bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating Aziridinyl Nitrobenzamide Compounds as Leishmanicidal Prodrugs
Authors: Voak Andrew A. , Seifert Karin , Helsby Nuala A. , Wilkinson Shane R.
Published: October 2013

Many of the nitroaromatic agents used in medicine function as prodrugs and must undergo activation before exerting their toxic effects. In most cases, this is catalyzed by flavin mononucleotide (FMN)-dependent type I nitroreductases (NTRs), a class of enzyme absent from higher eukaryotes but expressed by bacteria and several eukaryotic microbes, including trypanosomes and
Leishmania
. Here, we utilize this difference to evaluate whether members of a library of aziridinyl nitrobenzamides have activity against
Leishmania major
. Biochemical screens using purified
L. major
NTR (LmNTR) revealed that compounds containing an aziridinyl-2,4-dinitrobenzyl core were effective substrates for the enzyme and showed that the 4-nitro group was important for this activity. To facilitate drug screening against intracellular amastigote parasites, we generated leishmanial cells that expressed the luciferase reporter gene and optimized a mammalian infection model in a 96-well plate format. A subset of aziridinyl-2,4-dinitrobenzyl compounds possessing a 5-amide substituent displayed significant growth-inhibitory properties against the parasite, with the most potent agents generating 50% inhibitory concentrations of <100 nM for the intracellular form. This antimicrobial activity was shown to be LmNTR specific since
L. major NTR
+/−
heterozygote parasites were slightly resistance to most aziridinyl dinitrobenzyl agents tested. When the most potent leishmanicidal agents were screened against the mammalian cells in which the amastigote parasites were propagated, no growth-inhibitory effect was observed at concentrations of up to 100 μM. We conclude that the aziridinyl nitrobenzamides represent a new lead structure that may have the potential to treat leishmanial infections.
HLA Class II (DR0401) Molecules Induce Foxp3+Regulatory T Cell Suppression of B Cells in Plasmodium yoelii Strain 17XNL Malaria
Authors: Wijayalath Wathsala , Danner Rebecca , Kleschenko Yuliya , Majji Sai , Villasante Eileen Franke , Richie Thomas L. , Brumeanu Teodor-Doru , David Chella S. , Casares Sofia
Published: October 2013

Unlike human malaria parasites that induce persistent infection, some rodent malaria parasites, likePlasmodium yoeliistrain 17XNL (Py17XNL), induce a transient (self-curing) malaria infection. Cooperation between CD4 T cells and B cells to produce antibodies is thought to be critical for clearance of Py17XNL parasites from the blood, with major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules being required for activation of CD4 T cells. In order to better understand the correspondence between murine malaria models and human malaria, and in particular the role of MHC (HLA) class II molecules, we studied the ability of humanized mice expressing human HLA class II molecules to clear Py17XNL infection. We showed that humanized mice expressing HLA-DR4 (DR0401) molecules and lacking mouse MHC class II molecules (EA0) have impaired production of specific antibodies to Py17XNL and cannot cure the infection. In contrast, mice expressing HLA-DR4 (DR0402), HLA-DQ6 (DQ0601), HLA-DQ8 (DQ0302), or HLA-DR3 (DR0301) molecules in an EA0background were able to elicit specific antibodies and self-cure the infection. In a series of experiments, we determined that the inability of humanized DR0401.EA0mice to elicit specific antibodies was due to expansion and activation of regulatory CD4+Foxp3+T cells (Tregs) that suppressed B cells to secrete antibodies through cell-cell interactions. Treg depletion allowed the DR0401.EA0mice to elicit specific antibodies and self-cure the infection. Our results demonstrated a differential role of MHC (HLA) class II molecules in supporting antibody responses to Py17XNL malaria and revealed a new mechanism by which malaria parasites stimulate B cell-suppressogenic Tregs that prevent clearance of infection.
Serogroup-Specific Interaction of Neisseria meningitidis Capsular Polysaccharide with Host Cell Microtubules and Effects on Tubulin Polymerization
Authors: Talà Adelfia , Cogli Laura , De Stefano Mario , Cammarota Marcella , Spinosa Maria Rita , Bucci Cecilia , Alifano Pietro
Published: October 2013

We have previously shown that during late stages of the infectious process, serogroup B meningococci (MenB) are able to escape the phagosome of
in vitro
-infected human epithelial cells. They then multiply in the cytosolic environment and spread intracellularly and to surrounding cells by exploiting the microtubule cytoskeleton, as suggested by results of infections in the presence of microtubule inhibitors and evidence of nanotubes connecting neighboring cells. In this study, by using microtubule binding assays with purified microtubule asters and bundles and microtubule bundles synthesized
in vitro
, we demonstrate that the MenB capsule directly mediates the interaction between bacteria and microtubules. The direct interaction between the microtubules and the MenB capsular polysaccharide was confirmed by coimmunoprecipitation experiments. Unexpectedly, serogroup C meningococci (MenC), which have a capsular polysaccharide that differs from that of MenB only by its anomeric linkage, α(2→9) instead of α(2→8), were not able to interact with the microtubules, and the lack of interaction was not due to capsular polysaccharide
O
-acetylation that takes place in most MenC strains but not in MenB strains. Moreover, we demonstrate that the MenB capsular polysaccharide inhibits tubulin polymerization
in vitro
. Thus, at variance with MenC, MenB may interfere with microtubule dynamics during cell infection.
Human Lung Tissue Explants Reveal Novel Interactions during Legionella pneumophila Infections
Authors: Jäger Jens , Marwitz Sebastian , Tiefenau Jana , Rasch Janine , Shevchuk Olga , Kugler Christian , Goldmann Torsten , Steinert Michael
Published: October 2013

Histological and clinical investigations describe late stages of Legionnaires' disease but cannot characterize early events of human infection. Cellular or rodent infection models lack the complexity of tissue or have nonhuman backgrounds. Therefore, we developed and applied a novel model for
Legionella pneumophila
infection comprising living human lung tissue. We stimulated lung explants with
L. pneumophila
strains and outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) to analyze tissue damage, bacterial replication, and localization as well as the transcriptional response of infected tissue. Interestingly, we found that extracellular adhesion of
L. pneumophila
to the entire alveolar lining precedes bacterial invasion and replication in recruited macrophages. In contrast, OMVs predominantly bound to alveolar macrophages. Specific damage to septa and epithelia increased over 48 h and was stronger in wild-type-infected and OMV-treated samples than in samples infected with the replication-deficient, type IVB secretion-deficient DotA
−
strain. Transcriptome analysis of lung tissue explants revealed a differential regulation of 2,499 genes after infection. The transcriptional response included the upregulation of uteroglobin and the downregulation of the macrophage receptor with collagenous structure (MARCO). Immunohistochemistry confirmed the downregulation of MARCO at sites of pathogen-induced tissue destruction. Neither host factor has ever been described in the context of
L. pneumophila
infections. This work demonstrates that the tissue explant model reproduces realistic features of Legionnaires' disease and reveals new functions for bacterial OMVs during infection. Our model allows us to characterize early steps of human infection which otherwise are not feasible for investigations.
Role of Leptin-Mediated Colonic Inflammation in Defense against Clostridium difficile Colitis
Authors: Madan Rajat , Guo Xiaoti , Naylor Caitlin , Buonomo Erica L. , Mackay Donald , Noor Zannatun , Concannon Patrick , Scully Kenneth W. , Pramoonjago Patcharin , Kolling Glynis L. , Warren Cirle A. , Duggal Priya , Petri William A.
Published: October 2013

The role of leptin in the mucosal immune response toClostridium difficilecolitis, a leading cause of nosocomial infection, was studied in humans and in a murine model. Previously, a mutation in the receptor for leptin (LEPR) was shown to be associated with susceptibility to infectious colitis and liver abscess due toEntamoeba histolyticaas well as to bacterial peritonitis. Here we discovered that European Americans homozygous for the sameLEPRQ223R mutation (rs1137101), known to result in decreased STAT3 signaling, were at increased risk ofC. difficileinfection (odds ratio, 3.03;P= 0.015). The mechanism of increased susceptibility was studied in a murine model. Mice lacking a functional leptin receptor (db/db) had decreased clearance ofC. difficilefrom the gut lumen and diminished inflammation. Mutation of tyrosine 1138 in the intracellular domain of LepRb that mediates signaling through the STAT3/SOCS3 pathway also resulted in decreased mucosal chemokine and cell recruitment. Collectively, these data support a protective mucosal immune function for leptin inC. difficilecolitis partially mediated by a leptin-STAT3 inflammatory pathway that is defective in theLEPRQ223R mutation. Identification of the role of leptin in protection fromC. difficileoffers the potential for host-directed therapy and demonstrates a connection between metabolism and immunity.
Deficiency of the Myeloid Differentiation Primary Response Molecule MyD88 Leads to an Early and Rapid Development of Helicobacter-Induced Gastric Malignancy
Authors: Banerjee Anirban , Thamphiwatana Soracha , Carmona Ellese M. , Rickman Barry , Doran Kelly S. , Obonyo Marygorret
Published: October 2013

Approximately 50% of the world's population is infected with
Helicobacter pylori
, leading to chronic inflammation, which increases the risk for gastric adenocarcinoma. MyD88 is a key adaptor molecule in inflammatory pathways involved in interleukin 1 (IL-1)/IL-18/Toll-like receptor signaling and has been shown to have divergent effects in carcinogenesis. The role of MyD88 in
Helicobacter
-induced gastric malignancy is unknown. Using a mouse model of
Helicobacter
-induced gastric cancer, we assessed the role of MyD88 in cancer development by evaluating gastric histopathology, apoptosis, proliferation, and cytokine expression. Infection of MyD88-deficient (
Myd88
−/−
) mice with
Helicobacter
resulted in early and rapid advancement to gastric dysplasia as early as 25 weeks postinfection. The progression of
Helicobacter
-induced disease to precancerous and cancerous lesions in the absence of MyD88 signaling was accompanied by increased gastric epithelial apoptosis and proliferation. In addition, inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), gamma interferon (IFN-γ), IL-6, and IL-1β were highly expressed in association with the development of gastric dysplasia. These data suggest that MyD88 signaling retards development and progression to cancer during
Helicobacter
infection. This is the first study to show evidence of MyD88 protection in an infection-driven inflammation-associated cancer model.
Ten years of progress—improved hysterectomy outcomes in Finland 1996–2006: a longitudinal observation study
Authors: Mäkinen Juha , Brummer Tea , Jalkanen Jyrki , Heikkinen Anna-Mari , Fraser Jaana , Tomás Eija , Härkki Päivi , Sjöberg Jari
Published: October 2013

Objectives

To study the outcome of various hysterectomies in 2 years 1996 (N =10110) and 2006 (N=5279). The hypothesis was that the change in operative practices in 10 years has resulted in improvements.

Design

2 prospective nationwide cohort evaluations with the same questionnaire.

Setting

All national operative hospitals in Finland.

Participants

Patients scheduled to either abdominal hysterectomy (AH), vaginal hysterectomy (VH) or laparoscopic hysterectomy (LH) for benign disease.

Outcome measures

Patients’ characteristics, surgery-related details and complications (organ injury, infection, venous thromboembolism and haemorrhage).

Results

The overall complication rates fell in LH and markedly in VH (from 22.2% to 11.7%, p<0.001). The overall surgery-related infectious morbidity decreased in all groups and significantly in VH (from 12.3% to 5.2%, p<0.001) and AH (from 9.9% to 7.7%, p<0.05). The incidence of bowel lesions in VH sank from 0.5% to 0.1% and of ureter lesions in LH from 1.1% to 0.3%. In 2006 there were no deaths compared with three in 1996.

Conclusions

The rate of postoperative complications fell markedly in the decade from 1996 to 2006. This parallels with the recommendation of the recent meta-analyses by Cochrane collaboration; the order of preference of hysterectomies was for the first time precisely followed in this nationwide study.

Trial registration

The 2006 study was registered in the Clinical Trials of Protocol Registration System Data (NCT00744172).
Single and combined effects of beetroot juice and caffeine supplementation on cycling time trial performance
Authors: Lane Stephen C. , Hawley John A. , Desbrow Ben , Jones Andrew M. , Blackwell James R. , Ross Megan L. , Zemski Adam J. , Burke Louise M.
Published: October 2013

Both caffeine and beetroot juice have ergogenic effects on endurance cycling performance. We investigated whether there is an additive effect of these supplements on the performance of a cycling time trial (TT) simulating the 2012 London Olympic Games course. Twelve male and 12 female competitive cyclists each completed 4 experimental trials in a double-blind Latin square design. Trials were undertaken with a caffeinated gum (CAFF) (3 mg·kg−1 body mass (BM), 40 min prior to the TT), concentrated beetroot juice supplementation (BJ) (8.4 mmol of nitrate (NO3–), 2 h prior to the TT), caffeine plus beetroot juice (CAFF+BJ), or a control (CONT). Subjects completed the TT (females: 29.35 km; males: 43.83 km) on a laboratory cycle ergometer under conditions of best practice nutrition: following a carbohydrate-rich pre-event meal, with the ingestion of a carbohydrate–electrolyte drink and regular oral carbohydrate contact during the TT. Compared with CONT, power output was significantly enhanced after CAFF+BJ and CAFF (3.0% and 3.9%, respectively, p < 0.01). There was no effect of BJ supplementation when used alone (–0.4%, p = 0.6 compared with CONT) or when combined with caffeine (–0.9%, p = 0.4 compared with CAFF). We conclude that caffeine (3 mg·kg−1 BM) administered in the form of a caffeinated gum increased cycling TT performance lasting ∼50–60 min by ∼3%–4% in both males and females. Beetroot juice supplementation was not ergogenic under the conditions of this study.
The acidic ribosomal protein P2 fromEuplotes octocarinatusis phosphorylated at its N-terminal domain
Authors: Hu Miaoqing , Li Luqin , Chao Jianbing , Zhao Yaqin , Zhang Zhiyun , Liang Aihua
Published: October 2013

The eukaryotic acid ribosomal P0, P1, and P2 proteins share a conserved flexible C-terminal tail that is rich in acidic residues, which are involved in the interaction with elongation factor 2 during protein synthesis. Our previous work suggested that the acidic ribosomal P proteins from Euplotes octocarinatus have a special C-terminal domain. To further understand this characteristic feature, both P2 and elongation factor 2 from E. octocarinatus were overexpressed, for the first time, in Escherichia coli in this study. GST pull-down assay indicated that P2 protein from E. octocarinatus (EoP2) interacted specifically with the N-terminal domain of elongation factor 2 from E. octocarinatus (EoEF-2) in vitro. The interacting part of EoP2 is in the C-terminal domains, consistent with the observation in other organisms. Phosphorylation of the recombinant EoP2 was performed in vitro using multiple methods such as31P-NMR spectroscopy, native PAGE, and Phos-tagTMSDS-PAGE. Results showed that ribosomal protein EoP2 was phosphorylated by casein kinase II at serine 21 located at the N terminus. This phosphorylation site identified in EoP2 is quite different from that of P2 from other organisms, in which the phosphorylation site is located in the conserved C-terminal region.
Molecular energies of the improved Rosen−Morse potential energy model
Authors: Liu Jian-Yi , Hu Xue-Tao , Jia Chun-Sheng
Published: October 2013

We solve the Schrödinger equation with the improved Rosen−Morse empirical potential energy model. The rotation-vibrational energy spectra and the unnormalized radial wave functions have been obtained. The interaction potential energy curves for the 33Σg+ state of the Cs2 molecule and the 51Δg state of the Na2 molecule are modeled by employing the improved Rosen−Morse potential and the Morse potential. Favourable agreement for the improved Rosen−Morse potential is found in comparing with the Rydberg−Klein−Rees potential. The vibrational energy levels predicted by using the improved Rosen−Morse potential for the 33Σg+ state of Cs2 and the 51Δg state of Na2 are in better agreement with the Rydberg−Klein−Rees data than the predictions of the Morse potential.
The Canadian contribution to the science of verotoxigenicEscherichia coliand associated illnesses: the early years
Authors: Cimolai Nevio
Published: October 2013

As stories of microbiological and infectious disease discoveries are told, one of the most charming of these in Canadian history is the recognition of verotoxigenic Escherichia coli (VTEC) and associated disease. The considerable burden and impact of VTEC-associated infections is currently experienced worldwide. Jack Konowalchuk, Joan Speirs, and their collaborators in Ottawa, Ontario, defined the E. coli verotoxin. Mohamed Karmali, Martin Petric, and colleagues at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, Ontario, established the association of VTEC and hemolytic–uremic syndrome. Nationwide, and with the dissemination of knowledge through the central health directorate in Ottawa, numerous scientists and clinicians were motivated to focus on this theme, and within a relatively brief chronology, much became known about the biology of VTEC and the pathogenesis, epidemiology, and clinical aspects of disease. Many Canadian investigators, but especially those in the veterinary school at Guelph, Ontario, also contributed to the science of VTEC among animals. The interactions between clinical and veterinary researchers led to a then unprecedented exponential growth in the knowledge base of VTEC. Canadians also participated in a better understanding of the origin and potential of the E. coli O157 serogroup. Whereas not exclusively Canadian, the contributions of our national scientists in this field must be seen as a vital part of medical and microbiological Canadiana; this essence is captured in this historical review.
VISUALIZATION OF HYPERFRACTALS
Authors: ANDRES JAN , RYPKA MIROSLAV
Published: October 2013

The prime merit of the paper is to visualize hyperfractals via support functions. More precisely, address sets of hyperfractals, i.e. fractals living in hyperspaces, will be visualized in this way.
CLUSTERIZATION OF FULLERENE C70 MOLECULES IN SOLUTIONS AND ITS INFLUENCE TO OPTICAL AND NONLINEAR OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF SOLUTIONS
Authors: KOKHKHAROV A. M. , ZAKHIDOV E. A. , GOFUROV SH. P. , BAKHRAMOV S. A. , MAKHMANOV U. K.
Published: October 2013

Nonlinear optical rotation of elliptically polarized laser pulses (λ = 532 nm, τFWHM ~ 12 ns) in benzene, toluene and binary (toluene+acetonitrile) solutions of fullerene C 70–D5h(6) has been investigated experimentally. High-resolution transmission electron microscope studies of C 70-solutions showed stable ball-shaped C 70-clusters formation in toluene+acetonitrile mixtures. It has been demonstrated, that the C 70-clusters sizes depend on initial concentration of C 70, as well as volume fraction of acetonitrile in solvent mixture. The most probable model of C 70-clusterization in solutions was proposed. Correlations between the processes of nonlinear rotation of polarization ellipse, change of electronic absorption spectra and C 70-clusters formation in solutions have been demonstrated. Physical mechanisms of laser-induced optical activity in C 70-solutions have been discussed. The values of the nonlinear Kerr coefficient (n2) and nonlinear susceptibility component [Formula: see text] of C 70-solutions in: toluene, benzene with various polarization ellipticity (θ = 0.2-0.8), and toluene+acetonitrile at different concentrations of C 70 for various volume fractions of acetonitrile have been determined.
Role of ZnO in Dc Electrical Conductivity of Lithium Bismuthate Glasses
Authors: Bale Shashidhar , Rahman Syed
Published: October 2013

Glasses of various compositions belonging to the Bi2O3-B2O3-ZnO-Li2O quaternary system were prepared using melt quench technique. Dc electric measurements were done on the samples, and activation energies are determined. Arrhenius plots showed straight line behaviour. It is observed that the conductivity of the samples increased with temperature and also with Li2O content, whereas the activation energy decreased with Li2O content. The isothermal plots for constant ZnO and constant Bi2O3glasses revealed that the conduction in these glasses is due to lithium ions only. The isothermal plots for constant lithium containing glasses varied nonlinearly with two maxima, which is attributed to mixed former effect. The variation is explained based on Anderson-Stuart model.
Serum Prolidase Activity, Oxidant and Antioxidant Status in Nonulcer Dyspepsia and Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Kumari Shweta , Verma Akhilesh Kumar , Rungta Sumit , Mitra Rahul , Srivastava Ragini , Kumar Narender
Published: October 2013

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)infection is associated with increased oxidative stress and serum prolidase activity (SPA) in many diseases. We aimed to observe SPA and oxidative stress in nonulcer dyspepsia (NUD) infected with and withoutH. pyloriamong eastern Indians. 106 patients withH. pyloripositive NUD, 82 patients withH. pylorinegative NUD, and 50 healthy individuals were selected. SPA, total antioxidant capacity (TAOC), and total oxidant status (TOS) were measured with the use of spectrophotometer and an automated measurement method. SPA, TOS, and oxidative stress index (OSI) were significantly higher in patients withH. pyloripositive thanH. pylorinegative NUD and healthy individuals (all ), whereas TAOC was significantly lower (). Nonsignificant, increased SPA ( value = 0.6083) and decreased TAOC ( value = 0.1186) were observed in patients withH. pylorinegative NUD than healthy individuals, while increased TOS and OSI were significant (). Weak, nonsignificant correlations were observed between serum prolidase activity and TAOC, TOS, and OSI inH. pyloripositive cases. Thus, increased SPA along with increased oxidative stress was observed, which seem to be closely associated withH. pyloriinfection. SPA and oxidative stress seem to be used as biomarkers forH. pyloriinfection in NUD.
A Study of Self-Burial of a Radioactive Waste Container by Deep Rock Melting
Authors: Chen Wenzhen , Hao Jianli , Chen Zhiyun
Published: October 2013

Aiming at the problem of radioactive waste disposal, the concept and mechanism of self-burial by deep rock melting are presented. The rationality and feasibility of self-burial by deep rock melting are analyzed by comparing with deep geological burial. The heat threshold during the process of contact melting around a spherical heat source is defined. The descent velocities and burial depths of spherical waste containers with varying radius are calculated. The calculated depth is much smaller than that obtained in the related literature. The scheme is compared with the deep geological burial that is currently carried out by the main nuclear countries. It is found that, at the end of melting, a radioactive waste container can reach deep strata that are isolated from groundwater.
Assessment of a Low-Cost Ultrasound Pericardiocentesis Model
Authors: Campo dell'Orto Marco , Hempel Dorothea , Starzetz Agnieszka , Seibel Armin , Hannemann Ulf , Walcher Felix , Breitkreutz Raoul
Published: October 2013

Introduction. The use of ultrasound during resuscitation is emphasized in the latest European resuscitation council guidelines of 2013 to identify treatable conditions such as pericardial tamponade. The recommended standard treatment of tamponade in various guidelines is pericardiocentesis. As ultrasound guidance lowers the complication rates and increases the patient’s safety, pericardiocentesis should be performed under ultrasound guidance. Acute care physicians actually need to train emergency pericardiocentesis.Methods. We describe in detail a pericardiocentesis ultrasound model, using materials at a cost of about 60 euros. During training courses of focused echocardiographyn=67,participants tested the phantom and completed a 16-item questionnaire, assessing the model using a visual analogue scale (VAS).Results. Eleven of fourteen questions were answered with a mean VAS score higher than 60% and thus regarded as showing the strengths of the model. Unrealistically outer appearance and heart shape were rated as weakness of the model. A total mean VAS score of all questions of 63% showed that participants gained confidence for further interventions.Conclusions. Our low-cost pericardiocentesis model, which can be easily constructed, may serve as an effective training tool of ultrasound-guided pericardiocentesis for acute and critical care physicians.
Determination of Fetal State from Cardiotocogram Using LS-SVM with Particle Swarm Optimization and Binary Decision Tree
Authors: Yılmaz Ersen , Kılıkçıer Çağlar
Published: October 2013

We use least squares support vector machine (LS-SVM) utilizing a binary decision tree for classification of cardiotocogram to determine the fetal state. The parameters of LS-SVM are optimized by particle swarm optimization. The robustness of the method is examined by running 10-fold cross-validation. The performance of the method is evaluated in terms of overall classification accuracy. Additionally, receiver operation characteristic analysis and cobweb representation are presented in order to analyze and visualize the performance of the method. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method achieves a remarkable classification accuracy rate of 91.62%.
Single Incision Laparoscopic Total Gastrectomy and D2 Lymph Node Dissection for Gastric Cancer Using a Four-Access Single Port: The First Experience
Authors: Ertem Metin , Ozveri Emel , Gok Hakan , Ozben Volkan
Published: October 2013

Single incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) and natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) have been developed to reduce the invasiveness of laparoscopic surgery. SILS has been frequently applied in various clinical settings, such as cholecystectomy, colectomy, and sleeve gastrectomy. So far, there have been four reports on single incision laparoscopic distal gastrectomy and one report on single incision laparoscopic total gastrectomy with D1 lymph node dissection for gastric cancer. In this report, we present our single incision laparoscopic total gastrectomy with D2 lymph node dissection technique using a four-hole single port (OctoPort) in a patient with gastric cancer.
Complications of Bezoar in Children: What Is New?
Authors: Lun Ellis Hon Kam , Cheng Jean , Chow Chung Mo , Ming Cheung Hon , Cheung Kam Lau , Tam Yuk Him , Leung Alexander K. C.
Published: October 2013

A bezoar is a mass found trapped in the gastrointestinal system. The condition may be associated with pica, especially in developmentally retarded children. Clinical manifestations are usually nonspecific. Endoscopic diagnosis and removal of the foreign materials is often indicated. Occasionally, severe complications may occur. We report two cases to illustrate the clinical features and complications in these children. In the first case, a reliable history was not obtained in the developmentally delayed girl which precluded prompt diagnosis, but the grossly dilated stomach on plain abdominal radiograph gave clues to an underlying insidious mechanical obstruction of upper gastrointestinal tract. In the second case of a normal child, the unrelenting symptoms and weight loss prompt further investigations which revealed the diagnosis. Literature on pediatric bezoar is reviewed. Oesophagoduodenoscopy is the investigation of choice for diagnostic confirmation, but surgical facilities must be available to deal with acute complications.
Isolation and Screening of Polyhydroxyalkanoates Producing Bacteria from Pulp, Paper, and Cardboard Industry Wastes
Authors: Bhuwal Anish Kumari , Singh Gulab , Aggarwal Neeraj Kumar , Goyal Varsha , Yadav Anita
Published: October 2013

Background. Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are storage materials that accumulate by various bacteria as energy and carbon reserve materials. They are biodegradable, environmentally friendly, and also biocompatible bioplastics. Unlike petrochemical-based plastics that take several decades to fully degrade, PHAs can be completely degraded within a year by variety of microorganisms into CO2and water. In the present study, we aim to utilize pulp, paper, and cardboard industry sludge and waste water for the isolation and screening of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) accumulating bacteria and production of cost-effective PHB using cardboard industry waste water.Results. A total of 42 isolates showed black-blue coloration when stained with Sudan black B, a preliminary screening agent for lipophilic compounds, and a total of 15 isolates showed positive result with Nile blue A staining, a more specific dye for PHA granules. The isolates NAP11 and NAC1 showed maximum PHA production 79.27% and 77.63% with polymer concentration of 5.236 g/L and 4.042 g/L with cardboard industry waste water. Both of the selected isolates, NAP11 and NAC1, were classified up to genus level by studying their morphological and biochemical characteristics and were found to beEnterococcus sp., Brevundimonas sp.and, respectively.Conclusion. The isolatesEnterococcus sp. NAP11 andBrevundimonas sp. NAC1 can be considered as good candidates for industrial production of PHB from cardboard industry waste water. We are reporting for the first time the use of cardboard industry waste water as a cultivation medium for the PHB production.
Rikkunshito, a Japanese Kampo Medicine, Ameliorates Decreased Feeding Behavior via Ghrelin and Serotonin 2B Receptor Signaling in a Novelty Stress Murine Model
Authors: Yamada Chihiro , Saegusa Yayoi , Nakagawa Koji , Ohnishi Shunsuke , Muto Shuichi , Nahata Miwa , Sadakane Chiharu , Hattori Tomohisa , Sakamoto Naoya , Takeda Hiroshi
Published: October 2013

We investigated the effects of rikkunshito (RKT), a ghrelin signal enhancer, on the decrease in food intake after exposure to novelty stress in mice. RKT administration (500 mg/kg,per os) improved the decrease in 6 h cumulative food intake. In control mice, the plasma acylated ghrelin levels significantly increased by 24 h fasting. In contrast, the acylated ghrelin levels did not increase by fasting in mice exposed to the novelty stress. RKT administration to the novelty stress mice showed a significant increase in the acylated ghrelin levels compared with that in the distilled-water-treated control mice. Food intake after administering serotonin 2B (5-HT2B) receptor antagonists was evaluated to clarify the role of 5-HT2Breceptor activation in the decrease in feeding behavior after novelty stress. SB215505 and SB204741, 5-HT2Breceptor antagonists, significantly improved the decrease in food intake after exposure to novelty stress. A component of RKT, isoliquiritigenin, prevented the decrease in 6 h cumulative food intake. Isoliquiritigenin showed 5-HT2Breceptor antagonistic activityin vitro.In conclusion, the results suggested that RKT improves the decrease in food intake after novelty stress probably via 5-HT2Breceptor antagonism of isoliquiritigenin contained in RKT.
No Link between Breast Cancer and Meningioma: Results from a Large Monoinstitutional Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Criscitiello Carmen , Disalvatore Davide , Santangelo Michele , Rotmensz Nicole , Bazolli Barbara , Maisonneuve Patrick , Goldhirsch Aron , Curigliano Giuseppe
Published: October 2013

Background: The etiology of meningioma is largely unknown, although breast cancer has been suggested to play a role.

Methods: A monoinstitutional, retrospective analysis was performed at European Institute of Oncology on 12,330 patients with breast cancer. The cumulative incidence of meningioma was estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method and the log-rank test was used to assess differences between groups.

Results: In total, 33 patients with meningioma were identified from a study population of 12,330, with a 10-year cumulative incidence of meningioma of 0.37%. We did not find a significantly increased risk of meningioma among patients with breast cancer or an association between the hormonal receptor status and the risk of meningioma (P = 0.65).

Conclusions: Our results do not support a role of breast cancer or endocrine treatments in meningioma development.

Impact: This analysis adds new information on a debated topic. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(1); 215–7. ©2013 AACR.
Diffuse Pontine Lesions in Children with Neurofibromatosis Type 1: Making a Case for Unidentified Bright Objects
Authors: Hervey-Jumper Shawn L. , Singla Nirmish , Gebarski Stephen S. , Robertson Patricia , Maher Cormac O.
Published: October 2013

Using an illustrative case of a presumed pontine unidentified bright object (UBO) with spontaneous lesion regression over 2 years, we review the importance of including UBOs in the differential diagnosis of children with confirmed or possible neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) who present with diffuse pontine enlargement and T2-weighted changes on MRI. Asymptomatic children with presumed NF1 and diffuse pontine lesions should not be treated with radiation and should not be biopsied. Prior reports of good prognosis associated with pontine glioma in patients with NF1 may have been unrecognized UBOs in some cases.
Sequential Chemotherapies for Advanced Gastric Cancer: A Retrospective Analysis of 111 Patients
Authors: Elsing Christoph , Herrmann Christina , Hannig Carla Verena , Stremmel Wolfgang , Jäger Dirk , Herrmann Thomas
Published: October 2013

Background: The role of second-line chemotherapy in advanced gastric cancer is not yet fully established. Patients and Methods: We analysed 111 patients with advanced gastric cancer treated at the University Hospital Heidelberg (51) and the private oncology practice Bottrop/Dorsten (60) between 2001 and 2011, comparing the outcome of patients with first-line chemotherapy and those who received second-line chemotherapy. Results: Thirty-six patients were treated with one chemotherapy regimen, 75 patients received at least two different chemotherapies. Patients who received one chemotherapy regimen were older (median age 69 years) and had a shorter overall survival (6 months) than patients receiving sequential chemotherapies [median age 61 years, p = 0.009, overall survival 14 months (2-42), p = 0.001]. Under second-line chemotherapy, partial response was observed in 25 patients (33%) and stable disease for ≥3 months in 26 patients (35%). Patients treated before 2005 had a slightly better overall survival than patients treated in or after 2005. Survival was not influenced by the treatment centre (primary or tertiary), but was influenced by former surgery. Conclusion: The prognosis of advanced gastric cancer is still poor. Selected patients may benefit from individualized salvage chemotherapy after failure of first-line chemotherapy.
Loss of the Eukaryotic Initiation Factor 2α Kinase General Control Nonderepressible 2 Protects Mice From Pressure Overload–Induced Congestive Heart Failure Without Affecting Ventricular Hypertrophy
Authors: Lu Zhongbing , Xu Xin , Fassett John , Kwak Dongmin , Liu Xiaoyu , Hu Xinli , Wang Huan , Guo Haipeng , Xu Dachun , Yan Shuo , McFalls Edward O. , Lu Fei , Bache Robert J. , Chen Yingjie
Published: October 2013

In response to several stresses, including nutrient deprivation, general control nonderepressible 2 kinase (GCN2) attenuates mRNA translation by phosphorylating eukaryotic initiation factor 2α
Ser51
. Energy starvation is known to exacerbate congestive heart failure, and eukaryotic initiation factor 2α
Ser51
phosphorylation is increased in the failing heart. However, the effect of GCN2 during the evolution of congestive heart failure has not been tested. In this study, we examined the influence of GCN2 expression in response to a cardiac stress by inducing chronic pressure overload with transverse aortic constriction in wild-type and GCN2 knockout mice. Under basal conditions, GCN2 knockout mice had normal left ventricular structure and function, but after transverse aortic constriction, they demonstrated less contractile dysfunction, less increase in lung weight, less increase in lung inflammation and vascular remodeling, and less myocardial apoptosis and fibrosis compared with wild-type mice, despite an equivalent degree of left ventricular hypertrophy. As expected, GCN2 knockout attenuated transverse aortic constriction–induced cardiac eukaryotic initiation factor 2α
Ser51
phosphorylation and preserved sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca
2+
ATPase expression compared with wild-type mice. Interestingly, the expression of the antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2 was significantly elevated in GCN2 knockout hearts, whereas in isolated neonatal cardiomyocytes, selective knockdown of GCN2 increased Bcl-2 protein expression and enhanced myocyte resistance to an apoptotic stress. Collectively, our data support the notion that GCN2 impairs the ventricular adaptation to chronic pressure overload by reducing Bcl-2 expression and increasing cardiomyocyte susceptibility to apoptotic stimuli. Our findings suggest that strategies to reduce GCN2 activity in cardiac tissue may be a novel approach to attenuate congestive heart failure development.
Resting State Correlates of Subdimensions of Anxious Affect
Authors: Bijsterbosch Janine , Smith Stephen , Forster Sophie , John Oliver P. , Bishop Sonia J.
Published: October 2013

Resting state fMRI may help identify markers of risk for affective disorder. Given the comorbidity of anxiety and depressive disorders and the heterogeneity of these disorders as defined by DSM, an important challenge is to identify alterations in resting state brain connectivity uniquely associated with distinct profiles of negative affect. The current study aimed to address this by identifying differences in brain connectivity specifically linked to cognitive and physiological profiles of anxiety, controlling for depressed affect. We adopted a two-stage multivariate approach. Hierarchical clustering was used to independently identify dimensions of negative affective style and resting state brain networks. Combining the clustering results, we examined individual differences in resting state connectivity uniquely associated with subdimensions of anxious affect, controlling for depressed affect. Physiological and cognitive subdimensions of anxious affect were identified. Physiological anxiety was associated with widespread alterations in insula connectivity, including decreased connectivity between insula subregions and between the insula and other medial frontal and subcortical networks. This is consistent with the insula facilitating communication between medial frontal and subcortical regions to enable control of physiological affective states. Meanwhile, increased connectivity within a frontoparietal–posterior cingulate cortex–precunous network was specifically associated with cognitive anxiety, potentially reflecting increased spontaneous negative cognition (e.g., worry). These findings suggest that physiological and cognitive anxiety comprise subdimensions of anxiety-related affect and reveal associated alterations in brain connectivity.
South Pacific Ocean Dipole: A Predictable Mode on Multiseasonal Time Scales
Authors: Guan Yuanhong , Zhu Jieshun , Huang Bohua , Hu Zeng-Zhen , Kinter III James L.
Published: October 2013

Evaluating the climate hindcasts for 1982–2009 from the NCEP CFS Reanalysis and Reforecast (CFSRR) project using the Climate Forecast System, version 2 (CFSv2), this study identifies substantial areas of high prediction skill of the sea surface temperature (SST) in the South Pacific. The skill is the highest in the extratropical oceans on seasonal-to-interannual time scales, and it is only slightly lower than that for the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO). Two regions with the highest prediction skills in the South Pacific in both the CFSv2 and persistence hindcasts coincide with the active centers of opposite signs in the South Pacific Ocean dipole (SPOD) mode, a seesaw between the subtropical and extratropical SST in the South Pacific with a strong phase locking to austral summer. Interestingly, the CFSv2 prediction exhibits skillful predictions made three seasons ahead, more superior to the persistence forecast, suggesting significant dynamical predictability of the SPOD. An austral “spring predictability barrier” is noted in both the dynamical and persistence hindcasts. An analysis of the observational and model data suggests that the SPOD mode is significantly associated with ENSO, as an oceanic response to the atmospheric planetary wave trains forced by the anomalous atmospheric heating in the western Pacific. Although previous studies have demonstrated that the pattern of subtropical SST dipole is ubiquitous in the Southern Ocean, the SPOD has been least known and studied, compared with its counterparts in the south Indian and Atlantic Oceans. Since the SPOD is the most predictable oceanic mode in the whole Southern Hemisphere, its climate effects for local and remote regions should be further studied.
Tapping Into the Complexity
Authors: Bermúdez J. Maria , Sharp Elizabeth A. , Taniguchi Narumi
Published: October 2013

Drawing on ambivalent sexism and Chicana feminist theories, the purpose of the study was to explore ambivalent sexism and traditional relational scripts among a regional sample of 141 Hispanic young adults. Data derived from self-report questionnaires indicated that men scored higher on hostile sexism and traditional relational scripts but not on benevolent sexism. Structural equation modeling with maximum likelihood procedure was applied and path analyses indicated that, for both men and women, higher endorsement of benevolent and hostile sexism predicted higher traditional dating scripts and family roles. Gender made a difference only in relation to hostile sexism on traditional dating scripts, with men having a stronger association than women. Women’s strongest path was between hostile sexism and family scripts. We discuss these nuanced gendered differences between dating and family relationships as well as stereotypical gendered and cultural notions of Hispanic values. Implications are considered.
The Málaga urban dataset: High-rate stereo and LiDAR in a realistic urban scenario
Authors: Blanco-Claraco José-Luis , Moreno-Dueñas Francisco-Ángel , González-Jiménez Javier
Published: October 2013

This paper introduces a dataset gathered entirely in urban scenarios with a car equipped with one stereo camera and five laser scanners, among other sensors. One distinctive feature of the present dataset is the existence of high-resolution stereo images grabbed at a high rate (20 fps) during a 36.8 km trajectory, which allows the benchmarking of a variety of computer vision techniques. We describe the sensors employed and highlight some applications which could be benchmarked using the present work. Both plain text and binary files are provided, as well as open-source tools for working with the binary versions. The dataset is available for download at http://www.mrpt.org/MalagaUrbanDataset .
Clinical Outcomes After Cell-Seeded Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation of the Knee
Authors: Pestka Jan M. , Bode Gerrit , Salzmann Gian , Steinwachs Mathias , Schmal Hagen , Südkamp Norbert P. , Niemeyer Philipp
Published: October 2013

Background:

Autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) has been associated with satisfying results. Still, it remains unclear when success or failure after ACI can be estimated.

Purpose:

To evaluate the clinical outcomes of cell-seeded collagen matrix–supported ACI (ACI-Cs) for the treatment of cartilage defects of the knee at 36 months and to determine a time point after ACI-Cs at which success or failure can be estimated.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A total of 80 patients with isolated full-thickness cartilage defects of the knee joint treated with ACI-Cs were prospectively assessed before surgery as well as postoperatively by use of the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score and Lysholm knee score.

Results:

Preoperative IKDC and Lysholm scores increased from 49.6 and 59.5, respectively, to 79.1 and 83.5, respectively, at 36 months. Only half the patients (46.6%) with poor IKDC scores (ie, <70) at 6 months postoperatively showed continued poor or fair scores at 36 months’ follow-up. The probability of poor scores at 36 months after surgery further increased to 0.61 and 0.81, respectively, when scores were persistent at 12 and 24 months. All 3 patients (100%) with good IKDC scores (ie, 81-90) at 6 months after surgery showed constant or even improved scores at 36 months’ follow-up. Ninety-one percent of patients with good and excellent scores at 12 months and 83% of patients with good and excellent scores at 24 months (a total of 23 and 37 patients, respectively) were able to maintain these scores at 36 months’ follow-up. Similar results were obtained for the Lysholm score.

Conclusion:

With regard to the improvements in functional outcomes after ACI-Cs at 36 months after surgery, the technique described here appears to lead to satisfying and stable clinical results. This study helps the treating physician to predict the likeliness of further clinical improvements or constant unsatisfactory results after ACI. In patients with good/excellent scores shortly after surgery, deterioration of the knee’s condition is rarely found. For patients with poor and fair postoperative scores, clinical outcomes are more difficult to predict, especially during the first year after the procedure.
Repulsive force control of minimally invasive surgery robot associated with three degrees of freedom electrorheological fluid-based haptic master
Authors: Lee Sang-Rock , Uhm Chang-Ho , Seong Min-Sang , Oh Jong-Seok , Choi Seung-Bok
Published: October 2013

This paper presents a repulsive force feedback control in a haptic master–slave robot-assisted system for robot minimally invasive surgery. In general, the haptic master can provide position and force information for superior performance and reliability in master–slave robot-assisted interventions for a surgeon. In order to realize this potential, in this work three degrees of freedom electrorheological haptic master is adopted and associated with a four degrees of freedom slave robot. The haptic master featuring controllable electrorheological fluid is featured by a spherical joint mechanism and the slave robot is controlled by servomotors. After designing a user interface that is capable of providing force feedback in all the degrees of freedom available during robot minimally invasive surgery, the dynamic model of the haptic master is analyzed and the model parameters are identified to evaluate control performance of the haptic master on skin- and cancer-like tissues (palpation). Subsequently, the haptic architecture for robot minimally invasive surgery is established and experimentally implemented so that the reflection force for the object of the slave robot and the desired position for the master operator are transferred to each other. In order to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed system, repulsive force tracking control performances are evaluated and presented in time domain.