bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prompt detection of myocardial injury by assay of creatine kinase isoforms in initial plasma samples
Authors: Abendschein D. , Seacord L. M. , Nohara R. , Sobel B. E. , Jaffe A. S.
Published: February 2009

To determine the sensitivity and specificity of assays of isoforms of the MM isoenzyme of creatine kinase (CK) and MB‐CK for the diagnosis or exclusion of acute myocardial infarction in plasma samples obtained at the time of presentation to the emergency room of patients with suspected myocardial infarction, 50 patients in whom the diagnosis was ultimately established and 31 in whom infarction was ultimately excluded were evaluated. Of the 50 patients in whom infarction was ultimately established, 47 had an increased ratio of the MM3 to the MM1 isoform or elevated MB‐CK in the plasma sample initially available. The specificity of the approach was 77%, sensitivity 94%. The availability of rapid assays for MM‐CK isoforms and for MB‐CK should facilitate determination of the presence or absence of acute myocardial injury sufficiently promptly so that decisions regarding treatment can be made optimally.
Daily serial evaluation of left ventricular function with equilibrium radionuclide ventriculography following thrombolysis during acute myocardial infarction
Authors: MARX J. D. , Van ASWEGEN A. , KLEYNHANS P. H. T. , HERBST C. P. , OTTO A. C. , DE WET J. I.
Published: February 2009

The changes in ventricular function after reperfusion by coronary thrombolysis are important when deciding about further definitive treatment necessary to ensure long‐term vessel patency. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the early changes in left ventricular function after reperfusion. Left ventricular function was serially evaluated for 10 days in a group of 18 patients receiving intracoronary thrombolytic therapy for an acute myocardial infarction. Comparison of the global ventricular function in the successfully and unsuccessfully reperfused groups of patients showed significantly better function in the successful group than the unsuccessful group after the first day, which was maintained for the entire study period. Global and regional ventricular function in the successfully reperfused patients showed significant early improvement during the initial 72 h with maintenance of this improvement for the study period of 10 days. In the patients in whom reperfusion was unsuccessful, regional ventricular function showed no change, while the global function declined from day 5 to day 8 of the study period. This study then confirms the significant improvement in ventricular function after successful reperfusion. The time course pattern of the change in ventricular function indicates that the most significant improvement occurs within the first 72 h after reperfusion. These changes are similar to those previously reported in experimental animals.
Multipurpose A2 catheter approach to left heart catheterization in severe aortic stenosis
Authors: Nicholson W. J.
Published: February 2009

An approach has been presented for the performance of right and left heart catheterization, left ventriculography, supravalvular aortography, and coronary arteriography utilizing a #8 French, A2 multipurpose catheter. Using the manipulations described herein, the left ventricle was entered in 96% of the patients. The multipurpose catheter is an excellent catheter for left ventriculography, negating the need for catheter exchange once the left ventricle has been entered. Likewise, this catheter provides excellent supravalvular aortography and selective coronary arteriography supplemented as needed with preformed coronary arteriographic catheters. This method provides a very safe, efficient approach to the performance of complete heart catheterization in patients with clinically significant aortic stenosis.
Aortic regurgitation secondary to diastolic prolapse of a tubular intimal flap into the left ventricle in a patient with anuloaortic ectasia
Authors: Matsuo T. , Ikushima I. , Hanada Y. , Nakagawa S. , Koiwaya Y. , Tanaka K.
Published: February 2009

A 32‐year‐old man with distal skeletal manifestations of Marfan's syndrome had experienced shortness of breath and orthopnea for one month. Physical examination showed the presence of severe aortic regurgitation. Both noninvasive and invasive studies revealed that the aortic regurgitation was induced by previously undescribed peculiar and unusual etiology: diastolic prolapse of a circumferentially dissected tubular intimal flap into the left ventricle. The patient underwent surgical repair with striking clinical improvement.
Cost and efficacy of intravenous streptokinase plus PTCA for acute myocardial infarction when therapy is initiated in community hospitals
Authors: Leimbach W. N. , Hagan A. D. , Vaughan H. L. , Sonnenschein R. C. , Mccoy J. D. , Basta L. L.
Published: February 2009

The costs and clinical results of a thrombolytic therapy protocol using intravenous (IV) streptokinase in small community hospitals prior to emergency transfer for cardiac catheterization for possible percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) were prospectively studied in 56 patients with an acute myocardial infarction [Tulsa Heart Center‐Myocardial Infarction Study Team (THC‐MIST) protocol]. Findings were compared to those for 53 similar patients receiving “conventional therapy” during the same study period. The reperfusion rate for IV streptokinase was 63%. Additional emergency PTCA yielded a total reperfusion rate of 95%. Despite emergency cardiac catheterization for all THC‐MIST patients, average hospital charges were not significantly different between the two groups ($20,495 vs. $20,722; THC‐MIST vs. conventional therapy, respectively). Total charges (hospital plus physician fees) were also not significantly different ($22,986 vs. $22,400; THC‐MIST vs. conventional therapy, respectively). Intensive care unit (ICU) days and total hospital stays were significantly less for THC‐MIST patients (3.1 vs. 5.8 ICU days, p<0.05 and 8.8 vs. 12.4 hospital days, p<0.05; THC‐MIST vs. conventional therapy, respectively). Thus initiation of IV streptokinase in community hospitals for acute myocardial infarction with subsequent transfer for possible PTCA can yield high reperfusion rates without significantly increasing health care costs.
Ischemic blocks during early phase of anterior myocardial infarction: Correlation with st‐segment shift
Authors: Sclarovsky S. , Sagie A. , Strasbero B. , Shnapick Y. , Rechavia E. , Kusniec J. , Agmon J.
Published: February 2009

Of 760 consecutive cases with anterior acute myocardial infarction (AMI), 55 developed acute bundle‐branch block (BBB), fascicular block, or high‐degree atrioventricular block during the hyperacute ECG stage of AMI. According to the direction of the ST segment during the acute ischemic episode, patients were divided into two groups. Group A consisted of 32 patients who developed BBB during ST‐segment elevation, positive T wave, and absent or minimal Q wave. Group B consisted of 23 patients who developed BBB during ST‐segment depression and evolved into anterior AMI. Group A was characterized by a higher incidence of right BBB and left anterior hemiblock [91% vs. 26% and 56% vs. 13%, respectively (p<0.005)]. Group B was characterized by a higher incidence of left BBB and left posterior hemiblock [57% vs. 9% and 26% vs. 12%, respectively (p<0.001)]. The BBB was transient (disappearing within hours to one day) in 14 patients in Group A and in 5 patients in Group B. The incidence of progression to high‐degree atrioventricular block was almost equal in the two groups (25% and 26%). The mortality rate was very high in both groups, but higher in Group B [74% vs. 59% (p=NS)] especially in those with LBBB (85%). Most patients died on the day of occurrence of BBB [Group A, 50% vs. Group B, 70% (p=NS)]. The causes of death in both groups were cardiogenic shock and/or electromechanical dissociation. It is concluded that there is a correlation between the ECG pattern of ST‐segment shift and the type of BBB, and that cardiac mortality is very high in this group of patients, especially in those with ST‐segment depression and left BBB.
Quantitation of myocardial fibrosis and its relation to function in essential hypertension and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Sugihara N. , Genda A. , Shimizu M. , Suematu T. , Kita Y. , Horita Y. , Takeda R.
Published: February 2009

Myocardial interstitial fibrosis is an important microscopic feature of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. To determine whether interstitial fibrosis of the myocardium in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and essential hypertension differ in quality or quantity, and to determine whether fibrosis affects cardiac function directly, we measured the percentage of fibrosis in patients of both categories and compared the severity of fibrosis with several cardiac functions. Left and right ventricular endomyocardial biopsies were performed in 25 patients with essential hypertension and in 19 patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Interstitial fibrosis was classified into four different microscopic types, and the percentage of total and of each type was calculated using the point‐counting method. Although the percentage of total fibrosis was similar between the two groups, the type of fibrosis was different. There was no correlation between the percentage of total fibrosis and the mean size of myocytes in either group. Although there was a significant correlation between the percentage of total fibrosis and the thickness of the interventricular septum in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, such correlation was lacking in hypertension. There was no correlation between the percentage of total fibrosis and the ejection fraction, cardiac index, or left ventricular end‐diastolic pressure in either group. We concluded that the amount of myocardial interstitial fibrosis in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is no greater than that in essential hypertension, but the type of fibrosis is different. Furthermore, in subjects in whom the ejection fraction is normal or only slightly decreased, fibrosis does not influence global cardiac functions.
Necropsy study of right atrial appendage: Morphology and quantitative measurements
Authors: Manolis A. S. , Varriale P. , Baptist S. J.
Published: February 2009

The right atrial appendage (RAA) of 23 randomly selected autopsied patients was examined at necropsy, and data related to orifice size and appendicular depth measurements and features of the endocardial surface were recorded. The study included 21 men and 2 women aged 71 ± 15 years (range, 32‐91); underlying coronary artery disease was present in 16 patients. The orifice size of the RAA measured 2.0± 1.0 cm (range, 0‐5 cm). The orifice size was slightly, but not significantly, smaller in patients over age 70 years compared with those younger than 70. In hearts weighing more than 450 g, the orifice was significantly larger (2.6 cm) than in hearts weighing less (1.4 cm). The appendicular depth averaged 1.2 ±0.7 cm (range, 0‐2.5 cm), and a significant difference was noted in patients older and younger than 70 years (depth of 0.9 cm vs. 1.5 cm; p<0.05). The RAA depth was 0.5 cm or less in 8 patients (35%), 6 of whom represented patients older than 70 years. Antemortem mural thrombi within the RAA were found in three hearts and completely filled the lumen in one. The suitability of the RAA as a site for atrial pacing and secure electrode implantation, particularly when anatomical deficiencies are identified, was also considered. Atrial lead displacement, a relatively common postoperative complication, may be related more to implantation within a shallow appendicular fossa and/or one with larger orifice than to faulty technique. Because these anatomical deficiencies threaten stable electrode implantation more prevalently in patients older than 70 years and in those with markedly enlarged hearts, we support the use of the grasping (screw‐in) atrial electrode in these circumstances for a more effective active lead fixation.
Silent myocardial ischemia: Prognostic significance and therapeutic implications
Authors: Conti C. R.
Published: February 2009

Evidence is now accumulating which strongly suggests that prognosis of patients with painless myocardial ischemia determined either by ambulatory ECG monitoring or exercise testing may be no different than the prognosis of patients who have overt clinical manifestations of myocardial ischemia associated with transient ischemic ECG changes. In my view the goal of therapy for patients with clinical manifestations of coronary artery disease should be the elimination of myocardial ischemia. Medical therapy, coronary angioplasty, or coronary artery surgery should be rendered and then followed by objective documentation of therapeutic efficacy.
Combined effects of cocaine and nicotine on cardiovascular performance in a canine model
Authors: Mehta Mahaveer C. , Jain Abnash C. , Billie Mike
Published: February 2009

Background:With the proliferation of cocaine abuse, increased incidence of catastrophic cardiovascular events such as angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, ventricular arrhythmias, or sudden death are reported. Many of these patients also smoke cigarettes before and after cocaine use, leading to a high frequency of simultaneous exposure to both drugs. Cocaine's and nicotine's independent effects on cardiodynamics are well documented, but combined effects of both on complete cardiovascular hemodynamics remain unknown.

Hypothesis:The study aimed to determine whether these effects are additive, synergistic, or antagonistic and was therefore designed to investigate the cardiovascular changes produced as a result of combined administration of cocaine and nicotine in a canine model.

Methods:Initially, in phase I, 30 experiments were performed to study the dose‐response curve of both drugs. in phase II and III, 12 dogs were subjected to 30 experiments. in phase II, cocaine was given intravenously (IV) followed by nicotine. in phase HI, sequence of drug administration was reversed to study the effects on hemodynamics and coronary artery blood flow reserve.

Results:Hemodynamic parameters observed were Phase I: Dose‐response curve established the IV bolus dose of cocaine 2 mg/kg and nicotine 50 μg/kg. Phase II: Cocaine increased heart rate, blood pressure, and dP/dt, but nicotine administration after cocaine produced marked significant synergistic excitatory effects: dP/dt increased from 1810 ± 210 to 6300 ± 460 (p< 0.003). Phase III: Nicotine significantly increased heart rate, mean arterial pressures, left ventricular end‐diastolic pressure, pulmonary artery, pulmonary capillary wedge, and right atrial pressures. Nicotine increased dP/dt (1810 ± 192 to 5000 ± 160 mmHg/s; p < 0.004). These excitatory effects of nicotine were attenuated by cocaine when administered as a second drug (dP/dt decreased to 1925 ± 144 from 5000 ± 160 mmHg/s; p < 0.004).

Conclusions:Cocaine, when administered alone, caused increase in heart rate, blood pressure, and dP/dt, but nicotine showed a significant increase in all the hemodynamic parameters. Both drugs reduced coronary blood flow reserve. in combination, cocaine plus nicotine administration had synergistic excitatory effects in dogs. A reversed drug combination, that is, nicotine plus cocaine, attenuated the excitatory effects of nicotine.
Significance of breast lesion descriptors in the ACR BI‐RADS MRI lexicon
Authors: Agrawal Garima , Su Min‐Ying , Nalcioglu Orhan , Feig Stephen A. , Chen Jeon‐Hor
Published: February 2009

In recent years, dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE‐MRI) has altered the clinical management for women with breast cancer. In March 2007, the American Cancer Society (ACS) issued a new guideline recommending annual MRI screening for high‐risk women. This guideline is expected to substantially increase the number of women each year who receive breast MRI. The diagnosis of breast MRI involves the description of morphological and enhancement kinetics features. To standardize the communication language, the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI‐RADS) MRI lexicon was developed by the American College of Radiology (ACR). In this article, the authors will review various appearances of breast lesions on MRI by using the standardized terms of the ACR BI‐RADS MRI lexicon. The purpose is to familiarize all medical professionals with the breast MRI lexicon because the use of this imaging modality is rapidly growing in the field of breast disease. By using this common language, a comprehensive analysis of both morphological and kinetic features used in image interpretation will help radiologists and other clinicians to communicate more clearly and consistently. This may, in turn, help physicians and patients to jointly select an appropriate management protocol for each patient's clinical situation. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Cyclooxygenase‐2 gene polymorphisms reduce the risk of oral premalignant lesions
Authors: Pu Xia , Lippman Scott M. , Yang Hushan , Lee J. Jack , Wu Xifeng
Published: February 2009

BACKGROUND:

Oral premalignant lesions (OPLs) have the potential to transform into malignant oral cancers. Overexpression of the cyclooxygenase‐2 gene (COX‐2) is observed frequently in OPLs and oral cancers, suggesting that this gene may play an important role in the progression of oral cancer. Single‐nucleotide polymorphisms of COX‐2 have been associated with the risk of multiple cancers; however, to date, their effects on OPL susceptibility have not been evaluated sufficiently.

METHODS:

The authors conducted a case‐control study that included 147 patients with OPL and a group of 147 healthy, matched controls. The effects of 3 potentially functional COX‐2 polymorphisms on the risk of OPL were evaluated: the −765 G→C polymorphism (rs20417), the exon 10 +837 T→C polymorphism (rs5275), and the exon 10 −90 C→T polymorphism (rs689470).

RESULTS:

The variant‐containing genotypes of COX‐2 exon 10 +837T→C variant were associated with a significantly reduced risk of OPL (odds ratio [OR], 0.48; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.28‐0.80). This protective effect also was significant in men, younger individuals, ever smokers, and ever drinkers. Consistently, a common halotype WMW (in the following order: −765G→C, exon 10 +837T→C, and exon 10 −90C→T; w, widetype; M, variable allele) and a common diplotype (WWW/WMW) that contained the variant allele of exon 10 +837T→C, both were associated with a reduced risk of OPL (WMW: OR, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.33‐0.93; WWW/WMW: OR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.22‐0.89). In addition, using never smokers with the variant‐containing genotypes as the reference group, interaction effects were observed between specific COX‐2 variants and tobacco smoking in the modulation of OPL risk.

CONCLUSIONS:

Overall, the current results provided the first epidemiologic evidence indicating that potentially functional polymorphisms of the COX‐2 gene may have an impact on individual susceptibility to OPLs. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Prognostic significance of occult axillary lymph node metastases after chemotherapy‐induced pathologic complete response of cytologically proven axillary lymph node metastases from breast cancer
Authors: Loya Asif , Guray Merih , Hennessy Bryan T. , Middleton Lavinia P. , Buchholz Thomas A. , Valero Vicente , Sahin Aysegul A.
Published: February 2009

BACKGROUND:

Primary systemic chemotherapy has been a standard of care for the management of locally advanced breast cancer (LABC) patients and has increasingly been used for patients with large operable breast cancer. Pathologic complete response (pCR) of axillary lymph node metastases predicted an excellent probability of long‐term disease‐free and overall survival. Although the clinical significance of occult lymph node metastases in patients with breast cancer was extensively studied, their prognostic value in patients with LABC after primary chemotherapy was not known. This study evaluated the detection rate and clinical significance of occult lymph node metastases in lymph nodes that contained metastatic carcinoma at the time of initial diagnosis and converted to negative based on routine pathologic examination after primary systemic chemotherapy.

METHODS:

Fifty‐one patients with LABC and cytologically involved axillary lymph nodes that converted to negative after preoperative chemotherapy were identified from 2 prospective clinical trials. All lymph node sections were reviewed, 1 deeper level hematoxylin and eosin‐stained section of each lymph node was obtained and immunohistochemical staining for cytokeratin (CK) was performed. A total of 762 lymph nodes were evaluated for occult metastases. Kaplan‐Meier survival curves were used for calculating disease‐free and overall survival times.

RESULTS:

Occult axillary lymph node metastases were identified in 8 of 51 (16%) patients. In 6 patients, occult metastases were found in only 1 lymph node. In 7 patients, only isolated CK‐positive cells were identified. In all cases, occult carcinoma cells were embedded within areas of fibrosis, foreign body giant cell reaction, and extensive histiocytosis. Patients with occult lymph node metastases tended to have a higher frequency of residual primary breast tumors than those without occult metastases (4 of 8 vs 7 of 43, respectively). There was no statistically significant difference in disease‐free or overall survival times between patients with and without occult metastases after a median follow‐up 63 months.

CONCLUSIONS:

Persistent occult axillary lymph node metastases were not uncommon in patients with axillary lymph node‐positive LABC who experienced a pCR in involved lymph nodes after preoperative chemotherapy. However, such occult metastases did not adversely affect the good prognosis associated with axillary lymph node pCR. Therefore, routine lymph node CK evaluation was not recommended after primary chemotherapy. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Impact of axillary lymph node dissection on breast cancer outcome in clinically node negative patients
Authors: Sanghani Mona , Balk Ethan M. , Cady Blake
Published: February 2009

BACKGROUND:

The regional lymph node control and survival impact of axillary dissection in breast cancer has been the subject of multiple randomized trials, with various results. This study reviews and conducts a meta‐analysis of contemporary trials of axillary dissection in patients with early stage breast cancer.

METHODS:

A systematic MEDLINE review identified 3 randomized trials published between January 2000 and January 2007 of axillary dissection versus no dissection in clinically lymph node negative early stage breast cancer patients. A fourth trial of axillary radiotherapy versus no axillary treatment was also identified and included in this review. Meta‐analyses were performed for survival, axillary recurrence, metastatic disease, and ipsilateral breast recurrence.

RESULTS:

All trials reported a higher rate of axillary recurrence (1.5%‐3%, median follow‐up 5‐15 years) in the absence of axillary dissection or radiotherapy. Overall survival was similar with and without definitive axillary treatment in 3 of the 4 trials, with an increased rate of nonbreast cancer‐related death in the observation arm of the fourth trial. Meta‐analyses found no significant difference in overall survival (odds ratio [OR] 1.55; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.74‐3.24), metastases (OR 0.91; 95% CI, 0.65‐1.29), or ipsilateral breast recurrence (OR 1.11; 95% CI, 0.68‐1.83) associated with axillary treatment. A significantly lower rate of axillary recurrence was seen after lymphadenectomy (OR 0.28; 95% CI, 0.11‐0.73, P<.01).

CONCLUSIONS:

Axillary dissection does not confer a survival benefit in the setting of early stage clinically lymph node negative breast cancer. Although the rate of axillary failure was increased in the absence of dissection, the absolute risk was found to be extremely low. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Predicting neuroendocrine tumor (carcinoid) neoplasia using gene expression profiling and supervised machine learning
Authors: Drozdov Ignat , Kidd Mark , Nadler Boaz , Camp Robert L. , Mane Shrikant M. , Hauso Oyvind , Gustafsson Bjorn I. , Modlin Irvin M.
Published: February 2009

BACKGROUND:

A more accurate taxonomy of small intestinal (SI) neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) is necessary to accurately predict tumor behavior and prognosis and to define therapeutic strategy. In this study, the authors identified a panel of such markers that have been implicated in tumorigenicity, metastasis, and hormone production and hypothesized that transcript levels of the genes melanoma antigen family D2 (MAGE‐D2), metastasis‐associated 1 (MTA1), nucleosome assembly protein 1‐like (NAP1L1), Ki‐67 (a marker of proliferation), survivin, frizzled homolog 7 (FZD7), the Kiss1 metastasis suppressor (Kiss1), neuropilin 2 (NRP2), and chromogranin A (CgA) could be used to define primary SI NETs and to predict the development of metastases.

METHODS:

Seventy‐three clinically and World Health Organization pathologically classified NET samples (primary tumor, n = 44 samples; liver metastases, n = 29 samples) and 30 normal human enterochromaffin (EC) cell preparations were analyzed using real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Transcript levels were normalized to 3 NET housekeeping genes (asparagine‐linked glycosylation 9 or ALG9, transcription factor CP2 or TFCP2, and zinc finger protein 410 or ZNF410) using geNorm analysis. A predictive gene‐based model was constructed using supervised learning algorithms from the transcript expression levels.

RESULTS:

Primary SI NETs could be differentiated from normal human EC cell preparations with 100% specificity and 92% sensitivity. Well differentiated NETs (WDNETs), well differentiated neuroendocrine carcinomas, and poorly differentiated NETs (PDNETs) were classified with a specificity of 78%, 78%, and 71%, respectively; whereas poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinomas were misclassified as either WDNETs or PDNETs. Metastases were predicted in all cases with 100% sensitivity and specificity.

CONCLUSIONS:

The current results indicated that gene expression profiling and supervised machine learning can be used to classify SI NET subtypes and accurately predict metastasis. The authors believe that the application of this technique will facilitate accurate molecular pathologic delineation of NET disease, better define its extent, facilitate the assessment of prognosis, and provide a guide for the identification of appropriate strategies for individualized patient treatment. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Association of p73 G4C14‐to‐A4T14 polymorphism with human papillomavirus type 16 status in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck in non‐Hispanic whites
Authors: Ji Xuemei , Sturgis Erich M. , Zhao Chong , Etzel Carol J. , Wei Qingyi , Li Guojun
Published: February 2009

BACKGROUND:

The tumor protein p73 interacts with the human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV‐16) oncoproteins E6 and E7, and p73 variation may modify the interaction between p73 protein and HPV‐16 oncogenic proteins and contribute to cellular malignant transformation.

METHODS:

In this case‐case comparison study, the authors analyzed HPV‐16 status in tumor specimens and genotyped the p73 G4C14‐to‐A4T14 polymorphism using genomic DNA from blood of 202 non‐Hispanic white patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN). Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated in univariate and multivariable logistic regression models to examine the association between the p73 polymorphism and HPV‐16 status in SCCHN.

RESULTS:

Compared with the p73 GC/GC genotype, the AT/AT and combined GC/AT + AT/AT variant genotypes were associated significantly with HPV‐16‐positive tumor status among patients with SCCHN (adjusted OR, 5.32; 95% CI, 1.32‐21.4; adjusted OR, 1.91; 95% CI, 1.03‐3.53, respectively). There was a significant dose‐effect relation between the AT allele and HPV‐16‐positive tumor status in patients with SCCHN (trend test: P = .014). Moreover, the stratified analyses indicated that the association between HPV‐16‐positive tumor status and the combined p73 GC/AT + AT/AT genotypes was more pronounced among several subgroups of patients who were older, men, ever drinkers, and those with oropharyngeal cancer.

CONCLUSIONS:

The p73 polymorphism was associated with HPV‐16 status in SCCHN and may serve as a marker of positive HPV‐16 tumor status in patients with SCCHN, particularly those with oropharyngeal cancer. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Estimation of CIE tristimulus values under various illuminants
Authors: Shams‐Nateri Ali
Published: February 2009

In this work, a procedure is described to estimate the CIE tristimulus values of Munsell color chips under new illuminants from CIE tristimulus values under specific illuminant. The estimation was performed by multiple linear regression (MLR) and principal component analysis (PCA) techniques. In addition, the effects of illuminants combination and Munsell hue, value and chroma on reconstruction of CIE tristimulus values were evaluated in both methods. The results obtained indicate that the performance of principal component method is better than multiple regression method. The accuracy of estimation depends on the initial and target illuminants and hue, chroma and value of samples. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 34, 100–107, 2009
Spectral measurements of large particles by flow cytometry
Authors: Watson Dakota A. , Gaskill Daniel F. , Brown Leif O. , Doorn Stephen K. , Nolan John P.
Published: February 2009

Flow cytometers designed to analyze large particles are enabling new applications in biology and chemistry. Similarly, flow spectroscopy approaches are extending the capabilities of the flow cytometry platform. Here, we report on the adaptation of a commercial large particle analyzer to measure fluorescence and Raman spectra of individual particles at high speeds. We modified a Union Biometrica COPAS Plus instrument to allow red excitation and optical fiber‐based light collection and spectral analysis using a spectrograph and CCD array detector. These modifications did not compromise the ability of the instrument to resolve different sized particles based on their extinction and time of flight signals. The modified instrument has the sensitivity and spectral resolution to measure the fluorescence and Raman signals from individual particles with signal integration times of 10 usec. The high speed spectral analysis of individual particles in flow will enable new applications in biological and chemical analyses. © 2009 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Ecological momentary assessment to evaluate cognitive‐behavioral treatment for binge eating disorder
Authors: Munsch Simone , Meyer Andrea H. , Milenkovic Natasa , Schlup Barbara , Margraf Juergen , Wilhelm Frank H.
Published: February 2009

Objective:

Cognitive‐behavioral treatment (CBT) for binge eating disorder (BED) is traditionally evaluated using clinical interviews and questionnaires. These retrospective assessment methods are discussed to be problematic due to memory recall error. Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) might be promising for gathering ecologically valid and reliable data.

Method:

We assessed the feasibility of and reactivity to EMA and compared the treatment efficacy measured by traditional vs. EMA‐based instruments in 28 BED individuals participating in short‐term CBT.

Results:

Patients were highly compliant and we found no reactivity to EMA. Estimated treatment effects for binge eating based on EMA were comparable to questionnaire‐based methods. The overall concordance between methods was moderate.

Discussion:

Results suggest that binge eating over 1 week can be equally accurately assessed by EMA or by self‐report questionnaires in BED treatment trials. EMA contributes to a detailed knowledge of binge eating in daily live and helps to advance treatment options. © 2009 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 2009
Differences in Bcl‐2 expression by T‐cell subsets alter their balance after in vivo irradiation to favor CD4+Bcl‐2hi NKT cells
Authors: Yao Zhenyu , Liu Yinping , Jones Jennifer , Strober Samuel
Published: February 2009

Although it is well known that in vivo radiation depletes immune cells via the Bcl‐2 apoptotic pathway, a more nuanced analysis of the changes in the balance of immune‐cell subsets is needed to understand the impact of radiation on immune function. We show the balance of T‐cell subsets changes after increasing single doses of total body irradiation (TBI) or after fractionated irradiation of the lymphoid tissues (TLI) of mice due to differences in radioresistance and Bcl‐2 expression of the NKT‐cell and non‐NKT subsets to favor CD4+Bcl‐2hi NKT cells. Reduction of the Bcl‐2lo mature T‐cell subsets was at least 100‐fold greater than that of the Bcl‐2hi subsets. CD4+ NKT cells upregulated Bcl‐2 after TBI and TLI and developed a Th2 bias after TLI, whereas non‐NKT cells failed to do so. Our previous studies showed TLI protects against graft versus host disease in wild‐type, but not in NKT‐cell‐deficient mice. The present study shows that NKT cells have a protective function even after TBI, and these cells are tenfold more abundant after an equal dose of TLI. In conclusion, differential expression of Bcl‐2 contributes to the changes in T‐cell subsets and immune function after irradiation.
Akt2 is required for macrophage chemotaxis
Authors: Zhang Baogang , Ma Yongjie , Guo Hua , Sun Baocun , Niu Ruifang , Ying Guoguang , Zhang Ning
Published: February 2009

Tumor‐associated macrophages play an important role in tumorigenesis and metastasis. Trafficking of macrophages to the proximity of tumors is mediated by CSF‐1, a growth factor. In this study, we investigated the role of PKB/Akt in CSF‐1‐induced macrophage migration. Disruption of Akt2 expression by small interference RNA impaired chemotaxis of both THP‐1 cells and mouse peritoneal macrophages. Phosphorylation of PKCζ, an essential component in chemotaxis signaling pathway, was reduced. LIMK/Cofilin, downstream of PKCζ, regulated cytoskeleton rearrangement during cell migration. Disruption of Akt2 expression inhibited CSF‐1‐induced LIMK/Cofilin phosphorylation, which contributed to defects in actin polymerization and chemotaxis. Furthermore, MCP‐1, a chemokine, ‐induced macrophage chemotaxis was also impaired. Taken together, our results demonstrated that Akt2 plays an essential role in both CSF‐1‐ and chemokine‐induced chemotaxis of macrophages.
Iron(III) Complexes of Metal‐Binding Copolymers as Proficient Catalysts for Acid Hydrolysis of Phosphodiesters and Oxidative DNA Cleavage – Insight into the Rational Design of Functional Metallopolymers
Authors: Lykourinou Vasiliki , Hanafy Ahmed I. , Bisht Kirpal S. , Angerhofer Alexander , Ming Li‐June
Published: February 2009

Fe3+ complexes of pyridine‐containing copolymers were found to be efficient and selective catalysts toward phosphodiester hydrolysis and show significant activity toward oxidative DNA cleavage. The catalysis toward bis(p‐nitrophenyl)phosphate (BNPP) hydrolysis exhibits enzyme‐like pre‐equilibrium kinetics with maximum activities in the range of ca. pH 6–8 and a first‐order catalytic proficiency (kcat/ko) of 4.2 × 107‐fold at the acidic pH value of 5.3 (i.e., pKa of the coordinated nucleophilic water) and 25 °C, entitling this Fe3+ copolymer an acid phosphodiester catalyst. This catalyst also shows significant selectivity toward BNPP hydrolysis relative to the hydrolyses of p‐nitrophenyl phenylphosphonate and p‐nitrophenylphosphate monoester, with a ratio of 4250:16:1 in terms of their first‐order catalytic proficiencies at pH 8.0 and 25 °C. Fe3+ complexes of a few pyridine‐containing copolymers show different hydrolytic activities, which points a direction for rational design of catalytic metallopolymers. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
A New, Flexible N,N,N‐Tripodal Facially Capping Ligand System: Synthesis and Structural Characterization of β‐Triketimines and Their M(CO)3 Complexes (M = Cr, Mo, W)
Authors: Barnes Donna , Brown Gemma L. , Brownhill Martyn , German Ian , Herbert Christopher J. , Jolleys Andrew , Kennedy Alan R. , Liu Boyang , McBride Katy , Mair Francis S. , Pritchard Robin G. , Sanders Arron , Warren John E.
Published: February 2009

Reaction of imidoyl chlorides Ar*N=CClR (Ar* = 2‐iPrC6H4, 2,6‐iPr2C6H3, 2‐MeOC6H4; R = Me, Ph, tBu) with [Li(nacnac)] [nacnac = (Ar*NCMe)2CH] gives β‐triketimines L, most of which exist in solution in equilibrium with their imine/enamine tautomers. The route is highly modular, allowing independent variation of at least five parameters. The solution equilibria are very sensitive to such substituent pattern variation. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analyses of examples of both tautomers and a geometric isomer in the solid state are presented, alongside solution NMR studies of the tautomerism. All examples revert exclusively to the β‐triimine form on complexation with M(CO)3 fragments (M = Cr, Mo, W). Facial isomers result. The ligands are weak σ‐donors, as adjudged by CO IR stretching frequencies in [LM(CO)3]. Crystal‐structure determination on the isostructural pair [HC(2‐iPrC6H4N=CMe)3M(CO)3] (M = Cr, Mo) revealed a hexagonal packing arrangement composed of aryl–aryl and carbonyl (CO)–H–C interactions which generates pseudocylindrical voids accounting for 6–9 % of the crystal volume. In only one case were these occupied by solvent molecules. This family of facially capping N,N,N‐ligands with finely tunable bulk have wide potential in coordination chemistry.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Transformation of Solid Potassium Ferrate(VI) (K2FeO4): Mechanism and Kinetic Effect of Air Humidity
Authors: Machala Libor , Zboril Radek , Sharma Virender K. , Filip Jan , Jancik Dalibor , Homonnay Zoltan
Published: February 2009

The kinetics of solid‐state transformation (aging) of potassium ferrate(VI) (K2FeO4) under various air‐humidity conditions (55–95 % relative humidity) at room temperature were studied by in‐situ Mössbauer spectroscopy. The kinetic data showed a significant increase in the decomposition rate with increasing air humidity. The decomposition kinetics is very unusual with two almost linear decay steps. The first slow decay was observable at rather lower humidity levels (55–70 %) probably due to the formation of the narrow compact layer of nanoparticulate Fe(OH)3 reaction product. This layer limits the access of both H2O and CO2 participating in the reaction as the gaseous reactants. The second decay with much faster rate showed a nearly positive linear relationship with the humidity. The identification and characterization of the final products of aging were conducted by using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), variable‐temperature and in‐field Mössbauer spectroscopy, magnetic measurements, thermogravimetry (TG) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques. The reaction mechanism, assuming formation of KHCO3 and Fe(OH)3 in the molar ratio of 2:1 per 1 mol of solid K2FeO4 was suggested. The SEM images revealed the formation of large KHCO3 crystallites whose surface was covered by ultrasmall X‐ray amorphous iron(III) hydroxide nanoparticles in a high degree of agglomeration. The obtained results of aging under humid conditions are important for the possible storage of K2FeO4 and thus for its environmental and industrial applications. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
O‐Acylated 2‐Phosphanylphenol Derivatives – Useful Ligands in the Nickel‐Catalyzed Polymerization of Ethylene
Authors: Yakhvarov Dmitry G. , Basvani Kaleswara R. , Kindermann Markus K. , Dobrynin Alexey B. , Litvinov Igor A. , Sinyashin Oleg G. , Jones Peter G. , Heinicke Joachim
Published: February 2009

The title ligands were prepared by O‐acylation of 2‐diphenylphosphanyl‐4‐methylphenol (1) or directly by double lithiation of 2‐bromo‐4‐methylphenol and stepwise coupling with ClPPh2 and ClP(O)Ph2 or RC(O)Cl (R = Me, tBu, Ph, 4‐MeOC6H4) to afford diphenylphosphinate 2 and carboxylic esters 3a–d. X‐ray crystal structure analyses of 3b–d show conformations in which the P‐phenyl substituents are rotated away from the ester group and the C(O)O π planes are nearly perpendicular to the phenol ring π plane. O‐Acylated phosphanylphenols 2 and 3a–d form highly active catalysts with Ni(1,5‐cod)2 (as does 1) for polymerization of ethylene, whereas phosphanylphenyl ethers do not give catalysts under the same conditions. The reason is the cleavage of the O‐acyl bond upon heating with nickel(0) precursor compounds in the presence of ethylene. The precursors are P‐coordinated Ni0 complexes, which are formed at room temperature, such as 4d obtained from 3d and Ni(cod)2 (in a 2:1 molar ratio), and characterized by multinuclear NMR spectroscopy. Upon heating in the presence of ethylene, the precatalysts are activated. Catalysts 2Ni and 3a–dNi convert ethylene nearly quantitatively, 2Ni slowly, and 3a–dNi rapidly, into linear polyethylene with vinyl and methyl end groups, and in the latter case, C(O)R end groups are also detectable. This proves insertion of Ni0 into the O–C(O)R bond of 3a–d ligands for formation of the primary catalyst. Termination of the first chain growing cycle by β‐hydride elimination changes the mechanism to the phosphanylphenolate–NiH initiated polymerization providing the main body of the polymer. A small retardation in the ethylene consumption rate with 3a–dNi catalysts relative to that observed for 1Ni and stabilization of the catalyst, which gives rise to reproducibly high ethylene conversion, is observed. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Methyl 2‐(Benzyloxycarbonylamino)‐2‐cyclopropylideneacetate: A Versatile Building Block for Cyclopropyl‐Containing Amino Acids
Authors: Limbach Michael , Lygin Alexander , Es‐Sayed Mazen , de Meijere Armin
Published: February 2009

Methyl 2‐(benzyloxycarbonylamino)‐2‐cyclopropylideneacetate (2) was prepared in nine steps starting from L‐serine in an overall yield of 24 %. It has been demonstrated to be reasonably reactive in Michael additions of various nucleophiles (6 examples, 75–98 % yields) as well as Diels–Alder reactions, both leading to new cyclopropyl‐containing amino acids in protected form. An application of 2 in the synthesis of methyl 4‐tert‐butoxycarbonylmethyl‐5‐oxo‐4,7‐diazaspiro[2.5]octane‐8‐carboxylate (15), a precursor for geometrically constrained bicyclic peptidomimetics of type 16, has also been proved.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Trust and respect as mediators of the other‐ and self‐profitable trait effects on interpersonal attraction
Authors: Singh Ramadhar , Simons Joseph J. P. , Young Dawn Patricia C. Y. , Sim Berwine S. X. , Chai Xiau Ting , Singh Smita , Chiou Siao Ying
Published: February 2009

Mediators of the effects of other‐profitable (e.g., sincere vs. irresponsible) or self‐profitable (e.g., intelligent vs. unintelligent) traits on attraction were investigated. In Experiment 1 (N = 256), valence of a single other‐ or self‐profitable trait was varied, and trust in, respect for, and attraction toward the partner were measured. The three constructs were distinct. Moreover, the effects of the other‐profitable traits on attraction were solely mediated by trust, and those of the self‐profitable traits were mediated more strongly by respect than trust. In Experiment 2 (N = 144), an other‐profitable trait was crossed with the self‐profitable one, and diagnosticity ratings of those traits for the partner's warmth and competence and the previous three responses were taken. The five constructs were empirically distinct. Although trust mediated the effect of other‐profitable trait on attraction, there was a direct effect also. Respect was the sole mediator of the self‐profitable trait effect. Theoretical and methodological implications of these findings are discussed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitative Analysis of Prometrine Herbicide by Liquid–Liquid Extraction Procedures Coupled to Electrochemical Measurements
Authors: Juarez A. V. , Yudi L. M.
Published: February 2009

A sensitive method is proposed for the preconcentration and quantification of the herbicide Prometrine (PROM) at a liquid‐liquid interface employing square‐wave voltammetry. The preconcentration stage was based on liquid‐liquid extraction methodology and the PROM quantification was carried out from the peak current of square‐wave voltammograms. Under the experimental conditions employed, linear calibration curves in the concentration range 1.0×10−6 M–5.0×10−5 M, with detection limit equal to 1.5×10−6 M were obtained without pretreatment of the samples. This linear range, as well as detection limit could be extended towards lower concentrations when a pretreatment procedure was employed. In this way, linearity of calibration curves between 8.0×10−8 M and 2.4×10−7 M and detection limit of 1.0×10−7 M, were observed. On the other hand, the standard addition method was also used as an alternative and an appropriated quantification technique for this system. A linear concentration range between 1.0×10−6 M and 2.7×10−5 M, with a correlation coefficient of 0.997, was obtained. This procedure has also a promising application in the separation of herbicides from other interferents, present in real samples, previous to their quantification.
Electrophoretic motion of ideally polarizable particles in a microchannel
Authors: Wu Zhemin , Gao Yandong , Li Dongqing
Published: February 2009

The induced‐charge electrophoretic (ICEP) motion of ideally polarizable particles in a microchannel is numerically studied in this paper. A complete 3‐D multi‐physics model is set up to simulate the transient ICEP motion of spherical ideally polarizable particles in a microchannel. The study shows that a non‐uniform distribution of induced surface charge occurs when an ideally polarizable particle is immersed in an externally applied electric field, resulting in a varying slipping (EOF) velocity along the particle's surface and hence producing micro vortexes in the liquid. The numerical results verify that the steady‐state ICEP velocity of an ideally polarizable particle does not differ from the electrophoretic velocity of a non‐conducting particle, although the flow field near the particle does. A strong wall‐repelling effect of ICEP is found when the polarizable particle is placed close to the channel wall. This is due to the lifting effect generated from the interaction between the induced micro vortexes and the channel wall and depends on the electric field and the particle size. The wall effects on ICEP motion can be used for focusing particles and for separation of particle by density.