bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Exurbanization on Bird and Macroinvertebrate Communities in Deciduous Forests on the Cumberland Plateau, Tennessee
Authors: Casey Jordan M. , Wilson Marie E. , Hollingshead Nicholas , Haskell David G.
Published: February 2010

To investigate the potential causes of changes to bird communities in exurban areas, we examined the relationship between bird and macroinvertebrate communities in exurbanized forest. We randomly located sampling points across a gradient of exurbanization. We used point counts to quantify bird communities and sweep netting, soil cores, pitfalls, and frass collectors to quantify macroinvertebrates. Bird communities had higher richness and abundance in exurban areas compared to undeveloped forests, and lost some species of conservation concern but gained others. The macroinvertebrate community was slightly more abundant in exurban areas, with a slight shift in taxonomic composition. The abundance of macroinvertebrates in soil cores (but not pitfalls) predicted the abundance of ground-foraging birds. The abundance of macroinvertebrates in sweep nets was not associated with the abundance of aerial insectivore birds. Exurbanization therefore appears to change bird and macroinvertebrate communities, but to a lesser extent than agricultural forest fragmentation or intensive urbanization.
Influence ofSalvia miltiorrhizaeon the Mesenteric Lymph Node of Rats with Severe Acute Pancreatitis or Obstructive Jaundice
Authors: Xiping Zhang , Jie Zhang , Shuyun Ye , Qili Wang , Guanghua Feng , Yan Pan
Published: February 2010

Objective. To observe the effect ofsalvia miltiorrhizaeinjection on inflammatory mediator levels and mesenteric lymph nodes in severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) and obstructive jaundice (OJ) rats and explore the protective mechanism ofsalvia miltiorrhizaeon the lymph nodes of these rats.Methods. A total of 288 rats were used in SAP-associated and OJ-associated experiments. The rats were randomly divided into sham-operated group, model control group, and treated group. At various time points after operation, the pathological changes in mesenteric lymph nodes of rats in each group were observed, respectively.Results. The pathological severity scores in lymph nodes of SAP rats in treated group were significantly lower than those in model control group (P<.05) while the pathological changes in lymph nodes of OJ rats in treated group also showed varying degrees of mitigation.Conclusion.Salvia miltiorrhizaecan exert protective effects on the lymph nodes of SAP or OJ rats via a mechanism that is associated with reducing the contents of inflammatory mediators in blood.
Oxymatrine Downregulates TLR4, TLR2, MyD88, and NF-κB and Protects Rat Brains against Focal Ischemia
Authors: Fan Hongguang , Li Litao , Zhang Xiangjian , Liu Ying , Yang Chenhui , Yang Yi , Yin Jing
Published: February 2010

Inflammatory damage plays an important role in cerebral ischemic pathogenesis and may represent a target for treatment. Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4), toll-like receptor-2 (TLR2), myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), and nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) have been linked to inflammatory reactions. Our previous studies have proved that oxymatrine (OMT) protected ischemic brain injury and this effect may be through the decreasing of NF-κB expression. However, little is known regarding the mechanism of OMT in the acute phase of ischemic stroke. We therefore investigated the OMT's potential neuroprotective role and the underlying mechanisms. Male, Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into sham, saline and OMT treatment groups. We used a middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model and administered OMT intraperitoneally immediately after cerebral ischemia and once daily on the following days. At time points after MCAO, brain water content and infarct size were measured. Immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR were used to analyse the expression of TLR4, TLR2, MyD88, and NF-κB at gene and protein level in ischemic brain tissue. The result indicated that OMT protected the brain from damage caused by MCAO; this effect may be through downregulation of the TLR4, TLR2, MyD88, and NF-κB.
Varying Collimation for Dark‐Field Extraction
Authors: Wang Ge , Cong Wenxiang , Shen Haiou , Zou Yu
Published: February 2010

Although x‐ray imaging is widely used in biomedical applications, biological soft tissues have small density changes, leading to low contrast resolution for attenuation‐based x‐ray imaging. Over the past years, x‐ray small‐angle scattering was studied as a new contrast mechanism to enhance subtle structural variation within the soft tissue. In this paper, we present a detection method to extract this type of x‐ray scattering data, which are also referred to as dark‐field signals. The key idea is to acquire an x‐ray projection multiple times with varying collimation before an x‐ray detector array. The projection data acquired with a collimator of a sufficiently high collimation aspect ratio contain mainly the primary beam with little scattering, while the data acquired with an appropriately reduced collimation aspect ratio include both the primary beam and small‐angle scattering signals. Then, analysis of these corresponding datasets will produce desirable dark‐field signals; for example, via digitally subtraction. In the numerical experiments, the feasibility of our dark‐field detection technology is demonstrated in Monte Carlo simulation. The results show that the acquired dark field signals can clearly reveal the structural information of tissues in terms of Rayleigh scattering characteristics.
Semi‐Biosynthesis of Magnetite‐Gold Composite Nanoparticles Using an Ethanol Extract of Eucalyptus camaldulensis and Study of the Surface Chemistry
Authors: Haratifar Emad al din , Shahverdi Hamid Reza , Shakibaie Mojtaba , Mollazadeh Moghaddam Kamyar , Amini Mohsen , Montazeri Hojatollah , Shahverdi Ahmad Reza
Published: February 2010

Green synthesis of metal nanoparticles, such as silver or gold nanoparticles, has been attracting increasing attention in recent years. Functionalized magnetite nanoparticles have many uses in various applications, including nanoelectronic devices, molecular recognition, biomedical applications, drug delivery targeting, and optical devices. In this investigation, magnetic cores (Fe3O4) were synthesized using a fabrication method involving coprecipitation of Fe2+ and Fe3+. In the next step, magnetite‐gold composite nanoparticles were synthesized with size ranging from 6–20 nm, using an ethanol extract of Eucalyptus camaldulensis as a natural reducing agent. Transmission electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction spectroscopy, and visible absorption spectroscopy confirmed the fabrication of magnetite‐gold composite nanoparticles. In the UV spectra diagram, a red‐shift of the surface plasmon of the Au was evidence that contact between gold and Fe3O4 had occurred. The surface chemistry of the as‐prepared magnetite‐gold nanoparticles was studied using infrared spectroscopy. The presence of organic compounds with a carboxyl moiety was confirmed on the surface of the magnetite‐gold nanoparticles fabricated by this combined chemical and biological reducing process, which we have designated as a semi‐biosynthesis method.
Generalized Hyers‐Ulam‐Rassias Theorem in Menger Probabilistic Normed Spaces
Authors: Gordji M. Eshaghi , Ghaemi M. B. , Majani H.
Published: February 2010

We introduce two reasonable versions of approximately additive
functions in a Šerstnev probabilistic normed space endowed
with ΠM triangle function. More precisely, we show under
some suitable conditions that an approximately additive function
can be approximated by an additive mapping in above mentioned
spaces.
Towards an Understanding of the Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Latency-Reactivation Cycle
Authors: Perng Guey-Chuen , Jones Clinton
Published: February 2010

Infection by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) can cause clinical symptoms in the peripheral and central nervous system. Recurrent ocular shedding can lead to corneal scarring and vision loss making HSV-1 a leading cause of corneal blindness due to an infectious agent. The primary site of HSV-1 latency is sensory neurons within trigeminal ganglia. Periodically, reactivation from latency occurs resulting in virus transmission and recurrent disease. During latency, the latency-associated transcript (LAT) is abundantly expressed. LAT expression is important for the latency-reactivation cycle in animal models, in part, because it inhibits apoptosis, viral gene expression, and productive infection. A novel transcript within LAT coding sequences (AL3) and small nonprotein coding RNAs are also expressed in trigeminal ganglia of latently infected mice. In this review, an update of viral factors that are expressed during latency and their potential roles in regulating the latency-reactivation cycle is discussed.
The Role of Apolipoprotein E in Guillain-Barré Syndrome and Experimental Autoimmune Neuritis
Authors: Zhang Hong-liang , Wu Jiang , Zhu Jie
Published: February 2010

Apolipoprotein E (apoE) is a 34.2 kDa glycosylated protein characterized by its wide tissue distribution and multiple functions. ApoE has been widely studied in lipid metabolism, cardiocerebrovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment, and so forth. Recently, a growing body of evidence has pointed to nonlipid related properties of apoE, including suppression of T cell proliferation, regulation of macrophage function, facilitation of lipid antigen presentation by CD1 molecules to natural killer T (NKT) cells, and modulation of inflammation and oxidation. By these properties, apoE impacts physiology and pathophysiology at multiple levels. The present paper summarizes updated studies on the immunoregulatory function of apoE, with special focus on isoform-specific effects of apoE on Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) and its animal model experimental autoimmune neuritis (EAN).
Evasion of Apoptosis as a Cellular Stress Response in Cancer
Authors: Fulda Simone
Published: February 2010

One of the hallmarks of human cancers is the intrinsic or acquired resistance to apoptosis. Evasion of apoptosis can be part of a cellular stress response to ensure the cell's survival upon exposure to stressful stimuli. Apoptosis resistance may contribute to carcinogenesis, tumor progression, and also treatment resistance, since most current anticancer therapies including chemotherapy as well as radio- and immunotherapies primarily act by activating cell death pathways including apoptosis in cancer cells. Hence, a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms regarding how cellular stress stimuli trigger antiapoptotic mechanisms and how this contributes to tumor resistance to apoptotic cell death is expected to provide the basis for a rational approach to overcome apoptosis resistance mechanisms in cancers.
Harmonic Scalpel Compared to Conventional Hemostasis in Thyroid Surgery: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Melck Adrienne L. , Wiseman Sam M.
Published: February 2010

Background. The study's aim was to determine whether conventional hemostasis (CH) or the Harmonic Scalpel (HS) results in shorter operative times for thyroidectomy and to evaluate the incidence of postoperative complications with each approach.Methods. A literature search was conducted from study inception to September 30, 2008. Included studies randomized thyroidectomy patients to either CH or HS and reported the incidence of postoperative transient recurrent laryngeal nerve dysfunction (RLND) and hypocalcemia.Results. Nine RCTs were included. Use of the HS reduced operative time by 23.1 minutes (95% CI = 13.8, 32.33). There was no difference in the incidence of transient RLND (RR = 1.25, 95% CI = .56, 2.76), but a lower rate of transient hypocalcemia with the use of the HS (RR = .69, 95% CI = .51, .92).Conclusions. The use of HS in thyroidectomy significantly reduces operative time and is associated with a reduction in postoperative hypocalcemia compared to CH.
Role of Reactive Oxygen Species in the Progression of Type 2 Diabetes and Atherosclerosis
Authors: Kaneto Hideaki , Katakami Naoto , Matsuhisa Munehide , Matsuoka Taka-aki
Published: February 2010

Type 2 diabetes is the most prevalent and serious metabolic disease all over the world, and its hallmarks are pancreatic -cell dysfunction and insulin resistance. Under diabetic conditions, chronic hyperglycemia and subsequent augmentation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) deteriorate -cell function and increase insulin resistance which leads to the aggravation of type 2 diabetes. In addition, chronic hyperglycemia and ROS are also involved in the development of atherosclerosis which is often observed under diabetic conditions. Taken together, it is likely that ROS play an important role in the development of type 2 diabetes and atherosclerosis.
Normed Domains of Holomorphy
Authors: Krantz Steven G.
Published: February 2010

We treat the classical concept of domain of holomorphy in ℂn when the holomorphic functions considered are restricted to lie in some Banach space. Positive and negative results are presented. A new view of the case n = 1 is considered.
Late Established Mutans Streptococci in Children over 3 Years Old
Authors: Okada Mitsugi , Taniguchi Yoshiko , Hayashi Fumiko , Doi Takako , Suzuki Junji , Sugai Motoyuki , Kozai Katsuyuki
Published: February 2010

Acquisition of mutans streptococci has been reported to most commonly occur at approximately 26 months of age. In the present study, we detectedStreptococcus mutansandS. sobrinususing polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays in children, then re-examined the subjects to determine the time of acquisition of these bacteria over a 1-year period. The subjects were 57 children ranging in age from 3 to 5 years old, each with primary dentition. Plaque samples were collected from all erupted tooth sites using a sterile toothbrush. PCR assays were performed to detect the targeted mutans streptococci at the beginning of the study (baseline) and after 1 year. At the baseline examination, the prevalence ofS. mutansandS. sobrinuswas 61.4% and 54.4%, respectively, in all subjects, of whom 14 (24.6%) were positive forS. mutansalone, 10 (17.5%) forS. sobrinusalone, and 21 (36.8%) for bothS. mutansandS. sobrinus, with 12 (21.1%) negative for both. After 1 year, 4 of 22 (18.2%) subjects newly had acquiredS. mutansand 15 of 26 (57.7%) had aquiredS. sobrinus, while 5 (8.8%) remained negative for both bacteria. The age of the first positiveS. mutansfinding ranged from 49 to 71 months, while that forS. sobrinusranged from 49 to 81 months old. Our results suggest thatS. sobrinusbecomes established later thanS. mutansin the oral cavities of children over the age of 3 years old.
Current Limitations and Perspectives in Single Port Surgery: Pros and Cons Laparo-Endoscopic Single-Site Surgery (LESS) for Renal Surgery
Authors: Weibl Peter , Klingler Hans-Christoph , Klatte Tobias , Remzi Mesut
Published: February 2010

Laparo-Endoscopic Single-Site surgery (LESS) for kidney diseases is quickly evolving and has a tendency to expand the urological armory of surgical techniques. However, we should not be overwhelmed by the surgical skills only and weight it against the basic clinical and oncological principles when compared to standard laparoscopy. The initial goal is to define the ideal candidates and ideal centers for LESS in the future. Modification of basic instruments in laparoscopy presumably cannot result in better functional and oncological outcomes, especially when the optimal working space is limited with the same arm movements. Single port surgery is considered minimally invasive laparoscopy; on the other hand, when using additional ports, it is no more single port, but hybrid traditional laparoscopy. Whether LESS is a superior or equally technique compared to traditional laparoscopy has to be proven by future prospective randomized trials.
Examining the Pathways Linking Chronic Sleep Restriction to Obesity
Authors: Magee Christopher A. , Huang Xu-Feng , Iverson Donald C. , Caputi Peter
Published: February 2010

A growing number of studies have identified chronic sleep restriction as a potential risk factor for obesity. This could have important implications for how obesity is prevented and managed, but current understanding of the processes linking chronic sleep restriction to obesity is incomplete. In this paper, we examined some of the pathways that could underlie the relationship between chronic sleep restriction and obesity. This involved exploring some of the potential environmental, health, behavioral, and sociodemographic determinants of chronic sleep restriction, which require further investigation in this context. Three pathways that could potentially link chronic sleep restriction to obesity were then examined: (1) altered neuroendocrine and metabolic function, (2) impaired glucose regulation, and (3) waking behavior. The selected pathways linking chronic sleep restriction to obesity reviewed in this paper are presented in a schematic representation; this may be used to guide future research in this area. This area of research is important because it may lead to more effective interventions and strategies to combat the present obesity epidemic.
FRAM—The Robotic Telescope for the Monitoring of the Wavelength Dependence of the Extinction: Description of Hardware, Data Analysis, and Results
Authors: Prouza Michael , Jelínek Martin , Kubánek Petr , Ebr Jan , Trávníček Petr , Šmída Radomír
Published: February 2010

FRAM—F/(Ph)otometric Robotic Atmospheric Monitor is one of the atmospheric monitoring instruments at the Pierre Auger Observatory in Argentina. FRAM is an
optical telescope equipped with CCD cameras and photometer, and it automatically
observes a set of selected standard stars. Primarily, FRAM observations are used to
obtain the wavelength dependence of the light extinction. FRAM telescope is also
able to observe secondary astronomical targets, and namely the detection of optical
counterparts of gamma‐ray bursts has already proven to be successful. Finally, a
wide‐field CCD camera of FRAM can be used for rapid monitoring of atmospheric
conditions along the track of particularly interesting cosmic ray showers. The hardware
setup of the telescope, its software system, data taking procedures, and results
of analysis are described in this paper.
Resonance and Nonresonance Periodic Value Problems of First‐Order Differential Systems
Authors: Zhang Fengqin , Yan Jurang
Published: February 2010

Resonance and nonresonance periodic value problems of first‐order
differential systems are studied. Several new existence and uniqueness of solutions
for the above problems are obtained. To establish such results sufficient
conditions of limit forms are given. A necessary and sufficient condition for
existence of nontrivial solution is also proved.
Therapeutic Implications of PPARγin Human Osteosarcoma
Authors: Wagner Eric R. , He Bai-Cheng , Chen Liang , Zuo Guo-Wei , Zhang Wenli , Shi Qiong , Luo Qing , Luo Xiaoji , Liu Bo , Luo Jinyong , Rastegar Farbod , He Connie J. , Hu Yawen , Boody Barrett , Luu Hue H. , He Tong-Chuan , Deng Zhong-Liang , Haydon Rex C.
Published: February 2010

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common nonhematologic malignancy of bone in children and adults. Although dysregulation of tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes, such as Rb, p53, and the genes critical to cell cycle control, genetic stability, and apoptosis have been identified in OS, consensus genetic changes that lead to OS development are poorly understood. Disruption of the osteogenic differentiation pathway may be at least in part responsible for OS tumorigenesis. Current OS management involves chemotherapy and surgery. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) agonists and/or retinoids can inhibit OS proliferation and induce apoptosis and may inhibit OS growth by promoting osteoblastic terminal differentiation. Thus, safe and effective PPAR agonists and/or retinoid derivatives can be then used as adjuvant therapeutic drugs for OS therapy. Furthermore, these agents have the potential to be used as chemopreventive agents for the OS patients who undergo the resection of the primary bone tumors in order to prevent local recurrence and/or distal pulmonary metastasis.
Global Exponential Stability of Impulsive Functional Differential Equations via Razumikhin Technique
Authors: Peng Shiguo , Yang Liping
Published: February 2010

This paper develops some new Razumikhin‐type theorems on global exponential
stability of impulsive functional differential equations. Some applications
are given to impulsive delay differential equations. Compared with
some existing works, a distinctive feature of this paper is to address exponential
stability problems for any finite delay. It is shown that the functional
differential equations can be globally exponentially stabilized by impulses
even if it may be unstable itself. Two examples verify the effectiveness of
the proposed results.
Surgical Reconstruction of Pelvic Floor Descent: Anatomic and Functional Aspects
Authors: Wagenlehner F.M.E. , Bschleipfer T. , Liedl B. , Gunnemann A. , Petros P. , Weidner W.
Published: February 2010

Introduction: The human pelvic floor is a complex structure and pelvic floor dysfunction is seen frequently in females. Materials and Methods: This review focuses on the surgical reconstruction of the pelvic floor employing recent findings on functional anatomy. A selective literature research was performed by the authors. Results: Pelvic floor activity is regulated by 3 main muscular forces that are responsible for vaginal tension and suspension of the pelvic floor organs, bladder and rectum. A variety of symptoms can derive from pelvic floor dysfunctions, such as urinary urge and stress incontinence, abnormal bladder emptying, fecal incontinence, obstructive bowel disease syndrome and pelvic pain. These symptoms mainly derive, for different reasons, from laxity in the vagina or its supporting ligaments as a result of altered connective tissue. Pelvic floor reconstruction is nowadays driven by the concept that in case of pelvic floor symptoms, restoration of the anatomy will translate into restoration of the physiology and ultimately improve patients’ symptoms. Conclusion: The surgical reconstruction of the anatomy is almost exclusively focused on the restoration of the lax pelvic floor ligaments. Exact preoperative identification of the anatomical lesions is necessary to allow for exact anatomical reconstruction with respect to the muscular forces of the pelvic floor.
Comparison of Hand-Assisted Laparoscopic and Open Radical Cystectomy for Bladder Cancer
Authors: Wang Sheng-Zheng , Chen Ling-Wu , Zhang Yong-Hai , Wang Wen-Wei , Chen Wei , Lin Huan-Yi
Published: February 2010

Purpose: To present our experience of hand-assisted laparoscopic radical cystectomy (HALRC) and compare it with open radical cystectomy (ORC). Patients and Methods: During the period between May 2004 and November 2007, 31 patients underwent HALRC and 39 patients underwent ORC for bladder cancer. The patient demographics, intraoperative variables and postoperative outcomes were compared retrospectively. Results: There was no statistically significant difference with regard to age, sex, body mass index, and urinary diversion in the 2 groups. In the HALRC group, 20 patients had stage pT2 or less, 7 had pT3 disease, and 4 had stage pT4 disease. In the ORC group, 29 patients had stage pT2 or less, 5 had pT3 disease, and 5 had stage pT4 disease. All margins in both groups were negative. The HALRC group had decreased blood loss (250.9 vs. 812.8 ml, p < 0.001) and a lower rate of transfusion (9.7 vs. 76.9%, p < 0.001), but similar mean operative time (365.7 vs. 362.6 min, p = 0.862). Time to liquid diet was significantly less in the HALRC group versus the ORC group (4.3 vs. 6.3 days, p < 0.001). The median number of lymph nodes were similar between the HALRC and ORC groups (14 vs. 15, p = 0.377). Six patients developed perioperative complications in the HALRC group and 12 patients had complications in the ORC group (19.4 vs. 30.8%, p = 0.278). Late complications occurred in 3 patients (2 parastomal hernias and 1 ureteroenteral stricture) in the HALRC group. Conclusions: Compared with ORC, HALRC patients had decreased blood loss, less transfusion requirements, and quicker intestinal recovery. Long-term follow-up in a larger cohort of patients is needed to assess the long-term oncological and functional outcomes.
Urine Cytology in the Evaluation of Urological Malignancy Revisited: Is It Still Necessary?
Authors: Falebita Opeyemi Adegboyega , Lee Garry , Sweeney Paul
Published: February 2010

Objective: We aim to determine if urine cytology was still necessary as a routine part of the evaluation for the presence of urological malignancy and to evaluate its cost effectiveness. Methods: Urine cytology reports over a 6-year period (2000–2005) were retrieved from our institution’s pathology department database. Patients with urine cytology positive for malignant cells were identified. We retrospectively reviewed the charts of these patients for age, sex, flexible cystoscopy and radiological imaging results. The cost of urine cytology was retrieved from the pathology department. Results: There were a total of 2,568 urine cytological examinations. Of these, 25 were positive for malignant cells. There were 19 male (76%) and 6 female (24%) patients with a mean age of 72 years (range: 49–97). In 21 patients with positive cytology, a bladder tumor was identified at flexible cystoscopy and/or imaging studies. For a positive cytology yield of 1%, EUR 210,000 was spent. Conclusions: Routine urine cytology was not cost effective and did not add to the diagnostic yield beyond cystoscopy and diagnostic imaging. It may be omitted in the initial evaluation of urological malignancy.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging as the Sole Radiological Assessment for Living Donor Nephrectomy
Authors: Fleury Nicolas , Vallée Jean-Paul , Hadaya Karine , Bühler Léo , Martin Pierre-Yves , Iselin Christophe E.
Published: February 2010

Introduction: Planification of living donor nephrectomy requires exact knowledge of the renal vascular architecture because of the high prevalence of anatomical variants. After magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) challenged CT angiography for preoperative assessment over the last years, we revisit in this study the reliability of MRA as the sole preoperative assessment for living donor nephrectomy. Method: We compared the radiological findings of MRA performed as the sole radiological procedure in 44 living kidney donors with perioperative anatomy to verify its sensitivity and to validate its systematic use in the preoperative assessment for living donor nephrectomy. Results: 22 anatomical variants were found in 16 patients (16/44 = 36%). In 4 patients, a polar artery (3 superior, 1 inferior) was not seen by MRA and was detected during surgery (open nephrectomy). Supposing the anatomical variants it described on the opposite side of the nephrectomy are real, sensitivity of this technique in this series is 40/44 (91%) for arterial and 100% for venous imaging. Conclusion: MRA as the sole radiological preoperative assessment performed by a single radiologist with specific expertise and preoperatively reviewed with the harvesting surgeon has been validated as the sole radiological preoperative assessment for living donor nephrectomy at our institution.
The Use of the American Society of Anesthesiology Classification as a Prognostic Factor in Patients with Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: de Cássio Zequi Stênio , de Campos Eurico C.R. , Guimarães Gustavo C. , Bachega Jr. Wilson , da Fonseca Francisco P. , Lopes Ademar
Published: February 2010

Objectives: We analyzed whether the American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) classification could be used as a prognostic factor in renal cell carcinoma. Methods: ASA classification’s impact on cancer-specific survival (CSS) and on overall survival in 145 patients submitted to radical or partial nephrectomy was evaluated, and was compared with clinicopathological variables. Results: CSS was influenced by ASA in uni- and multivariate analyses. Five-year CSS was 95.7, 71.1 and 39.8% for ASA 1, ASA 2 and ASA 3, respectively (p = 0.007). The ASA classification influenced the overall survival too (p < 0.001). When 18 patients with metastases were excluded, the CSS was 95.7, 83.9 and 42.9% for ASA 1, ASA 2 and ASA 3, respectively (p = 0.001). ASA 3 patients had ten times more metastases than ASA1 patients and two times more than ASA 2 patients (p = 0.001). ASA 3 patients had fewer incidental tumors (p = 0.043) than ASA 2 and 3 patients. Conclusion: In this series, the ASA classification could be used as a prognostic factor in renal cell carcinoma.
Success of Trigonoplasty Anti-Reflux Surgery and Its Predictive Factors
Authors: Basiri Abbas , Kashi Amir Hossein , Simforoosh Nasser , Sharifiaghdas Farzaneh , Halimi-Asl Parham , Inanlu Seyed Hassan
Published: February 2010

Introduction: This study was designed to evaluate factors contributing to failure in Gil-Vernet antireflux operation. Materials and Methods: 96 patients (150 refluxing units; median (range) age, 60 (12–180) months; M/F, 11/85) with primary vesico-ureteral reflux were included. Trigonoplasty was done according to a modified Gil-Verent procedure. Relapse was diagnosed on the postoperative direct radionuclide cystography (DRNC) 3 or 6 months after operation. Demographic and intraoperative data were used to assess factors contributing to failure. Results: Resolution of reflux in postoperative DRNC was observed in 87 patients (90.6%) and in 138 refluxing units (92.0%). In patients who were followed 3–6 months, one relapse occurred (3%) versus 8 relapses in those who were followed 24–39 months (12%). Relapse in refluxing units was related to the history of voiding symptoms (30 vs. 3%, p < 0.001), history of breakthrough infections (20 vs. 3%, p = 0.001), golf or stadium like ureteral orifice appearance (15 vs. 4%, p = 0.02), and less distance of ureteral orifices from each other (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Trigonoplasty success rate may decrease with long-term follow-up. In multivariable analysis, patients with history of voiding dysfunction, breakthrough infection, golf/stadium like ureteral orifices, and less distant ureteral orifices are at a higher risk of relapse.
Effect of Dexmedetomidine on Testicular Torsion/Detorsion Damage in Rats
Authors: Hancı Volkan , Erol Bülent , Bektaş Sibel , Mungan Görkem , Yurtlu Serhan , Tokgöz Hüsnü , Can Murat , Özkoçak Turan Işıl
Published: February 2010

Background and Objective: We assessed the antioxidant activity of dexmedetomidine (DEX) during an ischemic period in a rat model of testicular torsion/detorsion (T/DT) by using biochemical and histopathological methods. Methods: Wistar Albino male rats weighing 250–300 g were divided into three groups: sham (group S, n = 7); torsion/detorsion (group T/DT, n = 7), and DEX treatment (group DEX, n = 7). In the T/DT group, right testes were rotated 720° for 1 h. Group S served for normal basal values. Rats in group T/DT were operated to make T/DT, this group served as a control group. Group DEX received intraperitoneal DEX 10 µg · kg–1 after the 30-min torsion period. For measurement of total antioxidant enzyme activities and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, testes of 7 animals in each group were excised after 4 h of reperfusion. Germ cell apoptosis was evaluated using the apoptosis protease-activating factor 1 (APAF-1) antibody in all groups and also on the expressions of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) were assessed within the bilateral testes. Results: Mean MDA levels in group T/DT were significantly higher than in groups S and DEX (p < 0.05). There were also significant decreases in mean total antioxidant activities in group T/DT when compared to groups S and DEX (p < 0.05). These values were significantly higher in group DEX than group T/DT. Germ cell apoptosis, eNOS and iNOS levels were significantly higher in group T/DT when compared to groups S and DEX (p < 0.05). Conclusions: DEX treatment has potential biochemical and histopathological benefits by preventing ischemia/reperfusion-related cellular damage in an experimental testicular torsion model. Preference of DEX for anesthesia during the detorsion procedure may attenuate ischemia-reperfusion injury.
The First Description of an Extramedullary Plasmacytoma of the Ureter
Authors: Klein Tobias , Holz Alexander , Neid Matthias , Hinkel Andreas , Noldus Joachim
Published: February 2010

Causes for acquired unilateral obstruction of the ureter are numerous: calculi, infections, blood clots and tumors are the most common underlying pathologies. Hematologic tumors with initial clinical manifestation in the lower urinary tract are rare. Primary localization of plasmocytoma has been described in kidney, bladder and urethra. Herein, we describe the first manifestation of a primary solitary extramedullary plasmacytoma of the ureter. The tumor was discovered upon diagnostic workup of gross hematuria and asymptomatic hydronephrosis. Thus far, after radical surgery the patient remains free of disease.
Transoral Robotic Tongue Base Resection in Obstructive Sleep Apnoea-Hypopnoea Syndrome: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Vicini Claudio , Dallan Iacopo , Canzi Pietro , Frassineti Sabrina , La Pietra Maria Grazia , Montevecchi Filippo
Published: February 2010

Purpose of the Study:To evaluate the feasibility, tolerability and efficacy of tongue base management by means of transoral robotic surgery (TORS) in patients suffering from the obstructive sleep apnoea-hypopnoea syndrome (OSAHS) primarily related to hypertrophy of the tongue base. Procedure:Seventeen patients with OSAHS principally related to tongue base hypertrophy were managed by means of TORS (Intuitive da Vinci®). Patients with a minimum follow-up of 3 months were evaluated. Results: Ten patients [mean preoperative apnoea-hypopnoea index (AHI): 38.3 ± 23.5 SD] were included in the study. By means of robotic technology, the tongue base and the epiglottis could be managed. The postoperative polysomnographic results were fairly good (mean postoperative AHI: 20.6 ± 17.3 SD), and the functional results (pain, swallowing and quality of life) are very encouraging; altogether, complications were rare and of minor importance. Conclusions: Transoral robotic tongue base management in patients with OSAHS primarily related to tongue base hypertrophy is feasible and well tolerable. These preliminary results are encouraging and worthy of further evaluation.
Silencing/Overexpressing Selected Genes as a Model of Sporadic Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Fishman-Jacob Tali , Youdim Moussa B.H. , Mandel Silvia A.
Published: February 2010

Background: High-throughput gene-based platform studies in human postmortem substantia nigra (SN) from sporadic Parkinson’s disease (PD) cases have revealed significant dysregulation of genes involved in biological processes linked to previously established neurodegenerative mechanisms in both sporadic and hereditary PD. Objective: Our study aimed to develop a new genetic model of PD by modulating the expression of single genes that were found to be most significantly affected in SN of sporadic PD. Methods: SN-derived cell line (SN4741 cells) was infected with short hairpin RNA lentiviruses carrying different gene-specific sequences. Results: Silencing of the E3 ligase ubiquitin SKP1A resulted in a decline in the expression of dopaminergic phenotypic markers together with progression into an aberrant cell cycle and death. Furthermore, added knockout of the dopamine-metabolizing enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase, found almost absent in sporadic PD SN pars compacta, exacerbated the vulnerability of SKP1A-silenced neurons to MPP+ and neurotrophin deprivation. Conclusion: Future studies should focus on a careful consideration of crucial dopaminergic gene network interactions as emerged from human sporadic PD, which will serve as a basis for the development of a slowly progressive genetic animal model of sporadic PD, with the potential of evaluating drugs with ‘disease-modifying activity’.
The Vascular Hypothesis of Alzheimer’s Disease: Bench to Bedside and Beyond
Authors: de la Torre Jack C.
Published: February 2010

The vascular hypothesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) which we first proposed in 1993, has become a useful concept in identifying vascular risk factors for AD or vascular dementia that can be modified through appropriate treatment to prevent, reduce or delay the onset of cognitive impairment and dementia onset. Among the more than two dozen vascular risk factors already identified for AD, are cardiovascular disease and carotid artery atherosclerosis, which may exert their pathology by chronically lowering cerebral hypoperfusion during aging. We propose and plan to initiate a clinical study to screen middle-aged, cognitively intact individuals, with carotid artery ultrasound and echocardiography to identify potentially progressive pathology in the heart and carotid artery that is considered modifiable with optimal medical treatment. This clinical strategy, if found effective in preventing pathologic conditions suspected of contributing to severe cognitive impairment, could significantly reduce AD prevalence if applied on a wide scale and help promote healthier mental and physical aging while providing a compelling economic benefit to society.
Vascular Contribution to Dementia in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Korczyn Amos D.
Published: February 2010

Parkinson’s disease is one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases. Although its motor symptoms are presently relatively well controlled, other manifestations are less well understood and poorly treated. Among these, the cognitive changes have a prominent role. Dementia is usually ascribed to changes in the nucleus basalis of Meynert and the cerebral cortex. This article discusses the possible contribution of vascular factors to the cognitive impairment in Parkinson’s disease and its implication for the management.
Favorable Outcome of Pregnancy with an Elective Use of Epoprostenol and Sildenafil in Women with Severe Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Goland Sorel , Tsai Fausen , Habib Munira , Janmohamed Munir , Goodwin T. Murphy , Elkayam Uri
Published: February 2010

Background: Pulmonary hypertension carries significant maternal and fetal risk during pregnancy and the postpartum period. As maternal mortality is high, specific targeted therapy for pulmonary hypertension may be required during pregnancy. Cases: We describe 2 pregnant patients who presented with severe secondary pulmonary arterial hypertension during their last trimester. They were electively treated in the late antepartum and early postpartum periods with sildenafil and intravenous epoprostenol and successfully delivered healthy infants via cesarean section without postpartum complications. Conclusion: Although pulmonary hypertension is associated with a risk of maternal mortality and most women are advised against pregnancy, new therapies may improve the outcome of pregnancy in patients with pulmonary hypertension.
Laminar Shear Stress Modulates Phosphorylation and Localization of RNA Polymerase II on the Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase Gene
Authors: Moore Jeffrey P. , Weber Martina , Searles Charles D.
Published: February 2010

Objective—

In endothelial cells exposed to unidirectional laminar shear stress, endothelial nitric oxide synthase transcription (eNOS), mRNA stability, and protein levels are enhanced. We have previously demonstrated that these changes are associated with increased 3′ polyadenylation of eNOS mRNA. Here, we investigated the effect of laminar shear stress on the phosphorylation and localization of RNA polymerase (Pol) II, the enzyme primarily responsible for coordinating transcription and posttranscriptional processing.

Methods and Results—

Using Western and chromatin immunoprecipitation analyses, Pol II phosphorylation and localization on the eNOS gene were assessed in bovine aortic endothelial cells exposed to laminar shear stress. Total Pol II (phosphorylated and unphosphorylated) levels were increased 65% in response to laminar shear stress. This was associated with an increase in Pol II phosphoserine 2, but no change in levels of the unphosphorylated or phosphoserine 5 isoforms. Quantitative chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis showed that laminar shear stress enhanced binding of Pol II phosphoserine 2 to the 3′ end of the eNOS gene, particularly exon 26, which encodes the 3′UTR. Treatment of cells with DRB attenuated laminar shear stress-induced Pol II phosphorylation, eNOS 3′ polyadenylation, and eNOS expression.

Conclusion—

These data suggest that laminar shear stress enhances eNOS mRNA 3′ polyadenylation by modulating phosphorylation and localization of Pol II.
Sent to Destroy
Authors: Willis Monte S. , Townley-Tilson W. H. Davin , Kang Eunice Y. , Homeister Jonathon W. , Patterson Cam
Published: February 2010

Abstract:The ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) plays a crucial role in biological processes integral to the development of the cardiovascular system and cardiovascular diseases. The UPS prototypically recognizes specific protein substrates and places polyubiquitin chains on them for subsequent destruction by the proteasome. This system is in place to degrade not only misfolded and damaged proteins, but is essential also in regulating a host of cell signaling pathways involved in proliferation, adaptation to stress, regulation of cell size, and cell death. During the development of the cardiovascular system, the UPS regulates cell signaling by modifying transcription factors, receptors, and structural proteins. Later, in the event of cardiovascular diseases as diverse as atherosclerosis, cardiac hypertrophy, and ischemia/reperfusion injury, ubiquitin ligases and the proteasome are implicated in protecting and exacerbating clinical outcomes. However, when misfolded and damaged proteins are ubiquitinated by the UPS, their destruction by the proteasome is not always possible because of their aggregated confirmations. Recent studies have discovered how these ubiquitinated misfolded proteins can be destroyed by alternative “specific” mechanisms. The cytosolic receptors p62, NBR, and histone deacetylase 6 recognize aggregated ubiquitinated proteins and target them for autophagy in the process of “selective autophagy.” Even the ubiquitination of multiple proteins within whole organelles that drive the more general macro-autophagy may be due, in part, to similar ubiquitin-driven mechanisms. In summary, the crosstalk between the UPS and autophagy highlight the pivotal and diverse roles the UPS plays in maintaining protein quality control and regulating cardiovascular development and disease.
Modeling Seasonal Changes in the Temperature Lapse Rate in a Northern Thailand Mountainous Area
Authors: Komatsu Hikaru , Hashimoto Hirofumi , Kume Tomonori , Tanaka Nobuaki , Yoshifuji Natsuko , Otsuki Kyoichi , Suzuki Masakazu , Kumagai Tomo’omi
Published: February 2010

Temperature data in the mountain forest regions are often extrapolated from temperature data recorded at base stations at lower elevation. Such extrapolation is often based on elevation differences between target regions and base stations at low elevation assuming a constant temperature lapse rate throughout the year. However, this assumption might be problematic where slope circulation is active and decoupled from the regional circulation. To model the seasonal change in the lapse rate, the authors compared daily maximum (Tmax) and minimum temperatures (Tmin) observed at a mountain forest site (Kog–Ma; 1300-m altitude) with those observed at the bottom of the basin (Chiang–Mai; 314-m altitude) in northern Thailand, where slope circulation is active and decoupled from the regional circulation. The difference in Tmax between Kog–Ma and Chiang–Mai (ΔTmax; Kog–Ma minus Chiang–Mai) was relatively unchanged throughout the year. However, the difference in Tmin between Kog–Ma and Chiang–Mai (ΔTmin) changed seasonally. Thus, assuming a constant lapse rate throughout the year could cause large errors in extrapolating Tmin data in mountainous areas in northern Thailand. The difference ΔTmin was related to nighttime net radiation (Rn), suggesting that nocturnal drainage flow affects the determination of ΔTmin. This relationship would be useful in formulating seasonal changes in the lapse rate for Tmin. As Rn data are generally unavailable for meteorological stations, an index that relates to the lapse rate for Tmin and is calculated from Tmax and Tmin data is proposed. This index might be useful for accurately estimating Tmin values in mountainous regions in northern Thailand.
A Conserved Minimal Adjustment Scheme for Stabilization of Hydrographic Profiles
Authors: Chu Peter C. , Fan Chenwu
Published: February 2010

Ocean (T, S) data analysis/assimilation, conducted in the three-dimensional physical space, is a generalized average of purely observed data (data analysis) or of modeled/observed data (data assimilation). Because of the high nonlinearity of the equation of the state of the seawater and nonuniform vertical distribution of the observational profile data, false static instability may be generated. A new analytical conserved adjustment scheme has been developed on the base of conservation of heat, salt, and static stability for the whole water column with predetermined (T, S) adjustment ratios. A set of well-posed combined linear and nonlinear algebraic equations has been established and is solved using Newton’s method. This new scheme can be used for ocean hydrographic data analysis and data assimilation.
Forecasting the Maintenance of Mesoscale Convective Systems Crossing the Appalachian Mountains
Authors: Letkewicz Casey E. , Parker Matthew D.
Published: February 2010

Forecasting the maintenance of mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) is a unique problem in the eastern United States due to the influence of the Appalachian Mountains. At times these systems are able to traverse the terrain and produce severe weather in the lee, while at other times they instead dissipate upon encountering the mountains. To differentiate between crossing and noncrossing MCS environments, 20 crossing and 20 noncrossing MCS cases were examined. The cases were largely similar in terms of their 500-hPa patterns, MCS archetypes, and orientations with respect to the barrier. Analysis of radiosonde data, however, revealed that the environment east of the mountains discriminated between case types very well. The thermodynamic and kinematic variables that had the most discriminatory power included those associated with instability, several different bulk shear vector magnitudes, and also the mean tropospheric wind. Crossing cases were characterized by higher instability, which was found to be partially attributable to the diurnal cycle. However, these cases also tended to occur in environments with weaker shear and a smaller mean wind. The potential reasons for these results, and their forecasting implications, are discussed.
Interpreting the Tropical Atlantic Climate: Diaries from the Mid-Nineteenth-Century Australian Voyage
Authors: Foxhall Katherine
Published: February 2010

This article analyses representations of the tropical Atlantic and its climate in diaries written during sailing voyages from Britain to the Australian colonies in the middle third of the nineteenth century. It argues that writers employed a wide range of formal and informal knowledge about weather and climate to evaluate the physical experience of sailing through the maritime tropics. These interpretive frames include geographical conventions of latitude and longitude, colonial medical topography, natural observation, sailor’s expertise, maritime culture, and literary tropes. The article’s exploration of vernacular knowledge in an underexplored social and geographic context makes two contributions: first, to historical and geographical discussions about the distinction between expertise and belief and second, to recent attempts to emphasize the material importance of the ocean in an unprecedented era of industrial, scientific, and colonial expansion.