bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Limbecker Platz Essen. Großbauvorhaben mit technischen und logistischen Besonderheiten
Authors: Fastabend Michael , Neubauer Ralf , Schücker Barbara , Krüper Birgit
Published: March 2008

Das Bauvorhaben Limbecker Platz stellt sowohl im Umfang als auch in Komplexität einen neuen Höhepunkt im Bau von innerstädtischen Einkaufszentren dar. Das Bauvorhaben umfasst einen Umfang von mehr als 200.000 m2 BGF und entsteht auf dem alten Standort des Karstadt‐Stammhauses in Essen in zwei jeweils einzeln funktionsfähigen Bauabschnitten. Aus den zeitlich 15 Jahre auseinanderliegenden Teilbauten ergeben sich technische und logistische Besonderheiten, die neben der reinen Größe des Bauvorhabens beachtenswert sind. Für die Funktionsfähigkeit der ausgedehnten Weißen Wanne wurden gesonderte Vorkehrungen getroffen, die Undichtigkeiten vermeiden helfen. Dies betrifft gleicher Maßen die Berücksichtigung später ggf. zu erwartender Berghebungen aus dem Abschalten der Bergbausümpfung im Ruhrgebiet. Hinsichtlich der Baustellenlogistik war die Bewältigung der enormen Baumassen ein besonderes Problem, dass sowohl personelle, als auch abwicklungstechnische Auswirkungen zeigte. Die pünktliche Teileröffnung im Frühjahr 2008 beweist die anforderungsgerechte Bewältigung der gestellten Planungs‐ und Bauaufgabe.
Dietary restriction by growth in axenic medium induces discrete changes in the transcriptional output of genes involved in energy metabolism in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Castelein Natascha , Hoogewijs David , De Vreese Annemie , Braeckman Bart P. , Vanfleteren Jacques R.
Published: March 2008

Dietary restriction increases life span in a wide range of species, including the nematode worm Caenorhabditis elegans. The mechanism by which it does so remains largely unknown, although it is commonly thought that a reduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) plays a pivotal role. More specifically, for C. elegans, it has been proposed that food restriction reduces energy expenditure, possibly in conjunction with an anaerobic shift in energy production, with consequent reduction in the formation of ROS. We have measured differential transcript abundance of 49 genes known to play roles in energy metabolism in axenic culture medium, which causes a nutritional deficit and leads to a substantial increase of life span. We found no evidence for a reduction in metabolic rate or a shift to anaerobic metabolism in axenic culture. Major changes induced by growth in axenic medium include down‐regulation of lipid degradation and up‐regulation of glyoxylate cycle activity glyceroneogenesis and, possibly, gluconeogenesis. The activities determined in worm extracts for pyruvate kinase, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase and isocitrate lyase followed a similar trend. We conclude that growth in axenic culture is marked by a general up‐regulation of replenishing pathways.
Novel use of a modified Amplatzer Vascular Plug® to occlude a patent ductus arteriosus in two patients
Authors: Glatz Andrew C. , Petit Christopher J. , Gillespie Matthew J.
Published: March 2008

We describe two cases in which a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) was successfully occluded percutaneously, using the novel approach of prefilling an Amplatzer Vascular Plug® with embolization coils to decrease the risk of residual shunting through the device. One patient was a small premature neonate, and the other was a child with an aneurismal, tubular PDA with no aortic ampulla. These are situations in which more popular PDA devices such as the Amplatzer Duct Occluder® may be contraindicated. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Catheter‐based treatment of the subclavian and innominate arteries
Authors: Patel Samir N. , White Christopher J. , Collins Tyrone J. , Daniel Gary A. , Jenkins J. Stephen , Reilly J.P. , Morris Rachael F. , Ramee Stephen R.
Published: March 2008

Objectives: We report outcomes in patients undergoing catheter‐based intervention for symptomatic subclavian and innominate artery (S/IA) atherosclerosis. Background: Symptomatic S/IA obstructive lesions have traditionally been treated with open surgical revascularization. Catheter‐based endovascular therapies reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with surgery in many vascular beds. Methods: Between December 1993 and May 2006, 170 patients underwent primary stent placement in 177 S/IA arteries. Indications for revascularization included arm ischemia (57%), subclavian steal syndrome (37%), coronary‐subclavian steal syndrome (21%), and planned coronary bypass surgery with the involved internal mammary artery (8%). Results: Technical success was achieved in 98.3% (174/177) arteries, including 99.4% for stenotic lesions (155/156) and 90.5% for occlusions (19/21). There were no procedure‐related deaths and one stroke (0.6%, 1/170). Follow‐up was obtained in 151 (89%) patients at 35.2 ± 30.8 months, with a target vessel revascularization rate of 14.6% (23/157). At last follow‐up, 82% (124/151) of all treated patients remained asymptomatic with a primary patency of 83% and a secondary patency of 96%. Conclusions: Catheter‐based revascularization with stents for symptomatic S/IA lesions is safe and effective with excellent patency rates and sustained symptom resolution in the majority (>80%) of patients over 3 years of follow‐up. Percutaneous primary stent therapy is the preferred method of revascularization in patients with suitable anatomy. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparison of five‐year outcome in African Americans versus Caucasians following percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Pradhan Jyotiranjan , Schreiber Theodore L. , Niraj Ashutosh , Veeranna Vikas , Ramesh Krithi , Saigh Lisa , Afonso Luis
Published: March 2008

Background: Studies regarding short‐term outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) have reported no ethnic differences and data on long‐term follow‐up is conflicting and sparse. Methods: 730 consecutive patients (67% African American) undergoing PCI from January 1999 to December 2000 at a tertiary care center in Detroit, MI, were followed up. End points studied included either all cause mortality collected from Social Security Death Index or first hospital admission after the index procedure due to myocardial infarction(MI), congestive heart failure(CHF), and revascularization (PCI or coronary artery bypass graft surgery). Results: African‐Americans undergoing PCI had significant differences in baseline cardiovascular co‐morbidity and were more likely to present with acute myocardial infarction than Caucasians. On Kaplan Meier survival analysis and log rank test, each ethnic group had equivalent survival for cumulative end points upto 6‐month follow‐up, however longer follow‐up to 5 year was characterized by lower survival rate in African Americans compared to Caucasians (41% vs. 54%, log rank P 0.01). After adjustment for potential confounders, AA ethnicity (Adjusted HR 1.62, 95% CI 1.01–1.28, P 0.04) remained a predictor of adverse cardiac outcome (Death/MI/CHF) at five‐year follow‐up (Cox regression propensity adjusted hazard analysis). Conclusions: African American patients undergoing PCI had unfavorable baseline cardiovascular characteristics but comparable short‐term outcome compared to whites. However, at 5‐year follow‐up, African Americans had worse clinical outcome, higher incidence of acute myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure and significantly lower long‐term survival. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Theoretical Investigation of Clusters of Phosphorus and Arsenic: Fascination and Temptation of High Symmetries
Authors: Nava Paola , Ahlrichs Reinhart
Published: March 2008

We present a theoretical study of the energetic and thermodynamic stability of selected phosphorus and arsenic clusters containing 18 to 168 atoms. For this purpose we employ MP2 as well as DFT functionals BP86 and B3LYP with extended basis sets. All procedures predict the family of one‐dimensional polymers X18+12n, each with 2n−1 isomers of virtually identical energy, to be more stable than other structures investigated so far. Furthermore, islands of stability result for ring‐shaped clusters X24n with Dnd symmetry for n=4 (only for arsenic), 5, 6, and 7. Phosphorus and arsenic show otherwise a very similar behavior. An investigation of basis set effects shows that a doubly polarized triple zeta valence basis (TZVPP) is both necessary and sufficient. In comparison to the reliable spin component scaled MP2 (SCS‐MP2) procedure, DFT methods underestimate and MP2 overestimates the stability of larger clusters; the discrepancy increases with the number of atoms. The addition of a long‐range dispersion correction to B3LYP energies does not rectify the shortcomings of DFT in comparison with SCS‐MP2.
Worse Prognosis with Gene Mutations of Beta‐myosin Heavy Chain than Myosin‐Binding Protein C in Chinese Patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Hui Rutai , Wang Shuxia , Zou Yubao , Fu Chunyan , Xu Xiqi , Wang Jizheng , Song Lei , Wang Hu , Chen Jingzhou , Wang Jianwei , Huan Tujun
Published: March 2008

Background

No data are available on survival analysis and longitudinal evolution of patients with gene mutations of beta‐myosin heavy chain (MYH7) and myosin binding protein C (MYBPC3) in Chinese.

Hypothesis

To prospectively investigate whether different gene mutations confer distinct prognosis.

Methods

We performed a prospective study in 70 HCM patients and 46 genetically affected family members without HCM‐phenotype with direct DNA sequencing of MYH7 and MYBPC3, clinical assessments, and 5.8 ± 1.8 years follow‐up.

Results

After follow‐up, more surgical intervention (8/52 versus 0/18, p < 0.001), higher sudden death risk (7/52 versus 0/18, p < 0.001) and shorter life span were found in patients with MYH7 mutations than in patients with MYBPC3 mutations (45.1 ± 14.0 versus 73.5 ± 7.5 years, p = 0.03). Seven of the 27 mutation carriers of MYH7 had clinical presentations of HCM, but no carriers of MYBPC3 mutations developed to HCM during follow‐up. Maximal wall thickness was thicker in the patients carrying mutations in the global region of MYH7 than in those carrying mutations in the rod region of MYH7 (21.5 ± 6.6 versus 15 ± 6.1 mm, p < 0.05) at baseline. More sudden death (7/41 versus 0/11) and left ventricular dysfunction (NYHA Class III ∼ IV, 17/32 versus 1/10) were identified in patients with mutations in the global region of MYH7 than in patients with other mutations.

Conclusions

MYH7 mutations, especially in the global region, cause malignant clinical phenotypes Copyright © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prognostic Value of Troponins in Patients with Non‐ST‐segment Elevation Acute Coronary Syndromes and Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Melloni Chiara , Alexander Karen P. , Milford‐Beland Sarah , Newby L. Kristin , Szczech Lynda A. , Pollack Charles V. , Kirk J. Douglas , Christenson Robert H. , Harrington Robert A. , Gibler W. Brian , Ohman E. Magnus , Peterson Eric D. , Roe Matthew T.
Published: March 2008

Background

The prognostic value of cardiac troponins (cTn) in patients with non‐ST‐segment elevation acute coronary syndromes (NSTE ACS) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) is debated.

Hypothesis

We tested the performance of cTnI and cTnT for risk stratification in patients with CKD and evaluated the prognostic significance of cTnI and cTnT elevations by their magnitude across the range of CKD severity.

Methods

We examined correlations among cTn elevation, CKD, and in‐hospital mortality in 31,586 high‐risk patients with NSTE ACS included in the Can Rapid Risk Stratification of Unstable Angina Patients Suppress ADverse Outcomes with Early Implementation of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Guidelines initiative (CRUSADE). Cardiac tropinins I and T levels were categorized as ratios of each site's upper limit of normal (ULN) for myocardial necrosis: normal (cTn ratio ⩽1 × ULN), mild (cTn ratio > 1–3 × ULN), and major (cTn ratio > 3 × ULN) elevation. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated using the abbreviated Modification of Diet in Renal Disease equation. Stages of CKD were categorized as normal to mild (eGFR > 60 mL/min), moderate (eGFR 30–60 mL/min), or severe (eGFR < 30 mL/min).

Results

Mortality increased more steeply across CKD stages (2.0%–12.9%) than across cTn ratio categories (2.7%–5.4%). In normal or mild CKD, mortality was low regardless of cTn elevations. In moderate CKD, mortality increased incrementally with cTnI (3.3% versus 5.4% versus 7.4%) and cTnT (3.7% versus 5.3% versus 7.3%) elevation. Among severe CKD patients, only major cTn elevations further distinguished risk (cTnI: 10.1% versus 9.7% versus 14.6%; cTnT: 7.0% versus 5.7% versus 14.0%).

Conclusions

In patients with CKD, cTnI and cTnT perform equally in differentiating short‐term prognosis following NSTE ACS; however, the prognostic impact of cTn is dependent upon the degree of CKD severity. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Naphthoxazepine Inhibitors of HIV‐1 Integrase: Synthesis and Biological Evaluation
Authors: Garofalo Antonio , Grande Fedora , Brizzi Antonella , Aiello Francesca , Dayam Raveendra , Neamati Nouri
Published: March 2008

Two sets of compounds derived from the fusion of a diversely annulated naphthoxazepinedione system with 1,3‐thiazole and 1,3‐oxazole are described. These compounds are close analogues of previously reported thiazolothiazepine inhibitors of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 integrase (HIV‐1 IN). Some of the new derivatives show potency similar to that of the reference compounds, thus gaining further insight into the structure–activity relationship of this class of IN inhibitors.
Predicting CH/π Interactions with Nonlocal Density Functional Theory
Authors: Hooper Joe , Cooper Valentino R. , Thonhauser Timo , Romero Nichols A. , Zerilli Frank , Langreth David C.
Published: March 2008

We examine the performance of a recently developed nonlocal density functional in predicting a model noncovalent interaction, namely the weak bond between an aromatic π system and an aliphatic CH group. The new functional is a significant improvement over traditional density functionals, providing results which compare favorably to high‐level quantum‐chemistry techniques, but at considerably lower computational cost. Interaction energies in several model CH/π systems are in good general agreement with coupled‐cluster calculations, though equilibrium distances are consistently overpredicted when using the revPBE functional for exchange. The new functional predicts changes in energy upon addition of halogen substituents correctly.
Summary of ‘Antihistamines and/or decongestants for otitis media with effusion (OME) in children’
Authors: Milne Andrea
Published: March 2008

This is a summary of a Cochrane review, published in this issue of EBCH, first published as: Griffin GH, Flynn C, Bailey RE, Schultz JK. Antihistamines and/or decongestants for otitis media with effusion (OME) in children. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2006, Issue 4. Art. No.: CD003423. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003423.pub2.

Further information for this Cochrane review is available in this issue of EBCH in the accompanying EBCH Commentary and Characteristics and Key Findings Tables articles. Copyright © 2008 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The Cochrane Collaboration
Commentary on ‘Early developmental intervention programs post hospital discharge to prevent motor and cognitive impairments in preterm infants’
Authors: Robertson Charlene M. T. , Vanderveen Jessica A. , Kirpalani Haresh
Published: March 2008

This is a commentary on a Cochrane review, published in this issue of EBCH, first published as: Spittle AJ, Orton J, Doyle LW, Boyd R. Early developmental intervention programs post hospital discharge to prevent motor and cognitive impairments in preterm infants. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2007, Issue 2. Art. No.: CD005495. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD005495.pub2.

Further information for this Cochrane review is available in this issue of EBCH in the accompanying EBCH Summary and Characteristics and Key Findings Tables articles. Copyright © 2008 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The Cochrane Collaboration
Th17 development and autoimmune arthritis in the absence of reactive oxygen species
Authors: George‐Chandy Annie , Nordström Inger , Nygren Erik , Jonsson Ing‐Marie , Postigo Jorge , Collins Laurence Vincent , Eriksson Kristina
Published: March 2008

Dendritic cells (DC) express a functional NADPH oxidase and produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) upon interaction with microbes and T cells. Exposure to ROS leads to DC activation and maturation, as evidenced by phenotypic and functional changes. We have evaluated how endogenous ROS production affects the cytokine secretion pattern and T cell‐activating capacity of bone marrow‐derived murine DC. DC treated with ROS scavengers, as well as DC from mice that lack a functional NADPH oxidase (and thereby inherently deficient in ROS production) produced significantly increased levels of IL‐1β, IL‐6, TNF‐α and TGF‐β in response to microbial activation. DC deficient in ROS production induced high levels of IFN‐γ and IL‐17 in responding T cells after Ag‐specific or superantigen‐induced activation. Finally, we show that ROS deficiency affected the induction of a T cell‐dependent inflammatory condition, collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA). C57BL/6 mice that lack a functional NADPH oxidase developed a severe and erosive CD4‐dependent CIA, whereas the majority of the congenic wild‐type animals remained healthy. These data suggest that ROS act as immunomodulators in DC‐driven T cell activation and perhaps also in T cell‐dependent immunopathology.
Proliferation and interleukin 5 production by CD8hiCD57+ T cells
Authors: Chong Lee K. , Aicheler Rebecca J. , Llewellyn‐Lacey Sian , Tomasec Peter , Brennan Paul , Wang Eddie C. Y.
Published: March 2008

CD8hiCD57+ T cells have previously been described as effector memory T cells with minimal expansion capacity and high susceptibility to activation‐induced cell death. In contrast, we demonstrate here that CD8hiCD57+ T cells are capable of rapid expansion using multiple techniques including [3H]thymidine uptake, flow cytometric bead‐based enumeration and standard haemocytometer counting. Previous reports can be explained by marked inhibition of activation‐induced expansion and increased 7‐amino‐actinomycin D uptake by CD8hiCD57+ T cells following treatment with CFSE, a dye previously used to measure their proliferation, combined with specific media requirements for the growth of this cell subset. The ability of CD8hiCD57+ T cells to further differentiate is highlighted by a distinct cytokine profile late after activation that includes the unexpected release of high levels of interleukin 5. These data indicate that CD8hiCD57+ T cells should not be considered as “end‐stage” effector T cells incapable of proliferation, but represent a highly differentiated subset capable of rapid division and exhibiting novel functions separate from their previously described cytotoxic and IFN‐γ responses.
Preservation of a critical epitope core region is associated with the high degree of flaviviral cross‐reactivity exhibited by a dengue‐specific CD4+ T cell clone
Authors: Moran Edward , Simmons Cameron , Vinh Chau Nguyen , Luhn Kerstin , Wills Bridget , Dung Nguyen Phuong , Thao Le Thi Thu , Hien Tran Tinh , Farrar Jeremy , Rowland‐Jones Sarah , Dong Tao
Published: March 2008

Dengue is a member of the Flaviviridae, a large group of related viruses some of which co‐circulate in certain regions (e.g. dengue and Yellow fever in South America). Immune responses cross‐reactive between different dengue serotypes are important in the pathogenesis of dengue disease but it is not known whether previous infection with one flavivirus might affect the clinical course of subsequent infections with other members of the family. CD4+ T cells have been shown to be important in the production of cytokines in response to dengue infection and can demonstrate significant epitope cross‐reactivity. Here, we describe the generation and characterisation of CD4+ T cell clones from a patient experiencing acute dengue infection. These clones were DRB1*15+ and recognised epitope variants not only within other dengue viruses but certain other flaviviruses. This cross‐reactivity was dependent upon the presence of a five‐amino acid core region, consistent with structural observations of class II MHC binding to TCR demonstrating that only a subset of residues within an epitope bound to a class II molecule are “read out” by the TCR. This capacity of CD4+ T cell clones to recognise a given epitope despite considerable variation between viruses may be of pathological significance, particularly in regions where related viruses co‐circulate.
Electrochromatography in microchips packed with conventional reversed‐phase silica particles
Authors: Gaspar Attila , Hernandez Lilia , Stevens Schetema , Gomez Frank A.
Published: March 2008

This paper shows the applicability of a disposable and inexpensive microfluidic chip for electrochromatographic separations. The chip, recently developed by us for chip‐based LC, was fabricated from PDMS incorporating conventional chromatographic RP silica particles (C18) without the use of frits. Three cephalosporin antibiotics were used to demonstrate the applicability of the chip‐based chromatographic packing for electrochromatographic determinations. The used sample injection method utilizes hydrodynamic pressure, thereby, reducing the propensity for sample bias during the injection.
Enantioselective silica‐based monoliths modified with a novel aminosulfonic acid‐derived strong cation exchanger for electrically driven and pressure‐driven capillary chromatography
Authors: Preinerstorfer Beatrix , Hoffmann Christian , Lubda Dieter , Lämmerhofer Michael , Lindner Wolfgang
Published: March 2008

Silica monoliths modified with trans‐(1S,2S)‐2‐(N‐4‐allyloxy‐3,5‐dichlorobenzoyl)amino cyclohexanesulfonic acid were tested for enantioselective separations of various chiral bases by aqueous and nonaqueous CEC as well as nano‐HPLC. The optimization of the immobilization procedure showed that an intermediate selector (SO) coverage, as does result from a single static immobilization cycle in the capillary at 60°C with an 8% (m/v) SO solution in methanol, affords maximal EOF and optimal enantioselectivity values, while a second immobilization cycle does not lead to any improvements. Furthermore, the mobile phase composition was examined regarding the effectiveness of aqueous phases (ACN/water and methanol/water) compared to nonaqueous eluents (ACN/methanol) in terms of separation selectivity and efficiency. Additionally, different acids of varying strengths were tested as co‐ions in the ion‐exchange process, including formic acid, acetic acid, methanesulfonic acid, and TFA (pKa from 4.75 to 0.5). It turned out that the effects regarding EOF and enantioselectivity were largely negligible. The chromatographic efficiencies of the new capillary columns were compelling and remarkable for bases. H–u curves established for mefloquine revealed a C‐term contribution (resistance to mass transfer) by a factor of about six lower in CEC than in nano‐HPLC and an A‐term (flow maldistribution) about three times lower in the CEC mode. Theoretical plate heights as low as around 3–5 μm could be obtained in CEC over a wide flow range (0.5–1.5 mm/s). Run‐to‐run repeatabilities like in HPLC and excellent system stability promise the practical usefulness of the novel monolithic capillary column for enantiomeric composition analysis of pharmaceuticals by CEC.
Nonaqueous capillary electrophoresis for analysis of the ethanol consumption biomarker phosphatidylethanol
Authors: Varga Arthur , Nilsson Staffan
Published: March 2008

Nonaqueous CE (NACE) methodology was developed for the separation and determination of phosphatidylethanol (Peth), a new biomarker of ethanol intake. Peth is an abnormal phospholipid formed in cell membranes only in the presence of ethanol, via the transphosphatidylation reaction of phospholipase D. The NACE separation medium consisted of 80 mM ammonium acetate in 50% ACN, 33% 2‐propanol, 12% hexane and 5% methanol. A stacking effect was obtained by reducing the concentration of ammonium acetate in the separation medium for all injected samples. The LOD was estimated to 1 μM (5.6 fmol) of Peth with conventional UV detection, equalling 0.4 μmol/L blood. Peth was successfully determined in extracts of human blood samples. Separation of Peth from other blood lipids in the lipid extract sample was performed in 5 min. The method facilitates smaller sample volumes and performs about ten times faster compared to earlier chromatographical methods.
Stellan Hjertén's contribution to the development of monolithic stationary phases
Authors: Svec Frantisek
Published: March 2008

This overview is presented to celebrate the birthday of one of the luminaries of the separation science and my friend – Stellan Hjertén. He made significant contributions to a variety of areas in separation science such as electrophoresis, LC, and CEC to name just a few. Since the scope of his work was enormous, this review will focus only on a single aspect of his scientific activities, the design and applications of monolithic materials. During the years starting from 1989, Stellan Hjertén published many excellent papers concerning the preparation of acrylamide chemistry‐based monoliths and their use in both micro‐HPLC and CEC. The following text details his works in the field.
Affinity capillary electrophoresis for identification and investigation of human Gc‐globulin (vitamin D‐binding protein) and its isoforms interacting with G‐actin
Authors: Pedersen Jeppe Trudslev , Østergaard Jesper , Houen Gunnar , Heegaard Niels H. H.
Published: March 2008

A CE procedure was established for the nondenaturing separation and identification of the isoforms of the actin‐binding human plasma protein Gc‐globulin. To characterize interactions with globular actin (G‐actin), a novel method was developed for the simultaneous qualitative assessment of the binding interaction between the three major isoforms of Gc‐globulin and G‐actin using pre‐equilibrium affinity CE and UV detection. Evidence was found that some difference in binding affinity existed among the isoforms, although the quantification of this difference was not feasible by UV detection because of the high affinity nature of the binding. The difference in affinity appeared to be related to the pI of the isoforms; a high pI corresponding to a high affinity. For quantitative binding studies Gc‐globulin was fluorescently labeled with 5‐(and‐6)‐carboxyfluorescein, succinimidyl ester (CFSE). Data suggested that extensive labeling interfered with actin binding but with moderately labeled Gc‐globulin it was possible to determine a dissociation constant of Kd = 21 ± 1 nM for the binding between labeled Gc‐globulin and G‐actin using pre‐equilibrium affinity CE and LIF detection.
Durability of ABPBI‐based MEAs for High Temperature PEMFCs at Different Operating Conditions
Authors: Wannek C. , Kohnen B. , Oetjen H.‐F. , Lippert H. , Mergel J.
Published: March 2008

High temperature PEMFCs based on phosphoric acid‐doped ABPBI membranes have been prepared and characterised. At 160 °C and ambient pressure fuel cell power densities of 300 mW cm–2 (with hydrogen and air as reactants) and 180 mW cm–2 (with simulated diesel reformate/air) have been achieved. The durability of these membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) in the hydrogen/air mode of operation at different working conditions has been measured electrochemically and has been correlated to the cell resistivity, the phosphoric acid loss rate and the catalyst particle size. Under stationary conditions, a voltage loss of only –25 μV h–1 at a current density of 200 mA cm–2 has been deduced from a 1,000 h test. Under dynamic load changes or during start–stop cycling the degradation rate was significantly higher. Leaching of phosphoric acid from the cell was found to be very small and is not the main reason for the performance loss. Instead an important increase in the catalyst particle size was observed to occur during two long‐term experiments. At high gas flows of hydrogen and air ABPBI‐based MEAs can be operated at temperatures below 100 °C for several hours without a significant irreversible loss of cell performance and with only very little acid leaching.
Evaluation of amelioration treatments and economic aspects of using saline–sodic water for rice and wheat production on salt‐affected soils under arid land conditions
Authors: Ghafoor A. , Murtaza G. , Ahmad B. , Boers Th. M.
Published: March 2008

This paper reports the amelioration of saline–sodic soils with gypsum and/or farm manure in a 3‐year rice–wheat rotation at three sites, using saline–sodic waters. The treatments were: (1) irrigation with saline–sodic water without amendment (control); (2) gypsum at 50% gypsum requirement of soil (G50); (3) farm manure at 25 Mg ha−1 annually before rice (FM); and (4) gypsum at 25% gypsum requirement of soil along with 25 Mg ha−1 of farm manure (G25 + FM). Soil salinity/sodicity at all sites decreased, treatment effectiveness order being G50 > G25 + FM > FM > control. Crop growth, grain yield and net benefits were found to be directly proportional to the treatment reclamation effectiveness. For economic yields of rice and wheat crops from saline–sodic soils and water, gypsum at least at 50% GR once or gypsum at 25% GR once along with 25 Mg FM ha−1 each year are required. Owing to high net benefit, G50 proved the best treatment at all the sites, the value being the highest for site 2 followed by sites 1 and 3. A high net benefit on farmers' fields with farmer participation implicitly highlighted the added advantage of farmers' skills for agronomic operations since the farmer at site 2 was more skilful. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
FTIR protein secondary structure analysis of human ascending aortic tissues
Authors: Bonnier F. , Rubin S. , Debelle L. , Ventéo L. , Pluot M. , Baehrel B. , Manfait M. , Sockalingum G. D.
Published: March 2008

The advent of moderate dilatations in ascending aortas is often accompanied by structural modifications of the main components of the aortic tissue, elastin and collagen. In this study, we have undertaken an approach based on FTIR microscopy coupled to a curve‐fitting procedure to analyze secondary structure modifications in these proteins in human normal and pathological aortic tissues. We found that the outcome of the aortic pathology is strongly influenced by these proteins, which are abundant in the media of the aortic wall, and that the advent of an aortic dilatation is generally accompanied by a decrease of parallel β‐sheet structures. Elastin, essentially composed of β‐sheet structures, seems to be directly related to these changes and therefore indicative of the elastic alteration of the aortic wall. Conventional microscopy and confocal fluorescence microscopy were used to compare FTIR microscopy results with the organization of the elastic fibers present in the tissues. This in‐vitro study on 6 patients (three normal and three pathologic), suggests that such a spectroscopic marker, specific to aneurismal tissue characterization, could be important information for surgeons who face the dilemma of moderate aortic tissue dilatation of the ascending aortas. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Thin semitransparent gels containing phenylboronic acid: porosity, optical response and permeability for sugars
Authors: Ivanov Alexander E. , Thammakhet Chongdee , Kuzimenkova Marina V. , Thavarungkul Panote , Kanatharana Proespichaya , Mikhalovska Lyubov I. , Mikhalovsky Sergey V. , Galaev Igor Yu. , Mattiasson Bo
Published: March 2008

Radical copolymerization of acrylamide (Am) (90 mol%) with N‐acryloyl‐m‐aminophenylboronic acid (NAAPBA) (10 mol%) carried out on the surface of glass slides in aqueous solution and in the absence of chemical cross‐linkers, resulted in the formation of thin semitransparent gels. The phenylboronic acid (PBA) ligand density was ca. 160 µmol/ml gel. The gels exhibited a macroporous structure and displayed optical response to sucrose, lactose, glucose and fructose in 50 mM sodium phosphate buffer, in the pH range from 6.5 to 7.5. The response was fairly reversible and linearly depended on glucose concentration in the wide concentration range from 1 to 60 mM at pH 7.3. The character of response was explained by the balance of two competing equilibrium processes: binding of glucose to phenylboronate anions and binary hydrophobic interactions of neutral PBA groups. The apparent diffusion coefficient of glucose in the gels was ca. 2.5 × 10−7 cm2/s. A freshly prepared gel can be used daily for at least 1 month without changes in sensitivity. Autoclaving (121°C, 1.2 bar, 10 min) allows for the gels sterilization, which is important for their use as glucose sensors in fermentation processes. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Epitope mapping of anti‐human transferrin monoclonal antibodies: potential uses for transferrin–transferrin receptor interaction studies
Authors: Perera Yasser , García Darién , Guirola Osmany , Huerta Vivian , García Yanet , Muñoz Yasmiana
Published: March 2008

Human transferrin (hTf) is an 80 kDa glycoprotein involved in iron transport from the absorption sites to the sites of storage and utilization. Additionally, transferrin also plays a relevant role as a bacteriostatic agent preventing uncontrolled bacterial growth in the host. In this work we describe a well‐characterized Mabs panel in terms of precise epitope localization and estimate affinity for the two major hTf isoforms. We found at least four antigenic regions in the hTf molecule, narrowed down the interacting antigen residues within three of such regions, and located them on a molecular model of hTf. Two of the antigenic regions partially overlap with previously described transferrin‐binding sites for both human receptor (antigenic region I: containing amino acid residues from Asp‐69 to Asn‐76 at the N‐lobe) and bacterial receptors from two pathogenic species (antigenic region III: amino acid residues from Leu‐665 to Ser‐672 at the C‐lobe). Hence, such monoclonal antibodies (Mabs) could be used as an additional tool for conformational studies and/or the characterization of the interaction between hTf and both types of receptor molecules. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determination of partial unfolding enthalpy for lysozyme upon interaction with dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide using an extended solvation model
Authors: Behbehani G. Rezaei , Saboury A. A. , Taleshi E.
Published: March 2008

The interactions of dodecyltrimethylammonium bromides (DTABs) with hen egg lysozyme have been investigated at pH = 7.0 and 27°C in phosphate buffer by isothermal titration calorimetry. DTAB interacts endothermically and activate lysozyme. The endothermicity of the lysozyme–DTAB interaction is in marked contrast to the exothermic interactions between sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) and lysozyme which have been attributed to specific binding between the anionic sulphate head groups and cationic amino acid residues. The enthalpies of interaction between the cationic surfactant (DTAB) and lysozyme are dominated by the endothermic unfolding of the native structure followed by an exothermic solvation of the lysozyme–DTAB complex by the addition of extra DTAB. A new direct calorimetric method to follow protein denaturation, and the effect of surfactants on the stability of proteins was introduced. The extended solvation model was used to reproduce the enthalpies of lysozyme–DTAB interaction over the whole range of DTAB concentrations. The solvation parameters recovered from the new equation, attributed to the structural change of lysozyme and its biological activity. At low concentrations of DTAB, the binding is mainly electrostatic, with some simultaneous interaction of the hydrophobic tail with nearby hydrophobic patches on the lysozyme. These initial interactions presumably cause some protein unfolding and expose additional hydrophobic sites. The DTAB‐induced denaturation enthalpy of lysozyme is 86.46 ± 0.02 kJ mol−1. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Role of the tumor necrosis factor‐α, cyclooxygenase‐2, prostaglandin E2, and effect of low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound in an in vitro herniated disc resorption model
Authors: Iwabuchi Sadahiro , Ito Masaya , Chikanishi Toshihiro , Azuma Yoshiaki , Haro Hirotaka
Published: March 2008

Spontaneous herniated disc resorption occurs via inflammatory reactions involving abundant neovascularization and macrophage phagocytotic activity. Nonthermal low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) treatment might be effective in shortening the duration of disc resorption. We developed a rat in vitro resorption model in which a coccygeal intervertebral disc and peritoneal macrophages were cocultured. Secretion of tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) from macrophages was promoted by LIPUS, and the process of disc degeneration was thus accelerated. In this study, we further examined the effects of LIPUS using this in vitro model focusing on whether LIPUS affects cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) signaling pathways. We found that the levels of COX‐2 and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) secreted from macrophages were increased by LIPUS. However, these phenomena were not caused by LIPUS directly, as the levels of these substances were reduced by neutralizing TNF‐α activity. Moreover, the wet weights of the disc samples were not changed by addition of PGE2, but were reduced by recombinant TNF‐α. Our results suggest that the effects of LIPUS in enhancing the process of herniated disc resorption are caused mainly by TNF‐α. © 2008 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 26:1274–1278, 2008
Thermal damage potential during hip resurfacing in osteonecrosis of the femoral head: An experimental study
Authors: Hsieh Pang‐Hsin , Tai Ching‐Lung , Liaw Jiunn‐Woei , Chang Yu‐Han
Published: March 2008

Hip resurfacing arthroplasty has become an attractive treatment option for young, active patients with femoral head necrosis. However, little information is available about the potential thermal damage to the remaining femoral head when a cemented component is used. We used an experimental model to measure the temperature profile at the cement–bone interface during hip resurfacing. We compared four simulated lesion sizes—15, 25, 33, and 50%—of the femoral head, and a control group with no cystic lesion. Temperatures were measured with the specimens in a 37°C saline bath or with copious pulsed lavage. With specimens tested in the bath, peak temperatures were higher, and durations of temperatures above 50°C were longer, in femoral heads with necrotic lesions (88.8 ± 7.5°C; 17.6 ± 1.1 min for a 15% lesion; 96.2 ± 7.2°C; 22.86 ± 1.3 min for a 25% lesion; 99.7 © 200 ± 9.4°C; 28.6 ± 2.0 min for a 33% lesion; and 97.2 ± 4.2°C; 35.6 ± 2.4 min for a 50% lesion) than those in the control group (65.8 ± 4.9°C; 10.0 ± 1.3 min). The larger the cement‐filled cysts, the longer the temperatures remained above 50°C. Although copious lavage reduced the temperature profile in each group, the temperatures remained above 50°C for 7 to 17 min in specimens with necrotic cysts. The measured temperatures during surface replacement are sufficiently high in magnitude and long in duration to cause thermal damage to the remaining bone in femoral heads with preexisting necrotic lesions. Hip resurfacing for femoral head necrosis should be performed with caution. © 2008 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 26:1206–1209, 2008
Raman identification of natural red to yellow pigments: ochre and iron‐containing ores
Authors: Froment Françoise , Tournié Aurélie , Colomban Philippe
Published: March 2008

Red and yellow natural (roasted) pigments have been used for millennia. This paper reports on the Raman characterization of about 50 pigments of the Ôkhra ‘Mathériauthèque’ collection from different origins: violet, red, orange, apricot, yellow ochre, Umbrian and Siena earths from France (Puisaye, Ardennes, Vaucluse), Italy (Siena, Sardinia, Venice, etc.), Germany, Sweden, Cyprus and India (Madras). Comparison is made with ‘Bengara’ Japanese pigments. Goethite is the chromophore of yellow pigments, and haematite (sometimes with magnetite) that of red ochre and earths. Umbrian pigment (‘Terre d'Ombre’) contains additional manganese oxides. Color shades are related to the content of secondary phases: iron oxides (haematite, goethite, magnetite), quartz, gypsum and anhydrite, calcite, dolomite, alums (jarosites), and to the Fe/M substitution in the haematite structure. The set of secondary phases can be used to confirm a provenance signature (Supplementary Material available). Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Marked Regression of Abdominal Fat Amyloid in Patients With Familial Amyloid Polyneuropathy During Long-Term Follow-Up After Liver Transplantation
Authors: Tsuchiya Ayako , Yazaki Masahide , Kametani Fuyuki , Takei Yo-ichi , Ikeda Shu-ichi
Published: March 2008

To elucidate whether the amount of tissue-deposited amyloid in familial amyloid polyneuropathy (FAP) patients decreases or increases over the long-term course after liver transplantation (LT), we examined changes in histopathological and biochemical characteristics of abdominal fat amyloid in the transplanted patients with a postoperative history of more than 10 years. Using a series of aspirated abdominal fat tissues from 6 FAP patients with transthyretin (TTR) Val30Met variant, the severity of amyloid deposits was examined and the composition ratio of wild type-to-variant TTR in fat amyloid was assayed by liquid chromatography-ion trap mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Histopathological examination of abdominal fat tissues demonstrated a significant decrease or disappearance of amyloid deposits in all 6 patients. On LC-MS/MS analysis, the contribution of wild-type TTR to the composition ratio in amyloid fibrils was markedly increased in all patients after LT. This is the first report showing pathological evidence that deposited amyloid in FAP patients with long posttransplantation courses can gradually regress or disappear.
Steroid Avoidance in Liver Transplantation: Meta-Analysis and Meta-Regression of Randomized Trials
Authors: Segev Dorry L. , Sozio Stephen M. , Shin Eun Ji , Nazarian Susanna M. , Nathan Hari , Thuluvath Paul J. , Montgomery Robert A. , Cameron Andrew M. , Maley Warren R.
Published: March 2008

Steroid use after liver transplantation (LT) has been associated with diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, obesity, and hepatitis C (HCV) recurrence. We performed meta-analysis and meta-regression of 30 publications representing 19 randomized trials that compared steroid-free with steroid-based immunosuppression (IS). There were no differences in death, graft loss, and infection. Steroid-free recipients demonstrated a trend toward reduced hypertension [relative risk (RR) 0.84,

P

= 0.08], and statistically significant decreases in cholesterol (standard mean difference −0.41,

P

< 0.001) and cytomegalovirus (RR 0.52,

P

= 0.001). In studies where steroids were replaced by another IS agent, the risks of diabetes (RR 0.29,

P

< 0.001), rejection (RR 0.68,

P

= 0.03), and severe rejection (RR 0.37,

P

= 0.001) were markedly lower in steroid-free arms. In studies in which steroids were not replaced, rejection rates were higher in steroid-free arms (RR 1.31,

P

= 0.02) and reduction of diabetes was attenuated (RR 0.74,

P

= 0.2). HCV recurrence was lower with steroid avoidance and, although no individual trial reached statistical significance, meta-analysis demonstrated this important effect (RR 0.90,

P

= 0.03). However, we emphasize the heterogeneity of trials performed to date and, as such, do not recommend basing clinical guidelines on our conclusions. We believe that a large, multicenter trial will better define the role of steroid-free regimens in LT.
Postischemic Treatment by trans -Resveratrol in Rat Liver Ischemia-Reperfusion: a Possible Strategy in Liver Surgery
Authors: Hassan-Khabbar Sahar , Cottart Charles-Henry , Wendum Dominique , Vibert Françoise , Clot Jean-Pierre , Savouret Jean-François , Conti Marc , Nivet-Antoine Valérie
Published: March 2008

Liver ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury occurs in many clinical conditions, including liver surgery and transplantation. Oxygen free radicals generated during I/R reduce endogenous antioxidant systems and contribute to hepatic injury.

trans

-Resveratrol (

trans

-3,5,4′-trihydroxystilbene) is reported to have antioxidant properties. We investigated the effect of

trans

-resveratrol on liver injury induced by I/R. After 1 hour of ischemia, administered 5 minutes before 3 hours of reperfusion,

trans

-resveratrol was hepatoprotective at a low dose (0.02 mg/kg). It significantly decreased aminotransferase levels by about 40% and improved sinusoidal dilatation.

trans

-Resveratrol preserved antioxidant defense by preventing total and reduced glutathione depletion caused by I/R. At 0.2 mg/kg,

trans

-resveratrol significantly increased glutathione reductase, Cu/Zn–superoxide dismutase, and catalase activities. However, at a high dose (20 mg/kg),

trans

-resveratrol became prooxidant with an aggravation of liver injury evaluated by aminotransferase release and histological analysis and associated with a depletion of total and reduced glutathione levels and a decrease of antioxidant enzyme activities. In conclusion, a prereperfusion treatment by

trans

-resveratrol only at low doses decreases liver injury induced by I/R by protecting against antioxidant defense failure. This administration protocol could reduce liver damage during surgery or transplantation.
A Scalable Route to Highly Functionalized Multi‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes on a Large Scale
Authors: Chen Xianhong , Wang Jianfeng , Zhong Wenbin , Feng Tao , Yang Xinguo , Chen Jianghua
Published: March 2008

A scalable and solvent‐free chemical process to obtain highly functionalized and dispersible multi‐walled carbon nanotubes is reported. Highly functionalized multi‐walled carbon nanotubes have been prepared using in situ generated aryl diazonium salts in the presence of ammonium persulfate and 2,2′‐azoisobutyronitrile by solvent‐free techniques. In the Raman spectra of the resulting materials, characteristic peaks, the D‐ and G‐bands, are shifted by about 10 cm−1 to lower frequencies. At the same time, the relative intensity ratios between the D‐ and G‐bands increase in comparison to that in the spectrum of the purified product. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy reveals the presence of the functional groups on the surface. Transmission electron microscopy images directly confirm the significant build‐up of sidewall organic moieties on the treated materials. The weight loss of various functional moieties determined by thermogravimetry–differential scanning calorimetry analysis is about 18–33%. The dispersibility of the functionalized materials in solvents, such as chloroform, tetrahydrofuran, and water, is obviously improved.

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Compatibilization of Natural Fibers with Synthetic Polymers Using Triblock Copolymers as Coupling Agents
Authors: Tingaut Philippe , Henry Nathan , Rials Tim , Harper David , Dadmun Mark
Published: March 2008

The ability of triblock copolymers of MMA and S to improve a wood/PS interface has been evaluated using the ADCB test. Two symmetric triblock copolymers were tested: an MMA centered triblock SMS and a styrene centered triblock MSM. The fracture toughness (Gc) of the interface has been evaluated as a function of the copolymer thickness. Gc was improved with both copolymers but depended on copolymer composition. At low copolymer thickness, the MSM was the strongest compatibilizer, while the SMS was more efficient in the saturated regime. An in‐depth characterization of the interface indicated that a lack of affinity between the MSM and PS is responsible for the different behaviors observed.

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