bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endoscopic third ventriculostomy in patients younger than 2 years: outcome analysis of 41 hydrocephalus cases
Authors: Sufianov Albert A. , Sufianova Galina Z. , Iakimov Iurii A.
Published: April 2010

Object

The object of this study was to analyze the outcome of endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) in patients under 2 years of age and investigate factors related to ETV success or failure in this patient population.

Methods

The authors reviewed their experience in using endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) in the treatment of 41 hydrocephalus patients younger than 2 years. The mean duration of follow-up was 45 months. The relationship between ETV efficacy and the following variables was analyzed: cause of hydrocephalus, level of CSF occlusion, primary versus secondary ETV, type of surgical procedure, head circumference, patient age at ETV, patient age at first manifestation of hydrocephalus, and anatomical features of the ventricle. Success of ETV was assessed based on the results of neurological examination and postoperative imaging during the follow-up period.

Results

The authors performed 32 primary ETVs and 10 secondary ETVs (ETV after hydrocephalus surgery) in 41 patients (a second ETV was performed in 1 patient). The success rates of primary and secondary ETV were 75.8 and 55.6%, respectively (no significant difference, p = 0.15). The ETV was clinically and radiologically successful in 30 (71.4%) of 42 procedures during a mean (± SD) follow-up period of 45.0 ± 4.8 months (range 12–127 months). A negative relationship was found between success of ETV and the thickness of the floor of the third ventricle (the most effective procedures were those in which the floor of the ventricle was thinnest [p < 0.05]). There was a highly significant correlation between ETV success and prolapse of the ventricle floor (p < 0.001). Also, there was an inverse relationship between ventricle floor thickness and the width of the third ventricle (p < 0.005). In our group of patients there was significant correlation between ETV success and patient age at onset of hydrocephalus (the most effective procedures were in patients in whom signs of hydrocephalus first occurred after 1 month of age [p = 0.02]).

Conclusions

Endoscopic third ventriculostomy was successful in 71.4% of procedures in children younger than 2 years and in 75.0% of procedures in infants. Success of ETV in children younger than 2 years depends not on the age of the patient or cause of hydrocephalus but on the thickness of the floor of the third ventricle and the patient's age at first manifestation of hydrocephalus.
Tumor vessel biology in pediatric intracranial ependymoma
Authors: Wagemakers Michiel , Sie Mariska , Hoving Eelco W. , Molema Grietje , de Bont Eveline S. J. M. , den Dunnen Wilfred F. A.
Published: April 2010

Object

This study aimed to characterize the pediatric intracranial ependymoma vasculature in terms of angiogenic activity and maturation status so as to provide indications for the applicability of vessel-targeted therapy in cases of pediatric intracranial ependymoma.

Methods

Tumor samples obtained in patients with ependymomas were immunohistochemically (double) stained for Ki 67/CD34, caspase 3a/CD34, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)–A, –B, –C, –D, collagen Type IV, and smooth muscle actin to determine microvessel density, tumor and endothelial cell proliferation and apoptotic fraction, the relative expression of VEGF family members, and the coverage of the tumor endothelial cells by basal membrane and pericytes. Messenger RNA expression of angiopoietin-1 and -2 was analyzed by real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. These data were compared with those obtained in a glioblastoma series.

Results

Despite a low endothelial cell turnover, the microvessel density of ependymomas was similar to that of glioblastomas. In ependymomas the expression of VEGF-A was within the range of the variable expression in glioblastomas. The staining intensities of VEGF-B, -C, and -D in ependymomas were significantly lower (p < 0.001). The expression of angiopoietin-1 was higher in ependymomas than in glioblastomas (p = 0.03), whereas angiopoietin-2 expression was similar. The coverage of tumor endothelial cells with basal membrane and pericytes was more complete in ependymomas (p = 0.009 and p = 0.022, respectively).

Conclusions

The ependymoma vasculature is relatively mature and has little angiogenic activity compared with malignant gliomas. Therefore, the window for vessel normalization as a therapeutic aim might be considered small. However, the status of the tumor vasculature may not be a reliable predictor of treatment effect. Therefore, possible benefits of antiangiogenic treatment cannot be excluded beforehand in patients with ependymomas.
Comparison of perceptions and treatment practices between neurosurgeons and plastic surgeons for infants with deformational plagiocephaly
Authors: Lee Amy , Van Pelt Andrea E. , Kane Alex A. , Pilgram Thomas K. , Govier Daniel P. , Woo Albert S. , Smyth Matthew D.
Published: April 2010

Object

Deformational plagiocephaly (DP) is the leading cause of head shape abnormalities in infants. Treatment options include conservative measures and cranial molding. Pediatric neurosurgeons and craniofacial plastic surgeons have yet to agree on an ideal therapy, and no definable standards exist for initiating treatment with helmets. Furthermore, there may be differences between specialties in their perceptions of DP severity and need for helmet therapy.

Methods

Requests to participate in a web-based questionnaire were sent to diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Neurological Surgery and US and Canadian members of the Pediatric Joint Section of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons and the Congress of Neurological Surgeons and the American Cleft Palate–Craniofacial Association. Questions focused on educational background; practice setting; volume of DP patients; preferences for evaluation, treatment, follow-up; and incentives or deterrents to treat with helmet therapy. Six examples of varying degrees of DP were presented to delineate treatment preferences.

Results

Requests were sent to 302 neurosurgeons and 470 plastic surgeons, and responses were received from 71 neurosurgeons (24%) and 64 plastic surgeons (14%). The following responses represented the greatest variations between specialties: 1) 8% of neurosurgeons and 26% of plastic surgeons strongly agreed with the statement that helmet therapy is more beneficial than conservative therapy (p < 0.01); and 2) 25% of neurosurgeons and 58% of plastic surgeons would treat moderate to severe DP with helmets (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Survey responses suggest that neurosurgeons are less likely to prescribe helmet therapy for DP than plastic surgeons. Parents of children with DP are faced with a costly treatment decision that may be influenced more strongly by referral and physician bias than medical evidence.
Magnetic resonance diffusion tensor imaging and tractography of intracranial cavernous malformations: preliminary observations and characterization of the hemosiderin rim
Authors: Cauley Keith A. , Andrews Trevor , Gonyea Jay V. , Filippi Christopher G.
Published: April 2010

Object

Cavernous malformations (CMs) can cause symptoms that appear out of proportion to the lesion size, leading one to hypothesize that they may have an effect on adjacent white matter that is not fully explained by local mass effect. The goal of this study was to investigate the diffusion tensor (DT) properties of CMs, the hemosiderin rim, and normal-appearing adjacent white matter.

Methods

Eighteen cavernous malformations were characterized using standard MR imaging sequences as well as 6-direction DT imaging with single-shot echo planar–gradient echo imaging at 3 tesla.

Results

Diffusion tensor imaging demonstrated that CMs have a characteristic signature on DT imaging, with low fractional anisotropy (FA) and high mean diffusivity centrally within the lesion. The hemosiderin rim had a high FA value relative to the central lesion or adjacent white matter. Tractography revealed that tracts neatly deviate around CMs. Tracts were typically seen to pass through the hemosiderin rim.

Conclusions

The hemosiderin rim of CMs was intimately associated with white matter tracts that were deviated by the central lesion. These findings are consistent with histopathological reports that the hemosiderin rim is composed of blood breakdown products deposited in viable white matter.
Endocrinological and ophthalmological consequences of an initial endonasal endoscopic approach for resection of craniopharyngiomas
Authors: Campbell Peter G. , McGettigan Brian , Luginbuhl Adam , Yadla Sanjay , Rosen Marc , Evans James J.
Published: April 2010

Object

The expanded endoscopic approach to craniopharyngiomas has recently been described in several small case series. The authors present their experience with this technique and review the available literature.

Methods

Between September 2006 and September 2009, 14 patients underwent a purely endoscopic, endonasal approach for resection of newly diagnosed craniopharyngiomas. These procedures represent index surgeries; no patient had undergone previous tumor resection. A retrospective review of endocrinological and ophthalmological outcomes, extent of resection, and complication prevalence was completed. Additionally, a review of the English literature was performed to evaluate outcomes of similar endoscopic techniques for resection of craniopharyngiomas.

Results

Four patients (28.6%) underwent gross-total resection; near total resection or better was achieved in 9 patients (64.3%). All patients presented with some form of visual field or acuity deficit. Postoperatively, 12 patients (85.7%) experienced visual improvement, with 6 patients (42.9%) having complete visual recovery. One patient experienced worsening of her visual deficit. Visual acuity improved in 8 patients ((57.1%), while visual field defects improved in 11 (78.6%). The pituitary stalk was preserved in all cases. Eight (57.1%) of 14 patients experienced some form of anterior pituitary dysfunction postoperatively. Although 9 patients (64.3%) were documented to have either transient or permanent new diabetes insipidus immediately after surgery, at 1-month follow-up only 1 patient met clinical criteria. Five patients (35.7%) developed CSF leaks that were successfully treated by subsequent endoscopic revision. All CSF leaks occurred early in the series. Two patients (14.2%) were treated for presumed meningitis postoperatively.

Conclusions

The endoscopic endonasal approach is a minimally invasive alternative to open transcranial approaches for select craniopharyngiomas. Similar to previous transcranial series, rates of endocrinopathy and gross-total resection were dependent upon the adherence of the tumor capsule to the hypothalamus, pituitary stalk, and associated vasculature. A review of the literature suggests that the results of the current series are similar to other published series on this topic.
Molecular pathogenesis of craniopharyngioma: switching from a surgical approach to a biological one
Authors: Pettorini Benedetta Ludovica , Frassanito Paolo , Caldarelli Massimo , Tamburrini Gianpiero , Massimi Luca , Di Rocco Concezio
Published: April 2010

Craniopharyngioma has long been considered a benign tumor because of its pathological aspect. This primordial view of craniopharyngioma fit with the primitive treatment attempts based on blind resection of the tumor each time it recurred. The limits of this management strategy were proven early by the high morbidity related to the resection and recurrence risk despite radical lesion removal. Nowadays, craniopharyngioma must be considered a complex molecular disease, and a detailed explanation of the mechanisms underlying its aggressive biological and clinical behavior, despite some benign pathological features, would be the first step toward defining the best management of craniopharyngioma. Indeed, advances in the knowledge of the molecular mechanisms at the base of craniopharyngioma oncogenesis will lead to comprehension of the critical checkpoints involved in neoplastic transformation. The final research target will be the definition of new biological agents able to reverse the neoplastic process by acting on these critical checkpoints. This biological approach will lead to a refined therapy combining higher efficacy and safety with lower morbidity. In this paper the authors reveal state-of-the-art comprehension of the molecular biology of craniopharyngioma and the consequent therapeutic implications.
Craniopharyngiomas: intratumoral chemotherapy with interferon-α: a multicenter preliminary study with 60 cases
Authors: Cavalheiro Sergio , Di Rocco Concezzio , Valenzuela Sergio , Dastoli Patricia A. , Tamburrini Gianpiero , Massimi Lucca , Nicacio Jardel M. , Faquini Igor V. , Ierardi Daniela F. , Silva Nasjla S. , Pettorini Benedetta Ludovica , Toledo Silvia R. C.
Published: April 2010

Object

The authors assessed the efficacy of intratumoral interferon-α (IFNα)–based chemotherapy in pediatric patients with cystic craniopharyngiomas.

Methods

In a prospective multicenter study of 60 pediatric patients, the authors assessed the efficacy of intratumoral INFα2A-based chemotherapy. The study was conducted between 2000 and 2009 at 3 locations: the Medical School of the Federal University of São Paulo, Catholic University of Rome, and the Neurosurgery Institute of Santiago, Chile. The assessment included clinical and radiological control examinations, side effects observed, and total dose used.

Results

Sixty cases of cystic craniopharyngioma were analyzed. The cohort consisted of 35 male and 25 female children (mean age 11 years). Clinical and radiological improvement was achieved in 76% of the cases. New endocrinological deficits were observed in 13% of the cases. In approximately 30% of the patients, the evolution included some light side effects, the most common being headache (33%) and eyelid edema (28%). The number of cycles varied from 1 to 9 (mean 5 cycles), and the total dose applied per cycle was 36,000,000 IU.

Conclusions

This has been the largest documented series of intratumoral chemotherapy using INFα for the control of cystic craniopharyngiomas. The treatment has proved efficacious; there was no mortality, and morbidity rates were low.
Intracystic treatments for craniopharyngioma
Authors: Steinbok Paul , Hukin Juliette
Published: April 2010

Craniopharyngioma is a benign tumor histopathologically and in theory should be curable by radical resection. In practice, this tumor behaves like a chronic disease, with many issues related to the effect of the tumor itself and the various treatments on the adjacent structures, such as the pituitary stalk and gland, hypothalamus, visual apparatus, and suprasellar arteries. A multimodality approach to the management of these tumors may produce the optimal outcome, balancing disease control and quality of life. In this paper, the role of intracystic therapies is reviewed, with the major focus on intracystic bleomycin and interferon-α.
Craniopharyngioma and other cystic epithelial lesions of the sellar region: a review of clinical, imaging, and histopathological relationships
Authors: Zada Gabriel , Lin Ning , Ojerholm Eric , Ramkissoon Shakti , Laws Edward R.
Published: April 2010

Object

Cystic epithelial masses of the sellar and parasellar region may be difficult to differentiate on a clinical, imaging, or even histopathological basis. The authors review the developmental relationships and differentiating features of various epithelial lesions of the sellar region.

Methods

The authors performed a review of the literature to identify previous studies describing the etiological relationships and differentiating features of various cystic sellar lesions, including craniopharyngioma (CP), Rathke cleft cyst, xanthogranuloma, and dermoid and epidermoid cysts.

Results

There is significant evidence in the literature to support a common ectodermal origin of selected sellar and suprasellar cystic lesions, which may account for the overlap of features and transitional states observed in some cases. Research obtained from animal studies and reports of transitional cystic epithelial masses or lesions crossing over from typical to more aggressive pathological subtypes have collectively provided a solid foundation for this theory. Histological features that signify transitional entities beyond simple benign Rathke cleft cysts include squamous metaplasia, stratified squamous epithelium, and ciliated or mucinous goblet cells in squamous-papillary CPs. Several studies have identified key clinical, imaging, and histopathological features that can be used in the differentiation of these lesions.

Conclusions

The pattern of embryological formation of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis plays a major role in its propensity for developing cystic epithelial lesions. Subsequent inflammatory, metaplastic, and neoplastic processes may promote further progression along the pathological continuum, ranging from benign epithelial cysts to aggressive neoplastic cystic CPs. Selected clinical, imaging, and histopathological features can be used collectively to help differentiate these lesions and assign a formal diagnosis, thus accurately guiding further treatment.
Poetic License in the Qur'an: Ibn al-Ṣāʾigh al-Ḥanafī's Iḥkām al-rāy fī aḥkām al-āy
Authors: Stewart Devin J.
Published: April 2010

Poetic license in the Qur'an has received limited attention in Western scholarship, and even the main exception, Friedrun Müller's 1969 monograph Untersuchungen zur Reimprosa im Koran, fails to recognise the substantial treatments of the topic, the general term for which was riʿāyat al-fāṣila, literally ‘taking into consideration the verse-final (rhyme) word’, in traditional Islamic scholarship. This study discusses the most thorough pre-modern treatment of poetic license in the Qur'an, Ibn al-Ṣāʾigh al-Ḥanafī’s treatise Iḥkām al-rāy fī aḥkām al-āy (‘Exercising Sound Judgement, on the Rules Governing Ayas’), which dates to the eighth/fourteenth century. A sophisticated linguistic, grammatical and stylistic analysis of the text of the Qur'an, Iḥkām al-rāy presents 40 types of deviation from ordinary usage that occur in order to facilitate rhyme at the ends of ayas. The study then addresses ‘cognate substitution’, one type of deviation for the sake of rhyme that Müller's Untersuchungen emphasises without naming precisely, showing that medieval rhetoricians such as Ḍiyāʾ al-Dīn ibn al-Athīr were aware of the concept, termed ʿadl (‘alteration (of morphological pattern)’), but may have avoided discussing its occurrence in the Qur'an directly for doctrinal reasons.
Abdullah Yusuf Ali: A Study of His Life and Translation
Authors: El-Khatib Abdallah
Published: April 2010

This study aims to throw light on Abdullah Yusuf Ali's translation of the Qur'an into English. The paper will discuss the various aspects of his life and posit how aspects of his personal experience may be seen to have affected the particularities of his translation, focusing on instances of personal taʾwīl in his translation. As such, the study will focus specifically on examples from Abdullah Yusuf Ali's interpretations of the eternal bliss of Paradise and discuss the extent to which he considers this reward to be of a solely spiritual nature, free of material and corporeal pleasures. In the light of this discussion I will then advance the proposition that translation of the Qur'an by a single individual is potentially problematic, rather the cooperation of a group of scholars in undertaking such an exercise may be the best way to achieve a more accurate and effective rendition of the Holy Text.
New Approaches for Very Short-term Steady-State Analysis of An Electrical Distribution System with Wind Farms
Authors: Bracale Antonio , Carpinelli Guido , Proto Daniela , Russo Angela , Varilone Pietro
Published: April 2010

Distribution networks are undergoing radical changes due to the high level of penetration of dispersed generation. Dispersed generation systems require particular attention due to their incorporation of uncertain energy sources, such as wind farms, and due to the impacts that such sources have on the planning and operation of distribution networks. In particular, the foreseeable, extensive use of wind turbine generator units in the future requires that distribution system engineers properly account for their impacts on the system. Many new technical considerations must be addressed, including protection coordination, steady-state analysis, and power quality issues. This paper deals with the very short-term, steady-state analysis of a distribution system with wind farms, for which the time horizon of interest ranges from one hour to a few hours ahead. Several wind-forecasting methods are presented in order to obtain reliable input data for the steady-state analysis. Both deterministic and probabilistic methods were considered and used in performing deterministic and probabilistic load-flow analyses. Numerical applications on a 17-bus, medium-voltage, electrical distribution system with various wind farms connected at different busbars are presented and discussed.
Blood Lead Levels Among Pregnant Women: Historical Versus Contemporaneous Exposures
Authors: Miranda Marie Lynn , Edwards Sharon E. , Swamy Geeta K. , Paul Christopher J. , Neelon Brian
Published: April 2010

Blood lead among pregnant women, even at modest levels, may impair offspring cognitive development. We examine whether blood lead levels (BLLs) result from current versus historic exposures, among a cohort of pregnant women. Cumulative logit models were used to characterize the relationship between maternal risk factors and higher BLLs. Maternal blood lead levels more likely result from lead remobilization from historic versus contemporaneous exposures. Even if all lead sources were abated immediately, women and their fetuses would experience lead exposure for decades. This work emphasizes the importance of addressing sources of environmental lead exposure in the United States and internationally.
Probabilistic Approaches to Better Quantifying the Results of Epidemiologic Studies
Authors: Gustafson Paul , McCandless Lawrence C.
Published: April 2010

Typical statistical analysis of epidemiologic data captures uncertainty due to random sampling variation, but ignores more systematic sources of variation such as selection bias, measurement error, and unobserved confounding. Such sources are often only mentioned via qualitative caveats, perhaps under the heading of ‘study limitations.’ Recently, however, there has been considerable interest and advancement in probabilistic methodologies for more integrated statistical analysis. Such techniques hold the promise of replacing a confidence interval reflecting only random sampling variation with an interval reflecting all, or at least more, sources of uncertainty. We survey and appraise the recent literature in this area, giving some prominence to the use of Bayesian statistical methodology.
Synthesis of Green-Emitting (La,Gd)OBr:Tb3+ Phosphors
Authors: Kim Sun Woog , Jyoko Kazuya , Masui Toshiyuki , Imanaka Nobuhito
Published: April 2010

Green-emitting phosphors based on lanthanum-gadolinium oxybromide were synthesized in a single phase form by the conventional solid state reaction method, and photoluminescence properties of them were characterized. The excitation peak wavelength of (La1-xGdx)OBr:Tb3+ shifted to the shorter wavelength side with the increase in the crystal field around the Tb3+ ions by doping Gd3+ ions into the La3+ site, and, as a result, the green emission intensity was successfully enhanced. The maximum emission intensity was obtained for (La0.95Gd0.05)OBr:5%Tb3+, where the relative emission intensity was 45% of that of a commercial green-emitting LaPO4:Ce3+,Tb3+ phosphor.
Glut1 and Glut3 as Potential Prognostic Markers for Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Ayala Fernanda Rocha Rojas , Rocha Rafael Malagoli , Carvalho Kátia Cândido , Carvalho André Lopes , Da Cunha Isabela Werneck , Lourenço Silvia Vanessa , Soares Fernando Augusto
Published: April 2010

We associated clinical-pathological features of 142 OSCC with the expression pattern of GLUT1 and GLUT3 in order to estimate their prognostic value. Methods: Clinical-pathological features and overall survival data of 142 patients with Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) were retrospectively reviewed from A.C.Camargo hospital records. A tissue microarray (TMA) was built for the immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis of GLUT 1 and GLUT 3. IHC results were evaluated according to the staining pattern and number of positive cells. Results: GLUT 1 was over expressed in 50.3% of OSSC cases showing membrane staining pattern. However, nuclear expression was observed in 49.7% of the analyzed cases. GLUT 3 over expression was detected in 21.1% of OSCC cases. The pattern of GLUT 1 expression showed significant association with alcohol consumption (p = 0.004). Positive cell membrane GLUT 3 protein expression was associated with advanced clinic-staging of tumours (p = 0.005) as well as with vascular embolization (p = 0.005). Positive expression of GLUT 3 was associated with unfavorable free-disease survival (p = 0.021). Conclusion: GLUT1 and GLUT3 protein expression evaluated by immunohistochemistry are, significantly, indicators of poor prognosis outcome in oral squamous cell carcinoma, probably due to the enhanced glycolytic metabolism of more aggressive neoplastic cells.
Beneficial Effects of Probiotic and Food Borne Yeasts on Human Health
Authors: Moslehi-Jenabian Saloomeh , Lindegaard Line , Jespersen Lene
Published: April 2010

Besides being important in the fermentation of foods and beverages, yeasts have shown numerous beneficial effects on human health. Among these, probiotic effects are the most well known health effects including prevention and treatment of intestinal diseases and immunomodulatory effects. Other beneficial functions of yeasts are improvement of bioavailability of minerals through the hydrolysis of phytate, folate biofortification and detoxification of mycotoxins due to surface binding to the yeast cell wall.
Lessons Learned from Surveillance of Antimicrobial Susceptibilities of Pseudomonas aeruginosa at a Large Academic Medical Center
Authors: Heintz Brett H. , Halilovic Jenana
Published: April 2010

This research report assessed the differences in resistance rates and antimicrobial usage-versus-susceptibility relationships of Pseudomonas aeruginosa found in various hospital patient care areas. A simplified case control study was also performed to identify patient-specific risk factors associated with cefepime-resistant P. aeruginosa isolates. Last, we determined the consequence of combining mucoid and non-mucoid derived antimicrobial susceptibilities of P. aeruginosa into hospital antibiograms. Overall, susceptibility rates remained lower in the intensive care units (ICUs) compared to the non-ICU patient care areas, except for cefepime over the last time period. Cefepime utilization and antimicrobial-resistance rates among P. aeruginosa isolates had a significant relationship. Decreased meropenem exposure was associated with lower resistance rates relative to cefepime. Risk factors independently associated with cefepime-resistant P. aeruginosa were structural lung disease, ICU admission, recent third generation cephalosporin use, frequent hospital admission and non-urine isolates. Large and statistically significant differences were observed between non-mucoid and combined percent susceptibility data for aminoglycosides. To control antimicrobial resistance and optimize initial empiric antimicrobial therapy, antimicrobial susceptibility and utilization patterns in specific patient care areas should be monitored and risk factors for antimicrobial resistance should be assessed. Mucoid strains of P. aeruginosa should not be included into antimicrobial susceptibility data as this may underestimate activity of most antipseudomonal agents.
Automatic Supported Liquid Extraction (SLE) Coupled with HILIC-MS/MS: An Application to Method Development and Validation of Erlotinib in Human Plasma
Authors: Pan Jiongwei , Jiang Xiangyu , Chen Yu-Luan
Published: April 2010

A novel bioanalytical method was developed and validated for the quantitative determination of erlotinib in human plasma by using the supported liquid extraction (SLE) sample cleanup coupled with hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometric detection (HILIC-MS/MS). The SLE extract could be directly injected into the HILIC-MS/MS system for analysis without the solvent evaporation and reconstitution steps. Therefore, the method is simple and rapid. In the present method, erlotinib-d6 was used as the internal standard. The SLE extraction recovery was 101.3%. The validated linear curve range was 2 to 2,000 ng/mL based on a sample volume of 0.100-mL, with a linear correlation coefficient of > 0.999. The validation results demonstrated that the present method gave a satisfactory precision and accuracy: intra-day CV < 5.9% (
Comparative Analysis of Clustering-Based Approaches for 3-D Single Tree Detection Using Airborne Fullwave Lidar Data
Authors: Gupta Sandeep , Weinacker Holger , Koch Barbara
Published: April 2010

In the past, many algorithms have been applied for three-dimensional (3-D) single tree extraction using Airborne Laser Scanner (ALS) data. Clustering based algorithms are widely used in different applications but rarely being they used in the field of forestry using ALS data as an input. In this paper, a comparative qualitative study was conducted using the iterative partitioning and hierarchical clustering based mechanisms and full waveform ALS data as an input to extract the individual trees/tree crowns in their most appropriate shape. The full waveform LIght Detection And Ranging (LIDAR) data was collected from the Waldkirch black forest area in the south-western part of Germany in August 2005 with density of 4–5 points/m2. Both the clustering algorithms were used in their original and modified form for a comparative qualitative analysis of the results obtained in the form of individual clusters containing 3-D points for each tree/tree crown. A total of 378 trees were found in all the 1.2 ha area with height ranging from 15 m to 50.9 m. The forest contains mainly older trees with deciduous, coniferous and mixed stands. The findings showed that among the three kind of clustering methods applied (normal k-means, modified k-means and hierarchical clustering), the modified k-means algorithm using external seed points and scaling down the height for initialization of the clustering process was the most promising method for the extraction of clusters of individual trees/tree crowns. A 3-D reconstruction of extracted individual clusters was carried out using QHull algorithm. In this study, the result was not possible to validate quantitatively due to lack of the field inventory data.
Visual Pathways Serving Motion Detection in the Mammalian Brain
Authors: Rokszin Alice , Márkus Zita , Braunitzer Gábor , Berényi Antal , Benedek György , Nagy Attila
Published: April 2010

Motion perception is the process through which one gathers information on the dynamic visual world, in terms of the speed and movement direction of its elements. Motion sensation takes place from the retinal light sensitive elements, through the visual thalamus, the primary and higher visual cortices. In the present review we aim to focus on the extrageniculo-extrastriate cortical and subcortical visual structures of the feline and macaque brain and discuss their functional role in visual motion perception. Special attention is paid to the ascending tectofugal system that may serve for detection of the visual environment during self-motion.
Wireless Health Data Exchange for Home Healthcare Monitoring Systems
Authors: Lee Malrey , Gatton Thomas M.
Published: April 2010

Ubiquitous home healthcare systems have been playing an increasingly significant role in the treatment and management of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension, but progress has been hampered by the lack of standardization in the exchange of medical health care information. In an effort to establish standardization, this paper proposes a home healthcare monitoring system data exchange scheme between the HL7 standard and the IEEE1451 standard. IEEE1451 is a standard for special sensor networks, such as industrial control and smart homes, and defines a suite of interfaces that communicate among heterogeneous networks. HL7 is the standard for medical information exchange among medical organizations and medical personnel. While it provides a flexible data exchange in health care domains, it does not provide for data exchange with sensors. Thus, it is necessary to develop a data exchange schema to convert data between the HL7 and the IEEE1451 standard. This paper proposes a schema that can exchange data between HL7 devices and the monitoring device, and conforms to the IEEE 1451 standard. The experimental results and conclusions of this approach are presented and show the feasibility of the proposed exchange schema.
Symmetry as an Intrinsically Dynamic Feature
Authors: Di Gesu Vito , Tabacchi Marco E. , Zavidovique Bertrand
Published: April 2010

Symmetry is one of the most prominent spatial relations perceived by humans, and has a relevant role in attentive mechanisms regarding both visual and auditory systems. The aim of this paper is to establish symmetry, among the likes of motion, depth or range, as a dynamic feature in artificial vision. This is achieved in the first instance by assessing symmetry estimation by means of algorithms, putting emphasis on erosion and multi-resolution approaches, and confronting two ensuing problems: the isolation of objects from the context, and the pertinence (or lack thereof) of some salient points, such as the centre of mass. Next a geometric model is illustrated and detailed, and the problem of measuring symmetry in a world where symmetry is not perfect nor the only attention trigger is tackled. Two algorithmic lines, based on the so-called symmetry kernel and its evolution with pattern warping, and by correlation of blocks with varying sizes and positions, are proposed and investigated. An extended illustration of the power of symmetry as a feature, based on face expression recognition, concludes the paper.
Avian Bornaviruses Escape Recognition by the Innate Immune System
Authors: Reuter Antje , Ackermann Andreas , Kothlow Sonja , Rinder Monika , Kaspers Bernd , Staeheli Peter
Published: April 2010

Like other pathogens that readily persist in animal hosts, members of the Bornaviridae family have evolved effective mechanisms to evade the innate immune response. The prototype of this virus family, Borna disease virus employs an unusual replication strategy that removes the triphosphates from the 5’ termini of the viral RNA genome. This strategy allows the virus to avoid activation of RIG-I and other innate immune response receptors in infected cells. Here we determined whether the newly discovered avian bornaviruses (ABV) might use a similar strategy to evade the interferon response. We found that de novo infection of QM7 and CEC32 quail cells with two different ABV strains was efficiently inhibited by exogenous chicken IFN-α. IFN-α also reduced the viral load in QM7 and CEC32 cells persistently infected with both ABV strains, suggesting that ABV is highly sensitive to type I IFN. Although quail cells persistently infected with ABV contained high levels of viral RNA, the supernatants of infected cultures did not contain detectable levels of biologically active type I IFN. RNA from cells infected with ABV failed to induce IFN-β synthesis if transfected into human cells. Furthermore, genomic RNA of ABV was susceptible to 5’-monophosphate-specific RNase, suggesting that it lacks 5’-triphospates like BDV. These results indicate that bornaviruses of mammals and birds use similar strategies to evade the host immune response.
Labeling Human Embryonic Stem Cell-Derived Cardiomyocytes with Indocyanine Green for Noninvasive Tracking with Optical Imaging: An FDA-Compatible Alternative to Firefly Luciferase
Authors: Boddington Sophie E. , Henning Tobias D. , Jha Priyanka , Schlieve Christopher R. , Mandrussow Lydia , Denardo David , Bernstein Harold S. , Ritner Carissa , Golovko Daniel , Lu Ying , Zhao Shoujun , Daldrup-Link Heike E.
Published: April 2010

Human embryonic stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hESC-CMs) have demonstrated the ability to improve myocardial function following transplantation into an ischemic heart; however, the functional benefits are transient possibly due to poor cell retention. A diagnostic technique that could visualize transplanted hESC-CMs could help to optimize stem cell delivery techniques. Thus, the purpose of this study was to develop a labeling technique for hESCs and hESC-CMs with the FDA-approved contrast agent indocyanine green (ICG) for optical imaging (OI). hESCs were labeled with 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, and 2.5 mg/ml of ICG for 30, 45, and 60 min at 37°C. Longitudinal OI studies were performed with both hESCs and hESC-CMs. The expression of surface proteins was assessed with immunofluorescent staining. hESCs labeled with 2 mg ICG/ml for 60 min achieved maximum fluorescence. Longitudinal studies revealed that the fluorescent signal was equivalent to controls at 120 h postlabeling. The fluorescence signal of hESCs and hESC-CMs at 1, 24, and 48 h was significantly higher compared to precontrast data ( p < 0.05). Immunocytochemistry revealed retention of cell-specific surface and nuclear markers postlabeling. These data demonstrate that hESCs and hESC-CMs labeled with ICG show a significant fluorescence up to 48 h and can be visualized with OI. The labeling procedure does not impair the viability or functional integrity of the cells. The technique may be useful for assessing different delivery routes in order to improve the engraftment of transplanted hESC-CMs or other stem cell progenitors.
Functional Characterization of Hepatocytes for Cell Transplantation: Customized Cell Preparation for Each Receptor
Authors: Bonora-Centelles A. , Donato M. T. , Lahoz A. , Pareja E. , Mir J. , Castell J. V. , Gómez-Lechón M. J.
Published: April 2010

The first indication of hepatocyte transplantation is inborn liver-based metabolic disorders. Among these, urea cycle disorders leading to the impairment to detoxify ammonia and Crigler-Najjar Syndrome type I, a deficiency in the hepatic UDP-glucuronosyltransferase 1A1 present the highest incidence. Metabolically qualified human hepatocytes are required for clinical infusion. We proposed fast and sensitive procedures to determine their suitability for transplantation. For this purpose, viability, attachment efficiency, and metabolic functionality (ureogenic capability, cytochrome P450, and phase II activities) are assayed prior to clinical cell infusion to determine the quality of hepatocytes. Moreover, the evaluation of urea synthesis from ammonia and UDP-glucuronosyltransferase 1A1 activity, a newly developed assay using β-estradiol as substrate, allows the possibility of customizing cell preparation for receptors with urea cycle disorders or Crigler-Najjar Syndrome type I. Sources of human liver and factors derived from the procurement of the liver sample (warm and cold ischemia) have also been investigated. The results show that grafts with a cold ischemia time exceeding 15 h and steatosis should not be accepted for hepatocyte transplantation. Finally, livers from non-heart-beating donors are apparently a potential suitable source of hepatocytes, which could enlarge the liver donor pool.
Cross-Linking Enhances Deposition of Human Endothelial Progenitor Cells in the Rat Heart after Intracoronary Transplantation
Authors: Burghoff Sandra , Ding Zhaoping , Blaszczyk Angelika , Wirrwar Andreas , Buchholz Doris , Müller Hans-Wilhelm , Schrader Jürgen
Published: April 2010

Transplantation of human endothelial progenitor cells (hEPCs) may improve vascularization and left ventricular function after myocardial infarction. The scope of this study was to explore, whether cross-linking of EPCs may enhance the deposition of cells in the rat heart after clinical-like, intracoronary transplantation. To this end,111In-oxinate-labeled hEPCs were infused by a minimally invasive technique into the coronary arteries of immunosuppressed Wistar rats under control conditions and after ischemia/reperfusion. In a second set of experiments hEPCs were treated with phytohemagglutinin to create small cell clusters prior to transplantation. Continous three-dimensional HiSPECT images for 1 h and after 48 h revealed that cell deposition was significantly higher when hEPCs were cross-linked. Therefore, cross-linking of hEPCs may provide a promising approach to enhance the number of trapped cells also in a clinical setting.
Use of Lectins to Enrich Mouse ES-Derived Retinal Progenitor Cells for the Purpose of Transplantation Therapy
Authors: Mandai Michiko , Ikeda Hanako , Jin Zi-Bing , Iseki Kyoko , Ishigami Chie , Takahashi Masayo
Published: April 2010

Using the mouse ES cell line with green fluorescent protein knocked-in at the Rx locus (Rx-KI ES cell), we previously showed that photoreceptors can be efficiently obtained in defined culture conditions by enriching Rx-positive retinal progenitor cells. We aimed to explore a protocol applicable for non-Rx-labeled stem cell lines for subsequent enrichment of retinal photoreceptor precursors for transplantation. The Rx-KI ES cell line was differentiated according to the serum-free suspension conditions with serum-free suspension/Dkk1/LeftyA/serum/activin method (SFEB/DLFA) described previously. Enrichment efficacy by negative selection was compared among 20 different lectins and the lectin combination that effectively enriched the Rx-positive cells by selecting the lectin low-binding population was determined. Subsequent differentiation efficiency to photoreceptor precursors and the contamination of Nanog or Oct3/4+ cells in the culture were evaluated between the cell cultures using negative selection with lectins and Rx positive selection. The effect of cytarabine (Ara-C) for minimizing the contamination of undifferentiated cells after the selection was also studied. The combination of the lectins, wheat germ agglutinin (WGA), and Erythrina crista-galli agglutinin (ECA) enabled us to enrich the Rx-positive population by approximately twice the original Rx percentage. The selection also minimized the percentage of Oct3/4+ cells. The lectin-selected cells produced a comparable percentage of Crx/rhodopsin-positive colonies with Rx-positive selection and were differentiated into photoreceptors. The Ara-C treatment on differentiating days 24–26 decreased Nanog and Oct3/4 expression in subsequent cultures. Enrichment of Rx-positive cells using WGA and ECA was comparable to Rx-positive selection, and the method could be applied to achieve efficient photoreceptor differentiation from other ES or iPS cell lines in which the Rx gene is not marked.
Enhanced Chondrogenic Differentiation of Human Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Low Oxygen Environment Micropellet Cultures
Authors: Markway Brandon D. , Tan Guak-Kim , Brooke Gary , Hudson James E. , Cooper-White Justin J. , Doran Michael R.
Published: April 2010

Chondrogenesis of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is typically induced when they are condensed into a single aggregate and exposed to transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). Hypoxia, like aggregation and TGF-β delivery, may be crucial for complete chondrogenesis. However, the pellet dimensions and associated self-induced oxygen gradients of current chondrogenic methods may limit the effectiveness of in vitro differentiation and subsequent therapeutic uses. Here we describe the use of embryoid body-forming technology to produce microscopic aggregates of human bone marrow MSCs (BM-MSCs) for chondrogenesis. The use of micropellets reduces the formation of gradients within the aggregates, resulting in a more homogeneous and controlled microenvironment. These micropellet cultures (~170 cells/micropellet) as well as conventional pellet cultures (~2 × 105cells/pellet) were chondrogenically induced under 20% and 2% oxygen environments for 14 days. Compared to conventional pellets under both environments, micropellets differentiated under 2% O2showed significantly increased sulfated glycosaminoglycan (sGAG) production and more homogeneous distribution of proteoglycans and collagen II. Aggrecan and collagen II gene expressions were increased in pellet cultures differentiated under 2% O2relative to 20% O2pellets but 2% O2micropellets showed even greater increases in these genes, as well as increased SOX9. These results suggest a more advanced stage of chondrogenesis in the micropellets accompanied by more homogeneous differentiation. Thus, we present a new method for enhancing MSC chondrogenesis that reveals a unique relationship between oxygen tension and aggregate size. The inherent advantages of chondrogenic micropellets over a single macroscopic aggregate should allow for easy integration with a variety of cartilage engineering strategies.
Utility of Telomerase-pot1 Fusion Protein in Vascular Tissue Engineering
Authors: Petersen Thomas H. , Hitchcock Thomas , Muto Akihito , Calle Elizabeth A. , Zhao Liping , Gong Zhaodi , Gui Liqiong , Dardik Alan , Bowles Dawn E. , Counter Christopher M. , Niklason Laura E.
Published: April 2010

While advances in regenerative medicine and vascular tissue engineering have been substantial in recent years, important stumbling blocks remain. In particular, the limited life span of differentiated cells that are harvested from elderly human donors is an important limitation in many areas of regenerative medicine. Recently, a mutant of the human telomerase reverse transcriptase enzyme (TERT) was described, which is highly processive and elongates telomeres more rapidly than conventional telomerase. This mutant, called pot1–TERT, is a chimeric fusion between the DNA binding protein pot1 and TERT. Because pot1–TERT is highly processive, it is possible that transient delivery of this transgene to cells that are utilized in regenerative medicine applications may elongate telomeres and extend cellular life span while avoiding risks that are associated with retroviral or lentiviral vectors. In the present study, adenoviral delivery of pot1-TERT resulted in transient reconstitution of telomerase activity in human smooth muscle cells, as demonstrated by telomeric repeat amplification protocol (TRAP). In addition, human engineered vessels that were cultured using pot1-TERT-expressing cells had greater collagen content and somewhat better performance in vivo than control grafts. Hence, transient delivery of pot1-TERT to elderly human cells may be useful for increasing cellular life span and improving the functional characteristics of resultant tissue-engineered constructs.