bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietary Vitamin D Intake Among Elderly Residents in a Veterans’ Centre
Authors: Hall Kathryn L. , Denda Caroline E. , Yeung Helen
Published: February 2010

Purpose: Dietary vitamin D intake was assessed among residents in a long-term care (LTC) facility, so that recommendations could be made about vitamin D supplementation.

Methods: Three-day tray audits were completed for allmeals and snacks, including nutritional supplements (Boost™and/or high-protein pudding). Total daily and three-day vitamin D intake was calculated for each resident, and the total sample was compared with the recommended Adequate Intake (AI) of 600 IU. Vitamin D content was calculated using the Canadian Nutrient File and product labels. Resident charts were reviewed for micronutrient supplements and diagnoses.

Results: The daily average vitamin D available to and consumed by 30 residents was 414 IU and 295 IU, respectively. Those provided with nutritional supplements received an average of 480 IU and consumed 357 IU, while those without received an average of 245 IU and consumed 207 IU. Thirty-three percent of residents were diagnosed with osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and falls and/or fractures. Vitamin Dmicronutrient supplementation varied from above 600 IU (43%) to below 600 IU (30%) to no supplementation (27%).

Conclusions:None of the study participantsmet the recommended AI of 600 IU through dietary sources alone. Study results suggest that all LTC residents require vitamin Dmicronutrient supplementation of at least 400 IU to achieve the recommended AI of 600 IU.
Kristeva's Stranger Within: The Question of the Foreigner in Daniel Prévost's Le Passé sous silence
Authors: Barclay Fiona
Published: February 2010

This article draws on Kristeva's theories of the foreigner within the national boundaries and, combining this with her earlier work on the abject, considers the challenge posed by the individual who is rejected as foreign, to the boundaries which constitute collective and individual identity. With reference to Prévost's Le Passé sous silence (1998), it argues that the solutions posited by Kristeva are of limited value within contemporary French society, and concludes by considering the potential of literature as an alternative means of reconciliation with otherness.
Lyotard's Algeria: Experiments in Theory
Authors: Hiddleston Jane
Published: February 2010

This article explores the changing position of Lyotard's writing on Algeria within his corpus. The essays gathered together in La Guerre des Algériens: Ecrits 1956–63 (The Algerians’ War: Texts 1956–63), and published much later in 1989, are certainly among his most overtly politically engaged. These pieces track the progress of the War of Independence from the early signs of unrest in 1952 to what Lyotard perceives as the divisive effects of FLN ideology in the aftermath of independence, and the collection as a whole underlines not only the conflict between coloniser and colonised but also that between the rural masses and the bourgeoisie. Nevertheless, despite his commitment to Algerian independence at the time of writing, Lyotard later lamented the failings of these essays. He also alters his stance on his own use of Marxism, and condemns his attempts to offer a Marxist revolutionary critique. He then chose to republish the work in 1989, yet this volte-face testifies to the author's ongoing ambivalence towards his own writing on decolonization. At one moment, Lyotard mocks and undermines his own efforts to understand and systematize the mechanics of the liberation movement. Yet he then goes on to suggest that the Algerian conflict exemplifies his later concept of the ‘differend’. This unease both within and towards the volume La Guerre des Algériens will be the focus of this article. The essays’ eclecticism, and Lyotard's own altering response to them, can be understood as an early testimony to an increasing scepticism towards Marxism in French critical thought, and, at the same time, towards what Lyotard conceived as dogmatic ‘theory’, in the context of decolonization in Algeria.
Topography-guided Transepithelial Surface Ablation Followed by Corneal Collagen Cross-linking Performed in a Single Combined Procedure for the Treatment of Keratoconus and Pellucid Marginal Degeneration
Authors: Stojanovic Aleksandar , Zhang Jia , Chen Xiangjun , Nitter Tore A. , Chen Shihao , Wang Qinmei
Published: February 2010

PURPOSE:

To evaluate a combination of topography-guided custom ablation and corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) in a single procedure for the treatment of keratectasia.

METHODS:

Twelve eyes of 12 patients with keratectasia were treated with topography-guided custom ablation and CXL. Topography-guided custom ablation was performed using a transepithelial technique with the iVIS Suite 1 kHz flying spot excimer laser. Collagen cross-linking was performed immediately after topography-guided custom ablation, according to standard protocol. Postoperative follow-up examinations were performed at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), refractive change, corneal topography, and pachymetry were analyzed pre- and postoperatively.

RESULTS:

Mean UCVA increased from 20/1000 preoperatively to 20/125 12 months postoperatively. Mean BSCVA increased from 20/57 to 20/35, with no loss of lines of visual acuity. Mean astigmatism was reduced from 5.40±2.13 diopters (D) to 2.70±1.44 D, and keratometric asymmetry decreased from 6.38±1.02 D to 2.76±0.73 D. Only minor changes in posterior corneal surface elevation and stability of refraction were found, confirming that no progression of ectasia occurred during the observation time.

CONCLUSIONS:

A combination of topography-guided custom ablation and CXL improved patients' visual, refractive, and topography outcomes and halted the progression of keratectasia within the observation period of 12 months. This method may postpone or eliminate the need for corneal transplantation in suitable cases with keratectasia. [
J Refract Surg
. 2010;26:145–152.]
Riparian Areas of the Southwest: Learning from Repeat Photographs
Authors: Zaimes George N. , Crimmins Michael A.
Published: February 2010

Spatial and temporal variability of riparian areas, as well as potential impacts from climate change, are concepts that land and water managers and stakeholders need to understand to effectively manage and protect riparian areas. Rapid population growth in the southwestern United States, and multiple‐use designation of most riparian areas, makes understanding these concepts even more important. To assist in this endeavor, the Watershed/Riparian and Climate Science Extension programs at the University of Arizona developed two experiential learning exercises with repeat photographs of riparian areas. Experiential learning is the process of learning from direct experiences; repeat photography, a tool for long‐term monitoring, provides visual details of landscapes across large temporal scales. The goal of the exercises was to increase the participant's knowledge on certain topics through active participation, communication, problem‐based learning, critical thinking, and empowerment. The first exercise examined precipitation, stream flow, and potential climate change impacts on riparian areas. The second exercise investigated how riparian areas change around the state of Arizona and through time while trying to understand the factors that cause these changes. The participants’ evaluations indicate that their knowledge level increased after conducting the exercises. In addition, the exercises are a more pleasant way of learning than the traditional teaching methods. These exercises were specific to the southwestern United States but could easily be adapted by extension professionals in other regions of the United States as well as for university courses. The plethora of repeat photographs is an unexploited resource that should be utilized for educational purposes.
Exploring the public health impact of an intensive exercise program for patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A dissemination and implementation study
Authors: van der Giesen F. J. , van Lankveld W. , Hopman‐Rock M. , de Jong Z. , Munneke M. , Hazes J. M. W. , van Riel P. L. C. M. , Peeters A. J. , Ronday H. K. , Vlieland T. P. M. Vliet
Published: February 2010

Objective

To evaluate the implementation of an intensive group exercise program in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

In 4 regions in The Netherlands, the Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients In Training exercise program was implemented on a limited scale. Evaluation using the RE‐AIM model included: Reach, the proportion of the target population participating; Efficacy, effects on muscle strength, aerobic capacity, functional ability, and psychological functioning; Adoption, program adoption by stakeholders; Implementation, intervention quality (quality audits); and Maintenance, stakeholders' willingness to continue the program in the future.

Results

Twenty‐five physical therapists from 14 practices were trained to provide the program. In total, 150 RA patients were recruited (by estimation, 2% of the target population). Of the 81 patients who had finished the 12‐month intervention and were available for followup directly after the intervention, 62 patients provided clinical data. Muscle strength improved significantly, whereas aerobic capacity, functional ability, psychological functioning, and disease activity did not change. All 9 informed local patient organizations facilitated patient recruitment, and 35 of 51 rheumatologists involved referred one or more patients. All 10 approached health insurance companies funded the program for 12 months. The quality audits showed sufficient quality in 9 of 12 practices. All of the providers of the program were willing to provide the program in the future, whereas future reimbursement by health insurance companies remained unclear.

Conclusion

The implementation of an intensive exercise program for RA patients on a limited scale can be considered successful regarding its reach, adoption, and implementation. The limited effectiveness and the limited data regarding maintenance warrant additional research.
Comparison of radiographic joint space width with magnetic resonance imaging cartilage morphometry: Analysis of longitudinal data from the osteoarthritis initiative
Authors: Duryea Jeffrey , Neumann Gesa , Niu Jingbo , Totterman Saara , Tamez Jose , Dabrowski Christine , Le Graverand Marie‐Pierre Hellio , Luchi Monica , Beals Chan R. , Hunter David J.
Published: February 2010

Objective

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and radiography are established imaging modalities for the assessment of knee osteoarthritis (OA). The objective of our study was to compare the responsiveness of radiographic joint space width (JSW) with MRI‐derived measures of cartilage morphometry for OA progression in participants from the Osteoarthritis Initiative (OAI).

Methods

This study examined the baseline and 12‐month visits of a subset of 150 subjects from the OAI. Measurement of radiographic JSW was facilitated by the use of automated software that delineated the femoral and tibial margins of the joint. Measures of medial compartment minimum JSW and JSW at fixed locations were compared with cartilage morphometry measures derived from MRI. The results were stratified by Kellgren/Lawrence (K/L) scale grade and by tibiofemoral anatomic axis angle. In order to examine the relative responsiveness of various techniques, we calculated the standardized response mean (SRM) between the 2 visits.

Results

The SRM for radiographic JSW measured at the optimal location was −0.32 compared with −0.39 for the most responsive MRI measure. For the subgroup with a K/L scale grade of 2 or 3, the most responsive SRM values were −0.34 for radiographic JSW and −0.42 for MRI.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that new measures using a software analysis of digital knee radiographic images are comparable with MRI in detecting OA progression, and potentially superior when considering the cost‐effectiveness of the 2 imaging modalities.
Minimal clinically important differences of disease activity indices in childhood‐onset systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Brunner Hermine I. , Higgins Gloria C. , Klein‐Gitelman Marisa S. , Lapidus Sivia K. , Olson Judyann C. , Onel Karen , Punaro Marilynn , Ying Jun , Giannini Edward H.
Published: February 2010

Objective

To determine the minimal clinically important differences (MCIDs) of validated measures of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) disease activity in childhood‐onset SLE.

Methods

Childhood‐onset SLE patients (n = 98) were followed every 3 months for up to 7 visits (n = 623 total visits). Disease activity measures (European Consensus Lupus Activity Measure, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index, Systemic Lupus Activity Measure, British Isles Lupus Assessment Group, and Responder Index for Lupus Erythematosus [RIFLE]) were completed at the time of each visit. Physician‐rated changes in the disease course (clinically relevant improvement, no change, clinically relevant worsening) between visits served as the criterion standard.

Results

MCIDs defined by mean change scores with improvement and worsening, or those based on the standard error of measurement with stable disease, were both small and did not discriminate well between disease courses (detection rates for improvement or worsening were all <55%). MCIDs based on discriminant and classification analyses yielded similar results. Alternative MCIDs, defined by a 70% predicted probability of improvement or worsening as per the discrimination analysis, were larger but underestimated the proportion of patients with change. The RIFLE only correctly identified 26% and 8% of episodes of clinically important worsening and improvement of childhood‐onset SLE, respectively.

Conclusion

The MCIDs of childhood‐onset SLE disease activity measures are often small but similar to those reported for adults with SLE. Therefore, even small changes in disease activity scores can be clinically relevant. Low correct detection rates of these MCID thresholds for changes in disease course support the notion that worsening and improvement with childhood‐onset SLE, or its response to therapy, is unlikely to be captured adequately by validated measures of disease activity alone.
Claisen–Schmidt Condensation Catalyzed by Metal‐Organic Frameworks
Authors: Dhakshinamoorthy Amarajothi , Alvaro Mercedes , Garcia Hermenegildo
Published: February 2010

Metal‐organic framework [Fe(BTC) (BTC=1,3,5‐benzenetricarboxylic acid)] is a convenient heterogeneous catalyst for the carbon‐carbon bond forming reaction in toluene between acetophenone and benzaldehyde to give selectively chalcone in high yield. Fe(BTC) appears as a general catalyst able to synthesize selectively different chalcone derivatives bearing various functionalities. Fe(BTC) could be recycled with no significant loss of catalytic efficiency and crystallinity in subsequent runs.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of 7‐Azaisoindigo Derivatives
Authors: Wang Zhao‐Hui , Wang Tao , Yao Shi‐Ning , Chen Jing‐cai , Hua Wei‐Yi , Yao Qi‐Zheng
Published: February 2010

A series of novel 7‐azaisoindigo derivatives 3–14 were designed, synthesized, and structurally characterized by IR, 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, mass spectra, and elemental analyses. Their antiproliferative activities were evaluated in a hormone‐independent prostate cancer cell line DU145. Among them, compounds 8, 9, 14 showed the highest activities. Our study also showed that compounds 7, 11, 12 exhibited higher inhibitory activities on CDK2/cyclin A than that of the positive control meisoindigo. Western blot analysis on DU145 cells treated with compounds 7 and 9 demonstrated that 7‐azaisoindigo derivatives could decrease the level of CDK2 activity (phosphorylation) and the expression of cyclin D1, and increase the expression of endogenous cyclin‐dependent inhibitor p27.
Successful percutaneous retrieval of methyl methacrylate orthopedic cement embolism from the pulmonary artery
Authors: Bose Rahul , Choi James W.
Published: February 2010

Vertebroplasty cement embolization into the venous system has long been recognized as a potential complication, but the true incidence of systemic embolization is unknown. Clinical presentations range from patients who are asymptomatic or have incidental findings on imaging to massive pulmonary embolism resulting in death. Optimal treatment is controversial and the natural history is unknown. We present the case of an 85‐year‐old female undergoing combined laminectomy and vertebroplasty with subsequent pulmonary embolism of the cement which was successfully retrieved from a percutaneous approach. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reproducibility of near‐infrared spectroscopy for the detection of lipid core coronary plaques and observed changes after coronary stent implantation
Authors: Garcia Bobby A. , Wood Frances , Cipher Daisha , Banerjee Subhash , Brilakis Emmanouil S.
Published: February 2010

Objectives: To evaluate the reproducibility of catheter‐based intracoronary near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) for the detection of lipid core coronary plaques (LCPs) and to examine stenting‐induced changes in NIRS findings. Background: The in‐vivo reproducibility of coronary NIRS findings and their changes after stenting have not previously been characterized. Methods: NIRS assessment using an automated pullback catheter was performed in duplicate in 36 vessels in 31 patients. The reproducibility of the Lipid Core Burden Index (LCBI) and the presence and number of LCPs was assessed. The changes in LCBI after stenting were also assessed in 25 vessels in 22 patients. Results: LCBI of the first and second pullback was 64 ± 43 and 70 ± 62, respectively, with excellent correlation (Spearman's rho 0.927, intraclass correlation coefficient 0.925). Depending on LCP definition, mean LCP length, and median LCP number ranged from 2.44 to 17.25 mm, and from 0 to 2, respectively per artery studied. High correlation was observed between the two pullbacks for total LCP length (depending on the LCP definition used, the Spearman's rho and the intraclass correlation coefficient ranged from 0.72 to 0.89, and from 0.76 to 0.91, respectively) and for LCP number (depending on the LCP definition used, the Spearman's rho and the intraclass correlation coefficient ranged from 0.70 to 0.87, and from 0.67 to 0.88, respectively). The mean LCBI decreased by 40% from 78 ± 47 to 48 ± 38 after stenting (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The LCBI and LCP length NIRS measurements have high reproducibility. LCBI significantly decreases after coronary stenting. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The Construction of Open GdIII Metal–Organic Frameworks Based on Methanetriacetic Acid: New Objects with an Old Ligand
Authors: Cañadillas‐Delgado Laura , Martín Tomás , Fabelo Oscar , Pasán Jorge , Delgado Fernando S. , Lloret Francesc , Julve Miguel , Ruiz‐Pérez Catalina
Published: February 2010

The preparation, X‐ray crystallography and magnetic investigation of the first examples of methanetriacetate (mta)‐containing lanthanide(III) complexes of formulae [Gd(mta)(H2O)3]n⋅4 n H2O (1) [Gd(mta)(H2O)3]n⋅2 n H2O (2) and [Gd2(mta)2(H2O)2]n⋅2 n H2O (3) are described herein. This tripodal ligand promotes the formation of 63 networks; thus 1 consists of a honeycomb structure, whereas in 2 two of these layers are condensed to form a rare five‐connected two‐dimensional (4862) network. Compound 3 can be seen as an aggregation of 63 layers leading to a three‐dimensional (6,6)‐connected binodal (41263)(4966)‐nia net, in which the gadolinium(III) ions and the mta ligands act as octahedral and as trigonal prismatic nodes, respectively. The magnetic properties of 1–3 were investigated in the temperature range 1.9–300 K. A close fit to the Curie law (1) and weak either antiferro‐ [J=−0.0063(1) cm−1 (2)] or ferromagnetic [J=+0.0264(6) cm−1 (3)] interactions between the GdIII ions are observed; the different exchange pathways involved [extended tris‐bidentate mta (1) and μ‐O(1);κ2O(1),O(2) (2 and 3) plus single syn–syn carboxylate‐mta (3)] accounting for these magnetic features. The nature and magnitude of the magnetic interactions, between the GdIII ions in 1–3, agree with the small amount of data existing in the literature for these kind of bridges.
Peripheral Arterial Tonometry for Risk Stratification in Men With Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Heffernan Kevin S. , Karas Richard H. , Patvardhan Eshan A. , Jafri Haseeb , Kuvin Jeffrey T.
Published: February 2010

Background

Coronary artery disease (CAD) risk is not fully revealed by traditional risk factors. Identification of a simple, noninvasive tool that allows for detection of high‐risk CAD patients and can be applied in large populations and clinical settings would prove valuable.

Hypothesis

We sought to test the hypothesis that peripheral arterial tonometry (PAT) would be associated with residual risk in men with CAD.

Methods

In this study, finger PAT was used to measure pulse wave amplitude (PWA) during reactive hyperemia (RH) and taken as a measure of microvascular endothelial function in 42 men with stable CAD and well controlled low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) levels. Plasma levels of high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) and lipoprotein‐associated phospholipase A2 (Lp‐PLA2) were measured and used to reclassify men into high‐risk (elevated hs‐CRP and Lp‐PLA2), moderate‐risk (either elevated hs‐CRP or Lp‐PLA2), or low‐risk (low hs‐CRP and Lp‐PLA2) groups.

Results

PWA‐RH was significantly lower in the high‐risk group (1.3 ± 0.04) compared to the moderate‐risk (1.6 ± 0.07, P < 0.05) and low‐risk (2.0 ± 0.1, P < 0.05) groups. According to binary logistic regression, PWA‐RH was a significant predictor of high‐risk status among men with CAD (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Measurement of peripheral microvascular endothelial function with PAT may be able to distinguish high‐risk men from moderate‐ and low‐risk men with stable CAD and well‐controlled LDL‐C levels and thus aid in residual risk stratification in this at risk cohort. Copyright © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Left Hemiblock Improves Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Outcomes in Patients With a Right Bundle Branch Block
Authors: Chandra Ramesh , Zolty Ronald , Palma Eugen
Published: February 2010

Background

The current recommendation for cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) in congestive heart failure (CHF) patients is based on QRS duration, not on QRS morphology.

Hypothesis

This study was performed to compare the effects of CRT in CHF patients with pure RBBB vs those with a coexisting left hemiblock (LHB).

Methods and Patient Population

A total of 271 consecutive patients who underwent CRT at Montefiore Medical Center were analyzed. Baseline ECGs were analyzed by 2 reviewers for RBBB and further classified into those with a coexisting LHB. Response to CRT was defined to be, at ≥ 6 months after CRT, either an improvement in ejection fraction (EF) of at least 5%, or an improvement in New York Heart Association (NYHA) CHF class. A total of 44 patients were identified: 18 had pure RBBB and 26 had a coexisting LHB. The 2 groups were similar in respect to baseline characteristics (P > 0.05).

Results

Only 4 out of 18 patients with pure RBBB compared to 18 out of 26 with LHB (P = 0.005) had an improvement in EF ≥ 5%. The mean EF was − 1% in the pure RBBB group, but + 5.4% in those with LHB (P = 0.0031). Improvement in NYHA class was seen in 0 out of 18 with pure RBBB vs 7 out of 26 patients with LHB (P = 0.03).

Conclusion

If patients with RBBB also had LHB, their response to CRT was significantly better than if they had RBBB alone. Copyright © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
H2 Conversion in the Presence of O2 as Performed by the Membrane‐Bound [NiFe]‐Hydrogenase of Ralstonia eutropha
Authors: Lenz Oliver , Ludwig Marcus , Schubert Torsten , Bürstel Ingmar , Ganskow Stefanie , Goris Tobias , Schwarze Alexander , Friedrich Bärbel
Published: February 2010

[NiFe]‐hydrogenases catalyze the oxidation of H2 to protons and electrons. This reversible reaction is based on a complex interplay of metal cofactors including the Ni–Fe active site and several [Fe–S] clusters. H2 catalysis of most [NiFe]‐hydrogenases is sensitive to dioxygen. However, some bacteria contain hydrogenases that activate H2 even in the presence of O2. There is now compelling evidence that O2 affects hydrogenase on three levels: 1) H2 catalysis, 2) hydrogenase maturation, and 3) H2‐mediated signal transduction. Herein, we summarize the genetic, biochemical, electrochemical, and spectroscopic properties related to the O2 tolerance of hydrogenases resident in the facultative chemolithoautotroph Ralstonia eutropha H16. A focus is given to the membrane‐bound [NiFe]‐hydogenase, which currently represents the best‐characterized member of O2‐tolerant hydrogenases.
CD122+CD8+ Treg suppress vaccine‐induced antitumor immune responses in lymphodepleted mice
Authors: Wang Li‐Xin , Li Yuhuan , Yang Guojun , Pang Pui‐yi , Haley Dan , Walker Edwin B. , Urba Walter J. , Hu Hong‐Ming
Published: February 2010

Lymphodeleption prior to adoptive transfer of tumor‐specific T cells greatly improves the clinical efficacy of adoptive T‐cell therapy for patients with advanced melanoma, and increases the therapeutic efficacy of cancer vaccines in animal models. Lymphodepletion reduces competition between lymphocytes, and thus creates “space” for enhanced expansion and survival of tumor‐specific T cells. Within the lymphodepleted host, Ag‐specific T cells still need to compete with other lymphocytes that undergo lymphopenia‐driven proliferation. Herein, we describe the relative capacity of naïve T cells, Treg, and NK cells to undergo lymphopenia‐driven proliferation. We found that the major population that underwent lymphopenia‐driven proliferation was the CD122+ memory‐like T‐cell population (CD122+CD8+ Treg), and these cells competed with Ag‐driven proliferation of melanoma‐specific T cells. Removal of CD122+CD8+ Treg resulted in a greater expansion of tumor‐specific T cells and tumor infiltration of functional effector/memory T cells. Our results demonstrate the lymphopenia‐driven proliferation of CD122+CD8+ Treg in reconstituted lymphodepleted mice limited the antitumor efficacy of DC vaccination in conjunction with adoptive transfer of tumor‐specific T cells.
Regulatory role of leukocyte common antigen‐related molecule (LAR) in thymocyte differentiation
Authors: Kondo Sachiko , Kishi Hiroyuki , Muraguchi Atsushi
Published: February 2010

The strength of interaction between the antigenic peptide‐loaded MHC (MHC/p) and the TCR determines T‐cell fate in the thymus. A high avidity interaction between the TCR and the MHC/p induces apoptosis of self‐reactive T cells (negative selection), whereas a moderate avidity interaction rescues thymocytes from apoptosis and permits further differentiation to mature T cells (positive selection). Leukocyte common antigen‐related molecule (LAR), a receptor‐like protein tyrosine phosphatase, is expressed on immature thymocytes, but its role in thymocyte differentiation has not yet been fully elucidated. We analyzed LAR‐deficient mice and demonstrated that LAR deficiency affected the differentiation and expansion of immature thymocytes as well as positive and negative selection. Furthermore, LAR deficiency resulted in a lower Ca2+ response. The results indicate that LAR is an important modulator of TCR signaling that controls thymocyte differentiation.
Synthesis of Phosphanyl Sulfoximines Through Phospha‐Michael Reaction of Alkenyl Sulfoximines and Their Evaluation as Chiral Bidentate 1,5‐N,P Ligands for Palladium in Asymmetric Allylic Alkylation
Authors: Lemasson Fabien , Gais Hans‐Joachim , Runsink Jan , Raabe Gerhard
Published: February 2010

The intermolecular phospha‐Michael reaction of cyclic and acyclic alkenyl sulfoximines proceeds readily and yields the corresponding phosphanyl sulfoximines in good yield. The asymmetric induction provided by sulfoximine group in C–P bond formation is apparently only low. The configuration of three phosphanyl sulfoximine–boranes has been determined by X‐ray crystal structure analysis. The ability of the phosphanyl sulfoximines to act as ligand in Pd‐catalyzed asymmetric allylic alkylation was studied with pairs of diastereomeric cyclic and acyclic derivatives carrying different substituents at the N atom. This study showed that the substituent at the N atom and both the chirality of the backbone and sulfoximine group play a crucial role in determining the enantioselectivity of the allylic alkylation. The Pd‐catalyzed reaction of the racemic 1,3‐diphenylallyl acetate with the malonate anion in the presence of a cyclic N‐benzyl‐substituted phosphanyl sulfoximine gives the corresponding malonate with 97 % ee in 98 % yield. The similar alkylation with dialkyl‐substituted allylic acetates proceeds only with medium enantioselectivity. The bidentate 1,5‐N,P‐coordination of the Pd atom by the phosphanyl sulfoximine was confirmed by NMR experiments of a π‐1,3‐diphenylallyl‐PdII complex containing a cyclohexyl phosphanyl sulfoximine as ligand. The cyclohexane ring of the free cyclic phosphanyl sulfoximines adopts in solution and in the crystal a conformation in which the sulfoximine and phosphanyl group are both in a pseudo axial position. The coordination of the ligand to the Pd atom causes an inversion of the cyclohexane ring, which places the two groups in equatorial position.
Generation of Nucleophilic Chromium Acetylides from gem‐Trichloroalkanes and Chromium Chloride: Synthesis of Propargyl Alcohols
Authors: Kashinath Dhurke , Tisserand Steve , Puli Narender , Falck John R. , Baati Rachid
Published: February 2010

Nucleophilic mixed chromium(II) and chromium(III) acetylides are generated from the smooth reduction of primary 1,1,1‐trichloroalkanes with chromium(II) chloride in the presence of an excess amount of triethylamine at room temperature. These species arise from chromium(III) vinylidene carbenoids. It has been demonstrated that uncommon low‐valent CrII acetylides are formed by C–H insertion of CrIICl2 into terminal alkynes, formed in situ through the Fritsch–Buttenberg–Wiechell (FBW) rearrangement, whereas CrIII acetylides are concomitantly generated by HCl elimination from the chromium(III) vinylidene carbenoid. Both divergent pathways result, overall, in the formation of nucleophilic acetylides. In situ trapping with electrophilic aldehydes afforded propargyl alcohols. Furthermore, deuteration experiments and the use of deuterium labeled 1,1,1‐trichloroalkane substrates demonstrated the prevalence of low‐valent CrII acetylides, potentially useful, yet highly elusive synthetic intermediates.
In Vivo Proliferation of Hepadnavirus-Infected Hepatocytes Induces Loss of Covalently Closed Circular DNA in Mice
Authors: Lutgehetmann Marc , Volz Tassilo , Köpke Anne , Broja Tim , Tigges Eike , Lohse Ansgar W. , Fuchs Eberhard , Murray John M. , Petersen Joerg , Dandri Maura
Published: February 2010

Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is maintained by the presence of covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA), the template of viral transcription and replication. In quiescent hepatocytes, cccDNA is a stable molecule that can persist throughout the hepatocyte lifespan. However, in chronic HBV infection, immunomediated cell injury and compensatory hepatocyte proliferation may favor cccDNA decline and selection of cccDNA-free cells. To investigate the impact of liver regeneration on cccDNA stability and activity in vivo, we used the urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA)/severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) mouse model. Primary tupaia hepatocytes (PTHs) chronically infected with woolly monkey HBV (WM-HBV) were isolated from one highly viremic uPA/SCID chimeric mouse and transplanted into 20 uPA recipients. Expansion of transplanted PTHs and viral load changes were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry. Transplantation of WM-HBV infected hepatocytes led to an average of 3.8 PTH doublings within 80 days, 75% reduction of virion productivity (relaxed circular DNA/cccDNA), and lower expression levels of pregenomic RNA and hepatitis B core antigen. Remarkably, a median 2-log decline of cccDNA per cell determined during PTH proliferation was due to both dilution of the cccDNA pool among daughter cells and a 0.5-log loss of intrahepatic cccDNA loads (

P

= 0.02). Intrahepatic viral DNA sequences persisting at the end of the study were mostly present as replicative intermediates and not as integrated virus.

Conclusion:

Cell division in the setting of liver regeneration and without administration of antiviral drugs induced strong destabilization of the cccDNA reservoir, resulting in cccDNA clearance in the great majority of chronically infected hepatocytes. (Hepatology 2010)
Right Atrial Pressure Is Not Adequate to Calculate Portal Pressure Gradient in Cirrhosis: A Clinical-Hemodynamic Correlation Study
Authors: La Mura Vincenzo , Abraldes Juan G. , Berzigotti Annalisa , Erice Eva , Flores-Arroyo Alexandra , García-Pagán Juan Carlos , Bosch Jaime
Published: February 2010

Hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG), the difference between wedge and free hepatic venous pressure, is the preferred method for estimating portal pressure. However, it has been suggested that hepatic atrial pressure gradient (HAPG)—the gradient between wedge hepatic venous pressure and right atrial pressure (RAP)—might better reflect variceal hemodynamics. The aim of this study was to (1) investigate whether HAPG with nonselective beta-blockers correlates with prognosis in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension at baseline and during treatment; (2) compare the prognostic value of HAPG with that of HVPG; and (3) investigate the agreement between portoatrial gradient (PAG) and portocaval gradient (PCG) in patients with transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS). We included 154 cirrhotic patients with varices with a complete hemodynamic study at baseline and on chronic treatment for primary (n = 71) or secondary (n = 83) prophylaxis for bleeding and 99 patients with TIPS. All patients were followed for up to 2 years; portal hypertensive-related bleeding and bleeding-free survival were analyzed. HVPG was equal or lower than HAPG in all patients (−3.2 mm Hg;

P

< 0.001). Agreement between HAPG and HVPG was modest, especially in patients with increased intra-abdominal pressure. One hundred two patients were HVPG nonresponders and 52 patients were HVPG responders to nonselective beta-blockers, whereas 101 patients were HAPG nonresponders and 53 patients were HAPG responders (k = 0.610). HVPG response revealed an excellent predictive value for bleeding risk and bleeding-free survival; HAPG did not. In our TIPS patients, 20% had a PCG ≤12 mm Hg and a PAG >12 mm Hg, which may have induced unnecessary overdilation of the TIPS.

Conclusion:

The excellent prognostic information provided by HVPG response to drug therapy is lost if HAPG response is considered. RAP should not be used for the calculation of portal pressure gradient in patients with cirrhosis. Hepatology 2010;51:2108–2116
Use of Surveillance for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Among Patients With Cirrhosis in the United States
Authors: Davila Jessica A. , Morgan Robert O. , Richardson Peter A. , Du Xianglin L. , McGlynn Katherine A. , El-Serag Hashem B.
Published: February 2010

Surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with cirrhosis is recommended but may not be performed. The extent and determinants of HCC surveillance are unknown. We conducted a population-based United States cohort study of patients over 65 years of age to examine use and determinants of prediagnosis surveillance in patients with HCC who were previously diagnosed with cirrhosis. Patients diagnosed with HCC during 1994-2002 were identified from the linked Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End-Results registry–Medicare databases. We identified alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and ultrasound tests performed for HCC surveillance, and examined factors associated with surveillance. We identified 1,873 HCC patients with a prior diagnosis of cirrhosis. In the 3 years before HCC, 17% received regular surveillance and 38% received inconsistent surveillance. In a subset of 541 patients in whom cirrhosis was recorded for 3 or more years prior to HCC, only 29% received routine surveillance and 33% received inconsistent surveillance. Among all patients who received regular surveillance, approximately 52% received both AFP and ultrasound, 46% received AFP only, and 2% received ultrasound only. Patients receiving regular surveillance were more likely to have lived in urban areas and had higher incomes than those who did not receive surveillance. Before diagnosis, approximately 48% of patients were seen by a gastroenterologist/hepatologist or by a physician with an academic affiliation; they were approximately 4.5-fold and 2.8-fold, respectively, more likely to receive regular surveillance than those seen by a primary care physician only. Geographic variation in surveillance was observed and explained by patient and physician factors.

Conclusion:

Less than 20% of patients with cirrhosis who developed HCC received regular surveillance. Gastroenterologists/hepatologists or physicians with an academic affiliation are more likely to perform surveillance. Hepatology 2010
NPA motifs play a key role in plasma membrane targeting of aquaporin‐4
Authors: Guan Xin‐Gang , Su Wei‐Heng , Yi Fei , Zhang Di , Hao Feng , Zhang Hong‐Guo , Liu Yue‐Jiao , Feng Xue‐Chao , Ma Tong‐Hui
Published: February 2010

The two highly conserved NPA motifs (asparagine–proline–alanine, NPA) are the most important structural domains that play a crucial role in water‐selective permeation in aquaporin water channels. However, the functions of NPA motifs in aquaporin (AQP) biogenesis remain largely unknown. Few AQP members with variations in NPA motifs such as AQP11 and AQP12 do not express in the plasma membrane, suggesting an important role of NPA motifs in AQP plasma membrane targeting. In this study, we examined the role of the two NPA motifs in AQP4 plasma membrane targeting by mutagenesis. We constructed a series of AQP4 mutants with NPA deletions or single amino acid substitutions in AQP4‐M1 and AQP4‐M23 isoforms and analyzed their expression patterns in transiently transfected FRT and COS‐7 cells. Western blot analysis showed similar protein bands of all the AQP4 mutants and the wild‐type AQP4. AQP4 immunofluorescence indicated that deletion of one or both NPA motifs resulted in defective plasma membrane targeting, with apparent retention in endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The A99T mutant mimicking AQP12 results in ER retention, whereas the A99C mutant mimicking AQP11 expresses normally in plasma membrane. Furthermore, the AQP4‐M1 but not the M23 isoform with P98A substitution in the first NPA motif can target to the plasma membrane, indicating an interaction of N‐terminal sequence of AQP4‐M1 with the first NPA motif. These results suggest that NPA motifs play a key role in plasma membrane expression of AQP4 but are not involved in AQP4 protein synthesis and degradation. The NPA motifs may interact with other structural domains in the regulation of membrane trafficking during aquaporin biogenesis. © 2010 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 62(3): 222–226, 2010
Urinary levels, tissue concentrations and lung inflammation after nose‐only exposure to three different chemical forms of beryllium
Authors: Muller Caroline , Mazer Bruce , Salehi Fariba , Audusseau Séverine , Chevalier Gaston , Truchon Ginette , Larivière Pierre , Paquette Vincent , Lambert Jean , Zayed Joseph
Published: February 2010

This study aimed to determine the toxicity and toxicokinetic of three Be chemical species A total of 120 mice (four groups of 30) were nose‐only exposed. The first group was used as a control while the three others were exposed to 250 μg m−3 of fine particles of three different Be species (Be metal, Be–F; Be oxide, BeO–F; Be aluminium, BeAl–F). Exposure lasted over three consecutive weeks, five days per week and 6 h per day. Blood and several tissues were collected one week after exposure. Urines were collected before the beginning of exposure, at the end of every week of exposure and one week after exposure. Results showed that urine concentrations were different from one Be species to another and that excretion continued after the end of exposure. Except for BeO–F, where Be urine concentrations were stable during the three weeks of exposure, concentrations of Be–F and BeAl–F reached a peak after the first week. According to particle size, BeO–F obtained the highest theoretical pulmonary deposition rate, which partially led to the highest Be lung concentration. This group also presented the lowest urine concentration but that did not lead to more severe lung inflammation. Moreover, even if BeAl–F obtained the lowest percentage theoretical pulmonary deposition, it showed the highest Be urinary concentration, the lowest Be lung concentration and the lowest lung toxicity. In this specific case, a high Be concentration in urine did not reflect a high exposure or a severe toxic effect. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
3D collagen scaffolds coated with multiwalled carbon nanotubes: Initial cell attachment to internal surface
Authors: Hirata Eri , Uo Motohiro , Nodasaka Yoshinobu , Takita Hiroko , Ushijima Natsumi , Akasaka Tsukasa , Watari Fumio , Yokoyama Atsuro
Published: February 2010

The cell adhesion in a multiwalled carbon nanotube‐coated collagen sponge (MWCNT‐coated sponge) was investigated. Immediately after seeding, the cells adhered to the inner surface of the MWCNT‐coated sponge and a significantly larger number of cells were observed there than for a pure collagen sponge used as control. On the MWCNT‐coated sponge, the cells appeared favorable adhesion and spread in the early stages in the center part of the sponge which cells rarely attached without MWCNT‐coating. It was suggested that the physical structure of MWCNTs was effective for initial adhesion of cells from the result of serum‐free culture. MWCNT‐coating makes the material a suitable three‐dimensional scaffold for cell culturing, as opposed to other scaffold systems where such an effect is not seen. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2010
Microindentation for in vivo measurement of bone tissue mechanical properties in humans
Authors: Diez-Perez Adolfo , Güerri Roberto , Nogues Xavier , Cáceres Enric , Peña Maria Jesus , Mellibovsky Leonardo , Randall Connor , Bridges Daniel , Weaver James C , Proctor Alexander , Brimer Davis , Koester Kurt J , Ritchie Robert O , Hansma Paul K
Published: February 2010

Bone tissue mechanical properties are deemed a key component of bone strength, but their assessment requires invasive procedures. Here we validate a new instrument, a reference point indentation (RPI) instrument, for measuring these tissue properties in vivo. The RPI instrument performs bone microindentation testing (BMT) by inserting a probe assembly through the skin covering the tibia and, after displacing periosteum, applying 20 indentation cycles at 2 Hz each with a maximum force of 11 N. We assessed 27 women with osteoporosis-related fractures and 8 controls of comparable ages. Measured total indentation distance (46.0 ± 14 versus 31.7 ± 3.3 µm, p = .008) and indentation distance increase (18.1 ± 5.6 versus 12.3 ± 2.9 µm, p = .008) were significantly greater in fracture patients than in controls. Areas under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for the two measurements were 93.1% (95% confidence interval [CI] 83.1–100) and 90.3% (95% CI 73.2–100), respectively. Interobserver coefficient of variation ranged from 8.7% to 15.5%, and the procedure was well tolerated. In a separate study of cadaveric human bone samples (n = 5), crack growth toughness and indentation distance increase correlated (r = –0.9036, p = .018), and scanning electron microscope images of cracks induced by indentation and by experimental fractures were similar. We conclude that BMT, by inducing microscopic fractures, directly measures bone mechanical properties at the tissue level. The technique is feasible for use in clinics with good reproducibility. It discriminates precisely between patients with and without fragility fracture and may provide clinicians and researchers with a direct in vivo measurement of bone tissue resistance to fracture. © 2010 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
GADD45α mediates arsenite‐induced cell apoptotic effect in human hepatoma cells via JNKs/AP‐1‐dependent pathway
Authors: Gao Ming , Dong Wen , Hu Meiru , Yu Ming , Guo Liang , Qian Lu , Guo Ning , Song Lun
Published: February 2010

Arsenite (As(III)), an effective chemotherapeutic agent for the acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) and multiple myeloma (MM), might be also a promise for the therapy of other cancers, including the solid tumors. However, the molecular bases of arsenite‐induced cytotoxicity in the tumor cells have not been fully defined. In this study, we have disclosed that arsenite effectively induces the apoptotic response in the HepG2 human hepatoma cells by triggering GADD45α induction and the subsequent activation of JNKs/AP‐1 cell death pathway. However, signaling events relating to GADD45α/JNKs/AP‐1 pathway activation have not been observed in HL7702 human diploid hepatic cells under the same arsenite exposure condition. Our results thus have illustrated the selective pro‐apoptotic role of arsenite in the hepatoma cells by activating GADD45α‐dependent cell death pathway whereas with little effect on the normal hepatic cells. The approaches to up‐regulate GADD45α levels might be helpful in improving the chemotherapeutic action of arsenite on certain solid tumors including hepatoma. J. Cell. Biochem. 109: 1264–1273, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A simple synthesis of pyrroles catalyzed by acidic resin under solvent‐free condition
Authors: Yuan Shizhen , Li Zhen , Xu Ling
Published: February 2010

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A simple and effective Paal‐Knorr condensation of 2, 5‐hexanedione with most amines has been carried out at room temperature under solvent‐free condition. The pyrroles were obtained in high yields and in short reaction times. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2010).
New polycyclic ring systems derived from canthin‐4‐one
Authors: Puzik Andreas , Bracher Franz
Published: February 2010

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Starting from 5,6‐dihydrocanthin‐4‐one, new penta‐ and hexacyclic ring systems (1,7b,14‐triazadi‐benzo[e,k]acephenanthrylenes, 1,7b,10,12‐tetraazabenzo[e]acephenanthrylenes) were built up using ring annelation reactions. The new compounds represent hybrids between the canthinones and several bioactive aromatic alkaloids J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2010).
Reducing the climate vulnerability of coastal communities in Samoa
Authors: Daly Michele , Poutasi Namouta , Nelson Filomena , Kohlhase Jude
Published: February 2010

This paper describes a project undertaken in Samoa to address climate change and other hazards, the method from which could provide a useful model for other small island developing states (SIDS). To reduce Samoa's coastal vulnerability and strengthen institutional and community response capability, land use planning and disaster management frameworks were integrated through: (1) Developing coastal infrastructure management plans for every district supported by a national strategy and integrated with national disaster management arrangements. (2) Intensive participatory village consultation which respected traditional and emerging cultural practices. (3) Training government staff to undertake the consultation work in villages and build capacity. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.