bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Congenital Sternal Cleft along with Persistent Left-Sided Superior Vena Cava: A Rare Presentation
Authors: Saha Anindya Kumar , Sardar Syamal Kumar , Sur Amitava
Published: June 2013

Congenital sternal cleft is a rare abnormality resulting from fusion failure of sternum. It occurs in isolation or along with defects of abdominal wall, diaphragm, pericardium, and heart. Early surgical correction is required to protect the underlying structures for risk of cardiac compression. Here we report a case of 20-day female child presenting with congenital sternal cleft associated with multiple congenital heart disease and left-sided superior vena cava. She was operated by the cardiothoracic surgical team successfully and is doing well on followup. We discuss this rare case, imaging studies, and surgical strategy.
Serum Markers of Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Malaguarnera Giulia , Paladina Isabella , Giordano Maria , Malaguarnera Michele , Bertino Gaetano , Berretta Massimiliano
Published: June 2013

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a relatively rare type of primary liver cancer that originates in the bile duct epithelium. It is an aggressive malignancy typified by unresponsiveness to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Despite advances in radiologic techniques and laboratory diagnostic test, the diagnosis of CCA remains highly challenging. Development in molecular techniques has led to go into the possible use of serum markers in diagnosing of cholangiocarcinoma. This review summarizes the principal characteristics of serum markers of cholangiocarcinoma. The tumour markers used frequently such as Carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA 19-9), Carcinogenic Embryonic antigen (CEA), and Cancer Antigen 125 have shown sufficient sensitivity and specificity to detect and monitor CCA. In particular, the combination of these tumour markers seems to increase their efficiency in diagnosing of cholangiocarcinoma. New markers such as Soluble fragment of cytokeratin 19 (CYFRA 21-1) Mucins, Tumour Markers2-pyruvate-Kinase (TuM2-PK) and metalloproteinase-7 (MMP-7) have been recently shown to help in the diagnosis of CCA, with in some cases a prognostic value.
Pentraxins as Key Disease Markers for Periodontal Diagnosis
Authors: Kathariya Rahul , Jain Hansa , Gujar Dnyneshwari , Singh Archana , Ajwani Himanshu , Mandhyan Devendra
Published: June 2013

Periodontal diseases are characterized by a complex set of biologic interactions between a diverse and dynamic microbial ecosystem and the host’s multifaceted and responsive immune and inflammatory machinery. Such interactions between microbial pathogens and various host response systems play a critical role in the development and progression of periodontal disease via the release of inflammatory and immune mediators. Advances in periodontal disease diagnostic are moving toward methods whereby periodontal risk can be identified and quantified by detecting such inflammatory mediators in its sequential pathophysiology. Pentraxins (PTXs) are classical mediators of inflammation and markers of acute-phase reaction. They are a super family of multifunctional molecules characterized by multimeric structure, divided into “short” PTXs and “long” PTXs. C-reactive protein (CRP) and pentraxin-3 (PTX3) are prototypic molecules of the short and long PTX family, respectively. Evidence suggests that PTXs acts as a non-redundant component of the humoral arm of innate immunity, downstream of, and complementary to, cellular recognition, as well as a tuner of inflammation. CRP is a cheaper biomarker and more readily available in everyday clinical practice compared with other inflammatory markers, on the other hand, PTX3 is believed to be the true independent indicator of disease activity and could have clinical implication in diagnosing the “at site” inflammatory status of the periodontal disease. These pentraxins are sensitive and specific in the diagnosis and prognosis of chronic diseases. Thus the pentraxins could be used as preferred biomarkers in periodontal disease diagnosis.
Multivariate Analysis Approach to the Serum Peptide Profile of Morbidly Obese Patients
Authors: Agostini M. , Bedin C. , Enzo M.V. , Molin L. , Traldi P. , D'Angelo E. , Maschietto E. , Serraglia R. , Ragazzi E. , Prevedello L. , Foletto M. , Nitti D.
Published: June 2013

Background: Obesity is currently epidemic in many countries worldwide and is strongly related to diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Mass spectrometry, in particular matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight (MALDI-TOF) is currently used for detecting different pattern of expressed protein. This study investigated the differences in low molecular weight (LMW) peptide profiles between obese and normal-weight subjects in combination with multivariate statistical analysis.

Materials: Serum samples of 60 obese patients and 10 healthy subjects were treated by cut-off membrane (30000 Da) to remove the most abundant proteins. The filtrates containing the LMW protein/peptides were analyzed by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Dataset was elaborated to align and normalize the spectra. We performed cluster analysis and principal component analysis to detect some ionic species that could characterize and classify the subject groups.

Results: We observed a down-expression of ionic species atm/z655.94 and an over-expression of species atm/z1518.78, 1536.77, 1537.78 and 1537.81 in obese patients. Furthermore we found some ionic species that can distinguish obese patients with diabetes from those with normal glucose level.

Conclusion: Serum peptide profile of LMW associate with multivariate statistical approach was revealed as a promising tool to discriminate and characterize obese patients and it was able to stratify them in relation to comorbidity that usually are associated with this disease. Further research involving a larger sample will be required to validate these findings.
First Integrals, Integrating Factors, and Invariant Solutions of the Path Equation Based on Noether and -Symmetries
Authors: Gün Gülden , Özer Teoman
Published: June 2013

We analyze Noether and -symmetries of the path equation describing the minimum drag work. First, the partial Lagrangian for the governing equation is constructed, and then the determining equations are obtained based on the partial Lagrangian approach. For specific altitude functions, Noether symmetry classification is carried out and the first integrals, conservation laws and group invariant solutions are obtained and classified. Then, secondly, by using the mathematical relationship with Lie point symmetries we investigate -symmetry properties and the corresponding reduction forms, integrating factors, and first integrals for specific altitude functions of the governing equation. Furthermore, we apply the Jacobi last multiplier method as a different approach to determine the new forms of -symmetries. Finally, we compare the results obtained from different classifications.
Salivary Markers of Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Status: Influence of External Factors
Authors: Kamodyová Natália , Tóthová L’ubomíra , Celec Peter
Published: June 2013

BACKGROUND: Salivary markers of oxidative stress and antioxidant status represent promising tool for the research of oral diseases. One of the criteria is the validation of these biomarkers from the perspective of the confounding and modifying factors.

AIM: To examine the effect of circadian rhythm, tooth-brushing and ascorbic acid treatment on selected salivary markers of oxidative and carbonyl stress, and antioxidant status.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Whole unstimulated saliva samples were collected from 19 healthy participants three times during a day, before and after tooth-brushing, and before and after the administration of vitamin C (250 mg). Advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), advanced glycation end products (AGEs), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were measured.

RESULTS: Salivary AGEs levels varied significantly during the day (p< 0.05) with the highest concentrations in the morning. FRAP levels varied during the day (p< 0.01) with the highest concentrations in the afternoon. Tooth-brushing decreased AGEs (p< 0.05) and TBARS levels (p< 0.01) and increased FRAP levels (p< 0.05). Single intake of vitamin C significantly decreased AGEs (p< 0.001) and increased both FRAP (p< 0.01) and TAC (p< 0.01) concentrations.

CONCLUSION: Significant daily variations were observed in salivary AGEs and FRAP levels. Tooth-brushing and treatment with vitamin C decreased carbonyl stress and increased the antioxidant status. These results are important from the perspective of using saliva for the research of oral diseases.
Characterization of Bioactive Compounds in Tunisian Bitter Orange (Citrus aurantiumL.) Peel and Juice and Determination of Their Antioxidant Activities
Authors: Jabri karoui Iness , Marzouk Brahim
Published: June 2013

Citrus aurantiumpeel and juice aroma compounds were investigated by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), whereas phenolic compounds analysis was performed by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC). Limonene was the major volatile compound of bitter orange peel (90.25%) and juice (91.61%). HPLC analysis of bitter orange peel and juice methanolic extracts indicated that phenolic acids constitute their main phenolic class representing 73.80% and 71.25%, respectively, followed by flavonoids (23.02% and 23.13%, resp.).p-Coumaric and ferulic acids were the most abundant phenolic compounds representing 24.68% and 23.79%, respectively, in the peel, while the juice contained 18.02% and 19.04%, respectively. The antioxidant activities of bitter orange peel and juice methanolic extracts have been evaluated using fourin vitroassays, and the results were compared with the standard antioxidants (BHT, BHA, and ascorbic acid). Our findings demonstrated thatCitrus aurantiumpeel and juice possess antioxidant activities which were less effective than those of antioxidant standards. Both extracts may be suggested as a new potential source of natural antioxidant.
Electronic Structure of Single-Wall Silicon Nanotubes and Silicon Nanoribbons: Helical Symmetry Treatment and Effect of Dimensionality
Authors: Baňacký Pavol , Noga Jozef , Szöcs Vojtech
Published: June 2013

Helical method of tube formation and Hartree-Fock SCF method modified for periodic solids have been applied in study of electronic properties of single-wall silicon nanotubes (SWSiNT), silicone sheet, and nanoribbons (SiNR). The results obtained for nanotubes in wide diameter range of different helicity types have shown that metallics are only SWSiNTs with diameter up to <6.3 Å due to the effect of curvature, which induces coupling ofσandπorbitals. From the calculated band structure results that, irrespective of helicity, the SWSiNTs of larger diameter are small-gap semiconductors with direct gap between the Dirac-like cones of (π*,π) bands. Gap of SWSiNTs is modulated by fold number of particular tubular rotational axis symmetry and exhibits an oscillatory-decreasing character with increase of the tube diameter. Oscillations are damped and gap decreases toward 0.33 eV for tube diameter≈116 Å. Irrespective of the width, the SiNRs are small-gap semiconductors, characteristic by oscillatory decreasing gap with increasing ribbon widths. The gap of SWSiNTs and SiNRs is tuneable through modulation of tube diameter or ribbon width, respectively. The SiNRs and SWSiNTs could be fully compatible with contemporary silicon-based microelectronics and could serve as natural junction and active elements in field of nonomicrotechnologies.
Appendix and Uterus Metastasis of Squamous Cell Carcinoma Arising from Mature Cystic Teratoma of the Ovary
Authors: Balık Gülşah , Üstüner Işık , Bedir Recep , Ural Ülkü Mete , Kağıtçı Mehmet , Güven Emine Seda Güvendağ
Published: June 2013

Mature cystic teratoma of the ovary rarely undergoes malignant transformation. There is no consensus for a treatment modality because of the rarity of the disease. Herein we present a case of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) arising in a mature cystic teratoma (MCT) in a 66-year-old patient. The patient underwent total hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, omentectomy, appendectomy, and bilateral pelvic + paraaortic lymph node dissection. The histopathological examination revealed malignant invasion of the appendix and uterus. The patient, who refused the continuation of treatment initiated with the administration of a single dose of cisplatin, died 5 months later because of the disease. It is imperative that gynecologists consider appendectomy in SCC arising from MCT cases.
Association between Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase Polymorphisms and Risk of Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Liu Chiu-Shong , Huang Ru-Jiun , Sung Fung-Chang , Lin Cheng-Chieh , Yeh Chih-Ching
Published: June 2013

BACKGROUND: Previous studies inferring that theNOS3gene was associated with the pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome (MetS) had inconsistent findings. We investigated the role of threeNOS3polymorphisms (T-786C, intron 4b/a, and G894T) in the risk of MetS using a hospital-based case-control study.

METHODS: We recruited 339 MetS cases and 783 non-MetS controls at a central Taiwanese hospital. Information on sociodemographic and lifestyle factors was obtained using a self-administered questionnaire. Genotypes ofNOS3polymorphisms were compared between cases and controls. Effects of interactions between gene polymorphisms and smoking and between gene polymorphisms and drinking on the risk of MetS were also determined.

RESULTS: The T-786C TC+CC genotype was significantly associated with a decreased risk of MetS (odds ratio (OR), 0.63; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.43–0.91), compared to the T-786C TT genotype, according to a logistic regression analysis. This beneficial effect was much greater for those who had ever smoked cigarettes (OR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.26–0.87) or those who had not consumed alcohol (OR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.26–0.77). In addition, the intron 4b/a variant genotype was marginally associated with a reduced risk of MetS (OR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.47–1.00), compared to the intron 4b/a bb genotype, particularly for never alcohol consumers (OR, 0.56; 95% CI, 0.33–0.95). In the haplotype analysis, there was a 53% decrease in the MetS risk among C4bG haplotype carriers (OR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.25–0.90), compared to those with the most common T4bG haplotype.

CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that theNOS3T-786C and intron 4b/a polymorphisms may contribute to the risk of MetS. Further studies are needed to confirm the findings.
The Association of Seminal Plasma Antioxidant Levels and Sperm Chromatin Status with Genetic Variants ofGSTM1andGSTP1(Ile105Val and Ala114Val) in Infertile Men with Oligoasthenoteratozoospermia
Authors: Lakpour Niknam , Mirfeizollahi Azadeh , Farivar Shirin , Akhondi Mohammad mehdi , Hashemi S. Behnam , Amirjannati Naser , Heidari-Vala Hamed , Sadeghi Mohammad Reza
Published: June 2013

In this study we aimed to examine the effects of genetic variants ofGSTM1andGSTP1(Ile105Val and Ala114Val) on GST activity, seminal oxidative stress and sperm chromatin status in infertile men with oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT). The study population (n= 121) consisted of 95 infertile men with OAT and 26 controls with normozoospermia. Multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) methods were utilized to detect the aforesaid genetic variants. We measured GST activity and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of seminal plasma by spectrophotometry. Sperm chromatin integrity and maturity were assessed using toluidine blue and chromomycin A3(CMA3-positive sperm) staining, respectively. The analysis showed that subgroups of GSTM1 null and GSTP1 C/T+T/T genotypes in comparison with GSTM1 present and GSTP1 wild type (C/C) genotypes did not have statistically significant differences in both OAT or normozoospermic men considering sperm concentration and motility, percentage of CMA3-positive sperm, seminal plasma TAC, sperm chromatin integrity and GST activity. Thus, the findings of our study suggest that there are no significant associations betweenGSTM1andGSTP1polymorphisms and sperm parameters at conventional or at molecular levels including OS status, sperm chromatin integrity or maturity in Iranian infertile men with OAT and normozoospermia. However, these polymorphisms could be related to the fertility status of the studied population but not evaluated in this study.
Clinical and Immunological Analysis of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis before and after Different Treatments
Authors: O'Daly José A. , Spinetti Humberto M. , Gleason Joe , Rodríguez María B.
Published: June 2013

Amastigotes fromL. (L.)amazonensis(La),L. (L.)venezuelensis(Lv),L. (V.)brasiliensis(Lb), andL. (L.)chagasi(Lch) were cultured in a free cells liquid culture medium. Patients (n=87) from a cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) hyperendemic region receiving different treatments were followed up from January 1994 to August 2000. Time for remission of lesions were spontaneous remission (SR) 7 weeks; Glucantime (Glu) chemotherapy 9 weeks; immunotherapy with La, Lv, Lb, and Lch amastigotes Tosyl-Lysil Chloromethyl-ketone (TLCK) treated and Nonidet P-40(NP-40) extracted (VT) 7 weeks. Delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) response with leishmanine intradermic reaction (IDR) was higher in CL patients than healthy controls (P<0.05) and increased in active secondary versus primary infection (P<0.001) with diagnostic value 1.74 for active infection and 1.81 postclinical remission. Antibodies to amastigotes characterized by Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) decreased in sera postclinical remission versus active infections (P<0.001), with a diagnostic value from 1.50 to 1.84. Immunoblottings antigenic bands frequency as well as Integral Optical Density (IOD) Area Densitometry decreased with sera from SR, after Glu or VT treatments in CL volunteers. Intracellular parasitism is due to normal antibodies recognizing parasite antigens after inoculation by vector. VT vaccine induced mainly cellular immunity, for remission of lesions and protection from CL infection.
Efficacy and Safety of Acupuncture in Preterm and Term Infants
Authors: Raith Wolfgang , Urlesberger Berndt , Schmölzer Georg M.
Published: June 2013

The aim of the paper was to review the literature about safety and efficiency of acupuncture therapy in term and preterm infants. We searched Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials using a predefined algorithm, reviewed abstracts from the Pediatric Academic Society annual meetings (2000–2012), and performed a manual search of references in narrative and systematic reviews. A total of 26 studies identified met our search criteria. Only 6 of these studies met our inclusion criteria; however, two studies had to be excluded because the manuscripts were published in Chinese. Hence, only four studies were included in our analysis. Three of the four studies evaluated the effects of acupuncture on infantile colic, and one assessed pain reduction during minor painful procedures in preterm babies. The limited data available suggests that acupuncture could be a safe nonpharmacologic treatment option for pain reduction in term and preterm infants and could also be a non-pharmacologic treatment option to treat infantile colic. Currently acupuncture in infants should be limited to clinical trials and studies evaluating short- and long-term effects and should be performed only by practitioners with adequate training and experience in neonatal/pediatric acupuncture.
Duplex Reverse-Hybridization Assay for The Simultaneous Detection ofKRAS/BRAFMutations in FFPE-extracted Genomic DNA from Colorectal Cancer Specimens
Authors: Buxhofer-Ausch Veronika , Ausch Christoph , Zeillinger Robert , Oberkanins Christian , Dandachi Nadia , Reiner-Concin Angelika , Kriegshäuser Gernot
Published: June 2013

We report the performance evaluation of a non-quantitative reverse-hybridization assay (KRAS-BRAFStripAssay) designed for the simultaneous detection of 10 mutations in codons 12 and 13 of theKRASgene andBRAFmutation V600E. Dilution experiments using DNA from tumor cell lines or from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) colorectal cancer (CRC) tissue were performed to assess assay sensitivity. Using 50 ng of total DNA (mutant and wild-type), theKRAS-BRAFStripAssay demonstrated a detection limit of 1% mutant sequence in a background of wild-type DNA. With respect toBRAFV600E, theKRAS-BRAFStripAssay was evaluated using 60 FFPE CRC samples previously analyzed by high resolution melting (HRM). Test strip hybridization identified 2/60 (3%) samples to carry theBRAFV600E mutation, and results were in agreement with those obtained by HRM analysis. This work demonstrates theKRAS-BRAFStripAssay to be a robust and sensitive method for the detection of commonKRAS/BRAFmutations in genomic DNA isolated from FFPE tissue samples.
Real-Time Hardware-in-the-Loop Laboratory Testing for Multisensor Sense and Avoid Systems
Authors: Fasano Giancarmine , Accardo Domenico , Forlenza Lidia , Renga Alfredo , Rufino Giancarlo , Tancredi Urbano , Moccia Antonio
Published: June 2013

This paper focuses on a hardware-in-the-loop facility aimed at real-time testing of architectures and algorithms of multisensor sense and avoid systems. It was developed within a research project aimed at flight demonstration of autonomous non-cooperative collision avoidance for Unmanned Aircraft Systems. In this framework, an optionally piloted Very Light Aircraft was used as experimental platform. The flight system is based on multiple-sensor data integration and it includes a Ka-band radar, four electro-optical sensors, and two dedicated processing units. The laboratory test system was developed with the primary aim of prototype validation before multi-sensor tracking and collision avoidance flight tests. System concept, hardware/software components, and operating modes are described in the paper. The facility has been built with a modular approach including both flight hardware and simulated systems and can work on the basis of experimentally tested or synthetically generated scenarios. Indeed, hybrid operating modes are also foreseen which enable performance assessment also in the case of alternative sensing architectures and flight scenarios that are hardly reproducible during flight tests. Real-time multisensor tracking results based on flight data are reported, which demonstrate reliability of the laboratory simulation while also showing the effectiveness of radar/electro-optical fusion in a non-cooperative collision avoidance architecture.
Common Oxytocin Receptor Gene Polymorphisms and the Risk for Preterm Birth
Authors: Kuessel Lorenz , Grimm Christoph , Knöfler Martin , Haslinger Peter , Leipold Heinz , Heinze Georg , Egarter Christian , Schmid Maximilian
Published: June 2013

Oxytocin is crucially involved in the onset and maintenance of labor. We investigated the association between oxytocin receptor gene polymorphisms and preterm birth. The presence of four common oxytocin receptor gene polymorphisms (rs2254298, rs53576, rs2228485 and rs237911) was evaluated in one hundred women with preterm birth and one hundred healthy women using restriction fragment length polymorphism genotyping. No association was found between the presence of any individual oxytocin receptor gene polymorphism and preterm birth. In haplotype analysis, the haplotype combination of rs2254298 A allele, rs2228485 C allele and rs237911 G allele was found to be significantly associated with an increased risk of preterm birth (OR = 3.2 [CI 1.04–9.8],p= 0.043). In conclusion our findings suggest that a combination of three oxytocin receptor gene polymorphisms is associated with an increased risk for preterm birth. We propose further studies investigating the role of oxytocin receptor gene polymorphisms and preterm birth.
Research on Optimization for Motion Control Bus Based on Ethernet
Authors: Sun Kai , Zhang Jie , He Guangping , Chen Youdong
Published: June 2013

Field bus system has been successfully introduced into industrial automation. Nowadays, most of the motion control bus is based on the Ethernet physical layer, and all of the new standards are based on the Ethernet physical layer. This paper introduces a new optimized technology based on motion control bus of the Ethernet physical layer, which includes the prediction mechanism in the arrival of the frames, the retransmission mechanism in advance, and a new mechanism of independent verification of data segment. Tests show that using the mechanisms in this paper can enhance efficiency and reliability in communication process.
Cascadable Current‐Mode First‐Order All‐Pass Filter Based on Minimal Components
Authors: Mohan Jitendra , Maheshwari Sudhanshu
Published: June 2013

A novel current‐mode first‐order all‐pass filter with low input and high output impedance feature is presented. The circuit realization employs a single dual‐X‐second‐generation current conveyor, one grounded capacitor, and one grounded resistor, which is a minimum component realization. The theoretical results are verified using PSPICE simulation program with TSMC 0.35 μm CMOS process parameters.
Novel Treatment of an Enlarging Internal Iliac Artery Aneurysm in Association with a Type 2 Endoleak via Percutaneous Embolisation of the Superior Gluteal Artery through a Posterior Approach
Authors: Werner-Gibbings Keagan , Rogan Chris , Robinson David
Published: June 2013

Internal iliac artery (IIA) aneurysms, while rare, carry a significant risk of mortality if they rupture. Endovascular intervention is now the preferred method of treatment for IIAs; however, due to technical considerations, this is not always feasible. We report a case of a patient who developed an enlarging IIA aneurysm in association with a type 2 endoleak supplied by multiple feeding arteries where conventional endovascular treatment was not possible. A novel method of effectively treating the IIA aneurysm with a posterior approach via image-guided puncture of the superior gluteal artery was employed. Five arteries supplying the superior gluteal from the contralateral internal iliac artery were selectively catheterised and coiled before the aneurysmal sac was embolised. The patient made an uneventful recovery, and follow-up imaging demonstrated resolution of the endoleak and decompression of the aneurysmal sac. This case demonstrates that the posterior approach is a safe and viable method of treating internal iliac artery aneurysm when traditional endovascular approaches are technically possible.
Fetoplacental Discrepancy with Normal Karyotype in Amniotic Fluid and Two Different Cell Lines in Placenta
Authors: Ortega Veronica , Mendiola Christina , Williamson Eric , Higby Kenneth , Velagaleti Gopalrao V. N.
Published: June 2013

We present a case of fetoplacental discrepancy in a second-trimester fetus with normal karyotype in amniotic fluid and two different Robertsonian translocations in placenta. A 41-year-old woman of Middle-Eastern origin, gravida 2, para 1, underwent amniocentesis at 16-week gestation because of advanced maternal age. Amniotic fluid karyotype showed a normal 46,XX karyotype with a homozygous inv(9). Parental chromosome analysis showed both parents to be carriers of inv(9) and the parents are not consanguineous. Fetal ultrasound was normal. The mother presented to the clinic 4 weeks later with intrauterine fetal demise. Chromosome analysis from the placenta showed two different cell lines: a balanced (15;21) Roberstonian translocation in 11 cells and an unbalanced (21;21) Robertsonian translocation in 9 cells. The karyotype was interpreted as mos 45,XX,inv(9)(p11q13)x2,der(15;21)(q10;q10)[11]/46,XX,inv(9)(p11q13)x2,+21,der(21;21)(q10;q10). Mother was a carrier for the Cystic Fibrosis (delta F508), Factor V Leiden mutations, HbD-Los Angeles and HbQ-India variants. She also had a sibling with term stillbirth. Her husband’s history was unremarkable. Our case appears to be another example of confined placental mosaicism (CPM) with normal fetal karyotype. However, we could not confirm the possibility that CPM contributed to the IUFD in our case given the complex medical history of the mother.
Predictive Utility of NT-pro BNP for Infarct Size and Left Ventricle Function after Acute Myocardial Infarction in Long-Term Follow-Up
Authors: Kleczyński Paweł , Legutko Jacek , Rakowski Tomasz , Dziewierz Artur , Siudak Zbigniew , Zdzienicka Joanna , Brzozowska-Czarnek Agata , Surdacki Andrzej , Dubiel Jacek S. , Dudek Dariusz
Published: June 2013

PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to evaluate the utility of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-pro BNP, pg/ml) assessment to predict infarct size and left ventricle function after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) at long-term follow-up.

METHODS: In 45 patients with first STEMI less than 3 hours from symptom onset treated with mechanical reperfusion NT-pro BNP was assessed early (at admission) and at 6 months. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) parameters (delayed enhancement infarct size (IS, %), left ventricular end-diastolic (LVEDVI, ml/m2) and end-systolic (LVESVI, ml/m2) volume indexes) were assessed at 6 months.

RESULTS: No significant correlation was found between baseline NT-pro BNP assessment and IS and left ventricle function after 6 months. There was a significant correlation between 6-month NT-pro BNP and IS (r= 0.65,p< 0.001) and left ventricle remodeling at 6 months (LVEDVI,r= 0.53,p= 0.001; LVESVI,r= 0.51,p= 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS: Assessment of NT-pro BNP level 6 months after STEMI remains a good indicator of infarct size and left ventricle function at long-term follow-up.
Interactions between Cigarette Smoking and Polymorphisms of Xenobiotic-Metabolizing Genes: The Risk of Oral Leukoplakia
Authors: Li Yu-Fen , Sung Fung-Chang , Tsai Ming-Hsui , Hua Chun-Hung , Liu Chiu-Shong , Huang Yao-Te , Yeh Chih-Ching
Published: June 2013

Background: This case-control study investigates the role of xenobiotic-metabolizing genes, including glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) and cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1) and 2E1 (CYP2E1), in the susceptibility to oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs).

Methods: The genotypes of GSTM1, GSTT1, GSTP1, CYP1A1∗2C, and CYP2E1 PstI/RsaI polymorphisms were determined for 217 OPMD cases and 492 age- and sex-matched controls from a Taiwanese penitentiary.

Results: Compared to the GSTM1-present genotype, the GSTM1-null genotype was significantly associated with increased risk of leukoplakia (odds ratio [OR]=1.46, 95% l [CI]=1.01–2.10). Similarly, compared to the CYP1A1∗2C A/G+G/G genotype, the CYP1A1∗2C A/A genotype was significantly associated with increased risk of leukoplakia (OR=1.64, 95% CI=1.12–2.40), particularly for smokers consuming > 13 pack-years of cigarettes (OR=2.40, 95% CI=1.40–4.11) (Interaction P=0.039). In addition, participants with 4–5 risk genotypes (OR > 1) experienced higher risks for leukoplakia than those with 0-1 risk genotypes (OR=3.19, 95% CI=1.65–6.15) (Trend test P=0.001).

Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the CYP1A1∗2C A/A genotype may increase the risk of leukoplakia, especially for heavy smokers. Xenobiotic-metabolizing genes may simultaneously modulate this disease risk. These observations require further confirmation with larger samples.
Canonical Wnt Signaling Is Required for Pancreatic Carcinogenesis
Authors: Zhang Yaqing , Morris John P. , Yan Wei , Schofield Heather K. , Gurney Austin , Simeone Diane M. , Millar Sarah E. , Hoey Timothy , Hebrok Matthias , Pasca di Magliano Marina
Published: June 2013

Wnt ligand expression and activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway have been associated with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, but whether Wnt activity is required for the development of pancreatic cancer has remained unclear. Here, we report the results of three different approaches to inhibit the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in a established transgenic mouse model of pancreatic cancer. First, we found that β-catenin null cells were incapable of undergoing acinar to ductal metaplasia, a process associated with development of premalignant pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia lesions. Second, we addressed the specific role of ligand-mediated Wnt signaling through inducible expression of Dkk1, an endogenous secreted inhibitor of the canonical Wnt pathway. Finally, we targeted the Wnt pathway with OMP-18R5, a therapeutic antibody that interacts with multiple Frizzled receptors. Together, these approaches showed that ligand-mediated activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway is required to initiate pancreatic cancer. Moreover, they establish that Wnt signaling is also critical for progression of pancreatic cancer, a finding with potential therapeutic implications. Cancer Res; 73(15); 4909–22. ©2013 AACR.
Platelet lysates stimulate angiogenesis, neurogenesis and neuroprotection after stroke
Authors: Hayon Yael , Dashevsky Olga , Shai Ela , Varon David , Leker Ronen
Published: June 2013

Platelets contain chemo-attractants and mitogens that have a major role in tissue repair. Therefore we hypothesised that tissue regeneration secondary to activation of endogenous neural stem cells (eNSC) can be enhanced by delivering platelets to the ischaemic brain. To examine these potential therapeutic effects we injected platelet-poor plasma (PPP), fibroblast growth factor (FGF2) and platelet lysate (PLT) to the lateral ventricles after permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (PMCAO) in rats. The animals were tested with the neurological severity score, and infarct volumes were measured at 90 days post–PMCAO. Immunohistochemistry was used to determine the fate of newborn cells and to count blood vessels in the ischaemic brain. Platelets significantly increased eNSC proliferation and angiogenesis in the subventricular zone (SVZ) and in the peri-lesion cortex. Functional outcome was significantly improved and injury size was significantly reduced in rats treated with PLT suggesting additional neuroprotective effects. In conclusion, local delivery of PLT to the lateral ventricles induces angiogenesis, neurogenesis and neuroprotection and reduces behavioural deficits after brain ischaemia.
Impact of apixaban on routine and specific coagulation assays: a practical laboratory guide
Authors: Chatelain Christian , Chatelain Bernard , Douxfils Jonathan , Dogné Jean-Michel , Mullier François
Published: June 2013

Apixaban does not require monitoring nor frequent dose adjustment. However, searching for the optimal dose for the individual patient may be useful in some situations. Moreover, there is a need for clinicians to know whether coagulation assays are influenced by apixaban use. The aim of this study was to determine which coagulation assay could be used to assess the impact of apixaban on haemostasis and provide good laboratory recommendations for the accurate interpretation of haemostasis assays. Apixaban is spiked at concentrations ranging from 5 to 500 ng/ml in platelet-poor plasma. Routinely used or more specific coagulation assays are tested. Results show a concentration dependent prolongation of aPTT, PT and dilute PT. The sensitivity mainly depends on the reagent, but none of these tests is sensitive enough to ensure an accurate estimation of the pharmacodynamic effect of apixaban. FXa chromogenic assays show high sensitivity and a linear correlation depending on the reagent and/or the methodology. Immunological assays and assays acting below the FXa are not influenced by apixaban. In conclusion, PT and/or dilute PT cannot be used to assess apixaban pharmacodynamic properties. More specific and sensitive assays such as chromogenic FXa assays using specific calibrators are required. In case of thrombophilia or in the exploration of a haemorrhagic event, immunological assays should be recommended, when applicable. Standardisation of the time between the last intake of apixaban and the sampling is mandatory.
Clinical utility of kallikrein-related peptidases (KLK) in urogenital malignancies
Authors: Dorn Julia , Bayani Jane , Yousef George M. , Yang Feng , Magdolen Viktor , Kiechle Marion , Diamandis Eleftherios P. , Schmitt Manfred
Published: June 2013

Kallikrein-related peptidases (KLK), which represent a major tissue-associated proteolytic system, stand for a rich source of biomarkers that may allow molecular classification, early diagnosis and prognosis of human malignancies as well as prediction of response or failure to cancer-directed drugs. International research points to an important role of certain KLKs in female and male urogenital tract malignancies, in addition to cancers of the lung, brain, skin, head and neck, and the gastrointestinal tract. Regarding the female/male urogenital tract, remarkably, all of the KLKs are expressed in the normal prostate, testis, and kidney whereas the uterus, the ovary, and the urinary bladder are expressing a limited number of KLKs only. Most of the information regarding KLK expression in tumour-affected organs is available for ovarian cancer; all of the 12 KLKs tested so far were found to be elevated in the malignant state, depicting them as valuable biomarkers to distinguish between the normal and the cancerous phenotype. In contrast, for kidney cancer, a series of KLKs was found to be downregulated, while other KLKs were not expressed. Evidently, depending on the type of cancer or cancer stage, individual KLKs may show characteristics of a Janus-faced behaviour, by either expanding or inhibiting cancer progression and metastasis.
Tumor-Associated Macrophages as a Paradigm of Macrophage Plasticity, Diversity, and Polarization
Authors: Mantovani Alberto , Locati Massimo
Published: June 2013

Macrophages are present in all body compartments, including cancerous tissues, and their functions are profoundly affected by signals from the microenvironment under homeostatic and pathological conditions. Tumor-associated macrophages are a major cellular component of cancer-related inflammation and have served as a paradigm for the plasticity and functional polarization of mononuclear phagocytes. Tumor-associated macrophages can exert dual influence of cancer depending on the activation state, with classically activated (M1) and alternatively activated (M2) cells generally exerting antitumoral and protumoral functions, respectively. These are extremes in a continuum of polarization states in a universe of diversity. Tumor-associated macrophages affect virtually all aspects of tumor tissues, including stem cells, metabolism, angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis. Progress has been made in defining signaling molecules, transcription factors, epigenetic changes, and repertoire of microRNAs underlying macrophage polarization. Preclinical and early clinical data suggest that macrophages may serve as tools for the development of innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in cancer and chronic nonresolving inflammatory diseases.
Microcomputed Tomography Provides High Accuracy Congenital Heart Disease Diagnosis in Neonatal and Fetal Mice
Authors: Kim Andrew J. , Francis Richard , Liu Xiaoqin , Devine William A. , Ramirez Ricardo , Anderton Shane J. , Wong Li Yin , Faruque Fahim , Gabriel George C. , Leatherbury Linda , Tobita Kimimasa , Lo Cecilia W.
Published: June 2013

Background—

Mice are well suited for modeling human congenital heart disease (CHD), given their 4-chamber cardiac anatomy. However, mice with CHD invariably die prenatally/neonatally, causing CHD phenotypes to be missed. Therefore, we investigated the efficacy of noninvasive microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) to screen for CHD in stillborn/fetal mice. These studies were performed using chemically mutagenized mice expected to be enriched for birth defects, including CHD.

Methods and Results—

Stillborn/fetal mice obtained from the breeding of
N
-ethyl-
N
-nitrosourea mutagenized mice were formalin-fixed and stained with iodine, then micro-CT scanned. Those diagnosed with CHD and some CHD-negative pups were necropsied. A subset of these were further analyzed by histopathology to confirm the CHD/no-CHD diagnosis. Micro-CT scanning of 2105 fetal/newborn mice revealed an abundance of ventricular septal defects (n=307). Overall, we observed an accuracy of 89.8% for ventricular septal defect diagnosis. Outflow tract anomalies identified by micro-CT included double outlet right ventricle (n=36), transposition of the great arteries (n=14), and persistent truncus arteriosus (n=3). These were diagnosed with a 97.4% accuracy. Aortic arch anomalies also were readily detected with an overall 99.6% accuracy. This included right aortic arch (n=28) and coarctation/interrupted aortic arch (n=12). Also detected by micro-CT were atrioventricular septal defects (n=22), tricuspid hypoplasia/atresia (n=13), and coronary artery fistulas (n=16). They yielded accuracies of 98.9%, 100%, and 97.8%, respectively.

Conclusions—

Contrast enhanced micro-CT imaging in neonatal/fetal mice can reliably detect a wide spectrum of CHD. We conclude that micro-CT imaging can be used for routine rapid assessments of structural heart defects in fetal/newborn mice.
On Religiosity and Super-religiosity (II): The Case of Jewish Ultra-orthodoxy
Authors: Aran Gideon
Published: June 2013

Abstract

This is part two of my essay on super-religiosity. Though the two parts systematically relate to each other and are complementary, they can be read independently of one another. The first part, printed in the previous issue of Numen (vol. 60, issue 2–3, 2013) presented the analytic model of super-religiosity. The following presents a case study that is an illustration and test of the formerly published conceptual discussion and theoretical argument. The present part applies the idea of super-religiosity to the peculiar instance of Jewish ultra-orthodoxy. It is a comprehensive, methodic, and updated exposition of a particular super-religious society and culture. It focuses on the contemporary Israeli ultra-Orthodox known as Haredim. More precisely, this paper describes and analyzes the hard core of the Haredi group that manifests religious extremism. This examination of the Haredi case in terms of super-religiosity is applied towards an attempt at deconstructing and reevaluating the prevalent concepts of tradition, extremism, and fundamentalism.
Three new species of Oppioidea (Acari: Oribatida) from India
Authors: ERMILOV SERGEY G. , KALÚZ STANISLAV
Published: June 2013

Three new oribatid mite species of the superfamily Oppioidea—Cycloppia asetosa sp. nov., C. spindleformis sp. nov. and Hammerella (Hammerella) excisa sp. nov.—are described from India. The genus Cycloppia and subgenus Hammerella (Hammerella) are for the first time recorded in India. Cycloppia asetosa sp. nov. differs from all species of Cycloppia by the rostrum with indentation and the absence of interlamellar setae and their alveoli. Cycloppia spindleformis sp. nov. dif-fers from all species of Cycloppia by the presence of interlamellar alveoli only. Hammerella (H.) excisa sp. nov. differs from all species of Hammerella (Hammerella) by the rostrum with indentation and the presence of notogastral setae c. The identification keys to all known species of Cycloppia and Hammerella (Hammerella) are provided.
New species of Aleurodamaeus Grandjean, 1954 (Oribatida: Aleurodamaeidae) from South Africa
Authors: HUGO-COETZEE ELIZABETH A.
Published: June 2013

Seven new species of Aleurodamaeus (Oribatida: Aleurodamaeidae) from South Africa are described: A. salvadordalii sp. nov., A. vicinus sp. nov., A. angelae sp. nov., A. niedbalai sp. nov., A. minutus sp. nov., A. woasi sp. nov. and A. prominens sp. nov.. Their distribution in South Africa is discussed. Aleurodamaeus deswardti (Hugo, 2010) comb. nov. is proposed. A key to all South African species of Aleurodamaeus is provided.
Oribatid mite fossils from pre-Quaternary sediments in Slovenian caves II. Amiracarus pliocennatus n.gen., n.sp. (Microzetidae) from Pliocene, with comments on the other species of the genus
Authors: MIKO LADISLAV , MOUREK JAN , MELEG IOANA N. , MOLDOVAN OANA T.
Published: June 2013

Amiracarus pliocennatus n. gen., n. sp. is described based on fossils found in Pliocene and Pleistocene clastic sediments in caves of the Slovenian Classical Karst (Kras). Diagnosis and relationships of the new genus are given and relationships within the extant species of the genus are discussed as well as variability and reliability of some characters, used for spe-cies differentiation. Amiracarus senensis (Bernini 1975) n. comb. is proposed as a type species of the new genus, and other four extant species are newly placed in Amiracarus n. gen.: A. abeloosi (Lions 1978) n. comb., A. discrepans (Mahunka 1966) n. comb., A. grootaerti (Wauthy &Ducarme 2011) n. comb. and A. similis (Subìas & Iturrondobeitia 1978) n. comb. Finding of a fossil individual of M. senensis Bernini 1975 in Ponicova Cave of South-West Carpathians in Romania is reported and a description of this individual is given. Relationships with the genus Miracarus Kunst 1959 are discussed and a new diagnosis of this genus is also given, along with the redescription of its type species, M. hurkai Kunst 1959.
Pseudovertical Temperature Profiles Give Insight into Winter Evolution of the Atmospheric Boundary Layer over the McMurdo Dry Valleys of Antarctica
Authors: Zawar-Reza Peyman , Katurji Marwan , Soltanzadeh Iman , Dallafior Tanja , Zhong Shiyuan , Steinhoff Daniel , Storey Bryan , Cary S. Craig
Published: June 2013

Measuring routine vertical profiles of atmospheric temperature is critical in understanding stability and the dynamics of the boundary layer. Routine monitoring in remote areas such as the McMurdo Dry Valleys (MDV) of Antarctica is logistically difficult and expensive. Pseudovertical profiles that were derived from a network of inexpensive ground temperature sensors planted on valley sidewalls (up to 330 m above valley floor), together with data from a weather station and a numerical weather prediction model, provided a long-term climatological description of the evolution of the winter boundary layer over the MDV. In winter, persistent valley cold pools (VCPs) were common, lasting up to 2 weeks. The VCPs were eroded by warm-air advection from aloft associated with strong winds, increasing the temperature of the valley by as much as 25 K. Pseudovertical datasets as described here can be used for model validation.
Connections between the Spring Breakup of the Southern Hemisphere Polar Vortex, Stationary Waves, and Air–Sea Roughness
Authors: Garfinkel Chaim I. , Oman Luke D. , Barnes Elizabeth A. , Waugh Darryn W. , Hurwitz Margaret H. , Molod Andrea M.
Published: June 2013

A robust connection between the drag on surface-layer winds and the stratospheric circulation is demonstrated in NASA's Goddard Earth Observing System Chemistry–Climate Model (GEOSCCM). Specifically, an updated parameterization of roughness at the air–sea interface, in which surface roughness is increased for moderate wind speeds (4–20 m s−1), leads to a decrease in model biases in Southern Hemispheric ozone, polar cap temperature, stationary wave heat flux, and springtime vortex breakup. A dynamical mechanism is proposed whereby increased surface roughness leads to improved stationary waves. Increased surface roughness leads to anomalous eddy momentum flux convergence primarily in the Indian Ocean sector (where eddies are strongest climatologically) in September and October. The localization of the eddy momentum flux convergence anomaly in the Indian Ocean sector leads to a zonally asymmetric reduction in zonal wind and, by geostrophy, to a wavenumber-1 stationary wave pattern. This tropospheric stationary wave pattern leads to enhanced upward wave activity entering the stratosphere. The net effect is an improved Southern Hemisphere vortex: the vortex breaks up earlier in spring (i.e., the spring late-breakup bias is partially ameliorated) yet is no weaker in midwinter. More than half of the stratospheric biases appear to be related to the surface wind speed biases. As many other chemistry–climate models use a similar scheme for their surface-layer momentum exchange and have similar biases in the stratosphere, the authors expect that results from GEOSCCM may be relevant for other climate models.