bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ingestible Wireless Capsule Technology: A Review of Development and Future Indication
Authors: Basar M. R. , Malek F. , Juni Khairudi M. , Idris M. Shaharom , Saleh M. Iskandar M.
Published: December 2012

Ingestible wireless capsule endoscopy (WCE) is the one and only painless, effective, novel, diagnostic technology for inspecting the entire gastrointestinal (GI) tract for various diseases, such as obscure gastrointestinal bleeding (OGIB), tumors, cancer, Crohn’s disease, and celiac disease. Since the development of this technology, several companies have made remarkable improvements in their clinical products, but there are still some limitations that relate to the use of conventional wired endoscopy. Some of the major limitations that currently impede its wider application include its inability to repeat the view of critical areas, working time constraints, and poor image resolution. Many research groups currently are working on ways to solve these limitations. Presently, developing the ability to control the movement of the capsule, increasing its image transmission speed, and obtaining high-quality images are the main issues in the research area. A complex capsule with some therapeutic tools for the treatment of diseases of the GI tract also is at the beginning of development for the next generation of an active medical robot. In this paper, we report the status of several activities related to WCE, including improvement of capsule technology, research progress, technical challenges, and key indicators concerning the next-generation, active, medical robot.
Interval Continuous Plant Identification from Value Sets
Authors: Hernández R. , García J. A. , Mañoso C.
Published: December 2012

This paper shows how to obtain the values of the numerator and denominator Kharitonov polynomials of an interval plant from its value set at a given frequency. Moreover, it is proven that given a value set, all the assigned polynomials of the vertices can be determined if and only if there is a complete edge or a complete arc lying on a quadrant. This algorithm is nonconservative in the sense that if the value‐set boundary of an interval plant is exactly known, and particularly its vertices, then the Kharitonov rectangles are exactly those used to obtain these value sets.
Dynamic Analysis of Cracked Cantilever, Electrostatic Microactuators Using Radial Basis Functions
Authors: Hsu Ming-Hung
Published: December 2012

The dynamic problems of a microactuator with a single edge crack are numerically formulated using radial basis functions. The microactuator model incorporates the taper ratio, electrode shapes, and crack length, all of which govern the dynamic behavior of microactuators. To optimize the design of a microactuator, many characteristics of various shaped cantilevers and curved electrodes are also investigated.
A Two-Phase Data Envelopment Analysis Model for Portfolio Selection
Authors: Lengacher David , Cammarata Craig
Published: December 2012

When organizations do not have well defined goals and constraints, traditional mixed integer programming (MIP) models are ineffective for portfolio selection. In such cases, some organizations revert to building project portfolios based on data envelopment analysis (DEA) relative efficiency scores. However, implementing the k most efficient projects until resources are expended will not always result in the most efficient portfolio. This is because relative efficiency scores are not additive. Instead, the efficiency of each candidate portfolio must be evaluated against all possible portfolios, making for a computationally intensive task. This paper has two main contributions to the literature. First, we introduce a new DEA-MIP model which can identify the most efficient portfolio capable of meeting organizational goals at incremental resource levels. Second, by utilizing a second-stage DEA model to calculate the relative effectiveness of each most efficient portfolio, we provide managers, a tool for justifying budget increases or defending existing budget levels.
Segmentation and Classification of Vowel Phonemes of Assamese Speech Using a Hybrid Neural Framework
Authors: Sarma Mousmita , Sarma Kandarpa Kumar
Published: December 2012

In spoken word recognition, one of the crucial points is to identify the vowel phonemes. This paper describes an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) based algorithm developed for the segmentation and recognition of the vowel phonemes of Assamese language from some words containing those vowels. Self-Organizing Map (SOM) trained with a various number of iterations is used to segment the word into its constituent phonemes. Later, Probabilistic Neural Network (PNN) trained with clean vowel phonemes is used to recognize the vowel segment from the six different SOM segmented phonemes. One of the important aspects of the proposed algorithm is that it proves the validation of the recognized vowel by checking its first formant frequency. The first formant frequency of all the Assamese vowels is predetermined by estimating pole or formant location from the linear prediction (LP) model of the vocal tract. The proposed algorithm shows a high recognition performance in comparison to the conventional Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT) based segmentation.
On the Parametric Stokes Phenomenon for Solutions of Singularly Perturbed Linear Partial Differential Equations
Authors: Malek Stéphane
Published: December 2012

We study a family of singularly perturbed linear partial differential equations with irregular type in the complex domain. In a previous work, Malek (2012), we have given sufficient conditions under which the Borel transform of a formal solution to the above mentioned equation with respect to the perturbation parameter ϵ converges near the
origin in ℂ and can be extended on a finite number of unbounded sectors with small opening and bisecting directions, say κi ∈ [0, 2π), 0 ≤ i ≤ ν − 1 for some integer ν ≥ 2. The proof rests on the construction of neighboring sectorial holomorphic solutions to the first mentioned equation whose differences have exponentially small bounds in the perturbation parameter (Stokes phenomenon) for which the classical Ramis‐Sibuya theorem can be applied. In this paper, we introduce new conditions for the Borel transform to be analytically continued
in the larger sectors {ϵ ∈ ℂ∗/arg(ϵ) ∈ (κi, κi+1)}, where it develops isolated singularities of logarithmic type lying on some half lattice. In the proof, we use a criterion of analytic continuation of the Borel transform described by Fruchard and Schäfke (2011) and is based on a more accurate description of the Stokes phenomenon for the sectorial solutions mentioned above.
Association of Serum Ceruloplasmin Level with Obesity: Some Components of Metabolic Syndrome and High-Sensitive C-Reactive Protein in Iran
Authors: Safavi Seyyed Morteza , Ziaei Rahele , Maracy Mohammad Reza
Published: December 2012

Background. One of the mechanisms that has been suggested for obesity related metabolic disturbances is obesity-induced inflammation. Pro-inflammatory cytokines generated in adipose tissue can increase hepatic synthesis of inflammation-sensitive plasma proteins (ISPs) including ceruloplasmin (Cp). In this study we aimed to investigate the relation between serum Cp level and obesity.Methods. 61 persons with body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25 kg/m2(case group) and 61 persons with BMI < 25 kg/m2(control group) were included in this study with a case-control design. Serum Cp levels, triglyceride level, fating blood glucose, total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol and hsCRP were measured in both groups.Results. We did not observe any significant association between serum Cp level and BMI in all subjects [OR: 1.02 (CI, 0.967 to 1.07)] and in case (β=0.012,P=0.86) and control groups (β=0.49,P=0.07) separately. However, in control group, this positive association was marginally significant. We found a positive correlation between serum Cp level and serum triglyceride level.Conclusion. Serum Cp level was not related to obesity in this group of subjects. None of the baseline variables could predict obesity in this group of subjects, including serum Cp level, FBS, total cholesterol, LDL and HDL- cholesterols and hsCRP.
A Reduced‐Order TS Fuzzy Observer Scheme with Application to Actuator Faults Reconstruction
Authors: Krokavec Dušan , Filasová Anna
Published: December 2012

This paper focuses on the principle for designing reduced‐order fuzzy‐observer‐based actuator fault reconstruction for a class of nonlinear systems. The problem addressed can be indicated as an approach for a kind of reduced‐order fuzzy observer design with special gain matrix structure that depends on a given matching condition specification. Using the Lyapunov theory, the stability conditions are obtained and expressed in terms of linear matrix inequalities, and the conditions for asymptotic estimation of actuator faults are derived. Simulation results illustrate the observer design procedure and demonstrate the actuator fault reconstruction effectiveness and performance.
A Multivariable Index for Grading Exercise Gas Exchange Severity in Patients with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension and Heart Failure
Authors: Kim Chul-Ho , Anderson Steve , MacCarter Dean , Johnson Bruce
Published: December 2012

Patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and heart failure (HF) display many abnormalities in respiratory gas exchange. These abnormalities are accentuated with exercise and track with disease severity. However, use of gas exchange measures in day-to-day clinical practice is limited by several issues, including the large number of variables available and difficulty in data interpretation. Moreover, maximal exercise testing has limitations in clinical populations due to their complexity, patient anxiety and variability in protocols and cost. Therefore, a multivariable gas exchange index (MVI) that integrates key gas exchange variables obtained during submaximal exercise into a severity score that ranges from normal to severe-very-severe is proposed. To demonstrate the usefulness of this index, we applied this to 2 groups (PAH,n=42and HF,n=47) as well as to age matched healthy controls (n=25). We demonstrate that this score tracks WHO classification and right ventricular systolic pressure in PAH (r=0.53and 0.73,P≤0.01) and NYHA and cardiac index in HF (r=0.49and 0.74,P≤0.01). This index demonstrates a stronger relationship than any single gas exchange variable alone. In conclusion, MVI obtained from light, submaximal exercise gas exchange is a useful approach to simplify data interpretation in PAH and HF populations.
Research Progress of Optical Fabrication and Surface‐Microstructure Modification of SiC
Authors: Jiang Fang , Liu Yan , Yang Yong , Huang Zheng-Ren , Li Dan , Liu Gui-ling , Liu Xue-Jian
Published: December 2012

SiC has become the best candidate material for space mirror and optical devices due to a series of favorable physical and chemical properties. Fine surface optical quality with the surface roughness (RMS) less than 1 nm is necessary for fine optical application. However, various defects are present in SiC ceramics, and it is very difficult to polish SiC ceramic matrix with the 1 nm RMS. Surface modification of SiC ceramics must be done on the SiC substrate. Four kinds of surface‐modification routes including the hot pressed glass, the C/SiC clapping, SiC clapping, and Si clapping on SiC surface have been reported and reviewed here. The methods of surface modification, the mechanism of preparation, and the disadvantages and advantages are focused on in this paper. In our view, PVD Si is the best choice for surface modification of SiC mirror.
Effect of Processing on Synthesis and Dielectric Behavior of Bismuth Sodium Titanate Ceramics
Authors: Pal Vijayeta , Dwivedi R. K. , Thakur O. P.
Published: December 2012

An effort has been made to synthesize polycrystalline (Bi1−xLax)0.5Na0.5TiO3 (abbreviated as BLNT) system with compositions x = 0, 0.02, and 0.04 by novel semiwet technique. Preparation of A-site oxides of BLNT for composition x = 0 was optimized using two precursor solutions such as ethylene glycol and citric acid. The XRD patterns revealed that the sample prepared by ethylene glycol precursor solution has single phase perovskite structure with a rhombohedral symmetry at RT as compared to the sample prepared by citric acid. Ethylene glycol precursor has been found to play a significant role in the crystallization, phase transitions, and electrical properties. The studies on structure, phase transitions, and dielectric properties for all the samples have been carried out over the temperature range from RT to 450°C at 100 kHz frequency. It has been observed that two phase transitions (i) ferroelectric to antiferroelectric and (ii) antiferroelectric to paraelectric occur in all the samples. All samples exhibit a modified Curie-Weiss law above Tc. A linear fitting of the modified Curie-Weiss law to the experimental data shows diffuse-type transition. The dielectric as well as ferroelectric properties of BLNT ceramics have been found to be improved with the substitution of La elements.
The Steady-State Serum Concentration of Genistein Aglycone Is Affected by Formulation: A Bioequivalence Study of Bone Products
Authors: Bitto Alessandra , Burnett Bruce P. , Polito Francesca , Russo Silvia , D'Anna Rosario , Pillai Lakshmi , Squadrito Francesco , Altavilla Domenica , Levy Robert M.
Published: December 2012

An FDA-regulated, prescription medical food (Fosteum; 27 mg natural genistein, 200 IU cholecalciferol, 20 mg citrated zinc bisglycinate (4 mg elemental zinc) per capsule) and an over-the-counter (OTC) supplement (Citracal Plus Bone Density Builder; 27 mg synthetic genistein, 600 mg elemental calcium (calcium citrate), 400 IU vitamin D3, 50 mg magnesium, 7.5 mg zinc, 1 mg copper, 75 μg molybdenum, 250 μg boron per two tablets) were compared to a clinically proven bone formulation (27 mg natural genistein, 400 IU cholecalciferol, 500 mg elemental calcium (calcium carbonate) per tablet; the Squadrito formulation) in an 8-day steady-state pharmacokinetic (PK) study of healthy postmenopausal women (n=30) randomized to receive 54 mg of genistein per day. Trough serum samples were obtained before the final dose on the morning of the ninth day followed by sampling at 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 24, 36, 48, 72, and 96 hrs. Total serum genistein, afterβ-glucuronidase/sulfatase digestion, was measured by time-resolved fluorometric assay. Maximal time (Tmax), concentration (Cmax), half-life (T1/2), and area under the curve (AUC) were determined for genistein in each formulation. Fosteum and the Squadrito study formulation were equivalent for genisteinTmax(2 hrs),Cmax(0.7 μM),T1/2(18±6.9 versus 21±4.9 hrs), and AUC (9221±413 versus 9818±1370 ng·hr/mL). The OTC supplement’s synthetically derived genistein, however, showed alteredTmax(6 hrs),Cmax(0.57 μM),T1/2(8.3±1.9 hrs), and AUC (6474±287 ng·hr/mL). Differences in uptake may be due to multiple ingredients in the OTC supplement which interfere with genistein absorption.
2D and 3D Self-Assembling Nanofiber Hydrogels for Cardiomyocyte Culture
Authors: Ikonen Liisa , Kerkelä Erja , Metselaar Gerald , Stuart Marc C. A. , de Jong Menno R. , Aalto-Setälä Katriina
Published: December 2012

Collagen is a widely used biomaterial in cardiac tissue engineering studies. However, as a natural material, it suffers from variability between batches that can complicate the standardization of culture conditions. In contrast, synthetic materials are modifiable, have well-defined structures and more homogeneous batches can be produced. In this study, several collagen-like synthetic self-assembling nanofiber hydrogels were examined for their suitability for cardiomyocyte culture in 2D and 3D. Six different nanofiber coatings were used in the 2D format with neonatal rat cardiomyocytes (NRCs) and human embryonic stem-cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hESC-CMs). The viability, growth, and functionality of the 2D-cultured cardiomyocytes were evaluated. The best-performing nanofiber coatings were selected for 3D experiments. Hydrophilic pH-sensitive nanofiber hydrogel coassembled with hyaluronic acid performed best with both NRCs and hESC-CMs. Hydrophilic non-pH-sensitive nanofiber hydrogels supported the growth of NRCs; however, their ability to promote attachment and growth of hESC-CMs was limited. NRCs also grew on hydrophobic nanofiber hydrogels; however, the cell-supporting capacity of these hydrogels was inferior to that of the hydrophilic hydrogel materials. This is the first study demonstrating that hydrophilic self-assembling nanofiber hydrogels support the culture of both NRCs and hESC-CMs, which suggests that these biomaterials hold promise for cardiac tissue engineering.
Functionalized Magnetic Nanoparticles for the Detection and Quantitative Analysis of Cell Surface Antigen
Authors: Shahbazi-Gahrouei Daryoush , Abdolahi Mohammad , Zarkesh-Esfahani Sayyed Hamid , Laurent Sophie , Sermeus Corine , Gruettner Cordula
Published: December 2012

Cell surface antigens as biomarkers offer tremendous potential for early diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic response in a variety of diseases such as cancers. In this research, a simple, rapid, accurate, inexpensive, and easily available in vitro assay based on magnetic nanoparticles and magnetic cell separation principle was applied to identify and quantitatively analyze the cell surface antigen expression in the case of prostate cancer cells. Comparing the capability of the assay with flow cytometry as a gold standard method showed similar results. The results showed that the antigen-specific magnetic cell separation with antibody-coated magnetic nanoparticles has high potential for quantitative cell surface antigen detection and analysis.
Improvement of Biogas Production by Bioaugmentation
Authors: Kovács K. L. , Ács N. , Kovács E. , Wirth R. , Rákhely G. , Strang Orsolya , Herbel Zsófia , Bagi Z.
Published: December 2012

Biogas production technologies commonly involve the use of natural anaerobic consortia of microbes. The objective of this study was to elucidate the importance of hydrogen in this complex microbial food chain. Novel laboratory biogas reactor prototypes were designed and constructed. The fates of pure hydrogen-producing cultures ofCaldicellulosiruptor saccharolyticusandEnterobacter cloacaewere followed in time in thermophilic and mesophilic natural biogas-producing communities, respectively. Molecular biological techniques were applied to study the altered ecosystems. A systematic study in 5-litre CSTR digesters revealed that a key fermentation parameter in the maintenance of an altered population balance is the loading rate of total organic solids. Intensification of the biogas production was observed and the results corroborate that the enhanced biogas productivity is associated with the increased abundance of the hydrogen producers. Fermentation parameters did not indicate signs of failure in the biogas production process. Rational construction of more efficient and sustainable biogas-producing microbial consortia is proposed.
Complements to the Theoretical Treatments of the Electron Collision with : AnR-Matrix Approach
Authors: Stancalie V.
Published: December 2012

This paper presents new refined results from the theoretical treatment of electron collision with the Fe-peak element Co3+. We have investigated the relevance of relativistic effects on the accurate representation of the target electron wave functions within theBreit-Pauli R-matrix approach. The calculated values for fine-structure levels are compared with the available experimental data in Atomic Structure Database of the National Institute for Standards and Technology. The agreement between the calculated and the experimental data is reasonably good, the energy difference average percentage of the low-lying levels usually agreeing to within 3.6% of each other. For completeness, we summarize herein the existing theoreticalR-matrix treatments intended specifically to explore the role of including configuration interaction wave functions both in the target-state expansion, and in the ()-electron quadratically integrable function expansion. To the best of our knowledge, the work reported herein describes for the first time a detailed calculation for this atomic system, and the results are relevant to the laboratory and astrophysical plasmas.
Efficient and Convenient Route for the Synthesis of Some New Antipyrinyl Monoazo Dyes: Application to Polyester Fibers and Biological Evaluation
Authors: Fadda Ahmed A. , Elattar Khaled M.
Published: December 2012

Nine variously substituted azo dye derivatives 2–10 of antipyrine were prepared. The effects of the nature and orientation of the substituents on the color and dyeing properties of these dyes for polyester fibers were evaluated. The newly synthesized compounds were characterized on the basis of elemental analyses and spectral data. On the other hand, the investigated dyes were applied to polyester fabrics and showed good light, washing, heat, and acid perspiration fastness. The remarkable degree of brightness after washings is indicative of the good penetration and the excellent affinity of these dyes for the fabric. The results in general revealed the efficiency of the prepared compounds as new monoazo disperse dyes. The newly synthesized compounds were screened for their antioxidant and cytotoxic activity against Vitamin C and 5‐fluorouracil, respectively. The data showed clearly that most of the compounds exhibited good antioxidant and cytotoxic activities.
Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Patients: Orchestrated by Chronic Prostatic Inflammation and Prostatic Calculi?
Authors: Kim Sang Hoon , Jung Kyu In , Koh Jun Sung , Min Ki Ouk , Cho Su Yeon , Kim Hyun Woo
Published: December 2012

Objective: This study aims to examine the relationship between chronic prostatic inflammation and prostatic calculi, and clinical parameters of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Materials and Methods: This study was based on 225 patients who underwent transurethral resection of the prostate for BPH. Chronic inflammation was graded as 0 (n = 44), I (n = 54), II (n = 88) or III (n = 39) according to severity. Prostatic calculi were classified into types A (n = 66), B (n = 44), M (n = 77) and N (n = 38). The relationship between inflammation and calculus type was analyzed, and clinical parameters of BPH were compared for each group. Results: There was no correlation between severity of inflammation and calculus type. Prostatic volume increased with the severity of inflammation and showed significant differences between G2, G3 and G0. The International Prostate Symptom Score also increased with increasing inflammation. There was no significant difference between each clinical parameter according to calculus type. Conclusions: Prostatic calculi had no significant association with chronic inflamma- tion and clinical parameters of BPH. Chronic inflammation was associated with the volume of the prostate and storage symptoms; thus, it is not only presumed to be related to the progression of BPH, but may also be one of the causes of lower urinary tract symptoms.
OPG/RANK/RANKL Axis in Stabilization of Spontaneously Restored Sinus Rhythm in Permanent Atrial Fibrillation Patients after Mitral Valve Surgery
Authors: Xi Lei , Cao Hailong , Zhu Jinfu , Røe Oluf Dimitri , Li Mingna , Wu Yanhu , Wang Dongjin , Chen Yijiang
Published: December 2012

Objective: To investigate the expression of the osteoprotegerin (OPG)/receptor activator of nuclear factor-ĸB (RANK)/RANK ligand (RANKL) axis in the stabilization of spontaneously restored sinus rhythm (SR) in permanent atrial fibrillation (AF) patients after mitral valve (MV) surgery and study its clinical significance. Methods: Clinical data, biopsies of right atrial appendages were collected from 135 permanent AF patients who spontaneously restored SR after conventional isolated MV replacement. A comparison was made between patients who had recurrence of AF within 7 days and patients with persistent SR for more than 7 days. Results: AF patients had an increased expression of RANK, RANKL, and the RANKL/OPG ratio compared to SR patients, and the degree of fibrosis was lower in SR compared to AF in the atria. Moreover, the expressions of RANK, RANKL, and the RANKL/OPG ratio were positively correlated with the degree of fibrosis. Conclusion: These findings suggest that the OPG/RANK/RANKL axis plays important roles in the stabilization of restored SR after MV surgery by stimulating AF-related atrial remodeling in AF patients.
Differences of Ankle-Brachial Index according to Ischemic Stroke Subtypes: The Peripheral Artery Disease in Korean Patients with Ischemic Stroke (PIPE) Study
Authors: Chung Pil-Wook , Kim Dae-Hyun , Kim Hahn Young , Park Kwang-Yeol , Park Tai Hwan , Hong Ji Man , Kim Gyeong-Moon , Bang Oh Young , Oh Kyungmi , Lee Soo Joo
Published: December 2012

Background/Aims: Although previous studies showed a high prevalence of abnormal ankle-brachial index (ABI) in patients with ischemic stroke, few data exist regarding ABI in Asian patients with ischemic stroke. The purpose of the present study was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with abnormal ABI (≤0.9) in a cohort of ischemic stroke patients. Methods: In this prospective multicenter study, 1,293 patients diagnosed with acute ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack underwent ABI measurement to evaluate an association between abnormal ABI and vascular risk factors and clinical characteristics. Differences in ABI by stroke subtypes were also assessed. Results: Abnormal ABI of ≤0.9 was found in 13.0%. Patients with abnormal ABI were more likely to be older and had higher initial stroke severity. The prevalence of abnormal ABI was 18.4% in large artery atherosclerosis, 7% in small artery disease, and 19.2% in cardioembolism (p < 0.001). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that age, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, and large artery atherosclerosis subtype were independent factors associated with abnormal ABI. Conclusions: These data suggest that the prevalence of abnormal ABI in Korean patients with ischemic stroke was lower than that in Caucasian patients, which might be associated with ethnic differences in underlying stroke subtypes.
Effect of Signal Peptides on the Secretion of β-Cyclodextrin Glucanotransferase in Lactococcus lactis NZ9000
Authors: Subramaniam Menaga , Baradaran Ali , Rosli Md Illias , Rosfarizan Mohamad , Khatijah Yusoff , Raha Abdul Rahim
Published: December 2012

Cyclodextrin glucanotransferase (CGTase) is an extracellular enzyme which catalyzes the formation of cyclodextrin from starch. The production of CGTase using lactic acid bacterium is an attractive alternative and safer strategy to produce CGTase. In this study, we report the construction of genetically modified Lactococcus lactis strains harboring plasmids that secrete the Bacillus sp. G1 β-CGTase, with the aid of the signal peptides (SPs) SPK1, USP45 and native SP (NSP). Three constructed vectors, pNZ:NSP:CGT, pNZ:USP:CGT and pNZ:SPK1:CGT, were developed in this study. Each vector harbored a different SP fused to the CGTase. The formation of halo zones on starch plates indicated the production and secretion of β-CGTase by the recombinants. The expression of this enzyme is shown by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and zymogram analysis. A band size of ∼75 kDa corresponding to β-CGTase is identified in the intracellular and the extracellular environments of the host after medium modification. The replacement of glucose by starch in the medium was shown to induce β-CGTase production in L. lactis. Although β-CGTase production is comparatively low in NZ:SPK1:CGT, the SP SPK1 was shown to have higher secretion efficiency compared to the other SPs used in this study.
Sarcoidal Granulomas in Cytological Specimens from Intrathoracic Adenopathy: Morphologic Characteristics and Radiographic Correlations
Authors: Cancellieri Alessandra , Leslie Kevin O. , Tinelli Carmine , Patelli Marco , Trisolini Rocco
Published: December 2012

Background: Clinical experience and literature data suggest that the ability of pathologists to identify granulomas in cytological specimens from intrathoracic lymphadenopathy varies considerably and may negatively influence the yield of transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA), both conventional and ultrasound-guided (EBUS-TBNA). Objectives: To describe the cytomorphology of sarcoidal granulomas on TBNA cytology specimens and to analyze the presence of associations between the cytological characteristics of granulomas and the radiographic stage of sarcoidosis. Methods: TBNA cytological specimens from 123 sarcoidosis patients and 14 tuberculosis patients (control population) were reviewed independently by two pathologists blinded to the clinical-radiological details. Results: Sarcoidal granulomas were small [median (IQR) largest diameter: 0.478 (0.318-0.701) mm] and well-formed, round or elliptical in shape, and almost invariably had a regular contour. Background elements lacked necrotic debris or exudate. The density [median (IQR) number of granulomas per slide: 6.85 (3.66-11) vs. 5.25 (2.5-8), p = 0.073] and size [median (IQR) largest diameter: 0.51 (0.319-0.733) vs. 0.398 (0.318-0.522), p = 0.071] tended to be larger in stage I than in stage II sarcoidosis. A necrotic background was common in the tuberculosis cohort studied (79 vs. 0%, p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Granulomas can be reliably identified on TBNA cytological material once their characteristic cytomorphology is delineated. A higher density of granulomas in lymphadenopathy of stage I sarcoidosis patients could partly explain the higher success rate constantly obtained by TBNA and EBUS-TBNA in this stage of the disease. A necrotic background suggests a tubercular etiology of the granulomas over a sarcoidal one, in the appropriate clinical setting.
Incidence of Balanitis Xerotica Obliterans in Boys Younger than 10 Years Presenting with Phimosis
Authors: Kuehhas F.E. , Miernik A. , Weibl P. , Schoenthaler M. , Sevcenco S. , Schauer I. , Tosev G. , Oezsoy M. , Lassmann J.
Published: December 2012

Objective: Evaluation of the true incidence of balanitis xerotica obliterans (BXO) among boys younger than 10 years. Methods: In a period of 13 months, 75 boys younger than 10 years were treated for phimosis. Suspicion of BXO was raised in phimosis grade 2 or 3 (classification by Kikiros). Patients were offered primarily either circumcision or conservative therapy and circumcision secondarily (if treatment failed in the conservative group). Each circumcision specimen was examined histopathologically. Results: Circumcision was primarily performed in 29 and secondarily in 17 patients. The mean age was 3.7 years (range 1-10). BXO, chronic inflammation, and normal histological results were found in 8/26/12 (17.4/56.5/26.1%) cases, respectively. The mean follow-up was 8.1 months. No recurrences were reported. Conclusions: The incidence of BXO appears to be higher than previously reported. The clinical appearance in children may be confusing. The preoperative BXO suspicion did not correlate with the final histopathological results.
Age-Dependent Predictors for Recurrent Stroke: The Paradoxical Role of Triglycerides
Authors: Eun Mi-Yeon , Seo Woo-Keun , Lee Juneyoung , Kim Minjeong , Kim Juyeon , Kim Ji Hyun , Oh Kyungmi , Koh Seong-Beom
Published: December 2012

Background: Although long-term predictors of mortality and vascular events after ischemic stroke are well defined, the age-dependent differences in predicting outcomes are unknown, particularly for lipid parameters. Methods: We assessed recurrent stroke and other vascular events in patients with first-ever ischemic strokes who were registered in a prospectively collected hospital-based stroke registry. Patients were classified into a middle-age group (40–64 years old) and an old-age group (65 years and older). Results: A total of 551 patients comprising 235 middle-age and 316 old-age subjects were investigated. At the mean follow-up of 26.4 months, 49 (8.9%) patients had experienced recurrent stroke. Outcome events in the middle-age group (3.8%) were less frequent than in the old-age group (12.7%). The effects of vascular risk factors were different across age groups. In particular, the hazard ratio direction for triglycerides was significantly different between age groups for recurrent stroke or composite outcomes. Conclusions: Incidence and predictors of stroke and other vascular events following ischemic stroke are age-dependent. Differential effects of triglycerides on long-term outcomes following ischemic stroke were found to be hazardous at middle age but turned out to be non-significant at old age.
Treatment Options To Terminate Persistent Cesarean Scar Pregnancy
Authors: Zhang Ying , Duan Hua , Cheng Jiu-Mei , Guo Yin-Shu
Published: December 2012

Aims: Persistent Cesarean scar pregnancy (PCSP) is a rare and special type of Cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) which is resistant to conservative treatment. The treatment option is challenging. We report a case series to provide indications for further treatment. Methods: Ten women diagnosed as having a PCSP, seeking better treatment because of primary treatment failure, were admitted to a gynecologic minimally invasive center. Ultrasound combined with office hysteroscopy was used for preoperative evaluation, and then a further surgical strategy was selected. Clinical data were retrospectively studied. Results: Among ten PCSP patients, 4 were type I and 6 were type II. In the 4 type I cases, 2 were treated by laparoscopy and the other 2 by hysteroscopy; to stop bleeding in 1 of them, the uterine artery was occluded laparoscopically. All type II cases were successfully treated by laparoscopic excision. The mean operating time was 61.5 min. The mean blood loss was 83.5 ml. No complications occurred except one intraoperative hemorrage. Conclusions: Experience from this case series indicates that an individualized surgical plan based on a full preoperative evaluation provides useful information for choosing a suitable treatment for PCSP. Endoscopically guided surgical excision with experienced hands may be considered the most useful treatment.
Qualitative and Quantitative Aspects of the Microanatomy of the African Elephant Cerebellar Cortex
Authors: Maseko Busisiwe C. , Jacobs Bob , Spocter Muhammad A. , Sherwood Chet C. , Hof Patrick R. , Manger Paul R.
Published: December 2012

The current study provides a number of novel observations on the organization and structure of the cerebellar cortex of the African elephant by using a combination of basic neuroanatomical and immunohistochemical stains with Golgi and stereologic analysis. While the majority of our observations indicate that the cerebellar cortex of the African elephant is comparable to other mammalian species, several features were unique to the elephant. The three-layered organization of the cerebellar cortex, the neuronal types and some aspects of the expression of calcium-binding proteins were common to a broad range of mammalian species. The Lugaro neurons observed in the elephant were greatly enlarged in comparison to those of other large-brained mammals, suggesting a possible alteration in the processing of neural information in the elephant cerebellar cortex. Analysis of Golgi impregnations indicated that the dendritic complexity of the different interneuron types was higher in elephants than other mammals. Expression of parvalbumin in the parallel fibers and calbindin expressed in the stellate and basket cells also suggested changes in the elephant cerebellar neuronal circuitry. The stereologic analysis confirmed and extended previous observations by demonstrating that neuronal density is low in the elephant cerebellar cortex, providing for a larger volume fraction of the neuropil. With previous results indicating that the elephants have the largest relative cerebellar size amongst mammals, and one of the absolutely largest mammalian cerebella, the current observations suggest that the elephants have a greater volume of a potentially more complexly organized cerebellar cortex compared to other mammals. This quantitatively larger and more complex cerebellar cortex likely represents part of the neural machinery required to control the complex motor patterns involved in movement of the trunk and the production of infrasonic vocalizations.
High-Dose Cyclophosphamide Therapy Associated with Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage after Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Mo Xiao-Dong , Xu Lan-Ping , Liu Dai-Hong , Zhang Xiao-Hui , Chen Huan , Chen Yu-Hong , Han Wei , Wang Yu , Wang Feng-Rong , Wang Jing-Zhi , Liu Kai-Yan , Huang Xiao-Jun
Published: December 2012

Background: The occurrence of diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) is rare but severe. There are few reports that have examined the correlation between pre-HSCT chemotherapeutic exposure and DAH. Objectives: We examine the role of pre-HSCT chemotherapeutic exposure, conditioning regimens, pre-HSCT comorbidities and transplant-related complications in the development of DAH after allo-HSCT and evaluate the effect of the high-dose corticosteroid strategy on DAH. Methods: A retrospective nested case-control study was designed. Cases with DAH and controls matched for year of allo-HSCT and length of follow-up were identified from a cohort of 597 patients who underwent allo-HSCT between 2006 and 2011 for acute leukemia. Results: Twenty-two patients suffered from DAH; the mean age at the time of presentation was 30.4 years (±12.9) and the mean time to presentation was 7.8 months (±8.1) post-HSCT. The pre-HSCT cyclophosphamide exposure and the cumulative cyclophosphamide dose were significantly higher among the DAH cases compared with the controls, and the cumulative cyclophosphamide dose of ≥5 g/m2 was independently associated with DAH (OR = 3.4, p = 0.030). High-dose corticosteroid treatment did not significantly improve survival. Conclusions: From these results we can identify patients who are at a higher risk of developing DAH after allo-HSCT, and we found that high-dose corticosteroid therapy may not alter the poor outcome associated with this syndrome.
Effect and Safety of Mycophenolate Mofetil in Chronic Pulmonary Sarcoidosis: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Brill Anne-Kathrin , Ott Sebastian R. , Geiser Thomas
Published: December 2012

Background: Treatment of chronic pulmonary sarcoidosis (CPS) is challenging and often requires long-term therapy with systemic corticosteroids and supplementary use of steroid-sparing agents. Objective: To examine the efficiency and safety of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) as a steroid-sparing agent in patients with CPS. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of patients with biopsy-proven pulmonary sarcoidosis, who were treated with MMF and systemic corticosteroids for >6 months between 2004 and 2010. Corticosteroid dose, pulmonary function parameters and radiological and clinical follow-up before and after treatment with MMF were assessed. Results: Ten patients received MMF for >6 months. MMF was introduced due to side effects (5/10 patients) and due to an inadequate response to prior therapy (5/10 patients). Median duration of treatment with MMF was 31 months (range 8-66). Therapeutic MMF plasma trough levels of 1-3 mg/l were reached with daily doses of 1,722 ± 440 mg MMF. Daily corticosteroid dose could be significantly reduced from 14.3 ± 13.3 to 6.5 ± 2.3 mg prednisolone during treatment. During follow-up, pulmonary function, symptoms and radiological signs improved in 4 patients, while 6 patients remained stable. Median change in FVC was +8.5 % (range -2 to 16). No severe adverse events that were related to combined immunosuppressive therapy occurred. Conclusion: This study indicates that the addition of MMF to corticosteroids is a viable and safe treatment option in CPS. MMF allows a significant reduction of maintenance corticosteroids to levels <10 mg/day while preserving a stable or improved clinical condition.
A Functional Insertion/Deletion Polymorphism (-94 ins/del ATTG) in the Promoter Region of the NFKB1 Gene Is Related to the Risk of Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Cai Hongzhou , Sun Lijiang , Cui Li , Cao Qiang , Qin Chao , Zhang Guiming , Mao Xin , Wang Meilin , Zhang Zhengdong , Shao Pengfei , Yin Changjun
Published: December 2012

Objective: Activated nuclear factor-ĸB is associated with the pathogenesis of numerous malignancies, including renal cell carcinoma (RCC). This study aimed to clarify the influence of a common insertion/deletion polymorphism (-94 ins/del ATTG, rs28362491) in the NFKB1 promoter on RCC susceptibility. Methods: We genotyped the NFKB1 -94 ins/del ATTG promoter polymorphism by the TaqMan method and assessed the association with RCC risk, clinicopathological parameters in a case-control study of 1,027 cases and 1,094 controls. Results: The genotype frequencies were significantly different between RCC cases and controls (p = 0.046). Compared with individuals carrying the ins/del + del/del genotypes, those with the ins/ins genotype had an increased RCC risk [p = 0.036, adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 1.23, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.02-1.48], particularly in the subgroup of younger age (p = 0.005, adjusted OR = 1.42, 95% CI = 1.11-1.83) and never smokers (p = 0.013, adjusted OR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.07-1.69). Furthermore, the polymorphism was significantly associated with the risk of developing localized stage RCC (p = 0.020, OR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.04-1.53). Conclusions: The functional NFKB1 promoter polymorphism is associated with an increased risk of RCC.
Sertaconazole Antifungal Profile Determined by a Microdilution Method versus Nine Topical Substances against Dermatophyte Fungi
Authors: Carrillo-Muñoz A.J. , Tur-Tur C. , Cárdenes D. , Rojas F. , Giusiano G.
Published: December 2012

Antifungal activity and in vitro inhibition time for sertaconazole (STZ) and 9 other topical drugs, namely amorolfine, bifonazole, clotrimazole, econazole, ketoconazole, miconazole, oxiconazole, terbinafine, and tioconazole were determined against 124 clinical isolates of dermatophyte (12 species) fungi by the microdilution method in a liquid medium and the measurement of optical density. STZ’s antifungal activity was not always affected by the tested dermatophyte genus, as was the case with the remaining antifungals. In vitro antifungal activity was at the same level for all the studied azole derivatives, but, in terms of partial inhibitory concentrations, STZ starts its in vitro inhibitory activity in a shorter time than the other tested substances, particularly in those incubation periods when the growth of the dermatophyte fungi was more developed.
Neuropathophysiological Effect and Immuno-Inflammatory Response Induced by Kaliotoxin of Androctonus Scorpion Venom
Authors: Ladjel-Mendil Amina , Martin-Eauclaire Marie-France , Laraba-Djebari Fatima
Published: December 2012

Objective: Kaliotoxin (KTX) is a neurotoxin purified from Androctonus scorpion venom. Purification and pharmacological and immunological characterization of this neurotoxin has been extensively studied, but its biological effects have not. The ability of KTX to induce neuropathophysiological and immuno-inflammatory effects was investigated. Methods: NMRI mice were injected with a sublethal dose of KTX (20 ng/20 g of body weight) or saline solution via the intra-cerebro-ventricular route. Tissue damage and immunological biomarkers such as eosinophil peroxidase (EPO), myeloperoxidase (MPO), and nitric oxide (NO) were analyzed in serum, brain, lung, and heart tissue. Protein levels, LDH, and CPK activities were also determined in serum 24 h after injection. Results: In this study, KTX injection induced severe alterations in the cerebral cortex, myocardium, and pulmonary parenchyma. Tissue damage was correlated with seric increase in creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase activities. KTX also induced an immuno-inflammatory response distinguished by cell infiltration characterized by a significant increase in EPO and MPO activities in the brain, heart, and lungs. This infiltration was also associated with an increase in albumin, α-, β-, and γ-globulin fractions, and NO release. Conclusion: KTX binding to its targets in CNS (Kv1.1 and Kv1.3 channels) may induce severe modifications in the structure and function of various organs associated with the activation of immuno-inflammatory reactions.
Deep Brain Stimulation in Children with Dystonia: Experience from a Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Ghosh Partha S. , Machado Andre G. , Deogaonkar Milind , Ghosh Debabrata
Published: December 2012

Objective: To investigate the efficacy and safety of deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the globus pallidus internus (GPi) in children with dystonia. Methods: Retrospective chart review of patients (≤21 years) with dystonia who underwent GPi DBS. Outcome measures were assessed by the Burke-Fahn-Marsden Dystonia Rating (BFMDR) movement and disability scales pre- and post-DBS. Results: Eight patients underwent DBS; mean age of onset was 7.5 ± 4.8 years (7 were male). Mean age at DBS was 14.1 ± 4.6 years. Etiology of dystonia was primary in 6 patients and secondary in 2. There was significant improvement of BFMDR movement as well as BFMDR disability scales in 6 patients with primary dystonia with modest improvement in those scales in 2 patients with secondary dystonia. Hardware-related problems were observed in 2 and infection was noted in 1. Conclusions: GPi DBS is an effective and safe therapy in pediatric patients with primary as well as selected cases of secondary dystonia.
Helicobacter pylori Infection in Neuromyelitis Optica and Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Long Youming , Gao Cong , Qiu Wei , Hu Xueqiang , Shu Yaqing , Peng Fuhua , Lu Zhengqi
Published: December 2012

Objective: To determine the Helicobacter pylori infection status in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica (NMO) spectrum. Methods:H. pylori infection was certified by indirect immunofluorescence assay. Aquaporin-4 (AQP4) antibody was detected by cell-based assay. H. pylori seroprevalence was measured in 118 patients with NMO (n = 52), high-risk NMO (hrNMO, longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis, n = 17 and recurrent optic neuritis, n = 7), MS (n = 42) and healthy controls (n = 27). Logistic regression analysis was used to determine associations between H. pylori infection and NMO and MS. Results:H. pylori antibodies were present in 119 serum samples (82.1%, 119/145), with antibody positivity in 90.4% (47/52) of the patients with NMO, 95.8% (23/24) of the patients with hrNMO, 73.8% (31/42) of the patients with MS and 59.3% (16/27) of the controls. NMO spectrum patients had greater positivity for H. pylori than MS patients (p < 0.05) and controls (p < 0.05). The frequency of H. pylori seropositivity did not significantly differ between MS patients and controls (p = 0.726). H. pylori seropositivity was significantly higher in AQP4 antibody-positive patients (54/58, 93.1%; p = 0.038) than in AQP4 antibody-negative patients (48/60, 80%). Logistic regression analysis showed that H. pylori seropositivity was significantly associated with hrNMO [odds ratio (OR) = 9.311, p = 0.005] or hrNMO + NMO (OR = 6.350, p = 0.028). Conclusion:H. pylori infection was present in most Chinese patients with NMO and hrNMO, and may be a risk factor for the NMO spectrum.