bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sulfasalazine and BAY 11-7082 Interfere with the Nuclear Factor-κB and IκB Kinase Pathway to Regulate the Release of Proinflammatory Cytokines from Human Adipose Tissue and Skeletal Muscle in Vitro
Authors: Lappas Martha , Yee Kirin , Permezel Michael , Rice Gregory E.
Published: November 2004

There is much evidence to indicate a role for adipocytokines in insulin resistance and/or type 2 diabetes mellitus. In experimental models, oral salicylates, through their ability to interfere with the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) transcription pathway, have been demonstrated to reverse insulin resistance. The aim of this study was to investigate whether NF-κB regulates the release of adipocytokines in human adipose tissue and skeletal muscle. Human sc adipose tissue and skeletal muscle (obtained from normal pregnant women) were incubated in the absence (control) or presence of two NF-κB inhibitors sulfasalazine (1.25, 2.5, and 5 mm) and BAY 11-7082 (25, 50, and 100 μm). After an 18-h incubation, the tissues were collected, and NF-κB p65 DNA-binding activity and IκB kinase (IKK-β) and insulin receptor-β protein expression were assessed by ELISA and Western blotting, respectively. The incubation medium was collected, and the release of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, resistin, adiponectin, and leptin was quantified by ELISA. Treatment of adipose tissue and skeletal muscle with sulfasalazine and BAY 11-7082 significantly inhibited the release of IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α; NF-κB p65 DNA-binding activity; and IKK-β protein expression (P < 0.05, by Newman-Keuls test). There was no effect of sulfasalazine and BAY 11-7082 on resistin, adiponectin, or leptin release. Both sulfasalazine and BAY 11-7082 increased the adipose tissue and skeletal muscle expression of insulin receptor-β. The data presented in this study demonstrate that the IKK-β/NF-κB transcription pathway is a key regulator of IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α release from adipose tissue and skeletal muscle. Control of the IKK-β/NF-κB pathway may therefore provide an alternative therapeutic strategy for regulating aberrant cytokine release and thereby alleviating insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Regulation of Carbohydrate Metabolism by the Farnesoid X Receptor
Authors: Stayrook Keith R. , Bramlett Kelli S. , Savkur Rajesh S. , Ficorilli James , Cook Todd , Christe Michael E. , Michael Laura F. , Burris Thomas P.
Published: November 2004

The farnesoid X receptor (FXR; NR1H4) is a nuclear hormone receptor that functions as the bile acid receptor. In addition to the critical role FXR plays in bile acid metabolism and transport, it regulates a variety of genes important in lipoprotein metabolism. We demonstrate that FXR also plays a role in carbohydrate metabolism via regulation of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) gene expression. Treatment of either H4IIE or MH1C1 rat hepatoma cell lines as well as primary rat or human hepatocytes with FXR agonists led to stimulation of PEPCK mRNA expression to levels comparable to those obtained with glucocorticoid receptor agonists. We examined the physiological significance of FXR agonist-induced enhancement of PEPCK expression in primary rat hepatocytes. In addition to inducing PEPCK expression in primary hepatocytes, FXR agonists stimulated glucose output to levels comparable to those observed with a glucocorticoid receptor agonist. Consistent with these observations, treatment of C57BL6 mice with GW4064 significantly increased hepatic PEPCK expression. Activation of FXR initiated a cascade involving induction of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α and TRB3 expression that is consistent with stimulation of PEPCK gene expression via interference with a pathway that may involve Akt-dependent phosphorylation of Forkhead/winged helix transcription factor (FOXO1). The FXR-peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α-TRB3 pathway was conserved in rat hepatoma cell lines, mice, as well as primary human hepatocytes. Thus, in addition to its role in the regulation of lipid metabolism, FXR regulates carbohydrate metabolism.
Effects of Changing Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Pulse Frequency and Estrogen Treatment on Levels of Estradiol Receptor-α and Induction of Fos and Phosphorylated Cyclic Adenosine Monophosphate Response Element Binding Protein in Pituitary Gonadotropes: Studies in Hypothalamo-Pituitary Disconnected Ewes
Authors: Clarke Iain J. , Tobin Vicky A. , Pompolo Sueli , Pereira Alda
Published: November 2004

Estrogen receptor-α (ERα) levels in gonadotropes are increased during the follicular phase of the ovine estrous cycle, a time of increased frequency of pulsatile secretion of GnRH and elevated plasma estrogen levels. In the present study, our first aim was to determine which of these factors causes the rise in the number of gonadotropes with ERα. Ovariectomized hypothalamo-pituitary disconnected ewes (n = 4–6) received the following treatments: 1) no treatment, 2) injection (im) of 50 μg estradiol benzoate (EB), 3) pulses (300 ng iv) of GnRH every 3 h, 4) GnRH treatment as in group 3 and EB treatment as in group 2, 5) increased frequency of GnRH pulses commencing 20 h before termination, and 6) GnRH treatment as in group 5 with EB treatment. These treatments had predictable effects on plasma LH levels. The number of gonadotropes in which ERα was present (by immunohistochemistry) was increased by either GnRH treatment or EB injection, but combined treatment had the greatest effect. Immunohistochemistry was also performed to detect phosphorylated cAMP response element binding protein (pCREB) and Fos protein in gonadotropes. The number of gonadotropes with Fos and with pCREB was increased only in group 6. We conclude that either estrogen or GnRH can up-regulate ERα in pituitary gonadotropes. On the other hand, during the period of positive feedback action of estrogen, the appearance of pCREB and Fos in gonadotropes requires the combined action of estrogen and increased frequency of GnRH input. This suggests convergence of signaling for GnRH and estrogen.
Role of the Constitutive Androstane Receptor in Xenobiotic-Induced Thyroid Hormone Metabolism
Authors: Qatanani Mohammed , Zhang Jun , Moore David D.
Published: November 2004

The induction of hepatic drug metabolizing enzymes alters not only the metabolism of the xenobiotic substances that induce them but also the metabolism of various endogenous hormones. The xenobiotic receptor constitutive androstane receptor (CAR) (NR1I3) mediates the well-studied induction of CYP2B genes and other drug-metabolizing enzymes by phenobarbital (PB), an antiepileptic drug that has been shown to alter thyroid hormone (TH) levels. Here we show that CAR is required for PB-mediated disruption of TH homeostasis and the induction of thyroid follicular cell proliferation. Treatment with PB or the more potent and more effective CAR ligand 1, 4-bis-[2-(3, 5,-dichloropyridyloxy)] benzene resulted in universal induction of thyroid hormone glucuronidation and sulfation pathways in a CAR-dependent manner. This resulted in a decrease in serum T4 concentration and a concomitant increase in serum TSH levels. CAR activation also decreased serum T3 levels in mice in which T3 production was blocked. The increase in serum TSH levels resulted in the stimulation of thyroid-follicular cell proliferation. These results highlight the central role of the xenosensor CAR in drug-hormone interactions.
Prediction of Nuclear Hormone Receptor Response Elements
Authors: Sandelin Albin , Wasserman Wyeth W.
Published: November 2004

The nuclear receptor (NR) class of transcription factors controls critical regulatory events in key developmental processes, homeostasis maintenance, and medically important diseases and conditions. Identification of the members of a regulon controlled by a NR could provide an accelerated understanding of development and disease. New bioinformatics methods for the analysis of regulatory sequences are required to address the complex properties associated with known regulatory elements targeted by the receptors because the standard methods for binding site prediction fail to reflect the diverse target site configurations. We have constructed a flexible Hidden Markov Model framework capable of predicting NHR binding sites. The model allows for variable spacing and orientation of half-sites. In a genome-scale analysis enabled by the model, we show that NRs in Fugu rubripes have a significant cross-regulatory potential. The model is implemented in a web interface, freely available for academic researchers, available at http://mordor.cgb.ki.se/NHR-scan.
Induction and Regulation of Fas-Mediated Apoptosis in Human Thyroid Epithelial Cells
Authors: Mezosi Emese , Wang Su He , Utsugi Saho , Bajnok Laszlo , Bretz James D. , Gauger Paul G. , Thompson Norman W. , Baker James R.
Published: November 2004

Fas-mediated apoptosis has been proposed to play an important role in the pathogenesis of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Normal thyroid cells are resistant to Fas-mediated apoptosis in vitro but can be sensitized by the unique combination of interferon-γ and IL-1β cytokines. We sought to examine the mechanism of this sensitization and apoptosis signaling in primary human thyroid cells. Without the addition of cytokines, agonist anti-Fas antibody treatment of the thyroid cells resulted in the cleavage of proximal caspases, but this did not lead to the activation of caspase 7 and caspase 3. Apoptosis associated with the cleavage of caspases 7, 3, and Bid, and the activation of mitochondria in response to anti-Fas antibody occurred only after cytokine pretreatment. Cell surface expression of Fas, the cytoplasmic concentrations of procaspases 7, 8, and 10, and the proapoptotic molecule Bid were markedly enhanced by the presence of the cytokines. In contrast, P44/p42 MAPK (Erk) appeared to provide protection from Fas-mediated apoptosis because an MAPK kinase inhibitor (U0126) sensitized thyroid cells to anti-Fas antibody. In conclusion, Fas signaling is blocked in normal thyroid cells at a point after the activation of proximal caspases. Interferon-γ/IL-1β pretreatment sensitizes human thyroid cells to Fas-mediated apoptosis in a complex manner that overcomes this blockade through increased expression of cell surface Fas receptor, increases in proapoptotic molecules that result in mitochondrial activation, and late caspase cleavage. This process involves Bcl-2 family proteins and appears to be compatible with type II apoptosis regulation.
Microsurgical and laser ablation analysis of leaf positioning and dorsoventral patterning in tomato
Authors: Reinhardt Didier , Frenz Martin , Mandel Therese , Kuhlemeier Cris
Published: November 2004

Leaves are arranged according to regular patterns, a phenomenon referred to as phyllotaxis. Important determinants of phyllotaxis are the divergence angle between successive leaves, and the size of the leaves relative to the shoot axis. Young leaf primordia are thought to provide positional information to the meristem, thereby influencing the positioning of new primordia and hence the divergence angle. On the contrary, the meristem signals to the primordia to establish their dorsoventral polarity, which is a prerequisite for the formation of a leaf blade. These concepts originate from classical microsurgical studies carried out between the 1920s and the 1970s. Even though these techniques have been abandoned in favor of genetic analysis, the resulting insights remain a cornerstone of plant developmental biology.

Here, we employ new microsurgical techniques to reassess and extend the classical studies on phyllotaxis and leaf polarity. Previous experiments have indicated that the isolation of an incipient primordium by a tangential incision caused a change of divergence angle between the two subsequent primordia, indicating that pre-existing primordia influence further phyllotaxis. Here, we repeat these experiments and compare them with the results of laser ablation of incipient primordia. Furthermore, we explore to what extent the different pre-existing primordia influence the size and position of new organs, and hence phyllotaxis. We propose that the two youngest primordia (P1 and P2) are sufficient for the approximate positioning of the incipient primordium (I1), and therefore for the perpetuation of the generative spiral, whereas the direct contact neighbours of I1 (P2 and P3) control its delimitation and hence its exact size and position. Finally, we report L1-specific cell ablation experiments suggesting that the meristem L1 layer is essential for the dorsoventral patterning of leaf primordia.
DIFFaX Simulations of Polytypism and Disorder in Hydrotalcite
Authors: Thomas Grace S. , Rajamathi Michael , Kamath P. Vishnu
Published: November 2004

DIFFaX simulations show that the 3R1 and 3R2 polytypes of hydrotalcites (HT) have distinctly different X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD) patterns. The HT samples obtained by coprecipitation as well as those subjected to a subsequent hydrothermal treatment exhibit non-uniform broadening of lines in their XRPD patterns as well as anomalous variation in the intensities of the basal reflections. The reflections appearing in the mid-2θ region (30–50°; 3–1.8 Å) are excessively broadened and do not correspond to either of the 3R polytypes. This broadening is shown to be due to a stacking of layers randomly rotated about the c crystallographic axis by n × 120° (n = 1,2). The intensities of the basal reflections vary due to the departure of the layer composition from the nominal value, essentially due to an increase in the intercalated water content.
Nanoporosity Characteristics of Some Natural Clay Minerals and Soils
Authors: Aringhieri R.
Published: November 2004

Limited information is available on microporosity in soils. A study was undertaken to investigate the micropore characteristics of four soil samples, with different particle-size distributions, and four natural silicate clay minerals. Specific surface area and the differential micropore-size distribution were taken into account to characterize the microstructure of the soils and clays. The micropore-size distributions showed a maximum contribution to the total microporosity by pores having an effective pore radius of ∼20 Å, thus indicating that that category of pore contributes more than others to the total microporosity of the system. For both soils and clays a good exponential correlation was found between the maximum contribution to the microporosity and their specific surface area. A linear relationship was also found between the microporosity of the soils and their clay content. It has been concluded that the micropore system formed by 20 Å pores is mainly located in the clay fraction of the soil, and contributes significantly to defining some of the most notable physicochemical properties of soils and clays.
Dissolution Kinetics of Sepiolite in Hydrochloric Acid And Nitric Acid
Authors: Özdemİr Mİne , Kipçak İlker
Published: November 2004

The dissolution kinetics of sepiolite in hydrochloric acid and nitric acid were studied in a batch reactor. The effects of reaction temperature, acid concentration, particle size and solid-to-liquid ratio on the dissolution process were investigated. Experimental studies were carried out in the ranges of 25–75°C for reaction temperature, 0.25–1.00 mol/L for acid concentration, 0.00755–0.05020 cm for average particle size and 2.5 to 12.5 g of solid/100 mL of acid for solid-to-liquid ratio. It was determined that the dissolution process is controlled by resistance of the diffusion through the product layer. The activation energies of the process were determined to be 40.8 and 38.3 kJ/mol for hydrochloric and nitric acid, respectively. The apparent rate constants were expressed as a function of reaction temperature, acid concentration, particle radius and solid-to-liquid ratio: kαe−4910(1/T)Cr−0.6 (s/l)−1 and kαe−4606(1/T)Cr−0.5 (s/1)−1 for hydrochloric and nitric acid, respectively; k is the apparent rate constant in min−1; T, the reaction temperature (K); C, the acid concentration (mol/L); r, the initial particle radius (cm); s/l, the solid-to-liquid ratio (g of solid/100 mL of acid).
Effect of Tannate, ph, Sample Preparation, Ageing And Temperature on the Formation and Nature of Al Oxyhydroxides
Authors: Colombo C. , Ricciardella M. , Di Cerce A. , Maiuro L. , Violante A.
Published: November 2004

The aim of this work was to study the influence of tannate concentration (tannic acid/Al molar ratio [R] of 0.01–0.1), pH (5.0 and 8.0), order of aluminum, hydroxyl, and tannate addition, and prolonged ageing at different temperatures (10 months at 50°C and 5 y at room temperature and further ageing for 3–15 days at 140°C) on the nature and crystallinity of synthetic boehmite. Tannate facilitated the formation of boehmite relative to Al(OH)3polymorphs when coprecipitated with Al and also when added to Al(OH)xphases already formed at pH 4.5 or 8.0. However, the organic ligand was more effective in preventing or perturbing the growth of the crystals of boehmite when coprecipitated with Al than when added to soluble Al(OH)xspecies or preformed Al precipitates. Boehmite aged at temperatures ⩽50°C typically showed a fibrous morphology. Crystals with a rhombic habit were observed in some treatments after ageing at 140°C. Significant amounts (15–30% C) of tannate were present in the precipitates after prolonged ageing. This tannate was only partly (<50%) oxidized by repeated treatments with H2O2. With further ageing at 140°C, the crystallite size of selected samples increased only slightly, suggesting that much of the remaining tannate was present in the internal structure of these samples and not simply adsorbed to their surfaces. Atomic force microscopy observation showed the presence of globular nanoparticles (probably Al tannate precipitates) attached to the elongated crystals of boehmite. Taken together, our results demonstrate that the crystalline phases that formed under mild conditions in the presence of low concentrations (R= 0.01) of foreign ligands have the same structure as boehmite, but with a poorly ordered and defective ion arrangement. At higher ligand concentrations (R⩾0.05), mixtures of materials are formed having varying degrees of order, particle size and morphology.
Simultaneous Measurement of β-Amyloid(1–42), Total Tau, and Phosphorylated Tau (Thr181) in Cerebrospinal Fluid by the xMAP Technology
Authors: Olsson Annika , Vanderstichele Hugo , Andreasen Niels , De Meyer Geert , Wallin Anders , Holmberg Björn , Rosengren Lars , Vanmechelen Eugeen , Blennow Kaj
Published: November 2004

Background: To simultaneously study several biomarkers for Alzheimer disease (AD), we used the xMAP™ technology to develop and evaluate a multiparametric bead-based assay for quantification of β-amyloid(1–42) [Aβ(1–42)], total tau (T-TAU), and hyperphosphorylated tau [P-TAU(181P)] in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

Methods: We compared the new multianalyte assay format with established ELISA techniques for the same proteins. We then performed a clinical study using CSF samples from patients with AD or mild cognitive impairment with progression to AD, healthy controls, and patients with other neurologic disorders.

Results: The INNO-BIA AlzBio3 selectively and specifically measured Aβ(1–42), T-TAU, and P-TAU(181P) in the CSF. The new assay format had intra- and interassay CVs <10% for all analytes, even at low concentrations. The measurement range of the new assay was 3 to 4 logs compared with 1 to 2 logs for ELISAs. By plotting the mean of the values obtained in ELISA and the xMAP technology against the difference, we found that a correction factor could be used to convert xMAP results to ELISA values. The clinical study demonstrated that the new multiparametric assay could accurately distinguish patients with AD from patients with other neurologic disorders or control patients, with the diagnostic accuracy reaching recommended consensus criteria for specificity and sensitivity.

Conclusion: The new multiparametric method may be able to replace the corresponding ELISA methods.
No association of a non‐synonymous PLAU polymorphism with Alzheimer's disease and disease‐related traits
Authors: Papassotiropoulos Andreas , Tsolaki Magdalini , Wollmer M. Axel , Molyva Dimitra , Thal Dietmar R. , Huynh Kim‐Dung , Tracy Jay , Staehelin Hannes B. , Monsch Andreas U. , Nitsch Roger M. , Hock Christoph
Published: November 2004

A 30 cM broad genomic region on the long arm of chromosome 10 at 80 cM shows significant and consistent linkage with AD and with plasma concentration of the β‐amyloid peptide 1–42 (Aβ42). The PLAU gene, which is involved in the production and degradation of Aβ42, maps to that region and is therefore a strong positional candidate for association with sporadic AD. We analyzed the non‐synonymous single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs2227564 in two independent case‐control series from Switzerland and Greece and investigated the influence of this SNP on cognition in elderly individuals. Because PLAU modulates the cleavage of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) and the degradation of Aβ, we also determined the levels of Aβ in the brain, plasma and in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). We found no evidence for association of this SNP with AD or with AD‐related traits such as β‐amyloid load in the medial temporal lobe or Aβ42 concentration in the CSF and in plasma. Our findings do not support a major role of PLAU polymorphisms as susceptibility factors for AD and suggest that large‐scale association studies which combine genetic information from populations with similar genetic background might prevent the generation of spurious associations. Although PLAU may be pathophysiologially related to AD, the contribution of common genetic variants of this gene to the risk for developing AD is likely to be low. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Microwave irradiation copolymerization of superabsorbents from cornstarch and sodium acrylate
Authors: Tong Zheng , Peng Wang , Zhiqian Zhang , Baoxiu Zhao
Published: November 2004

Sodium acrylate was grafted onto cornstarch by microwave irradiation to synthesize a superabsorbent, in which potassium persulfate (PPS) was used as the initiator and polyethyleneglycol diacrylate as the crosslinker. It was found that microwave irradiation could substantially accelerate the synthesis, without the need to remove O2 or inhibitor. Catalyzed by p‐toluene sulfonic acid, polyethyleneglycol was esterified with acrylate to synthesize the crosslinker. An orthogonal test of L9(34) was designed to study the effects of relevant factors on absorbency and yield of products, including microwave power, irradiation time, initiator amount, and crosslinker content. Microwave power was believed to be the most significant factor affecting the swelling ratio and solubility of the product. Optimized experimental results showed that 10 min of microwave irradiation at 85–90 W could produce a cornstarch‐based superabsorbent with a swelling ratio of 520–620 g/g in distilled water and solubility of 8.5–9.5 wt %. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 95: 264–269, 2005
Structure Elucidation and Antioxidant Activity of (−)‐Isosilandrin Isolated from Silybum marianumL.
Authors: Samu Zsuzsanna , Nyiredy Szabolcs , Baitz‐Gács Eszter , Varga Zsuzsa , Kurtán Tibor , Dinya Zoltán , Antus Sándor
Published: November 2004

A regioisomer of the known flavanolignan (−)‐silandrin (3a), named (−)‐isosilandrin (8a), was isolated from the fruits of a white‐flowered variant of Silybum marianum L. populated in Hungary. Its structure was established both by spectroscopic methods and total synthesis, and its absolute configuration was determined by means of circular dichroism. This compound showed stronger inhibitory activity on the superoxide anion ($\rm{ O_2^{ \bullet - }}$) release by human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNL) than (+)‐silybin (1a,b).
Intravascular ultrasound study of the effect of β‐emitting (55Co) stents on vascular remodeling and intimal proliferation
Authors: Červinka Pavel , Šťásek Josef , Costa Marco Aurelio , Štursa Josef , Fišer Miroslav , Vodňanský Petr , Kočišová Michaela , Veselka Josef , Pleskot Miloslav , Malý Jaroslav
Published: November 2004

The aim of this study was to evaluate vessel remodeling after implantation of high‐activity (mean, 41.1 ± 1.2 μCi) β‐emitting (55Co) stents. Proton bombarding in cyclotron has brought the radioactivity. Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) investigation has been completed in 10 patients. The angiographies performed at 6 months revealed restenosis > 50% in five cases (50%). IVUS analysis demonstrated an absence of remodeling behind the stent, with no changes in total vessel volume (TVV; 353.6 ± 126.3 and 343.9 ± 90.6 mm3) or plaque + media volume (PMV; 171.7 ± 57.4 and 166.8 ± 42.6 mm3). On the other hand, lumen volume (LV) within the stent decreased significantly from 181.9 ± 80.2 to 154.6 ± 45.2 mm3 (P < 0.02). This was due to presence of neointimal hyperplasia (NIH) at both extremities of implanted stents. No chronic recoil of the implanted stents was found. The analysis of edges (5 mm distally and proximally to the last stent struts) showed no significant changes in TVV (187.3 ± 62.60 and 176.9 ± 53.5 mm3), but PMV increase significantly from 61.9 ± 31.2 to 82.2 ± 43.4 mm3 (P < 0.04) and LV decreased from 125.2 ± 40.7 to 94.7 ± 22.0 mm3 (P < 0.02). In conclusion, single 55Co radioactive β‐emitting stents with high initial activity are effective in reducing neointimal hyperplasia only within the stent body, as measured by IVUS, and they do not solve the problem of restenosis at the stent extremities as well as at the stent edges. Edge restenosis in this high radioactive stents was mainly (from 66%) due to neointimal proliferation. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;61:320–325. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
“Candy wrapper” effect after drug‐eluting stent implantation: Déjà vu or stumbling over the same stone again?
Authors: Angiolillo Dominick J. , Sabatá Manel , Alfonso Fernando , Macaya Carlos
Published: November 2004

Encouraging results have been obtained with drug‐eluting stents (DESs) to prevent restenosis following PCI. However, DESs are not immune from restenosis and we describe a case of “candy wrapper” effect, commonly observed with intracoronary brachytherapy (IBT). In this article, we review the common drawbacks of DES and IBT and their prevention. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;61:387–391. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ventricular septal rupture following nonsurgical septal reduction for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: Treatment with percutaneous closure
Authors: Aroney Constantine N. , Goh Tiow H. , Hourigan Lisa A. , Dyer William
Published: November 2004

An 82‐year‐old woman with severe symptomatic hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy undergoes nonsurgical septal reduction, leading to immediate hemodynamic and functional improvement. Five weeks later, she presents with severe biventricular failure due to a large septal rupture with marked left‐to‐right shunting. The rupture is closed with an Amplatzer post‐MI ventricular septal defect occluding device. Residual shunting through the device and a small residual shunt at its superior rim lead to severe hemolysis, which resolves spontaneously after 10 days of supportive therapy. A further self‐limiting episode of hemolysis recurred 3 months later following a period of excessive anticoagulation. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;61:411–414. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effectiveness of right or left radial approach for coronary angiography
Authors: Kawashima Osamu , Endoh Norio , Terashima Masayoshi , Ito Yuko , Abe Sinnya , Ootomo Tatsushi , Ogata Kazunori , Honda Hidehiko , Takizawa Kaname , Miyazaki Yasusuke , Sugawara Daisuke , Komatsu Masayuki , Sawazi Yoichi , Ozaki Takeshi , Uchimuro Tomoya , Meguro Taiichiro , Isoyama Shogen
Published: November 2004

The transradial approach for catheterization is becoming increasingly more popular. At present, the choice of the right or left radial artery depends on the operator's preference. We examined how the laterality influenced the effectiveness of the approach. Employing Judkins‐type catheters, we performed coronary angiography in 232 patients with the left approach and in 205 patients with the right approach. Although access time did not differ between the two groups of patients, the duration of catheter manipulation was shorter in the left‐ than in the right‐approach group (11.7 ± 5.9 vs. 9.8 ± 4.4 min; P < 0.001). Because of the shorter duration of catheter manipulation, the total procedural duration was shorter in the left‐approach group (13.7 ± 6.4 vs. 11.4 ± 4.8 min; P < 0.001). The fluoroscopy time was shorter in the left‐ than in the right‐approach group (3.7 ± 2.5 vs. 5.0 ± 3.3 min; P < 0.001). The amount of contrast material did not differ between the groups (79 ± 27 vs. 83 ± 25 ml). The rate of guidewire usage to engage the coronary ostium was higher in the right‐ than in the left‐approach group because of the severe tortuosity of the right subclavian artery (20/205 vs. 0/232; P < 0.001). Thus, for operators with significant experience, the left radial approach may provide increased procedural efficacy for coronary angiography compared to the right radial approach. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;61:333–337. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Transcatheter coil occlusion of residual shunt in a patient with recurrent cryptogenic stroke after PFO percutaneous closure
Authors: Donti Andrea , Giardini Alessandro , Formigari Roberto , Bronzetti Gabriele , Prandstraller Daniela , Bonvicini Marco , Picchio Fernando M.
Published: November 2004

A significant association has been suggested between a residual shunt and the risk of cerebral ischemic recurrences after transcatheter patent foramen ovale (PFO) closure. We report the use of a detachable coil to treat a residual shunt in a patient who had a recurrent cerebral ischemic event after transcatheter closure of a PFO. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;61:415–417. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A constricting band: An unusual cause of incomplete expansion of Amplatzer septal occluder device
Authors: Trehan Vijay , Mehta Vimal , Mukhopadhyay Saibal , Yusuf Jamal , Arora Ramesh , Kaul U.A.
Published: November 2004

Various problems and complications have been reported during transcatheter closure of ostium secundum atrial septal defect with Amplatzer septal occluder. We report an unusual problem that was responsible for incomplete expansion of the waist of the device, not yet reported in world literature. A polyester band in continuation with the polyester mesh was found constricting the waist of the device, which after being cut led to successful redeployment of the device. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;61:418–421. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Angioplasty of an asymptomatic total occlusion of the left subclavian artery to provide access for coronary angiography and intervention: A case report
Authors: Yaneza Liberty O. , Sun Lao Lam , Bagsit Nestor Lino A. , Baysa Andres N. , Torres Richard Nicandro , Dy Timothy C.
Published: November 2004

Reports and follow‐up of angioplasty and stenting of asymptomatic totally occluded subclavian arteries are limited. We present a case of unstable angina and arterial occlusion of all four extremities treated with subclavian angioplasty and stenting with subsequent coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention. Twelve‐month follow‐up is also provided. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;61:310–313. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Paclitaxel prevented restenosis in a totally occluded small vessel with in‐stent restenosis: A 9‐month angiographic follow‐up
Authors: Aboufares Ali F. , Roubin Gary S. , Teirstein Paul S.
Published: November 2004

We present a case of a 57‐year‐old patient who underwent multiple percutaneous coronary interventions for a lesion at the graft anastomosis to his first obtuse marginal branch. After initial angiographic success with multiple treatment modalities (excluding intravascular brachytherapy because of prior mantle radiation), restenosis or reocclusion eventuated on each occasion. Two paclitaxel‐coated stents were implanted in this small vessel with diffuse in‐stent restenosis and recurrent total occlusion. Complete patency was documented on a 9‐month angiographic follow‐up. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;61:392–395. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reduced vascular complications after percutaneous coronary interventions with a nonmechanical suture device: Results from the randomized RACE study†
Authors: Sanborn Timothy A. , Ogilby J. David , Ritter James M. , Stone Gregg W. , Klugherz Bruce D. , Fields Ronald H. , White Christopher C. , Wilensky Robert L.
Published: November 2004

The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a novel nonmechanical percutaneous suture device, X‐Press, after diagnostic catheterization and percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs) in the setting of glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitor usage. Current percutaneous vascular suture devices remain mechanically complex and expensive and have not been shown to reduce major vascular complications. Using a 2:1 randomization scheme (2:1 ratio, device vs. compression), 393 patients undergoing diagnostic catheterization (n = 133) or PCI (n = 260) were randomized in the prospective Rapid Ambulation After Closure (RACE) study and evaluated for time to ambulation, time to hemostasis, treatment success, and incidence of major vascular complications. Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors were used in 52% of PCI patients. There was a significant reduction in the primary efficacy endpoint of median time to ambulation for device compared to control with both diagnostic (2.2 vs. 6.2 hr; P = 0.0001) and PCI patients (4.1 vs. 14.7 hr; P = 0.0001). Device malfunction occurred in 3.1% patients without clinical sequalae. Equivalence in the primary safety endpoint, the incidence of major complications (vascular repair, ultrasound‐guided compression, transfusion, or infection) at 14 days, was observed with the X‐Press device (1/261; 0.4%) compared to control (3/132; 2.3%; P = 0.11). In PCI patients, half of whom received glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors, there was a significant reduction in the incidence of vascular complications in patients using the device (0/172; 0%) compared to control (3/88; 3.4%; P = 0.037). In diagnostic catheterization and PCI, a novel nonmechanical suture device reduced the time to ambulation and demonstrated equivalence in major complications compared to conventional compression techniques. The incidence of major complications after PCI was reduced with the device. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;61:327–332. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Carotid angioplasty under cerebral protection with the percusurge guardwire system
Authors: Henry Michel , Polydorou Antonios , Henry Isabelle , Polydorou Adamantia , Hugel Michel
Published: November 2004

The purpose of this study was to examine the possible beneficial effect of the PercuSurge GuardWire cerebral protection device based on balloon occlusion of the distal internal carotid artery and debris aspiration for patients undergoing carotid artery stenting (CAS). A total of 268 CAS procedures were attempted under cerebral protection using the PercuSurge GuardWire system in 242 patients (194 men; mean age, 71.2 ± 9.4 years; range, 40–91). The lesions were mainly atherosclerotic; 64% were symptomatic. Technical success was 99.3%. All lesions were stented except three postangioplasty restenoses. Prophylactic occlusion during balloon dilatation and stenting was well tolerated in 255 patients (95.9%). Microscopic analysis of the aspirated blood showed different types of particles numbering between 7 and 145 per procedure, with a mean diameter of 250 μm (mean, 56–2,652 μm). The 30‐day stroke and death rate was 2.3%, with four periprocedural complications at < 48 hr (one retinal embolism and three transient ischemic attacks), one intracerebral hemorrhage at 3 days, and one death of cardiac failure at 3 weeks. This technique appears safe and efficient with a low rate of periprocedural embolic events. Protection devices seem indispensable to perform CAS and expand the applicability of the procedure. Randomized studies (surgery vs. CAS with and without cerebral protection) are awaited. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;61:293–305. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Multiple plaque morphologies in a single coronary artery: insights from volumetric intravascular ultrasound
Authors: Panse Neeta , Brett Sasseen , Panse Prasad , Kareti Kiran , Rewis DeAnna , Gilmore Paul , Zenni Martin M. , Wilke Norbert , Bass Theodore , Costa Marco A.
Published: November 2004

Intravascular ultrasound provides detailed information on vessel wall and plaque morphology. This report illustrates the use of three‐dimensional volumetric IVUS reconstruction images to characterize different patterns of plaque morphology, including vulnerable and ruptured plaques, within a single coronary artery in a patient with unstable angina. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;61:376–380. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Exclusion of an isolated iliac artery aneurysm using a bifurcated endograft following failed covered stent exclusion
Authors: Fail Peter S. , Tripp Henry F. , Chaisson Gary A.
Published: November 2004

Endovascular exclusion with covered stents is an alternative to surgical repair of iliac artery aneurysms (IAAs). We report a case where covered stent implantation failed to exclude an IAA, as demonstrated by persistent endoleak. The aneurysm was successfully excluded with a bifurcated aortoiliac endograft. This option should be considered for endovascular treatment of IAAs. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;61:306–309. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Percutaneous treatment of focal vs. diffuse in‐stent restenosis: A prospective randomized comparison of conventional therapies
Authors: Ragosta Michael , Samady Habib , Gimple Lawrence W. , Sarembock Ian J. , Fenster Michael , Powers Eric R.
Published: November 2004

Few randomized studies compare outcomes for focal vs. diffuse in‐stent restenosis (ISR) using conventional treatments. The purpose of this study was to compare the rates of major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) for focal vs. diffuse ISR using conventional techniques. One hundred thirteen patients with ISR were prospectively classified as focal (< 10 mm) or diffuse (> 10 mm). Focal ISR was randomized to balloon angioplasty (n = 29) or restenting (n = 29) and diffuse ISR randomized to rotational atherectomy (n = 30) or restenting (n = 25). At 9 months, patients with focal ISR had higher survival free of MACEs than patients with diffuse ISR (86% vs. 63%; P < 0.005), with no difference between techniques. Only the presence of diffuse ISR was an independent predictor of MACE at 9 months. Thus, focal ISR has a low rate of MACE compared to diffuse ISR, which carries a high event rate regardless of treatment employed. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;61:344–349. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Selective embolization of a pulmonary artery rupture caused by a Cournand catheter
Authors: Kaiser Christoph A. , Hügli Rolf W. , Haegeli Laurent M. , Pfisterer Matthias E.
Published: November 2004

Pulmonary artery rupture is a rare but often fatal complication of right heart catheterization. We present a case of a ruptured pulmonary artery caused by a Cournand catheter in a high‐risk patient with pulmonary hypertension on oral anticoagulation with successful emergency embolization with gelatine foam. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;61:317–319. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Angiographic predictors of left ventricular ejection fraction after successful angioplasty in acute myocardial infarction: An angiographic risk score for use in the catheterization laboratory
Authors: Henriques Jose P.S. , Zijlstra Felix , Ottervanger Jan Paul , de Boer Menko‐Jan , Dambrink Jan‐Henk E. , Gosselink A.T. Marcel , van 't Hof Arnoud W.J. , Hoorntje Jan C.A. , Suryapranata Harry
Published: November 2004

We investigated the value of angiographic parameters in patients with successful primary angioplasty using a simple angiographic risk score. In 608 consecutive patients, we assessed the infarct‐related artery, antegrade flow before treatment, presence of distal embolization, and myocardial blush grade after coronary angioplasty. LAD‐related infarction (OR = 8.4; 3 points), TIMI 0–2 flow before angioplasty (OR = 2.2; 1 point), myocardial blush 0 or 1 (OR = 2.5; 1 point), and distal embolization (OR = 2.2; 1 point) were independent predictors of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤ 40% after successful angioplasty. Patients with 0 (minimum) or 1 point have LVEF of 49.5% ± 8.4% and 30‐day mortality of 0.8%. Patients with 2–3 points have LVEF of 44.9% ± 10.3% and 30‐day mortality of 2.8%. Patients with 4 points have LVEF of 38.2% ± 10.8% and 30‐day mortality of 2.7%. Patients with 5–6 (maximum) points have LVEF of 32.0% ± 9.4% and 30‐day mortality of 6.9%. A simple angiographic score predicts LVEF and mortality in patients when leaving the catheterization laboratory after successful primary angioplasty for acute myocardial infarction. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;61:338–343. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synergistic use of sirolimus‐eluting stents and intravascular ultrasound for the treatment of unprotected left main and vein graft disease
Authors: Costa Marco A. , Gigliotti Osvaldo S. , Zenni Martin M. , Gilmore Paul S. , Bass Theodore A.
Published: November 2004

Treating unprotected left main disease and degenerated saphenous vein grafts by percutaneous intervention remains one of the more challenging situations facing interventional cardiologists. We present two cases showing how the use of sirolimus‐eluting stents in combination with other novel techniques might alter treatment paradigms in the future. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;61:368–375. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Gamma radiation for in‐stent restenosis: effect of lesion length on angiographic and clinical outcomes
Authors: Mehran Roxana , Iakovou Ioannis , Dangas George , Lansky Alexandra J. , Stone Gregg W. , Mintz Gary S. , Kent Kenneth M. , Pichard Augusto D. , Satler Lowell F. , Fahy Martin , Leon Martin B. , Waksman Ron
Published: November 2004

The relation between lesion length and effectiveness of gamma radiation treatment (γ‐RT) has not been well described. We evaluated the acute and long‐term outcome according to baseline lesion length in 130 patients treated with 192Ir in the Washington Radiation for In‐Stent Restenosis Trial; 44 (35.5%) had baseline short in‐stent restenosis (ISR) lesions (length < 15 mm) and 80 (64.5%) long ISR lesions (length ≥ 15 mm). At 6‐month follow‐up after γ‐RT, the short ISR group had larger lumen dimensions and lower late loss than the long ISR group. Restenosis rate was significantly higher in patients with long ISR for both the placebo (74% vs. 39%; P = 0.01) and the γ‐RT arm (31% vs. 5.3%; P = 0.04). γ‐RT significantly improved the angiographic outcome in the short‐lesion groups but had the more pronounced effect on the reduction of clinical events after treatment of long ISR group. Lesion length remains a powerful predictor of recurrent ISR and clinical events after treatment of ISR even with γ‐RT. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;61:354–359. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Renal artery aneurysm: Successful exclusion with a stent graft
Authors: Pershad Ashish , Heuser Richard
Published: November 2004

Renal artery aneurysms are uncommon. They are either incidentally discovered or identified during workup for secondary hypertension. An association with rupture at sizes greater than 1.5 cm exists. In this case report, the exclusion of a renal aneurysm with a covered stent is described. In spite of compromise of a side‐branch vessel, there were no deleterious effects on renal function at 6‐month follow‐up. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;61:314–316. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Evaluation of high‐pressure retrograde coronary venous delivery of FGF‐2 protein
Authors: Fearon William F. , Ikeno Fumiaki , Bailey Lynn R. , Hiatt Bonnie L. , Herity Niall A. , Carter Andrew J. , Fitzgerald Peter J. , Rezaee Mehrdad , Yeung Alan C. , Yock Paul G.
Published: November 2004

Delivery of angiogenic factors to ischemic myocardium remains a practical challenge. We evaluated the efficiency and efficacy of delivery of fibroblast growth factor‐2 (FGF‐2) protein via high‐pressure retrograde injection into the anterior interventricular vein (AIV) in a porcine model of chronic myocardial ischemia. Labeled FGF‐2 protein was delivered to the myocardium of three pigs via the AIV and the left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery in three others. At 1 hr, the amount of protein in the left ventricle and the LAD region was quantified. Copper stents were implanted in the LAD of 25 pigs, resulting in chronic myocardial ischemia. At 4 weeks, microsphere‐derived myocardial blood flow was assessed at rest and during pacing. In eight pigs (AIV FGF), FGF‐2 protein (6 μg/kg) was delivered via high‐pressure retrograde injection into the AIV. Six pigs (intracoronary FGF) received the same amount of FGF‐2 by intracoronary delivery. Five pigs (AIV saline) received a placebo injection into the AIV and six pigs (control) served as controls. Four weeks later, myocardial blood flow was reassessed. At 1 hr, significantly more FGF remained in the left ventricle (1.3 vs. 0.82 μg; P < 0.04) and in the LAD region (1.2 vs. 0.64 μg; P = 0.03) after AIV compared to intracoronary delivery. Four weeks after treatment, resting LAD blood flow (normalized to right ventricular flow) improved slightly in the AIV FGF and intracoronary FGF arms (1.32–1.37 for both; P = 0.11), while it decreased significantly in the AIV saline (1.32–1.23; P = 0.02) and the control arms (1.32–1.19; P = 0.0004). Pacing LAD blood flow decreased significantly in the control arm (1.30–1.23; P < 0.05), but did not change significantly in the other three arms. High‐pressure retrograde injection into the AIV may represent an efficient and effective means for delivering angiogenic factors to ischemic myocardium. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;61:422–428. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Safety and feasibility of the use of a distal filter protection device in percutaneous revascularization of small coronary arteries
Authors: Chen Wai‐Hong , Lee Pui‐Yin , Ng William , Lau Chu‐Pak
Published: November 2004

The FilterWire EX is one of the filter protection devices developed as alternatives to balloon occlusion system for percutaneous coronary intervention. Its use has been recommended in vessels between 3.5 and 5.5 mm in diameter and no data are available on its use in smaller vessels. We evaluated the safety and feasibility of using FilterWire EX in native coronary arteries smaller than 3.5 mm. We successfully deployed and retrieved the FilterWire EX in 49 coronary arteries with a mean vessel diameter of 2.62 ± 0.45 mm at device deployment. Reversible vasospasm was observed in 24 (50%) vessels, coronary flow was temporarily reduced in 22 (44.9%), and distal embolization was noted in 2 (4%). There was no vessel dissection induced by the device. These data suggest that it is safe and feasible to use the FilterWire EX in small coronary arteries. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;61:360–363. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Percutaneous snare retrieval of a partially embedded wallstent
Authors: Curran Peter J. , Currier Jesse , Tobis Jonathan
Published: November 2004

Although removal of a stent is a well described method for treating an acutely dislodged or embolized device, removal of a previously deployed stent is unusual. We describe a case where a partially dislodged wallstent in a saphenous vein graft was removed using a snare to permit deployment of a balloon mounted stent across a proximal vein graft stenosis. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;61:400–402. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Local intramural delivery of 60% ethyl alcohol for treatment of recalcitrant in‐stent restenosis
Authors: Sadeghi H. Mehrdad , O'Neill William W.
Published: November 2004

We report a case of recalcitrant in‐stent restenosis after intracoronary brachytherapy failure that was successfully treated with a novel and experimental technique of local intramural delivery of 60% ethyl alcohol. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;61:396–399. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
IVUS‐guided wiring technique: Promising approach for the chronic total occlusion
Authors: Matsubara Tetsuo , Murata Akira , Kanyama Hiromichi , Ogino Atsushi
Published: November 2004

We report on two cases of IVUS‐guided wiring technique performed on chronic total occlusion using stiffer wires and low‐profile intracoronary ultrasound catheter. This technique helped improve a success rate of chronic total occlusion case. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;61:381–386. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.