bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Composition and Antimicrobial Activity of the Essential Oils of Laserpitium latifolium L. and L. ochridanumMicevski (Apiaceae)
Authors: Popović Višnja B. , Petrović Silvana D. , Milenković Marina T. , Drobac Milica M. , Couladis Maria A. , Niketić Marjan S.
Published: January 2015

The chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of essential oils of Laserpitium latifolium and L. ochridanum were investigated. The essential oils were isolated by steam distillation and characterized by GC‐FID and GC/MS analyses. All essential oils were distinguished by high contents of monoterpenes, and α‐pinene was the most abundant compound in the essential oils of L. latifolium underground parts and fruits (contents of 44.4 and 44.0%, resp.). The fruit essential oil was also rich in sabinene (26.8%). Regarding the L. ochridanum essential oils, the main constituents were limonene in the fruit oil (57.7%) and sabinene in the herb oil (25.9%). The antimicrobial activity of these essential oils as well as that of L. ochridanum underground parts, whose composition was reported previously, was tested by the broth‐microdilution method against four Gram‐positive and three Gram‐negative bacteria and two Candida albicans strains. Except the L. latifolium underground‐parts essential oil, the other investigated oils showed a high antimicrobial potential against Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, Micrococcus luteus, or Candida albicans (minimal inhibitory concentrations of 13.0–73.0 μg/ml), comparable to or even higher than that of thymol, which was used as reference compound.
Unraveling Side Reactions in the Photocatalytic Reduction of CO2: Evidence for Light‐Induced Deactivation Processes in Homogeneous Photocatalysis
Authors: Meister Simon , Reithmeier Richard O. , Tschurl Martin , Heiz Ueli , Rieger Bernhard
Published: January 2015

Photocatalytic reduction of CO2 with rhenium(I) bipyridine complexes has been studied for several decades. Nonetheless, important parameters affecting the catalytic performance remain elusive to date. By using the standard catalyst [Re(dmb)(CO)3Cl] (dmb=4,4′‐dimethyl‐2,2′‐bipyridine), the effect of catalyst concentration and irradiation intensity is studied in detail and important correlations are revealed. The decomposition of the catalyst is investigated, and two main deactivation pathways are proposed, both of which involve the one‐electron‐reduced species and are likely to be valid for other homogeneous photocatalysts as well. The rate of deactivation is linked to the relative concentration of 1) the catalyst in its electronic ground state, 2) the catalyst in its excited state, 3) the one‐electron‐reduced species, and 4) quencher radicals. Adequate tuning of catalyst concentration and irradiation intensity leads to the highest quantum yield (Φ=0.53) reported to date for a single‐molecule system.
Lipophilic Tetranuclear Ruthenium(II) Complexes as Two‐Photon Luminescent Tracking Non‐Viral Gene Vectors
Authors: Yu Bole , Ouyang Cheng , Qiu Kangqiang , Zhao Jing , Ji Liangnian , Chao Hui
Published: January 2015

Fluorescence detection is the most effective tool for tracking gene delivery in living cells. To reduce photodamage and autofluorescence and to increase deep penetration into cells, choosing appropriate fluorophores that are capable of two‐photon activation under irradiation in the NIR or IR regions is an effective approach. In this work, we have developed six tetranuclear ruthenium(II) complexes, GV1–6, and have studied their one‐ and two‐photon luminescence properties. DNA interaction studies have demonstrated that GV2–6, bearing hydrophobic alkyl ether chains, show more efficient DNA condensing ability but lower DNA binding constants than GV1. However, the hydrophobic alkyl ether chains also enhance the DNA delivery ability of GV2–6 compared with that of GV1. More importantly, we have applied GV1–6 as non‐viral gene vectors for tracking DNA delivery in living cells by one‐ and two‐photon fluorescence microscopies. In two‐photon microscopy, a high signal‐to‐noise contrast was achieved by irradiation with an 830 nm laser. This is the first example of the use of transition‐metal complexes for two‐photon luminescent tracking of the cellular pathways of gene delivery and as DNA carriers. Our work provides new insights into improving real‐time tracking during gene delivery and transfection as well as important information for the design of multifunctional non‐viral vectors.
A Self‐Assembled Superhydrophobic Electrospun Carbon–Silica Nanofiber Sponge for Selective Removal and Recovery of Oils and Organic Solvents
Authors: Tai Ming Hang , Tan Benny Yong Liang , Juay Jermyn , Sun Darren D. , Leckie James O.
Published: January 2015

An oil spill needs timely cleanup before it spreads and poses serious environmental threat to the polluted area. This always requires the cleanup techniques to be efficient and cost‐effective. In this work, a lightweight and compressible sponge made of carbon–silica nanofibers is derived from electrospinning nanotechnology that is low‐cost, versatile, and readily scalable. The fabricated sponge has high porosity (>99 %) and displays ultra‐hydrophobicity and superoleophilicity, thus making it a suitable material as an oil adsorbent. Owing to its high porosity and low density, the sponge is capable of adsorbing oil up to 140 times its own weight with its sorption rate showing solution viscosity dependence. Furthermore, sponge regeneration and oil recovery are feasible by using either cyclic distillation or mechanical squeezing.
Problematik einheitlicher Betrachtungen des Wärmedurchgangs bei der Kondensation an strukturierten Rohren. Difficulties of Uniform Examination of Heat Transfer for Condensation on Structured Tubes
Authors: Büchner Alexander , Reif Anna , Rehfeldt Sebastian , Klein Harald
Published: January 2015

Die Literatur kennt unterschiedliche Bezugsgrößen der thermischen Widerstände an Rohren mit niedrig berippter Außenfläche. Um eine Vergleichbarkeit von Messdaten zu gewährleisten, ist es notwendig, einen einheitlichen Standard für alle strukturierten Rohre zu definieren. Dabei wird der äußere Wärmeübergangskoeffizient auf eine zylindrische Fläche bezogen, deren Durchmesser gleich dem Durchmesser an der Rippenspitze ist. Die Wärmeleitfähigkeit bezieht sich auf das Verhältnis der Durchmesser im Rippental und im Rohrinneren und der innere Wärmeübergangskoeffizient auf die glatte Innenfläche des Rohres.
Thermosiphon Reboilers with Enhanced Tubes
Authors: Lavrikov Alexandr V. , Hammerschmidt Jochen , Kuzma‐Kichta Yuri A. , Scholl Stephan
Published: January 2015

Reliable heat exchangers capable of transferring heat at low driving temperature differences are key to energy efficient processes. In this paper, heat transfer and fluid dynamics of hydrophobic nanoparticle (HBNP) coated tubes are investigated in a steam‐heated single‐tube thermosiphon reboiler and compared to experimental results of standard stainless steel tubes. In comparison to the bare tube, the coated tube showed higher heat transfer and circulation rates as well as an improved stability of the circulating flow. The stability of the coating was verified in a long‐term stability test.
Etiology and prevention of coronary obstructive lesions in infancy and childhood
Authors: Neufeld H. N. , Schneeweiss A.
Published: January 2015

It is now well established that coronary atherosclerosis should be considered as a problem from infancy or even from embryonal life. Its development, although genetically determined to some extent, is influenced by many factors, some of which may be beneficially modified. Such primary prevention should start in early childhood, and in some aspects, even during pregnancy. Nonatherosclerotic coronary obstruction may also be present in infancy and childhood, usually with severe consequences.
The current concept for the cardiac glycoside receptor
Authors: Bodemann H. H.
Published: January 2015

This brief review emphasizes the significance of the Na+,K+‐ATPase or the Na+,K+ pump of the intact membrane as the pharmacological receptor for cardiac glycosides. The properties of this transport enzyme and the regulation of glycoside binding are described. An outline is given of the problems encountered and of the progress made in attempting to correlate the inotropic action of cardiac glycosides with the binding of these drugs to the heart muscle and with the inhibition of the Na+,K+ pump. Furthermore, the correlation of intracellular Ca2+ activity and Na+ concentration with the inhibition of the Na+,K+ pump is discussed. The existence of a digitalis‐like endogenous activity may also indicate an important role of the Na+,K+ pump as a receptor for a physiological regulatory control of cardiac contractility.
Serumlipoprotein cholesterol in sedentary and trained male patients with coronary heart disease
Authors: Berg A. , Keul J. , Ringwald G. , Stippig J. , Deus B.
Published: January 2015

To demonstrate the influence of exercise training on the lipoprotein cholesterol fractions (high‐density lipoprotein (HDL), low‐density lipoprotein (LDL), and very low‐density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol) in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD), 65 male patients were examined for cardiovascular function and lipid metabolism, before starting or after having participated in a coronary training group for more than one year. There were notable improvements not only in the physical performance data of the trained patients in reference to the tested maximal performance capacity per body weight (MPC/W) as well as the calculated heart volume performance ratio (HVPR) (MPC/W, +26.0%; HVPR, +18.0%), but also in the lipoprotein cholesterol values and the calculated risk quotient of HDL and total cholesterol (HDL cholesterol, +5.1 mg/dl; LDL cholesterol, +23.3 mg/dl; VLDL cholesterol, +12.5 mg/dl; HDL/total cholesterol, +0.038). The results indicate the positive effect of physical training on lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations, and also in CHD patients in coronary training groups.
Bilateral infective endocarditis
Authors: Koshal A. , Wynne J. , Westerman R. , Cohn L. H.
Published: January 2015

Two patients presenting with simultaneous right‐ and left‐sided infective endocarditis requiring surgical intervention are reported. One patient developed aortic and pulmonic valve endocarditis following dental extraction, while the second patient developed mitral and tricuspid valve endocarditis secondary to a large body burn. The bilateral semilunar valve endocarditis was treated by porcine aortic valve replacement and debridement of the pulmonic valve. The bilateral atrioventricular valve endocarditis was treated by mitral and tricuspid valve replacement with porcine valves. The frequency and clinical settings in which this condition is likely to present are discussed.
Lactate metabolism as a prognostic index in unstable angina
Authors: Walinsky P. , Wiener L. , Kasparian H. , Duca P. , Gottlieb R.
Published: January 2015

Fifty patients evaluated because of unstable angina were followed up for a mean period of 63.7 months. Analysis of transmyocardial lactate metabolism was performed in all patients in addition to coronary angiography and ventriculography. All patients had at least one coronary lesion of > 75%. Although technically feasible, aortocoronary bypass surgery was not performed on initial hospitalization and all patients were treated medically. Patients were divided into two groups on the basis of lactate metabolism; group A lactate production > 15%, group B lactate production < 15% or lactate extraction.

There was no difference in left ventricular end‐diastolic pressure or ejection fraction between the two groups. A coronary score index was higher in group A than group B (5.45 ± 2.2 vs. 3.13 ± 1.2) (p < 0.05). The incidence of myocardial infarction was higher in group A than group B in hospital (44.4% vs. 4.3%, p < 0.05), and long term (70.3% vs. 17.3%, p < 0.05). Mortality was higher in group A than group B in hospital (25.9% vs. 0%, p < 0.05) and long term (66.7% vs. 13%, p < 0.05).

Analysis of lactate metabolism thus provides a prognostic index in unstable angina which complements information obtained by coronary angiography and ventriculography.
Myocardial cell damage during attacks of vasospastic angina in the absence of persistent electrocardiographic changes
Authors: Biagini A. , Mazzei M. G. , Carpeggiani C. , Buzzigoli G. , Zucchelli G. , Parodi O. , L'abbate A. , Maseri A.
Published: January 2015

We have investigated whether vasospastic anginal attacks might be associated with myocardial cell damage even when permanent QRS or ST‐T changes are absent. We obtained serum time–activity curves of creatine kinase MB, of myoglobin, and of alpha hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase in 15 patients with vasospastic angina admitted to our Coronary Care Unit (CCU). A slight but consistent rise and fall of both myoglobin and creatine kinase MB was observed in 7 patients (4 presented a definitive myocardial uptake of 99mTc pyrophosphate, and I had a faint deposition). A similar pattern was observed for myoglobin alone in 3 patients (1 presented a negative myocardial scan), while no consistent changes were found in the remaining 5 patients (2 presented a faint deposition of 99mTc pyrophosphate). No significant change of alpha hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase was observed in any of the patients. The coherent rise and fall of the levels of myocardial cytosolic components after prolonged episodes of vasospastic angina suggests that cell damage may occur even in the absence of persistent QRS and ST‐T changes.
Acute oral antiarrhythmic testing with disopyramide
Authors: García‐Barreto D. , Toruncha A. , Gonzalez‐Gomez A. , Llerena L. , Groning E. , Hernandez‐Cañero A.
Published: January 2015

Acute antiarrhythmic drug testing with disopyramide was accomplished in 25 patients with frequent ventricular premature depolarization (VPD). Systolic time intervals (STI) were used to assess left ventricular performance. Eighteen patients responded after a loading oral dose of 300 mg disopyramide with 80% or greater reduction in VPD and abolition of advanced grades. Mean onset of drug action was 93 min and the mean plasma level at 2 h was 3.4 μg/ml. During maintenance therapy 2 of the 18 patients had a relapse. In 2 others, initially protected, VPD recurred during both exercise and psychological stress testing. STI showed increments in pre‐ejection period (PEP) and in PEP/ejection time ratio at peak concentrations of plasma disopyramide. Acute tests repeated with placebo in a single‐blind fashion in responding patients failed to significantly reduce VPD frequency or grade. Side effects consisted of anticholinergic actions of disopyramide. In 3 patients aggravation of heart failure compelled discontinuation of disopyramide which then remitted.
Radionuclide ventriculography: A noninvasive method for the detection and quantification of left‐to‐right shunts in atrial septal defect
Authors: Kress P. , Bitter F. , Stauch M. , Garvie N. , Nechwatal W. , Sigel H. , Adam W. E.
Published: January 2015

The present investigation was undertaken to assess a new scintigraphic method for the diagnosis of left‐to‐right shunts due to atrial septal defect based on the differing stroke volumes of left and right ventricles and to compare it with oxymetric data. Radionuclide ventriculography was carried out after injection of 20 mCi 99mtechnetium‐labeled red blood cells. Time‐activity curves were obtained from the left and right ventricular regions, and the ratio (A) of end‐diastolic‐end‐systolic count rate differences for the left and right ventricles was calculated. The left‐to‐right shunt (in percent of the‐pulmonary flow rate) is then given as 100 × (1 – A/1.43); 1.43 being the previously determined mean value of A in 66 normal patients. In 16 patients with an atrial septal defect and/or partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection a correlation of r = 0.81 was found between those shunts determined by the scintigraphic method and those calculated by oxymetric data. The specificity of the method and the sensitivity in detecting left‐to‐right shunts exceeding 30% are high. The method is practical and already widely used for determination of ejection fraction, end‐diastolic volume and other factors. The combination of this technique with other methods for shunt diagnosis such as gamma‐fit analysis may prove of special value.
Acute verapamil poisoning: Successful treatment with epinephrine
Authors: Chimienti M. , Previtali M. , Medici A. , Piccinini M.
Published: January 2015

Acute intoxication with verapamil (2400 mg) induced A‐V dissociation and circulatory failure in a 38‐year‐old woman with no previous cardiac disease. Resumption of A‐V conduction was observed after administration of orciprenalin, calcium gluconate, and dopamine, with no effect on blood pressure. Epinephrine infusion finally restored satisfactory blood pressure level and allowed a favorable outcome.
Nifedipine therapy for recurrent ischemic pain following myocardial infarction
Authors: Stone P. H. , Muller J. E.
Published: January 2015

The efficacy of nifedipine in relieving recurrent ischemic episodes following acute myocardial infarction was studied in 11 patients a mean of 9.2 days post infarction (range 2–42 days). Prior to infarction, all of the patients had a history of exertional angina only, yet following the infarction, episodes of recurrent ischemia occurred at rest in spite of maximal medical management with beta‐blockers and/or nitrate preparations, which lowered the heart rate to a mean of 65 beats/min, and the blood pressure to a mean of 109/70 mmHg. Ischemic episodes were associated with ST‐segment elevation in 7 patients and ST‐segment depression or T‐wave inversion in 4 patients. Coronary angiography was performed in 8 patients, and demonstrated multivessel coronary disease in 7. The episodes of rest ischemia were prevented in all but one patient by the addition of nifedipine (mean daily dose 60 mg, range 40–120 mg) without causing a change in heart rate or blood pressure. Two patients continued to have myocardial ischemia with minimal exertion, although rest pains were abolished, and they underwent coronary bypass surgery for relief of exertional pain. Only one patient continued to have episodes of ischemia at rest, although the frequency of ischemic episodes was decreased, and bypass surgery was necessary for pain relief. The other 8 patients have been managed medically for a mean of 5.4 months (range 1–12 months) and have remained pain free on combined regimens of nifedipine, beta blockers, and/or nitrate preparations. We conclude that nifedipine may be efficacious for the relief of recurrent myocardial ischemia at rest following acute infarction. In some patients nifedipine may eliminate the need for coronary artery bypass surgery and in others it may provide clinical stability prior to operation.
Mitral valve prolapse and partial syndactyly of the hands
Authors: Fitzharris J. W.
Published: January 2015

A patient is presented who has mitral valve prolapse and syndactyly of the hands. This combination of findings has not been previously reported, but is consistent with one theory of the development of mitral valve prolapse.
Electrophysiological characteristics of junctional pacemakers in congenital A‐V block and following his bundle cryoablation
Authors: Bexton R. S. , Ward D. E. , Camm A. J.
Published: January 2015

The characteristics of the escape mechanism following surgically induced permanent A‐V block were investigated and compared with those seen in congenital complete heart block (CHB). Six patients had undergone elective cryothermal ablation of the His bundle for supraventricular arrhythmias unresponsive to pharmacological and pacemaker techniques (group A) and 12 patients had congenital CHB (group B). In the 12 patients in group B the site of block was localized by His bundle electrocardiography to be proximal to the point of recording of the His potential. In 3 patients in group A in whom intracardiac studies were performed it was impossible to record an His potential. There were no significant differences between the control escape rate, junctional recovery time (JRT), and corrected junctional recovery time (cJRT) of the two groups. In group A there were no significant changes in these parameters following the administration of atropine, whereas isoproterenol significantly increased the rate of the subsidiary pacemaker (p < 0.001) and shortened the JRT (p < 0.02) and cJRT (p < 0.02). In group B both atropine (A) and isoproterenol (I) significantly increased escape rate (A, p < 0.001; I, p < 0.001) and shortened JRT (A, p < 0.01; I, p < 0.001) and cJRT (A, p < 0.01; I, p < 0.001). It is concluded that the escape focus in patients with congenital CHB is situated in the A‐V node. The escape rhythm following His bundle section is unpredictable and elective permanent pacemaker implantation is indicated.
Absence of respiratory sinus arrhythmia: A manifestation of the sick sinus syndrome
Authors: Grassman E. , Blomqvist C. G.
Published: January 2015

The failure of changes in autonomic drive to affect heart rate is a common finding in patients with the sick sinus syndrome (SSS). The normal respiratory sinus arrhythmia is vagally mediated and should therefore be attenuated in SSS. This hypothesis was tested in a series of 32 symptomatic patients with SSS, mean age 68 years, and an age‐matched control group of 75 normal subjects. The degree of sinus arrhythmia present in routine 12‐lead electrocardiograms was quantitated as (1) the coefficient of variation (CV) of the R‐R interval, and (2) the maximal R‐R interval difference (ΔR‐Rmax). Mean CV was 2.7% in SSS compared to 3.8% in the control group (p < 0.01). Mean ΔR‐Rmax was 72 ms in SSS and 140 ms in controls (p < 0.01). Sixteen of 32 patients (50%) compared to only 4/75 (5%) control subjects had ΔR‐Rmax of less than 80 ms (p < 0.01). Thus, SSS is frequently associated with a significant attenuation of sinus arrhythmia and the simple measurement of ΔR‐Rmax in standard ECG recordings provides useful diagnostic information.
Stress damage to nonischemic divisions of the heart in experimental infarction and its prevention
Authors: Meerson F. Z.
Published: January 2015

Recently, it has been shown that nonischemic parts of the heart in myocardial infarction were separated from ischemic damaged ones by a sharp border zone. In this connection, the disturbance of contractile function of the myocardium of nonischemic parts is suggested to result from the infarction‐concomitant emotional‐painful stress. In order to test this assumption, the contractile function of the right auricle, which is an a priori nonischemic heart division, was studied in rats subjected to myocardial infarction of the left ventricle. In the study of the isolated auricle the following facts were established: 1 day after the induced infarction the atrial myocardium shows reduced extensibility, depression of the Starling curve, a concomitant approximately twofold decrease of the maximal systolic tension, and a reduced myocardial resistance to hypoxia and calcium excess. This complex of shifts, first, is completely reproduced without myocardial infarction by emotional‐painful stress and, second, can be prevented to a considerable extent by propranolol indicating that it is essentially stress induced. In infarction, these above said stress‐induced disturbances of the contractile function of nonischemic divisions of the heart were found to be prevented or limited by factors stabilizing the membranous lipid bilayer of cardiomyocytes, i.e., by antioxidant ionol, by nicotinamide, a lipase inhibitor, and by chloroquine, a phospholipase inhibitor. The aspects of application of these factors for the therapy of ischemic heart disease requires further studies.
Long‐term tiapamil treatment of patients with angina pectoris
Authors: Salorinne Y. , Himberg J.‐J. , Eskelinen E.
Published: January 2015

The effects of a 12‐week oral treatment with tiapamil (200 mg t.i.d.) were compared to those of placebo treatment in a group of 20 men with coronary heart disease. There was a slight reduction of anginal symptoms (p < 0.05) and a tendency to less nitroglycerin consumption (p < 0.07). There were no statistically significant differences between the treatments in blood pressure, exercise tolerance during repeated exercise tests, ECG conduction intervals, or routine laboratory tests. No adverse side‐effects were encountered. It seems that tiapamil may be beneficial in preventing angina pectoris, but a higher oral dose must be used.
Use of multivariate analysis to improve the accuracy of radionuclide angiography with stress in detecting coronary artery disease in men
Authors: Greenberg P. S. , Bible M. , Ellestad M. H. , Berge R. , Johnson K. , Hayes M.
Published: January 2015

A multivariate analysis (MVA) system was derived retrospectively from a population of 76 males with coronary artery disease and 18 control subjects. Posterior probabilities were then derived from such a system prospectively in a new male population of 11 subjects with normal coronary arteries and hemodynamics and 63 patients with coronary artery disease. The sensitivity was 84% compared to that for change in ejection fraction (ΔEF)≥5 criterion of 71% (p < 0.01), the specificity was 91% compared to 73% for the ΔEF≥5 criterion (p > 0.05), and the correct classification rate was 85% compared to 72% for the ΔEF≥5 criterion (p < 0.01). The significant variables were: change in EF with exercise, percent maximal heart rate, change in end‐diastolic volume (ΔEDV) with exercise, change in R wave, and exercise duration. Application of the multivariate approach to radionuclide imaging with stress, including both exercise and nuclear parameters, significantly improved the diagnostic accuracy of the test and allowed for a probability statement concerning the likelihood of disease.
Cardiogoniometry: A new noninvasive method for detection of ischemic heart disease
Authors: Saner H. , Baur H. R. , Sanz E. , Gurtner H. P.
Published: January 2015

Cardiogoniometry is a new vectorcardiographic method. The vector‐loops are constructed from three orthogonal ECG leads and registered on‐line by a microprocessor. The angle between the maximal QRS and T vectors, as well as the spatial orientation of these vectors are very constant in healthy individuals. Deviations of these vectors and angles are sensitive indicators for changes in repolarization occurring, for instance, during coronary insufficiency. The changes in these variables were evaluated in 50 patients with suspected coronary artery disease and correlated with angiographic findings. Cardiogoniometry showed a sensitivity of 79% and a specificity of 82%, which is comparable to exercise testing. In contrast to the latter cardiogoniometry can be performed at rest, is free of risk, and therefore also suitable for elderly patients.
Relationship between electrocardiographically estimated infarct size and clinical findings in inferior myocardial infarction
Authors: Herlitz J. , Hjalmarson Å.
Published: January 2015

In 270 patients with acute inferior wall myocardial infarction (MI) and no previous MI, Q‐ and R‐wave changes in leads II, III, and aVF in a 12‐lead standard ECG were related to the clinical course during hospitalization and 3‐month follow‐up. Patients with ECG‐defined transmural MI showed a higher incidence of tachycardia, high degree of AV block, congestive heart failure (CHF), and pericarditis than patients with nontransmural MI. In a subgroup including 226 patients, the series was divided into quartiles according to the sum of Q‐ and R‐wave changes in leads II, III, and aVF 4 days after arrival in hospital. A weak correlation between ECG‐determined infarct size and the incidence of complications such as congestive heart failure (CHF), need for furosemide, and pericarditis, as well as the duration of hospitalization was observed. It is concluded that ECG‐determined infarct size from leads II, III, and aVF in inferior MI is associated with the clinical course, although it cannot predict the outcome in the individual patient.
Discrete subaortic stenosis
Authors: Chaikhouni A. , Crawford F. A. , Sade R. M. , Taylor A. B. , Riopel D. A. , Hohn A. R.
Published: January 2015

From 1971–1981, 18 patients with discrete subaortic stenosis were treated surgically at the Medical University of South Carolina. Echocardiography was diagnostic in 10 of 11 patients in whom it was used. Preoperative cardiac catheterization was performed in all patients. The preoperative left ventricular outflow systolic pressure gradient was 82.0±27.2 mmHg (mean±SD) (range 30–145). In 16 (88.8%) patients excision of the subaortic membrane was complete, and relief of left ventricular outflow obstruction was good. The excision was incomplete in 2 patients; one required reoperation for residual gradient and developed complete heart block, and the other had a residual gradient of 60 mmHg and was in New York Heart Association functional class II when lost to follow‐up. These data suggest that complete excision of the discrete subaortic stenosis is important to achieve good relief of left ventricular outflow obstruction.
Evaluation of left ventricular posterior wall movement after open mitral commissurotomy by echocardiogram: With reference to the effect of papilloplasty
Authors: Okamura K. , Maeta H. , Ijima H. , Mitsui T. , Hori M.
Published: January 2015

Left ventricular posterior wall movement in 20 patients with mitral stenosis (MS) was measured using M‐mode echocardiogram in order to evaluate the improvement of myocardial function after open mitral commissurotomy (OMC) and compared between the cases with (10 patients) and without (10 patients) papilloplasty. The maximum left ventricular end‐diastolic posterior wall velocity (LVPEVdmax) was increased from 71 ± 12 to 90 ± 16 mm/s in OMC patients (p < 0.01) and from 59 ± 19 to 101 ± 28 mm/s in OMC + P patients (p < 0.001). The maximum left ventricular systolic posterior wall velocity (LVPWVsmax) showed an increase from 51 ± 9 to 62 ± 10 mm/s in OMC patients (p < 0.02) and from 48 ± 10 to 69 ± 8 mm/s in the OMC + P group (p < 0.001). The mean LVPWVs increased from 35 ± 8 to 48 ± 8 mm/s in the OMC + P group (p < 0.01). These parameters correlate fairly well with stroke volume index (SVI), ejection fraction (EF), and fractional shortening (FS) derived from internal LV dimensions. Thus, the posterior wall movement may prove to be useful as an index for evaluating the improvement of LV function after OMC.
Echocardiographic features of right ventricular infarction
Authors: Cecchi F. , Zuppiroli A. , Favilli S. , Di Bari M. , Vannucci A. , Pini R. , Marchionni N.
Published: January 2015

In a series of 75 consecutive patients with transmural acute myocardial infarction (AMI) a right‐to‐left ventricular filling pressure ratio equal to or greater than 0.65 (RVFP/LVFP >0.65) was assumed to be indicative of associated right ventricular infarction (RVI). Out of 45 patients with inferoposterior myocardial infarction, 11 (24%) had such hemodynamic evidence of right ventricular infarction (group A). The remaining 34 patients with inferoposterior myocardial infarction (group B) and the 30 patients with anterior myocardial infarction did not. Time‐motion and two‐dimensional echocardiographic examinations were performed 7–10 days after admission in the 62 patients who survived. Right ventricular wall asynergy was found in six of eight group A patients. In three of these, right ventricular dilatation was also present. No patient in group B with inferior infarction or with anterior infarction showed abnormal right ventricular wall motion. While hemodynamic monitoring seems presently the most specific diagnostic method and it is of invaluable help in the choice of the best pharmacological therapy of right ventricular failure due to RVI, two‐dimensional echocardiography is probably highly sensitive and specific for the diagnosis of RVI, by detecting RV wall motion and thickening abnormalities. Due to advantages, such as noninvasivity and repeatibility, two‐dimensional echocardiography can be used in the selection of patients who deserve hemodynamic monitoring and in follow‐up studies.
Occult thyrotoxicosis in patients with chronic and paroxysmal isolated atrial fibrillation
Authors: Ciaccheri M. , Cecchi F. , Arcangeli C. , Dolara A. , Zuppiroli A. , Pieroni C.
Published: January 2015

Thyroid function tests, including thyrotropin releasing hormone administration (TRH), were performed in 40 consecutive patients with isolated atrial fibrillation (IAF) (i.e., without any other evidence of cardiac disease). The arrhythmia was chronic in 5 and paroxysmal in 35 patients. Thyrotoxicosis could not be diagnosed either clinically or by abnormal serum levels of T4, T3, T3 BC, and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Thyroid stimulating hormone response to TRH, which was normal in 35 patients, was absent in 5 (12.5%) who were considered to have occult thyrotoxicosis. One had chronic and the other 4 had paroxysmal IAF. The arrhythmia did not recur after antithyroid treatment in these four patients who were in sinus rhythm after a mean follow‐up period of 21 months. Full exploration of the thyroid function therefore seems useful not only in patients with chronic IAF, but also in those affected by the paroxysmal form.
Fluctuations of the atrial cycle length and A‐V delay with a universal (DDD) pacemaker
Authors: Bognolo D. , Vijayanagar R. , Eckstein P. , Jeffery D. , Rosenfield L.
Published: January 2015

The electronic characteristics of a new universal (DDD) pulse generator can result in significant shortening of the atrial cycle length (A‐A interval) and shortening of the atrioventricular (A‐V) interval beyond the programmed values. These pacemaker arrhythmias are entirely compatible with normal function and must not be interpreted as malfunctions.
Study of natural teeth color according to toothguide 3d master through cluster analysis
Authors: Gómez‐Polo Cristina , Gómez‐Polo Miguel , Martínez Vázquez De Parga Juan Antonio , Celemín‐Viñuela Alicia
Published: January 2015

How natural teeth color are grouped with Toothguide 3D Master according to color coordinates, L*, C*, and h* is reported. Tooth color was measured through the Easyshade Compact (Vita‐Zahnfabrik) spectrophotometer using a sample of 1361 subjects aged between 16 and 89 years. The color of the middle third of the maxillary central incisor was registered according to the Toothguide 3D Master nomenclature and the coordinates L*, C*, and h*. Cluster analysis and the SPAD 5.5 statistical package were applied for data processing. Of the 1361 participants, only 545 (40%) had a match among the 26 physical shade tabs of the Toothguide 3D Master. Statistical analysis revealed the existence of four cluster groups: Cluster 1 comprised shade tabs 1M1–2L1.5–2M1; cluster 2 comprised 1M2–2L2.5–2M2–2M3–2R2.5–3M2–3L2.5; cluster 3 comprised 2R1.5–3L1.5–3M1–3R1.5–4L1.5–4M1; and cluster 4 comprised 3M3–3R2.5–4M2–4L2.5–4R1.5–4R2.5–4M3–5M1–5M2–5M3. Statistically significant differences (P < 0.0.1) were also found, both in the color dimension, and among the four cluster groups revealed. Taking into account the limitations of this study, the natural teeth color can be grouped into four clusters by following coordinates L*, C*, and h,* resulting from the compact spectrophotometer Vita Easyshade. Natural teeth color are not distributed homogeneously with Toothguide 3D Master according to color coordinates. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 41, 101–107, 2016
Possible Influence of Layer Deformation and Chiral Segregation on Dielectric Modes in the Dark Conglomerate Liquid Crystal
Authors: Bhat Deepa G. , Selvaraj Radhika , Kapanipathaiya Sadashiva B. , Ramarao Pratibha
Published: January 2015

Dielectric spectroscopy is used to investigate the structure, molecular dynamics, and relaxation phenomena in electric‐field‐induced switchable dark conglomerate (DC) phases in a bent‐core liquid crystal. The DC phases are obtained by applying a high‐frequency ac electric field in the B1rev phase or by cooling under a dc or an ac field from the isotropic phase. Although the DC phases exhibit good electro‐optic switching properties, the dielectric parameters are different from those observed in typical lamellar SmCP phases and similar to those obtained in a non‐switchable DC phase. We therefore propose that the dielectric response and reduced intensity of the relaxation modes may be a general feature in DC phases and may owe its origin to the deformed layer structure in which certain molecular motions are impeded. Further, we find that in the field‐induced DC phases derived from the isotropic phase, the dielectric modes are affected by chiral segregation promoted by the applied field.
Does FACS perturb gene expression?
Authors: Richardson Graham M. , Lannigan Joanne , Macara Ian G.
Published: January 2015

Fluorescence activated cell sorting is the technique most commonly used to separate primary mammary epithelial sub‐populations. Many studies incorporate this technique before analyzing gene expression within specific cellular lineages. However, to our knowledge, no one has examined the effects of fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS) separation on short‐term transcriptional profiles. In this study, we isolated a heterogeneous mixture of cells from the mouse mammary gland. To determine the effects of the isolation and separation process on gene expression, we harvested RNA from the cells before enzymatic digestion, following enzymatic digestion, and following a mock FACS sort where the entire cohort of cells was retained. A strict protocol was followed to minimize disruption to the cells, and to ensure that no subpopulations were enriched or lost. Microarray analysis demonstrated that FACS causes minimal disruptions to gene expression patterns, but prior steps in the mammary cell isolation process are followed by upregulation of 18 miRNA's and rapid decreases in their predicted target transcripts. © 2015 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Detecting a hierarchical genetic population structure: the case study of the Fire Salamander (Salamandra salamandra) in Northern Italy
Authors: Pisa Giulia , Orioli Valerio , Spilotros Giulia , Fabbri Elena , Randi Ettore , Bani Luciano
Published: January 2015

The multistep method here applied in studying the genetic structure of a low dispersal and philopatric species, such as the Fire Salamander Salamandra salamandra, was proved to be effective in identifying the hierarchical structure of populations living in broad‐leaved forest ecosystems in Northern Italy. In this study, 477 salamander larvae, collected in 28 sampling populations (SPs) in the Prealpine and in the foothill areas of Northern Italy, were genotyped at 16 specie‐specific microsatellites. SPs showed a significant overall genetic variation (Global FST = 0.032, P < 0.001). The genetic population structure was assessed by using STRUCTURE 2.3.4. We found two main genetic groups, one represented by SPs inhabiting the Prealpine belt, which maintain connections with those of the Eastern foothill lowland (PEF), and a second group with the SPs of the Western foothill lowland (WF). The two groups were significantly distinct with a Global FST of 0.010 (P < 0.001). While the first group showed a moderate structure, with only one divergent SP (Global FST = 0.006, P < 0.001), the second group proved more structured being divided in four clusters (Global FST = 0.017, P = 0.058). This genetic population structure should be due to the large conurbations and main roads that separate the WF group from the Prealpine belt and the Eastern foothill lowland. The adopted methods allowed the analysis of the genetic population structure of Fire Salamander from wide to local scale, identifying different degrees of genetic divergence of their populations derived from forest fragmentation induced by urban and infrastructure sprawl.
Effects of Winding Attachment Positions on Output Characteristics of Flux‐Modulating Synchronous Machines
Authors: Aoki Hirofumi , Fukami Tadashi , Shima Kazuo , Tsuda Toshihiro , Kawamura Mitsuhiro
Published: January 2015

The flux‐modulating synchronous machine (FMSM) is a new type of multipole SM with nonoverlapping concentrated armature and field windings on the stator. This paper compares the output characteristics of two FMSMs through finite element analysis (FEA) and experiments. In both of the FMSMs, the attachment positions of the armature and field windings are swapped. To determine the reason for the discrepancies in their output characteristics, unsaturated inductances were calculated using a d‐‐q equivalent circuit. In addition, the calculated results of the inductances were confirmed through a visualization of the leakage fluxes using FEA. The results of the study show that the synchronous inductance can be reduced by attaching the armature winding to the air‐gap side of the stator teeth and that the reduction leads to an increase in output power.
The effects of IL‐2 and Treg cells on dendritic cell homeostasis are mediated indirectly via activation of conventional T cells
Authors: Bolton Holly A. , Roediger Ben , Groth Barbara Fazekas de St
Published: January 2015

DC homeostasis is influenced by multiple factors, including the availability of GM‐CSF and Flt3L, both of which exert positive effects on DC differentiation and survival. IL‐2 and Treg cells have recently been proposed as negative regulators of DC numbers. It remains unclear whether their effects in immunosufficient mice are direct, or are mediated via activation of conventional T cells in response to deficiencies of IL‐2 and/or Treg cells. Using a number of in vivo models, we have assessed the role of IL‐2 and Treg‐cell number on conventional splenic and LN DCs. We have found no evidence for a direct role of IL‐2 or Treg cells in negatively regulating DC number. Our data indicate that the expansion of DCs in the absence of either IL‐2 or Treg cells is an indirect effect secondary to the activation and proliferation of conventional T cells.
Computational NMR Methods in the Stereochemical Analysis of Organic Compounds: Are Proton or Carbon NMR Chemical Shift Data More Discriminating?
Authors: Chini Maria Giovanna , Riccio Raffaele , Bifulco Giuseppe
Published: January 2015

We have investigated the 1H and 13C NMR chemical shift data of a large set of stereoisomeric organic compounds to determine whether it is possible to identify the nucleus that is more discriminating in stereochemical analyses conducted by quantum mechanical methods. By estimating the intrinsic deviation of the experimental chemical shifts of 219 pairs of diastereoisomers, we have reconsidered the concept of the match ratio as an inequality, namely 1H match ratio > 13C match ratio, mathematically demonstrating that the 1H nucleus is more discriminating than the 13C nucleus for all the investigated cases. Moreover, we have also verified that this inequality is satisfied by the most often used quantum chemical methods, which suggests that 1H chemical shifts are more discriminating than 13C chemical shifts in stereochemical assignments by quantum chemical calculations.
Simultaneous Titration of Ternary Mixtures of Pb(II), Cd(II) and Cu(II) with Potentiometric Electronic Tongue Detection
Authors: Wilson Deivy , Alegret Salvador , del Valle Manel
Published: January 2015

An automatic titration method is reported to resolve ternary mixtures of transition metals (Pb2+, Cd2+ and Cu2+) employing electronic tongue detection and a reduced number of pre‐defined additions of EDTA titrant. Sensors used were PVC membrane selective electrodes with generic response to heavy‐metals, plus an artificial neural network response model. Detection limits obtained were ca. 1 mg L−1 for the three target ions and reproducibilities 3.0 % for Pb2+, 4.1 % for Cd2+ and 5.2 % for Cu2+. The system was applied to contaminated soil samples and high accuracy was obtained for the determination of Pb2+. In the determination Cd2+ and Cu2+, sample matrix showed a significant effect.
Tuning the Equilibrium Response Time of Meta‐Stable Photoacids in Ion‐Sensors by Appropriate Functionalization
Authors: Patel Parth K. , Johns Valentine K. , Mills Dawn M. , Boone James E. , Calvo‐Marzal Percy , Chumbimuni‐Torres Karin Y.
Published: January 2015

Herein, we present different functionalized meta‐stable photoacids in ion‐sensors to tune the equilibrium response time. As a proof of concept, two new meta‐stable photoacids were synthesized, one contains an ether group and the other has an ester functional group. These functionalized meta‐stable photoacids were elucidated in solution of ethanol and in ion‐sensing films via pH and kinetic studies. In comparison from our previous work, the response time was reduced from hours to minutes by utilizing an ether functional group in the meta‐stable photoacid.
Wall effects on the electrical manipulation of metal nanowires
Authors: Loucaides Neophytos G. , Ramos Antonio
Published: January 2015

The rotation induced by AC electric fields on metal nanowires has been studied theoretically and experimentally. In the experiments, the nanowires rotate close to the bottom of the device. The present work studies the effects of the wall on the electrorotation and electro–orientation of a metal nanowire numerically. The induced electrical rotation of a metal nanowire in solution is originated by both the electrical torque on the induced dipole and the induced charge EOF around the particle. The theoretical analysis presented here only considers the effects of the wall on the nanowire rotation originated by the torque on the induced dipole. Two methods are employed in the analysis in order to obtain the electrical and viscous torques acting on the nanowire: (i) the 3D electrical and hydrodynamic equations are simulated using the finite element method and (ii) hydrodynamic and electrical slender–body approximations are used to obtain, respectively, line distributions of Stokeslets and charge that take into account the proximity of a plane wall. The numerical results obtained from the two methods are totally in agreement. The main wall effects are that the electrical torque is reduced, the viscous torque is increased, and an electric repulsive force from the wall appears.
Fatty acid lithium salts from Cunninghamella echinulata have cytotoxic and genotoxic effects on HL‐60 human leukemia cells
Authors: Alakhras Raghda , Bellou Stamatia , Fotaki Grammatiki , Stephanou Georgia , Demopoulos Nikos A. , Papanikolaou Seraphim , Aggelis George
Published: January 2015

Polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially gamma linolenic acid (GLA), are potentially useful agents in the treatment of cancer. Cunninghamella echinulata, a fungus species that is able to synthesize GLA, when cultivated under nitrogen‐limited conditions in a medium having glucose as carbon and energy source, accumulated 32–35% of lipids containing 11–18% GLA. The conversion yield of glucose to lipid was around 0.11 g per gram of glucose consumed while the lipid production was 5 g/L. Fatty acid lithium salts (FALS) were prepared from the total Cunninghamella lipids and studied for their effects on HL‐60 human leukemic cells. Cytotoxicity of FALS on HL‐60 leukemic cells was linearly related to the FALS concentration. High FALS concentration (i.e. 15 and 20 μg/mL) induced DNA fragmentation, while concurrent treatment of cells with H2O2 (at 100 μM) and FALS resulted in enhanced cytotoxicity of H2O2. However, when FALS were employed at low concentrations (i.e. 5 and 10 μg/mL), they demonstrated a protective effect on HL‐60 cells against H2O2 genotoxicity, whereas at 20 μg/mL FALS enhanced the ability of H2O2 to induce DNA fragmentation. It is concluded that FALS derived from C. echinulata lipids could be an effective preparation against HL‐60 human leukemic cells.