one year of CP than controls (Hazard Ratio = 12.6, 95% confidence interval = 3.1–51.7;

P

< 0.001). These infections were often bacterial and occurred long after CP infection. In conclusion, CP is uncommon after PLT and has a low likelihood of organ dissemination. No risk factors were identified. Some cases required prolonged hospitalizations. Close monitoring for the development of late bacterial infections is warranted. (Liver Transpl 2005;11:1563–1566.)
Validity of preoperative volumetric analysis of congestion volume in living donor liver transplantation using three-dimensional computed tomography
Authors: Yonemura Yusuke , Taketomi Akinobu , Soejima Yuji , Yoshizumi Tomoharu , Uchiyama Hideaki , Gion Tomonobu , Harada Noboru , Ijichi Hideki , Yoshimitsu Kengo , Maehara Yoshihiko
Published: November 2005

Reconstruction of middle hepatic vein (MHV) tributaries is controversial in right-lobe living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). This study aimed to evaluate the appropriateness of reconstructing MHV tributaries by volumetry using 3-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT). Between November 2003 and January 2005, 42 donor livers (right-lobe graft, n = 25; left-lobe graft, n = 17) were evaluated using this software. The total congestion volume (CV) associated with the MHV tributaries and the inferior right hepatic vein (IRHV), and graft volume (GV) were calculated. In recipients with right-lobe grafts, CV/(right liver volume [RLV]) and (GV − CV)/(standard liver volume [SLV]) were compared between 2 groups: with reconstruction (n = 16) and without reconstruction (n = 9). To evaluate the influence of CV on the remnant right lobe in donors, total bilirubin was compared between 2 groups: high CV (CV > 20%, n = 13) or low CV (CV ≤ 20%, n = 4). The mean CV/RLV ratio was 32.3 ± 17.1% (V5, 15.2 ± 9.9%; V8, 9.2 ± 4.1%; and IRHV, 8.5 ± 11.4%) and the maximum ratio was as high as 80.8%. The mean (GV − CV)/SLV ratio before reconstruction in patients with or without reconstruction resulted in 33.5 ± 12.8% and 55.4 ± 12.9%, respectively (

P

< 0.01). In donors, total bilirubin was significantly high in the high CV group on postoperative day 1 compared with the low CV group (

P

< 0.05). In conclusion, calculation of CV using 3D-CT software proved to be very useful. We concluded that this evaluation should be an integral part of procedure planning, especially for right-lobe LDLT. (Liver Transpl 2005;11:1556–1562.)