bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ON A CONJECTURE REGARDING THE UPPER GRAPH BOX DIMENSION OF BOUNDED SUBSETS OF THE REAL LINE
Authors: KELGIANNIS GIORGOS , LASCHOS VAIOS
Published: January 2014

Let X ⊂ ℝ be a bounded set; we introduce a formula that calculates the upper graph box dimension of X (i.e. the supremum of the upper box dimension of the graph over all uniformly continuous functions defined on X). We demonstrate the strength of the formula by proving various corollaries. We conclude by constructing a collection of sets X with infinitely many isolated points, having upper box dimension a taking values from zero to one while their graph box dimension takes any value in [ max {2a, 1}, a + 1], answering this way, negatively to a conjecture posed.1
EFFECT OF THICKNESS ON MICROSTRUCTURE, DIELECTRIC AND OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF SINGLE LAYER Ba0.6Sr0.4TiO3 THIN FILM
Authors: ESWARAMOORTHI VELUCHAMY , WILLIAMS RAYAR VICTOR
Published: January 2014

Single layered Ba 0.6 Sr 0.4 TiO 3 (BST) thin films were prepared on stainless steel (304) and quartz substrates by solution method. The microstructure, grain size, surface morphology and thickness of the films were reported on the basis of X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and UV-visible spectrometer. Variation in thickness influences the microstructure of the films. The single layered thin film had uniform crack-free surface morphology. The low frequency dielectric constants for the films of thicknesses 663, 476 and 451 nm were found to be 1246, 859 and 703, respectively at room temperature. The dielectric loss values for different thicknesses were found to be 0.238%, 0.170% and 0.120% for 100 kHz and 0.043%, 0.029 % and 0.028% for 1 kHz. The dielectric properties changed significantly with thickness of the film as well as with frequency. The tunability of the single layered BST film increased with film thickness. The refractive index, bandgap and thickness of the single layered thin film were calculated by using envelope method and Tauc's relation from the UV-visible transmission spectrum. The bandgap increases with the film thickness. These results show that this single layered film will be a potential material for tunable devices application.
A NOVEL METHOD TO SYNTHESIZE N-DOPED CNTs ARRAYS VIA CHEMICAL MODIFYING POROUS ALUMINA MEMBRANE
Authors: LI CHENGYONG , HE LEI
Published: January 2014

N -doped carbon nanotubes (CNTs) arrays were fabricated via simply chemical modifying porous alumina membrane (PAM) with dopamine. The diameter of N -doped CNTs is about 60–70 nm. The N / C atomic ratio is calculated to be 0.05 and the main functionality is pyridone/pyrrole N . This chemical modifying method can be used to fabricate mass of N -doped CNTs arrays in one step with single raw material.
AUTOMATED OPTION PRICING: NUMERICAL METHODS
Authors: HENRY-LABORDÈRE PIERRE
Published: January 2014

In this paper, we investigate model-independent bounds for option prices given a set of market instruments. This super-replication problem can be written as a semi-infinite linear programing problem. As these super-replication prices can be large and the densities ℚ which achieve the upper bounds quite singular, we restrict ℚ to be close in the entropy sense to a prior probability measure at a next stage. This leads to our risk-neutral weighted Monte Carlo approach which is connected to a constrained convex problem. We explain how to solve efficiently these large-scale problems using a primal-dual interior-point algorithm within the cutting-plane method and a quasi-Newton algorithm. Various examples illustrate the efficiency of these algorithms and the large range of applicability.
INFLUENCE OF XUANFEI–GUBEN PRESCRIPTION ON MECHANICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF AIRWAY REMODELING IN ASTHMATIC RATS
Authors: XU ZHAO-XIA , LI XUE-LIANG , LI NA , QIAN PENG , XU JIN , WANG YI-QIN
Published: January 2014

During the past few years, studies of structural and functional changes in living tissues in adaptation to the mechanical environment have become a major focus of medical research. The mechanical characteristics during asthma airway remodeling have begun to attract the attention of scholars. Repeated episodes of asthma influence the quality of life for patients' and their families. To explore effective therapies for asthma is a high priority for medical researchers. The purpose of the current study was to determine the mechanical characteristics of asthmatic airways in rats and the effects of Xuanfei–Guben on the airways. Thus, Xuanfei–Guben and dexamethasone were used as treatment in an ovalbumin copy asthmatic rats model. A multi-channel physiological signal acquisition and processing system and an injection pump was used to establish a biomechanical testing system. Compliance of asthmatic rat lung compliance and alveolar maximum stress and duration were determined in vitro. When rat lungs were perfused with ≤ 3 mL saline in vitro, there was no significant difference in pressure across the group. After 4 mL of water was perfused, the transpulmonary pressure increased significantly in the other groups compared with the normal group. The transpulmonary pressure in Xuanfei–Guben treatment group was less than the model and dexamethasone groups. Asthmatic rat lung compliance is poor, and a traditional Chinese medicine can improve lung compliance.
DYNAMIC RHEOLOGICAL PROPERTY OF TYPE I COLLAGEN FIBRILS
Authors: JU HAI-YAN , LIU MENG , DAN WEI-HUA , HU YANG , LIN HAI , DAN NIAN-HUA
Published: January 2014

Collagen fibril (CF) has been a hot research topic in biomedical materials and tissue engineering for decades, because of its excellent physicochemical properties and biological performance. In the paper, type I CF was successfully prepared with acid-enzyme hydrolysis method, which was characterized by atomic force microscope (AFM), infrared spectroscopic analysis (FTIR) and dynamic rheological property testing. AFM results showed that CF had a uniform size distribution, that is, 135 nm ± 5.00 nm, and enjoyed the D cycle horizontally striped structure. Temperature variation also has an effect on CF structures. At 45°C, significant changes took place in the secondary structure of collagen. Dynamic rheological results showed that CF thermotropism occurred at 45.59°C. In addition, under 25°C and at a concentration ranging from 0.5 mg/mL to 2.0 mg/mL, angular frequency growth increased elastic modulus and the liquid carrying factor of CF solution, and decreased complex viscosity and mechanical loss. The results provide a new and reliable theoretical foundation for processing, molding and application of natural CF.
EFFECT OF CYCLE ERGOMETER USING AN MR ROTARY BRAKE ON LOWER LIMB EXERCISE
Authors: YU CHANG HO , YU MI , KIM KYUNG , KWON TAE KYU
Published: January 2014

In this study, a new cycle ergometer system using a magneto-rheological (MR) rotary brake was developed to improve muscular strength and reduce asymmetric pedaling characteristics for the rehabilitation of hemiplegia patients. For evaluation of this cycle ergometer, the characteristics of lower limb muscles were analyzed according to three factor of cycle system with MR rotary brake: (1) the electrical current of MR rotary brake, (2) the intensity and duration of cycling, (3) the application of visual feedback. The results showed that muscle activity was significantly different for various levels of current applied to the MR rotary brake. A higher current was associated with a higher integrated electromyography (IEMG) of the lower limb muscle. In low-intensity and long-term condition, IEMG of RF, TA, VL and VAS increased in the late stage of exercise (compared to the early stage), however, decreased in high-intensity and short term condition. The asymmetry of pedaling between the dominant and non-dominant leg was 19.63% in the non-visual feedback mode and 1.97% in the visual feedback mode. Therefore, our new cycle system using an MR brake with real time control of mechanical resistance can be used to enhance muscle strength in patients with hemiplegia and elderly people. Increased muscular activity of the lower limbs in patients with hemiplegia and the elderly is expected with low-intensity training over a long-term period.
A STUDY OF DENTAL 3D POINTS CLOUD MEASUREMENT SYSTEM BASED ON GRATING PROJECTION
Authors: ZHU QINMIAO , WU MOUHU , HUANG XINDA , TAO BO
Published: January 2014

A novel non-contact dental 3D points cloud measurement system based on grating projection is proposed in this paper. The system has the key functions of calibration, phase unwrapping and conversion of two-dimensional image to the 3D point cloud and so on, and it can provide three-dimensional graphics of the dental wax with rotations and translation to observe and measure the various parts of dental wax surface. The system can be used as a useful test and analysis tool for clinical medicine teaching and researches.
VERIFICATION OF THE GENERALIZED BORN MODEL AT SHORT DISTANCES
Authors: TANG XIAOCHUAN , DUAN YONG
Published: January 2014

The generalized Born (GB) model, one of the implicit solvent models, is widely applied in molecular dynamics (MD) simulations as a simple description of the solvation effect. In the GB model, an empirical function called the Still's formula, with the algorithmic simplicity, is utilized to calculate the solvation energy due to the polarization, termed as ΔGpol. Applications of the GB model have exhibited reasonable accuracy and high computational efficiency. However, there is still room for improvements. Most of the attempts to improve the GB model focus on optimizing effective Born radii. Contrarily, limited researches have been performed to improve the feasibility of the Still's formula. In this paper, analytical methods was applied to investigate the validity of the Still's formula at short distance. Taking advantage of the toroidal coordinates and Mehler–Fock transform, the analytical solutions of the GB model at short distances was derived explicitly for the first time. Additionally, the solvation energy was numerically computed using proper algorithms based on the analytical solutions and compared with ΔGpolcalculated in the GB model. With the analysis on the deficiencies of the Still's formula at short distances, potential methods to improve the validity of the GB model were discussed.
MECHANICAL STRUCTURE IMPROVEMENT OF AN UPPER LIMB REHABILITATION ROBOT: BASED ON AN EQUIVALENT KINEMATIC MODEL
Authors: LI CHONG , LIU ENCHEN , JI LINHONG
Published: January 2014

Several rehabilitation robots for upper limbs have been introduced so far, and clinical effectiveness was reported in several studies for the aged people or patients with stroke. Upper limb motor deficits of the patients have to be identified during the motor training, which requires the flexibility of mechanical structure. However, the users have difficulties in driving the previous robotic arms precisely because of the previous mechanical structure, especially when they are required to track a circle. This article gives a kinematic analysis on the previous mechanical structure of the previous robot, which is a two bar-linkage, two degrees of freedom mechanism, then solves the force on the handle grip during user's operation based on an equivalent kinematic model. The key of the problem is that force directions exerted by the user are not in the correct directions to drive the robot. Therefore, a new mechanical design using parallel robotic arms is suggested. The improvement is justified by comparing results from tracking circles using different robots.
A SEMI-ANALYTICAL SOLUTION FOR CONSOLIDATION AROUND A SPHERICAL CAVITY IN AN ELASTO-PLASTIC MEDIUM AND ITS POTENTIAL APPLICATION FOR TUNNELING
Authors: OSMAN A. S. , ROUAINIA M.
Published: January 2014

An analytical solution for consolidation around spherical cavity contraction is developed. This solution has the potential to evaluate consolidation around tunnel heads. The initial excess pore water pressure immediately after the creation of the cavity is estimated from the cavity expansion/contraction theory using a linear-elastic-perfectly-plastic soil model. Expressions for the decay of pore water pressure with time are obtained using elasticity. Curves showing the variation of pore water pressure with time are plotted in nondimensional form. Comparison with two-dimensional coupled stress-pore pressure finite element analysis shows that the proposed semi-analytical solution can successfully predict the poro-elasto-plastic behavior around spherical cavity.
The existence of a billiard orbit in the regular hyperbolic simplex
Authors: Badt Oded , Ostrover Yaron
Published: January 2014

In this note we establish the existence of a n + 1 periodic billiard trajectory inside an n-dimensional regular simplex in the hyperbolic space, which hits the interior of every facet exactly once.
VoIP steganography and its Detection—A survey
Authors: Mazurczyk Wojciech
Published: January 2014

Steganography is an ancient art that encompasses various techniques of information hiding, the aim of which is to embed secret information into a carrier message. Steganographic methods are usually aimed at hiding the very existence of the communication. Due to the rise in popularity of IP telephony, together with the large volume of data and variety of protocols involved, it is currently attracting the attention of the research community as a perfect carrier for steganographic purposes. This article is a first survey of the existing Voice over IP (VoIP) steganography methods and their countermeasures.
Significance and Control of the Poultry Red Mite,Dermanyssus gallinae
Authors: Sparagano O.A.E. , George D.R. , Harrington D.W.J. , Giangaspero A.
Published: January 2014

The poultry red mite, Dermanyssus gallinae, poses a significant threat to poultry production and hen health in many parts of the world. With D. gallinae increasingly suspected of being a disease vector, and reports indicating that attacks on alternative hosts, including humans, are becoming more common, the economic importance of this pest has increased greatly. As poultry production moves away from conventional cage systems in many parts of the world, D. gallinae is likely to become more abundant and difficult to control. Control remains dominated by the use of synthetic acaricides, although resistance and treatment failure are widely reported. Alternative control measures are emerging from research devoted to D. gallinae and its management. These alternative control measures are beginning to penetrate the market, although many remain at the precommercial stage. This review compiles the expanding body of research on D. gallinae and assesses options for its current and future control. We conclude that significant advances in D. gallinae control are most likely to come through an integrated approach adopting recent research into existing and novel control strategies; this is being combined with improved monitoring and modeling to better inform treatment interventions.
Interferon-γ Reduces the Proliferation of Primed Human Renal Tubular Cells
Authors: García-Sánchez Omar , López-Novoa José Miguel , López-Hernández Francisco J.
Published: January 2014

Background/Aims: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive deterioration of the kidney function, which may eventually lead to renal failure and the need for dialysis or kidney transplant. Whether initiated in the glomeruli or the tubuli, CKD is characterized by progressive nephron loss, for which the process of tubular deletion is of key importance. Tubular deletion results from tubular epithelial cell death and defective repair, leading to scarring of the renal parenchyma. Several cytokines and signaling pathways, including transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and the Fas pathway, have been shown to participate in vivo in tubular cell death. However, there is some controversy about their mode of action, since a direct effect on normal tubular cells has not been demonstrated. We hypothesized that epithelial cells would require specific priming to become sensitive to TGF-β or Fas stimulation and that this priming would be brought about by specific mediators found in the pathological scenario. Methods: Herein we studied whether the combined effect of several stimuli known to take part in CKD progression, namely TGF-β, tumor necrosis factor-α, interferon-γ (IFN-γ), and Fas stimulation, on primed resistant human tubular cells caused cell death or reduced proliferation. Results: We demonstrate that these cytokines have no synergistic effect on the proliferation or viability of human kidney (HK2) cells. We also demonstrate that IFN-γ, but not the other stimuli, reduces the proliferation of cycloheximide-primed HK2 cells without affecting their viability. Conclusion: Our results point at a potentially important role of IFN-γ in defective repair, leading to nephron loss during CKD.
Erosion/Abrasion-Preventing Potential of NaF and F/Sn/Chitosan Toothpastes in Dentine and Impact of the Organic Matrix
Authors: Ganss C. , Klimek J. , Schlueter N.
Published: January 2014

The study investigated the erosion/abrasion-preventing potential of experimental NaF (1,400 ppm F-) and amine fluoride (AmF)/NaF/SnCl2/chitosan (1,400 ppm F-, 3,500 ppm Sn2+, 0.5% chitosan) toothpastes relative to placebo and SnF2 gel (970 ppm F-, 3,000 ppm Sn2+), and the impact of the demineralised dentine matrix on toothpaste effects. The study was a cyclic erosion/intervention experiment (10 days). Samples were stored in mineral salt solution either without or with collagenase (from Clostridium histolyticum type VII; 100 U/ml) for continuous removal of the organic matrix. To produce a comparable order of tissue loss, erosion was performed 6 × 30 s/day with 0.5% citric acid in the latter and 6 × 90 s/day with 1% citric acid in the former. Intervention was toothpaste slurry immersion (2 × 2 min/day); half of the samples were additionally brushed for 15 s within this time (brushing machine, load 200 g). Tissue loss was determined profilometrically (mean ± SD; µm). Tissue loss values (without/with brushing) for placebo, NaF, AmF/NaF/SnCl2/chitosan and SnF2 gel, respectively, were 11.6 ± 3.1/12.2 ± 2.5, 12.7 ± 3.1/10.7 ± 4.5, 8.7 ± 2.1/9.7 ± 2.1 and 8.8 ± 1.8/​10.9 ± 1.8 in the presence of the organic matrix and 10.7 ± 3.2/11.9 ± 2.1, 8.2 ± 4.0/10.1 ± 4.1, 8.7 ± 2.9/9.1 ± 1.8 and 8.4 ± 1.9/7.5 ± 1.5 in the absence of the organic matrix. Relative to placebo, the NaF formulation had no significant effects; the AmF/NaF/SnCl2/chitosan formulation significantly reduced tissue loss between 20 and 25% except when applied without brushing in the absence of the organic matrix. The effects of the formulations were similar both in the presence and absence of the organic matrix. Sn2+/F--​containing formulations have the potential to reduce erosion/abrasion even in the absence of demineralised collagen; seeking for more effective formulations is desirable.
In vitro Interaction between SURFACEN® and Surfactant Protein A against Leishmania amazonensis
Authors: de Guevara Yuliannis Lugones Ladrón , Hidalgo Odalys Blanco , Faure Roberto , Fidalgo Lianet Monzote
Published: January 2014

Leishmaniasis is caused by a parasite of the Leishmania genus, affecting more than 12 million people in 98 countries. The control of leishmaniasis remains a serious problem. There are currently no vaccines for leishmaniasis. The drugs available are toxic, expensive and frequently ineffective. The in vitro activity of SURFACEN® and SP-A against Leishmania amazonensis was evaluated. The combination of both products resulted in a synergic pharmacology effect, demonstrated by a fractional inhibitory concentration index <0.5. A more effective combination was a SURFACEN/SP-A ratio of 4:1, using a method of fixed ratio. The therapeutic effect of SURFACEN and SP-A as antileishmanial compounds was demonstrated, with a potentiation of activity when they were incubated in conjunction. Our results propose an exploration of these products in order to design new formulations against the Leishmania parasite.
Low Incidence of ADAMTS13 Missense Mutation R1060W in Adult Egyptian Patients with Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura
Authors: El Sissy Maha H. , El Hafez A. Abd , El Sissy A.H.
Published: January 2014

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is an acute life-threatening disorder, characterized by thrombocytopenia, microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, widespread microvascular thrombi and consequent clinical sequelae due to ischemic organ damage. TTP is most commonly associated with deficiency or inhibition of von Willebrand factor-cleaving protease (ADAMTS13) activity. ADAMTS13 mutations and polymorphisms have been reported in childhood congenital TTP, but their significance in adult-onset TTP is still under investigation. Two mutations stand out: the single base insertion 4143insA in exon 29 and the missense mutation R1060W in exon 24 have both been observed in several unrelated families, mainly in adult-onset TTP, and over a wide geographic area. Our objective in this study is to identify the prevalence of R1060W missense mutation in exon 24 ADAMTS13 in a sample of adult Egyptian TTP patients. Thirty-one adult-onset TTP patients were included in this study, with a male/female ratio of 1:4. Twenty-six cases (84%) presented with acute idiopathic TTP, 2 cases were drug abusers and 3 cases were pregnant. None of the study cases provided a history of suspicious TTP symptoms during childhood (2 cases gave a history of episodes of thrombocytopenia during childhood). All cases showed statistically significant decreased ADAMTS13 activity compared to normal controls (p < 0.001). The study revealed a high statistical difference regarding the ADAMTS13 inhibitor level in primary versus secondary cases (p = 0.003). None of our Egyptian cases or of the healthy normal controls are positive for exon 24 missense mutation. Larger studies and regional and national TTP registries are recommended.
B Cell Depletion: Rituximab in Glomerular Disease and Transplantation
Authors: Marinaki S. , Skalioti C. , Boletis J.N.
Published: January 2014

B cells play a central role in the pathogenesis of many autoimmune diseases. Selective targeting can be achieved with the use of the monoclonal antibody rituximab. In addition to being a drug for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, rituximab is also an FDA-approved treatment for refractory rheumatoid arthritis and, since recently, ANCA vasculitis. It has shown efficacy in many autoimmune diseases. This review will discuss current evidence and the rationale of the use of rituximab in glomerular diseases, including randomized controlled trials. The focus will be on the use of rituximab in idiopathic membranous nephropathy, systemic lupus erythematosus and ANCA-associated vasculitis. The emerging role of rituximab in renal transplantation, where it seems to be important for the desensitization protocols for highly sensitized patients as well as for the preconditioning of ABO-incompatible recipients and the treatment of antibody-mediated rejection, will also be addressed.
Dermatological Complications after Bariatric Surgery: Report of Two Cases and Review of the Literature
Authors: Zouridaki Eftychia , Papafragkaki Dafni-Kalliopi , Papafragkakis Haris , Aroni Kyriaki , Stavropoulos Panayiotis
Published: January 2014

Bariatric surgery aims at weight reduction of severely obese patients. The Roux-en-Y technique is one of the most common bariatric procedures and is occasionally accompanied by nutrient insufficiencies and metabolic changes. According to the literature, skin architecture and immunity change after bariatric surgery and may lead to inflammation and increased susceptibility to pathogens. Additionally, vitamin and mineral deficiencies frequently develop in these patients and affect the skin's defense mechanisms, possibly contributing to dermatological complications. Knowledge and recognition of skin changes after bariatric surgery make an important asset for the dermatologist and help in the proper treatment of these patients. We report 2 cases of infectious skin lesions where vitamin and trace element deficiencies have possibly contributed to their persistence and resistance to traditional treatments.
Relationships between Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Levels and Temperament and Character Inventory Traits in Healthy Japanese Subjects
Authors: Tomita Tetsu , Yasui-Furukori Norio , Tsuchimine Shoko , Kaneda Ayako , Kaneko Sunao
Published: January 2014

Background and Aim: Personality traits and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels are both independently correlated with major depressive disorder and depressive mood. However, no studies have reported associations between personality traits and VEGF levels. Thus, we hypothesized that there is a correlation between the results of the Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI) and VEGF levels. Methods: We investigated 179 healthy participants who completed the TCI. We collected a serum sample from each subject and measured each participant's VEGF level by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Simple and multiple regression analyses were performed to examine the correlations between the scores on the seven TCI dimensions and several other factors, including gender, age and VEGF level. Results: A total of 150 subjects completed the examination. Among the dimensions of the TCI, the harm avoidance (HA) scores were negatively correlated with VEGF levels, but there were no significant correlations between the scores for any other dimensions and VEGF levels. The HA score was significantly correlated with sex, age and VEGF level, and single and multiple regression analyses yielded the same results. Conclusion: VEGF may be associated with certain personality factors. This study is the first to demonstrate a direct association between VEGF levels and a dimension of the TCI in healthy subjects.
Is Renal Dysfunction Associated with Adverse Stroke Outcome after Thrombolytic Therapy?
Authors: Hsieh Cheng-Yang , Lin Huey-Juan , Sung Sheng-Feng , Hsieh Han-Chieh , Lai Edward Chia-Cheng , Chen Chih-Hung
Published: January 2014

Background: Renal dysfunction is a prevalent comorbidity in acute stroke patients requiring thrombolytic therapy. Reports studying the relationship between renal dysfunction and risk of postthrombolytic symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (SICH) are contradictory. We aimed to compare the safety and effectiveness of thrombolytic therapy in acute stroke patients with and without renal dysfunction. Methods: Based on the prospective stroke registries of 4 hospitals in Taiwan from 2007-2012, we identified acute stroke patients who received thrombolytic therapy. Clinically significant renal dysfunction was defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 ml/min/1.73 m2. Renal dysfunction was further defined as stage 3 (30 ≤ eGFR < 60 ml/min/ 1.73 m2), stage 4 (15 ≤ eGFR < 30 ml/min/1.73 m2) and stage 5 (<15 ml/min/1.73 m2). The rates of SICH and poor outcome (defined as modified Rankin scale score ≥4) at 3 months after thrombolytic therapy were compared in patients with and without renal dysfunction. SICH was determined according to the definition of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the effect of renal dysfunction on outcome. Patients with different stages of renal dysfunction were further analyzed to determine the effect of disease severity on outcome. Results: Of the 657 stroke patients with thrombolysis, 239 (36%) had renal dysfunction, including 212 patients in stage 3, 17 patients in stage 4 and 10 patients in stage 5 of renal dysfunction. Patients with renal dysfunction were older and more likely to have hypertension, ischemic heart disease, congestive heart failure and prior antiplatelet use than those without. There were no differences in SICH (8 vs. 7%, p = 0.580) and poor outcome (41 vs. 39%, p = 0.758) between patients with and without renal dysfunction. After multivariable analysis, renal dysfunction was not associated with SICH (odds ratio: 1.03, 95% confidence interval: 0.55-1.92) and poor outcome. Pretreatment stroke severity was the only factor significantly associated with both SICH and poor outcome at 3 months. When stratifying renal dysfunction into stage 3 and stage ≥4, there was no significant increase in SICH as the severity of renal dysfunction increased after multivariable adjustment. Conclusions: Renal dysfunction did not increase the risk of SICH and poor outcome at 3 months after stroke thrombolysis. Further study comparing directly the risk and benefit of thrombolytic therapy versus no therapy in stroke patients with renal dysfunction is warranted.
Reassessing Hepatocellular Carcinoma Staging in a Changing Patient Population
Authors: Kaseb Ahmed O. , Shah Neeraj N. , Hassabo Hesham M. , Morris Jeffrey S. , Xiao Lianchun , Abaza Yasmin M. , Soliman Khalid , Lee Ju-Seog , Vauthey Jean-Nicholas , Wallace Michael , Aloia Thomas A. , Curley Steven , Abbruzzese James L. , Hassan Manal M.
Published: January 2014

Objective: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) staging systems were developed using data predominantly from patients who had hepatitis and cirrhosis. Given the recent change in prevalence of viral hepatitis and cirrhosis at oncology centers, which has altered the natural history of HCC, we aimed at comparing the accuracy of HCC staging systems in patients with or without hepatitis and cirrhosis. Methods: A total of 438 patients were enrolled. Baseline clinicopathologic parameters, Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage, Cancer of the Liver Italian Program score, TNM (6th edition) stage, Okuda stage, and Chinese University Prognostic Index score were prospectively obtained for all patients, and retrospectively analyzed. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to determine overall survival (OS), Cox regression analyses were performed, and Harrell's Correspondence Index compared the staging systems' ability to predict OS duration. Subgroup analyses of patients with or without hepatitis or cirrhosis were performed. Results: Median patient OS was 13.9 months; 165 patients (37.7%) had no cirrhosis and 256 patients (58.4%) had no hepatitis. Overall, all staging systems were significantly less predictive of OS in patients who did not have cirrhosis or hepatitis. Conclusion: Our results advocate the need to further stratify HCC based on cirrhosis and hepatitis status, which may change patient risk-stratification and, ultimately, treatment decisions.
Reduced Organic Anion Transporter Expression Is a Risk Factor for Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Chronic Hepatitis C Patients: A Propensity Score Matching Study
Authors: Yasui Yutaka , Kudo Atsushi , Kurosaki Masayuki , Matsuda Shuya , Muraoka Masaru , Tamaki Nobuharu , Suzuki Shoko , Hosokawa Takanori , Ueda Ken , Matsunaga Kotaro , Nakanishi Hiroyuki , Tsuchiya Kaoru , Itakura Jun , Takahashi Yuka , Tanaka Shinji , Asahina Yasuhiro , Enomoto Nobuyuki , Arii Shigeki , Izumi Namiki
Published: January 2014

Objectives: Recent reports indicated that reduced SLC22A7 (a gene-encoding organic anion transporter 2) expression in noncancerous liver tissue predicts hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence after curative resection. Our study aimed to elucidate the association between SLC22A7 expression and HCC development in chronic hepatitis C patients. Methods: HCC recurrence after local ablation therapy and SLC22A7 expression in noncancerous liver tissue were analyzed in 20 patients. Subsequently, the association between de novo HCC development and SLC22A7 expression was examined at baseline in 38 hepatitis C patients without HCC who subsequently developed HCC as well as in 76 hepatitis C patients who did not develop HCC and were matched for age, gender and stage of fibrosis. Results: In the patients whose HCC had been cured, reduced SLC22A7 expression in noncancerous liver tissue was significantly associated with a high incidence of multifocal HCC recurrence. In patients without HCC at baseline, cumulative incidence of de novo HCC development was significantly higher with a reduced SLC22A7 expression than with a normal expression (p = 0.01). This difference remained significant among patients without known risk factors for HCC like age and advanced fibrosis. Conclusion: Reduced SLC22A7 expression in the liver indicates a significant risk for HCC development in chronic hepatitis C, independently of other risk factors.
Association of Sociodemographic, Psychopathological and Gambling-Related Factors with Treatment Utilization for Pathological Gambling
Authors: Bischof Anja , Meyer Christian , Bischof Gallus , Guertler Diana , Kastirke Nadin , John Ulrich , Rumpf Hans-Juergen
Published: January 2014

Background/Aims: Only a small percentage of pathological gamblers utilizes professional treatment for gambling problems. Little is known about which social and gambling-related factors are associated with treatment utilization. The aim of this study was to look for factors associated with treatment utilization for pathological gambling. Methods: The study followed a sampling design with 3 different recruitment channels, namely (1) a general population-based telephone sample, (2) a gambling location sample and (3) a project telephone hotline. Pathological gambling was diagnosed in a telephone interview. Participants with pathological gambling (n = 395) received an in-depth clinical interview concerning treatment utilization, comorbid psychiatric disorders and social characteristics. Results: Variables associated with treatment were higher age [odds ratio (OR) 1.05, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.03-1.08], an increased number of DSM-IV criteria for pathological gambling (OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.06-1.70), more adverse consequences from gambling (OR 1.10, 95% CI 1.03-1.16) and more social pressure from significant others (OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.07-1.27). Affective disorders were associated with treatment utilization in the univariate analysis (OR 1.81, 95% CI 1.19-2.73), but multivariate analysis showed that comorbid psychiatric disorders were not independently associated. Conclusion: These results indicate that individuals with more severe gambling problems utilize treatment at an older age when more adverse consequences have occurred. Further research should focus on proactive early interventions.
The Research Agenda on Oral Health Inequalities: The IADR-GOHIRA Initiative
Authors: Williams David M.
Published: January 2014

The World Health Organization asserts that oral health is a basic human right, yet this is a right enjoyed by few. Oral disease is a major problem in high-income countries, where the cost of treating oral diseases often exceeds that for major non-communicable diseases. In low-to-middle income countries, oral diseases are a severe and growing public health problem. Furthermore, major inequalities exist both within and between countries in terms of disease severity and prevalence, and major social gradients exist in the prevalence of oral disease. The International Association for Dental Research (IADR) has responded to the challenge of poor oral health and oral health inequalities through the Global Oral Health Inequalities: the Research Agenda (GOHIRA) initiative. In a Call to Action it has set out the priorities for research that can lead to a reduction in oral health inequalities. Three key challenges have been identified, namely gaps in knowledge and an insufficient focus on social policy, the separation of oral health from general health, and inadequate evidence-based data. Ten key research priorities have been identified with due regard to the differing needs of the variety of global health care systems, and a set of prioritized outcomes and a timeline for implementation have been defined. In the wider context of the proposals set out above, five immediate priorities for action have been proposed.
Visual Acuity in a Species of Coral Reef Fish: Rhinecanthus aculeatus
Authors: Champ Connor , Wallis Guy , Vorobyev Misha , Siebeck Ulrike , Marshall Justin
Published: January 2014

Coral reef fish present the human observer with an array of bold and contrasting patterns; however, the ability of such fish to perceive these patterns is largely unexamined. To understand this, the visual acuity of these animals - the degree to which they can resolve fine detail - must be ascertained. Behavioural studies are few in number and anatomical analysis has largely focused on estimates of ganglion cell density to predict the visual acuity in coral reef fish. Here, we report visual acuity measures for the triggerfish Rhinecanthus aculeatus. Acuity was first assessed using a series of behavioural paradigms and the figures were then contrasted with those obtained anatomically, based on photoreceptor and ganglion cell counts. Behavioural testing indicated an upper behavioural acuity of 1.75 cycles·degree-1, which is approximately the same level of acuity as that of the goldfish (Carassiusauratus). Anatomical estimates were then calculated from wholemount analysis of the photoreceptor layer and Nissl staining of cells within the ganglion cell layer. Both of these anatomical measures gave estimates that were substantially larger (7.75 and 3.4 cycles·degree-1 for the photoreceptor cells and ganglion cells, respectively) than the level of acuity indicated by the behavioural tests. This indicates that in this teleost species spatial resolution is poor compared to humans (30-70 cycles·degree-1) and it is also not well indicated by anatomical estimates.
Expression of CXCR4 Is Associated with Progression and Invasion in Patients with Nasal-Surface Basal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Xu Cheng-Zhi , Wang Pei-Hua , Yan Xiao-Jun , Wang Tao , Chen Dong , Zhang Zhi-Jie , Shi Run-Jie
Published: January 2014

Background: Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer with an increasing incidence worldwide that imposes a considerable burden on public health. C-X-C chemokine receptor (CXCR4) plays a vital role in initiation, progression and metastasis of several types of cancers. The aim of the present study was to investigate the expression and clinical significance of CXCR4 in BCC. Methods: In this study, 80 samples of primary BCC were assessed for CXCR4 expression using immunohistochemistry. The mRNA and protein expression levels of CXCR4 were evaluated by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis, respectively. Results: CXCR4-positive staining was detected in 70% of BCC samples. Overexpression of CXCR4 was significantly associated with tumor size (>2 vs. 2 cm, p = 0.002) and pathological type (invasive vs. noninvasive, p = 0.007). CXCR4 was also upregulated at transcriptional and translational levels. Conclusion: Our study revealed that the expression of CXCR4 was associated with progression and invasion in patients with BCC. It may be a considerable biomarker to assess invasiveness of nasal-surface BCC and to guide clinical management of such tumors.
Delayed Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension in Relation to Pulmonary Damage Score after Pneumonectomy under Protective Ventilation: Experimental Study
Authors: Berthet Jean-Philippe , Attard Olivier , Solovei Laurence , Bourdin Arnaud , Serre Isabelle , Molinari Nicolas , Richard Sylvain , Matecki Stefan
Published: January 2014

Objective: To characterize pulmonary hemodynamic changes in relation to lung injury at 2 time points [48 h (H48) and 168 h (H168)] after pneumonectomy under intraoperative protective ventilation in order to improve postpneumonectomy pulmonary edema (PPE) prevention. Method: Fifteen pigs (25 ± 1.9 kg) were randomly allocated to nonsurgical (control, n = 5) and surgical (H48 and H168) groups. A left pneumonectomy under volume-controlled one-lung ventilation (OLV) (low tidal volume, positive end-expiratory pressure = 4 cm H2O, inspired oxygen fraction = 50%) was performed in surgical animals. Mean pulmonary artery pressure (MPAP) and pulmonary artery occlusion pressure were recorded. Pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) was calculated. Pulmonary damage score (PDS) and bronchoalveolar albumin level were evaluated. Data were collected after induction (T0), after OLV (T1), after left pneumonectomy (T2), and at H48 or H168 (T3). Results: Pneumonectomy caused precapillary pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) measured at T3 H48 (36.2 ± 3.67 mm Hg). PAH was delayed temporarily (both after OLV and after pneumonectomy) (p < 0.001), and linked with PVR (r = 0.93; p < 0.05). PDS and bronchoalveolar albumin level varied with MPAP (r = 0.76; p < 0.001 and r = 0.55; p < 0.05). Conclusion: Given that PAH is delayed and related to PVR increase, indicating secondary pulmonary vascular bed adaptation limits, pharmacological treatment should focus on a delayed failure in pulmonary capacitance in patients at risk of PPE.
Risk Minimization Measures for Blood Screening HIV-1 Nucleic Acid Amplification Technique Assays in Germany
Authors: Chudy Michael , Kress Julia , Halbauer Jochen , Heiden Margarethe , Funk Markus B. , Nübling C. Micha
Published: January 2014

Background: Several publications describe HIV-1 RNA false-negative results or viral load underquantitation associated with Communauté Européenne(CE)-marked qualitative or quantitative nucleic acid amplification technique (NAT) assays. 6 cases occurred during blood screening in Germany, with 2 of them causing HIV-1 transmissions to recipients of blood components. The implicated NAT assays were mono-target assays amplifying in different viral genome regions (gag or long terminal repeat). Methods: Specimens characterized by HIV-1 NAT underquantitation or false-negative NAT results were comparatively investigated in CE-marked HIV-1 NAT systems of different design to identify potential reasons. The target regions of the viral nucleic acids were sequenced and these sequences compared to primers and probes of the assays. Potential risk minimization measures were considered for quantitative and blood-screening HIV-1 NAT systems. Results: Nucleotide sequencing of the viral target region in cases of HIV-1 RNA underquantitation or false-negative test results revealed new HIV-1 variants that were mismatched with primers and probes used in some mono-target assays. So far, dualtarget NAT assays have not been associated with mismatch-based false-negative test results. From 2015, the Paul Ehrlich Institute will request HIV-1 NAT assays of dual-target design or an analogous solution for further reducing the risk in blood screening. Conclusion: HIV differs from other blood-borne viruses with regard to its fast evolution of new viral variants. The evolution of new sequences is hardly predictable; therefore, NAT assays with only 1 target region appear to be more vulnerable to sequence variations than dual-target assays. The associated risk may be higher for HIV-1 NAT assays used for blood screening compared to quantitative assays used for monitoring HIV-1-infected patients. In HIV-1 screening NAT assays of dual-target design may adequately address the risk imposed by new HIV-1 variants.
The Limit of Anemia Tolerance during Hyperoxic Ventilation with Pure Oxygen in Anesthetized Domestic Pigs
Authors: Pape A. , Steche M. , Laout M. , Wedel M. , Schwerdel F. , Weber C.F. , Zwissler B. , Habler O.
Published: January 2014

Background: During acellular replacement of an acute blood loss, hyperoxic ventilation (HV) increases the amount of O2 physically dissolved in the plasma and thereby improves O2 supply to the tissues. While this effect could be demonstrated for HV with inspiratory O2 fraction (FiO2) 0.6, it was unclear whether HV with pure oxygen (FiO2 1.0) would have an additional effect on the physiological limit of acute normovolemic anemia. Methods: Seven anesthetized domestic pigs were ventilated with FiO2 1.0 and subjected to an isovolemic hemodilution protocol. Blood was drawn and replaced by a 6% hydroxyethyl starch (HES) solution (130/0.4) until a sudden decrease of total body O2 consumption (VO2) indicated the onset of O2 supply dependency (primary endpoint). The corresponding hemoglobin (Hb) concentration was defined as ‘critical Hb' (Hbcrit). Secondary endpoints were parameters of myocardial function, central hemodynamics, O2 transport and tissue oxygenation. Results: HV with FiO2 1.0 enabled a large blood-for-HES exchange (156 ± 28% of the circulating blood volume) until Hbcrit was met at 1.3 ± 0.3 g/dl. After termination of the hemodilution protocol, the contribution of O2 physically dissolved in the plasma to O2 delivery and VO2 had significantly increased from 11.7 ± 2 to 44.2 ± 9.7% and from 29.1 ± 4.2 to 66.2 ± 11.7%, respectively. However, at Hbcrit, cardiovascular performance was found to have severely deteriorated. Conclusion: HV with FiO2 1.0 maintains O2 supply to tissues during extensive blood-for-HES exchange. In acute situations, where profound anemia must be tolerated (e.g. bridging an acute blood loss until red blood cells become available for transfusion), O2 physically dissolved in the plasma becomes an essential source of oxygen. However, compromised cardiovascular performance might require additional treatment.
Practical Applications of Insects' Sexual Development for Pest Control
Authors: Koukidou M. , Alphey L.
Published: January 2014

Elucidation of the sex differentiation pathway in insects offers an opportunity to understand key aspects of evolutionary developmental biology. In addition, it provides the understanding necessary to manipulate insects in order to develop new synthetic genetics-based tools for the control of pest insects. Considerable progress has been made in this, especially in improvements to the sterile insect technique (SIT). Large scale sex separation is considered highly desirable or essential for most SIT targets. This separation can be provided by genetic methods based on sex-specific gene expression. Investigation of sex determination by many groups has provided molecular components and methods for this. Though the primary sex determination signal varies considerably, key regulatory genes and mechanisms remain surprisingly similar. In most cases studied so far, a primary signal is transmitted to a basal gene at the bottom of the hierarchy (dsx) through an alternative splicing cascade; dsx is itself differentially spliced in males and females. A sex-specific alternative splicing system therefore offers an attractive route to achieve female-specific expression. Experience has shown that alternative splicing modules can be developed with cross-species function; modularity and standardisation and re-use of parts are key principles of synthetic biology. Both female-killing and sex reversal (XX females to phenotypic males) can in principle also be used as efficient alternatives to sterilisation in SIT-like methods. Sexual maturity is yet another area where understanding of sexual development may be applied to insect control programmes. Further detailed understanding of this crucial aspect of insect biology will undoubtedly continue to underpin innovative practical applications.
Identification of Nine New RAI1-Truncating Mutations in Smith-Magenis Syndrome Patients without 17p11.2 Deletions
Authors: Dubourg C. , Bonnet-Brilhault F. , Toutain A. , Mignot C. , Jacquette A. , Dieux A. , Gérard M. , Beaumont-Epinette M.-P. , Julia S. , Isidor B. , Rossi M. , Odent S. , Bendavid C. , Barthélémy C. , Verloes A. , David V.
Published: January 2014

Smith-Magenis syndrome (SMS) is an intellectual disability syndrome with sleep disturbance, self-injurious behaviors and dysmorphic features. It is estimated to occur in 1/25,000 births, and in 90% of cases it is associated with interstitial deletions of chromosome 17p11.2. RAI1 (retinoic acid induced 1; OMIM 607642) mutations are the second most frequent molecular etiology, with this gene being located in the SMS locus at 17p11.2. Here, we report 9 new RAI1-truncating mutations in nonrelated individuals referred for molecular analysis due to a possible SMS diagnosis. None of these patients carried a 17p11.2 deletion. The 9 mutations include 2 nonsense mutations and 7 heterozygous frameshift mutations leading to protein truncation. All mutations map in exon 3 of RAI1 which codes for more than 98% of the protein. RAI1 regulates gene transcription, and its targets are themselves involved in transcriptional regulation, cell growth and cell cycle regulation, bone and skeletal development, lipid and glucide metabolisms, neurological development, behavioral functions, and circadian activity. We report the clinical features of the patients carrying these deleterious mutations in comparison with those of patients carrying 17p11.2 deletions.