bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of adding or deleting items and sources on the h‐index
Authors: Egghe Leo
Published: November 2009

Adding or deleting items such as self‐citations has an influence on the h‐index of an author. This influence will be proved mathematically in this article. We hereby prove the experimental finding in E. Gianoli and M.A. Molina‐Montenegro (2009) that the influence of adding or deleting self‐citations on the h‐index is greater for low values of the h‐index. Why this is logical also is shown by a simple theoretical example. Adding or deleting sources such as adding or deleting minor contributions of an author also has an influence on the h‐index of this author; this influence is modeled in this article. This model explains some practical examples found in X. Hu, R. Rousseau, and J. Chen (in press).
Referencing in the humanities and its implications for citation analysis
Authors: Hellqvist Björn
Published: November 2009

This article studies citation practices in the arts and humanities from a theoretical and conceptual viewpoint, drawing on studies from fields like linguistics, history, library & information science, and the sociology of science. The use of references in the humanities is discussed in connection with the growing interest in the possibilities of applying citation analysis to humanistic disciplines. The study shows how the use of references within the humanities is connected to concepts of originality, to intellectual organization, and to searching and writing. Finally, it is acknowledged that the use of references is connected to stylistic, epistemological, and organizational differences, and these differences must be taken into account when applying citation analysis to humanistic disciplines.
CD40/CD40L signaling and its implication in health and disease
Authors: Chatzigeorgiou Antonios , Lyberi Maria , Chatzilymperis Gregorios , Nezos Adrianos , Kamper Elli
Published: November 2009

CD40, a transmembrane receptor of the tumor necrosis factor gene superfamily is expressed on a variety of cells, such as monocytes, B‐cells, antigen presenting cells, endothelial, smooth muscle cells, and fibroblasts. The interaction between CD40 and CD40 ligand (CD40L) enhances the expression of cytokines, chemokines, matrix metalloproteinases, growth factors, and adhesion molecules, mainly through the stimulation of nuclear factor kappa B. The aim of this review is to summarize the molecular and cellular characteristics of CD40 and CD40L, the mechanisms that regulate their expression, the cellular responses they stimulate and finally their implication in the pathophysiology of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. © 2009 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.
Design and implementation of a SCADA‐controlled MTMPS as a mechatronics training unit
Authors: Yenitepe Recep
Published: November 2009

Recently, economical aspects of education have become an important issue for everyone who is in the educational sector since they have to operate on restricted budgets. Therefore, the limited resources of educational institutions have necessitated the development of novel teaching materials. The aim of this study is to design and implement a low‐cost compact Modular Production System controlled by a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system. This compact MPS has the following stations: identification, transport, processing, sorting, and storing. All these stations are placed on a common platform and connected to the same PLC system. Therefore, it is proposed that this system can be called as “Multitask Modular Production System” (MTMPS). The benefits of the realized MTMPS are threefold. This system resulted in savings both for occupied space and cost of equipment. Savings for occupied space is nearly 70% while it is about 80% for the cost of equipment. The duration of training are also reduced by 60% with the implementation of this MTMPS. This study also includes evaluation of training course conducted on the MTMPS and conventional MPS units. As a result of this training, which employs the MTMPS unit, the students were expected to enhance their various cognitive skills. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 20: 247–254, 2012
Pulmonary artery stents: Long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Law Mark A. , Shamszad Pirouz , Nugent Alan W. , Justino Henri , Breinholt John P. , Mullins Charles E. , Ing Frank F.
Published: November 2009

Objectives: Determine the long‐term outcomes of branch pulmonary artery (PA) stents. Background: PA stents in congenital heart disease effectively relieve stenoses in the short‐term. Published long‐term data are limited. Methods: Patients enrolled in an FDA IDE protocol from 1989–92 were included. Clinical follow‐up and catheterization data were evaluated. Patients were included if >5 year follow‐up data was available or if mortality occurred following the initial procedure. Results: There were five deaths: four due to progression of their underlying heart disease, and one from a complication during a follow‐up catheterization. Clinical data for 43 surviving patients demonstrated 39 patients (91%) are in NYHA class I or II. Seven patients underwent surgical intervention during the follow‐up period (five RV‐PA conduit, two Fontan revisions), but none addressed PA stenosis. Final repeat catheterizations were performed in 36 patients (55 stents) 7.2 ± 4.3 years post stent insertion with 1.2 ± 0.9 further procedures with stent dilations. In this subgroup, the minimum vessel diameter increased from 4.7 ± 1.8 to 13.4 ± 2.4 mm (P < 0.001), and the pressure gradient improved from 41 ± 25 to 9 ± 11 mm Hg (P < 0.001). Higher initial gradient and smaller balloons were associated with a final stent diameter of <14 mm (P = 0.030 and 0.046). Jailed vessels occurred in 49% of stents with abnormal angiographic flow in 18/55. Six repeat catheterizations resulted in complications, including the one procedural death. Conclusion: Stents implants for PA stenoses provide effective improvement in vessel caliber in the long‐term. Although repeat interventions are necessary, this procedure reduces RV pressure and provides an important alternative to surgery for residual PA obstruction. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
CT angiography for assessment of intracranial basilar apex aneurysm neck diameter reduction poststenting for treatment planning
Authors: Adel Joseph G. , Sherma Arun K. , Bendok Bernard R.
Published: November 2009

Background and Purpose: Once a contraindication for a neuro‐interventional therapeutic approach, some wide‐necked aneurysms can now be treated with stent assistance. Radiologically assessing the impact of a stent on the neck of a wide‐neck bifurcation, aneurysm remains a challenge however. Methods: A 76‐year‐old female with a large irregular basilar apex aneurysm was referred for endovascular treatment. Angiographic imaging revealed a basilar apex aneurysm with a 6‐mm neck and a 14‐mm dome. The decision was made to perform staged stent‐assisted coiling of the aneurysm. In the interim time, although the stent was allowed to heal in place, a CTA was done to assess the positioning of the stent and the degree of neck narrowing. Results: The CTA showed that the neck had been narrowed from 6 to 2 mm hence making endovascular coiling feasible. Conclusion: Our case illustrates the use of CTA poststent deployment to visualize the change in aneurysm neck caliber precoil embolization. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Atrioventricular block after transcatheter ASD closure using the Amplatzer septal occluder: Risk factors and recommendations
Authors: Al‐Anani Shada J. , Weber Howard , Hijazi Ziyad M.
Published: November 2009

Transcatheter device closure of atrial septal defects is now considered an alternative option to open heart surgery with good short‐term and long‐term results (Du et al., J Am Coll Cardiol 2002;39:1836–1844, Chessa et al., J Am Coll Cardiol 2002;39:1061–1065); in comparison with surgical closure, the complication rate is lower (Du et al., J Am Coll Cardiol 2002;39:1836–1844). Arrhythmias are known infrequent complications of device closure. However, complete heart block is a rare complication of both treatment modalities (Chessa et al., J Am Coll Cardiol 2002;39:1061–1065). We report two patients who developed atrioventricular (AV) block within 48 hr after uncomplicated device closure of ASD using the Amplatzer septal occluder (ASO) device. Despite trials of high dose steroids and non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory agents in both patients, the response was inadequate and by the end of the first week, both patients were ultimately sent for surgical removal of their devices with complete resolution of their atrioventricular conduction abnormalities. We discuss the possible etiology and risk factors of AV block and propose recommendations for management of such a complication. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Neonatal balloon aortic valvuloplasty—predictive value of current risk score algorithms for treatment strategies
Authors: Eicken Andreas , Georgiev Stanimir , Balling Gunter , Schreiber Christian , Hager Alfred , Hess John
Published: November 2009

Background: Neonatal valvular aortic stenosis (AoS) represents a spectrum of different degrees of hypoplasia and malformation of all left heart structures. Uncertainty exists on threshold values for biventricular circulation of newborns with critical AoS. Our aim was to assess the predictive value of current risk scores for treatment strategies in critical AoS. Methods and Results: The echocardiograms of all newborns with AoS treated by balloon valvuloplasty (AoVP) or Norwood operation between January 2006 and September 2008 were reviewed retrospectively and the Rhodes‐, Colan‐score and the univentricular repair survival advantage (UVR‐SA) tool were applied. The results were compared to the actual outcome. Out of 28 patients 19 were treated by an initial AoVP and nine by an initial Norwood operation. In three a secondary Norwood operation was done. According to the Rhodes‐score 24 patients should have been treated by a univentricular strategy but 12 of them (50%) live with biventricular circulation. The Colan‐score resulted in 19 univentricular decisions and 7 (37%) of these patients now live with biventricular circulation. Applying the UVR‐SA tool 2/12 (17%) patients predicted for a univentricular strategy received successful biventricular circulation and 2/16 (12%) of the suggested biventricular patients have a univentricular circulation. Hence, 14/28 (50%) patients had discordant treatment decisions. Conclusion: No prospectively tested criteria for patient selection (biventricular vs. univentricular) are available for critically ill newborns with AoS. Retrospective application of the current risk scores showed unsatisfactory results. Treatment decisions are based on local experience and expertise. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Catalytic Flue Gas Treatment from Nitriding Processes
Authors: Ludewig H. , Haase B. , Fritsching U.
Published: November 2009

Efficient control and minimization of emissions from technical processes is of major concern in industrial development and process operation. The technical process in the focus of the present contribution is the nitriding process of metallic specimen. The ammonia content in nitriding process flue gases reaches up to 618 g·m–3 (80 vol.‐%) and needs to be reduced to less than 30 mg·m–3 (40 ppm) to fulfill present regulations. Exhaust gases from nitriding processes today are burnt in flares without emission control where fuels need to be added that produce additional exhaust gas components. The objective of this investigation is to develop an alternative gas cleaning route for nitriding processes based on catalytic dissociation of ammonia. The decomposition was studied for different catalysts at varying process conditions. With these results a dissociation pilot plant was successfully tested in a technical‐scale nitriding process.
Hydration of Sugars in the Gas Phase: Regioselectivity and Conformational Choice in N‐Acetyl Glucosamine and Glucose
Authors: Cocinero Emilio J. , Stanca‐Kaposta E. Cristina , Dethlefsen Mark , Liu Bo , Gamblin David P. , Davis Benjamin G. , Simons John P.
Published: November 2009

The influence of an acetamido group in directing the preferred choice of hydration sites in glucosamine and a consequent extension of the working rules governing regioselective hydration and conformational choice, have been revealed through comparisons between the conformations and structures of “free” and multiply hydrated phenyl N‐acetyl‐β‐D‐glucosamine (βpGlcNAc) and phenyl β‐D‐glucopyranoside (βpGlc), isolated in the gas phase at low temperatures. The structures have been assigned through infrared ion depletion spectroscopy conducted in a supersonic jet expansion, coupled with computational methods. The acetamido motif provides a hydration focus that overwhelms the directing role of the hydroxymethyl group; in multiply hydrated βpGlcNAc the water molecules are all located around the acetamido motif, on the “axial” faces of the pyranose ring rather than around its edge, despite the equatorial disposition of all the hydrophilic groups in the ring. The striking and unprecedented role of the C‐2 acetamido group in controlling hydration structures may, in part, explain the differing and widespread roles of GlcNAc, and perhaps GalNAc, in nature.
The Palladium‐Catalyzed Aerobic Kinetic Resolution of Secondary Alcohols: Reaction Development, Scope, and Applications
Authors: Ebner David C. , Bagdanoff Jeffrey T. , Ferreira Eric M. , McFadden Ryan M. , Caspi Daniel D. , Trend Raissa M. , Stoltz Brian M.
Published: November 2009

The first palladium‐catalyzed enantioselective oxidation of secondary alcohols has been developed, utilizing the readily available diamine (−)‐sparteine as a chiral ligand and molecular oxygen as the stoichiometric oxidant. Mechanistic insights regarding the role of the base and hydrogen‐bond donors have resulted in several improvements to the original system. Namely, addition of cesium carbonate and tert‐butyl alcohol greatly enhances reaction rates, promoting rapid resolutions. The use of chloroform as solvent allows the use of ambient air as the terminal oxidant at 23 °C, resulting in enhanced catalyst selectivity. These improved reaction conditions have permitted the successful kinetic resolution of benzylic, allylic, and cyclopropyl secondary alcohols to high enantiomeric excess with good‐to‐excellent selectivity factors. This catalyst system has also been applied to the desymmetrization of meso‐diols, providing high yields of enantioenriched hydroxyketones.
Absolute structural elucidation of natural products—A focus on quantum‐mechanical calculations of solid‐state CD spectra
Authors: Pescitelli Gennaro , Kurtán Tibor , Flörke Ulrich , Krohn Karsten
Published: November 2009

In this review article we examine state‐of‐the‐art techniques for the structural elucidation of organic compounds isolated from natural sources. In particular, we focus on the determination of absolute configuration (AC), perhaps the most challenging but inevitable step in the whole process, especially when newly isolated compounds are screened for biological activity. Among the many methods employed for AC assignment that we review, special attention is paid to electronic circular dichroism (CD) and to the modern tools available for quantum‐mechanics CD predictions, including TDDFT. In this context, we stress that conformational flexibility often poses a limit to practical CD calculations of solution CD spectra. Many crystalline natural products suitable for X‐ray analysis do not contain heavy atoms for a confidential AC assignment by resonant scattering. However, their CD spectra can be recorded in the solid state, for example with the KCl pellet technique, and analyzed possibly by nonempirical means to provide stereochemical information. In particular, solid‐state CD spectra can be compared with those calculated with TDDFT or other high‐level methods, using the X‐ray geometry as input. The solid‐state CD/TDDFT approach, described in detail, represents a quick and reliable tool for AC assignment of natural products. Chirality 21:E181–E201, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Color preference affected by mode of color appearance
Authors: Tangkijviwat Uravis , Rattanakasamsuk Kitirochna , Shinoda Hiroyuki
Published: November 2009

Most color preference research focuses on colors in an object color mode. In our daily life, however, colors are perceived not only as an object color mode but also as other modes, such as unnatural object color and light source color modes. To explore the effect of the color appearance mode on color preference, we examined the relationship between color preference and the mode of color appearance. Thirty‐three color chips were chosen from the Munsell notation varying in hues and chromas. The color chips were presented in different color appearance modes by changing the subject's room illuminance and the color chip room illuminance. The experimental results showed that the brightest and most saturated colors were preferred. It was found that the subject preferred color in a light source color mode and unnatural object color mode to color in an object color mode. Moreover, we found that hue had a small effect on color preference in the light source color mode. We also investigated the relationship between color preference and the perceived color attributes (perceived chromaticness, whiteness, and blackness). In a supplementary experiment, elementary color naming was conducted. The results showed that the perceived chromaticness, perceived whiteness, and perceived blackness play a role for the determination of color preference for different color appearance modes. We, consequently, suggest that color preference is dominated not only by color attributes but also by the mode of color appearance. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 2010
A Polymer with a Benzo[2,1‐b;3,4‐b′]dithiophene Moiety for Photovoltaic Applications
Authors: Liu Miaoyin , Rieger Ralph , Li Chen , Menges Hansjörg , Kastler Marcel , Baumgarten Martin , Müllen Klaus
Published: November 2009

The characterization of a benzo[2,1‐b;3,4‐b′]dithiophene containing conjugated polymer (PBTT) is demonstrated, with regard to its photovoltaic performance. X‐ray diffraction measurements reveal that the thermal treatment results in an increased crystallinity within the PBTT:[70]PCBM network and subsequent spatial rearrangement in the film. Upon stepwise annealing, the PBTT‐based bulk‐heterojunction solar cells show an overall conversion efficiency of 2.7 % under 1 sun light illumination. The photovoltaic devices based on PBTT show a high efficiency, maintained over one month. All these aspects suggest that the use of self‐organizable materials is an efficient approach for high‐performance photovoltaic applications.
Cellular phone face recognition system based on optical phase correlation
Authors: Watanabe Eriko , Ishikawa Sayuri , Ohta Maiko , Kodate Kashiko
Published: November 2009

We propose a high‐security facial recognition system using a cellular phone on the mobile network. This system is composed of a face recognition engine based on optical phase correlation which uses phase information with emphasis on a Fourier domain, a control server, and the cellular phone with a compact camera for taking pictures, as a portable terminal. Compared with various correlation methods, our face recognition engine revealed the most accurate EER of less than 1%. By using the JAVA interface on this system, we implemented the stable system taking pictures, providing functions to prevent spoofing while transferring images. This recognition system was tested on 300 female students and the results proved this system effective. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 92(12): 60–68, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10154
Proposal and application of real‐time calibration of baseline length in single‐camera stereo system
Authors: Watanabe Takashi , Kusano Akira , Fujiwara Takayuki , Koshimizu Hiroyasu
Published: November 2009

3D image processing algorithms for real‐time calibration of the baseline length in a single‐camera stereo system are presented in this paper, and the performance of less than 0.03 mm depth measurement in precision and about 0.45 s processing time in the inspection are also presented based on the applications to the experimental equipment. It is technically noted that the baseline of this single‐camera stereo system was precisely calibrated by the image processing procedure.

The scope of application of this simply configured stereo system could be expanded to the wider fields of industrial 3D measurements. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 92(12): 50–59, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10155
A cell lysis and protein purification–single molecule assay devices for evaluation of genetically engineered proteins
Authors: Nakayama Tetsuya , Tabata Kazuhito V. , Noji Hiroyuki , Yokokawa Ryuji
Published: November 2009

We have developed two devices for evaluation of genetically engineered proteins in single molecule assay: on‐chip cell lysis device, and protein purification–assay device. A motor protein, F1‐ATPase expressed in E. coli, was the focus of this report as the target protein. Cell lysis was simply performed by applying pulse voltage between Au electrodes patterned by photolithography, and its efficiency was determined by absorptiometry. The subsequent processes, purification and assay of extracted proteins, were applied to detect F1‐ATPase and to evaluate its activity. The specific bonding between his‐tag in F1‐ATPase and Ni‐NTA deposited on a glass surface was utilized for the purification process. After immobilization of F1‐ATPase, avidin‐coated microspheres and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) solution were infused sequentially to assay the protein. Microsphere rotation was realized by activity of F1‐ATPase corresponding to ATP hydrolysis. Results show that the cell lysis device, under the optimum conditions, extracts a sufficient amount of protein for single molecule assay. Once cell lysate was injected to the purification–assay device, proteins were diffused in the lateral direction in a Y‐shape microchannel. The gradient of protein concentration provides an optimal concentration for assay, that is, the highest density of rotating beads. Density of rotating beads is also affected by the initial concentration of protein injected into the device. The optimum concentration was achieved by our cell lysis device rather than by the conventional method using ultrasonic wave. Rotation speed was analyzed for several microspheres assayed in the purification–assay device, and the results were compatible with those of conventional bulk scale assay by the F1‐ATPase purification. In conclusion, we have demonstrated feasibility of on‐chip cell lysis and assay for the sequential analysis without any pretreatment. It is expected that on‐chip devices replacing conventional bioanalytical methods can be integrated in a total analysis system to evaluate engineered protein and DNA. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 92(12): 20–30, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10193
MYD88‐dependent and ‐independent activation of TREM‐1 via specific TLR ligands
Authors: Zheng Heng , Heiderscheidt Caitlin A. , Joo Myung , Gao Xeipei , Knezevic Nebojsa , Mehta Dolly , Sadikot Ruxana T.
Published: November 2009

Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells (TREM)‐1 plays an important role in myeloid cell‐activated inflammatory responses. Although TLR ligands such as LPS and lipoteichoic acid have been shown to upregulate TREM‐1 expression in macrophage and neutrophils, the role of specific TLR in inducing the expression of TREM‐1 remains unclear. In this study, we investigated whether the presence of TLR is necessary for the expression of TREM‐1. We show that BM‐derived macrophages from TLR4 and TLR2 KO mice failed to induce expression of TREM‐1 message and protein in response to their specific ligands. Interestingly, the expression of TREM‐1 in response to LPS is not altered in myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) KO macrophages, suggesting that downstream of TLR a MyD88‐independent pathway induces the expression of TREM‐1. Inhibiting toll/IL‐1R domain‐containing adaptor‐inducing IFN‐β (TRIF) expression by siRNA decreased TREM‐1 expression in response to LPS, suggesting that the expression of TREM‐1 in response to LPS was mediated by the TRIF signaling pathway. On the other hand, the expression of TREM‐1 in response to lipoteichoic acid is dependent on MyD88 expression. These data indicate that the expression of TREM‐1 in response to TLR ligands occurs secondary to downstream signaling events and that the presence of TLR is necessary for the expression of TREM‐1 in response to their specific ligands. However, the downstream signaling required for the expression of TREM‐1 is dependent on the stimulus and the surface receptor through which the signaling is initiated.
The Tregs' world according to GARP
Authors: Battaglia Manuela , Roncarolo Maria Grazia
Published: November 2009

Naturally occurring CD4+CD25high regulatory T cells (nTreg) are essential for maintaining tolerance. FOXP3 has been established as a molecular marker of nTreg; however, FOXP3 cannot be used as a reliable marker for bona fide human nTreg since effector T cells also up‐regulate FOXP3 expression upon activation. Despite the important function of nTreg, the underlying molecular mechanisms of nTreg‐mediated suppression are far from defined. Previous studies have demonstrated that the TGF‐β latency‐associated peptide (LAP) is expressed on the surface of nTreg, and that immunosuppression can be mediated by membrane TGF‐β; however, it remains unknown how LAP is bound to nTreg and what is the functional significance of its selective expression on activated nTreg. The nTreg's world may now change according to GARP, an orphan toll‐like receptor composed of leucine‐rich repeats. In this issue of the European Journal of Immunology, a study provides further demonstration that GARP is selectively expressed only in activated human nTreg and nTreg cell clones but not in activated effector T cells, confirming GARP as a bona fide nTreg marker. In addition, GARP binds directly to LAP; yet, GARP over‐expression is insufficient to induce modification of latent TGF‐β into active TGF‐β further clarifying its role in nTreg‐mediated suppression.
Highly Water‐Soluble Carbaborane‐Bridged Bis(glycophosphonates)
Authors: Stadlbauer Sven , Lönnecke Peter , Welzel Peter , Hey‐Hawkins Evamarie
Published: November 2009

A facile synthesis of carbaboranediyl‐bis(glycophosphonates) and corresponding phosphonothioates is presented. These compounds show extraordinarily high water solubility and low cytotoxicity. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Stabilization/solidification of sand contaminated with organic compounds using regenerated activated carbon and cement
Authors: Da̧bek Lidia
Published: November 2009

The potential for neutralizing p‐chlorophenol‐ or isooctane‐contaminated sand by means of the stabilization/solidification (S/S) process using regenerated activated carbon and cement was investigated in this study. The activated carbon used was recovered from a spent activated carbon ‐Cu‐Cr‐Ag (KS‐z) catalyst by treating it with a solution of 0.05 M H2SO4 in the presence of 35 kHz ultrasound at 298 K for 60 min. The regenerated activated carbon had a specific surface area of 760 m2/g and an iodine number of 820 mg/g. It was mixed with p‐chlorophenol‐ or isooctane‐contaminated sand (in a concentration range of 0.32–1.28 and 1.3–44.3 mg/g, respectively), and then all of it was solidified with cement. The addition of 0.5% regenerated activated carbon to the sand effectively stabilizes wastes and reduces the leaching of organic contaminants from the solidified matrix to the water phase. It was also observed that the addition of activated carbon cannot be higher than 2.5% because it undesirably affects the quality of the obtained cement paste. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2009
Clinical and molecular features in patients with atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor or malignant rhabdoid tumor
Authors: Kordes Uwe , Gesk Stefan , Frühwald Michael Christoph , Graf Norbert , Leuschner Ivo , Hasselblatt Martin , Jeibmann Astrid , Oyen Florian , Peters Ove , Pietsch Torsten , Siebert Reiner , Schneppenheim Reinhard
Published: November 2009

The SMARCB1 gene status in 50 patients with atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor and/or malignant rhabdoid tumor recruited to a German registry was prospectively analyzed with FISH and PCR. Altogether we found 40 SMARCB1 mutations in 28 patients. Two patients were positive for SMARCB1 staining at immunochemistry. Germline mutations were identified in 10 of 41 patients with CNS disease, including three large heterozygous deletions, six truncating mutations and one donor splice site mutation. No missense mutation was identified. Analysis of first degree relatives did not detect any carriers. Mutations were distributed over the SMARCB1‐gene without particular clustering. No germline mutation was found in nine patients without CNS disease. Patients with germline mutation had a lower median age at diagnosis in comparison to those without detectable germline mutation (5.5 vs. 13 months, P = 0.001), a higher rate of primary multicentric CNS disease (5/10 vs. 5/36) and synchronous or metachronous mixed CNS and extracranial disease (4/10 vs. 1/36). Two year overall survival was 0% in patients with germline mutation and 48% in those without detectable germline mutation (P < 0.001). Patients with germline mutation of SMARCB1 manifest at an early age and have a very high risk for progression which has to be considered with respect to the outcome of further treatment studies. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Arteriovenous malformation in the pretragal region: Case report
Authors: Kim Kyung Soo
Published: November 2009

Background

Arteriovenous malformation (AVM) in the extracranial region is uncommon. The most common sites are cheek, ear, nose, and forehead in order of frequency in the extracranial region. Although the external ear is the second most common site for the extracranial AVM, AVM in the pretragal region has not been reported until now.

Methods and Results

We reported a case of AVM in the pretragal region, which was successfully removed by complete excision after preoperative selective embolization in a 32‐year‐old man. Combined superselective and particle embolization is a useful method to decrease the blood flow in the pretragal AVM.

Conclusion

We successfully treated the patient for the AVM in the pretragal area by complete excision within 72 hours after the preoperative combined superselective and particle embolization. Although our case is similar to auricular AVMs in point of symptoms and treatment, this is the first case reported at this unusual site. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2011
Expression of matrix metalloproteinase‐1, ‐7, ‐9, ‐13, Ki‐67, and HER‐2 in epithelial‐myoepithelial salivary gland cancer
Authors: Luukkaa Heikki , Klemi Pekka , Leivo Ilmo , Mäkitie Antti A. , Irish Jonathan , Gilbert Ralph , Perez‐Ordonez Bayardo , Hirsimäki Pirkko , Vahlberg Tero , Kivisaari Atte , Kähäri Veli‐Matti , Grénman Reidar
Published: November 2009

Background

The expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in epithelial‐myoepithelial salivary gland carcinoma has not been studied previously.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry for MMP‐1, ‐7, ‐9, ‐13, Ki‐67, and HER‐2, as well as HER‐2 gene amplification by silver enhanced in situ hybridization was performed in a series of 12 paraffin‐embedded histopathologic samples of patients from Canada and Finland.

Results

A positive MMP‐13 (p = .0022), higher MMP‐13 (p = .0274), and higher MMP‐9 (p = .0274) index (multiplication of staining intensity by percentage of the positive cells) predicted better overall survival. In disease‐specific analysis, higher MMP‐9 index (p = .0327) predicted better survival. A higher volume corrected index (VCI) of Ki‐67 (p = .0339) predicted worse disease‐specific survival. In 1 patient, HER‐2 oncogene amplification was observed.

Conclusion

MMPs and Ki‐67 may have prognostic impact in epithelial‐myoepithelial carcinoma. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2010
Transoral CO2 laser treatment for Tis–T3 glottic cancer: The University of Brescia experience on 595 patients
Authors: Peretti Giorgio , Piazza Cesare , Cocco Daniela , De Benedetto Luigi , Del Bon Francesca , Redaelli De Zinis Luca Oscar , Nicolai Piero
Published: November 2009

Background

Transoral CO2 laser surgery has been accepted as a valuable therapeutic option for glottic cancer.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of 595 patients. Five‐year overall and disease‐specific survivals, local control with laser, locoregional, regional control, and organ preservation rates were calculated. The impact of different variables was calculated by univariate analysis.

Results

Overall, disease‐specific and disease‐free survivals, local control with laser, locoregional, regional control, and organ preservation rates were 87.5%, 99%, 81.3%, 92.7%, 98.9%, 98.2%, and 97.1%, respectively. Univariate analysis showed a significant impact of pT category on local control with laser, organ preservation, locoregional and regional control, of endoscopic re‐treatment for positive deep surgical margins on local control with laser and organ preservation, and recurrence after endoscopic re‐treatment on local control with laser and organ preservation.

Conclusion

This series confirms the good oncologic outcomes of endoscopic laser surgery for Tis, T1, and selected T2 and T3 glottic tumors. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2010
Storage dynamics and streamflow in a catchment with a variable contributing area
Authors: Spence C. , Guan X. J. , Phillips R. , Hedstrom N. , Granger R. , Reid B.
Published: November 2009

Storage heterogeneity effects on runoff generation have been well documented at the hillslope or plot scale. However, diversity across catchments can increase the range of storage conditions. Upscaling the influence of small‐scale storage on streamflow across the usually more heterogeneous environment of the catchment has been difficult. The objective of this study was to observe the distribution of storage in a heterogeneous catchment and evaluate its significance and potential influence on streamflow. The study was conducted in the subarctic Canadian Shield: a region with extensive bedrock outcrops, shallow predominantly organic soils, discontinuous permafrost and numerous water bodies. Even when summer runoff was generated from bedrock hillslopes with small storage capacities, intermediary locations with large storage capacities, particularly headwater lakes, prevented water from transmitting to higher order streams. The topographic bounds of the basin thus constituted the maximum potential contributing area to streamflow and rarely the actual area. Topographic basin storage had little relation to basin streamflow, but hydrologically connected storage exhibited a strong hysteretic relationship with streamflow. This relationship defines the form of catchment function such that the basin can be defined by a series of storing and contributing curves comparable with the wetting and drying curves used in relating tension and hydraulic conductivity to water content in unsaturated soils. These curves may prove useful for catchment classification and elucidating predominant hydrological processes. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada.
Tumor angiogenesis and novel antiangiogenic strategies
Authors: Gordon Michael S. , Mendelson David S. , Kato Gerry
Published: November 2009

Angiogenesis is essential for the development and growth of tumors. It is a highly regulated process that requires cross‐talk between signaling pathways at all stages of blood vessel development and tumor growth, from the recruitment of endothelial cells to vessel maturation. This review summarizes tumor angiogenesis and describes the key signaling pathways governing blood vessel development. The role of angiogenesis in various tumor types is discussed, but the focus is on invasive breast cancer, a disease that will affect ∼182,000 women in the USA in 2008. Research efforts over the past decade have identified numerous potential, as well as proven therapies with activity in breast cancer. These include chemotherapeutics as well as therapies that inhibit specific angiogenic pathways known as targeted agents. Some of the data from single‐ and multitargeted antiangiogenic agents are described in this review. “Published 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. This article is a US Government work, and, as such, is in the public domain in the United States of America.”
High expression of EZH2 is associated with tumor aggressiveness and poor prognosis in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma treated with definitive chemoradiotherapy
Authors: He Li‐Ru , Liu Meng‐Zhong , Li Bin‐Kui , Jia Wei‐Hua , Zhang Ying , Liao Yi‐Ji , Chen Yang‐Chao , Zhang Lan‐Jun , Guan Xin‐Yuan , Zeng Yi‐Xin , Kung Hsiang‐Fu , Xie Dan
Published: November 2009

The enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), a known repressor of gene transcription, has been reported to be associated with biological malignancy in several cancers. The potential oncogenic role of EZH2 and its clinical/prognostic significance, however, in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) are unclear. In this study, the methods of immunohistochemistry and fluorescence in‐situ hybridization were used to examine protein expression and amplification of EZH2 in 98 pretreatment biopsy specimens of ESCC who received definitive chemoradiotherapy (CRT). High expression of EZH2 and amplification of EZH2 was found in 54.1% and 12.0% of ESCCs, respectively. High EZH2 expression was significantly correlated with increased cell proliferation (p = 0.009), high histopathological grade (p = 0.002), regional (p = 0.025) and distant lymph node metastasis (p < 0.001) and lack of clinical complete response to CRT (p = 0.028). Univariate analysis revealed that high expression of EZH2 was associated with poor metastasis‐free survival (MFS) (p = 0.003), poor progression‐free survival (PFS) (p = 0.001) and poor disease‐specific survival (DSS) (p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, high expression of EZH2, together with lack of clinical complete response, were evaluated as significant independent prognostic factors of MFS, PFS and DSS for patients with ESCC. These findings suggest that high expression of EZH2 correlates with tumor aggressiveness and adverse patient outcome in ESCC treated with definitive CRT. Evaluation of EZH2 expressions might be useful for predicting tumor response to CRT and prognosis for patients with ESCC.
Oxidative stress‐dependent increase in ICAM‐1 expression promotes adhesion of colorectal and pancreatic cancers to the senescent peritoneal mesothelium
Authors: Ksia̧żek Krzysztof , Mikuła‐Pietrasik Justyna , Catar Rusan , Dworacki Grzegorz , Winckiewicz Marek , Frydrychowicz Magdalena , Dragun Duska , Staniszewski Ryszard , Jörres Achim , Witowski Janusz
Published: November 2009

Intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1) has been implicated in adhesion of colorectal and pancreatic cancer cells (of the SW480 and PSN‐1 line, respectively) to the peritoneal mesothelium. It has been demonstrated that ICAM‐1 expression increases with senescence in some cell types, however, the significance of this phenomenon in the context of malignant dissemination remains elusive. In this report we show that the adherence of SW480 and PSN‐1 cells to senescent human omentum‐derived mesothelial cells (HOMCs) in vitro is greater than to early‐passage cells and that the effect is mediated by ICAM‐1. Senescent HOMCs display increased expression of ICAM‐1 mRNA and cell surface protein. The development of this phenotype is related to increased oxidative stress in senescent cells. The augmented ICAM‐1 expression in HOMCs can be reduced by culturing cells with antioxidants; in contrast, exposure of HOMCs to an oxidant, t‐BHP, leads to cellular senescence and increased ICAM‐1 expression. The effect is partly mediated by activation of p38 MAPK and AP‐1 signaling pathways. Finally, culture of HOMCs in the presence of a strong antioxidant, PBN, significantly reduces the senescence‐associated increase in SW480 and PSN‐1 cancer cell binding. These results indicate that increased oxidative stress and increased expression of ICAM‐1 in senescent HOMCs may facilitate peritoneal adhesion of selected colorectal and pancreatic cancers.
The Lucas critique and the stability of empirical models
Authors: Lubik Thomas A. , Surico Paolo
Published: November 2009

This paper reconsiders the empirical relevance of the Lucas critique using a DSGE sticky price model in which a weak central bank response to inflation generates equilibrium indeterminacy. The model is calibrated to capture the magnitude of the historical shift in the Federal Reserve's policy rule. Using Monte Carlo simulations and a backward‐looking model of aggregate supply and demand, we find that shifts in the policy rule induce breaks in both the reduced‐form coefficients and the reduced‐form error variances. When the instability of the reduced‐form error variances is accounted for, the Lucas critique is found to be empirically relevant. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of growth factors in combination with injectable silicone resin particles on the biological activity of dermal fibroblasts: A preliminaryin vitrostudy
Authors: Jennings Jessica A. , Crews Robert M. , Robinson Joycelyn , Richelsoph Kelly , Cole Judith A. , Bumgardner Joel D. , Yang Yunzhi , Haggard Warren O.
Published: November 2009

Injections of silicone fluid have been clinically evaluated to treat and prevent foot ulcers due to diminished plantar fat‐pad in neuropathic diabetics. The objective of this study was to determine preliminaryin vitroeffects of an injectable form of silicone resin particles in combination with growth factors to determine the suitability of this potential therapy for prevention of diabetic foot ulcers. Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF) and platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF‐BB) were added to monolayer culture along with silicone resin particles (12 μm average diameter). Growth factors were also combined as follows: bFGF+PDGF‐BB, EGF+PDGF‐BB, and bFGF+EGF. Growth factors alone and in combination increased fibroblast proliferation, but the presence of particles did not significantly affect cellular proliferation. The addition of particles significantly increased fibronectin production 117% in the control group and 151% in the PDGF only group. Collagen production was increased with exposure to EGF and growth factor combinations, but the presence of particles did not lead to any significant differences, except an 81% increase in the bFGF group. These preliminary results suggest that a combination of PDGF and bFGF may be effective in stimulating proliferation and matrix production around injectable silicone resin particles to generate a fibrous tissue pad to alleviate the abnormal distribution of high pressures that contribute to diabetic foot ulcer formation. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 2010
Synthesis and characterization of functionalized magnetic maghemite nanoparticles with fluorescent probe capabilities for biological applications
Authors: Perlstein Benny , Lublin‐Tennenbaum Tammy , Marom Inbal , Margel Shlomo
Published: November 2009

Nanoparticles with innovative optical, chemical, and magnetic properties combined in a single nanoparticle may be useful as biosensors, targeting agents, and therapeutic agents in the biomedical field. This study describes new magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) containing the fluorescent dye rhodamine isothiocyanate (RITC) covalently encapsulated within the nanoparticles. These nanoparticles have been prepared by nucleation followed by controlled growth of iron oxide layers onto iron oxide/gelatin‐RITC nuclei. The formed RITC labeled MNPs (R‐MNPs) are of narrow size distribution, exhibit the fluorescent spectrum of RITC, yet are more photostable. Because of the covalent encapsulation of RITC within the MNPs no detectable leakage of the fluorescent dye into the aqueous continuous phase was observed. This manuscript also demonstrates that the surface of the R‐MNPs retains similar ligand binding efficiency as the equivalent nonfluorescent MNPs. Specific cell labeling was obtained by incubating glia cells with R‐MNPs conjugated to glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) protein. We further showed that the R‐MNPs may be used for pH sensing between the pH range of 5 and 9. This feature may enable the use of the R‐MNPs as a pH sensor of animal tissues and cell compartments. Thus, these functional narrow size distribution R‐MNPs with both magnetic and fluorescent properties may provide an important research tool for biological sensing. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2010
Homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia: Long term clinical course and plasma exchange therapy for two individual patients and review of the literature
Authors: Beigel Roy , Beigel Yitzhak
Published: November 2009

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an autosomal dominant disease. Homozygous FH (HFH) manifests with severe hypercholesterolemia since birth (cholesterol levels >5–6 the upper normal limit), which, if untreated, leads to early onset accelerated atherosclerosis and premature coronary death, usually before the 2nd or 3rd decades of life. Various invasive procedures (iliocecal bypass, porto‐caval shunt, liver transplant, and gene therapy) have been introduced for lowering low density lipoprotein (LDL) aiming at reducing atherosclerosis and improving survival of HFH patients. Of all the various methods, LDL apheresis has become the most attractive. Although its impressive effect on LDL‐C reduction is well established, its long‐term (of more than 10 year) effect on the atherosclerotic process and specifically cardiac end‐points in HFH is hardly documented. We herewith report on the longest term lipophoresis so far reported in two HFH patients, each treated with plasma‐exchange and LDL‐apheresis for more than 20 years. The observations provide an opportunity to focus on various aspects regarding not only the procedure itself but also its effect on various clinical endpoints. By this description together with reviewing the literature, we discuss several issues, some of them are generalized while others are individualized, dealing with the approach of long term LDL apheresis in HFH. J. Clin. Apheresis 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Addition of hydrazine to 4,7‐dihydro[1,2,4]triazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidines: Hydrazine derivatives of 4,5,6,7‐tetrahydro[1,2,4]triazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidine
Authors: Komykhov Sergey A. , Ostras Konstantin S. , Kobzar Kyryl M. , Musatov Vladimir I. , Desenko Sergey M.
Published: November 2009

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The 7‐aryl‐4,7‐dihydro[1,2,4]triazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidines 1a, 1b, 1c can undergo addition of hydrazine to the enamine double bond leading to hydrazine derivatives of tetrahydrotriazolopyrimidines 2a, 2b, 2c; the process is usually accompanied by partial opening of pyrimidine ring leading to 3a, 3b. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2009).