bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Follow-up Study after Intracranial Percutaneous Transluminal Cerebral Balloon Angioplasty
Authors: Mori T. , Fukuoka M. , Kazita K.
Published: January 2017

To find the angiographic lesions specific characteristics appropriate for intracranial percutaneous transluminal cerebral angioplasty (PTCBA).

Forty-two clinically symptomatic patients with 42 haemodynamically significant intracranial lesions (% diameter stenosis >70) were treated by PTCBA between January 1992 and May 1996. Before the angioplasty treatment, the patients were classified into three groups according to the angiographic lesions' characteristics summarised as follows: type A, a short and concentric stenosis; type B, a tubular lesion, or an extreme eccentric lesion; and type C, a diffuse lesion. They were followed after PTCBA from one month to six years to compare between the three groups. Primary end points were death, stroke, or bypass surgery.

The clinical success rates in type A, B and C groups were 92%, 86% and 33% (p=0.0032), respectively. Cumulative risks of fatal or nonfatal ischaemic stroke / ipsilateral bypass surgery in type A, B and C groups were 8%, 26% and 87% (p<0.0001), respectively. The cumulative risk of 8% in type A group patients appeared to be smaller than in historical studies.

PTCBA for intracranial simple (type A) lesions produces a favourable clinical outcome for symptomatic patients.
Morphologic and Hemodynamic Changes after Stent Placement for Experimental Carotid Aneurysm
Authors: Tenjin H. , Ohshita Y. , Daimon R.
Published: January 2017

Stent assisted coil embolization is useful in treating broad neck aneurysms, and there are many kinds of stents that can be applied in the cerebral artery, however their characteristics are not well known. We investigated and compared morphologic and hemodynamic changes before and after stent placement when several different kinds of stents were applied to experimental aneurysms.

Experimental aneurysms in eight pig carotid arteries were used. Stents were placed covering the aneurysm orifice. Five Cordis stents (coil stent), two GFXs (multilink stent), and one Multilink (tube stent) were used in this study. After coil placement, the arteries were perfused with 70% ethanol, the specimens were embedded in polyester plastic resin and thin slices were stained with hematoxylin-eosin. Blood flow in the aneurysm was measured using digital subtraction angiography.

The parent artery was stretched in multilink stent (GFX) cases, and was most markedly stretched by use of the tube stent (Multilink). Stent placement with any type of stent decreased intra-aneurysmal blood flow.
Transvenous Occlusion of a Dural Cavernous Sinus Fistula Using a New Expandable Hydrogel-Platinum Coil (Hydrocoil®)
Authors: Morsi H. , Benndorf G. , Klucznik R. , Mawad M.
Published: January 2017

Hydrogel-coated platinum coils (Hydrocoils®) are currently under clinical investigation for their efficacy to improve anatomic results of endovascular occlusion of cerebral aneurysms. A case is presented in which this new expandable coil type was added to bare platinum coils in order to accelerate the transvenous occlusion of a dural cavernous sinus fistula (DCSF).

A 53-year -old woman presenting with mild left-sided eye redness and diplopia due to a DCSF (type D) underwent transvenous occlusion using bare platinum coils (Trufill®) and hydrogel coated coils (Hydrocoil®).

After successful catherization of the cavernous sinus, bare platinum coils were densely packed and eventually combined with Hydrocoils® which resulted in immediate and complete occlusion of the fistula. No technical or clinical complication occurred.

The new expansile hydrogel-coated platinum coil (Hydrocoil®) can be successfully combined with bare platinum coils to accelerate transvenous occlusion of an AV-shunting lesion. Controlled volume expansion after deployment of this device offers potential benefits for occlusion of dural arteriovenous fistulas in other locations or for parent vessel occlusions in the treatment of giant or large complex aneurysms.
Spinal Brucellosis with Paraspinal Abscess Formation Treated with CT Guided Percutaneous Abscess Drainage
Authors: Eren S. , Büyükavci M. , Ezirmik N. , Ertek M.
Published: January 2017

Although brucellosis may be present in various systems, osteoarticular brucellosis is a serious complication of human brucellosis. We present two cases of Brucellar spondylitis (BS) having paraspinal abscess with epidural extension. The first case of non-complicated paraspinal abscess was treated effectively with percutaneous abscess drainage and antibrucellar chemotherapy. However, the second case with disseminated BS and multiseptated large abscess did not respond to needle drainage with medical treatment. Because of the persistence and re-growth of the abscess, he was treated with percutaneous catheter drainage using the Seldinger technique. They showed adequate radiological and clinical response to drainage and antibrucellar chemotherapy.
Guidewire Tip Detachment during Stent-Assisted Coiling of an Intracranial Aneurysm
Authors: Gunnarsson T. , Da Costa L. , Souza M.P.S. , Montanera W. , Marotta T.R.
Published: January 2017

Endovascular treatment of complex intracranial lesions often requires use of two different microcatheters or micro-guidewires. A basilar artery aneurysm was treated with microstent-assisted coiling. During the procedure a microwire severed and the distal platinum portion of the wire was left after unsuccessful attempts to retrieve it. The patient remains asymptomatic. The proximal part of the microwire was analyzed and additional experiments indicate that it may have detached by electrolytic corrosion.
Retrieval of a Migrated Coil Using an X6 MERCI Device
Authors: O'Hare A. , Brennan P. , Thornton J.
Published: January 2017

Coil migration is a recognised but rare complication of endovascular coiling. Many techniques are available commercially for coil retrieval.

We report the case of an acute subarachnoid hemorrhage in a 54-year-old woman in which a migrated coil was successfully retrieved using an X6 MERCI device.
Endovascular Treatment of Very Small Intracranial Aneurysms
Authors: Iskandar A. , Nepper-Rasmussen J.
Published: January 2017

The endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms 3 mm or less is considered controversial. The purpose of this study is to report angiographic and clinical results following coiling of such aneurysms and compare them to those of larger aneurysms (> 3 mm).

Between November 1999 and November 2009 endovascular treatment was attempted in 956 consecutive intracranial aneurysms. Of 956 aneurysms, 111 aneurysms were very small aneurysms with a maximal diameter of 3 mm or less. We conducted a retrospective analysis of angiographic and clinical outcome following coiling of very small aneurysms and subsequently comparing it to the results of larger aneurysms.

Coiling initially failed in eight aneurysms. In the remaining 103 aneurysms endovascular treatment was accomplished and immediate angiographic results showed complete aneurysm occlusion in 43 aneurysms, nearly complete aneurysm occlusion in 54 aneurysms and less than 90% aneurysm occlusion in six aneurysms. Complications occurred in the treatment of 15 aneurysms, including eight procedural ruptures, six thromboembolic events and one case of early hemorrhage. Compared with larger aneurysms, treatment of very small aneurysms was associated with a higher rate of procedural ruptures (7.2% versus 4.4%) and procedural mortality (4.7% versus 2.7%) but a lower procedural morbidity (1.9% versus 4.0%). However none of these differences reached statistical significance (p = 0.186, p= 0.388, respectively). The retreatment rate was higher for the larger aneurysms (8.2% and 6.3%), but this was not significant either (p= 0. 496). At nine-month follow-up significantly more small aneurysms were found to have a stable occlusion grade compared to large aneurysms.

Endovascular treatment of very small aneurysms is feasible with a lower retreatment rate compared to large aneurysms (> 3 mm). However the data also suggest that endovascular treatment of very small aneurysms might be associated with an increased risk of procedural ruptures and mortality. At nine-month follow-up results indicate significantly less compaction in the very small aneurysms.
Combination of Rare Right Arterial Variation with Anomalous Origins of the Vertebral Artery, Aberrant Subclavian Artery and Persistent Trigeminal Artery
Authors: Ishihara H. , Ruíz D. San Millán , Abdo G. , Asakura F. , Yilmaz H. , Lovblad K.O. , Rüfenacht D.A.
Published: January 2017

A 32-year-old woman hospitalized for subarachnoid hemorrhage showed rare arterial variation on the right side with anomalous origins of the vertebral artery, aberrant subclavian artery and persistent trigeminal artery. Angiography showed the right vertebral artery to originate from the right common carotid artery, the right subclavian artery to arise separately from the descending aorta, and persistent trigeminal artery on the right side.

The possible embryonic mechanism of this previously unreported variant combination is discussed.
Intracranial Aneurysms Associated with a Double Origin of the Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery
Authors: Trivelato F. Padovani , Rezende M.T. Salles , Santos R. Brito , Madeira T. Hilton Vieira , Campos R. Cardoso , Ulhôa A. Cordeiro
Published: January 2017

The posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) frequently has a variable course and target territory. However, double origin PICA is a rare finding. Its significance is uncertain, but it has been associated with intracranial aneurysms localized at the PICA proper or at a distant site. The presence of this variation imposes specific challenges.

We describe two cases of double origin PICA, one of them associated with an ipsilateral PICA aneurysm. The role of this finding was critically reviewed. A literature search identified 23 cases of double origin PICA, including both cases reported in this paper. Intracranial aneurysms were strongly associated with double origin PICA (71% in 21 detailed cases of double origin PICA). The current patient harboring a PICA aneurysm was successfully treated by endovascular trapping.

In the setting of double origin PICA aneurysms, this variation beneficially affects the treatment choice once the two limbs enable the safe sacrifice of the channel involved, with preservation of blood flow through the other channel.
Staged Treatment of a Blood Blister-Like Aneurysm with Stent-Assisted Coiling Followed by Flow Diverter in-Stent Insertion
Authors: Princiotta C. , Dall'Olio M. , Cirillo L. , Leonardi M.
Published: January 2017

Blood blister-like aneurysms (BBLA) are rare lesions sometimes difficult to recognize and in most cases associated with diffuse subarachnoid haemorrhage and severe clinical conditions. BBLA are life-threatening because they tend to enlarge rapidly and to rebleed, and no consensus has so far been reached on the best management strategy. We describe a patient with a BBLA in the right ICA treated successful by a two-stage embolization procedure first with coils and an open cell stent (Neuroform 3) and later by further coil placement and insertion of a flow-diverting stent (Silk).
Awake Embolization of Sigmoid Sinus Diverticulum Causing Pulsatile Tinnitus: Simultaneous Confirmative Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Park Y-H. , Kwon H-J.
Published: January 2017

Sigmoid sinus diverticulum, a rare dural sinus anomaly, is regarded as one of the very rare causes of pulsatile tinnitus, and there have been only a few reports on their surgical or endovascular management. We describe a 31-year-old woman presenting with a three-year pulsatile tinnitus in her right ear. After finding the small bony defect in her right temporal bone on CT which was filled with contrast after enhancement, we confirmed the presence of sigmoid sinus diverticulum with the cerebral angiogram and embolized it with two detachable coils in awake status. Right after filling the two coils into the sac, thanks to her alert consciousness, she was able to refer the disappearance of her tinnitus. The operation was finished only with the detachment of the coils.
Optimization of the Reconstruction Interval in Neurovascular 4D-CTA Imaging
Authors: Hoogenboom T.C.H. , Van Beurden R.M.J. , Van Teylingen B. , Schenk B. , Willems P.W.A.
Published: January 2017

Time resolved whole brain CT angiography (4D-CTA) is a novel imaging technology providing information regarding blood flow. One of the factors that influence the diagnostic value of this examination is the temporal resolution, which is affected by the gantry rotation speed during acquisition and the reconstruction interval during post-processing. Post-processing determines the time spacing between two reconstructed volumes and, unlike rotation speed, does not affect radiation burden. The data sets of six patients who underwent a cranial 4D-CTA were used for this study. Raw data was acquired using a 320-slice scanner with a rotation speed of 2 Hz. The arterial to venous passage of an intravenous contrast bolus was captured during a 15 s continuous scan. The raw data was reconstructed using four different reconstruction-intervals: 0.2, 0.3, 0.5 and 1.0 s. The results were rated by two observers using a standardized score sheet. The appearance of each lesion was rated correctly in all readings. Scoring for quality of temporal resolution revealed a stepwise improvement from the 1.0 s interval to the 0.3 s interval, while no discernable improvement was noted between the 0.3 s and 0.2 s interval.

An increase in temporal resolution may improve the diagnostic quality of cranial 4D-CTA. Using a rotation speed of 0.5 s, the optimal reconstruction interval appears to be 0.3 s, beyond which, changes can no longer be discerned.
Angiographic Results in Intracranial Aneurysms Treated with Inert Platinum Coils
Authors: Vanzin J.R. , Mounayer C. , Abud D. G. , Annes R. D'Agostini , Moret J.
Published: January 2017

This study was designed in an attempt to identify the risk factors that could be significantly associated with angiographic recurrences after selective endovascular treatment of aneurysms with inert platinum coils. A retrospective analysis of all patients with selective endovascular coil occlusion of intracranial aneurysms was prospectively collected from 1999 to 2003. There were 455 aneurysms treated with inert platinum coils and followed by digital subtraction angiography. Angiographic results were classified according Roy and Raymond's classification. Recurrences were subjectively divided into minor and major. The most significant predictors for angiographic recurrences were determined by ANOVAs logistic regression, Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test, Fisher exact probability. Short-term (4.3±1.4 months) follow-up angiograms were available in 377 aneurysms, middle-term (14.1±4.0 months) in 327 and long-term (37.4±11.5 months) in 180. Recurrences were found in 26.8% of treated aneurysms with a mean of 21±15.7 months of follow-up. Major recurrences needing retreatment were present in 8.8% during a mean period follow-up of 17.9±12.29 months after the initial endovascular treatment. One patient (0.2%) experienced a bleed during the follow-up period. Recurrences after endovascular treatment of aneurysms with inert platinum coils are frequent, but hemorrhages are unusual. Single aneurysm, ruptured aneurysm, neck greater than 4 mm and time of follow-up were risk factors for recurrence after endovascular treatment. The retreatment of recurrent aneurysm decreases the risk of major recurrences 9.8 times. Long-term angiogram monitoring is necessary for the population with significant recurrence predictors.
In-Room Assessment of Cerebral Blood Volume for Guidance during Intra-Arterial Thrombolytic Therapy
Authors: Lin C-J. , Yu M. , Hung S-C. , Teng M.M.H. , Guo W-Y. , Chang F-C. , Luo C-B. , Chu W-F. , Chang C-Y.
Published: January 2017

In acute ischemic stroke, the ability to estimate the penumbra and infarction core ratio helps to triage those who will potentially benefit from thrombolytic therapies. Flat-panel post-contrast DynaCT imaging can provide both vasculature and parenchymal blood volume within the angio room to monitor hemodynamic changes during the endovascular procedures. We report on an 80-year-old woman who suffered from an acute occlusion of the right distal cervical internal carotid artery. She was transferred to the angio room where in-room post-contrast flat-panel DynaCT imaging (syngo Neuro PBV IR) was performed to access the ischemic tissue, followed by successful mechanical thrombolytic therapy.
Tuberothalamic Artery Infarction following Coil Embolization of a Ruptured Posterior Communicating Artery Aneurysm Belonging to a Transitional Type Posterior Cerebral Artery
Authors: Lee Kyeong Duk , Kwon Soon Chan , Muniandy Sarawana , Park Eun Suk , Sim Hong Bo , Lyo IN UK
Published: January 2017

There are many potential anatomical variations in the connection between the internal carotid artery and the posterior circulation through the posterior communicating artery (PCoA). We describe the endovascular treatment of an aneurysm arising near the origin of the PCoA belonging to a transitional type posterior cerebral artery. Coil embolization subsequently resulted in thrombo-occlusion of the adjacent PCoA causing thalamic infarction even though sufficient retrograde flow had been confirmed pre-operatively by Allcock's test.
Time of Flight 3D Magnetic Resonance Angiography in the Follow-up of Coiled Cerebral Aneurysms
Authors: Adams W.M. , Laitt R.D. , Jackson A.
Published: January 2017

The use of Guglielmi Detachable Coil (CDC) for the endovascular treatment of intracerebral aneurysms is increasing, particularly in those aneurysms for which there is a high surgical morbidity and mortality. However, the long-term efficacy of GDC is not known. Until the natural history of GDC treatment is established long-term follow-up in this cohort of patients is required, of necessity involving repeated intraarterial angiography (IA DSA) with its known attendant risks and exposure to ionising radiation.

Three dimensional time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography (3D TOF MRA) is now readily accepted as a non-invasive screening tool for familial aneurysmal disease and has been used as an alternative to IA DSA in the surgical management of aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage. MRA in patients treated with GDC is safe, imparts no radiation dose and provides acceptable image quality.

The aim of this study was to assess 3D TOP MRA source data, maximum intensity projection (MIP) and 3D isosurface reconstruction in comparison to IA DSA in the follow-up of 25 patients treated with GDC. Images were assessed for parent and branch artery flow, the presence of neck recurrence and aneurysm regrowth.

There was good correlation for all these features when 3D isosurface MRA and source data were compared with IA DSA. The correlation between MIP MRA and IA DSA was less robust. Additional confidence can be obtained by performing plain films of the skull to demonstrate change in coil ball configuration. MRA has the potential to replace IA DSA in the follow-up of GDC treated cerebral aneurysms.
Treatment of a Vertebral Dissecting Aneurysm with a Balloon-Expandable Stent and Guglielmi Detachable Coils
Authors: Nakaharas T. , Kurisu K. , Yano T. , Sakoda K.
Published: January 2017

A 43-year-old man with dissecting vertebral artery aneurysm presented with subarachnoid haemorrhage. The vertebral angiography showed a fusiform dilatation at the right intracranial vertebral artery between the origin of posterior inferior cerebellar artery and the vertebral union. After failing conservative therapy, a balloon-expandable stent was placed at intracranial vertebral artery, in a manner such that the entire dissecting aneurysm was covered. On follow-up angiogram, we recognized regrowth of theresidual aneurysm and stent deformation. The parent artery was occluded completely with several Guglielmi detachable coils. Brainstem dysfunction or rebleeding of the aneurysm were not encountered. Recently stenting therapy was deployed for a patient with dissecting aneurysm of the extracranial carotid or vertebral artery who was not a candidate for surgical treatment. We discuss the feasibilities and limitations of stent therapy.
Superselective Intra-Arterial Thrombolysis for Acute Cardioembolic Stroke in a Child with Idiopathic Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Kitzmüller E. , Gruber A. , Marx M. , Schlemmer M. , Wimmer M. , Richling B.
Published: January 2017

We describe a case of cardioembolic dominant hemisphere internal carotid artery occlusion in a child with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy. The patient was subjected to superselective local intra-arterial thrombolysis using recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (Alteplase; Actilyse®). In presence of good collateral flow local intra-arterial thrombolysis prevented a major dominant hemisphere ischaemic stroke, although post-interventional computed tomographic scans disclosed haemorrhagic conversion in the left corpus striatum. Forty eight months after ischaemic stroke and thrombolysis the patient is ambulatory with a moderate neurologic deficit.
Endovascular Retrograde Cortical Venous Approach to Disconnect Retrograde Leptomeningeal Venous Reflux in a Patient with Dural AVF
Authors: Goyal M. , terBrugge K. , Farb R.
Published: January 2017

We report a case of dural arteriovenous fistual (DAVF) with cortical venous reflux in whom disconnection of the refluxing cortical vein was achieved by using a retrograde transcortical venous approach through the cortical vein itself.
On matrix fractional differential equations
Authors: Kılıçman Adem , Ahmood Wasan Ajeel
Published: January 2017

The aim of this article is to study the matrix fractional differential equations and to find the exact solution for system of matrix fractional differential equations in terms of Riemann–Liouville using Laplace transform method and convolution product to the Riemann–Liouville fractional of matrices. Also, we show the theorem of non-homogeneous matrix fractional partial differential equation with some illustrative examples to demonstrate the effectiveness of the new methodology. The main objective of this article is to discuss the Laplace transform method based on operational matrices of fractional derivatives for solving several kinds of linear fractional differential equations. Moreover, we present the operational matrices of fractional derivatives with Laplace transform in many applications of various engineering systems as control system. We present the analytical technique for solving fractional-order, multi-term fractional differential equation. In other words, we propose an efficient algorithm for solving fractional matrix equation.
Development of a humanoid robot hand with coupling four-bar linkage
Authors: Liu Xinhua , Zheng Xianhua , Li Shengpeng
Published: January 2017

To improve the operating performance of robots’ end-effector, a humanoid robot hand based on coupling four-bar linkage was designed. An improved transmission system was proposed for the base joint of the thumb. Thus, a far greater motion range and more reasonable layout of the palm were obtained. Moreover, the mathematical model for kinematics simulation was presented based on the Assur linkage group theory to verify and optimize the proposed structure. To research the motion relationships between the fingers and the object in the process of grasping object, the grasping analysis of multi-finger manipulation was presented based on contact kinematics. Finally, a prototype of the humanoid robot hand was produced by a three-dimensional printer, and a kinematics simulation example and the workspace solving of the humanoid robot hand were carried out. The results showed that the velocities of finger joints approximately met the proportion relationship 1:1:1, which accorded with the grasping law of the human hand. In addition, the large workspace, reasonable layout, and good manipulability of the humanoid robot hand were verified.
Electronic voting systems for defending free will and resisting bribery and coercion based on ring anonymous signcryption scheme
Authors: Hsiao Tsung-Chih , Wu Zhen-Yu , Liu Chia-Hui , Chung Yu-Fang
Published: January 2017

Vote by ballot is the feature in a democratic society and the process of decision-making, tending to achieve the philosophy of democratic politics by having the public who are eligible to vote for competent candidates or leaders. With the rapid development of technologies and network applications, electronization has been actively promoted globally during the social transformation period that the concept of electronic voting is further derived. The major advantages of electronic voting, comparing with traditional voting, lie in the mobility strength of electronic voting, reducing a large amount of election costs and enhancing the convenience for the public. Electronic voting allows voters completing voting on the Internet that not only are climate and location restrictions overcome, but the voter turnout is also increased and the voting time is reduced for the public. With the development in the past three decades, electronic voting presents outstanding performance theoretically and practically. Nevertheless, it is regrettable that electronic voting schemes still cannot be completely open because of lures by money and threats. People to lure by money and threats would confirm the voters following their instructions through various methods that more factors would appear on election results, affecting the quality and fairness of the election. In this study, this project aims to design an electronic voting scheme which could actually defend voters’ free will so that lure of money and threats would fail. Furthermore, an electronic voting system based on Elliptic Curve Cryptography is proposed to ensure the efficiency and security, and Ring Signature and Signcryption are applied to reducing the computing costs. Moreover, this project also focuses on applying voting system to mobile devices. As the system efficiency and security are emphasized, voters do not need to participate in the election, but simply complete voting with smart phones, iPads, and computers. The votes would be automatically calculated and verified the results that the ballots are not necessarily printed, the printing of election mails is reduced, and manual handling is canceled. Such a method would effectively reduce voting costs and enhance the economic efficiency.
Multi-objective optimization of flexure hinge mechanism considering thermal–mechanical coupling deformation and natural frequency
Authors: Zhang Lufan , Li Xueli , Fang Jiwen , Long Zhili
Published: January 2017

Flexure hinge mechanism plays a key part in realization of terminal nano-positioning. The performance of flexure hinge mechanism is determined by its positioning design. Based on the actual working conditions, its finite element model is built and calculated in ANSYS. Moreover, change trends of deformation and natural frequency with positioning design parameters are revealed. And sensitivity analysis is performed for exploration response to these parameters. These parameters are used to build four objective functions. To solve it conveniently, the multi-objective optimization problem is transferred to the form of single-objective function with constraints. An optimal mechanism is obtained by an optimization method combining ANSYS with MATLAB. Finite element numerical simulation has been carried out to demonstrate the superiority of the optimal flexure hinge mechanism, and the superiority can be further verified by experiment. Measurements and tests have been conducted at varying accelerations, velocities, and displacements, to quantify and characterize the amount of acceleration responses obtained from flexure hinge mechanism before and after optimization. Both time- and frequency-domain analyses of experimental data show that the optimal flexure hinge mechanism has superior effectiveness. It will provide a basic for realizing high acceleration and high precision positioning of macro–micro motion platform.
Effect of H1 Antagonists on the Progressive Growth of T Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Singh S.M. , Singh K. , Singh M.P. , Shrivastava P. , Singh N.
Published: January 2017

The present investigation was undertaken to study the effect of H1 antihistaminic drugs: Chloropheniramine maleate (CPM) and Fexofenadine hydrochloride (Fx) on the progressive growth of a murine transplantable T cell lymphoma of spontaneous origin, designated as Dalton's Lymphoma (DL), and on the immune responses of the DL-bearing host. Administration of CPM and Fx to DL-bearing mice resulted in an augmentation of DL growth with an increase in the tumor cell count in Dl-bearing mice. Further, it was observed that there was a direct influence of the two drugs on DL cell proliferation. CPM and Fx augmented DL cell proliferation 1.4 and 1.5 folds, respectively. In vitro administration of CPM and Fx resulted in an increase in the count of splenocytes whereas that of thymocytes and bone marrow cells remained unchanged. However, splenocytes and thymocytes obtained from CPM and Fx administered mice showed an enhanced in vivo proliferation. CPM and Fx were found to enhance production of IL-1 by macrophages in the presence of LPS, which could be an additional indirect mode of the action of CPM and Fx on DL cell growth. These results may have clinical significance for patients-bearing lymphoma if undergoing treatment with CPM and Fx.
Prevalence of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Inflammation in Pregnant Women in Northern Greece
Authors: Betsas G. , Karamba S. , Daniilidis A. , Rousso D. , Karagiannis T.V. , Sofianoy D. , Karagiannis V.T.
Published: January 2017

One of the most challenging problems in obstetrics is the issue of prenatal infections. This problem is particularly acute in some areas. Northern Greece is such an area, due to the immigration of about 250,000 people in the last 5 to 10 years. We estimated the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) antigen (HbsAg) positive women who presented for their first prenatal visit during the calendar year 2004. The rate was 1% in native Greek women (n=239) and 6% in immigrant women (n=305), (p<0.0059).
Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT) in Dentistry: A Literature Review
Authors: Ballini A. , Cantore S. , De Frenza G. , Foti C. , Casulli C. , Salini L. , Rapani M. , Mastrangelo F. , Tetè S. , Grassi F.R.
Published: January 2017

Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT) is an autosomal-dominantly-inherited vascular dysplasia characterized by age-dependant incomplete penetrance and variable expressivity, with clinical manifestations consisting in epistaxis, mucocutaneous telangiectases, gastrointestinal bleeding and arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), which affects approximately ½ million people world-wide. It affects males and females of all racial and ethnic groups. Up to 1/3 of HHT patients have multiple organ involvement, which can be disabling and/or life threatening. HHT can be treated successfully if correctly diagnosed. Morbidity of HHT is often due to complications of AVMs, such as stroke or haemorrhage, also known to occur in children. Many authors have reported successful new therapeutical options for AVMs, which have resulted in a significant decrease of life-threatening complications and HHT morbidity. Since early diagnosis permits an appropriate care of affected subjects, a very sensitive mutation screening technique is required to identify the mutation carriers among all at-risk individuals belonging to HHT-families. There may be one or more genes that cause HHT but, if so, they are quite rare. Currently, scientists are trying to better understand exactly how the abnormal gene can interfere with normal blood vessel formation and promote the phenotype of HHT, so that better treatments for the symptoms of HHT can be developed.
Anti-Inflammatory Cytokines in Peri-Implant Soft Tissues: A Preliminary Study on Humans Using CDNA Microarray Technology
Authors: Bambini F. , Pellecchia M. , Memè L. , Santarelli A , Emanuelli M. , Procaccini M. , Muzio L. Lo
Published: January 2017

The mucosa around implants and the gingiva around teeth respond to plaque formation with the development of an inflammatory lesion which has similar magnitude and histological features. Different cell types in inflamed and healthy periodontal and peri-implant tissues are capable of producing a variety of important pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines and growth factors which mediate the host response. The aim of this study is to compare the expression levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines detectable in the peri-implant soft tissue of two single-implant crowns supported either by zirconia or titanium abutments. Two frozen samples of peri-implant soft tissue of two single-implant crowns supported either by zirconia or titanium abutments were treated to obtain mRNA. The mRNA extracted from these specimens was converted in cDNA and analyzed with “SuperArray GEArray Q Series Human Inflammatory Cytokine/Receptor Gene Array kit”, planned for studying 96 genes involved in inflammatory response. Data showed that gene expression levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines were higher in specimens sampled from the zirconia abutment compared with those from the titanium abutment. It was considered important to detect the mRNA levels of the anti-inflammatory mediators in healthy peri-implant tissues to verify the biological tolerability of zirconia compared with titanium abutments. The difference detected in cytokine expression could be due to the intrinsic biological tolerability of zirconia ceramics or to a lesser bacterial accumulation.
Morphological Analysis of Radical Prostatectomy Specimens: Recent Topics Relevant to Prognosis
Authors: Mazzucchelli R. , Scarpelli M. , Lopez-Beltran A. , Cheng L. , Di Primio R. , Montironi R.
Published: January 2017

The pathology report should include clinically relevant information as well as provide clinically useful information derived from the macroscopic examination and microscopic evaluation of the radical prostatectomy (RP) specimens. The reporting pathologist should pay particular attention to the evaluation of the prognostic factors proven to be of prognostic importance and useful in clinical patient management, including histological type, grade and volume of cancer, the extent of local invasion and stage of cancer as well as the surgical margins status.
The Effect of Tumor Necrosis Factor-α-Induced Protein 8 Like-2 on Immune Response of CD4+T Lymphocytes in Mice after Thermal Injury
Authors: Jiang L.N. , Yao Y.M. , Zhu X.M. , Dong N. , Zhang Q.H. , Yu Y. , Sheng Z.Y.
Published: January 2017

The status of cellular immunity has been shown to be associated with the occurrence and development of sepsis. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that tumor necrosis factor-α-induced protein 8 like-2 (TIPE2) plays an important role in maintaining homeostasis of immune function. The present study, with the use of a controlled in vivo approach, demonstrated the effect of TIPE2 on cell-mediated immunity of CD4+ T lymphocytes in thermal injury murine model. One hundred and twenty-eight male mice were randomly allocated into four groups, which were sham burn group (n=48), burn group (n=48), burn with lentivirus-RNAi-TIPE2 transfection group (n=16), burn with negative control transfection group (n=16), and they were sacrificed at the designated time points. CD4+ T lymphocytes were isolated from the spleen using MACS microbeads. Phenotypes were analyzed by flow cytometry analysis, and cytokines were determined using ELISA kits. We found that the expression of TIPE2 was markedly increased in CD4+T lymphocytes in mice at 24,48 and 72 hours postburn. Down-regulation of TIPE2 by lentivirus-RNAi-TIPE2 attenuated the suppressive effect of CD4+T lymphocytes, which was associated with profound elevation of nuclear factor of activated T cell (NF-AT) activity. These results demonstrate that TIPE2 appear to be involved in the immune regulation of CD4+ T lymphocytes, and the decrease in TIPE2 expression on CD4+T lymphocytes in vivo can enhance peripheral T lymphocyte function after thermal injury. These data might provide a valid strategy to prevent the development of immunosuppressive state resulted from major burns.
Enhancing the Therapeutic Effects of Ethyl Pyruvate on Gastric Cancer through Knockdown of YAP1 Expression
Authors: Zhang J. , Zhu J-S. , Yang Y-C. , Zhou Z. , Chen W-X. , Chen N-W.
Published: January 2017

Yes-associated protein (YAP) plays a critical role in tumor formation and malignancy of many cancers and has been shown to be the important therapeutic target. Ethyl pyruvate (EP), a stable lipophilic pyruvate derivative, is a potent inhibitor of high mobility group box-B1 (HMGB1) release and exerts significant anti-inflammatory activities. Previously, we reported the high expression of YAP1 and the antitumor effects of EP in gastric cancer (GC). However, whether small hairpin RNA (shRNA)-mediated knockdown of YAP1 expression enhances the antitumor effects of EP on GC is elusive. After GC SGC-7901 cells infected with lentivirus-mediated YAP1 shRNA vector were treated with 20mmol/L EP, the expression levels of HMGB1, receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (RAGE) and Protein kinase B (AKT) were identified by Real-time PCR and Western blot assays. Cell proliferative activities and independent growth were examined by MTT and colony formation assays, and their migration and metastasis were evaluated by wound-healing and Transwell assays. Cell apoptosis and cycle distribution were assessed by flow cytometry. As a result, EP coupled with YAP1 shRNA significantly decreased the expression levels of HMGB1, RAGE and AKT, inhibited the proliferative activities and migration and metastasis capabilities, and induced apoptosis and cycle arrest in GC cells compared with the single EP treatment. Taken together, knockdown of YAP1 enhances the inhibitory effects of EPon GC cells through inhibition of the HMGB1-RAGE and AKT pathways, and this may provide an attractive strategy for the treatment of GC.
C-Reactive Protein Level and its Relationship with Suicide Risk and Alexithymia among Newly Diagnosed, Drug-Naïve Patients with Non-Affective Psychosis
Authors: De Berardis D. , Conti C.M. , Marini S. , Serroni N. , Moschetta R.S. , Carano A. , Valchera A. , Iasevoli F. , Fornaro M. , Perna G. , Di Iorio G. , Martinotti G. , Niolu C. , Siracusano A. , Di Giannantonio M.
Published: January 2017

The aim of the present study was to evaluate C-Reactive Protein (CRP) levels in newly diagnosed drug-naïve patients with non-affective psychosis, testing the hypotheses that in such patients serum CRP levels would be higher than in healthy controls and related to more severe psychopathology, suicide risk and alexithymia. CRP levels of 30 adult patients and 30 sex- and age-matched healthy controls were evaluated. Patients were tested with the Scale of Suicide Ideation (SSI), the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20), the Scale for the Assessment of Positive and Negative Symptoms (SAPS and SANS) and the Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia (CDSS). Higher suicide risk patients showed higher CRP levels than lower suicide risk patients and healthy controls. Moreover, such patients showed higher SAPS, SANS and CDSS scores than lower suicide risk patients. In linear regression model, CRP was significantly associated with higher SSI and TAS-20 scores. The results of the present study support the notion that CRP, suicide risk and alexithymia are strictly linked in newly diagnosed, drug-naïve patients with non-affective psychosis, independently of depressive symptoms or general psychopathology. Limitations are discussed.
Conservative Surgical Approach for Reduction of Macrocheilitis Caused by Massive Injection of Liquid Silicone
Authors: Grippaudo F.R. , Tammaro A. , Narcisi A. , Paolini G. , Longo B. , Falesiedi F. , Santanelli F.
Published: January 2017

Cosmetic lip augmentation, regardless of the filling agent, is nowadays one of the most requested aesthetic procedures. Liquid silicone injections were used in the past, but after reports of severe late complications their use has been discontinued, ending with a permanent ban in most western countries. In this report we describe clinical presentation, diagnostic pathways and surgical reconstruction of six patients presenting with macrocheilia due to previous liquid silicone augmentation. Patients showed chronic inflammation of the lower third of the face, lip eversion, various degrees of asymmetry and functional impairment of the lips. All patients underwent preoperative soft tissue High Frequency Ultrasound (HFUS) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the of the face to obtain evidence of the filler material and to ascertain its diffusion within the soft tissues of the perioral region. Conservative surgery was carried out to remove foreign material and to restore symmetric aesthetically pleasing lips. Histology confirmed the siliconoma diagnosis. HFUS and RMI allowed to clearly identify the silicone within the soft tissues. The conservative surgery restored the harmonious relationship between the lips, with an improvement in lip functionality at long term follow-up. Healing was complete and uneventful in all of the patients.
Anti-cartel thrillers as a new film genre: How regulator-produced films portray and problematize cartels and communicate deterrence
Authors: van Erp Judith
Published: January 2017

This article directs the ‘visual turn’ in criminology to corporate crime, a topic that has been understudied by cultural criminologists. A recent trend of corporate crime movies suggests that film can compellingly critique economic crime and unethical business cultures. This article studies how law enforcement agencies, particularly competition authorities, have connected with this trend by using film in their communicative strategy. This article introduces the emerging genre of anti-cartel enforcement thrillers: regulator-produced realistic docudramas in which fictional cartels are exposed and punished. These films’ narratives about cartel enforcement are reconstructed by studying how the films portray cartels, perpetrators and their motives, and the regulator. An analysis of four films produced in four jurisdictions demonstrates that the films deter only to the extent that the local legal and political-economic context allows: the British film reflects that country’s neoliberal ‘pro-business’ climate, while the Swedish film depicts businesses as socially responsible and the Dutch film is pragmatic rather than moralistic. Only the Australian film is explicitly punitive in its narrative as well as its imaginary, and exemplifies the persuasive potential of film in enforcement.
Use of flexible elbow reamers for cement removal in the humerus during revision shoulder arthroplasty
Authors: Granville-Chapman Jeremy , Bale R. Steve , Trail Ian A.
Published: January 2017

Humeral cement removal in revision shoulder arthroplasty can be challenging. Secondary damage to the bone and neighbouring structures can be extensive and compromise later reconstruction. We present a technique that employs flexible reamers from elbow arthroplasty instrumentation, which aids cement removal at the same time as minimizing the risk of iatrogenic injury.
Primary Gliosarcoma of the Brain: Radiologic and Histopathologic Features
Authors: Romero-Rojas Alfredo E. , Diaz-Perez Julio A. , Ariza-Serrano Lina M. , Amaro Deirdre , Lozano-Castillo Alfonso
Published: January 2017

Gliosarcoma is a rare central nervous system (CNS) neoplasm with biphasic glial and non-glial malignant components. Here we describe the radiologic and histopathologic features observed in five cases of primary gliosarcoma. The mean age at diagnosis in the studied patients was 54.2 years; these patients were predominantly males (male: female ratio = 4:1). At diagnosis all patients had several clinical deterioration. The most common symptoms of presentation were: headache (5/5 cases), seizures (4/5 cases) and hemiparesis (1/5 cases). All the tumors were large (mean major diameter = 4.12±1.64 cm) at diagnosis as evidenced in computer tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance images (MRIs), with preferential involvement of the temporal lobe and frequent associated deviation of the midline structures. Other common characteristics identified on CT scans and MRIs were partial contrast medium uptake with annular pattern (5/5 cases), peripheral edema (5/5 cases), and central calcification (3/5 cases). In additional a peak of dye uptake was observed (4/5 cases) on MRI spectrometry. In the histopathology, the glial component showed malignant astrocytes, with high Ki67 (>60%) and p53 positivity; the sarcomatous components displayed pleomorphic spindle cells similarly with p53 positivity and high Ki67 (75–90%) in all cases. Dedifferentiation to pleomorphic sarcoma (two cases), fibrosarcoma (one case), leiomyosarcoma (one case) and MPNST (one case) were documented. All patients received radiotherapy/chemotherapy and had a median overall survival of ten months. The study of radiologic and histopathologic features in primary gliosarcomas of the brain is a priority to achieve early diagnosis that can be translated to better outcomes. Here we describe the radiologic and histopathologic features observed in a group of gliosarcoma patients with variable histopathologic dedifferentiation.
Beneficial effects of nonpharmacological interventions in the management of essential hypertension
Authors: Vamvakis Anastasios , Gkaliagkousi Eugenia , Triantafyllou Areti , Gavriilaki Eleni , Douma Stella
Published: January 2017

Essential hypertension is a major health problem causing excess cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Management of essential hypertension consists of pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions. In order to prevent and/or treat hypertension, parameters like nutrition, body weight, and physical exercise should be evaluated and taken under consideration for improvement. A large body of evidence clearly support that the role of salt, alcohol, fruits, and vegetables is important for high blood pressure. Furthermore, maintaining a normal body weight should be succeeded along with physical activity few times per week if not daily. Nonpharmacological intervention is rather a dynamic procedure that takes a multilevel approach with repeated training of the hypertensives by a team of expert physicians, rather than a single based guidance. Additionally, it should be based on a profile customization and personalized approach. Intensive interventions aiming at lifestyle changes through educational meetings are considered more effective in lowering high blood pressure. This consists of a lifestyle modification with a permanent basis for patient’s daily schedule and eventually should become a philosophy for a better quality of life through improvement of nutritional and exercise behavior. Further studies are needed so intervention guideline models can be even more effective for patients with essential hypertension.