bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Production of angiotensin‐I‐converting enzyme inhibitory peptides from β‐lactoglobulin‐ and casein‐derived peptides: An integrative approach
Authors: Welderufael Fisseha T. , Gibson Trevor , Jauregi Paula
Published: April 2012

Angiotensin I‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition is one of the mechanisms by which reduction in blood pressure is exerted. Whey proteins are a rich source of ACE inhibitory peptides and have shown a blood pressure reduction effect i.e. antihypertensive activity. The aim of this work was to develop a simplified process using a combination of adsorption and microfiltration steps for the production of hydrolysates from whey with high ACE inhibitory activity and potency; the latter was measured as the IC50, which is the peptide concentration required to reduce ACE activity by half. This process integrates the selective separation of β‐lactoglobulin‐ and casein‐derived peptides (CDP) from rennet whey and their hydrolysis, which results in partially pure, less complex hydrolysates with high bioactive potency. Hydrolysis was carried out with protease N “Amano” in a thermostatically controlled membrane reactor operated in a batch mode. By applying the integrative approach it was possible to produce from the same feedstock two different hydrolysates that exhibited high ACE inhibition. One hydrolysate was mainly composed of casein‐derived peptides with IC50 = 285 μg/mL. In this hydrolysate we identified the well‐known potent ACE‐inhibitor and antihypertensive tripeptide Ile‐Pro‐Pro (IPP) and another novel octapeptide Gln‐Asp‐Lys‐Thr‐Glu‐Ile‐Pro‐Thr (QDKTEIPT). The second hydrolysate was mainly composed of β‐lactoglobulin derived peptides with IC50 =128 μg/mL. This hydrolysate contained a tetrapeptide (Ile‐Ile‐Ala‐Glu) IIAE as one of the two major peptides. A further advantage to this process is that enzyme activity was substantially increased as enzyme product inhibition was reduced. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2012
Identifying bottlenecks in transient and stable production of recombinant monoclonal‐antibody sequence variants in chinese hamster ovary cells
Authors: Mason Megan , Sweeney Bernadette , Cain Katharine , Stephens Paul , Sharfstein Susan T.
Published: April 2012

The increasing demand for antibody‐based therapeutics has emphasized the need for technologies to improve recombinant antibody titers from mammalian cell lines. Moreover, as antibody therapeutics address an increasing spectrum of indications, interest has increased in antibody engineering to improve affinity and biological activity. However, the cellular mechanisms that dictate expression and the relationships between antibody sequence and expression level remain poorly understood. Fundamental understanding of how mammalian cells handle high levels of transgene expression and of the relationship between sequence and expression are vital to the development of new antibodies and for increasing recombinant antibody titers. In this work, we analyzed a pair of mutants that vary by a single amino acid at Kabat position 49 (heavy‐chain framework), resulting in differential transient and stable titers with no apparent loss of antigen affinity. Through analysis of mRNA, gene copy number, intracellular antibody content, and secreted antibody, we found that while translational/post‐translational mechanisms are limiting in transient systems, it appears that the amount of available transgenic mRNA becomes the limiting event on stable integration of the recombinant genes. We also show that amino acid substitution at residue 49 results in production of a non‐secreted HC variant and postulate that stable antibody expression is maintained at a level which prevents toxic accumulation of this HC‐related protein. This study highlights the need for proper sequence engineering strategies when developing therapeutic antibodies and alludes to the early analysis of transient expression systems to identify the potential for aberrant stable expression behavior. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2012
Rapid resolution liquid chromatography for monitoring the quality of stockpiled atropine preparations for injection
Authors: Zimmermann Thomas , Dimmel Andre , Jüttemeyer Sandra , Springer Dietmar , Loch Michael
Published: April 2012

We describe a rapid resolution liquid chromatography (RRLC) method for analyzing atropine sulfate, its degradation products (tropic acid, apoatropine, atropic acid) and other components (e.g. phenol, methylparaben) in injectable medicines that are used by the German armed forces in emergency situations. Chromatography is performed using an acetonitrile/phosphate buffer gradient (pH = 1.0) and an RP 18 column (50 x 4.6 mm, 1.8 µm) with the detection wavelength set at 220 nm. The concentration of the active ingredient (atropine sulfate) in the tested products ranges from about 1 mg•ml‐1 to 10 mg•ml‐1. The concentrations of the detected degradation products range from 0.2% to 4.7% (tropic acid) in relation to the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API). Using shorter separation columns and smaller particle sizes of the stationary phase improved analysis time from 40 to 10 min and reduced the consumption of solvents by approximately 75%. Owing to the pressure conditions (< 200 bar), UHPLC (ultra high performance liquid chromatography) systems are not needed. Comparison of the atropine and tropic acid results obtained with the previously used HPLC (high performance liquid chromatography) method of the MAH (marketing authorization holder) show that there is no indication of a significant difference between the two methods. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development and validation of a UPLC‐ESI‐MS/MS method for the determination of N‐butylscopolamine in human plasma: Application to a bioequivalence study
Authors: Favreto Wagner Alex Jann , Pugens Pinto Ana Maria , Manfio Josélia Larger , Fiametti Karina Graziella , Percio Maycon Fernando , Santos Mauricio Bedim dos
Published: April 2012

A sensitive and fast ultra performance liquid chromatography‐electrospray ionization‐tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC‐ESI‐MS/MS) method for measurements of N‐butylscopolamine in plasma was developed and validated. A single protein precipitation was proposed for the clean up of the plasma and N‐methylhomatropine was added as internal standard (IS). The analyses were carried out using a C18 column and mobile phase of acetonitrile: 5 mM ammonium acetate + 0.1% formic acid (90:10, v/v). The triple quadrupole mass spectrometer equipped with an electrospray source in positive mode, was set up in selective reaction monitoring, to detect precursor → product ion 360.0 → 194.0 m/z and 290.3 → 138.0 m/z transitions, for N‐butylscopolamine and IS, respectively. The method was linear in 0.03 (lower limit of quantitation; LLOQ) – 10.00 ng/ml range for N‐butylscopolamine. Satisfactory selectivity, linearity, precision, accuracy, and robustness were obtained for the UPLC‐ESI‐MS/MS method. The proposed method was successfully applied to a pharmacokinetic study of healthy human volunteers; the results showed that the two scopolamine butylbromide formulations tested are not bioequivalent in rate and extent of absorption. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characteristic distributions of fatty acids in different lipids from Jack beans (Canavalia gladiata DC.)
Authors: Yoshida Hiromi , Yoshida Naoko , Tomiyama‐Sakamoto Yuka , Mizushina Yoshiyuki
Published: April 2012

Extracted lipids obtained from Jack beans (white and red) were fractionated by TLC into nine subfractions. The major components were TAGs (TAG: 43.8–45.7 wt%) and phospholipids (PL: 46.7–47.0 wt%), while other components were also present in minor proportions (0.3–2.7 wt%). The principal fatty acids (FA) are generally palmitic (18.8–28.8%), stearic (0.7–6.8%), oleic (42.0–51.8%), linoleic (16.2–22.8%), and α‐linolenic (3.0–8.2%) acids, the distribution of which differs according to these lipid classes. There were no significant differences (p>0.05) in the positional distribution of FA in the TAG; unsaturated FA (97.5%) were predominantly concentrated in the sn‐2 position while saturated FA (33.3%) primarily occupied the sn‐1 position or sn‐3 position. However, significant differences (p<0.05) in FA distribution existed when the individual PL were compared between the white and red beans. Based on the FA composition of these lipids, it seems that the two cultivars of Jack beans are very similar to each other with a few exceptions. The results could be useful to both producers and consumers for our daily diet to improve value of the Japanese diet.

Practical applications: The lipid composition suggests that these beans could be a good source of nutraceuticals with providing heath benefits. The white and red beans may be well incorporated into our daily Japanese diets to improve nutritional value. The data obtained in this study provide valuable information for manufacturing functional drinks such as Jack bean tea in Japan.
Study of the porous structure of white chocolate by confocal Raman microscopy
Authors: Dahlenborg Hanna , Millqvist‐Fureby Anna , Brandner Birgit D. , Bergenstahl Bjorn
Published: April 2012

Confocal Raman microscopy has been shown to be a useful technique for investigation of white chocolate surfaces. The appearance of protrusions and pores, and the distribution of fat, sucrose, and milk powder at and below the surface of white chocolate pralines were investigated using confocal Raman microscopy. Raman horizontal and depth scans showed that the protrusions and pores continue at least 10 µm into the chocolate shell and that some protrusions and channels mainly consist of fat, while some consisted of a fat layer, leaving a hollow space underneath. Further, the pores and their continuing channels consisted of nothing but air. These findings indicate that the protrusions might be connected to channels where we suggest a pressure driven convective flow of liquid fat from within the chocolate matrix that, depending on temperature, moves up to the surface or goes back into the matrix, leaving an empty pore with a shell of fat at the surface, which in some cases collapse and leaves a hollow pore and channel. Therefore, these findings support that the protrusions could be connected to oil migration in chocolate and, thus, further to fat bloom development.

Practical applications: Confocal Raman microscopy can be used to investigate the local distribution of different components in white chocolate. This technique offers the possibility to acquire the local distribution of different components within the sample, with a resolution down to the optical diffraction limit. Further, the analysis can be performed at ambient conditions, without requiring any special sample preparation or marker molecules. The results obtained by using this technique suggest that specific surface imperfections on chocolate could be part of a network of pore structures at and beneath the chocolate surface, which could be related to oil migration and thus, to fat bloom formation.
Steryl glycosides and acylated steryl glycosides in plant foods reflect unique sterol patterns
Authors: Nyström Laura , Schär Aline , Lampi Anna‐Maija
Published: April 2012

Glycosylated plant sterols (steryl glycosides, SG and acylated steryl glycosides, ASG) are minor glycolipids found in a variety of plants at different levels and in different compositions. They have until now been far less studied than other sterol conjugates, though they possess at least the same potential health benefits as free or esterified plant sterols. Additionally, due to the more hydrophilic conjugated part, they may possess further beneficial properties in forming water‐soluble structures. We studied the content and sterol profiles of glycosylated sterols in various plant foods to be able to better understand their levels in human diets, as well as to identify sources with high levels and/or unique sterol profile for possible extraction for ingredients. Glycosylated sterols contributed up to almost 60% of total sterols in e.g. potatoes, indicating that they indeed are an important group of sterols in plants. The ratio of ASG and SG varied from 0.4 to 3.6, indicating significant differences in the proportions of these two conjugates in various plants. Furthermore, extremely large differences were observed in the sterol profiles not only between but also within different plants, which indicates that the sterol profile of the glycosylated sterols does not always reflect the total sterol composition in the same plant tissue.

Practical applications: Glycosylated sterols have hydrophilic properties owing to the carbohydrate moiety of the conjugate. As a consequence, they could potentially be introduced to water‐based functional foods (unlike the hydrophobic free sterols and sterol esters in current applications). Various plant materials or side streams of food processes were shown to be good sources of these glycosylated plant sterols, and could be used as sources for extraction of glycosylated sterols for food ingredients. Furthermore, the detailed compositional information reported here will provide a basis to select also the desired sterol composition for the product. Finally, the data presented in this paper is invaluable for estimating the contribution of different foods as sources of glycosylated sterols in the diet.

See commentary by Jiménez‐Escrig [p. 615–616]
Epigenetic responses following maternal dietary exposure to physiologically relevant levels of bisphenol A
Authors: Anderson Olivia S. , Nahar Muna S. , Faulk Christopher , Jones Tamara R. , Liao Chunyang , Kannan Kurunthachalam , Weinhouse Caren , Rozek Laura S. , Dolinoy Dana C.
Published: April 2012

Animal studies have linked perinatal bisphenol A (BPA) exposure to altered DNA methylation, but little attention is given to analyzing multiple physiologically relevant doses. Utilizing the viable yellow agouti (Avy) mouse, we examine the effects of developmental exposure through maternal diet to 50 ng BPA/kg (n = 14 litters), 50 μg BPA/kg (n = 9 litters), or 50 mg BPA/kg (n = 13 litters) on global and candidate gene methylation at postnatal day 22. Global methylation analysis reveals hypermethylation in tail tissue of a/a and Avy/a offspring across all dose groups compared with controls (n = 11 litters; P < 0.02). Analysis of coat color phenotype replicates previous work showing that the distribution of 50 mg BPA/kg Avy/a offspring shifts toward yellow (P = 0.006) by decreasing DNA methylation in the retrotransposon upstream of the Agouti gene (P = 0.03). Maternal exposure to 50 μg or 50 ng BPA/kg, however, results in altered coat color distributions in comparison with control (P = 0.04 and 0.02), but no DNA methylation effects at the Agouti gene are noted. DNA methylation at the CDK5 activator‐binding protein (CabpIAP) metastable epiallele shows hypermethylation in the 50 μg BPA/kg offspring, compared with controls (P = 0.02). Comparison of exposed mouse liver BPA levels to human fetal liver BPA levels indicates that the three experimental exposures are physiologically relevant. Thus, perinatal BPA exposure affects offspring phenotype and epigenetic regulation across multiple doses, indicating the need to evaluate dose effects in human clinical and population studies. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neighborhood socioeconomic status modifies the association between individual smoking status and PAH‐DNA adduct levels in prostate tissue
Authors: Rundle Andrew , Richards Catherine , Neslund‐Dudas Christine , Tang Deliang , Rybicki Benjamin A.
Published: April 2012

Interactions between smoking and neighborhood‐level socioeconomic status (SES) as risk factors for higher polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) DNA adduct levels in prostate tissue were investigated. PAH‐DNA adducts were measured by immunohistochemistry with staining intensity measured in optical density units by semiquantitative absorbance image analysis in tumor adjacent tissue from 400 prostatectomy specimens from the Henry Ford Health System in Detroit. For each subject, their U.S. Census tract of residence was classified as being of higher or lower SES using the median value of the distribution of the proportion of tract residents with a high‐school education. Generalized estimating equation models were used to assess interactions between neighborhood‐level SES and smoking status, adjusting for race, age, education level, tumor volume, primary Gleason grade and prostate specific antigen (PSA) at diagnosis. There was a statistical interaction (P = 0.004) between tract‐level SES and smoking status. In lower SES tracts smoking status was not associated with adduct staining, but in higher SES tracts adduct staining intensity was 13% (P = 0.01) higher in ever‐smokers as compared to never‐smokers. Among never‐smokers, living in a lower SES tract was associated with a 25% higher mean staining intensity (P < 0.001). Neighborhood SES modifies the association between individual smoking status and PAH‐DNA adduct levels in prostate tissue. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mechanism of tissue-specific farnesoid X receptor in suppressing the expression of genes in bile-acid synthesis in mice
Authors: Kong Bo , Wang Li , Chiang John Y.L. , Zhang Youcai , Klaassen Curtis D. , Guo Grace L.
Published: April 2012

Activation of farnesoid X receptor (Fxr,

Nr1h4
) is a major mechanism in suppressing bile-acid synthesis by reducing the expression levels of genes encoding key bile-acid synthetic enzymes (e.g., cytochrome P450 [
CYP]7A1/Cyp7a1

and

CYP8B1/Cyp8b1
). FXR-mediated induction of hepatic small heterodimer partner (SHP/Shp,

Nr0b2
) and intestinal fibroblast growth factor 15 (Fgf15; FGF19 in humans) has been shown to be responsible for this suppression. However, the exact contribution of Shp/Fgf15 to this suppression, and the associated cell-signaling pathway, is unclear. By using novel genetically modified mice, the current study showed that the intestinal Fxr/Fgf15 pathway was critical for suppressing both

Cyp7a1

and

Cyp8b1

gene expression, but the liver Fxr/Shp pathway was important for suppressing

Cyp8b1

gene expression and had a minor role in suppressing

Cyp7a1

gene expression. Furthermore,

in vivo

administration of Fgf15 protein to mice led to a strong activation of extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK) and, to a smaller degree, Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) in the liver. In addition, deficiency of either the ERK or JNK pathway in mouse livers reduced the basal, but not the Fgf15-mediated, suppression of

Cyp7a1

and

Cyp8b1

gene expression. However, deficiency of both ERK and JNK pathways prevented Fgf15-mediated suppression of

Cyp7a1

and

Cyp8b1

gene expression.

Conclusion:

The current study clearly elucidates the underlying molecular mechanism of hepatic versus intestinal Fxr in regulating the expression of genes critical for bile-acid synthesis and hydrophobicity in the liver.
A case series of atypical presentations of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Imanirad Iman , Rajasekhar Anita , Zumberg Marc
Published: April 2012

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a heterogeneous disease primarily characterized by thrombocytopenia and microangiopathic hemolytic anemia. Therapeutic plasma exchange has dramatically improved mortality, allowing for emergence of refractory, relapsing, and atypical presentations. In this article, we describe four cases of TTP presenting with minimal schistocytes, mild elevation of lactate dehydrogenase, and symptoms suggestive of macrovascular arterial involvement. With increasing reports of less common presentations of TTP, clinicians should consider this diagnosis in cases of unexplained arterial thrombosis, thrombocytopenia, or hemolytic anemia. Testing for a disintegrin and metalloprotease with thrombospondin Type 1 motif, Member 13 ADAMTS13 activity was extremely useful to help confirm the diagnosis in our series of patients. J. Clin. Apheresis, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Extracorporeal photopheresis: Clinical use so far
Authors: Sanford Kimberly W. , Balogun Rasheed A.
Published: April 2012

Extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP or photopheresis) is an advanced therapeutic apheresis procedure in which blood is separated into its various components and the isolated buffy coat is treated with 8‐methoxypsoralen (a photoactivating drug), exposed to ultraviolet light and returned to the patient. All other remaining blood components are also returned to the patient. The purpose of this procedure is immunomodulation. The treated leukocytes, specifically T‐cells, are returned to the patient's circulation and will induce cytotoxicity and reduce proliferation of new T‐cells. In the United States, ECP was initially approved for the treatment of cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma by the US Food and Drug Administration in the late 1980s. Since that time, it has been used as an “off‐label” therapy to treat several other autoimmune diseases in the United States and even more extensively in Europe and Asia. The following review is limited to the current clinical use of ECP in cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma, Crohn's disease, systemic sclerosis, graft versus host disease, and emerging data on nephrogenic systemic fibrosis. J. Clin. Apheresis, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Therapeutic plasma exchange in the elderly: Experience at a tertiary center
Authors: Abdel‐Rahman Emaad M. , Hayes John , Balogun Rasheed A.
Published: April 2012

Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is a beneficial albeit complicated method of therapy. The elderly, persons 65 years or older are growing in number, with increasing need for different therapeutic interventions including TPE. The elderly are more likely to have complications and pose challenges when considering TPE—both in terms of indications and outcomes. We retrospectively investigated the utility of TPE in terms of indications and mortality in the elderly (65 and above) versus a younger cohort (18–64 years) between January 1, 2000 and June 30, 2010. During this period, 581 patients required 4,722 TPE treatment sessions. Of them, 185 were elderly (31.8%) requiring 1,289 TPE sessions. The indications for TPE were neurological 14.1%, hematological 10.5%, renal 6.9%, and miscellaneous 2.0% in the elderly versus 22.7%, 20.8%, 20.7%, and 4.0% in the younger population undergoing TPE for neurological, hematological, renal and miscellaneous indications, respectively. We further investigated the mortality within 30 days of admission and a year later. The mortality figures within 30 days of admission and a year later in the elderly were 16.2% and 33.5%, respectively; higher than in the younger patients; 10.3% and 17.2%, respectively. We conclude that TPE is not an uncommon procedure in elderly, with more neurological indications, and is associated with higher mortality than younger patients. J. Clin. Apheresis, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Therapeutic apheresis in pediatrics: Technique adjustments, indications and nonindications, a plasma exchange focus
Authors: Wong Edward C.C. , Balogun Rasheed A.
Published: April 2012

Therapeutic Apheresis procedures are associated with multiple and unique challenges in children. The procedures are often performed using evidence or experience extrapolated from adult clinical practice, which may not be evidenced based. In addition to the clinical challenges, relevant psychological issues, modification of protocols and technical hardware are often necessary for safe and effective treatment in children. The following review addresses these aspects of therapeutic apheresis in children as presented at the Therapeutic Apheresis Academy in September 2011. Because of the variety of therapeutic apheresis procedures that can be performed in children, for the purposes of this review, an emphasis will be on the performance of plasma exchange in children. J. Clin. Apheresis, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A review of biodiesel production by integrated reactive separation technologies
Authors: Kiss Anton A. , Bildea Costin Sorin
Published: April 2012

Biodiesel is a biodegradable and renewable fuel, emerging as a viable alternative to petroleum diesel. Conventional biodiesel processes still suffer from problems associated with the use of homogeneous catalysts and the limitations imposed by the chemical reaction equilibrium, thus leading to severe economic and environmental penalties. This work provides a detailed review—illustrated with relevant examples—of novel reactive separation technologies used in biodiesel production: reactive distillation/absorption/extraction, and membrane reactors.

Reactive separation offers new and exciting opportunities for manufacturing the fatty acid alkyl esters involved in the industrial production of biodiesel and specialty chemicals. The integration of reaction and separation into one operating unit overcomes equilibrium limitations and provides major benefits such as low capital investment and operating costs. These reactive separation processes can be further enhanced by heat‐integration and powered by heterogeneous catalysts, to eliminate all conventional catalyst related operations, using efficiently the raw materials and the reaction volume, while offering higher conversion and selectivity, as well as significant energy savings compared with conventional biodiesel processes. Remarkable, in spite of the high degree of integration, such integrated reactive‐separation processes are still very well controllable as illustrated by the included examples. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Use of natural zeolites charged with ammonium or carbon dioxide in phytoremediation of lead‐ and zinc‐contaminated soils
Authors: Lai Tiziana , Cao Alessia , Zucca Antonio , Carucci Alessandra
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: Zeolites are hydrated aluminosilicate characterized by high cation exchange capacity. The application of zeolites to different technologies is feasible, particularly to remediation technologies. The present work has the purpose to test the use of natural zeolites (clinoptilolite) in phytoremediation of a lead‐ and zinc‐contaminated soil. The soil was mixed with different doses of zeolites (uncharged), zeolites charged with ammonium and zeolites charged with carbon dioxide. The plant used for the experiment was Mirabilis jalapa L.

RESULTS: The treatment with uncharged zeolites influenced positively M. jalapa growth in increasing plant biomass production of 15–20% and in reducing, at the same time, the accumulation of metals in the aerial part to a greater extent for lead (phytostabilization). The mixtures with only NH$_{4}^{+}$‐charged zeolites had a toxic effect on the plants, but when uncharged or CO2‐charged zeolites were added to the former the metal accumulation in the aerial parts increased.

CONCLUSION: The limitation of metal accumulation in the aerial part of the plant in the pots with uncharged zeolites could imply their use in phytostabilization treatments; however the application in a phytoextraction process of the mixtures with zeolites appropriately charged with ammonium, even in a mixture with CO2‐charged zeolites, appears more promising. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Sirenomelia apus after trimethoprim exposure: First‐trimester ultrasound diagnosis—a case report
Authors: Dosedla Erik , Kalafusová Michaela , Calda Pavel
Published: April 2012

We report the early prenatal ultrasound diagnosis of sirenomelia apus at 12+4 weeks in a patient with trimethoprim exposure in the vulnerable period. First‐trimester scan revealed a malformed fetus with one femur, one small tibia, no feet, intraabdominal unilocular cystic structure, and two‐vessel umbilical cord with allantoic cyst. Ultrasound visualization with two/three/four‐dimensions was helpful in the process of parental counseling. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2012;
Arresting mantle formation and redirecting embryonic shell gland tissue by platinum2+ leads to body plan modifications in Marisa cornuarietis (Gastropoda, Ampullariidae)
Authors: Marschner Leonie , Triebskorn Rita , Köhler Heinz‐R.
Published: April 2012

To evaluate the threat that anthropogenic substances pose to animals when they are emitted into the environment, tests like the invertebrate embryo toxicity test with the ramshorn snail Marisa cornuarietis have been developed. These tests are used to investigate substances like the heavy metal platinum (Pt) that is used in catalytic converters and is gradually released in car exhausts. In 2010, our group reported that high Pt concentrations cause body plan alterations in snails and prevent the formation of an external shell during M. cornuarietis embryogenesis. Now, this study presents scanning‐electron micrographs and histological sections of platinum2+ (Pt2+)‐treated and untreated M. cornuarietis embryos and compares “normally” developing and “shell‐less” embryos during embryogenesis, to reveal the exact course of events that lead to this body plan shift. Both groups showed similar development until the onset of torsion 70‐ to 82‐h postfertilization. In the Pt2+‐exposed embryos, the rudimentary shell gland (=anlage of both shell gland and mantle, which usually evaginates, grows, and eventually covers the visceral sac) does not spread across the visceral sac but remains on its ventral side. Without the excessive growth of the shell gland, a horizontal rotation of the visceral sac relative to head and foot does not occur, as being normal during the process of torsion. J. Morphol., 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sturgeons, sharks, and rays have multifocal crystalline lenses and similar lens suspension apparatuses
Authors: Gustafsson Ola S.E. , Ekström Peter , Kröger Ronald H.H.
Published: April 2012

Crystalline lenses with multiple focal lengths in monochromatic light (multifocal lenses) are present in many vertebrate groups. These lenses compensate for chromatic aberration and create well‐focused color images. Stabilization of the lens within the eye and the ability to adjust focus are further requirements for vision in high detail. We investigated the occurrence of multifocal lenses by photorefractometry and lens suspension structures by light and electron microscopy in sturgeons (Acipenseriformes, Chondrostei) as well as sharks and rays (Elasmobranchii, Chondrichthyes). Multifocal lenses were found in two more major vertebrate groups, the Chondrostei represented by Acipenseriformes and Chondrichthyes represented by Elasmobranchii. The lens suspension structures of sturgeons, sharks, and rays are more complex than described previously. The lens is suspended by many delicate suspensory fibers in association with a ventral papilla in all groups studied. The arrangements of the suspensory fibers are most similar between sturgeons and sharks. In rays, the lens is suspended by a smaller ventral papilla and the suspensory fibers are arranged more concentrically to the lens. J. Morphol., 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Amaranthus viridis Linn., a common spinach, modulates C‐reactive protein, protein profile, ceruloplasmin and glycoprotein in experimental induced myocardial infarcted rats
Authors: Saravanan Ganapathy , Ponmurugan Ponnusamy
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: Glycoprotein is one of the components of the cardiac extracellular matrix and plays an important role in cardiac remodelling during various cardiac diseases, including myocardial infarction (MI). This study was aimed at evaluating the preventive role of Amaranthus viridis Linn. on C‐reactive protein (CRP), total protein, albumin, globulin, ceruloplasmin and glycoproteins in the serum and heart of experimental induced myocardial infarcted (MI) rats.

RESULTS: MI was induced in male Wistar rats by subcutaneous injection of 20 mg kg−1 isoproterenol (ISO) kg−1 body weight (BW) twice at an interval of 24 h. ISO‐induced MI rats showed a significant increase in the levels of serum CRP and ceruloplasmin and a significant decrease in the levels of serum total protein, albumin and globulin. Glycoprotein levels in the serum and heart were increased in ISO‐induced MI rats. Oral administration of 300 mg A. viridis kg−1 BW day−1 for a period of 45 days altered the metabolic derangement in ISO‐induced MI rats.

CONCLUSION: This study exemplifies the protective effect of A. viridis on ISO‐induced cardiotoxicity in male Wistar rats. The data further reinforce the cardioprotective effect of A. viridis by altering CRP and glycoprotein levels. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
The age of cows as a factor shaping the antioxidant level during a nutritional experiment with fish oil and linseed supplementation for increasing the antioxidant value of milk
Authors: Puppel Kamila , Nałȩcz‐Tarwacka Teresa , Kuczyńska Beata , Gołȩbiewski Marcin , Kordyasz Marta , Grodzki Henryk
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: So far, in research studies, the age of cows has not been considered as a factor that may influence the changes in the content of milk ingredients with antioxidant properties modified by the feed supplementation. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of supplementation on the content of ingredients having antioxidant properties and to determine the influence of the age of cows taking part in the experiment on these changes. The experiment was conducted using 20 Polish Holstein Friesian cows, 10 primiparous and 10 multiparous. The combined supplementation of fish oil and linseed constituted the experimental factor.

RESULTS: The milk of primiparous cows after 21 days of supplementation was characterised by a higher content of C18:1 trans‐11, C18:2 cis‐9, trans‐11, α‐retinol, α‐tocopherol and β‐lactoglobulin compared to the milk of multiparous cows, in which a higher level of lactoferrin, C20:5 and β‐carotene was recorded. In both groups an increase in the total antioxidant status was noted (a higher level in the milk of primiparous cows).

CONCLUSIONS: Modification of the diet of cows with fish oil and linseed significantly influenced antioxidant properties of their milk; however, the response of multiparous and primaparous cows was noticeably different to the supplement introduced. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Effects of oxygen and antioxidants on the lipid oxidation and yellow discolouration of film from red tilapia mince
Authors: Tongnuanchan Phakawat , Benjakul Soottawat , Prodpran Thummanoon
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: Generally, biodegradable films from fish muscle protein become yellow after preparation. This discolouration is more likely associated with lipid oxidation and can be prevented by minimising the oxidation in the films. Thus, the effects of oxygen and antioxidants on lipid oxidation and yellow discolouration of film from red tilapia mince during storage were investigated.

RESULTS: Both films prepared at pH 3 and 11, and kept under atmosphere containing 100% N2 had the lowest TBARS value with the concomitant lowest b* and ΔE* values during storage (P < 0.05), when compared with other films kept in air and a 100% O2 atmosphere. Films prepared at pH 3 and incorporated with antioxidants (Trolox and catechin) at all levels (100, 200 and 400 mg L−1 film‐forming solution) had the lowest TBARS value, b* and ΔE* values during storage, indicating the retardation of lipid oxidation and yellow discolouration in films. Nevertheless, films prepared at pH 11 had no difference in TBARS values, in comparison with control film, regardless of antioxidant incorporation. Coincidentally, increases in b* and ΔE* values were observed in those films.

CONCLUSIONS: Lipid oxidation was the main factor inducing yellow discolouration of film exposed to oxygen and the incorporation of antioxidants in film prepared at acidic pH was able to prevent yellow discolouration of resulting film. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Canal switch after canalith repositioning procedure for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo
Authors: Lin Giant C. , Basura Gregory J. , Wong Hiu Tung , Heidenreich Katherine D.
Published: April 2012

Canal switch is a complication following canalith repositioning procedure (CRP) for posterior canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). Instead of being returned to the utricle, the loose otoconia migrate into the superior or horizontal semicircular canal. Patients remain symptomatic, and treatment can be ineffective unless the switch is recognized and additional repositioning maneuvers directed toward the appropriate semicircular canal are performed. This report provides the first videographic documentation of canal switch involving conversion of unilateral posterior semicircular canal BPPV to geotropic horizontal canalithiasis. Laryngoscope, 2012
The prevalence and clinical course of facial nerve paresis following cochlear implant surgery
Authors: Thom Joshua J. , Carlson Matthew L. , Olson Michael D. , Neff Brian A. , Beatty Charles W. , Facer George W. , Driscoll Colin L. W.
Published: April 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To describe the prevalence, clinical course, and outcomes of facial nerve paresis following cochlear implantation and to identify variables associated with poor definitive facial nerve function.

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort study with systematic literature review.

Methods:

All patients who underwent cochlear implantation between January 1990 and December 2010 at a single tertiary academic referral center were reviewed. Data including clinical presentation, intraoperative findings, onset, severity, management, and outcomes of all patients who experienced facial nerve paresis following cochlear implantation were recorded.

Results:

Eight hundred eighty‐eight cochlear implants (282 pediatric, 606 adult) were performed in 768 patients. Eleven patients with postoperative facial nerve paresis were identified. Ten patients (1.1%) developed delayed‐onset paresis and had complete recovery within 6 months of surgery, whereas a single patient (0.1%) demonstrated immediate onset paresis and experienced incomplete return of facial nerve function. Seventeen additional cases were identified in the literature and were summarized.

Conclusions:

Facial nerve paresis following cochlear implantation is rare. Most cases demonstrate a delayed onset and have complete recovery within months of surgery. Delayed onset facial nerve paresis following cochlear implantation heralds an excellent prognosis, whereas immediate onset facial paresis prognosticates a poorer outcome. In the absence of medical contraindications, corticosteroid therapy should be considered in facial paresis following cochlear implant surgery.
The multiplicity of Staphylococcus aureus in chronic rhinosinusitis: Correlating surface biofilm and intracellular residence
Authors: Tan Neil C.‐W. , Foreman Andrew , Jardeleza Camille , Douglas Richard , Tran Hai , Wormald Peter John
Published: April 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

The biofilm paradigm of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is increasingly understood to play a key role in the pathophysiology of this disease. The role of intracellular infection of sinonasal epithelial cells has been suggested as a potential reservoir of pathogenic organisms that can lead to recalcitrant disease despite maximal medical and surgical treatment. Could a surface biofilm play a role in allowing intracellular infection to occur, and what are the factors associated with potential intracellular infections? The aim of this study was to investigate these questions.

Study Design:

A prospective study including 36 CRS patients undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery and five control patients undergoing endonasal pituitary surgery.

Methods:

Sinonasal mucosa harvested at the time of surgery was examined with a Staphylococcus aureus fluorescence in situ hybridization probe and propodium iodide counterstain using the confocal scanning laser microscope for both biofilm status and evidence of intracellular organisms.

Results:

Intracellular S aureus was identified in 20/36 (56%) CRS patients compared to 0/8 (0%) control patients. CRS patients with intracellular infection were significantly more likely to harbor surface biofilm (20/20, P = .0014) and have a S aureus‐positive culture swab (12/20, P = .0485).

Conclusions:

This study gives further evidence supporting a role of intracellular S aureus in CRS. In all cases intracellular infection was associated with surface biofilm, suggesting a potential relationship between the two. Further work is required to delineate the true mechanisms of intracellular persistence and also the role that it plays in the recalcitrant nature of CRS. Laryngoscope, 2012
The outside‐in approach to the modified endoscopic lothrop procedure
Authors: Chin David , Snidvongs Kornkiat , Kalish Larry , Sacks Raymond , Harvey Richard J.
Published: April 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Drilling in modified endoscopic Lothrop procedure (MELP) is traditionally described as commencing from the frontal recess (FR). This is challenging when the FR is involved by tumor, inflammatory disease, or scarring. The outside‐in MELP, where the limits of the sinusotomy are first defined and the FR is addressed last, is described.

Study Design:

Case‐control study.

Methods:

Patients undergoing MELP, using the standard or outside‐in approach, for inflammatory disease or endoscopic skull base surgery were assessed. Data were collected on demographics, disease characteristics, and FR involvement. Operative time was calculated from intraoperative video recording. Time points recorded were times to frontal sinus and recess connected for outside‐in MELP and completion of Lothrop cavity for both groups. Perioperative complications (infection, skin breach or contusion, surgical emphysema, orbital bleeding, cerebrospinal fluid leak, and intracranial complications) were recorded.

Results:

Thirty patients (67% female) with a mean age ± standard deviation of 56.0 ± 10.8 years underwent MELP (24 outside‐in, six standard). Time for Lothrop completion was shorter for outside‐in MELP (30.60 ± 14.10 minutes vs. 69.66 ± 64.52 minutes, P = .002). Among outside‐in MELP, mean time to frontal sinus floor discovery was 8.41 ± 6.29 minutes, to recess connected 26.50 ± 12.45 minutes, and were similar regardless of pathology. The time for Lothrop cavity completion was shorter for tumor cases (24.63 ± 6.49 minutes) than for chronic rhinosinusitis without polyps (35.87 ± 20.18 minutes) and chronic rhinosinusitis with polyps (34.62 ± 11.56 minutes) (P = .05). One patient had skin edema. No other complications were recorded.

Conclusions:

The outside‐in MELP is technically feasible and safe. Its advantage is a wide approach to the frontal sinus with development of the Lothrop cavity en route resulting in short predictable operative times. Defining the limits of the dissection early provides a robust and efficient approach. Laryngoscope, 2012
Airway stem cells
Authors: Yu Fenggang , Zhao Xuening , Li Chunwei , Li Yingying , Yan Yan , Shi Li , Gordon Bruce R. , Wang De‐Yun
Published: April 2012

Epithelial remodeling is a part of our natural defense mechanisms, and includes migration, proliferation, and differentiation of epithelial cells, as well as the interactions between epithelial and stromal cells. It is not yet possible to distinguish between cause and effect during epithelium remodeling, and are there no clear roles for the many factors involved in respiratory infectious and inflammatory diseases due to a lack of critical information about epithelial cell responses. Most reported data are from lower airway studies or animal models. Therefore, research based on human nasal epithelial stem/progenitor cells can illuminate the pathophysiology of nasal airway disease from a different, more specific perspective. In this review, we discuss epithelial stem/progenitor cell research throughout the airway, with special attention to phenotypes and characterization of these cells from the nasal airway. Recently, we have isolated and cultured P63‐positive human epithelial stem/progenitor cells from turbinate biopsies of healthy volunteers and from inflamed mucosa of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with and without nasal polyposis. These cells propagate in serum‐free, growth factor‐supplemented, Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium/F12 media, on either human fibroblast or 3T3 feeder layers. Self‐renewal, proliferation, and differentiation potential at an air‐liquid interface are being investigated to understand the molecular pathways underlying nasal inflammation. This in vitro culture system for nasal epithelial regeneration will allow molecular studies of human nasal epithelial cell interactions, differentiation, and repair, as well as responses to both environmental agents and to potential anti‐inflammatory treatments.
Feasibility of robot‐assisted submandibular gland resection via retroauricular approach: Preliminary results
Authors: Lee Hyoung Shin , Park Do Yang , Hwang Chi Sang , Bae Seong Hoon , Suh Michelle J. , Koh Yoon Woo , Choi Eun Chang
Published: April 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To present the surgical technique and feasibility of robot‐assisted submandibular gland (SMG) resection via retroauricular approach.

Study Design:

Feasibility study of case series.

Methods:

We performed robot‐assisted SMG resection on five patients with benign SMG tumors. The surgical complications, operation time, amount of bleeding, amount and duration of drainage, and duration of hospital stay were reviewed.

Results:

The surgery was successful in all patients without any significant complications. The mean operation time was 62.4 ± 6.3 minutes, amount of bleeding was 10.4 ± 3.2 mL, amount of drainage was 149.8 ± 114.7 mL (3.2 ± 1.6 days), and duration of hospital stay was 4.2 ± 1.8 days. All patients showed excellent cosmetic satisfaction because the postoperative scar was hidden by the auricle and hair.

Conclusions:

Robot‐assisted SMG resection was feasible without any significant complications and satisfactory cosmetic results. The safety and oncologic outcome of the procedure should be verified with larger number of patients and longer follow up period. Laryngoscope, 2012
Preauricular infratemporal fossa approach for advanced malignant parotid tumors
Authors: Leonetti John P. , Benscoter Brent J. , Marzo Sam J. , Borrowdale Richard W. , Pontikis George C.
Published: April 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

The aims of this study were to demonstrate the surgical technique involved in the preauricular infratemporal fossa (ITF) approach, outline the clinical indications for use of this technique, and present the results in using this approach in 159 patients with malignant parotid tumors. At the conclusion of this article, the reader should be able to understand the utility of the preauricular infratemporal fossa approach in the management of patients with advanced malignant parotid tumors.

Study Design:

This was a retrospective chart review of 159 patients treated at a tertiary care academic medical center following institutional review board approval.

Methods:

A comprehensive medical records review was performed for all patients with malignant parotid tumors who underwent a preauricular ITF approach between July 1988 and July 2010.

Results:

The most common presenting symptoms were pain and trismus, whereas the presence of a parotid mass and facial paralysis were the most common clinical signs. Mucoepidermoid and adenoid cystic carcinoma accounted for 63% of the tumors, and perineural invasion was found in nearly 71% of the patients. Despite negative surgical margins in 92% of the patients, local or regional tumor recurrence was found in 17% of the cases. The mean follow‐up time was 12.8 years.

Conclusions:

The preauricular ITF approach should be used in the surgical extirpation of advanced malignant parotid neoplasms. This technique provides proximal facial nerve identification, internal carotid artery protection, and negative tumor margins at the skull base.