bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SPIN-GALVANIC EFFECT AND SPIN ORIENTATION BY CURRENT IN NON-MAGNETIC SEMICONDUCTORS
Authors: GANICHEV S. D.
Published: January 2008

Lately, there is much interest in the use of the spin of carriers in semiconductor quantum well (QW) structures together with their charge to realize novel concepts like spintronics. The necessary conditions to develop spintronic devices are high spin polarizations in QWs and a large spin-splitting of subbands in k-space. The latter is important for the ability to control spins with an external electric field by the Rashba effect. Significant progress has been achieved recently in generating large spin polarizations, in demonstrating the Rashba splitting and also in using the splitting for manipulating the spins. At the same time as these conditions are fulfilled and spins are polarized in-plane of QW, it has been shown that the spin polarization itself drives a current resulting in the spin galvanic effect [1,2]. The spin-galvanic effect is due to asymmetric spin-flip scattering of spin polarized carriers and it is determined by the process of spin relaxation. In some optical experiments, where circularly polarized radiation is used to orient spins, the photocurrent may represent a sum of spin-galvanic and circular photogalvanic effects effects.2,3 Both effects provide methods to determine spin relaxation times and the relative strength of the Rashba/Dresselhaus spin-splitting in semiconductor quantum wells.2

The inverse spin-galvanic effect4 has also been detected demonstrating that electric current in non-magnetic but gyrotropic QWs results in a non-equilibrium spin orientation. Just recently a first direct experimental proof of this effect was obtained in semiconductor QWs5,6 as well as in strained bulk material.7 Microscopically the effect is a consequence of spin-orbit coupling which lifts the spin-egeneracy in k-space of charge carriers together with spin dependent relaxation.

Note from Publisher: This article contains the abstract only.
PROBING GRAVITY IN NEO'S WITH HIGH-ACCURACY LASER-RANGED TEST MASSES
Authors: BOSCO A. , CANTONE C. , DELL'AGNELLO S. , DELLE MONACHE G. O. , FRANCESCHI M. A. , GARATTINI M. , NAPOLITANO T. , CIUFOLINI I. , AGNENI A. , GRAZIANI F. , IALONGO P. , LUCANTONI A. , PAOLOZZI A. , PERONI I. , SINDONI G. , BELLETTINI G. , TAURASO R. , PAVLIS E. C. , CURRIE D. G. , RUBINCAM D. P. , ARNOLD D. A. , MATZNER R. , SLABINSKI V. J.
Published: January 2008

Gravity can be studied in detail in near Earth orbits NEO's using laser-ranged test masses tracked with few-mm accuracy by ILRS. The two LAGEOS satellites have been used to measure frame dragging (a truly rotational effect predicted by GR) with a 10% error. A new mission and an optimized, second generation satellite, LARES (I. Ciufolini PI), is in preparation to reach an accuracy of 1% or less on frame dragging, to measure some PPN parameters, to test the 1/r2 law in a very weak field and, possibly, to test select models of unified theories (using the perigee). This requires a full thermal analysis of the test mass and an accurate knowledge of the asymmetric thermal thursts due to the radiation emitted by the Sun and Earth. A Space Climatic Facility (SCF) has been built at INFN-LNF (Frascati, Italy) to perform this experimental program on LAGEOS and LARES prototypes. It consists of a 2 m × 1 m cryostat, simulators of the Sun and Earth radiations and a versatile thermometry system made of discrete probes and an infrared digital camera.

The SCF commissioning is well underway. A test of all its subsystems has been successfully completed on August 4, 2006, using a LAGEOS 3 × 3 retroreflector array built at LNF. This prototype has been thermally modeled in detail with a commercial simulation software. We expect to demonstrate the full functionality of the SCF with the thermal characterization of this LAGEOS array by the beginning of September 2006.
PROBING SPACE–TIME IN THE SOLAR SYSTEM: FROM CASSINI TO BEPICOLOMBO
Authors: IESS LUCIANO , ASMAR SAMI
Published: January 2008

Spacecraft radio science techniques can be used for precision solar system tests of relativistic gravity, as was demonstrated by the measurement of the Doppler shift of radio signals with the Cassini mission. Similar experiments are planned for the BepiColombo mission to Mercury. Recent theoretical developments based on string theory and inflationary cosmologies link the validity of general relativity to the expansion of the Universe and indicate that violations may be within the reach of future, precise experiments. In spite of the uncertainty of the theoretical scenarios, the motivations for further tests of gravitational theories are stronger then ever: string theory, new cosmological observations, the hypotheses of dark matter and dark energy, all point to the need for a new and more profound understanding of the Universe and its laws, including the laws of gravity. This paper describes experiments for probing space–time in the solar system with the Cassini and BepiColombo missions, and discusses the experimental limitations of microwave systems used for these tests, including attitude motion and nongravitational accelerations of the spacecraft, propagation noise, and mechanical noise of ground antenna.
CONCEPT CONSIDERATIONS FOR A DEEP SPACE GRAVITY PROBE BASED ON LASER-CONTROLLED FREE-FLYING REFERENCE MASSES
Authors: JOHANN ULRICH A.
Published: January 2008

Concept considerations for a space mission with the objective of precisely testing the gravitational motion of a small test mass in the solar system environment are presented. In particular, the mission goal is an unambiguous experimental verification or falsification of the Pioneer anomaly effect. A promising concept is featuring a passive reference mass, shielded or well modeled with respect to nongravitational accelerations and formation flying with a rather standard deep space probe. The probe provides laser ranging and angular tracking to the reference mass, ranging to Earth via the radio-communication link and shielding from light pressure in the early parts of the mission. State-of-the-art ranging equipment can be used throughout, but requires in part optimization to meet the stringent physical budget constraints of a deep space mission. Mission operation aspects are briefly addressed.
Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Disease Pathogenesis
Authors: Lin Jonathan H. , Walter Peter , Yen T.S. Benedict
Published: January 2008

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is the site of synthesis and folding of membrane and secretory proteins, which, collectively, represent a large fraction of the total protein output of a mammalian cell. Therefore, the protein flux through the ER must be carefully monitored for abnormalities, including the buildup of misfolded proteins. Mammalian cells have evolved an intricate set of signaling pathways from the ER to the cytosol and nucleus, to allow the cell to respond to the presence of misfolded proteins within the ER. These pathways, known collectively as the unfolded protein response, are important for normal cellular homeostasis and organismal development and may also play key roles in the pathogenesis of many diseases. This review provides background information on the unfolded protein response and discusses a selection of diseases whose pathogenesis involves ER stress.
Netrin-1 and kidney injury. II. Netrin-1 is an early biomarker of acute kidney injury
Authors: Brian Reeves W. , Kwon Osun , Ramesh Ganesan
Published: January 2008

Acute kidney injury is an important complication in hospitalized patients often diagnosed late and associated with high mortality and morbidity. Although biomarkers for nephrotoxicity are available, they often lack sensitivity and specificity for detecting tubular injury. Netrin-1 is a laminin-like molecule highly expressed in many organs including kidney. To determine the value of netrin-1 as a biomarker of renal injury, we analyzed its urinary excretion following ischemia-reperfusion-, cisplatin-, folic acid-, and endotoxin-induced renal injury in mice. Urinary netrin-1 levels increased markedly within 3 h of ischemia-reperfusion (40 ± 14-fold, P < 0.01 vs. baseline), reached a peak level at 6 h, and decreased thereafter, returning to near baseline by 72 h. Serum creatinine significantly increased only after 24 h of reperfusion. Similarly, in cisplatin-, folic acid-, and lipopolysaccharide-treated mice, urine netrin-1 excretion increased as early as 1 h and reached a peak level at 6 h after injection. However, serum creatinine was raised significantly after 6, 24, and 72 h after folic acid, lipopolysaccharide, and cisplatin administration, respectively. NGAL excretion in folic acid- and lipopolysaccharide-treated mice urine samples could only be detected by 24 h after drug administration. Furthermore, urinary netrin-1 excretion increased dramatically in 13 acute renal failure patients, whereas none was detected in 6 healthy volunteer urine samples. Immunohistochemical localization showed that netrin-1 is highly expressed in tubular epithelial cells in transplanted human kidney. We conclude that urinary netrin-1 is a promising early biomarker of renal injury.
Longitudinal noninvasive monitoring of transcription factor activation in cardiovascular regulatory nuclei using bioluminescence imaging
Authors: Peterson Jeffrey R. , Infanger David W. , Braga Valdir A. , Zhang Yulong , Sharma Ram V. , Engelhardt John F. , Davisson Robin L.
Published: January 2008

The ability to monitor transcription factor (TF) activation in the central nervous system (CNS) has the potential to provide novel information regarding the molecular mechanisms underlying a wide range of neurobiological processes. However, traditional biochemical assays limit the mapping of TF activity to select time points. In vivo bioluminescence imaging (BLI) has emerged as an attractive technology for visualizing internal molecular events in the same animal over time. Here, we evaluated the utility of BLI, in combination with virally mediated delivery of reporter constructs to cardiovascular nuclei, for monitoring of TF activity in these discrete brain regions. Following viral gene transfer of NF-κB-driven luciferase reporter to the subfornical organ (SFO), BLI enabled daily measurements of baseline TF activity in the same animal for 1 mo. Importantly, systemic endotoxin, a stimulator of NF-κB activity, induced dramatic and dose-dependent increases in NF-κB-dependent bioluminescence in the SFO up to 30 days after gene transfer. Cotreatment with a dominant-negative IκBα mutant significantly prevented endotoxin-dependent NF-κB activation, confirming the specificity of the bioluminescence signal. NF-κB-dependent luminescence signals were also stable and inducible 1 mo following delivery of luciferase reporter construct to the paraventricular nucleus or rostral ventrolateral medulla. Lastly, using targeted adenoviral delivery of an AP-1 responsive luciferase reporter, we showed similar baseline and endotoxin-induced AP-1 activity in these same brain regions as with NF-κB reporters. These results demonstrate that BLI, in combination with virally mediated gene transfer, is a powerful method for longitudinal monitoring and quantification of TF activity in targeted CNS nuclei in vivo.
HOP/OB1/NECC1 Promoter DNA Is Frequently Hypermethylated and Involved in Tumorigenic Ability in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Yamashita Keishi , Kim Myoung Sook , Park Hannah Lui , Tokumaru Yutaka , Osada Motonobu , Inoue Hiroshi , Mori Masaki , Sidransky David
Published: January 2008

Promoter DNA hypermethylation with gene silencing is a common feature of human cancer, and cancer-prone methylation is believed to be a landmark of tumor suppressor genes (TSG). Identification of novel methylated genes would not only aid in the development of tumor markers but also elucidate the biological behavior of human cancers. We identified several epigenetically silenced candidate TSGs by pharmacologic unmasking of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) cell lines by demethylating agents (5-aza-2′-deoxycitidine and trichostatin A) combined with ESCC expression profiles using expression microarray. HOP/OB1/NECC1 was identified as an epigenetically silenced candidate TSG and further examined for (a) expression status, (b) methylation status, and (c) functional involvement in cancer cell lines. (a) The HOP gene encodes two putative promoters (promoters A and B) associated with two open reading frames (HOPα and HOPβ, respectively), and HOPα and HOPβ were both down-regulated in ESCC independently. (b) Promoter B harbors dense CpG islands, in which we found dense methylation in a cancer-prone manner (55% in tumor tissues by TaqMan methylation-specific PCR), whereas promoter A does not harbor CpG islands. HOPβ silencing was associated with DNA methylation of promoter B in nine ESCC cell lines tested, and reactivated by optimal conditions of demethylating agents, whereas HOPα silencing was not reactivated by such treatments. Forced expression of HOP suppressed tumorigenesis in soft agar in four different squamous cell carcinoma cell lines. More convincingly, RNA interference knockdown of HOP in TE2 cells showed drastic restoration of the oncogenic phenotype. In conclusion, HOP is a putative TSG that harbors tumor inhibitory activity, and we for the first time showed that the final shutdown process of HOP expression is linked to promoter DNA hypermethylation under the double control of the discrete promoter regions in cancer. (Mol Cancer Res 2008;6(1):31–41)
Immunoblot Analysis of the Seroreactivity to Recombinant Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato Antigens, Including VlsE, in the Long-Term Course of Treated Patients with Erythema Migrans
Authors: Glatz Martin , Fingerle Volker , Wilske Bettina , Ambros-Rudolph Christina , Kerl Helmut , Müllegger Robert R.
Published: January 2008

Objective: We evaluated whether immunoblotting is capable of substantiating the posttreatment clinical assessment of patients with erythema migrans (EM), the hallmark of early Lyme borreliosis. Methods: In 50 patients, seroreactivity to different antigens of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato was analyzed by a recombinant immunoblot test (IB) in consecutive serum samples from a minimum follow-up period of 1 year. Antigens in the IgG test were decorin-binding protein A, internal fragment of p41 (p41i), outer surface protein C (OspC), p39, variable major protein-like sequence expressed (VlsE), p58 and p100; those in the IgM test were p41i, OspC and p39. Immune responses were correlated with clinical and treatment-related parameters. Results: Positive IB results were found in 50% before, in 57% directly after therapy and in 44% by the end of the follow-up for the IgG class, and in 36, 43 and 12% for the IgM class. In acute and convalescence phase sera, VlsE was most immunogenic on IgG testing (60 and 70%), and p41i (46 and 57%) and OspC (40 and 57%) for the IgM class. By the end of the follow-up, only the anti-p41i IgM response was significantly decreased to 24%. Conclusions: No correlation was found between IB results and treatment-related parameters. Thus, immunoblotting does not add to the clinical assessment of EM patients after treatment.
Congenital Solitary Histiocytoma: A Variant of Hashimoto-Pritzker Histiocytosis
Authors: Zunino-Goutorbe C. , Eschard C. , Durlach A. , Bernard P.
Published: January 2008

Background: Self-healing solitary-lesion Hashimoto-Pritzker histiocytosis (HPH), a rare, congenital, purely cutaneous Langerhans histiocytosis (only 30 cases reported), carries a good prognosis. Objective: To describe the clinical and histopathological characteristics of solitary HPH. Methods: To conduct a retrospective, observational study on 8 affected newborns. Results: For these infants, with otherwise normal physical examinations, the unique nodule or papule (5–15-mm diameter) was congenital. Systematic routine histological examination of the lesions found dermal infiltrates constituted predominantly of histiocytes with lymphocytes and eosinophils. Protein S100 and CD1a immunolabelings, done for 7 patients, were positive. Electron microscopy (n = 4) observed Birbeck granules. No visceral involvement or recurrence has ever been observed after 2–12 years of follow-up. Conclusions: Because of its self-healing nature, congenital solitary HPH frequency has probably been underestimated. In the absence of systemic involvement, regular physical examination for at least 2 years seems a valid approach.
What Characterizes the Severity of Psoriasis?
Authors: García-Diez Amaro , Ferrandiz Foraster Carlos , Vanaclocha Sebastián Francisco , Lizán Tudela Luis , Badia Llach Xavier , Sellers Fernández Guillermo
Published: January 2008

Background: Understanding the epidemiology of moderate-to-severe psoriasis is essential for its management. Objective:To assess the epidemiological characteristics of patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis. Methods: Cross-sectional, observational epidemiological study conducted in Spain and Portugal. Data were collected by 332 dermatologists for ≧10 consecutive presenting patients. Results: Based on body surface area (BSA) and Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) criteria, moderate-to-severe psoriasis was confirmed in ≧79.3% of patients (n = 3,320). Preexisting comorbid conditions included psoriatic arthropathy (13%), dyslipidemia (14.1%) and hypertension (20.2%). The mean BSA involvement was 23% (95% confidence interval, CI: 22.2–23.3%), and the mean PASI score was 14.3 (95% CI: 13.9–14.6%). During the 2 years prior to assessment, 97.0% of patients had received topical treatments, whereas 31.3% had not received systemic treatment or phototherapy. The median annual cost of treatment was 825 EUR. Conclusion: Moderate-to-severe psoriasis is accurately diagnosed, but inadequately treated in many patients in Spain and Portugal.
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder following Accidental Injury: Rule or Exception in Switzerland?
Authors: Schnyder Ulrich , Wittmann Lutz , Friedrich-Perez Josefina , Hepp Urs , Moergeli Hanspeter
Published: January 2008

Background: There is still marked variability in the findings concerning psychiatric disorders associated with traumatic injury. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of acute stress disorder (ASD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following accidental injuries, and to predict the PTSD symptom level at 6 months, taking into particular consideration the role of pre-existing psychiatric morbidity and insufficient command of the local language. Method: A total of 255 accident survivors who were hospitalized for at least 2 consecutive nights at a Swiss university hospital for treatment of recently acquired physical injuries were interviewed within 2 weeks of the trauma and 6 months after the accident. Patients who did not have a good command of German but were fluent in Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Serbo-Croatian or Albanian were assessed using interpreters. The main outcome measure was the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale. Results: Ten patients (3.9%) were diagnosed as having ASD. At 6 months, 8 patients (3.1%) had PTSD. A regression model using 12 potential predictor variables explained 40% of the variance of PTSD symptoms; mild traumatic brain injury (p < 0.001), pain (p < 0.05), ASD symptom level (p < 0.001) and emotional coping (p = 0.001) predicted higher PTSD symptom levels, while high Sense of Coherence (p < 0.05) and perceived responsibility for the accident (p < 0.01) were associated with lower PTSD symptom levels at follow-up. Conclusions: ASD and PTSD seem to occur less frequently following accidental injuries than previously reported in the literature. Pre-existing psychiatric morbidity and lack of proficiency in the locally spoken language do not appear to play an important role in the development of PTSD.
Intracranial Desmoid Tumor with Familial Adenomatous Polyposis Coli
Authors: Yazıcı Nalan , Yalçın Bilgehan , Söylemezoğlu Figen , Cila Ayşenur , Akalan Nejat , Köksal Yavuz , Büyükpamukçu Münevver
Published: January 2008

Intracranial desmoid tumors are extremely rare. The association of desmoid tumors with familial adenomatous polyposis coli was reported previously, with the tumors involving trunk and extremities. We report a 3.5-year-old girl with intracranial desmoid tumor with familial adenomatous polyposis coli. This condition in a child is rarely reported. Follow-up of the patient after cranial surgery and of the family for this premalignant inherited condition is necessary.
Adaptation of Hindquarter Vascular Reactivity to Femoral Artery Ligation and Hypercholesterolemia in the Rabbit
Authors: Wafai Rafif , Angus James A. , Wright Christine E.
Published: January 2008

Aims: The effects of ischemia and hypercholesterolemia on the function and morphological adaptation of the rabbit hindlimb were assessed. Methods: In rabbits on normal or cholesterol diet, experiments were performed on days 0–28 following bilateral femoral artery ligation. Calf blood pressure (CBP), exercise tolerance, flow reserve, agonist vasodilatation, angiography and capillary density were examined and modeled. Results: CBP decreased markedly post-ligation and returned to 41 and 68% of baseline by days 7 and 28. Exercise tolerance was attenuated 40% and flow reserve 50–60% on day 7, with recovery by day 28. Ligation caused decreases in 5-hydroxytryptamine-induced dilatation, while adenosine and acetylcholine responses were unaffected. Hypercholesterolemia attenuated acetylcholine-elicited dilatation. There was marked loss of adenosine dilatation on days 7–14 in the ligation plus hypercholesterolemia group. Ligation caused a doubling in the number of medium-sized collateral arteries. Hypercholesterolemia, either alone or combined with ligation, greatly augmented small vessel density. Capillary density was unaltered by any treatment. Conclusions: The rabbit hindlimb shows a remarkable ability to recover its muscle function through vascular adaptation and remodeling 4 weeks following ligation, with or without hypercholesterolemia. Exercise tolerance, flow reserve and vascular reactivity were mainly restored 28 days post-ligation.
Gene Expression in Endothelial Cells and Intimal Smooth Muscle Cells in Atherosclerosis-Prone or Atherosclerosis-Resistant Regions of the Human Aorta
Authors: Wara A.K.M. Khyrul , Mitsumata Masako , Yamane Tetsu , Kusumi Yoshiaki , Yoshida Yoji
Published: January 2008

Background/Aims: We compared the atherogenic gene expression in the intimas of atherosclerosis-prone regions (proximal walls), which are exposed to disturbed shear stress, and atherosclerosis-resistant regions (apices), which are exposed to unidirectional laminar shear stress, at the orifices of the intercostal arteries of human aortas. Methods and Results: Expression of mRNAs, detected by in situ RT-PCR, for IL-1β, TNF-α, VCAM-1, PAF receptor and GRP in endothelial cells (ECs), and of PDGF receptor β (PDGFR-β), MCP-1, GRP and collagen type-1 by smooth muscle cells (SMCs) in the proximal walls, was significantly enhanced, while seldom observed in the elastic-hyperplastic layer of the apices. Protein expression of PDGFR-β, IL-1β and TNF-α was also observed on the proximal walls. SMC growth in the apices was inhibited. Cultured SMC growth and their expression of PDGFR-β were also significantly inhibited by elastin. Conclusion: These results suggest that the construction of the elastic-hyperplastic layer and the subsequent inhibition of SMC growth by elastin, with stabilized ECs under unidirectional laminar shear stress, resulted in atherosclerosis-resistant regions at the apices of human aortas, and that the continuous induction of atherogenic gene expression by ECs activated by disturbed shear stress inhibits the formation of atherosclerosis-resistant intima along the proximal walls.
Cerebrospinal Fluid Adrenomedullin Concentration Correlates with Hyponatremia and Delayed Ischemic Neurological Deficits after Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Kubo Yoshitaka , Ogasawara Kuniaki , Kakino Shunsuke , Kashimura Hiroshi , Yoshida Kenji , Ogawa Akira
Published: January 2008

Background: Adrenomedullin (AM), a vasorelaxant peptide, is secreted into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the choroid plexus and can exert natriuretic effects in the kidney. CSF AM concentration is elevated 7–10 days after the onset of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). The aim of the present study was to determine whether CSF AM concentrations correlate with hyponatremia and delayed ischemic neurological deficits (DIND) after SAH. Methods: CSF and plasma concentrations of AM, brain natriuretic peptide, and atrial natriuretic peptide concentrations were measured in 32 patients with SAH who underwent aneurysmal clipping within 48 h of onset. CSF and blood samples were obtained from these patients during the early period (days 1–3, day 0 being regarded as the day of SAH onset) and the late period (days 8–10). Results: In all patients, AM concentration during the early and late periods was significantly higher in the CSF than in the plasma (p = 0.0028 and p < 0.0001). In addition, CSF AM concentration was significantly higher during the late period than during the early period (p < 0.0001). Hyponatremia (plasma sodium <135 mmol/l) was present in 11 patients (34.4%) during the late period, and DIND developed in 6 patients (19%) between day 5 and day 13. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that late-period CSF AM concentration correlated with hyponatremia and DIND (95% CI: 1.003–1.069, p = 0.0074 and 95% CI: 1.003–1.052, p = 0.0108). Conclusions: The present study demonstrated that CSF AM during the late period following SAH correlates with hyponatremia and DIND.
Predictors of Life-Threatening Brain Edema in Middle Cerebral Artery Infarction
Authors: Hofmeijer Jeannette , Algra Ale , Kappelle L. Jaap , van der Worp H. Bart
Published: January 2008

Background: We performed a systematic review to identify predictors of the development of life-threatening brain edema in patients with middle cerebral artery infarction. Methods: We searched Medline from January 1966 and Embase from January 1974 to April 2007 for cohort and case-control studies on predictors of life-threatening edema in patients with middle cerebral artery infarction. Crude data were used to calculate risk ratios, odds ratios, or weighted mean differences. Results: Infarct size was the major determinant of the development of life-threatening edema. Other associated determinants were early mass effect, involvement of other vascular territories, higher body temperature, internal carotid artery occlusion, and need for mechanical ventilation. However, predictive values were only moderate. Conclusions: The size of the ischemic area is the major determinant. Single predictors lack sufficient predictive value to select candidates for surgical decompression before the onset of clinical signs of herniation.
Cystic Uterine Tumors
Authors: Protopapas Athanasios , Milingos Spyros , Markaki Sophia , Loutradis Dimitrios , Haidopoulos Dimitrios , Sotiropoulou Maria , Antsaklis Aris
Published: January 2008

Background/Aims: The differential diagnosis of cystic uterine tumors includes fibroids showing cystic degeneration, cystic adenomyomas, congenital cysts, and developmental anomalies. Methods: The incidence, clinical presentation and accuracy in preoperative diagnosis of cystic uterine tumors were studied in a university hospital population over a 6-year period. Results: 29 cases were included. Of these, 8 corresponded to the diagnosis of a non-fibroid uterine cystic enlargement, and 21 to that of a fibroid with cystic degeneration. Age and parity were significantly lower in patients with non-fibroid cysts. Rates of symptomatic women (60 vs. 55.6%) were similar in both groups. The preoperative diagnosis was accurate in 20/21 (95.2%) cases with a degenerated leiomyoma. On the contrary, in 6/8 (75%) cases with a non-fibroid cystic swelling an erroneous diagnosis of an adnexal or an extrauterine mass was made preoperatively. In this group, histology of the tumor showed a cystic adenomyoma in 3, a congenital cyst in 3, and a blind rudimentary uterine horn in 2 cases, respectively. Conclusion: Uterine cystic tumors are uncommon. Frequently, non-fibroid swellings are erroneously diagnosed as adnexal enlargements and their true origin only becomes evident during surgery.
Pain Relief after Cervical Ganglionectomy (C2 and C3) for the Treatment of Medically Intractable Occipital Neuralgia
Authors: Acar Feridun , Miller Jonathan , Golshani Kiarash J. , Israel Zvi H. , McCartney Shirley , Burchiel Kim J.
Published: January 2008

Occipital neuralgia (ON) presents a diagnostic challenge because of the wide variety of symptoms, surgical findings, and postsurgical outcomes. Surgical removal of the second (C2) or third (C3) cervical sensory dorsal root ganglion is an option to treat ON. The goal of this study was to evaluate the short-term and the long-term efficacy of these procedures for management of cervical and occipital neuropathic pain. Twenty patients (mean age 48.7 years) were identified who had undergone C2 and/or C3 ganglionectomies for intractable occipital pain and a retrospective chart review undertaken. Patients were interviewed regarding pain relief, pain relief duration, functional status, medication usage and procedure satisfaction, preoperatively, immediately postoperative, and at follow-up (mean 42.5 months). C2, C3 and consecutive ganglionectomies at both levels were performed on 4, 5, and 11 patients, respectively. All patients reported preoperative pain relief following cervical nerve blocks. Average visual analog scale scores were 9.4 preoperatively and 2.6 immediately after procedure. Ninety-five percent of patients reported short-term pain relief (<3 months). In 13 patients (65%), pain returned after an average of 12 months (C2 ganglionectomy) and 8.4 months (C3 ganglionectomy). Long-term results were excellent, moderate and poor in 20, 40 and 40% of patients, respectively. Cervical ganglionectomy offers relief to a majority of patients, immediately after procedure, but the effect is short lived. Nerve blocks are helpful in predicting short-term success, but a positive block result does not necessarily predict long-term benefit and therefore cannot justify surgery by itself. However, since 60% of patients report excellent-moderate results, cervical ganglionectomy continues to have a role in the treatment of intractable ON.
Diffusion Tensor Imaging Correlates with Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy in Posterior Cingulate Region of Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Ding Bei , Chen Ke-Min , Ling Hua-Wei , Zhang Huan , Chai Wei-Min , Li Xia , Wang Tao
Published: January 2008

Background/Aims: To compare proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) findings in the posterior cingulate regions in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Methods: 17 patients with mild AD, 20 with moderate to severe AD and 20 cognitively normal aging subjects (CN) underwent single-voxel MRS and DTI examinations. A region of interest was positioned in the posterior cingulate regions. Ratios of N-acetylaspartate (NAA), myo-inositol (mI), and choline to creatine (Cr) were measured. Mean spectroscopy data and DTI values (fractional anisotropy, FA, and mean diffusivity, MD) were analyzed with nonparametric testing. Results: The group with mild AD showed a significantly lower FA value in the left posterior cingulum compared to CN. The group with moderate to severe AD revealed significantly decreased FA values and increased MD values in both the left and right cingulum compared to the group with mild AD. Partial correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between mI/Cr and left-side FA values in the group with mild AD and a negative correlation between NAA/Cr and right-side MD values in the group with moderate to severe AD. Conclusion: There are different regional and temporal patterns in AD, resulting from gliosis or axonal loss. Combining MRS with DTI could provide valuable information to better understand the AD process.
Effect of High Temperature on Neuromuscular Jitter in Myasthenia Gravis
Authors: Sener H.O. , Yaman A.
Published: January 2008

To examine if the effect of temperature on neuromuscular jitter differs in myasthenics and normals, we performed single fiber electromyography (SFEMG) in 10 myasthenics and 10 healthy controls after heating the upper extremity to 37 and 42°C. In each case, 10–24 mean consecutive difference (jitter) values were obtained at both temperatures. All jitters were pooled appropriately and the groups were compared with each other. The mean jitter was 33.4 ± 10.4 µs at 37°C and 28.2 ± 11.4 µs at 42°C in controls, and 48.3 ± 18.3 µs at 37°C and 54.8 ± 24.9 µs at 42°C in patients. Seven out of 10 patients showed SFEMG abnormalities at 37°C. The number of patients with SFEMG abnormalities rose to 9 after heating to 42°C. Heating decreases neuromuscular jitter in controls and increases it in myasthenics. SFEMG performed at higher temperatures may increase the diagnostic sensitivity of the method in myasthenia gravis. The change of jitter with temperature in opposite directions in myasthenics and normals could be helpful to detect neuromuscular dysfunction.
Phenobarbital-Associated Bone Marrow Aplasia: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Focosi Daniele , Kast Richard Eric , Benedetti Edoardo , Papineschi Federico , Galimberti Sara , Petrini Mario
Published: January 2008

We report on a 22-year-old female who developed aplastic anemia after administration of phenobarbital for 6 years. Being refractory to steroid and anti-lymphocyte serum, the patient received allogeneic stem cell transplantation, achieving complete remission. We discuss here the potential mechanisms by which phenobarbital and other anti-epileptic drugs can cause aplastic anemia and review the literature for previous case reports and epidemiological studies.
Quantitative Trait Genetic Linkage Analysis of Body Mass Index in Familial Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Specchia Claudia , Barlera Simona , Chiodini Benedetta D. , Nicolis Enrico B. , Farrall Martin , Peden John , Collins Rory , Watkins Hugh , Tognoni Gianni , Franzosi Maria Grazia
Published: January 2008

Objective: Body mass index (BMI) is one of the most reproducible and commonly used proxies for obesity and is known to be influenced by many environmental causes as well as genetic factors. Identification of susceptibility genes for BMI regulation has been difficult. Reasons for these inconclusive results are both methodological and related to obesity aetiology. A genome-wide linkage analysis was performed to localise Quantitative trait loci influencing BMI in a large cohort collected in the PROCARDIS coronary heart disease study consisting of 1,812 informative families. Methods: Multipoint linkage analysis for BMI was conducted using both a variance component approach and a model-free regression method, and the resulting LOD scores were compared. Results: The strongest evidence for linkage was detected on chromosomes 13 (LOD 1.6). Other regions showing a LOD score greater than 1 were observed on chromosomes 3, 5, 11, 12 and 15. These results were mainly confirmed by the three different approaches used in the analysis. Conclusion: Our study did not find any locus with strongly supporting evidence for linkage to BMI even in such a large sample. Our results confirm the substantial genetic heterogeneity influencing BMI regulation that has emerged from the majority of genome scans so far published.
Melanoma, Past Severe Sunburns and Multiple Solar Lentigines of the Upper Back and Shoulders
Authors: Reguiaï Ziad , Jovenin Nicolas , Bernard Philippe , Derancourt Christian
Published: January 2008

Background: Multiple solar lentigines of the upper back and shoulders (MSLBS) have recently been demonstrated as being associated with intense sunburns in the past. Objective: To determine the prevalence of MSLBS among patients with cutaneous melanoma. Methods: Thisprevalence study was conducted prospectively from October 2003 to November 2004 in a single department of dermatology (Reims University Hospital, north of France). One hundred and twenty-five adult patients, followed up for a cutaneous melanoma, were included, and the prevalence of MSLBS was determined, with comparison of clinical characteristics of patients with and without these lesions. Results: The prevalence of MSLBS among patients with cutaneous melanoma was 37.6%. MSLBS were significantly and independently associated with cutaneous melanoma of the back in multivariate analysis (adjusted odds ratio, OR = 4.3, 95% confidence interval, CI = 1.5–12.3) and with recalled episodes of severe sunburn before the age of 28 (OR = 3.4, 95% CI = 1.3–9.4). Conclusion: Large irregularly shaped brown macules of the upper back and shoulders or MSLBS are frequent among adult patients with cutaneous melanoma. They are associated with melanoma located on the upper back. This topographical association further illustrates the relation between past intense sunburns and cutaneous melanoma. MSLBS should be evaluated as an easily recognizable clinical marker of the risk of cutaneous melanoma.
Relationship between Insulin and Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin Levels during Weight Loss in Obese Women
Authors: Akin Fulya , Bastemir Mehmet , Kaptanoglu Bunyamin
Published: January 2008

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the impact of insulin sensitivity on the relationship between sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and insulin levels during active weight loss in euthyroid obese women. Research Design and Methods: The study population comprised 80 premenopausal overweight and obese (BMI ≧27) women (mean age 41.44 ± 10.03 years). Seventy patients were considered eligible for the study. Hypocaloric diets were given to all patients. Of 70 subjects who were initially willing to participate in the study, only 64 continued through to the last stage of the study. Measurements: Anthropometric parameters, metabolic markers and sex hormone status were measured at baseline and on completion of the 12-week study period. Results: Following the diet, significant decreases in insulin, homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) for insulin resistance and fasting glucose were noted. However, HOMA insulin secretion values did not change significantly. Interestingly, there was no significant correlation between SHBG and insulin levels at baseline. After weight loss, SHBG concentrations were significantly and negatively correlated with insulin levels. Therefore, it was concluded that, in severe insulin resistance, insulin does not inhibit the SHBG level. These findings could be important, but the authors have not found a similar relationship in the literature. Conclusion: The findings of this study provide some clues to the relationship between insulin and SHBG in insulin-resistant obese subjects. Insulin sensitivity or loss of fat tissue or leptin seem to be involved in the relationship between SHBG and insulin.
Hemoperitoneum as the First Manifestation of Acute Leukemia
Authors: Nishimoto F. , Okuno K. , Kuragaki C. , Miyanishi K. , Boku K. , Yamamoto T.
Published: January 2008

A rare case of a 31-year-old woman is reported who had massive intraperitoneal bleeding caused by ovarian hemorrhage as the first manifestation of acute leukemia. Preoperative laboratory findings revealed severe anemia (Hb 6.6 g/dl) and thrombocytopenia (1.5 × 104/mm3) but normal leukocyte count (3.9 × 103/mm3). After surgery, blast cells were found in her peripheral blood and she was diagnosed with M0 type acute myeloid leukemia. In addition, histopathology revealed infiltration of leukemic cells in the resected ovary.
Relationship between Metabolic Syndrome and Uterine Leiomyomas: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Takeda Takashi , Sakata Masahiro , Isobe Aki , Miyake Asako , Nishimoto Fumihito , Ota Yukinobu , Kamiura Shouji , Kimura Tadashi
Published: January 2008

Background/Aims: Uterine leiomyomas are the most common gynecological benign tumor and greatly affect reproductive health and well-being. The pathophysiology and epidemiology of fibroids are poorly understood. Obesity and elevated blood pressure have been reported to be predisposing factors. In this study, we investigated whether fibroids are associated with some criteria of the metabolic syndrome. Methods: The case patients were 213 women who underwent hysterectomy or myomectomy for fibroids, and the control subjects were 159 women who underwent operation for benign indications other than fibroids. Preoperative information on body mass index (BMI), blood pressure (BP), serum triglyceride (TG) and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) was obtained from medical records. The patients were classified as overweight if they had a preoperatively measured BMI of ≧24.0, hypertensive if BP was ≧140/90 mm Hg, hypertriglyceridemic if TG was ≧150 mg/dl, and hyperglycemic if FPG was ≧110 mg/dl. Results: BMI, BP, TG and FPG were significantly higher in the case group compared with the control group. In logistic regression analysis, fibroids were statistically significantly associated with being overweight and hypertensive. With the combination of these risk factors, the risk of fibroids increased. Conclusion: Uterine leiomyomas may share pathogenic features with the development of metabolic syndrome.
Adipose Tissue Trans Fatty Acids and Risk of Coronary Artery Disease: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Ghahremanpour Faranak , Firoozrai Mohsen , Darabi Masoud , Zavarei Abbas , Mohebbi Ahmad
Published: January 2008

Background/Aims: Dietary isomeric trans fatty acids (TFAs) are suspected of increasing the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). To assess the association between adipose tissue levels of TFA, a biomarker of intake and the risk of CAD, we conducted a population-based case-control study. Methods: We studied 105 patients aged 30–73 years with angiographically proven coronary stenosis referred to Tehran Rajaee Cardiovascular Center, and 68 healthy subjects with no history of heart disease. Adipose tissue fatty acids were determined by gas liquid chromatography technique. Results: Total TFAs in adipose tissue were higher in the cases than controls (p < 0.05). When all the subjects were classified into the three groups by tertiles of TFA levels, significant differences (p < 0.01) in LDL cholesterol were found among the three groups. After adjusting for established risk factors and other confounders, the OR of the interquintile of total TFA and trans-18:1 was 1.41 (95% CI, 1.0–1.8) and 1.32 (95% CI, 1.0–1.8), respectively. Conclusions: These findings suggest that dietary intake of TFA is associated with increase in the risk of CAD. Further, our results show that the high percentage of TFA in adipose tissue of the Iranian population is alarming and that more health policies regarding the TFA content of hydrogenated oil used in Iran should be established.
Neuroanatomy and Physiology of the Complex Tibial Organ of an Atympanate Ensiferan, Ametrus tibialis (Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1888) (Gryllacrididae, Orthoptera) and Evolutionary Implications
Authors: Strauss Johannes , Lakes-Harlan Reinhard
Published: January 2008

We investigated the neuroanatomy and physiology of the complex tibial organ of an atympanate ensiferan, the Gryllacridid Ametrus tibialis. This represents the first analysis of internal mechanoceptors in Gryllacridids. The complex tibial organ is tripartite consisting of a subgenual organ, intermediate organ and a homologue organ to the crista acustica of tympanate ensiferan taxa of Tettigoniidae, Haglidae, and Anostostomatidae. The crista homologue contains 23 ± 2 receptor neurons in the foreleg. It is associated with the leg trachea and found serially in all three thoracic leg pairs. Central projections of the sensory nerve of the complex tibial organ bifurcate in two lobes in the prothoracic ganglion, which do not reach the midline. The axonal endings project into the mVAC, the main vibratory-auditory neuropile of Ensifera. Recordings of the tibial nerve show that the tibial organ is sensitive to vibrational stimuli with a minimum threshold of 0.02 to 0.05 ms–2 at 200–500 Hz, but rather insensitive to airborne sound. The main function of the tibial organ is therefore vibration sensing, although the specific function of the crista homologue remains unclear. The presence of the crista acustica homologue is interpreted in phylogenetic context. Because ensiferan phylogeny is unresolved, two alternative scenarios can be deduced: (a) the crista homologue is a precursor structure which was co-opted as an auditory system and represent a morphologically highly specialized structure before acquisition of its new function; (b) a previously functional tibial ear is evolutionary reduced but the neuronal structures are maintained. Based on comparison of neuroanatomical details, the crista acustica homologue of A. tibialis could present the neuronal complement of an ear evolutionary precursor structure, which was successively made sensitive to airborne sound by elaboration of cuticular tympana, auditory spiracle and trachea for sound propagation.
Simulations and Seasonal Prediction of the Asian Summer Monsoon in the NCEP Climate Forecast System
Authors: Yang Song , Zhang Zuqiang , Kousky Vernon E. , Higgins R. Wayne , Yoo Soo-Hyun , Liang Jianyin , Fan Yun
Published: January 2008

Analysis of the retrospective ensemble predictions (hindcasts) of the NCEP Climate Forecast System (CFS) indicates that the model successfully simulates many major features of the Asian summer monsoon including the climatology and interannual variability of major precipitation centers and atmospheric circulation systems. The model captures the onset of the monsoon better than the retreat of the monsoon, and it simulates the seasonal march of monsoon rainfall over Southeast Asia more realistically than that over South Asia. The CFS predicts the major dynamical monsoon indices and monsoon precipitation patterns several months in advance. It also depicts the interactive oceanic–atmospheric processes associated with the precipitation anomalies reasonably well at different time leads. Overall, the skill of monsoon prediction by the CFS mainly comes from the impact of El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO).

The CFS produces weaker-than-observed large-scale monsoon circulation, due partially to the cold bias over the Asian continent. It tends to overemphasize the relationship between ENSO and the Asian monsoon, as well as the impact of ENSO on the Asian and Indo-Pacific climate. A higher-resolution version of the CFS (T126) captures the climatology and variability of the Asian monsoon more realistically than does the current resolution version (T62). The largest improvement occurs in the simulations of precipitation near the Tibetan Plateau and over the tropical Indian Ocean associated with the zonal dipole mode structure. The analysis suggests that NCEP’s next operational model may perform better in simulating and predicting the monsoon climate over Asia and the Indo-Pacific Oceans.
Multidecadal Variability in North Atlantic Tropical Cyclone Activity
Authors: Klotzbach Philip J. , Gray William M.
Published: January 2008

Recent increases in Atlantic basin tropical cyclone activity since 1995 and the associated destructive U.S. landfall events in 2004 and 2005 have generated considerable interest into why there has been such a sharp upturn. Natural variability, human-induced global warming, or a combination of both factors, have been suggested. Several previous studies have discussed observed multidecadal variability in the North Atlantic over 25–40-yr time scales. This study, using data from 1878 to the present, creates a metric based on far North Atlantic sea surface temperature anomalies and basinwide North Atlantic sea level pressure anomalies that shows remarkable agreement with observed multidecadal variability in both Atlantic basin tropical cyclone activity and in U.S. landfall frequency.