bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three-Dimensional Vascular Anatomy Relevant to Oncologic Resection of Right Colon Cancer
Authors: Tajima Yusuke , Ishida Hideyuki , Ohsawa Tomonori , Kumamoto Kensuke , Ishibashi Keiichiro , Haga Norihiro , Osada Hisato
Published: December 2012

We analyzed data on the three-dimensional vascular anatomy of the right colon from the operative documents of 215 patients undergoing oncologic resection for right colon cancer. The right colic artery (RCA) was absent in 146 patients (67.9%), with the ileocolic artery (ICA) crossing the superior mesenteric vein (SMV) ventrally in 78 patients (36.3%). When the RCA was present, both the ICA and the RCA crossed the SMV ventrally in 44 patients (20.5%), dorsally in 10 patients (4.7%), the RCA crossed the SMV ventrally and the ICA dorsally in 10 patients (4.7%), and the RCA crossed the SMV dorsally and the ICA ventrally in 5 patients (2.2%). The arterial branches toward the hepatic flexure crossed the SMV ventrally in 151 eligible cases: the branch originated from the common trunk of the middle colic artery in 97 patients (64.2%) and 1 and 2 arteries directly originated from the SMA in 49 patients (32.5%) and in 5 patients (3.3%), respectively. These data would be useful to safely perform lymph node dissection around the SMV.
Esophageal Bypass Using a Gastric Tube for a Malignant Tracheoesophageal/Bronchoesophageal Fistula: A Report of 4 Cases
Authors: Hanagiri Takeshi , Morita Masaru , Shigematsu Yoshiki , Takenaka Masaru , Oka Soich , Nagata Yoshika , Shimokawa Hidehiko , Uramoto Hidetaka , Tanaka Fumihiro
Published: December 2012

Tracheoesophageal/bronchoesophageal fistulas are often caused by locally advanced esophageal cancer and lung cancer, and result in life-threatening conditions such as severe cough and dyspnea due to pneumonia. We herein report the clinical characteristics of 4 patients with tracheoesophageal/bronchoesophageal fistulas. All patients were men, and ranged in age from 40–69 years. Three patients had esophageal cancer and 1 had lung cancer. All 4 underwent esophageal bypass using a gastric tube with tube drainage of the distal side of the esophagus. Three patients died at 3, 4, and 5 months after surgery. However, these patients were allowed to enjoy food orally up until the last few days of life. One patient who underwent esophageal bypass and chemoradiotherapy has remained well for 5 years without any evidence of recurrence. This bypass procedure is therefore considered to be a feasible treatment choice for patients with tracheoesophageal/bronchoesophageal fistulas.
Intravenous Catheter-Guided Laser Ablation: A Novel Alternative for Branch Varicose Veins
Authors: Liu Peng , Ren Shiyan , Yang Yuguang , Liu Jiangtao , Ye Zhidong , Lin Fan
Published: December 2012

It is difficult to manage tributary varicose veins with endovenous laser ablation. Using the intravenous catheter-guided laser fiber to ablate the tributary varicose veins has been proposed. From April 2004 to December 2009, we randomly assigned 134 patients with 170 limbs for laser therapy, of which, 89 limbs in 74 patients were treated with laser ablation. The residual tortuous veins were abolished with the intravenous catheter-guided laser ablation (ICLA group), whereas residual varicose veins in 81 limbs in 60 patients were treated by stab avulsion (SA group). Patients were followed up with the median of 44.5 months after surgery. The outcomes and durability of treatment in both groups were evaluated. The primary end point was recurrence of varicose veins. In comparison with the SA group, patients in the ICLA group had fewer surgical incisions and morbidity, a shorter hospital stay, and returned to normal activity earlier. The overall 5-year recurrence of varicose veins was infrequent in the ICLA group but was much higher in the SA group (5.4% versus 20%, P  =  0.022). ICLA provided better outcomes than conventional SA in managing the branched varicose veins and may be an alternative for the treatment of branch varicose veins.
Debridement and Bone Grafting With Internal Fixation via Anterior Approach for Treatment of Cervicothoracic Tuberculosis
Authors: Lan Xu , Liu Xue-mei , Ge Bao-feng
Published: December 2012

The objective of this study was to investigate the outcome of the patients with cervicothoracic tuberculosis who underwent radical debridement, reconstruction with bone autograft or allograft, and plate internal fixation via anterior approach. From June 2000 to December 2010, 20 patients with tuberculosis in cervicothoracic junction underwent a standard cervical approach, which was combined with a partial median osteotomy and transverse osteotomy through the synostosis between the manubrium and body of the sternum to expose the lesion adequately. Radical debridement was performed, then tricortical iliac crest bone autograft or allograft was placed and internal fixation was done to reconstruct the spinal column. The pathologic change regions were as follows: 10 in the C7-T1 segment, 6 in the T1 segment, 3 in the T1–T3 segment, and 1 in the T2–T3 segment. The classifications of Frankel were as follows: 2 at grade A, 4 at grade B, 7 at grade C, 2 at grade D, and 5 at grade E. There was no injury of blood vessel, spinal cord, or recurrent nerve during the surgery. The follow-up period ranged approximately 16 to 39 months. Bony fusion was obtained in all patients, and there was no internal fixation failure and tuberculosis recurrence in any of these patients. The nerve function of the spinal cord recovered at different degrees: 2 at grade A , 1 at grade B, 1 at grade C, 3 at grade D, and 13 at grade E. The anterior approach can provide direct and safe access to the lesion. The structural iliac crest autograft or allograft and anterior instrumentation could work effectively to stabilize the cervicothoracic junction.
Mixed Ductal-Endocrine Carcinoma of the Pancreas Occurring as a Double Cancer: Report of a Case
Authors: Araki Kenichiro , Shimura Tatsuo , Kobayashi Tsutomu , Saito Kana , Wada Wataru , Sasaki Shigeru , Suzuki Hideki , Kashiwabara Kenji , Nakajima Takashi , Kuwano Hiroyuki
Published: December 2012

We present a successfully treated case of mixed ductal-endocrine carcinoma of the pancreas complicated by right renal cell carcinoma. The patient had no symptoms, and laboratory data were close to the normal range. Enhanced computed tomography demonstrated a marked enhanced tumor, which appeared to be an endocrine tumor, at the pancreas uncus. We performed pyrolus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy, regional lymph node resection, and right nephrectomy. Histologically and immunohistochemically, the pancreas tumor had both a ductal (exocrine) and an endocrine component. The renal tumor was a typical clear cell carcinoma. A diagnosis of synchronous double cancer was made. As demonstrated in previously published reports, this type of mixed tumor has malignant potential for invasive ductal carcinoma. We propose that mixed ductal-endocrine carcinoma of the pancreas should be treated by surgical resection with a sufficient surgical margin and regional lymph node resection to improve the patient's prognosis.
Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma Arising 33 Years After Excision of a Choledochal Cyst: Report of a Case
Authors: Nishiyama Ryo , Shinoda Masahiro , Tanabe Minoru , Masugi Yohei , Ueno Akihisa , Hibi Taizo , Takano Kiminori , Fujisaki Hiroto , Kitago Minoru , Itano Osamu , Kawachi Shigeyuki , Aiura Koichi , Tanimoto Akihiro , Sakamaoto Michiie , Kitagawa Yuko
Published: December 2012

We report a case of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma arising 33 years after excision of a choledochal cyst. A 61-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital complaining of fever. Thirty-three years ago she had undergone extrahepatic choledochal cystectomy and choledochojejunostomy for a choledochal cyst. Computed tomography showed a tumor in the anterior segment of the liver, extending to the posterior and medial segments and the right portal vein. Intrahepatic biliary stones were seen in the bile ducts. We performed extended right lobectomy. Microscopically, the tumor was cholangiocarcinoma. Most of the tumor area was composed of invasive adenocarcinoma but a carcinoma-in-situ component was also observed in some regions including the hilar bile duct, where an intrahepatic biliary stone was seen. This suggests that the cancer development could be related to intrahepatic cholestasis. Patients with choledochal cyst may have to be carefully followed up for more than 30 years even after diversion surgery.
User-Managed Inventory: An Approach to Forward-Deployment of Urgently Needed Medical Countermeasures for Mass-Casualty and Terrorism Incidents
Authors: Coleman C. Norman , Hrdina Chad , Casagrande Rocco , Cliffer Kenneth D. , Mansoura Monique K. , Nystrom Scott , Hatchett Richard , Caro J. Jaime , Knebel Ann R. , Wallace Katherine S. , Adams Steven A.
Published: December 2012

The user-managed inventory (UMI) is an emerging idea for enhancing the current distribution and maintenance system for emergency medical countermeasures (MCMs). It increases current capabilities for the dispensing and distribution of MCMs and enhances local/regional preparedness and resilience. In the UMI, critical MCMs, especially those in routine medical use (“dual utility”) and those that must be administered soon after an incident before outside supplies can arrive, are stored at multiple medical facilities (including medical supply or distribution networks) across the United States. The medical facilities store a sufficient cache to meet part of the surge needs but not so much that the resources expire before they would be used in the normal course of business. In an emergency, these extra supplies can be used locally to treat casualties, including evacuees from incidents in other localities. This system, which is at the interface of local/regional and federal response, provides response capacity before the arrival of supplies from the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) and thus enhances the local/regional medical responders' ability to provide life-saving MCMs that otherwise would be delayed. The UMI can be more cost-effective than stockpiling by avoiding costs due to drug expiration, disposal of expired stockpiled supplies, and repurchase for replacement.

(Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2012;6:408-414)
Extreme Measures: Field Amputation on the Living and Dismemberment of the Deceased to Extricate Individuals Entrapped in Collapsed Structures
Authors: Macintyre Anthony , Kramer Efraim B. , Petinaux Bruno , Glass Trevor , Tate Charmaine M.
Published: December 2012

Collapsed structures, typically as a result of earthquakes, may result in individuals entrapped by their limbs under heavy structural elements. In addition, access to living persons may be blocked by the deceased. Individuals are often critically ill by the time they are found, and rapid extrication is warranted. This and other factors may necessitate field amputation of an extremity on a living person or dismemberment of the deceased to achieve a rescue. Although case reports have described industrial, mining, and transportation accidents, few discuss this potential in collapsed structures. Also, few specifically outline the indications or the decision process and associated administrative procedures that should be addressed before conducting these procedures. This report presents a review of the literature along with a limited case series. A discussion regarding relevant decision making is provided to encourage the development of protocols. An international consensus statement on these procedures is provided.

(Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2012;6:428-435)
Medical Lessons Learned From Chernobyl Relative to Nuclear Detonations and Failed Nuclear Reactors
Authors: Dallas Cham E.
Published: December 2012

The Chernobyl disaster in 1986 involved the largest airborne release of radioactivity in history, more than 100 times as much radioactivity as the Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bombs together. The resulting emergency response, administrative blunders, and subsequent patient outcomes from this large-scale radiological disaster provide a wealth of information and valuable lessons for those who may find themselves having to deal with the staggering consequences of nuclear war. Research findings, administrative strategies (successful and otherwise), and resulting clinical procedures from the Chernobyl experience are reviewed to determine a current utility in addressing the appropriate protocols for a medical response to nuclear war. As various myths are still widely associated with radiation exposure, attention is given to the realities of a mass casualty medical response as it would occur with a nuclear detonation.

(Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2012;6:330-334)
Evaluation of Hospital Mass Screening and Infection Control Practices in a Pandemic Influenza Full-Scale Exercise
Authors: Kohlhoff Stephan A. , Crouch Bindy , Roblin Patricia M. , Fertel Baruch , Pruitt Darrin , Berg Debra E. , Weedon Jeremy , Arquilla Bonnie , Augenbraun Michael
Published: December 2012

Objective: Nonpharmacologic interventions such as limiting nosocomial spread have been suggested for mitigation of respiratory epidemics at health care facilities. This observational study tested the efficacy of a mass screening, isolation, and triage protocol in correctly identifying and placing in a cohort exercise subjects according to case status in the emergency departments at 3 acute care hospitals in Brooklyn, New York, during a simulated pandemic influenza outbreak.

Methods: During a 1-day, full-scale exercise using 354 volunteer victims, variables assessing adherence to the mass screening protocol and infection control recommendations were evaluated using standardized forms.

Results: While all hospitals were able to apply the suggested mass screening protocol for separation based on case status, significant differences were observed in several infection control variables among participating hospitals and different hospital areas.

Conclusions: Implementation of mass screening and other infection control interventions during a hospital full-scale exercise was feasible and resulted in measurable outcomes. Hospital drills may be an effective way of detecting and addressing variability in following infection control recommendations.

(Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2012;6:378-384)
Reconstruction of Conformal Nanoscale MnO on Graphene as a High‐Capacity and Long‐Life Anode Material for Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Sun Yongming , Hu Xianluo , Luo Wei , Xia Fangfang , Huang Yunhui
Published: December 2012

To tackle the issue of inferior cycle stability and rate capability for MnO anode materials in lithium ion batteries, a facile strategy is explored to prepare a hybrid material consisting of MnO nanocrystals grown on conductive graphene nanosheets. The prepared MnO/graphene hybrid anode exhibits a reversible capacity as high as 2014.1 mAh g−1 after 150 discharge/charge cycles at 200 mA g−1, excellent rate capability (625.8 mAh g−1 at 3000 mA g−1), and superior cyclability (843.3 mAh g−1 even after 400 discharge/charge cycles at 2000 mA g−1 with only 0.01% capacity loss per cycle). The results suggest that the reconstruction of the MnO/graphene electrodes is intrinsic due to conversion reactions. A long‐term stable nanoarchitecture of graphene‐supported ultrafine manganese oxide nanoparticles is formed upon cycling, which yields a long‐life anode material for lithium ion batteries. The lithiation and delithiation behavior suggests that the further oxidation of Mn(II) to Mn(IV) and the interfacial lithium storage upon cycling contribute to the enhanced specific capacity. The excellent rate capability benefits from the presence of conductive graphene and a short transportation length for both lithium ions and electrons. Moreover, the as‐formed hybrid nanostructure of MnO on graphene may help achieve faster kinetics of conversion reactions.
Synthesis of tert‐Butyl Peroxyacetals from Benzyl, Allyl, or Propargyl Ethers via Iron‐Promoted CH Bond Functionalization
Authors: Iwata Satoshi , Hata Takeshi , Urabe Hirokazu
Published: December 2012

When benzyl, allyl, and propargyl ethers were treated with tert‐butyl hydroperoxide and a catalytic amount of iron(III) acetylacetonate, tert‐butyl peroxyacetals were produced in good to excellent yields, via CH bond functionalization. This method is also applicable to ethylene acetals of unsaturated aldehydes to give peroxyorthoesters.
Novel Natural Gas to Liquids Processes: Process Synthesis and Global Optimization Strategies
Authors: Baliban Richard C. , Elia Josephine A. , Floudas Christodoulos A.
Published: December 2012

An optimization‐based process synthesis framework is proposed for the conversion of natural gas to liquid transportation fuels. Natural gas conversion technologies including steam reforming, autothermal reforming, partial oxidation to methanol, and oxidative coupling to olefins are compared to determine the most economic processing pathway. Hydrocarbons are produced from Fischer–Tropsch (FT) conversion of syngas, ZSM‐5 catalytic conversion of methanol, or direct natural gas conversion. Multiple FT units with different temperatures, catalyst types, and hydrocarbon effluent compositions are investigated. Gasoline, diesel, and kerosene are generated through upgrading units involving carbon‐number fractionation or ZSM‐5 catalytic conversion. A powerful deterministic global optimization method is introduced to solve the mixed‐integer nonlinear optimization model that includes simultaneous heat, power, and water integration. Twenty‐four case studies are analyzed to determine the effect of refinery capacity, liquid fuel composition, and natural gas conversion technology on the overall system cost, the process material/energy balances, and the life cycle greenhouse gas emissions. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 505–531, 2013
Development of Snake‐Directed Antipredator Behavior by Wild White‐Faced Capuchin Monkeys: II. Influence of the Social Environment
Authors: MENO WHITNEY , COSS RICHARD G. , PERRY SUSAN
Published: December 2012

Young animals are known to direct alarm calls at a wider range of animals than adults. If social cues are safer and/or more reliable to use than asocial cues for learning about predators, then it is expected that the development of this behavior will be affected by the social environment. Our study examined the influence of the social environment on antipredator behavior in infant, juvenile, and adult wild white‐faced capuchin monkeys (Cebus capucinus) at Lomas Barbudal Biological Reserve in Costa Rica during presentations of different species of model snakes and novel models. We examined (a) the alarm calling behavior of the focal animal when alone versus in the vicinity of conspecific alarm callers and (b) the latency of conspecifics to alarm call once the focal animal alarm called. Focal animals alarm called more when alone than after hearing a conspecific alarm call. No reliable differences were found in the latencies of conspecifics to alarm call based on age or model type. Conspecifics were more likely to alarm call when focal individuals alarm called at snake models than when they alarm called at novel models. Results indicate (a) that alarm calling may serve to attract others to the predator's location and (b) that learning about specific predators may begin with a generalized response to a wide variety of species, including some nonthreatening ones, that is winnowed down via Pavlovian conditioned inhibition into a response directed toward specific dangerous species. This study reveals that conspecifics play a role in the development of antipredator behavior in white‐faced capuchins. Am. J. Primatol. 75:292‐300, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
No evidence for a role of rare CYP27B1 functional variations in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Barizzone Nadia , Pauwels Ine , Luciano Bernadetta , Franckaert Dean , Guerini Franca Rosa , Cosemans Leentje , Hilven Kelly , Salviati Alessandro , Dooley James , Danso‐Abeam Dina , di Sapio Alessia , Cavalla Paola , Decallonne Brigitte , Mathieu Chantal , Liston Adrian , Leone Maurizio , Dubois Bénédicte , D'Alfonso Sandra , Goris An
Published: December 2012

Association studies have implicated common variants in the 12q14.1 region containing CYP27B1 in multiple sclerosis (MS). Rare CYP27B1 mutations cause autosomal recessive vitamin D–dependent rickets type 1, and it has recently been reported that heterozygous CYP27B1 mutations are associated with increased MS susceptibility and lower active vitamin D levels. By sequencing CYP27B1 in 134 multiplex families and genotyping the most common variant R389H in 2,608 MS patients and 1,987 controls from Italy and Belgium (a total of 4,729 individuals), we were unable to replicate these observations. These results provide evidence against a major role for CYP27B1 mutations in MS. ANN NEUROL 2013;73:433–437
N400 predicts recovery from disorders of consciousness
Authors: Steppacher Inga , Eickhoff Simon , Jordanov Todor , Kaps Michael , Witzke Wolfgang , Kissler Johanna
Published: December 2012

Objective

Patients with the unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (UWS; formerly vegetative state) or in a minimally conscious state (MCS) open their eyes spontaneously but show no (UWS) or only marginal (MCS) signs of awareness. Because these states can become permanent, residual information processing capacities need to be determined, and reliable outcome predictors need to be found. We assessed higher‐order cortical information processing in UWS or MCS in a large group of patients using electroencephalographic event‐related potentials (ERPs) and determined their long‐term prognostic value for recovery.

Methods

Cognitive ERPs elicited by sound (P300) and speech (N400) were used to assess information processing in 92 behaviorally unresponsive patients diagnosed as in the state of either UWS (n=53) or MCS (n=39). ERPs were assessed with a clinical standard evaluation method and a computerized method, the t‐continuous wavelet transform. The patients' clinical outcome was followed up between 2 and 14 years after discharge from the rehabilitation center.

Results

Within the first year of the disease, many patients showed an intact P300 and several also an N400, indicating considerable residual information processing. At clinical follow‐up, about 25% of the patients recovered and regained communicative capabilities. A highly significant relationship between N400, but not P300, presence and subsequent recovery was found.

Interpretation

Results specify cognitive capabilities in disorders of consciousness, and determine their prognostic value. Specifically the N400 ERP is suggested as an important tool to assess information‐processing capacities that can predict the likelihood of recovery of patients in UWS or MCS. Ann Neurol 2013;73:594–602
High‐order harmonic generation by a spatially inhomogeneous field
Authors: Fetić Benjamin , Kalajdžić Kenan , Milošević Dejan B.
Published: December 2012

Plasmonic field‐enhanced high‐order harmonic generation is investigated theoretically. The plasmonic field is modeled as a spatially inhomogeneous field with a time‐dependent cosine squared pulse envelope. A method for solution of the three‐dimensional time‐dependent Schrödinger equation for a hydrogen atom in such a field is presented. It was found that the harmonic cutoff can be significantly increased. For larger values of the inhomogeneity parameter and longer pulses additional plateaus with higher cutoffs appear in the harmonic spectra. A semiclassical method, which takes into account nonzero initial coordinate and momentum of the ionized electron, is also developed. Using this method the observed multiplateau structure and cutoff positions are explained.
Dazugehören
Authors: Chalfie Martin
Published: December 2012

Sammlerstücke: Nachdem er den Nobelpreis erhalten hatte, fand sich Martin Chalfie mit einem Male auf diversen Listen wieder. Zum Beispiel war er der vierte Nobelpreisträger, den sein Zahnarzt kannte. Hier diskutiert er einige der anderen Listen und erforscht auch die ernste Seite des „Sammelns“ von Nobelpreisträgern.
Carbon nanotube production and application in energy storage
Authors: Yu Yuntao , Cui Chaojie , Qian Weizhong , Xie Qing , Zheng Chao , Kong Chuiyan , Wei Fei
Published: December 2012

In order to enhance the application of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in electrochemical energy storage, we reviewed the production and purification technology of CNTs, as well as the application in Li‐ion battery, supercapacitors (SC), and asymmetric SC. In detail, the formation mechanism, the effects influencing the diameter, diameter distribution, yield and growth rate of CNTs, and the reactor technology for scale up were thoroughly discussed. And the purity, the type of impurities and factors influencing the formation of impurities, and the purification method of CNTs were summarized on the basis of the requirements in the electrochemical use. Finally, the performance of CNTs used in energy storage systems and the challenge for the commercialization were analyzed. The review provides abundant information for better understanding of the relationship between the structure, property of CNTs and its performance. © 2012 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Recycling of waste PET‐bottles using dimethyl sulfoxide and hydrotalcite catalyst
Authors: Sharma Vivek , Parashar Priyanka , Srivastava Priyanka , kumar Santosh , Agarwal D. D. , Richharia Neelam
Published: December 2012

The degradation of PET bottles has been successfully achieved using hydrotalcite as catalyst and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as solvent. The reaction was carried out at boiling point of DMSO (190°C) and degradation was complete in 10 min. The oligomer (tetramer) obtained was treated with NaOH at room temperature in methanol to get dimethyl terephthalate (DMT) and ethylene glycol (EG). Thus, it is a safe and cleaner process. Oligomer was characterized by MS,13C‐NMR, X‐ray diffractometric, and thermogravimetric analysis. DMT and EG were characterized by GC‐MS. DMT was also characterized by FT‐IR. GC‐MS analysis shows that the purity of DMT was 99%. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2012
Effect of annealing conditions on crystallization behavior and mechanical properties of NIPS poly(vinylidene fluoride) hollow fiber membranes
Authors: Liu Jie , Lu Xiao‐Long , Wu Chun‐Rui
Published: December 2012

In this study, a preliminary work was carried out to investigate the effect of annealing conditions on the crystallization behavior and mechanical properties of nonsolvent induced phase separation (NIPS) poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) hollow fiber membranes. The crystalline structures of surface layers and overall membranes were determined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy‐attenuated total reflectance and X‐ray diffraction, respectively. Differential scanning calorimetry and field emission scanning electron microscopy were employed to analyze the thermal behaviors and morphologies of membranes. It was found that the type of crystalline phase and degree of crystallinity of annealed membranes depended on the crystallization rate of PVDF, which in turn was determined by annealing temperature and cooling rate. For all the investigated membranes, the α and β phases coexisted in the outer surface, while PVDF mainly crystallized into α phase in the overall membrane. The percentage of α phase and degree of crystallinity increased with crystallization rate increase. The annealing process induced compaction of relatively thinner membranes; however, the pore structures did not collapse. The breaking strength of annealed membranes, associated with the variation of PVDF polymorphs and total crystallinity, was improved from 167 cN to 215 cN. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Simvastatin inhibits cysteine‐rich protein 61 expression in rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts through the regulation of sirtuin‐1/FoxO3a signaling
Authors: Kok Sang‐Heng , Lin Li‐Deh , Hou Kuo‐Liang , Hong Chi‐Yuan , Chang Cheng‐Chi , Hsiao Michael , Wang Jyh‐Horng , Lai Eddie Hsiang‐Hua , Lin Sze‐Kwan
Published: December 2012

Objective

To examine the role of sirtuin‐1 (SIRT‐1)/FoxO3a in the expression of cysteine‐rich protein 61 (CYR‐61) in rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts (RASFs) and the influence of simvastatin on this pathway, and to determine the relationship between disease progression and FoxO3a/CYR‐61 signaling in synovial fibroblasts in vivo using a rat model of collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA).

Methods

In RASFs, the expression of CYR‐61 and SIRT‐1, the localization of FoxO3a in the nucleus/cytoplasm, and the phosphorylation/acetylation of FoxO3a were examined by Western blotting. Secretion of CCL20 was assessed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Promoter activity of the Cyr61 gene was evaluated by luciferase assay, with or without forced expression of FoxO3a and SIRT‐1 by lentiviral transduction. FoxO3a–Cyr61 promoter interaction was examined by chromatin immunoprecipitation. In rats with CIA, the expression of CYR‐61 and phosphorylated FoxO3a in synovial fibroblasts was examined by immunohistochemistry.

Results

In RASFs, simvastatin suppressed the tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα)–induced production of CYR‐61 and CCL20. Nuclear levels of FoxO3a were decreased after TNFα stimulation of RASFs, and forced expression of FoxO3a reversed the inductive effects of TNFα on CYR‐61. Simvastatin inhibited the nuclear export, phosphorylation, and acetylation of FoxO3a and maintained its binding to the Cyr61 promoter. Forced expression of SIRT‐1 in RASFs led to decreased levels of CYR‐61 and deacetylation of FoxO3a. Following treatment with simvastatin, the expression of SIRT‐1 was up‐regulated and SIRT‐1/FoxO3a binding was enhanced in RASFs. In rats with CIA, intraarticular injection of simvastatin alleviated arthritis and suppressed CYR‐61 expression and FoxO3a phosphorylation in synovial fibroblasts.

Conclusion

CYR‐61 is important in the pathogenesis of RA, and SIRT‐1/FoxO3a signaling is crucial to induction of CYR‐61 in RASFs. Simvastatin plays a beneficial role in inflammatory arthritis through its up‐regulation of SIRT‐1/FoxO3a signaling in synovial fibroblasts. Continued study of the pathways linking sirtuins, FoxO proteins, and the inflammatory responses of RASFs may provide new insights into the pathophysiology of RA.
A genetic variant in granzyme B is associated with progression of joint destruction in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Knevel R. , Krabben A. , Wilson A. G. , Brouwer E. , Leijsma M. K. , Lindqvist E. , de Rooy D. P. C. , Daha N. A. , van der Linden M. P. M. , Tsonaka S. , Zhernakova A. , Westra H.‐J. , Franke L. , Houwing‐Duistermaat J. J. , Toes R. E. M. , Huizinga T. W. J. , Saxne T. , van der Helm‐van Mil A. H. M.
Published: December 2012

Objective

Genetic factors account for an estimated 45–58% of the variance in joint destruction in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The serine proteinase granzyme B induces target cell apoptosis, and several in vitro studies suggest that granzyme B is involved in apoptosis of chondrocytes. Serum levels of granzyme B are increased in RA and are also associated with radiographic erosions. The aim of this study was to investigate GZMB as a candidate gene accounting for the severity of joint destruction in RA.

Methods

A total of 1,418 patients with 4,885 radiograph sets of the hands and feet from 4 independent cohorts were studied. First, explorative analyses were performed in 600 RA patients in the Leiden Early Arthritis Clinic cohort. Fifteen single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) tagging GZMB were tested. Significantly associated SNPs were genotyped in data sets representing patients from the Groningen, Sheffield, and Lund cohorts. In each data set, the relative increase in the annual rate of progression in the presence of a genotype was assessed. Data were summarized in a meta‐analysis. The association of GZMB with the RNA expression level of the GZMB genomic region was tested by mapping expression quantitative trait loci (QTLs) on 1,469 whole blood samples.

Results

SNP rs8192916 was significantly associated with the rate of joint destruction in the first cohort and in the meta‐analysis of all data sets. Patients homozygous for the minor allele of rs8192916 had a higher rate of joint destruction per year compared with other patients (P = 7.8 × 10−4). Expression QTL of GZMB identified higher expression in the presence of the minor allele of rs8192916 (P = 2.27 × 10−5).

Conclusion

SNP rs8192916 located in GZMB is associated with the progression of joint destruction in RA as well as with RNA expression in whole blood.
Investors’ information sharing and use in virtual communities
Authors: O'Connor Lisa G.
Published: December 2012

Research demonstrates that information disseminated and circulated in online forums may have a significant impact on investors and on the securities market, so an understanding of that environment is critical. This article reports on an analysis of information sharing and use in three investment discussion forums. Threads containing 1,787 posts were coded using previously developed typologies for Internet‐based discussion. Citations were studied in their context and sources were categorized into types. A high degree of collaborative information behavior was identified, but the study also reveals some areas of information use that may compromise investors’ decision making, including heavy reliance on personal sources of information and other sources that vary greatly in trustworthiness, including commercially sponsored information, blogs, and investor guru sites. These challenges are discussed and recommendations are made for improving services to investors. Questions for additional research are also identified.
Four levels of outcomes of information‐seeking: A mixed methods study in primary health care
Authors: Pluye Pierre , Grad Roland , Repchinsky Carol , Jovaisas Barbara , Johnson‐Lafleur Janique , Carrier Marie‐Eve , Granikov Vera , Farrell Barbara , Rodriguez Charo , Bartlett Gillian , Loiselle Carmen , Légaré France
Published: December 2012

Primary health care practitioners routinely search for information within electronic knowledge resources. We proposed four levels of outcomes of information‐seeking: situational relevance, cognitive impact, information use, and patient health outcomes. Our objective was to produce clinical vignettes for describing and testing these levels. We conducted a mixed methods study combining a quantitative longitudinal study and a qualitative multiple case study. Participants were 10 nurses, 10 medical residents, and 10 pharmacists. They had access to an online resource, and did 793 searches for treatment recommendations. Using the Information Assessment Method (IAM), participants rated their searches for each of the four levels. Rated searches were examined in interviews guided by log reports and a think‐aloud protocol. Cases were defined as clearly described searches where clinical information was used for a specific patient. For each case, interviewees described the four levels of outcomes. Quantitative and qualitative data were merged into clinical vignettes. We produced 130 clinical vignettes. Specifically, 46 vignettes (35.4%) corresponded to clinical situations where information use was associated with one or more than one type of positive patient health outcome: increased patient knowledge (n = 28), avoidance of unnecessary or inappropriate intervention (n = 25), prevention of disease or health deterioration (n = 9), health improvement (n = 6), and increased patient satisfaction (n = 3). Results suggested information use was associated with perceived benefits for patients. This may encourage clinicians to search for information more often when they feel the need. Results supported the four proposed levels of outcomes, which can be transferable to other information‐seeking contexts.
Binding of methacycline to human serum albumin at subdomain IIA using multispectroscopic and molecular modeling methods
Authors: Dong Chengyu , Lu Ningning , Liu Ying
Published: December 2012

This study was designed to examine the interaction of methacyline (METC) with human serum albumin (HSA) by multispectroscopy and a molecular modeling method under simulative physiological conditions. The quenching mechanism was suggested to be static quenching based on fluorescence and ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy. According to the Vant' Hoff equation, the values of enthalpy (∆H) and entropy change (∆S) were calculated to be −95.29 kJ/mol and −218.13 J/mol/K, indicating that the main driving force of the interaction between HSA and METC were hydrogen bonds and van der Waals's forces. By performing displacement measurements, the specific binding of METC in the vicinity of Sudlow's site I of HSA was clarified. An apparent distance of 3.05 nm between Trp214 and METC was obtained via the fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) method. Furthermore, the binding details between METC and HSA were further confirmed by molecular docking studies, which revealed that METC was bound at subdomain IIA through multiple interactions, such as hydrophobic effect, polar forces, hydrogen bonding, etc. The results of three‐dimensional fluorescence and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy showed that METC caused conformational and some microenvironmental changes in HSA and reduced the α‐helix significantly in the range of 52.3−40.4% in HSA secondary structure. Moreover, the coexistence of metal ions such as Ca2+, Al3+, Fe3+, Zn2+, Cu2+, Cr3+ and Cd2+ can decrease the binding constants of METC–HSA. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Expanded complexity of unstable repeat diseases
Authors: Polak Urszula , McIvor Elizabeth , Dent Sharon Y.R. , Wells Robert D. , Napierala Marek
Published: December 2012

Unstable repeat diseases (URDs) share a common mutational phenomenon of changes in the copy number of short, tandemly repeated DNA sequences. More than 20 human neurological diseases are caused by instability, predominantly, expansion of microsatellite sequences. Changes in the repeat size initiate a cascade of pathological processes, frequently characteristic of a unique disease or a small subgroup of the URDs. Understanding of both the mechanism of repeat instability and molecular consequences of the repeat expansions is critical to developing successful therapies for these diseases. Recent technological breakthroughs in whole genome, transcriptome and proteome analyses will almost certainly lead to new discoveries regarding the mechanisms of repeat instability, the pathogenesis of URDs, and will facilitate development of novel therapeutic approaches. The aim of this review is to give a general overview of unstable repeats diseases, highlight the complexities of these diseases, and feature the emerging discoveries in the field. © 2012 BioFactors, 2013
H2S: A “Double face” molecule in health and disease
Authors: Masi Alessandra di , Ascenzi Paolo
Published: December 2012

H2S is a colorless, poisonous, and flammable gas with the characteristic foul odor of rotten eggs. H2S is present in effluent from hydrothermal vents and sulfur springs, which have been proposed to act as “pores” in the Earth surface, providing a source of energy in the form of reducing equivalents and of iron‐sulfur centers. Remarkably, H2S‐producing machineries or H2S‐utilization capacity remain within a great diversity of microorganisms. In particular, two classes of bacteria have been identified, that is, sulfate‐ and sulfur‐reducing and sulfur‐oxidizing bacteria, both contributing to the balance of the H2S level. The human body produces H2S and uses it as a signaling molecule in several physiological processes. However, many diseases, including neurological diseases, cardiovascular diseases, inflammation, and metabolic disorders, have been linked to abnormal endogenous H2S functions and metabolism. Remarkably, in recent years, the therapeutic administration of H2S(‐donors) appears relevant in the treatment of some diseases. Here, H2S metabolism, as well as its physiological and pathological roles in humans is reviewed. Furthermore, the therapeutic use of H2S is discussed. © 2012 BioFactors, 2013
An interplay between electrostatic and polar interactions in peptide hydrogels
Authors: Joyner Katherine , Taraban Marc B. , Feng Yue , Yu Y. Bruce
Published: December 2012

Inherent chemical programmability available in peptide‐based hydrogels has allowed diversity in the development of these materials for use in biomedical applications. Within the 20 natural amino acids, a range of chemical moieties are present. Here we used a mixing‐induced self‐assembly of two oppositely charged peptide modules to form a peptide‐based hydrogel. To investigate electrostatic and polar interactions in the hydrogel, we replace amino acids from the negatively charged acidic glutamic acid (E) to the uncharged polar glutamine (Q) on a negatively charged peptide module, while leaving the positively charged module unchanged. Using dynamic rheology, the mechanical properties of each hydrogel were investigated. It was found that the number, but not the location, of electrostatic interactions (E residues) dictate the elastic modulus (G′) of the hydrogel, compared to polar interactions (Q residues). Increased electrostatic interactions also promote faster peptide assembly into the hydrogel matrix, and result in the decrease of T2 relaxation times of H2O and trifluoroacetic acid. Small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) showed that changing from electrostatic to polar interactions affects the ability to form fibrous networks: from the formation of elongated fibers to no fiber assembly. This study reveals the systematic effects that the incorporation of electrostatic and polar interactions have when programmed into peptide‐based hydrogel systems. These effects could be used to design peptide‐based biomaterials with predetermined properties. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 100: 174–180, 2013.
Engineering superficial zone features in tissue engineered cartilage
Authors: Chen Tony , Hilton Matthew J. , Brown Edward B. , Zuscik Michael J. , Awad Hani A.
Published: December 2012

A major challenge in cartilage tissue engineering is the need to recreate the native tissue's anisotropic extracellular matrix structure. This anisotropy has important mechanical and biological consequences and could be crucial for integrative repair. Here, we report that hydrodynamic conditions that mimic the motion‐induced flow fields in between the articular surfaces in the synovial joint induce the formation of a distinct superficial layer in tissue engineered cartilage hydrogels, with enhanced production of cartilage matrix proteoglycan and Type II collagen. Moreover, the flow stimulation at the surface induces the production of the surface zone protein Proteoglycan 4 (aka PRG4 or lubricin). Analysis of second harmonic generation signature of collagen in this superficial layer reveals a highly aligned fibrillar matrix that resembles the alignment pattern in native tissue's surface zone, suggesting that mimicking synovial fluid flow at the cartilage surface in hydrodynamic bioreactors could be key to creating engineered cartilage with superficial zone features. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2013; 110: 1476–1486. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Permeability of a growing biofilm in a porous media fluid flow analyzed by magnetic resonance displacement‐relaxation correlations
Authors: Vogt Sarah J. , Sanderlin Alexis B. , Seymour Joseph D. , Codd Sarah L.
Published: December 2012

Biofilm growth in porous media is difficult to study non‐invasively due to the opaqueness and heterogeneity of the systems. Magnetic resonance is utilized to non‐invasively study water dynamics within porous media. Displacement‐relaxation correlation experiments were performed on fluid flow during biofilm growth in a model porous media of mono‐dispersed polystyrene beads. The spin–spinT2magnetic relaxation distinguishes between the biofilm phase and bulk fluid phase due to water–biopolymer interactions present in the biofilm, and the flow dynamics are measured using PGSE NMR experiments. By correlating these two measurements, the effects of biofilm growth on the fluid dynamics can be separated into a detailed analysis of both the biofilm phase and the fluid phase simultaneously within the same experiment. Within the displacement resolution of these experiments, no convective flow was measured through the biomass. An increased amount of longitudinal hydrodynamic dispersion indicates increased hydrodynamic mixing due to fluid channeling caused by biofilm growth. The effect of different biofilm growth conditions was measured by varying the strength of the bacterial growth medium. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2013; 110: 1366–1375. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The women on stieve's list: Victims of national socialism whose bodies were used for anatomical research
Authors: Hildebrandt Sabine
Published: December 2012

Research on the history of anatomy in the Third Reich has often concentrated on the influence of the National Socialist (NS) regime on anatomists and their consequent unethical activities. Only recently, the focus has shifted to NS victims whose bodies were used for anatomical purposes. As a first approach to learning more about the victims, this study investigated the persons whose names Hermann Stieve, chairman of the Anatomical Department at the University of Berlin, had listed after using their bodies for his research. The study draws a group portrait and recounts selected biographies of the 174 women and eight men on the list. Most women were of reproductive age, two‐thirds were German and a majority was executed for political reasons. Among the executed were at least two pregnant women. The corrected names, biographical data, and nationalities of all persons on the list are published here. None of them volunteered to be dissected, nor were the anatomists at the time interested in the victims' personal background. Future work will have to focus on the investigation of further biographies so that numbers can be turned back into people. This history is a reminder to modern anatomy that ethical body procurement and the anatomists' caring about the body donor is of the utmost importance in a discipline that introduces students to professional ethics in the medical teaching curriculum. Clin. Anat. 26:3–21, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Early detection of clinically significant prostate cancer at diagnosis: a prospective study using a novel panel of TMPRSS2:ETS fusion gene markers
Authors: Chan Sam W. , Nguyen Phuong‐Nam , Violette Philippe , Brimo Fadi , Taguchi Yosh , Aprikian Armen , Chen Junjian Z.
Published: December 2012

We explore noninvasive clinical applications of multiple disease‐specific fusion markers recently discovered in prostate cancer to predict the risk of cancer occurrence and aggressiveness at diagnosis. A total of 92 men who were prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) screened and scheduled for diagnostic biopsy were enrolled for this study. Prospectively collected urine was blind coded for laboratory tests. RNA from urine sediments was analyzed using a panel of 6 TMPRSS2:ETS fusion markers with a sensitive quantitative PCR platform. The pathology reported 39 biopsy‐positive cases from 92 patients (42.4%). In urine test, 10 unique combinations of fusion types were detected in 32 of 92 (34.8%) prebiopsy samples. A novel combination of fusion markers, termed Fx (III, IV, ETS), was identified with a sensitivity of 51.3% and an odds ratio of 10.1 in detecting cancer on biopsy. Incorporating a categorical variable of Fx (III, IV, ETS) with urine PCA3 and serum PSA, a regression model was developed to predict biopsy outcomes with an overall accuracy of 77%. Moreover, the overexpression of Fx (III, IV, or ETS) was shown to be an independent predictor to the high‐grade cancer, with a predictive accuracy of 80% when coupled with PSA density. The individualized risk scores further stratified a high‐risk group that is composed of 92% high‐grade cancers and a low‐risk group that harbors mainly clinically insignificant cancers. In conclusion, we have identified a novel combination of fusion types very specific to the clinically significant prostate cancer and developed effective regression models to predict biopsy outcomes and aggressive cancers at diagnosis.