bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of insulin replacement on cardiac apoptotic and survival pathways in streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats
Authors: Kuo Wei‐Wen , Chung Li‐Ching , Liu Cheng‐Tzu , Wu Shih‐Ping , Kuo Chia‐Hua , Tsai Fuu‐Jen , Tsai Chang‐Hai , Lu Min‐Chi , Huang Chih‐Yang , Lee Shin‐Da
Published: August 2009

Increased myocyte apoptosis in diabetic hearts has been previously reported. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of insulin on cardiac apoptotic, hypertrophic, and survival pathways in streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced diabetic rats. Forty‐eight male Wistar rats at 8 weeks of age were randomly divided into control group (Control), STZ‐induced (65 mg/kg STZ i.v.) Type 1‐like diabetic rats (DM), and DM rats with 4 IU insulin replacement (DI) for 4 and 8 weeks, respectively. The levels of protein involved in cardiac apoptotic, hypertrophic, and survival pathways were measured by Western blotting. Cardiac mitochondrial‐dependent apoptotic pathways, such as Bad, cytosolic cytochrome c, activated caspase 9 and 3, and calcineurin‐nuclear factor activation transcription 3 (NFAT3) hypertrophic pathway in DM were increased compared to Control and attenuated in DI group after 8 weeks whereas those were not found after 4 weeks. Cardiac anti‐apoptotic Bcl2 and phosphorylated‐Bad were significantly decreased in DM group but not in DI group after 8 weeks. Insulin‐like growth factor‐I receptor (IGFIR), phosphatidylinositol 3'‐kinase (PI3K), and the protein kinase B (Akt) were significantly decreased in DM relative to Control and DI after 8 weeks whereas those were not found after 4 weeks. Insulin replacement not only prevents activation of the cardiac mitochondrial‐dependent apoptotic pathway and calcineurin‐related NFAT3 hypertrophic pathway in diabetes but it also enhances the cardiac insulin/IGFIR–PI3K–Akt survival pathway, all of which are attenuated with insulin therapeutic duration‐dependent manners. The findings may provide possible diabetes‐related apoptotic, hypertrophic, and survival pathways for potentially preventing cardiac abnormality in diabetes. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biaryl and Aryl Ketone Synthesis via Pd‐Catalyzed Decarboxylative Coupling of Carboxylate Salts with Aryl Triflates
Authors: Goossen Lukas J. , Linder Christophe , Rodríguez Nuria , Lange Paul P.
Published: August 2009

A bimetallic catalyst system has been developed that for the first time allows the decarboxylative cross‐coupling of aryl and acyl carboxylates with aryl triflates. In contrast to aryl halides, these electrophiles give rise to non‐coordinating anions as byproducts, which do not interfere with the decarboxylation step that leads to the generation of the carbon nucleophilic cross‐coupling partner. As a result, the scope of carboxylate substrates usable in this transformation was extended from ortho‐substituted or otherwise activated derivatives to a broad range of ortho‐, meta‐, and para‐substituted aromatic carboxylates. Two alternative protocols have been optimized, one involving heating the substrates in the presence of CuI/1,10‐phenanthroline (10–15 mol %) and PdI2/phosphine (2–3 mol %) in NMP for 1–24 h, the other involving CuI/1,10‐phenanthroline (6–15 mol %) and PdBr2/Tol‐BINAP (2 mol %) in NMP using microwave heating for 5–10 min. While most products are accessible using standard heating, the use of microwave irradiation was found to be beneficial especially for the conversion of non‐activated carboxylates with functionalized aryl triflates. The synthetic utility of the transformation is demonstrated with 48 examples showing the scope and limitations of both protocols. In mechanistic studies, the special role of microwave irradiation is elucidated, and further perspectives of decarboxylative cross‐couplings are discussed.
Pressure beneath a Stokes wave
Authors: Constantin Adrian , Strauss Walter
Published: August 2009

We investigate the pressure within an irrotational fluid in a periodic, steady, two‐dimensional gravity wave above a flat bed. We prove that the pressure in the fluid strictly decreases horizontally away from the crest line. Furthermore, the pressure strictly increases with depth. We also investigate the effect of an underlying current on the paths of the particles. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lowering the Erythropoietin Requirement for Dialysis Patients with Functional Iron Deficiency Using Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)
Authors: Philipneri Marie
Published: August 2009

BACKGROUND

Hemodialysis patients with functional iron deficiency often require excess recombinant human erythropoietin (EPO). In a few small studies, ascorbic acid (AA) has been shown to reduce EPO requirements. The goal of this study was to determine the lowest effective and safe dose of AA for these patients.

METHODS

This was an open‐labeled, prospective, single‐center study involving hemodialysis patients with serum ferritin >500 ng/mL and transferrin saturation <20%. Patients with C‐reactive protein (CRP) >2 mg/dL were excluded. The study comprised of 4 consecutive phases: intravenous AA 100 mg (phase I), 200 mg (phase II), 300 mg (phase III), and oral AA 250 mg (phase IV). Oxalate and AA levels were obtained before and after each treatment phase.

RESULTS

A total of 8 patients were enrolled and 6 patients completed the study. Positive impact of AA supplementation on lowering the EPO requirement was mainly seen with the 300 mg dosage and maintained on oral supplementation. Neither the oxalate nor AA levels increased significantly during the study. Overall the patients tolerated both forms of ascorbic acid well.

CONCLUSION

The role of AA in reducing the EPO requirement appears promising. Larger studies are needed to examine the safety and confirm the efficacy of AA in these patients.
Prospectively predicting dietary restraint: The role of interpersonal self‐efficacy, weight/shape self‐efficacy, and interpersonal stress
Authors: Cain A.S. , Bardone‐Cone A.M. , Abramson L.Y. , Vohs K.D. , Joiner T.E.
Published: August 2009

Objective

This study investigated how the precursors of interpersonal self‐efficacy and weight/shape self‐efficacy would interact in the face of interpersonal stress to prospectively predict dietary restraint. Three models were explored, each with a different type of interpersonal stress: stress from same sex friendships, opposite sex friendships, or romantic relationships.

Method

At Time 1 (T1), participants (N = 406) reported on their typical levels of interpersonal self‐efficacy and weight/shape self‐efficacy, and recent (past 28 days) dietary restraint. At Time 2 (T2), 11 weeks after T1, participants reported on their recent (past 28 days) levels of dietary restraint at that time. Between T1 and T2, participants completed inventories weekly on the previous week's interpersonal stressors.

Results

Consistent with prediction, low interpersonal self‐efficacy and high weight/shape self‐efficacy combined with high interpersonal stress (whether from same sex friendships, opposite sex friendships, or romantic relationships) to predict the highest levels of T2 dietary restraint after controlling for T1 levels.

Discussion

These results further link the interpersonal domain with dietary restraint and elucidate characteristics of women particularly apt to increase dietary restraint in response to interpersonal stress. © 2009 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 2010; 43:505–512
Service users' views of eating disorder services: An international comparison
Authors: Escobar‐Koch Tatiana , Banker Judith D. , Crow Scott , Cullis Jan , Ringwood Susan , Smith Gráinne , van Furth Eric , Westin Kitty , Schmidt Ulrike
Published: August 2009

Objective

To perform a United States–United Kingdom cross‐national comparison of service users' perspectives on eating disorder (ED) treatments and services.

Method

Qualitative, exploratory study. One hundred forty‐four US and 150 UK ED service users completed a questionnaire developed by the Academy for Eating Disorders. Data were analyzed using conventional content analysis.

Results

Both samples identified the following as essential aspects of care: good therapeutic relationship, holistic approach, individual psychotherapy/counseling, specialized treatment, client‐centered care, and support. In the US sample, the main concerns involved lack of financial accessibility to services and problems with insurance coverage. In the UK sample, lack of and inequity of availability of services were highlighted and three main barriers to accessing care were identified.

Discussion

US and UK service users' views suggest that neither country provides early intervention and comprehensive care for EDs at present, although due to dissimilar health care systems the barriers to care differ. © 2009 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 2010; 43:549–559
The Preparation, Solution and Mesophase Behaviour of Surfactant Complexes of Cobalt(III)
Authors: Danks Mark J. , Light Mark E. , Bruce Duncan W.
Published: August 2009

The synthesis, solution and mesophase behaviour are described of some surfactant complexes of cobalt(III) containing triethylenetetramine (trien) and long‐chain bipyridine ligands. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Synthetic Potentials of Heptamethine Merocyanine Dyes Containing an Active Chlorine Atom: Reactivity towards Nucleophiles
Authors: Gospodova Tzveta , Rashkova Jivka , Ivanova Diana , Viteva Lilia , Duprat Christine , Mazières Marie‐Rose , Bakalova Snezhana , Kaneti Jose
Published: August 2009

The reactivity of heptamethine merocyanine dyes that contain an active chlorine atom at a meso position of the polymethine chain towards nucleophiles is investigated for the first time. The reactivity differs completely from that of cationic cyanine dyes and is consistent with a concerted SNAr addition–elimination mechanism. This mechanism is additionally supported by the performed DFT calculations in the gas phase and in solution. The observed dependence of the reaction on the type of the nucleophilic agents is discussed in terms of Pearson's theory. Additional diversification of and improvement in the stability of the ramified merocyanines is achieved in reactions with methyl‐substituted quaternary salts of nitrogen‐containing heterocycles. The photophysical characteristics of the novel dyes are reported and compared with those of the parent merocyanine.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
‘Do you think you suffer from depression?’ Reevaluating the use of a single item question for the screening of depression in older primary care patients
Authors: Ayalon Liat , Goldfracht Margalit , Bech Per
Published: August 2009

Objectives

The majority of older adults seek depression treatment in primary care. Despite impressive efforts to integrate depression treatment into primary care, depression often remains undetected. The overall goal of the present study was to compare a single item screening for depression to existing depression screening tools.

Methods

A cross sectional sample of 153 older primary care patients. Participants completed several depression‐screening measures (e.g. a single depression screen, Patient Health Questionnaire‐9, Major Depression Inventory, Visual Analogue Scale). Measures were evaluated against a depression diagnosis made by the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM‐IV.

Results

Overall, 3.9% of the sample was diagnosed with depression. The most notable finding was that the single‐item question, ‘do you think you suffer from depression?’ had as good or better sensitivity (83%) than all other screens. Nonetheless, its specificity of 83% suggested that it has to be followed up by a through diagnostic interview. Additional sensitivity analyses concerning the use of a single depression item taken directly from the depression screening measures supported this finding.

Conclusions

An easy way to detect depression in older primary care patients would be asking the single question, ‘do you think you suffer from depression?’ Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Disentangling syntax and intelligibility in auditory language comprehension
Authors: Friederici Angela D. , Kotz Sonja A. , Scott Sophie K. , Obleser Jonas
Published: August 2009

Studies of the neural basis of spoken language comprehension typically focus on aspects of auditory processing by varying signal intelligibility, or on higher‐level aspects of language processing such as syntax. Most studies in either of these threads of language research report brain activation including peaks in the superior temporal gyrus (STG) and/or the superior temporal sulcus (STS), but it is not clear why these areas are recruited in functionally different studies. The current fMRI study aims to disentangle the functional neuroanatomy of intelligibility and syntax in an orthogonal design. The data substantiate functional dissociations between STS and STG in the left and right hemispheres: first, manipulations of speech intelligibility yield bilateral mid‐anterior STS peak activation, whereas syntactic phrase structure violations elicit strongly left‐lateralized mid STG and posterior STS activation. Second, ROI analyses indicate all interactions of speech intelligibility and syntactic correctness to be located in the left frontal and temporal cortex, while the observed right‐hemispheric activations reflect less specific responses to intelligibility and syntax. Our data demonstrate that the mid‐to‐anterior STS activation is associated with increasing speech intelligibility, while the mid‐to‐posterior STG/STS is more sensitive to syntactic information within the speech. Hum Brain Mapp, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Information technology and its impact on stock returns and trading volume
Authors: Benzion Uri , Tavor Tchai , Yagil Joseph
Published: August 2009

This study investigates the impact of information technology on common stock returns and trading volume. By focusing mainly on the peak period of the hi‐tech phenomenon, the findings imply that the market response to website launching is positive. During the event day and the two preceding days, the abnormal stock return and the abnormal trading volume both are positive and statistically significant. In particular, the impact is stronger for non‐US firms than for domestic companies, for initial rather than subsequent site launches, for those sites that are launched on Monday rather than on other days of the week, and for innovative industries such as electronics and computers. As expected, while the launch of a website had a stronger effect at the beginning of the hi‐tech phenomenon, the impact has diminished in later years. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The determinants of corporate risk in emerging markets: an option‐adjusted spread analysis
Authors: Cavallo Eduardo A. , Valenzuela Patricio
Published: August 2009

This study explores the determinants of corporate bond spreads in emerging markets economies. Using a largely unexploited data set, the paper finds that corporate bond spreads are determined by firm‐specific variables, bond characteristics, macroeconomic conditions, country‐specific sovereign risk, and global factors. A variance decomposition analysis shows that firm‐level performance indicators account for the larger share of the variance. In addition, the paper finds that corporate spreads respond more acutely to sovereign and global risk increases rather than to decreases. This suggests two asymmetries prevalent in the data. The first is in line with the sovereign ceiling ‘lite’ hypothesis, which states that it appears from spreads data that sovereign risk remains a significant determinant of corporate risk although credit rating agencies have gradually moved away from a policy of never rating a corporate above the sovereign. The second is consistent with the popular notion that panics are common in emerging markets where investors are less informed and more prone to herding. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tests of the conditional asset pricing model: further evidence from the cross‐section of stock returns
Authors: Hyde Stuart , Sherif Mohamed
Published: August 2009

We analyse the ability of the conditional asset pricing models to explain the cross‐sectional variation in UK stock returns. We examine conditional versions of the Sharpe‐Linter CAPM and the Fama‐French three‐factor model. The results indicate that the conditional single‐factor model is rejected in all instances. However, there is evidence supportive of the three‐factor model. A specification of this model that allows for time variation in conditional covariances, conditionally expected returns and the conditional variance of the market cannot be rejected. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Co‐movements between US and UK stock prices: the role of time‐varying conditional correlations
Authors: Aslanidis Nektarios , Osborn Denise R. , Sensier Marianne
Published: August 2009

We provide evidence on the nature of co‐movement in monthly US and UK stock returns by investigating time‐varying correlations in returns since 1980. There is a marked increase in correlations between these markets around 2000, which we attribute to globalization and model with a time‐varying smooth transition conditional correlation (STCC) GARCH specification. A double transition correlation model with time and US stock price volatility indicates that correlations not only increase over time but also during periods of high volatility. The STCC models perform well in comparison with constant and dynamic conditional correlation models in terms of both statistical and economic criteria, but we demonstrate that an investor will gain little from portfolio diversification across these two important markets. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optical manipulation for single‐cell studies
Authors: Ramser Kerstin , Hanstorp Dag
Published: August 2009

In the last decade optical manipulation has evolved from a field of interest for physicists to a versatile tool widely used within life sciences. This has been made possible in particular due to the development of a large variety of imaging techniques that allow detailed information to be gained from investigations of single cells. The use of multiple optical traps has high potential within single‐cell analysis since parallel measurements provide good statistics. Multifunctional optical tweezers are, for instance, used to study cell heterogeneity in an ensemble, and force measurements are used to investigate the mechanical properties of individual cells. Investigations of molecular motors and forces on the single‐molecule level have led to discoveries that would have been difficult to make with other techniques. Optical manipulation has prospects within the field of cell signalling and tissue engineering. When combined with microfluidic systems the chemical environment of cells can be precisely controlled. Hence the influence of pH, salt concentration, drugs and temperature can be investigated in real time. Fast advancing technical developments of automated and user‐friendly optical manipulation tools and cross‐disciplinary collaboration will contribute to the routinely use of optical manipulation techniques within the life sciences. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effect on the Ras/Raf signaling pathway of post‐translational modifications of neurofibromin: In silico study of protein modification responsible for regulatory pathways
Authors: Nasir‐ud‐Din  , Kaleem Afshan , Ahmad Ishtiaq , Walker‐Nasir Evelyne , Hoessli Daniel C. , Shakoori Abdul Rauf
Published: August 2009

Mapping and chemical characterization of post‐translational modifications (PTMs) in proteins are critical to understand the regulatory mechanisms involving modified proteins and their role in disease. Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF‐1) is an autosomal dominantly inherited disorder, where NF1 mutations usually result in a reduced level of the tumor suppressor protein, neurofibromin (NF). NF is a multifunctional cytoplasmic protein that regulates microtubule dynamics and participates in several signaling pathways, particularly the RAS signaling pathway. NF is a Ras GTPase‐activating protein (GAP) that prevents oncogenesis by converting GTP‐Ras to GDP‐Ras. This function of NF is regulated by phosphorylation. Interplay of phosphorylation with O‐GlcNAc modification on the same or vicinal Ser/Thr residues, the Yin Yang sites, is well known in cytoplasmic and nuclear proteins. The dynamic aspects of PTMs and their interplay being difficult to follow in vivo, we undertook this in silico work to predict and define the possible role of Yin Yang sites in NF‐1. Interplay of phosphorylation and O‐GlcNAc modification is proposed as a mechanism controlling the Ras signaling pathway. J. Cell. Biochem. 108: 816–824, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Growth factor control of bone mass
Authors: Canalis Ernesto
Published: August 2009

Bone formation is determined by the number and function of osteoblasts. Cell number is governed by factors that regulate the replication and differentiation of pre‐osteoblasts and factors that regulate osteoblastic cell death. Cell function is controlled by signals acting on the mature osteoblast. Platelet‐derived and fibroblast growth factors are bone cell mitogens. Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and Wnt induce the differentiation of mesenchymal cells toward osteoblasts, and insulin‐like growth factor (IGF)‐I stimulates the function of mature osteoblasts and prevents their death. The activity of BMP, Wnt, and IGF‐I is modulated by extracellular antagonists or binding proteins. Changes in growth factor synthesis and activity may play a role in the pathogenesis of selected forms of osteoporosis, and alterations in the expression or binding of the extracellular antagonists can be associated with changes in bone mass. Current approaches to bone anabolic therapies for osteoporosis include the administration of a growth factor, such as IGF‐I, or the neutralization of an antagonist. Ideally, the targeting of an anabolic agent should be specific to bone to preclude non‐skeletal unwanted side effects. Clinical trials are needed to determine the long‐term effectiveness and safety of novel anabolic agents for the management of osteoporosis. J. Cell. Biochem. 108: 769–777, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Enhanced immunogenicity of an anti‐caries vaccine encoding a cell‐surface protein antigen of Streptococcus mutans by intranasal DNA prime‐protein boost immunization
Authors: Li Yuhong , Jin Jie , Yang Yaping , Bian Zhuan , Chen Zhi , Fan Mingwen
Published: August 2009

Background

The present study aimed to enhance the specific anti‐caries immunity induced by DNA prime‐protein boost strategy for an A‐P fragment of a cell‐surface protein antigen of Streptococcus mutans (PAc).

Methods

BALB/c mice were immunized with DNA prime‐protein boost, DNA–DNA or protein–protein regimens by the intranasal route, using combinations of plasmid vector (pCIA‐P) that express PAc protein and a pure secretec recombinant PAc protein (rPAc). Then, a gnotobiotic mouse model was constructed 2 weeks after the last immunization, and specific immune responses in vivo and their protection against dental caries were observed.

Results

The present study revealed stronger antibody responses in the DNA prime‐protein boost group compared to those elicited by either DNA–DNA vaccination or protein–protein vaccination. In particular, PAc‐specific antibody concentrations were improved significantly after boosting the pCIA‐P DNA‐primed mice with rPAc. Moreover, protection against S. mutans challenge was obtained in the mice treated with the DNA prime‐protein boost vaccination, as demonstrated by a significant reduction in S. mutans colonization compared to control mice and animals immunized with the DNA–DNA vaccination or protein–protein vaccination.

Conclusions

The results obtained in the present study suggest that the intranasal DNA prime‐protein boost vaccination regimen is a novel strategy for the practical application of DNA vaccine against dental caries. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Middle turbinate flap for skull base reconstruction: Cadaveric feasibility study
Authors: Prevedello Daniel M. , Barges‐Coll Juan , Fernandez‐Miranda Juan Carlos , Morera Victor , Jacobson Deborah , Madhok Ricky , dos Santos Marco C. J. , Zanation Adam , Snyderman Carl H. , Gardner Paul , Kassam Amin B. , Carrau Ricardo
Published: August 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Surgical resection of intradural pathology through an endonasal corridor creates defects that communicate the subarachnoid space with the sinonasal tract. Reconstruction of these defects with vascularized tissue is superior to any other method. The purpose of this study is to describe a novel vascularized pedicled flap from the middle turbinate (MT) mucosa and to assess its feasibility using a cadaveric model.

Methods:

Twelve middle turbinate flaps (MTFs) were raised in six fresh cadaveric heads previously injected with colored silicone. Arteries supplying the MT were identified as the turbinate mucoperiosteum was harvested from both its medial and lateral aspects. Length and surface area of the flaps, as well as their ability to cover dural defects of the sella, planum sphenoidale, and fovea ethmoidalis reach were noted.

Results:

All MTFs adequately covered defects of the planum and fovea ethmoidalis; however, two of the twelve MTFs were not suitable to cover a sellar defect. The mean surface area of the MTFs was 5.6 cm2. As an independent factor surface area did not correlate with the ability of the flap to cover the sellar defects. However, those flaps that were not suitable for sellar repair were less than 4.0 cm in length.

Conclusions:

Harvesting of a vascular pedicle flap from the MT is feasible, albeit technically demanding. It should be considered as an alternative for the reconstruction of small defects of the fovea ethmoidalis, planum, and sella, particularly for patients for whom a reconstruction with vascularized tissue is desirable but the nasoseptal flap is not available. Laryngoscope, 2009
A contemporary review of indications for primary surgical care of patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck
Authors: Gourin Christine G. , Johnson Jonas T.
Published: August 2009

The success of organ preservation protocols in laryngeal cancer has led to an increase in the use of primary chemoradiation in both laryngeal and extralaryngeal sites, despite a paucity of randomized controlled clinical trial data comparing nonoperative treatment to the gold standard of surgery followed by postoperative radiation for adverse pathologic features for head and neck cancer, and an increasing recognition that the high surgical salvage rates enjoyed by laryngeal cancer patients do not translate to extralaryngeal sites. These data suggest that there is a need to apply more rigorous standards to the use of organ preservation strategies and offer an opportunity to review the role of primary surgery in head and neck cancer. Laryngoscope, 2009
Bilateral simultaneous cochlear implantation in children: Our first 50 cases
Authors: Ramsden James D. , Papsin Blake C. , Leung Randy , James Adrian , Gordon Karen A.
Published: August 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To assess the safety and surgical technique of bilateral simultaneous cochlear implantation in children.

Study Design:

Prospective case series at a tertiary academic pediatric hospital.

Methods:

Surgical times, complications, and patient outcomes are reported from the first 50 consecutive simultaneous cochlear implants performed at the Hospital for Sick Children between 2005 and 2008. These results were compared to the same measures in a group of sequentially implanted children consecutively implanted from 2001 to 2008.

Results:

The group of children receiving simultaneous bilateral cochlear implants showed no difference in complications, length of hospital stay, or use of analgesia and antiemetics compared with children receiving single implants. The simultaneously implanted children had a reduced cumulative surgical time and hospital stay than is required for bilateral implantation performed sequentially.

Conclusions:

Bilateral simultaneous cochlear implantation in this series of children was safe and required no significant increase in surgical time and hospital stay compared with unilateral procedures. Laryngoscope, 2009
Less education and blue collar employment are related to longer time to admission of patients presenting with unilateral sudden sensorineural hearing loss
Authors: Dagan Elad , Wolf Michael , Migirov Lela
Published: August 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To investigate the relation between demographic characteristics and time to admission following unilateral sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL).

Study Design:

Prospective observational study.

Methods:

All patients with unilateral SSNHL in our departmental database (June 1, 2006–June 31, 2008) were studied. Data on their age, gender, marital status, household density, educational status, occupation, time to admission, and audiologic findings were retrieved from their medical records and compared. The study cohort was divided into two groups according to occupation, blue collar or white collar, and years of academic education. A comparative analysis between multiple variables and occupational groups and a multivariate analysis were conducted.

Results:

Of the cohort aged 24 to 78 years, 46% were categorized as white collar. Within no more than 3 days from the first presenting symptom of SSNHL, 71.7% of the white collar group were admitted, as compared to 29.5% of the blue collar group. Multivariate analysis for late admission (>3 days) end‐point prediction showed that lower education level was associated with a later admission time (odds ratio 0.15, 95% confidence interval 0.03‐0.74; P = .02), even after adjusting for confounding factors (e.g., degree of hearing loss).

Conclusions:

Less educated individuals or blue collar workers who suffer a unilateral SSNHL tend to seek medical help later compared to more highly educated or white collar workers. Laryngoscope, 2009
The model for end-stage liver disease score is the best prognostic factor in human immunodeficiency virus 1–infected patients with end-stage liver disease: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Murillas Javier , Rimola Antonio , Laguno Montserrat , de Lazzari Elisa , Rascón Javier , Agüero Fernando , Blanco José L. , Moitinho Eduardo , Moreno Asunción , Miró José M.
Published: August 2009

End-stage liver disease (ESLD) has become the main cause of mortality in patients coinfected by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis B virus or hepatitis C virus in developed countries. The aim of this study was to describe the natural history of and prognostic factors for ESLD, with particular attention paid to features affecting liver transplantation. This was a prospective cohort study in 2 Spanish community-based hospitals performed between 1999 and 2004. One hundred four consecutive patients with cirrhosis and a first clinical decompensation of their chronic liver disease or hepatocellular carcinoma were included in the study. During a median follow-up of 10 months (endpoint: death, liver transplantation, or the last checkup date), 61 patients (59%) died. The probability of mortality (Kaplan-Meier method) at 1, 2, and 3 years was 43% [95% confidence interval (CI), 34%–60%], 59% (95% CI, 48%–70%), and 70% (95% Cl, 59%–81%), respectively. In a multivariate analysis, the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score and the inability to reach an undetectable plasma HIV-1 RNA viral load at any time during follow-up were the only variables independently associated with the risk of death (P < 0.001). Fifteen (14%) of the 104 patients were accepted for liver transplantation, although only 5 underwent the procedure, and 10 died while on the waiting list. The waiting list mortality rate in patients with a MELD score < 20 and in patients with a MELD score >20 was 58% and 100%, respectively (median follow-up, 5 months). In conclusion, HIV-1–infected patients with ESLD, especially those with poorly controlled HIV and a high MELD score, have a poor short-term outcome. The MELD score may be useful in deciding whether to indicate liver transplantation in these patients. However, because only a small proportion of the patients in this study were considered candidates for liver transplantation and most died while on the waiting list, few received a transplant.
Serial measurement of Doppler hepatic hemodynamic parameters for the diagnosis of acute rejection after live donor liver transplantation
Authors: Sugimoto Hiroyuki , Kato Koichi , Hirota Masashi , Takeda Shin , Kamei Hideya , Nakamura Taro , Kiuchi Tetsuya , Nakao Akimasa
Published: August 2009

To elucidate the role of Doppler hepatic hemodynamic parameters as surrogate markers of acute rejection (AR) after live donor liver transplantation (LDLT), serial Doppler measurements were prospectively performed during the first 2 weeks after LDLT to compare the longitudinal hepatic hemodynamic changes between patients with histologically proven AR and patients without histologically proven AR. Forty-six patients that had undergone adult-to-adult LDLT using a right lobe graft were enrolled in this study. The portal venous maximum velocity (PVV; cm/second), portal venous flow volume, hepatic arterial peak systolic velocity, hepatic arterial pulsatility index, hepatic venous maximum velocity, hepatic venous pulsatility index, and splenic arterial pulsatility index were measured. Fourteen patients were diagnosed by biopsy to have clinically relevant AR. Markedly increased PVV was seen soon after surgery and gradually decreased in both patients with clinically relevant AR and patients without clinically relevant AR. This serial change of decreasing PVV was significantly greater in patients with clinically relevant AR (P < 0.0001). After postoperative day 6, the PVV in patients with clinically relevant AR was significantly lower than that in patients without clinically relevant AR (PVV on postoperative day 6: 35.6 ± 21.3 versus 58.3 ± 27.1 cm/second, respectively, P = 0.0080). A PVV cutoff value of 20.2 cm/second demonstrated the best accuracy for predicting clinically relevant AR. The sensitivity and specificity for predicting clinically relevant AR were 92.9% and 87.1%, respectively. The area under the curve was 0.94. In conclusion, serial Doppler measurement of hepatic parameters in LDLT is useful for the diagnosis of clinically relevant AR. Clinically relevant AR should therefore be suspected when a marked unexpected decrease in the PVV is observed.
Morphine- and glucagon-augmented magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography to evaluate living liver donors
Authors: Mo Yuan Heng , Liang Po Chin , Ho Ming Chih , Lee Po Huang , Jaw Fu Shan , Peng Steven Shinn-Forng
Published: August 2009

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of the combined use of intravenous morphine and intramuscular glucagon in improving magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) image quality in donors for living-related liver transplantation. Sixteen healthy donor candidates underwent an MRCP study. Coronal, single-shot, fast spin-echo, heavily T2-weighted dynamic MRCP images were obtained before and 3 minutes after the intravenous administration of morphine HCl with a dose of 0.04 mg/kg. Thirty minutes after the injection of morphine, intramuscular glucagon was used. Another MRCP image of the same pulse sequence was generated 15 minutes after the injection of glucagon with a dose of 1 mg. The diameter, signal intensity, and number of branches of bile ducts in MRCP images taken immediately before and after the injection of morphine and after the injection of glucagon (plus delayed morphine effects) were compared and analyzed. In all 16 donor candidates, the diameters of the right and left hepatic ducts, common bile duct, and main pancreatic duct were significantly increased (P < 0.05) in the MRCP images taken 3 minutes after the injection of morphine and 15 minutes after the injection of glucagon (plus delayed morphine effects) in comparison with MRCP images taken before any drug administration. The qualitative grading scores of the signal intensity and order of branches of bile ducts revealed improvements in the MRCP images after the injection of glucagon (plus delayed morphine effects; P < 0.05). In conclusion, combining the intravenous administration of low-dose morphine and the intramuscular use of glucagon before MRCP examination improves the visualization of the nondilated biliary ductal anatomy, which is important for the preoperative biliary evaluation of donor candidates for living-related liver transplantation.
Renal outcomes after liver transplantation in the model for end-stage liver disease era
Authors: Sharma Pratima , Welch Kathy , Eikstadt Richard , Marrero Jorge A. , Fontana Robert J. , Lok Anna S.
Published: August 2009

The proportion of patients undergoing liver transplantation (LT) with renal insufficiency has significantly increased in the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) era. This study was designed to determine the incidence and predictors of post-LT chronic renal failure (CRF) and its effect on patient survival in the MELD era. Outcomes of 221 adult LT recipients who had LT between February 2002 and February 2007 were reviewed retrospectively. Patients who were listed as status 1, were granted a MELD exception, or had living-donor, multiorgan LT were excluded. Renal insufficiency at LT was defined as none to mild [estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) ≥ 60 mL/minute], moderate (30–59 mL/minute), or severe (<30 mL/minute). Post-LT CRF was defined as an estimated GFR < 30 mL/minute persisting for 3 months, initiation of renal replacement therapy, or listing for renal transplantation. The median age was 54 years, 66% were male, 89% were Caucasian, and 43% had hepatitis C. At LT, the median MELD score was 20, and 6.3% were on renal replacement therapy. After a median follow-up of 2.6 years (range, 0.01–5.99), 31 patients developed CRF with a 5-year cumulative incidence of 22%. GFR at LT was the only independent predictor of post-LT CRF (hazard ratio = 1.33, P < 0.001). The overall post-LT patient survival was 74% at 5 years. Patients with MELD ≥ 20 at LT had a higher cumulative incidence of post-LT CRF in comparison with patients with MELD < 20 (P = 0.03). A decrease in post-LT GFR over time was the only independent predictor of survival. In conclusion, post-LT CRF is common in the MELD era with a 5-year cumulative incidence of 22%. Low GFR at LT was predictive of post-LT CRF, and a decrease in post-LT GFR over time was associated with decreased post-LT survival. Further studies of modifiable preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative factors influencing renal function are needed to improve outcomes following LT.
The effect of donor race on the survival of Black Americans undergoing liver transplantation for chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Pang Phillip S. , Kamal Ahmad , Glenn Jeffrey S.
Published: August 2009

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of donor race on the outcome of black patients with chronic hepatitis C infection who undergo liver transplantation. The records for deceased donor liver transplants that occurred in the United States between January 1998 and December 2007 were obtained from the United Network for Organ Sharing. 26,212 records contained sufficient data to be included in the analysis. Of these, 11,989 (45.7%) records were for patients positive for hepatitis C virus (HCV) and 1292 (4.9%) were for patients both HCV-positive and black. Black recipients with white donors were found to have significantly worse outcomes than all other recipient-donor race combinations (P < 0.001). The crude 5-year survival rate for black recipients who had a black donor was 14% higher than the 5-year survival rate for black recipients who had a white donor. Multivariate regression analysis determined that a graft from a race-unmatched donor was an independent risk factor for graft failure (hazard ratio = 1.41, 95% confidence interval = 1.11-1.79) among HCV-positive black recipients but not among HCV-negative black recipients after adjustments for donor age, recipient age, cold ischemia time, serum creatinine, serum bilirubin, diabetes mellitus, body mass index, and donor cytomegalovirus status. The observation that race-unmatched grafts are a risk factor in HCV-positive black recipients, but not in HCV-negative black recipients, suggests an alteration of the graft-host relationship by HCV. In conclusion, our results suggest that HCV-positive black recipients who undergo liver transplantation can have increased graft survival if their donors are black, with survival rates approaching those of white liver transplant recipients.
Transplanted endothelial progenitor cells ameliorate carbon tetrachloride–induced liver cirrhosis in rats
Authors: Liu Feng , Liu Zhi-Da , Wu Nan , Cong Xu , Fei Ran , Chen Hong-Song , Wei Lai
Published: August 2009

Cirrhosis is the most common end stage of liver diseases, and there are no effective treatment methods. Here we evaluated the effect of endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) transplantation from rat bone marrow (BM) on the development of cirrhosis induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). Ex vivo generated, characterized, and cultivated rat BM–derived EPCs were identified by their vasculogenic properties in vitro. EPCs from male rats were transplanted into female rats via the intraportal vein 12 weeks after they had been challenged with CCl4, and the rats were killed 16 weeks later. The control rats received only a saline infusion. The fibrosis index and donor cell engraftment were assessed after EPC transplantation. After transplantation via the portal vein, PKH26 labeling, polymerase chain reaction, and in situ hybridization analysis revealed that the donor EPCs had adhered to the vasolateral surfaces of blood vessels and established in the liver. EPCs reduced the expression of α-smooth muscle actin, collagen III, and transforming growth factor β (P < 0.05) as well as levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and total bilirubin in the serum (P < 0.05), but at the same time they increased the levels of albumin and Ki67. CCl4 treatment increased the international prothrombin ratio (P < 0.05) and reduced albumin levels, whereas EPCs restored these parameters to normal levels. These results suggest that EPC transplantation could play a role in regulating hepatocyte regeneration and ameliorating established liver cirrhosis.
Concerning the use of constant phase elements (CPEs) in the analysis of impedance data
Authors: Huang Y. , Shih H. , Mansfeld F.
Published: August 2009

Impedance spectra obtained for Al6061 samples that had been anodized and sealed in two different processes and subjected to thermal cycling at three different temperatures have been analyzed using the Equivcrt software using a three‐time constant model with four constant phase elements (CPEs). Excellent agreement has been observed between the experimental and the fit data. The high‐frequency data have also been analyzed using the ANODAL software. Excellent agreement between the experimental data and the fit data was found in both cases; however, the fit parameters were quite different. The relationship between the CPEs and the surface properties of the anodized samples has been discussed.
Lanthanide salts as thermal conversion coatings on silicon carbide reinforced AA5A06 aluminium metal matrix composite
Authors: Aziz I. , Zhang Q.
Published: August 2009

In this study, cerium and lanthanum chloride binary mixtures conversion coatings were investigated as corrosion inhibitors for silicon carbide particulates reinforced AA5A06 aluminium composite and AA5A06 aluminium alloy. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and potentiodynamic polarization tests revealed that cerium (III) chloride additions markedly improved the pitting corrosion resistance as compared to lanthanum (III) chloride additions, with maximum increase noted for samples treated with 750 ppm cerium (III) + 250 ppm lanthanum (III) chlorides. Scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersion spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy examinations revealed the existence of a heterogeneous layer formed by precipitation of cerium/lanthanum oxide/hydroxide on the cathodic intermetallics and an aluminium oxide film on the rest of the metal matrix. Improved corrosion resistance was attained for SiC particulates reinforced aluminium composite by means of the cerium/lanthanum conversion treatment, due to the presence of mainly cerium (IV) species as a result of oxidation of cerium (III), which provides auto‐protection properties.
The effect of selected patient's characteristics on the choice of antihypertensive medication in the elderly in Slovakia
Authors: Wawruch Martin , Dukat Andrej , Murin Jan , Wsolova Ladislava , Kuzelova Magdalena , Macugova Agata , Wimmer Gejza , Shah Rashmi
Published: August 2009

Purpose

The aim of the present study was to determine which patient‐related characteristics influence the selection of the antihypertensive drug class in elderly patients in Slovakia.

Methods

The sample for our study (n = 401) was selected from 1045 patients admitted to the Department of Internal Medicine of a general hospital during the period of 1 December 2003—31 March 2005. Patients aged 65 or more with documented arterial hypertension and treated with at least one antihypertensive drug were enrolled in our retrospective study. Specific socio‐demographic and clinical characteristics as well as cardiovascular comorbid conditions were evaluated as potential factors that could have influenced the choice of antihypertensive drug class.

Results

The most frequently prescribed antihypertensive drugs were angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and diuretics (61.8% and 60.1% of patients, respectively). Patients aged ≥ 85 years had lower probability of ACE inhibitors prescription (OR = 0.49). Females had higher chance of calcium channel blockers use (OR = 3.84) and lower odds of diuretics administration (OR = 0.50). In patients living alone, ACE inhibitors were preferred (OR = 2.16). The use of diuretics was more frequent in polymorbid patients (OR = 1.95). Immobile patients had lower chance of being prescribed beta‐blockers and calcium channel blockers (OR = 0.25 and OR = 0.39, respectively).

Conclusion

The present study revealed that the selection of the antihypertensive drug class in elderly patients is influenced not only by comorbid conditions present but also by socio‐demographic and clinical characteristics, such as age, sex, living alone, polymorbidity and immobilization. These characteristics reflect the doctor's perception of risk from pharmacotherapy of hypertension in elderly patients. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Description of the thermal degradation of polymers and copolymers by the use of complex thermal analysis
Authors: Székely T. , Till F. , Varhegyi G. , Blazsó M.
Published: August 2009

A special way of coupling a thermobalance and a quadrupol mass spectrometer proved to be a source of complex information on the structure and degradation of polymers. Two typical examples—polypropylene and polyquinone—were investigated. The most important new findings in the case of polypropylene were connected with the influence of the layer thickness on the thermal stability and the formation of volatile products. New light could be thrown on the mechanism of degradation based on the results. In the case of the new polymer, polyquinone, the effect of the imperfections of structure could be well separated from the basic process of thermal breakdown.