bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Postoperative Antibiotic Care after Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Authors: Jiang Rong-San , Liang Kai-Li , Yang Kung-Yaun , Shiao Jiun-Yih , Su Mao-Chang , Hsin Chung-Han , Lin Jen-Fu
Published: January 2009

Background

Antibiotics are used routinely in the postoperative care of functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS), but their efficacy has not been well evaluated.

Methods

Patients with chronic rhinosinusitis who underwent FESS were enrolled in this study. They were randomly divided into two groups: a study group and a control group. In the study group, patients took amoxicillin/clavulante for 3 weeks after FESS. In the control group, no antibiotic was given after FESS. Before FESS, all patients filled out a symptom questionnaire and received nasal endoscopy. Swab specimens were taken from the middle meati for bacterial cultures. These procedures were done again 3 weeks after FESS.

Results

Seventy-one patients completed the study. Thirty-one patients were in the study group, and 40 patients were in the control group. The symptom scores significantly decreased after surgery in both groups, but bacteria identified before and after FESS were statistically different in both groups. There were no differences in the symptom and endoscopic scores, rates of bacterial culture, and drug sensitivity to amoxicillin/clavulante between the two groups after FESS.

Conclusion

This study showed that postoperative care with amoxicillin/clavulante did not improve the short-term outcome of FESS on chronic rhinosinusitis or decrease bacterial growth 3weeks after FESS, although the long-term influence was not evaluated in this study.
Attachment-oriented Endoscopic Surgical Strategy for Sinonasal Inverted Papilloma
Authors: Landsberg Roee , Cavel Oren , Segev Yoram , Khafif Avi , Fliss Dan M.
Published: January 2009

Background

It is well documented that inverted papillomas (IP) have a localized attachment site. Still, instead of concentrating on the attachment site, endoscopic surgeons often perform an extended resection similar to the one achieved after external surgery.

Objective

Our objective was to evaluate an attachment-oriented endoscopic surgical strategy and to determine IP attachment diameter and location.

Methods

A prospective study was conducted. Thirty-three consecutive patients who underwent endoscopic IP excision (2001-2007) were enrolled. Thirty patients had adequate follow-up. Attachment diameters were measured in 25/33 patients. Surgery included debulking, identifying the precise mucosal attachment site, subperiosteal dissection and excision of the attachment, frozen section control, and resection/drilling of underlying bone.

Results

The mean measured attachment diameter (n = 25) was 8.4 ± 6 mm (range, 3-23 mm). Attachment locations included maxillary sinus (39%), ethmoid sinus (21%), nasal cavity (21%), frontal sinus (6%), sphenoid sinus (6%), lamina papyracea (3%), and cribriform plate (3%). The mean follow-up (n = 30) was 40 ± 21 months. Three patients had Krouse stage 1, 10 patients had stage 2, and 17 patients had stage 3. Nine patients had undergone previous surgeries. After attachment-oriented endoscopic surgery, three patients had persistent disease. Nasolacrimal duct stenosis was the only complication (n = 1).

Conclusion

Even advanced IP have small attachments. Their Identification facilitates efficacious resection with minimal morbidity.
In Vivo Laser Tissue Welding in the Rabbit Maxillary Sinus
Authors: Bleier Benjamin S. , Palmer James N. , Gratton Michael A. , Cohen Noam A.
Published: January 2009

Background

One of the challenges in the current expansion of endoscopic sinonasal surgery is the ability to adequately reconstruct the skull base. Laser tissue welding (LTW) uses laser energy coupled to a biological solder to produce tissue bonds with burst thresholds exceeding human intracranial pressure. This technology could be used to reduce the rate of postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. We performed this study to determine whether LTW can create durable tissue bonds in sinonasal mucosa that support normal wound healing and produce minimal collateral thermal injury.

Methods

Bilateral maxillary sinus mucosal incisions were made in 20 New Zealand white rabbits and one side was repaired using LTW. Burst pressure thresholds were measured on postoperative days 0, 5, and 15 and were compared with control using a two- way ANOVA and a post hoc Tukey test. Welds were examined histologically for thermal injury, inflammation, and fibroplasia and graded on a 4-point scale by three blinded observers.

Results

The burst pressures of the LTW group were significantly higher than control on postoperative day 0 (120.85 mm Hg, N = 4, SD = 47.84 versus 7.85 mm Hg, N = 4, SD = 0.78), and day 5 (132.56 mm Hg, N = 8, SD = 24.02 versus 41.7 mm Hg, N = 8, SD = 7.2; p < 0.05). By postoperative day 15 there was no significant difference between LTW (169.64 mm Hg, N = 8, SD = 18.49) and control (160.84 mm Hg, N = 8, SD = 14.16) burst thresholds. There was no evidence of thermal injury to the surrounding tissue in any group as well as no difference between experimental group and control with respect to inflammation or fibroplasia.

Conclusion

This is the first in vivo study showing that LTW is capable of producing tissue bonds exceeding human intracranial pressure with negligible thermal injury in sinonasal tissue. Welding can be performed endoscopically using a fiberoptic cable and may be useful in CSF leak and skull base repair.
Comparison of Laryngeal Mask with Endotracheal Tube for Anesthesia in Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Authors: Atef Ahmed , Fawaz Ahmed
Published: January 2009

Background

The purpose of this study was to compare surgical conditions, including the amount of intraoperative bleeding as well as intraoperative blood pressure, during functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) using flexible reinforced laryngeal mask airway (FRLMA) versus endotracheal tube (ETT) in maintaining controlled hypotension anesthesia induced by propofol-remifentanil total i.v. anesthesia (TIVA).

Methods

Sixty normotensive American Society of Anesthesiologists I—II adult patients undergoing FESS under controlled hypotension anesthesia caused by propofol-remifentanil-TIVA were randomly assigned into two groups: group I, FRLMA; group II, ETT. Hemorrhage was measured and the visibility of the operative field was evaluated according to a six-point scale.

Results

Controlled hypotension was achieved within a shorter period using laryngeal mask using lower rates of remifentanil infusion and lower total dose of remifentanil.

Conclusion

In summary, our results indicate that airway management using FRLMA during controlled hypotension anesthesia provided better surgical conditions in terms of quality of operative field and blood loss and allowed for convenient induced hypotension with low doses of remifentanil during TIVA in patients undergoing FESS.
Results of Endoscopic Maxillary Mega-antrostomy in Recalcitrant Maxillary Sinusitis
Authors: Cho Do-Yeon , Hwang Peter H.
Published: January 2009

Background

In patients with chronically diseased maxillary sinuses, poor mucociliary clearance may result from long-standing inflammation or scarring from previous surgery. This subset of patients often has persistent sinus disease despite medical therapy and adequate antrostomy. Endoscopic maxillary mega-antrostomy (EMMA) is a mucosal sparing technique that facilitates mucus clearance and sinus irrigation in terminally dysfunctional maxillary sinuses. EMMA involves extending the antrostomy through the posterior half of the inferior turbinate down to the floor of the nose, creating a significantly enlarged antrostomy. This study describes our results of EMMA in recalcitrant maxillary sinusitis.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of patients who underwent EMMA for recalcitrant maxillary sinusitis between July 2005 and September 2007. We studied diagnoses, comorbid factors, clinical efficacy, revision rate, and complications.

Results

Twenty-eight patients (average age, 48 years) underwent 42 EMMAs for recalcitrant maxillary sinusitis. Average follow-up was 11 months. All patients had previous maxillary sinus surgery (mean = 2.3). Relevant comorbid factors included prior Caldwell-Luc or maxillofacial surgery (16/42), cystic fibrosis (11/42), asthma (11/42), and IgG deficiency (3/42). The most common symptoms reported were facial pain/pressure and purulent rhinorrhea. At the time of the most recent postoperative examination, 74% of patients reported complete resolution of symptoms while 26% reported partial symptomatic improvement. There were no complications and the revision rate was 0%.

Conclusion

Maxillary sinuses that appear to be terminally diseased may be rehabilitated surgically without the need for surgical stripping. EMMA is an effective and safe treatment option for the management of recalcitrant maxillary sinus disease.
Comparison of Autologous Full-Thickness Gingiva and Skin Substitutes for Wound Healing
Authors: Vriens Abraham P. , Waaijman Taco , Van Den Hoogenband Henk M. , De Boer Edith M. , Scheper Rik J. , Gibbs Susan
Published: January 2009

Ideally tissue-engineered products should maintain the characteristics of the original tissue. For example, skin represents orthokeratinized epithelium and oral gingiva represents parakeratinized epithelium. The aim of this study was to develop an autologous full-thickness gingiva substitute suitable for clinical applications and to compare it with our autologous full-thickness skin substitute that is routinely used for healing chronic wounds. Autologous full-thickness skin and gingiva substitutes were constructed under identical culture conditions from 3-mm punch biopsies isolated from the upper leg or gingiva tissue, respectively. Both consisted of reconstructed epithelia on acellular dermis repopulated with fibroblasts. To compare the characteristics of the original and reconstructed tissue, differential morphological observations and expression of differentiation markers (keratins 6, 10, and 17 and stratum corneum precursors involucrin, loricrin, and SKALP) were determined. Skin and gingiva substitutes were transplanted onto therapy-resistant leg ulcers or tooth extraction sites in order to determine their effects on wound healing. The tissue-engineered constructs maintained many of the differential histological and immunohistochemical characteristics of the original tissues from which they were derived. The skin substitute was orthokeratinized, and the gingiva substitute was parakeratinized. Transplantation of skin (n = 19) and gingiva substitutes (n = 3) resulted in accelerated wound healing with no adverse effects. As identical culture systems were used to generate both the skin and gingiva substitutes, the differences observed in tissue (immuno)histology can be attributed to intrinsic properties of the tissues rather than to environmental factors (e.g., air or saliva). This study emphasizes the importance of closely matching donor sites with the area to be transplanted. Our results represent a large step forward in the area of clinical applications in oral tissue engineering, which have until now greatly lagged behind skin tissue engineering.
Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation for Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Torrente Yvan , Polli Elio
Published: January 2009

Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by a progressive degeneration of selective neural populations. The lack of effective treatment and the characteristic of their pathology make these diseases appropriate candidates for cell therapy. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent stem-like cells that are capable of differentiating into mesenchymal and nonmesenchymal lineages. Their regenerative capacity after in vivo transplantation into animal models of neurodegenerative diseases has suggested that they could be useful against human diseases. Human bone marrow-derived MSCs (hMSCs) can be easily amplified in vitro and their transdifferentiation has been claimed in vitro and in vivo in neural cells. There are some doubts concerning the exact mechanisms responsible for the beneficial outcome observed after MSC transplantation into neurodegenerating tissues. Possible interpretations include cell replacement, trophic factor delivery, and immunomodulation. This review mainly concerns hMSCs transplantation in neurodegenerative diseases, because it has proven to be feasible, safe, and potentially effective. Although they have been used in hundreds of clinical trials, mixed results and no functional and long-lasting integration have so far been observed. hMSCs transplantations therefore still have their “dark side.” However, the challenge in well-planned clinical trials merits discussion.
Theoretical study of wetting behavior of nanoparticles at fluid interfaces
Authors: Mi Jianguo , He Yongjin , Zhong Chongli
Published: January 2009

In this work, a theoretical model was developed to describe the wetting behavior of nanoparticles at liquid‐vapor interface by the integration of the renormalization group transformation, the cell theory, and the modified fundamental measurement theory with the first‐order mean spherical approximation method. The results show that the new model can be used to investigate the global behavior and surface tensions of nanoparticle/fluid systems. Particularly, the nanoparticle's wetting behavior inside critical region was discussed systematically. More important, this work proposed a methodology for calculating line tension and contact angle, showing that line tension has considerable influence on wetting properties for small nanoparticles, whereas it is negligible for large nanoparticles. Therefore, this work provides a general method for studying the wetting behavior of nanoparticles that may find wide applications in the field of chemical engineering. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2009
Production of bio‐crude from forestry waste by hydro‐liquefaction in sub‐/super‐critical methanol
Authors: Yang Yun , Gilbert Allan , Xu Chunbao (Charles)
Published: January 2009

Hydro‐liquefaction of a woody biomass (birch powder) in sub‐/super‐critical methanol without and with catalysts was investigated with an autoclave reactor at temperatures of 473–673 K and an initial pressure of hydrogen varying from 2.0 to 10.0 MPa. The liquid products were separated into water soluble oil and heavy oil (as bio‐crude) by extraction with water and acetone. Without catalyst, the yields of heavy oil and water soluble oil were in the ranges of 2.4–25.5 wt % and 1.2–17.0 wt %, respectively, depending strongly on reaction temperature, reaction time, and initial pressure of hydrogen. The optimum temperature for the production of heavy oil and water soluble oil was found to be at around 623 K, whereas a longer residence time and a lower initial H2 pressure were found to be favorite conditions for the oil production. Addition of a basic catalyst, such as NaOH, K2CO3, and Rb2CO3, could significantly promote biomass conversion and increase yields of oily products in the treatments at temperatures less than 573 K. The yield of heavy oil attained about 30 wt % for the liquefaction operation in the presence of 5 wt % Rb2CO3 at 573 K and 2 MPa of H2 for 60 min. The obtained heavy oil products consisted of a high concentration of phenol derivatives, esters, and benzene derivatives, and they also contained a higher concentration of carbon, a much lower concentration of oxygen, and a significantly increased heating value (>30 MJ/kg) when compared with the raw woody biomass. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2009
Investigation of reacting flow fields in miscible viscous fingering by a novel experimental method
Authors: Nagatsu Yuichiro , Ogawa Takashi , Kato Yoshihito , Tada Yutaka
Published: January 2009

The reacting flow fields in reactive miscible viscous fingering in a Hele‐Shaw cell studied by Nagatsu and Ueda had not been completely elucidated, mainly because one cannot exactly recognize where and when the reaction takes place in the reactive fingering pattern. We developed a novel experimental method that allowed us to identify the reaction region in the fingering pattern employed in the previous studies. The novel method involves switching of the less‐viscous liquid injected in both the nonreactive and reactive experiments. By using the novel method, we succeeded in showing how the reaction region in the fingering pattern was affected by the initial reactant concentrations, the Péclet number, and time. We propose physical models of the reacting flow field in the cell's gap direction that can explain the obtained experimental results. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2009
Local Probe Oxidation of Self‐Assembled Monolayers: Templates for the Assembly of Functional Nanostructures
Authors: Wouters Daan , Hoeppener Stephanie , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: January 2009

Surfaces with purposes: The electroinitiated patterning of self‐assembled monolayers enables the fabrication of a variety of complex nanostructures (see picture). The possibilities offered by the introduction of chemical selectivity through the local generation of chemically active groups and subsequent derivatization are reviewed, with a focus on progress in this area of research over the last four years.

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The local oxidation of self‐assembled monolayers with a scanning probe is a promising method for the generation of structures with chemical functionalities on the nanometer scale. This technique, which takes advantage of the chemical stability and versatility of self‐assembled monolayers and the ability to pattern these monolayers by scanning‐probe‐based oxidation methods, enables the hierarchical assembly of complex structures in a controlled manner. Surface modification can be followed by the assembly of a further functional monolayer and/or additional surface‐modification reactions in the targeted, sequential construction of functional device features.
Lighting up H2O2: The Molecule that Is a “Necessary Evil” in the Cell
Authors: Zhao Wei
Published: January 2009

A cunning plan: In the multifunctional fluorescent probe MitoPY1 the phosphonium head group (red) targets mitochondria and the boronate group (green) responds to hydrogen peroxide. MitoPY1 reacts selectively with mitochondrial H2O2 in living cells, and an increase in fluorescence is triggered by the conversion of MitoPY1 into MitoPY1ox (yellow).

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An off‐line robot simulation toolbox
Authors: Kucuk Serdar , Bingul Zafer
Published: January 2009

Robotics has gained popularity in education so many engineering schools are offering robotics courses. In this study, a novel robot toolbox, “ROBOLAB” is developed for the educational users to improve the understanding of robotics fundamentals through interactive real‐time simulation. To understand manipulator movement in 3‐D space with increasing number of joints is very difficult for engineering students; because the mathematical model between joint space and physical space becomes more complex. In order to overcome this complexity, ROBOLAB based on MATLAB Graphical User Interface (GUI) includes a library for the 16 different 6 degree of freedom (6‐DOF) fundamental serial robot manipulators. The user has option to view an animation of the robot manipulators with choosing one of them or to create own GUIs based on robot project. ROBOLAB provides valuable analysis tools to students and engineering professionals in which they can compute rotation and transformation matrix, forward and inverse kinematics, and trajectory planning. Additionally, it allows user to use powerful MATLAB features such as controlling over data and formatting. In order to illustrate the features of ROBOLAB, RS cylindrical robot manipulator is given here as an example. Usage of real industrial robots in laboratory may be a very expensive way to teach robotics courses. ROBOLAB may help students to accomplish the courses and projects involving robots with minimum cost and to see 3‐D space robot applications more effectively. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 18: 41–52, 2010; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com); DOI 10.1002/cae.20236
Synthesis and optical resolution of 1‐[(3‐carboxy‐1,1′‐biphenyl)‐2‐yl]‐1H‐pyrrole‐2‐carboxylic acid
Authors: Faigl Ferenc , Vas‐Feldhoffer Bernadett , Kudar Veronika , Czugler Mátyás , Pál Krisztina , Kubinyi Miklós
Published: January 2009

Site selective mono‐ and dimetalation methods have been developed for the functionalization of 1‐[(1,1′‐biphenyl)‐2‐yl]‐1H‐pyrrole. Optical resolution of the prepared 1‐[(3‐carboxy‐1,1′‐biphenyl)‐2‐yl]pyrrole‐2‐carboxylic acid provided new atropisomeric 1‐arylpyrrole derivatives. The absolute configuration of the pure dicarboxylic acid enantiomers was determined by single crystal X‐ray diffraction and CD spectroscopy. Chirality 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Water‐soluble calix[4]resorcinarenes as chiral NMR solvating agents for bicyclic aromatic compounds
Authors: O'Farrell Courtney M. , Hagan Kaitlin A. , Wenzel Thomas J.
Published: January 2009

Water‐soluble calix[4]resorcinarenes with proline, 3‐hydroxyproline, and 4‐hydroxyproline substituent groups are evaluated as chiral NMR solvating agents on a series of bicyclic aromatic compounds with naphthyl, indole, dihydroindole, and indane rings. The substrates interact with the calixresorcinarene through insertion of the aromatic ring into the cavity. Most of the substrates are analyzed as cationic species, although one anionic species is analyzed. All of the substrates exhibit enantiomeric discrimination in the 1H‐NMR spectrum with one or more of the calixresorcinarenes. In most cases, the hydroxyproline derivatives are more effective at causing enantiodifferentiation than the corresponding proline derivative. Presumably, the hydroxyl group on the proline moieties is involved in interactions with the substituent groups of the substrate that are important in creating chiral recognition. The enantiomeric discrimination in the 1H‐NMR spectrum is large enough for many resonances to permit the analysis of enantiomeric purity. Chirality 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Use of FOXJ1CreER2T mice for inducible deletion of embryonic node gene expression
Authors: Wang Shuyun , Ware Stephanie M.
Published: January 2009

The ciliated cells of the node of the mouse embryo contribute to the establishment of left–right patterning via generation of leftward laminar fluid flow and initiation of a left‐sided morphogen gradient. Here, we identify FOXJ1CreER2T mice in which expression of Cre recombinase is directed to ciliated node cells. The data demonstrate that foxj1 is expressed specifically in the node throughout the developmental window critical for left–right patterning. In transgenic embryos, Cre expression is detected by immunohistochemistry in ciliated cells of the node. Rosa26R reporter mice, in which expression of lacZ is activated only after Cre‐mediated recombination, demonstrate strong and uniform labeling at the node when crossed with FOXJ1CreER2T mice. Cell labeling occurred as early as 0‐ to 2‐somite stages, specifically within cells of the node, and recombination was highly efficient in response to tamoxifen. FOXJ1CreER2T transgenic mice represent a new genetic tool for the analysis of node‐specific gene expression and will also be valuable in the study of node cell lineage and temporal cell fate mapping. genesis 47:132–136, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Family history of cancer and nonmalignant lung diseases as risk factors for lung cancer
Authors: Gao Ying , Goldstein Alisa M. , Consonni Dario , Pesatori Angela C. , Wacholder Sholom , Tucker Margaret A. , Caporaso Neil E. , Goldin Lynn , Landi Maria Teresa
Published: January 2009

Family history (FH) of lung cancer is an established risk factor for lung cancer, but the modifying effect of smoking in relatives has been rarely examined. Also, the role of FH of nonmalignant lung diseases on lung cancer risk is not well known. We examined the role of FH of cancer and nonmalignant lung diseases in lung cancer risk overall, and by personal smoking, FH of smoking and histology in 1,946 cases and 2,116 population‐based controls within the Environment And Genetics in Lung cancer Etiology (EAGLE) study. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CI from logistic regression were calculated adjusting for age, gender, residence, education and cigarette smoking. FH of lung cancer in any family member was associated with increased lung cancer risk (OR = 1.57, 95% CI = 1.25–1.98). The odds associated with fathers', mothers' and siblings' history of lung cancer were 1.41, 2.14 and 1.53, respectively. The associations were generally stronger in never smokers, younger subjects and for the adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma subtypes. FH of chronic bronchitis and pneumonia was associated with increased (OR = 1.49, 95% CI = 1.23–1.80) and decreased (OR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.61–0.87) lung cancer risk, respectively. FH of lung cancer and nonmalignant lung diseases affected lung cancer risk independently, and did not appear to be modified by FH of smoking. © 2009 UICC
Cancer/testis antigen CT45: Analysis of mRNA and protein expression in human cancer
Authors: Chen Yao‐Tseng , Hsu Melinda , Lee Peishan , Shin Sandra J. , Mhawech‐Fauceglia Paulette , Odunsi Kunle , Altorki Nasser K. , Song Chao‐Jun , Jin Bo‐Quan , Simpson Andrew J. , Old Lloyd J.
Published: January 2009

CT45 is a cancer/testis gene that we previously identified by massively parallel signature sequencing. Encoded by a multigene family on chromosome X, CT45 showed restricted mRNA expression to normal testis and various cancers. In this study, monoclonal antibodies were generated against recombinant CT45 protein, and CT45 protein expression in normal and tumor tissues was evaluated by immunohistochemical analysis. In adult normal tissue, CT45 expression was restricted to testicular germ cells, detected as a nuclear protein mainly at the stage of primary spermatocytes. In tumors, CT45 protein expression correlated with the mRNA levels detected by quantitative RT‐PCR, and most lung cancer and ovarian cancers with CT45 mRNA at levels >1% of testicular expression were CT45 protein‐positive. In positive cases, CT45 showed expression patterns that ranged from diffuse strong staining to heterogeneous and patchy expression. In lung cancer, CT45 expression was least frequent in adenocarcinoma, more frequent in squamous cell carcinoma and neuroendocrine tumors. Using tissue microarrays, 376 lung cancer, 219 ovarian cancer and 155 breast cancer were evaluated for CT45 protein expression. The expression frequency was highest in ovarian cancer (37%), followed by lung cancer (13%) and lowest in breast cancer (<5%). Given the focal nature of CT45 expression in many cases, these numbers represented the minimal frequency of expression in these tumor types. In summary, the expression frequency and characteristics of CT45 expression are similar to other CT cancer vaccine targets currently in clinical trials, e.g., NY‐ESO‐1 and MAGE‐A, suggesting CT45 as a potentially useful cancer target. © 2009 UICC
Water channel proteins (later called aquaporins) and relatives: Past, present, and future
Authors: Benga Gheorghe
Published: January 2009

Water channels or water channel proteins (WCPs) are transmembrane proteins that have a specific three‐dimensional structure with a pore that can be permeated by water molecules. WCPs are large families (over 450 members) that are present in all kingdoms of life. The first WCP was discovered in the human red blood cell (RBC) membrane in 1980s. In 1990s other WCPs were discovered in plants, microorganisms, various animals, and humans; and it became obvious that the WCPs belong to the superfamily of major intrinsic proteins (MIPs, over 800 members). WCPs include three subfamilies: (a) aquaporins (AQPs), which are water specific (or selective water channels); (b) aquaglyceroporins (and glycerol facilitators), which are permeable to water and/or other small molecules; and (c) “superaquaporins” or subcellular AQPs. WCPs (and MIPs) have several structural characteristics which were better understood after the atomic structure of some MIPs was deciphered. The structure–function relationships of MIPs expressed in microorganisms (bacteria, archaea, yeast, and protozoa), plants, and some multicellular animal species [nematodes, insects, fishes, amphibians, mammals (and humans)] are described. A synthetic overview on the WCPs from RBCs from various species is provided. The physiological roles of WCPs in kidney, gastrointestinal system, respiratory apparatus, central nervous system, eye, adipose tissue, skin are described, and some implications of WCPs in various diseases are briefly presented. References of detailed reviews on each topic are given. This is the first review providing in a condensed form an overview of the whole WCP field that became in the last 20 years a very hot area of research in biochemistry and molecular cell biology, with wide and increasing implications. © 2009 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 61(2): 112–133, 2009
Biomimetic, bioactive etheric polyphosphazene‐poly(lactide‐co‐glycolide) blends for bone tissue engineering
Authors: Deng Meng , Nair Lakshmi S. , Nukavarapu Syam P. , Kumbar Sangamesh G. , Brown Justin L. , Krogman Nicholas R. , Weikel Arlin L. , Allcock Harry R. , Laurencin Cato T.
Published: January 2009

The long‐term goal of this work is to develop biomimetic polymer‐based systems for bone regeneration that both allow for neutral pH degradation products and have the ability to nucleate bonelike apatite. In this study, the etheric biodegradable polyphosphazene, poly[(50%ethyl glycinato)(50%methoxyethoxyethoxy)phosphazene] (PNEG50MEEP50) was blended with poly(lactide‐co‐glycolide) PLAGA and studied their ability to produce high‐strength degradable biomaterials with bioactivity. Accordingly, two blends with weight ratios of PNEG50MEEP50 to PLAGA 25:75 (BLEND25) and 50:50 (BLEND50) were fabricated using a mutual solvent approach. Increases in PNEG50MEEP50 content in the blend system resulted in decreased elastic modulus of 779 MPa when compared with 1684 MPa (PLAGA) as well as tensile strength 7.9 MPa when compared with 25.7 MPa (PLAGA). However, the higher PNEG50MEEP50 content in the blend system resulted in higher Ca/P atomic ratio of the apatite layer 1.35 (BLEND50) when compared with 0.69 (BLEND25) indicating improved biomimicry. Furthermore, these blends supported primary rat osteoblast adhesion and proliferation with an enhanced phenotypic expression when compared with PLAGA. These findings establish the suitability of PNEG50MEEP50‐PLAGA biodegradable blends as promising bioactive materials for orthopedic applications. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Effects of mechanical load on the expression and activity of hyaluronidase in cultured synovial membrane cells
Authors: Kitamura Reiko , Tanimoto Kotaro , Tanne Yuki , Kamiya Takashi , Huang Yu‐Ching , Tanaka Nobuaki , Tanaka Eiji , Tanne Kazuo
Published: January 2009

Hyaluronan (HA) has lubricating and buffering functions in joints. Mechanical load is a regulatory factor of HA metabolism in joints, and HA synthesis by synovial membrane cells is modulated by mechanical load. However, the effects of mechanical load on HA catabolism by hyaluronidase (HYAL) in synovial membrane cells remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of cyclic tensile load on the expression and activity of HYAL in synovial membrane cells. A cyclic tensile load of 22.8% cell elongation was applied to cultured rabbit synovial membrane cells for 3 to 48 h with or without cycloheximide. HYAL1 and HYAL2 mRNA levels were evaluated by means of real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis. HYAL activity in the cell culture was analyzed by means of HA zymography with or without HYAL2‐small interfering (si) RNA. Levels of both HYAL1 and HYAL2 mRNA were up‐regulated significantly (p < 0.01) by the cyclic tensile load with or without cycloheximide. HYAL activity was detected in the loaded cell cultures and was suppressed substantially by HYAL2‐siRNA. HYAL activity was undetectable in unloaded cell cultures. These results show that a cyclic tensile load induces the expression and activity of HYAL in synovial membrane cells, suggesting that increased HYAL by mechanical load affects HA catabolism in synovial fluid. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Theoretical study on the gas‐phase reaction mechanism between nickel monoxide and methane for syngas production
Authors: Yang Hua‐Qing , Qin Song , Qin Song , Hu Chang‐Wei
Published: January 2009

The comprehensive mechanism survey on the gas‐phase reaction between nickel monoxide and methane for the formation of syngas, formaldehyde, methanol, water, and methyl radical has been investigated on the triplet and singlet state potential energy surfaces at the B3LYP/6‐311++G(3df, 3pd)//B3LYP/6‐311+G(2d, 2p) levels. The computation reveals that the singlet intermediate HNiOCH3 is crucial for the syngas formation, whereas two kinds of important reaction intermediates, CH3NiOH and HNiOCH3, locate on the deep well, while CH3NiOH is more energetically favorable than HNiOCH3 on both the triplet and singlet states. The main products shall be syngas once HNiOCH3 is created on the singlet state, whereas the main products shall be methyl radical if CH3NiOH is formed on both singlet and triplet states. For the formation of syngas, the minimal energy reaction pathway (MERP) is more energetically preferable to start on the lowest excited singlet state other than on the ground triplet state. Among the MERP for the formation of syngas, the rate‐determining step (RDS) is the reaction step for the singlet intermediate HNiOCH3 formation involving an oxidative addition of NiO molecule into the CH bond of methane, with an energy barrier of 120.3 kJ mol−1. The syngas formation would be more effective under higher temperature and photolysis reaction condition. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2009
Laser‐based in situ techniques: Novel methods for generating extreme conditions in TEM samples
Authors: Taheri Mitra L. , Lagrange Thomas , Reed Bryan W. , Armstrong Michael R. , Campbell Geoffrey H. , DeHope William J. , Kim Judy S. , King Wayne E. , Masiel Daniel J. , Browning Nigel D.
Published: January 2009

The dynamic transmission electron microscope (DTEM) is introduced as a novel tool for in situ processing of materials. Examples of various types of dynamic studies outline the advantages and differences of laser‐based heating in the DTEM in comparison to conventional (resistive) heating in situ TEM methods. We demonstrate various unique capabilities of the drive laser, namely, in situ processing of nanoscale materials, rapid and high temperature phase transformations, and controlled thermal activation of materials. These experiments would otherwise be impossible without the use of the DTEM drive laser. Thus, the potential of the DTEM as a new technique to process and characterize the growth of a myriad of micro and nanostructures is demonstrated. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2009. Published 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The cytoplasmic and transmembrane domains of secretor type α1,2fucosyltransferase confer atypical cellular localisation
Authors: Christiansen Dale , Milland Julie , Dodson Hayley C. , Lazarus Brooke D. , Sandrin Mauro S.
Published: January 2009

Carbohydrate structures influence many aspects of cell biology. Manipulating the glycosyltransferase enzymes, that sequentially add carbohydrate moieties to proteins and lipids as they pass through the Golgi and secretory pathway, can alter these carbohydrate epitopes. We previously demonstrated that the eight amino acid cytoplasmic tail of α1,2fucosyltransferase (FT) contained a sequence for Golgi localisation. In this study, we examined the localisation of the closely related secretor type α1,2fucosyltransferase (Sec) which has a smaller, yet apparently unrelated, five amino acid cytoplasmic tail. In contrast to the Golgi localisation of FT, Sec displayed atypical cytoplasmic vesicular‐like staining. However, replacing just the five amino acid tail of Sec with FT was sufficient to relocalise the enzyme to a perinuclear region with Golgi‐like staining. The biological significance of this relocalisation was this chimaeric enzyme was more effective than FT at competing for N‐Acetyl‐lactosamine and thus was superior in reducing expression of the Galα(1,3)Gal xenoepitope. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Differentiation of well‐differentiated hepatocellular carcinomas from other hepatocellular nodules in cirrhotic liver: Value of SPIO‐enhanced MR imaging at 3.0 Tesla
Authors: Park Hee Sun , Lee Jeong‐Min , Kim Se Hyung , Chang Samuel , Kim Soo Jin , Han Joon Koo , Choi Byung Ihn
Published: January 2009

Purpose

To determine the diagnostic value of superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO)‐enhanced MRI for the differentiation of well‐differentiated hepatocellular carcinomas (WD‐HCCs) from other hepatocellular nodules in cirrhotic liver.

Materials and Methods

This study included 114 patients with 216 histologically confirmed hepatocellular nodules, i.e., 23 dysplastic nodules (DNs), 37 WD‐HCCs, and 156 moderately or poorly differentiated HCCs (MD‐/PD HCCs), who underwent SPIO‐enhanced MRI at 3.0T. MRI included T2‐weighted fast‐spin echo and T2*‐weighted gradient recalled echo (GRE) sequences before and after administration of ferucarbotran. The contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR) of the lesion was calculated. Reviewers analyzed signal intensity (SI) of the nodules and their enhancement features on SPIO‐enhanced images. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy in the diagnosis of WD‐HCC were also calculated.

Results

The mean CNR of WD‐HCC was significantly higher than that of DN on T2*‐weighted image. Incomplete high SI on SPIO‐enhanced T2*‐weighted images were seen in 56.8% of WD‐HCC. The most prevalent enhancement features of WD‐HCCs on SPIO‐enhanced T2*‐weighted images, were iso SI with high SI foci [32.5% (12/37)] and homogenous subtle high SI [24.3% (9/37)]. Alternatively, 22 of 23 DNs (95.7%) showed low‐ or iso SI, and 145 of 156 (94.9%) MD‐/PD HCCs showed strong high SI. When iso SI with high SI foci or subtle homogenous high SI nodule was considered as diagnostic criteria for WD‐HCC, we could identify 56.8% of the WD‐HCCs but only 4.4% of the DNs and 3.2% of the MD‐/PD HCCs.

Conclusion

WD‐HCCs have characteristic enhancement features that differentiate them from DNs and MD‐/PD HCCs on SPIO‐enhanced 3.0T MRI. The lesion conspicuity was better on T2*‐weighted images than that on T2‐weighted images. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;29:328–335. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Estimates of glomerular filtration rate from MR renography and tracer kinetic models
Authors: Bokacheva Louisa , Rusinek Henry , Zhang Jeff L. , Chen Qun , Lee Vivian S.
Published: January 2009

Purpose

To compare six methods for calculating the single‐kidney glomerular filtration rate (GFR) from T1‐weighted magnetic resonance (MR) renography (MRR) against reference radionuclide measurements.

Materials and Methods

In 10 patients, GFR was determined using six published methods: the Baumann–Rudin model (BR), the Patlak–Rutland method (PR), the two‐compartment model without bolus dispersion (2C) and with dispersion (2CD), the three‐compartment model (3CD), and the distributed parameter model (3C‐IRF). Reference single‐kidney GFRs were measured by radionuclide renography. The coefficient of variation of GFR (CV) was determined for each method by Monte Carlo analyses for one healthy and one dysfunctional kidney at a noise level (σn) of 2%, 5%, and 10%.

Results

GFR estimates in patients varied from 6% overestimation (BR) to 50% underestimation (PR and 2CD applied to cortical data). Correlations with reference GFRs ranged from R = 0.74 (2CD, cortical data) to R = 0.85 (BR). In simulations, the lowest CV was produced by 3C‐IRF in healthy kidney (1.7σn) and by PR in diseased kidney ((2.2–2.4)σn). In both kidneys the highest CV was obtained with 2CD ((5.9–8.2)σn) and with 3CD in diseased kidney (8.9σn at σn = 10%).

Conclusion

GFR estimates depend on the renal model and type of data used. Two‐ and three‐compartment models produce comparable GFR correlations. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;29:371–382. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Coronary anomalies assessed by whole‐heart isotropic 3D magnetic resonance imaging for cardiac morphology in congenital heart disease
Authors: Beerbaum Philipp , Sarikouch Samir , Laser Kai‐Thorsten , Greil Gerald , Burchert Wolfgang , Körperich Hermann
Published: January 2009

Purpose

To determine the value of whole‐heart three‐dimensional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for coronary artery imaging in children/adolescents with congenital heart disease (CHD).

Materials and Methods

Forty children/adolescents (median age: 14 years, range 2.6–25.8) with CHD underwent free‐breathing navigator‐gated isotropic three‐dimensional steady‐state free‐precession (3D‐SSFP) MRI for cardiac morphology. Two observers independently evaluated visibility of origin, course, vessel lengths, image quality (IQ), and contrast between coronary lumen and myocardium. A subgroup was compared with cardiac catheter.

Results

The total scan time was 6.3 ± 3.2 minutes (mean ± SD, at mean heart rate 76 ± 15/min). The mean vessel length for right coronary artery (RCA) by observer 1 was 97 ± 43 mm (observer 2: 94 ± 37 mm), for left main and anterior descending artery (LM/LAD) 91 ± 40 mm (observer 2: 90 ± 40 mm), and for left circumflex artery (LCX) 64 ± 28mm (observer 2: 66 ± 28 mm). The mean vessel contrast was 0.34 ± 0.05 (range: 0.23–0.45; maximum = 1, minimum = 0). On a 4‐level score (1 = nondiagnostic, 4 = excellent), mean IQ scores ranged between 2.3–2.9 (±0.8–1.0). Both observers agreed on the presence/proximal course of RCA in 40/40, LM/LAD in 38/40, and LCX in 36/40 patients. There was complete agreement with invasive coronary angiography available in 12/40 patients (six anomalies).

Conclusion

Isotropic whole‐heart 3D‐MRI for cardiac morphology allows reliable discrimination between normal and abnormal coronary anatomy in children/adolescents with CHD. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;29:320–327. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The role of peptides and proteins in melanoidin formation
Authors: Smaniotto Anna , Bertazzo Antonella , Comai Stefano , Traldi Pietro
Published: January 2009

High‐molecular‐weight (HMW) coloured compounds called melanoidins are widely distributed, particularly in foods. It has been proposed that they originate through the Maillard reaction, a non‐enzymatic browning reaction, due to the interaction between protein or peptide amino groups and carbohydrates. The melanoidin structure is not definitively known, and they have been generally defined as HMW nitrogen‐containing brown polymers.

In order to gain information on the nature of melanoidins, a simple in vitro model was chosen to investigate the products of the reactions between sugars and peptide/proteins. This approach would elucidate whether melanoidin formation is due to the binding of different sugar units to a peptide/protein or vice versa. With this aim, the reactivity of two different peptides, EPK177 and physalaemin, and a low‐molecular‐weight (LMW) protein, lysozyme, was tested towards different saccharides (glucose, maltotriose (MT), maltopentaose and dextran 1000) in aqueous solutions at different temperatures. The incubation mixtures were analysed at different reaction times by MALDI/MS. Furthermore, in order to verify the possible role of sugar pyrolysis products in melanoidin formation, the products arising from the thermal treatment at 200 °C of MT were incubated with lysozyme, and the reaction products were analysed by the same MS approach.

The obtained results allowed the establishment of some general views: melanoidins cannot simply originate by reactions of sugar moieties with proteins. In fact, the reaction easily occurs, but it does not lead to any coloured product, as melanoidins have been described to be; melanoidins cannot originate from the thermal degradation products of glycated proteins. In fact, the thermal treatment of glycated lysozyme leads to a severe degradation of the protein with the formation of LMW species, far from the view of melanoidins as HMW compounds; experimental evidence has been gained on the melanoidin formation through reaction of intact protein with the pyrolysis products of MT. This hypothesis has been supported either from MALDI measurements or from spectroscopic data that show an absorption band in the range 300–600 nm, typical of melanoidins. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bacillus subtilis NRRL B‐30408 inoculation enhances the symbiotic efficiency of Lens esculenta Moench at a Himalayan location
Authors: K. Rinu , Pandey Anita
Published: January 2009

Field‐based experiments were conducted to evaluate the promotion abilities of Bacillus subtilis NRRL B‐30408 for growth of lentil (Lens esculenta Moench) at a mountain location of Indian Himalaya in two consecutive years. Observations were recorded for plant growth, yield, nodulation, root colonization by arbuscular mycorrhizal and endophytic fungi, and other related parameters. A positive influence of bacterial inoculation on plant biomass and yield‐related parameters was recorded in both years. The significant increase in growth and nodule numbers as well as leghaemoglobin and protein concentrations of nodules indicated an enhancement in efficiency of the Rhizobium–legume symbiosis due to bacterial inoculation. An increase in protein concentration was also recorded for shoots, leaves, and seeds. Due to bacterial inoculation, there was an increase in colonization by endophytic fungi and a simultaneous decrease in colonization by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in roots. Based on the results of this field study, inoculation with suitable plant growth–promoting rhizobacteria instead of dual inoculation is suggested as a better option for improving the yield and related attributes of a primary dietary legume such as lentil.
Design of compact dual‐ and tri‐band bandpass filters using λ/4 and λ/2 resonators
Authors: Chen Fu‐Chang , Chu Qing‐Xin , Tu Zhi‐Hong
Published: January 2009

This article presents a novel approach for designing dual‐ and tri‐band bandpass filters with independently controlled center frequencies and bandwidths. λ/4 and λ/2 resonators are used to obtain dual‐ and tri‐band responses. λ/4 resonators are designed to operate at the lower passband(s) and λ/2 resonators are designed to operate at the higher passband. The bandwidth of each passband can be tuned independently by adjusting the coupling gap. To verify the presented concept, two experimental examples of filters have been designed and fabricated and good agreements are shown between the simulation and the measurement. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 638–641, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24111
Planar realization of a Q‐band triple‐mode filter using high‐order resonances
Authors: Dong Yuandan , Hong Wei , Tang Hongjun , Chen Jixin , Wu Ke
Published: January 2009

A simple method for a Q‐band planar triple‐mode filter with quasi‐elliptic function response is proposed in this letter. This filter is implemented using a high‐order mode cavity with substrate‐integrated waveguide (SIW) technology and standard printed circuit board (PCB) process. By adopting an orthogonal input and output feed‐line and introducing some perturbation, transmission zeros are generated on both sides, which have significantly improved filter selectivity and out‐of‐band rejection. This triple‐mode resonator is then combined with a circular dual‐mode cavity to obtain a highly selective filter in Q‐band with better stopband rejection. Both of the two filters are fabricated and measured. Low insertion loss and sharp sideband characteristic are observed, which is in good agreement with simulation. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 600–603, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24114