bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alternative Antimicrobial Approach: Nano-Antimicrobial Materials
Authors: Beyth Nurit , Houri-Haddad Yael , Domb Avi , Khan Wahid , Hazan Ronen
Published: March 2015

Despite numerous existing potent antibiotics and other antimicrobial means, bacterial infections are still a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Moreover, the need to develop additional bactericidal means has significantly increased due to the growing concern regarding multidrug-resistant bacterial strains and biofilm associated infections. Consequently, attention has been especially devoted to new and emerging nanoparticle-based materials in the field of antimicrobial chemotherapy. The present review discusses the activities of nanoparticles as an antimicrobial means, their mode of action, nanoparticle effect on drug-resistant bacteria, and the risks attendant on their use as antibacterial agents. Factors contributing to nanoparticle performance in the clinical setting, their unique properties, and mechanism of action as antibacterial agents are discussed in detail.
New Set-Valued Integral in a Banach Space
Authors: Zhou Cai-Li , Shi Fu-Gui
Published: March 2015

We introduce and study a new set-valued integral of scalar-valued functions with respect to a set-valued measure in a Banach space. We investigate some properties and convergence theorems for this kind of integral.
A Novel Method for Solving the Fully Fuzzy Bilevel Linear Programming Problem
Authors: Ren Aihong
Published: March 2015

We address a fully fuzzy bilevel linear programming problem in which all the coefficients and variables of both objective functions and constraints are expressed as fuzzy numbers. This paper is to develop a new method to deal with the fully fuzzy bilevel linear programming problem by applying interval programming method. To this end, we first discretize membership grade of fuzzy coefficients and fuzzy decision variables of the problem into a finite number ofα-level sets. By usingα-level sets of fuzzy numbers, the fully fuzzy bilevel linear programming problem is transformed into an interval bilevel linear programming problem for eachα-level set. The main idea to solve the obtained interval bilevel linear programming problem is to convert the problem into two deterministic subproblems which correspond to the lower and upper bounds of the upper level objective function. Based on theKth-best algorithm, the two subproblems can be solved sequentially. Based on a series ofα-level sets, we introduce a linear piecewise trapezoidal fuzzy number to approximate the optimal value of the upper level objective function of the fully fuzzy bilevel linear programming problem. Finally, a numerical example is provided to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed approach.
Compressive Background Modeling for Foreground Extraction
Authors: Wang Yong , Lu Qian , Wang Dianhong , Liu Wei
Published: March 2015

Robust and efficient foreground extraction is a crucial topic in many computer vision applications. In this paper, we propose an accurate and computationally efficient background subtraction method. The key idea is to reduce the data dimensionality of image frame based on compressive sensing and in the meanwhile apply sparse representation to build the current background by a set of preceding background images. According to greedy iterative optimization, the background image and background subtracted image can be recovered by using a few compressive measurements. The proposed method is validated through multiple challenging video sequences. Experimental results demonstrate the fact that the performance of our approach is comparable to those of existing classical background subtraction techniques.
Transurethral Incision of the Bladder Neck in a Woman with Primary Bladder Neck Obstruction after Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Markić Dean , Valenčić Maksim , Maričić Anton , Krpina Kristian , Rahelić Dražen , Ahel Juraj , Rubinić Nino , Orlić Lidija , Rački Sanjin
Published: March 2015

Voiding dysfunction is frequently seen in the early posttransplant period. Among other causes, this condition can arise due to bladder outlet obstruction. Primary bladder neck obstruction (PBNO) is a possible but very rare cause of bladder outlet obstruction. We present the case of a 52-year-old woman who, after kidney transplantation, presented with PBNO. The diagnosis was established based on symptoms, uroflowmetry, and multichannel urodynamics with electromyography. The transurethral incision of the bladder neck was made at the 5- and 7-o’clock position. After the operation, the maximal flow rate was significantly increased, and postvoid residual urine was decreased compared to the preoperative findings. The patient was followed for 5 years, and her voiding improvement is persistent. This is the first reported case of PBNO treated with a transurethral incision of the bladder neck in a posttransplantation female patient.
Full Anatomical Recovery of the Dopaminergic System after a Complete Spinal Cord Injury in Lampreys
Authors: Fernández-López Blanca , Romaus-Sanjurjo Daniel , Cornide-Petronio María Eugenia , Gómez-Fernández Sonia , Barreiro-Iglesias Antón , Rodicio María Celina
Published: March 2015

Following a spinal injury, lampreys at first are paralyzed below the level of transection. However, they recover locomotion after several weeks, and this is accompanied by the regeneration of descending axons from the brain and the production of new neurons in the spinal cord. Here, we aimed to analyse the changes in the dopaminergic system of the sea lamprey after a complete spinal transection by studying the changes in dopaminergic cell numbers and dopaminergic innervation in the spinal cord. Changes in the expression of the D2 receptor were also studied. We report the full anatomical regeneration of the dopaminergic system after an initial decrease in the number of dopaminergic cells and fibres. Numbers of dopaminergic cells were recovered rostrally and caudally to the site of injury. Quantification of dopaminergic profiles revealed the full recovery of the dopaminergic innervation of the spinal cord rostral and caudal to the site of injury. Interestingly, no changes in the expression of the D2 receptor were observed at time points in which a reduced dopaminergic innervation of the spinal cord was observed. Our observations reveal that in lampreys a spinal cord injury is followed by the full anatomical recovery of the dopaminergic system.
Incompressible Limit for the Compressible Flows of Nematic Liquid Crystals in the Whole Space
Authors: Kwon Young-Sam
Published: March 2015

We consider the compressible flows of liquid crystals arising in a variety of scientific examples. We here study the incompressible limit of weak solutions of the compressible flows of nematic liquid crystals in the whole spaceR2.
Safety and Efficacy of Combined Yttrium 90 Resin Radioembolization with Aflibercept and FOLFIRI in a Patient with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: De Souza Andre , Daly Kevin Pelham , Yoo James , Saif Muhammad Wasif
Published: March 2015

Background. When associated with isolated four or fewer liver foci, metastatic colorectal cancer is amenable to surgical resection. Alternative therapeutic methods for isolated liver metastases include radioembolization with yttrium 90 (Y90) and transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). We present here a case of a patient with two sites of liver metastatic disease from colorectal cancer who underwent Y90 radioembolization combined with aflibercept and FOLFIRI.Case Report. A 56-year-old female with history of bilateral breast cancer and metastatic colon cancer with prior hemicolectomy and 4 previous chemotherapy regimens developed liver metastasis. She was started on aflibercept and FOLFIRI and concurrently underwent two treatments of radioembolization with Y90, initially targeting the largest right lobe tumor, and then a subsequent treatment targeting the smaller left lobe tumor with retreatment of the right lobe tumor. Her liver metastases exhibited partial response on imaging utilizing the modified RECIST criteria. Interestingly, the patient CEA levels decreased after the procedure.Discussion. This is the first reported case of a patient managed with radioembolization with Y90 combined with aflibercept, an anti-VEGF treatment, and FOLFIRI. An ongoing randomized clinical trial aims to define the role of combined targeted therapy and chemotherapy with radioembolization with Y90.
Stabilities for Nonisentropic Euler‐Poisson Equations
Authors: Cheung Ka Luen , Wong Sen
Published: March 2015

We establish the stabilities and blowup results for the nonisentropic Euler‐Poisson equations by the energy method. By analysing the second inertia, we show that the classical solutions of the system with attractive forces blow up in finite time in some special dimensions when the energy is negative. Moreover, we obtain the stabilities results for the system in the cases of attractive and repulsive forces.
Control for the Three-Phase Four-Wire Four-Leg APF Based on SVPWM and Average Current Method
Authors: Li Xiangshun , Lu Jianghua
Published: March 2015

A novel control method is proposed for the three-phase four-wire four-leg active power filter (APF) to realize the accurate and real-time compensation of harmonic of power system, which combines space vector pulse width modulation (SVPWM) with triangle modulation strategy. Firstly, the basic principle of the APF is briefly described. Then the harmonic and reactive currents are derived by the instantaneous reactive power theory. Finally simulation and experiment are built to verify the validity and effectiveness of the proposed method. The simulation results show that the response time for compensation is about 0.025 sec and the total harmonic distortion (THD) of the source current of phaseAis reduced from 33.38% before compensation to 3.05% with APF.
Artificial Neural Networks for Estimating Soil Water Retention Curve Using Fitted and Measured Data
Authors: Moreira de Melo Tirzah , Pedrollo Olavo Correa
Published: March 2015

Artificial neural networks for estimating the soil water retention curve have been developed considering measured data and require a large quantity of soil samples because only retention curve data obtained for the same set of matric potentials can be used. In order to preclude this drawback, we present two ANN models which tested the performance of ANNs trained with fitted water contents data. These models were compared to a recent new ANN approach for predicting water retention curve, the pseudocontinuous pedotransfer functions (PTFs), which is also an attempt to deal with limited data. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis was carried out to verify the influence of each input parameter on each output. Results showed that fitted ANNs provided similar statistical indexes in predicting water contents to those obtained by the pseudocontinuous method. Sensitivity analysis revealed that bulk density and porosity are the most important parameters for predicting water contents in wet regime, whereas sand and clay contents are more significant in drier conditions. The sensitivity analysis for the pseudocontinuous method demonstrated that the natural logarithm of the matric potential became the most important parameter, and the influences of all other inputs were reduced to be not relevant, except the bulk density.
Fat Necrosis of the Breast: A Pictorial Review of the Mammographic, Ultrasound, CT, and MRI Findings with Histopathologic Correlation
Authors: Kerridge William D. , Kryvenko Oleksandr N. , Thompson Afua , Shah Biren A.
Published: March 2015

Fat necrosis of the breast is a challenging diagnosis due to the various appearances on mammography, ultrasound, CT, PET-CT, and MRI. Although mammography is more specific, ultrasound is a very important tool in making the diagnosis of fat necrosis. MRI has a wide spectrum of findings for fat necrosis and the appearance is the result of the amount of the inflammatory reaction, the amount of liquefied fat, and the degree of fibrosis. While CT and PET-CT are not first line imaging examinations for the diagnosis of breast cancer or fat necrosis, they are frequently performed in the surveillance and staging of disease. Knowledge of how fat necrosis presents on these additional imaging techniques is important to prevent misinterpretation of the imaging findings. Gross and microscopic appearances of fat necrosis depend on the age of the lesion; the histologic examination of fat necrosis is usually straightforward. Knowledge of the variable appearances of fat necrosis on a vast array of imaging modalities will enhance a radiologist’s accuracy in the analysis and interpretation of fat necrosis versus other diagnoses.
Development of a Xeno-Free Substrate for Human Embryonic Stem Cell Growth
Authors: Zhu Hailin , Yang Jinliang , Wei Yuquan , Chen Harry Huimin
Published: March 2015

Traditionally, human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) are cultured on inactivated live feeder cells. For clinical application using hESCs, there is a requirement to minimize the risk of contamination with animal components. Extracellular matrix (ECM) derived from feeder cells is the most natural way to provide xeno-free substrates for hESC growth. In this study, we optimized the step-by-step procedure for ECM processing to develop a xeno-free ECM that supports the growth of undifferentiated hESCs. In addition, this newly developed xeno-free substrate can be stored at 4°C and is ready to use upon request, which serves as an easier way to amplify hESCs for clinical applications.
Shearlet-Wavelet Regularized Semismooth Newton Iteration for Image Restoration
Authors: Ding Liang , Zhao Xueru
Published: March 2015

Image normally has both dots-like and curve structures. But the traditional wavelet or multidirectional wave (ridgelet, contourlet, curvelet, etc.) could only restore one of these structures efficiently so that the restoration results for complex images are unsatisfactory. For the image restoration, this paper adopted a strategy of combined shearlet and wavelet frame and proposed a new restoration method. Theoretically, image sparse representation of dots-like and curve structures could be achieved by shearlet and wavelet, respectively. Under theL1regularization, the two frame-sparse structures could show their respective advantages and efficiently restore the two structures. In order to achieve superlinear convergence, this paper applied semismooth Newton method based on subgradient to solve objective functional without differentiability. Finally, through numerical results, the effectiveness of this strategy was validated, which presented outstanding advantages for any individual frame alone. Some detailed information that could not be restored in individual frame could be clearly demonstrated with this strategy.
Evaluation of the Inflammatory Response in Macrophages Stimulated with Exosomes Secreted byMycobacterium avium-Infected Macrophages
Authors: Wang Jianjun , Yao Yongliang , Xiong Jing , Wu Jianhong , Tang Xin , Li Guangxin
Published: March 2015

Exosomes secreted fromMycobacterium avium-infected macrophages contain numerous antigens of bothM. aviumand the host cell and are involved in the induction and expression of the inflammatory responses in macrophages. The interaction between exosomes secreted fromM. avium-infected macrophages and macrophage phagocytosis, cytokine secretion, immunostimulation, and apoptosis was analyzed. Upon stimulation with exosomes secreted fromM. avium-infected macrophages, the phagocytosis of dextran by treated macrophages was increased. Furthermore, the expression of CD40, CD80, CD81, CD86, HLA-DR, and most notably CD195 was enhanced. Additionally, the secretion of IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IFN-γ, and TNF-αwas increased by stimulated macrophages. Exosome stimulation did not induce macrophage apoptosis when compared with macrophages infected withM. avium. Caspase expression, including that of caspases 3, 6, and 8, was also not altered in exosome stimulated macrophages. Thus exosomes trigger the inflammatory response in macrophages owing to the presence of bacterial antigens but have no effect on macrophage viability.
Serum Metabolites as Potential Biomarkers for Diagnosis of Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Zhang Qingmeng , Li Heng , Zhang Zhendong , Yang Fan , Chen Jiying
Published: March 2015

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a highly prevalent chronic degenerative joint disease that mainly affects the elderly population. The aim of this study was to investigate serum signature metabolites as potential biomarkers for early diagnosis of knee OA. Global serum metabolic profiles of 40 patients with knee OA and 20 healthy controls (HC) were analyzed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. An OA-specific metabolic profile was established that can clearly discriminate patients with OA from HCs. Fourteen metabolites that are involved in the metabolism of amino acids, purine, energy, glycolysis, fatty acids, and lipids were significantly altered in patients with OA compared to HCs. These metabolites could be potentially used as biomarkers for the diagnosis of knee OA.
Early Steroid-Induced Osteonecrosis of Rabbit Femoral Head andPanax notoginsengSaponins: Mechanism and Protective Effects
Authors: Qiang Hui , Liu Huitong , Ling Ming , Wang Kunzheng , Zhang Chen
Published: March 2015

Background.This study was aimed at investigating the pathogenesis of oxidative stress in steroid-induced avascular necrosis of the femoral head (SANFH) and at exploring the mechanism and protective effects ofPanax notoginsengsaponins (PNS) on early SANFH.Methods.80 adult New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into control group, model group, and PNS group. In model group, equine serum was injected into auricular vein; then methylprednisolone was injected into gluteus. In PNS group, PNS was applied for 14 consecutive days before methylprednisolone management. At different time points, serum and femoral heads were prepared for T-AOC, SOD, GSH-PX, ·OH, and MDA determination. Two weeks after steroid management, all femoral heads were assessed with MRI and HE staining.Results.Typical early osteonecrosis symptoms were observed in model group. Our results showed that PNS could significantly ameliorate the decrease of T-AOC level, improve SOD and GSH-PX activity, suppress ·OH ability, and augment MDA level. Besides, PNS improved MRI and pathological changes of the femoral head, markedly reducing the incidence of osteonecrosis.Conclusion.Based on our research, we found oxidative stress played a positive role in the occurrence of SANFH where reactive oxygen species was the direct cause. PNS could protect rabbits against early steroid-induced osteonecrosis of femoral head by its antioxidative effect.
Improved Mechanical Properties of Compatibilized Polypropylene/Polyamide-12 Blends
Authors: Aranburu Nora , Eguiazábal José Ignacio
Published: March 2015

Compatibilized blends of polypropylene (PP) and polyamide-12 (PA12) as a second component were obtained by direct injection molding having first added 20% maleic anhydride-modified copolymer (PP-g-MA) to the PP, which produced partially grafted PP (gPP). A nucleating effect of the PA12 took place on the cooling crystallization of the gPP, and a second crystallization peak of the gPP appeared in the PA12-rich blends, indicating changes in the crystalline morphology. There was a slight drop in the PA12 crystallinity of the compatible blends, whereas the crystallinity of the gPP increased significantly in the PA12-rich blends. The overall reduction in the dispersed phase particle size together with the clear increase in ductility when gPP was used instead of PP proved that compatibilization occurred. Young’s modulus of the blends showed synergistic behavior. This is proposed to be both due to a change in the crystalline morphology of the blends on the one hand and, on the other, in the PA12-rich blends, to the clear increase in the crystallinity of the gPP phase, which may, in turn, have been responsible for the increase in its continuity and its contribution to the modulus.
Effect of Packaging Films on the Quality of Canola Oil under Photooxidation Conditions
Authors: Sun Hao , Lu Li-xin , Ge Chang-feng , Tang Ya-li
Published: March 2015

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of packaging films on the quality of canola oil which contains high concentration of fat under photooxidation condition and get the oxidation kinetics based on measuring the oxidation intensities including peroxide value, hexanal, and photosensitizer (chlorophyll). The canola oil was packaged by PET/CPP; KPET/PE was used for experiments. The change of light and oxygen transmission rate (OTR) of PET/CPP which was considered as the typical fatty foods packaging film under different light intensities was also tested. The results show that the peroxide value increased rapidly under light conditions and fitted the zero order kinetics; also the oxygen transmission rate had great impact on it; hexanal fitted the zero order kinetic in oil whose package of low OTR generated a lot; however package in high OTR films changed very slowly that might be dependent on the performance of hexanal through plastic films. The degradation of chlorophyll fitted the first order kinetic and decreased quickly under light but was almost independent of OTR of transparent packaging material. Light reduced the oxygen barrier properties of the films, which should be considered as the photooxidation condition (and the photooxidation condition thus should be considered).
Optimization of Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Morphine from Capsules ofPapaver somniferumby Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Bulduk Ibrahim , Gezer Bahdışen , Cengiz Mustafa
Published: March 2015

In this study, amount of morphine from poppy capsules(Papaver somniferum)was investigated using ultrasonic assisted extraction (UAE). Response surface methodology was used to estimate effective experimental conditions on the content extraction of poppy capsules. For this purpose, solvent/solid ratio (10–20 mL/500 mg sample), pH (1–13), time (30–60 min), and temperature (30–50°C) were chosen as experimental variables. The affected response is extraction recovery values for morphine from poppy straw. For interpreting the relationship between experimental factors and response, a design table was established with combinations of three different concentrations levels of this compound in 29 trials. The second order quadratic model gave a satisfactory description of the experimental data. In our study,R-Squared (0.96), Adj-R-Squared (0.92), and PredR-Squared (0.78) values for extraction yield display good accuracy of the derived model. The predicted optimal conditions for the highest morphine level (3.38 mg morphine/500 mg-sample) were found at 19.99 mL solvent/500 mg solid ratio, 59.94 min extraction time, 1.10 pH, and 42.36°C temperature. In the optimal extraction conditions, the experimental values are very close to the predicted values. Consequently, the response surface modeling can be achieved sufficiently to predict extraction yield from poppy straw by ultrasound assisted extraction.
Functionalization of Hollow Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for Improved 5‐FU Loading
Authors: She Xiaodong , Chen Lijue , Li Chengpeng , He Canzhong , He Li , Kong Lingxue
Published: March 2015

Hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles were successfully fabricated and functionalized with appropriate silanes. After modifications, amine, carboxyl, cyano, and methyl groups were grafted onto the nanoparticles and all functionalized hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles maintained a spherical and hollow structure with a mean diameter of ~120 nm and a shell thickness of ~10 nm. The loading capacity of the hollow mesoporous silica nanoaprticles to the anticancer drug, 5‐fluorouracil, can be controlled via precise functionalization. The presence of amine groups on the surface of nanoparticles resulted in the highest loading capacity of 28.89%, due to the amine functionalized nanoparticles having a similar hydrophilicity but reverse charge to the drug. In addition, the change in pH leads to the variation of the intensity of electrostatic force between nanoparticles and the drug, which finally affects the loading capacity of amine functionalized hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles to some extent. Higher drug loading was observed at pH of 7.4 and 8.5 as 5‐fluorouracil becomes more deprotonated in alkaline conditions. The improved drug loading capacity by amine functionalized hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles has demonstrated that they can become potential intracellular 5‐fluorouracil delivery vehicles for cancers.
Analytical Calculation Method for the Preliminary Analysis of Self-Anchored Suspension Bridges
Authors: Wang Shaorui , Zhou Zhixiang , Gao Yanmei , Huang Yayi
Published: March 2015

The stiffening girder of self-anchored suspension bridge (SSB) is subjected to huge axial force because the main cable is directly anchored on the end of the stiffening girder. To obtain a simple model and accurately understand the mechanical behavior of the whole structure in preliminary design, this paper proposed an analytical calculation method considering the combined effects of the main cable-suspender-stiffening girder. On the basis of the deflection theory of the stiffening girder, the relation between the girder shape and the suspender force was explored. The relation between the main cable end force (MCEF) and the suspender force was derived through segmental catenary theory, and iteration method was further improved to avoid the divergence condition. Finally the solution was obtained through satisfying the compatibility condition. The proposed method does not need to iterate manually and can save calculation time. Examples are introduced to verify the applicability of this method, with the result that this method considers the combined effects of the main cable-suspender-stiffening girder, and the finished bridge state satisfies the minimum strain energy of the stiffening girder. Results also indicate that this method has fast convergence speed and high precision.
A Case of the Serotonin Syndrome Secondary to Phenelzine Monotherapy at Therapeutic Dosing
Authors: Malik A. , Junglee N.
Published: March 2015

A 27-year-old Caucasian female with a history of depression was admitted to our local hospital with vague events that occurred a day before. This included an episode of dysarthria, and unsteadiness, followed by feeling generally unwell. Two weeks prior to presentation she was commenced on phenelzine. During clinical assessment she suddenly deteriorated with a dramatic fall in her conscious level. Moreover, she became hyperthermic, tachycardic, and diaphoretic, and developed increased tone in all muscles and ocular clonus. Rectal diazepam was administered but failed to control the symptoms. Consequently, she was transferred to the intensive care unit for intubation and muscle relaxants were commenced. She responded well and recovered next day without complications. Her symptoms and signs were consistent with the serotonin syndrome with phenelzine being the likely cause. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case to associate the condition with phenelzine alone at therapeutic dose.
Reduced ING4 Expression Is Associated with the Malignancy of Human Bladder
Authors: Wang Yongquan , Wang Tianying , Han Yelu , Wu Heng , Zhao Wenran , Tong Dandan , Wei Lanlan , Zhong Zhaohua , An Ruihua , Wang Yan
Published: March 2015

Introduction: Inhibitor of growth 4 (ING4) is a tumor suppressor. However the role of ING4 in human bladder malignancy is unknown. In this study, ING4 expression in human bladder cancer and its potential effects were studied. Materials and Methods: ING4 expression in 47 human bladder cancer tissues and paired adjacent normal tissues was detected by Western blotting, quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, and immunohistochemistry. The migration and cell cycle progression of SV-HUC-1 and T24 cells with aberrant ING4 expression were examined. Results: ING4 protein and mRNA were significantly decreased in bladder cancer tissues. ING4 protein level was significantly lower in the group of patients over 50 years of age. ING4 knockdown caused more rapid cell migration and increased the population of SV-HUC-1 and T24 cells in the G2-M phase. Conclusion: Our data suggest a close connection between aberrant ING4 expression and the carcinogenesis of human bladder cells. ING4 may be a potential target for bladder cancer chemotherapy.
Spontaneous Hepaticoduodenal and Choledochoduodenal Fistula Mimicking Duodenal Ulcer Perforation, a Very Rare Complication of Transarterial Chemoembolization
Authors: Prachayakul Varayu , Aswakul Pitulak
Published: March 2015

Spontaneous bilo-enteric fistula is a rare complication following surgery or some therapeutic interventions such as transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). The present case was a young man, a known case of chronic hepatitis B with multiple recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma, who presented with clinical sepsis and jaundice. Computed tomography showed dilated proximal left intrahepatic ducts which suspected anastomotic stricture. He underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, but the endoscopic view showed a deep ulcer covered by yellowish debris tissue. After re-evaluation it was found to be hepaticoduodenostomy and choledochoduodenostomy tracts. In the present case the fistula was suspected to be related to a previous TACE procedure.
Intraocular Pressure in Eyes Receiving Intravitreal Antivascular Endothelial Growth Factor Injections
Authors: Lemos Vanessa , Cabugueira Ana , Noronha Manuel , Abegão Pinto Luís , Reina Maria , Branco João , Gomes Teresa
Published: March 2015

Purpose: The aim of the this study was to determine the effect of intravitreal antivascular endothelial growth factor injections on intraocular pressure (IOP) and identify possible risk factors for the development of increased IOP. Materials and Methods: This prospective study included a total of 106 eyes receiving intravitreal injection of bevacizumab as treatment for macular edema or active choroidal neovascularization. IOP was measured by Goldmann applanation tonometry immediately before the intravitreal injection and 5 min, 1 h and 15 days after the procedure. The records of the study patients were reviewed for age, gender, history of glaucoma, diabetes mellitus, phakic status, systemic and topical medication and number of previous injections. Subconjunctival reflux was registered. IOP elevation was defined as IOP ≥21 mm Hg and/or a change from baseline of ≥5 mm Hg recorded at least on two or more measurements on the same visit. Results: Mean preoperative IOP was 15.31 ± 3.90 mm Hg and postoperative IOP values were 27.27 ± 11.87 mm Hg (after 5 min), 17.59 ± 6.24 mm Hg (after 1 h) and 16.86 ± 3.62 mm Hg (after 15 days). The IOP variation was statistically significant between pre- and postoperative measurements (p < 0.05). Subconjunctival reflux was recorded in 11.3%, and in this subgroup the IOP at 5 min and at 1 h was lower than preoperative IOP (p < 0.05). Conclusions: More than one third of the eyes achieved IOPs >30 mm Hg 5 min after injection. Subconjunctival reflux contributed to a lower mean postoperative IOP (p < 0.05). Considerations for the management include prophylactic IOP lowering with medical therapy and/or preinjection ocular decompression for patients with a history of glaucoma or ocular hypertension and switching to an as-needed injection protocol in patients suffering a marked IOP rise in previous injections.
Early Identification of Pituitary Dysfunction in Congenital Nasal Pyriform Aperture Stenosis: Recommendations Based on Experience in a Single Centre
Authors: Chen Suet Ching , McDevitt Helen , Clement W. Andrew , Wynne David M. , Mason Avril , Donaldson Malcolm D.C. , Ahmed S. Faisal , Shaikh M. Guftar
Published: March 2015

Background: Congenital nasal pyriform aperture stenosis (CNPAS) is an increasingly recognised cause of upper airway obstruction associated with midline abnormalities. Studies have described pituitary dysfunction in 40% of patients. We aimed to develop guidelines for: (a) the early identification of pituitary insufficiency to minimise surgical risk and (b) to stratify patients for follow-up. Methods: Retrospective case note review of patients with CNPAS between 2000 and 2014 in a tertiary paediatric unit. Results: 20 patients (12 female:8 male) were analysed; 16 were diagnosed during the neonatal period while 4 were diagnosed later. There was no consistent approach in the evaluation of the pituitary axis at diagnosis. Pituitary dysfunction was identified in 3 (15%) patients, 2 of whom were found during evaluation of short stature in mid-late childhood. Hypoglycaemia and conjugated hyperbilirubinaemia, but not the degree of stenosis, were highly predictive of pituitary dysfunction (p < 0.05). Available height standard deviation score (SDS) data at 1 year of 70% of our patients identified both of the late-diagnosed growth hormone-deficient patients, with SDS of -2.6 and -3.6, respectively. Conclusion: All CNPAS patients should have MRI of the brain and baseline endocrine investigations at diagnosis. Growth monitoring for at least 1 year is recommended as low, or falling, height SDS at 1 year is a good predictor of pituitary dysfunction.
Bovine Pericardium for Portal Vein Reconstruction in Abdominal Surgery: A Surgical Guide and First Experiences in a Single Center
Authors: Jara Maximilian , Malinowski Maciej , Bahra Marcus , Stockmannn Martin , Schulz Antje , Pratschke Johann , Puhl Gero
Published: March 2015

Background: Resection and reconstruction of infiltrated vessels achieve resectability of extended pancreatic tumors. The aim of the present study was to assess the feasibility of bovine pericardium as graft material for the individualised portal vein reconstruction and demonstrate a surgical technique for abdominal vein repair. Methods: We performed a MEDLINE search to review the methods for complex abdominal vein reconstruction in the course of extended pancreatectomy. Moreover, clinical data of patients receiving portal vein reconstruction using a bovine pericardial patch at our institution were retrospectively analyzed. Results: Based on the results of a review of the literature, autologous venous grafts using the internal jugular vein represent the most popular option for segmental portal vein reconstruction in case of impossible direct suture. At our center, segmental portal vein reconstruction with bovine pericardial patch in course of pancreatic surgery was performed in 4 patients. No case of vascular complications such as occlusion, segmental stenosis or thrombosis occurred. Conclusions: Our experience suggests a surgical procedure for an individual size-matched portal vein reconstruction using bovine pericardium. Although first results appear promising, prospective studies are required to objectively assess the patency of bovine pericardium compared with autologous and synthetic interposition grafts for portal vein reconstruction.
Estrogen Regulates the Expression of Small-Conductance Ca2+-Activated K+ Channels in Colonic Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Tang Yu-Rong , Yang Wei-Wei , Wang Yun , Gong Yao-Yao , Jiang Liu-Qin , Lin Lin
Published: March 2015

Aim: This study aimed to determine the effects of small-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (SK) channels in colonic relaxation and the regulation of SK channels by estrogen. Methods: The contractile activity of muscle strips from male rats was estimated, and drugs including vehicle (DMSO), 17β-estradiol (E2), or apamin (SK blocker) were added, respectively. In a further experiment, muscle strips were preincubated with apamin before exposure to E2. The levels of the SK2 and SK3 protein expression in the colonic smooth muscle cells (SMCs) were detected. SMCs were treated with ICI 182780 (estrogen receptor [ER] antagonist) plus E2, BSA-E2, PPT (ERα agonist), or DPN (ERβ agonist). SK3 mRNA and protein expression levels were detected. Results: The muscle strips responded to E2 with a decrease and to apamin with a transient increase in tension. Preincubation with apamin partially prevented E2-induced relaxation. Two SK channel subtypes, SK2 and SK3, were coexpressed with α-actin in colonic SMCs. The quantitative ratio of the SK transcriptional expression in colonic SMCs was SK3 > SK2. The SK3 expression was upregulated by E2, and was downregulated by ICI 182780, but was not influenced by BSA-E2. Furthermore, the effect of PPT on the expression of SK3 was almost the same as that of E2, while DPN did not influence the protein expression of SK3. Conclusion: These findings indicate that SK3 is involved in the E2-induced relaxing effect on rat colonic smooth muscle. Furthermore, E2 upregulates the expression of SK3 in rat SMCs, and that this effect is mediated via the ERα receptor.
Cerebrospinal Fluid Biomarkers for Alzheimer's Disease in Patients with Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis with the C9ORF72 Repeat Expansion
Authors: Kämäläinen Anna , Herukka Sanna-Kaisa , Hartikainen Päivi , Helisalmi Seppo , Moilanen Virpi , Knuuttila Anna , Jansson Lilja , Tienari Pentti J. , Remes Anne M.
Published: March 2015

Background: The C9ORF72 expansion is one of the most common causes of frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The C9ORF72 expansion is associated with TDP-43 and p62 neuropathology, and amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles are not common in patients with the C9ORF72 expansion. Therefore, we hypothesized that cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease [AD; Aβ1-42, total tau (T-tau) and phospho-tau] are normal in these patients. Methods: The CSF Aβ1-42, T-tau and phospho-tau levels were measured in 40 Finnish patients with the C9ORF72 expansion (29 FTLD, 10 ALS and 1 FTLD-ALS) using ELISA. Results: A decreased Aβ1-42 level was found in 25% of cases, while there were only single cases with changes in the t-Tau or phospho-tau level. The patients with abnormal biomarkers fulfilled the clinical criteria of the behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia and expressed no clinical signs of AD. Conclusions: In clinical diagnostics, a decreased CSF Aβ1-42 level does not exclude the C9ORF72 expansion associated with FTLD.
Comparison of Conjunctival Cytological Alterations following Conventional and Sutureless Sclerotomies
Authors: Citirik Mehmet , Altunkaya Canan , Soba Dilek , Bicer Tolga , Ustun Huseyin
Published: March 2015

Purpose: To assess the alterations in conjunctival impression cytology following 23-gauge transconjunctival sutureless versus conventional pars plana vitrectomy. Patients and Methods: Sixty consecutive patients were enrolled in the study. Conjunctival impression cytology was performed on 30 eyes (of 30 subjects) with 23-gauge transconjunctival sutureless vitrectomy and on 30 eyes (of 30 subjects) with conventional vitrectomy. Conjunctival impression cytology was performed preoperatively on the 1st day and in the 3rd month after the surgery. Impression cytology specimens of each group were graded and scored using a range of 0-3 according to Nelson's method. Results: In the conventional pars plana vitrectomy group, statistically significant alterations in the conjunctival impression cytology were detected on the 1st postoperative day (p = 0.001) and in the 3rd postoperative month (p = 0.001), whereas in the 23-gauge transconjunctival sutureless pars plana vitrectomy group, statistically significant changes were observed on the 1st postoperative day. However, no significant changes were observed in the following 3 postoperative months (p = 0.08). Conclusion: The properties of impression cytology were altered in the early postoperative period after sutureless and conventional vitrectomy. These changes were improved in the sutureless vitrectomy group only. Sutureless vitrectomy also had an advantageous effect on the conjunctival cytological changes and conjunctival structure.
Phospho-p38 MAPK Expression in COPD Patients and Asthmatics and in Challenged Bronchial Epithelium
Authors: Vallese Davide , Ricciardolo Fabio L.M. , Gnemmi Isabella , Casolari Paolo , Brun Paola , Sorbello Valentina , Capelli Armando , Cappello Francesco , Cavallesco Giorgio Narciso , Papi Alberto , Chung Kian Fan , Balbi Bruno , Adcock Ian M. , Caramori Gaetano , Di Stefano Antonino
Published: March 2015

Background: The role of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) in regulating the inflammatory response in the airways of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthmatic patients is unclear. Objectives: To investigate the expression of activated MAPK in lungs of COPD patients and in bronchial biopsies of asthmatic patients and to study MAPK expression in bronchial epithelial cells in response to oxidative and inflammatory stimuli. Methods: Immunohistochemical expression of phospho (p)-p38 MAPK, p-JNK1 and p-ERK1/2 was measured in bronchial mucosa in patients with mild/moderate (n = 17), severe/very severe (n = 16) stable COPD, control smokers (n = 16), control non-smokers (n = 9), in mild asthma (n = 9) and in peripheral airways from COPD patients (n = 15) and control smokers (n = 15). Interleukin (IL)-8 and MAPK mRNA was measured in stimulated 16HBE cells. Results: No significant differences in p-p38 MAPK, p-JNK or p-ERK1/2 expression were seen in bronchial biopsies and peripheral airways between COPD and control subjects. Asthmatics showed increased submucosal p-p38 MAPK expression compared to COPD patients (p < 0.003) and control non-smokers (p < 0.05). Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), cytomix (tumour necrosis factor-α + IL-1β + interferon-γ) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) upregulated IL-8 mRNA at 1 or 2 h. p38 MAPKα mRNA was significantly increased after H2O2 and LPS treatment. JNK1 and ERK1 mRNA were unchanged after H2O2, cytomix or LPS treatments. Conclusion: p-p38 MAPK expression is similar in stable COPD and control subjects but increased in the bronchi of mild asthmatics compared to stable COPD patients. p38 MAPK mRNA is increased after bronchial epithelial challenges in vitro. These data together suggest a potential role for this MAPK in Th2 inflammation and possibly during COPD exacerbations.
Piwi-Pathway Alteration Induces LINE-1 Transposon Derepression and Infertility Development in Cryptorchidism
Authors: Hadziselimovic Faruk , Hadziselimovic Nils O. , Demougin Philippe , Krey Gunthild , Oakeley Eduard
Published: March 2015

Spermatogonia contain processing bodies that harbor P-element-induced wimpy testis (Piwi) proteins. Piwi proteins are associated specifically with Piwi-interacting RNAs to silence transposable DNA elements. Loss-of-function mutations in the Piwi pathway lead to derepression of transposable elements, resulting in defective spermatogenesis. Furthermore, deletion of gametocyte-specific factor 1 (GTSF1), a factor involved in Piwi-mediated transcriptional repression, causes male-specific sterility and derepression of LINE-1 (L1) retrotransposons. No previous studies have examined GTSF1, L1 and PIWIL4 expression in cryptorchidism. We examined transposon-silencing genes and L1 transposon expression in testicular biopsies with Affymetrix microarrays and immunohistology. Seven members of the Tudor gene family, 3 members of the DEAD-box RNA helicase family, and the GTSF1 gene were found to show significantly lower RNA signals in the high-infertility-risk group. In the immunohistochemical analysis, patients from the low-infertility-risk group showed coherently stronger staining for GTSF1 and PIWIL4 proteins and weaker staining for L1 transposon when compared to the high-infertility-risk samples. These new findings provide first evidence consistent with the idea that infertility in cryptorchidism is a consequence of alterations in the Piwi pathway and transposon derepression induced by the impaired function of mini-puberty.
The Clinical-Psychological Features of Functional Dyspepsia Patients with Weight Loss: A Multi-Center Study from China
Authors: Liu Jing , Jia Lin , Lei Xiao-gai , Jiang Shu-man , Wang Sheng-bing , Xu Ming
Published: March 2015

Aims: To investigate the clinical features, appetite, quality of life (QOL), and their associated psychological factors of functional dyspepsia (FD) patients with weight loss. Methods: For a multicenter study, FD patients were recruited and divided into two groups according to the degree of weight changes during the previous 12 months or less with the onset of dyspepsia symptoms: Group A (≥5%) and Group B (<5%). Patients were evaluated based on the Nepean dyspepsia index (NDI), appetite questionnaire, Hamilton Rating Scale of Anxiety/Depression (HAMA/HAMD). Results: The body mass index in Group A was lower than in Group B, while, the frequency of physician visits in Group A was higher than in Group B. There were no differences in the total scores of NDI-symptom checklist or the items of intensity and bothersomeness between them (p > 0.05), but the frequency item for Group A was significantly higher than Group B (p = 0.035). The incidence of anxiety or depression, the proportion of poor or very poor appetite for Group A was higher than those for Group B (p < 0.05). Subscale scores of the NDI-QOL for Group A were significantly lower than those for Group B (p < 0.05). Conclusions: FD patients with weight loss have lower BMI, more frequent physician visits, higher psychological disorders, poorer appetite and QoL.
Ablative Intravesical Chemotherapy for Small Recurrent Non-Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer: A Prospective Study
Authors: Decaestecker Karel , Lumen Nicolaas , Ringoir Annelies , Oosterlinck Willem
Published: March 2015

Objective: The efficacy of intravesical chemotherapy in abolishing small papillary recurrences of non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), the disease-free interval in responders and patients' preferences were explored. Methods: When a small (≤1 cm) papillary recurrence of a NMIBC was diagnosed, the patient could choose between immediate transurethral resection of the bladder (TURB) or four weekly intravesical instillations with mitomycin C (MMC) or epirubicin (ERC). Control cystoscopy was scheduled 2-3 weeks after the last instillation. Complete remission was defined as total disappearance of all papillary tumours and negative cytology. Results: 25 patients with 47 recurrence episodes were recruited from February 2003 until August 2011. The median follow-up was 35 months. After exclusion of 2 patients with intolerance to the instillations, 45 study episodes could be analysed. All patients to whom this was proposed preferred the instillations over immediate TURB. Complete, partial and no response was seen in 23 (51%), 6 (13%) and 16 (36%) out of 45 episodes, respectively. The median disease-free interval after complete remission was 16 months (95% confidence interval 9-24). Conclusions: Small papillary recurrences of NMIBC completely disappear in about half of the cases receiving four weekly bladder instillations with MMC or ERC. This is followed by a disease-free interval. Intravesical chemotherapy was preferred by all patients over immediate TURB.