bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
En deçà des méthodes et des théories, l’horizon d’une philosophie
Authors: Basalamah Salah
Published: May 2013

Cet article se propose de soumettre deux hypothèses. Il s’agit d’une part de montrer l’interdépendance entre théorie et méthodologie de la recherche et d’autre part de souligner la nécessité de reconnaître la pluralité des approches méthodologiques en traductologie, dont la recherche conceptuelle. Pour vérifier la première hypothèse, on montrera d’abord comment historiquement la notion même de théorie a évolué dans le développement de la discipline pour ensuite établir que la réflexion métathéorique, que l’on aura justement exercée dans le présent article, ne peut faire l’économie de celle qui implique les choix méthodologiques offerts au chercheur, dont le traductologue. Quant à la vérification de la seconde hypothèse, elle s’appuiera notamment sur la mise en évidence des tendances adoptées par les traductologues dans leurs choix méthodologiques ainsi que l’analyse des raisons éventuelles d’une telle orientation. Les résultats préliminaires nous permettront de constater la forte dominance de la recherche empirique, et par conséquent la place moins importante et moins reconnue de la recherche conceptuelle qui accuse le coup d’une perception lui valant une sorte de « défaut de scientificité ». Or comment prétendre à l’interdisciplinarité lorsque le pluralisme méthodologique est déficitaire? D’où la revendication d’un horizon qui pourrait élargir la traductologie par les fondations, vers une philosophie intégrée de la traduction.
The Interdisciplinary Character of Research into the Translation of Literary Irony
Authors: De Wilde July
Published: May 2013

In this article, while I welcome the call for a more interdisciplinary character, I also endorse the idea that the methods of neighbouring disciplines do not necessarily need to be included into one comprehensive research model for TS. The advantages of interdisciplinary research are illustrated with research into the translation of literary irony. In the first part of the article, I present an analytical instrument for comparative research between original and translated ironic excerpts. I will demonstrate that by including insights from, mainly, pragmatic and cognitive approaches to irony, I have been able to fine-tune the three-part analytical instrument called “the ironic effect.” Its advantages and heuristic scope are illustrated with excerpts from La tía Julia y el escribidor (Mario Vargas Llosa). In the second part of the article, I discuss the analyses of two other novels, Tres tristes tigres (Guillermo Cabrera Infante) and La invención de Morel (Adolfo Bioy Casares) and show that, by adopting very different research hypotheses and multiplying the questions asked, the observed data were better understood. I conclude that there is margin for an inclusive, open and flexible TS methodology, provided that both theory and methodology are understood as means of understanding. Stripped of its ontological status, theory, then, is nothing but a functional notion.
The Definition of Translation in Davidson’s Philosophy: Semantic Equivalence versus Functional Equivalence
Authors: Ervas Francesca
Published: May 2013

This article discusses how, in addition to providing a definition for translation, the concept of equivalence may explain why we can say that sentence S in language L is a translation of sentence S1 in language L1. It analyzes two main kinds of equivalence that are used in analytical philosophy to define translation: semantic equivalence and functional equivalence. This analysis shows that drawing a distinction between semantic and functional equivalence is a way to understand the distinction between different levels or aspects of meaning. Both semantic equivalence, introduced by Gottlob Frege, and functional equivalence, proposed by Wilfrid Sellars, were developed in Donald Davidson’s theory of meaning. After discussing the limits of Davidson’s definitions of equivalence, this article will argue that functional equivalence is a reason for comparing Davidson’s philosophy to positions such as those expressed by Hans-Georg Gadamer’s hermeneutics.
MoS2 Formed on Mesoporous Graphene as a Highly Active Catalyst for Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Liao Lei , Zhu Jie , Bian Xiaojun , Zhu Lina , Scanlon Micheál D. , Girault Hubert H. , Liu Baohong
Published: May 2013

A highly active and stable electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution is developed based on the in situ formation of MoS2 nanoparticles on mesoporous graphene foams (MoS2/MGF). Taking advantage of its high specific surface area and its interconnected conductive graphene skeleton, MGF provides a favorable microenvironment for the growth of highly dispersed MoS2 nanoparticles while allowing rapid charge transfer kinetics. The MoS2/MGF nanocomposites exhibit an excellent electrocatalytic activity for the hydrogen evolution reaction with a low overpotential and substantial apparent current densities. Such enhanced catalytic activity stems from the abundance of catalytic edge sites, the increase of electrochemically accessible surface area and the unique synergic effects between the MGF support and active catalyst. The electrode reactions are characterized by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. A Tafel slope of ≈42 mV per decade is measured for a MoS2/MGF modified electrode, suggesting the Volmer‐Heyrovsky mechanism of hydrogen evolution.
Recent advances in de novo CD5+ diffuse large B cell lymphoma
Authors: Jain Preetesh , Fayad Luis E. , Rosenwald Andreas , Young Ken H. , O'Brien Susan
Published: May 2013

Various subsets of DLBCL are distinguished based on molecular and immunohistochemical features. CD5 expressing DLBCL (CD5+ DLBCL) is increasingly recognized as a subtype of DLBCL with an aggressive disease course. Primary CD5+ DLBCL comprises approximately 5–10% of DLBCL. Few studies of CD5+ DLBCL have been reported, primarily from Japan. Publications covered in this review include articles published on PubMed and abstracts from major international conferences until April 2013. Common features of patients with CD5+ DLBCL are older age, female preponderance, elevated LDH, more extra‐nodal involvement, poor performance status (PS), higher incidence of CNS involvement, inferior response to rituximab‐containing regimens (as compared to CD5‐ DLBCL) and advanced stage. The majority of these cases belong to the activated B cell subtype (ABC) of DLBCL. It is unclear whether CD5 expression in malignant B cells may confer chemo resistance, upregulate antiapoptotic signals and alter the microenvironment. Molecular techniques have helped in understanding CD5+ DLBCL. Gene expression signature was similar in ABC‐DLBCL and CD5+ DLBCL in some studies. Despite the better characterization treatment outcomes are poor and additional studies are needed. Am. J. Hematol. 88:798–802, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Delineation of a new chromosome 20q11.2 duplication syndrome including the ASXL1 gene
Authors: Avila Magali , Kirchhoff Maria , Marle Nathalie , Hove Hanna D. , Chouchane Mondher , Thauvin‐Robinet Christel , Masurel Alice , Mosca‐Boidron Anne‐Laure , Callier Patrick , Mugneret Francine , Kjaergaard Susanne , Faivre Laurence
Published: May 2013

We report on three males with de novo overlapping 7.5, 9.8, and 10 Mb duplication of chromosome 20q11.2. Together with another patient previously published in the literature with overlapping 20q11 microduplication, we show that such patients display common clinical features including metopic ridging/trigonocephaly, developmental delay, epicanthal folds, and short hands. The duplication comprised the ASXL1 gene, in which de novo heterozygous nonsense or truncating mutations have recently been reported in patients with Borhing–Opitz syndrome. Because of craniofacial features in common with Borhing–Opitz syndrome, in particular metopic ridging/trigonocephaly, we suggest that duplication of ASXL1 contributes to the phenotype. These observations suggest a novel microduplication syndrome, and reporting of additional patients with molecular characterization will allow more detailed genotype–phenotype correlations. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Integrated Si‐based nanoplasmonic sensor with phase‐sensitive angular interrogation
Authors: Patskovsky Sergiy , Meunier Michel
Published: May 2013

This work is related to the development of an integrated Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) sensor on silicon platform. The optical properties of metallic nanogratings fabricated on the semiconductor structure allow direct plasmonic detection in transmission mode. Specially designed angular interrogation method provides a periodic signal with phase dependent on the conditions of surface plasmon excitation. Proposed technique leads to sensitivity better than 10−6 RIU for conventional SPR Kretschmann configuration and was tested on the integrated Si‐based nanoplasmonic chip. Developed concept is promising for low‐cost mono and multi ‐sensing applications by portable or stationary platforms.
Hyperbranched polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (HB‐POSS) nanomaterials for high transmission and radiation‐resistant space and solar applications
Authors: Xu Nita , Stark Edmund J. , Carver Peter I. , Sharps Paul , Hu Jin , Hartmann‐Thompson Claire
Published: May 2013

Hyperbranched polycarbosiloxanes and polysiloxanes with octafunctional polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) branchpoints and curable alkoxysilane or silanol end‐groups were formulated with linear polysiloxanes to fabricate transparent and robust nanostructured POSS‐containing materials for use in a range of high performance space and solar applications. The effect of methyl vs. phenyl content, architecture and linear polysiloxane mass on transmission, thermal, physical, and proton, electron and UV radiation resistance properties was determined, and the physical properties of the nanomaterials were tailored to produce adhesives, or rigid or flexible coatings as desired. The methyl formulations showed superior electron resistance relative to a commercial space control material and to a POSS‐free HB polymer control material, even when directly exposed to radiation in coating form, whereas the phenyl formulations were shown to have inferior electron and UV resistance. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 3849–3861, 2013
Clay dispersion effects on excimer laser ablation of polymer–clay nanocomposites
Authors: Chang I‐Ta , Sancaktar Erol
Published: May 2013

The ablation behavior of polystyrene‐organically modified montmorillonite (OMMT) nanocomposites was evaluated by measuring the weight loss induced by KrF excimer laser irradiation of the nanocomposite specimens under air atmosphere. The characteristic values of ablation, ablation threshold fluence, and effective absorption coefficient for polystyrene and its nanocomposites were calculated based on the weight loss data. The effects of morphology due to spatial variation in injection molded samples are also discussed in this article. Results demonstrate that both the dispersion state and the concentration of clay play important roles in excimer laser ablation. The sensitivity of threshold fluence and absorption coefficient to dispersion state of OMMT seem to depend on the clay concentration. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 2336–2344, 2013
A random walk on an ontology: Using thesaurus structure for automatic subject indexing
Authors: Willis Craig , Losee Robert M.
Published: May 2013

Relationships between terms and features are an essential component of thesauri, ontologies, and a range of controlled vocabularies. In this article, we describe ways to identify important concepts in documents using the relationships in a thesaurus or other vocabulary structures. We introduce a methodology for the analysis and modeling of the indexing process based on a weighted random walk algorithm. The primary goal of this research is the analysis of the contribution of thesaurus structure to the indexing process. The resulting models are evaluated in the context of automatic subject indexing using four collections of documents pre‐indexed with 4 different thesauri (AGROVOC [UN Food and Agriculture Organization], high‐energy physics taxonomy [HEP], National Agricultural Library Thesaurus [NALT], and medical subject headings [MeSH]). We also introduce a thesaurus‐centric matching algorithm intended to improve the quality of candidate concepts. In all cases, the weighted random walk improves automatic indexing performance over matching alone with an increase in average precision (AP) of 9% for HEP, 11% for MeSH, 35% for NALT, and 37% for AGROVOC. The results of the analysis support our hypothesis that subject indexing is in part a browsing process, and that using the vocabulary and its structure in a thesaurus contributes to the indexing process. The amount that the vocabulary structure contributes was found to differ among the 4 thesauri, possibly due to the vocabulary used in the corresponding thesauri and the structural relationships between the terms. Each of the thesauri and the manual indexing associated with it is characterized using the methods developed here.
Artificial Metalloenzymes Constructed From Hierarchically‐Assembled Proteins
Authors: Ueno Takafumi , Tabe Hiroyasu , Tanaka Yuya
Published: May 2013

The design of artificial metalloenzymes has become an important topic in biological chemistry and inorganic chemistry due to the potential applications of artificial metalloenzymes in nanoscience and biotechnology. One of the general methods used to produce artificially metalloenzymes involves the encapsulation of non‐natural metal cofactors within protein scaffolds. This method has been used in the construction of small artificial metalloproteins with high activity and selectivity. However, the important roles of protein assemblies have not yet been systematically investigated in this field, even though natural enzymatic systems employ protein assemblies as molecular scaffolds for elaborate enzymatic reactions. In recent years, the above‐mentioned general strategy has been applied to functionalize protein assemblies such as protein cages and protein crystals. These assembled structures form confined interior environments, which can be used to accommodate metal complex catalysts and to prepare metal nanoparticles. The development of artificial metalloenzymes with hierarchically‐assembled proteins would enable us to provide powerful tools for industrial and biological applications. In this Focus Review, we discuss the most significant recent research in this field as well as future directions.
Synthesis and degradation jointly determine the responsiveness of the cellular proteome
Authors: Schwanhäusser Björn , Wolf Jana , Selbach Matthias , Busse Dorothea
Published: May 2013

It is of fundamental importance to understand how the individual processes of gene expression, transcription, and translation, as well as mRNA and protein stability, act in concert to produce dynamic cellular proteomes. We use the concept of response times to illustrate the relation between degradation processes and responsiveness of the proteome to system changes and to provide supporting experimental evidence: proteins with short response times tend to be more strongly up‐regulated after 1 hour of TNFα stimulation than proteins with longer response times. Furthermore, based on process‐dependent response times, we demonstrate that synthesis and degradation act in concert to enable rapid responses. Finally, by building on a previously published data set quantifying the mammalian gene expression cascade, we speculate on how combinations of stable and unstable mRNAs and proteins may be wired to transcriptional or translational regulation to support gene function.
Studies on the interaction of palmatine hydrochloride with bovine hemoglobin
Authors: Liu Baosheng , Yan Xiaona , Cao Shina , Chong Baohong , Lü Yunkai
Published: May 2013

The interaction between bovine hemoglobin (BHb) and palmatine hydrochloride (PMT) was investigated at different temperatures using multispectroscopy, as well as the effect of common metal ions (Ca2+, Mg2+, Zn2+, Cu2+, Fe2+, Fe3+, Co2+, Ni2+) on the BHb–PMT system. Results showed that the quenching mechanism of PMT on BHb was a static process. The electrostatic force played an important role in the conjugation reaction between BHb and PMT. The order of magnitude of the binding constants (Ka) was 104, and the number of binding sites (n) in the binary system was ~ 1. The binding distance (r) was ~ 2.44 nm and the primary binding for PMT was located at β‐37 tryptophan in the hydrophobic cavity of BHb. In addition, the Hill's coefficients were ~ 1. Synchronous and circular dichroism spectra revealed that the microenvironment and the conformation of BHb were changed during the binding reaction. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polarizable Empirical Force Field for Acyclic Polyalcohols Based on the Classical Drude Oscillator
Authors: He Xibing , Lopes Pedro E. M. , MacKerell Alexander D.
Published: May 2013

A polarizable empirical force field for acyclic polyalcohols based on the classical Drude oscillator is presented. The model is optimized with an emphasis on the transferability of the developed parameters among molecules of different sizes in this series and on the condensed‐phase properties validated against experimental data. The importance of the explicit treatment of electronic polarizability in empirical force fields is demonstrated in the cases of this series of molecules with vicinal hydroxyl groups that can form cooperative intra‐ and intermolecular hydrogen bonds. Compared to the CHARMM additive force field, improved treatment of the electrostatic interactions avoids overestimation of the gas‐phase dipole moments resulting in significant improvement in the treatment of the conformational energies and leads to the correct balance of intra‐ and intermolecular hydrogen bonding of glycerol as evidenced by calculated heat of vaporization being in excellent agreement with experiment. Computed condensed phase data, including crystal lattice parameters and volumes and densities of aqueous solutions are in better agreement with experimental data as compared to the corresponding additive model. Such improvements are anticipated to significantly improve the treatment of polymers in general, including biological macromolecules. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 99: 724–738, 2013.
Conformational preferences of helix foldamers of γ‐peptides based on 2‐(aminomethyl)cyclohexanecarboxylic acid
Authors: Byun Byung Jin , Kang Young Kee
Published: May 2013

The conformational preferences of helix foldamers having different sizes of the H‐bonded pseudocycles have been studied for di‐ to octa‐γ2,3‐peptides based on 2‐(aminomethyl)cyclohexanecarboxylic acid (γAmc6) with a cyclohexyl constraint on the Cα–Cβ bond using density functional methods. The helical structures of the γAmc6 oligopeptides with homochiral configurations are known to be much stable than those with heterochiral configurations in the gas phase and in solution (chloroform and water). In particular, it is found that the (P/M)−2.514‐helices are most preferred in the gas phase and in chloroform, whereas the (P/M)−2.312‐helices become most populated in water due to the larger helix dipole moments. As the peptide sequence becomes longer, the helix propensities of 14‐ and 12‐helices are found to increase both in the gas phase and in solution. The γAmc6 peptides longer than octapeptide are expected to exist as a mixture of 12‐ and 14‐helices with the similar populations in water. The mean backbone torsion angles and helical parameters of the 14‐helix foldamers of γAmc6 oligopeptides are quite similar to those of 2‐aminocyclohexylacetic acid oligopeptides and γ2,3,4‐aminobutyric acid tetrapeptide in the solid state, despite the different substituents on the backbone. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 101: 87–95, 2014.
Circular dichroism and electron microscopy studies in vitro of 33‐mer gliadin peptide revealed secondary structure transition and supramolecular organization
Authors: Herrera María G. , Zamarreño Fernando , Costabel Marcelo , Ritacco Hernan , Hütten Andreas , Sewald Norbert , Dodero Verónica I.
Published: May 2013

Gliadin, a protein present in wheat, rye, and barley, undergoes incomplete enzymatic degradation during digestion, producing an immunogenic 33‐mer peptide, LQLQPF(PQPQLPY)3PQPQPF. The special features of 33‐mer that provoke a break in its tolerance leading to gliadin sensitivity and celiac disease remains elusive. Herein, it is reported that 33‐mer gliadin peptide was not only able to fold into polyproline II secondary structure but also depending on concentration resulted in conformational transition and self‐assembly under aqueous condition, pH 7.0. A 33‐mer dimer is presented as one initial possible step in the self‐assembling process obtained by partial electrostatics charge distribution calculation and molecular dynamics. In addition, electron microscopy experiments revealed supramolecular organization of 33‐mer into colloidal nanospheres. In the presence of 1 mM sodium citrate, 1 mM sodium borate, 1 mM sodium phosphate buffer, 15 mM NaCl, the nanospheres were stabilized, whereas in water, a linear organization and formation of fibrils were observed. It is hypothesized that the self‐assembling process could be the result of the combination of hydrophobic effect, intramolecular hydrogen bonding, and electrostatic complementarity due to 33‐mer's high content of proline and glutamine amino acids and its calculated nonionic amphiphilic character. Although, performed in vitro, these experiments have revealed new features of the 33‐mer gliadin peptide that could represent an important and unprecedented event in the early stage of 33‐mer interaction with the gut mucosa prior to onset of inflammation. Moreover, these findings may open new perspectives for the understanding and treatment of gliadin intolerance disorders. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 101: 96–106, 2014.
Amphiphilic Cytosolic Glycans from Mycobacteria: Occurrence, Lipid‐Binding Properties, Biosynthesis, and Synthesis
Authors: Xia Li , Lowary Todd L.
Published: May 2013

Polymethylated polysaccharides (PMPSs), glycans composed of 10–20 carbohydrate residues the majority of which carry a single methyl group, are produced by some mycobacterial species. O‐Methylation thus occurs on 20–30% of all the hydroxyl groups within the molecule, rendering them amphiphilic. A property of PMPSs is their ability to form high‐affinity complexes with fatty acids and their derivatives, suggesting a role in mycobacterial fatty acid biosynthesis. However, direct evidence for their in vivo function is still lacking. Over the past several decades the lipid‐binding properties, biosynthesis, and chemical synthesis of PMPSs have been explored and this review will provide an overview of progress made in these areas. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 99: 697–712, 2013.
High expression of ZNF703 independent of amplification indicates worse prognosis in patients with luminal B breast cancer
Authors: Reynisdottir Inga , Arason Adalgeir , Einarsdottir Berglind O. , Gunnarsson Haukur , Staaf Johan , Vallon‐Christersson Johan , Jonsson Goran , Ringnér Markus , Agnarsson Bjarni A. , Olafsdottir Kristrun , Fagerholm Rainer , Einarsdottir Thorbjorg , Johannesdottir Gudrun , Johannsson Oskar Thor , Nevanlinna Heli , Borg Ake , Barkardottir Rosa Bjork
Published: May 2013

Amplification of 8p12‐p11 is relatively common in breast cancer and several genes within the region have been suggested to affect breast tumor progression. The aim of the study was to map the amplified 8p12‐p11 region in a large set of breast tumors in an effort to identify the genetic driver and to explore its impact on tumor progression and prognosis. Copy number alterations (CNAs) were mapped in 359 tumors, and gene expression data from 577 tumors (359 tumors included) were correlated with CNA, clinical–pathological factors, and protein expression (39 tumors). 8p12‐p11 was amplified in 11.4% of tumors. The smallest region of amplification harbored one full‐length gene, ZNF703. ZNF703 mRNA expression was significantly higher in estrogen receptor (ER)‐positive than ER‐negative tumors (P = 2 × 10−16), a reflection of high expression in luminal tumors. Forty‐eight percent of tumors with ZNF703 amplification were luminal B tumors in which the best correlation between DNA copy number and mRNA was seen (P = 1.2 × 10−7) as well as correlation between mRNA and protein expression (P = 0.02). High ZNF703 mRNA correlated with poor survival in patients with ER‐positive luminal B tumors (log rank P = 0.04). Furthermore, high ZNF703 mRNA expression correlated with poor outcome in patients with ZNF703 copy number neutral, ER‐positive, luminal B tumors (log rank P = 0.004). The results support ZNF703 as the driver gene of the 8p12 amplification and suggest that independent of amplification, high expression of the gene affects prognosis in luminal B tumors.
Vascular, downstream, and pharmacokinetic responses to treatment with a low dose drug‐coated balloon in a swine femoral artery model
Authors: Yazdani Saami K. , Pacheco Erica , Nakano Masataka , Otsuka Fumiyuki , Naisbitt Scott , Kolodgie Frank D. , Ladich Elena , Rousselle Serge , Virmani Renu
Published: May 2013

Objectives

This study was designed to evaluate the safety of a novel drug‐coated balloon (DCB) with 2 µg/mm2 paclitaxel and a carrier comprised of polysorbate and sorbitol in a swine femoral artery model.

Background

DCB have emerged as a therapeutic alternative in the treatment of peripheral vascular disease.

Methods

The femoral arteries of 45 swine were treated with low pressure balloon inflation either 1× clinical dose (single inflation, 2 µg/mm2 paclitaxel) or 4× dose (2 DCBs, each with 4 µg/mm2 paclitaxel) or control (uncoated) balloons. The treated arteries, downstream vascular beds, and organs were assessed histologically at 28, 90, and 180‐days. Twenty‐four swine were treated with 1× dose for pharmacokinetic analysis through 30 days.

Results

Arterial tissue paclitaxel concentration was 58.8 ± 54.2 ng/mg at 1‐hr and 0.3 ± 0.4 ng/mg at 30 days, whereas plasma paclitaxel could no longer be detected after 1 day. The treated arteries displayed minimal endothelial loss, fibrin deposition, and inflammation with long‐term dose‐dependent drug effect (medial smooth muscle cell loss) peaking at 90 days for both 1× (1.1 ± 1.4 vs. 0.0 ± 0.0, P = 0.008) and 4× dose (2.0 ± 1.5 vs. 0.0 ± 0.0, P < 0.001). In parallel, healing of the treated arteries was evident by significantly greater medial proteoglycan and collagen deposition at 180 days. No evidence of ischemia from downstream emboli or systemic toxicity was observed even for 4× DCB groups.

Conclusions

The findings indicate desired pharmacologic levels with biologic effects at early and healing at late time points in the treated arteries, without evidence of significant downstream emboli or systemic toxicity, consistent with safety of the Lutonix® DCB. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Clinical effects of routine postdilatation of drug‐eluting stents
Authors: Pasceri Vincenzo , Pelliccia Francesco , Pristipino Christian , Roncella Adriana , Irini Diego , Varveri Antonio , Bisciglia Andrea , Speciale Giulio
Published: May 2013

Objectives

To assess the clinical effects of postdilatation of drug‐eluting stents (DES).

Background

Subotpimal stent expansion occurs after DES deployment. Postidlatation may improve DES expansion, but it is unclear whether postdilatation may also improve clinical outcomes.

Methods

Since July 2009, we adopted a strategy of routine postdilatation with noncompliant balloons of all DES, while previously postdilatation was performed only for suboptimal results. The first 279 consecutive patients (age 62 ± 9 years, 231 men) who underwent routine postilatation were compared with 262 patients (age 61 ± 9 years, 220 men) who received DES in the previous 6 months (standard treatment).

Results

The two groups were similar for age, sex, clinical presentation, and main risk factors, including incidence of diabetes. Routine postdilatation resulted in an improved minimal lumen diameter at the end of the procedure (2.60 ± 0.34 vs. 2.51 ± 0.37 mm, P = 0.003). At 12‐month follow‐up incidence of MACE (including periprocedural myocardial infarction) was 19.5% in the standard treatment group and 12.5% in routine postdilatation group (P = 0.04), with a significant difference in target vessel revascularization (10.7% vs. 5.4%, P = 0.03), while incidence of myocardial infarction was not significantly different between the two groups (10.7% vs. 9.3%, P = 0.70). Stent thrombosis (definite or probable) occurred in 3 patients in standard treatment group, while no case of stent thrombosis occurred among patients treated with routine postdilatation (1.1% vs. 0%, P = 0.11).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that a strategy of routine postdilatation with non compliant balloons may improve clinical outcomes of DES. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The myocardium supplied by a chronic total occlusion is a persistently ischemic zone
Authors: Sachdeva Rajesh , Agrawal Mayank , Flynn Shawn E. , Werner Gerald S. , Uretsky Barry F.
Published: May 2013

Well‐developed collaterals to a myocardial segment supplied by a chronic total occlusion (CTO) and/or left ventricular dysfunction in the CTO regions in patients with chronic stable angina suggest that severe ischemia is unlikely to be present. We evaluated the presence and severity of ischemia using fractional flow reserve (FFR) of the myocardium supplied by a CTO in patients and compared the results with a non‐CTO control group.

Methods

Patients undergoing FFR and successful percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of a CTO were evaluated and compared to a matched non‐CTO control group.

Results

One hundred patients were included (50 CTO/50 controls). CTO lesions were longer (31.6 ± 18.9 vs 20.2 ± 14.9 mm, P = 0.004) and required more stents (2.2 ± 0.8 vs 1.2 ± 0.5, P = 0.001). FFR was lower (P = 0.0003) with CTO (0.45 ± 0.15) than controls (0.58 ± 0.17) prior to intervention but similar after PCI (CTO 0.91 ± 0.05 vs non‐CTO 0.90 ± 0.08). All CTO patients demonstrated an ischemic FFR, even with severe regional dysfunction or well‐developed collaterals. Resting ischemia was present in 78% (39/50) of CTO patients as evidenced by a resting Pd/Pa of <0.80.

Conclusion

In symptomatic patients, a CTO, even with regional left ventricular impairment and/or excellent collateral development, reveals an ischemic zone. This ischemic zone can be normalized by PCI with outcomes appearing to be comparable to non‐CTO patients. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Procedural success and long‐term outcomes of aspiration thrombectomy for the treatment of stent thrombosis
Authors: Waldo Stephen W. , Armstrong Ehrin J. , Yeo Khung‐Keong , Patel Mitul , Reeves Ryan , MacGregor John S. , Low Reginald I. , Mahmud Ehtisham , Rogers Jason H. , Shunk Kendrick
Published: May 2013

Background

Stent thrombosis (ST) is associated with a significant burden of coronary thrombus and potential microvascular obstruction. Aspiration thrombectomy may decrease the extent of microvascular obstruction in patients with acute myocardial infarction but its role in the treatment of ST is uncertain. The present study sought to evaluate the association between aspiration thrombectomy, procedural success and long‐term outcomes among patients presenting with ST.

Methods

In a multicenter cohort of patients with definite ST, procedural success, long‐term mortality, and major adverse cardiovascular events (death, stroke, re‐infarction, revascularization) were ascertained. Propensity weighting was used to determine the association between aspiration thrombectomy and long‐term outcomes.

Results

A total of 205 patients with ST were identified. Among these, 115 (56%) patients underwent adjunctive aspiration thrombectomy during percutaneous coronary intervention. Patients undergoing aspiration thrombectomy were more likely to present with ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (75% vs. 52%, P < 0.003) and require hemodynamic support (19% vs. 10%, P = 0.07). Aspiration thrombectomy was associated with improved procedural outcomes including postprocedural TIMI 3 flow, resulting in higher angiographic and procedural success (each 96% vs. 83%, P < 0.001). Despite improved angiographic outcomes, the use of aspiration thrombectomy was not associated with a difference in long‐term mortality (adjusted HR 0.99, 95% CI 0.44–2.24) or major adverse cardiovascular events (adjusted HR 1.06, 95% CI 0.45–2.48).

Conclusions

Aspiration thrombectomy is associated with improved coronary flow and procedural success but is not associated with improved long‐term outcomes among patients undergoing percutaneous intervention for definite ST.

Clinical Trial Registration: NCT00931502 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00931502) © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Presence of angiographic collaterals in Non‐ST elevation myocardial infarction is a predictor of long‐term clinical outcomes
Authors: Kloepfer Angela M. , Lipson Lewis C. , Keeley Ellen C.
Published: May 2013

Objectives

To determine whether the presence of angiographic coronary collaterals is a predictor of long‐term clinical outcomes in patients with non‐ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI).

Background

The presence of coronary collaterals on angiography provides prognostic information in patients with STEMI, but it is unknown whether they provide prognostic information in patients with NSTEMI.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort study of 931 consecutive patients undergoing coronary angiography of which 269 (29%) had a NSTEMI. Baseline characteristics, angiographic details, and long‐term clinical outcomes including death, recurrent MI, coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG), percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), stroke, and congestive heart failure (CHF) were collected. Each clinical outcome as well as the combined endpoint of death, recurrent MI, CABG, PCI stroke and CHF was compared in subjects with and without collaterals.

Results

At one year, individuals with collaterals had significantly increased rates of the combined endpoint compared with those without (25% vs. 16%, P = 0.0001). On multivariate analysis, the presence of collaterals was a strong predictor of the combined endpoint of death, recurrent MI, CABG, PCI, stroke and CHF (HR 1.95, CI 95% 1.08−3.52; P = 0.027). Similarly, in the subset of 115 patients (43%) in whom the culprit artery was identified, the presence of collaterals was a strong negative predictor (HR 3.71, CI 1.31−10.57, P = 0.014), driven by a 13‐fold increase in subsequent CABG.

Conclusions

In patients with NSTEMI the presence of angiographic coronary collaterals is a predictor of long‐term clinical outcomes primarily driven by increased rates of surgical revascularization. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Drug‐eluting balloons for De Novo coronary artery disease
Authors: Zhang Tuo , Sun Shiqun , Shen Linghong , He Ben
Published: May 2013

Objectives

To evaluate the effectiveness of drug‐eluting balloons (DEBs) in the treatment of de novo coronary artery disease by performing a meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Backgrounds

Current evidence regarding the success of DEBs is insufficient to formulate formal recommendations.

Methods

Seven RCTs were ultimately included. The primary angiographic endpoint was in‐segment diameter stenosis, compared by measuring weighted mean difference (WMD). The primary clinical endpoint was incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) during a 1‐year follow‐up, compared by measuring pooled risk ratio (RR).

Results

For de novo native coronary lesions intervention, DEB plus bare metal stent (BMS) was not superior to BMS alone in both primary angiographic and clinical endpoints (in‐segment diameter stenosis: WMD, −2.59% [95% confidence interval (CI): −9.13% to 3.94%]; MACEs: RR, 0.83 [95%CI: 0.48–1.46]), and DEB with/without BMS was associated with worse outcomes when compared with DES alone (in‐segment diameter stenosis: WMD, 10.64% [95%CI: 2.41–18.87%]; MACEs: RR, 1.54 [95%CI: 0.91–2.61]). Subgroup analysis showed that DEB plus BMS significantly increased the risk of MACEs for simple de novo coronary lesions intervention when compared with DES alone (RR, 1.87 [95%CI: 1.33–2.63]).

Conclusions

Current data does not support the use of DEBs for de novo coronary lesions, especially for simple coronary lesions. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Carotid artery stenting according to the “tailored CAS” algorithm performed in the very elderly patients: The thirty day outcome
Authors: Dzierwa Karolina , Pieniazek Piotr , Tekieli Lukasz , Musialek Piotr , Przewlocki Tadeusz , Kablak‐Ziembicka Anna , Kosobucka‐Peszat Renata , Machnik Roman , Trystula Mariusz , Podolec Piotr
Published: May 2013

Objectives

To assess safety and efficacy of carotid artery stenting (CAS) according to “tailored—CAS” algorithm in the elderly (≥75 years) in relation to younger patients.

Background

Although CAS has grown as an alternative to carotid endarterectomy the data on safety of CAS in the very elderly are inconsistent.

Material and Methods

1,139 patients with significant carotid stenosis underwent 1,252 CAS procedures in one high‐volume center between years 2001–2011. CAS procedures were performed with lesion and patient dependent selection of neuroprotection type (“tailored‐CAS”). There were 193 subjects ≥75‐years‐old (17%) and 946 <75‐years‐old. No major differences in atherosclerosis risk factors and comorbidities between groups were noted. In both groups the majority of patients were male (70.4% vs. 68.6%, P = NS) and half of the patients were symptomatic (50.2% vs. 55.2%, P = NS). Bilateral carotid stenosis was present in 25% of patients from CAS ≥75 group and 22% from CAS< 75 group, P = NS. Proximal neuroprotection devices use for high risk or symptomatic lesions accounted for 31% in CAS≥ 75 group and 32% in CAS<75 group, P = NS.

Results

In symptomatic patients aged ≥75 years 30‐day stroke and death rate was 7% versus 1.9% in symptomatic patients aged <75; P = 0.01 and vs. 1.8% in asymptomatic elderly, P = 0.09. No myocardial infarcts were noted.

Conclusions

Symptomatic elderly is a group of highest CAS risk and the use of “tailored CAS” algorithm does not equalize CAS risk in this patients' group. “Tailored CAS” remains a safe procedure for asymptomatic elderly as well as symptomatic and asymptomatic young patients. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Excimer laser in management of underexpansion of a newly deployed coronary stent
Authors: Lam Simon Cheung Chi , Bertog Stefan , Sievert Horst
Published: May 2013

We report the successful management of underexpansion of a newly deployed coronary stent refractory to balloon dilatations. Direct stenting was performed for a lesion in the mid left anterior descending artery (without angiographically apparent heavy coronary calcification). The stent remained underexpanded despite repeated balloon dilatations including with high‐pressure inflations. Subsequently, an excimer laser catheter was used in an attempt to vaporize the plaque by the accoustomechanical effect of the rapidly exploding bubbles. The overall angiographic result was good after further balloon dilatation with ordinary pressure and full stent expansion was achieved. Management of underexpansion of a newly deployed stent is a potential indication of laser angioplasty. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Experimental and Computational Studies on the Formation of Three para‐Benzyne Analogues in the Gas Phase
Authors: Kirkpatrick Lindsey M. , Vinueza Nelson R. , Jankiewicz Bartłomiej J. , Gallardo Vanessa A. , Archibold Enada F. , Nash John J. , Kenttämaa Hilkka I.
Published: May 2013

Experimental and computational studies on the formation of three gaseous, positively‐charged para‐benzyne analogues in a Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (FT‐ICR) mass spectrometer are reported. The structures of the cations were examined by isolating them and allowing them to react with various neutral reagents whose reactions with aromatic carbon‐centered σ‐type mono‐ and biradicals are well understood. Cleavage of two iodine–carbon bonds in N‐deuterated 1,4‐diiodoisoquinolinium cation by collision‐activated dissociation (CAD) produced a long‐lived cation that showed nonradical reactivity, which was unexpected for a para‐benzyne. However, the reactivity closely resembles that of an isomeric enediyne, N‐deuterated 2‐ethynylbenzonitrilium cation. A theoretical study on possible rearrangement reactions occurring during CAD revealed that the cation formed upon the first iodine atom loss undergoes ring‐opening before the second iodine atom loss to form an enediyne instead of a para‐benzyne. Similar results were obtained for the 5,8‐didehydroisoquinolinium cation and the 2,5‐didehydropyridinium cation. The findings for the 5,8‐didehydroisoquinolinium cation are in contradiction with an earlier report on this cation. The cation described in the literature was regenerated by using the literature method and demonstrated to be the isomeric 5,7‐didehydro‐isoquinolinium cation and not the expected 5,8‐isomer.
Pheromones from males of different familiarity exert divergent effects on adult neurogenesis in the female accessory olfactory bulb
Authors: Wu Jyun‐Han , Han Yueh‐Ting , Yu Jenn‐Yah , Wang Tsu‐Wei
Published: May 2013

Pheromones from urine of unfamiliar conspecific male animals can reinitiate a female's estrus cycle to cause pregnancy block through the vomeronasal organ (VNO)‐accessory olfactory bulb (AOB)‐hypothalamic pathway. This phenomenon is called the Bruce effect. Pheromones from the mate of the female, however, do not trigger re‐entrance of the estrus cycle because an olfactory memory toward its mate is formed. The activity of the VNO‐AOB‐hypothalamic pathway is negatively modulated by GABAergic granule cells in the AOB. Since these cells are constantly replenished by neural stem cells in the subventricular zone (SVZ) of the lateral ventricle throughout adulthood and adult neurogenesis is required for mate recognition and fertility, we tested the hypothesis that pheromones from familiar and unfamiliar males may have different effects on adult AOB neurogenesis in female mice. When female mice were exposed to bedding used by a male or lived with one, cell proliferation and neuroblast production in the SVZ were increased. Furthermore, survival of newly generated cells in the AOB was enhanced. This survival effect was transient and mediated by norepinephrine. Interestingly, male bedding‐induced newborn cell survival in the AOB but not cell proliferation in the SVZ was attenuated when females were subjected to bedding from an unfamiliar male. Our results indicate that male pheromones from familiar and unfamiliar males exert different effects on neurogenesis in the adult female AOB. Given that adult neurogenesis is required for reproductive behaviors, these divergent pheromonal effects may provide a mechanism for the Bruce effect. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 73: 632–645, 2013
Molecular basis for prospective pharmacological treatment strategies in intellectual disability syndromes
Authors: Verpelli Chiara , Galimberti Ivan , Gomez‐Mancilla Baltazar , Sala Carlo
Published: May 2013

A number of mutated genes that code for proteins concerned with brain synapse function and circuit formation have been identified in patients affected by intellectual disability (ID) syndromes over the past 15 years. These genes are involved in synapse formation and plasticity, the regulation of dendritic spine morphology, the regulation of the synaptic cytoskeleton, the synthesis and degradation of specific synapse proteins, and the control of correct balance between excitatory and inhibitory synapses. In most of the cases, even mild alterations in synapse morphology, function, and balance give rise to mild or severe IDs. These studies provided a rationale for the development of pharmacological agents that are able to counteract functional synaptic anomalies and potentially improve the symptoms of some of these conditions. This review summarizes recent findings on the functions of some of the genes responsible for ID syndromes and some of the new potential pharmacological treatments for these diseases. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 74: 197–206, 2014
Correlation between electrophysiological properties, morphological maturation, and olig gene changes during postnatal motor tract development
Authors: Cai Jun , Zhang Yi Ping , Shields Lisa B.E. , Zhang Zoe Z. , Liu Naikui , Xu Xiao‐Ming , Feng Shi‐Qing , Shields Christopher B.
Published: May 2013

This study investigated electrophysiological and histological changes as well as alterations of myelin relevant proteins of descending motor tracts in rat pups. Motor‐evoked potentials (MEPs) represent descending conducting responses following stimulation of the motor cortex to responses being elicited from the lower extremities. MEP responses were recorded biweekly from postnatal (PN) week 1 to week 9 (adult). MEP latencies in PN week 1 rats averaged 23.7 ms and became shorter during early maturation, stabilizing at 6.6 ms at PN week 4. During maturation, the conduction velocity (CV) increased from 2.8 ± 0.2 at PN week 1 to 35.2 ± 3.1 mm/ms at PN week 8. Histology of the spinal cord and sciatic nerves revealed progressive axonal myelination. Expression of the oligodendrocyte precursor markers PDGFRα and NG2 were downregulated in spinal cords, and myelin‐relevant proteins such as GalC, CNP, and MBP increased during maturation. Oligodendrocyte‐lineage markers Olig2 and MOG, expressed in myelinated oligodendrocytes, peaked at PN week 3 and were downregulated thereafter. A similar expression pattern was observed in neurofilament M/H subunits that were extensively phosphorylated in adult spinal cords but not in neonatal spinal cords, suggesting an increase in axon diameter and myelin formation. Ultrastructural morphology in the ventrolateral funiculus (VLF) showed axon myelination of the VLF axons (99.3%) at PN week 2, while 44.6% were sheathed at PN week 1. Increased axon diameter and myelin thickness in the VLF and sciatic nerves were highly correlated to the CV (rs > 0.95). This suggests that MEPs could be a predicator of morphological maturity of myelinated axons in descending motor tracts. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 73: 713–722, 2013
Presynaptic to postsynaptic relationships of the neuromuscular junction are held constant across age and muscle fiber type
Authors: Deschenes Michael R. , Hurst Taylor E. , Ramser Amy E. , Sherman E. Grace
Published: May 2013

The neuromuscular junction (NMJ) displays considerable morphological plasticity as a result of differences in activity level, as well as aging. This is true of both presynaptic and postsynaptic components of the NMJ. Yet, despite these variations in NMJ structure, proper presynaptic to postsynaptic coupling must be maintained in order for effective cell‐to‐cell communication to occur. Here, we examined the NMJs of muscles with different activity profiles (soleus and EDL), on both slow‐ and fast‐twitch fibers in those muscles, and among young adult and aged animals. We used immunofluorescent techniques to stain nerve terminal branching, presynaptic vesicles, postsynaptic receptors, as well as fast/slow myosin heavy chain. Confocal microscopy was used to capture images of NMJs for later quantitative analysis. Data were subjected to a two‐way ANOVA (main effects for myofiber type and age), and in the event of a significant (p < 0.05) F ratio, a post hoc analysis was performed to identify pairwise differences. Results showed that the NMJs of different myofiber types routinely displayed differences in presynaptic and postsynaptic morphology (although the effect on NMJ size was reversed in the soleus and the EDL), but presynaptic to postsynaptic relationships were tightly maintained. Moreover, the ratio of presynaptic vesicles relative to nerve terminal branch length also was similar despite differences in muscles, their fiber type, and age. Thus, in the face of considerable overall structural differences of the NMJ, presynaptic to postsynaptic coupling remains constant, as does the relationship between presynaptic vesicles and the nerve terminal branches that support them. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 73: 744–753, 2013