bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Restoration of direct pathway glycogen synthesis flux in the STZ-diabetes rat model by insulin administration
Authors: Soares Ana F. , Carvalho Rui A. , Veiga Francisco J. , Alves Marco G. , Martins Fátima O. , Viegas Ivan , González Juan D. , Metón Isidoro , Baanante Isabel V. , Jones John G.
Published: August 2012

Type 1 diabetes subjects are characterized by impaired direct pathway synthesis of hepatic glycogen that is unresponsive to insulin therapy. Since it is not known whether this is an irreversible defect of insulin-dependent diabetes, direct and indirect pathway glycogen fluxes were quantified in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats and compared with STZ rats that received subcutaneous or intraperitoneal insulin (I-SC or I-IP). Three groups of STZ rats were studied at 18 days post-STZ treatment. One group was administered I-SC and another I-IP as two daily injections of short-acting insulin at the start of each light and dark period for days 9–18. A third group did not receive any insulin, and a fourth group of nondiabetic rats was used as control. Glycogen synthesis via direct and indirect pathways, de novo lipogenesis, and gluconeogenesis were determined over the nocturnal feeding period using deuterated water. Direct pathway was residual in STZ rats, and glucokinase activity was also reduced significantly from control levels. Insulin administration restored both net glycogen synthesis via the direct pathway and glucokinase activity to nondiabetic control levels and improved the lipogenic pathway despite an inefficient normalization of the gluconeogenic pathway. We conclude that the reduced direct pathway flux is not an irreversible defect of insulin-dependent diabetes.
Dietary n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation alters the expression of genes involved in the control of fertility in the bovine uterine endometrium
Authors: Waters Sinéad M. , Coyne Gerard S. , Kenny David A. , MacHugh David E. , Morris Dermot G.
Published: August 2012

The potential for dietary supplementation with n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) to improve reproductive efficiency in cattle has received much interest. The mechanisms by which n-3 PUFA may affect physiological and biochemical processes in key reproductive tissues are likely to be mediated by significant alterations in gene expression. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of dietary n-3 PUFA supplementation on global uterine endometrial gene expression in cattle. Beef heifers were supplemented with a rumen protected source of either a saturated fatty acid (CON; palmitic acid) or high n-3 PUFA (n-3 PUFA; 275 g) diet per animal per day for 45 days and global gene expression was determined in uterine endometrial tissue using an Affymetrix oligonucleotide bovine array. A total of 1,807 (946 up- and 861 downregulated) genes were differentially expressed following n-3 PUFA supplementation. Dietary n-3 PUFA altered numerous cellular processes potentially important in the control of reproduction in cattle. These included prostaglandin biosynthesis, steroidogenesis and transcriptional regulation, while effects on genes involved in maternal immune response and tissue remodeling were also observed. This study provides new insights into the effects of n-3 PUFA supplementation on the regulation of gene expression in the bovine uterus.
Bone marrow mononuclear cells induce beneficial remodeling and reduce diastolic dysfunction in the left ventricle of hypertensive SS/MCWi rats
Authors: Parker Sarah J. , Didier Daniela N. , Karcher Jamie R. , Stodola Timothy J. , Endres Bradley , Greene Andrew S.
Published: August 2012

Bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMNCs) increase capillary density and reduce fibrosis in rodents after myocardial infarction, resulting in an overall improvement in left ventricular function. Little is known about the effectiveness of BMMNC therapy in hypertensive heart disease. In the current study, we show that delivery of BMMNCs from hypertension protected SS-13BN/MCWi donor rats, but not BMMNC from hypertension susceptible SS/MCWi donor rats, resulted in 57.2 and 83.4% reductions in perivascular and interstitial fibrosis, respectively, as well as a 60% increase in capillary-to-myocyte count in the left ventricles (LV) of hypertensive SS/MCWi recipients. These histological changes were associated with improvements in LV compliance and relaxation (103 and 46.4% improvements, respectively). Furthermore, improved diastolic function in hypertensive SS/MCWi rats receiving SS-13BN/MCWi derived BMMNCs was associated with lower clinical indicators of heart failure, including reductions in end diastolic pressure (65%) and serum brain natriuretic peptide levels (49.9%) with no improvements observed in rats receiving SS/MCWi BMMNCs. SS/MCWi rats had a lower percentage of endothelial progenitor cells in their bone marrow relative to SS-13BN/MCWi rats. These results suggest that administration of BMMNCs can prevent or reverse pathological remodeling in hypertensive heart disease, which contributes to ameliorating diastolic dysfunction and associated symptomology. Furthermore, the health and hypertension susceptibility of the BMMNC donor are important factors influencing therapeutic efficacy, possibly via differences in the cellular composition of bone marrow.
A Metastasizing Squamous Cell Carcinoma Arising in a Solitary Epidermal Nevus
Authors: Toya Masami , Endo Yuichiro , Fujisawa Akihiro , Tanioka Miki , Yoshikawa Yoshiaki , Tachibana Takao , Miyachi Yoshiki
Published: August 2012

Aim. Secondary tumor rarely develops from epidermal nevus. We present a case of a metastasizing squamous cell carcinoma that developed in a solitary epidermal nevus.Case Report. An 82-years old Japanese female was presented with a red tumor on the left axilla. She reported that the tumor developed in a congenital epidermal nevus. A biopsy of the tumor showed that a well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) arose from the epidermal nevus. As a lymph node metastasis was found by sentinel lymph node biopsy, the patient received surgical excision of the lesion, axillary lymph node dissection, and postoperative radiation.Discussion. Secondary tumors developing in epidermal nevus are rare. To the best of our knowledge, only in two cases including the present case, SCC developed in a solitary epidermal nevus. There is no established clinical guideline for prophylactic removal of epidermal nevus. However, a biopsy should be done if a secondary malignancy is suspected in an epidermal nevus.
Hydatid Disease of the Femur with an Extraosseous Extent due to a Former Biopsy Complicated by a Pathological Fracture
Authors: Ciftdemir M. , Sezer A. , Puyan F. O. , Copuroglu C. , Ozcan M.
Published: July 2012

Hydatid disease of the bone represents about 1–2.5% of all human hydatid disease. Spine is the most affected part of the skeleton with 50% incidence of all bone hydatidosis. Extraspinal bone hydatidosis is much rare. Diagnosis is difficult in the bone hydatid disease. Bone tumors, tumor-like lesions, and specific and nonspecific infections should be considered in the differential diagnosis. Radiological, laboratory, and clinical findings combined with strong element of suspicion are the key for diagnosis. Bone biopsies should be avoided because of the danger of anaphylaxis, sensitization, and spread. This paper describes the management of a patient with primary hydatidosis of the femur, which had been complicated by an extraosseous involvement, cortical erosion, and a pathological fracture due to a former needle biopsy.
Follicular Thyroid Cancer Metastasis to the Urinary Bladder: Report of a Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Grivas N. , Housianitis Z. , Doukas M. , Stavropoulos N. E.
Published: August 2012

Thyroid cancer metastasis to the urinary bladder is a very rear condition. To the authors’ knowledge there have been only 2 cases reported in the literature. Herein a case is reported of a metastatic bladder tumor in a 73-year-old woman with history of thyroid and breast cancer. Gross hematuria was the initial symptom of her metastatic disease. Pathology of the resected mass revealed a follicular thyroid cancer metastasis. This case illustrates that follicular carcinoma of the thyroid may have a variable presentation, including hematuria.
Redesigned-Scale-Free CORDIC Algorithm Based FPGA Implementation of Window Functions to Minimize Area and Latency
Authors: Aggarwal Supriya , Khare Kavita
Published: August 2012

One of the most important steps in spectral analysis is filtering, where window functions are generally used to design filters. In this paper, we modify the existing architecture for realizing the window functions using CORDIC processor. Firstly, we modify the conventional CORDIC algorithm to reduce its latency and area. The proposed CORDIC algorithm is completely scale-free for the range of convergence that spans the entire coordinate space. Secondly, we realize the window functions using a single CORDIC processor as against two serially connected CORDIC processors in existing technique, thus optimizing it for area and latency. The linear CORDIC processor is replaced by a shift-add network which drastically reduces the number of pipelining stages required in the existing design. The proposed design on an average requires approximately 64% less pipeline stages and saves up to 44.2% area. Currently, the processor is designed to implement Blackman windowing architecture, which with slight modifications can be extended to other widow functions as well. The details of the proposed architecture are discussed in the paper.
Safety and Efficacy of Epithelium-On Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking Using a Multifactorial Approach to Achieve Proper Stromal Riboflavin Saturation
Authors: Stojanovic Aleksandar , Chen Xiangjun , Jin Nan , Zhang Ting , Stojanovic Filip , Raeder Sten , Utheim Tor Paaske
Published: July 2012

Purpose. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of epithelium-on corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) using a multifactorial approach to achieve proper stromal riboflavin saturation.Methods. This non-randomized retrospective study comprised 61 eyes with progressive keratoconus treated with epithelium-on CXL. Chemical epithelial penetration enhancement (benzalkonium chloride-containing local medication and hypotonic riboflavin solution), mechanical disruption of the superficial epithelium, and prolongation of the riboflavin-induction time until verification of stromal saturation were used before the UVA irradiation. Uncorrected and corrected distance visual acuity (UDVA, CDVA), refraction, corneal topography, and aberrometry were evaluated at baseline and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperative.Results. At 12-month, UDVA and CDVA improved significantly. None of the eyes lost lines of CDVA, while 27.4% of the eyes gained 2 or more lines. Mean spherical equivalent decreased by 0.74 D, and mean cylindrical reduction was 1.15 D. Irregularity index and asymmetry from Scheimpflug-based topography and Max-Kat the location of cone from Placido-based topography showed a significant decrease. Higher-order-aberration data demonstrated a slight reduction in odd-order aberrationsS3, 5,7 (). Postoperative pain without other complications was recorded.Conclusion. Epithelium-on CXL with our novel protocol appeared to be safe and effective in the treatment of progressive keratoconus.
Comparison ofHelicobacter bilis-Associated Protein Expression in Huh7 Cells Harbouring HCV Replicon and in Replicon-Cured Cells
Authors: Okoli Arinze S. , Raftery Mark J. , Mendz George L.
Published: July 2012

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Hepatitis B or C infections are the main causes of HCC with hepatitis C being the major risk factor for liver cancer in the developed countries. Recently, complications with bacteria of the genusHelicobacterhave been associated with HCV-induced HCC. To further understand the mechanisms leading to the development of HCC in the presence of HCV and/orHelicobacterspp., investigation of the differential protein expression in Huh7 cells harbouring HCV-replicon, and replicon cured-Huh7 cells cocultured withH. biliswas done employing two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry. In the transfected-Huh7 cells exposed to sublethal inoculum densities ofH. bilis, 53 different proteins were identified comprising of 28 upregulated and 16 downregulated proteins including 9 potential protein isoforms; in the cured Huh7 cells, 45 different proteins were identified including 33 upregulated, 8 downregulated and, 9 potential protein isoforms.H. bilisaffected the modulation of proteins involved in different pathways of Huh7-derived cells physiology including proteins involved in the progression from dysplasia to neoplasm. The result also indicated that the response of the Huh7-derived cells to the presence ofH. bilisdepended on whether or not HCV replicon was present.
No Relationship between Maternal Iron Status and Postpartum Depression in Two Samples in China
Authors: Armony-Sivan Rinat , Shao Jie , Li Ming , Zhao Gengli , Zhao Zhengyan , Xu Guobing , Zhou Min , Zhan Jianying , Bian Yang , Ji Chai , Li Xing , Jiang Yaping , Zhang Zhixiang , Richards Blair J. , Tardif Twila , Lozoff Betsy
Published: July 2012

Maternal iron status is thought to be related to postpartum depressive symptoms. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between pre- and postnatal maternal iron status and depressive symptoms in pilot (n=137) and confirmatory (n=567) samples of Chinese women. Iron status was evaluated at mid- and late pregnancy and 3 days postpartum. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) was used to assess maternal postpartum depression 24–48 hours after delivery and 6 weeks later. In the pilot sample, correlations between early- and late-pregnancy maternal Hb and EPDS scores at 6 weeks werer=0.07and −0.01, respectively (nonsignificant). In the confirmatory sample, the correlations between maternal iron measures (Hb, MCV, ZPP, ferritin, sTfR, and sTfR Index) in mid- or late pregnancy or 3 days postpartum and EPDS scores shortly after delivery or at 6 weeks were also low (rvalues < 0.10). EPDS scores in anemic and nonanemic mothers did not differ, regardless of sample or timing of maternal iron status assessment. In addition, women with or without possible PPD were similar in iron status in both samples. Thus, there was no relationship between maternal iron status and postpartum depression in these samples.
Theoretical Model of the Relationship between Single Embryo Transfer Rate and Multiple Pregnancy Rate in Japan
Authors: Ooki Syuichi
Published: July 2012

The purpose of the present study was to examine the effect of single embryo transfer (SET) in assisted reproductive technology (ART) on the reduction of the multiple pregnancy rate. We also estimated the monozygotic (MZ) twinning rates according to the SET diffusion indirectly. A reverse sigmoid curve was assumed and examined using nationwide data of SET from 2007 to 2009 in Japan. The multiple pregnancy rate decreased almost linearly where the SET pregnancy rate was between about 40% and 80% of regression approximation. The linear approximation overestimated multiple pregnancy rates in an early period and underestimated multiple pregnancy rates in the final period. The multiple pregnancy rate seemed to be influenced by the improvement of the total pregnancy rate of ART in the early period and by the MZ twinning after SET in the final period. The estimated MZ twinning rate after SET was around 2%.
Chromatin-Associated Proteins Revealed by SILAC-Proteomic Analysis Exhibit a High Likelihood of Requirement for Growth Fitness under DNA Damage Stress
Authors: Wang Han , Tipthara Pornpimol , Zhu Lei , Poon Suk Yean , Tang Kai , Liu Jianhua
Published: August 2012

Chromatin-associated nonhistone proteins (CHRAPs) are readily collected from the DNaseI digested crude chromatin preparation. In this study, we show that the absolute abundance-based label-free quantitative proteomic analysis fail to identify potential CHRAPs from the CHRAP-prep. This is because that the most-highly abundant cytoplasmic proteins such as ribosomal proteins are not effectively depleted in the CHRAP-prep. Ribosomal proteins remain the top-ranked abundant proteins in the CHRAP-prep. On the other hand, we show that relative abundance-based SILAC-mediated quantitative proteomic analysis is capable of discovering the potential CHRAPs in the CHRAP-prep when compared to the whole-cell-extract. Ribosomal proteins are depleted from the top SILAC ratio-ranked proteins. In contrast, nucleus-localized proteins or potential CHRAPs are enriched in the top SILAC-ranked proteins. Consistent with this, gene-ontology analysis indicates that CHRAP-associated functions such as transcription, regulation of chromatin structures, and DNA replication and repair are significantly overrepresented in the top SILAC-ranked proteins. Some of the novel CHRAPs are confirmed using the traditional method. Notably, phenotypic assessment reveals that the top SILAC-ranked proteins exhibit the high likelihood of requirement for growth fitness under DNA damage stress. Taken together, our results indicate that the SILAC-mediated proteomic approach is capable of determining CHRAPs without prior knowledge.
Life-Cycle Management Strategy on Steel Girders in Bridges
Authors: So Kevin K. L. , Cheung Moe M. S. , Zhang Eric X. Q.
Published: July 2012

The major problems affecting the service life of bridges are related to various factors such as fatigue-sensitive details, increased service loads, corrosion deterioration, and the lack of proper maintenance. Among them, corrosion deterioration and fatigue damages of structures particularly to steel girder bridges are the most common ones. Bridges of different structural forms, at different locations or under different climates, may suffer from various degrees of deterioration. Steel girders at different positions of a bridge may also suffer from different degrees of damage. How to effectively maintain the bridge asset at a minimal cost and how to predict the time for future works are crucial, particularly when government funding sources become stretched. A comprehensive bridge management framework assisting stakeholders to appropriately and reasonably prioritize their future maintenance-related works in their bridge stocks, such that stakeholders can better allocate the limited resources, is utmost concerned. This paper proposes an integrated life-cycle management (LCM) strategy on steel girders in bridges in which corrosion deterioration and fatigue damage prediction models are mapped with girders’ performance conditions. A practical example to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed LCM strategy is also illustrated.
Transcatheter Embolization for Giant Splenic Artery Aneurisms: Still an Open Question
Authors: Mastroroberto Marianna , Berardi Sonia , Renzulli Matteo , Maggioli Caterina , Pianta Paolo , Pinna Antonio Daniele , Golfieri Rita , Sama Claudia
Published: July 2012

Transcatheter embolization is the mainstay of the therapy of splenic artery aneurysms (SAAs) in patients with portal hypertension. It is indicated when the SAA diameter reaches 20 mm. Although endovascular techniques are effective and safe for the treatment of medium-sized SAAs, little is known about their applicability to large-sized SAAs. Herein, we report a case of giant SAA, which was treated with transcatheter coil embolization. The case was not considered suitable for surgery because of the presence of severe portal hypertension. The procedure was complicated by bacterial infection of the coils within the aneurismatic sac, leading to the development of hepatic failure. A liver transplant was then successfully performed despite the presence of a nonresponsive infection.
Qualitative Functional Decomposition Analysis of Evolved Neuromorphic Flight Controllers
Authors: Boddhu Sanjay K. , Gallagher John C.
Published: July 2012

In the previous work, it was demonstrated that one can effectively employ CTRNN-EH (a neuromorphic variant of EH method) methodology to evolve neuromorphic flight controllers for a flapping wing robot. This paper describes a novel frequency grouping-based analysis technique, developed to qualitatively decompose the evolved controllers into explainable functional control blocks. A summary of the previous work related to evolving flight controllers for two categories of the controller types, called autonomous and nonautonomous controllers, is provided, and the applicability of the newly developed decomposition analysis for both controller categories is demonstrated. Further, the paper concludes with appropriate discussion of ongoing work and implications for possible future work related to employing the CTRNN-EH methodology and the decomposition analysis techniques presented in this paper.
Interocular Asymmetry of Foveal Thickness in Parkinson Disease
Authors: Shrier Eric M. , Adam Christopher R. , Spund Brian , Glazman Sofya , Bodis-Wollner Ivan
Published: August 2012

Purpose. To quantify interocular asymmetry (IA) of foveal thickness in Parkinson disease (PD) versus that of controls.Design. Prospective case-control series.Methods.In vivoassessment of foveal thickness of 46 eyes of 23 PD patients and 36 eyes of 18 control subjects was studied using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Inner versus outer layer retinal segmentation and macular volumes were quantified using the manufacturer's software, while foveal thickness was measured using the raw data from each eye in a grid covering a 6 by 6 mm area centered on the foveola in 0.25 mm steps. Thickness data were entered into MATLAB software.Results. Macular volumes differed significantly at the largest (Zone 3) diameter centered on the foveola (ETDRS protocol). By segmenting inner from outer layers, we found that the IA in PD is mostly due to changes on the slope of the foveal pit at the radial distances of 0.5 and 0.75 mm (1.5 mm and 1 mm diameter).Conclusions. About half of the PD patients had IA of the slope of the foveal pit. IA is a potentially useful marker of PD and is expected to be comparable across different SD-OCT equipment. Data of larger groups may be developed in future multicenter studies.
The Numerical Solution of the Bitsadze‐Samarskii Nonlocal Boundary Value Problems with the Dirichlet‐Neumann Condition
Authors: Ashyralyev Allaberen , Ozturk Elif
Published: August 2012

We are interested in studying the stable difference schemes for the numerical solution of
the nonlocal boundary value problem with the Dirichlet‐Neumann condition for the multidimensional elliptic equation. The first and second orders of accuracy difference schemes
are presented. A procedure of modified Gauss elimination method is used for solving these
difference schemes for the two‐dimensional elliptic differential equation. The method is
illustrated by numerical examples.
Electronic Structure of the CuCl2(100) Surface: A DFT First‐Principle Study
Authors: Saraireh Sherin A. , Altarawneh Mohammednoor
Published: July 2012

First‐principle density functional theory (DFT) and a periodic‐slab model have been utilized to investigate the structure of the CuCl2(100) surface. Structural parameters of the bulk CuCl2 are reported and compared with the experimental values. The structure of the CuCl2(100) is calculated using a (2 × 2) supercell. Structural parameters in terms of bond lengths and bond angle are calculated. Electronic properties of the CuCl2(100) surface are investigated by calculating the density of state (DOS) and the projected density of state for a slab containing five layers.
A Limited Role of p53 on the Ability of a Hexane Fraction of American Ginseng to Suppress Mouse Colitis
Authors: Poudyal Deepak , Cui Xiangli , Mai Le Phuong , Davis Tia , Hofseth Anne B. , Jin Yu , Chumanevich Alexander A. , Wargovich Michael J. , Nagarkatti Mitzi , Nagarkatti Prakash S. , Windust Anthony , Hofseth Lorne J.
Published: July 2012

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is debilitating and carries a high colon cancer risk. Apoptosis of inflammatory cells is a key mechanism regulating UC. We have recently shown that American ginseng (AG), and to a greater extent, a Hexane fraction of AG (HAG) can cause apoptosis and suppress mouse colitis through a p53-mediated mechanism. Here, we tested the hypothesis that HAG suppresses colitis through a p53 mechanism. We found only a limited impact of p53 in the ability of HAG to induce inflammatory cell apoptosis and suppress mouse colitisin vitroandin vivo. Finally, we asked whether HAG could cause cell cycle arrest of HCT116 colon cancer cellsin vitro. Interestingly, HAG caused a G1 arrest of such cells independent of p53 status. Findings are significant because HAG suppresses colitis and associated colon cancer, and mutation in p53 is observed in most colitis-driven colon cancers. Therefore, HAG might be very effective in targeting the inflammatory cells and cancer cells since it induces apoptosis of inflammatory cells and cell cycle arrest in both p53−/−and WT p53 colon cancer cells.
Sarcoidosis Presenting as Massive Splenic Infarction
Authors: Patel Ishita , Ismajli Mediola , Steuer Alan
Published: July 2012

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous disease of unknown aetiology. Granulomatous inflammation involving the spleen is common and associated with splenomegaly. However, massive splenomegaly is a rare occurrence. Infrequently massive splenomegaly can result in splenic infarction. Massive splenic infarction in sarcoidosis has, to our knowledge, not been previously reported. We present a case of a woman presenting with massive splenic infarction and sarcoidosis confirmed by granulomatous inflammation of the liver.
Cutting Edge PBPK Models and Analyses: Providing the Basis for Future Modeling Efforts and Bridges to Emerging Toxicology Paradigms
Authors: Caldwell Jane C. , Evans Marina V. , Krishnan Kannan
Published: July 2012

Physiologically based Pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models are used for predictions of internal or target dose from environmental and pharmacologic chemical exposures. Their use in human risk assessment is dependent on the nature of databases (animal or human) used to develop and test them, and includes extrapolations across species, experimental paradigms, and determination of variability of response within human populations. Integration of state-of-the science PBPK modeling with emerging computational toxicology models is critical for extrapolation betweenin vitroexposures,in vivophysiologic exposure, whole organism responses, and long-term health outcomes. This special issue contains papers that can provide the basis for future modeling efforts and provide bridges to emerging toxicology paradigms. In this overview paper, we present an overview of the field and introduction for these papers that includes discussions of model development, best practices, risk-assessment applications of PBPK models, and limitations and bridges of modeling approaches for future applications. Specifically, issues addressed include: (a) increased understanding of human variability of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in the population, (b) exploration of mode of action hypotheses (MOA), (c) application of biological modeling in the risk assessment of individual chemicals and chemical mixtures, and (d) identification and discussion of uncertainties in the modeling process.
Rare Hepatic Arterial Anatomic Variants in Patients Requiring Pancreatoduodenectomy and Review of the Literature
Authors: Ramanadham Smita , Toomay Seth M. , Yopp Adam C. , Balch Glen C. , Sharma Rohit , Schwarz Roderich E. , Mansour John C.
Published: July 2012

Normal hepatic arterial anatomy occurs in approximately 50–80% of cases; for the remaining cases, multiple variations have been described. Knowledge of these anomalies is especially important in hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery in order to avoid unnecessary complications. We describe two cases of patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy for abnormalities in the head of the pancreas. Preoperative contrast-enhanced cross-sectional imaging demonstrated relevant, rare hepatic arterial variants: (1) a completely replaced hepatic arterial system with a gastroduodenal artery (GDA) arising directly from the celiac axis and (2) a replaced right hepatic artery originating from the superior mesenteric artery and traveling anterior to the pancreatic uncinate process and head. These findings were confirmed during pancreatoduodenectomy. Both of these variants have been rarely described with an incidence of <1.0%. In the present paper, we describe the hepatic arterial anomalies commonly encountered and clarify the important details associated with these variants as they pertain to pancreatoduodenectomy.
Through-Wall Image Enhancement Based on Singular Value Decomposition
Authors: Mohsin Riaz Muhammad , Ghafoor Abdul
Published: July 2012

Singular value decomposition and information theoretic criterion-based image enhancement is proposed for through-wall imaging. The scheme is capable of discriminating target, clutter, and noise subspaces. Information theoretic criterion is used with conventional singular value decomposition to find number of target singular values. Furthermore, wavelet transform-based denoising is performed (to further suppress noise signals) by estimating noise variance. Proposed scheme works also for extracting multiple targets in heavy cluttered through-wall images. Simulation results are compared on the basis of mean square error, peak signal to noise ratio, and visual inspection.
Activity-Dependent Plasticity of Spinal Circuits in the Developing and Mature Spinal Cord
Authors: Tahayori Behdad , Koceja David M.
Published: August 2012

Part of the development and maturation of the central nervous system (CNS) occurs through interactions with the environment. Through physical activities and interactions with the world, an animal receives considerable sensory information from various sources. These sources can be internally (proprioceptive) or externally (such as touch and pressure) generated senses. Ample evidence exists to demonstrate that the sensory information originating from large diameter afferents (Ia fibers) have an important role in inducing essential functional and morphological changes for the maturation of both the brain and the spinal cord. The Ia fibers transmit sensory information generated by muscle activity and movement. Such use or activity-dependent plastic changes occur throughout life and are one reason for the ability to acquire new skills and learn new movements. However, the extent and particularly the mechanisms of activity-dependent changes are markedly different between a developing nervous system and a mature nervous system. Understanding these mechanisms is an important step to develop strategies for regaining motor function after different injuries to the CNS. Plastic changes induced by activity occur both in the brain and spinal cord. This paper reviews the activity-dependent changes in the spinal cord neural circuits during both the developmental stages of the CNS and in adulthood.
Hippocampal CA1 Pyramidal Neurons ofMecp2Mutant Mice Show a Dendritic Spine Phenotype Only in the Presymptomatic Stage
Authors: Chapleau Christopher A. , Boggio Elena Maria , Calfa Gaston , Percy Alan K. , Giustetto Maurizio , Pozzo-Miller Lucas
Published: July 2012

Alterations in dendritic spines have been documented in numerous neurodevelopmental disorders, including Rett Syndrome (RTT). RTT, an X chromosome-linked disorder associated with mutations inMECP2, is the leading cause of intellectual disabilities in women. Neurons inMecp2-deficient mice show lower dendritic spine density in several brain regions. To better understand the role of MeCP2 on excitatory spine synapses, we analyzed dendritic spines of CA1 pyramidal neurons in the hippocampus ofMecp2tm1.1Jaemale mutant mice by either confocal microscopy or electron microscopy (EM). At postnatal-day 7 (P7), well before the onset of RTT-like symptoms, CA1 pyramidal neurons from mutant mice showed lower dendritic spine density than those from wildtype littermates. On the other hand, at P15 or later showing characteristic RTT-like symptoms, dendritic spine density did not differ between mutant and wildtype neurons. Consistently, stereological analyses at the EM level revealed similar densities of asymmetric spine synapses in CA1stratum radiatumof symptomatic mutant and wildtype littermates. These results raise caution regarding the use of dendritic spine density in hippocampal neurons as a phenotypic endpoint for the evaluation of therapeutic interventions in symptomaticMecp2-deficient mice. However, they underscore the potential role of MeCP2 in the maintenance of excitatory spine synapses.
Some Integral Inequalities of Hermite-Hadamard Type for Convex Functions with Applications to Means
Authors: Xi Bo-Yan , Qi Feng
Published: July 2012

The authors establish some new inequalities for differentiable convex functions, which are similar to the celebrated Hermite-Hadamard's integral inequality for convex functions, and apply these inequalities to construct inequalities for special means of two positive numbers.
Long-term Outcomes of 1,263 Patients with Mycosis Fungoides and Sézary Syndrome from 1982 to 2009
Authors: Talpur Rakhshandra , Singh Lotika , Daulat Seema , Liu Ping , Seyfer Sarah , Trynosky Tanya , Wei Wei , Duvic Madeleine
Published: August 2012

Purpose: The purpose of this prospectively collected single center study cohort of 1,263 patients with mycosis fungoides (MF)/Sézary syndrome (SS) is to evaluate the significance of stage and risk of disease progression from initial presentation and to examine other prognostic factors.

Patients and Methods: The prognostic variables effecting overall survival (OS) were examined in a unique prospective cohort of 1,263 patients with MF and SS seen by one investigator at MD Anderson Cancer Center (Houston, TX) from 1982 to 2009. Kaplan–Meier estimates were used to determine median OS, progression-free survival (PFS), and disease-specific survival (DSS). Cox proportional hazards regression model assessed prognostic factors.

Results: Mean age at diagnosis was 55.33 years. Early mycosis fungoides (stage IA–IIA) represented 71.5% (903 of 1,263) and advanced (stage IIB–IVB) 28.5% (360 of 1,263) patients. Progression to a higher stage occurred in 147 patients (11.6%) of whom 112 (12%) were early and 35 (9.7%) advanced. Death from disease occurred in 102 of 1,263 (8.1%) patients. Median OS was 24.44 years, PFS was 16 years, and median DSS was not reached. OS and PFS were significantly better for early-stage patients with patches (T1a/T2a) than with patches/plaques (T1b/T2b). The PFS analyzed in 1,241 patients found that only 337 (27.2%) had disease progression or had died from disease. Risk factors associated with progression or deaths were advanced age, plaque stage, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level, and tumor area.

Conclusions: Improved outcome of MF/SS, reflected by OS and PFS for all stages, may result from earlier diagnosis, new therapies, and aggressive treatment of infections. Clin Cancer Res; 18(18); 5051–60. ©2012 AACR.
Limitations of Sniff Nasal Pressure as an Outcome Measurement in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Patients in a Clinical Trial
Authors: Bauer M. , Czell D. , Hartmann S. , Goldman B. , Müller D. , Weber M.
Published: July 2012

Background: The forced vital capacity (FVC) is an established measure in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) clinical trials. Recently the sniff nasal inspiratory pressure (SNIP) test has been increasingly used as a respiratory measure. Objectives: It was the aim of this study to assess the feasibility of SNIP as an outcome measure in a phase III clinical trial with a lead-in design. Methods: Twenty patients were enrolled in a randomized clinical trial. FVC, SNIP in sitting (SNIPsitt) and supine (SNIPsup) positions, and the ALS functional rating scale score (ALSFRS-R) were measured every 4 weeks. Results: Complete data were available for 19 patients over 5 months. Baseline values were normal for FVC (101 ± 14%) but abnormal for SNIPsitt and SNIPsup (84 ± 34% and 82 ± 33%). While FVC and ALSFRS-R declined in parallel, SNIPsitt measures declined significantly less compared to ALSFRS-R (p < 0.05) and FVC (p < 0.001) up to 4 months after enrollment. Over 50% of patients still had values equal to or above baseline SNIPsitt measures after 3 months despite abnormal baseline values. Conclusions: The delayed decline in SNIP measurements suggests a learning effect over time. The optimal number of SNIPs in ALS clinical trials has yet to be determined. SNIP measures should be used with caution in trials with a lead-in design.
Low, Complex and Probably Reticulated Chromosome Evolution of Sciuromorpha (Rodentia) and Lagomorpha
Authors: Richard F. , Dutrillaux B.
Published: July 2012

Lagomorpha (rabbits and pikas) and Sciuromorpha (squirrels) are grouped in the Glires superorder. Their chromosome diversification, since their separation from the eutherian mammalian common ancestor, was characterized by a low rate of chromosome rearrangements. Consequently, the structure of some chromosomes was either conserved or only slightly modified, making their comparison easy at the genus, family and even order level. Interspecific in situ hybridization (Zoo-FISH) largely corroborates classical cytogenetic data but provides much more reliability in comparisons, especially for distant species. We reconstructed common ancestral karyotypes for Glires, Lagomorpha, Sciuromorpha, and Sciuridae species, and then, determined the chromosome changes separating these ancestors from their common eutherian ancestor. We propose that reticulated evolution occurred during the diversification of Glires, which implies that several pericentric inversions and Robertsonian translocations were conserved in the heterozygous status for an extensive period. Finally, among Lagomorpha and Sciuromorpha, we focused on Leporidae and Sciuridae chromosome evolution. In the various attempts to establish dichotomic evolutionary schemes, it was necessary to admit that multiple homoplasies (convergent and reverse rearrangements) occurred in Sciuridae and in a lesser degree, in Leporidae. In Leporidae, additional rearrangements were sufficient to propose a resolved phylogeny. However, a resolved phylogeny was not possible for Sciuridae because most of the rearrangements occurred in terminal branches. We conclude that a reticulated evolution took place early during the evolution of both families and lasted longer in Sciuridae than in Leporidae. In Sciuridae, most chromosome rearrangements were pericentric inversions involving short fragments. Such rearrangements have only mild meiotic consequences, which may explain the long persistence of the heterozygous status characterizing reticulated evolution.
A Short Introduction to Cytogenetic Studies in Mammals with Reference to the Present Volume
Authors: Graphodatsky A. , Ferguson-Smith M.A. , Stanyon R.
Published: July 2012

Genome diversity has long been studied from the comparative cytogenetic perspective. Early workers documented differences between species in diploid chromosome number and fundamental number. Banding methods allowed more detailed descriptions of between-species rearrangements and classes of differentially staining chromosome material. The infusion of molecular methods into cytogenetics provided a third revolution, which is still not exhausted. Chromosome painting has provided a global view of the translocation history of mammalian genome evolution, well summarized in the contributions to this special volume. More recently, FISH of cloned DNA has provided details on defining breakpoint and intrachromosomal marker order, which have helped to document inversions and centromere repositioning. The most recent trend in comparative molecular cytogenetics is to integrate sequencing information in order to formulate and test reconstructions of ancestral genomes and phylogenomic hypotheses derived from comparative cytogenetics. The integration of comparative cytogenetics and sequencing promises to provide an understanding of what drives chromosome rearrangements and genome evolution in general. We believe that the contributions in this volume, in no small way, point the way to the next phase in cytogenetic studies.
Mechanisms of hypertension in renal radiation.
Authors: Juncos L , Cornejo J C , Cejas H , Broglia C
Published: August 2012

This study was undertaken to investigate the role played by renal functional and structural changes in the development of radiation-induced hypertension. Four groups of rats were studied: 1) left kidney radiated, 2) sham procedure, 3) uninephrectomy followed 3 weeks later by radiation of the contralateral kidney, and 4) uninephrectomy followed by sham procedure 3 weeks later. All radiated rats became hypertensive at 12 weeks (p less than 0.05) and had higher protein excretion (p less than 0.05). In the presence of an intact contralateral kidney, radiation causes mild-to-moderate histological abnormalities, and therefore, creatinine clearance and water and sodium handling do not change. Plasma renin activity increased in this group (p less than 0.05). Radiated uninephrectomized rats showed decreased creatinine clearance (p less than 0.05), but renin activity remained unchanged. These rats developed severe histological abnormalities in glomeruli, interstitia, tubuli, and vessels resulting in increased sodium and water output. The average of individual tubular and interstitial scores correlated significantly with both water intake and output but not with sodium excretion. These studies suggest that in the presence of an intact kidney, renin is an important determinant in the development or maintenance of radiation hypertension, whereas in the absence of the contralateral kidney, severe histological changes and renal failure are prominent despite increased water intake and output. The more severe glomerular sclerosis and proteinuria in the latter model could be related to diminished renal mass.
Effect of moderate physical training on left ventricular mass in mild hypertensive persons.
Authors: Baglivo H P , Fabregues G , Burrieza H , Esper R C , Talarico M , Esper R J
Published: August 2012

Exercise might reduce blood pressure in mild essential hypertensive individuals, but it could raise left ventricular mass, counteracting the beneficial effects induced by a decrease in blood pressure. Seventeen (group 1) of 25 mild hypertensive patients, nonresponders to a 3-month low sodium diet (2 g/day), were admitted into a physical training program consisting of three weekly sessions of aerobics (20 minutes), bicycling at prefixed loads (20 minutes), and induced muscular relaxation (10 minutes). They were compared with 15 mild hypertensive patients (group 2), nonresponders to the low sodium diet who remained untrained. The follow-up lasted 15.7 +/- 5.8 months. There were significant blood pressure decreases in group 1 at rest (155 +/- 9.8/101 +/- 3.3 vs. 136 +/- 8.1/86 +/- 6.6 mm Hg, p less than 0.001) and at maximal effort (219 +/- 27.4/119 +/- 14.4 vs. 196 +/- 21.8/101 +/- 10.5 mm Hg, p less than 0.001). Maximal work capacity increased from 758.8 +/- 256.7 to 944.1 +/- 203.8 kpm (p less than 0.001). Echocardiographic left ventricular mass index tended to decrease (137.8 +/- 36.3 vs. 125.4 +/- 29.9 g/m2, p = NS), without any significant modification of either left ventricular volume index or left ventricular shortening fraction. No significant changes occurred in group 2. There was no correlation between blood pressure and left ventricular mass changes and left ventricular shortening fraction and left ventricular mass index changes. According to these results, it seems prudent to prescribe physical training to mild hypertensive patients because it does not induce left ventricular mass increases.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Calcium sensitivity of Ca2(+)-activated K+ channels in spontaneously hypertensive stroke-prone rats.
Authors: Furspan P B , Bohr D F
Published: August 2012

In previous studies, we measured a greater intracellular free calcium concentration and net potassium efflux, possibly calcium activated, in lymphocytes from spontaneously hypertensive stroke-prone rats (SHRSP) as compared with Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. In this study, we addressed two related questions: 1) Can the greater intralymphocytic calcium concentration of the SHRSP account for the greater net potassium efflux? 2) Is the calcium sensitivity of calcium-activated potassium channels in lymphocytes from SHRSP different as compared with that of those from WKY rats? Ionomycin, a calcium ionophore, caused a concentration-dependent and proportional increase in net potassium efflux and intracellular free calcium concentration in lymphocytes from both strains of rat. Based on the relations between net potassium efflux and intracellular free calcium concentration established with ionomycin, the resting net potassium efflux of lymphocytes from SHRSP is greater than would be predicted based on the resting intracellular free calcium concentration. Using the patch clamp technique, we were able to identify and characterize a calcium-activated potassium channel in the plasma membrane of lymphocytes from both strains of rat. Potassium currents were recorded that had a slope conductance of 18.1 +/- 1.49, n = 6, and 18.5 +/- 1.44, n = 7, in WKY rat and SHRSP thymocytes, respectively. The channel exhibited rectification of the outward current in both strains of rat. Channels tended to appear in clusters of two or more per patch and were recorded in 30-50% of the patches examined. Calcium sensitivity of the channels was similar; maximum activation occurred at 700 nM free calcium concentration.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Biohistory of slavery and blood pressure differences in blacks today. A hypothesis.
Authors: Wilson T W , Grim C E
Published: August 2012

Genetic factors are known to play an important role in the variations in blood pressure levels. However, genetic factors that explain the higher average blood pressure levels of western hemisphere blacks when compared with African blacks have not been seriously considered. Because the genetic makeup of a population is largely determined by biological and ecological forces in the past, an examination of the biohistory of blacks, specifically the slavery era, was conducted. An overview of the salient findings of that investigation is included in this article. The published historical evidence on the transatlantic slave trade and New World slavery (from the 16th century to the 19th century) reveals that conditions existed for "natural selection," and therefore, genetic changes were virtually inevitable in the slave populations. During this period of history, mortality was extremely high, and fertility (or reproductive success) was so low among the survivors that most plantation societies in the western hemisphere depended on a constant importation of captives (over 12 million) from Africa for the viability of the plantation communities. Because the major causes of death were salt-depletive diseases such as diarrhea, fevers, and vomiting, it is argued that individuals with an enhanced genetic-based ability to conserve salt had a distinct survival advantage over others and were, therefore, more likely to bequeath their genotype to subsequent generations of Western hemisphere blacks. Thus, it is predicted that blacks in the Americas have a greater frequency of individuals with an enhanced genetic-based ability to conserve salt than African blacks.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Interaction of sodium sensitivity and stress in young adults.
Authors: Falkner B , Kushner H
Published: August 2012

The interaction of sodium sensitivity and stress-induced cardiovascular reactivity was studied in white and black young adults aged 18-23 years. The cardiovascular response to difficult mental arithmetic was measured before and after 14 days of oral sodium loading (10 g NaCl/day added to the usual diet). A sodium-sensitive blood pressure response occurred in 18.4% of whites and 37.3% of blacks. A significant correlation between blood pressure change and sodium excretion occurred in the sodium-sensitive group (r = - 0.28, p less than 0.01). High sodium intake did not augment blood pressure or heart rate response to the beta-adrenergic-mediated stimulus of mental arithmetic in the population, which was grouped by blood pressure, race, or sodium sensitivity.