bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Reconstructions for Vertebral Artery Stenosis at the Origin
Authors: Yoshino K. , Terai Y. , Fujimoto S. , Kamata I. , Kinugasa K. , Nishimoto A.
Published: January 2017

To date in our hospital, surgical reconstructions and percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) were carried out in 168 patients with vertebral artery (VA) stenosis at the origin. In this article, we discuss the comparison between surgical reconstructions and PTA, especially regarding long term follow up, patency and complications.

PTA is a less invasive treatment for VA stenosis at the origin than surgical reconstructions. However, restenosis after PTA occurred in 20% of the patients. On the other hand, restenosis after surgical reconstructions did not emerge even in long term follow up. An embolism after PTA occurred in 2.6% of the cases. However, the embolism occurred in only the first 10 patients of our series, after that there was no embolism.

We concluded that PTA was the first choice for VA stenosis at the origin, if the angiogram did not reveal any PTA difficulty. If restenosis after PTA was performed, we selected surgical reconstruction for VA stenosis at the origin.
Multiple Intracranial Aneurysms
Authors: Mont'Alverne F. , Tournade A. , Riquelme C. , Musacchio M.
Published: January 2017

We evaluate endovascular treatment (EVT) as an option to deal with multiple intracranial aneurysms(MA). From 1994 to 2001, 24 patients underwent EVT for 59 MA. Patients were followed-up clinically and angiographically in a period ranging from 6 to 93 months (mean time of 22.2) and from 4 to 69 months (mean time of 19.3), respectively.

Ten patients (41.6%) were treated either by EVT (n=7, 29, 16%) or by mixed treatment (EVT and surgery; n=3, 12.5%). Reasons for treating just ruptured aneurysms: six (25%) had aneurysms smaller than 5 mm; three (12.5%) deaths; two (8.33%) were in the subacute period; two (8.33%) lost to follow-up; one (4.17%) authorised no procedure. No rebleeding was detected at the clinical follow-up, but there were five deaths. At immediate arteriographic control: 28 (85%) aneurysms were fully occluded, four (12%) with neck flow and one (03%) with sac flow. For 20 aneurysms followed-up: stability of occlusion was reached in seven cases (35%) and repermeabilization in 13 (65%). Management of recanalization was close arteriography in seven (54%), re-embolization in five (38%) and surgery in one (08%).

When treating MA, EVT is advisable either alone or in mixed therapy. As a high degree of repermeabilization was disclosed, strict arteriographic control is required. The mechanisms underlying aneurysmal formation may be also involved in the recanalization phenomenon, a possible new manifestation of the fragility of the arterial wall.
Management of Paragangliomas
Authors: van den Berg R. , Rodesch G. , Lasjaunias P.
Published: January 2017

Head and neck paragangliomas are highly vascular tumors with variable clinical behavior. The goal of this paper is to determine specific clinical and radiological findings and extract from these findings a treatment algorithm.

Twenty-three patients with paragangliomas were referred from different surgical centers for angiography and pre-operative embolization. Clinical records were analyzed retrospectively, and focused on impairment of cranial nerves. Angiographic features of paragangliomas, such as arterial supply, tumor flow characteristics, and venous drainage, were evaluated to find characteristic angioarchitectural patterns.

All but one patient presented with a single tumor. All eight jugular and four of five vagal paragangliomas caused a lower cranial nerve deficit. Tympanic paragangliomas presented with hearing loss and tinnitus. The ascending pharyngeal artery was the main feeder and contributed to the supply in every tumor. Jugular and vagal paragangliomas typically compromise the patency of the jugular vein with resulting antegrade or retrograde flow through collateral venous systems.

Surgical resection of vagal and jugular paragangliomas was especially performed when unifocal paragangliomas were present. In all of these patients, the tumor caused a cranial nerve deficit. The supply from an enlarged ascending pharyngeal artery is typical for paragangliomas. The venous drainage pattern of jugular and vagal paragangliomas allows differentiation from other vascular lesions at the skull base.
Multiple Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas
Authors: Goddard A.J.P. , Khangure M.S.
Published: January 2017

Dural arteriovenous fistulas are most probably acquired lesions. However, they have been rarely encountered de novo. We present a unique case of a 71-year-old woman who initially presented with right-sided dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF), which spontaneously resolved after diagnostic arteriography. She later developed asymptomatic occlusion of the left transverse sinus. Five years after her initial presentation she developed left-sided pulse-synchronous tinnitus. MRA and catheter angiography showed a complex type IV DAVF between the left transverse sinus and multiple dural branches arising from both left and right external carotid arteries. The left transverse sinus was isolated from the torcula herophili, with stenosis of the sigmoid sinus. Extensive cortical venous drainage was demonstrated. Endovascular cure was effected by polyvinyl alcohol particle and absolute alcohol occlusion of the dominant dural supply, and transvenous coil occlusion of the left transverse sinus. The patient's symptoms resolved almost immediately.

This unique case demonstrates that dural sinus occlusion and DAVFs may co-exist, but there may not be a causal relationship. It is likely that both DAVFs and sinus occlusion are manifestations of the same disease process characterised by a pro-thrombotic state and secondary angiogenesis. It is important to recognise that changes in symptomatology, even long after apparent disappearance of a lesion may indicate recurrence, and careful follow up is advocated.
Spontaneous Thrombosis of the Pseudoaneurysm of Right SCA after an Attempt at Embolisation
Authors: Szajner M. , Jargiello T. , Trojanowski T. , Szczerbo-Trojanowska M.
Published: January 2017

Spontaneous thrombosis of intracranial aneurysms rare, mostly affecting giant aneurysms with narrow necks.

We present the case of 34 y/o man with pseudoaneurysm that developed in the course of SAH. The initial CT scan showed an isolated, well-defined hematoma within the right cerebellar hemisphere, digital subtraction angiogram (DSA) performed in a regional hospital showed an irregular shaped aneurysm of the distal segment of the right SCA. The patient was sent to our department, where diagnostic DSA, performed before embolisation revealed an entirely different morphology of the aneurysm. It became larger, round and no other functional branches distal to it were found (picture of “a balloon on a string”).

During supraselective catheterization, when microcatheter and microguidewire were already in the right SCA a technical problem of our angio-machine occurred, so the intervention had to be postponed. A week later, a second attempt at embolisation was made. This time an initial DSA showed a lack of filling of the aneurysm sac and thrombosis of the main trunk of the right SCA. The patient remained clinically stable. He was discharged from our hospital five days later.
Comparison of Endovascular and Surgical Treatment for Ruptured Cerebral Aneurysms with Respect to Short and Long-Term Outcome
Authors: Fukui K. , Suzuki O. , Ito S. , Miyazaki M. , Hattori K. , Osawa H.
Published: January 2017

We compared the treatment for ruptured aneurysms from the clinical and radiological follow-ups after endovascular (GDC) or surgical treatment. There were 142 surgically treated cases and 38 endovascular treated cases from May 1997 to December 2001. In endovascular cases there were four A-com, four MCA, 12 ICA and 18 posterior circulation aneurysms. In surgical cases, there were 53 A-com ACA, 51 MCA, 36 ICA and two posterior circulation aneurysms. The clinical outcomes of endovascular and surgical treatments were correlated with the H & H grades before treatments. At short stage, 71% of endovascular and 78.2% of surgical cases showed a favorable outcome (GOS GR or MD) (p = 0.3). Long-term clinical follow ups (14.5 to 58 months) showed 77.7% of endovascular and 87.7% of surgical cases resulted in GR or MD (p = 0.17).

In endovascular cases, 22.2% showed recurrence during the follow-up period and five of them needed re-treatment. We experienced failed endovascular approach at acute stage in seven cases which changed to surgery. In conclusion, the short and long term clinical results of endovascular treatment were acceptable comparing surgical clipping. High recurrence rate after GDC treatment did not permit future completeness of the treatment. Still the treatment alternative between endovascular or surgical treatment may change depending on the criteria of each institution, attention should be paid to the disadvantages of endovascular treatment as the first choice for ruptured aneurysms.
Cortical Venous Aneurysm Isolated Cerebral Varix
Authors: Hoell T. , Hohaus C. , Beier A. , Holzhausen HJ , Meisel HJ
Published: January 2017

Venous aneurysms so-called isolated cerebral varix, are known as a related pathology in arteriovenous malformations (AVM) due to the arterial pressure on venous drainage16. They are also observed in combination with developmental venous anomalies (DVA)2,4,8,15. However, isolated varix is a rare entity1,7,11,13. They appear in most cases without neurological deficits. Some of the cases mimic a meningioma due to their manifestation in CT and MR imaging and their axial cortical localization.

The case presented here is a isolated varix of a cortical vein located rostral to the motor strip. The patient was operated on successfully. The MRI and the histology of the case are presented.
Endovascular Pressure Measurements: Validation with a Pulsatile Flow Model and Haemodynamic Assessment of Brain AVMs
Authors: Secca M. Forjaz , Vilela P. , Ferreira J.L. , Lopes F.C. , Goulão A.
Published: January 2017

Intravascular pressure measurements for several types of endovascular catheters were obtained in an in vitro model to validate the pressure readings obtained during the interventional procedures of brain AVM embolization.

An experimental model was used where the beat rate, flow and pressures were as close as possible to the average human values of interest. It is shown that the corrections increase with the decreasing inner diameter of the catheter used and with increasing vascular pressure. We have also shown that there were no differences between measurements made with the catheter in the direction of flow or against it. An average pressure reading corrections for the various microcatheters to compensate the readings obtained during in vivo monitoring is presented.

The haemodynamic assessment of 81 brain AVMs was performed using the endovascular measurement of arterial pressure in 389 feeding arteries during embolization. Mostly, the feeders' arterial median pressure was half the systemic arterial pressure but there was a wide variability of AV shunts in brain AVMs not only from one brain AVM to another but also within the same brain AVM. Measurement of arterial feeder pressure is an inexpensive, quick and accurate tool to evaluate the type of AV shunts within brain AVM.
Multiple Cerebral Aneurysms in a Patient with Recurrent Cardiac Myxomas
Authors: Stock K.
Published: January 2017

A 22 year old female presented in 1987 a cardiac myxoma, removed in 1991.

In 1992 catheter angiography showed bilateral aneurysms. Conservative treatment was elected. In 2000 recurrence of the myxoma and subsequent removal, prompted new angiography. All aneurysms had decreased in size, some had spontaneously disappeared.
Dissecting Aneurysm of the Anterior Cerebral Artery Presenting with Thrombo-Embolic Complications
Authors: Hofman P.A.M.
Published: January 2017

A dissecting aneurysm of the anterior cerebral artery is a relatively rare disorder. A patient is presented with mild symptoms due to thromboembolic complications from a dissecting aneurysm of the pericallosal artery. The patient had a good outcome after conservative treatment. A review of the literature is presented.
Concomitant Endovascular Treatment of Concomitant Extracranial Carotid Stenosis and Intracranial Aneurysm
Authors: León J.I. Gallego , Aramendía L. Concepción , Marco F. Ballenilla , Suárez J.C. Vázquez
Published: January 2017

Angioplasty and stenting are emerging alternative treatments to endarterectomy for carotid stenosis. The increasing number of procedures performed carries an increased diagnosis rate of associated asymptomatic intracranial aneurysms, resulting in a clinical and therapeutic dilemma, not fully solved in the literature. When an incidental lesion is found, the first question is whether it is necessary to treat it or not? If treatment is decided, the next question is which should be treated first, the intra or the extracranial lesion?

We review our experience and the literature and discuss our preferred approach of single-procedure carotid stenting and aneurysm coiling, which we believe is feasible, safe and effective constituting an option when confronted with this difficult therapeutic dilemma.
Anomalous Origin of the Anterior Choroidal Artery
Authors: Nishio A. , Yoshimura M. , Yamauchi S. , Masamura S. , Kawakami T. , Goto T. , Mitsuhashi Y. , Ohata K.
Published: January 2017

We describe a very rare case of anomalous origin of the anterior choroidal artery. In our case the anterior choroidal artery arises from the internal carotid artery proximal to the posterior communicating artery.
Unusual Intracranial Stent Navigation through the Circle of Willis in a Patient with Recurrent Basilar Tip Aneurysm during Stent-Assisted Coiling
Authors: Puri A.S. , Erdem E.
Published: January 2017

We describe a case of unusual Enterprise stent navigation through the Circle of Willis in a patient with a basilar tip aneurysm, left internal carotid artery (ICA) occlusion and previous right ICA stenting. Basilar tip aneurysms are known for their therapeutic challenges, especially when the posterior cerebral arteries (PCAs) are incorporated in the aneurysm neck. This becomes more technically demanding if the vertebral artery does not offer a route for stent navigation.

We undertook stent-assisted coiling using the horizontal stenting of posterior cerebral arteries via both the posterior and anterior communicating artery navigation. This was necessary because the vertebral arteries were very tortuous, hence not suitable for stent navigation due to their small size and stenosis at their origin. Another compounding factor was the anatomy of the aneurysm neck in relation to the T-shaped origin of both P1 PCAs from the basilar artery.

The right ICA was stented previously and the whole navigation was done through this stented artery as the opposite left ICA was occluded at the bifurcation. In addition, there was no visualized posterior communicating artery (PCOM) on the right side, so following navigation through the anterior communicating artery (ACOM) the left PCOM artery was catheterized to reach the PCAs. After horizontal placement of stent, coiling was performed for the residual aneurysm.

The outcome of this intervention revealed successful placement of the Enterprise stent in bilateral posterior cerebral arteries covering the aneurysm. Further coiling of the basilar artery aneurysm was done with a good result. No complication was seen in the angiography suite or later in the course of action.

Horizontal stent placement in wide-necked basilar aneurysms can be performed via the PCOM and ACOM arteries.
A Systems Approach towards Intra-Arterial Management of Acute Ischemic Stroke: Need for Novel Outcome Measures and a Focus on Sequence Rather Than Steps
Authors: Menon B.K. , Goyal M.
Published: January 2017

In this editorial, we seek to focus attention of neurointerventionists and stroke physicians towards a systems approach to the intra-arterial management of acute ischemic stroke. We highlight the need to pay attention to the overall sequence and workflow of a neurointerventional procedure rather than individual steps. We also stress the importance of novel outcome measures in analyzing procedural efficacy when managing patients with acute ischemic stroke.
Basilar Artery Aneurysm at a Persistent Trigeminal Artery Junction
Authors: Aguiar G.B. , Conti M.L.M. , Veiga J.C.E. , Jory M. , Souza R.B.
Published: January 2017

The trigeminal artery is an anastomosis between the embryonic precursors of the vertebrobasilar and carotid systems, and may persist into adult life. The association of the persistent primitive trigeminal artery (PTA) with cerebral aneurysm is well documented in the literature and, in general, aneurysms are located in the anterior circulation. We describe a patient who presented with a panencephalic Fisher III subarachnoid hemorrhage due to rupture of an intracranial aneurysm. Digital arteriography showed a saccular aneurysm in the middle third of the basilar artery, adjacent to the junction with a persistent trigeminal artery. She was submitted to endovascular treatment with embolization of the basilar artery aneurysm with coils. Aneurysms at the PTA junction with the basilar artery are rare. This paper describes a case of PTA associated with an aneurysm in the basilar artery at PTA junction and briefly reviews the literature.
A Rare Carotid-Basilar Anastomosis Traversing the Jugular Foramen: Origin and Clinical Implications
Authors: Ranchod A.I. , Gora S. , Swartz R.N. , Andronikou S. , Mngomezulu V.
Published: January 2017

This report describes imaging in a patient with a unique unnamed carotid-basilar anastomosis, where the entry into the skull was via the jugular foramen. There were associated findings of absent right and hypoplastic left vertebral arteries and an aberrant right subclavian artery. We speculate that the persistent anastomosis is developmentally related to the jugular branch of the ascending pharyngeal artery. Clinical implications of the course via the jugular foramen are also discussed.
Enterprise Stent-Assisted Coiling of Wide-Necked Intracranial Aneurysms: Clinical and Angiographic Follow-up
Authors: Jia J. , Lv X. , Liu A. , Wu Z. , Li Y.
Published: January 2017

We evaluate and report our clinical and angiographic outcomes associated with stent-assisted coil embolization of wide-necked intracranial aneurysms using the Enterprise stent.

One hundred sixty-nine patients diagnosed with 182 wide-necked intracranial aneurysms underwent placement of the Enterprise stent between April 2009 and October 2011. Demographic information, procedural data, procedure-related complications, angiographic results, and clinical outcomes were reviewed and evaluated.

Stent deployment was successful in 166 out of 169 procedures (98.2%). Four patients had acute procedure-related complications, including th romboembolism in three patients and aneurysm perforation resulting in the death of one patient. Immediate angiographic results showed complete occlusion in 101 aneurysms (56.4%) and near-complete occlusion in 55 aneurysms (30.7%). Follow-up angiography was performed in 108 patients with 119 aneurysms at a mean of 8.1 months: complete occlusion was observed in 95 aneurysms (79.8%) and near-complete occlusion was found in 12 aneurysms (10.1%). Delayed intra-stent thromboses were observed in two patients, and asymptomatic in-stent stenosis was observed in one patient. Ten aneurysms (8.4%, 10/119) demonstrated recanalization, all of which were subsequently recoiled successfully. Clinical follow-up was obtained for 132 patients at a mean of 11.4 months, out of which 118 (89.4%) had favorable clinical outcomes as determined using a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) ≤1. The rates of procedure-related mortality and permanent morbidity were 0.6% (1/169) and 2.3%(3/132), respectively.

This study adds to the current body of evidence supporting the Enterprise stent as an effective and safe tool for the treatment of wide-necked intracranial aneurysms because it results in more complete occlusion and lower complication rates.
«Interventional Neuroradiology: A Neuroscience Sub-Specialty?»
Authors: Rodesch Georges , Picard Luc , Berenstein Alex , Biondi Alessandra , Bracard Serge , Choi In Sup , Feng Ling , Hyogo Toshio , Lefeuvre David , Leonardi Marco , Mayer Thomas , Miyashi Shigeru , Muto Mario , Piske Ronie , Pongpech Sirintara , Reul Jurgen , Soderman Michael , Suh Dae Chul , Tampieri Donatella , Taylor Allan , Terbrugge Karel , Valavanis Anton , van den Berg René
Published: January 2017

Interventional Neuroradiology (INR) is not bound by the classical limits of a speciality, and is not restricted by standard formats of teaching and education. Open and naturally linked towards neurosciences, INR has become a unique source of novel ideas for research, development and progress allowing new and improved approaches to challenging pathologies resulting in better anatomo-clinical results. Opening INR to Neurosciences is the best way to keep it alive and growing. Anchored in Neuroradiology, at the crossroad of neurosciences, INR will further participate to progress and innovation as it has often been in the past.
Stent-Assisted Coiling of Ruptured Wide-Necked Intracranial Aneurysms
Authors: Li Conghui , Li Youxiang
Published: January 2017

This study aimed to report the results and outcome of stent-assisted coiling of ruptured wide-necked intracranial aneurysms. We retrospectively reviewed 19 consecutive patients (11 men, eight women; mean age, 59.5 years; range, 43–78 years) with acutely ruptured wide-necked intracranial aneurysms who were treated with stent-assisted coil embolization. The mean length of angiographic follow-up was 5.2 months (range, 3–10 months). There was no technique-related complication and the 30-day mortality rate was 10.5% (two of 19). There was one case of rebleeding, and clinical outcome was poor for the patient (5.3% [one of 19] who had a Glasgow Outcome Scale score of 2 at the end of the study period). Stent-assisted coiling is a feasible treatment for ruptured wide-necked intracranial aneurysms that are difficult to treat surgically or with balloon-assisted embolization.
Endovascular Treatment of Intracavernous Carotid Aneurysm with Hyperprolactinaemia
Authors: Caldas J.G.M.P. , Cavalheiro S. , Nalli D.R. , Frudit M.E. , Puglia P.
Published: January 2017

A 42-year-old woman presented with headache, galactorrhoea, marked hyperprolactinemia and normal neurologic examination.

CT, MR and MR-angiography showed an intracavernous carotid artery aneurysm with minimal displacement of the pituitary stalk. Treatment by embolisation using GDC coils allowed exclusion of the aneurysm.

Galactorrhoea resolved and serum prolactin levels fell to normal after eight months. Follow-up MR showed absence of the aneurysm, although the discrete mass effect persisted, suggesting that hyperprolactinaemia was due to pulsatility.
Endarterectomy of an Occluded ICA: Short Segment Occlusion with Distal Patency Maintained by an Aberrant Ascending Pharyngeal Artery
Authors: Patel M.C. , Higgins J.N.P. , Kirkpatrick P.J.
Published: January 2017

The authors report a case in which an anomalous ascending pharyngeal artery maintained patency of the internal carotid artery beyond an occlusion. The patient presented with ipsilateral transient ischaemic attacks and was found to have an internal carotid artery occlusion on Doppler ultrasound. Subsequent angiography demonstrated retrograde flow in the ipsilateral APA, perfused by pharyngeal anastomoses from the contralateral APA with slow antegrade flow in the ipsilateral ICA distal to the occlusion. Carotid endarterectomy resulted in abolition of the TIA's.
Improved method for detecting weak abrupt information based on permutation entropy
Authors: Shen Yongjun , Wang Junfeng , Yang Shaopu
Published: January 2017

As a dynamic detecting method for abrupt information, permutation entropy could effectively reflect the subtle change in time series data, which is also simple and can be computed conveniently. Based on the permutation entropy, some improved methods for detecting weak abrupt information hidden in time series data are presented, such as permutation entropy spectrum, second permutation entropy, and second permutation entropy spectrum. Through some simulation examples, these new methods are compared with the existing single permutation entropy and approximate entropy, and the results show that these methods can more effectively detect the much weaker abrupt information. Especially, the second permutation entropy spectrum is very robust even if the periodic abrupt information is very weak.
Comparative Study of Azithromycin versus Doxycycline for Treatment of Early Lyme Borreliosis
Authors: Christova I. , Komitova R.
Published: January 2017

Data from European and American authors concerning azithromycin efficacy in the treatment of Lyme borreliosis appear controversial. The aim of this study is to establish whether azithromycin is applicable to patients with early Lyme borreliosis.

In these studies a total of 93 patients with clinically defined erythema migrans were enrolled. Forty-nine of them were treated with doxycycline for 14 days and forty-four received azithromycin for 5 days. Physical examinations and serologic investigations by ELISA and Western blot for positive findings were performed at the first visit and repeated 4–6 weeks, 3, 6, and 12 months after starting treatment. Complete resolution of erythema migrans within 14 days after the start of therapy was found in 42 (85,7 %) of 49 doxycycline-treated and in 39 (88,6 %) of 44 azithromycin-treated patients. Incomplete resolution of erythema migrans and/or persistence of minor symptoms (post-Lyme syndrome) for at least 3 months were detected in 6 (12,2 %) of doxycycline-treated and in 4 (9,1 %) of azithromycin -treated patients. One patient in each group (2 % vs. 2,3 %) showed progression of the disease with later manifestations of Lyme borreliosis.

Compared to doxycycline, azithromycin possessed equal efficacy for treatment of early Lyme borreliosis. There was no difference in clinical outcome between the two treatment regimens.
Exercise-Induced Asthma: An Update
Authors: Saranz R. , Del Giacco G.S. , Croce V.H. , Del Giacco S.R.
Published: January 2017

Exercise-induced asthma (E.I.A) affects 12–16% of the general population and most of the patients affected by extrinsic or intrinsic asthma. Surprisingly, also a high percentage of professional and Olympic athletes are affected, showing that E.I.A. does not impair physical activity, whereas endurance sports bear a higher risk than the others. The mast cell role, late asthmatic responses, diagnosis, therapy, theories and data about immunological parameters in sports are taken into consideration in this review.
Inflammatory Immune Response
Authors: De Moreno De Leblanc A. , Valdéz J. , Perdigón G.
Published: January 2017

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are the most commonly used microorganisms in probiotic products and it is known that these LAB enhanced the immune response and increase resistance to neoplasia and infections. In previous studies using an experimental model of BALB/c mice it was demonstrated that a cyclical diet of yoghurt given to animals previously injected with the carcinogen 1,2 dimethylhydrazine (DMH) inhibited the development of colorectal carcinoma. The animals showed an inflammatory response prior to the development of the tumour, which was diminished with the yoghurt feeding. We examined the immunoregulatory and antiinflammatory mechanisms involved in the inhibition of tumour growth by yoghurt and compared with the mechanisms of a non-steroidal antiinflammatory drug (Indomethacin). Five experimental groups (BALB/c mice) were used in this study: 1) DMH group, injected with 1,2 dimethylhydrazine weekly for 10 weeks. 2) DMH-yoghurt group, yoghurt was supplemented 10 days followed by inoculation with DMH. After tumour induction yoghurt was given every 10 days for six months. 3) Only yoghurt given during six months following the same schedule (yoghurt control. 4) DMH-indomethacin group. After tumour induction, animals were treated with indomethacin, injected cyclically. 5) Non-treatment control group fed with a conventional balanced diet. We studied IgA secreting cells and CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in the large intestine of mice fed long term with yoghurt and others treated with indomethacin. TNFα, INFγ cytokines, Bcl2 protein and iNOS enzyme production was also measured We observed an increase in the number of IgA-secreting cells but not in the CD4+ and CD8+ cells in the mice fed long term with yoghurt. Indomethacin treated mice showed high values of all these cellular populations. Mice injected with indomethacin did not show increased levels of the proinflammatory cytokine TNFα and INFγ. These cytokines were increased in DMH and DMH plus yoghurt groups. iNOS enzyme determinations were increased in DMH and DMH plus indomethacin group. These results coincided with the inflammatory response observed in the histological findings. Bcl-2 protein was increased in mice fed long term with yoghurt. We suggest that the immune mechanisms by which yoghurt operates would be different to those induced with the antiinflammatory drug indomethacin. Yoghurt activated the production of cytokines that could exert a regulation of the immune response by apoptosis induced by TNFα. We conclude that yoghurt down modulate the immune response and exert its antitumour activity by its antiinflammatory activity, a mechanism that is different with that of the antiinflammatory indomethacin.
Mechanisms of Acantholysis in Pemphigus: Mechanical or Inflammatory?
Authors: Caldarola G. , Zampetti A. , Amerio P. , Feliciani C.
Published: January 2017

Pemphigus is a rare autoimmune disease, involving the skin and mucous epithelia, characterized by flaccid blisters and erosions. Histologically, the basic abnormality in all forms of pemphigus is the separation of keratinocytes from one another, a process known as acantholysis. There is direct evidence that autoantibodies against desmoglein, a transmembrane desmosomal component, are critical in its pathogenesis, but the exact mechanism that induces acantholysis is yet unknown. Actually, different studies suggest three possible mechanisms: sterical impedance, intracellular signalling and apoptosis. Understanding these processes should show new therapeutic perspective.
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Expression (VEGF) in Salivary Glands of Young and Old Hyperoxic Rats
Authors: Artese L. , Perrotti V. , Di Giulio C. , Bianchi G. , Piccirilli M. , Piattelli A.
Published: January 2017

The aim of this study is to evaluate whether hyperoxia and age can influence the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the salivary glands of rats. Our study was carried out on four groups of male Wistar rats (total 24 rats). One group was composed of 6 young rats (3 months old); another group by 6 old rats (24 months old). The rats belonging to the first two groups were exposed to hyperoxia (98–100% O2) for a period of 60–65 hours in a large Plexiglas chamber; the other two groups were control groups. The rats were then anaesthetized with Nembutal (30 mg/kg) intraperitoneally and then killed. The submandibular glands were removed and processed for immunohistochemical analysis of VEGF. The exposure to hyperoxia decreased salivary gland VEGF expression in rats. The tissues analyzed (nervous tissue, vascular endothelium, myoepithelial cells, ductal endothelium, mucinous glands) always expressed VEGF, thus demonstrating that not only vascular endothelial cells, but also the other elements evaluated, have a role in the neoangiogenesis. Only in the serous glands, in both normoxic and hyperoxic young and old rats, was the VEGF expression constantly negative and it did not influence the neoangiogenesis. The vascular growth is a fundamental part of normal salivary gland development, so we speculated that strategies aimed at preservation or promotion of salivary gland VEGF expression may mitigate or attenuate hyperoxia-induced gland microvascular injury. Further studies specifically aimed at investigating these prospects are warranted.
Targeting the IL-10 Pathway by RNA Interference Has Beneficial Effects on the Development of Experimental Lupus
Authors: Tsay G.J. , Hsieh Y-F. , Wang M. , Chang D. , Chang J.T. , Zouali M.
Published: January 2017

Results from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and from mice suffering from a lupus-like disease suggest that the IL-10 pathway is involved in pathogenesis, and that this cytokine could represent a target for managing SLE development. In this study, we constructed JC virus-like particles (VLP) expressing IL-10-specific short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) that efficiently silenced IL-10 gene expression. In mice, a single injection of this preparation dramatically reduced serum levels of ILIO. We tested the preventive effect of this vector expressing anti-IL-10 shRNAs in female (NZBxNZW) F, mice. Weekly intraperitoneal injections decreased the incidence and severity of proteinuria, and prolonged lifespan, with reduced IL-10 production. Our data demonstrate that the IL-10 pathway plays a chief role in lupus pathogenesis. It indicates that JC virus-like particles represent a potent vector for delivering interfering RNA in vivo. They suggest that RNA interference targeting IL-10 is an effective strategy to silence the IL-10 pathway, and possesses a therapeutic potential that could be useful in the management of SLE and, possibly, other immune-mediated disorders.
Expression of the Inflammatory Molecule HMGB1 in Human Osteosarcoma and its Clinical Relevance
Authors: Li B. , Jiang S-D. , Zheng X-F. , Ni B-B. , Yang Y-H. , Chen J-W. , Chen K. , Jiang L-S.
Published: January 2017

High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), known as a pro-inflammatory cytokine and chromatin-binding molecule, plays an important role in the carcinogenesis and metastasis of various tumors. The present study aimed to investigate the expression of HMGB1 in human osteosarcoma and its clinical relevance. At first, human osteosarcom tissues and their corresponding adjacent non-cancerous tissues (ANCT) from forty consecutive cases were collected. The expression of HMGB1 was detected by immunohistochemical assay through tissue microarray procedure and the correlation of HMGB1 expression with clinicopathologic factors was evaluated. Secondly, through small hairpin RNA(shRNA)-mediated HMGB1 knockdown in MG-63 osteosarcoma cells, we observed the changes of the biological behaviors of the osteosarcoma cells. As a consequence, the rate of positive expression of HMGB1 was significantly higher in osteosarcoma tissues than in the ANCT (60% vs 15%, P < 0.01). HMGB1 expression had significant positive correlation with Ennecking staging ( P = 0.034) and distant metastases ( P = 0.003), but had no correlation with the factors including age and gender of the patients, or histology and location of the tumor (each P > 0.05). Knockdown of HMGB1 down-regulated the expression of p-AKT, p-PI3K, PCNA, MMP-9 and CyclinD1, while it up-regulated the expression of cleaved caspase-3. More importantly, HMGB1 knockdown inhibited the proliferative activities and invasive potential, and induced apoptosis and cycle arrest in MG63 osteosarcoma cells. Taken together, our results indicate that HMGB1 was highly expressed in human osteosarcoma tissues, and the patients with higher HMGB1 expression in osteosarcoma tissues were more likely to have progression and metastasis of the disease. Knockdown of HMGB1 could inhibit the proliferation and invasion of osteosarcoma cells and induce its apoptosis through down-regulation of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. HMGB1 could be a potential therapeutic target for osteosarcoma.
Bee Venom Attenuates Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis through Direct Effets on CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ T Cells
Authors: Lee G. , Lee H. , Park S. , Jang H. , Bae H.
Published: January 2017

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system that leads to substantial disability through deficits of sensation and of motor, autonomic, and neuro-cognitive function. Many clinical and pathological features of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) show close similarity to MS. Bee venom (BV) has been used in the practice of oriental medicine and evidence from the literature indicates that BV plays an anti-inflammatory or anti-nociceptive role against inflammatory reactions associated with arthritis and other inflammatory diseases. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether BV could suppress immune cell differentiation and infiltration into spinal cord on EAE mice commonly used as a model for MS. BV treatment increased the population of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ T cells and inhibited CD4+ T-cell proliferation in vitro. In vivo, BV treatment increased the population of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ T cells. Furthermore, BV administration reduced the severity of EAE while concurrently decreasing INF-γ producing CD4+T cells, IL-17A producing CD4+T cells and inflammatory cytokine production including INF-γ, IL-17A, TNF and IL-6. BV-treated animals exhibited less infiltration and preserved morphology compared to saline-treated animals. Interestingly, the therapeutic effects of BV on EAE disappeared when CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ T cells were depleted by using anti-CD25 antibody. Our research suggests that BV could be a potential therapeutic agent for antiinflammatory effects in an animal model of EAE.
An Unusual Case of Infectious Mononucleosis Presenting with Advanced Lymphadenopathy and Ascites
Authors: Chiu F.S. , Shih C.P. , Chen H.C. , Lin Y.Y. , Kuo C.Y. , Wang C.H.
Published: January 2017

We report a case of infectious mononucleosis initially presented with lymphoma-like features. Examinations revealed abdominal ascites, splenomegaly, elevated lactic dehydrogenase, extensive lymphadenopathy from neck to the mediastinum, and a high 18F-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose uptake pattern on positron emission tomography scan. The impression of lymphoma could not be ruled out based on the clinical manifestations, most importantly the diffuse necrosis with focal monotonous pattern and a high Ki-67 proliferation index found on pathological examination. Our presentation emphasizes the potential challenge in misdiagnosis of advanced infectious mononucleosis. Knowledge of its unusual clinical features is therefore essential to avoid misdirected interventions when it mimics diseases like lymphoma.
Inflammation and Neurotransmission of the Vescico-Uterine Space in Cesarean Sections
Authors: Malvasi A. , Dell'Edera D. , Cavallotti C. , Creanza A. , Pacella E. , Di Renzo G.C. , Mynbaev O.A. , Tinelli A.
Published: January 2017

Collagen IV and laminin play a key role in regulating stiffness, elasticity and flexibility of the vescico-uterine space (VUS) tissue. The neurotensin (NT), the neuropeptide tyrosine (NPY) and the protein gene product 9.5 (PGP 9.5) possessing vasorelaxation and tissue vascularization activities, play key roles in cervical ripening, scar innervations and pain control. We propose that the integrity of these substances in VUS tissue is compromised after Cesarean section (CS), since wound healing disturbances and pelvic pain, as well as pregnancy and delivery complications, are related with lower uterine segment dysfunctions after CS. Therefore, the contents of collagen IV, laminin, NT, NPY and PGP 9.5 nerve fibres from the VUS tissue samples obtained during the first CS and the repeated CS were comparatively studied. VUS specimens were collected from 104 patients during CS and evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Collagen IV and laminin were mostly found in the vascular membrane bounds and their images were quantitatively evaluated by Quantimet Leica analyzer software. Differences of collagen IV, laminin, NT, NPY and PGP 9.5 values in VUS tissue between the first CS and the repeat CS samples were calculated by Student's Mest. Reduced laminin and increased collagen IV values were observed in the VUS scar tissue after the repeated CS in comparison with those of VUS intact tissue obtained during the first CS. Significantly higher values of nerve fibres, containing NT, NPY and PGP 9.5 were registered in intact VUS tissue samples, respectively 5±0.7, 7±0.6 and 5±0.9 CU, than those of VUS scar tissue samples obtained during the repeated CS, respectively 3±0.6,2±0.4 and 3±0.7 CU (p<0.05). The authors observed increased collagen IV and reduced laminin values after the repeated CS which might be the key signs of inflammatory damage of VUS scar tissue by CS. These findings were strengthened by the registration of decreased NT, NPY and PGP 9.5 values in the same samples, which are important neurotransmitters and are responsible for optimal wound healing, pain control and lower uterine segment functions.
A Queer Politics of Touching: Walt Whitman’s Theory of Comrades
Authors: Rebrovick Tripp
Published: January 2017

This article explores the concept of political and legal regimes of touching by analyzing Walt Whitman’s poems that envision a new political order founded on comradeship – a distinct kind of friendship characterized by physical intimacy. Whitman’s “Calamus” poems, I argue, demonstrate that touching is a political act. This study resists treating Whitman anachronistically as a “homosexual” and argues that comradeship as he understands it represents a model of queerness that can challenge the recent anti-social turn in queer theory.
The Specificity Principle in Acculturation Science
Authors: Bornstein Marc H.
Published: January 2017

The specificity principle in acculturation science asserts that specific setting conditions of specific people at specific times moderate specific domains in acculturation by specific processes. Our understanding of acculturation depends critically on what is studied where, in whom, how, and when. This article defines, explains, and illustrates the specificity principle in acculturation science. Research hypotheses about acculturation can be more adequately tested, inconsistencies and discrepancies in the acculturation literature can be satisfactorily resolved, acculturation interventions can be tailored to be more successful, and acculturation policies can be brought to new levels of effectiveness if the specificity principle that governs acculturation science is more widely recognized.
Microaggressions and Daily Experience
Authors: Ong Anthony D. , Burrow Anthony L.
Published: January 2017

Psychologists use the term microaggressions to describe subtle forms of bias and discrimination experienced by members of marginalized groups. Lilienfeld (2017, this issue) makes an important contribution to the literature by presenting a critical review of the meaning and measurement of microaggression experiences. In this commentary, we argue that advancing the construct of microaggressions rests on research approaches that move beyond static representations of individuals to dynamic frameworks that observe people’s lives as they unfold day to day. We discuss the conceptual potential of microaggressions as a bridging concept across multiple levels of analysis. We conclude that the intensive study of individuals over time can contribute to theory evaluation and offer new insights into the nature of unfolding processes that are theorized to be central to the manifestation of microaggressions in everyday life.
Cervical artery tortuosity is associated with intracranial aneurysm
Authors: Labeyrie Paul-Emile , Braud Florent , Gakuba Clément , Gaberel Thomas , Orset Cyrille , Goulay Romain , Emery Evelyne , Courthéoux Patrick , Touzé Emmanuel
Published: January 2017

Background

Intracranial aneurysms may be associated with an underlying arteriopathy, leading to arterial wall fragility. Arterial tortuosity is a major characteristic of some connective tissue disease.

Aim

To determine whether intracranial aneurysm is associated with an underlying arteriopathy.

Methods

Using a case-control design, from May 2012 to May 2013, we selected intracranial aneurysm cases and controls from consecutive patients who had conventional cerebral angiography in our center. Cases were patients with newly diagnosed intracranial aneurysm. Controls were patients who had diagnostic cerebral angiography and free of aneurysm. The prevalence of tortuosity, retrospectively assessed according to standard definitions, was compared between cases and controls and, association between tortuosity and some aneurysm characteristics was examined, in cases only.

Results

About 659 arteries from 233 patients (112 cases and 121 controls) were examined. Tortuosity was found in 57 (51%) cases and 31 (26%) controls (adjusted OR = 2.71; 95%CI, 1.53–4.80). The same trend was found when looking at each tortuosity subtype (simple tortuosity, coil, kink) or at carotid or vertebral territory separately. In contrast, no association between tortuosity and rupture status, aneurysm number or neck size was found.

Conclusions

Cervical artery tortuosity is significantly associated with intracranial aneurysm, although not related to main aneurysm characteristics. Our results support the presence of an underlying diffuse arteriopathy in intracranial aneurysm patients.
Ulnar nerve palsy caused by synovial protrusion in synovial chondromatosis of the elbow: a case report and literature review
Authors: Yukata Kiminori , Murase Masaaki , Hashimoto Takahiro , Shimaoka Yasunori , Taguchi Toshihiko , Hamawaki Junichi
Published: January 2017

We describe an unusual case of ulnar nerve compression (cubital tunnel syndrome) caused by synovial protrusion in primary synovial chondromatosis of the elbow in a 59-year-old man. Magnetic resonance imaging is a useful tool for diagnosing this rare condition. Surgical excision of the intra-articular multiple loose bodies and ulnar nerve decompression were performed. The clinician should be aware of primary synovial chondromatosis as one of the causative factors of cubital tunnel syndrome.
Here’s Looking at You, Bud
Authors: Friese Malte , Bargas-Avila Javier , Hofmann Wilhelm , Wiers Reinout W.
Published: January 2017

This research investigated the role of individual differences for the control of attention in the early stages of self-regulation. Theories on the development of addiction posit that repeated substance use alters memory structures referring to the substance through classical conditioning processes, leading to the attention-grabbing properties of the substance. The authors predicted that such memory structures influence attentional processes toward the substance, but only in individuals with low executive control. One executive function that is closely related to attention control is working memory capacity. Using eye-tracking methodology, the authors found individual differences in an alcohol single category implicit association test to predict indicators of attention allocation such as initial orienting and attention maintenance for social drinkers low but not high in working memory capacity. This effect primarily resulted from the controlled attention component as opposed to the short-term memory component of working memory capacity. Implications and directions for further research are discussed.