bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Merging Porphyrins with Organometallics: Synthesis and Applications
Authors: Suijkerbuijk Bart M. J. M. , Klein Gebbink Robertus J. M.
Published: August 2008

The coordination chemistry of porphyrins has traditionally involved the ability of the porphyrin's tetrapyrrolic core to accommodate metal ions of varying charges and sizes, and on the organometallic chemistry of the resulting metalloporphyrins. However, the organometallic chemistry of porphyrins is not necessarily restricted to the metal bound in the porphyrin core, but can also be extended to the porphyrin periphery, be it through direct metalation of the porphyrin macrocycle at the meso or β position, or by attachment to or merger of the porphyrin skeleton with ligands, followed by metalation. This Review focuses on the synthetic strategies used for porphyrins with peripheral metal–carbon bonds. The exciting results that have been produced underscore the importance and future potential of this field.
Experimental study on emission characteristics of PM10‐fraction in coal‐fired boilers
Authors: Guo Xin , Chen Dan , Zheng Chu‐Guang
Published: August 2008

A low‐pressure impactor (LPI) was used to obtain size‐segregated dust samples at the inlet and outlet of ash collectors. The mass distribution, emission characteristics and the composition of different size particles of PM10‐fraction were studied. The results showed that PM10‐fraction of the four boilers had a similar bimodal distribution no matter at the inlet or outlet of dust collectors. The efficiency of dust collectors was the lowest between 0.1 and 1 µm for all dust collectors. The chemical composition of the size‐segregated ash showed that the elements Na and S are obviously enriched in finer ash which was possibly formed via vaporization and subsequent condensation of inorganic matter. The refractory oxides were the major composition in bigger size ash, which might be formed via char fragmentation, excluding mineral fragmentation and including mineral coalescence. Typical morphology of PM10‐fraction retained by LPI from boilers was analyzed by using a field‐emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM). Copyright © 2008 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Teratogenic Effect of Lithium Carbonate in Early Development of Balb/C Mouse
Authors: Nokhbatolfoghahai Mohsen , Parivar Kazem
Published: August 2008

Lithium carbonate is used as a standard treatment for manic depression. While researchers have investigated the teratogenic effects of lithium carbonate on embryos of various animals in later stages of development, very limited work has been done on the probability of effects at early stages of development. In this study, the teratogenic effect of lithium carbonate was investigated at earlier preimplantation through implantation stages of development of Balb/C mouse embryos. A therapeutic dose (i.e., 300 mg/kg b.w.) was injected into mice intraperitoneally on days 3.5, 4.5, 5.5, and 6.5 of pregnancy. Then, on day 15.5 of gestation, embryos were collected from the pregnant animals. Among the embryos, 71.7% were healthy, 10.7% resorbed, 3.1% showed lordosis, 8.1% were underdeveloped and 8.4% had eye malformations. Significant increases (P < 0.05) in the number of hepatic megakaryocytes and nucleated red cells were also observed among experimental embryos. Analysis of maternal serum proteins prepared from dissected animals showed a significant increase or decrease (P < 0.05) in the levels of serum proteins albumin, α2 globulin, β globulin, and γ globulin. This research on early developmental stages suggests that pregnant mothers need to be aware of possible teratogenic effects at early stages of pregnancy, although it has been thought that the egg envelope can prevent teratogens from entering. In this case, mothers may need to stop lithium carbonate treatment before they make a decision to become pregnant. Anat Rec, 291:1088–1096, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Morphological Variation in the Allantoplacenta Within the Genus Mabuya (Squamata: Scincidae)
Authors: Leal Francisca , Ramírez‐Pinilla Martha Patricia
Published: August 2008

The type IV allantoplacenta has been described for the New World tropical scincids lizards of the genus Mabuya; it possesses the greatest morphological complexity known among viviparous squamates. Although a common morphological pattern has been observed in the few species of this lineage in which the allantoplacental morphology has been studied, some morphological variations may be present among species and populations. Here, we report morphological variation of the allantoplacenta of twelve populations of the genus Mabuya distributed in different geographical areas in northern South America using light microscopy. It is found that all the populations/species conserve a general arrangement of the placental structures. In the embryonic hemisphere there are a placentome, paraplacentome, and chorionic areolas; these structures are related to histotrophic nutrition. At the abembryonic hemisphere, there are absorptive plaques for histotrophic transfer and respiratory segments for gas exchange. However, in some populations some distinctive features in the placentome were found. The presence in the uterine syncytium of non syncytialized columnar cell groups, and invasive cells and apical projections of the chorionic cells directed toward the uterine syncytium, constitute a localized endotheliochorial placenta. Likewise, variations found in the abembryonic region include a greater morphological complexity, such as the folded and delimited absorptive plaques, and highly folded regions at the abembryonic pole (folded respiratory segments integrated with folded absorptive plaques). These specializations allow a larger surface for the passage of nutrients and respiratory exchange. Replication and the regionalized differentiation of the absorptive plaques were probably instrumental in the emergence of specialized structures for nutrient transport such as the placentome and the different types of absorptive plaques. These developmental processes appear to underlie the evolution of the placental complexity within thegenus Mabuya by the morphological variation of serial homologous structures. Anat Rec, 291:1124–1139, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
All‐Trans Retinoic Acid and Intra‐Amniotic Endotoxin‐Mediated Effects on Fetal Sheep Lung
Authors: Kramer B.W. , Albertine K.H. , Moss T.J.M. , Nitsos I. , Ladenburger A. , Speer C.P. , Newnham J.P. , Jobe A.H.
Published: August 2008

All‐trans retinoic acid (RA) is a potent modulator of lung development. Chorioamnionitis, which is frequently associated with preterm birth, causes fetal lung inflammation and improves lung function but also results in alveolar simplification and microvascular injury. Endotoxin‐mediated chorioamnionitis reduces RA concentration in the fetal lung to 16% of control values. We hypothesized that administration of RA to the fetus before induction of chorioamnionitis would preserve septation of the distal airspaces. Time‐mated ewes with singletons were assigned to receive a fetal intramuscular treatment with 20,000 IU of RA in olive oil (or olive oil only) 3 hr prior to intra‐amniotic injection of endotoxin (20 mg, E. coli 055:B5) or saline, at 124‐day gestational age and 7 days after the fetal treatment. The right cranial lung lobe was processed for morphometric analysis. RA treatment did not affect chorioamnionitis‐induced fetal and systemic inflammation or interleukin‐8 concentrations in lung tissue. RA administration alone did not alter lung structure. Relative to control lungs (5 ± 3 mL/kg), lung volume increased similarly with endotoxin (22 ± 4 mL/kg) or RA plus endotoxin (20 ± 3 mL/kg; P < 0.05). Alveolar wall thickness was 4.2 ± 0.3 μm after endotoxin‐induced chorioamnionitis, 6.0 ± 0.4 μm in controls (P < 0.05 versus endotoxin) and 5.5 ± 0.2 μm after RA and endotoxin (P < 0.05 versus control, n.s. versus endotoxin). The ratio of airspace versus tissue was 4.6 ± 0.3 in endotoxin‐induced chorioamnionitis, 2.1 ± 0.3 in controls and 4.1 ± 0.5 after RA and endotoxin. We conclude that fetal treatment with RA did not prevent inflammation‐induced alveolar simplification. Anat Rec, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Three‐Dimensional Reconstruction of the Optic Canal‐Based on Multislice Helical CT: A Comparison Analysis with Skull Dissection of 40 Postmortem Cases
Authors: Zhihai Li , Qixue Gao , Baohong Tao , Jingyao Lv , Zhiyi Cai
Published: August 2008

Decompression operation of the optic canal via the nasal path under endoscope is widely used, but it is both a challenging and controversial method. Unsatisfactory results were largely associated with otolaryngologists' limited understanding of the real anatomical situations of the optic canal before operation. To provide otolaryngologists with the real situations and data preoperation, multislice helical CT was used to reconstruct the images of the optic canal. Using multislice helical CT‐aided three‐dimensional reconstructive methods in combination with direct anatomic measurement, we dissected and analyzed the shape of the optic canal and its anatomic relationship with the adjoining structures in 40 intact postmortem skull samples. The In‐Space technique clearly showed the structure and the related region of the optic canal. The virtual endoscopy technique showed superbly the spatial appearance and topography of the inner optic canal and also gave the inner structure of the optic canal optically. There was no statistic difference in three‐dimensional reconstructive data with that obtained by anatomical measurements and thus can be used to directly instruct the clinic operation. These results demonstrate that a combined In‐Space technique with virtual endoscopy can accurately define the subtle structure and the related region of the optical canal. In conclusion, multislice helical CT‐based three‐dimensional reconstruction is of important value for clinical operations. Anat Rec, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Detailed Process of Bone Remodeling After Achievement of Osseointegration in a Rat Implantation Model
Authors: Haga Maiko , Fujii Noritaka , Nozawa‐Inoue Kayoko , Nomura Shuichi , Oda Kimimitsu , Uoshima Katsumi , Maeda Takeyasu
Published: August 2008

Osseointegration is regarded as the most appropriate implant‐bone interface in dental implantation. However, damaged bone with empty osteocytic lacunae driven by implant cavity preparation remains even after the completion of osseointegration. Although previous studies have suggested the occurrence of bone remodeling around implants, information on its detailed process is meager. Our study aimed to examine the fate of bone around titanium implants after the establishment of osseointegration on an animal model using the rat maxilla. Titanium implants were inserted into prepared bone cavities of the rat maxilla. Bone formation and maturation processes were evaluated by double staining for alkaline phosphatase and tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase, immunohistochemistry for bone matrix proteins, vital staining with calcein, and elemental mapping with an electron probe microanalyzer. Bone with empty osteocytic lacunae or pyknosis remained between the intact preexisting and newly formed woven bones at post 1 month. It gradually decreased to disappear completely by active bone remodeling with a synchronized coordination of alkaline phosphatase‐positive osteoblasts and tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase‐reactive osteoclasts at post 3 months, thickening to be replaced by compact bone. Dynamic labeling showed two clear lines in the newly formed bone around the implant through this experimental period. Electron probe microanalyzer analysis demonstrated chronologically increased levels of Ca and P in the newly formed bone identical to those in the surrounding bone at post 2.5 months. These findings indicate that continuous bone remodeling after the achievement of osseointegration causes replacement of the damaged bone by compact bone as well as an improvement in bone quality. Anat Rec, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Chromaffin Cells in the Amphibian UrodeleTriturus carnifexShow Ultrastructural Features Indicative of a Vesicle‐Mediated Mode of Cell Degranulation
Authors: Crivellato Enrico , De Falco Maria , Capaldo Anna , Laforgia Vincenza , Ribatti Domenico , De Luca Antonio
Published: August 2008

Recently, suggestive evidence for piecemeal degranulation (PMD), a particulate pattern of cell secretion accomplished by vesicle‐mediated extracellular transport of granule‐stored material, has been provided by electron microscopy investigations in chromaffin cells of different vertebrate species. In this study, chromaffin tissue from the interrenal gland of the amphibian urodedeTriturus carnifexhas been investigated by quantitative transmission electron microscopy in search for ultrastructural clues indicative of a vesicle‐mediated mode of cell degranulation. Interestingly, a single type of chromaffin cell is recognizable inT. carnifex, which undergoes seasonal variations in its adrenaline and noradrenaline granule ratio according to an annual cycle that matches the trend of changes in secondary sexual characters. In this study, we looked for a series of ultrastructural changes regarded as highly specific for PMD. We calculated the percentage of (i) resting, unaltered granules (type 1 granules); (ii) granules with changes indicative of progressive release of secretory materials, that is, granules with lucent areas in their cores, reduced electron density, disassembled matrices, and residual cores (type 2 granules); and (iii) membrane empty containers (type 3 granules) in chromaffin cells ofT. carnifexduring the annual cycle. We found a significant increase in type 2 and 3 granules, accompanied by a significant decrease in type 1 granules, in the April and November samples. During the same seasonal periods, the number per net cytoplasmic area of 30–100‐nm diameter electron‐dense vesicles was found to be significantly augmented, and there was also an augmented percentage of chromaffin granules showing blebs or protrusions in their profiles. These ultrastructural data are indicative of an increased vesicle‐mediated transport of chromaffin granule products for extracellular release in the amphibianT. carnifexin accordance with the increased rate of catecholamine release. This vesicle‐mediated pattern of cell secretion suits the schema of PMD. In an evolutionary perspective, these findings suggest that PMD is a secretory pathway that has been highly conserved throughout vertebrate classes. Anat Rec, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Primary Cilia: Cellular Sensors for the Skeleton
Authors: Anderson Charles T. , Castillo Alesha B. , Brugmann Samantha A. , Helms Jill A. , Jacobs Christopher R. , Stearns Tim
Published: August 2008

The primary cilium is a solitary, immotile cilium that is present in almost every mammalian cell type. Primary cilia are thought to function as chemosensors, mechanosensors, or both, depending on cell type, and have been linked to several developmental signaling pathways. Primary cilium malfunction has been implicated in several human diseases, the symptoms of which include vision and hearing loss, polydactyly, and polycystic kidneys. Recently, primary cilia have also been implicated in the development and homeostasis of the skeleton. In this review, we discuss the structure and formation of the primary cilium and some of the mechanical and chemical signals to which it could be sensitive, with a focus on skeletal biology. We also raise several unanswered questions regarding the role of primary cilia as mechanosensors and chemosensors and identify potential research avenues to address these questions. Anat Rec, 291:1074–1078, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mathematical Analysis of Solanesol Adsorption on Macroporous Resins using the General Rate Model
Authors: Du X. L. , Yuan Q. P. , Li Y.
Published: August 2008

A mathematical model including convection, axial dispersion, external‐ and intraparticle mass transfer resistances, particle size distribution (PSD) and variation of isotherm (VOI) was developed for analyzing the adsorption process of solanesol by macroporous resins. The theoretical predictions were compared with the experimental data obtained at different conditions to examine the validity of the model. The results showed that the theoretical predictions were very consistent with the experimental data. The model parameters were investigated using the model developed. The results showed that: (a) As Pe, Bi, m, n, and a increased and b decreased, the time required to reach the breakthrough point was delayed and the loading capacity at the breakthrough point was increased; (b) When Pe is greater than 50, the effect of axial diffusion decreased to a negligible level, and (c) At the region of low values of m and n, the breakthrough curves changed severely and the adsorption column was penetrated through easily.
Towards Prediction of Stoichiometry in Crystalline Multicomponent Complexes
Authors: Cruz‐Cabeza Aurora J. , Day Graeme M. , Jones William
Published: August 2008

We report on the crystal structure of urea (U) with acetic acid (A), its physical stability and its predictability using computational methods. The crystal structure of urea:acetic acid (U:A) shows hydrogen‐bond ribbons and a 1:2 stoichiometry. Crystal structure prediction calculations are presented for two sets of U:A stoichiometries: 1:1 and 1:2. A 1:3 stoichiometry is also partially explored by means of a synthon approach. The calculated lattice energies, along with hydrogen‐bond patterns, of crystal structures predicted with the three stoichiometries are presented and analysed to provide a rationalisation for the stoichiometry observed. Exploring stoichiometric diversity using computational methods provides a tool for the rationalisation of stoichiometry preferences in crystalline multicomponent systems and a first step towards their prediction.
Determination of tenatoprazole enantiomers and their enantioselective pharmacokinetics in rats
Authors: Guan Jin , Yang Jing , Li Jingjing , Li Xiaohong , Li Famei
Published: August 2008

The enantioselective pharmacokinetics of tenatoprazole were studied in Wistar rats after the administration of a single oral dose ofrac‐tenatoprazole. Serial plasma samples were collected; and the pharmacokinetic behavior of each enantiomer was characterized using a sequential achiral and chiral liquid chromatographic method. Tenatoprazole was extracted from a small aliquot of plasma (100 μl) by one‐step extraction using hexane‐dichloromethane‐isopropanol (20:10:1, v/v/v) as extract solvent. Plasma drug concentration–time data were analyzed for each enantiomer by using a noncompartmental method. The AUC0−∞andCmaxvalues of (+)‐tenatoprazole were significantly greater than those of (−)‐tenatoprazole (P< 0.001). The mean AUC0−∞value of (+)‐tenatoprazole was 7.5 times greater than that of (−)‐tenatoprazole after oral administration ofrac‐tenatoprazole to rats at a dose of 5 mg/kg. There are also significant differences int1/2and CL/F (P< 0.01andP< 0.001, respectively) values between enantiomers. This study suggests that the pharmacokinetics of tenatoprazole are enantioselective in rats. Chirality, 2008. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In‐stent Restenosis in Bare Metal Stents Versus Sirolimus‐eluting Stents After Primary Coronary Intervention for Acute Myocardial Infarction and Subsequent Transcoronary Transplantation of Autologous Stem Cells
Authors: Steinwender Clemens , Hofmann Robert , Kypta Alexander , Kammler Juergen , Kerschner Klaus , Grund Michael , Sihorsch Kurt , Gabriel Christian , Leisch Franz
Published: August 2008

Background

Following stenting for acute myocardial infarction, transcoronary transplantation of granulocyte‐colony stimulating factor (G‐CSF) mobilized autologous stem cells (ASC) has been shown to result in an increased in‐stent restenosis rate of bare metal stents (BMS).

Hypothesis

This study sought to compare the extent of neointimal growth in BMS and sirolimus‐eluting stents (SES) after primary implantation, and subsequent transcoronary transplantation of G‐CSF mobilized stem cells.

Methods

Patients with stenting of the left anterior descending coronary artery for acute anterior myocardial infarction were randomly assigned to receive a BMS or SES. Intracoronary stem cell injection was performed after G‐CSF application for at least 4 d and cell apheresis. The angiograms obtained after cell transplantation and after 6 mo were analyzed by quantitative coronary angiography.

Results

We performed primary stenting and stem cell transplantion in 16 patients who received a BMS (n = 8) or an SES (n = 8). In 2 patients with a BMS, late stent thrombosis occurred after 58 d and 177 d, respectively. In the remaining patients, control angiography after 6 mo revealed in‐stent restenosis of >50% in no patients with SES but in 4 patients with BMS (67%). Late lumen loss and in‐stent plaque volume were significantly higher in patients with BMS compared with patients with SES.

Conclusions

Compared with BMS, SES impair in‐stent intima hyperplasia after stenting for acute myocardial infarction and transcoronary transplantation of G‐CSF mobilized ASC. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Atrioventricular Block: A Serious Complication in and After Transcatheter Closure of Perimembranous Ventricular Septal Defects
Authors: Zhou Tao , Shen Xiang‐qian , Zhou Sheng‐hua , Fang Zhen‐fei , Hu Xin‐qun , Zhao Yan‐shu , Qi Shu‐shan , Zhou Zheng , Li Jiang , Lv Xiao‐lin
Published: August 2008

Background

Transcatheter closure is an effective approach for perimembranous ventricular septal defects (PMVSD). However, atrioventricular blocks (AVB) emerged possibly due to the close proximity of the PMVSD to the conduction system, but concern for the complication was not adequately emphasized. In this study, we report the incidence of AVBs, in and after transcatheter closure of a PMVSD, and the outcome of the complication in our center.

Methods

One hundred and sixty‐eight PMVSD patients were accepted for transcatheter closure with Amplazter PMVSD occluder (AGA Medical, Plymouth, Minn., USA). The procedure was discontinued when a second‐ or third‐degree AVB occurred. A steroid was administered to all patients who developed AVBs. Temporary pacemakers were inserted in patients who developed a complete AVB or Mobitz type II AVB during or after the procedure.

Results

During the follow‐up period of 6–24 mo (mean 10.6 ± 3.9), the incidence of AVBs occurring during or after transcatheter closure of PMVSD was 3.5%. The AVB disappeared quickly after discontinuing the procedure in patients who developed AVBs during the procedure, whereas the AVBs disappeared between 2 and 21 d (mean 8.0 ± 8.8) in the patients who developed AVBs after the procedure. However, complete right bundle branch block (CRBBB) was observed, and a transient complete AVB emerged after 8 mo in 1 case, incomplete right bundle branch block (IRBBB) in 1 case, and CRBBB and left anterior hemiblock (LAH) in 1 case.

Conclusions

The AVB is a serious complication during and after transcathter closure of PMVSD. More attention should be paid to the complication, and multicentres are required to monitor the complication. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lack of Pathologic Q Waves: A Specific Marker of Viability in Myocardial Hibernation
Authors: Jeon Hui‐Kyung , Shah Gopi A. , Diwan Abhinav , Cwajg Jucylea M. , Park Tae‐Ho , McCulloch Marti L. , Zoghbi William A.
Published: August 2008

Background

The present study evaluates the lack of Q waves on the electrocardiogram (ECG) in the prediction of myocardial viability compared with dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) and rest‐redistribution thallium‐201 (Tl‐201) scintigraphy.

Hypothesis

The lack of pathologic Q waves (NoQ) may be a readily available and specific marker for the presence of viability.

Methods

Sixty four patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD) and ventricular dysfunction underwent rest ECG, DSE, and Tl‐201 scintigraphy before revascularization, and a repeat rest 2‐Dimensional (2‐D) echocardiogram more than 3 mo later.

Results

Total viability at baseline (% of total segments) was higher in the NoQ group by Tl‐201 scintigraphy (87 ± 19% versus 70 ± 20%, p = 0.008) and by DSE (81 ± 20% versus 65 ± 24%, p = 0.013). As expected, the sensitivity of NoQ waves was low in predicting recovery of function (23%), and inferior to Tl‐201 (82%) and DSE (84%) (p<0.08). However, specificity of NoQ waves for predicting recovery of global function was high (72%); higher than Tl‐201 (50%) and DSE (45%). Positive predictive values were comparable among all modalities. Results were similar if the data were analyzed regionally for viability.

Conclusion

Lack of pathologic Q waves is a specific and readily available marker of myocardial viability in patients with chronic CAD, which should alert the clinician for myocardial hibernation. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diagnosing Left Ventricular Noncompaction by Echocardiography and Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Its Dependency on Neuromuscular Disorders
Authors: Stöllberger Claudia , Kopsa Wolfgang , Tscherney Robert , Finsterer Josef
Published: August 2008

Background

Left ventricular hypertrabeculation (LVHT), also termed noncompaction LVHT, is diagnosed by echocardiography or cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMRI), and associated with neuromuscular disorders (NMD). The aim of this study was to assess if LVHT can be diagnosed by CMRI applying echocardiographic definitions.

Methods and Results

The CMRI images of 19 echocardiographically diagnosed LVHT patients were re‐evaluated (10 female, 14‐67 y of age). Left ventricular hypertrabeculation was diagnosed by CMRI in 9 cases. Patients with CMRI‐diagnosed LVHT were more often females (67% versus 40%), experienced heart failure more often (100% versus 50%), had an LV end diastolic diameter > 57 mm (67% versus 40%), had an LV fractional shortening < 25% (89% versus 40%), and had a larger extension of LVHT than patients without CMRI‐diagnosed LVHT. The prevalence of NMD (87%) did not differ between both groups.

Conclusions

Echocardiographic definition for CMRI yielded the diagnosis of LVHT in only 47%. When looking for LVHT by CMRI, LV size, function, and extension of LVHT have to be considered. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Epidemiology of Heart Failure in a Tertiary Pediatric Center
Authors: Massin Martial M. , Astadicko Iyawa , Dessy Hugues
Published: August 2008

Background

In contrast to the adult age group, epidemiologic studies on heart failure (HF) in the pediatric population are lacking. The aim of this prospective study was to analyze the epidemiology of HF during infancy and childhood.

Methods

Of the 1,196 children with congenital and acquired heart diseases, primarily diagnosed during a 10‐y period in one hospital, we identified those patients who developed HF.

Results

Within 10 y, 1,196 children with heart disease were indexed. Heart failure occurred in 124 of these patients (10.4%): 64 out of 1,031 children with congenital heart diseases (6.2%), 13 out of 96 children with rhythm or conduction disturbances (13.5%), 23 out of 39 children with acquired heart diseases (59.0%), and 24 out of 30 children with cardiomyopathies (80.0%). Heart failure occurred in 72 cases (58.1%) during the first year of life. The incidence in infancy was much more pronounced for congenital heart diseases than for other cardiac conditions. The mortality associated with HF and its cause was also lower for children with congenital heart disease (4.7%) than for the other cardiac conditions (8.7%, 23.0%, and 25.0%, for acquired heart diseases, rhythm disturbances, and cardiomyopathies, respectively).

Conclusion

Clear differences exist between HF in infants and HF in children. Our study supports the observation that congenital heart disease is the most common causative factor of HF during infancy. Older children with HF are more likely to have acquired heart diseases, cardiomyopathies, and arrhythmias, and these conditions have a considerable mortality. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Alcohol, Wine, and Cardiovascular Health
Authors: Lindberg Matthew L. , Amsterdam Ezra A.
Published: August 2008

Studies evaluating the health benefits of alcohol and wine have demonstrated that moderate consumption is associated with a decrease in all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality. Various populations and alcoholic beverages exhibit this effect to different degrees. Alcoholic beverages exhibit multiple mechanisms that may favorably influence cardiac risk potential actions on platelets, antioxidants, fibrinolysis, and lipids. However, other data suggest that the perceived benefit of alcoholic beverages in general, and wine in particular, are the result of socioeconomic confounders. In the absence of more rigorous evidence, it is not currently possible to define the role of wine in human health. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Assessment of Regional Systolic and Diastolic Functions Affected by Atorvastatin in Coronary Artery Disease Using Tissue Doppler Imaging
Authors: Qie Liangyi , Meng Xiao , Wang Yubin , Feng Min , Zhong Ming , Li Li
Published: August 2008

Background

Several studies have shown regional left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic changes associated with coronary artery disease (CAD). Statins may have beneficial pleiotropic effects in addition to their lipid‐lowering properties.

Hypothesis

We hypothesized that atorvastatin can improve regional LV systolic and diastolic functions in CAD patients using tissue Doppler imaging (TDI).

Methods

A total of 63 patients with hyperlipemia and CAD were studied. Forty‐three patients were given 10 mg daily of atorvastatin and 20 patients were assigned only a low‐fat diet. Tissue Doppler imaging was applied to evaluate LV peak systolic velocity (VS), early diastolic velocity (VE), and late diastolic velocity (VA) in 18 segments. The mean value of LV peak systolic velocity (VS′), the mean value of early diastolic velocity (VE′), and the mean value of late diastolic velocity (VA′), in 18 segments were calculated.

Results

Compared with the baseline, VS′, and VE′, increased significantly after the therapy in the atorvastatin group (p < 0.05), while there was no change in the control group (p > 0.05). At 6 mo of therapy, a significant reduction in total cholesterol, triglyceride, and low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol was observed in the 2 groups (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate that atorvastatin can improve regional LV systolic and diastolic functions in CAD patients independent of its lipid‐lowering properties. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Carbon‐coated Stents in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndromes
Authors: Wöhrle Jochen , Nusser Thorsten , Langenwalder Simone , Heombach Vinzenz , Kochs Matthias
Published: August 2008

Background

For patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) or non‐ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), rapid restoration of coronary blood flow is the primary therapeutic goal. Because of the acute nature of this clinical presentation, bleeding risks may not be adequately evaluated, limiting the use of drug‐eluting stents, since premature discontinuation of antiplatelet therapy strongly predicts stent thrombosis. We evaluated angiographic and clinical results of non‐drug‐eluting carbon‐coated stents.

Methods

In this prospective observational study, angiographic and clinical 6‐mo results of a carbon‐coated stent for treatment of acute lesions in native coronary arteries were evaluated. Angiographic main outcome measures included in‐stent late loss and binary restenosis rate. Major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) were defined as any death, Q‐wave myocardial infarction (MI), and target lesion revascularization.

Results

We included 320 patients with STEMI (n = 205) or NSTEMI (n = 115) with 360 lesions. Reference vessel diameter was 2.93 ± 0.53 mm and stented length 22.7 ± 13.8 mm. Angiographic follow‐up was available in 220 of 360 lesions (61%). In‐stent late loss was 0.69 ± 0.75 mm, with a binary restenosis rate of 19.1%. For the total segment late loss was 0.74 ± 0.77 mm and binary restenosis rate 21.4%. Clinical follow‐up for 97.4% of discharged patients was available. Hierarchical MACEs were death in 14 patients (4.4%), Q‐wave MI in 3 patients (0.9%), and target lesion revascularization in 39 patients (12.2%).

Conclusion

In this prospective, observational study, the use of a carbon‐coated stent for treatment of lesions in patients with STEMI or NSTEMI was associated with a low late loss, translating into a low binary angiographic restenosis rate within a 6‐mo follow‐up. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Association Between Fibromyalgia and Coronary Heart Disease and Coronary Catheterization
Authors: Ablin Jacob N. , Beilinson Natella , Aloush Valerie , Elkayam Ori , Finkelstein Ariel
Published: August 2008

Background

Fibromyalgia (FM) has been associated with physical and emotional trauma including invasive medical procedures. Both FM and ischemic heart disease have been linked with depression. The purpose of this study was to retrospectively investigate the frequency of FM symptoms and physical findings among patients undergoing coronary catheterization.

Methods

Consecutive patients who underwent coronary angiography during the previous 6 mo were recruited. Patients with major depression, bi‐polar disorder, schizophrenia, or malignancy were excluded. Patients underwent dolorimetry for tender‐point assessment and completed the fibromyalgia impact questionnaire (FIQ). Group A included patients with significant coronary pathology (n = 43), group B included patients with normal coronary arteries (n = 50), and group C included patients with normal controls (n = 51). A cardiological score incorporated the number of coronary arteries with significant pathology and left ventricular function. Chi‐square or Fisher's exact test was used for categorical data and a one‐way analysis of variance for continuous variables; a multivariate linear regression was performed to compare groups.

Results

Significantly increased levels of tenderness were discovered among patients with coronary pathology compared with healthy controls. Significantly increased levels of depression were also found, as well as higher scores on the FIQ scale. On multivariate analysis, a positive correlation was demonstrated between tenderness/FIQ scores and a composite cardiological score.

Conclusion

Coronary angiography is associated with a significantly increased frequency of pain, tenderness, and depression after 6 mo, apparent in both patients undergoing coronary procedures and patients with normal coronaries. This association may impact the outcome of patients with significant coronary disease. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Intracellular uptake and inhibitory activity of aromatic fluorinated amino acids in human breast cancer cells
Authors: Giese Christoph , Lepthien Sandra , Metzner Linda , Brandsch Matthias , Budisa Nediljko , Lilie Hauke
Published: August 2008

Nonproteinogenic amino acids that either occur naturally or are synthesized chemically are becoming important tools in modern drug discovery. In this context, fluorinated amino acids have great potential in the development of novel pharmaceuticals and drugs. To assess whether different fluorinated aromatic amino acid analogues of phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan are potentially interesting as therapeutic drugs, we examined their cytostatic and cytotoxic effects on the growth of the human breast cancer cell line MCF‐7. Of all the tested analoguesL‐4‐fluorotryptophan,L‐6‐fluorotryptophan andL‐p‐fluorophenylalanine effectively and irreversibly inhibited cell growth with IC50values in the low micromolar range (3–15 μM). Additionally, usingL‐4‐[14C]fluorotryptophan, andL‐6‐[14C]fluorotryptophan, we discovered that the cellular uptake of these fluorinated amino acids occurs through active transport with a 70‐fold excess of intracellular over extracellular concentrations. We identified system L as the responsible amino acid transporter. Our findings fully support the idea that fluorinated aromatic amino acid analogues are promising chemotherapeutics with the potential for use in combination with classical cancer therapy, and as new cytotoxic drugs for certain tumor types such as melanoma.
Optimal dose and schedule of an HER‐2/neu (E75) peptide vaccine to prevent breast cancer recurrence
Authors: Holmes Jarrod P. , Gates Jeremy D. , Benavides Linda C. , Hueman Matthew T. , Carmichael Mark G. , Patil Ritesh , Craig Dianna , Mittendorf Elizabeth A. , Stojadinovic Alexander , Ponniah Sathibalan , Peoples George E.
Published: August 2008

BACKGROUND.

E75, a HER‐2/neu‐derived peptide, was administered as a preventive vaccine with granulocyte‐macrophage–colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF) in disease‐free lymph node‐positive (NP) and lymph node‐negative (NN) breast cancer (BCa) patients. The optimal biologic dose (OBD) was determined based on toxicity and immunologic response.

METHODS.

Patients were vaccinated over 6 months (3, 4, or 6 times) with different doses of E75 plus GM‐CSF. Toxicities were graded per National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria. GM‐CSF was reduced for significant toxicity. Immunologic response was measured by delayed type hypersensitivity test (DTH), and E75‐specific CD8+ T‐cells were quantified with human leukocyte antigen‐A2:immunoglobulin G dimer and flow cytometry.

RESULTS.

Ninety‐nine patients (48 NP and 51 NN) were vaccinated in 7 dose groups. The OBD was 1000 μg E75 plus 250 μg GM‐CSF monthly × 6. The optimal dose group (ODG, n = 29) experienced similar toxicities to the suboptimal dose group (SDG, n = 70), which was comprised of the remaining 6 groups. The ODG demonstrated a trend toward an increase in the average postvaccine dimer (0.87 ± 0.10% vs 0.67 ± 0.05%; P = .07), a significantly larger DTH response (21.5 ± 2.5 mm vs 11.3 ± 1.3 mm; P = .0002), and a trend toward decreased recurrences (3.4% vs 12.9%; P = .27). Compared with the SDG, the ODG had larger tumors (percentage ≥T2: 55% vs 23%; P = .004), more positive lymph nodes (percentage NP: 76% vs 37%; P = .001), and higher grade tumors (percentage grade 3: 52% vs 30%; P = .07), but a shorter median follow‐up time (20 months vs 32 months; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS.

Compared with suboptimally dosed patients, the optimally dosed E75 vaccine in disease‐free BCa patients had similar toxicity but enhanced HER‐2/neu‐specific immunity that may lead to decreased recurrences with additional follow‐up. Cancer 2008. Published 2008 by the American Cancer Society.
Reproductive and hormonal risk factors for postmenopausal luminal, HER‐2‐overexpressing, and triple‐negative breast cancer
Authors: Phipps Amanda I. , Malone Kathleen E. , Porter Peggy L. , Daling Janet R. , Li Christopher I.
Published: August 2008

BACKGROUND.

Molecular profiling studies have identified subtypes of breast cancer that can be approximately classified by estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and HER‐2/neu (HER‐2) expression. These molecular subtypes are prognostically significant, but to the authors' knowledge, differences in their etiologic profiles have not been established. Reproductive factors may plausibly be differentially correlated with the risk of different breast cancer subtypes because these factors are presumed to impact exposure to endogenous sex hormones.

METHODS.

The authors pooled 2 population‐based, case–control studies of breast cancer in women ages 55 to 79 years for an analysis including 1476 controls and 1023 cases of luminal breast cancer, 39 cases of HER‐2‐overexpressing breast cancer, and 78 cases of triple‐negative breast cancer. Polytomous logistic regression was used to compare each case group with controls.

RESULTS.

Associations varied by molecular subtype. Early age at menarche was only found to be associated with risk of HER‐2‐overexpressing disease (odds ratio [OR] of 2.7; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.4‐5.5), whereas breastfeeding for ≥6 months was only found to be protective for luminal and triple‐negative disease (OR of 0.8 [95% CI, 0.6‐1.0] and OR of 0.5 [95% CI, 0.3‐0.9], respectively). Both late age at menopause and the use of estrogen plus progestin hormone therapy were only found to be associated with risk of luminal disease (OR of 1.6 [95% CI, 1.1‐2.2] and OR of 1.7 [95% CI, 1.3‐2.1], respectively). No differences in risks associated with parity or age at first live birth were observed by subtype.

CONCLUSIONS.

Certain reproductive factors may have a greater impact on the risk of certain molecular subtypes of disease compared with others. Future studies that further define the etiology of breast cancer subtypes will add to the biologic understanding of this disease. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Incense use and respiratory tract carcinomas
Authors: Friborg Jeppe T. , Yuan Jian‐Min , Wang Renwei , Koh Woon‐Puay , Lee Hin‐Peng , Yu Mimi C.
Published: August 2008

BACKGROUND.

Incense use is an integral part of daily life in large parts of Asia. The burning of incense is a powerful producer of particulate matter and the smoke contains a multitude of well‐characterized carcinogens. However, to the authors' knowledge, no convincing association has been reported between exposure to incense smoke and the development of cancer. Therefore, the relation between incense use and the risk of respiratory tract carcinomas was analyzed in a prospective cohort study.

METHODS.

Between 1993 and 1998, a population‐based cohort of 61,320 Singapore Chinese who were free of cancer and ages 45 to 74 years completed a comprehensive interview regarding living conditions and dietary and lifestyle factors. Through linkage to population‐based registries, the cohort was followed through 2005 and cancer occurrence determined. The relative risk for these cancers associated with incense use was estimated using a Cox proportional hazards model.

RESULTS.

A total of 325 upper respiratory tract (UPT) carcinomas and 821 lung carcinomas were observed during follow‐up. Incense use was associated with a significantly increased risk of UPT carcinomas other than nasopharyngeal, whereas no overall effect was observed on lung cancer. The duration and intensity of incense use were associated with an increased risk of squamous cell carcinomas in the entire respiratory tract (P for trend = .004), whereas there was no significant association noted between incense use and nonsquamous cell carcinomas. The relative risk of squamous cell carcinomas among long‐term incense users was 1.8 (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.2‐2.6; P = .004) in the entire respiratory tract.

CONCLUSIONS.

The results of the current study indicate that long‐term use of incense is associated with an increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma of the respiratory tract. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Afferent connections of septal nuclei of the domestic chick (Gallus domesticus): A retrograde pathway tracing study
Authors: Montagnese Catherine M. , Zachar Gergely , Bálint Eszter , Csillag András
Published: August 2008

The afferents to the septum of the domestic chicken were studied using retrograde tracers, rhodamine conjugated latex bead or Fast Blue, placed in different septal subregions. The results were verified by anterograde tracer injections deposited to selected areas. The main telencephalic afferents to the septum arise ipsilaterally from the hippocampal formation, dorsolateral corticoid area, piriform cortex, amygdaloid pallium, and the ventral pallidum. Contralateral afferents originate from the lateral septum and the amygdaloid pallium. A massive bilateral projection arises from the lateral hypothalamus. Other hypothalamic afferents arise from the periventricular, paraventricular and anterior medial nuclei, and the premammillary and mammillary areas. The dorsal thalamic nuclei (dorsal medial anterior and posterior) and the reticular dorsal nuclei also contribute septal afferents. Brainstem afferents arise bilaterally from the ventral tegmental area, substantia nigra, central gray, A8, locus coeruleus, ventral subcoeruleus nucleus, and raphe nuclei. The main terminal fields for septal afferents lie in the lateral septal nucleus and the belt of medial septal nucleus. The core of the latter is invaded mainly by fibers from the brainstem, presumably belonging to the ascending activating system. The septal afferents of the chicken are largely similar to those of other avian and nonavian species. The most prominent differences with previous pigeon data were found in the subregional selectivity of the hippocampal formation, dorsolateral corticoid area, mammillary nuclei, some dorsal thalamic nuclei, substantia nigra, and subcoeruleus nuclei in their projections to defined septal nuclei. J. Comp. Neurol. 511:109–150, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fault‐tolerant execution of large parameter sweep applications across multiple VOs with storage constraints
Authors: Ayyub Shahaan , Abramson David , Enticott Colin , Garic Slavisa , Tan Jefferson
Published: August 2008

Applications that span multiple virtual organizations (VOs) are of great interest to the e‐science community. However, our recent attempts to execute large‐scale parameter sweep applications (PSAs) for real‐world climate studies with the Nimrod/G tool have exposed problems in the areas of fault tolerance, data storage and trust management. In response, we have implemented a task‐splitting approach that facilitates breaking up large PSAs into a sequence of dependent subtasks, improving fault tolerance; provides a garbage collection technique that deletes unnecessary data; and employs a trust delegation technique that facilitates flexible third party data transfers across different VOs. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Towards in Silico Liquid Crystals. Realistic Transition Temperatures and Physical Properties for n‐Cyanobiphenyls via Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Tiberio Giustiniano , Muccioli Luca , Berardi Roberto , Zannoni Claudio
Published: August 2008

We study the important n‐cyanobiphenyl (with n= 4–8) series of mesogens, using modelling and molecular dynamics simulations. We are able to obtain spontaneously ordered nematics upon cooling isotropic samples of 250 molecules. By using the united‐atom force field developed herein, we show that the experimental isotropic–nematic transition temperatures are reproduced within 4 K, allowing a molecular‐level interpretation of the odd–even effect along the series. Other properties, like densities, orientational order parameters and NMR residual dipolar couplings are also reproduced well, demonstrating the feasibility of predictive in silico modelling of nematics from the molecular structure.
Structural study of the semimagnetic semiconductor Zn0.5Mn0.5In2Te4
Authors: Delgado G. E. , Sagredo V.
Published: August 2008

The semimagnetic semiconductor alloy Zn0.5Mn0.5In2Te4 was refined from an X‐ray powder diffraction pattern using the Rietveld method. This compound crystallizes in the space group I42m (Nº 121), Z = 2, with unit cell parameters a = 6.1738(1) Å, c = 12.3572(4) Å, V = 471.00(2) Å3, c/a = 2.00. This material crystallizes in a stannite‐type structure. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Electrophysical properties of Ni/V and Cr/Fe multilayer films
Authors: Odnodvorets L. , Protsenko S. , Synashenko O. , Velykodnyi D. , Protsenko I.
Published: August 2008

Results of experimental researches of electrophysical properties of Multilayer film systems Ni/V, and Cr/Fe which was formed on the basis of nanocrystals (V, Cr and Fe) and high dispersed Ni films are presented. It is carried out comparisons of experimental and calculated on the basis ratio for films alloy (Cr/Fe) and semiphenomenological model (Ni/V) results. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)