bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rhodnius prolixus LIPOPHORIN: LIPID COMPOSITION AND EFFECT OF HIGH TEMPERATURE ON PHYSIOLOGICAL ROLE
Authors: Majerowicz David , Cezimbra Milton P. , Alves‐Bezerra Michele , Entringer Petter F. , Atella Georgia C. , Sola‐Penna Mauro , Meyer‐Fernandes José R. , Gondim Katia C.
Published: January 2013

Lipophorin is a major lipoprotein that transports lipids in insects. In Rhodnius prolixus, it transports lipids from midgut and fat body to the oocytes. Analysis by thin‐layer chromatography and densitometry identified the major lipid classes present in the lipoprotein as diacylglycerol, hydrocarbons, cholesterol, and phospholipids (PLs), mainly phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylcholine. The effect of preincubation at elevated temperatures on lipophorin capacity to deliver or receive lipids was studied. Transfer of PLs to the ovaries was only inhibited after preincubation of lipophorin at temperatures higher than 55°C. When it was pretreated at 75°C, maximal inhibition of phospholipid transfer was observed after 3‐min heating and no difference was observed after longer times, up to 60 min. The same activity was also obtained when lipophorin was heated for 20 min at 75°C at protein concentrations from 0.2 to 10 mg/ml. After preincubation at 55°C, the same rate of lipophorin loading with PLs at the fat body was still present, and 30% of the activity was observed at 75°C. The effect of temperature on lipophorin was also analyzed by turbidity and intrinsic fluorescence determinations. Turbidity of a lipophorin solution started to increase after preincubations at temperatures higher than 65°C. Emission fluorescence spectra were obtained for lipophorin, and the spectral area decreased after preincubations at 85°C or above. These data indicated no difference in the spectral center of mass at any tested temperature. Altogether, these results demonstrate that lipophorin from R. prolixus is very resistant to high temperatures.
cDNA CLONING AND SEQUENCE DETERMINATION OF THE PHEROMONE BIOSYNTHESIS ACTIVATING NEUROPEPTIDE FROM THE SEABUCKTHORN CARPENTERWORM, Holcocerus hippophaecolus (LEPIDOPTERA: COSSIDAE)
Authors: Li Juan , Zhou Jiao , Sun Rongbo , Zhang Haolin , Zong Shixiang , Luo Youqing , Sheng Xia , Weng Qiang
Published: January 2013

The PBAN (pheromone biosynthesis activating neuropeptide)/pyrokinin peptides comprise a major neuropeptide family characterized by a common FXPRL amide at the C‐terminus. These peptides are actively involved in many essential endocrine functions. For the first time, we reported the cDNA cloning and sequence determination of the PBAN from the seabuckthorn carpenterworm, Holcocerus hippophaecolus, by using rapid amplification of cDNA ends. The full‐length cDNA of Hh‐DH‐PBAN contained five peptides: diapause hormone (DH) homolog, α‐neuropeptide (NP), β‐NP, PBAN, and γ‐NP. All of the peptides were amidated at their C‐terminus and shared a conserved motif, FXPR (or K) L. Moreover, Hh‐DH‐PBAN had high homology to the other members of the PBAN peptide family: 56% with Manduca sexta, 66% with Bombyx mori, 77% with Helicoverpa zea, and 47% with Plutella xylostella. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that Hh‐DH‐PBAN was closely related to PBANs from Noctuidae, demonstrated by the relatively higher similarity compared with H. zea. In addition, real‐time quantitative PCR (qRT‐PCR) analysis showed that Hh‐DH‐PBAN mRNA expression peaked in the brain–subesophageal ganglion (Br–SOG) complex, and was also detected at high levels during larval and adult stages. The expression decreased significantly after pupation. These results provided information concerning molecular structure characteristics of Hh‐DH‐PBAN, whose expression profile suggested that the Hh‐DH‐PBAN gene might be correlated with larval development and sex pheromone biosynthesis in females of the H. hippophaecolus.
Supposedly uncited articles of Nobel laureates and Fields medalists can be prevalently attributed to the errors of omission and commission
Authors: Heneberg Petr
Published: January 2013

Several independent authors reported a high share of uncited publications, which include those produced by top scientists. This share was repeatedly reported to exceed 10% of the total papers produced, without any explanation of this phenomenon and the lack of difference in uncitedness between average and successful researchers. In this report, we analyze the uncitedness among two independent groups of highly visible scientists (mathematicians represented by Fields medalists, and researchers in physiology or medicine represented by Nobel Prize laureates in the respective field). Analysis of both groups led to the identical conclusion: over 90% of the uncited database records of highly visible scientists can be explained by the inclusion of editorial materials progress reports presented at international meetings (meeting abstracts), discussion items (letters to the editor, discussion), personalia (biographic items), and by errors of omission and commission of the Web of Science (WoS) database and of the citing documents. Only a marginal amount of original articles and reviews were found to be uncited (0.9 and 0.3%, respectively), which is in strong contrast with the previously reported data, which never addressed the document types among the uncited records.
Group informatics: A methodological approach and ontology for sociotechnical group research
Authors: Goggins Sean P. , Mascaro Christopher , Valetto Giuseppe
Published: January 2013

We present a methodological approach, called Group Informatics, for understanding the social connections that are created between members of technologically mediated groups. Our methodological approach supports focused thinking about how online groups differ from each other, and diverge from their face‐to‐face counterparts. Group Informatics is grounded in 5 years of empirical studies of technologically mediated groups in online learning, software engineering, online political discourse, crisis informatics, and other domains. We describe theGroupInformatics model and the related, 2‐phase methodological approach in detail. Phase one of the methodological approach centers on a set of guiding research questions aimed at directing the application ofGroupInformatics to new corpora of integrated electronic trace data and qualitative research data. Phase 2 of the methodological approach is a systematic set of steps for transforming electronic trace data into weighted social networks.
Isolated bladder exstrophy associated with a de novo 0.9 Mb microduplication on chromosome 19p13.12
Authors: Draaken Markus , Mughal Sadaf S. , Pennimpede Tracie , Wolter Stefanie , Wittler Lars , Ebert Anne‐Karoline , Rösch Wolfgang , Stein Raimund , Bartels Enrika , Schmidt Dominik , Boemers Thomas M. , Schmiedeke Eberhard , Hoffmann Per , Moebus Susanne , Herrmann Bernhard G. , Nöthen Markus M. , Reutter Heiko , Ludwig Michael
Published: January 2013

BACKGROUND

The exstrophy‐epispadias complex (BEEC) is a urogenital birth defect of varying severity. The causes of the BEEC are likely to be heterogeneous, with individual environmental or genetic risk factors still being largely unknown. In this study, we aimed to identify de novo causative copy number variations (CNVs) that contribute to the BEEC.

METHODS Array‐based molecular karyotyping was performed to screen 110 individuals with BEEC. Promising CNVs were tested for de novo occurrence by investigating parental DNAs. Genes located in regions of rearrangements were prioritized through expression analysis in mice to be sequenced in the complete cohort, to identify high‐penetrance mutations involving small sequence changes. RESULTS A de novo 0.9 Mb microduplication involving chromosomal region 19p13.12 was identified in a single patient. This region harbors 20 validated RefSeq genes, and in situ hybridization data showed specific expression of the Wiz gene in regions surrounding the cloaca and the rectum between GD 9.5 and 13.5. Sanger sequencing of the complete cohort did not reveal any pathogenic alterations affecting the coding region of WIZ. CONCLUSIONS The present study suggests chromosomal region 19p13.12 as possibly involved in the development of CBE, but further studies are needed to prove a causal relation. The spatiotemporal expression patterns determined for the genes encompassed suggest a role for Wiz in the development of the phenotype. Our mutation screening, however, could not confirm that WIZ mutations are a frequent cause of CBE, although rare mutations might be detectable in larger patient samples.

19p13.12, microduplication, bladder exstrophy‐epispadias complex, array‐based molecular karyotyping, in situ hybridization analysis, copy number variations, WIZ Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prenatal Stress and Development: Beyond The Single Cause and Effect Paradigm
Authors: Hamlin Heather J.
Published: January 2013

Our awareness of the causes of stress‐induced developmental dysfunction has increased dramatically over the past decade, and it is becoming increasingly clear that a number of factors can have considerable impacts on the developing fetus. Although there is a tendency in investigations of developmental teratogens to attribute specific causes to adverse fetal outcomes, it is important we recognize that for most developmental dysfunctions it is unlikely a single cause, but yet a series of environmental insults combined with genetic predisposition that ultimately leads to a disease state. Nonetheless, a number of developmental teratogens, such as maternal psychological stress and chemical exposures, have been shown to increase the likelihood of developmental defects. These defects can manifest during development, leading to observable birth defects, or could become evident long after birth, even into adulthood. In addition, epigenetic mutations in the germline can alter the phenotype of successive generations through transgenerational inheritance, and in this way environmental factors can alter the developmental outcomes and disease predispositions of future generations. Understanding this complexity is essential to interpretations of causality in the studies of stress‐induced developmental dysfunction and needs to be fully considered to more effectively interpret potential outcomes. Birth Defects Research (Part C) 96:289–298, 2012. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Quality control of mitochondria during aging: Is there a good and a bad side of mitochondrial dynamics?
Authors: Figge Marc Thilo , Osiewacz Heinz D. , Reichert Andreas S.
Published: January 2013

Maintenance of functional mitochondria is essential in order to prevent degenerative processes leading to disease and aging. Mitochondrial dynamics plays a crucial role in ensuring mitochondrial quality but may also generate and spread molecular damage through a population of mitochondria. Computational simulations suggest that this dynamics is advantageous when mitochondria are not or only marginally damaged. In contrast, at a higher degree of damage, mitochondrial dynamics may be disadvantageous. Deceleration of fusion‐fission cycles could be one way to adapt to this situation and to delay a further decline in mitochondrial quality. However, this adaptive response makes the mitochondrial network more vulnerable to additional molecular damage. The “mitochondrial infectious damage adaptation” (MIDA) model explains a number of inconsistent and counterintuitive data such as the “clonal expansion” of mutant mitochondrial DNA. We propose that mitochondrial dynamics is a double‐edged sword and suggest ways to test this experimentally.
Optimizing microalgal production in raceway systems
Authors: Muñoz‐Tamayo Rafael , Mairet Francis , Bernard Olivier
Published: January 2013

The industrial exploitation of microalgae is characterized by the production of high‐value compounds. Optimization of the performance of microalgae culture systems is essential to render the process economically viable. For raceway systems, the optimization based on optimal control theory is rather challenging, because the process is by essence periodically forced and, as a consequence, optimization must be carried out in a periodic framework. In this article, we propose a simple operational criterion for raceway systems that when integrated in a strategy of closed‐loop control allows attaining biomass productivities very near to the theoretical maximal productivities. The strategy developed was tested numerically using a mathematical model of microalgae growth in raceways. The model takes into account the temporal variation of the environmental variables temperature and light intensity and their influence on microalgae growth. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 29: 543–552, 2013
Display of Clostridium cellulovorans xylose isomerase on the cell surface of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and its direct application to xylose fermentation
Authors: Ota Miki , Sakuragi Hiroshi , Morisaka Hironobu , Kuroda Kouichi , Miyake Hideo , Tamaru Yutaka , Ueda Mitsuyoshi
Published: January 2013

Xylose isomerase (XI) is a key enzyme in the conversion of d‐xylose, which is a major component of lignocellulosic biomass, to d‐xylulose. Genomic analysis of the bacterium Clostridium cellulovorans revealed the presence of XI‐related genes. In this study, XI derived from C. cellulovorans was produced and displayed using the yeast cell‐surface display system, and the xylose assimilation and fermentation properties of this XI‐displaying yeast were examined. XI‐displaying yeast grew well in medium containing xylose as the sole carbon source and directly produced ethanol from xylose under anaerobic conditions. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 29: 346–351, 2013
Glycan Sequence‐Dependent Nod2 Activation Investigated by Using a Chemically Synthesized Bacterial Peptidoglycan Fragment Library
Authors: Wang Ning , Huang Cheng‐yuan , Hasegawa Mizuho , Inohara Naohiro , Fujimoto Yukari , Fukase Koichi
Published: January 2013

Nucleotide oligomerization domain‐containing protein 2 (Nod2), an innate immune receptor, recognizes bacterial cell‐wall peptidoglycan (PGN), the minimum ligand of which is muramyl dipeptide (MDP). Enzymatic digestion of PGN appears to be important for Nod2 recognition. PGN is degraded by muramidase or glucosamidase through a process that produces two types of glycan sequence; glycans containing GlcNAcβ(1→4)MurNAc or MurNAcβ(1→4)GlcNAc. In this report, a range of disaccharide or tetrasaccharide fragments of each sequence were chemically synthesized, and their activities in stimulating human Nod2 (hNod2) were investigated. The results reveal that hNod2 recognitions is dependent on the glycan sequence, as demonstrated by comparing the activities of glycans with the same peptide moieties. (MurNAcβ(1→4)GlcNAc)2‐containing structures exhibited stronger activity than those containing (GlcNAcβ(1→4)MurNAc)2. The results suggest that differences in the enzymatic degradation process affect the host's immunomodulation process.
Recent Developments in Biomolecular NMR. Edited by Marius Clore and Jennifer Potts.
Authors: Luchinat Claudio
Published: January 2013

RSC, Cambridge 2012, xv+347 pp., hardcover, £ 153.99.—ISBN 978‐1‐84973‐120‐1
Subclavian artery pseudoaneurysm complicating central venous catheterization
Authors: Rossi Umberto G. , Petrocelli Francesco , Ferro Carlo
Published: January 2013

Central venous catheterization is a routine vascular access procedure; however, it may be associated with life‐threatening complications such as arterial puncture, leading to pseudoaneurysm formation. We report a case of a 41‐year‐old female that developed an iatrogenic left subclavian pseudoaneurysm complicating the attempt of left internal jugular vein cannulation for temporary hemodialysis therapy. The patient underwent urgent endovascular treatment with deployment of covered stent into the left subclavian artery (SCA) after embolization of the origin of the left internal mammary artery with Amplatzer Vascular Plug 4. The patient's recovery was unremarkable. Follow‐up till 24 months reveals total exclusion of the pseudoaneurysm of the left SCA with patency of the distal branches. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Management of paravalvular regurgitation after Edwards SAPIEN transcatheter aortic valve replacement: Management of paravalvular regurgitation after TAVR
Authors: Martinez Claudia A. , Singh Vikas , O'Neill Brian P. , Alfonso Carlos E. , Bilsker Martin S. , Martinez Clark Pedro , Williams Donald , Cohen Mauricio G. , Heldman Alan W. , O'Neill William W.
Published: January 2013

Background

With the expansion in the use of transcatheter valve therapies for aortic stenosis, the incidence of hemodynamically significant paravalvular regurgitation (PVR) has become a clinical challenge.

Methods

The study population consisted of those patients with either acute significant PVR immediately post‐Edwards SAPIEN (ES) aortic valve implantation, requiring additional maneuvers during the index transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) or symptomatic PVR requiring treatment by transcatheter closure at a later date. All the patients were assessed within 24 hrs, 30 days, 3 months, 6 months and 12 months after the procedure.

Results

A total of 100 consecutive patients underwent ES TAVR (62% with 23 mm and 38% with 26 mm valve), of them 27% (27/100) were identified to have hemodynamically significant PVR requiring additional percutaneous interventions during or after the index procedure. Patient's mean age was 85 ± 12 years and 74% (20/27) were male. The mean Society of Thoracic Surgeon Score was 11.3% (range 4.6–17.6%), 59% had a 23 mm and 41% had a 26 mm ES valve. There was no difference in the occurrence of PVR between a) two valve sizes—23 mm (16/62) vs. 26 mm (11/38) (P = 0.817) and b) the two approaches—transfemoral (15/48) vs. transapical (TA) (12/52) (P = 0.37). A total of 32 procedures were performed on the 27 patients: one patient required four and two required two procedures each. There were 19 repeat ballooning, seven valve in valve and six transcatheter device closure procedures. The approach was retrograde in 66%, antegrade transeptal in 6% and antegrade TA in 28%. The procedural success rate was 90.6%, the total 30‐day, 3 months and 6 months mortality rate was 7.4, 18.5, and 22% respectively. At the time of final analysis a total of 56% (15/27) had completed a 12 month follow‐up.

Conclusion

The management of PVR in the TAVR era is a technical challenge. We present our experience and propose a management approach. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Staged total percutaneous treatment of aortic valve pathology and mitral regurgitation: Institutional experience
Authors: Kische Stephan , D'Ancona Giuseppe , Paranskaya Liliya , Schubert Jochen , Arsoy Nicole , Hauenstein Karl Heinz , Alozie Anthony , Jovanovich Bojan , Nienaber Christoph , Ince Hüseyin
Published: January 2013

Objectives

To summarize our single Institution experience with staged total percutaneous management of aorto‐mitral pathology.

Background

Percutaneous treatment of aortic valve stenosis (AVS) and mitral valve regurgitation (MVR) has been recently proposed for patients at high surgical risk.

Methods

Data concerning consecutive patients undergoing percutaneous transcatheter AV implantation (TAVI) followed by MV repair with MitraClip® were prospectively collected and analyzed.

Results

From January 2010 to February 2012 a total of 254 patients were referred to undergo TAVI in our Institution. Seventeen (6.7%) had preoperative severe MVR that remained unchanged after TAVI. Due to exacerbation of symptoms 12 patients were subsequently submitted to MV repair with the MitraClip® device. Mean age was 79 years (72–86 years), median Ambler score was 30.1 (17.2–42.6) and EuroSCORE 22.3 (10.2–48.6). Procedural success rate was 100%. Postprocedural hospitalization was 7.1 ± 2.7 and 4.6 ± 0.9 days after TAVI and MV repair, respectively. Six months follow‐up echocardiography confirms improvement in LV‐EF (37.2 ± 9.9 vs. 43.5 ± 10.7, P < 0.0001). No patient presents MVR exceeding grade I+ or prosthetic aortic insufficiency > I grade and all patients experienced an improvement in functional status.

Conclusions

Percutaneous treatment of AVS and MVR is feasible and safe. A tailored approach should be considered to treat firstly the AVS and subsequently the MVR when severe MV dysfunction and symptoms persist. Short‐term durability of this combined percutaneous approach seems encouraging and justifies the economical burden to treat patients that have no other option. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Impact of advanced age on the safety and effectiveness of paclitaxel‐eluting stent implantation in patients with ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction undergoing primary angioplasty
Authors: Dudek Dariusz , Mehran Roxana , Dziewierz Artur , Witzenbichler Bernhard , Brodie Bruce R. , Kornowski Ran , Fahy Martin , Lansky Alexandra J. , Rakowski Tomasz , Legutko Jacek , Bryniarski Leszek , Stone Gregg W.
Published: January 2013

Objectives

To assess the impact of age on safety and efficacy of paclitaxel‐eluting stent (PES) implantation during primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Background

The benefits of paclitaxel‐eluting stent (PES) implantation during primary PCI were confirmed by the long‐term results of the HORIZONS‐AMI trial. Whether the effects of PES are independent of age has not been reported.

Methods

Data on 3,006 patients from the HORIZONS‐AMI study randomized in a 3:1 ratio to PES or bare‐metal stent (BMS) in whom at least one stent was implanted were assessed. There were 2,302 (76.6%) patients <70, and 704 patients ≥70 years of age.

Results

At 3 years, among older patients a trend toward lower risk of major adverse cardiac events (MACE; death from any cause, stroke, reinfarction and unplanned revascularization for ischemia) related to PES use was observed (PES vs. BMS: 18.0% vs. 21.3%; P = 0.07). There was also a trend for reduction of MACE related to PES in older patients (26.4% vs. 33.1%; P = 0.09). Both, patients <70 and ≥70 years of age treated with PES were at lower risk for ischemic target vessel revascularization. However, a higher risk of major bleeding in elderly patients treated with PES was observed (P = 0.02 for interaction between age group and PES effects). No interaction between age and stent type in terms of the risk of other clinical end points, including all‐cause death, was confirmed.

Conclusions

For STEMI patients undergoing primary PCI, the implantation of PES as compared with BMS reduced ischemic TVR, and this effect was independent of age. [NCT00433966]. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Frequency‐domain optical coherence tomography assessment of unprotected left main coronary artery disease—a comparison with intravascular ultrasound
Authors: Fujino Yusuke , Bezerra Hiram G. , Attizzani Guilherme F. , Wang Wei , Yamamoto Hirosada , Chamié Daniel , Kanaya Tomoaki , Mehanna Emile , Tahara Satoko , Nakamura Sunao , Costa Marco A.
Published: January 2013

Objectives

To investigate safety and feasibility of imaging unprotected left main (ULM) using frequency‐domain optical coherence tomography (FD‐OCT) compared with intravascular ultrasound (IVUS).

Background

IVUS has been used to assess and guide percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of ULM disease. FD‐OCT offers 10‐fold higher axial resolution than IVUS and its high‐speed image acquisition obviates the need for proximal balloon occlusion.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled 35 consecutive patients with ULM disease. FD‐OCT and IVUS assessments were attempted pre‐ and post‐PCI and compared in regards to safety, ability to image the region of interest (ROI), number of pullbacks, volume of contrast and ability to detect malapposition, dissection, and thrombus.

Results

Patients were followed for 1 year when FD‐OCT imaging was repeated. FD‐OCT required more repeated pullbacks to image the ROI compared to IVUS. Mean lumen and stent areas were similar between FD‐OCT and IVUS (11.24 ± 2.66 vs. 10.85 ± 2.47 mm2, P = 0.13 and 10.44 ± 2.33 vs. 10.49 ± 2.32 mm2, P = 0.82, respectively), whereas imaged stent length was shorter with FD‐OCT. Malapposition areas and volumes were larger and more edge dissections were detected by FD‐OCT. There were no clinical adverse events and no complications associated with FD‐OCT at baseline and 1‐year follow‐up. All dissections were healed, whereas stent malapposition was still detected at follow‐up.

Conclusions

FD‐OCT assessment of ULM is feasible and safe. Direct comparisons with IVUS reveal that FD‐OCT achieved imaging completeness less often, whereas it was more sensitive in detecting malapposition and edge dissections, and similar to IVUS in the assessment of lumen and stent dimensions. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Head‐to‐head comparison of sirolimus‐eluting stent versus bare metal stent evaluation of the coronary endothelial dysfunction in the same patient presenting with multiple coronary artery lesions: The CREDENTIAL study
Authors: Mischie Alexandru Nicolae , Nazzaro Marco Stefano , Fiorilli Rosario , De Felice Francesco , Musto Carmine , Confessore Pierpaolo , Parma Antonio , Boschetti Carla , Violini Roberto
Published: January 2013

Objectives

To assess the endothelial dysfunction (ED) after bare metal stents (BMS) and sirolimus eluting stents (SES) implantation in the same patient, overcoming the confounding role of individual variables.

Background

SES reduce restenosis rate compared to BMS but causes more ED. ED is a potentially unsafe phenomenon, since it is the first step in the cascade of atherosclerosis. Studies showing more pronounced ED with drug eluting stents than BMS involved different series of patients, making the comparison difficult because endothelial function (EF) is responsive to many risk factors.

Methods

we designed a prospective comparison of 6 months post‐deployment EF of SES versus BMS implanted in the same patient, but in different coronary segments. Forty‐eight lesions were randomly assigned on a 1:1 allocation using block sizing of 4 according to a computer‐generated sequence (SAS System, Version 9.1) basis to treatment with SES or BMS. The EF was evaluated by measuring vessel diameter variation in the stented segment, before and after selective intracoronary infusion of acetylcholine (iiAch).

Results

In eligible patients, the relative magnitudes of major vasoconstriction were 2.6, 2.9, 4.6, and 3.1 at 5 mm proximal and 5, 10 and 20 mm distal to the stent edge. Overall, a 3.5‐fold major distal vasoconstriction after iiAch of SES vs. BMS was calculated.

Conclusions

in the same patients, but treating different coronary segments, SES implantation induces a higher rate of vasoconstriction compared to BMS. The increased vasoconstriction after iiAch is an indicator of ED.© 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Women treated with second‐generation zotarolimus‐eluting resolute stents and everolimus‐eluting xience V stents: insights from the gender‐stratified, randomized, controlled TWENTE trial
Authors: Tandjung Kenneth , Basalus Mounir W.Z. , Sen Hanim , Stoel Martin G. , van Houwelingen K. Gert , Louwerenburg J. (Hans) W. , de Man Frits H.A.F. , Linssen Gerard C.M. , Saïd Salah A.M. , Kleijne Miep A.W.J. , van der Palen Job , von Birgelen Clemens
Published: January 2013

Background

Women are underrepresented in clinical research, and few data are available from randomized head‐to‐head comparisons of second‐generation drug‐eluting stents (DES) in female patients. Aim of this study was to assess safety and efficacy of two second‐generation DES in women. In TWENTE—a prospective, randomized, comparative DES trial—“real‐world” patients were stratified for gender before randomization for Resolute or Xience V stents.

Methods

Target vessel failure (TVF; cardiac death, target vessel‐related myocardial infarction, and clinically indicated target vessel revascularization) after 1 year was the predefined endpoint.

Results

Among 1,391 patients, 382 (27.5%) women were randomized to Resolute (n = 192) and Xience V (n = 190). Baseline and procedural characteristics were similar for females in both study arms, except for smaller vessel and stent diameters in Resolute‐treated lesions. After 1 year, TVF (8.9 vs. 8.4%; adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 0.95, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.41–2.20, P = 0.91) and a patient‐oriented composite endpoint (13.0 vs. 12.1%, P = 0.79) did not differ significantly between women in both arms. Women were older than men (P < 0.01) and had more often diabetes mellitus (26.4 vs. 19.8%, P = 0.01) and hypertension (63.6 vs. 52.5%, P < 0.01), but there was no significant gender difference in TVF (adjusted OR: 1.18, 95% CI: 0.73–1.92, P = 0.50).

Conclusions

This gender‐stratified TWENTE trial analysis resulted in no significant difference in safety and efficacy outcomes between Resolute‐ and Xience V‐treated females. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fixed‐Component Lanthanide‐Hybrid‐Fabricated Full‐Color Photoluminescent Films as Vapoluminescent Sensors
Authors: Xu Jun , Jia Lei , Jin Nengzhi , Ma Yufei , Liu Xiao , Wu Wenyu , Liu Weisheng , Tang Yu , Zhou Feng
Published: January 2013

Full‐color lanthanide (Ln) photoluminescent materials have attracted considerable interest owing to their potential applications in display systems and lighting technologies. Herein, full‐color photoluminescent films have been designed and fabricated facilely with a fixed‐component Ln‐based (Ln=Tb and Eu) polymer hybrid doped with a proton‐sensitive amide‐type β‐diketonated photosensitizer, N‐(2‐pyridinyl)benzoylacetamide (HPBA). The tunable photoluminescence emissions of the films are achieved by changing the amounts of OH− in the hybrid rather than varying the relative concentrations of the lanthanide ions and photosensitizers, thus representing a new paradigm for full‐color displays. The emission color can also be finely tuned through the variation of the excitation wavelength, and white‐light emission can be achieved when the given film is excited at the visible region (405 nm). The photophysical properties and the mechanisms of the intra‐ and intermolecular energy transfer before and after deprotonation have been investigated in detail. Meanwhile, the films might find application as vapoluminescent sensors due to their good stability, sensitivity, reversibility, and quick response when triggered by a base–acid vapor.
Development and Experimental Operation of a Scrubbing System for CO2 Capture from Flue Gas Using Alkaline Solid Wastes
Authors: Bauer Markus , Hopf Norbert , Hofstetter Eugen , Peiffer Stefan
Published: January 2013

Ein innovativer, technischer Ansatz zur Reduzierung der CO2‐Emissionen wird vorgestellt, der alkalische Reststoffe zur mineralischen, langzeitstabilen Bindung des CO2 aus Rauchgasen nutzt. Mit dem entwickelten System zur alkalischen Rauchgaswäsche wurde an einem Kraftwerk ein umfassender Pilotbetrieb durchgeführt. Im praktischen Anlagenbetrieb konnte durch Optimierung der Prozessparameter Gasdurchsatz, CO2‐Partialdruck, Suspensionszirkulation und Feststoffgehalt eine CO2‐Bindung in der Größenordnung von 40 – 90 g kg–1 Reststoff und eine CO2‐Abscheideleistung bis zu 25 % erreicht werden. Wirtschaftlich ist das Verfahren vor allem dann, wenn die alkalischen Reststoffe und das CO2 am selben Ort anfallen und das carbonatisierte Material als Sekundärrohstoff weiterverwendet werden kann.
Particle Characterization within Highly Concentrated Dispersions – Fundamental Studies of a New Ultrasound Method
Authors: Weser Robert , Wessely Benno , Wöckel Sebastian , Hempel Ulrike
Published: January 2013

Es wird eine neue Methode zur inlinefähigen Partikelcharakterisierung in hochkonzentrierten Dispersionen mittels Ultraschallrückstreuung vorgestellt, die sensitiv gegenüber der Partikelgröße und der Konzentration ist. Eine Analyse der Ultraschallrückstreusignale liefert neben der Schalldämpfung zusätzlich ein Maß für die Streuintensität. Die Messung kann ohne Probenahme und minimalinvasiv direkt im Prozess erfolgen.
Behavior of Bubbles in Bubble Columns with Vibration Exciter
Authors: Kniazev Boris , Keil Frerich J.
Published: January 2013

Blasensäulen, die von unten mit einem Bodenschwinger im Frequenzbereich zwischen 40 und 400 Hz angeregt werden, zeigen deutlich verbesserte Stoffübergangsgeschwindigkeiten. Dies ist durch eine Verkleinerung der Blasen durch Spaltung und die damit verbundene Oberflächenvergrößerung bedingt. Hinzu kommt eine intensive Bewegung an der Blasengrenze. Anhand von Strömungssimulationen werden die beobachteten Phänomene erklärt. Der Energiebedarf für eine schwingende Blasensäule ist geringer als für einen begasten Rührkessel.
Carboxylic Acid (Bio)Isosteres in Drug Design
Authors: Ballatore Carlo , Huryn Donna M. , Smith Amos B.
Published: January 2013

The carboxylic acid functional group can be an important constituent of a pharmacophore, however, the presence of this moiety can also be responsible for significant drawbacks, including metabolic instability, toxicity, as well as limited passive diffusion across biological membranes. To avoid some of these shortcomings while retaining the desired attributes of the carboxylic acid moiety, medicinal chemists often investigate the use of carboxylic acid (bio)isosteres. The same type of strategy can also be effective for a variety other purposes, for example, to increase the selectivity of a biologically active compound or to create new intellectual property. Several carboxylic acid isosteres have been reported, however, the outcome of any isosteric replacement cannot be readily predicted as this strategy is generally found to be dependent upon the particular context (i.e., the characteristic properties of the drug and the drug–target). As a result, screening of a panel of isosteres is typically required. In this context, the discovery and development of novel carboxylic acid surrogates that could complement the existing palette of isosteres remains an important area of research. The goal of this Minireview is to provide an overview of the most commonly employed carboxylic acid (bio)isosteres and to present representative examples demonstrating the use and utility of each isostere in drug design.
Dose‐intensive chemotherapy including rituximab in Burkitt's leukemia or lymphoma regardless of human immunodeficiency virus infection status
Authors: Ribera Josep‐Maria , García Olga , Grande Carlos , Esteve Jordi , Oriol Albert , Bergua Juan , González‐Campos José , Vall‐llovera Ferran , Tormo Mar , Hernández‐Rivas Jesús‐Maria , García Daniel , Brunet Salut , Alonso Natalia , Barba Pere , Miralles Pilar , Llorente Andreu , Montesinos Pau , Moreno Maria‐José , Hernández‐Rivas Jose‐Ángel , Bernal Teresa
Published: January 2013

BACKGROUND:

The use of rituximab together with intensive chemotherapy in Burkitt's lymphoma or leukemia (BL) has been scarcely explored. This study prospectively evaluated and compared the outcome and toxicity of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐positive and HIV‐negative patients with BL who were treated in an intensive immunochemotherapy‐based and age‐adapted trial.

METHODS:

A total of 118 adult patients (80 HIV‐negative and 38 HIV‐positive) aged 15 to 83 years were treated with 4 (nonbulky stages I‐II) or 6 (stages II bulky, III‐IV) cycles of intensive chemotherapy combined with rituximab. Reduction in chemotherapy doses and modification of the cycle schedules was performed in patients older than 55 years.

RESULTS:

The clinical characteristics of HIV‐positive patients were comparable with those who were HIV‐negative. Complete remission rates were 82% and 87%, respectively, and 9 patients died in induction, 9 died in remission, and 7 relapsed. After a median follow‐up of 2.5 years, nonsignificant differences were observed in the 4‐year disease‐free survival and overall survival (OS) probabilities (77% and 63% for HIV‐positive and 80% and 78% for HIV‐negative patients, respectively). Young HIV‐infected patients presented higher incidences of grade 3 or 4 mucositis and severe infectious episodes. Poor general status and bone marrow involvement, but not advanced age, were associated with a shorter OS, allowing the definition of 3 prognostic groups, with the OS ranging from 50% to 92%.

CONCLUSIONS:

Age‐adapted intensive immunochemotherapy is highly effective in both HIV‐negative and HIV‐positive patients, with a higher toxicity in the latter group. Poor general status and bone marrow involvement had a negative impact on survival. Cancer 2013. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Increased survival associated with surgery and radiation therapy in metastatic gastric cancer
Authors: Shridhar Ravi , Almhanna Khaldoun , Hoffe Sarah E. , Fulp William , Weber Jill , Chuong Michael D. , Meredith Kenneth L.
Published: January 2013

BACKGROUND:

Patients with metastatic gastric cancer have poor survival. The purpose of this study was to compare outcomes of metastatic gastric cancer patients stratified by surgery and radiation therapy.

METHODS:

The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database was accessed to identify patients with AJCC M1 stage IV gastric cancer (based on the American Joint Committee on Cancer Cancer Staging Manual, 6th edition) between 2004 thru 2008. Patients were divided into 4 groups: group 1, no surgery or radiation; group 2, radiation alone; group 3, surgery alone; group 4, surgery and radiation. Survival analysis was determined by Kaplan‐Meier and log‐rank analysis. Multivariate analysis (MVA) was analyzed by the Cox proportional hazard ratio model.

RESULTS:

A total of 5072 patients were identified. Surgery and/or radiation were associated with a survival benefit. Median and 2‐year survival for groups 1, 2, 3, and 4 was 7 months and 8.2%, 8 months and 8.9%, 10 months and 18.2%, and 16 months and 31.7%, respectively (P < .00001). MVA for all patients revealed that surgery and radiation were associated with decreased mortality whereas T‐stage, N‐stage, age, signet ring histology, and peritoneal metastases were associated with increased mortality. In patients treated with surgery, MVA showed that radiation was associated with decreased mortality, whereas T‐stage, N‐stage, age, removal of < 15 lymph nodes, signet ring histology, and peritoneal metastases was associated with increased mortality. Age was the only prognostic factor in patients who did not undergo surgery.

CONCLUSIONS:

Surgery and radiation are associated with increased survival in a subset of patients with metastatic gastric cancer. Prospective trials will be needed to address the role and sequence of surgery and radiation in metastatic gastric cancer. Cancer 2013. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Synthesis and Characterization of Polynuclear Oxidobismuth Sulfonates
Authors: Miersch Linda , Rüffer Tobias , Schaarschmidt Dieter , Lang Heinrich , Troff Ralf W. , Schalley Christoph A. , Mehring Michael
Published: January 2013

The hydrolysis of [Bi6O4(OH)4(NO3)6]·H2O (1) in the presence of sodium alkylsulfonates gave the oxidobismuth sulfonates [{Bi38O45(C4H7SO3)8(NO3)14(dmso)19.5(H2O)2}][{Bi38O45(C4H7SO3)10(NO3)16(dmso)16(H2O)2}]·3H2O·3dmso (2, dmso = dimethyl sulfoxide), [Bi38O45(C6H13SO3)14(NO3)10(dmso)28] (3), and [Bi38O45(C8H17SO3)16(NO3)8(dmso)12] (4) upon crystallization from dmso. Compound 2 is the first example of a nanoscaled oxidobismuth cluster that is composed of both an anionic (charge 2–) and a cationic (charge 2+) fragment in the solid state. The clusters were characterized by elemental analysis, ESI mass spectrometry, IR and NMR spectroscopy, as well as thermal analysis. Crystals obtained for 2 were suitable for single‐crystal structure analysis.
Diversely Substituted Triazolo[1,5‐a][1,4]benzodiazepinones: A Post‐Ugi Copper‐Catalyzed Tandem Azide–Alkyne Cycloaddition/Ullmann C–N Coupling Approach
Authors: Vachhani Dipak D. , Kumar Amit , Modha Sachin G. , Sharma Sunil K. , Parmar Virinder S. , Van der Eycken Erik V.
Published: January 2013

A diversity‐oriented approach comprising an Ugi 4‐component reaction and a copper‐catalyzed tandem azide–alkyne cycloaddition/Ullmann C–N coupling is elaborated. The methodology is compatible with various functional groups and allows the construction of triazolo[1,5‐a][1,4]benzodiazepinones in good yields.
Fabrication and Photovoltaic Properties of Silicon Solar Cells with Different Diameters and Heights of Nanopillars
Authors: Liu Jing , Zhang Xinshuai , Ashmkhan Marina , Dong Gangqiang , Liao Yuanxun , Wang Bo , Zhang Tianchong , Yi Futing
Published: January 2013

Silicon nanopillars with average diameters from 200 to 900 nm and heights from 0.5 to 3 μm have been successfully fabricated by cesium chloride (CsCl) self‐assembly lithography and dry etching as antireflection layer for solar cells. The antireflection and photovoltaic characteristics for the structures of silicon nanopillars have been researched and show that the reflectivity, photovoltaic conversion efficiency (PCE), and external quantum efficiency (EQE) are greatly influenced by the average diameter and height of nanopillars. The nanopillars with small diameters and large heights can supress reflection, but have less‐favorable photovoltic properties because of greater surface recombination and a greater number of lattice defects. The lowest reflectivity was achieved for silicon nanopillars of 200 nm average diameter and 1.5 μm height, for which the reflectivity was below 5 % between the wavelengths of 400 and 1000 nm, and the solar cell with silicon nanopillars of 600 nm average diameter and 1.5 μm height exhibited the best solar cell performance with a PCE of 14.83 %, a short‐circuit current density (Jsc) of 36.89 mA cm−2, and an open‐circuit voltage (Voc) of 542 mV.
Timing of hepatectomy in resectable synchronous colorectal liver metastases (SCRLM): Simultaneous or delayed?
Authors: Yin Zi , Liu Chao , Chen Yajin , Bai Yu , Shang Changzhen , Yin Rongyan , Yin Dong , Wang Jie
Published: January 2013

The optimal surgical strategy for treatment of patients with synchronous colorectal liver metastases (SCLRM) remains controversial. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of all observational studies to define the safety and efficacy of simultaneous versus delayed resection of the colon and liver. A search for all major databases and relevant journals from inception to April 2012 without restriction on languages or regions was performed. Outcome measures were the primary parameters of postoperative survival, complication, and mortality, as well as other parameters of blood loss, operative time, and length of hospitalization. The test of heterogeneity was performed with the

Q

statistic. A total of 2,880 patients were included in the meta-analysis. Long-term oncological pooled estimates of overall survival (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.96; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.81-1.14;

P

= 0.64;

I

2

= 0) and recurrence-free survival (HR: 1.04; 95% CI: 0.76-1.43;

P

= 0.79;

I

2

= 53%) all showed similar outcomes for both simultaneous and delayed resections. A lower incidence of postoperative complication was attributed to the simultaneous group as opposed to that in the delayed group (modified relative ratio [RR] = 0.77; 95% CI: 0.67-0.89;

P

= 0.0002;

I

2

= 10%), whereas in terms of mortality within the postoperative 60 days no statistical difference was detected (RR = 1.12; 95% CI: 0.61-2.08;

P

= 0.71;

I

2

= 32%). Finally, selection criteria were recommended for SCRLM patients suitable for a simultaneous resection.

Conclusion

: Simultaneous resection is as efficient as a delayed procedure for long-term survival. There is evidence that in SCRLM patients simultaneous resection is an acceptable and safe option with carefully selected conditions. Due to the inherent limitations of the present study, future randomized controlled trials will be useful to confirm this conclusion.
Selective hepatic insulin resistance in a murine model heterozygous for a mitochondrial trifunctional protein defect
Authors: Rector Scott R. , Morris Matthew E. , Ridenhour Suzanne , Meers Grace M. , Hsu Fong-Fu , Turk John , Ibdah Jamal A.
Published: January 2013

Earlier reports suggest a link between mitochondrial dysfunction and development of hepatic insulin resistance. Here we used a murine model heterozygous (HET) for a mitochondrial trifunctional protein (MTP) gene defect to determine if a primary defect in mitochondrial long-chain fatty acid oxidation disrupts hepatic insulin action. Hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamps and signaling studies were performed for assessment of whole-body and hepatic insulin resistance/signaling. In addition, hepatic fatty acid oxidation and hepatic insulin action were assessed

in vitro

using primary hepatocytes isolated from HET and wildtype (WT) mice. In both hepatic mitochondria and isolated primary hepatocytes, heterozygosity of MTP caused an ˜50% reduction in mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation, a significantly impaired glucose disposal during the insulin clamp, and a markedly lower insulin-stimulated suppression of hepatic glucose production. HET mice also exhibited impaired insulin signaling, with increased hepatic phosphorylation of IRS2 (ser731) and reduced Akt phosphorylation (ser473) in both hepatic tissue and isolated primary hepatocytes. Assessment of insulin-stimulated FOXO1/phospho-FOXO1 protein content and PEPCK/G6Pase messenger RNA (mRNA) expression did not reveal differences between HET and WT mice. However, insulin-induced phosphorylation of GSK3β was significantly blunted in HET mice. Hepatic insulin resistance was associated with an increased methylation status of the catalytic subunit of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A-C), but was not associated with differences in hepatic diacylglycerol content, activated protein kinase C-ε (PKC-ε), inhibitor κB kinase β (IKK-β), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), or phospho-JNK protein contents. Surprisingly, hepatic ceramides were significantly lower in the HET mice compared with WT.

Conclusion

: A primary defect in mitochondrial fatty acid β-oxidation causes hepatic insulin resistance selective to hepatic glycogen metabolism that is associated with elevated methylated PP2A-C, but independent of other mechanisms commonly considered responsible for insulin resistance.
Depth‐sensitive Raman spectroscopy combined with optical coherence tomography for layered tissue analysis
Authors: Khan Khan M. , Krishna Hemant , Majumder Shovan K. , Rao K. Divakar , Gupta Pradeep K.
Published: January 2013

Complete characterization of a layered tissue requires probing both the biochemical and the morphological information from its different layers at various depths. We report the development of a combined Raman spectroscopy (RS) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) system that is capable of measuring depth‐sensitive Raman signal from the tissue layers imaged by the OCT. The sample arm of a real‐time time‐domain OCT system was modified to allow for co‐alignment of the OCT with the Raman probe beam. The depth sensitivity of Raman was obtained by incorporating confocal Raman configuration that minimized out‐of‐focus Raman scattered light. The system was first validated using a layered phantom prepared by depositing a thin layer of paraffin over acetaminophen. A good correlation was observed between the OCT images and the Raman signal. The system was also used to record OCT and Raman images of a resected mucosal tissue sample. While OCT image showed the presence of epithelial and stromal layers, Raman spectra measured from these layers confirmed the biochemical difference between the two. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)