bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is the prognosis in patients with diabetes and heart failure a matter of unsatisfactory management? An observational study from the Swedish Heart Failure Registry
Authors: Johansson Isabelle , Edner Magnus , Dahlström Ulf , Näsman Per , Rydén Lars , Norhammar Anna
Published: December 2013

Aims

To analyse the long‐term outcome, risk factor panorama, and treatment pattern in patients with heart failure (HF) with and without type 2 diabetes (T2DM) from a daily healthcare perspective.

Methods and results

Patients with (n = 8809) and without (n = 27 465) T2DM included in the Swedish Heart Failure Registry (S‐HFR) 2003–2011 due to a physician‐based HF diagnosis were prospectively followed for long‐term mortality (median follow‐up time: 1.9 years, range 0–8.7 years). Left ventricular function expressed as EF did not differ between patients with and without T2DM. Survival was significantly shorter in patients with T2DM, who had a median survival time of 3.5 years compared with 4.6 years (P < 0.0001). In subjects with T2DM. unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for mortality were 1.37 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.30–1.44) and 1.60 (95% CI 1.50–1.71), and T2DM predicted mortality in all age groups. Ischaemic heart disease was an important predictor for mortality (OR 1.68, 95% CI 1.47–1.94), more abundant in patients with T2DM (59% vs. 45%) among whom only 35% had been subjected to coronary angiography and 32% to revascularization. Evidence‐based pharmacological HF treatment was somewhat more extensive in patients with T2DM.

Conclusion

The combination of T2DM and HF seriously compromises long‐term prognosis. Ischaemic heart disease was identified as one major contributor; however, underutilization of available diagnostic and therapeutic facilities for ischaemic heart disease was obvious and may be an important area for future improvement in patients with T2DM and HF.
Two‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography combined with high‐sensitive cardiac troponin T in early detection and prediction of cardiotoxicity during epirubicine‐based chemotherapy
Authors: Kang Yu , Xu Xiaoping , Cheng Leilei , Li Lin , Sun Minmin , Chen Haiyan , Pan Cuizhen , Shu Xianhong
Published: December 2013

Aims

To investigate whether alterations of myocardial strain and high‐sensitive cardiac troponin T (cTnT) could predict future cardiac dysfunction in patients after epirubicin exposure.

Methods

Seventy‐five patients with non‐Hodgkin lymphoma treated with epirubicin were studied. Blood collection and echocardiography were performed at baseline, 1 day after the third cycle, and 1 day after completion of chemotherapy. Patients were studied using echocardiography during follow‐up. Global longitudinal (GLS), circumferential (GCS), and radial strain (GRS) were calculated using speckle tracking echocardiography. Left ventricular ejection fraction was analysed by real‐time 3D echocardiography. Cardiotoxicity was defined as a reduction of the LVEF of ≥5% to <55% with symptoms of heart failure or an asymptomatic reduction of the LVEF of ≥10% to <55%.

Results

Fourteen patients (18.67%) developed cardiotoxicity after treatment. GLS (−18.48 ± 1.72% vs. −15.96 ± 1.6%), GCS (−20.93 ± 2.86% vs. −19.20 ± 3.21%), and GRS (39.23 ± 6.44% vs. 34.98 ± 6.2%) were markedly reduced and cTnT was elevated from 0.0010 ± 0.0020 to 0.0073 ± 0.0038 ng/mL (P all < 0.01) at the completion of chemotherapy compared with baseline values. A >15.9% decrease in GLS [sensitivity, 86%; specificity, 75%; area under the curve (AUC) = 0.815; P = 0.001] and a >0.004 ng/mL elevation in cTnT (sensitivity, 79%; specificity, 64%; AUC = 0.757; P = 0.005) from baseline to the third cycle of chemotherapy predicted later cardiotoxicity. The decrease in GLS remained the only independent predictor of cardiotoxicity (P = 0.000).

Conclusions

GLS combined with cTnT may provide a reliable and non‐invasive method to predict cardiac dysfunction in patients receiving anthracycline‐based chemotherapy.
Electrochemiluminescence Biosensor Based on PEDOT‐PSS‐ Graphene Functionalized ITO Electrode
Authors: Gao Ying , Li Jing , Yang Xiaodong , Xiang Qian , Wang Kunqi
Published: December 2013

A novel and sensitive electrochemiluminescence (ECL) method for ethanol biosensor was developed by co‐immobilizing the enzyme and ECL reagent Ru(bpy)32+ on the poly‐(3,4‐ethylene dioxythiophene) and polystyrene sulfonate functionalized graphene (PEDOT‐PSS‐G) nanocomposite film. Positively charged Ru(bpy)32+ could be immobilized effectively on the electrode surface with the negatively charged PSS and graphene, which provided a stable ECL platform for further modification with the enzyme. Moreover, the introduction of PEDOT and graphene can be acted as a conducting pathway to accelerate the electron transfer due to the high conductivity. Such biosensor combined enzymatic selectivity with the amplification of PEDOT‐PSS‐G performed well with a wide linear range, high sensitivity and good stability. The sensing platform was successfully applied to determine the amounts of alcohol in real samples.
Recycling of spent oil bleaching earth as source of glycerol for the anaerobic production of acetone, butanol, and ethanol with Clostridium diolis and lipolytic Clostridium lundense
Authors: Tippkötter Nils , Wollny Steffen , Suck Kirstin , Sohling Ulrich , Ruf Friedrich , Ulber Roland
Published: December 2013

A major part of edible oil is subjected to bleaching procedures, primarily with minerals applied as adsorbers. Their recycling is currently done either by regaining the oil via organic solvent extraction or by using the spent bleaching earth (SBE) as additive for animal feed, etc. As a new method, the reutilization of the by‐product SBE for the microbiologic formation of acetone, butanol, and ethanol (ABE) is presented as proof‐of‐concept. The SBE was taken from a palm oil cleaning process. The recycling concept is based on the application of lipolytic clostridia strains. Due to considerably long fermentation times, co‐fermentation with Candida rugosa and enzymatic hydrolyses of the bound oil with a subsequent clostridia fermentation are shown as alternative routes. Anaerobic fermentations under comparison of different clostridia strains were performed with glycerol media, enzymatically hydrolyzed palm oil and SBE. Solutes, side product compositions and productivities were quantified via HPLC. A successful production of ABE solutes from SBE has been done with a yield of 0.15 g butanol per gram of bound glycerol. Thus, the biotechnological recycling of the waste stream is possible in principle. Inhibition of the substrate suspension has been observed. A chromatographic ion‐exchange of substrates increased the biomass concentration.
Targeting endothelial junctional adhesion molecule‐A/ EPAC/ Rap‐1 axis as a novel strategy to increase stem cell engraftment in dystrophic muscles
Authors: Giannotta Monica , Benedetti Sara , Tedesco Francesco Saverio , Corada Monica , Trani Marianna , D'Antuono Rocco , Millet Queensta , Orsenigo Fabrizio , Gálvez Beatriz G , Cossu Giulio , Dejana Elisabetta
Published: December 2013

Muscular dystrophies are severe genetic diseases for which no efficacious therapies exist. Experimental clinical treatments include intra‐arterial administration of vessel‐associated stem cells, called mesoangioblasts (MABs). However, one of the limitations of this approach is the relatively low number of cells that engraft the diseased tissue, due, at least in part, to the sub‐optimal efficiency of extravasation, whose mechanisms for MAB are unknown. Leukocytes emigrate into the inflamed tissues by crossing endothelial cell‐to‐cell junctions and junctional proteins direct and control leukocyte diapedesis. Here, we identify the endothelial junctional protein JAM‐A as a key regulator of MAB extravasation. We show that JAM‐A gene inactivation and JAM‐A blocking antibodies strongly enhance MAB engraftment in dystrophic muscle. In the absence of JAM‐A, the exchange factors EPAC‐1 and 2 are down‐regulated, which prevents the activation of the small GTPase Rap‐1. As a consequence, junction tightening is reduced, allowing MAB diapedesis. Notably, pharmacological inhibition of Rap‐1 increases MAB engraftment in dystrophic muscle, which results into a significant improvement of muscle function offering a novel strategy for stem cell‐based therapies.
Advanced Metallization Concepts for p‐type Silicon Metal‐Wrap‐Through (MWT) Solar Cells
Authors: Hendrichs Max , Thaidigsmann Benjamin , Lohmüller Elmar , Nold Sebastian , Clement Florian , Biro Daniel , Rech Bernd , Preu Ralf
Published: December 2013

The development of cost‐effective and highly efficient solar cells is a primary goal of current research activities. In this work we investigate two different metallization concepts based on screen‐printing technology that are aimed at achieving increased cell conversion efficiency of p‐type silicon metal‐wrap‐through (MWT) solar cell structures. The first approach is the reduction of the pad area of the external rear n‐type contacts. Furthermore a multilayer metallization concept is presented that allows for the decoupling of the rear external n‐type contact and the p‐type silicon base. In this context new pastes for via metallization are investigated—namely low‐temperature silver–polymer pastes. The second approach is the optimization of the metallization layout of MWT solar cells to minimize cost of ownership. Therefore the number of contact rows, the finger width, and the number of n‐type contact pads per contact row are varied methodically by using analytical simulations. The results are compared with experimental data. Both approaches show a potential for a further conversion efficiency increase of p‐type silicon MWT solar cells.
Paleo‐Terrain Research: Finding the First Settlement Sites of Remote Oceania
Authors: Carson Mike T.
Published: December 2013

A paleo‐terrain approach can situate ancient sites within their original landscape settings, as illustrated in a case study of the Mariana Islands in the western Pacific. This example combines computer‐aided terrain modeling with site‐specific excavations to reconstruct the shapes and configurations of landforms during the period of first human settlement of Remote Oceania, 1500–1000 B.C. The results support new understanding of humanity's first contact with the Remote Oceanic environment. The same approach can be applied in other settings to advance programs of site‐discovery and general studies of ancient site settings and ecology.
Regularized Rare Variant Enrichment Analysis for Case‐Control Exome Sequencing Data
Authors: Larson Nicholas B. , Schaid Daniel J.
Published: December 2013

Rare variants have recently garnered an immense amount of attention in genetic association analysis. However, unlike methods traditionally used for single marker analysis in GWAS, rare variant analysis often requires some method of aggregation, since single marker approaches are poorly powered for typical sequencing study sample sizes. Advancements in sequencing technologies have rendered next‐generation sequencing platforms a realistic alternative to traditional genotyping arrays. Exome sequencing in particular not only provides base‐level resolution of genetic coding regions, but also a natural paradigm for aggregation via genes and exons. Here, we propose the use of penalized regression in combination with variant aggregation measures to identify rare variant enrichment in exome sequencing data. In contrast to marginal gene‐level testing, we simultaneously evaluate the effects of rare variants in multiple genes, focusing on gene‐based least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and exon‐based sparse group LASSO models. By using gene membership as a grouping variable, the sparse group LASSO can be used as a gene‐centric analysis of rare variants while also providing a penalized approach toward identifying specific regions of interest. We apply extensive simulations to evaluate the performance of these approaches with respect to specificity and sensitivity, comparing these results to multiple competing marginal testing methods. Finally, we discuss our findings and outline future research.
Meeting the Challenges of Effective International HRM: Analysis of the Antecedents of Global Mindset
Authors: Story Joana S. P. , Barbuto John E. , Luthans Fred , Bovaird James A.
Published: December 2013

The full force of globalization has hit today's organizations, and it is clear that there are many cultural and human problems. International human resource management (IHRM) is being asked to better understand and develop multinational organizational leaders to meet the challenges. A prominent solution that is receiving increased attention is the construct of global mindset, which has growing rhetoric but little research support. To help fill this need, after first theoretically framing global mindset as made up of one's cultural intelligence and global business orientation, this study identifies and empirically tests some theory‐driven antecedents. Utilizing a diverse sample (N = 136) of global leaders of a well‐known multinational, we found that personal, psychological, and role complexity antecedents were related to the participants' level of global mindset. The practical implications of these findings for effective international human resource management conclude the article. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
HR Professional Role Tensions: Perceptions and Responses of the Top Management Team
Authors: Sheehan Cathy , De Cieri Helen , Greenwood Michelle , Van Buren Harry J.
Published: December 2013

The aims of the research are to explore evidence of professional human resource management (HRM) role tensions, the factors that affect HRM role tension, and to consider the impact on management perceptions when role tensions exist. Using a qualitative approach, 25 interviews were conducted in Australia with senior HRM personnel, top management team (TMT) executives, and a management consultant. Findings reveal that the failure of the HRM profession to attract people with a business focus increases HRM role tensions. Respondents report that tensions were reduced when aspects of the HRM role were devolved or outsourced, there was an acceptance of a changed psychological contract, and clearer attempts were made to communicate an agreed‐upon strategic focus for HRM. HRM role bias led to a reduced willingness among TMT members to respect, and communicate with, HRM professionals. The implications of the negative outcomes of HR role tensions are discussed with reference to the power of the HRM function. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Identification and Occupational Stress: A Stress‐Buffering Perspective
Authors: Newton Cameron , Teo Stephen
Published: December 2013

Occupational stress research has consistently demonstrated many negative effects of work stressors on employee adjustment (i.e., job‐related attitudes and health). Considerable literature also describes potential moderators of this relationship. While research has revealed that different workplace identifications can have significant positive effects on employee adjustment, it has neglected to investigate their potential stress‐buffering effects. Based on identity theories, it was predicted that stress‐buffering effects of different types of identifications (distal versus proximal) would be revealed when the identification type and employee adjustment outcome type (distal versus proximal) were congruent. Predictions were tested with an employee sample from five human service nonprofit organizations (N= 337). Hierarchical multiple regression analyses revealed that main and moderated effects relating to identification supported the notion that occupational stress would be reduced when there was congruence of distal and proximal identifications and distal and proximal outcome types. However, stress‐buffering effects were also found for high identifiers and low identifiers that were not in line with hypotheses posing questions for the definitions of distal and proximal identifications. Findings are discussed in terms of theoretical and practical implications. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Perturbative treatment of anharmonic vibrational effects on bond distances: An extended langevin dynamics method
Authors: Shen Tonghao , Su Neil Qiang , Wu Anan , Xu Xin
Published: December 2013

In this work, we first review the perturbative treatment of an oscillator with cubic anharmonicity. It is shown that there is a quantum‐classical correspondence in terms of mean displacement, mean‐squared displacement, and the corresponding variance in the first‐order perturbation theory, provided that the amplitude of the classical oscillator is fixed at the zeroth‐order energy of quantum mechanics. This correspondence condition is realized by proposing the extended Langevin dynamics (XLD), where the key is to construct a proper driving force. It is assumed that the driving force adopts a simple harmonic form with its amplitude chosen according to, while the driving frequency chosen as the harmonic frequency. The latter can be improved by using the natural frequency of the system in response to the potential if its anharmonicity is strong. By comparing to the accurate numeric results from discrete variable representation calculations for a set of diatomic species, it is shown that the present method is able to capture the large part of anharmonicity, being competitive with the wave function‐based vibrational second‐order perturbation theory, for the whole frequency range from ∼4400 cm−1(H2) to ∼160 cm−1(Na2). XLD shows a substantial improvement over the classical molecular dynamics which ceases to work for hard mode when zero‐point energy effects are significant. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Importance of ligand conformational energies in carbohydrate docking: Sorting the wheat from the chaff
Authors: Nivedha Anita K. , Makeneni Spandana , Foley Bethany Lachele , Tessier Matthew B. , Woods Robert J.
Published: December 2013

Docking algorithms that aim to be applicable to a broad range of ligands suffer reduced accuracy because they are unable to incorporate ligand‐specific conformational energies. Here, we develop a set of Carbohydrate Intrinsic (CHI) energy functions that quantify the conformational properties of oligosaccharides, based on the values of their glycosidic torsion angles. The relative energies predicted by the CHI energy functions mirror the conformational distributions of glycosidic linkages determined from a survey of oligosaccharide‐protein complexes in the protein data bank. Addition of CHI energies to the standard docking scores in Autodock 3, 4.2, and Vina consistently improves pose ranking of oligosaccharides docked to a set of anticarbohydrate antibodies. The CHI energy functions are also independent of docking algorithm, and with minor modifications, may be incorporated into both theoretical modeling methods, and experimental NMR or X‐ray structure refinement programs. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Population pharmacokinetics of paracetamol across the human age‐range from (pre)term neonates, infants, children to adults
Authors: Wang Chenguang , Allegaert Karel , Tibboel Dick , Danhof Meindert , van der Marel Caroline D. , Mathot Ron A.A. , Knibbe Catherijne A.J.
Published: December 2013

In order to characterize the variation in pharmacokinetics of paracetamol across the human age span, we performed a population pharmacokinetic analysis from preterm neonates to adults with specific focus on clearance. Concentration‐time data obtained in 220 neonates (post‐natal age 1–76 days, gestational age 27–42 weeks), infants (0.11–1.33 yrs), children (2–7 yrs) and adults (19–34 yrs) were analyzed using NONMEM 7.2. In the covariate analysis, linear functions, power functions, and a power function with a bodyweight‐dependent exponent were tested. Between preterm neonates and adults, linear bodyweight functions were identified for Q2, Q3, V1, V2, and V3, while for CL a power function with a bodyweight‐dependent exponent k was identified (CLi = CLp × (BW/70)k). The exponent k was found to decrease in a sigmoidal manner with bodyweight from 1.2 to 0.75, with half the decrease in exponent reached at 12.2 kg. No other covariates such as age were identified. A pharmacokinetic model for paracetamol characterizing changes in pharmacokinetic parameters across the pediatric age‐range was developed. Clearance was found to change in a nonlinear manner with bodyweight. Based on the final model, dosing guidelines are proposed from preterm neonates to adolescents resulting in similar exposure across all age ranges.
Aquatic‐to‐terrestrial habitat shift reduces energy expenditure in newts
Authors: Kristín Peter , Gvoždík Lumír
Published: December 2013

Many organisms seasonally modify their standard metabolic rates (SMR). However, the diversity of cues triggering the acclimatization response remains little understood. We examined the influence of experimentally induced aquatic‐to‐terrestrial habitat shift on the thermal sensitivity of SMR in newts. Standard metabolic rates increased with temperature (13–23°C), although consistently lower in terrestrial than aquatic individuals. Motor activity during respirometry trials decreased with temperature at similar rates in both groups. We conclude that in newts, a habitat shift might represent an important modulator of the seasonal acclimatization response in SMR. Lowered SMR suggests the potential to reduce newt maintenance costs and depletion of caloric reserves during the activity‐limited period on land.J. Exp. Zool. 321A: 183–188, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
No evidence of Polyomavirus and EBV infections in Italian patients with mixed cryoglobulinemia infected chronically with HCV
Authors: Comar Manola , Zanotta Nunzia , Del Savio Rossella , Vascotto Fulvia , Calabrese Nadia , Zorat Francesca , Pozzato Gabriele
Published: December 2013

Mixed cryoglobulinemia is a lymphoproliferative disorder associated with hepatitis C virus (HCV). In patients chronically affected by HCV the prevalence of mixed cryoglobulinemia is variable ranging from 0% to 56%. To verify whether polyomaviruses (PyV) play a role in this disorder a total of 222 blood samples from 63 HCV chronic patients, 43 with mixed cryoglobulinemia, 59 chronic lymphocytic leukemia, 50 polytransfused patients, and 50 blood donors were evaluated for Merkel (MCPyV), BKV, JCV, and SV40. EBV was additionally included in the analysis since association with this disorder has been reported. Mixed cryoglobulinemia patients infected chronically with HCV resulted negative for both PyV and EBV. MCPyV was found in 1 subject with Merkel Cell Carcinoma, in 10% of polytransfused and in 10% of blood donors while EBV was detected in 22% of polytransfused, 10% of B‐cell lymphatic leukemia patients and 4% of blood donors (P < 0.01). Taken together, the absence of PyV and EBV in HCV‐mixed cryoglobulinemia patients seems to exclude a direct involvement of these viruses in the pathogenesis of this disease while the presence of MCPyV in healthy individuals, at the same rate as in polytransfused patients, may reinforce data on a minimal role of this virus in other human pathologies. J. Med. Virol. 86:666–671, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Increased prevalence of JC polyomavirus in cervical carcinomas from women infected with HIV
Authors: Alosaimi Bandar , Hampson Lynne , He Xiaotong , Maranga Innocent O. , Oliver Anthony. W. , Hampson Ian N.
Published: December 2013

Although subclinical persistent infections with the human polyomaviruses BKV and JCV are ubiquitous worldwide, these are known to vary in relation to diseases present and geographical location. DNAs from 220 cervical smears and 109 invasive cervical carcinomas obtained from HIV positive and HIV negative Kenyan women of known HPV status were analyzed by nested endpoint PCR for BKV and JCV. BKV–JCV DNA was detected in 5/105 (4.7%) of cervical smears and in 6/37 (16%) of cervical carcinomas from women infected with HIV whereas 9/115 (7.8%) of the cervical smears and 4/72 (5.5%) of the carcinomas were positive in HIV negative women. Nested PCR showed that all 24 samples were positive for JCV and not BKV. JCV was not more prevalent in either HPV positive (P = 0.438) or HPV negative women (P = 0.392). However, 37% of carcinomas and smears which were positive for JCV were also positive for a “high‐risk” oncogenic HPV. Comparison of the incidence of JCV in cervical smears and cervical carcinomas showed a ∼3‐fold increase in samples from HIV positive women with cervical carcinoma (P = 0.025) whereas no significant difference was found between cervical smears and cervical carcinomas from HIV negative women (P = 0.553). These results suggest that JCV may combine with high‐risk HPV infection in women infected with HIV to influence the rate of progression to invasive cervical carcinoma. J. Med. Virol. 86:672–677, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prevalence of type‐specific HPV infection in Uruguay
Authors: Berois Nora , Heard Isabelle , Fort Zoraida , Alonso Rafael , Sica Adela , Moerzinger Patricia , Rodriguez Guillermo , Sancho‐Garnier Hélène , Osinaga Eduardo , Favre Michel
Published: December 2013

The aim of this work was to describe the prevalence of type‐specific Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in women attending organized cervical cancer screening program in Uruguay. Nine hundred sixty‐five liquid cervical cell samples obtained after collection of cervical smears for cytology were assessed for HPV DNA using the Papillocheck system (Greiner BioOne). The overall prevalence of High‐Risk (HR) HPV infections was 20.8% and increased from 16.5% in women with normal cytology to 93.3% in HSIL. Prevalence of HPV 16 and/or 18 was 6.3% and HPV 16 was the most prevalent genotype in normal cytology (3.6%). The five most prevalent genotypes were HPV 16, 31, 51, 56, and 39. The overall prevalence peaked below age 30. This study provides essential baseline information at national level on type‐specific HPV prevalence in Uruguay before the introduction of HPV vaccination. It documents the current prevalence of each of the oncogenic genotypes in a population attending cervical cancer screening program, suggesting that at least 64.7% of high risk lesions are potentially preventable by available HPV vaccines, and possibly augmentable if cross‐protection against non‐vaccine HPV types 31, 33, and 45 is confirmed. J. Med. Virol. 86:647–652, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Keratin 8 is involved in hepatitis B virus replication
Authors: Zhong Qing , An Xuan , Yang Yi‐Xuan , Hu Huai‐Dong , Ren Hong , Hu Peng
Published: December 2013

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection can result in fatal liver diseases, including cirrhosis or liver failure, and its replication and pathogenesis depend on the critical interplay between viral and host factors. This study investigated HBV replication‐related host proteins and the effect of candidate proteins on HBV replication. Isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) were used to measure HBV replication‐related proteins in HepG2 cells and HepG2.2.15 cells. KRT8 was up‐regulated in HepG2.2.15 cells but not in HepG2 cells, and KRT8 was overexpressed in an HBV‐infected patient's liver tissue. This result suggested that KRT8 is involved in HBV replication. To further clarify the relationship between KRT8 and HBV replication, KRT8 gene expression was inhibited by siRNA. The silencing of KRT8 mildly suppressed HBV replication. Moreover, overexpressed KRT8 significantly increased HBV replication, and the inhibition of HBV DNA did not suppress KRT8 expression. Thus, the host protein KRT8 is involved in the replication of HBV DNA, and it dramatically enhances HBV replication. J. Med. Virol. 86:687–694, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Assessment of dried blood samples as an alternative less invasive method for detection of Hepatitis E virus marker in an outbreak setting
Authors: Singh Mini P. , Majumdar Manasi , Budhathoki Bimal , Goyal Kapil , Chawla Yogesh , Ratho Radha K.
Published: December 2013

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the causative agent of hepatitis E. It can be asymptomatic, associated with acute self‐limiting hepatitis or acute liver failure. The conventional diagnosis of HEV infection relies on anti‐HEV IgM serology. The collection of blood samples by venepunture for laboratory confirmation is often difficult during an outbreak. Thus, testing the specimens of dried blood spots (DBS) on filter papers can prove to be a feasible alternative. The present study aimed to evaluate the applicability of anti‐HEV IgM detection from DBS samples and the stability of anti‐HEV IgM detection at varied time interval, at various storage temperatures. Paired blood and DBS sample were collected from 44 jaundiced patients and eight healthy controls during HEV outbreaks. The DBS were tested for anti‐HEV IgM by available ELISA kit with in‐house modifications. Three cut offs were determined, that is, the CO1: kit cut‐off, CO2: mean of negative controls above 3SD and CO3: area under Receiver operating Curve. The sensitivity of anti‐HEV IgM detection ranged from 86–91%. The maximum sensitivity (91%) and specificity (100%) was obtained using CO3. Maximum stability of anti‐HEV IgM antibodies (100%) was observed till 65 days at 4°C. Storage at 37°C significantly reduced anti‐HEV IgM positivity, wherein 42.85% sample became negative by 45 days. DBS showed good sensitivity and specificity for detecting anti‐HEV IgM and can be considered an alternate to serum sample. Moreover, anti‐HEV IgM was stable at 4°C, which makes DBS a preferred method for storage and transportation of the sample to reference laboratory. J. Med. Virol. 86:713–719, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tree‐ring δ18O evidence for the drought history of eastern Tianshan Mountains, northwest China since 1700 AD
Authors: Xu Guobao , Liu Xiaohong , Qin Dahe , Chen Tuo , Wang Wenzhi , Wu Guoju , Sun Weizhen , An Wenling , Zeng Xiaomin
Published: December 2013

We developed an annual tree‐ring δ18O chronology from Larix sibirica in the eastern Tianshan Mountains of northwestern China. Climatic response revealed that tree‐ring δ18O was significantly positively correlated with the mean and maximum July–August temperatures, whereas the July precipitation and relative humidity were significantly negatively correlated with tree‐ring δ18O. The self‐calibrating Palmer drought severity index (sc_PDSI) in July–August was significantly correlated with the tree‐ring δ18O, which reflects the comprehensive effects of the three parameters on tree‐ring δ18O fractionation. We established a robust reconstruction of July–August sc_PDSI that accounted for 38.4% of the total variance of sc_PDSI from 1959 to 2008. The sc_PDSI reconstruction yields new insights on past drought that were not previously realized in other PDSI reconstructions (e.g. Monsoon Asia Drought Atlas) from the region. The reconstruction revealed several wet and dry periods but no trend towards a wetter climate in the eastern Tianshan Mountains during the last two decades. It also detected synergistic effects of the North Atlantic Oscillation and the El Niño‐Southern Oscillation on regional moisture conditions as a result of teleconnections between tropical oceans and mid‐latitude circulation patterns.
Dexamethasone inhibits inflammation and cartilage damage in a new model of post‐traumatic osteoarthritis
Authors: Huebner Kyla D. , Shrive Nigel G. , Frank Cyril B.
Published: December 2013

Corticosteroids are used in musculoskeletal diseases, and offer patient relief. Injections of corticosteroids are recommended for management of osteoarthritis (OA). Current data have shown the role of corticosteroids in ameliorating pain. We hypothesized that repeated intra‐articular injections of high dose dexamethasone would protect the cartilage from damage in a post‐traumatic model of OA. Eighteen female New Zealand White rabbits were used. Twelve underwent surgery to induce OA; six of them received intra‐articular injections of dexamethasone every 3 days for 3 weeks. The other six rabbits served as operated controls. Six additional rabbits served as non‐operated controls. All animals were euthanized 3 weeks post‐surgery. Knees were assessed grossly. Cartilage, synovium, and fat pad were assessed histologically. Synovium and fat pad were analyzed with qPCR and Western blots. Surgical controls had cartilage damage which was supressed with dexamethasone. Dexamethasone significantly decreased synovial expression of interleukin‐1β and collagen I, and a trend to decrease synovial matrix metalloproteinase3 expression. There were also significantly lower levels of interleukin‐1β protein with dexamethasone treatment. Dexamethasone significantly decreased fat pad expression of matrix metalloproteinase13, basic fibroblast growth factor, and interleukin8, and a trend to decrease matrix metalloproteinase3 and transforming growth factorβ expression. Dexamethasone decreased joint inflammation and joint tissue degradation and was chondroprotective in this unique model of PTOA. © 2013 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 32:566–572, 2014.
Local vanadium release from a calcium sulfate carrier accelerates fracture healing
Authors: Paglia David N. , Wey Aaron , Hreha Jeremy , Park Andrew G. , Cunningham Catherine , Uko Linda , Benevenia Joseph , O'Connor J. Patrick , Lin Sheldon S.
Published: December 2013

This study evaluated the efficacy of using calcium sulfate (CaSO4) as a carrier for intramedullary delivery of an organic vanadium salt, vanadyl acetylacetonate (VAC) after femoral fracture. VAC can act as an insulin‐mimetic and can be used to accelerate fracture healing in rats. A heterogenous mixture of VAC and CaSO4 was delivered to the fracture site of BB Wistar rats, and mechanical testing, histomorphometry, micro‐computed tomography (micro‐CT) were performed to measure healing. At 4 weeks after fracture, maximum torque to failure, effective shear modulus, and effective shear stress were all significantly higher (p < 0.05) in rats treated with 0.25 mg/kg VAC–CaSO4 as compared to carrier control rats. Histomorphometry found a 71% increase in percent cartilage matrix (p < 0.05) and a 64% decrease in percent mineralized tissue (p < 0.05) at 2 weeks after fracture in rats treated with 0.25 mg/kg of VAC–CaSO4. Micro‐CT analyses at 4 weeks found a more organized callus structure and higher trending maximum connected z‐ray. fraction for VAC–CaSO4 groups. Evaluation of radiographs and serial histological sections at 12 weeks did not show any evidence of ectopic bone formation. As compared to previous studies, CaSO4 was an effective carrier for reducing the dose of VAC required to accelerate femoral fracture healing in rats. © 2013 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 32:727–734, 2014.
Radiofrequency ablation in metastatic melanoma
Authors: Shashank Arridh , Shehata Mena , Morris David L. , Thompson John F.
Published: December 2013

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive therapy that has, until recently, received limited attention in the management of metastatic melanoma. RFA is well described in the management of primary malignancies of the liver, however limited data are available on its application to metastatic deposits of melanoma occurring in the lung, liver, or adrenal glands. This article explores the basic principles of RFA, its safety, efficacy, and application to metastatic malignancies of the lung, liver and adrenal glands, with particular emphasis on melanoma. Previously published results are reviewed, and we report a small additional series of patients with liver and lung metastases treated in Sydney using RFA. J. Surg. Oncol. 2014 109:366–369. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Simultaneous determination of saflufenacil and its two metabolites in soil samples by ultra‐performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Lan Meijing , Li Shuying , Xu Zhenzhen , Tian Chunxia , Yang Mei , Gui Wenjun , Zhu Guonian
Published: December 2013

Saflufenacil is a new protoporphyrinogen‐IX‐oxidase inhibitor herbicide. When used, it can enter the soil and has a high risk to reach and contaminate groundwater and aquatic systems. A rapid and sensitive method of ultra‐performance LC with MS/MS was developed for the simultaneous determination of saflufenacil and its two metabolites in soil samples. A modified quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe method was applied as the pretreatment procedure. The method was validated by five types of soil samples collected from several regions of China, which all showed good linearity (R2 ≥ 0.9914) and precision (RSD ≤ 26.2%). The average recoveries of the three analytes ranged between 74.1 and 118.9% at spiking levels of 3–300 μg/kg. The method limits of detection (S/N 3:1) and method limits of quantification (S/N 10:1) achieved are in the ranges of 0.25–2.75 and 0.83–9.16 μg/kg, respectively. This indicated that the developed ultra‐performance LC with MS/MS method is a promising analytical tool for monitoring the environmental risks posed by saflufenacil.
The Measurement of the Rate Parameters for the Reactions i‐C3H and n‐C3H + HI → C3H8 + I• over the Temperature Range 293–623 K: Implications for the Standard Heat of Formation of the Propyl Radicals
Authors: Leplat Nicolas , Rossi Michel J.
Published: December 2013

An investigation of the absolute rate constants of the metathesis reactions i‐C3H + HI → C3H8 + I• (1) and n‐C3H + HI → C3H8 + I• (2) was performed using a newly developed apparatus. The obtained Arrhenius expressions are k1 = 1.94 (±0.42) × 10−11 exp(−6.190 (±0.855)/RT) and k2 = 6.49 (±1.86) × 10−11 exp(−11.084 (±0.913)/RT) (R = 8.314 J K−1 mol−1) over the temperature range 293–623 K (A in cm3 molec−1 s−1, Ea in kJ mol−1). Two Knudsen reactors of different geometry coupled to single‐photon (VUV) photoionization mass spectrometry (SPIMS) were successively used. The two propyl isomers were generated externally to and upstream of the reactor and led to thermalized i‐ and n‐C3H free radicals. A minor correction to k2 for the wall loss of n‐C3H (kw) was applied throughout the temperature range, whereas no significant wall loss of i‐C3H could be measured. The obtained results are based on the disappearance of propyl radicals with increasing amounts of HI. Thermochemical parameters of propyl free radicals resulting from the present kinetic measurements are discussed and point toward a slightly lower value for the standard heat of formation of Δf(i‐C3H) compared to the currently accepted value, whereas no significant adjustment for n‐C3H seems to be necessary. The recommended values are Δf(i‐C3H) = 86.6 ± 2.1 kJ mol−1 and Δf(n‐C3H) = 101.1 ± 2.1 kJ mol−1 resulting from a third law evaluation using (i‐C3H) = 289.9 and (n‐C3H) = 290.3 J K−1 mol−1, both values being very close to the values measured by W. Tsang, namely 88 ± 2 and 100 ± 2 kJ mol−1, respectively.
Effects of seminal plasma and the presence of a conceptus on regulation of lymphocyte‐cytokine network in porcine endometrium
Authors: Jalali Beenu Moza , Kitewska Anna , Wasielak Marta , Bodek Gabriel , Bogacki Marek
Published: December 2013

Infusion of seminal plasma in the uterus is known to elicit an instant inflammatory response in the porcine uterus, but whether or not it prepares a uterine immunological response to the presence of conceptuses is not well understood. Seminal plasma induced long‐term modulatory effects and conceptus‐induced immune changes in leukocyte populations were measured by flow cytometry and mRNAs for various cytokines by quantitative reverse‐transcriptase PCR in porcine endometrium collected on Days 6 and 13 from cycling and pregnant animals or from animals given seminal plasma infusions. Seminal plasma infusion induced long‐term modulatory effects, resulting in significantly more endometrial FoxP3‐positive T‐regulatory and T‐helper cells 6 days after infusion as compared to cycling and pregnant animals. The number of T‐cytotoxic and T‐null cells did not change between the studied groups. The early molecular effects of seminal plasma were not observed at 13‐days post‐infusion, although animals on Day 13 of pregnancy did show significantly more T‐cells (of any type investigated). Seminal plasma also showed a delayed effect on cytokine expression, specifically exhibiting a significant increase in interleukin 10 (IL10) and a decrease in granulocyte macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GMCSF) gene expression on Day 13 as compared to Day 6 of cycling or pregnant gilts. The results indicate a delayed regulatory effect of seminal plasma on immune responses in the porcine uterus, which are similar to immune changes generated by implanting conceptuses. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Retrospective on the development of aequorin and aequorin‐based imaging to visualize changes in intracellular free [Ca2+]
Authors: Webb Sarah E. , Karplus Eric , Miller Andrew L.
Published: December 2013

In this review, we take a retrospective look at the discovery and utilization of the Ca2+‐sensitive bioluminescent protein complex, aequorin. We do consider the contribution it has made to our understanding of the natural phenomenon of bioluminescence, but it is in the application of extracted and purified aequorin as a reporter of Ca2+ dynamics in living cells, which is arguably its major contribution to biological and biomedical science. Following its extraction, purification, and subsequent availability in the mid‐1960s, aequorin became the intracellular reporter of choice until it was replaced in the late 1970s by easier‐to‐use fluorescence‐based reporters. From the mid‐1980s onwards, however, aequorin‐based Ca2+ imaging underwent a renaissance following the cloning of the aequorin gene and the emergence of routine techniques to target and express it exogenously in plant and animal systems. The development of aequorin as a tool continues as spectral varieties are being developed that allow simultaneous imaging of Ca2+ dynamics in different cellular organelles and microdomains. We predict that further developments in the use of aequorin, as well as other bioluminescent proteins, will continue, especially in the areas of regenerative medicine and whole organism imaging. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 82: 563–586, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Deviating from safety guidelines during deferiprone therapy in clinical practice may not be associated with higher risk of agranulocytosis
Authors: Elalfy Mohssen , Wali Yasser A. , Qari Mohamad , Al Damanhouri Ghazi , Al‐Tonbary Youssef , Yazman Dilek , Al Hawsawi Zakaria , Karakas Zeynep , Kilinc Yurdanur , Yesilipek M. Akif , Badr Mohamed , Elsafy Usama , Salama Mostafa , Abdel Rahman Yousryeia , Shebl Shebl , Stilman Anne , Toiber Temin Noemi , Tricta Fernando
Published: December 2013

Background

A risk associated with the iron chelator deferiprone is the development of neutropenia or agranulocytosis. Accordingly, the product label recommends weekly blood monitoring and immediate interruption of treatment upon detection of an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) <1.5 × 109/L, out of concern that continued therapy might lead to a more severe drop. However, it is uncertain how these recommendations are followed under real‐life conditions and, if they are not followed, whether continuation of therapy results in increased incidence of agranulocytosis.

Procedure

This non‐interventional surveillance program assessed the monitoring of deferiprone therapy in clinical practice. A total of 294 patients with transfusion‐dependent anemias received deferiprone, as monotherapy or with another chelator, for up to 1 year. The participating physicians were not given any instructions about treatment and monitoring beyond being referred to the information in the package insert.

Results

ANC monitoring was conducted at an average interval of 5 ± 4 weeks, and deferiprone was not always interrupted upon detection of neutropenia. One patient (0.3%) experienced agranulocytosis, and nine others (3%) experienced a total of 11 episodes of neutropenia. All neutropenia episodes resolved; median time to resolution was similar whether or not treatment was interrupted; and no case of neutropenia progressed to agranulocytosis.

Conclusions

These data indicate that less frequent ANC monitoring and continuation of deferiprone therapy during neutropenia are not associated with prolonged neutropenia or with progression to agranulocytosis. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:879–884. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fludarabine, cytarabine, granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor and melphalan (FALG with L‐PAM) as a reduced toxicity conditioning regimen in children with acute leukemia
Authors: Kato Koji , Yoshida Nao , Matsumoto Kimikazu , Matsuyama Takaharu
Published: December 2013

Background

The conventional conditioning regimen for patients with leukemia prior to allogeneic stem cell transplantation is myeloablation to eradicate residual leukemic cells and host immunocompetent cells. This helps prevent leukemic relapse as well as rejection after transplantation. A myeloablative conditioning regimen with busulfan (BU) or total body irradiation (TBI) is effective for eradication of leukemic cells but is also associated with significant toxicities in the acute or late phase in pediatric patients. In an effort to minimize these adverse effects, we conducted bone marrow transplantation (BMT) from unrelated volunteer donors using a conditioning regimen without BU or TBI.

Procedure

Ten patients with acute leukemia in first or second remission were given a “non‐BU, non‐TBI conditioning regimen,” which consisted of fludarabine (FLU), cytarabine (CA), and melphalan (L‐PAM) after FLAG combined with L‐PAM.

Results

Engraftment was obtained in all patients, and two patients died of relapse. Eight of 10 patients have been disease‐free for a median of 126 months (116–142) after transplantation. The overall survival, event‐free survival, relapse rate, and treatment‐related mortality were 80.0%, 80.0%, 20.0% and 0.0%, respectively. In female patients, spontaneous menstruation with normal luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), and estradiol (E2) levels was observed in all four patients at post‐pubertal age.

Conclusions

This conditioning regimen of FLAG combined with L‐PAM (which did not contain BU and TBI) was associated with good outcomes and minimal late adverse effects in children with acute leukemia who have undergone allogeneic BMT from unrelated volunteer donors. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:712–716. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Injection molded self‐hybrid composites based on polypropylene and natural fibers
Authors: Pérez‐Fonseca A.A. , Robledo‐Ortíz J.R. , Moscoso‐Sánchez F.J. , Rodrigue D. , González‐Núñez R.
Published: December 2013

Self‐hybrid thermoplastic composites (combination of two fiber sizes) were obtained by injection molding using pine or agave fibers with polypropylene (PP). The effect of self‐hybridization was determined through mechanical properties and water absorption for different total fiber contents between 10 and 30% wt. The results showed that impact strength (30% of fiber) and tensile modulus (20% of fiber) were improved by self‐hybridization compared with composites formulated with only one fiber size. Flexural properties were not improved by self‐hybridization. On the other hand, the combination of two fiber sizes had no effect on the water absorption behavior of these composites. Overall, the total fiber content was found to be an important parameter with 20% being the optimum condition where self‐hybridization provides the best mechanical properties. POLYM. COMPOS., 35:1798–1806, 2014. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers