bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mycobiota of Commercially Available Triphala Powder: A Well Known Dietary Supplement of Indian System of Medicine
Authors: Sharma Sushil , Gupta Madhu , Bhadauria Rekha
Published: January 2014

Sixty samples, categorized on the basis of manufacturers, were analyzed during the study. A total of 16 fungal species, belonging to 7 different genera, were isolated from the collected samples. Aspergillus was recorded as the most dominant genus with 9 species, namely, A. niger, A. carbonarius, A. luchuensis, A. fumigatus, A. flavus, A. nidulans, A. terreus, A. ochraceous, and A. wentii. A. niger was the most predominant species with frequency of occurrence of 63.33%. A large variation in fungal load and diversity was observed among the samples of different manufacturing categories. The percent moisture content and pH of samples were directly related to the extent of contamination. Samples with low pH and high moisture content were more contaminated. The higher incidence of A. niger (74.36%) was observed among the triphala powder of all manufacturing categories. Detection of ochratoxin producing fungi in triphala powder may pose a serious risk of ochratoxin production. Thus, there is an urgent need to enforce quality standards and regulation to minimize the fungal contamination to the globally expectable limit.
Exchange Rate Volatility and Aggregate Exports: Evidence from Two Small Countries
Authors: Serenis Dimitrios , Tsounis Nicholas
Published: January 2014

This paper examines the effect of exchange rate volatility for two small countries, Croatia and Cyprus, on aggregate exports during the period of first quarter of 1990 to first quarter of 2012. It is claimed by some researchers that exchange rate volatility causes a reduction on the overall level of trade. Empirical researchers often utilize the standard deviation of the moving average of the logarithm of the exchange rate as a measure of exchange rate fluctuation. In this study, we propose a new measure for volatility. Overall, our results suggest that there is a positive effect of volatility on exports of Croatia and Cyprus.
Consequences of Physical Disturbance by Tadpoles and Snails on Chironomid Larvae
Authors: Pal Gargi , Aditya Gautam , Hazra Niladri
Published: January 2014

Indirect interactions among community members impact on organisms. The effects of two snails, banded pond snail,Bellamya bengalensis(Lamarck), and Red-rimmed melania,Melanoides tuberculata(Müller), and tadpoles of Asian common toad,Duttaphrynus melanostictus(Schneider), on nonbiting midge larvae,Chironomus striatipennisKieffer, were observed in experimental microcosm. Decrease in tube number and tube length of midge larvae was observed compared to control condition due to introduction of selected above mentioned organisms. The direct effects of non-predator organisms on the midge larvae are due to physical disturbance that destroys their tubes. This may result in vulnerability of midge larvae to predators in the wild. So the community structure may be altered by indirect effects, where one or more species, through their direct disturbance, indirectly change the abundance of other species.
Posterior Deep Infiltrating Endometriotic Nodules: Operative Considerations according to Lesion Size, Location, and Geometry, during One’s Learning Curve
Authors: Protopapas Athanasios , Giannoulis Georgios , Chatzipapas Ioannis , Athanasiou Stavros , Grigoriadis Themistoklis , Haidopoulos Dimitrios , Loutradis Dimitrios , Antsaklis Aris
Published: January 2014

We conducted this prospective cohort study to standardize our laparoscopic technique of excision of posterior deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) nodules, according to their size, location, and geometry, including 36 patients who were grouped, according to principal pelvic expansion of the nodule, into groups with central (group 1) and lateral (group 2) lesions, and according to nodule size, into ≤2 cm (group A) and >2 cm (group B) lesions, respectively. In cases of group 1 the following operative steps were more frequently performed compared to those of group 2: suspension of the rectosigmoid, colpectomy, and placement of bowel wall reinforcement sutures. The opposite was true regarding suspension of the adnexa, systematic ureteric dissection, and removal of the diseased pelvic peritoneum. When grouping patients according to nodule size, almost all of the examined parameters were more frequently applied to patients of group B: adnexal suspension, suspension of the rectosigmoid, systematic ureteric dissection, division of uterine vein, colpectomy, and placement of bowel wall reinforcement sutures. Nodule size was the single most important determinant of duration of surgery. In conclusion, during the building-up of one’s learning curve of laparoscopic excision of posterior DIE nodules, technique standardization is very important to avoid complications.
Urine Annexin A1 as an Index for Glomerular Injury in Patients
Authors: Ka Shuk-Man , Tsai Pei-Yi , Chao Tai-Kuang , Yang Shun-Min , Hung Yi-Jen , Chen Jin-Shuen , Shui Hao-Ai , Chen Ann
Published: January 2014

Background.We recently demonstrated high urine levels of annexin A1 (ANXA1) protein in a mouse Adriamycin-induced glomerulopathy (ADG) model.Objective.To establish ANXA1 as a potential biomarker for glomerular injury in patients.Methods.A time-course study in the mouse ADG model, followed by renal tissues and urine samples from patients with various types of glomerular disorders for ANXA1.Results.Urinary ANXA1 protein was (1) detectable in both the ADG model and in patients except those with minimal change disease (MCD); (2) positively correlated with renal lesions in patients; and (3) early detectable in diabetes patients with normoalbuminuria.Conclusions.ANXA1 is a universal biomarker that is helpful in the early diagnosis, prognostic prediction, and outcome monitoring of glomerular injury. Measurement of urinary ANXA1 protein levels can help in differentiating MCD from other types of glomerular disorders.
Role of Ethyl Pyruvate in Systemic Inflammatory Response and Lung Injury in an Experimental Model of Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: Pulathan Zerrin , Altun Gökalp , Hemşinli Doğuş , Menteşe Ahmet , Yuluğ Esin , Civelek Ali
Published: January 2014

Objectıve. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of ethyl pyruvate (EP) on systemic inflammatory response and lung injury in an experimental rat model of ruptured abdominal aortic anurysm (RAAA).Methods. Anaesthetized 30 Sprague-Dawley male rats were randomized to sham (Shn:6) (Sh + EPn:6) or shock and clamp (S/C) groups (S/Cn:9) (S/C + EPn:9). In the S/C and S/C + EP groups, hemorrhagic shock, lower torso ischemia, and reperfusion were created, S/C group was given 1 mL saline and S/C + EP group was given 40 mg/kg EP. At the end of reperfusion process some biochemical and histological parameters were studied in serum and lung tissues.Results. An increase was observed in all parameters except interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the S/C group in comparison to the sham groups. In the S/C + EP group, serum myeloperoxydase (MPO), malondialdehyde (MDA), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) as well as lung MPO and MDA values decreased significantly (P<0.016). In the lung tissues, histological injury scores and lung tissue wet/dry ratio were significantly decreased in the S/C + EP group as compared to the S/C group (P<0.016).Conclusions. Ethyl pyruvate may reduce systemic inflammatory response and lung injury which resulted from shock and ischemia/reperfusion in an experimental model of RAAA.
Bacterial Biodegradation of Crude Oil Using Local Isolates
Authors: Al-Wasify Raed S. , Hamed Shimaa R.
Published: January 2014

An experimental study was undertaken to assess the efficiency of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis, and Acinetobacter lwoffi isolated from petroleum contaminated water and soil samples to degrade crude oil, separately and in a mixed bacterial consortium. Capillary gas chromatography was used for testing the effect of those bacterial species on the biodegradation of crude oil. Individual bacterial cultures showed less growth and degradation than did the mixed bacterial consortium. At temperature 22°C, the mixed bacterial consortium degraded a maximum of 88.5% of Egyptian crude oil after 28 days of incubation. This was followed by 77.8% by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 76.7% by Bacillus subtilis, and 74.3% by Acinetobacter lwoffi. The results demonstrated that the selected bacterial isolates could be effective in biodegradation of oil spills individually and showed better biodegradation abilities when they are used together in mixed consortium.
Correlations between ERG, OCT, and Anatomical Findings in therd10Mouse
Authors: Rösch Sarah , Johnen Sandra , Müller Frank , Pfarrer Christiane , Walter Peter
Published: January 2014

Background. To evaluate the correlation between ERG, OCT, and microscopic findings in therd10mouse.Methods. C57BL/6J wild type mice andrd10mice were compared at the age of 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 12, 24, and 48 weeks (each age groupn=3) using full-field electroretinography (ERG), spectral domain Optical Coherence Tomography (sd-OCT), fluorescein angiography (FA), Hematoxylin & Eosin histology (HE), and immunohistology (IH).Results. While in wild type mice, the amplitude of a- and b-wave increased with light intensity and with the age of the animals, therd10mice showed extinction of the ERG beginning with the age of 5 weeks. In OCT recordings, the thickness of the retina decreased up to 9 weeks of age, mainly based on the degradation of the outer nuclear layer (ONL). Afterwards, the ONL was no longer visible in the OCT. HE staining and immunohistological findings confirmed thein vivodata.Conclusion. ERG and OCT are useful methods to evaluate the retinal function and structurein vivo. The retinal changes seen in the OCT closely match those observed in histological staining.
Sensitivity Analysis of the Proximal‐Based Parallel Decomposition Methods
Authors: Ma Feng , Ni Mingfang , Zhu Lei , Yu Zhanke
Published: January 2014

The proximal‐based parallel decomposition methods were recently proposed to solve structured convex optimization problems. These algorithms are eligible for parallel computation and can be used efficiently for solving large‐scale separable problems. In this paper, compared with the previous theoretical results, we show that the range of the involved parameters can be enlarged while the convergence can be still established. Preliminary numerical tests on stable principal component pursuit problem testify to the advantages of the enlargement.
Clinical Usefulness of Oral Supplementation with Alpha‐Lipoic Acid, Curcumin Phytosome, and B‐Group Vitamins in Patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Undergoing Surgical Treatment
Authors: Pajardi Giorgio , Bortot Paola , Ponti Veronica , Novelli Chiara
Published: January 2014

We investigated the clinical usefulness of oral supplementation with a combination product containing alpha‐lipoic acid, curcumin phytosome, and B‐group vitamins in 180 patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), scheduled to undergo surgical decompression of the median nerve. Patients in Group A (n = 60) served as controls and did not receive any treatment either before or after surgery. Patients in Group B (n = 60) received oral supplementation twice a day for 3 months both before and after surgery (totaling 6 months of supplementation). Patients in Group C (n = 60) received oral supplementation twice a day for 3 months before surgery only. Patients in Group B showed significantly lower nocturnal symptoms scores compared with Group A subjects at both 40 days and 3 months after surgery (both P values <0.05). Moreover, patients in Group B had a significantly lower number of positive Phalen’s tests at 3 months compared with the other study groups (P < 0.05). We conclude that oral supplementation with alpha‐lipoic acid, curcumin phytosome, and B‐group vitamins twice a day both before and after surgery is safe and effective in CTS patients scheduled to undergo surgical decompression of the median nerve.
Statistical Assessment of Water Quality Parameters for Pollution Source Identification in Sukhnag Stream: An Inflow Stream of Lake Wular (Ramsar Site), Kashmir Himalaya
Authors: Bhat Salim Aijaz , Meraj Gowhar , Yaseen Sayar , Pandit Ashok K.
Published: January 2014

The precursors of deterioration of immaculate Kashmir Himalaya water bodies are apparent. This study statistically analyzes the deteriorating water quality of the Sukhnag stream, one of the major inflow stream of Lake Wular. Statistical techniques, such as principal component analysis (PCA), regression analysis, and cluster analysis, were applied to 26 water quality parameters. PCA identified a reduced number of mean 2 varifactors, indicating that 96% of temporal and spatial changes affect the water quality in this stream. First factor from factor analysis explained 66% of the total variance between velocity, total-P, NO3–N, Ca2+, Na+, TS, TSS, and TDS. Bray-Curtis cluster analysis showed a similarity of 96% between sites IV and V and 94% between sites II and III. The dendrogram of seasonal similarity showed a maximum similarity of 97% between spring and autumn and 82% between winter and summer clusters. For nitrate, nitrite, and chloride, the trend in accumulation factor (AF) showed that the downstream concentrations were about 2.0, 2.0, and 2.9, times respectively, greater than upstream concentrations.
Radio-Wave Propagation in Salt Domes: Implications for a UHE Cosmic Neutrino Detector
Authors: Badescu Alina-Mihaela , Saftoiu Alexandra
Published: January 2014

Salt deposits can be used as a natural dielectric medium for a UHE cosmic neutrino radio detector. Such a detector relies on the capability of reconstructing the initial characteristics of the cosmic neutrino from the measured radio electrical field produced at neutrino’s interaction in salt by the subsequent particle shower. A rigorous characterization of the propagation medium becomes compulsory. It is shown here that the amplitude of the electric field vector is attenuated by almost 90% after 100 m of propagation in a typical salt rock volume. The heterogeneities in salt also determine the minimal uncertainty (estimated at 19%) and the resolution of the detector.
A Simple Method to Increase the Amount of Energy Produced by the Photovoltaic Panels
Authors: Cotfas Daniel Tudor , Cotfas Petru Adrian
Published: January 2014

The photovoltaic energy can become competitive by the conjugate effort of the researchers and manufacturers. Increasing the amount of electricity supplied by photovoltaic panels is a challenge. The paper briefly presents some methods which can lead to achieving this goal. A simple method to increase the quantity of the electrical energy delivered by the photovoltaic panels is also presented in this paper alongside the experimental setup and the software created in LabVIEW for monitoring the output of the panels.
Fusion Control of Flexible Logic Control and Neural Network
Authors: Fu Lihua , Wang Dan
Published: January 2014

Based on the basic physical meaning of error E and error variety EC, this paper analyzes the logical relationship between them and uses Universal Combinatorial Operation Model in Universal Logic to describe it. Accordingly, a flexible logic control method is put forward to realize effective control on multivariable nonlinear system. In order to implement fusion control with artificial neural network, this paper proposes a new neuron model of Zero-level Universal Combinatorial Operation in Universal Logic. And the artificial neural network of flexible logic control model is implemented based on the proposed neuron model. Finally, stability control, anti‐interference control of double inverted‐pendulum system, and free walking of cart pendulum system on a level track are realized, showing experimentally the feasibility and validity of this method.
Using the High-Level Based Program Interface to Facilitate the Large Scale Scientific Computing
Authors: Shang Yizi , Shang Ling , Gao Chuanchang , Lu Guiming , Ye Yuntao , Jia Dongdong
Published: January 2014

This paper is to make further research on facilitating the large-scale scientific computing on the grid and the desktop grid platform. The related issues include the programming method, the overhead of the high-level program interface based middleware, and the data anticipate migration. The block based Gauss Jordan algorithm as a real example of large-scale scientific computing is used to evaluate those issues presented above. The results show that the high-level based program interface makes the complex scientific applications on large-scale scientific platform easier, though a little overhead is unavoidable. Also, the data anticipation migration mechanism can improve the efficiency of the platform which needs to process big data based scientific applications.
A Comparison of Standard One-Step DDA Circular Interpolators with a New Cheap Two-Step Algorithm
Authors: Moroz Leonid , Cieśliński Jan L. , Stakhiv Marta , Maksymovych Volodymyr
Published: January 2014

We present and study existing digital differential analyzer (DDA) algorithms for circle generation, including an improved two-step DDA algorithm which can be implemented solely in terms of elementary shifts, addition, and subtraction.
Measurement of Voice Onset Time in Maxillectomy Patients
Authors: Hattori Mariko , Sumita Yuka I. , Taniguchi Hisashi
Published: January 2014

Objective speech evaluation using acoustic measurement is needed for the proper rehabilitation of maxillectomy patients. For digital evaluation of consonants, measurement of voice onset time is one option. However, voice onset time has not been measured in maxillectomy patients as their consonant sound spectra exhibit unique characteristics that make the measurement of voice onset time challenging. In this study, we established criteria for measuring voice onset time in maxillectomy patients for objective speech evaluation. We examined voice onset time for /ka/ and /ta/ in 13 maxillectomy patients by calculating the number of valid measurements of voice onset time out of three trials for each syllable. Wilcoxon’s signed rank test showed that voice onset time measurements were more successful for /ka/ and /ta/ when a prosthesis was used (Z=−2.232,P=0.026andZ=−2.401,P=0.016, resp.) than when a prosthesis was not used. These results indicate a prosthesis affected voice onset measurement in these patients. Although more research in this area is needed, measurement of voice onset time has the potential to be used to evaluate consonant production in maxillectomy patients wearing a prosthesis.
Supportive Care Needs following Cancer Treatment: A Comparison of Breast and Brain Cancer in an Australian Cohort
Authors: Amatya Bhasker , Khan Fary , Ng Louisa , Galea Mary
Published: January 2014

Objective. To assess and identify patient-reported supportive care needs following definitive treatment in persons with breast cancer (BC) and primary brain tumours (gliomas) (BT) in an Australian community cohort and to assess the commonalities and/or discrepancies of the reported needs in these oncological populations. Methods. A prospective cross-sectional survey of persons with BC (n=85) and BT (n=106) using questionnaires for supportive care needs, psychological morbidity, and quality of life. Results. BT participants were younger than BC patients (mean ages 51 and 57 years). The median time since diagnosis for both groups was over 2 years. The level of psychological morbidity, mainly depression, was high in both groups: BC (22%) and BT (20%). Participants in both groups reported at least one need (“met” or “unmet”). The BC patients reported higher numbers of “needs” and “unmet” needs compared with BT patients (mean 13.7 versus 11.6 needs; “unmet” needs mean 6.0 versus 4.1). The common “met” and “unmet” needs highlighted by both groups were comparable; the domain for most “met” needs included comprehensive cancer care, while “unmet” needs related to existential survivorship issues. Conclusion. Despite successful treatment many cancer survivors experience unmet supportive care needs in longer term. Understanding the impact of these beyond the acute phase is important as care shifts to community settings. More research in existential survivorship issues is needed.
Trajectories of Objectively Measured Physical Activity among Secondary Students in Canada in the Context of a Province-Wide Physical Education Policy: A Longitudinal Analysis
Authors: Hobin Erin , So Jannice , Rosella Laura , Comte Melisa , Manske Steve , McGavock Jonathan
Published: January 2014

Lower levels of physical activity are associated with childhood obesity. School physical education (PE) policies have been identified as critical to improve child and adolescent physical activity levels but there has been little evaluation of such policies. In the province of Manitoba, Canada, the government implemented a mandatory PE policy in secondary schools designed to increase the daily physical activity levels of adolescents. The objective of this study was to examine the longitudinal changes in and the factors associated with the physical activity trajectories of adolescents in Manitoba during their tenure as secondary school students in the context of this school PE policy. The results found, despite the PE policy, a grade-related decline in the physical activity trajectories of adolescents; however, the decline in physical activity was attenuated among adolescents with low and moderate baseline physical activity compared to adolescents with high baseline physical activity and among adolescents who attended schools in neighbourhoods of low compared to high socioeconomic status. There are several possible explanations for these findings, including the influence of the PE policy on the PA patterns of adolescent subpopulations that tend to be at higher risk for inactivity in both childhood and adult life.
A Note on Taylor-Eddy and Kovasznay Solutions of NS-α-Deconvolution and Leray-α-Deconvolution Models
Authors: Rebholz Leo G. , Watro Stacey A.
Published: January 2014

We show that both the Taylor-eddy and Kovasznay exact solutions of the Navier-Stokes
equations are also exact solutions of both the NS-α-deconvolution and Leray-α-deconvolution
models, but with modified pressures that converge to the Navier-Stokes pressure solution as
α→0 or the order of deconvolution tends to infinity. The existence of these exact model
solutions will provide for better benchmark testing and validation of numerical codes and also
shows that the models preserve these special structures.
Synthesis and Characterization of CdS/TiO2-Montmorillonite Nanocomposite with Enhanced Visible-Light Absorption
Authors: Zhou Feng-shan , Chen Dai-mei , Cui Bao-lin , Wang Wei-heng
Published: January 2014

Sodium montmorillonite (MMT) was chosen as the carrier; a serial of CdS/TiO2-MMT nanocomposites with enhanced visible-light absorption ability was prepared by hydrothermal synthesis method combination with semiconductor compound modification method. The samples are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and ultraviolet visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy; the results showed that TiO2and CdS nanoparticles were loaded on the surface of montmorillonite uniformly. N2adsorption-desorption experiment showed that the specific surface area of TiO2/montmorillonite nanocomposite made by this method can reach 200 m2/g and pore-size distribution was from 4 to 6 nm; UV-Vis showed that the recombination of CdS and TiO2enhanced visible-light absorption ability of samples of TiO2/montmorillonite and visible-light absorption ability increase with the increased of the adsorption of CdS.
Lie Triple Derivations on𝒥-Subspace Lattice Algebras
Authors: Wang Ting , Lu Fangyan
Published: January 2014

We describe the structure of Lie triple derivations on𝒥-subspace lattice algebras. The results can be applied to atomic Boolean subspace lattice algebras and pentagon subspace lattice algebras, respectively.
Structural Characterisation and Mechanical FE Analysis of Conventional and M-Wire Ni-Ti Alloys Used in Endodontic Rotary Instruments
Authors: Montalvão Diogo , Alçada Francisca Sena , Braz Fernandes Francisco Manuel , de Vilaverde-Correia Sancho
Published: January 2014

The purpose of this study is to understand how the M-Wire alloy conditions the mechanical flexibility of endodontic rotary files at body temperature.Two different rotary instruments, a Profile GT 20/.06 and a Profile GT Series X 20/.06, were selected due to their geometrical similarity and their different constituent alloy. GT series X files are made from M-Wire, a Ni-Ti alloy allegedly having higher flexibility at body temperature. Both files were analysed by X-Ray Diffraction and Differential Scanning Calorimetry to investigate phase transformations and the effects of working temperature on these different alloys. Mechanical behaviour was assessed by means of static bending and torsional Finite Element simulations, taking into account the nonlinear superelastic behaviour of Ni-Ti materials. It was found that GT files present austenitic phase at body temperature, whereas GT series X present R-phase at temperatures under 40°C with a potential for larger flexibility. For the same load conditions, simulations showed that the slight geometrical differences between the two files do not introduce great disagreement in the instruments’ mechanical response. It was confirmed that M-Wire increases the instrument’s flexibility, mainly due to the presence of R-phase at body temperature.
Bacterial Ice Crystal Controlling Proteins
Authors: Lorv Janet S. H. , Rose David R. , Glick Bernard R.
Published: January 2014

Across the world, many ice active bacteria utilize ice crystal controlling proteins for aid in freezing tolerance at subzero temperatures. Ice crystal controlling proteins include both antifreeze and ice nucleation proteins. Antifreeze proteins minimize freezing damage by inhibiting growth of large ice crystals, while ice nucleation proteins induce formation of embryonic ice crystals. Although both protein classes have differing functions, these proteins use the same ice binding mechanisms. Rather than direct binding, it is probable that these protein classes create an ice surface prior to ice crystal surface adsorption. Function is differentiated by molecular size of the protein. This paper reviews the similar and different aspects of bacterial antifreeze and ice nucleation proteins, the role of these proteins in freezing tolerance, prevalence of these proteins in psychrophiles, and current mechanisms of protein-ice interactions.
Weighted Stepanov-Like Pseudoperiodicity and Applications
Authors: Xia Zhinan
Published: January 2014

By the weighted ergodic space, we propose a new class of functions called weighted Stepanov-like pseudoperiodic function and explore its properties. Furthermore, the existence and uniqueness of the weighted pseudoperiodic solution to fractional integro-differential equations and nonautonomous differential equations are investigated. Some interesting examples are presented to illustrate the main findings.
Effect ofGABABReceptor Antagonist (CGP35348) on Learning and Memory in Albino Mice
Authors: Gillani Quratulane , Iqbal Shahid , Arfa Fatima , Khakwani Saba , Akbar Atif , Ullah Asmat , Ali Muhammad , Iqbal Furhan
Published: January 2014

The present study was designed to demonstrate the potential effect of CGP 35348 (GABABreceptor antagonist) on the learning, memory formation, and neuromuscular coordination in albino mouse. Mice were intrapertoneally injected with 1 mg CGP 35348/mL of distilled water/Kg body weight, while the control animals were injected with equal volume of saline solution. A battery of neurological tests was applied following the intrapertoneal injections. Results of rota rod indicated that CGP 35348 had no effect on neuromuscular coordination in both male (P=0.528) and female (P=0.125) albino mice. CGP 35348 treated females demonstrated poor exploratory behavior during open filed for several parameters (time mobile (P=0.04), time immobile (P=0.04), rotations (P=0.04), and anticlockwise rotations (P=0.038)). The results for Morris water maze (MWM) retention phase indicated that CGP 35348 treated male mice took shorter latency to reach the hidden platform (P=0.04) than control indicating improved memory. This observation was complemented by the swim strategies used by mice during training days in MWM as CGP 35348 treated males used more direct and focal approach to reach the platform as the training proceeded.
Diethylstilbestrol 1 mg in the Treatment of Acute Urinary Retention due to Prostatic Obstruction in the Elderly: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Reis Leonardo Oliveira , De Mendonça Gustavo Borges , Carneiro Bruno D. , Schneider Edson , Gewehr Eduardo Varella , Meirelles André , Denardi Fernandes , Gugliotta Antonio
Published: January 2014

Patients who failed a catheter-free trial after acute urinary retention and one week of full dose alpha-blocker and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor were offered Diethylstilbestrol 1 mg plus Aspirin 100 mg over 4 weeks. Prostate volume, age, serum creatinine, and initial retention drained urine volume were recorded. After excluding cardiovascular morbidity (n=7), upper urinary tract dilation (n=3), compromised renal function (n=2), urinary tract infection (n=2), neurological diagnosis (n=2), or preferred immediate channel transurethral resection of prostate (n=5), 48 of 69 consecutive patients ≥70 years were included. Mean age was 76.6 years (70–84), mean prostate volume 90 cm3(42–128), and mean follow-up 204 days; 58% (28/48) were passing urine and 42% (20/48) were catheter dependent after 4 weeks Diethylstilbestrol trial. Mean age and drained urine volume of catheter dependent patients were 82.4 years and 850 mL compared with 74.6 years and 530 mL in catheter-free men, respectively. Age and drained urine volume were independent predictors of catheter-free trial (bothP<0.01). Seventy-five percent (6/8) of patients 80 years and older were catheter dependent. Transient nipple/breast tenderness and gynecomastia were the only adverse effects reported by 21% (10/48) and 4% (2/48), respectively. No patient presented severe complications.
Coloseminal Fistula Complicating Sigmoid Diverticulitis
Authors: Barret Maximilien , Cuenod Charles-André , Jian Raymond , Cellier Christophe , Berger Anne
Published: January 2014

We report on a 32-year-old man with a history of chronic lower abdominal pain and urogenital symptoms, leading to the diagnosis of coloseminal fistula complicating diverticular disease. We reviewed the literature on this rare clinical entity and would like to stress the role of pelvic imaging with rectal contrast to investigate complicated forms of diverticular disease.
Silicones as Nonocclusive Topical Agents
Authors: De Paepe K. , Sieg A. , Le Meur M. , Rogiers V.
Published: January 2014

Background/Aims: Silicone excipients are commonly used ingredients because of their emollient and skin-conditioning effects, and their ability to form uniform, water-resistant, yet permeable films. Based on comparisons with organic materials and conflicting knowledge from silicones used in scar treatment, the misconception still exists that silicone topical excipients are occlusive substances that may block the passive loss of water through the upper skin layers. Therefore, 3 types of common silicone excipients and 3 water-in-(oil-plus-silicone) or W/(O + Si) creams, containing 10% (w/w) of the respective silicones, were investigated as a function of time and compared to petrolatum. Methods: Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and skin hydration measurements were carried out after a single topical application on forearm skin of 26 healthy young female volunteers. Results: Both petrolatum and silicones significantly decreased TEWL 15 min after application, but the measurements for the silicones were not significantly different from the untreated control values. The tested silicones did not moisturize the skin. Petrolatum formed an occlusive layer, creating an increase in skin hydration for more than 4 h. The results measured for the W/(O + Si) creams indicated that they moisturized the skin, without any effect on TEWL. Conclusion: A clear difference was shown between the skin occlusive properties of petrolatum and the water vapor permeability of the common silicone excipient materials.
5-Fluorouracil/Leucovorin Combined with Irinotecan and Oxaliplatin (FOLFIRINOX) as Second-Line Chemotherapy in Patients with Advanced Pancreatic Cancer Who Have Progressed on Gemcitabine-Based Therapy
Authors: Lee Min Geun , Lee Sang Hyub , Lee Seung June , Lee Yoon Suk , Hwang Jin-Hyeok , Ryu Ji Kon , Kim Yong-Tae , Kim Dong Uk , Woo Sang Myung
Published: January 2014

Background/Aims: There is no standard consensus on a strategy in the second-line setting for gemcitabine-refractory advanced pancreatic cancer. This study evaluated the activity and tolerability of oxaliplatin, irinotecan, 5-fluorouracil and leucovorin (FOLFIRINOX) as a second-line therapy in advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma pretreated with a gemcitabine-based regimen. Methods: A retrospective survey was carried out on 18 patients with advanced pancreatic cancer who had been on gemcitabine-based chemotherapy and were then treated with FOLFIRINOX as a second-line therapy. Results: One patient (5.6%) had a confirmed complete response, 4 (22.2%) had confirmed partial responses and 5 (27.8%) had stable disease, resulting in a rate of disease control of 55.6% (95% CI, 33.3-77.8%). The median progression-free survival and median survival were 2.8 months and 8.4 months, respectively. Seven patients (38.9%) experienced grade 3-4 neutropenia. Grade 3 or 4 nonhematologic adverse events included nausea (38.9%) and vomiting (16.7%). Conclusions: These results suggest the modest clinical activity regarding efficacy and the acceptable toxicity profile with the FOLFIRINOX regimen as a second-line treatment.
Improved Frontoparietal White Matter Integrity in Overweight Children Is Associated with Attendance at an After-School Exercise Program
Authors: Krafft Cynthia E. , Schaeffer David J. , Schwarz Nicolette F. , Chi Lingxi , Weinberger Abby L. , Pierce Jordan E. , Rodrigue Amanda L. , Allison Jerry D. , Yanasak Nathan E. , Liu Tianming , Davis Catherine L. , McDowell Jennifer E.
Published: January 2014

Aerobic fitness is associated with white matter integrity (WMI) in adults as measured by diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). This study examined the effect of an 8-month exercise intervention on WMI in children. Participants were 18 sedentary, overweight (BMI ≥85th percentile) 8- to 11-year-old children (94% Black), randomly assigned to either an aerobic exercise (n = 10) or sedentary attention control group (n = 8). Each group was offered an instructor-led after-school program every school day for approximately 8 months. Before and after the program, all subjects participated in DTI scans. Tractography was conducted to isolate the superior longitudinal fasciculus and investigate whether the exercise intervention affected WMI in this region. There was no group by time interaction for WMI in the superior longitudinal fasciculus. There was a group by time by attendance interaction, however, such that higher attendance at the exercise intervention, but not the control intervention, was associated with increased WMI. Heart rate and the total dose of exercise correlated with WMI changes in the exercise group. In the overall sample, increased WMI was associated with improved scores on a measure of attention and improved teacher ratings of executive function. This study indicates that participating in an exercise intervention improves WMI in children as compared to a sedentary after-school program.
Prediction of Maintained Mucosal Healing in Patients with Crohn's Disease under Treatment with Infliximab Using Diffusion-Weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Sakuraba Hirotake , Ishiguro Yoh , Hasui Keisuke , Hiraga Hiroto , Fukuda Shinsaku , Shibutani Koichi , Takai Yoshihiro
Published: January 2014

Background: Maintenance of mucosal healing may lead to a better outcome in patients with Crohn's disease (CD). Magnetic resonance diffusion-weighted imaging (MR-DWI) scans 1 year after infliximab (IFX) induction therapy were assessed as predictors of maintained response, or remission, through 3 years of treatment in patients with CD. Summary: MR-DWI and endoscopy data were prospectively collected throughout IFX treatment. Altogether, 86 lesions from 13 patients given IFX as induction (weeks 0, 2 and 6) and maintenance (5 mg/kg every 8 weeks beginning at week 14) therapy were analyzed with MR-DWI for 0.5-1.5 years from the starting point. Mucosal findings were confirmed by endoscopy at 1 and 3 years (gold standard). Of the 86 lesions, 65 were graded ‘0' and 21 were graded ‘1' based on their hyperintensity (HI; or lack thereof) on MR-DWI. Two years after the first evaluation, 7 of 15 false-negative lesions had turned positive based on colonoscopy findings, and 60 of 62 true-negative lesions had not. Thus, 0.03% of those predicted to remain in remission had relapsed (negative predictive value 0.9677, p < 0.0001). MR-DWI-HI at 1 year coincided with the presence of endoscopic inflammation, with sensitivity of 66.67%, specificity of 80.52%, and an area under the curve (AUC) value of 0.7359 (0.5479-0.9240, p = 0.0211). The AUC value of MR-DWI-HI at 3 years was 0.8402 (0.7460-0.9343, p = 0.001) with sensitivity of 94.12% and specificity of 73.91%. Key Message: A definition of the response on the basis of MR-DWI-HI might be helpful for optimizing treatment for patients with CD under treatment with IFX.
The Role of Gastroesophageal Reflux in Relation to Symptom Onset in Patients with Proton Pump Inhibitor-Refractory Nonerosive Reflux Disease Accompanied by an Underlying Esophageal Motor Disorder
Authors: Izawa Shinya , Funaki Yasushi , Iida Akihito , Tokudome Kentaro , Tamura Yasuhiro , Ogasawara Naotaka , Sasaki Makoto , Kasugai Kunio
Published: January 2014

Background: The symptom improvement rate is low with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) in nonerosive reflux disease (NERD). The underlying pathogenic mechanism is complex. Esophageal motility disorders (EMDs) are thought to be a factor, but their prevalence, type, symptoms and the role played by gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in symptom onset have not been fully investigated. Aim: To investigate the role of GER in symptom onset in PPI-refractory NERD patients with EMDs. Methods: This study comprised 76 patients with PPI-refractory NERD. Manometry was performed during PPI treatment and patients were divided into an EMD group and normal motility (non-EMD) group. Then, multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH monitoring was performed and medical interviews were conducted. Results: Nineteen patients (25%) had an EMD. Data were compared between 17 patients, excluding 2 with achalasia and 57 non-EMD patients. No significant differences were observed between groups in 24-hour intraesophageal pH <4 holding time (HT), mean number of GER episodes or mean number of proximal reflux episodes. The reflux-related symptom index (≥50%) showed a relationship between reflux and symptoms in 70.5% of EMD patients and 75% of non-EMD patients. In the EMD group, the score for FSSG (Frequency Scale for the Symptoms of GERD) question (Q)10 was significantly correlated with the number of GER episodes (r = 0.58, p = 0.02) and the number of proximal reflux episodes (r = 0.63, p = 0.02). In addition, the score for Q9 tended to be correlated with the number of GER episodes (r = 0.44, p = 0.06). Conclusion: Our results suggest that some PPI-refractory NERD patients have EMDs, and that GER plays a role in symptom onset.
Positive FDG-PET/CT of the Pleura Twenty Years after Talc Pleurodesis: Three Cases of Benign Talcoma
Authors: Vandemoortele Thomas , Laroumagne Sophie , Roca Elisa , Bylicki Olivier , Dales Jean-Philippe , Dutau Hervé , Astoul Philippe
Published: January 2014

The FDG-PET (fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography) scan is used with increasing frequency to investigate pleural abnormalities and to determine the possibility of neoplastic invasion. However, false-positive findings are not uncommon and talc pleurodesis has been reported to cause hypermetabolic pleural thickenings up to 5 years after the procedure. We report the cases of 3 patients (2 of whom had a history of asbestos exposure) requiring talc pleurodesis for recurrent pneumothoraces between 1988 and 1990, who were investigated in 2011 for pleural abnormalities. Avid pleural thickening on FDG-PET scan mimicking pleural cancer was found, but this was deemed secondary to the pleurodesis. Talc pleurodesis generates inflammation which promotes pleural adhesions. This inflammatory reaction could decrease with time, as in other inflammatory processes. Since talc is not metabolized by the body, the FDG-PET scan can remain positive, most likely because of a foreign-body granulomatous reaction, even 20 years later. It is important to be aware of this possibility and to question patients with pleural abnormalities about past procedures and mention such procedures to the colleagues who are responsible for interpreting metabolic imaging. Follow-up of hypermetabolic pleural lesions attributed to talc pleurodesis is important for the detection of new pleural lesions or neoplastic evolution.
State of the Art in the Clinical Treatment of Endotoxic Shock
Authors: Artigas Antonio , Piccinni Pasquale
Published: January 2014

Sepsis is a major health problem and remains an important cause of death worldwide. The failure to convert advances in our understanding of the biologic features of sepsis into effective new therapies questions the current approach to the development of sepsis drugs, and suggests a need for newer and better clinical trial design. Blood purification for sepsis is a promising therapeutic strategy to improve survival and reduce organ failure in patients with severe sepsis and septic shock.
Polymyxin B Hemoperfusion in Clinical Practice: The Picture from an Unbound Collaborative Registry
Authors:   The Early Use of Polymyxin B Hemoperfusion in the Abdominal Sepsis 2 (EUPHAS2) Collaborative Group
Published: January 2014

After the publication of the EUPHAS trial, the clinical use of polymyxin B hemoperfusion (Toraymyxin®) increased significantly in Italy. Nevertheless, no structured data collections have been carried out to underline the characteristics of treated patients. Therefore, a collaborative registry of clinical data was promoted among users in order to better define the structure of the prospective data collection named the EUPHAS2 project. Neither inclusion criteria nor therapeutic constraints were imposed, highlighting adherence to clinical evidence provided by previous randomized controlled trials, and also unusual or borderline practice in the selection of patients for polymyxin B-based cartridges (PMX-DHP). This first retrospective phase of data collection included patients with severe sepsis and septic shock treated with Toraymyxin over the last 3 years, up to July 2013. Thirty-one hospitals participated in the EUPHAS2 study, collecting data on 306 patients. Enrolled patients were grouped according to the main source of sepsis: abdominal (41.8%) and nonabdominal (58.2%). The abdominal patients had characteristics well matching those selected for the EUPHAS randomized controlled trial in terms of time-to-enrolment, severity of the illness, 28-day mortality and in-hospital mortality. Their 28-day mortality rate was 35% with a significant reduction of the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment Score (SOFA) score after 72 h of treatment (p < 0.001). Patients with nonabdominal sepsis were heterogeneous and only a few of them had their endotoxin activity tested in a manner not allowing a reliable evaluation of the real efficacy of the treatment and organ dysfunction control. Their 28-day mortality rate was 49% and the SOFA score did not significantly change before and after treatment. In conclusion, clinical experience confirms the results of the original EUPHAS randomized trial in terms of outcome for patients with abdominal severe sepsis. Specific studies focused on a population of patients with Gram-negative infections of nonabdominal origin are needed before recommending treatment with Toraymyxin as an effective therapy.
New Trends in Polymyxin B Hemoperfusion: From 2006 to 2013
Authors: Cruz Dinna N.
Published: January 2014

Endotoxin, one of the principal components on the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, is considered a key and early component in the pathogenesis of sepsis. Polymyxin B bound to polystyrene fibers (PMX) is a medical device capable of removing circulating endotoxin by adsorption. The most comprehensive analysis to date of clinical experience with this device remains a meta-analysis of 28 studies between 1998 and 2006. This showed that PMX hemoperfusion was associated with improved blood pressure and a reduction in dopamine dose, improved PaO2/FiO2 ratio and lower mortality. Since this meta-analysis, over 50 additional studies on PMX have been published. The majority are observational, with small sample sizes. Notable among the newer studies is the increasing interest in the use of PMX therapy in interstitial pneumonias and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, as well as in longer treatment duration and earlier initiation of PMX therapy in an attempt to further improve clinical outcomes. These observational data highlight important aspects of PMX therapy worthy of more rigorous investigation in future studies.
Auditory Brainstem Responses of Ephrin-A2-/-, Ephrin-A5-/- and Ephrin-A2A5-/- Mice
Authors: Yates Nathanael , Robertson Donald , Martin-Iverson Mathew , Rodger Jennifer
Published: January 2014

Eph receptors and ephrin ligands are large families of cell surface proteins which have established roles in axonal growth and guidance. These are well characterized in the visual and somatosensory systems but are less well documented in the auditory pathway. We examined the possible functional role of two ephrin genes (ephrin-A2 and ephrin-A5) in the auditory system by measuring auditory brainstem responses (ABR) to tone bursts from 6 to 30 kHz in ephrin-A2-/-, ephrin-A5-/- and ephrin-A2A5-/- (knockout) mice. At high frequencies, the ephrin-A2A5-/- mice exhibited thresholds that were significantly lower than in wild-type mice by approximately 20 dB, suggesting ephrin-A2 and ephrin-A5 may have frequency-specific effects on the auditory system. There were also alterations in ABR wave peak amplitudes that were specific to each mouse strain which suggested both peripheral and central involvement of EphA-ephrin-A signalling in auditory function.
Clinical Predictors of Response to EGFR Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors in Patients with EGFR-Mutant Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Fukihara Jun , Watanabe Naohiro , Taniguchi Hiroyuki , Kondoh Yasuhiro , Kimura Tomoki , Kataoka Kensuke , Matsuda Toshiaki , Yokoyama Toshiki , Hasegawa Yoshinori
Published: January 2014

Background: The presence of EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) mutations is a robust predictor of EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) responsiveness. Predictors of EGFR-TKI responsiveness in EGFR-mutant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients, however, have not been well investigated. The purpose of this study is to examine predictors of EGFR-TKI responsiveness in EGFR-mutant NSCLC patients. Patients and Methods: Seventy EGFR-mutant NSCLC patients who received EGFR-TKIs in our institution between April 2007 and March 2013 were analyzed retrospectively. Results: The objective response rate was 50.0% (95% confidence interval, CI, 38.6-61.4%) and the disease control rate was 91.4% (95% CI, 82.5-96.0%). The median progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival were 9.0 (95% CI, 3.92-14.08) and 20.8 months (95% CI, 14.56-27.04), respectively. In multivariate analysis, adenocarcinoma (hazard ratio, HR, 12.25; 95% CI, 37.7-41.10; p < 0.001) and major mutations (deletions in exon 19 and L858R point mutation in exon 21; HR, 2.46; 95% CI, 1.14-5.28; p = 0.022) were significant predictors of longer PFS. Conclusion: Major mutations and adenocarcinoma histology were independent predictors of better treatment outcome in EGFR-mutant NSCLC patients who received EGFR-TKIs. Further well-controlled prospective studies are warranted to confirm our findings.