bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Large-Format Histopathology in Assessing Subgross Morphological Prognostic Parameters: A Single Institution Report of 1000 Consecutive Breast Cancer Cases
Authors: Tot Tibor
Published: October 2012

Breast cancer subgross morphological parameters (disease extent, lesion distribution, and tumor size) provide significant prognostic information and guide therapeutic decisions. Modern multimodality radiological imaging can determine these parameters with increasing accuracy in most patients. Large-format histopathology preserves the spatial relationship of the tumor components and their relationship to the resection margins and has clear advantages over traditional routine pathology techniques. We report a series of 1000 consecutive breast cancer cases worked up with large-format histology with detailed radiological-pathological correlation. We confirmed that breast carcinomas often exhibit complex subgross morphology in both early and advanced stages. Half of the cases were extensive tumors and occupied a tissue space ≥40 mm in its largest dimension. Because both in situ and invasive tumor components may exhibit unifocal, multifocal, and diffuse lesion distribution, 17 different breast cancer growth patterns can be observed. Combining in situ and invasive tumor components, most cases fall into three aggregate growth patterns: unifocal (36%), multifocal (35%), and diffuse (28%). Large-format histology categories of tumor size and disease extent were concordant with radiological measurements in approximately 80% of the cases. Noncalcified, low-grade in situ foci, and invasive tumor foci <5 mm were the most frequent causes of discrepant findings.
How to Deal with the Upcoming Challenges in GMO Detection in Food and Feed
Authors: Broeders Sylvia R. M. , De Keersmaecker Sigrid C. J. , Roosens Nancy H. C.
Published: October 2012

Biotech crops are the fastest adopted crop technology in the history of modern agriculture. The commercialisation of GMO is in many countries strictly regulated laying down the need for traceability and labelling. To comply with these legislations, detection methods are needed. To date, GM events have been developed by the introduction of a transgenic insert (i.e., promoter, coding sequence, terminator) into the plant genome and real-time PCR is the detection method of choice. However, new types of genetic elements will be used to construct new GMO and new crops will be transformed. Additionally, the presence of unauthorised GMO in food and feed samples might increase in the near future. To enable enforcement laboratories to continue detecting all GM events and to obtain an idea of the possible presence of unauthorised GMO in a food and feed sample, an intensive screening will become necessary. A pragmatic, cost-effective, and time-saving approach is presented here together with an overview of the evolution of the GMO and the upcoming needs.
Some Properties of Solutions for the Sixth‐Order Cahn‐Hilliard‐Type Equation
Authors: Wang Zhao , Liu Changchun
Published: October 2012

We study the initial boundary value problem for a sixth‐order Cahn‐Hilliard‐type equation which describes the separation properties of oil‐water mixtures, when a substance enforcing the mixing of the phases is added. We show that the solutions might not be classical globally. In other words, in some cases, the classical solutions exist globally, while in some other cases, such solutions blow up at a finite time. We also discuss the existence of global attractor.
H1N1 Influenza Viral Infection in a Postpartum Young Woman Causes Respiratory Failure: What the Care Providers Ought to Know?
Authors: Aloizos Stavros , Aravosita Paraskevi , Mystakelli Christina , Kanna Efthymia , Gourgiotis Stavros
Published: October 2012

Pregnant and postpartum women are considered a population at increased risk of hospitalization of H1N1 infection. We report the case of a young postpartum woman, who developed evidence of respiratory failure reaching the point of requiring intubation due to an H1N1 influenza virus infection two days after a caesarean delivery. We emphasize the diagnosis, management, and the outcome focusing on the question “what the care providers, including obstetric health care workers, ought to know?” Diagnostic and management strategy for pregnant or postpartum women with novel influenza A (H1N1) viral infection and increased awareness amongst patients and health care professionals may result in improved survival.
The Theory and Practice of Active Aging
Authors: Fries James F.
Published: October 2012

“Active aging” connotes a radically nontraditional paradigm of aging which posits possible improvement in health despite increasing longevity. The new paradigm is based upon postponing functional declines more than mortality declines and compressing morbidity into a shorter period later in life. This paradigm (Compression of Morbidity) contrasts with the old, where increasing longevity inevitably leads to increasing morbidity. We have focused our research on controlled longitudinal studies of aging. The Runners and Community Controls study began at age 58 in 1984 and the Health Risk Cohorts study at age 70 in 1986. We noted that disability was postponed by 14 to 16 years in vigorous exercisers compared with controls and postponed by 10 years in low-risk cohorts compared with higher risk. Mortality was also postponed, but too few persons had died for valid comparison of mortality and morbidity. With the new data presented here, age at death at 30% mortality is postponed by 7 years in Runners and age at death at 50% (median) mortality by 3.3 years compared to controls. Postponement of disability is more than double that of mortality in both studies. These differences increase over time, occur in all subgroups, and persist after statistical adjustment.
Video Compression Schemes Using Edge Feature on Wireless Video Sensor Networks
Authors: Nguyen Huu Phat , Tran-Quang Vinh , Miyoshi Takumi
Published: October 2012

This paper puts forward a low‐complexity video compression algorithm that uses the edges of objects in the frames to estimate and compensate for motion. Based on the proposed algorithm, two schemes that balance energy consumption among nodes in a cluster on a wireless video sensor network (WVSN) are proposed. In these schemes, we divide the compression process into several small processing components, which are then distributed to multiple nodes along a path from a source node to a cluster head in a cluster. We conduct extensive computational simulations to examine the truth of our method and find that the proposed schemes not only balance energy consumption of sensor nodes by sharing of the processing tasks but also improve the quality of decoding video by using edges of objects in the frames.
Queue Content Analysis in a 2‐Class Discrete‐Time Queueing System under the Slot‐Bound Priority Service Rule
Authors: De Clercq Sofian , Steyaert Bart , Bruneel Herwig
Published: October 2012

The paper we present here introduces a new priority mechanism in discrete‐time queueing systems. It is a milder form of priority when compared to HoL priority, but it favors customers of one type over the other when compared to regular FCFS. It also provides an answer to the starvation problem that occurs in HoL priority systems. In this new priority mechanism, customers of different priority classes entering the system during the same time slot are served in order of their respective priority class—hence the name slot‐bound priority. Customers entering during different slots are served on an FCFS basis. We consider two customer classes (pertaining to two levels of priority) such that type‐1 customers are served before type‐2 customers that enter the system during the same slot. A general independent arrival process and generally distributed service times are assumed. Expressions for the probability generating function (PGF) of the system content (number of type‐j customers, j = 1, 2) in regime are obtained using a slot‐to‐slot analysis. The first moments are calculated, as well as an approximation for the probability mass functions associated with the found PGFs. Lastly, some examples allow us some deeper insight into the inner workings of the slot‐bound priority mechanism.
On New Inequalities via Riemann‐Liouville Fractional Integration
Authors: Sarikaya Mehmet Zeki , Ogunmez Hasan
Published: October 2012

We extend the Montgomery identities for the Riemann‐Liouville fractional integrals. We also use these Montgomery identities to establish some new integral inequalities. Finally, we develop some
integral inequalities for the fractional integral using differentiable convex functions.
Bortezomib-Induced Bronchiolitis Obliterans Organizing Pneumonia
Authors: Vandeix E. , Favard F. , Pichon N. , Delage-Corre M. , Melloni B. , Clavel M.
Published: October 2012

Introduction. Bortezomib is a proteasome inhibitor indicated for the treatment of multiple myeloma patients. The most frequent side effects are gastrointestinal and neurological. Serious pulmonary complications have been described rarely.Observation. This case involves a 74-year-old man suffering from IgG Kappa myeloma treated with bortezomib, melphalan, and dexamethasone. After administering chemotherapy, the patient developed an acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). A surgical pulmonary biopsy proved the existence of bronchiolitis obliterans organizing pneumonia (BOOP) lesions. Systemic corticotherapy led to a rapid improvement in the patient’s condition.Conclusion. This is the first reported histologically confirmed case of bortezomid-induced BOOP. Faced with severe respiratory symptoms in the absence of other etiologies, complications due to bortezomid treatment should be evoked and corticotherapy considered.
Angiosarcoma of Small Bowel Presenting with Obstruction: Novel Observations on a Rare Diagnostic Entity with Unique Clinical Presentation
Authors: Siderits Richard , Poblete Frederick , Saraiya Biren , Rimmer Cheryl , Hazra Anup , Aye Le
Published: October 2012

We present a case of angiosarcoma in small bowel, presenting with partial small bowel obstruction in a 79-year-old man with no history of radiation, chemotherapy, toxin exposure, or previous operative intervention. Angiosarcoma of small bowel is a rare entity which may present with nausea, abdominal pain, recurrent bleeding, and usually a history of prior radiation or exposure to specific toxins (polyvinyl chloride). Angiosarcoma of small bowel tends to spread rapidly and has a poor prognosis. We review the surgical and oncologic challenges. We report unique macroscopic findings of raised hyperemic margins, which are suggestive of a vasogenic lesion and the histologic feature of a partially retiform pattern with dense basement membrane material in an otherwise poorly differentiated lesion.
A Current Review of the Diagnostic and Treatment Strategies of Hepatic Encephalopathy
Authors: Poh Z. , Chang P. E. J.
Published: October 2012

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a serious and potentially fatal complication in patients with cirrhotic liver disease. It is a spectrum ranging from minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) without recognizable clinical symptoms or signs, to overt HE with risk of cerebral edema and death. HE results in diminished quality of life and survival. The broad range of neuropsychiatric manifestations reflects the range of pathophysiological mechanisms and impairment in neurotransmission that are purported to cause HE including hyperammonemia, astrocyte swelling, intra-astrocytic glutamine, upregulation of 18-kDa translocator protein (TSPO) (formerly known as peripheral benzodiazepine receptor or PBTR), and manganese. There is a myriad of diagnostic tools including simple bedside clinical assessment, and more complex neuropsychological batteries and neurophysiological tests available today. Current treatment strategies are directed at reducing ammonia, with newer agents showing some early promise. This paper describes the pathophysiology of the disease and summarises current diagnostic and treatment therapies available.
Swarm Optimization Methods in Microwave Imaging
Authors: Randazzo Andrea
Published: October 2012

Swarm intelligence denotes a class of new stochastic algorithms inspired by the collective social behavior of natural entities (e.g., birds, ants, etc.). Such approaches have been proven to be quite effective in several applicative fields, ranging from intelligent routing to image processing. In the last years, they have also been successfully applied in electromagnetics, especially for antenna synthesis, component design, and microwave imaging. In this paper, the application of swarm optimization methods to microwave imaging is discussed, and some recent imaging approaches based on such methods are critically reviewed.
Idiopathic, Serial Coronary Vessels Dissection in a Young Woman with Psychological Stress: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Arrivi Alessio , Milici Caterina , Bock Carlo , Placanica Attilio , Boschetti Enrico , Dominici Marcello
Published: October 2012

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a very rare disease, associated with high mortality rate, whose etiology and pathogenesis are poorly understood. Its sporadic nature and the varied angiographic extent make firm recommendations regarding revascularization impossible. The case described is that of a young, otherwise healthy woman, without a known underlying condition which may lead to SCAD, but with a history of intense psychological stress. We managed the patient with a conservative approach based on watchful waiting, medical therapy, and plain old balloon angioplasty (POBA) with low inflation atmospheres.
The Campi Flegrei Blind Test: Evaluating the Imaging Capability of Local Earthquake Tomography in a Volcanic Area
Authors: Priolo E. , Lovisa L. , Zollo A. , Böhm G. , D'Auria L. , Gautier S. , Gentile F. , Klin P. , Latorre D. , Michelini A. , Vanorio T. , Virieux J.
Published: October 2012

During the 1982–1984 bradyseismic crises in the Campi Flegrei area (Italy), the University of Wisconsin deployed a network of seismological stations to record local earthquakes. In order to analyse the potential of the recorded data in terms of tomographic imaging, a blind test was recently set up and carried out in the framework of a research project. A model representing a hypothetical 3D structure of the area containing the Campi Flegrei caldera was also set up, and a synthetic dataset of time arrivals was in turn computed. The synthetic dataset consists of several thousand P- and S-time arrivals, computed at about fourteen stations. The tomographic inversion was performed by four independent teams using different methods. The teams had no knowledge of either the input velocity model or the earthquake hypocenters used to create the synthetic dataset. The results obtained by the different groups were compared and analysed in light of the true model. This work provides a thorough analysis of the earthquake tomography potential of the dataset recording the seismic activity at Campi Flegrei in the 1982–1984 period. It shows that all the tested earthquake tomography methods provide reliable low-resolution images of the background velocity field of the Campi Flegrei area, but with some differences. However, none of them succeeds in detecting the hypothetical structure details (i.e. with a size smaller than about 1.5–2 km), such as a magmatic chamber 4 km deep and especially the smaller, isolated bodies, which represent possible magmatic chimneys and intrusions.
Interdisciplinary Management of Cystic Neoplasms of the Pancreas
Authors: Lee Linda S. , Clancy Thomas , Kadiyala Vivek , Suleiman Shadeah , Conwell Darwin L.
Published: October 2012

Cystic neoplasms of the pancreas are increasingly recognized due to the frequent use of abdominal imaging. It is reported that up to 20% of abdominal cross-sectional scans identify incidental asymptomatic pancreatic cysts. Proper characterization of pancreatic cystic neoplasms is important not only to recognize premalignant lesions that will require surgical resection, but also to allow nonoperative management of many cystic lesions that will not require resection with its inherent morbidity. Though reliable biomarkers are lacking, a wide spectrum of diagnostic modalities are available to evaluate pancreatic cystic neoplasms, including radiologic, endoscopic, laboratory, and pathologic analysis. An interdisciplinary approach to management of these lesions which incorporates recent, specialty-specific advances in the medical literature is herein suggested.
Primary Small-Cell Carcinoma of the Palate with Cushing’s Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Song Yingqiu , Lin Zhenyu , Chen Lingjuan , Wu Gang
Published: October 2012

We report a 24-year-old woman presenting with a relapsed soy-bean-size tender mass at the junction of the soft and hard palate and a history of palatine tumor of small cell carcinoma. Reexcision surgery was performed and histopathological features were consistent. The patient was treated with six cycles of chemotherapy consisting of etoposide and cisplatin. After one year, the patient developed bone metastases and Cushing's syndrome, and successfully recovered with subsequent chemotherapy with irinotecan and cisplatin plus radiotherapy. There was no evidence of recurrence or metastasis for more than three years. Small cell carcinoma originating in the head and neck region has been reported to be highly aggressive and has a poor prognosis. This is the first case report of a patient with relapsed primary small cell carcinoma of the palate and successfully treated with second-line chemotherapy and local radiotherapy.
Purely Cortical Anaplastic Ependymoma
Authors: Romero Flávio Ramalho , Zanini Marco Antônio , Ducati Luis Gustavo , Vital Roberto Bezerra , de Lima Neto Newton Moreira , Gabarra Roberto Colichio
Published: October 2012

Ependymomas are glial tumors derived from ependymal cells lining the ventricles and the central canal of the spinal cord. It may occur outside the ventricular structures, representing the extraventicular form, or without any relationship of ventricular system, called ectopic ependymona. Less than fifteen cases of ectopic ependymomas were reported and less than five were anaplastic. We report a rare case of pure cortical ectopic anaplastic ependymoma.
Strong Convergence Properties for Asymptotically Almost Negatively Associated Sequence
Authors: Hu Xueping , Fang Guohua , Zhu Dongjin
Published: October 2012

By applying the moment inequality for asymptotically almost negatively associated (in short AANA) random sequence and truncated method, we get the three series theorems for AANA random variables. Moreover, a strong convergence property for the partial sums of AANA random sequence is obtained. In addition, we also study strong convergence property for weighted sums of AANA random sequence.
The Role of TLR and Chemokine in Wear Particle-Induced Aseptic Loosening
Authors: Gu Qiaoli , Shi Qin , Yang Huilin
Published: October 2012

Wear particle-induced periprosthetic osteolysis remains the principal cause of aseptic loosening of orthopaedic implants. Monocytes/macrophages phagocytose wear particles and release cytokines that induce inflammatory response. This response promotes osteoclast differentiation and osteolysis. The precise mechanisms by which wear particles are recognized and induce the accumulation of inflammatory cells in the periprosthetic tissue have not been fully elucidated. Recent studies have shown that toll-like receptors (TLRs) contribute to the cellular interaction with wear particles. Wear particles are recognized by monocytes/macrophages through TLRs coupled with the adaptor protein MyD88. After the initial interaction, wear particles induce both local and systemic migration of monocytes/macrophages to the periprosthetic region. The cellular migration is mediated through chemokines including interleukin-8, macrophage chemotactic protein-1, and macrophage inhibitory protein-1 in the periprosthetic tissues. Interfering with chemokine-receptor axis can inhibit cellular migration and inflammatory response. This paper highlights recent advances in TLR, and chemokine participated in the pathogenesis of aseptic loosening. A comprehensive understanding of the recognition and migration mechanism is critical to the development of measures that prevent wear particle-induced aseptic loosening of orthopaedic implants.
Portal Hypertensive Duodenopathy Manifesting as “Kissing” Duodenal Ulcers in a Nigerian with Alcoholic Cirrhosis: A Case Report and Brief Review of the Literature
Authors: Oluyemi Aderemi , Amole Adeniyi
Published: October 2012

Multiple duodenal ulcers are an uncommon finding in portal hypertensive duodenopathy (PHD). They represent a potential source of clinically significant bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal system in patients with cirrhosis. As this particular ulcer entity in relation to PHD has no distinguishing symptoms aside from those relating to the consequent bleeding, most of them are found either on routine endoscopic screening for cirrhotics or on endoscopic examination for cause(s) of bleeding in this patient population. The case documented below highlights many of the aspects of pathogenesis, associations, and consequences of this unique endoscopic finding in cirrhotic patients.
The Needs of Older People with Mental Health Problems: A Particular Focus on Dementia Patients and Their Carers
Authors: Passos Joaquim , Sequeira Carlos , Fernandes Lia
Published: October 2012

The problems and needs of older people are often associated with mental illness, characterized by a set of clinical manifestations, which constitute important domains for investigation and clinical practice. This paper presents the results of a pilot study whose main purpose was to identify met and unmet needs and to analyze the relationship between those needs, psychopathology and functionality in older people with mental health problems. A sample of 75 patients aged 65 or over, of both sexes, diagnosed with mental illness using ICD-9. The main diagnoses were depression (36%) and dementia (29.3%). Most patients had cognitive impairment (MMSE, 52%; CDT, 66.7%), depression (GDS, 61.3%), anxiety (ZAS, 81.3%), and moderate dependence (BI, 49.3% and LI, 77.3%). The main unmet needs found were daytime activities (40%), social benefits (13.3%), company (10.7%), psychological distress (9.3%), and continence (8%). The majority of these unmet needs occur with dementia patients. The majority of the carers of these patients had global needs (met and unmet) in terms of psychological distress. Findings also reveal that a low level of functionality is associated with dementia diagnoses. The association analyses suggest that dementia is an important determinant of the functional status and needs.
Antibody-Mediated Rejection of the Heart in the Setting of Autoimmune Demyelinating Polyneuropathy: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Lindley Kathryn J. , Ravichandran Ashwin K. , Schilling Joel , Joseph Susan M.
Published: October 2012

Background.Antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) is caused by the production of donor-specific antibodies (DSA) which lead to allograft injury in part via complement activation. The inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathies (IDP) are inflammatory disorders of the nervous system, involving both cellular and humoral immune mechanisms directed against myelin.Case Report.A 58-year-old man five years after heart transplant presented with progressive dyspnea, imbalance, dysphagia, and weakness. Nerve conduction studies and electromyogram were consistent with IDP. Plasmapheresis and high-dose steroids resulted in improvement in neurologic symptoms. Within two weeks, he was readmitted with anasarca and acute renal failure, requiring intravenous furosemide and inotropic support. Echocardiogram and right heart catheterization revealed reduced cardiac function and elevated filling pressures. DSA was positive against HLA DR53, and endomyocardial biopsy revealed grade 1R chronic inflammation, with strong capillary endothelial immunostaining for C4d. Plasmapheresis and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) were initiated. His anasarca and renal failure subsequently resolved, echocardiogram showed improved function off inotropes, and anti-DR53 MFI was reduced by 57%.Conclusions.This is an example of a single immune-mediated process causing concurrent IDP and AMR. The improvement in cardiac function and neurologic symptoms with plasmapheresis, IVIG, and high-dose steroids argues for a unifying antibody-mediated mechanism.
Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors in Regulation of Cytochromes P450: New Way to Overcome Multidrug Resistance?
Authors: Cizkova Katerina , Konieczna Anna , Erdosova Bela , Lichnovska Radka , Ehrmann Jiri
Published: October 2012

Embryonic and tumour cells are able to protect themselves against various harmful compounds. In human pathology, this phenomenon exists in the form of multidrug resistance (MDR) that significantly deteriorates success of anticancer treatment. Cytochromes P450 (CYPs) play one of the key roles in the xenobiotic metabolism. CYP expression could contribute to resistance of cancer cells to chemotherapy. CYP epoxygenases (CYP2C and CYP2J) metabolize about 20% of clinically important drugs. Besides of drug metabolism, CYP epoxygenases and their metabolites play important role in embryos, normal body function, and tumors. They participate in angiogenesis, mitogenesis, and cell signaling. It was found that CYP epoxygenases are affected by peroxisome proliferator-activated receptorα(PPARα). Based on the results of current studies, we assume that PPARs ligands may regulate CYP2C and CYP2J and in some extent they may contribute to overcoming of MDR in patients with different types of tumours.
A Cellular Automaton Traffic Flow Model with Advanced Decelerations
Authors: Liu Yingdong
Published: October 2012

A one‐dimensional cellular automaton traffic flow model, which considers the deceleration in advance, is addressed in this paper. The model reflects the situation in the real traffic that drivers usually adjust the current velocity by forecasting its velocities in a short time of future, in order to avoid the sharp deceleration. The fundamental diagram obtained by simulation shows the ability of this model to capture the essential features of traffic flow, for example, synchronized flow, meta‐stable state, and phase separation at the high density. Contrasting with the simulation results of the VE model, this model shows a higher maximum flux closer to the measured data, more stability, more efficient dissolving blockage, lower vehicle deceleration, and more reasonable distribution of vehicles. The results indicate that advanced deceleration has an important impact on traffic flow, and this model has some practical significance as the result matching to the actual situation.
Self-Organizing Energy-Saving Management Mechanism Based on Pilot Power Adjustment in Cellular Networks
Authors: Peng Yu , Wenjing Li , Xuesong Qiu
Published: October 2012

Little literature concentrates on effective and self-organizing regional energy-saving schemes in cellular networks with dynamic traffic. In this paper, we propose a regional self-organizing energy-saving management mechanism through pilot power adjustment in cellular networks. The mechanism analyzes autonomic processes for saving energy firstly. Then, it proposes regional BS TP (Trigonal-Pair) compensation method to determine BS modes for saving energy. Next, it adopts intelligent coverage compensation algorithm to adjust pilot power of compensated BSs, so as to avoid coverage hole and ensure enough capacity. Integrated evaluation model is still proposed in the mechanism to validate efficiency of proposed algorithms. Simulations show that about 17% of regional energy consumption can be saved. In comparison to other ES methods, our ES mechanism can obtain better energy-saving outcomes and keep service quality and coverage above acceptable levels.
Preservation of Fine Structures in PDE-Based Image Denoising
Authors: Kim Hakran , Calvert Velinda R. , Kim Seongjai
Published: October 2012

Image denoising processes often lead to significant loss of fine structures such as edges and textures. This paper studies various innovative mathematical and numerical methods applicable for conventional PDE-based denoising models. The method of diffusion modulation is considered to effectively minimize regions of undesired excessive dissipation. Then we introduce a novel numerical technique for residual-driven constraint parameterization, in order for the resulting algorithm to produce clear images whose corresponding residual is as free of image textures as possible. A linearized Crank-Nicolson alternating direction implicit time-stepping procedure is adopted to simulate the resulting model efficiently. Various examples are presented to show efficiency and reliability of the suggested methods in image denoising.
TNF-αPolymorphisms in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: Which Potential Clinical Implications?
Authors: Scardapane A. , Breda L. , Lucantoni M. , Chiarelli F.
Published: October 2012

Whether tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) gene polymorphisms (SNPs) influence disease susceptibility and treatment of patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is presently uncertain. TNF-αis one of the most important cytokine involved in JIA pathogenesis. Several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been identified within the region of the TNF-αgene but only a very small minority have proven functional consequences and have been associated with susceptibility to JIA. An association between some TNF-αSNPs and adult rheumatoid arthritis (RA) susceptibility, severity and clinical response to anti-TNF-αtreatment has been reported. The most frenquetly studied TNF-αSNP is located at −308 position, where a substitution of the G allele with the rare A allele has been found. The presence of the allele −308A is associated to JIA and to a poor prognosis. Besides, the −308G genotype has been associated with a better response to anti-TNF-αtherapy in JIA patients, confirming adult data. Psoriatic and oligoarticular arthritis are significantly associated to the −238 SNP only in some works. Studies considering other SNPs are conflicting and inconclusive. Large scale studies are required to define the contribution of TNF-αgene products to disease pathogenesis and anti-TNF-αtherapeutic efficacy in JIA.
A Critical Appraisal of Quantitative Studies of Protein Degradation in the Framework of Cellular Proteostasis
Authors: Alvarez-Castelao Beatriz , Ruiz-Rivas Carmen , Castaño José G.
Published: October 2012

Protein homeostasis, proteostasis, is essential to understand cell function. Protein degradation is a crucial component of the proteostatic mechanisms of the cell. Experiments on protein degradation are nowadays present in many investigations in the field of molecular and cell biology. In the present paper, we focus on the different experimental approaches to study protein degradation and present a critical appraisal of the results derived from steady-state and kinetic experiments using detection of unlabelled and labelled protein methodologies with a proteostatic perspective. This perspective allows pinpointing the limitations in interpretation of results and the need of further experiments and/or controls to establish “definitive evidence” for the role of protein degradation in the proteostasis of a given protein or the entire proteome. We also provide a spreadsheet for simple calculations of mRNA and protein decays for mimicking different experimental conditions and a checklist for the analysis of experiments dealing with protein degradation studies that may be useful for researchers interested in the area of protein turnover.
Genetic Variation inCYP17A1Is Associated with Arterial Stiffness in Diabetic Subjects
Authors: Yang Soo Jin , Lee Seung-Tae , Kim Won Jun , Park Se Eun , Park Sung Woo , Kim Jong-Won , Park Cheol-Young
Published: October 2012

Hypertension and arterial stiffness are associated with an increasing risk of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. This study aimed to identify genetic variants affecting hypertension and arterial stiffness in diabetic subjects and to compare genetic associations with hypertension between prediabetic and diabetic subjects. A total of 1,069 participants (326 prediabetic and 743 diabetic subjects) were assessed to determine the genetic variants affecting hypertension by analyzing 52 SNPs previously reported to be associated with hypertension. Moreover, the SNPs were tested for association with hemodynamic parameters related to hypertension. Out of the 52 SNPs analyzed, four SNPs including rs5326 (DRD1), rs1004467 (CYP17A1), rs2960306 (GRK4), and rs11191548 (nearNT5C2) in diabetic subjects and rs1530440 (C10orf107) in prediabetic subjects showed a modest association with hypertension (P=0.0265, 0.0020, 0.0066, 0.0078, and 0.0015, resp; all were insignificant after Bonferroni correction). Of these SNPs, rs1004467 inCYP17A1was significantly associated with augmentation index in diabetic subjects who were not taking antihypertensive medication (P=0.0001; correctedP=0.006) but not in diabetic subjects receiving antihypertensive medication. This finding suggests that certain genetic variations found in diabetic subjects may confer arterial stiffness and the development of hypertension and also be affected by antihypertensive medication.
Reliability Modeling and Optimization Using Fuzzy Logic and Chaos Theory
Authors: Rotshtein Alexander , Katielnikov Denys , Pustylnik Ludmila
Published: October 2012

Fuzzy sets membership functions integrated with logistic map as the chaos generator were used to create reliability bifurcations diagrams of the system with redundancy of the components. This paper shows that increasing in the number of redundant components results in a postponement of the moment of the first bifurcation which is considered as most contributing to the loss of the reliability. The increasing of redundancy also provides the shrinkage of the oscillation orbit of the level of the system’s membership to reliable state. The paper includes the problem statement of redundancy optimization under conditions of chaotic behavior of influencing parameters and genetic algorithm of this problem solving. The paper shows the possibility of chaos-tolerant systems design with the required level of reliability.
Platelet-Rich Fibrin withβ-Tricalcium Phosphate—A Noval Approach for Bone Augmentation in Chronic Periapical Lesion: A Case Report
Authors: Jayalakshmi K. B. , Agarwal Shipra , Singh M. P. , Vishwanath B. T. , Krishna Akash , Agrawal Rohit
Published: October 2012

Introduction. This paper describes a case of bone augmentation with combination of Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) andβ-TCP for treatment of chronic periapical cyst. The case was followed for 12 months.Methods. Patient presented with chronic periapical lesion in maxillary anterior teeth with history of trauma 8 years back. Radiographically, a periapical cyst was seen in relation to maxillary left central and lateral incisors. Conventional endodontic treatment was started. Since it was not successful, apical surgery was performed. Bone augmentation was done using PRF in combination withβ-TCP bone graft to achieve faster healing of the periapical region. Regular followups at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months were done.Results. Healing was uneventful. Follow-up examinations revealed progressive, significant, and predictable clinical and radiographic bone regeneration/healing without any clinical symptoms.Conclusions. Combined use of PRF andβ-TCP for bone augmentation in treatment of periapical defects is a potential treatment alternative for faster healing than using these biomaterials alone.
Plasmacytoid Melanoma of the Urinary Bladder and Lymph Nodes with Immunohistochemical Expression of Plasma Cell Markers Revealing Primary Esophageal Melanoma
Authors: Charfi Slim , Ellouze Sameh , Mnif Hela , Amouri Ali , Khabir Abdelmajid , Sellami-Boudawara Tahya
Published: October 2012

Plasmacytoid variant of melanoma is reported in only rare cases. We present the case of a 54-years-old man admitted for enlarged lymph nodes in the lumbar region. Initial diagnosis of plasmablastic lymphoma/plasma cell myeloma was considered. At our institute, a bladder polyp was removed. Microscopic exam demonstrated dense plasmacytoid cells infiltration with pigment deposits. Immunohistochemical study showed strong expression of HMB45, Melan A, and vimentin. There was focal positivity with S100 protein and CD138/syndecan-1. The diagnosis of metastatic plasmacytoid melanoma was finally established. Clinical exam revealed an esophageal melanoma with melanosis supporting its primary location. Although rarely, melanoma especially plasmacytoid variant may express plasma cell markers which may lead to erroneous diagnosis of plasma cell proliferation. Careful morphological examination for melanin pigment and the use of panel of melanocytic markers are helpful for diagnosis.
Principal Functions of Nonselfadjoint Discrete Dirac Equations with Spectral Parameter in Boundary Conditions
Authors: Aygar Yelda , Olgun Murat , Koprubasi Turhan
Published: October 2012

Let L denote the operator generated in ℓ2(ℕ, ℂ2) by , , n∈ℕ, and the boundary condition , where (an) , (bn), (pn), and (qn) , n∈ℕ are complex sequences, γi, βi∈ℂ , i = 0,1, and λ is an eigenparameter. In this paper we investigated the principal functions corresponding to the eigenvalues and the spectral singularities of L.
Structural Vibration Control for a Class of Connected Multistructure Mechanical Systems
Authors: Palacios-Quiñonero Francisco , Rossell Josep M. , Rubió-Massegú Josep , Karimi Hamid R.
Published: October 2012

A mathematical model to compute the overall vibrational response of connected multistructure mechanical systems is presented. Using the proposed model, structural vibration control strategies for seismic protection of multibuilding systems can be efficiently designed. Particular attention is paid to the design of control configurations that combine passive interbuilding dampers with local feedback control systems implemented in the buildings. These hybrid active‐passive control strategies possess the good properties of passive control systems and also have the high‐performance characteristics of active control systems. Moreover, active‐passive control configurations can be properly designed for multibuilding systems requiring different levels of seismic protection and are also remarkably robust against failures in the local feedback control systems. The application of the main ideas is illustrated by means of a three‐building system, and numerical simulations are conducted to assess the performance of the proposed structural vibration control strategies.
The Impact of Abdominal Obesity Status on Cardiovascular Response to the Mediterranean Diet
Authors: Bédard Alexandra , Dodin Sylvie , Corneau Louise , Lemieux Simone
Published: October 2012

We investigated the impact of abdominal obesity status on the cardiovascular response to a fully controlled 4-week isoenergetic Mediterranean diet (MedDiet). Thirty-eight abdominally obese individuals (waist circumference >102 cm in men and >88 cm in women) and thirty-one nonabdominally obese individuals were recruited and studied before and after the MedDiet. All analyses were adjusted for the slight decrease in body weight, which occurred during the MedDiet (mean:0.9±1.2 kg). A group by time interaction was noted for waist circumference (P=0.02), abdominally obese subjects showing a significant decrease and nonabdominally obese subjects a nonsignificant increase (resp., −1.1 and +0.3%). The MedDiet resulted in decreases in total cholesterol, LDL-C, HDL-C, apolipoprotein B, A-1, and A-2, total cholesterol/HDL-C ratio, LDL-C/HDL-C ratio, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure (time effect:P<0.05). For all variables related to glucose/insulin homeostasis, no change was observed except for a decrease in 2 h glucose concentrations (time effect:P=0.03). No group by time interaction was observed in any of the metabolic variables studied. Results from our study suggest that the adoption of the MedDiet leads to beneficial metabolic effects, irrespective of the abdominal obesity status.
Phylogenetic Analysis of Hepatitis E Virus in Northwest India
Authors: Chandra Nidhi Subhash , Rai Ramesh Roop , Malhotra Bharti
Published: October 2012

Genotyping and subtyping are important to understand epidemiology of the hepatitis E virus so as to improve control measures to prevent transmission of virus in the community. Hence, the aim of the current study was to identify the prevalent HEV genotypes in Rajasthan in acute sporadic hepatitis E cases with varying degree of liver failure. We studied hepatitis E virus (HEV) isolates from hospitalized patients in Rajasthan, western India. In a total of seventeen HEV sequences, six acute viral hepatitis, seven acute liver failure, and 4 acute- on-chronic cases were analyzed. Subtypes 1a and 1c of HEV are prevalent in Northwest India.
A Convenient Synthesis of C‐3‐Aryloxymethyl Imidazo[1,2‐a]Pyridine Derivatives
Authors: Kona Sridevi , Ravi Rama Suresh , Chava Venkata N. R. , Perali Ramu Sridhar
Published: October 2012

Imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine‐based tosylhydrazone was prepared and treated with K2CO3 in dioxane at 110°C to generate the corresponding carbene in situ. It was coupled with a variety of aryl alcohols in one pot to obtain a series of imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine derivatives possessing aryl ether moiety at C‐3 position.
Synthesis, Structural Characterization, and Electrochemical Studies of New Oxovanadium(V) Complexes Derived from 2‐Furanoylhydrazon Derivatives
Authors: Bikas Rahman , Hosseini-Monfared Hassan , Jeanneau Erwann , Shaabani Behrouz
Published: October 2012

Five monooxovanadium(V) complexes [VO(L1)(OCH3)(OHCH3)] (1), [VO(L2)(OCH3)(OHCH3)] (2), [VO(L3)(OCH3)(OHCH3)] (3), [VO(L4)(OCH3)(OHCH3)] (4), and [VO(L5)(OCH3)(OHCH3)] (5) were synthesized and characterized by IR, NMR UV‐Vis, and single‐crystal structure analysis [H2L1 = (E)-N′‐((2‐hydroxynaphthalen‐1‐yl)methylene)furan‐2‐carbohydrazide, H2L2 = (E)-N′‐(2‐hydroxybenzylidene)furan‐2‐carbohydrazide, H2L3(E)-N′‐(5‐bromo‐2‐hydroxybenzylidene)furan‐2‐carbohydrazide, H2L4 = (E)-N′‐(2‐hydroxy‐5‐nitrobenzylidene)furan‐2‐carbohydrazide, H2L5 = (E)-N′‐(2‐hydroxy‐5‐iodobenzylidene)furan‐2‐carbohydrazide]. In all 1–3 structures the vanadium atom has a distorted octahedral coordination with the three meridional donor atoms from the Schiff base dianion (L1–3)2− and one methoxylato group occupying the sites of the equatorial plane. The oxo group and one methanol molecule occupy the apical sites. In the complexes 1, 2, and 3 the conformation of 2‐furanyl oxygen atom relative to the carbohydrazide oxygen atom is s‐anti, s‐anti/s‐syn, and s‐syn at 293 K, respectively. Cyclic voltammetric experiments of the solution species 1–5 in DMSO revealed a quasi‐reversible behavior.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Biological Activity of Mn(II), Fe(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), and Cd(II) Complexes of N‐Thiophenoyl‐N′‐Phenylthiocarbohydrazide
Authors: Yadav M. , Behera Debasis
Published: October 2012

Mn(II), Fe(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), and Cd(II) complex of N‐thiophenoyl ‐N′‐phenylthiocarbohydrazide (H2 TPTH) have been synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, magnetic susceptibility measurements, infrared, NMR, electronic, and ESR spectral studies. The complexes were found to have compositions [Mn(H TPTH)2], [Co(TPTH) (H2O)2], [Ni(TPTH) (H2O)2], [Cu(TPTH)], [Zn(H TPTH)], [Cd(H TPTH)2], and [Fe(H TPTH)2(EtOH)]. The magnetic and electronic spectral studies suggest square planar geometry for [Cu(TPTH)], tetrahedral geometry for [Zn(TPTH)] and [Cd(H TPTH)2], and octahedral geometry for rest of the complexes. The infrared spectral studies of the 1 : 1 deprotonated complexes suggest bonding through enolic oxygen, thiolato sulfur, and both the hydrazinic nitrogens. Thus, H2TPTH acts as a binegative tetradentate ligand. H2 TPTH and its metal complexes have been screened against several bacteria and fungi.
Characteristics of the Ti1.27Fe + 11 wt.% Ni Composite Obtained by Arc Melting and Ball Milling
Authors: Bonifacio-Martínez J. , Ureña-Núñez F. , Iturbe-García J. L.
Published: October 2012

The Ti1.27Fe + 11 wt.% Ni composite synthesized by arc melting and ball milling and its possible use in hydrogen storage were studied. First the intermetallic Ti1.27Fe was obtained from elemental powders of Ti and Fe by using the arc melting in argon atmosphere and was cracked in a reactor, after that nickel powder was added to the Ti1.27Fe alloy before the milling. The mixture was subjected to high‐energy ball milling to produce the Ti1.27Fe/Ni composite. Nanocrystalline phases Ti1.27Fe + Ni were observed after 5 h of milling. Hydrogenation results indicated that in the first cycle of hydriding the maximum amount of hydrogen release was 2.10 wt.% for the composite at 100∘C, under hydrogen pressure of 0.8 MPa and without prior activation.
A Practical Catalyst‐Free Synthesis of 6‐Amino‐4 Alkyl/Aryl‐3‐methyl‐2,4‐dihydropyrano[2,3‐c]pyrazole‐carbonitrile in Aqueous Medium
Authors: Bihani Manisha , Bora Pranjal P. , Bez Ghanashyam
Published: October 2012

A completely green and improved method for the synthesis of 6‐amino‐4‐aryl‐3‐methyl‐2,4‐dihydropyrano[2,3‐c]pyrazole‐carbonitriles by a four‐component reaction of a mixture of ethyl acetoacetate, hydrazine hydrate, aldehyde, and malononitrile in boiling water is reported. Similar synthesis starting from aliphatic aldehydes was carried out in water: ethanol (1 : 1) at reflux temperature without using any catalyst.
Expression of Serotonin Receptors in Human Hepatocellular Cancer
Authors: Soll Christopher , Riener Marc-Oliver , Oberkofler Christian Eugen , Hellerbrand Claus , Wild Peter J. , DeOliveira Michelle L. , Clavien Pierre-Alain
Published: October 2012

Purpose: Serotonin is a well-known neurotransmitter and vasoactive substance. Recent research indicates that serotonin contributes to liver regeneration and promotes tumor growth of human hepatocellular cancer. The aim of this study is to investigate the expression of serotonin receptors in hepatocellular cancer and analyze their potential as a cytotoxic target.

Experimental Design: Using a tissue microarray and immunohistochemistry, we analyzed the expression of serotonin receptors in the liver from 176 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma, of which nontumor tissue was available in 109 patients. Relevant clinicopathologic parameters were compared with serotonin receptor expression. Two human hepatocellular cancer cell lines, Huh7 and HepG2, were used to test serotonin antagonists as a possible cytotoxic drug.

Results: The serotonin receptors 1B and 2B were expressed, respectively, in 32% and 35% of the patients with hepatocellular cancer. Both receptors were associated with an increased proliferation index, and receptor 1B correlated with the size of the tumor. Serotonin antagonists of receptors 1B and 2B consistently decreased viability and proliferation in Huh7 and HepG2 cell lines.

Conclusion: We identified two serotonin receptors that are often overexpressed in human hepatocellular cancer and may serve as a new cytotoxic target. Clin Cancer Res; 18(21); 5902–10. ©2012 AACR.
Molecular Pathways: Next-Generation Immunotherapy—Inhibiting Programmed Death-Ligand 1 and Programmed Death-1
Authors: Chen Daniel S. , Irving Bryan A. , Hodi F. Stephen
Published: October 2012

The aim of T-cell–based immune therapy for cancer has been to generate durable clinical benefit for patients. Following a generation of therapies that largely showed minimal activity, substantial toxicity, and no biomarkers to identify which patients benefit from treatment, early studies are showing signs that programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) and programmed death-1 (PD-1) inhibitors are highly active. Preclinical and early data from clinical studies suggest that targeting this pathway can induce durable clinical responses in patients in a variety of tumor types, including lung and colon cancer. Furthermore, correlations with tumor PD-L1 expression may enable selection of patients most likely to benefit from treatment. The emerging data not only offer the hope of better cancer therapy but also provide evidence that changes our understanding of how the host immune system interacts with human cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 18(24); 6580–7. ©2012 AACR.