bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Residence time distribution and oxygen transfer in a novel constructed soil filter
Authors: Nemade P. D. , Dutta S. M. , Shankar H. S.
Published: September 2009

BACKGROUND: The constructed soil filter (CSF), also known as soil biotechnology is a system for water renovation, which makes use of formulated media, culture of soil micro‐ and macro‐organisms, additives and plantation to purify water and wastewater. The process gives benefits in terms of applicability across very small to large scale, natural aeration, absence of moving parts, no biological sludge generation, odor free green aesthetic ambience.

RESULTS: Residence time distribution (RTD) studies were carried out using laboratory scale CSF. Pulse potassium bromide tracer tests were carried out to determine RTD, and the Peclet number found to be 9–13 for a 2 m bed, and 2–3 for a 0.30 m bed with oxygen transfer of 0.08 h−1.

CONCLUSION: The two‐channel dispersion model for flow behavior shows a good fit to the experimental data, indicating a reactor Peclet number 9–13 for a 2 m bed and 2–3 for a 0.3m bed. Oxygen transfer studies carried out using various methods gave an oxygen transfer coefficient of about 0.08 h−1. Wastewater purification studies indicate overall COD removal rate of around 50 mg L−1 h−1, suggesting that highly aerobic conditions are prevalent in the CSF system. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Sonographic appearance of focal fatty infiltration of the pancreas
Authors: Yang Dal Mo , Kim Hyun Cheol , Ryu Jung Kyu , Joo Kwang Ro , Ahn Kyu Jeong
Published: September 2009

We report the sonographic, CT, and MRI findings in a case of focal fatty infiltration of the pancreas. Sonography revealed an echogenic mass in pancreas head. On CT, the mass was hypodense. The mass showed same signal intensity to the surrounding normal pancreas on in‐phase T1‐weighted MR images and a loss of signal intensity on opposed‐phase MR images. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2010
Living in times of solidarity: Fair trade and the fractured life worlds of Guatemalan coffee farmers
Authors: Arce Alberto
Published: September 2009

This paper examines the social effects of fair trade transactions emerging from policies to expand the market around the globe. Focusing on the case of coffee farmers in Guatemala, it examines tensions that are created in local organisational networks linked to production, processing and certification of fair trade organic coffee and how these tensions fracture and fragment the life worlds of these coffee farmers. While the fair trade market has provided positive opportunities for rural producers the research finds that network separation and market exclusion are also social expressions of involvement in fair trade. It is argued that fair trade policies need to reflect a more nuanced understanding of household and community level consequences of production for the fair trade market. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Responsible retailing: Regulating fair and ethical trade
Authors: Robinson Pamela K.
Published: September 2009

Deregulation in the 1980s and 1990s reaffirmed a market approach to the global trading of goods. Suggestions that this contributed to unfair terms of trade and poor labour conditions led to calls for greater corporate accountability. Following pressure to improve conditions, companies embraced a range of voluntary initiatives under the umbrella of fair and ethical sourcing. This article examines these commitments on the ground, in a global banana supply chain. Taking the case of bananas is significant because the major corporations at each end of the chain are in a potential position to orchestrate fair and ethical trade. Despite this potential for standards to be upheld, the case of bananas suggests that whilst supermarkets continue to drive down consumer prices, voluntary initiatives will fall short of their guarantees. This leads the paper to consider the policy implications of a more regulated approach to fair and equitable trade in the world's supply chains. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An investigation of solar erythemal ultraviolet radiation in the tropics: a case study at four stations in Thailand
Authors: Janjai Serm , Kirdsiri Keerati , Masiri Itsara , Nunez Manuel
Published: September 2009

Our study examines a 5‐year data set of erythemal ultraviolet radiation (EUV) collected at four locations in Thailand: Chiang Mai (18.78°N, 98.98°E), Ubon Ratchathani (15.25°N, 104.87°E), Nakhon Pathom (13.82°N, 100.04°E) and Songkhla (7.20°N, 100.60°E). Seasonal changes are strongly influenced by the wet and dry season in this tropical environment, with maximum daily and noontime irradiances being reached in April or May, prior to the onset of the wet season. Transmission by aerosols, estimated by comparison of cloudless measured irradiance with a cloudless sky model, ranges from 51% at Chiang Mai to 83% at Songkhla during the dry season. By contrast, higher transmissions characterise the wet season when values around 90% are reached. Cloud cover further depletes the EUV irradiance and wet season transmissions range from 68% at Chiang Mai to 79% at Songkhla. Three of the four stations record increases in EUV irradiance over the study period. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Local atmospheric decoupling in complex topography alters climate change impacts
Authors: Daly Christopher , Conklin David R. , Unsworth Michael H.
Published: September 2009

Cold air drainage and pooling occur in many mountain valleys, especially at night and during winter. Local climate regimes associated with frequent cold air pooling have substantial impacts on species phenology, distribution and diversity. However, little is known about how the degree and frequency of cold air drainage and pooling will respond to a changing climate. Evidence suggests that, because cold pools are decoupled from the free atmosphere, these local climates may not respond in the same way as regional‐scale climates estimated from coarse‐grid general circulation models. Indeed, recent studies have demonstrated that historical changes in the frequency of synoptic conditions have produced complex spatial variations in the resulting climatic changes on the ground. In the mountainous terrain of the Oregon Cascades, we show that, at relatively exposed hill slope and ridge top locations, air temperatures are highly coupled to changes in synoptic circulation patterns at the 700‐hPa level, whereas in sheltered valley bottoms, cold air pooling at night and during winter causes temperatures to be largely decoupled from, and relatively insensitive to, 700‐hPa flow variations. The result is a complex temperature landscape composed of steep gradients in temporal variation, controlled largely by gradients in elevation and topographic position. When a projected climate warming of 2.5 °C was combined with likely changes in the frequency distribution of synoptic circulation, modelled temperature changes at closely spaced locations diverged widely (by up to 6 °C), with differences equalling or exceeding that of the imposed regional temperature change. Because cold air pooling and consequent atmospheric decoupling occur in many mountain valleys, especially at high latitudes, this phenomenon is likely to be an important consideration in understanding the impacts of climate change in mountainous regions. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Study of water stress and droughts with indicators using daily data on the Bani river (Niger basin, Mali)
Authors: Roudier Philippe , Mahe Gil
Published: September 2009

As in most parts of Africa, the Bani basin (Niger River, Mali) is threatened by climate changes. This study focuses on drought hazards and its indicators as derived from the climatic moisture index using the monthly data for the period (1963–2000) in order to examine the Bani basin's vulnerability to water stress. In this study, water deficit (drought) was logically addressed using the standardized precipitation index on a 10‐day time step. The inadequacies in the standardized precipitation index while estimating water deficit within the basin based on technical issues result in the usage of the effective drought index (EDI). This robust index is specially designed for daily data computation and uses daily data efficiently while estimating water deficit. Three regions were identified to be threatened by droughts (length, number, and evolution in time) within the basin, using EDI as a tool of investigation. It also shows that droughts seem to be less frequent but of a longer duration due to the increasing trend of total dry days over the study period. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
An analysis of mid‐summer rainfall occurrence in eastern China and its relationship with large‐scale warming using generalized linear models
Authors: Wang Yi , Yan Zhongwei , Chandler Richard E.
Published: September 2009

Daily rainfall occurrence in mid‐summer (July and August) in eastern China was analyzed using binomial generalized linear models based on observations at 303 stations during 1961–2007. The models include an intraseasonal variation, previous days' rainfall to represent the Markov chain structure of daily rainfall occurrence, and the south–north thermal gradient in eastern China, expressed by a zonal mean temperature difference in the region, to represent a large‐scale climate background. The zonal temperature difference between south and north China exhibits a strong effect on the regional pattern of rainfall occurrence at an inter‐annual timescale. A weakened thermal gradient in association with large‐scale warming can thus be linked with more frequent precipitation in southern China but less in northern China during the last few decades. The zonal temperature difference was also found to modulate the local autocorrelation of rainfall occurrence. In particular, a weakened thermal gradient (1° reduction) leads to an increase of about 10% in the probability of rain following a dry day in southern China, but a decrease of more than 10% in northern China. Consequently, current large‐scale warming and hence a decreased zonal temperature difference in eastern China has prolonged (shortened) the duration of dry spells in northern (southern) China by about 20% (15%). Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Climatological radar delineation of urban convection for Atlanta, Georgia
Authors: Bentley Mace L. , Ashley Walker S. , Stallins J. Anthony
Published: September 2009

The distribution of warm season (June through August) thunderstorm activity surrounding Atlanta, Georgia from 1997 to 2006 was determined utilizing composite reflectivity data obtained from the network of National Weather Service radars. The radar data, at 2 km and 5 min spatial and temporal resolutions, allows for high resolution analyses of urban convective trends when grid averaged over a 10‐year period.

Maxima of medium‐ to high‐reflectivity episodes were identified to the north of and within downtown Atlanta and immediately east of the primary urban expansion of the central business district (CBD). Additional enhanced, high‐reflectivity areas are found in southern Fulton and Clayton counties, located south of downtown Atlanta. These regions are also collocated with high‐density urban expansion south of the Atlanta CBD. The research presented is the most comprehensive spatial and temporal analysis of grid averaged composite reflectivity data for urban convection conducted to date. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Long‐term hydrological changes of the Seine River flow (France) and their relation to the North Atlantic Oscillation over the period 1950–2008
Authors: Massei Nicolas , Laignel Benoit , Deloffre Julien , Mesquita Johanna , Motelay Anne , Lafite Robert , Durand Alain
Published: September 2009

The variability of Seine River flow (France) was investigated using daily time series over the period of 1950–2008. The study aimed at characterizing the dominant modes explaining the variability of flow and at investigating their possible link with the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) as the dominant climate regime in the region. The Seine River flow was affected by a statistically significant increasing trend across the period. The hydrologic regime of the Seine River was found to be highly variable and seem to occur later in the year, approximately, since the end of the 1980s. Annual minimum, maximum and mean flow time series exhibited an obvious change around 1970. Continuous wavelet transform (CWT) of flow revealed energetic peaks highly localized in time, defining three time periods: before 1970, between 1970 and 1990 and after 1990. Two interannual modes (17 and 5–9 years) occur, respectively, around 1970 and in the early 1990s. The same observations on precipitation CWT ensure a climatic origin to these interannual modes. The annual oscillation was always strongly represented in flow and was affected by an increase in power from 1990 until the end of the time series. Comparison between NAO and annual flow anomalies revealed similar trend behaviour characterized by a change around 1970 towards more positive NAO indices and positive flow anomalies. In addition, CWT of NAO revealed similar modes of variability around 17 and 5–9 years as flow interannual modes. This highlighted a possible link between NAO and hydrometeorological processes in the region. The flow fluctuations (interannual modes and trend) expressing this potential link would explain approximately 23% of total variance of Seine River flow and would even reach 35% of the variance after removal of the annual cyclicity. These results would then emphasize the potential strong control of NAO on the variability of Seine River discharge. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Quantitative assessment of climate change and human impacts on long‐term hydrologic response: a case study in a sub‐basin of the Yellow River, China
Authors: Wang Jiahu , Hong Yang , Gourley Jonathan , Adhikari Pradeep , Li Li , Su Fengge
Published: September 2009

In this study we developed an impact factor formula (IFF) to quantitatively attribute separately the impacts of climate change and local human activities on hydrological response (i.e. run‐off) in a sub‐basin of Yellow River for the period 1950–2000. Using the daily climatic data, we first calibrated and verified the variable infiltration capacity (VIC) hydrological model to the baseline period 1955–1970. Then we developed the basin's natural run‐off for the following three decades (1971–2000) using the VIC model without considering local human impacts, as the VIC model is benchmarked by the 1960's hydrological regime.

On the basis of observed precipitation, run‐off and reconstructed natural run‐off data from 1971 to 2000, we quantified their long‐term trend, decadal and annual variations. Using daily climatic observations, we showed that the precipitation and run‐off have decreased from the baseline decade, the 1960s, indicating a drier hydrological regime for recent decades. We further applied the IFF to quantitatively attribute separately the impacts of reduced precipitation and increased temperatures from climate change and then of local human activities on hydrological run‐off response. It was found that climate change has a greater impact than human activities on the basin's run‐off for the three consecutive decades. The pCC (percentage change of run‐off due to climate change impact) is found to be 89% followed by 66% and 56% in 1970s, 1980s and 1990s, respectively. Over the decades, pHA (percentage change of run‐off due to human activities) has continuously increased from 11% to 44%. If the trend continues, in future, the pHA is going to outweigh pCC in this basin. This study provides a quantitative assessment methodology for water resources managers to understand the changing process of the hydrological cycle and attribute its causative factors in a sub‐basin of the Yellow River. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Simulation of the intraseasonal and the interannual variability of rainfall over West Africa with RegCM3 during the monsoon period
Authors: Sylla M. B. , Dell'Aquila A. , Ruti P. M. , Giorgi F.
Published: September 2009

Intraseasonal and interannual variability of rainfall is simulated using the International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP) Regional Climate Model (RegCM3) over West Africa. The intraseasonal variability of rainfall showing three distinct phases and the monsoon jump is well reproduced in the simulation. In addition, the regional model shows that while the monsoon rainbelt moves to the Sahel, the African Easterly Jet (AEJ) undergoes a northward migration and a weakening from June to August, when the core is at its northernmost location. This coexists with the appearance and the strengthening of the Tropical Easterly Jet (TEJ), the development and increased activity of the African Easterly Waves (AEWs), and the intensification and northward shift of the ascent between the AEJ and the TEJ core levels and axis. Similarly, the simulated interannual variability of rainfall over West Africa, the Guinea region, and the Sahel, as well as the variability of atmospheric features during contrasting wet and dry years, is also well captured. In fact, in the simulation during dry years the AEWs activity is decreased while the AEJ is strengthened and migrates southward, the TEJ becomes weaker, and the ascent between the levels of the AEJ and the TEJ decreases. The simulated rainfall variability and the behavior of the related features during the rainy season and during contrasting wet and dry years are in line with previous studies that used observations and reanalysis. We conclude that this model performance is of sufficient quality for application to the study of climate processes and mechanisms over West Africa. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Comparison of EUROSEM, WEPP, and MEDRUSH model calculations with measured runoff and soil‐loss data from rainfall simulations in Hungary
Authors: Centeri Csaba , Barta Károly , Jakab Gergely , Szalai Zoltán , Bíró Zsolt
Published: September 2009

A useful method to evaluate the effectiveness of soil‐erosion models is to compare the models' soil‐loss and runoff calculations with measured data from experimental plots subjected to artificial rainfall. This study was conducted to develop a set of statistics to compare the performance of the soil‐erosion models EUROSEM, WEPP, and MEDRUSH. Rainfall (six rainfall intensities, two replicates), runoff, and soil‐loss data from artificial plots at two locations in Hungary were used to assess the accuracy of the different models. The soil types within the plots represented a wide range of soil properties and are soil types that are commonly used for agriculture. The results showed that the three soil‐erosion models performed with varying effectiveness dependent on basic soil properties. However, statistical analysis showed the EUROSEM model to be the best for estimating soil loss in Hungary.
Optimization of tip material and shape for near‐UV TERS in Si structures
Authors: Poborchii Vladimir , Tada Tetsuya , Kanayama Toshihiko , Geshev Pavel
Published: September 2009

High spatial resolution stress mapping of Si device structures is in high demand throughout electronic industry. This problem can be solved by application of the tip‐enhanced Raman scattering (TERS) to Si structures. This work involves searching for a suitable TERS material for the near‐UV spectral range that is favorable for Raman mapping of Si structures. We show both theoretically and experimentally that Al is a good Raman enhancer at the 363.8 nm wavelength. Taking into account Raman selection rules of Si and high dielectric contrast between Si and air, we employed an inclined Al‐coated Si atomic force microscope (AFM) tip that is also suitable for the top‐illumination geometry of the experiment. We succeeded in detecting of a weak TERS signal of strained Si. Possible ways of improvement of the Si TERS signal/noise ratio are discussed. An Al‐particle‐topped AFM tip is considered as a promising solution to the problem. A prototype tip was fabricated. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of pottery from Republic of Macedonia II. Raman and infrared analyses of glazed pottery finds from Skopsko Kale
Authors: Raškovska A. , Minčeva‐Šukarova B. , Grupče O. , Colomban Ph.
Published: September 2009

Byzantine and Ottoman pottery shards from Skopsko Kale, Republic of Macedonia (27 samples) were analyzed by infrared (IR) and micro‐Raman spectroscopies. IR spectroscopy provided data for assessing the firing temperature of the ceramic body as well as the basic mineralogical composition, while micro‐Raman spectroscopy was used for studying the glazes as well as for estimating the mineralogical composition of the ceramic body. The firing temperature of the Byzantine pottery was more uniform and ranged between 700 and 800 °C. In the case of the Ottoman pottery, a clear distinction between two different firing temperatures in the samples was made, thereby dividing them into two groups (700–800 and 800–900 °C). According to the previously established relationship between glaze composition and Raman parameters, the glazes in all analyzed samples were found to be lead‐based, with firing temperature below 700 °C. A total of 25 different mineral phases was identified in the body of the ceramics. Some pigments were also identified in the pottery glazes. Oleic acid (oil) and apatite residues (protein?) were identified in one sample. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Confocal Raman microscopy for simultaneous monitoring of partitioning and disordering of tricyclic antidepressants in phospholipid vesicle membranes
Authors: Fox Christopher B. , Harris Joel M.
Published: September 2009

Characterization of drug–membrane interactions is important in order to understand the mechanisms of action of drugs and to design more effective drugs and delivery vehicles. Raman spectra provide compositional and conformational information of drugs and lipid membranes, respectively, allowing membrane disordering effects and drug partitioning to be assessed. Traditional Raman spectroscopy and other widely used bioanalytical techniques such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) typically require high sample concentrations. Here, we describe how temperature‐controlled, optical‐trapping confocal Raman microscopy facilitates the analysis of drug–membrane interactions using micromolar concentrations of drug, while avoiding drug depletion from solution by working at even lower lipid concentrations. The potential for confocal Raman microscopy as an effective bioanalytical tool is illustrated using tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), which are cationic amphiphilic molecules that bind to phospholipid membranes and influence lipid phase transitions. The interaction of these drugs with vesicle membranes of differing head‐group charge is investigated while varying the ring and side‐chain structure of the drug. Changes in membrane structure are observed in Raman bands that report intra‐ and intermolecular orderversustemperature. The partitioning of drugs into the membrane can also be determined from the Raman scattering intensities. These results demonstrate the usefulness of confocal Raman microscopy for the analysis of drug–membrane systems at biologically relevant drug concentrations. Effective tools for monitoring drug–membrane interactions are crucial for rational design of new drugs. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Silver nanorods used to promote SERS as a quantitative analytical tool
Authors: Gu Geun Hoi , Suh Jung Sang
Published: September 2009

We have fabricated silver nanorod arrays by electrodepositing the nanorods evenly in the shallow pores of porous anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) templates. The diameter and length were 28 and 44 nm, respectively. The maxima of the transverse and longitudinal modes of the surface plasmon were near 417 and 511 nm, respectively. A good surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectrum was observed by excitation with the 514.5‐nm laser line. The SERS intensity increased almost linearly upon malachite green isothiocyanate adsorption on the tips of the silver nanorods as the concentration of the mother solutions increased. Our results show that silver nanorods fabricated on AAO templates could be used as an SERS substrate for quantitative analyses. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Probing antiaromaticity: resonance Raman investigation of a series of differently substituted boroles
Authors: Köhler Juliane , Lindenmeier Sonja , Fischer Ingo , Braunschweig Holger , Kupfer Thomas , Gamon Daniela , Chiu Ching‐Wen
Published: September 2009

We report an investigation of four differently substituted boroles by resonance Raman (RR) spectroscopy with the aim of gaining insight into the structural changes that occur upon electronic π–π* excitation in the five‐membered BC4 ring. Such boroles are prototypes for the theory of antiaromaticity, because the empty pz orbital at the boron interacts with the π system of the carbon backbone to delocalize the four π electrons. The magnitude of this interaction depends on the substituents at the boron atom. In all compounds, an intense band appears around 1600 cm−1, which can be assigned to a CC stretching vibration. The selective amplification of this mode indicates an expansion of the borole ring upon electronic excitation. The resonant enhancement of another mode at around 1300 cm−1, which can be assigned to a vibration between the boron and the substituent, gives evidence that the degree of antiaromaticity in the borole depends strongly on the interaction between the substituent at the boron atom with the empty pz orbital of the boron. When the boron is connected to a ferrocene, this band appears with high intensity, indicating a strong interaction between B and Fe. Furthermore, we studied the dependence of the excitation wavelength on the Raman intensities. In addition, we used DFT calculations to determine the vibrational wavenumbers. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of thermal treatment on physicochemical composition and sensory qualities, including ‘foxy’ methyl anthranilate of interspecific variety Golden Muscat (Vitis vinifera × Vitis labrusca) fortified wine made in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Chien‐Hao , Chang Ming‐Hsu , Shih Ming‐Kwei , Jiang Chii‐Ming , Wu Ming‐Chang
Published: September 2009

BACKGROUND: The major defect of the interspecific variety Golden Muscat (Vitis vinifera × Vitis labrusca) is the inheritance of the specific foxy off‐flavours from the parent species Vitis labrusca. Thermal treatment is a traditional method of producing fortified wine that originated from the subtropical Portuguese island of Madeira. This technique was used to treat Golden Muscat fortified wine in order to investigate the effects of thermal treatment on the physicochemical composition and sensory qualities of the wine.

RESULTS: The control wine had the lowest total phenol concentration, total flavonol concentration and total acidity. Increased colour intensity in all thermal‐treated samples was detected. The amount of foxy methyl anthranilate in the wine decreased significantly (P < 0.05) after thermal treatment. Panellists indicated that, compared to the control wine, the thermal‐treated wines had higher flavour complexity, flavour intensity, persistence and balance. The control wine exhibited an unpleasant foxy flavour.

CONCLUSION: These results suggest that the thermal treatment technique can be used for the production of Golden Muscat fortified wines with desirable flavour. This technique could assist local winemakers to produce an interspecific variety Golden Muscat fortified wine of acceptable quality. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Visible light induces no formation in sperm and endothelial cells
Authors: Ankri Rinat , Friedman Harry , Savion Naphtali , Kotev‐Emeth Shlomo , Breitbart Haim , Lubart Rachel
Published: September 2009

Background

Visible light‐based stimulation using low‐intensity lasers, LEDs, and broadband visible light devices has been recently introduced for therapy of human tissues in the absence of exogenous photosensitizers. Nitric oxide (NO) formation might be a potential mechanism for photobiomodulation because it is synthesized in cells by nitric oxide synthase (NOS), which contains both flavin and heme groups that absorb visible light. NO synthesis may also result from increased reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are found in various cell cultures following visible light illumination. NO is mainly known for inducing blood vessel dilation by endothelial cells, and in sperm cells NO is considered as an important agent in acrosome reaction and capacitation process, which are essential for successful fertilization.

Purpose

To study NO formation in endothelial and sperm cells following visible light irradiation.

Materials and Methods

Sperm and endothelial cells were illuminated with broadband visible light, 400–800 nm, 130 mW/cm2, for 5 minutes. During illumination, the endothelial cells were incubated in PBS free of Ca+2 and Mg+2, and the sperm cells were incubated in NKM buffer, to induce “stress conditions.” NO production was quantified by using the Griess reagent which reacts with nitrite in the medium to yield an Azo compound which has an absorption band at 540 nm.

Results

Visible light illumination increased NO concentration both in sperm and endothelial cells. Blue light was more effective than red. Light‐induced NO occurred only when endothelial cells were incubated in PBS free of Ca+2 and Mg+2, and in sperm cells, only when incubated in NKM.

Conclusion

Light induces NO formation in endothelial and sperm cells. In endothelial cells, NO formation may explain previous results demonstrating enhanced wound healing and pain relief following illumination. In illuminated sperm cells, NO formation may account for the enhanced fertilization rate. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Survival after orthotopic liver transplantation: The impact of antibody against hepatitis B core antigen in the donor
Authors: Yu Lei , Koepsell Thomas , Manhart Lisa , Ioannou George
Published: September 2009

Liver transplantation using grafts from donors with antibody against hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HBc) increases the recipients' risk of developing hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection post-transplantation. Our aim was to assess whether using such grafts was associated with reduced posttransplantation survival and whether this association depended on recipients' prior exposure to HBV on the basis of their pretransplantation serological patterns. Data were derived from the United Network for Organ Sharing on adult, cadaveric, first-time liver transplants performed between 1994 and 2006. Among recipients who did not have HBV infection before transplantation, those with anti-HBc–positive donors had significantly worse unadjusted posttransplantation patient survival than recipients with anti-HBc–negative donors [hazard ratio, 1.35; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.21-1.50]. However, after adjustments for other predictors of posttransplantation survival, including donor age, donor race, and recipient underlying liver diseases, patient survival was not significantly different between the 2 groups (hazard ratio, 1.09; 95% CI, 0.97-1.24). Among recipients without antibody against hepatitis B surface antigen (anti-HBs), use of anti-HBc–positive donor grafts was associated with a trend toward worse survival (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.18; 95% CI, 0.95-1.46), whereas no such trend was observed among recipients positive for anti-HBs. In conclusion, in patients without HBV infection before transplantation, using anti-HBc–positive donors was not independently associated with worse posttransplantation survival. Matching these donors to recipients with anti-HBs pre-transplantation may be especially safe. Liver Transpl 15:1343–1350, 2009. © 2009 AASLD.
Rapamycin inhibits hepatic fibrosis in rats by attenuating multiple profibrogenic pathways
Authors: Bridle Kim R. , Popa Claudia , Morgan Maelle L. , Sobbe Amy L. , Clouston Andrew D. , Fletcher Linda M. , Crawford Darrell H. G.
Published: September 2009

Hepatic stellate cell transdifferentiation, epithelial-mesenchymal cell transition, and the ductular reaction each contribute to the development of hepatic fibrosis in cholestatic liver diseases. Inhibitors of mammalian target of rapamycin have antifibrotic properties. We evaluated the hypothesis that the antifibrotic action of rapamycin is due to attenuated myofibroblast proliferation in addition to an inhibitory effect on epithelial-mesenchymal transition and the ductular reaction. Hepatic fibrosis was induced by bile duct ligation, and rodents received 1.5 mg/kg/day rapamycin by subcutaneous infusion for 21 days. The expression of various markers of hepatic fibrosis, stellate cell transactivation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and the ductular reaction was compared between treated and untreated animals. Hepatic fibrosis, hepatic procollagen type 1 messenger RNA, and alpha-smooth muscle actin expression were significantly reduced in treated animals. Hepatic stellate cell procollagen expression and proliferation were also reduced by rapamycin. The following markers of epithelial-mesenchymal transition—vimentin protein expression, S100 calcium binding protein A4 and transforming growth factor beta 1 messenger RNA, and the mothers against decapentaplegic homolog signaling pathway—were all reduced after rapamycin treatment. The intensity of the ductular reaction was reduced by rapamycin as assessed by histopathological scoring and by reduced cytokeratin 19 expression. Rapamycin caused a reduction in hepatic progenitor cell proliferation. Together, these data show that multiple profibrogenic pathways are activated in an animal model of cholestasis and that rapamycin attenuates epithelial-mesenchymal transition and the ductular reaction as well as hepatic stellate cell activation. Liver Transpl 15:1315–1324, 2009. © 2009 AASLD.
Plasma disappearance rate of indocyanine green: A tool to evaluate early graft outcome after liver transplantation
Authors: Levesque Eric , Saliba Faouzi , Benhamida Sonia , Ichaï Philippe , Azoulay Daniel , Adam René , Castaing Denis , Samuel Didier
Published: September 2009

Indocyanine green clearance (Cl-ICG) has been used to assess liver function and hepatic blood flow mainly before and after hepatic surgery. Cl-ICG (invasive method) has been reported to be a good marker of early graft function after liver transplantation (LT). The goal of this study was to determine if the indocyanine green plasma disappearance rate (PDR-ICG), measured by a noninvasive technique (LiMON, Impulse Medical System, Munich, Germany), is predictive of complications and graft outcome after LT. From September 2005 to June 2006, 72 LT recipients were included in the study. PDR-ICG was measured daily (from day 0 to day 5 after LT) with a digital sensor after patients were injected with 0.25 mg/kg indocyanine green. A PDR-ICG cutoff level of 12.85%/minute was predictive of the development of a serious postoperative complication. The sequential changes of PDR-ICG enabled us to differentiate 2 groups: (1) patients with early severe complications (hepatic artery thrombosis, primary graft nonfunction, or sepsis) who had a low value of PDR-ICG during the first 5 posttransplantation days (average, 8.8 ± 4.5%/minute) and (2) patients who developed acute rejection and who had a progressive reduction of PDR-ICG between days 0 and 5 (from 25.5 ± 4.8 to 10.3 ± 2.5%/minute; P < 0.002). In conclusion, after LT, PDR-ICG (a noninvasive technique), measured regularly during the first 5 postoperative days, is a safe technique that can predict early postoperative complications. Liver Transpl 15:1358–1364, 2009. © 2009 AASLD.
Role of hydrogen sulfide in hepatic ischemia-reperfusion–induced injury in rats
Authors: Kang Kai , Zhao Mingyan , Jiang Hongchi , Tan Gang , Pan Shangha , Sun Xueying
Published: September 2009

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) displays anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective activities as evidenced by the inhibition of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury and production of lipid peroxidation. H2S also exerts many physiological or pathological effects on livers. Therefore, we designed the present study to investigate the roles of H2S in hepatic ischemia-reperfusion (HIR)–induced injury in rats by measuring H2S levels, H2S synthesizing activity, and cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE) messenger RNA (mRNA) expression. We also applied DL-propargyl glycine (PAG) and sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS) to investigate their effects on the severity of liver injury induced by HIR. The levels of H2S, H2S production activity, and CSE mRNA expression in livers were increased by HIR. Administration of NaHS significantly attenuated the severity of liver injury and inhibited the production of lipid peroxidation, serum inflammatory factors [including nitric oxide, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin 10, and intercellular cell adhesion molecule 1], cell apoptosis, and apoptosis-related proteins (including caspase-3, Fas, Fas ligand, and TNF-α), which were caused or elevated by HIR, whereas PAG aggravated them. However, NaHS or PAG did not show significant effects on the activation of caspase-9, which was also increased by HIR. Although further investigation is required, this study may indicate that H2S plays a protective role in HIR-induced injury. Liver Transpl 15:1306–1314, 2009. © 2009 AASLD.
Enfuvirtide: A safe and effective antiretroviral agent for human immunodeficiency virus–infected patients shortly after liver transplantation
Authors: Teicher Elina , Abbara Chadi , Duclos-Vallée Jean-Charles , Antonini Teresa , Bonhomme-Faivre Laurence , Desbois Delphine , Samuel Didier , Vittecoq Daniel
Published: September 2009

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of an enfuvirtide-based antiretroviral (ARV) regimen on the management of immunosuppression and follow-up in hepatitis C virus (HCV)/hepatitis B virus (HBV)/human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–coinfected liver transplant patients in comparison with a lopinavir/ritonavir-based ARV regimen. Tacrolimus and cyclosporine trough concentrations were determined at a steady state during 3 periods: after liver transplantation without ARV treatment (period 1), at the time of ARV reintroduction (period 2), and 2 to 3 months after liver transplantation (period 3). The findings for 22 HIV-coinfected patients were compared (18 with HCV and 4 with HBV); 11 patients were treated with enfuvirtide and were matched with 11 lopinavir/ritonavir–exposed patients. During period 1, tacrolimus and cyclosporine A doses were 8 and 600 mg/day, respectively, and the trough concentrations were within the therapeutic range in both groups. In period 2, the addition of lopinavir/ritonavir to the immunosuppressant regimen enabled a reduction in the dose of immunosuppressants required to maintain trough concentrations within the therapeutic range (to 0.3 mg/day for tacrolimus and 75 mg/day for cyclosporine). Immunosuppressant doses were not modified by the reintroduction of enfuvirtide, there being no change in the mean trough concentrations over the 3 periods. CD4 cell counts remained at about 200 cells/mm. The HIV RNA viral load remained undetectable. Both groups displayed signs of mild cytolysis and cholestasis due to the recurrence of HCV, whereas no renal insufficiency was observed. Enfuvirtide is an attractive alternative to standard ARV therapy, facilitating the management of drug-drug interactions shortly after liver transplantation. Moreover, the lack of liver toxicity renders this drug valuable in the event of a severe HCV recurrence. Liver Transpl 15:1330–1335, 2009. © 2009 AASLD.
Prevalence of hepatitis E virus infection in liver transplant recipients
Authors: Haagsma Elizabeth B. , Niesters Hubert G. M. , van den Berg Arie P. , Riezebos-Brilman Annelies , Porte Robert J. , Vennema Harry , Reimerink Johan H. J. , Koopmans Marion P. G.
Published: September 2009

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is known to run a self-limited course. Recently, chronic hepatitis E has been described in several immunosuppressed patients after solid organ transplantation. The prevalence of HEV infection after transplantation, however, is unknown. We studied HEV parameters [HEV RNA, HEV immunoglobulin M (IgM), and HEV immunoglobulin G (IgG) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and confirmatory immunoblotting] in a cohort of 285 adult liver transplant recipients. The most recent freeze-stored sera were investigated, and if they were positive, a retrospective analysis was performed. Samples from 274 patients (96.1%) tested negative for all HEV parameters. This included a patient described earlier as having experienced an episode of chronic HEV hepatitis in the past. One patient was found positive for HEV RNA without HEV antibodies. She presently suffers from chronic HEV hepatitis and has also been described before. Sera from 9 patients tested positive for HEV IgG without HEV IgM or HEV RNA. Six of these 9 patients (2.1% of the total) were found to have HEV IgG antibodies in retrospect related to an HEV infection at some time pre-transplant as they also tested positive in a pretransplant serum sample. One of these 9 patients suffered in retrospect from a chronic HEV infection with mild hepatitis between 2 and 5 years after liver transplantation on the basis of the course of HEV RNA, IgM, and IgG, aminotransferases, and liver histology. Overall, the prevalence of acquired HEV hepatitis after liver transplantation was 1% in this cohort. We conclude that liver transplant recipients have a risk for chronic HEV infection, but the prevalence is low. Liver Transpl 15:1225–1228, 2009. © 2009 AASLD.
Severe left-sided heart failure early after liver transplantation
Authors: Schnell Frédéric , Donal Erwan , Lorho Richard , Lavoué Sylvain , Gacouin Arnaud , Compagnon Philippe , Boudjema Karim , Mabo Philippe , Tulzo Yves Le , Camus Christophe
Published: September 2009

Left-sided heart failure (LHF) after liver transplantation (LT) is rare and poorly understood. We performed a case-control study. We reviewed the data of all patients with LHF after LT at our center from November 2000 to July 2007. Each case was matched to 1 LT control without LHF for age, sex, date of transplantation, and liver disease. Twenty of 599 patients developed LHF (3.3%). Pretransplant cardiovascular characteristics and risk factors were similar in cases and controls, except for the prevalence of left ventricular enlargement, which was greater in controls. At the time of diagnosis, the median left ventricular ejection fraction was 25% in cases, and increased afterload was documented by markedly elevated vascular resistances. The prevalence of infection at the time of LHF in cases was higher (55%) than in controls (10%, P = 0.02). The reported causes of LHF were infection [bacterial (n = 1) or viral (n = 7)], intraoperative cardiac arrest (n = 2), and unknown (n = 10). In comparison with their controls, cases with immediate postoperative LHF (day 0) did not have a higher Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score (15 versus 21.5) or infection prevalence rate (17% versus 34%), whereas those with later onset LHF had a significantly higher MELD score (25.5 versus 17, P = 0.01) and infection prevalence rate (71% versus 0%, P = 0.002). Mortality was 45% in cases versus 0% in controls (P = 0.004), and the 11 cases who survived recovered from LHF. In conclusion, LHF after LT carries a high mortality risk and may have different causes. Except for immediate postoperative cases, an infection and an elevated MELD score appear to be determinant. Liver Transpl 15:1296–1305, 2009. © 2009 AASLD.
Pretransplant lymphocyte count predicts the incidence of infection during the first two years after liver transplantation
Authors: Fernández-Ruiz Mario , López-Medrano Francisco , Romo Eva María , Allende Luis María , Meneu Juan Carlos , Fundora-Suárez Yiliam , San-Juan Rafael , Lizasoain Manuel , Paz-Artal Estela , Aguado Jose María
Published: September 2009

Patients with end-stage liver disease (ESLD) show a low absolute number of peripheral blood lymphocyte subpopulations (PBLSs). We investigated if the baseline PBLS could categorize orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) recipients into groups at high or low risk for infection after transplantation. PBLSs were prospectively studied in 63 consecutive patients (42 males; mean age ± standard deviation: 53.5 ± 10.3 years) with ESLD prior to OLT. Thirty-five patients (55.6%) developed a total of 79 infectious episodes during the first 2 years post-OLT. The median total lymphocyte count and PBLS levels [CD3+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, memory (CD45RO+) CD4+ T cells, T cell receptor αβ+ and γδ+ subsets, and CD19+ B cells] at baseline were significantly lower in patients with an infection compared with those without one (P < 0.05). There was a significant correlation between the risk of development of a post-OLT infection and a baseline total lymphocyte count < 1.00 × 103/μL (P = 0.001), a baseline CD3+ T cell count < 0.75 × 103/μL (P = 0.009), and a baseline CD4+ T cell count < 0.5 × 103/μL (P = 0.008). In the multivariate analysis, this association between the baseline total lymphocyte level and infection remained significant (odds ratio: 10.1; 95% confidence interval: 1.9-39.5). In conclusion, the pre-OLT total lymphocyte count identifies a subset of patients at high risk for infection. PBLS monitoring prior to OLT may offer an opportunity for surveillance, tapering of immunosuppression, and preemptive therapy. Liver Transpl 15:1209–1216, 2009. © 2009 AASLD.
Donor mannose-binding lectin gene polymorphisms influence the outcome of liver transplantation
Authors: Cervera Carlos , Balderramo Domingo , Suárez Belén , Prieto Jhon , Fuster Francisco , Linares Laura , Fuster Josep , Moreno Asunción , Lozano Francisco , Navasa Miquel
Published: September 2009

Mannose-binding lectin (MBL) is a C-type lectin produced mainly by the liver that binds to a wide range of pathogens. Polymorphisms at the promoter and exon 1 of the MBL2 gene are responsible for low serum levels of MBL and have been associated with an increased risk of infections. We prospectively analyzed 95 liver transplant recipients. Well-known functionally relevant polymorphisms of the MBL2 gene of the liver donor were examined by gene sequencing. Infectious events were collected prospectively. No differences in the incidence of infections were found according to the donor MBL2 genotypes. Survival was lower in patients receiving a liver graft from a donor with an exon 1 MBL2 variant genotype, and they had higher infection-related mortality (50% versus 14%, P = 0.040). No differences were found according to other polymorphisms involving the promoter and 5′-untranslated region. When we analyzed bacterial infection episodes, we found that patients receiving a liver from a donor with an exon 1 variant genotype had a higher incidence of septic shock (46% versus 11%, P = 0.004). Independent variables associated with graft or patient survival were as follows: receiving a graft from a donor with an exon 1 MBL2 variant genotype [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR), 9.64; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.59-36.0], the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score (aHR, 1.14; 95% CI, 1.05-1.23), and bacterial infections (aHR, 11.1; 95% CI, 2.73-44.9). Liver transplantation from a donor with a variant MBL2 exon 1 genotype was associated with a worse prognosis, mainly because of infections of higher severity. Liver Transpl 15:1217–1224, 2009. © 2009 AASLD.