bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Homoisoflavonoids from Ophiopogon japonicus
Authors: Zhou Chang‐Xin , Zou Li , Mo Jian‐Xia , Wang Xue‐Yao , Yang Bo , He Qiao‐Jun , Gan Li‐She
Published: July 2013

Phytochemical study on the root tubers of Ophiopogon japonicus resulted in the isolation and identification of 13 homoisoflavonoids, including three new compounds, 8‐formyl‐7‐hydroxy‐5,4′‐dimethoxy‐6‐methylhomoisoflavone (1), 6‐formylisoophiopogonone B (2), and 8‐formylophiopogonanone B (4), and the ten known homoisoflavonoids 3, and 5–13. The absolute configurations of 8‐formylophiopogonanone B (4) and 8‐formyl‐7‐hydroxy‐5,4′‐dimethoxy‐6‐methylhomoisoflavanone (5) were confirmed by time‐dependent density‐functional‐theory (TD DFT) calculations of their theoretical electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectra. The structure of the formerly reported ‘6‐aldehydoisoophiopogonone B’ was revised to 8‐formylophiopogonone B (3). All compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxic activities against the human‐lung‐tumor A549 cell line, and compounds 3, 9, 10, and 13 exhibited promising antiproliferative activities with IC50 values of 10.01, 6.40, 0.84, and 1.66 μM, respectively.
Two New Lignans from Phryma leptostachya L.
Authors: Chen Chunmei , Zhu Hucheng , Zhao De , Deng Jun , Zhang Yonghui
Published: July 2013

Haedoxancoside A (1), a new sesquilignan glycoside, and phrymarolin V (2), a new lignan, together with two known compounds, were isolated from Phryma leptostachya L. Their structures were determined on the basis of comprehensive spectroscopic analysis, mainly 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR spectroscopy as well as mass spectrometry. This is the first report of a sesquilignan glycoside isolated from a species of the Phrymaceae family.
Pharmacological validation of a refined burrowing paradigm for prediction of analgesic efficacy in a rat model of sub‐chronic knee joint inflammation
Authors: Rutten K. , Robens A. , Read S.J. , Christoph T.
Published: July 2013

Background

Burrowing is an evolutionarily conserved behaviour in rodents. This study validates a refined burrowing paradigm (requiring a reduced number of animals) in a rat model of sub‐chronic knee joint inflammation and evaluates its sensitivity and specificity for analgesic drugs.

Methods

Knee joint inflammation in rats was induced by intra‐articular injection with complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA). Burrowing performance was assessed at baseline without study drugs, and in CFA‐naive and CFA‐injected animals following administration of the analgesic drugs naproxen, pregabalin and morphine, each at three doses, or corresponding vehicle (nine rats per dose group). The specificity of the model was evaluated by also testing the anxiogenic drug yohimbine, the stimulant drug dexamphetamine and the anxiolytic drug chlordiazepoxide in CFA‐naive and CFA‐injected animals. Percentage maximum possible effect (%MPE) was determined by relating the difference between post‐CFA and baseline burrowing performance in each drug dose group to that in the vehicle group in each experiment.

Results

Burrowing performance in the vehicle groups was decreased by 39.0–59.8% in CFA‐injected animals compared with CFA‐naive animals. CFA‐induced reductions in burrowing performance were reversed by each of the three analgesic drugs tested. The highest %MPE was 75.2% with naproxen 50 mg/kg, 80.9% with pregabalin 10 mg/kg and 77.0% with morphine 1 mg/kg (all p < 0.05 vs. control). CFA‐induced reductions in burrowing performance were not reversed by yohimbine, dexamphetamine or chlordiazepoxide.

Conclusions

This study provides pharmacological validation of a refined burrowing paradigm for analgesic efficacy that exhibits good predictive validity, with high sensitivity and specificity.
A Novel Immunoassay for the Quantization of CYFRA 21–1 in Human Serum
Authors: He An , Liu Tian‐Cai , Dong Zhi‐Ning , Ren Zhi‐Qi , Hou Jing‐Yuan , Li Ming , Wu Ying‐Song
Published: July 2013

Background

Cytokeratin 19 fragment antigen (CYFRA 21–1) is used to diagnose and monitor neoplasms. However, the main disadvantages of the currently available CYFRA 21–1 assays include heterogenous technology, being time‐consuming, and having low through‐put with low insensitivity. This study investigated the use of amplified luminescent proximity homogeneous immunoassay (AlphaLISA) for the quantization of CYFRA 21–1 in human serum.

Methods

The AlphaLISA kit was developed based on AlphaScreen detection technology with two different anti‐CYFRA 21–1 monoclonal antibodies. One was coated on AlphaLISA acceptor beads and the other was biotinylated. Donor beads were coated with streptavidin. The test conditions were optimized and analytical performance was studied.

Results

The measurement range of AlphaLISA CYFRA 21–1 kit was 0.08–500 ng/ml. Assay detection limit was 0.08 ng/ml. The intra‐ and interassay coefficients of variation were 3.00–9.00% and 4.00–10.00%, respectively. There was no cross‐reaction to alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP), carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), neuron‐specific enolase (NSE), cancer antigen 19–9 (CA19–9), cytokeratins 8 (CK8), and cytokeratins 18 (CK18). The correlation coefficient of blood samples involved was 0.974 between CYFRA 21–1‐AlphaLISA assay and a commercial electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA) CYFRA 21–1 kit (Roche).

Conclusions

The AlphaLISA CYFRA 21–1 kit developed in this study had favorable performance characteristics for clinical application with acceptable analytical sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy.
Mathematical Equations to Calculate True Mycophenolic Acid Concentration in Human Plasma by Using Two Immunoassays With Different Cross‐Reactivities With Acyl Glucuronide Metabolite: Comparison of Calculated Values With Values Obtained by Using an HPLC‐UV Method
Authors: Dasgupta Amitava , Johnson Myrtle , Tso Gertie
Published: July 2013

Background

Both immunoassays and chromatographic methods are available for therapeutic drug monitoring of mycophenolic acid (MPA). Although chromatographic methods are more precise, immunoassays are widely used in clinical laboratories due to ease of adopting such assays on automated analyzers. We studied the possibility of using mathematical equations to calculate true MPA concentration by accounting for acyl glucuronide cross‐reactivities with immunoassays by using two immunoassays with widely different cross‐reactivities with the metabolite.

Methods

We determined MPA concentrations in 20 specimens obtained from transplant recipients using cloned enzyme donor immunoassay (CEDIA) assay and a new particle enhanced turbidimetric inhibition immunoassay (PETINIA) assay. Then we developed mathematical equations to calculate true MPA concentration using values obtained by both immunoassays and reported cross‐reactivity of acyl glucuronide with respective immunoassays. Calculated concentrations were compared with values obtained by using a high‐performance liquid chromatography combined with ultraviolet detection (HPLC‐UV) method.

Results

We obtained good correlation between calculated MPA concentrations and corresponding MPA level obtained by using HPLC‐UV method. Using x‐axis as the MPA concentrations determined by the HPLC‐UV method and y‐axis as the calculated MPA level, we observed the following regression equation: y = 1.083x ‒ 0.0995 (r = 0.99, n = 20).

Conclusions

Mathematical equations can be used to calculate true MPA concentrations using two immunoassays with different cross‐reactivities with acyl glucuronide metabolite.
Comparison of Fully Automated Urine Sediment Analyzers H800‐FUS100 and Labumat‐Urised with Manual Microscopy
Authors: Yüksel Hatice , Kiliç Elif , Ekinci Aysun , Evliyaoğlu Osman
Published: July 2013

Background

Recent technical developments have focused on the full automation of urinalyses, however the manual microscopic analysis of urine sediment is considered the reference method. The aim of this study was to compare the performances of the LabUMat‐UriSed and the H800‐FUS100 with manual microscopy, and with each other.

Methods

The urine sediments of 332 urine samples were examined by these two devices (LabUMat‐UriSed, H800‐FUS100) and manual microscopy.

Results

The reproducibility of the analyzers, UriSed and Fus100 (4.1–28.5% and 4.7–21.2%, respectively), was better than that with manual microscopy (8.5–33.3%). The UriSed was more sensitive for leukocytes (82%), while the Fus‐100 was more sensitive for erythrocyte cell counting (73%). There were moderate correlations between manual microscopy and the two devices, UriSed and Fus100, for erythrocyte (r = 0.496 and 0.498, respectively) and leukocyte (r = 0.597 and 0.599, respectively) cell counting however the correlation between the two devices was much better for erythrocyte (r = 0.643) and for leukocyte (r = 0.767) cell counting.

Conclusion

It can be concluded that these two devices showed similar performances. They were time‐saving and standardized techniques, especially for reducing preanalytical errors such as the study time, centrifugation, and specimen volume for sedimentary analysis; however, the automated systems are still inadequate for classifying the cells that are present in pathological urine specimens.
The Relationship Between Serum Fetuin‐A, Cystatin‐C Levels, and Microalbuminuria in Patients With Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Huddam Bülent , Azak Alper , Koçak Gülay , Bayraktar Nilüfer , Sezer Siren
Published: July 2013

Background

The metabolic syndrome, syndrome X, is a group of metabolic disorders in which insulin resistance plays a pivotal role. The MS is an important risk factor for subsequent development of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Fetuin‐A is a liver derived blood protein that acts as effective inhibitor of soft tissue calcification. Cystatin C is a useful marker in measuring glomerular filtration rate. Moreover, recently it has been suggested that cystatin C may be a potential biomarker for detecting microalbuminuria. Microalbuminuria (MA) is a strong indicator of morbidity related to cardiovascular disorders, and is currently considered a novel diagnostic criterion for MS. It has been also demonstrated that the increased serum fetuin‐A levels is associated with several parameters of MS. In this study, we attempted to investigate the relationship between serum fetuin‐A, cystatin‐C levels and microalbuminuria in patients with MS.

Methods

A total of 50 patients with MS and 25 control were included in this study. We defined MS by the NCEP criteria among nondiabetic outpatients. Patients with MS were further divided into two groups based on MA status. Overall 25 of the participants with MS did not have MA (group I), while the remaining 25 had MA (group II). None of the subjects in the healthy control group (group III) had laboratory findings supporting the presence of MA. The serum fetuin‐A and cystatin‐C levels were measured using ELISA.

Results

Age, distributions of sex, BP and LDL cholesterol levels were similar among all groups. BMI, Waist/hip ratio, FBG, HOMA‐IR, total cholesterol, trigliserid, CRP levels were significantly higher in group I and group II compared to control. In group II, the cystatin‐C and fetuin levels were higher than control. While the cystatin‐C levels were higher in group II compared to group I, the fetuin levels did not different. Morever, the fetuin A and cystatin‐C concentrations were positively correlated with microalbuminuria (r = 0.26, p = 0.02; r = 0.50, p = 0.0001, respectively).

Conclusion

In our study, we found that MS patients with microalbuminuria had high levels of fetuin‐A and cystatin‐C. In conclusion, we suggest that determination of fetuin‐A and cystatin C levels could be useful marker as an early indicator of renal injury in patients with MS.
Reduced Plasma Citrulline Levels in Low Birth Weight Infants With Necrotizing Enterocolitis
Authors: Celik Istemi Han , Demirel Gamze , Canpolat Fuat Emre , Dilmen Ugur
Published: July 2013

Background

Citrulline, a nonprotein amino acid, is an intermediate of the urea cycle and synthesized in small intestine. Lower plasma citrulline levels were associated with reduced function of enterocytes. Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) causes high morbidity and mortality, and leads impaired intestinal functions.

Methods

Plasma citrulline levels of neonates with a gestational age <32 weeks and ≤1,500 gm who developed NEC stage II/III were measured by high‐performance liquid chromatography.

Results

We enrolled 36 preterm infants including 20 with NEC and 16 controls. Median citrulline levels of NEC and control groups were 8.6 and 20.18 μmol/l (P < 0.05), and cut off level of citrulline was 13.15 μmol/l with a sensitivity of 80% and a specificity of 82%. Median arginine levels of NEC and control groups were 22.02 and 39.89 μmol/l (P < 0.05), and cut off level of arginine was 28.52 μmol/l with a sensitivity of 70% and a specificity of 75%. Blood sampling day, gender, parenteral, and enteral nutrition did not affect the amino acid levels.

Conclusion

We found lower plasma citrulline and arginine levels in preterm infants with NEC. Further studies are needed to determine most appropriate levels to predict recovery and prognosis of NEC, and treatment options with these amino acids in preterm infants.
Usefulness of HPLC Assay for Early Detection of Microalbuminuria in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Horikoshi Satoshi , Okuda Masumi , Nishimura Emi , Ohsawa Isao , Suzuki Yusuke , Shimizu Yoshio , Hamada Chieko , Tomino Yasuhiko
Published: July 2013

Background

Since the degree and increase of albuminuria predict cardiovascular and renal diseases even within the range of normoalbuminuria. The high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) assay has been reported as a useful tool for earlier detection of microalbuminuria than turbidimetric immunoassay (TIA) in diabetes but has not been evaluated for other common diseases that caused chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Methods

We measured albumin in spot urine by TIA and HPLC assay in 119 patients with diabetes, hypertension, IgA nephropathy in complete remission, or autosomal‐dominant polycystic kidney disease whose dipstick screening tests were negative.

Results

There were significant correlations (r = 0.946) between TIA and HPLC assay, and the ratios of urine albumin/creatinine (ACR) measured by HPLC assay were always higher than those measured by TIA. The value of microalbuminuria was highest in IgA nephropathy patients, and higher in diabetic patients with hypertension than in those without hypertension. Fifty‐one patients were classified as having normoalbuminuria and 42 as having microalbuminuria by both TIA and HPLC assay. However, 26 patients (21.8%) were classified having as normoalbuminuria by TIA but microalbumnuria by HPLC assay. Three of these patients were reclassified as microalbuminuria by both assays within 1 year.

Conclusion

These results suggest that ACR measurements by HPLC assay are better than TIA for early detection and monitoring of microalbuminuria in patients with diabetes and hypertension.
Personality Pathology Factors Predict Recurrent Major Depressive Disorder in Emerging Adults
Authors: Sheets Erin S. , Duncan Laramie E. , Bjornsson Andri S. , Craighead Linda W. , Craighead W. Edward
Published: July 2013

Objective

Prior investigations consistently indicate that personality pathology is a risk factor for recurrence of major depressive disorder (MDD). Lack of emipircal support, however, for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) Fourth Edition organization of Axis II disorders supports the investigation of empirically derived factors of personality pathology as predictors of recurrence.

Method

A sample of 130 previously depressed emerging adults (80% female; aged 18 to 21 years) were assessed for personality disorder symptoms at baseline. Participants were then followed for 18 months to identify MDD recurrence during the first 2 years of college.

Results

Based on a previous factor analysis of DSM personality disorder criteria, eight personality pathology factors were examined as predictors of MDD recurrence. Survival analysis indicated that factors of interpersonal hypersensitivity, antisocial conduct, and social anxiety were associated with increased risk of MDD recurrence.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that an empirically based approach to personality pathology organization may yield useful predictors of MDD recurrence during emerging adulthood.
Enhanced transgene expression in mammalian cells by recombinant baculovirus vector containing bovine papillomavirus type 1 replication elements
Authors: Li Binbin , Yu Changwei , Yin Juan , Zhong Jiang
Published: July 2013

Background

The baculovirus Autographa californica multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus has been widely explored as a transgene expression vector. Further improvement of the expression of the transgene is important for its application.

Methods

Bovine papillomavirus type 1 (BPV‐1) cis‐element upstream regulatory region (URR) and trans‐elements E1, E2, were inserted into the baculovirus genome. The expression of reporter gene, enhanced green fluorescent protein gene (EGFP), and the persistence of viral genome was compared in several mammalian cell lines after virus transduction. The cytotoxicity of the recombinant viruses was also evaluated.

Results

The recombinant baculovirus containing URR and E1, E2 genes showed significantly increased expression of EGFP in all cell lines tested, including HEK293, HeLa, BHK‐21, CNE, CHO and MDCK cells. In HEK293 cells, the total production of EGFP was approximately five‐fold higher than the control. The genome of virus with BPV‐1 elements also persisted better than the control virus during the first few days post transduction. No obvious cytotoxicity was observed.

Conclusions

The coexistence of BPV‐1 URR and E1, E2 was essential and sufficient to improve the performance of baculovirus with respect to mediating gene expression in various mammalian cells without major cytotoxicity. The results obtained in the present study facilitate the application of baculovirus as an efficient transgene vehicle for protein production and gene delivery. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chlorine activation within urban or power plant plumes: Vertically resolved ClNO2 and Cl2 measurements from a tall tower in a polluted continental setting
Authors: Riedel Theran P. , Wagner Nicholas L. , Dubé William P. , Middlebrook Ann M. , Young Cora J. , Öztürk Fatma , Bahreini Roya , VandenBoer Trevor C. , Wolfe Daniel E. , Williams Eric J. , Roberts James M. , Brown Steven S. , Thornton Joel A.
Published: July 2013

Nitryl chloride (ClNO2) is a chlorine atom source and reactive nitrogen reservoir formed during the night by heterogeneous reactions of dinitrogen pentoxide on chloride‐containing aerosol particles. The main factors that influence ClNO2 production include nitrogen oxides, ozone, aerosol surface area, soluble chloride, and ambient relative humidity. Regions with strong anthropogenic activity therefore have large ClNO2 formation potential even inland of coastal regions due to transport or local emissions of soluble chloride. As part of the Nitrogen, Aerosol Composition, and Halogens on a Tall Tower field study, we report wintertime vertically resolved ClNO2 and molecular chlorine (Cl2) measurements taken on a 300 m tall tower located at NOAA's Boulder Atmospheric Observatory in Weld County, CO, during February and March of 2011. Gas and particle phase measurements aboard the tower carriage allowed for a detailed description of the chemical state of the nocturnal atmosphere as a function of height. These observations show significant vertical structure in ClNO2 and Cl2 mixing ratios that undergo dynamic changes over the course of a night. Using these measurements, we focus on two distinct combustion plume events where ClNO2 mixing ratios reached 600 and 1300 parts per trillion by volume, respectively, aloft of the nocturnal surface layer. We infer ClNO2 yields from N2O5‐aerosol reactions using both observational constraints and box modeling. The derived yields in these plumes suggest efficient ClNO2 production compared to the campaign average, where in‐plume yields range from 0.3 to 1; the campaign average yield in the boundary layer is 0.05 ± 0.15, with substantial night‐to‐night and within night variability similar to previous measurements in this region.
Population‐based assessment of kaposi sarcoma‐associated herpesvirus DNA in plasma among Ugandans
Authors: Shebl Fatma M. , Emmanuel Benjamin , Bunts Lisa , Biryahwaho Benon , Kiruthu Christine , Huang Meei‐Li , Pfeiffer Ruth M. , Casper Corey , Mbulaiteye Sam M.
Published: July 2013

Risk of Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is linked to detection of Kaposi sarcoma‐associated herpesvirus (KSHV) DNA in plasma, but little is known about the prevalence and risk factors for plasma KSHV DNA detection among the general population where KS is endemic. Correlates of KSHV plasma detection were investigated in a population‐based sample of adult Ugandans (15–59 years) who participated in an HIV/AIDS serobehavioral survey in 2004/2005. KSHV DNA was measured in plasma of 1,080 KSHV seropositive and 356 KSHV seronegative persons using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). KSHV DNA in plasma was detected in 157 (8.7%) persons; of these 149 (95%) were KSHV seropositive and 8 (5%) were seronegative. Detection of KSHV DNA in plasma was significantly associated with male sex (P < 0.001), older age (P = 0.003), residence in a rural versus urban area (P = 0.002), geographic region (P = 0.02), and being KSHV seropositive (13.8% seropositive vs. 2.3% seronegative, P < 0.001). In a multivariable model, KSHV DNA plasma quantity was significantly higher in men (P = 0.002), inversely associated with age (P = 0.05), and residing in an urban area (P = 0.01). In Uganda, KSHV is detected more frequently in the plasma of adult males and residents of rural regions, potentially explaining the increased risk of KS in these subsets of the Ugandan population. J. Med. Virol. 85:1602–1610, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Vitamin D status and serum ferritin concentration in chronic hepatitis C virus type 1 infection
Authors: Amanzada Ahmad , Goralczyk Armin D. , Moriconi Federico , van Thiel David H. , Ramadori Giuliano , Mihm Sabine
Published: July 2013

The circulating 25‐hydroxylated form of vitamin D3, 25(OH)D, and serum ferritin concentrations have been described to be associated with disease progression in chronic hepatitis C. Both parameters also have been assessed with regard to treatment outcome, however, with divergent results. This study examined both the pre‐ and posttreatment serum concentrations of 25(OH)D and ferritin in 191 patients infected chronically with hepatitis C virus (HCV) type 1 with regard to liver inflammatory activity (grading), disease progression in terms of fibrosis (staging) and an antiviral treatment outcome. Mean pretreatment serum 25(OH)D and ferritin concentrations were 18 ± 10 ng/ml and 280 ± 225 µg/L, respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed lower pretreatment serum 25(OH)D and higher ferritin concentrations to be significantly related to both severity of inflammatory activity and of fibrotic alterations. Pretreatment serum ferritin concentration, furthermore, unlike 25(OH)D concentration, was found to be associated with a sustained virological response by uni‐ and multivariate analyses. A sustained virological response was featured by a significant increase in serum 25(OH)D levels (18 ± 10 ng/ml vs. 22 ± 11 ng/ml; P < 0.01), a reduction of serum ferritin concentration (191 ± 156 µg/L vs. 103 ± 63 µg/L; P < 0.001) and a normalization of serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and γ‐glutamyl‐transferase (γ‐GT) activities. Taken together, decreased 25(OH)D and increased ferritin serum levels indicate the severity of hepatic inflammation and fibrosis in patients infected chronically with HCV type 1. Elevated ferritin, furthermore, was found to be an independent predictor for standard IFN‐based therapy responsiveness. J. Med. Virol. 85:1534–1541, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Concordance of human papillomavirus types detected on the surface and in the tissue of genital lesions in men
Authors: Anic Gabriella M. , Messina Jane L. , Stoler Mark H. , Rollison Dana E. , Stockwell Heather , Villa Luisa L. , Lazcano‐Ponce Eduardo , Gage Christine , Silva Roberto Jose C. , Baggio Maria L. , Salmerón Jorge , Giuliano Anna R.
Published: July 2013

Swabbing the surface of a genital lesion to obtain a sample for HPV DNA testing is less invasive than a biopsy, but may not represent HPV types present in the lesion tissue. The objective of this study was to examine the concordance of HPV types detected in swab and biopsy samples from 165 genital lesions from men ages 18–70. Lesions included 90 condyloma, 10 penile intraepithelial neoplasia (PeIN), 23 non‐condyloma with a known histology, and 42 lesions with an undetermined histology. All lesions were sampled by swabbing the surface of the lesion with a pre‐wetted Dacron swab and taking a shave biopsy. HPV genotyping was performed using Linear Array for swab samples and INNO‐LiPA for biopsy samples. The kappa and McNemar statistics were used to compare the concordance of detecting HPV types in swab and biopsy samples. Both sampling methods had high agreement for detection of HPV DNA in condyloma (87.8% agreement) and PeIN (100% agreement). There was also high concordance for detection of HPV16 (kappa = 1.00) and HPV18 (kappa = 1.00) in PeIN, however, agreement was low to moderate for detecting HPV6 (kappa = 0.31) and HPV11 (kappa = 0.56) in condyloma. Low to moderate agreement was also observed between sampling methods for detecting individual HPV types in the non‐condyloma and lesions with an indefinite histology. The results suggest that obtaining a biopsy in addition to swabbing the surface of a lesion may provide additional information about specific HVP types associated with male genital lesions. J. Med. Virol. 85:1561–1566, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Detection of human herpesvirus 7 DNA from the CSF in association with neurosarcoidosis
Authors: Martikainen Mika H. , Grönroos Juha O. , Vuorinen Tytti
Published: July 2013

This study reports a previously healthy, immunocompetent adult male in whom human herpesvirus 7 (HHV‐7) DNA was detected continuously from the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This patient developed definite sarcoidosis with primary symptomatic manifestations in the central nervous system (CNS). The initial presentation was with loss of visual acuity and papilledema. Brain MR imaging at presentation confirmed papilledema, but otherwise there were no focal abnormalities or signs of hydrocephalus. CSF investigation revealed pleocytosis and elevated protein levels. HHV‐7 DNA was detected repeatedly from CSF but not from blood over 1 year follow‐up. High resolution computed tomography of lungs was normal. Positron emission tomography showed several metabolically active lymph nodes in the mediastinum, and the histopathological investigation revealed granulomatous inflammation consistent with sarcoidosis. The finding of HHV‐7 DNA in the CSF in the context of neurosarcoidosis has not been reported previously. The detection of HHV‐7 DNA may result from the selective activation of CD4+ T‐lymphocytes in the CSF caused by neurosarcoidosis. Further studies are needed to establish whether the detection of HHV‐7 DNA in the CSF in association with neurosarcoidosis represents a clinically significant HHV‐7 CNS infection. J Med. Virol. 85:1935–1939, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Detection of merkel cell polyomavirus in oral samples of renal transplant recipients without Merkel cell carcinoma
Authors: Baez Camila Freze , Guimarães Maria Angélica A. M. , Martins Rosângela A. G. , Zalona Ana Carolina Jonard , Cossatis João José , Zalis Mariano Gustavo , Cavalcanti Silvia Maria Baeta , Varella Rafael Brandão
Published: July 2013

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but aggressive neuroendocrine cancer, with approximately 80% of cases associated with Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV). The lack of information concerning its occurrence in non‐MCC immunosuppressed populations led to the investigation of MCPyV DNA in saliva and oral biopsies from 60 kidney allograft recipients and 75 non‐transplanted individuals (control group). In contrast to herpesviruses, which was also investigated (CMV, HHV‐6A, and B, HHV‐7) MCPyV was detected predominantly in patients with oral lesions (gingivitis and/or periodontitis) of both transplanted and non‐transplanted groups (P = 0.016) and in the saliva of the transplanted group (P = 0.009). MCPyV co‐detection with CMV (P = 0.048), and HHV‐6 (P = 0.020) in the saliva of transplanted patients requires further investigation on a possible role of co‐infection. J Med. Virol. 85:2016–2019, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Direct evidence for conversion of p‐aminothiophenol to p,p'‐dimercaptoazobenzene by in situ reduplicative surface‐enhanced Raman scattering measurements
Authors: Tan Enzhong , Yin Penggang , You Tingting , Guo Lin
Published: July 2013

There has been a surge of interest in the surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) of p‐aminothiophenol (PATP), since its SERS spectra are dependent on the measurement conditions. However, there is a dispute over the origin of the so‐called b2 modes in SERS spectrum of PATP recently. Some researchers propose that these bands come from selective chemical enhancement, while others conclude that these bands are due to the ag modes of p,p'‐dimercaptoazobenzene (DMAB) produced from PATP by surface photoreaction. To solve this problem, we have studied the SERS spectra of PATP on Au and Ag nanoparticles by in situ measurement under various conditions. The results proved that the b2 modes are not due to PATP but due to the ag modes of DMAB. The key of the method is to ensure the SERS spectra taken from the same point in reduplicative measurements. The result showed that the stable SERS spectrum of PATP was essentially from DMAB. The reversibility of the PATP SERS spectra in previous studies is due to the variety of the measurement points, which is in nature of different PATP conversions to DMAB under different conditions. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Raman and surface enhanced Raman scattering of a black dyed silk
Authors: Aguayo T. , Garrido C. , Clavijo R. E. , Gómez‐Jeria J. S. , Araya Monasterio C. , Icaza M. , Espinoza Moraga F. , Campos Vallette M. M.
Published: July 2013

The Raman and surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectra of a black dyed silk sample (BDS) were registered. The spectral analysis was performed on the basis of Raman and SERS spectral data of isolated samples of Bombyx mori silk fibroin, its motif peptide component (GAGAGS) and the synthetic reactive black 5 dye (RB5). The macro FT‐Raman spectrum of the silk sample is consistent with a silk II‐Cp crystalline fraction of Bombyx mori silk fibroin; the SERS spectrum is highly consistent with conformational modifications of the fibroin due to the interactions with the Ag nanoparticles. The GAGAGS peptide sequence dominates the Raman spectrum of the silk. The SERS spectrum of the peptide suggests a random coil conformation imposed by the surface interaction; the serine residue in the new conformation is exposed to the surface. Quantum chemical calculations for a model of the GAGAGS–Ag surface predict a nearly extended conformation at the Ag surface. The Raman spectrum of the dye was analysed, and a complete band assignment was proposed; it was not possible to propose a preferential orientation or organization of the molecule on the metal surface. Quantum chemical calculations for a model of the dye interacting with a silver surface predict a rather coplanar orientation of the RB5 on the Ag metal surface. The Raman spectrum of the BDS sample is dominated by signals from the dye; the general spectral behaviour indicates that the dye mainly interacts with the silk through the sulphone (–SO2–) and sulphonate (–SO2–O–) groups. Besides the presence of dye signals, mainly ascribed to the sulphone and sulphonate bands, the SERS spectrum of the BDS sample also displays bands belonging to the amino acids alanine, glycine, serine and particularly tyrosine. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Measuring 3D crosstalk uniformity and its influence on contrast ratio
Authors: Penczek John , Boynton Paul , Kelley Edward
Published: July 2013

An array detector was employed to characterize the crosstalk and contrast ratio uniformity of three‐dimensional (3D) displays. The measurement method is described and demonstrated on a stereoscopic display with passive glasses. The resulting high resolution spatial uniformity maps enable a comprehensive statistical characterization of the display and provide a useful visual assessment tool. The statistical uniformity data are used to evaluate the crosstalk dependence on viewing conditions (such as viewing distance), and show the degradation in display performance that could not be captured with a discrete spot measurement. The measurement method was also employed to examine the influence of crosstalk on contrast ratio. It is shown that for some 3D displays, the crosstalk uniformity can dominate the perceived contrast. A metric is proposed that defines the maximal crosstalk contribution to the perceived contrast for 3D images with small features. The summary parameters extracted from the uniformity maps can be utilized to define the boundary viewing conditions needed to maintain minimum image quality.
A Typology of Technology‐Enhanced Tourism Experiences
Authors: Neuhofer Barbara , Buhalis Dimitrios , Ladkin Adele
Published: July 2013

Experiences constitute the essence of the tourism industry. While the literature has recognized the recent impact of technology on experiences, its empirical exploration remains scarce. This study addresses the gap by empirically exploring five leading industry cases to generate a holistic understanding of technology‐enhanced tourism experiences. The main contribution of this paper lies in the development of a nine‐field experience typology matrix based on the increasing intensity of co‐creation and technology implementation. The final contribution of this study is the development of an experience hierarchy and discussing its relevance for experience enhancement in tourism research and practice. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conceptualizing Trade Show Visitors' Consumption Behavior
Authors: Wong Jehn‐Yih , Li Tzu‐hui , Peng Norman , Chen Annie Huiling
Published: July 2013

Tourism trade shows have become an increasingly attractive channel for practitioners to meet potential buyers. However, few studies have conceptualized non‐industrial buyers' consumption behavior during these events. This study proposes a model to conceptualize trade show visitors' buying behavior. The analysis of 738 trade show visitors shows that variety‐seeking tendency and deal proneness directly influence visitors' tourism product consumption behavior. In addition, price sensitivity can affect deal proneness and variety‐seeking tendency. Nevertheless, contrary to existing literature, service quality will not moderate visitors' buying processes. The implications of this study are discussed within tourism management literature. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cytokine correlation between sinus tissue and nasal secretions among chronic rhinosinusitis and controls
Authors: Oyer Samuel L. , Mulligan Jennifer K. , Psaltis Alkis J. , Henriquez Oswaldo A. , Schlosser Rodney J.
Published: July 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Compare cytokine levels in sinus tissue to sinus secretions from controls and chronic rhinosinusitis patients.

Study Design

In vitro.

Methods

Polyurethane foam sponges were placed into middle meati of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyps (CRSsNP), with polyps (CRSwNP), and controls. Sinus biopsies were then taken from the same location. Protein levels of tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α), interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ), and interleukins (IL) 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 17A were measured via cytometric bead assay for each sample. Protein values from sinus tissue and secretions were compared with Pearson's correlation between samples as well as one‐way ANOVA with posthoc t test between groups.

Results

Samples from 43 patients in total were examined. Mucus was measured from 10 controls, 11 CRSsNP and 10 CRSwNP, and sinus tissue was measured from 10 controls, 15 CRSsNP and 10 CRSwNP. IL‐8 and IFN‐γ levels were outside of the detectable range of the assay. Levels of secreted IL‐2, 4, 6, 10, and 17A correlated with tissue levels (P < 0.05 for all, r > 0.49) while TNF‐α did not (P = 0.71). CRSsNP had elevated mucus levels of IL‐2, 4, 6, 10, and 17A compared to controls. CRSwNP had elevated mucus levels of IL‐4, 6, 10, 17A, and TNF‐α compared to controls.

Conclusions

Cytokine levels in sinus secretions correlate with levels in sinus tissue and are elevated in CRS versus control based on Th1/Th2 skewing.

Level of Evidence

N/A (in vitro). Laryngoscope, 123:E72–E78, 2013
Synthesis and Characterization of a Water‐Soluble Conjugated Polymer from the Uncatalyzed Polymerization of Ethynylpyridine
Authors: Gal Yeong‐Soon , Jin Sung‐Ho
Published: July 2013

A water‐soluble ionic conjugated polymer was prepared via uncatalyzed polymerization of 2‐ethynylpyridine using iodomethane. The polymerization proceeded well to give a moderate yield of polymer. A polymerization mechanism is proposed where the reaction of 2‐ethynylpyridine reacts with iodomethane to form an activated triple bond, which undergoes a linear identical propagation process. The chemical structure of polymer was characterized by NMR (1H‐, 13C‐), IR, and UV‐visible spectroscopies. The photoluminescence spectrum of polymer showed that the PL peak is located at 568 nm corresponding to the photon energy of 2.19 eV. The cyclic voltammogram of this conjugated polyelectrolyte shows a well‐defined and stable redox process.
Solid Polymer Electrolyte Membranes Based on Siliconorganic Backbone
Authors: Mukbaniani Omari , Koynov Kaloyan , Aneli Jimsher , Tatrishvili Tamar , Markarashvili Eliza , Chigvinadze Maia
Published: July 2013

The hydrosilylation reactions of α,ω–bis(trimethylsiloxy)methylhydrosiloxane with allyl butyrate and vinyltriethoxysilane catalyzed by Karstedt's (Pt2[(VinSiMe2)2O]3) catalyst, platinum hydrochloric acid (0.1 M solution in THF) and platinum on carbon have been studied. In the presence of Karstedt's catalyst the reaction order, activation energies and rate constants have been determined. The synthesized oligomers were analyzed with FTIR, 1H, 13C, and 29Si NMR spectroscopy. Synthesized polysiloxanes were investigated by wide‐angle X‐ray scattering, gel‐permeation chromatography, and DSC methods. Solid polymer electrolyte membranes have been obtained via sol‐gel processes of oligomer systems doped with lithium trifluoromethylsulfonate (triflate) or lithium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide. The dependence of ionic conductivity as a function of temperature and salt concentration has been investigated. It has been found that the electric conductivity of the polymer electrolyte membranes at room temperature changes in the range 4 × 10−5–6 × 10−7 S/cm.
Vibro‐Acoustic Behaviour in Biosourced Composites
Authors: Dobircau L. , Rupert L. , Turner J. , Delbreilh L. , Dargent E. , Saiter J. M.
Published: July 2013

100% natural composites comprising low protein content wheat flour and bamboo fibers were elaborated by means of an extrusion process using glycerol, water and sorbitol as plasticizers. The morphology, the mechanical properties and the acoustic response of the materials were analysed by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), tensile testing and acoustic measurements respectively. The extruded samples showed randomly dispersed bamboo fibers in the wheat flour matrix whereby a clear reinforcement in mechanical properties was observed with increase of the fiber percentage up to 15% w/w. The vibro‐acoustic measurements performed by analysing the surface wave propagation of the sound signal show the effects of the fiber dispersion and of the frequency on the damping properties of these new composites. At low frequency, the presence of the fibers is well observed and they play the role of secondary wave sources.
AFQ056 in Parkinson patients with levodopa‐induced dyskinesia: 13‐week, randomized, dose‐finding study
Authors: Stocchi Fabrizio , Rascol Olivier , Destee Alain , Hattori Nobutaka , Hauser Robert A. , Lang Anthony E. , Poewe Werner , Stacy Mark , Tolosa Eduardo , Gao Haitao , Nagel Jennifer , Merschhemke Martin , Graf Ana , Kenney Christopher , Trenkwalder Claudia
Published: July 2013

AFQ056 is a novel, selective metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 antagonist. This was a 13‐week, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study. Patients with Parkinson's disease and moderate‐to‐severe levodopa (l‐dopa)‐induced dyskinesia who were receiving stable l‐dopa/anti‐parkinsonian treatment and were not currently receiving amantadine were randomized to receive either AFQ056 (at doses of 20, 50, 100, 150, or 200 mg daily) or placebo (1:1:1:1:2:3 ratio) for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was the modified Abnormal Involuntary Movements Scale. Secondary outcomes included the 26‐item Parkinson's Disease Dyskinesia Scale, the Patient's/Clinician's Global Impression of Change, and the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale parts III (motor evaluation) and IV (severity of motor complications). Safety was assessed. In total, 98 of 133 (73.7%) AFQ056‐treated patients and 47 of 64 (73.4%) patients in the placebo group completed the study. Baseline characteristics were comparable. Patients randomized to AFQ056 200 mg daily administered in 2 doses demonstrated significant improvements at Week 12 on the modified Abnormal Involuntary Movements Scale compared with placebo (difference, −2.8; 95% confidence interval [CI], −5.2, −0.4; P = 0.007). Based on final actual doses, there was a dose‐response relationship on the modified Abnormal Involuntary Movements Scale, with 200 mg daily demonstrating the most robust effect (difference, −3.6; 95% CI, −7.0, −0.3; P = 0.012). Improvements in dyskinesia were supported by change on Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale part IV item 32 (50 mg daily: difference, −0.7; 95% CI, −1.1, −0.2; P = 0.003; 200 mg daily: difference, −0.5; 95% CI, −0.8, −0.1; P = 0.005). No significant changes were observed on the 26‐item Parkinson's Disease Dyskinesia Scale, the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale part IV item 33 or items 32 and 33, or the Patient's/Clinician's Global Impression of Change. Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale part III scores were not significantly changed, indicating no worsening of motor symptoms. The most common adverse events (with incidence greater with AFQ056 than with placebo) were dizziness, hallucination, fatigue, nasopharyngitis, diarrhea, and insomnia. AFQ056 demonstrated anti‐dyskinetic efficacy in this population without worsening underlying motor symptoms. These results will guide dose selection for future clinical trials. © 2013 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Pallidal stimulation for cervical dystonia does not correct abnormal temporal discrimination
Authors: Sadnicka Anna , Kimmich Okka , Pisarek Claudia , Ruge Diane , Galea Joe , Kassavetis Panagiotis , Pareés Isabel , Saifee Tabish , Molloy Anna , Bradley David , O'Riordan Sean , Zrinzo Ludvic , Hariz Marwan , Bhatia Kailash P. , Limousin Patricia , Foltynie Thomas , Rothwell John C. , Hutchinson Michael , Edwards Mark J.
Published: July 2013

Background

We investigated whether clinical improvement observed after deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the globus pallidus internus (GPi) in cervical dystonia (CD) is paralleled by the normalisation of temporal discrimination thresholds (TDTs), a marker of abnormal sensory processing in CD.

Methods

TDT was tested in 11 patients with CD after they received DBS and was compared with TDT scores from 24 patients with CD and a group of 61 controls.

Results

A clear clinical response to GPi‐DBS was demonstrated (total Toronto Western Spasmodic Torticollis Rating Scale scores fell from 50 to 18; P < 0.001). In contrast, TDT remained abnormal in the CD‐DBS group (P < 0.001) and was not significantly different from the abnormal TDT range observed in CD.

Conclusions

Underlying sensory abnormalities in temporal discrimination observed in dystonia do not seem to be corrected by successful GPi‐DBS. This adds further data to the ongoing debate regarding which pathophysiological abnormalities observed in dystonia are likely to be causal in the genesis of the disease rather than epiphenomena observed secondary to abnormal motor activity. © 2013 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
More than meets the Eye—Myelinated axons crowd the subthalamic nucleus
Authors: Mathai Abraham , Wichmann Thomas , Smith Yoland
Published: July 2013

High frequency deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) is a successful treatment for patients with advanced Parkinson's disease (PD). Although its exact mechanism of action is unknown, it is currently believed that the beneficial effects of the stimulation are mediated either by alleviating pathological basal ganglia output patterns of activity or by activation of the axons of passage that arise from the cerebral cortex and other sources. In this study, we show that the anatomical composition of the primate STN provides a substrate through which DBS may elicit widespread changes in brain activity via stimulation of fibers of passage. Using quantitative high‐resolution electron microscopy, we found that the primate STN is traversed by numerous myelinated axons, which occupy as much as 45% of its sensorimotor territory and 36% of its associative region. In comparison, myelinated axons occupy only 27% of the surface areas of the sensorimotor and associative regions of the internal segment of the globus pallidus (GPi), another target for therapeutic DBS in PD. We also noted that myelinated axons in the STN, on average, have a larger diameter than those in GPi, which may render them more susceptible to electrical stimulation. Because axons are more excitable than other neuronal elements, our findings support the hypothesis that STN DBS, even when carried out entirely within the confines of the nucleus, mediates some of its effects by activating myelinated axons of passage. © 2013 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Second‐trimester uterine artery Doppler, PlGF, sFlt‐1, sEndoglin, and lipid‐related markers for predicting preeclampsia in a high‐risk population
Authors: Diguisto Caroline , Le Gouge Amélie , Piver Eric , Giraudeau Bruno , Perrotin Franck
Published: July 2013

Objective

This study aimed to determine if screening for preeclampsia could be improved between 20 and 24 weeks of gestation by uterine artery Doppler (UAD), biomarkers and lipid‐related markers.

Method

Women at high risk of preeclampsia according to obstetric and medical characteristics and history were prospectively enrolled. Transabdominal UAD, serum biomarkers (placenta growth factor (PlGF), soluble Fms‐like tyrosine kinase‐1 and sEndoglin) and lipid‐related markers (total and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides and leptin) were prospectively collected between 20 and 24 weeks of gestation. The main endpoint was preeclampsia. UAD indices and biomarker levels were compared for the groups with and without preeclampsia. Multivariate analyses took into account the laboratory and ultrasound variables significantly associated with preeclampsia in the univariate analysis and age and nulliparity.

Results

The study at Tours University Hospital took place from March 2003 to February 2008 and included 235 women: 56 (23.8%) developed preeclampsia, 42 were severe (17.8%) and 14 occurred before 34 weeks of gestation (5.9%). The group with preeclampsia had a higher UAD pulsatility index (p = 0.0003), more frequent bilateral notches (p = .0001), lower PlGF levels (239.90 vs 302.00 pg/mL; p = 0.0015), and higher triglyceride (1.95 vs 1.70 mmol/l; p = 0.0068) and leptin levels (37.40 vs 22.55 ng/mL; p = < 0.001). No significant differences were observed for other markers. Screening for preeclampsia using these Doppler and laboratory findings produced an area under the curve of 0.795.

Conclusion

Second‐trimester UAD findings, and PlGF, triglyceride and leptin levels could help to predict preeclampsia. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.