bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contribution of intrinsic motoneuron properties to discharge hysteresis and its estimation based on paired motor unit recordings: a simulation study
Authors: Powers Randall K. , Heckman C. J.
Published: April 2015

Motoneuron activity is strongly influenced by the activation of persistent inward currents (PICs) mediated by voltage-gated sodium and calcium channels. However, the amount of PIC contribution to the activation of human motoneurons can only be estimated indirectly. Simultaneous recordings of pairs of motor units have been used to provide an estimate of the PIC contribution by using the firing rate of the lower threshold unit to provide an estimate of the common synaptic drive to both units, and the difference in firing rate (ΔF) of this lower threshold unit at recruitment and de-recruitment of the higher threshold unit to estimate the PIC contribution to activation of the higher threshold unit. It has recently been suggested that a number of factors other than PIC can contribute to ΔF values, including mechanisms underlying spike frequency adaptation and spike threshold accommodation. In the present study, we used a set of compartmental models representing a sample of 20 motoneurons with a range of thresholds to investigate how several different intrinsic motoneuron properties can potentially contribute to variations in ΔF values. We drove the models with linearly increasing and decreasing noisy conductance commands of different rate of rise and duration and determined the influence of different intrinsic mechanisms on discharge hysteresis (the difference in excitatory drive at recruitment and de-recruitment) and ΔF. Our results indicate that, although other factors can contribute, variations in discharge hysteresis and ΔF values primarily reflect the contribution of dendritic PICs to motoneuron activation.
Preparation and Characterization of Novel Electrospinnable PBT/POSS Hybrid Systems Starting from c‐PBT
Authors: Gardella Lorenza , Fina Alberto , Monticelli Orietta
Published: April 2015

Novel hybrid systems based on poly(butyleneterephthalate) (PBT) and polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS) have been prepared by applying the ring‐opening polymerization of cyclic poly(butyleneterephthalate) oligomers. Two types of POSS have been used: one characterized by hydroxyl functionalities (named POSS‐OH) and another without specific reactive groups (named oib‐POSS). It was demonstrated that POSS‐OH acts as an initiator for the polymerization reaction, leading to the direct insertion of the silsesquioxane into the polymer backbone. Among the possible applications of the PBT/POSS hybrid system, the possibility to obtain nanofibers has been assessed in this work.
Herpes Murine Model as a Biological Assay to Test Dialyzable Leukocyte Extracts Activity
Authors: Salinas-Jazmín Nohemí , Estrada-Parra Sergio , Becerril-García Miguel Angel , Limón-Flores Alberto Yairh , Vázquez-Leyva Said , Medina-Rivero Emilio , Pavón Lenin , Velasco-Velázquez Marco Antonio , Pérez-Tapia Sonia Mayra
Published: April 2015

Human dialyzable leukocyte extracts (DLEs) are heterogeneous mixtures of low-molecular-weight peptides that are released on disruption of peripheral blood leukocytes from healthy donors. DLEs improve clinical responses in infections, allergies, cancer, and immunodeficiencies. Transferon is a human DLE that has been registered as a hemoderivate by Mexican health authorities and commercialized nationally. To develop an animal model that could be used routinely as a quality control assay for Transferon, we standardized and validated a murine model of cutaneous HSV-1 infection. Using this model, we evaluated the activity of 27 Transferon batches. All batches improved the survival of HSV-1-infected mice, wherein average survival rose from 20.9% in control mice to 59.6% in Transferon-treated mice. The activity of Transferon correlated with increased serum levels of IFN-γand reduced IL-6 and TNF-αconcentrations. Our results demonstrate that (i) this mouse model of cutaneous herpes can be used to examine the activity of DLEs, such as Transferon; (ii) the assay can be used as a routine test for batch release; (iii) Transferon is produced with high homogeneity between batches; (iv) Transferon does not have direct virucidal, cytoprotective, or antireplicative effects; and (v) the protective effect of Transferonin vivocorrelates with changes in serum cytokines.
Neurotensin Branched Peptide as a Tumor-Targeting Agent for Human Bladder Cancer
Authors: Brunetti Jlenia , Falciani Chiara , Lelli Barbara , Minervini Andrea , Ravenni Niccolò , Depau Lorenzo , Siena Giampaolo , Tenori Eleonora , Menichetti Stefano , Pini Alessandro , Carini Marco , Bracci Luisa
Published: April 2015

Despite recent advances in multimodal therapy, bladder cancer still ranks ninth in worldwide cancer incidence. New molecules which might improve early diagnosis and therapeutic efficiency for tumors of such high epidemiological impact therefore have very high priority. In the present study, the tetrabranched neurotensin peptide NT4 was conjugated with functional units for cancer-cell imaging or therapy and was tested on bladder cancer cell lines and specimens from bladder cancer surgical resections, in order to evaluate its potential for targeted personalized therapy of bladder cancer. Fluorophore-conjugated NT4 distinguished healthy and cancer tissues with good statistical significanceP<0.05. NT4 conjugated to methotrexate or gemcitabine was cytotoxic for human bladder cancer cell lines at micromolar concentrations. Their selectivity for bladder cancer tissue and capacity to carry tracers or drugs make NT4 peptides candidate tumor targeting agents for tracing cancer cells and for personalized therapy of human bladder cancer.
Relationship between Liver Mitochondrial Respiration and Proton Leak in Low and High RFI Steers from Two Lineages of RFI Angus Bulls
Authors: Acetoze G. , Weber K. L. , Ramsey J. J. , Rossow H. A.
Published: April 2015

The objective of this research is to evaluate liver mitochondrial oxygen consumption and proton leak kinetics in progeny from two lineages of Angus bulls with high and low residual feed intake (RFI). Two Angus bulls were selected based on results from a genetic test for RFI and were used as sires. Eight offspring at 10-11 months of age from each sire were housed in individual pens for 70–105 days following a diet adaptation period of 14 days. Progeny of the low RFI sire had 0.57 kg/d (P=0.05) lower average RFI than progeny of the high RFI sire. There was no difference in dry matter intake between low and high RFI steers, but low RFI steers gained more body weight (P=0.02) and tended to have higher average daily gains (P=0.07). State 3 and State 4 respiration, RCR, and proton leak did not differ between high and low RFI steers (P=0.96, P=0.81, P=0.93, and P=0.88, resp.). Therefore, the increase in bodyweight gain which distinguished the low RFI steers from the high RFI steers may be associated with other metabolic mechanisms that are not associated with liver mitochondrial respiration and proton leak kinetics.
A Case of Ultrasound Diagnosis of Fetal Hiatal Hernia in Late Third Trimester of Pregnancy
Authors: Di Francesco Stefania , Lanna Mariano Matteo , Napolitano Marcello , Maestri Luciano , Faiola Stefano , Rustico Mariangela , Ferrazzi Enrico
Published: April 2015

Congenital hiatal hernia is a condition characterized by herniation of the abdominal organs, most commonly the stomach, through a physiological but overlax esophageal hiatus into the thoracic cavity. Prenatal diagnosis of this anomaly is unusual and only eight cases have been reported in the literature. In this paper we describe a case of congenital hiatal hernia that was suspected at ultrasound at 39 weeks’ gestation, on the basis of a cystic mass in the posterior mediastinum, juxtaposed to the vertebral body. Postnatal upper gastrointestinal tract series confirmed the prenatal diagnosis. Postnatal management was planned with no urgency. Hiatal hernia is not commonly considered in the differential diagnosis of fetal cystic chest anomalies. This rare case documents the importance of prenatal diagnosis of this anomaly for prenatal counseling and postnatal management.
Hypoglycemia-Induced Hemiparesis in a Diabetic Woman after Childbirth
Authors: Kukaj Vera , Jashari Fisnik , Boshnjaku Dren , Istrefi Enis , Ibrahimi Pranvera
Published: April 2015

A 24-year-old female with type 1 diabetes mellitus presented with hemiparesis induced by hypoglycemia. She was hospitalized because she has noticed a weakness of her right hand and leg three days after childbirth. On physical examination she had an expressive dysphasia and right side hemiparesis with facial drop. Hypoglycemia is rarely associated with hemiparesis and it is often overlooked, especially when it happens in patients at higher risk of other diseases frequently associated with hemiparesis. Although sporadical cases of hypoglycemia-induced hemiparesis were reported, the clear pathophysiology behind this is not well determined. However, any individual case is important in order to increase the awareness of hypoglycemia as an important etiology of this condition.
Third-Order Nonlinear Optical Behavior of Novel Polythiophene Derivatives Functionalized with Disperse Red 19 Chromophore
Authors: Chávez-Castillo Marilú , Ledesma-Juárez Arelis , Güizado-Rodríguez Marisol , Castrellón-Uribe Jesús , Ramos-Ortiz Gabriel , Rodríguez Mario , Maldonado José-Luis , Guerrero-Álvarez Jorge-Antonio , Barba Victor
Published: April 2015

Two copolymers of 3-alkylthiophene (alkyl = hexyl, octyl) and a thiophene functionalized with disperse red 19 (TDR19) as chromophore side chain were synthesized by oxidative polymerization. The synthetic procedure was easy to perform, cost-effective, and highly versatile. The molecular structure, molecular weight distribution, film morphology, and optical and thermal properties of these polythiophene derivatives were determined by NMR, FT-IR, UV-Vis GPC, DSC-TGA, and AFM. The third-order nonlinear optical response of these materials was performed with nanosecond and femtosecond laser pulses by using the third-harmonic generation (THG) andZ-scan techniques at infrared wavelengths of 1300 and 800 nm, respectively. From these experiments it was observed that although the TRD19 incorporation into the side chain of the copolymers was lower than 5%, it was sufficient to increase their nonlinear response in solid state. For instance, the third-order nonlinear electric susceptibility (χ3) of solid thin films made of these copolymers exhibited an increment of nearly 60% when TDR19 incorporation increased from 3% to 5%. In solution, the copolymers exhibited similar two-photon absorption cross sectionsσ2PAwith a maximum value of 8545 GM and 233 GM (1 GM = 10−50 cm4 s) per repeated monomeric unit.
Indoor Air Quality and Respiratory Health among Malay Preschool Children in Selangor
Authors: Mohd Nor Rawi Nur Azwani , Jalaludin Juliana , Chua Poh Choo
Published: April 2015

Indoor air quality (IAQ) has been the object of several studies due to its adverse health effects on children.Methods. A cross-sectional comparative study was carried out among Malay children in Balakong (2 studied preschools) and Bangi (2 comparative preschools), Selangor, with the aims of determining IAQ and its association with respiratory health. 61 and 50 children aged 5-6 years were selected as studied and comparative groups. A questionnaire was used to obtain an exposure history and respiratory symptoms. Lung function test was carried out. IAQ parameters obtained include indoor concentration of particulate matter (PM), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), temperature, air velocity (AV), and relative humidity.Results. There was a significant difference between IAQ in studied and comparative preschools for all parameters measured(P<0.001)except for CO2and AV. Studied preschools had higher PM and CO concentration. FVC, FEV1, FVC% and FEV1% predicted values were significantly lower among studied group. Exposures to PM, VOCs, and CO were associated with wheezing.Conclusion. The finding concluded that exposures to poor IAQ might increase the risk of getting lung function abnormality and respiratory problems among study respondents.
Effect Analysis of Service Supply Chain with Dynamic Game under the Condition of Sensitive Demand
Authors: Zhou Guanglan , Ju Chunhua
Published: April 2015

Under the real circumstances of service supply chain, there is one demand appearing as the sensitive feature, to face the increasing uncertainty. It could be elaborated upon the decision variables such as price, quantity, and efforts. The member behaviors are operated and coordinated in the process of multiperiod dynamic game. Based on the multiperiod dynamic game theory, the service demand and price, quantity of goods, and efforts of members in the secondary service supply chain are considered. The paper discusses the reputation effect and ratchet effect in the multiperiod dynamic game service supply chain. Additionally, the paper describes this problem, builds a programming model based on the multiperiod dynamic game, and deduces the optimal solution. Furthermore, the paper analyzes the impact of reputation effect and ratchet effect on the agent’s revenue. Through the simulation, it is found that the agency efforts are a combination result of reputation effect and ratchet effect in the process of multiperiod dynamic game. Through the long-term dynamic game, the short-term moral risk in service supply chain can be restrained so that the result under the asymmetric information is the same as that under the complete information.
Study on Shale’s Dynamic Damage Constitutive Model Based on Statistical Distribution
Authors: Liu Jianjun , Li Yuan , Zhang Huijuan
Published: April 2015

The dynamic constitutive model of shale is basic for shale gas reservoir reforming. In order to investigate the dynamic mechanism of shale, a new dynamic damage constitutive model of shale under uniaxial impact load was established based on the statistical damage theory and the laboratory test results of deformation and the damage characteristics under the action of SHPB impact. Compared with the theoretical results, the model can describe shale’s mechanical attributes and reveal the fracture damage mechanism as well. The results will provide theoretical basis for hydraulic fracturing on shale and other dynamic reforming technics.
Nystagmus in Laurence-Moon-Biedl Syndrome
Authors: Janati A. Bruce , ALGhasab Naif Saad , Haq Fazal , Abdullah Ahmad , Osman Aboubaker
Published: April 2015

Introduction. Laurence-Moon-Biedl (LMB) syndrome is a rare autosomal-recessive ciliopathy with manifold symptomatology. The cardinal clinical features include retinitis pigmentosa, obesity, intellectual delay, polydactyly/syndactyly, and hypogenitalism. In this paper, the authors report on three siblings with Laurence-Moon-Biedl syndrome associated with a probable pseudocycloid form of congenital nystagmus.Methods. This was a case study conducted at King Khaled Hospital.Results. The authors assert that the nystagmus in Laurence-Moon-Biedl syndrome is essentially similar to idiopathic motor-defect nystagmus and the nystagmus seen in optic nerve hypoplasia, ocular albinism, and bilateral opacities of the ocular media.Conclusion. The data support the previous hypothesis that there is a common brain stem motor abnormality in sensory-defect and motor-defect nystagmus.
Herb Network Analysis for a Famous TCM Doctor's Prescriptions on Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Li Yan , Li Rui , Ouyang Zibo , Li Shao
Published: April 2015

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) doctors always prescribe various herbal formulae tailored to individual patients. However, there is still a lack of appropriate methods to study the rule and potential biological basis underlying the numerous prescriptions. Here we developed an Herb-Compound-Target-Disease coherent network approach to analyze 871 herbal prescriptions from a TCM master, Mr. Ji-Ren Li, in his clinical practice on treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The core herb networks were extracted from Mr. Li’s prescriptions. Then, we predicted target profiles of compounds in core herb networks and calculated potential synergistic activities among them. We further found that the target sets of core herbs overlapped significantly with the RA related biological processes and pathways. Moreover, we detected a possible connection between the prescribed herbs with different properties such as Cold and Hot and the Western drugs with different actions such as immunomodulatory and hormone regulation on treatment of RA. In summary, we explored a new application of TCM network pharmacology on the analysis of TCM prescriptions and detected the networked core herbs, their potential synergistic and biological activities, and possible connections with drugs. This work offers a novel way to understand TCM prescriptions in clinical practice.
Constitutive NF-κB Activation Underlines Major Mechanism of Drug Resistance in Relapsed Refractory Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Turturro Francesco
Published: April 2015

Diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common subtype of B cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL), encompassing 30–40% of the estimated 70,000 cases of NHL in 2014 in the USA. Despite major improvements with immune-chemotherapy, the fraction of patients who still succumb to a refractory or relapsed disease remains high. This review addresses whether the better understanding of the biology of DLBCL defines new therapeutic avenues that may overcome the emerging resistance of this disease to traditional immune-chemotherapy, such as rituximab in combination with traditional chemotherapy agents. Emerging targeted therapy for relapsed refractory DLBCL encompasses more complex molecular abnormalities involving signaling pathways other than NF-κB as mechanism of resistance to immune-chemotherapy. Our review suggests that NF-κB pathway is an important crossroad where other pathways converge as phenotype of resistance that emerges in patients who fail frontline and salvage immune-chemotherapy. Future efforts should aim at targeting the role of NF-κB resistance in clinical trials, where novel agents like lenalidomide and proteasome inhibitors with established activity in this perspective will be an important component in combination therapy, along with new monoclonal antibody, BTK-inhibitors, and other novel therapy agents.
Primary Lymphoma of Bone Presenting as Spindle Cell Neoplasm of the Vertebral Body: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Inklab Mahakit , Steingart Richard H. , Freeman Jonathan K.
Published: April 2015

Spindle cell variant of lymphoma is a very rare but known disease entity that can mimic a sarcoma. Diagnosis can be even more challenging if the only site of the disease is in the bone. We report a case of primary lymphoma of bone with spindle cell morphology which was successfully treated with a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy.
Clinical Findings and Genetic Expression Profiling of Three Pigmented Lesions of the Optic Nerve
Authors: de Alba Manuel A. , Villegas Victor M. , Gold Aaron S. , Wildner Andrea , Ehlies Fiona J. , Latiff Azeema , Murray Timothy G.
Published: April 2015

Background. Optic disk melanocytoma is a primary tumor of the optic disk that represents a clinical diagnostic challenge due to its similarities with melanoma.Purpose. The authors present three cases in which genetic expression profiling was used to identify tumor prognosis of optic disk melanocytoma.Case Series. In two cases fine-needle aspiration biopsy was performed to obtain tissue through a transvitreal route into the apex of the tumor while the patient underwent pars plana vitrectomy, laser ablation, phacoemulsification with posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation, and intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide. In the other case the tissue was obtained after definite enucleation.Conclusion. Genetic expression profiling is a useful diagnostic tool for classification and can provide vital information to the ocular oncologist regarding prognosis.
Altered Chromogranin A Circulating Levels in Meniere’s Disease
Authors: Teggi Roberto , Colombo Barbara , Trimarchi Matteo , Bianco Mimma , Manfredi Angelo , Bussi Mario , Corti Angelo
Published: April 2015

Objectives. Meniere’s disease (MD) is an inner ear disorder characterized by episodic vertigo, ear fullness, and hearing loss; usually vertigo attacks cluster in specific period. We studied in MD patients the circulating levels of chromogranin A (CgA) and vasostatin-1 (VS-1), secreted by the neuroendocrine system and involved in the regulation of the endothelial barrier function.Methods. Serum levels were assessed in 37 MD patients and 36 controls. The ratio between VS-1 and CgA was calculated.Results. CgA was increased in patients compared to controls (1.46 versus 0.67 nM,p=0.01) while no difference was detected for VS-1 (0.41 versus 0.39, resp.). CgA levels in patients positively correlated with the frequency of vertigo spells in the previous four weeks (p=0.008) and negatively with the time in days from the last vertigo attack (p=0.018). Furthermore, the VS-1/CgA ratio negatively correlated with the frequency of vertigo spells (p=0.029) and positively correlated with the time from the last attack (p=0.003).Conclusion. The results indicate that variations of CgA levels, but not of VS-1, occur in the blood of patients with active MD, depending on the frequency of vertigo spells and the time from the last crisis.
An Intelligent Web Digital Image Metadata Service Platform for Social Curation Commerce Environment
Authors: Hong Seong-Yong , Lee Sung-Joon
Published: April 2015

Information management includes multimedia data management, knowledge management, collaboration, and agents, all of which are supporting technologies for XML. XML technologies have an impact on multimedia databases as well as collaborative technologies and knowledge management. That is, e-commerce documents are encoded in XML and are gaining much popularity for business-to-business or business-to-consumer transactions. Recently, the internet sites, such as e-commerce sites and shopping mall sites, deal with a lot of image and multimedia information. This paper proposes an intelligent web digital image information retrieval platform, which adopts XML technology for social curation commerce environment. To support object-based content retrieval on product catalog images containing multiple objects, we describe multilevel metadata structures representing the local features, global features, and semantics of image data. To enable semantic-based and content-based retrieval on such image data, we design an XML-Schema for the proposed metadata. We also describe how to automatically transform the retrieval results into the forms suitable for the various user environments, such as web browser or mobile device, using XSLT. The proposed scheme can be utilized to enable efficient e-catalog metadata sharing between systems, and it will contribute to the improvement of the retrieval correctness and the user’s satisfaction on semantic-based web digital image information retrieval.
A Rare Initial Presentation of Gastric Cancer with Multiple Osteolytic Lesions
Authors: Jehangir Asad , Aderhold Kim , Rajagopalan Priya , Shogbesan Oluwaseun , Swierczynski Sharon , Qureshi Anam , Jehangir Qasim , Espana Schmidt Christian
Published: April 2015

Gastric cancer is the 12th leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States and commonly metastasizes to the bones. However, the presentation of gastric cancer as bony metastases without preceding gastrointestinal symptoms is rare which has been infrequently reported in the literature. Moreover, leptomeningeal carcinomatosis is an unusual complication of gastric cancer accounting for less than 1 percent of these patients. We present a unique case of a middle aged male who presented to the emergency department with worsening backache which started one month priorly. The only abnormal laboratory test was an elevated alkaline phosphatase of 154 IU/L. The imaging of his spine showed osteolytic lesions which on biopsy revealed signet ring cells. A small 2 cm ulcerated mass was found on esophagogastroduodenoscopy at the gastric cardia which on biopsy revealed signet ring gastric carcinoma. The patient received chemotherapy with capecitabine and oxaliplatin as well as radiation and showed a good response initially. A few months later, he presented with persistent worsening headaches and on brain imaging was found to have leptomeningeal carcinomatosis. Ten months after the diagnosis of gastric carcinoma, he passed away.
Effects of Two Common Polymorphisms rs2910164 in miR-146a and rs11614913 in miR-196a2 on Gastric Cancer Susceptibility
Authors: Ni Qing , Ji Anlai , Yin Junfeng , Wang Xiangjun , Liu Xinnong
Published: April 2015

Background. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes encoding microRNAs may play important role in the development of gastric cancer. It has been reported that common SNPs rs2910164 in miR-146a and rs11614913 in miR-196a2 are associated with susceptibility to gastric cancer. The published results remain inconclusive or even controversial. A meta-analysis was conducted to quantitatively assess potential association between the two common SNPs and gastric cancer risk.Methods. A comprehensive literature search was performed in multiple internet-based electronic databases. Data from 12 eligible studies were extracted to estimate pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).Results. C allele of rs2910164 is associated with reduced gastric cancer risk in heterozygote model and dominant model whereas rs11614913 indicates no significant association. Subgroup analysis demonstrates that C allele of rs2910164 and rs11614913 may decrease susceptibility to diffuse type gastric cancer in dominant model and recessive model, respectively, while rs11614913 increased intestinal type gastric cancer in dominant model.Conclusion. SNPs rs2910164 and rs11614913 might have effect on gastric cancer risk in certain genetic models and specific types of cancer. Further well-designed studies should be considered to validate the potential effect.
Anaphylactoid Reaction from IV Contrast Dye Causing Ischemic Colitis with Portal Venous Gas
Authors: Adesina Adeleke , Colombo Adam , Jeanmonod Rebecca
Published: April 2015

Portal venous gas is a radiographic finding with numerous causes. The most common etiologies include bowel ischemia or other intra-abdominal catastrophes. The finding of portal venous gas carries a high mortality rate. We report the first case of portal venous gas associated with anaphylactoid reaction to intravenous contrast dye in a middle-aged woman. This was likely secondary to anaphylactoid-induced ischemic colitis. This patient was managed conservatively and had a good outcome.
Spectrophotometric Determination of Cr(III) and Pb(II) Using Their Complexes with 5,11,17,23-Tetra[(2-ethyl acetoethoxyphenyl)(azo)phenyl]calix[4]arene
Authors: Van Tan Le , Quang Hieu Tran , Van Cuong Nguyen
Published: April 2015

New complexes of 5,11,17,23-tetra[(2-ethyl acetoethoxyphenyl)(azo)phenyl]calix[4]arene (TEAC) with Pb(II) and Cr(III) were prepared in basic solution with a mixture of MeOH and H2O as solvent. The ratio of TEAC and metal ion in complexes was found to be 1 : 1 under investigated condition. The complex formation constants (based on Benesi-Hildebrand method) for TEAC-Pb(II) and TEAC-Cr(III) were 4.03 × 104and 1.2 × 104, respectively. Additionally, the molar extinction coefficients were 5 × 104and 1.42 × 104for TEAC-Pb(II) and TEAC-Cr(III), respectively. The H-Point Standard Addition Method (HPSAM) has been applied for simultaneous determination of complexes formation of Cr(III)/Pb(II) and TEAC with concentration from 2 : 1 to 1 : 20 (w/w). The proposed method was successfully utilized to invest lead and chromium contents in plating wastewater samples. The results for several analyzed samples were found to be in satisfied agreement with those acquired by using the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) technique.
Inhibitory Effect of Endostar on Specific Angiogenesis Induced by Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Ye Qing , Qin Shukui , Liu Yanhong , Feng Jundong , Wu Qiong , Qu Wenshu , Yin Xiaojin
Published: April 2015

To investigate the effect of endostar on specific angiogenesis induced by human hepatocellular carcinoma, this research systematically elucidated the inhibitory effect on HepG2-induced angiogenesis by endostar from 50 ng/mL to 50000 ng/mL. We employed fluorescence quantitative Boyden chamber analysis, wound-healing assay, flow cytometry examination using a coculture system, quantitative analysis of tube formation, andin vivoMatrigel plug assay induced by HCC conditioned media (HCM) and HepG2 compared with normal hepatocyte conditioned media (NCM) and L02. Then, we found that endostar as a tumor angiogenesis inhibitor could potently inhibit human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) migration in response to HCM after four- to six-hour action, inhibit HCM-induced HUVEC migration to the lesion part in a dose-dependent manner between 50 ng/mL and 5000 ng/mL at 24 hours, and reduce HUVEC proliferation in a dose-dependent fashion. Endostar inhibited HepG2-induced tube formation of HUVECs which peaked at 50 ng/mL.In vivoMatrigel plug formation was also significantly reduced by endostar in HepG2 inducing system rather than in L02 inducing system. It could be concluded that, at cell level, endostar inhibited the angiogenesis-related biological behaviors of HUVEC in response to HCC, including migration, adhesion proliferation, and tube formation. At animal level, endostar inhibited the angiogenesis in response to HCC in Matrigel matrix.
Clinical Characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Israel: Impact of Ethnic and Social Diversities
Authors: Mahajnah Muhammad , Sharkia Rajech , Shalabe Haitham , Terkel-Dawer Ruth , Akawi Ashraf , Zelnik Nathanel
Published: April 2015

Despite the increased global prevalence and recognition of autistic spectrum disorder (ASD), it is still scarcely reported in the Arab world. Though Israel has a higher prevalence of ASD, a previous national survey of patients diagnosed between 1972 and 2004, demonstrated that 98% of them were of Jewish ancestry. The disproportional low number of Arab children with ASD in Israel is unclear but may reflect lower awareness and cultural bias. In the present study we collected clinical and demographic characteristics of 200 children with ASD from Arab and Jewish sectors in Israel that were evaluated in two child development centers. We compared the incidence and the medical comorbidity of autism between these two ethnics groups. The medical and psychiatric comorbidity profile in these children was similar to the worldwide published studies. In the present study the prevalence of autism in the Arab sector in Israel was similar to that of the Jewish sector. The Arab patients presented with more severe autistic manifestations and higher incidence of mental retardation, familial members with autism, and consanguinity (P<0.05), while in the Jewish sector milder forms (such as Asperger syndrome and PDD-NOS) were more frequent. This discrepancy might be explained by both genetic and cultural factors.
Biomarker as a Research Tool in Linking Exposure to Air Particles and Respiratory Health
Authors: Suhaimi Nur Faseeha , Jalaludin Juliana
Published: April 2015

Some of the environmental toxicants from air pollution include particulate matter (PM10), fine particulate matter (PM2.5), and ultrafine particles (UFP). Both short- and long-term exposure could result in various degrees of respiratory health outcomes among exposed persons, which rely on the individuals’ health status.Methods. In this paper, we highlight a review of the studies that have used biomarkers to understand the association between air particles exposure and the development of respiratory problems resulting from the damage in the respiratory system. Data from previous epidemiological studies relevant to the application of biomarkers in respiratory system damage reported from exposure to air particles are also summarized.Results. Based on these analyses, the findings agree with the hypothesis that biomarkers are relevant in linking harmful air particles concentrations to increased respiratory health effects. Biomarkers are used in epidemiological studies to provide an understanding of the mechanisms that follow airborne particles exposure in the airway. However, application of biomarkers in epidemiological studies of health effects caused by air particles in both environmental and occupational health is inchoate.Conclusion. Biomarkers unravel the complexity of the connection between exposure to air particles and respiratory health.
Immune Mechanisms Are Major Players in Cancer
Authors: Hellstrom Karl Erik , Hellstrom Ingegerd
Published: April 2015

Vaccination with sipuleucel-T produced IgG antibodies to secondary prostatic carcinoma antigens and prolonged survival in some patients, and assaying for antibodies may provide prognostic information and identify new vaccine targets. Additional approaches to improve T-cell responses are needed to improve the clinical efficacy. Clin Cancer Res; 21(16); 3581–3. ©2015 AACR.

See related article by GuhaThakurta et al., p. 3619
Tropheryma whipplei, Immunosuppression and Whipple's Disease: From a Low-Pathogenic, Environmental Infectious Organism to a Rare, Multifaceted Inflammatory Complex
Authors: Marth Thomas
Published: April 2015

Background: The actinobacterium Tropheryma whipplei was detected 20 years ago by molecular techniques, and following its culture has been characterized as the cause of a systemic infection known as Whipple's disease (WD). T. whipplei occurs in the environment, is prevalent only in humans, is believed to be transmitted via oral routes and to be host dependent. Key Messages: The classical form of T. whipplei  infection, i.e. classical WD (CWD), is rare. It is well defined as slowly progressing chronic infection with arthralgia, diarrhea and weight loss, mostly in middle-aged men. However, current research revealed a much broader spectrum of clinical features associated with T. whipplei infection. Thus, T. whipplei may cause acute and transient infections (observed primarily in children) and the bacterium, which is found in soil and water, occurs in asymptomatic carriers as well as in CWD patients in clinical remission. In addition, T. whipplei affects isolated and localized body compartments such as heart valves or the central nervous system. Subtle immune defects and HLA associations have been described. New findings indicate that the progression of asymptomatic T. whipplei infection to clinical WD may be associated with medical immunosuppression and with immunomodulatory conditions. This explains that there is a discrepancy between the widespread occurrence of T. whipplei and the rareness of WD, and that T. whipplei infection triggered by immunosuppression presents with protean clinical manifestations. Conclusions: This review highlights recent findings and the clinical spectrum of infection with T. whipplei and WD, focusing specifically on the role of host immunity and immunosuppression. Current concepts of the pathogenesis, diagnosis and therapy are discussed.
Extraintestinal Manifestations of Celiac Disease
Authors: Pinto-Sánchez María Inés , Bercik Premysl , Verdu Elena F. , Bai Julio C.
Published: April 2015

Case finding for celiac disease (CD) is becoming increasingly common practice and is conducted in a wide range of clinical situations ranging from the presence of gastrointestinal symptoms to failure to thrive in children, prolonged fatigue, unexpected weight loss and anemia. Case finding is also performed in associated conditions, such as autoimmune thyroid disease, dermatitis herpetiformis and type 1 diabetes, as well as in patients with irritable bowel syndrome, unexplained neuropsychiatric disorders and first-degree relatives of patients with diagnosed CD. This aggressive active case finding has dramatically changed the clinical characteristics of newly diagnosed patients. For instance, higher numbers of patients who present with extraintestinal symptoms are now being diagnosed with CD. Current recommendations state that due to a high risk for complications if the disease remains undiagnosed, patients with extraintestinal symptoms due to CD require appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Despite criticism regarding the cost-effectiveness of case finding in CD, such an aggressive approach has been considered cost-effective for high-risk patients. The diagnosis of CD among patients with extraintestinal symptoms requires a high degree of awareness of the clinical conditions that carry a high risk for underlying CD. Also, understanding the correct use of specific serology and duodenal histology is key for an appropriate diagnostic approach. Both procedures combined are able to confirm diagnosis in the vast majority of cases. However, in certain circumstances, serology and even duodenal histology cannot confirm or rule out CD. A common cause of negative IgA serology is IgA deficiency. For such eventuality, IgG-based serological tests can help confirm the diagnosis. Importantly, some histologically diagnosed cases still remain seronegative despite exclusion of IgA deficiency. On the other hand, duodenal histology may be normal despite the presence of CD-specific antibodies and active CD. This has been clearly demonstrated in some cases of untreated dermatitis herpetiformis, but may also be due to the patchy condition of CD or lesions that are not adequately recognized by nonexpert endoscopists and/or pathologists. The effectiveness of agluten-free diet depends on the clinical end point addressed. A good example is the outcome of bone loss. While risk for fracture normalizes after the first year of dietary treatment, bone parameters measured by densitometry may not be normalized in the long-term follow-up. Moreover, it is still unclear how far an early gluten-free diet will positively affect associated autoimmune diseases like type 1 diabetes and autoimmune thyroiditis.
Clinical Manifestations of Celiac Disease
Authors: Green Peter H.R. , Krishnareddy Suneeta , Lebwohl Benjamin
Published: April 2015

Celiac disease (CD) is an immune-based condition affecting multiple organ systems. Clinical manifestations are manifold in form and number due to the multisystem nature of CD. There has been a progressive change in the clinical manifestations over the recent decades with fewer patients, both adults and children, presenting with a diarrheal, classical form. This, in children, is seen in only the youngest, while growth issues, screening at-risk groups and recurrent abdominal pain are the most common modes of presentation among children. Among adults, diarrhea is the most common presentation followed by anemia. Screening at-risk groups, metabolic bone disease and incidental recognition at endoscopy performed for reflux are the other main modes of presentation. The bulk of those with CD remain undiagnosed. The symptoms are often common, and increased medical education should lead to greater awareness in the medical community and an increased rate of diagnosis.
Aspirin and P2Y12 Inhibitors in platelet-mediated activation of neutrophils and monocytes
Authors: Schrottmaier Waltraud , Kral Julia , Badrnya Sigrun , Assinger Alice
Published: April 2015

Platelets are key players in haemostasis and represent a pivotal link between inflammation, immunity and atherogenesis. Depending on the (patho)physiological environment platelets modulate various leukocyte functions via release of inflammatory mediators and direct cell-cell interactions. Elevated levels of circulating platelet-leukocyte aggregates are found in patients suffering from several thrombotic or inflammatory conditions. Platelet-monocyte and platelet-neutrophil interaction can trigger pro- and anti-inflammatory responses and modulate effector functions of all leukocyte subpopulations. These platelet-mediated immune responses have implications for the progression of cardiovascular diseases and also play a crucial role during infections, cancer, transplantations and other inflammatory diseases of several organs. Antiplatelet therapy including the COX inhibitor aspirin and/or ADP receptor P2Y12 inhibitors such as clopidogrel, prasugrel and ticagrelor are the therapy of choice for various cardiovascular complications. Both aspirin and P2Y12 inhibitors attenuate platelet-leukocyte interactions, thereby also modulating immune responses. This may have beneficial effects in some pathological conditions, while it might be detrimental in others. This review aims to summarise the current knowledge on platelet-leukocyte interactions and the impact of aspirin and P2Y12 inhibition on platelet-mediated immune responses and to give an overview on the effects of antiplatelet therapy on platelet-leukocyte interplay in various diseases.
Prognostic Value of Programmed Electrical Stimulation in Brugada Syndrome
Authors: Sieira Juan , Conte Giulio , Ciconte Giuseppe , de Asmundis Carlo , Chierchia Gian-Battista , Baltogiannis Giannis , Di Giovanni Giacomo , Saitoh Yukio , Irfan Ghazala , Casado-Arroyo Ruben , Juliá Justo , La Meir Mark , Wellens Francis , Wauters Kristel , Van Malderen Sophie , Pappaert Gudrun , Brugada Pedro
Published: April 2015

Background—

The prognostic value of electrophysiological investigations in individuals with Brugada syndrome remains controversial. Different groups have published contradictory data. Long-term follow-up is needed to clarify this issue.

Methods and Results—

Patients presenting with spontaneous or drug-induced Brugada type I ECG and in whom programmed electric stimulation was performed at our institution were considered eligible for this study. A total of 403 consecutive patients (235 males, 58.2%; mean age, 43.2±16.2 years) were included. Ventricular arrhythmias during programmed electric stimulation were induced in 73 (18.1%) patients. After a mean follow-up time of 74.3±57.3 months (median 57.3), 25 arrhythmic events occurred (16 in the inducible group and 9 in the noninducible). Ventricular arrhythmias inducibility presented a hazard ratio for events of 8.3 (95% confidence interval, 3.6–19.4),
P
<0.01.

Conclusions—

Programmed ventricular stimulation of the heart is a good predictor of outcome in individuals with Brugada syndrome. It might be of special value to guide further management when performed in asymptomatic individuals. The overall accuracy of the test makes it a suitable screening tool to reassure noninducible asymptomatic individuals
Pharmacological Treatment and Current Management of Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: Bonaca Marc P. , Creager Mark A.
Published: April 2015

Patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) are at heightened risk of both systemic cardiovascular adverse events, as well as limb-related morbidity. The optimal management of patients with PAD requires a comprehensive treatment strategy incorporating both lifestyle changes, including smoking cessation and exercise, as well as optimal medical therapy. Pharmacological therapies for patients with PAD are targeted both at modifying broad risk factors for major adverse cardiovascular events, as well as reducing limb-related morbidity. Observational data suggest that indicated pharmacological treatments are greatly underutilized in PAD, underscoring the need for improvements in patient identification and care delivery. Ongoing trials of novel therapies in patients with PAD will further inform pharmacological strategies to reduce both systemic cardiovascular risk and limb-related morbidity.
Endovascular Intervention for Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: Thukkani Arun K. , Kinlay Scott
Published: April 2015

Advances in endovascular therapies during the past decade have broadened the options for treating peripheral vascular disease percutaneously. Endovascular treatment offers a lower risk alternative to open surgery in many patients with multiple comorbidities. Noninvasive physiological tests and arterial imaging precede an endovascular intervention and help localize the disease and plan the procedure. The timing and need for revascularization are broadly related to the 3 main clinical presentations of claudication, critical limb ischemia, and acute limb ischemia. Many patients with claudication can be treated by exercise and medical therapy. Endovascular procedures are considered when these fail to improve quality of life and function. In contrast, critical limb ischemia and acute limb ischemia threaten the limb and require more urgent revascularization. In general, endovascular treatments have greater long-term durability for aortoiliac disease than femoral popliteal disease. Infrapopliteal revascularization is generally reserved for critical and acute limb ischemia. Balloon angioplasty and stenting are the mainstays of endovascular therapy. New well-tested innovations include drug-eluting stents and drug-coated balloons. Adjunctive devices for crossing chronic total occlusions or debulking plaque with atherectomy are less rigorously studied and have niche roles. Patients receiving endovascular procedures need a structured surveillance plan for follow-up care. This includes intensive treatment of cardiovascular risk factors to prevent myocardial infarction and stroke, which are the main causes of death. Limb surveillance aims to identify restenosis and new disease beyond the intervened segments, both of which may jeopardize patency and lead to recurrent symptoms, functional impairment, or a threatened limb.
Functional Analysis and Transcriptomic Profiling of iPSC-Derived Macrophages and Their Application in Modeling Mendelian Disease
Authors: Zhang Hanrui , Xue Chenyi , Shah Rhia , Bermingham Kate , Hinkle Christine C. , Li Wenjun , Rodrigues Amrith , Tabita-Martinez Jennifer , Millar John S. , Cuchel Marina , Pashos Evanthia E. , Liu Ying , Yan Ruilan , Yang Wenli , Gosai Sager J. , VanDorn Daniel , Chou Stella T. , Gregory Brian D. , Morrisey Edward E. , Li Mingyao , Rader Daniel J. , Reilly Muredach P.
Published: April 2015

Rationale:

An efficient and reproducible source of genotype-specific human macrophages is essential for study of human macrophage biology and related diseases.

Objective:

To perform integrated functional and transcriptome analyses of human induced pluripotent stem cell–derived macrophages (IPSDMs) and their isogenic human peripheral blood mononuclear cell–derived macrophage (HMDM) counterparts and assess the application of IPSDM in modeling macrophage polarization and Mendelian disease.

Methods and Results:

We developed an efficient protocol for differentiation of IPSDM, which expressed macrophage-specific markers and took up modified lipoproteins in a similar manner to HMDM. Like HMDM, IPSDM revealed reduction in phagocytosis, increase in cholesterol efflux capacity and characteristic secretion of inflammatory cytokines in response to M1 (lipopolysaccharide+interferon-γ) activation. RNA-Seq revealed that nonpolarized (M0) as well as M1 or M2 (interleukin-4) polarized IPSDM shared transcriptomic profiles with their isogenic HMDM counterparts while also revealing novel markers of macrophage polarization. Relative to IPSDM and HMDM of control individuals, patterns of defective cholesterol efflux to apolipoprotein A-I and high-density lipoprotein-3 were qualitatively and quantitatively similar in IPSDM and HMDM of patients with Tangier disease, an autosomal recessive disorder because of mutations in ATP-binding cassette transporter AI. Tangier disease-IPSDM also revealed novel defects of enhanced proinflammatory response to lipopolysaccharide stimulus.

Conclusions:

Our protocol-derived IPSDM are comparable with HMDM at phenotypic, functional, and transcriptomic levels. Tangier disease-IPSDM recapitulated hallmark features observed in HMDM and revealed novel inflammatory phenotypes. IPSDMs provide a powerful tool for study of macrophage-specific function in human genetic disorders as well as molecular studies of human macrophage activation and polarization.