bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbon Nanotubes as Active Components for Gas Sensors
Authors: Zhang Wei-De , Zhang Wen-Hui
Published: June 2009

The unique structure
of carbon nanotubes endows them with fantastic
physical and chemical characteristics. Carbon
nanotubes have been widely studied due to their
potential applications in many fields including
conductive and high‐strength composites, energy
storage and energy conversion devices, sensors,
field emission displays and radiation sources,
hydrogen storage media, and nanometer‐sized
semiconductor devices, probes, and quantum
wires. Some of these applications have been
realized in products, while others show great
potentials. The development of carbon
nanotubes‐based sensors has attracted intensive
interest in the last several years because of
their excellent sensing properties such as high
selectivity and prompt response. Carbon nanotube‐based gas sensors are summarized
in this paper. Sensors based on single‐walled,
multiwalled, and well‐aligned carbon nanotubes
arrays are introduced. Modification of carbon
nanotubes with functional groups, metals,
oxides, polymers, or doping carbon
nanotubes with other elements to enhance the
response and selectivity of the sensors is also
discussed.
Extended Cesàro Operators from Logarithmic‐Type Spaces to Bloch‐Type Spaces
Authors: Gu Dinggui
Published: June 2009

The boundedness and compactness of the extended Cesàro operator
from logarithmic‐type spaces to Bloch‐type spaces on the unit ball are
completely characterized in this paper.
A General Rate K/N Convolutional Decoder Based on Neural Networks with Stopping Criterion
Authors: Kao Johnny W. H. , Berber Stevan M. , Bigdeli Abbas
Published: June 2009

A novel algorithm for decoding a general rate K/N convolutional code based on recurrent neural network (RNN) is described and analysed. The algorithm is introduced by outlining the mathematical models of the encoder and decoder. A number of strategies for optimising the iterative decoding process are proposed, and a simulator was also designed in order to compare the Bit Error Rate (BER) performance of the RNN decoder with the conventional decoder that is based on Viterbi Algorithm (VA). The simulation results show that this novel algorithm can achieve the same bit error rate and has a lower decoding complexity. Most importantly this algorithm allows parallel signal processing, which increases the decoding speed and accommodates higher data rate transmission. These characteristics are inherited from a neural network structure of the decoder and the iterative nature of the algorithm, that outperform the conventional VA algorithm.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Biological Activity Studies of Copper(II) Mixed Compound with Histamine and Nalidixic Acid
Authors: Bivián-Castro Egla Yareth , López Mercedes G. , Pedraza-Reyes Mario , Bernès Sylvain , Mendoza-Díaz Guillermo
Published: June 2009

A mixed copper complex with deprotonated nalidixic acid (nal) and histamine (hsm) was synthesized and characterized by FTIR, UV‐Vis, elemental analysis, and conductivity. The crystal structure of [Cu(hsm)(nal)H2O]Cl·3H2O (chn) showed a pentacoordinated cooper(II) in a square pyramidal geometry surrounded by two N atoms from hsm, two O atoms from the quinolone, and one apical water oxygen.
Alteration of bacterial DNA structure and/or associated functions in vivo by [Cu(hsm)(nal)H2O]Cl·3H2O was demonstrated by the induction of a recA-lacZ fusion integrated at the amyE locus of a recombinant Bacillus subtilis strain. Results from circular dichroism and denaturation of calf thymus DNA (CT‐DNA) suggested that increased amounts of copper complex were able to stabilize the double helix of DNA in vitro mainly by formation of hydrogen bonds between chn and the sugars of DNA minor groove. In vivo and in vitro biological activities of the chn complex were compared with the chemical nuclease [Cu(phen)(nal)H2O]NO3·3H2O (cpn) where phen is phenanthroline.
The Solvability of a New System of Nonlinear Variational-Like Inclusions
Authors: Liu Zeqing , Liu Min , Ume Jeong Sheok , Kang Shin Min
Published: June 2009

We introduce and study a new system of nonlinear variational-like inclusions involving "Equation missing"-"Equation missing"-maximal monotone operators, strongly monotone operators, "Equation missing"-strongly monotone operators, relaxed monotone operators, cocoercive operators, "Equation missing"-relaxed cocoercive operators, "Equation missing"-"Equation missing"-relaxed cocoercive operators and relaxed Lipschitz operators in Hilbert spaces. By using the resolvent operator technique associated with "Equation missing"-"Equation missing"-maximal monotone operators and Banach contraction principle, we demonstrate the existence and uniqueness of solution for the system of nonlinear variational-like inclusions. The results presented in the paper improve and extend some known results in the literature.
Bounded Motions of the Dynamical Systems Described by Differential Inclusions
Authors: Ege Nihal , Guseinov Khalik G.
Published: June 2009

The boundedness of the motions of the dynamical system described by a differential inclusion with control vector is studied. It is assumed that the right‐hand side of the differential inclusion is upper semicontinuous. Using positionally weakly invariant sets, sufficient conditions for boundedness of the motions of a dynamical system are given. These conditions have infinitesimal form and are expressed by the Hamiltonian of the dynamical system.
Central Retinal Vein Occlusion with Therapeutic Level of Anticoagulation
Authors: Salim Sarwat , Lam Wai-Ching , Hanna Wahid
Published: June 2009

Purpose. To describe a patient with two episodes of deep venous thrombosis and factor V Leiden mutation who presented with central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) despite prophylactic use of warfarin sodium (Coumadin).Methods. A case report of a 44-year-old woman with a history of recurrent deep venous thrombosis and Factor V Leiden mutation was placed on lifelong prophylactic therapy with warfarin. The patient presented with CRVO in the left eye despite therapeutic levels of warfarin.Results. Extensive systemic evaluation disclosed high titers for antinuclear antibody (ANA).Conclusion. Systemic anticoagulation with warfarin may not preclude further thrombotic episodes. In younger patients presenting with retinal vein occlusion and pre-existing multiple thrombophilic risk factors, a multidisciplinary approach is recommended to explore other therapeutic options to avoid further thromboembolic complications.
Heterologous Expression of a Membrane‐Spanning Auxin Importer: Implications for Functional Analyses of Auxin Transporters
Authors: Carrier David John , Abu Bakar Norliza Tendot , Lawler Karen , Dorrian James Matthew , Haider Ameena , Bennett Malcolm John , Kerr Ian Derek
Published: June 2009

Biochemical studies of plant auxin transporters
in vivo are made difficult by the presence of
multiple auxin transporters and auxin‐interacting
proteins. Furthermore, the expression level of most
such transporters in plants is likely to be too low
for purification and downstream functional
analysis. Heterologous expression systems should
address both of these issues. We have examined a
number of such systems for their efficiency in
expressing AUX1 from Arabidopsis
thaliana. We find that a eukaryotic system
based upon infection of insect cells with
recombinant baculovirus provides a high level,
easily scalable expression system capable of
delivering a functional assay for AUX1.
Furthermore, a transient transfection system in
mammalian cells enables localization of AUX1 and
AUX1‐mediated transport of auxin to be
investigated. In contrast, we were unable to
utilise P. pastoris or L. lactis expression systems to reliably express AUX1.
On Variant Reflected Backward SDEs, with Applications
Authors: Ma Jin , Wang Yusun
Published: June 2009

We study a new type of reflected backward stochastic differential
equations (RBSDEs), where the reflecting process enters the drift in a nonlinear manner. This
type of the reflected BSDEs is based on a variance of the Skorohod problem studied recently by
Bank and El Karoui (2004), and is hence named the “Variant Reflected BSDEs” (VRBSDE) in this paper. The special nature of the Variant Skorohod problem leads to a hidden forward‐backward feature of the BSDE, and as a consequence this type of BSDE cannot be treated in a usual way. We shall prove that in a small‐time duration most of the well‐posedness, comparison, and stability results are still valid, although some extra conditions on the boundary process are needed. We will also provide some possible applications where the VRBSDE can be potentially useful. These applications show that the VRBSDE could become a novel tool for some problems in finance and optimal stopping problems where no existing methods can be easily applicable.
On the Convergence of Solutions of Certain Third‐Order Differential Equations
Authors: Tunç Ercan
Published: June 2009

We establish sufficient conditions for the convergence of solutions of a certain third‐order nonlinear differential equations. By constructing a Lyapunov function as the basic tool, some results which exist in the relevant literature are generalized.
Analytical and Numerical Methods for the CMKdV‐II Equation
Authors: Akin Ömer , Özuğurlu Ersin
Published: June 2009

Hirota′s bilinear form for the Complex Modified Korteweg‐de Vries‐II equation (CMKdV‐II)
Ut − 6 | U|2Ux + Uxxx = 0 is derived. We obtain one‐ and two‐soliton solutions analytically for the CMKdV‐II. One‐soliton
solution of the CMKdV‐II equation is obtained by using finite difference method by implementing
an iterative method.
Multiresolution Analysis and Haar Wavelets on the Laguerre Hypergroup
Authors: Xie Peizhu , He Jianxun
Published: June 2009

Let ℍn be the Heisenberg group. The fundamental manifold of the radial function space for
ℍn can be denoted by [0, +∞) × ℝ, which is just the Laguerre hypergroup. In this paper the
multiresolution analysis on the Laguerre hypergroup 𝕂 = [0, +∞) × ℝ is defined. Moreover the
properties of Haar wavelet bases for are investigated.
Telemedicine in Stroke: Organizing a Network – Rationale and Baseline Principles
Authors: Medeiros de Bustos Elisabeth , Vuillier Fabrice , Chavot Didier , Moulin Thierry
Published: June 2009

Telestroke is the specific term used for the application of telemedicine in stroke. It is a consultative modality that facilitates care of patients with acute stroke at underserved hospitals by specialists at stroke centers and can play a vital role in minimizing the overall medicosocial impact of stroke. Telestroke should not be viewed as a new form of stroke therapy, rather as a means of supporting the increased delivery of evidenced-based medicine in stroke. The design and implementation of a hub-and-spoke telestroke network are complex and require state-of-the-art technology and close, organized collaboration between healthcare professionals if they are to be achieved. Telestroke is becoming part of clinical practice in some regions. It provides rapid access to specialized treatment and it could also potentially lead to major improvements in basic on-site management. Telemedicine is also being used for secondary prevention, rehabilitation, education and long-term stroke care. However, for progress to continue and in order to ensure the long-term sustainability of telestroke, various medicolegal, economic and market issues need to be resolved.
Use of Telemedicine to Increase Thrombolysis and Advance Care in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Henninger Nils , Chowdhury Nabi , Fisher Marc , Moonis Majaz
Published: June 2009

The use of the only proven therapy for acute ischemic stroke, intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), remains disappointingly low. One potential way to increase the use of tPA is by the implementation of telemedicine stroke care networks. Preliminary data from several studies indicate that the safe and expanded use of tPA for ischemic stroke can be accomplished with the help of telemedicine. Telemedicine stroke care networks can also be used in the future to enhance stroke diagnosis with advanced CT and MRI technology and to potentially increase the number of patients referred to tertiary stroke centers for intra-arterial therapies. It is highly likely that telemedicine stroke care will substantially enhance acute stroke therapy for remote and underserved populations.
Telestroke Networking Offers Multiple Benefits beyond Thrombolysis
Authors: Tatlisumak Turgut , Soinila Seppo , Kaste Markku
Published: June 2009

Patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) require immediate attention and stroke expertise, which is rarely offered by community hospitals. Telestroke networks were originally established for delivering thrombolysis to inhabitants of underserved regions where stroke expertise was not available 24/7. Rapidly expanding experience addresses the fact that thrombolysis, when given using telestroke consultation, is as safe and effective as when it is given in a stroke center. Telestroke, without a doubt, increases the number of patients receiving thrombolysis, and thus improves patient outcomes, but additionally these networks together with a comprehensive organization of acute stroke care could bring many other benefits which so far are heavily underused in neurology. These benefits include: shortening hospital stay of patients through advanced care, avoiding a large number of unnecessary patient transfers, identifying specific stroke patients who require urgent interventions or surgery (such as subarachnoid hemorrhage, intraventricular hemorrhage, candidates for craniectomy, or basilar artery occlusion), leading to establishment of stroke units and stroke teams in spoke hospitals and overall improvement of stroke care in spoke hospitals, early diagnosis and proper treatment of stroke and nonstroke patients. Further benefits may be: to facilitate staff recruitment to spoke hospitals, to deliver expertise to developing countries, participation of spoke hospitals to acute stroke treatment trials and stroke prevention trials, and environmental effects. The magnitude of these benefits will become more obvious in the near future because this exciting field is progressing fast. The Finnish experience suggests that telestroke is a versatile tool for improving acute stroke care of inhabitants in underserved regions and it should be made more widely available.
Telestroke in Stroke Survivors
Authors: Joubert Jacques , Joubert Lynette B. , Medeiros de Bustos Elizabeth , Ware Dallas , Jackson David , Harrison Terrence , Cadilhac Dominique
Published: June 2009

Stroke is a high-frequency disorder placing a significant burden on the health care systems, being the foremost cause of complex chronic disability in adults. Devising systems that can enhance the prevention of stroke recurrence is an important priority and challenge in both the developed and the developing world. The potential for recurrent stroke can be substantially reduced by effective management of vascular risk factors. Telestroke is a tool with potential application to improve risk management of stroke survivors. Lack of acknowledgment of existing practices as well as lack of awareness of potential financial barriers to diffusion of telestroke can lead to limited implementation. Telestroke offers service providers the opportunity to access large numbers of stroke survivors targeting secondary prevention. The ideal ‘telestroke model’ provides service support, education for the patient and caregiver, as well as integration of specialist and primary care services. Effective use of technological advances, with adequate recognition of the importance of human interaction in the long-term management of a largely elderly population of stroke survivors is challenging but possible. Telestroke should be systems- and not technology-driven. Barriers in the implementation of telestroke have been identified as insufficient planning of IT infrastructure, lack of long-term vision for sustainability, a lack of contextual perspective as well as poor communication across domains. Future telestroke models should provide effective action in an integrated model of care recognizing and involving all existing players and practices.
Barriers, Legal Issues, Limitations and Ongoing Questions in Telemedicine Applied to Stroke
Authors: Medeiros de Bustos Elisabeth , Moulin Thierry , Audebert Heinrich J.
Published: June 2009

The use of telemedicine services, such as telestroke, is still highly fragmented and its deployment in an integrative healthcare system is challenging. Factors impeding the growth of telemedicine include confidence and malpractice issues, technical advances, reimbursement, licensing, credentialing costs, cost effectiveness, and legal issues. These barriers, limitations and requirements in the routine use of telemedicine are reviewed, in addition to medical activities, the objectives of telestroke, technical aspects, funding, legal issues, evaluation and quality management. As telemedicine induces a new form of interrelationship between health care providers, mutual trust and acceptance need to be developed in telemedicine services. Furthermore, education and training will be crucial in order to facilitate the use of telestroke over the next decade.
Arousal-Related Reticular Neurons during Reduced Oxygen Tension: Resilience and Recovery of Electrical Activity
Authors: Zhou J. , Kow L.-M. , Vannucci S.J. , Pfaff D.W. , Martin E.M.
Published: June 2009

Whole-cell patch clamp recordings of the electrical activity of large medullary reticular formation neurons, in nucleus gigantocellularis, were performed under control conditions and under conditions of hypoxia or anoxia. Neurons were discovered whose activity was remarkably resilient during and after the reduction or loss of oxygen. Such cells may relate to the ability of the newborn brain to survive hypoxia/anoxia, and also may demonstrate the preservation of neurons involved in generalized CNS arousal, as would be appropriate for activating behavioral responses to the reduction or loss of oxygen.
Neonatal EEG/Sleep State Analyses: A Complex Phenotype of Developmental Neural Plasticity
Authors: Scher Mark S. , Loparo Kenneth A.
Published: June 2009

Computer analyses of EEG/sleep states can be used as physiologic biomarkers of developmental neural plasticity. Frequency- and time-dependent signal processing strategies of cerebral and noncerebral measures can help test current theories of neuronal network maturation in terms of segregation and integration of short-distance versus long-distance neuronal connections throughout the neuroaxis. Specific phenotypic expressions of adaptive or maladaptive neuronal connectivity are proposed based on comparisons of whole-brain EEG/sleep resting states between preterm and full-term cohorts when developmental outcome measures are applied. Combined use of neurophysiological datasets with neuroimaging and genetic methodologies define endophenotypes that will more accurately diagnose children at risk for developmental disorders, as well as design appropriate neuroprotective interventions for the individual’s age and disease progress.
Prenatal Stress and Neurodevelopment of the Child: Focus on the HPA Axis and Role of the Placenta
Authors: O’Donnell K. , O’Connor T.G. , Glover V.
Published: June 2009

Recent human studies have shown that a wide variety of prenatal stressors, from anxiety and partner relationship problems, to natural disasters, increase the risk for a diverse range of adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in the child. These include impaired cognitive development and behavioral problems, autism and schizophrenia. However, many questions remain about the underlying processes. Much of the research, based on animal studies, has focussed on the maternal HPA axis, with mixed results. Maternal stress or anxiety during pregnancy has been found to be weakly associated with raised maternal cortisol, if at all. The placenta may be a more promising programming vector, because it controls fetal exposure to the maternal environment. Animal studies indicate that prenatal stress can affect the activity of the placental barrier enzyme 11-βHSD2, which metabolises cortisol. We review the evidence for a similar mechanism in humans and how maternal stress may cause other changes in the placenta which affect fetal neurodevelopment.
Prefrontal Plasticity and Stress Inoculation-Induced Resilience
Authors: Katz Maor , Liu Chunlei , Schaer Marie , Parker Karen J. , Ottet Marie-Christine , Epps Averi , Buckmaster Christine L. , Bammer Roland , Moseley Michael E. , Schatzberg Alan F. , Eliez Stephan , Lyons David M.
Published: June 2009

Coping with mild early life stress tends to make subsequent coping efforts more effective and therefore more likely to be used as a means of arousal regulation and resilience. Here we show that this developmental learning-like process of stress inoculation increases ventromedial prefrontal cortical volumes in peripubertal monkeys. Larger volumes do not reflect increased cortical thickness but instead represent surface area expansion of ventromedial prefrontal cortex. Expansion of ventromedial prefrontal cortex coincides with increased white matter myelination inferred from diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging. These findings suggest that the process of coping with early life stress increases prefrontal myelination and expands a region of cortex that broadly controls arousal regulation and resilience.
Individual Differences in Behavioral, Physiological, and Genetic Sensitivities to Contexts: Implications for Development and Adaptation
Authors: Obradović Jelena , Boyce W. Thomas
Published: June 2009

Although exposure to adversity places children at high risk for developmental problems, there is considerable variation in the adaptation of children exposed to both low and high levels of adversity. In recent years, researchers have made significant progress in understanding how social environments shape children’s development. Studies indicate that not all children are equally susceptible to environmental effects. In this article, we review the studies that examine individuals’ sensitivity to both positive and negative contextual influences at three levels of analysis: behavioral, physiological, and genetic. Furthermore, we examine how these different types of sensitivities may be related and whether early exposure to adversity plays an important role in shaping development of individual reactivity to contexts. We also suggest important directions for future studies of individual differences in susceptibility to environmental effects.
Role of Attention in the Regulation of Fear and Anxiety
Authors: White Lauren K. , Helfinstein Sarah M. , Reeb-Sutherland Bethany C. , Degnan Kathryn A. , Fox Nathan A.
Published: June 2009

Emotion regulation makes use of specific aspects of attention and executive functions that are critical for the development of adaptive social functioning, and perturbations in these processes can result in maladaptive behavior and psychopathology. Both involuntary and voluntary attention processes have been examined at both the behavioral and the neural levels and are implicated in the maintenance of fearful or anxious behaviors. However, relatively little is known about how these attention processes come to influence emotional behavior across development. The current review summarizes the extant literature on the links between voluntary and involuntary attention processes and the role that these attention processes have in the etiology, maintenance, and regulation of anxious behavior.
The Meaning of Weaning: Influence of the Weaning Period on Behavioral Development in Mice
Authors: Curley James P. , Jordan Emily R. , Swaney William T. , Izraelit Asya , Kammel Stella , Champagne Frances A.
Published: June 2009

Maternal care during the first week postpartum has long-term consequences for offspring development in rodents. However, mother-infant interactions continue well beyond this period, with several physiological and behavioral changes occurring between days 18 and 28 PN. In the present study, we investigate the long-term effects on offspring behavior of being weaned at day 21 PN versus day 28 PN. We found that male and female offspring engage in higher initial levels of social interaction if weaned at day 28 PN, as well as sexually dimorphic changes in exploratory behavior. Females who were themselves weaned earlier also appeared to wean their own pups earlier. Sex-specific effects of weaning age were found on levels of oxytocin and vasopressin V1a receptor density in the hypothalamus, central nucleus of the amygdala and nucleus accumbens. These results indicate that altering weaning age in mice may be a useful model for investigating the development of sexual dimorphism in neurobiology and behavior.
Consequences of Early Experiences and Exposure to Oxytocin and Vasopressin Are Sexually Dimorphic
Authors: Carter C. Sue , Boone Ericka M. , Pournajafi-Nazarloo Hossein , Bales Karen L.
Published: June 2009

In the socially monogamous prairie vole, we have observed that small changes in early handling, as well as early hormonal manipulations can have long-lasting and sexually dimorphic effects on behavior. These changes may be mediated in part by changes in parental interactions with their young, acting on systems that rely on oxytocin (OT) and arginine vasopressin (AVP). Knowledge of both endogenous and exogenous influences on systems that rely on OT and AVP may be helpful in understanding sexually dimorphic developmental disorders, such as autism, that are characterized by increased anxiety and deficits in social behavior.
Hormones and Sexual Differentiation of Avian Social Behavior
Authors: Adkins-Regan Elizabeth
Published: June 2009

Research on the hormonal basis of sexual differentiation of mammalian behavior and its neural substrates constitutes an important chapter in the study of neural development that has led to important insights into how to conceptualize sexuality. Here research on sexual differentiation of avian social behavior is discussed with an eye toward potential insights into avian sexuality. Hormone manipulation experiments with Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) and zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata) reveal dissociations between different components of sexual and social behavior. None of the components of the male behavioral phenotype appear to be organized by androgens. Avian sexuality arises from multiple processes and pathways that appear to differ for mating behavior, sexual partner preference, and pairing. This provides the mechanistic bases for changes in social behavior in the course of avian evolution.
Is There a Genomic Tone? Implications for Understanding Development, Adaptation and Treatment
Authors: Alter Mark D. , Hen Rene
Published: June 2009

This review examines the general hypothesis that cellular plasticity may be related to genomic plasticity. Using a novel approach to microarray analysis, recent studies from our laboratory showed that, in genetically identical mice, variability in the large-scale organization of gene expression was associated with individual differences in behavior. An association of the large-scale organization of gene expression in the hippocampus with behavioral variability suggests that an important aspect of gene expression regulation had gone unrecognized with traditional genomic approaches designed to look for specific differences in gene expression levels. Here we introduce the concept of a ‘genomic tone’ as a global genomic property related to the levels and balance between factors that generally promote and factors that generally inhibit gene expression. We suggest that genomic tone may be related to the plasticity of the gene expression system and may be an important target for developmental and therapeutic interventions.
Diagnosis and Management of Non-Erosive Reflux Disease – The Vevey NERD Consensus Group
Authors: Modlin I.M. , Hunt R.H. , Malfertheiner P. , Moayyedi P. , Quigley E.M. , Tytgat G.N.J. , Tack J. , Heading R.C. , Holtman G. , Moss S.F.
Published: June 2009

Background/Aims: Although considerable information exists regarding gastroesophageal reflux disease with erosions, much less is known of non-erosive reflux disease (NERD), the dominant form of reflux disease in the developed world. Methods: An expert international group using the modified Delphi technique examined the quality of evidence and established levels of agreement relating to different aspects of NERD. Discussion focused on clinical presentation, assessment of clinical outcome, pathobiological mechanisms, and clinical strategies for diagnosis and management. Results: Consensus was reached on 85 specific statements. NERD was defined as a condition with reflux symptoms in the absence of mucosal lesions or breaks detected by conventional endoscopy, and without prior effective acid-suppressive therapy. Evidence supporting this diagnosis included: responsiveness to acid suppression therapy, abnormal reflux monitoring or the identification of specific novel endoscopic and histological findings. Functional heartburn was considered a separate entity not related to acid reflux. Proton pump inhibitors are the definitive therapy for NERD, with efficacy best evaluated by validated quality-of-life instruments. Adjunctive antacids or H2 receptor antagonists are ineffective, surgery seldom indicated. Conclusions: Little is known of the pathobiology of NERD. Further elucidation of the mechanisms of mucosal and visceral hypersensitivity is required to improve NERD management.
Prevention and Treatment of Corneal Neovascularization: Comparison of Different Doses of Subconjunctival Bevacizumab with Corticosteroid in Experimental Rats
Authors: Hashemian Mohammad Naser , Moghimi Sasan , Kiumehr Saman , Riazi Mohammad , Amoli Fahime Asadi
Published: June 2009

Background: To evaluate and compare the effect of different doses of subconjunctival bevacizumab with betamethasone on the development of corneal major new vessels in a rat model of corneal chemical injury. Methods: The right eyes of 100 male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 10 experimental groups (n = 10 per group). Chemical cauterization of the cornea was performed by using silver nitrate/potassium nitrate sticks. Immediately following corneal cauterization, the animals in groups 1–5 received subconjunctival injections of 0.02 ml of normal saline (control A), betamethasone LA (6 mg/ml) and different doses of bevacizumab (1, 5 and 25 mg/ml), respectively. In another experiment, the animals in groups 6–10 received subconjunctival injections of 0.02 ml of normal saline (control B), betamethasone LA (6 mg/ml) and different doses of bevacizumab (1, 5 and 25 mg/ml), respectively, 7 days following corneal cauterization. The numbers of major thick-walled vessels originating from the limbus reaching the corneal scar were counted 7 days after corneal cauterization in groups 1–5 and 14 days after corneal cauterization in groups 6–10. Results: The number of major vessels in groups 1–5 was 19.63 ± 3.77, 17.25 ± 5.33, 16.10 ± 5.02, 12.89 ± 2.70 and 12.36 ± 4.45 when assessed 7 days after corneal cauterization, respectively. Administration of betamethasone in group 2 had no significant effect on the corneal major vessel count compared to control A. The number of major vessels in groups 4 and 5 (bevacizumab 5 and 25 mg/ml) was significantly lower than that of group 1 (p < 0.01, Student’s t test). The number of vessels in groups 6–10 was 12.55 ± 5.64, 11.30 ± 9.33, 5.50 ± 6.34, 2.73 ± 4.73 and 2.67 ± 3.77 when assessed 14 days after corneal cauterization, respectively. Subconjunctival administration of betamethasone 7 days after corneal cauterization did not reduce the amount of corneal major vessels compared to control B. Administration of 0.02 ml of bevacizumab in doses of 1, 5 and 25 mg/ml 7 days after corneal cauterization significantly reduced the amount of major vessels compared to group 6 (p = 0.01, p < 0.01 and p < 0.01, respectively). There was no significant difference in percent area of corneal scar between different groups. Conclusion: Single subconjunctival injection of bevacizumab is efficacious in the prevention of formation as well as regression of major vessels compared to betamethasone in this rat model of corneal neovascularization. Even lower doses of bevacizumab might be efficacious.
Renal Replacement Therapy for Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Fieghen Heather , Wald Ron , Jaber Bertrand L.
Published: June 2009

The treatment of established acute kidney injury (AKI) is largely supportive in nature. Renal replacement therapy remains the cornerstone of management for the minority of patients who have severe AKI. Optimization of renal replacement therapy may modulate the high mortality associated with AKI. Recent trials indicated that continuous renal replacement therapy does not confer a survival advantage as compared to intermittent hemodialysis. Furthermore, there is no evidence to support a more intensive strategy of renal replacement therapy in the setting of AKI. There is comparatively limited data regarding the ideal timing of renal replacement therapy initiation and the preferred mode of solute clearance.
Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma Agonists in Kidney Disease – Future Promise, Present Fears
Authors: Mao Zhiguo , Ong Albert C.M.
Published: June 2009

The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor superfamily (PPARs) comprises a class of nuclear receptors with significant effects in regulating multiple cellular pathways. Much research and clinical interest has surrounded the PPAR-γ isoform because of its key role in the transcriptional regulation of metabolic pathways and the efficacy of thiazolidinediones, the most clinically used PPAR-γ agonist, in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. In this review, we discuss the pathogenic role of PPAR-γ in experimental models of kidney disease, clinical trials of thiazolidinediones in diabetic and non-diabetic kidney disease, recent safety concerns surrounding PPAR-γ agonists and reflect on their potential use in ‘orphan’ kidney diseases.
Virological and Biochemical Features in Elderly HCV Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Amino Acid Substitutions in HCV Core Region as Predictor of Mortality after First Treatment
Authors: Ogura Suguru , Akuta Norio , Hirakawa Miharu , Kawamura Yusuke , Yatsuji Hiromi , Sezaki Hitomi , Hosaka Tetsuya , Kobayashi Masahiro , Suzuki Fumitaka , Suzuki Yoshiyuki , Kobayashi Mariko , Saitoh Satoshi , Arase Yasuji , Ikeda Kenji , Kumada Hiromitsu
Published: June 2009

Aims: We showed previously that amino acid (aa) substitutions in HCV genotype 1b (HCV-1b) core region are negative predictors of virological response to peginterferon + ribavirin therapy, and also risk factors of hepatocarcinogenesis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of core aa substitutions on mortality in elderly patients. Methods: We compared the characteristics and survival of 92 elderly (≥75 years) patients with HCV-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) (including 62 patients with HCV-1b) with those of 44 younger patients (<50 years, 34 patients with HCV-1b). Results: For all patients, univariate analysis identified female sex, history of blood transfusion, preserved liver function and glucose metabolism as significant variables in the elderly patients. In patients with HCV-1b-related HCC, univariate analysis identified preserved lipid metabolism as significant variable in addition to significant variables in overall patients. In elderly patients with HCV-1b-related HCC, multivariate analysis identified male sex, methionine of core aa91, and non-radical therapy as factors that influenced mortality after first treatment for HCC. Conclusions: Our results characterized elderly patients who develop HCC after HCV-1b infection, and suggested that aa substitutions of HCV-1b core region correlate with mortality of patients after first treatment for HCC.
FK778 Attenuates Cytomegalovirus-Enhanced Vein Graft Intimal Hyperplasia in a Rat Model
Authors: Kloppenburg Geoffrey , de Graaf Rick , Grauls Gert , Bruggeman Cathrien A. , van Hooff Johannes P. , Stassen Frank
Published: June 2009

Background: Venous grafts are commonly used to treat drug-resistant coronary artery disease, although long-term functionality is limited because of proliferation and migration of smooth muscle cells (SMC). As proliferating SMC are particularly susceptible for the stimulating effects of cytomegalovirus (CMV), we hypothesized that CMV infection may enhance cell proliferation and graft failure. Furthermore, we evaluated the potential of FK778 to prevent intimal hyperplasia. Apart from its antiviral properties, FK778 is a new immunosuppressive agent which may also affect SMC proliferation, making it an interesting drug to prevent (CMV-enhanced) venous graft intimal hyperplasia. Methods: Epigastric vein-to-common femoral artery interposition grafts were placed in four groups of 10 rats each. Rats received either FK778 (oral treatment, 15 mg/kg), were infected with CMV (1.25 × 106 plaque-forming units) or were both treated and infected. Results: CMV infection resulted in a significant increase in intimal and medial cross-sectional area and medial wall thickness of the vein grafts. This effect was diminished by administration of FK778. Moreover, FK778 treatment alone resulted in a significant decrease in neointimal area and percentage of stenosis versus the control group. Conclusions: These data suggest a role of CMV in venous graft failure. Also, our results suggest a prospective role for the new immunosuppressive drug FK778 in the prevention of (CMV-mediated) vein graft intimal hyperplasia.
The Forebrain of Actinopterygians Revisited
Authors: Nieuwenhuys Rudolf
Published: June 2009

The forebrain of actinopterygian fishes differs from that of other vertebrates in that it consists of a pair of solid lobes. Lateral ventricles surrounded by nervous tissue are entirely lacking. Comparative anatomical and embryological studies have shown that the unusual configuration of the forebrain in actinopterygians results from an outward bending or eversion of the dorsal portions of its lateral walls. Due to this eversion, the telencephalic roof plate is transformed into a wide, membranous structure which surrounds the dorsal and lateral parts of the solid lobes and is attached to their lateral or ventrolateral aspects. The taeniae, i.e. the lines of attachment of the widened roof plate, represent important landmarks in actinopterygian forebrains. In the present paper, the process of eversion is specified and quantified. It is pointed out that recent suggestions to modify the original eversion concept lack an empirical basis. Eversion is the antithesis of the inward bending or inversion that occurs in the forebrains of most other vertebrates. The forebrain lobes in actinopterygians, like those in other vertebrates, comprise a pallium and a subpallium, both of which include a number of distinct cell masses. The morphological interpretations of these cell masses over the past 130 years are reviewed and evaluated in light of a set of carefully selected criteria for homologous relationships. Special attention is paid to the interpretation of a cell mass known as Dp, situated in the caudolateral portion of the pallium in teleosts (by far the largest clade of living actinopterygians). Based on its position close to the taenia, and given the everted condition of the pallium in teleosts, this cell mass clearly corresponds with the medial pallium in inverted forebrains; however, Dp receives a dense olfactory input, and it shares this salient feature with the lateral pallium, rather than with the medial pallium of inverted forebrains. There is presently no consensus regarding the homology of Dp. Several recent authors [Wullimann and Mueller, 2004; Yamamoto et al., 2007] consider the lateral pallium in inverted forebrains and Dp in teleosts to be homologous because they believe that these cell masses originate from the same germinative zones, but that Dp attains its ultimate position only through migration. On the other hand, the present author believes that Dp is situated in the immediate vicinity of its germinative zone and that it represents a specialized part of the lateral pallial zone in teleosts, a zone that can be homologized topologically with the medial pallium in inverted forebrains. Further, it is proposed that the lateral olfactory tract in teleosts, which supplies most of the olfactory fibers to Dp, is not homologous to the same-named tract in the inverted forebrains of most other vertebrates.
Biases in Measuring the Brain: The Trouble with the Telencephalon
Authors: LaDage Lara D. , Roth II Timothy C. , Pravosudov Vladimir V.
Published: June 2009

When correlating behavior with particular brain regions thought responsible for the behavior, a different region of the brain is usually measured as a control region. This technique is often used to relate spatial processes with the hippocampus, while concomitantly controlling for overall brain changes by measuring the remainder of the telencephalon. We have identified two methods in the literature (the HOM and TTM) that estimate the volume of the telencephalon, although the majority of studies are ambiguous regarding the method employed in measuring the telencephalon. Of these two methods, the HOM might produce an artificial correlation between the telencephalon and the hippocampus, and this bias could result in a significant overestimation of the relative hippocampal volume and a significant underestimation of the telencephalon volume, both of which are regularly used in large comparative analyses. We suggest that future studies should avoid this method and all studies should explicitly delineate the procedures used when estimating brain volumes.
Surgical Treatment of Aortico-Left Ventricular Tunnel: A 12-Year Experience
Authors: Li Dianyuan , Yan Jun , Shen Xiangdong , Guo Shaoxian , Tao Tianfu , Pang Kunjing , Hu Shengshou
Published: June 2009

Objectives: This study reviews 9 patients with aortico-left ventricular tunnel (ALVT) and aims to establish the optimal surgical strategies for this exceptional and rare pathology. Methods: 54,882 patients underwent open-heart surgery at the Fuwai Hospital between July 1996 and May 2008. Nine of these patients were diagnosed with ALVT. One patient died of acute heart failure before operation. The remaining 8 patients underwent operation. The mean age of these 8 patients was 22.5 years. Clinical, echocardiographic and surgical details were reviewed. Results: At operation the diagnosis was confirmed, and then repaired by direct suture closure (n = 1), single patch closure of the aortic end of the ALVT (n = 4), or aortic valve replacement (n = 3). In 5 patients, the aortic opening of the tunnel was above the right coronary sinus of Valsalva while in the other 3 it was above the left coronary sinus. All patients recovered safely. There was 1 late death (from perivalvular leak). The remaining patients remain asymptomatic at a mean follow up of 30.1 months. Conclusions: ALVT is a rare cardiac entity that should be treated soon after the diagnosis is made. The specific surgical operation should be individualized based on unique cardiac anomaly of each patient.
Normal Magnetic Resonance Perfusion-Weighted Imaging in Lacunar Infarcts Predicts a Low Risk of Early Deterioration
Authors: Poppe Alexandre Y. , Coutts Shelagh B. , Kosior Jayme , Hill Michael D. , O’Reilly Christine M. , Demchuk Andrew M.
Published: June 2009

Background: Current clinical tools to identify lacunar infarct patients at risk of deterioration are inadequate, and imaging techniques to predict fluctuation and deterioration would be of value. We sought to determine the occurrence of MRI perfusion-weighted imaging (PWI) abnormalities in lacunes, and whether they help predict clinical and radiological outcome. Methods: Patients with lacunar stroke or TIA were selected from a prospective MR imaging study. MRI was performed within 24 h of the event and follow-up imaging completed at 30 or 90 days. Baseline perfusion maps were qualitatively assessed and infarct volumes measured. Early clinical deterioration (NIHSS worsening of ≥3 points within 72 h of event) and 90-day modified Rankin Scale score (mRS) were recorded. Results: Twenty-two patients were included. Fifteen (68.2%) had abnormal PWI at the site of the diffusion-weighted imaging lesion. Patients with abnormal PWI were more likely to have stroke than TIA as their index event (RR 2.2, 95% CI 0.9–5.2, p = 0.02). Early clinical deterioration occurred in 4 patients (18.2%), all of whom had abnormal PWI. PWI lesions were not associated with a higher 90-day NIHSS or mRS score, nor did they predict infarct volume growth. Conclusions: MR-PWI abnormalities are seen in two thirds of lacunar infarcts, and are associated with stroke rather than TIA. Normal PWI identifies patients at low risk of early clinical deterioration.
Prediction of Clinical Response to Excimer Laser Treatment in Vitiligo by Using Neural Network Models
Authors: Cazzaniga Simone , Sassi Fabrizia , Mercuri Santo Raffaele , Naldi Luigi
Published: June 2009

Background: A predictive model may help to select likely responders and to anticipate treatment duration in vitiligo. Methods: We aimed to develop a predictive rule based on data from a randomized trial of excimer laser in vitiligo. Information on 325 treated patches was available. The degree of repigmentation was assessed by digital image analysis of UVB-reflected photographs. Since no strong relationship between any single predictive parameter and outcome was initially documented, we relied on artificial neural networks. Results: Using a time-response optimal threshold model, data were divided into 2 groups of responders and nonresponders. A discriminant network was trained in order to detect responders versus nonresponders. A regression network was subsequently used to compute repigmentation time in responders. The neural network discriminator achieved 66.46 ± 5.37% (95% CI) overall accuracy. The mean absolute error of the neural network regressor was 19.5843 ± 2.0930 with a root mean square error of 23.7156 ± 2.2225. Conclusion: Our study offers insight into the difficulty of clinical prediction in vitiligo and presents a way to develop an instrument with which to predict the clinical time response in patients treated by excimer laser.
Morphometry, Estimation and Ultrastructure of Ovarian Preantral Follicle Population in Queens
Authors: Carrijo Jr. O.A. , Marinho A.P.S. , Campos A.A. , Amorim C.A. , Báo S.N. , Lucci C.M.
Published: June 2009

The aim of the present study was to estimate the population and morphometrically and ultrastructurally characterize preantral follicles from queen ovaries. Ovaries from 5 queens were collected and processed for light and electron microscopy. A total of 190 preantral follicles (100 primordial, 60 primary and 30 secondary) were analyzed by light microscopy. The diameters of the follicle, oocyte and oocyte nucleus were taken and the number of granulosa cells was counted using a computer program. Queen ovaries presented 37,853 ± 6,118 preantral follicles on average, with 87% primordial, 10.4% primary and 2.3% secondary follicles. Significant differences were observed in the 3 follicular classes in regard to follicular, oocyte and oocyte nucleus diameters and granulosa cell number (p < 0.05). In regard to ultrastructure, queen preantral follicles presented many unique characteristics, such as early zona pellucida formation in primary follicles and the organization of mitochondria and other organelles in conglomerates and cortical granules aligned at the peripheral zone in secondary follicles. In conclusion, this study described the morphometry and ultrastructure of queen preantral follicles and the preantral follicle population in the ovaries, establishing a pattern for the species and consequently allowing comparisons with other species.