bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reversed timing-dependent associative plasticity in the human brain through interhemispheric interactions
Authors: Conde Virginia , Vollmann Henning , Taubert Marco , Sehm Bernhard , Cohen Leonardo G. , Villringer Arno , Ragert Patrick
Published: February 2013

Spike timing-dependent plasticity (STDP) has been proposed as one of the key mechanisms underlying learning and memory. Repetitive median nerve stimulation, followed by transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) of the contralateral primary motor cortex (M1), defined as paired-associative stimulation (PAS), has been used as an in vivo model of STDP in humans. PAS-induced excitability changes in M1 have been repeatedly shown to be time-dependent in a STDP-like fashion, since synchronous arrival of inputs within M1 induces long-term potentiation-like effects, whereas an asynchronous arrival induces long-term depression (LTD)-like effects. Here, we show that interhemispheric inhibition of the sensorimotor network during PAS, with the peripheral stimulation over the hand ipsilateral to the motor cortex receiving TMS, results in a LTD-like effect, as opposed to the standard STDP-like effect seen for contralateral PAS. Furthermore, we could show that this reversed-associative plasticity critically depends on the timing interval between afferent and cortical stimulation. These results indicate that the outcome of associative stimulation in the human brain depends on functional network interactions (inhibition or facilitation) at a systems level and can either follow standard or reversed STDP-like mechanisms.
Rituximab—A Drug with Many Facets and Cures: A Treatment for Acute Refractory Hypoxemic Respiratory Failure Secondary to Severe Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis
Authors: Powers Braden , Uppalapati Aditya , Gogineni Sindhura , Jamkhana Zafar Akram
Published: February 2013

Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA) is a rare systemic anti neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA-) associated granulomatous vasculitis of the small and medium sized blood vessels. Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) is a rare life-threatening complication of GPA. In our patient, cyclophosphamide was held secondary to complications of acute kidney injury, hematuria, and concern for a possible hemorrhagic cystitis. However, during the workup for hematuria the patient acutely developed respiratory failure and was found to have DAH. The patient was initially supported with mechanical ventilation volume control mode, steroids, and plasma exchange. With no improvement of oxygenation, the mode of ventilation was changed to airway pressure release ventilation (APRV) and the patient was started on rituximab. The patient clinically improved over the next few days, was able to be extubated, and was transferred out of the intensive care unit.
Tanycytic Ependymoma: A Challenging Histological Diagnosis
Authors: Krisht Khaled M. , Schmidt Meic H.
Published: February 2013

Tanycytic ependymoma is a rare form of ependymoma that usually arises in the intramedullary spine. It has a unique histology emphasized by the inconspicuous ependymal pattern of cells and close resemblance to schwannoma and astrocytoma. The authors report a 50-year-old man with a cervical tanycytic ependymoma that was initially thought to be a schwannoma. The frozen histology section showed spindle cells with oval and elongated nuclei with occasional hemosiderin deposits present suggesting a preliminary diagnosis of schwannoma. Immunohistochemical staining of the permanent section revealed strong immunoreactivity for glial fibrillary acidic protein with intermittent S-100 positivity, confirming that the tumor was a tanycytic ependymoma. This underlines the challenges involved in making an accurate diagnosis and demonstrates that careful and detailed histological inspection with immunohistochemical stains and ultrastructural microscopy may be necessary to distinguish tanycytic ependymoma from other neoplasms.
Fever, Haematuria, and Acute Graft Dysfunction in Renal Transplant Recipients Secondary to Adenovirus Infection: Two Case Reports
Authors: Ramírez J. , Bostock I. C. , Martin-Onraët A. , Calleja S. , Sánchez-Cedillo A. , Navarro-Vargas L. A. , Noriega-Salas A. L. , Martínez-Mijangos O. , Uribe-Uribe N. O. , Vilatoba M. , Gabilondo B. , Morales-Buenrostro L. E. , Alberú J.
Published: February 2013

We report two cases of adenoviral infection in kidney transplant recipients that presented with different clinical characteristics under similar demographic and posttransplant conditions. The first case presented with fever, gross haematuria, and acute graft dysfunction 15 days following renal transplantation. A graft biopsy, analyzed with immunohistochemistry, yielded negative results. However, the diagnosis was confirmed with blood and urine real-time PCR for adenovirus 3 days after the initial clinical manifestations. The immunosuppression dose was reduced, and ribavirin treatment was started, for which the patient quickly developed toxicity. Antiviral treatment allowed for transient response; however, a relapse occurred. The viral real-time PCR became negative upon immunosuppression reduction and administration of IVIG; graft function normalized. In the second case, the patient presented with fever and dysuria 1 month after transplantation. The initial imaging studies revealed graft enlargement and areas of hypoperfusion. In this case, the diagnosis was also confirmed with blood and urine real-time PCR for adenovirus 3 days after the initial clinical manifestations. Adenoviral nephritis was confirmed through a graft biopsy analyzed with light microscopy, immunohistochemistry, and PCR in frozen tissue. The immunosuppression dose was reduced, and IVIG was administered obtaining excellent clinical results along with a negative real-time PCR.
Breaking It Down: The Ubiquitin Proteasome System in Neuronal Morphogenesis
Authors: Hamilton Andrew M. , Zito Karen
Published: February 2013

The ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) is most widely known for its role in intracellular protein degradation; however, in the decades since its discovery, ubiquitination has been associated with the regulation of a wide variety of cellular processes. The addition of ubiquitin tags, either as single moieties or as polyubiquitin chains, has been shown not only to mediate degradation by the proteasome and the lysosome, but also to modulate protein function, localization, and endocytosis. The UPS plays a particularly important role in neurons, where local synthesis and degradation work to balance synaptic protein levels at synapses distant from the cell body. In recent years, the UPS has come under increasing scrutiny in neurons, as elements of the UPS have been found to regulate such diverse neuronal functions as synaptic strength, homeostatic plasticity, axon guidance, and neurite outgrowth. Here we focus on recent advances detailing the roles of the UPS in regulating the morphogenesis of axons, dendrites, and dendritic spines, with an emphasis on E3 ubiquitin ligases and their identified regulatory targets.
Quasi-Complete Response of Classic Kaposi’s Sarcoma Treated with Weekly Paclitaxel
Authors: Benbrahim Zineb , Arifi Samia , Benhammane Hafida , Inani Kaoutar , Gallouj Salim , Meziane Meriem , Mernissi Fatima Zahra , Mellas Nawfel , El Mesbahi Omar
Published: February 2013

Classic Kaposi’s sarcoma (CKS) is a subtype that traditionally occurs in elderly HIV-negative males of Mediterranean origin. Patients with CKS characteristically present with skin lesions in the distal extremities. Involvement of the viscera is uncommon but may occur in the late stages of the disease. Patients with extensive KS can be treated with systemic chemotherapy. A number of drugs approved for treatment of AIDS-associated KS, especially Paclitaxel, have activity against CKS after failure of prior therapy. We report a patient treated with weekly Paclitaxel, as initial chemotherapy, for CKS presenting with multiple visceral involvement and having a contraindication for Bleomycin. The patient had quasi-complete response after three months of chemotherapy suggesting that weekly Paclitaxel might be effective as a first-line therapy for classical type KS with visceral involvement.
Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy in Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer Patients
Authors: Matthey-Giè Marie-Laure , Boubaker Ariane , Letovanec Igor , Demartines Nicolas , Matter Maurice
Published: February 2013

The management of lymph nodes in nonmelanoma skin cancer patients is currently still debated. Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), pigmented epithelioid melanocytoma (PEM), and other rare skin neoplasms have a well-known risk to spread to regional lymph nodes. The use of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) could be a promising procedure to assess this risk in clinically N0 patients. Metastatic SNs have been observed in 4.5–28% SCC (according to risk factors), in 9–42% MCC, and in 14–57% PEM. We observed overall 30.8% positive SNs in 13 consecutive patients operated for high-risk nonmelanoma skin cancer between 2002 and 2011 in our institution. These high rates support recommendation to implement SLNB for nonmelanoma skin cancer especially for SCC patients. Completion lymph node dissection following positive SNs is also a matter of discussion especially in PEM. It must be remembered that a definitive survival benefit of SLNB in melanoma patients has not been proven yet. However, because of its low morbidity when compared to empiric elective lymph node dissection or radiation therapy of lymphatic basins, SLNB has allowed sparing a lot of morbidity and could therefore be used in nonmelanoma skin cancer patients, even though a significant impact on survival has not been demonstrated.
Physicochemical Mechanisms of Synergistic Biological Action of Combinations of Aromatic Heterocyclic Compounds
Authors: Evstigneev Maxim P.
Published: February 2013

The mechanisms of synergistic biological effects observed in the simultaneous use of aromatic heterocyclic compounds in combination are reviewed, and the specific biological role of heteroassociation of aromatic molecules is discussed.
Separation of Cyclic Dipeptides (Diketopiperazines) from Their Corresponding Linear Dipeptides by RP-HPLC and Method Validation
Authors: Perzborn Mareike , Syldatk Christoph , Rudat Jens
Published: February 2013

Simple, rapid, sensitive, precise, and accurate methods for detection and separation of seven diketopiperazines (DKPs), cyclo(Gly-Gly), cyclo(dl-Ala-dl-Ala), cyclo(l-Asp-l-Phe), cyclo(l-Asp-l-Asp), cyclo(Gly-l-Phe), cyclo(l-Pro-l-Tyr), and cyclo(l-Arg-l-Arg), from their corresponding linear dipeptides and related amino acidsl-Phe andl-Tyr by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) were established. Moreover, for the racemic DKP cyclo(dl-Ala-dl-Ala) and dipeptidedl-Ala-dl-Ala, separation of the diastereomers was achieved. All methods can be performed within 15 min. For all DKPs, dipeptides, and amino acids, linear ranges with correlation coefficientsR2greater than 0.998 were determined. Lowest limits of detection were found to be between 0.05 and 10 nmol per 10 μL injection, depending on the substance. For all tested substances intrarun and interrun precision ranged from 0.5 to 4.7% and 0.7 to 9.9% relative standard deviation, and accuracy was between −4.2 and 8.1% relative error. Short-term and freeze-thaw stabilities were 93% or greater for all substances. Recovery rate after heat treatment was determined to be at least 97%. These methods will be useful for quantitative determination of DKPs and their potential biodegradation products: dipeptides and amino acids
The Ethanol Extract ofZingiber zerumbetAttenuates Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Nephropathy in Rats
Authors: Tzeng Thing-Fong , Liou Shorong-Shii , Chang Chia Ju , Liu I-Min
Published: February 2013

The ethanol extract from the rhizome ofZingiber zerumbet(L.) Smith (EEZZR) has been indicated to possess an insulin-like property by ameliorating hyperglycemia in diabetes. We aimed to investigate whether EEZZR exerts an ameliorative effect on renal damage in diabetes induced by streptozotocin (STZ). Diabetic rats were treated orally with EEZZR (200 and 300 mg kg−1per day) or metformin (100 mg kg−1per day) for 8 weeks. The plasma glucose, creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen as well as urine protein levels and the ratio of kidney weight to body weight were significantly elevated in diabetic rats. EEZZR displayed similar characteristics to those of metformin in reducing hyperglycemia and renal dysfunction in diabetic rats. The histological examinations revealed amelioration of diabetes-induced glomerular pathological changes following the treatment with EEZZR. In addition, the protein expressions of renal nephrin and podocin in diabetic rats were significantly increased following the treatment with EEZZR. The AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) protein phosphorylation and expression levels were remarkably reduced in diabetic renal tissues. EEZZR treatment significantly rescued the AMPK phosphorylation compared to nontreated diabetic group. This study suggested that the renoprotective effects of EEZZR may be similar, with the action of metformin, to the prevention of AMPK dephosphorylation and upregulate the expressions of renal nephrin and podocin.
An Interstitial 20q11.21 Microdeletion Causing Mild Intellectual Disability and Facial Dysmorphisms
Authors: Iourov Ivan Y. , Vorsanova Svetlana G. , Kurinnaia Oxana S. , Yurov Yuri B.
Published: February 2013

We report a case of an interstitial chromosome 20q11.21 microdeletion in a 7-year-old male child presenting with mild intellectual disability and facial dysmorphisms. Array comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) has shown that the deletion resulted in the loss of 68 genes, among which 5 genes (COX4I2,MYLK2,ASXL1,DNMT3B, andSNTA1) are disease causing. The size of the deletion was estimated to span 2.6 Mb. Only three cases of deletions encompassing this chromosomal region have been reported. The phenotype of the index patient was found to resemble the mildest cases of Bohring-Opitz syndrome that is caused byASXL1mutations. Anin silicoevaluation of the deleted genomic region has shown that benign genomic variations have never been observed to affect theASXL1gene, in contrast to the other disease-causing genes. As a result, it was suggested thatASXL1loss is likely to be the main cause of the phenotypic manifestations. The present case report indicates that a loss of the disease-causing gene can produce a milder phenotype of a single gene condition.
Rapamycin Inhibits ALDH Activity, Resistance to Oxidative Stress, and Metastatic Potential in Murine Osteosarcoma Cells
Authors: Mu Xiaodong , Isaac Christian , Schott Trevor , Huard Johnny , Weiss Kurt
Published: February 2013

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary malignancy of bone. Mortality is determined by the presence of metastatic disease, but little is known regarding the biochemical events that drive metastases. Two murine OS cell lines, K7M2 and K12, are related but differ significantly in their metastatic potentials: K7M2 is highly metastatic whereas K12 displays much less metastatic potential. Using this experimental system, the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway has been implicated in OS metastasis. We also discovered that aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH, a stem cell marker) activity is higher in K7M2 cells than K12 cells. Rapamycin treatment reduces the expression and enzymatic activity of ALDH in K7M2 cells. ALDH inhibition renders these cells more susceptible to apoptotic death when exposed to oxidative stress. Furthermore, rapamycin treatment reduces bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP2) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene expression and inhibits K7M2 proliferation, migration, and invasionin vitro. Inhibition of ALDH with disulfiram correlated with decreased mTOR expression and activity. In conclusion, we provide evidence for interaction between mTOR activity, ALDH activity, and metastatic potential in murine OS cells. Our work suggests that mTOR and ALDH are therapeutic targets for the treatment and prevention of OS metastasis.
Comparison between Constrained and Semiconstrained Knee Allograft-Prosthesis Composite Reconstructions
Authors: Farfalli German L. , Aponte-Tinao Luis A. , Ayerza Miguel A. , Muscolo D. Luis , Boland Patrick J. , Morris Carol D. , Athanasian Edward A. , Healey John H.
Published: February 2013

Allograft-prosthesis composite (APC) can restore capsular and ligamentous tissues of the knee sacrificed in a tumor extirpation. We asked if performing APC would restore knee stability and allow the use of nonconstrained arthroplasty while preventing aseptic loosening. We retrospectively compared 50 knee APCs performed with non-constrained revision knee prosthesis (Group 1) with 36 matched APCs performed with a constrained prosthesis (Group 2). In Group 1, the survival rate was 69% at five and 62% at ten years. Sixteen reconstructions were removed due to complications: eight deep infections, three fractures, two instabilities, one aseptic loosening, one local recurrence, and one nonunion. In Group 2, the survival rate was 80% at five and 53% at ten years. Nine reconstructions were removed: 3 due to deep infections, 3 to fractures, and 3 to aseptic loosening. In both groups, we observed more allograft fractures when the prosthetic stem does not bypass the host-donor osteotomy (). Both groups had mainly good or excellent MSTS functional results. Survival rate and functional scores and aseptic loosening were similar in both groups. A rotating-hinge APC is recommended when host-donor soft tissue reconstruction fails to restore knee instability. The use of a short prosthetic stem has a statistical relationship with APC fractures.
History of the Tether Concept and Tether Missions: A Review
Authors: Chen Yi , Huang Rui , Ren Xianlin , He Liping , He Ye
Published: February 2013

This paper introduces history of space tethers, including tether concepts and tether missions, and attempts to provide a source of references for historical understanding of space tethers. Several concepts of space tethers since the original concept has been conceived are listed in the literature, as well as a summary of interesting applications, and a research of space tethers is given. With the aim of implementing scientific experiments in aerospace, several space tether missions which have been delivered for aerospace application are introduced in the literature.
Singularities of a Space Curve according to the Relatively Parallel Adapted Frame and Its Visualization
Authors: Liu Haiming , Pei Donghe
Published: February 2013

The relatively parallel adapted frame or Bishop frame is an alternative approach to define a moving frame that is well defined even when the curve has vanished second derivative, and it has been widely used in the areas of biology, engineering, and computer graphics. The main result of this paper is using the relatively parallel adapted frame for classification of singularity type of Bishop spherical Darboux image and Bishop dual which are deeply related with a space curve and making them visualized by computer.
Role of Cox-2 in Vascular Inflammation: An Experimental Model of Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Renna Nicolás F. , Diez Emiliano R. , Lembo Carina , Miatello Roberto M.
Published: February 2013

The objective of this work was to demonstrate the role of COX-2 enzyme at the vascular in experimental model of metabolic syndrome. SHR male WKY rats were employed; they were distributed in 8 groups (n=8each): control (W); W + L: WKY rats receiving 20 mg/kg of lumiracoxib by intraesophageal administration; SHR; SHR + L: SHR + 20 mg/kg of lumiracoxib by intraesophageal administration; Fructose-Fed Rats (FFR): WKY rats receiving 10% (w/v) fructose solution in drinking water during all 12 weeks; FFR + L: FFR + 20 mg/kg of lumiracoxib by intraesophageal administration; Fructose-Fed Hypertensive Rats (FFHR): SHR receiving 10% (w/v) fructose solution in drinking water during all 12 weeks; and FFHR + L: FFHR + 20 mg/kg of lumiracoxib by intraesophageal administration. Metabolic variables, blood pressure, morphometric variables, and oxidative stress variables were evaluated; also MMP-2 and MMP-9 (collagenases), VCAM-1, and NF-κB by Westernblot or IFI were evaluated. FFHR presented all variables of metabolic syndrome; there was also an increase in oxidative stress variables; vascular remodeling and left ventricular hypertrophy were evidenced along with a significant increase in the expression of the mentioned proinflammatory molecules and increased activity and expression of collagenase. Lumiracoxib was able to reverse vascular remodeling changes and inflammation, demonstrating the involvement of COX-2 in the pathophysiology of vascular remodeling in this experimental model.
Inorganic Phosphate Modulates the Expression of the NaPi-2a Transporter in thetrans-Golgi Network and the Interaction with PIST in the Proximal Tubule
Authors: Lanaspa Miguel A. , Caldas Yupanqui A. , Breusegem Sophia Y. , Andrés-Hernando Ana , Cicerchi Christina , Levi Moshe , Sorribas Victor
Published: February 2013

Inorganic phosphate (Pi) homeostasis is maintained by the tight regulation of renal Pi excretion versus reabsorption rates that are in turn modulated by adjusting the number of Pi transporters (mainly NaPi-2a) in the proximal tubules. In response to some hormones and a high dietary Pi content, NaPi-2a is endocytosed and degraded in the lysosomes; however, we show here that some NaPi-2a molecules are targeted to thetrans-Golgi network (TGN) during the endocytosis. In the TGN, NaPi-2a interacts with PIST (PDZ-domain protein interacting specifically with TC10), a TGN-resident PDZ-domain-containing protein. The extension of the interaction is proportional to the expression of NaPi-2a in the TGN, and, consistent with that, it is increased with a high Pi diet. When overexpressed in opossum kidney (OK) cells, PIST retains NaPi-2a in the TGN and inhibits Na-dependent Pi transport. Overexpression of PIST also prevents the adaptation of OK cells to a low Pi culture medium. Our data supports the view that NaPi-2a is subjected to retrograde trafficking from the plasma membrane to the TGN using one of the machineries involved in endosomal transport and explains the reported expression of NaPi-2a in the TGN.
Generalised versus Regional Odontodysplasia: Diagnosis, Transitional Management, and Long-Term Followup—A Report of 2 Cases
Authors: Ibrahim Mostafa Mostafa , Samir Taha Nehad , Ismail Mehrez Mennat Allah
Published: February 2013

Background. Odontodysplasia is an uncommon condition. It can be localised or generalised, isolated or part of a syndrome.Case Report. We first report the case of an 8.5-year-old boy who presented with abnormally shaped teeth and multiple intraoral abscesses. Findings of clinical and radiographic examinations were consistent with those of generalised odontodysplasia. A 2-step, conservative treatment plan was executed with a 10-year followup. Step 1 was root canal treatment of nonvital teeth. Step 2 was crowning without preparation of new vital, erupted, and malformed teeth. The second case is that of a 12-year-old girl who presented with lack of teeth in the upper-left quadrant. The impacted teeth were exposed surgically, and fixed restoration was performed for temporary aesthetic improvement.Conclusion. Instead of tooth extraction, an approach previously used in similar cases, conservative management is feasible and offers better prosthetic treatment options for the future.
Optimal Approaches for Measuring Tongue-Pressure Functional Reserve
Authors: Steele Catriona M.
Published: February 2013

Tongue-palate pressure is a parameter of considerable interest in the field of dysphagia. Maximum isometric tongue-palate pressures (MIPs) decline in healthy aging and in dysphagia. Functional reserve (FR) is the difference between MIPs and swallowing pressures. Reduced FR is thought to constitute a risk for developing functional swallowing impairments. We compare different approaches for calculating FR and recommend an optimal approach. Tongue-palate pressure data were collected from 78 healthy adults (4060) during anterior and posterior MIPs, regular (RESS) and effortful (ESS) saliva swallows, and water swallows (4 repetitions per task). Six different measures of reserve were calculated using maximum anterior MIPs or ESS pressures at the top, and mean or maximum RESS or water swallow pressures at the bottom of the range. Correlations with age and MIPs were explored to confirm suitability for measuring FR. The impact of normalization to maximum MIP range was explored. We conclude that an optimal measure of FR involves the comparison of maximum MIP with mean saliva swallowing pressures. This parameter declines with age, but when normalized to an individual’s MIP range, the relationship is no longer evident. This suggests that FR does not necessarily decline in healthy aging.
Synchronization of Chaotic Delayed Fuzzy Neural Networks under Impulsive and Stochastic Perturbations
Authors: Li Bing , Song Qiankun
Published: February 2013

The synchronization problem of chaotic fuzzy cellular neural networks with mixed delays is investigated. By an impulsive integrodifferential inequality and the Itô's formula, some sufficient criteria to synchronize the networks under both impulsive and stochastic perturbations are obtained. The example and simulations are given to demonstrate the efficiency and advantages of the proposed results.
The Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Acupuncture and Their Relevance to Allergic Rhinitis: A Narrative Review and Proposed Model
Authors: McDonald John L. , Cripps Allan W. , Smith Peter K. , Smith Caroline A. , Xue Charlie C. , Golianu Brenda
Published: February 2013

Classical literature indicates that acupuncture has been used for millennia to treat numerous inflammatory conditions, including allergic rhinitis. Recent research has examined some of the mechanisms underpinning acupuncture's anti-inflammatory effects which include mediation by sympathetic and parasympathetic pathways. The hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis has been reported to mediate the antioedema effects of acupuncture, but not antihyperalgesic actions during inflammation. Other reported anti-inflammatory effects of acupuncture include an antihistamine action and downregulation of proinflammatory cytokines (such as TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10), proinflammatory neuropeptides (such as SP, CGRP, and VIP), and neurotrophins (such as NGF and BDNF) which can enhance and prolong inflammatory response. Acupuncture has been reported to suppress the expression of COX-1, COX-2, and iNOS during experimentally induced inflammation. Downregulation of the expression and sensitivity of the transient receptor potential vallinoid 1 (TRPV1) after acupuncture has been reported. In summary, acupuncture may exert anti-inflammatory effects through a complex neuro-endocrino-immunological network of actions. Many of these generic anti-inflammatory effects of acupuncture are of direct relevance to allergic rhinitis; however, more research is needed to elucidate specifically how immune mechanisms might be modulated by acupuncture in allergic rhinitis, and to this end a proposed model is offered to guide further research.
Cardiovascular Responses Associated with Daily Walking in Subacute Stroke
Authors: Prajapati Sanjay K. , Mansfield Avril , Gage William H. , Brooks Dina , McIlroy William E.
Published: February 2013

Despite the importance of regaining independent ambulation after stroke, the amount of daily walking completed during in-patient rehabilitation is low. The purpose of this study is to determine if (1) walking-related heart rate responses reached the minimum intensity necessary for therapeutic aerobic exercise (40%–60% heart rate reserve) or (2) heart rate responses during bouts of walking revealed excessive workload that may limit walking (>80% heart rate reserve). Eight individuals with subacute stroke attending in-patient rehabilitation were recruited. Participants wore heart rate monitors and accelerometers during a typical rehabilitation day. Walking-related changes in heart rate and walking bout duration were determined. Patients did not meet the minimum cumulative requirements of walking intensity (>40% heart rate reserve) and duration (>10 minutes continuously) necessary for cardiorespiratory benefit. Only one patient exceeded 80% heart rate reserve. The absence of significant increases in heart rate associated with walking reveals that patients chose to walk at speeds well below a level that has meaningful cardiorespiratory health benefits. Additionally, cardiorespiratory workload is unlikely to limit participation in walking. Measurement of heart rate and walking during in-patient rehabilitation may be a useful approach to encourage patients to increase the overall physical activity and to help facilitate recovery.
A Fusion Algorithm for GFP Image and Phase Contrast Image of Arabidopsis Cell Based on SFL-Contourlet Transform
Authors: Feng Peng , Wang Jing , Wei Biao , Mi Deling
Published: February 2013

A hybrid multiscale and multilevel image fusion algorithm for green fluorescent protein (GFP) image and phase contrast image of Arabidopsis cell is proposed in this paper. Combining intensity-hue-saturation (IHS) transform and sharp frequency localization Contourlet transform (SFL-CT), this algorithm uses different fusion strategies for different detailed subbands, which include neighborhood consistency measurement (NCM) that can adaptively find balance between color background and gray structure. Also two kinds of neighborhood classes based on empirical model are taken into consideration. Visual information fidelity (VIF) as an objective criterion is introduced to evaluate the fusion image. The experimental results of 117 groups of Arabidopsis cell image from John Innes Center show that the new algorithm cannot only make the details of original images well preserved but also improve the visibility of the fusion image, which shows the superiority of the novel method to traditional ones.
Influence of Processing Method on the Mechanical and Electrical Properties of MWCNT/PET Composites
Authors: Rodríguez-Uicab O. , May-Pat A. , Avilés F. , Toro P. , Yazdani-Pedram M.
Published: February 2013

Multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT)/polyethylene terephthalate (PET) composites were prepared by three processing methods: direct extrusion (DE), melt compounding followed by extrusion (MCE), and dispersion of the MWCNTs in a solvent by sonication followed by extrusion (SSE). The mechanical properties of the MWCNT/PET composites processed by MCE increased with 0.1 wt% MWCNTs with respect to the neat PET. The electrical percolation threshold of MWCNT/PET composites processed by DE and MCE was ~1 wt% and the conductivity was higher for composites processed by MCE. Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy showed that mixing the MWCNTs by melt compounding before extruding yields better dispersion of the MWCNTs within the PET matrix. The processing method assisted by a solvent resulted in matrix plasticization.
Inflammation-Related Effects of Diesel Engine Exhaust Particles: Studies on Lung CellsIn Vitro
Authors: Schwarze P. E. , Totlandsdal A. I. , Låg M. , Refsnes M. , Holme J. A. , Øvrevik J.
Published: February 2013

Diesel exhaust and its particles (DEP) have been under scrutiny for health effects in humans. In the development of these effects inflammation is regarded as a key process. Overall,in vitrostudies report similar DEP-induced changes in markers of inflammation, including cytokines and chemokines, as studiesin vivo.In vitrostudies suggest that soluble extracts of DEP have the greatest impact on the expression and release of proinflammatory markers. Main DEP mediators of effects have still not been identified and are difficult to find, as fuel and engine technology developments lead to continuously altered characteristics of emissions. Involved mechanisms remain somewhat unclear. DEP extracts appear to comprise components that are able to activate various membrane and cytosolic receptors. Through interactions with receptors, ion channels, and phosphorylation enzymes, molecules in the particle extract will trigger various cell signaling pathways that may lead to the release of inflammatory markers directly or indirectly by causing cell death.In vitrostudies represent a fast and convenient system which may have implications for technology development. Furthermore, knowledge regarding how particles elicit their effects may contribute to understanding of DEP-induced health effectsin vivo, with possible implications for identifying susceptible groups of people and effect biomarkers.
The Treatment of Liver Metastases in Patients with Neuroendocrine Tumors in 2012
Authors: Macedo Daniela , Amaral Teresa , Fernandes Isabel , Sousa Ana Rita , Costa Ana Lúcia , Távora Isabel , Quintela António , Cortes Paulo , Costa Luís
Published: February 2013

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) comprise a heterogeneous group of tumors that form a distinct entity. Approximately 75–80% of patients present with liver metastases at the time of their diagnosis, and 20%–25% will develop these lesions in the course of their disease. The presence of secondary deposits in the liver significantly increases the morbidity and mortality in these patients. The only potentially curative treatment is the surgical resection of the primary tumor and hepatic lesions. However, only 10% of patients presents under ideal conditions for that approach. Several techniques aimed at localized liver lesions have been applied also with interesting results in terms of survival and symptom control. The same has been demonstrated with new systemic therapies (target therapies). However, these are still under study, in order to define their true role in the management of these patients. This paper intends to address, in a general way, the various treatment options in patients with liver metastases from neuroendocrine tumors.
Adipose-Derived Stem Cells in Tissue Regeneration: A Review
Authors: Zuk Patricia
Published: February 2013

In 2001, researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles, described the isolation of a new population of adult stem cells from liposuctioned adipose tissue. These stem cells, now known as adipose-derived stem cells or ADSCs, have gone on to become one of the most popular adult stem cells populations in the fields of stem cell research and regenerative medicine. As of today, thousands of research and clinical articles have been published using ASCs, describing their possible pluripotency in vitro, their uses in regenerative animal models, and their application to the clinic. This paper outlines the progress made in the ASC field since their initial description in 2001, describing their mesodermal, ectodermal, and endodermal potentials both in vitro and in vivo, their use in mediating inflammation and vascularization during tissue regeneration, and their potential for reprogramming into induced pluripotent cells.
Paranasal Sinus Neuroendocrine Carcinoma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Sirsath Nagesh T. , Babu K. Govind , Das Umesh , Premlatha C. S.
Published: February 2013

Neuroendocrine neoplasms are defined as epithelial neoplasms with predominant neuroendocrine differentiation. They can arise in almost every organ of the body although they are most commonly found in the gastrointestinal tract and respiratory system. Nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses are a rare site for neuroendocrine carcinoma. In contrast to the other regions, neuroendocrine tumours of the sinuses have been reported to be recurrent and locally destructive. Very few cases of paranasal sinus neuroendocrine carcinoma have been reported till date. Difficulty in pathologic diagnosis and rarity of this malignancy have hindered the progress in understanding the clinical course and improving outcomes. We herein report a case of poorly differentiated neuroendocrine tumour of ethmoid and sphenoid sinus with invasion of orbit and intracranial extension. The patient had complete response at the end of chemoradiation and he was disease-free for 9 months duration after which he developed bone metastasis without regional recurrence.
Increasing Hematopoietic Stem Cell Yield to Develop Mice with Human Immune Systems
Authors: Biancotti Juan-Carlos , Town Terrence
Published: February 2013

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are unique in their capacity to give rise to all mature cells of the immune system. For years, HSC transplantation has been used for treatment of genetic and neoplastic diseases of the hematopoietic and immune systems. The sourcing of HSCs from human umbilical cord blood has salient advantages over isolation from mobilized peripheral blood. However, poor sample yield has prompted development of methodologies to expand HSCsex vivo. Cytokines, trophic factors, and small molecules have been variously used to promote survival and proliferation of HSCs in culture, whilst strategies to lower the concentration of inhibitors in the culture media have recently been applied to promote HSC expansion. In this paper, we outline strategies to expand HSCsin vitro, and to improve engraftment and reconstitution of human immune systems in immunocompromised mice. To the extent that these “humanized” mice are representative of the endogenous human immune system, they will be invaluable tools for both basic science and translational medicine.
Evaluation of Adipokines: Apelin, Visfatin, and Resistin in Children with Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Machura Edyta , Szczepanska Maria , Ziora Katarzyna , Ziora Dariusz , Swietochowska Elzbieta , Barc-Czarnecka Małgorzata , Kasperska-Zajac Alicja
Published: February 2013

Very little is known about the role of adipokines in atopic dermatitis (AD) in children. This study aimed at analyzing the serum levels of resistin, apelin, and visfatin in children with AD in relation to body weight, AD severity, and gender. Serum concentration of adipokines was measured in 27 children with AD and in 46 healthy subjects. Selected biochemical parameters were evaluated and skin prick test was performed. Serum levels of resistin and apelin were significantly higher, whereas serum visfatin concentration was significantly lower in children with AD versus healthy controls, although an increase in resistin levels was exclusively demonstrated in boys. In AD group, a significant increase in apelin levels in girls was documented. There was no relationship between adipokines levels and the degree of allergic sensitization. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis demonstrated that the serum apelin cutoff value differentiating children with AD from those without was >137.8 pg/mL. Resistin and visfatin cutoff values were >3.8 ng/mL and ≤ 2.13 ng/mL, respectively. Apelin and visfatin can serve as excellent indicators to distinguish children with AD from those without disease.
Methods for Solving Generalized Nash Equilibrium
Authors: Qu Biao , Zhao Jing
Published: February 2013

The generalized Nash equilibrium problem (GNEP) is an extension of the standard Nash equilibrium problem (NEP), in which each player's strategy set may depend on the rival player's strategies. In this paper, we present two descent type methods. The algorithms are based on a reformulation of the generalized Nash equilibrium using Nikaido-Isoda function as unconstrained optimization. We prove that our algorithms are globally convergent and the convergence analysis is not based on conditions guaranteeing that every stationary point of the optimization problem is a solution of the GNEP.
Distinct Molecular Effects of Angiotensin II and Angiotensin III in Rat Astrocytes
Authors: Clark Michelle A. , Nguyen Chinh , Tran Hieu
Published: February 2013

It is postulated that central effects of angiotensin (Ang) II may be indirect due to rapid conversion to Ang III by aminopeptidase A (APA). Previously, we showed that Ang II and Ang III induced mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases ERK1/2 and stress-activated protein kinase/Jun-terminal kinases (SAPK/JNK) phosphorylation in cultured rat astrocytes. Most importantly, both peptides were equipotent in causing phosphorylation of these MAP kinases. In these studies, we used brainstem and cerebellum astrocytes to determine whether Ang II’s phosphorylation of these MAP kinases is due to the conversion of the peptide to Ang III. We pretreated astrocytes with 10 μM amastatin A or 100 μM glutamate phosphonate, selective APA inhibitors, prior to stimulating with either Ang II or Ang III. Both peptides were equipotent in stimulating ERK1/2 and SAPK/JNK phosphorylation. The APA inhibitors failed to prevent Ang II- and Ang III-mediated phosphorylation of the MAP kinases. Further, pretreatment of astrocytes with the APA inhibitors did not affect Ang II- or Ang III-induced astrocyte growth. These findings suggest that both peptides directly induce phosphorylation of these MAP kinases as well as induce astrocyte growth. These studies establish both peptides as biologically active with similar intracellular and physiological effects.
Use of Herbal Dietary Supplement Si-Wu-Tang and Health-Related Quality of Life in Postpartum Women: A Population-Based Correlational Study
Authors: Chang Pei-Jen , Lin Ching-Chun , Chen Yi Chun , Chuang Chao-Hua , Tseng Yu-Ching , Hsieh Wu-Shiun , Lin Shio-Jean , Chen Pau-Chung
Published: February 2013

Objective. The aim of the study was to explore the association between women’s use of herbal dietary supplement Si-Wu-Tang during the postpartum period and their health-related quality of life.Methods. This is a population-based correlational study. We used multistage, stratified, systematic sampling to recruit 24,200 pairs of postpartum women and newborns from the Taiwan National Birth Registry in 2005. A structured questionnaire was successfully administered to 87.8% of the sampled population. Trained interviewers performed home interviews 6 months after the women’s deliveries between June 2005 and July 2006. The Medical Outcomes Study 36-item Short-Form (SF-36) was used to measure the quality of life of the women along with the frequency of Si-Wu-Tang use.Results. Si-Wu-Tang use after delivery improved women’s score for bodily pain and also improved their score for mental health when used more than 10 times. In addition, there were increases in general health and vitality scores in the group who continuously used Si-Wu-Tang more than 10 times after using Sheng-Hua-Tang.Conclusion. Use of Si-Wu-Tang after delivery may be associated with women’s health-related quality of life especially for those who previously used Sheng-Hua-Tang. These results are exploratory and need to be replicated.
Gossypiboma after Breast Augmentation
Authors: Lundin Kira , Allen Julie E. , Birk-Soerensen Lene
Published: February 2013

A 39-year-old woman was referred for removal of cosmetic breast implants and related siliconoma. After an exchange of breast implants at a private clinic a year previously, she had asymmetry of the right breast, persistent pain, and a generally unacceptable cosmetic result. An MRI had shown a well-defined area with spots of silicone-like material at the upper pole of the right breast. Surgical removal of presumed silicone-imbibed breast tissue was undertaken, and surprisingly a gossypiboma was found in its place, which had not been identified on the MRI. Gossypiboma is the condition of an accidentally retained surgical sponge. This complication is also known as a textiloma, gauzoma, or muslinoma and is well described in other surgical specialties. However, it is extremely rare after plastic surgery, and this case illustrates the need for continued attention to the surgical count of sponges and instruments.
The Problem of Image Recovery by the Metric Projections in Banach Spaces
Authors: Kimura Yasunori , Nakajo Kazuhide
Published: February 2013

We consider the problem of image recovery by the metric projections in a real Banach space. For a countable family of nonempty closed convex subsets, we generate an iterative sequence converging weakly to a point in the intersection of these subsets. Our convergence theorems extend the results proved by Bregman and Crombez.
A Nonoverlapping Domain Decomposition Method for an Exterior Anisotropic Quasilinear Elliptic Problem in Elongated Domains
Authors: Liu Baoqing , Du Qikui
Published: February 2013

Based on the Kirchhoff transformation, a nonoverlapping domain decomposition method is discussed for solving exterior anisotropic quasilinear problems with elliptic artificial boundary. By the principle of the natural boundary reduction, we obtain the natural integral equation for the anisotropic quasilinear problem on elliptic artificial boundaries and construct the algorithm and analyze its convergence. Moreover, we give the existence and uniqueness result for the original problem. Finally, some numerical examples are presented to illustrate the feasibility of the method.
Vaccine Adverse Events Reported during the First Ten Years (1998–2008) after Introduction in the State of Rondonia, Brazil
Authors: Cunha Mônica P. L. , Dórea José G. , Marques Rejane C. , Leão Renata S.
Published: February 2013

Despite good safety records, vaccines given to young children can cause adverse events. We investigated the reported adverse events following immunization (AEFI) of vaccines given to children of less than seven years of age during the first ten years (1998 to 2008) in the state of Rondonia, Brazil. We worked with the events related to BCG (Bacillus Calmett-Guérin), HB (hepatitis B), DTwP/Hib (diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis+Hemophillus influenza b), DTP (diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis), MMR (mumps, measles, rubella), and YF (yellow fever) vaccines because they were part of the recommended scheme. The number of doses of vaccines given was 3,231,567 with an average of AEFI of 57.2/year during the studied period. DTwP/Hib was responsible for 298 (57.8%), DTP 114 (22.9%), HB 31 (6%), MMR 28 (5.4%), BCG 24 (4.7%), and YF 20 (3.9%) of the reported AEFI. The combination of the AEFI for DTwP/Hib vaccines showed the highest number of systemic (61.4%) and local events (33.8%). Young children (≤1-year old) were more susceptible to AEFI occurring in the 6 hours (54.2%) following vaccine uptake. This study suggests significant differences in reactogenicity of vaccines and that despite limitations of the AEFI Brazilian registry system we cannot ignore underreporting and should use the system to expand our understanding of adverse events and effects.
Can Transient Drop in Blood Pressure in High-Risk Hypertensive Patients Cause Small Cerebral Infarcts?
Authors: Bhagavati Satyakam , Choi Jai
Published: February 2013

Background. Multiple, simultaneous, acute cerebral infarcts in different arterial territories are usually secondary to embolic occlusion of multiple cerebral arteries. We observed, however, that no cardiac or aortic source could be found in many of these patients. We therefore undertook this study to attempt to identify other factors that may be important in the causation of these infarcts. Materials and Methods. We performed a five-year retrospective review of all patients with multiple, near simultaneous, acute cerebral infarcts detected on diffusion-weighted MRI scans. Results. We identified 78 patients with acute infarcts, in different cerebral arterial territories. We found a cardiac embolic source in 15 (19 percent) patients. Forty-one patients (53%) had no obvious cause for their infarcts after detailed cardiovascular and hematological evaluation. In 16 of these patients (20% of all 78 patients), all with a history of chronic hypertension who had multiple, acute, small (<2 cms), deep subcortical or superficial cortical infarcts (and most, 93%, with extensive evidence of chronic small vessel disease on MRI FLAIR images), blood pressure was low or normal on initial presentation (mean arterial pressure, MAP: 85 ± 11.4 mm Hg). Analysis of the last prestroke blood pressure, within the previous 1 to 11 days available in 13 of 16 patients, revealed much higher BP (MAP: 113.6 ± 11.3 mm Hg), indicating a mean drop of 25.1 percent (range 11 to 44 percent). Two weeks after the stroke, blood pressure had risen again to greater than 160/100 mm Hg (MAP: 128.2 ± 14.3). Conclusion. Our study suggests that transient drop in blood pressure in high-risk hypertensive patients with severe, small vessel disease may sometimes result in small, cerebral infarcts. More research is needed to further clarify and confirm this possibility.