bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of certain typical and atypical features in a case of subacute sclerosing panencephalitis
Authors: Raut Tushar Premraj , Singh Maneesh Kumar , Garg Ravindra Kumar , Rai Dheeraj
Published: December 2012

Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) is a slowly progressive inflammatory disease of the central nervous system caused by a persistent measles virus usually affecting the childhood and adolescent age group. Clinical features at onset are very subtle and non-specific. Certain atypical features can occur at onset or during the course of illness which can be misleading. Neuroimaging features often are non-specific. Features like myoclonic jerks, cognitive decline and typical EEG findings lead to a strong suspicion of SSPE. Here, we describe the stagewise progression of a case of SSPE in a 14-year-old girl who had myoclonic jerks and cognitive decline at onset. During the course of disease, the patient developed cortical vision loss, atypical extrapyramidal features like segmental and hemifacial dystonia ultimately leading to a bedbound vegetative state. EEG showed typical periodic discharges along with positive cerebrospinal fluid serology for measles.
Aesthetic enhancement with periodontal plastic procedure in a class 3 alveolar ridge defect
Authors: Rastogi Pavitra Kumar
Published: December 2012

Localised alveolar ridge defect refers to volumetric deficit of the limited extent of bone and soft tissue within the alveolar process. Such type of ridge defects can be corrected by surgical ridge augmentation that can be accomplished by the addition of either soft or hard tissues. The contour of a partially edentulous ridge should be thoroughly evaluated before a fixed partial denture is undertaken. The ideal ridge width and height allows placement of a natural appearing pontic which provides maintenance of a plaque-free environment. This article describes a procedure of surgical ridge augmentation of a localised alveolar ridge defect in the maxilla, followed by fixed partial denture, enhancing the aesthetics, function and health.
Oral squamous cell carcinoma associated with myiasis
Authors: Dharshiyani Sandhya Chunilal , Wanjari Sangeeta Panjab , Wanjari Panjab Vitthalrao , Parwani Rajkumar N
Published: December 2012

Myiasis is a general term for infection by fly larvae feeding on the host's necrotic or living tissue. Although infestation by fly larvae is much more prevalent in animals, it is a relatively frequent in occurrence. Oral myiasis is a rare pathology in humans and is associated with poor oral hygiene. Larvae cause itching and irritation due to their crawling movements and can destroy vital tissues, inducing serious or even life-threatening haemorrhage. The treatment is a mechanical removal of the maggots one by one; however, a systemic treatment with macrolide antibiotics, have been recently used for treatment. We present a case report of a 70-year-old man indigent, alcohol-dependent with an extensive necrotic wound in mandible and fetid odour. The prevention of human myiasis is by education, but unfortunately in the developing countries some people live in low social condition, predisposing the occurrence of the infestation.
Extranodal lymphoma masquerading as carcinoma of the breast in an HIV-positive male patient
Authors: Rastogi Madhup , Revannasiddaiah Swaroop , Seam Rajeev Kumar , Gupta Manoj Kumar , Gupta Manish
Published: December 2012

This report describes a male patient infected with the HIV, with antiretroviral therapy (ART)-induced gynaecomastia. He presented with a right-sided breast mass which clinically resembled a carcinoma. A core biopsy suggested non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of diffuse large B cell histology. Also presented are his 18-fluoro-deoxy-glucose - positron emission tomography (FDG PET)-CT scan findings which showed a highly avid mass (standardised uptake value (SUV) 34.5) in his right breast. In spite of a very good clinical response after the first cycle of chemotherapy, his disease relapsed at multiple sites and progressed early. This case illustrates the aggressive course of HIV-associated extranodal lymphomas, and also highlights the issues concerning the use of ART and chemotherapy.
Placentomegaly and placental mesenchymal dysplasia
Authors: Rohilla Minakshi , Siwatch Sujata , Jain Vanita , Nijhawan Raje
Published: December 2012

A 23-year-old primigravida presented to the labour ward at 37 weeks gestation referred with intrauterine growth restriction, oligohydramnios and placentomegaly. Differential diagnoses of placentomegaly were considered. Her antenatal blood screening tests were normal. There were no fetal malformations. However, triple screen and fetal karyotype were not done as patient presented late in pregnancy. The patient soon went into spontaneous labour and delivered a girl weighing 2.15 kg with a normal Apgar score. The cord was long and twisted; placenta was bulky, 1.7 kg, with prominent grape-like vesicles involving whole placenta with a rim of normal placenta at the periphery. Microscopy showed some areas of multiple villi with marked hydropic changes and myxoid degeneration, preserved vasculature and no trophoblastic proliferation. Placental mesenchymal dysplasia was thus diagnosed. The baby had no evidence of Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome. The child is now 3 years old with normal development and is doing well.
Reversible parkinsonism due to a large intracranial tumour
Authors: Rocha Helena , Cerejo António , Garrett Maria Carolina , Massano João
Published: December 2012

A 77-year-old woman presented with progressively worsening apathy, depression, urinary incontinence and slowness of movement for the past 1 year. Asymmetric akinetic-rigid parkinsonism and mild left-sided hyper-reflexia were seen on examination. No ocular movement impairment, cerebellar or sensory signs were noticed. Routine laboratory testing was normal. Brain imaging revealed a large frontal tumour which was subsequently excised and pathologically confirmed as a meningioma. Marked clinical improvement was documented 3 months after surgery, and persistent clinical and imaging remission have been confirmed annually for the following 3 years. There have been some reports of parkinsonism associated with intracranial tumours. Although this is probably an uncommon situation, it is potentially treatable, and symptoms might even remit completely following successful management. Parkinson's disease is a common cause of parkinsonism, but alternative aetiologies should be suspected whenever atypical findings are demonstrated by clinical history or examination.
A cross-sectional study to identify organisational processes associated with nurse-reported quality and patient safety
Authors: Tvedt Christine , Sjetne Ingeborg Strømseng , Helgeland Jon , Bukholm Geir
Published: December 2012

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to identify organisational processes and structures that are associated with nurse-reported patient safety and quality of nursing.

Design

This is an observational cross-sectional study using survey methods.

Setting

Respondents from 31 Norwegian hospitals with more than 85 beds were included in the survey.

Participants

All registered nurses working in direct patient care in a position of 20% or more were invited to answer the survey. In this study, 3618 nurses from surgical and medical wards responded (response rate 58.9). Nurses' practice environment was defined as organisational processes and measured by theNursing Work Index Revisedand items fromHospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture.

Outcome measures

Nurses' assessments of patient safety, quality of nursing, confidence in how their patients manage after discharge and frequency of adverse events were used as outcome measures.

Results

Quality system,nurse–physician relation,patient safety managementandstaff adequacywere process measures associated with nurse-reported work-related and patient-related outcomes, but we found no associations withnurse participation,education and careerandward leadership. Most organisational structures were non-significant in the multilevel model except for nurses’ affiliations tomedical departmentandhospital type.

Conclusions

Organisational structures may have minor impact on how nurses perceive work-related and patient-related outcomes, but the findings in this study indicate that there is a considerable potential to address organisational design in improvement of patient safety and quality of care.
The consequences of vaccination with the Johne's disease vaccine, Gudair, on diagnosis of bovine tuberculosis
Authors: Coad M. , Clifford D. J. , Vordermeier H. M. , Whelan A. O.
Published: December 2012

The single intradermal comparative cervical tuberculin skin‐test (SICCT) remains the primary surveillance tool to diagnose bovine tuberculosis (BTB) in the UK. Therefore, understanding the potential confounding influences on this test is important. This study investigated the effects of vaccination against Johne's disease (JD) on the immunodiagnosis of BTB using aMycobacterium bovisBCG vaccination model as a surrogate ofM bovisinfection. Calves were vaccinated with either BCG (an attenuated live vaccine) or the JD vaccine, Gudair (a heat‐inactivated suspension ofMycobacterium aviumsubspeciesparatuberculosis), or a combination of both, and SICCT responses were measured approximately six and 12 weeks postvaccination. Animals vaccinated with Gudair only were negative to the SICCT test, thus supporting the specificity of the SICCT test following Gudair vaccination. However, while animals vaccinated with BCG‐only demonstrated a bovine tuberculin‐biased response as expected, covaccination with Gudair resulted in a bias towards avian tuberculin in the SICCT test. Therefore, our model demonstrates the potential of the Gudair vaccine to reduce the sensitivity of the SICCT. In addition, while we also demonstrate that Gudair vaccination can compromise the specificity of serological tests to detect JD, the specificity of definedM bovisantigens in serological or interferon gamma‐based blood assays was not compromised by the vaccine.
ON MODELING OF LIVING ORGANISMS USING HIERARCHICAL COARSE-GRAINING ABSTRACTIONS OF KNOWLEDGE
Authors: DERBAL YOUCEF
Published: December 2012

High throughput technologies such as gene expression microarray, ChIP-chips, siRNA and protein arrays and high throughput mass spectrometry are enabling an ever increasing amount of data becoming available about DNA, RNA, proteins, metabolites as well as biological pathways and networks. The knowledge embedded in this data deluge needs to be recast in forms that lend themselves to analysis with the expectation of developing analytical instruments to gain insight and answer questions about life and living organisms. The powers of abstraction and model building are fundamental to the quest of making sense of the biological complexity embedded in these biological and clinical datasets. The modeling of living organisms is explored with a proposed framework for model representation of biological complexity. The principal foundational assumption of the proposed modeling philosophy recognizes the symbiotic relationship between information and energy flows, required for the transformation of matter, as a fundamental organizing force underlying the observable nature of living organisms. The use of the concept of regularities to refer to complexity of structure, function and dynamics alike provides a unified approach to the reasoning about the integration of knowledge representations of varying natures and scales of granularities. The application of the proposed modeling approach is illustrated in broad qualitative terms for the human organism.
SYNTHESIS AND GIAO NMR CALCULATIONS FOR TWO DIASTEREOISOMERS OF 2′-ACETYLOXY-2′-PHENYLSPIRO[INDENO[1,2-b]QUINOXALIN-11,1′-CYCLOPROPANE]
Authors: SHAABANZADEH MASOUD , HASHEMIMOGHADDAM HAMID , TORBATI MARYAM BIKHOF , AHOEE TAHEREH SOLEYMANI
Published: December 2012

Two diastereoisomers of 2′-acetyloxy-2′-phenylspiro[indeno[1,2-b]quinoxalin-11,1′-cyclopropane] were synthesized and their 1 H NMR spectra were recorded. Their chemical structures were fully optimized at B3LYP/6-311+G(d,p) level of theory using the Gaussian 03W program package. The 1 H NMR chemical shifts were calculated for geometry-optimized structures of the diastereoisomers with the gauge independent atomic orbital (GIAO) and B3LYP method with the 6-311+G(d,p), 6-311++G(d), 6-31++G(d,p) and 6-31+G(d) basis sets. The computational results were then compared with the experimental values and the structures associated with each spectrum were assigned.
Downregulation of Fas activity rescues early onset of diabetes inc-KitWv/+mice
Authors: Feng Zhi-Chao , Riopel Matthew , Li Jinming , Donnelly Lisa , Wang Rennian
Published: December 2012

c-Kit and its ligand stem cell factor (SCF) are important for β-cell survival and maturation; meanwhile, interactions between the Fas receptor (Fas) and Fas ligand are capable of triggering β-cell apoptosis. Disruption of c-Kit signaling leads to severe loss of β-cell mass and function with upregulation of Fas expression in c-KitWv/+mouse islets, suggesting that there is a critical balance between c-Kit and Fas activation in β-cells. In the present study, we investigated the interrelationship between c-Kit and Fas activation that mediates β-cell survival and function. We generated double mutant, c-KitWv/+;Faslpr/lpr( Wv−/−), mice to study the physiological and functional role of Fas with respect to β-cell function in c-KitWv/+mice. Isolated islets from these mice and the INS-1 cell line were used. We observed that islets in c-KitWv/+mice showed a significant increase in β-cell apoptosis along with upregulated p53 and Fas expression. These results were verified in vitro in INS-1 cells treated with SCF or c-Kit siRNA combined with a p53 inhibitor and Fas siRNA. In vivo, Wv−/−mice displayed improved β-cell function, with significantly enhanced insulin secretion and increased β-cell mass and proliferation compared with Wv+/+mice. This improvement was associated with downregulation of the Fas-mediated caspase-dependent apoptotic pathway and upregulation of the cFlip/NF-κB pathway. These findings demonstrate that a balance between the c-Kit and Fas signaling pathways is critical in the regulation of β-cell survival and function.
IGF2 mRNA binding protein p62/IMP2-2 in hepatocellular carcinoma: antiapoptotic action is independent of IGF2/PI3K signaling
Authors: Kessler Sonja M. , Pokorny Juliane , Zimmer Vincent , Laggai Stephan , Lammert Frank , Bohle Rainer M. , Kiemer Alexandra K.
Published: December 2012

The insulin-like growth factor II ( IGF2) mRNA binding protein (IMP) p62/IMP2-2, originally isolated from a hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patient, induces a steatotic phenotype when overexpressed in mouse livers. Still, p62 transgenic livers do not show liver cell damage but exhibit a pronounced induction of Igf2 and activation of the downstream survival kinase AKT. The aim of this study was to investigate the relation between p62 and IGF2 expression in the human system and to study potential antiapoptotic actions of p62. p62 and IGF2 mRNA levels were assessed by real-time RT-PCR. For knockdown and overexpression experiments, human hepatoma HepG2 and PLC/PRF/5 cells were transfected with siRNA or plasmid DNA. Phosphorylated AKT and ERK1/2 were analyzed by Western blot. Investigations of 32 human HCC tissues showed a strong correlation between p62 and IGF2 expression. Of note, p62 expression was increased markedly in patients with poor outcome. In hepatoma cells overexpression of p62 lowered levels of doxorubicin-induced caspase-3-like activity. Vice versa, knockdown of p62 resulted in increased doxorubicin-induced apoptosis. However, neither PI3K inhibitors nor a neutralizing IGF2 antibody showed any effects. Western blot analysis revealed increased levels of phosphorylated ERK1/2 in hepatoma cells overexpressing p62 and decreased levels in p62 knockdown experiments. When p62-overexpressing cells were treated with ERK1/2 inhibitors, the apoptosis-protecting effect of p62 was completely abrogated. Our data demonstrate that p62 exerts IGF2-independent antiapoptotic action, which is facilitated via phosphorylation of ERK1/2. Furthermore, p62 might serve as a new prognostic marker in HCC.
Substance P decreases fat storage and increases adipocytokine production in 3T3-L1 adipocytes
Authors: Miegueu Pierre , St-Pierre David H. , Lapointe Marc , Poursharifi Pegah , Lu HuiLing , Gupta Abhishek , Cianflone Katherine
Published: December 2012

Obesity, inflammation, and insulin resistance are closely linked. Substance P (SP), via its neurokinin 1 receptor (NK1R), mediates inflammatory and, possibly, neuroendocrine processes. We examined SP effects on lipid storage and cytokine production in 3T3-L1 adipocytes and adipose tissues. 3T3-L1 adipocytes and preadipocytes express NK1R, and 8 days of SP supplementation during differentiation to 3T3-L1 preadipocytes decreased lipid droplet accumulation. SP (10 nM, 24 h) increased lipolysis in primary adipocytes (138 ± 7%, P < 0.05) and reduced fatty acid uptake (−31 ± 7%, P < 0.05) and mRNA expression of the differentiation-related transcription factors peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ type 2 (−64 ± 2%, P < 0.001) and CCAAT enhancer-binding protein (CEBP)-α (−65 ± 2%, P < 0.001) and the lipid storage genes fatty acid-binding protein type 4 (−59 ± 2%, P < 0.001) and diacylglycerol O-acyltransferase-1 (−45 ± 2%, P < 0.01) in 3T3-L1 adipocytes, while CD36, a fatty acid transporter (+82 ± 19%, P < 0.01), was augmented. SP increased secretion of complement C3 (148 ± 15%, P < 0.04), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (156 ± 16%, P < 0.03), and keratinocyte-derived chemokine (148 ± 18%, P = 0.045) in 3T3-L1 adipocytes and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (496 ± 142%, P < 0.02) and complement C3 (152 ± 25%, P < 0.04) in adipose tissue and primary adipocytes, respectively. These SP effects were accompanied by downregulation of insulin receptor substrate 1 (−82 ± 2%, P < 0.01) and GLUT4 (−76 ± 2%, P < 0.01) mRNA expression, and SP acutely blocked insulin-mediated stimulation of fatty acid uptake and Akt phosphorylation. Although adiponectin secretion was unchanged, mRNA expression was decreased (−86 ± 8%, P < 0.001). In humans, NK1R expression correlates positively with plasma insulin, fatty acid, and complement C3 and negatively with adiponectin, CEBPα, CEBPβ, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ mRNA expression in omental, but not subcutaneous, adipose tissue. Our results suggest that, beyond its neuroendocrine and inflammatory effects, SP could also be involved in targeting adipose tissue and influencing insulin resistance.
IL-33-induced alterations in murine intestinal function and cytokine responses are MyD88, STAT6, and IL-13 dependent
Authors: Yang Zhonghan , Sun Rex , Grinchuk Viktoriya , Blanco Joan Antoni Fernandez , Notari Luigi , Bohl Jennifer A. , McLean Leon P. , Ramalingam Thirumalai R. , Wynn Thomas A. , Urban Joseph F. , Vogel Stefanie N. , Shea-Donohue Terez , Zhao Aiping
Published: December 2012

IL-33 is a recently identified cytokine member of the IL-1 family. The biological activities of IL-33 are associated with promotion of Th2 and inhibition of Th1/Th17 immune responses. Exogenous IL-33 induces a typical “type 2” immune response in the gastrointestinal tract, yet the underlying mechanisms remain to be fully elucidated. In addition, the role of IL-33 in the regulation of gastrointestinal function is not known. The present study investigated IL-33-dependent intestinal immunity and function in mice. Exogenous IL-33 induced a polarized type 2 cytokine response in the intestine that was entirely MyD88 dependent but STAT6 and IL-13 independent. Mice injected with recombinant IL-33 exhibited intestinal smooth muscle hypercontractility, decreased epithelial responses to acetylcholine and glucose, and increased mucosal permeability. IL-33 effects on intestinal epithelial function were STAT6 dependent, and both IL-4 and IL-13 appeared to play a role. The effects on smooth muscle function, however, were attributable to both STAT6-dependent and -independent mechanisms. In addition, IL-13 induction of insulin-like growth factor-1 was implicated in IL-33-induced smooth muscle hypertrophy. Finally, alternative activation of macrophages induced by IL-33 revealed a novel pathway that is IL-4, IL-13, and STAT6 independent. Thus manipulating IL-33 or related signaling pathways represents a potential therapeutic strategy for treating inflammatory diseases associated with dysregulated intestinal function.
Hepatic sinusoidal endothelium avidly binds platelets in an integrin-dependent manner, leading to platelet and endothelial activation and leukocyte recruitment
Authors: Lalor Patricia F. , Herbert John , Bicknell Roy , Adams David H.
Published: December 2012

Platelets have recently been shown to drive liver injury in murine models of viral hepatitis and promote liver regeneration through the release of serotonin. Despite their emerging role in inflammatory liver disease, little is known about the mechanisms by which platelets bind to the hepatic vasculature. Therefore, we referenced public expression data to determine the profile of potential adhesive receptors expressed by hepatic endothelium. We then used a combination of tissue-binding and flow-based endothelial-binding adhesion assays to show that resting platelets bind to human hepatic sinusoidal endothelial cells and that the magnitude of adhesion is greatly enhanced by thrombin-induced platelet activation. Adhesion was mediated by the integrins Gp1b, αIIbβIII, and αvβ3, as well as immobilized fibrinogen. Platelet binding to hepatic endothelial cells resulted in NF-κB activation and increased chemokine secretion. The functional relevance of platelet binding was confirmed by experiments that showed markedly increased binding of neutrophils and lymphocytes to hepatic endothelial cells under shear conditions replicating those found in the hepatic sinusoid, which was in part dependent on P-selectin expression. Thus the ability of platelets to activate endothelium and promote leukocyte adhesion may reflect an additional mechanism through which they promote liver injury.
Tubuloglomerular feedback and renal function in mice with targeted deletion of the type 1 equilibrative nucleoside transporter
Authors: Li Lingli , Mizel Diane , Huang Yuning , Eisner Christoph , Hoerl Marion , Thiel Manfred , Schnermann Jurgen
Published: December 2012

A1 adenosine receptors (A1AR) are required for the modulation of afferent arteriolar tone by changes in luminal NaCl concentration implying that extracellular adenosine concentrations need to change in synchrony with NaCl. The present experiments were performed in mice with a null mutation in the gene for the major equilibrative nucleoside transporter ENT1 to test whether interference with adenosine disposition by cellular uptake of adenosine may modify TGF characteristics. Responses of stop flow pressure (PSF) to maximum flow stimulation were measured in mice with either C57Bl/6 or SWR/J genetic backgrounds. Maximum flow stimulation reduced PSF in ENT1−/− compared with wild-type (WT) mice by 1.6 ± 0.4 mmHg ( n = 28) and 5.8 ± 1.1 mmHg ( n = 17; P < 0.001) in C57Bl/6 and by 1.4 ± 0.4 mmHg ( n = 15) and 9 ± 1.5 mmHg ( n = 9; P < 0.001) in SWR/J. Plasma concentrations of adenosine and inosine were markedly higher in ENT1−/− than WT mice (ado: 1,179 ± 78 and 225 ± 48 pmol/ml; ino: 179 ± 24 and 47.5 ± 9 pmol/ml). Renal mRNA expressions of the four adenosine receptors, ENT2, and adenosine deaminase were not significantly different between WT and ENT1−/− mice. No significant differences of glomerular filtration rate or mean arterial blood pressure were found while plasma renin concentration, and heart rates were significantly lower in ENT1−/− animals. In conclusion, TGF responsiveness is significantly attenuated in the absence of ENT1, pointing to a role of nucleoside transport in the NaCl-synchronous changes of extracellular adenosine levels in the juxtaglomerular apparatus interstitium.
Phosphorylation of myocardial eNOS is altered in patients suffering from type 2 diabetes
Authors: Streit Ulrike , Reuter Hannes , Bloch Wilhelm , Wahlers Thorsten , Schwinger Robert H. G. , Brixius Klara
Published: December 2012

The present study investigated whether endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activation may be dysregulated in cardiac tissue of patients suffering from type 2 diabetes (T2D). We performed immunohistochemical measurements of translocated eNOS activation as well as eNOS phosphorylation at Ser1177, Thr495, Ser 635, Ser114, and of the protein kinase B (Akt) in isolated right atrial trabeculae of patients undergoing cardiac bypass or valve surgery with ( n = 12, 68.1 ± 2.5 yr) and without T2D ( n = 12, 64.7 ± 2.7 yr). In addition, we investigated oxidative (8-isoprostane) and nitrosative stress markers (nitrotyrosine) as well as the effect of pharmacological stimulation of angiotensin (AT)-receptors on eNOS-phosphorylation. Translocation-dependent eNOS activation was similar in both groups. The same holds true for eNOS phosphorylation at Ser114. eNOS phosphorylation at Ser635 was significantly increased, whereas eNOS phosphorylation of Ser1177 was significantly decreased in the diabetic group paralleled by a decrease in phosphorylation of Akt and Thr495. These alterations were accompanied by a significant decrease in nitrotyrosine. After application of angiotensin II (10 μM, 2 min) for investigation of the AT-receptor-dependent eNOS stimulation, we did not find differences between the increases in eNOS Ser1177-phosphorylation in the nondiabetic (+39.7 ± 23.5%) and in the diabetic group (32.22 ± 11.45%). A simultaneous increase in Akt phosphorylation could not be observed. The present study indicates that T2D goes along with a decrease in eNOS phosphorylation at Ser1177 under basal conditions in cardiac tissue. Whether this may be attributed to the insulin resistance of cardiac muscle has to be further investigated. Receptor-stimulated eNOS activation still works at least for angiotensin II-dependent eNOS activation.
Stereological assessment of mouse lung parenchyma via nondestructive, multiscale micro-CT imaging validated by light microscopic histology
Authors: Vasilescu Dragoş M. , Klinge Christine , Knudsen Lars , Yin Leilei , Wang Ge , Weibel Ewald R. , Ochs Matthias , Hoffman Eric A.
Published: December 2012

Quantitative assessment of the lung microstructure using standard stereological methods such as volume fractions of tissue, alveolar surface area, or number of alveoli, are essential for understanding the state of normal and diseased lung. These measures are traditionally obtained from histological sections of the lung tissue, a process that ultimately destroys the three-dimensional (3-D) anatomy of the tissue. In comparison, a novel X-ray-based imaging method that allows nondestructive sectioning and imaging of fixed lungs at multiple resolutions can overcome this limitation. Scanning of the whole lung at high resolution and subsequent regional sampling at ultrahigh resolution without physically dissecting the organ allows the application of design-based stereology for assessment of the whole lung structure. Here we validate multiple stereological estimates performed on micro–computed tomography (μCT) images by comparing them with those obtained via conventional histology on the same mouse lungs. We explore and discuss the potentials and limitations of the two approaches. Histological examination offers higher resolution and the qualitative differentiation of tissues by staining, but ultimately loses 3-D tissue relationships, whereas μCT allows for the integration of morphometric data with the spatial complexity of lung structure. However, μCT has limited resolution satisfactory for the sterological estimates presented in this study but not for differentiation of tissues. We conclude that introducing stereological methods in μCT studies adds value by providing quantitative information on internal structures while not curtailing more complex approaches to the study of lung architecture in the context of physiological or pathological studies.
Intramicroparticle nitrogen dioxide is a bubble nucleation site leading to decompression-induced neutrophil activation and vascular injury
Authors: Thom Stephen R. , Yang Ming , Bhopale Veena M. , Milovanova Tatyana N. , Bogush Marina , Buerk Donald G.
Published: December 2012

Inert gases diffuse into tissues in proportion to ambient pressure, and when pressure is reduced, gas efflux forms bubbles due to the presence of gas cavitation nuclei that are predicted based on theory but have never been characterized. Decompression stress triggers elevations in number and diameter of circulating annexin V-coated microparticles (MPs) derived from vascular cells. Here we show that ∼10% MPs from wild-type (WT) but not inflammatory nitric oxide synthase-2 (iNOS) knockout (KO) mice increase in size when exposed to elevated air pressure ex vivo. This response is abrogated by a preceding exposure to hydrostatic pressure, demonstrating the presence of a preformed gas phase. These MPs have lower density than most particles, 10-fold enrichment in iNOS, and generate commensurately more reactive nitrogen species (RNS). Surprisingly, RNS only slowly diffuse from within MPs unless particles are subjected to osmotic stress or membrane cholesterol is removed. WT mice treated with iNOS inhibitor and KO mice exhibit less decompression-induced neutrophil activation and vascular leak. Contrary to injecting naïve mice with MPs from wild-type decompressed mice, injecting KO MPs triggers fewer proinflammatory events. We conclude that nitrogen dioxide is a nascent gas nucleation site synthesized in some MPs and is responsible for initiating postdecompression inflammatory injuries.
A Set of Mathematical Constants Arising Naturally in the Theory of the Multiple Gamma Functions
Authors: Choi Junesang
Published: December 2012

We introduce a set of mathematical constants which is involved naturally in the theory of multiple Gamma functions. Then we present general asymptotic inequalities for these constants whose special cases are seen to contain all results very recently given in Chen 2011.
Murine Typhus: An Important Consideration for the Nonspecific Febrile Illness
Authors: Basra Gurjot , Berman Megan A. , Blanton Lucas S.
Published: December 2012

Murine typhus is a widely distributed flea-borne infection caused byRickettsia typhi. Symptoms of murine typhus are nonspecific and mimic a variety of other infectious diseases. We herein report a case of murine typhus in an area where the broad use of DDT in the mid-20th century has now made it a rare disease. The patient described presented with headache, fever, and a faint macular rash. Initial laboratory studies revealed a slight transaminase elevation. Further questioning revealed exposure to opossums, prompting the consideration of murine typhus as a diagnosis. Although typhus group antibodies were not present during the patient’s acute illness, empiric therapy with doxycycline was initiated, and the patient defervesced. One month after convalescence, the patient returned to clinic with serum that contained typhus group antibodies with an IgG titer of 1 : 1024. Murine typhus is an important consideration during the workup of a patient with a nonspecific febrile illness. Exposure to reservoir hosts and the flea vector place humans at risk for this disease. Clinician recognition of this entity is required for diagnosis and effective therapy.
Univalence Conditions Related to a General Integral Operator
Authors: Breaz Nicoleta , Pescar Virgil
Published: December 2012

We consider a general integral operator based on two types of analytic functions, namely, regular functions and, respectively, functions having a positive real part. Some univalence conditions for this integral operator are obtained.
Tuberculous Tenosynovitis Presenting as Ganglion of Wrist
Authors: Chavan Shahaji , Sable Shyamsunder Shambhu , Tekade Sachin , Punia Prashant
Published: December 2012

Tuberculosis (TB) is still endemic in many developed countries. Involvement of the hand and wrist at presentation is extremely rare, and the diagnosis is often missed. A 57 years old male presented with swelling over the left wrist since 3 years Three swellings over dorsal aspect of the left wrist Soft in consistency Non tender Non compressible Mobile at right angles to the plane of the wrist joint. ESR: 45 mm in 1 hr and rest blood investigations were normal. Ultrsonography showed giant cell tumor of Extensor Digitorum sheath. X-ray: soft tissue swelling and MRI was suggestive of extensor tendon sheath extraskeletal synovial Koch’s, or giant cell tumor of tendon sheath. Excision of swelling was planned and intraoperatively, rice bodies were seen inside it. Histopathological examination showed caseous necrosis with granuloma formation. Patient was put on DOT1 therapy. Tuberculous tenosynovitis was first described by Acrel in 1777. Rice bodies occurring in joints affected by tuberculosis were first described in 1895 by Reise. Rice bodies will be diagnosed on plain radiographs when mineralization occurs. More than 50% of cases recur within 1 year of treatment. The currently recommended 6-month course is often adequate with extensive curettage lavage and synovectomy should be performed. Surgery is essential, but the extent of surgical debridement is still debatable. The surgeon has to be aware of the significance of loose bodies when performing routine excision of innocuous looking wrist ganglia.
Mucosal Herpes Immunity and Immunopathology to Ocular and Genital Herpes Simplex Virus Infections
Authors: Chentoufi Aziz Alami , BenMohamed Lbachir
Published: December 2012

Herpes simplex viruses type 1 and type 2 (HSV-1 and HSV-2) are amongst the most common human infectious viral pathogens capable of causing serious clinical diseases at every stage of life, from fatal disseminated disease in newborns to cold sores genital ulcerations and blinding eye disease. Primary mucocutaneous infection with HSV-1 & HSV-2 is followed by a lifelong viral latency in the sensory ganglia. In the majority of cases, herpes infections are clinically asymptomatic. However, in symptomatic individuals, the latent HSV can spontaneously and frequently reactivate, reinfecting the muco-cutaneous surfaces and causing painful recurrent diseases. The innate and adaptive mucosal immunities to herpes infections and disease remain to be fully characterized. The understanding of innate and adaptive immune mechanisms operating at muco-cutaneous surfaces is fundamental to the design of next-generation herpes vaccines. In this paper, the phenotypic and functional properties of innate and adaptive mucosal immune cells, their role in antiherpes immunity, and immunopathology are reviewed. The progress and limitations in developing a safe and efficient mucosal herpes vaccine are discussed.
One-Year Effectiveness of a 3-Week Balneotherapy Program for the Treatment of Overweight or Obesity
Authors: Hanh Thierry , Serog Patrick , Fauconnier Jérôme , Batailler Pierre , Mercier Florence , Roques Christian F. , Blin Patrick
Published: December 2012

Objective. To assess the one-year effectiveness on weight loss of a 3-week balneotherapy program (BT).Method. A Zelen double consent randomised controlled trial to compare one-year BMI loss between a 3-week BT program versus usual care (UC) for overweight or obese patients (BMI: 27–35 kg/m2), associated or not with a dietary motivational interview (DMI) during the follow-up, using a 2 × 2 factorial design. Main analysis was a per protocol analysis comparing patients attending BT to patients managed by UC, matched on sex, overweight or obese status, DMI randomisation and a propensity score to attend BT or to be managed by UC.Results. From the 257 patients who completed the follow-up, 70 patients of each group could be matched. Mean BMI loss was 1.91 kg/m2[95%CI: 1.46; 2.35] for the BT patients and 0.20 kg/m2[−0.24; 0.64] for the UC patients (P<0.001), corresponding to a significant BT benefit of 1.71 kg/m2[1.08; 2.33]. There was no significant effect of DMI and no interaction with BT or UC. No adverse reaction was observed for patients attending BT.Conclusion. A 3-week BT program provided a significant one-year benefit over the usual GP dietary advice for overweight and obese patients.
Economic Analysis on Value Chain of Taxi Fleet with Battery‐Swapping Mode Using Multiobjective Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Ning Guobao , Zhen Zijian , Wang Peng , Li Yang , Yin Huaixian
Published: December 2012

This paper presents an economic analysis model on value chain of taxi fleet with battery‐swapping mode in a pilot city. In the model, economic benefits of charging‐swapping station group, taxi company, and taxi driver in the region have been taken into consideration. Thus, the model is a multiobjective function and multiobjective genetic algorithm is used to solve this problem. According to the real data collected from the pilot city, the multiobjective genetic algorithm is tested as an effective method to solve this problem. Furthermore, the effects of price of electricity, price of battery package, life cycle of battery package, cost of battery‐swapping devices and infrastructure, and driving mileage per day on the benefits of value holders are analyzed, which provide theoretical and practical reference for the deployment of electric vehicles, for the national subsidy criteria adjusment, technological innovation instruction, commercial mode selection, and infrastructure construction.
Cadmium Exposure and Pancreatic Cancer in South Louisiana
Authors: Luckett Brian G. , Su L. Joseph , Rood Jennifer C. , Fontham Elizabeth T. H.
Published: December 2012

Cadmium has been hypothesized to be a pancreatic carcinogen. We test the hypothesis that cadmium exposure is a risk factor for pancreatic cancer with a population-based case-control study sampled from a population with persistently high rates of pancreatic cancer (south Louisiana). We tested potential dietary and nondietary sources of cadmium for their association with urinary cadmium concentrations which reflect long-term exposure to cadmium due to the accumulation of cadmium in the kidney cortex. Increasing urinary cadmium concentrations were significantly associated with an increasing risk of pancreatic cancer (2nd quartile OR = 3.34, 3rd = 5.58, 4th = 7.70; test for trendP≤0.0001). Potential sources of cadmium exposure, as documented in the scientific literature, found to be statistically significantly associated with increased risk of pancreatic cancer included working as a plumber, pipefitter or welder (OR = 5.88) and high consumption levels of red meat (4th quartile OR = 6.18) and grains (4th quartile OR = 3.38). Current cigarette smoking, at least 80 pack years of smoking, occupational exposure to cadmium and paints, working in a shipyard, and high consumption of grains were found to be statistically significantly associated with increased concentrations of urinary cadmium. This study provides epidemiologic evidence that cadmium is a potential human pancreatic carcinogen.
Tanzanian Couples’ Perspectives on Gender Equity, Relationship Power, and Intimate Partner Violence: Findings from the RESPECT Study
Authors: Krishnan Suneeta , Vohra Divya , de Walque Damien , Medlin Carol , Nathan Rose , Dow William H.
Published: December 2012

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is widely prevalent in Tanzania. Inequitable gender norms manifest in men’s and women’s attitudes about power and decision making in intimate relationships and are likely to play an important role in determining the prevalence of IPV. We used data from the RESPECT study, a randomized controlled trial that evaluated an intervention to prevent sexually transmitted infections in a cohort of young Tanzanian men and women, to examine the relationship between couples’ attitudes about IPV, relationship power, and sexual decision making, concordance on these issues, and women’s reports of IPV over 12 months. Women expressed less equitable attitudes than men at baseline. Over time, participants’ attitudes tended to become more equitable and women’s reports of IPV declined substantially. Multivariable logistic regression analyses suggested that inequitable attitudes and couple discordance were associated with higher risk of IPV. Our findings point to the need for a better understanding of the role that perceived or actual imbalances in relationship power have in heightening IPV risk. The decline in women’s reports of IPV and the trend towards gender-equitable attitudes indicate that concerted efforts to reduce IPV and promote gender equity have the potential to make a positive difference in the relatively short term.
A Relationship between Epithelial Maturation, Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Roos Abraham B. , Berg Tove , Nord Magnus
Published: December 2012

Premature infants frequently develop bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Lung immaturity and impaired epithelial differentiation contribute together with invasive oxygen treatment to BPD onset and disease progression. Substantial evidence suggests that prematurity is associated with long term pulmonary consequences. Moreover, there is increasing concern that lung immaturity at birth may increase the risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The mechanisms contributing to this phenomenon remains unknown, largely as a consequence of inadequate experimental models and clinical follow-up studies. Recent evidence suggests that defective transcriptional regulation of epithelial differentiation and maturation may contribute to BPD pathogenesis as well as early onset of COPD. The transcriptional regulators CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein (C/EBP)αand C/EBPβ, SMAD family member (Smad)3, GATA binding protein (GATA)6, and NK2 homeobox (NKX)2-1 are reported to be involved in processes contributing to pathogenesis of both BPD and COPD. Increased knowledge of the mechanisms contributing to early onset COPD among BPD survivors could translate into improved treatment strategies and reduced frequency of respiratory disorders among adult survivors of BPD. In this paper, we introduce critical transcriptional regulators in epithelial differentiation and summarize the current knowledge on the contribution of impaired epithelial maturation to the pathogenesis of inflammatory lung disorders.
Predictors of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use in Cancer Care: Results of a Nationwide Multicenter Survey in Korea
Authors: Shin Ji-Yeon , Kim So Young , Park Boyoung , Park Jae-Hyun , Choi Jin Young , Seo Hong Gwan , Park Jong-Hyock
Published: December 2012

Background. Although studies have shown that the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is common in cancer patients, few surveys have assessed CAM use and associated factors in various cancers in Korea.Objectives. We explored factors predicting CAM use among a nationally representative sample of cancer patients.Methods. In total, 2,661 cancer patients were administered questionnaires about their CAM use and factors that might predict CAM use including sociodemographics, clinical and quality-of-life factors, time since diagnosis, trust in physicians, trust in hospitals, satisfaction, and informational needs. Data were analyzed using Pearson’sχ2tests and multivariate logistic regression analysis.Results. Overall, 25.5% reported that they had used or were using CAM. Higher income, presence of metastasis, longer time since diagnosis, less trust in hospitals, lower overall satisfaction, and higher degree of informational need were significantly associated with CAM use.Conclusions. The use of CAM in patients with cancer can be interpreted as an attempt to explore all possible options, expression of an active coping style, or expression of unmet needs in the cancer care continuum. Physicians need to openly discuss the use of CAM with their patients and identify whether they have other unmet supportive needs.
Convergence Analysis of Regular Dynamic Loop‐Like Subdivision Scheme
Authors: Zhao Xiangjun , Liu Xiaoyang , Lu Mei
Published: December 2012

This paper is concerned with the regular dynamic loop‐like subdivision scheme based on the extension of Box‐Spline method. The purpose of the addressed problem is to prove the convergence of the subdivision scheme and verify the C0 and C1 continuity by calculating the eigenvalues of the 2‐neighbor subdivision matrix. Compared with the loop subdivision scheme in previous references, the designed scheme can generate exact revolving surfaces and hold a stronger modeling capability because the subdivision matrix can update regularly with the iteration procedure. Finally, some examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Effects of Tai Chi versus Proprioception Exercise Program on Neuromuscular Function of the Ankle in Elderly People: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Liu Jing , Wang Xue-Qiang , Zheng Jie-Jiao , Pan Yu-Jian , Hua Ying-Hui , Zhao Shang-Min , Shen Li-Yan , Fan Shuai , Zhong Jiu-Gen
Published: December 2012

Background. Tai Chi is a traditional Chinese medicine exercise used for improving neuromuscular function. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Tai Chi versus proprioception exercise program on neuromuscular function of the ankle in elderly people.Methods. Sixty elderly subjects were randomly allocated into three groups of 20 subjects per group. For 16 consecutive weeks, subjects participated in Tai Chi, proprioception exercise, or no structured exercise. Primary outcome measures included joint position sense and muscle strength of ankle. Subjects completed a satisfaction questionnaire upon study completion in Tai Chi and proprioception groups.Results. (1) Both Tai Chi group and proprioception exercise group were significantly better than control group in joint position sense of ankle, and there were no significant differences in joint position sense of ankle between TC group and PE group. (2) There were no significant differences in muscle strength of ankle among groups. (3) Subjects expressed more satisfaction with Tai Chi than with proprioception exercise program.Conclusions. None of the outcome measures on neuromuscular function at the ankle showed significant change posttraining in the two structured exercise groups. However, the subjects expressed more interest in and satisfaction with Tai Chi than proprioception exercise.
Anti-Interleukin-6 Receptor Antibody Therapy-Induced Retinopathy in a Patient with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Tada Asumi , Hashida Noriyasu , Tanaka Toshio , Nishida Kohji
Published: December 2012

Tocilizumab, a humanized anti-human interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor monoclonal antibody, is beneficial for treating autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The most common adverse event is upper respiratory tract infection; ocular side effects are rare. We describe a case of skin ulceration and bilateral retinopathy with multifocal cotton-wool spots and retinal hemorrhages in a patient with RA treated with tocilizumab. Tocilizumab administration increased the serum level of IL-6 without affecting the IL-8 levels. We could not exclude the possibility of blood coagulation or retinal vascular changes caused by tocilizumab. The current case highlights the need to consider that ocular adverse effects can develop in patients treated with tocilizumab.