bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Total serum IgE and IgE antibodies specific to house dust mite found in two aged‐matched cohorts of children with and without otitis media with effusion
Authors: Coulson C.J. , Drake‐Lee A.B. , Plant T. , Drayson M.T.
Published: March 2006

Objectives:  To determine whether otitis media with effusion (OME) is associated with elevated serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) and IgE specific for house dust mite.

Design:  Forty‐seven children who had evidence of bilateral OME, both otoscopically and on tympanometry, on two separate occasions, 3 months apart were admitted for ventilation tubes. Forty‐eight children admitted for minor eye surgery who had otoscopically normal ears and no history of middle ear problems were used as controls. Bloods samples were taken under anaesthesia. Total IgE and IgE radioallergosorbent test (RAST) to house dust mite was measured by the Pharmacia Unicap 100 system. The results from the two groups were compared.

Setting:  Birmingham Children's Hospital.

Participants:  Children between the ages of 3 and 10. Children with Down's syndrome, cleft lip and palate, ciliary abnormalities, known immunodeficiencies and cardiac abnormalities were excluded.

Main outcome measures:  Total IgE and RAST to house dust mite. A RAST of >0.35 was taken to be positive.

Results:  There was no statistical difference between the control and study groups for the total IgE. Six children from both study and control groups had a raised house dust mite RAST. There was no difference in the levels between either group.

Conclusions:  Our findings indicate that there is no direct relationship between OME and biochemical evidence of allergy, specifically to house dust mite.
A review of sinonasal outcome scoring systems – which is best?
Authors: Morley A.D. , Sharp H.R.
Published: March 2006

Keypoints

• In patients undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery for chronic rhinosinusitis, there is a lack of a universally accepted system for the evaluation of outcome.

• This makes critical comparison between results less meaningful.

• To determine the most suitable sinonasal outcome scoring system for use in our own practice, we reviewed the available literature and known systems in existence.

• We analysed 15 known disease‐specific sinonasal outcome indices with emphasis on reliability, validity and responsiveness.

• We concluded by choosing one quality of life outcome tool for our departmental use, the Sinonasal Outcome Test‐22, due to its reliability, validity, responsiveness and ease of use.

• It has been validated to distinguish between disease‐affected patient groups and those without rhinosinusitis, demonstrate a worse score if the condition gets worse and show an appropriateness of items and scales in the questionnaire. This has been demonstrated in 3128 British patients.
A randomized controlled trial: is water better than a standard lubricant in nasendoscopy?
Authors: Pothier D.D. , Raghava N. , Monteiro P. , Awad Z.
Published: March 2006

Objectives:  Previous studies have shown that nasendoscopy is made easier with the use of lubrication at the expense of the quality of the view obtained, but had no effect on the discomfort or pain experienced by the patient. We set out to determine whether the advantages of lubrication with a standard lubricant (KY Jelly) could be achieved by using water, without incurring the same disadvantages.

Design:  Single blind randomized controlled trial.

Setting:  Outpatient Departments at two District General Hospitals.

Participants:  One hundred and fifty participants selected sequentially from patients requiring a nasendoscopy where the endoscope would be passed far enough to view the larynx. Patients requiring topical anaesthetic were excluded.

Methods:  Patients were randomly assigned to have either water or standard lubricant applied to the nasendosope prior to nasendoscopy. Levels of pain experienced by the patient were recorded on a visual analogue score as well as visual analogue scores from the clinician for the levels of difficulty in passing the endoscope. All participants who were entered the study completed the study. Endoscopy was performed by all grades of medical staff.

Main outcome measures:  Levels of pain experienced by the participants were assessed by a visual analogue scale. Difficulty of passing the scope was indicated by the endoscopist using a visual analogue scale, as was the quality of image obtained.

Results:  Endoscopists found the insertion of the endoscope was easier and the image better when water was used rather than KY Jelly. There was no significant difference in reported in levels of pain experienced by the patient.

Conclusion:  Although the use of water as a lubricant during nasendoscopy confers no additional benefit in term of the levels of pain suffered by patients during the procedure, it makes the insertion of the endoscope easier and provides a better quality image than standard lubrication.
Randomized‐controlled study comparing post‐operative pain between coblation palatoplasty and laser palatoplasty1
Authors: A. Belloso , P. Morar , J. Tahery , K. Saravanan , A. Nigam , M.S. Timms
Published: March 2006

Objectives:  This study aimed to evaluate differences in post‐operative pain comparing KTP laser‐assisted uvulopalatoplasty without tonsillectomy (LAUP) with a new described surgical method: coblation uvulopalatoplasty with tonsillectomy (CP). We also evaluate the impact of each surgical technique in reduction of snoring loudness.

Material and methods:  Single blind randomized‐controlled trial. From a population of 41 consecutive patients on the waiting list for uvulopalatoplasty for simple snoring, the study group was reduced to 17 CP and 13 LAUP. Post‐operative pain and reduction of snoring loudness were recorded using visual analogue scales (VAS) during the first 15 post‐operative days. Post‐operative snoring loudness was documented for 1‐year period.

Results:  Both groups had similar post‐operative pain during the first seven post‐operative days. A statistically significant reduction in post‐operative pain was observed in the CP group after day 8, and maintained until the end of the study. Reduction of snoring loudness was significant in both groups, but no differences were observed between them.

Discussion:  Coblation uvulopalatoplasty compared with LAUP demonstrates a reduction in post‐operative pain, significant after the first post‐operative week. The collateral thermal injury caused by laser is responsible for the slow‐healing rate and maintained post‐operative pain. Coblation dissociates tissue at lower temperatures with minimal collateral thermal injury and consequently faster and less painful recovery. Both surgical procedures have significant and similar reduction in snoring loudness.

Conclusions:  Both methods are adequate treatment options for snoring. The less painful recovery in CP promotes this surgical technique as our preferred choice for palate surgery.
Model Validation: Model Parameter and Measurement Uncertainty
Authors: Hills Richard G.
Published: March 2006

Our increased dependence on complex models for engineering design, coupled with our decreased dependence on experimental observation, leads to the question: How does one know that a model is valid? As models become more complex (i.e., multiphysics models), the ability to test models over the full range of possible applications becomes more difficult. This difficulty is compounded by the uncertainty that is invariably present in the experimental data used to test the model; the uncertainties in the parameters that are incorporated into the model; and the uncertainties in the model structure itself. Here, the issues associated with model validation are discussed and methodology is presented to incorporate measurement and model parameter uncertainty in a metric for model validation through a weighted r2 norm. The methodology is based on first-order sensitivity analysis coupled with the use of statistical models for uncertainty. The result of this methodology is compared to results obtained from the more computationally expensive Monte Carlo method. The methodology was demonstrated for the nonlinear Burgers’ equation, the convective-dispersive equation, and for conduction heat transfer with contact resistance. Simulated experimental data was used for the first two cases, and true experimental data was used for the third. The results from the sensitivity analysis approach compared well with those for the Monte Carlo method. The results show that the metric presented can discriminate between valid and invalid models. The metric has the advantage that it can be applied to multivariate, correlated data.
A Unit Cube-Based Model for Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow in Porous
Carbon Foam
Authors: Yu Qijun , Thompson Brian E. , Straatman Anthony G.
Published: March 2006

A unit-cube geometry model is proposed to characterize the internal structure of porous carbon foam. The unit-cube model is based on interconnected sphere-centered cubes, where the interconnected spheres represent the fluid or void phase. The unit-cube model is used to derive all of the geometric parameters required to calculate the heat transfer and flow through the porous foam. An expression for the effective thermal conductivity is derived based on the unit-cube geometry. Validations show that the conductivity model gives excellent predictions of the effective conductivity as a function of porosity. When combined with existing expressions for the pore-level Nusselt number, the proposed model also yields reasonable predictions of the internal convective heat transfer, but estimates could be improved if a Nusselt number expression for a spherical void phase material were available. Estimates of the fluid pressure drop are shown to be well-described using the Darcy-Forchhiemer law, however, further exploration is required to understand how the permeability and Forchhiemer coefficients vary as a function of porosity and pore diameter.
Unsteady Mixed Convection From a Moving Vertical Slender Cylinder
Authors: Roy S. , Anilkumar D.
Published: March 2006

A general analysis has been developed to study flow and heat transfer characteristics of an unsteady laminar mixed convection on a continuously moving vertical slender cylinder with surface mass transfer, where the slender cylinder is inline with the flow. The unsteadiness is introduced by the time-dependent velocity of the slender cylinder as well as that of the free stream. The calculations of momentum and heat transfer on slender cylinders considered the transverse curvature effect, especially in applications such as wire and fiber drawing, where accurate predictions are required. The governing boundary layer equations along with the boundary conditions are first cast into a dimensionless form by a nonsimilar transformation, and the resulting system of nonlinear coupled partial differential equations is then solved by an implicit finite difference scheme in combination with the quasi-linearization technique. Numerical results are presented for the skin friction coefficient and Nusselt number. The effects of various parameters on the velocity and temperature profiles are also reported here.
Stabilization of Flow Boiling in Microchannels Using Pressure Drop Elements and Fabricated Nucleation Sites
Authors: Kandlikar Satish G. , Kuan Wai Keat , Willistein Daniel A. , Borrelli John
Published: March 2006

The flow boiling process suffers from severe instabilities induced due to nucleation of vapor bubbles in a superheated liquid environment in a minichannel or a microchannel. In an effort to improve the flow boiling stability, several modifications are introduced and experiments are performed on 1054×197μm parallel rectangular microchannels (hydraulic diameter of 332μm) with water as the working fluid. The cavity sizes and local liquid and wall conditions required at the onset of nucleation are analyzed. The effects of an inlet pressure restrictor and fabricated nucleation sites are evaluated as a means of stabilizing the flow boiling process and avoiding the backflow phenomenon. The results are compared with the unrestricted flow configurations in smooth channels.
An Exact Solution to Steady Heat Conduction in a Two-Dimensional Annulus on a One-Dimensional Fin: Application to Frosted Heat Exchangers With Round Tubes
Authors: Sommers A. D. , Jacobi A. M.
Published: March 2006

The fin efficiency of a high-thermal-conductivity substrate coated with a low-thermal-conductivity layer is considered, and an analytical solution is presented and compared to alternative approaches for calculating fin efficiency. This model is appropriate for frost formation on a round-tube-and-fin metallic heat exchanger, and the problem can be cast as conduction in a composite two-dimensional circular cylinder on a one-dimensional radial fin. The analytical solution gives rise to an eigenvalue problem with an unusual orthogonality condition. A one-term approximation to this new analytical solution provides fin efficiency calculations of engineering accuracy for a range of conditions, including most frosted-coated metal fins. The series solution and the one-term approximation are of sufficient generality to be useful for other cases of a low-thermal-conductivity coating on a high-thermal-conductivity substrate.
Fully Developed Laminar Free Convection With Variable Thermophysical Properties Between Two Open-Ended Vertical Parallel Plates Heated Asymmetrically With Large Temperature Differences
Authors: Pantokratoras Asterios
Published: March 2006

The steady laminar fully developed flow between two isothermal parallel plates is studied in this paper. The investigation concerns air, engine oil, and water taking into account the variation of all physical properties (μ, k, and ρ) with temperature. The results are obtained with the direct numerical solution of the governing equations and cover large temperature differences not treated until now. The largest differences of volume flow rate and vertical heat flux from the corresponding constant properties values reach 1568% and 2120% in air, 139% and 247% in oil, and 62% and 55% in water.
Weighting Factors for Single-Step Trapezoidal Method
Authors: Zhao Fuzhang
Published: March 2006

The uses of a weighting factor along with a time step in a single-step trapezoidal method to solve a first-order parabolic system have been systematically studied. The weighting factors are used in two main types: constants and variables. The most commonly used constant weighting factors can be defined by the ratio of the Fibonacci sequence. Among them, the optimal weighting factor is 0.618, resulting in a balance between the overall accuracy and efficiency. With the finite element formulation, the space and time dimensions can be discretized separately. For the time discretization only, there exists a zero-error dimensionless time step if a weighting factor is within the range of 0.5–1.0. By taking advantage of the zero-error condition, the weighting factor can be correlated with a time step. The influence of spatial dimensions is lumped into a nonzero eigenvalue of the system. Through validity tests of two benchmark linear problems, the variable weighting factor for a single-step trapezoidal method is shown to be accurate, efficient, and stable. The relevant features have been captured.
Piperidinium Nitrate - Study of Thermal Behaviour and Vibrational Spectra
Authors: Němec Ivan , Macháčková Zorka , Vaněk Přemysl , Mička Zdeněk
Published: March 2006

Piperidinium nitrate was studied by FTIR and FT Raman spectroscopy in the range 100-4000 cm-1 at 300 K. On the basis of DSC measurements which exhibit two effects indicating phase transition at 256 and 295 K, FTIR spectra were recorded down to a temperature of 90 K. Discussion of the phase transition mechanism is based on the observed changes in the FTIR spectra during cooling of the compound.
Synthesis and Coordination Behaviour of a Phosphanyl(vinyl)ferrocene
Authors: Štěpnička Petr , Císařová Ivana
Published: March 2006

Donor properties of 1-(diphenylphosphanyl)-1'-vinylferrocene (1) were investigated in a series of reactions with palladium(II), rhodium(I), and copper(I) compounds. In all complexes obtained, compound 1 coordinates exclusively as a monodentate phosphorus donor, giving trans-[PdCl2(1-κP)2] (3) with [PdCl2(cod)], [PdCl(LNC)(1-κP)] (4) with [{Pd(LNC)}2(μ-Cl)2], and trans-[RhCl(CO)(1-κP)2] (5) with [{Rh(CO)2}2(μ-Cl)2] (cod = cycloocta-1,5-diene, LNC = 2-[(dimethylamino)methyl-κN]phenyl-κC1). Copper(I) precursors CuI and [Cu(MeCN)4]PF6 reacted with 1 in a similar manner, yielding at appropriate molar ratios heterocubane [(μ3-I)4{Cu(1-κP)}4] (6) and the bis(phosphane) complex [Cu(MeCN)(1-κP)2]PF6 (7), respectively. The structures of 1-(diphenylthiophosphoryl)-1'-vinylferrocene (2), 3, 4·CHCl3, 6·C6H6, and 7 have been determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction.
Sailing and sports medicine: a literature review
Authors: Allen J B , De Jong M R
Published: March 2006

Sailing medicine has been mainly addressed by healthcare professionals who happen to sail. Although there has been an increase in the number of studies of various aspects of sailing over the last 15 years, efforts to advance evidence based knowledge of sailing and sports medicine face unique obstacles. Recent interest in research by groups such as Olympic and America’s Cup teams has produced beneficial changes.
Sports and recreational injuries: regional rural injury study-II: impact on agricultural households and operations
Authors: Kurszewski L S , Gerberich S G , Serfass R C , Ryan A D , Renier C M , Alexander B H , Carlson K Ferguson , Masten A S
Published: March 2006

Objectives:To identify the incidence, severity, and potential risk factors for sports/recreational injuries incurred by children and adults in a five state, rural, Midwest, agricultural household population.

Methods:Computer assisted telephone interviews that included questions about all injuries were completed for eligible, participating households for 1999; 16 538 people participated, including 8488 children less than 20 years of age. Rates and 95% confidence intervals were calculated, and causal models guided multivariate models.

Results:Of a total of 2586 injuries, 1301 (50%) were not related to agricultural activity. Among these, 733 (28%) were associated with sports/recreational activities including multiple person sports (64%), general play activities (19%), and single person sports (14%). The overall rate was 46.4 injury events per 1000 persons per year. Rates for children were 99.4 for boys and 64.3 for girls. For adults (aged 20 and above), rates were 11.9 for men and 4.8 for women. For children, 93% received health care, 44% were restricted for seven or more days, and 18% lost agricultural work time of seven or more days; the respective proportions for adults were 88%, 45%, and 17%. Multivariate analysis for children showed increased risks for Nebraska residents, males, and those 10–14 or 15–19 years. For adults, increased risks were identified for males and those 20–24 years; decreased risks were observed for Nebraska residents and those 45–54 years.

Conclusions:Sports/recreational activities are an important source of injury with relevant consequences for this population, including significant restricted daily activity and lost agricultural work time. Key findings provide a basis for further study to address these burdens.
Preload maintenance protects against a depression in left ventricular systolic, but not diastolic, function immediately after ultraendurance exercise
Authors: Hassan M Y , Noakes T D , Berlyn P , Shave R , George K
Published: March 2006

Objective:To investigate indices of left ventricular (LV) function before and after a 224 km Ironman triathlon, specifically in the presence of unaltered haemodynamic loading.

Method:LV loading and function were assessed before and after the race using M mode and Doppler echocardiography in 39 (mean (SD) age 33 (8) years, body mass 77.6 (8.6) kg; 36 male) triathletes in the Trendelenburg position. Specifically left ventricular end diastolic volume (LVEDV) was assessed to estimate preload, and systolic blood pressure to estimate afterload as well as heart rate (HR). Systolic functional indices included ejection fraction (EF) and the end systolic pressure/volume ratio (ESPV), and diastolic functional indices included peak mitral flow velocity in early (E) and atrial (A) filling as well as the ratio E/A. Data obtained before and after the race were compared byttests, and delta LV functional indices were correlated with delta heart rate.

Results:Preload (LVEDV: 143 (34) ml beforev147 (34) ml after) and afterload (systolic blood pressure 121 (13)v115 (20) mm Hg) were not significantly altered after the race (p>0.05), nor were EF (61 (8)%v58 (10)%) and ESPV (2.4 (0.9)v2.1 (0.8) mm Hg/cm3). The diastolic filling ratio E/A was significantly reduced after the race (1.73 (0.25)v1.54 (0.23); p<0.05) due primarily to a reduction in E. HR was significantly higher after the race (57 (9)v75 (8) beats/min; p<0.05), but delta HR was not related to delta E/A (p>0.05).

Conclusion:When preload and afterload are unaltered after the race, because of the adoption of a unique assessment posture, LV systolic function is not depressed. A depression in LV diastolic function persists which is not explained by an increase in heart rate after the race.
Clinical utility of blood tests in elite athletes with short term fatigue
Authors: Fallon K E
Published: March 2006

Objective:To determine, in a population of elite athletes at their initial presentation with tiredness or fatigue, whether a set of haematological and biochemical investigations enhances the diagnostic process over and above the information gained from clinical history and examination.

Methods:A sequential series of 50 elite athletes were studied at the initial consultation for a primary complaint of fatigue, tiredness, or a synonym thereof. A standardised clinical history, physical examination, and series of haematological and biochemical test were performed. The effects of the results of the blood tests on the diagnosis made after the clinical history and examination were examined.

Results:In only one case did the test results lead to an alteration in diagnosis. Physical examination did not provide any findings that would not have been suspected from the history, except for a number of incidental findings not relevant to the presenting symptom.

Discussion:In cases of short term fatigue in elite athletes, a thorough clinical history is mandatory. Physical examination is unlikely to reveal any findings not suspected from the history. Routine ordering of a panel of blood tests at the initial consultation should be discouraged. Unless specifically indicated by the history and examination, investigations are not required at the initial consultation.
Effects of Switching to Wen-Jing-Tang (Unkei-To) from Preceding Herbal Preparations Selected by Eight-Principle Pattern Identification on Endocrinological Status and Ovulatory Induction in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Ushiroyama Takahisa , Hosotani Toshimitsu , Mori Kuniko , Yamashita Yoshiki , Ikeda Atsushi , Ueki Minoru
Published: March 2006

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of switching therapy to Wen-jing-tang (Unkei-to) from previous selected herbal preparations on endocrine levels and induction of ovulation in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Sixty-four anovulatory women diagnosed with PCOS were enrolled in the study. After Kampo diagnosis, subjects received matched Kampo preparations (43 cases: Dang-gui-shao-yao-san, 21 cases: Gui-zhi-fu-ling-wan) selected by the matching theory of eight-principle pattern identification and Kampo diagnosis based on concepts of the qi, blood, and fluids as the physiologic activity. Fifty-four women who failed to ovulate after an 8-week treatment were randomly allocated to continuation of treatment with the preceding Kampo prescription (continuation group, n = 27) or treatment with Wen-jing-tang (switching group, n = 27). Plasma FSH, LH and estradiol levels were measured and ovulation rates were determined at the beginning and after an 8-week treatment with the preceding Kampo prescription, as well as after the subsequent 8-week treatment with the same preparation or Wen-jing-tang. No decrease in mean plasma LH level was observed in the 54 women who failed to ovulate among the 64 treated with a Kampo preparation. After the 8-week treatment with Wen-jing-tang, plasma LH levels were decreased by 58.2% ( p < 0.0001) and 49.4% ( p = 0.0005) in the groups switched from Dang-gui-shao-yao-san and Gui-zhi-fu-ling-wan, respectively. In the group switched from Dang-gui-shao-yao-san, a tendency towards increase in plasma estradiol level was observed (1.51-fold, p = 0.055), which was significant compared with that in the group switched from Gui-zhi-fu-ling-wan ( p = 0.032). The ovulation rate with switching of treatment to Wen-jing-tang was significantly higher (59.3%) than that with continued use of the same preparation (7.4%, p = 0.0036).

This study confirmed that Wen-jing-tang was effective in improving endocrine condition in the treatment of disturbances of ovulation in patients with PCOS without taking eight-principle pattern identification into consideration. This finding indicates that Wen-jing-tang is appropriate for use in treating PCOS in women with various constitutions (as determined by the matching theory of eight-principle pattern identification) in clinical practice and may prove to be a potent therapeutic agent with a wide therapeutic spectrum.
Changes in Skin Blood Flow and Skin Sympathetic Nerve Activity in Response to Manual Acupuncture Stimulation in Humans
Authors: Kimura Kenichi , Masuda Kenichi , Wakayama Ikuro
Published: March 2006

To determine the effects of manual acupuncture stimulation (MAS) on skin sympathetic nerve activity (SSNA), SSNA and skin blood flow (SBF) were measured during a resting period and during MAS. Twelve healthy male subjects were divided into an acupuncture group ( n = 7) and a control group ( n = 5). SSNA was recorded from the left median nerve at the elbow using microneurography, while SBF was recorded using laser Doppler flowmeter. In the acupuncture group, MAS was delivered to LI 4 point in the right thenar muscle. The acupuncture needle was retained for 2 minutes before being removed. SSNA and SBF recordings were performed for a total of 12 minutes, from 5 minutes prior to MAS until the end of the trial. In the control group, the 2-minute period of acupuncture was replaced by 2 minutes of rest. During the first minute of MAS, we observed an increase in SSNA accompanied by a reduction in SBF. In the acupuncture group, these parameters returned to baseline values in the second minute of MAS. Parameters in the control group were unchanged throughout the experimental procedure. A significant negative correlation was observed between changes in SSNA and SBF during the first minute of MAS. In addition, a negative correlation was demonstrated between the basal value of SSNA and the change in SSNA in response to MAS. These results suggest that MAS elicited a transient increase in SSNA and that this increase is dependent on the baseline of SSNA.
Bilateral Frontal Activation Associated with Cutaneous Stimulation of Elixir Field: An fMRI Study
Authors: Chan Agnes S. , Cheung Mei-Chun , Chan Yu Leung , Yeung David K. W. , Lam Wan
Published: March 2006

Elixir Field, or Dan Tian, is the area where energy is stored and nourished in the body according to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Although Dan Tian stimulation is a major concept in Qigong healing and has been practiced for thousands of years, and while there are some recent empirical evidence of its effect, its neurophysiological basis remains unknown. We used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to study brain activations associated with external stimulation of the lower Elixir Field in ten normal subjects, and compared the results with the stimulation of their right hands. While right-hand stimulation resulted in left postcentral gyrus activation, stimulation of the lower Elixir Field resulted in bilateral activations including the medial and superior frontal gyrus, middle and superior temporal gyrus, thalamus, insula, and cingulate gyrus. These findings suggest that stimulation of the Elixir Field is not only associated with activation of the sensory motor cortex but also with cortical regions that mediate planning, attention, and memory.
Antrodia Camphoratain Submerged Culture Protects Low Density Lipoproteins Against Oxidative Modification
Authors: Yang Hsin-Ling , Hseu You-Cheng , Chen Jing-Yi , Yech Yi-Jen , Lu Fung-Jou , Wang Hsuan-Hui , Lin Perng-Shiang , Wang Bor-Cheh
Published: March 2006

Antrodia camphorata is well known in Taiwan as a traditional Chinese medicine. In this study, we have investigated the antioxidant properties of a fermented culture broth of Antrodia camphorata (FCBA) and the aqueous extracts of mycelia from Antrodia camphorata (AEMA) on the oxidative modification of human low-density lipoproteins (LDL), as induced by either copper sulfate ( CuSO4) or 2,2′-azo-bis(2-amidinopropane) hydrochloride (AAPH). Under such oxidant stress, FCBA and AEMA appear to possess antioxidant properties with respect to oxidation of LDL in a time-and concentration-dependent manner, as assessed by inhibition of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) formation, conjugated diene production, and cholesterol degradation of oxidized LDL. In addition, both FCBA and AEMA exhibited a remarkable ability to rescue the relative electrophoretic mobility and fragmentation of the Apo B moiety of the oxidized LDL. Furthermore, FCBA and AEMA effectively protected the endothelial cells from the damaging effects of the CuSO4-oxidized LDL. Our findings suggest that the antioxidant properties of Antrodia camphorata may also provide effective protection from atherosclerosis.
The Aqueous Extract ofRadix GlycyrrhizaeStimulates Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases and Nuclear Factor-κB in Jurkat T-Cells and THP-1 Monocytic Cells
Authors: Chan Anthony S. L. , Pang Haihong , Yip Eric C. H. , Tam Yun K. , Wong Yung H.
Published: March 2006

Radix Glycyrrhizae (RG) is a medicinal herb extensively utilized in numerous Chinese medical formulae for coordinating the actions of various components in the recipes and strengthening the body functions. In this report, we demonstrate that the aqueous extract of Radix Glycyrrhizae is capable of stimulating the c-Jun N-terminal kinase and p38 subgroups of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), and the nuclear factor-κB ( NF κ B ) in Jurkat T-lymphocytes. The activation magnitudes of MAPKs and NF κ B were dose-dependent ( EC50≈ 1 mg/ml ) and time-dependent (maximal around 15–30 minutes). Stimulations of MAPKs and NF κ B were not associated with changes in intracellular Ca2+mobilization. Similar activation profiles of MAPK and NF κ B were obtained from THP-1 monocytes treated with the extract. In terms of chemotactic activity, the SDF-induced chemotaxis of Jurkat cells and THP-1 cells were inhibited by RG extract at 1–10 mg/ml, while a lower RG concentration (0.1–0.3 mg/ml) potentiated the SDF-induced chemotaxis for the former, but not the latter cell type. Given the fact that MAPKs and NF κ B are important signaling intermediates for lymphocyte activities, our results suggest that Radix Glycyrrhizae may contain active constituents capable of modulating immuno-responses through various intracellular signaling pathways.
Attenuating Effects of Wen-Pi-Tang Treatment in Rats with Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Yokozawa Takako , Satoh Akiko , Nakagawa Takako , Yamabe Noriko
Published: March 2006

Wen-Pi-Tang is a Chinese prescription used traditionally as a medicine to treat moderate renal failure. In this study, we used rats subjected to subtotal nephrectomy and streptozotocin injection to examine the effects of Wen-Pi-Tang on diabetic nephropathy. Wen-Pi-Tang was administered at a dose of 50, 100 or 200 mg/kg body weight/day for 15 weeks. Diabetic nephropathy is one of the most serious chronic complications of diabetes mellitus, and renal dysfunction is reflected by proteinuria, decreased creatinine clearance (Ccr) and increased serum urea nitrogen and creatinine (Cr) levels. Wen-Pi-Tang treatment for 15 weeks resulted in significant reductions of blood glucose and serum urea nitrogen levels, while proteinuria, Ccr and serum Cr levels did not change significantly. Wen-Pi-Tang also lowered serum triglyceride and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance levels in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, the disorders of the glucose-dependent metabolic pathway due to this pathological condition were normalized by the administration of Wen-Pi-Tang through decreased formation of advanced glycation end-products in the kidney. Wen-Pi-Tang protected against the development of renal lesions, glomerular sclerosis and mesangial matrix expansion, assessed by histopathological evaluation and scoring. This study suggests that Wen-Pi-Tang treatment could be beneficial in reducing the risk of developing diabetic nephropathy.
Anti-hepatitis Activities in the Broth of Ganoderma lucidum Supplemented with a Chinese Herbal Medicine
Authors: Li Yanqun , Yang Yailong , Fang Lu , Zhang Zhibin , Jin Jian , Zhang Kechang
Published: March 2006

The anti-hepatitis B virus activity and hepatoprotective activity of a liquid fermentation broth of Ganoderma lucidum were investigated. The cultured broth was supplemented with aqueous extract of Radix Sophorae flavescentis, a kind of Chinese herbal medicine. Our results indicated that the cultured broth had effects of anti-hepatitis B virus activity in vitro and protected mice from liver damage in vivo. Our results also indicated that the co-fermentation broth of Ganoderma lucidum in the presence of aqueous extract of Radix Sophorae flavescentis has better medicinal effects than simply mixing these two ingredients together, suggesting a potential novel way to prepare Chinese herbal mixtures.
The Study of Electroacupuncture on Cerebral Blood Flow in Rats With and Without Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Hsieh Ching-Liang , Chang Qwang-Yuen , Lin I-hsin , Lin Jaung-Geng , Liu Chung-Hsiang , Tang Nou-Ying , Lane Hsien-Yuan
Published: March 2006

Electroacupuncture (EA) is widely used to treat disorders of the nervous system, such as stroke. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of EA on cerebral blood flow (CBF) in cerebral ischemic rats. We developed an animal model of cerebral ischemia (CI) by occluding the blood flow of both common carotid arteries in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats; 2 or 15 Hz EA was applied to both Zusanli acupoints. The levels of nitric oxide (NO) in the peripheral blood and amounts of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in the cerebral cortex and thalamus were measured. In addition, L-N (G)-nitro arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) was used to measure the changes in CBF induced by EA in rats with and without CI. The results indicated that both 2 and 15 Hz EA increase the mean CBF in rats with and without CI. However, neither 2 nor 15 Hz EA induced changes in levels of NO in peripheral blood or changes in CGRP levels in cerebral cortex and thalamus. In addition, L-NAME did not change the increase in CBF. We concluded that both 2 and 15 Hz EA at both Zusanli acupoints induced the increase of CBF in rats with and without CI. Whether the effect of EA is related to NO or CGRP will be investigated in a future study.
TIME ACCURATE FAST THREE-STEP WAVELET-GALERKIN METHOD FOR PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS
Authors: MEHRA MANI , RATHISH KUMAR B. V.
Published: March 2006

We introduce the concept of three-step wavelet-Galerkin method based on the Taylor series expansion in time. Unlike the Taylor–Galerkin methods, the present scheme does not contain any new higher-order derivatives which makes it suitable for solving nonlinear problems. Numerical schemes taking advantage of the wavelet bases capabilities to compress the operators and sparse representation of functions which are smooth, except for localized regions, up to any given accuracy are presented. Here numerical experiments deal with advection equation with the spiky solution in one dimension, two dimensions and nonlinear equation with a shock in solution in two dimensions. Numerical results indicate the versatility and effectiveness of the proposed scheme.
WAVELET CLASSIFICATION OF INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL SOUND SOURCES
Authors: McLACHLAN NEIL , KUMAR DINESH KANT , BECKER JOHN
Published: March 2006

Computational auditory scene analysis (CASA) has been attracting growing interest since the publication of Bregman's text on human auditory scene analysis, and is expected to find many applications in data retrieval, autonomous robots, security and environmental analysis. This paper reports on the use of Fourier transforms and wavelet transforms to produce spectral data of sounds from different sources for classification by neural networks. It was found that the multiresolution time-frequency analyses of wavelet transforms dramatically improved classification accuracy when statistical descriptors that captured measures of band limited spectral energy and temporal energy fluctuation were used.
WAVELET-BASED WEIGHTED AVERAGE AND HUMAN VISION SYSTEM IMAGE FUSION
Authors: LI HONG
Published: March 2006

Image fusion is one of the most important techniques to enhance image information. The fused image is more suitable for image processing. The novel pixel level image fusion schemes are presented based on multi-scale decomposition. The wavelet coefficients of image are chosen according to the image fusion operators and different fusion rules. Experiments of multi-spectral image and high-resolution panchromatic images are given. It shows that the wavelet-based human visual system method can achieve better fusion performance than others.
WAVELET FUSION: A TOOL TO BREAK THE LIMITS ON LMMSE IMAGE SUPER-RESOLUTION
Authors: EL-KHAMY S. E. , HADHOUD M. M. , DESSOUKY M. I. , SALAM B. M. , EL-SAMIE F. E. ABD
Published: March 2006

This paper presents a wavelet-based computationally efficient implementation of the Linear Minimum Mean Square Error (LMMSE) algorithm in image super-resolution. The image super-resolution reconstruction problem is well-known to be an ill-posed inverse problem of large dimensions. The LMMSE estimator to be implemented in the image super-resolution reconstruction problem requires an inversion of a very large dimension matrix, which is practically impossible. Our suggested implementation is based on breaking the problem into four consecutive steps, a registration step, a multi-channel LMMSE restoration step, a wavelet-based image fusion step and an LMMSE image interpolation step. The objective of the wavelet fusion step is to integrate the data obtained from each observation into a single image, which is then interpolated to give a high-resolution image. The paper explains the implementation of each step. The proposed implementation has succeeded in obtaining a high-resolution image from multiple degraded observations with a high PSNR. The computation time of the suggested implementation is small when compared to traditional iterative image super-resolution algorithms.
SURFACE COMPRESSION WITH HIERARCHICAL POWELL–SABIN B-SPLINES
Authors: MAES JAN , BULTHEEL ADHEMAR
Published: March 2006

We show how to construct a stable hierarchical basis for piecewise quadratic C1 continuous splines defined on Powell–Sabin triangulations. We prove that this hierarchical basis is well suited for compressing surfaces. Our compression method does not require the construction of wavelets which are usually expensive to compute, but instead we use a stable quasi-interpolation scheme that achieves optimal approximation order. Numerical experiments demonstrate the high compression rate of the algorithm.
Does Erysipelas-Like Rash after Hip Replacement Exist?
Authors: Durupt F. , Dalle S. , Ronger S. , Thomas L.
Published: March 2006

Background: Orthopaedic implants are known to rarely induce or exacerbate dermatitis in metal-allergic patients. In the late 1990s, hypersensitivity to prosthetic material has been suspected to induce recurrent aseptic localized cellulitis. Patients presented with recurrent eruption of the skin overlying the implant, associated with fever. An aseptic origin of this new syndrome was hypothesized as no evidence of microbial involvement could be found and because antibiotic treatment was apparently inefficient. Observations: We observed 4 similar cases. All patients recovered after suppression of factors predisposing to erysipelas (gluteal portal of entry, anti-inflammatory drugs) and appropriate antibiotic therapy. Discussion: Our conviction is that these manifestations are authentic infectious cellulitis. Delayed thigh erysipelas after hip surgery is a distinctive form of cellulitis, characterized by its unusual topography, its rapid outcome and the possibility to be recurrent.
Microcystic Adnexal Carcinoma: Report of Seven Cases Including One with Lung Metastasis
Authors: Gabillot-Carré M. , Weill F. , Mamelle G. , Kolb F. , Boitier F. , Petrow P. , Ortoli J.C. , Margulis A. , Souteyrand P. , Mercier S. , Spatz A. , Duvillard P. , Validire P. , Avril M.-F.
Published: March 2006

Background: Microcystic adnexal carcinoma (MAC) is a rare cutaneous neoplasm, with a high rate of local recurrences. Objective: A series of MAC was analyzed and compared to previously published cases. Methods: Seven cases of MAC were identified in the register of the institution. Medical and pathological records were reviewed. Results: The primary MAC were located on the face in all patients, and 85% were initially misdiagnosed. The mean follow-up duration was 108 months. The recurrence rate was high: 4 patients developed recurrences. In 3 patients, the course of the disease was severe: one of them developed pathologically proven lung metastasis. Conclusion: The present study and review of the literature confirm the clinically aggressive evolution of MAC and its rare ability to give rise to metastasis. Long-term clinical follow-ups with imaging investigations are mandatory.
Short Contact Therapy with Tazarotene in Psoriasis Vulgaris
Authors: Veraldi Stefano , Caputo Ruggero , Pacifico Alessia , Peris Ketty , Soda Rosario , Chimenti Sergio
Published: March 2006

Background: We present the results of a multicentre, not controlled, clinical study on the tolerability and efficacy of tazarotene gel, used as short contact therapy (SCT), in psoriasis vulgaris. Objective: To evaluate whether irritant contact dermatitis caused by tazarotene was less frequent and/or less severe with SCT than with traditional therapy, and whether SCT with tazarotene was as effective as traditional therapy. Methods: Forty-three patients with plaque psoriasis were treated by SCT with 0.1% tazarotene gel (once daily application for 20 min, followed by washing with water). Treatment duration was 45 days. Results: Irritant contact dermatitis caused by tazarotene used as SCT was much less frequent and severe than traditional treatment with the same drug. SCT with tazarotene was effective in the treatment of plaque psoriasis. Conclusion: Tazarotene, used as SCT, was better tolerated than the same drug used as traditional treatment. Furthermore, SCT appeared to be as effective as traditional therapy with the same drug.
Leflunomide Improves Psoriasis in Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis: An In-Depth Analysis of Data from the TOPAS Study
Authors: Nash Peter , Thaçi Diamant , Behrens Frank , Falk Franziska , Kaltwasser J. Peter
Published: March 2006

Background: Leflunomide has shown promise in the treatment of psoriasis. Objective: To provide an in-depth analysis of the effect of leflunomide on psoriasis in patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Methods: 190 patients with plaque psoriasis (at least 3% skin involvement) and active PsA were randomized to double-blind treatment with leflunomide (100 mg/day loading dose for 3 days followed by 20 mg/day orally) or placebo for 24 weeks. Results: As previously reported, leflunomide resulted in a significantly higher Psoriatic Arthritis Response Criteria response rate than placebo (58.9 vs. 29.7%; p < 0.0001). Significant differences in favor of leflunomide were also observed in the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI 50 in 30.4% of patients vs. 18.9% for placebo; p = 0.05), target lesion response (46.4 vs. 25.3%; p = 0.0048), combined skin and joint response (27.2 vs. 8.9%; p < 0.0001), Dermatology Life Quality Index (improvement of 1.9 points vs. 0.2; p = 0.0173) and certain SF-36 subdomains. Dermatological responses were observed at the earliest examination (4 weeks) and increased throughout the 24-week study. Conclusion: Once-daily oral leflunomide is an effective and convenient treatment for PsA and plaque psoriasis.
Sarcoidal Granuloma Developing Not Only at the Entry Site of Industrial Lubricating Oil, but Also at a Regional Lymph Node and Entry Points of Venepuncture
Authors: Kogushi Hazuki , Egawa Kiyofumi , Ono Tomomichi
Published: March 2006

We describe a 40-year-old male who presented with sarcoidal granulomas not only at the entry site of an industrial lubricating oil containing silicone in the right thumb, but also in a regional lymph node and at the entry points of venepuncture in both forearms. Laboratory tests and chest X-ray showed no evidence of sarcoidosis.
Recurring Localized Scarlatiniform Scaled Erythema Féréol-Besnier
Authors: Braun-Falco Markus , Kasche Anna , Worret Wolf-Ingo
Published: March 2006

Recurring scarlatiniform scaled erythema of Féréol-Besnier is a rare disease characterized by recurrent episodes of a prodromal phase with general malaise, head and muscle aches, gastrointestinal complaints and fever followed by an erythematous rash leading to extensive desquamation of the involved skin. It exists in a generalized and localized variant, the latter mainly involving the hands and feet. Its cause is unknown, although it has been speculated that a hyperergic reaction to infectious agents or medications may be etiopathologically involved. A typical case of the localized variant of this obscure disease is described and the common literature is reviewed.
Characterisation of 96 mutations in 128 unrelated severe haemophilia A patients from France
Authors: Vinciguerra Christine , Zawadzki Christophe , Dargaud Yesim , Pernod Gilles , Berger Claire , Nougier Christophe , Négrier Claude
Published: March 2006

Direct sequencing of the coding region of factor VIII (F8) gene was used to determine the mutations responsible for severe haemophilia A (FVIII<1%) in 128 unrelated haemophiliacs A, negative for intron 22 and intron 1 inversions. A mutation was found in 122/128 patients (95%). Ninety-six distinct mutations were identified in this cohort, 62 of these are novel. They consisted of deletions (7 large and 24 small deletions), insertions (n=9), associations of insertion/deletion (n=2), association of deletion/substitution (n=1), and single nucleotide substitutions (53 point mutations consisting of 31 missense, 20 nonsense, and 2 splicing mutations). Twenty-two patients had developed inhibitors, and among this subgroup 3 large deletions, 6 frameshift, 9 nonsense and 4 missense mutations were detected. For6 patients, among which one developed an anti-FVIII inhibitor, no mutations were detected in the coding and splicing regions of factor VIII gene. Different approaches of molecular modelling were performed in addition to familial linkage analysis to determine the pathophysiological responsibility of these novel missense mutations.