bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forced Convection Condensation on a Horizontal Tube—Experiments With Vertical Downflow of Steam
Authors: Michael A. G. , Rose J. W. , Daniels L. C.
Published: October 2009

The paper reports an experimental investigation into the condensation of steam flowing vertically downward over a single horizontal tube. A limited number of experiments with steam-nitrogen mixtures are also reported. For the case of “pure” steam, data have been obtained at near atmospheric pressure for vapor approach velocities in the range 5 to 81 m/s and with superheats in the range 2 to 40 K. The results are compared with theory and earlier experimental data for steam and other fluids. The vapor-side heat transfer coefficients were found to increase with velocity. For vapor velocities in excess of 30 m/s, the rate of increase of the vapor-side coefficient was greater than predicted by laminar condensate flow theory. This behavior has also been observed by earlier workers for refrigerant-113 and ethylene glycol and may indicate onset of turbulence in the condensate film. Superheat had insignificant effect on the heat transfer coefficient for the condensate film. The results for steam-nitrogen mixtures were generally in good agreement with existing equations for the “gas-layer” resistance.
Effect of Noncondensibles on Condensation and Evaporation of Bubbles
Authors: Ullmann A. , Letan R.
Published: October 2009

The fraction of noncondensibles in a bubble controls the temperature driving force in the process of condensation and evaporation. It affects the vapor partial pressure, and consequently the apparent temperature of saturation. The present work deals with a bubble condensing in immiscible and miscible liquids, and with the evaporation of a bubble in an immiscible liquid. The complete, exact expression of the dimensionless apparent saturation temperature is formulated, and all its terms are examined, including the variation of physical properties. The analysis is extended over systems of R-113, pentane, and hexane. The exact relation is compared with previous approximate solutions and the limits of application are illustrated. At small temperature differences the approximate models are adequate. The discrepancy increases at high temperature differences. The rate of collapse is examined in a system of R-113 in water. Experimental rates of videotaped collapsing bubbles were obtained up to a temperature difference of 20°C. The effect of noncondensibles is most pronounced at the higher temperature difference. Comparison of theoretical curves at a temperature difference of 30°C shows the exact termination of the process to be faster than the approximate prediction. The deviation increases with the concentration of the noncondensibles. Relations formulated for evaporation of liquid in presence of noncondensibles were tested experimentally. Vapor of R-113 was experimentally obtained in a bubble of air down to 20°C below the satuaration temperature. The measurements showed good agreement with the predictions.
Performance Characteristics of a Concentric Annular Heat Pipe: Part I—Experimental Prediction and Analysis of the Capillary Limit
Authors: Faghri A. , Thomas S.
Published: October 2009

This paper describes the design, testing, and theoretical capillary limit prediction of a new heat pipe configuration, which is the concentric annular heat pipe. The concentric annular heat pipe is made of two concentric pipes of unequal diameters that create an annular vapor space. With this arrangement, capillary wicks can be placed on both the inside of the outer pipe and the outside of the inner pipe. This design significantly increases the heat capacity per unit length compared to conventional heat pipes, since the cross-sectional area of the wick as well as the surface area for heating and cooling are increased. The heat pipe was tested for the temperature distribution in the three sections of the heat pipe under various tilt angles and heating loads through the inner and outer pipes in the evaporator section. A simple analysis for the prediction of the capillary limitation of the concentric annular heat pipe is presented.
Turbulent Forced Convection Inside a Parallel-Plate Channel With Periodic Variation of Inlet Temperature
Authors: Kim W. S. , O¨zis¸ik M. N.
Published: October 2009

The analysis of heat transfer in turbulent forced convection subject to a periodically varying inlet temperature leads to a nonclassical Sturm–Liouville type eigenvalue problem for which no known solution is available. In this work a new methodology is developed to alleviate the need for the solution of a complex eigenvalue problem in the analysis of turbulent forced convection inside a parallel-plate channel with a periodicially varying inlet temperature and a uniform constant wall temperature. In this approach, the problem is transformed to the solution of a system of coupled ordinary differential equations in the complex domain, which could readily be solved. For the cases considered it is demonstrated that the solutions obtained from the decoupled system, referred to as the lowest-order solution, produce sufficiently accurate results. The variation of the amplitudes and phase lag of both fluid bulk temperature and the wall heat flux along the channel is investigated and a simple approximate analytic formula is developed for determining the variation of the phase lag for the bulk temperature along the channel.
Convective Heat Transfer Distributions on a Plate Cooled by Planar Water Jets
Authors: Zumbrunnen D. A. , Incropera F. P. , Viskanta R.
Published: October 2009

Convective heat transfer distributions have been measured for planar water jets impinging on a plate. The cooling effectiveness of two nozzles, each with a different discharge width, is compared for a range of impingement velocities. Measurements were made under transient conditions, and results are presented both during and after the period for boundary layer growth on an initially dry plate. Heat transfer correlations and discussions of pertinent parametric effects are provided.
Natural Convection in Vertical Annuli: A Numerical Study for Constant Heat Flux on the Inner Wall
Authors: Khan J. A. , Kumar R.
Published: October 2009

A numerical investigation has been conducted to evaluate the effects of diameter ratio and aspect ratio in natural convection of gases within vertical annuli. The inner cylinder is maintained at uniform heat flux and the outer cylinder at constant temperature. The horizontal top and bottom walls are insulated. Detailed results of heat transfer rate, temperature, and velocity fields have been obtained for 1 ≤ κ ≤ 15, 1 ≤ A ≤ 10, and 100 < RaL* < 107. The inner wall temperature is a function of diameter ratio and aspect ratio. The heat transfer results have been compared with those for isothermal heating, and have been found to be higher. The inner diameter is seen to be the appropriate length scale for high Rayleigh number flows and/or high radius ratios, and the radius ratio effect on heat transfer is seen to be insignificant for radius ratios greater than 10. The heat transfer results based on the inner diameter are in very good agreement with published experimental results, although these experiments were conducted for very high aspect ratio. Heat transfer correlations are provided.
Mixed Convective Low Flow Pressure Drop in Vertical Rod Assemblies: I—Predictive Model and Design Correlation
Authors: Suh K. Y. , Todreas N. E. , Rohsenow W. M.
Published: October 2009

A predictive theory has been developed for rod bundle frictional pressure drop characteristics under laminar and transitional mixed convection conditions on the basis of the intraassembly and intrasubchannel flow redistributions due to buoyancy for a wide spectrum of radial power profiles and for the geometric arrangements of practical design interest. Both the individual subchannel correlations and overall bundle design correlations have been formulated as multipliers applied to the isothermal friction factors at the same Reynolds numbers. Standard and modified subchannel friction factors have been obtained to be used with spatial-average and bulk-mean densities, respectively. A correlating procedure has been proposed to assess the effects of interacting subchannel flows, developing mixed convective flow, wire wrapping, power skew, rod number, and transition from laminar flow. In contrast to forced convection behavior, a strong rod number effect is present under mixed convection conditions in bundle geometries. The results of this study are of design importance in natural circulation conditions because the mixed convection frictional pressure losses exceed the corresponding isothermal values at the same Reynolds numbers.
Hippo Pathway–Dependent and –Independent Roles of RASSF6
Authors: Ikeda Mitsunobu , Kawata Akira , Nishikawa Misa , Tateishi Yuko , Yamaguchi Masato , Nakagawa Kentaro , Hirabayashi Susumu , Bao Yijun , Hidaka Shiho , Hirata Yukio , Hata Yutaka
Published: October 2009

RASSF6 is both an inhibitor and a promoter of apoptosis, and its proapoptotic activity is regulated by the mammalian kinase MST2, a Hippo homolog.
MicroRNAs Differentially Regulated by Akt Isoforms Control EMT and Stem Cell Renewal in Cancer Cells
Authors: Iliopoulos Dimitrios , Polytarchou Christos , Hatziapostolou Maria , Kottakis Filippos , Maroulakou Ioanna G. , Struhl Kevin , Tsichlis Philip N.
Published: October 2009

Akt-dependent induction of a metastatic phenotype may depend on the balance of Akt1 and Akt2.
A Noisy Paracrine Signal Determines the Cellular NF-κB Response to Lipopolysaccharide
Authors: Lee Timothy K. , Denny Elissa M. , Sanghvi Jayodita C. , Gaston Jahlionais E. , Maynard Nathaniel D. , Hughey Jacob J. , Covert Markus W.
Published: October 2009

A low-concentration paracrine TNF-α signal contributes to the variability in NF-κB activation dynamics in the response to lipopolysaccharide.
Differentiated with ROS
Authors: Gough Nancy R.
Published: October 2009

Reactive oxygen species contribute to blood cell specification in flies.
Stimulating H
+
Efflux to Promote Reorganization
Authors: Adler Elizabeth M.
Published: October 2009

Akt-dependent phosphorylation and activation of NHE1 is critical to growth factor–dependent reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton.
Cataloging Kinase Targets
Authors: Ray L. Bryan
Published: October 2009

Cell signaling may be understood in terms of the evolution of the topology and distribution of protein phosphorylation sites.
Cholesterol Signals
Authors: Foley John F.
Published: October 2009

The Toll-like receptor–dependent release of 25-hydroxycholesterol by macrophages inhibits the production of IgA by B cells.
Inhibiting Wnt Signaling
Authors: Adler Elizabeth M.
Published: October 2009

Tankyrases are previously unknown components of the Wnt signaling pathway that may provide opportunities for therapeutic intervention in Wnt-dependent cancers.
Stemming Displacement
Authors: VanHook Annalisa
Published: October 2009

Negative feedback of JAK-STAT signaling prevents somatic stem cells from outcompeting germline stem cells in the fly testis.
Dog Coats Shed Genetic Secrets
Authors: Kiberstis Paula A.
Published: October 2009

Huge variations in the coats of purebred dogs can be explained by the combinatorial effects of only three genes.
The Sensitive Side of ROS
Authors: Wong Wei
Published: October 2009

Reactive oxygen species promote PTEN oxidation, PI3K signaling, and insulin sensitivity in muscle.
Peeking at Pathogen Response Networks
Authors: Zahn Laura M.
Published: October 2009

Inflammatory and antiviral programs in dendritic cells are controlled and tuned by a network of regulators.
Making Split Decisions
Authors: Pickersgill Helen
Published: October 2009

An alternative developmental pathway for vertebrate vasculature segregates a precursor vessel into two separate vessels.
Computational Genetic Mapping in Mice: The Ship Has Sailed
Authors: Zheng Ming , Shafer Steve , Liao Guochun , Liu Hong-Hsing , Peltz Gary
Published: October 2009

Computational haplotype-based genetic mapping can be used to discover new biological mechanisms, disease-related pathways, and unexpected uses for existing drugs. Here we discuss the benefits and limitations of this methodology, its impact on translational medicine, and its future course.
THE GEOMETRY OF 3-QUASI-SASAKIAN MANIFOLDS
Authors: CAPPELLETTI MONTANO BENIAMINO , DE NICOLA ANTONIO , DILEO GIULIA
Published: October 2009

3-quasi-Sasakian manifolds were studied systematically by the authors in a recent paper as a suitable setting unifying 3-Sasakian and 3-cosymplectic geometries. This paper throws new light on their geometric structure which appears to be generally richer compared to the 3-Sasakian subclass. In fact, it turns out that they are multiply foliated by four distinct fundamental foliations. The study of the transversal geometries with respect to these foliations allows us to link the 3-quasi-Sasakian manifolds to the more famous hyper-Kähler and quaternionic-Kähler geometries. Furthermore, we strongly improve the splitting results previously obtained; we prove that any 3-quasi-Sasakian manifold of rank 4l + 1 is 3-cosymplectic and any 3-quasi-Sasakian manifold of maximal rank is 3-α-Sasakian.
COMPACTNESS FOR HIGHER ORDER COMMUTATORS OF OSCILLATORY SINGULAR INTEGRAL OPERATORS
Authors: LIU HEPING , TANG LIN
Published: October 2009

In this paper, the authors study the compactness for higher order commutators of oscillatory singular integral operators with rough kernels satisfying Lq-Dini conditions.
INVESTIGATION OF NAVIGATION AND ROBOTIC SYSTEM FOR COMPUTER ASSISTED ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY: STATE-OF-ART AND PRELIMINARY RESULTS
Authors: REN HONGLIANG , MENG MAX Q.-H.
Published: October 2009

In order to help surgeons improve tool insertion accuracy in pelvic-acetabular surgery, it is very important to take advantage of the emerging navigation, guidance and robotics technologies. The computer integrated surgical system is promising for pelvic-acetabular surgery. In most of the procedures of pelvic-acetabular surgery, such as drilling or milling operations, there are many delicate operations involving inserting the tools accurately and precisely in a confined workspace. This article mainly investigates the most important two subsystems: navigation and robotic system, which perform sensing and actuating tasks, respectively.

For navigation subsystem, a remark is made between the state-of-art optical tracking systems (OTS). A hybrid tracking method is proposed to integrate optical tracking and inertial sensing techniques, and some preliminary results are given through the proof-of-concepts experiments. For robotics subsystem, we survey the existing studies on the orthopedic compliant robot arms, together with our proposals for the pelvic surgery. We investigate some of the industrial robotics arms with good repeatability and dexterity while positioning the surgical tools.
MOBILE ROBOT NAVIGATION CONTROL DESIGN USING VIRTUAL SIMULATOR WITH RAPID PROTOTYPING
Authors: DE MELO LEONIMER FLAVIO , MANGILI JOSE FERNANDO
Published: October 2009

This paper presents the virtual environment implementation for simulation and design conception of supervision and control systems for mobile robots, that are capable to operate and adapt in different environments and conditions. The purpose of this virtual system is to facilitate the development of embedded architecture systems, emphasizing the implementation of tools that allow the simulation of the kinematic conditions, dynamic and control, with monitoring in real time of all important system points. For this, an open control architecture is proposed, integrating the two main techniques of robotic control implementation in the hardware level: systems microprocessors and reconfigurable hardware devices. The implemented simulator system is composed of a trajectory generating module, a kinematic and dynamic simulator module, and an analysis module of results and errors. All the kinematic and dynamic results obtained during the simulation can be evaluated and visualized in graphs and table formats in the results analysis module, allowing the improvement of the system, minimizing the errors with the necessary adjustments and optimization. For controller implementation in the embedded system, it uses the rapid prototyping which is the technology that allows in set, with the virtual simulation environment, the development of a controller project for mobile robots. The validation and tests had been accomplished with nonholonomic mobile robot models with differential transmission.
Physics at the Cornell Electron Storage Ring
Authors: Berkelman Karl , Thorndike Edward H.
Published: October 2009

We review 30 years of Cornell Electron Storage Ring (CESR) history, beginning with a brief account of the early CUSB and CLEO accomplishments and following with details on some of the more recent work by CLEO.
The Physics of Cosmic Acceleration
Authors: Caldwell Robert R. , Kamionkowski Marc
Published: October 2009

The discovery that the cosmic expansion is accelerating has been followed by an intense theoretical and experimental response in physics and astronomy. The discovery implies that our most basic notions about how gravity works are violated on cosmological distance scales. A simple fix is to introduce a cosmological constant into the field equations for general relativity. However, the extremely small value of the cosmological constant, relative to theoretical expectations, has led theorists to explore numerous alternative explanations that involve the introduction of an exotic negative-pressure fluid or a modification of general relativity. Here we review the evidence for cosmic acceleration. We then survey some of the theoretical attempts to account for it, including the cosmological constant, quintessence and its variants, mass-varying neutrinos, and modifications of general relativity. We discuss experimental and observational tests that may allow us to distinguish among some of the theoretical ideas that have been proposed.
d-Brane Instantons in Type II Orientifolds
Authors: Blumenhagen Ralph , Cvetič Mirjam , Kachru Shamit , Weigand Timo
Published: October 2009

We review recent progress in determining the effects of d-brane instantons in [Formula: see text] supersymmetric compactifications of Type II string theory to four dimensions. We describe the abstract d-brane instanton calculus for holomorphic couplings such as the superpotential, the gauge kinetic function, and higher fermionic F-terms, and we briefly discuss the implications of background fluxes for the instanton sector. We then summarize the concrete consequences of stringy d-brane instantons for the construction of semirealistic models of particle physics or supersymmetry breaking in compact and noncompact geometries.
Hadronic Atoms
Authors: Gasser J. , Lyubovitskij V.E. , Rusetsky A.
Published: October 2009

We review the theory of hadronic atoms in the framework of quantum chromodynamics, with photons and electrons included (QCD+QED). We illustrate the method by means of π+π− atoms and briefly consider the application of the same approach to several other hadronic atoms.
A Color-Based Visualization Technique for Multielectrode Spike Trains
Authors: Jurjuţ Ovidiu F. , Nikolić Danko , Pipa Gordon , Singer Wolf , Metzler Dirk , Mureşan Raul C.
Published: October 2009

Multi electrode recordings of neuronal activity provide an overwhelming amount of data that is often difficult to analyze and interpret. Although various methods exist for treating multielectrode datasets quantitatively, there is a particularly prominent lack of techniques that enable a quick visual exploration of such datasets. Here, by using Kohonen self-organizing maps, we propose a simple technique that allows for the representation of multiple spike trains through a sequence of color-coded population activity vectors. When multiple color sequences are grouped according to a certain criterion, e.g., by stimulation condition or recording time, one can inspect an entire dataset visually and extract quickly information about the identity, stimulus-locking and temporal distribution of multi-neuron activity patterns. Color sequences can be computed on various time scales revealing different aspects of the temporal dynamics and can emphasize high-order correlation patterns that are not detectable with pairwise techniques. Furthermore, this technique is useful for determining the stability of neuronal responses during a recording session. Due to its simplicity and reliance on perceptual grouping, the method is useful for both quick on-line visualization of incoming data and for more detailed post hoc analyses.
A Fixed Point Approach to the Stability of the Functional Equation "Equation missing"
Authors: Jung Soon-Mo , Min Seungwook
Published: October 2009

By applying the fixed point method, we will prove the Hyers-Ulam-Rassias stability of the functional equation "Equation missing" under some additional assumptions on the function "Equation missing" and spaces involved.
Presence of the Carcinogen N′-Nitrosonornicotine in the Urine of Some Users of Oral Nicotine Replacement Therapy Products
Authors: Stepanov Irina , Carmella Steven G. , Briggs Anna , Hertsgaard Louise , Lindgren Bruce , Hatsukami Dorothy , Hecht Stephen S.
Published: October 2009

N′-nitrosonornicotine (NNN) is a strong carcinogen present in unburned tobacco and cigarette smoke. We here analyze data obtained in two studies, in which a biomarker of exposure to NNN—the sum of NNN and its pyridine-N-glucuronide, called total NNN—was quantified in the urine of people who had stopped smoking and used various nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) products. In 13 of 34 nicotine gum or lozenge users from both studies, total NNN at one or more time points after biochemically confirmed smoking cessation was comparable with, or considerably higher than, the baseline levels. For most of the subjects who used the nicotine patch as a smoking cessation aid, urinary total NNN at all post–quit time points was <37% of their mean baseline levels. These results indicate that endogenous formation of significant amounts of NNN may occur sporadically in some users of oral NRT. Given the carcinogenicity of NNN and the frequent use of nicotine gum as a smoking cessation aid, further studies are needed so that preventive measures can be developed. [Cancer Res 2009;69(21):8236–40]
Whole-Body Sleeping Beauty Mutagenesis Can Cause Penetrant Leukemia/Lymphoma and Rare High-Grade Glioma without Associated Embryonic Lethality
Authors: Collier Lara S. , Adams David J. , Hackett Christopher S. , Bendzick Laura E. , Akagi Keiko , Davies Michael N. , Diers Miechaleen D. , Rodriguez Fausto J. , Bender Aaron M. , Tieu Christina , Matise Ilze , Dupuy Adam J. , Copeland Neal G. , Jenkins Nancy A. , Hodgson J. Graeme , Weiss William A. , Jenkins Robert B. , Largaespada David A.
Published: October 2009

The Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon system has been used as a somatic mutagen to identify candidate cancer genes. In previous studies, efficient leukemia/lymphoma formation on an otherwise wild-type genetic background occurred in mice undergoing whole-body mobilization of transposons, but was accompanied by high levels of embryonic lethality. To explore the utility of SB for large-scale cancer gene discovery projects, we have generated mice that carry combinations of different transposon and transposase transgenes. We have identified a transposon/transposase combination that promotes highly penetrant leukemia/lymphoma formation on an otherwise wild-type genetic background, yet does not cause embryonic lethality. Infiltrating gliomas also occurred at lower penetrance in these mice. SB-induced or accelerated tumors do not harbor large numbers of chromosomal amplifications or deletions, indicating that transposon mobilization likely promotes tumor formation by insertional mutagenesis of cancer genes, and not by promoting wide-scale genomic instability. Cloning of transposon insertions from lymphomas/leukemias identified common insertion sites at known and candidate novel cancer genes. These data indicate that a high mutagenesis rate can be achieved using SB without high levels of embryonic lethality or genomic instability. Furthermore, the SB system could be used to identify new genes involved in lymphomagenesis/leukemogenesis. [Cancer Res 2009;69(21):8429–37]
Pegylated Kunitz Domain Inhibitor Suppresses Hepsin-Mediated Invasive Tumor Growth and Metastasis
Authors: Li Wei , Wang Bu-Er , Moran Paul , Lipari Terry , Ganesan Rajkumar , Corpuz Racquel , Ludlam Mary J.C. , Gogineni Alvin , Koeppen Hartmut , Bunting Stuart , Gao Wei-Qiang , Kirchhofer Daniel
Published: October 2009

The transmembrane serine protease hepsin is one of the most highly upregulated genes in prostate cancer. Here, we investigated its tumor-promoting activity by use of a mouse orthotopic prostate cancer model. First, we compared the tumor growth of low hepsin-expressing LnCaP-17 cells with hepsin-overexpressing LnCaP-34 cells. After implantation of cells into the left anterior prostate lobe, LnCaP-34 tumors not only grew faster based on increased serum prostate-specific antigen levels but also metastasized to local lymph nodes and, most remarkably, invaded the contralateral side of the prostate at a rate of 100% compared with only 18% for LnCaP-17 tumors. The increased tumor growth was not due to nonspecific gene expression changes and was not predicted from the unaltered in vitro growth and invasion of LnCaP-34 cells. A likely explanation is that the in vivo effects of hepsin were mediated by specific hepsin substrates present in the tumor stroma. In a second study, mice bearing LnCaP-34 tumors were treated with a PEGylated form of Kunitz domain-1, a potent hepsin active site inhibitor derived from hepatocyte growth factor activator inhibitor-1 (Kiapp 0.30 ± 0.02 nmol/L). Treatment of established tumors with PEGylated Kunitz domain-1 decreased contralateral prostate invasion (46% weight reduction) and lymph node metastasis (50% inhibition). Moreover, serum prostate-specific antigen level remained reduced during the entire treatment period, reaching a maximal reduction of 76% after 5 weeks of dosing. The findings show that hepsin promotes invasive prostate tumor growth and metastasis and suggest that active site-directed hepsin inhibition could be effective in prostate cancer therapy. [Cancer Res 2009;69(21):8395–402]
Host Lymphodepletion Enhances the Therapeutic Activity of an Oncolytic Vaccinia Virus Expressing 4-1BB Ligand
Authors: Kim Hong Sung , Kim-Schulze Seunghee , Kim Dae Won , Kaufman Howard L.
Published: October 2009

Oncolytic viral vectors have shown promise as antitumor therapeutic agents but their effectiveness is complicated by induction of antiviral antibody responses and rapid host clearance of recombinant vectors. We developed a recombinant oncolytic vaccinia virus expressing the 4-1BBL T-cell costimulatory molecule (rV-4-1BBL) and showed modest tumor regression in the poorly immunogenic B16 murine melanoma model. To improve the therapeutic potential of this vector, we tested the antitumor activity of local intratumoral injection in the setting of host lymphodepletion, which has been shown to augment vaccination and adoptive T-cell therapy. In this model, rV-4-1BBL injection in the setting of lymphodepletion promoted MHC class I expression, reduced antiviral antibody titers, promoted viral persistence, and rescued effector-memory CD8+ T cells, significantly improving the therapeutic effectiveness of the oncolytic vector. These data suggest that vaccination with rV-4-1BBL in the setting of host nonmyeloablative lymphodepletion represents a logical strategy for improving oncolytic vaccination in melanoma, and perhaps other cancers as well. [Cancer Res 2009;69(21):8516–25]
Differences in the Definitions Used for Esophageal and Gastric Diseases in Different Countries
Authors: Takubo Kaiyo , Vieth Michael , Aida Junko , Sawabe Motoji , Kumagai Yoichi , Hoshihara Yoshio , Arai Tomio
Published: October 2009

Background: Definitions and opinions in the field of gastroenterology vary widely in different countries. Methods: Here we discuss four such important differences: the definition of the esophagogastric junction (EGJ), the possible precursor of Barrett’s adenocarcinoma, the definition of Barrett’s esophagus (BE), and the histologic criteria for mucosal adenocarcinoma. In addition, we consider which definitions and opinions might be valid and practical. Results: There are two different endoscopic definitions of the EGJ. Our research on German subjects has indicated that many small Barrett’s adenocarcinomas may arise not in the intestinal-type but in the cardiac-type mucosa. If an area of columnar-lined esophagus (CLE) is only partially involved by intestinal metaplasia, then the latter cannot always be demonstrated in biopsy specimens. Therefore, we do not think that a definition of BE as CLE with histologic intestinal metaplasia is practical. Data from the literature have shown that many cases of high-grade dysplasia (HGD) progress to carcinoma within a very short time, and in most such cases the carcinoma has been underdiagnosed in biopsy specimens as HGD. Conclusion: With regard to the definitions and opinions, an exchange of views between gastroenterologists in North America, Europe, and Japan would be desirable.
Regulation of Pituitary Function by Cytokines
Authors: Haedo Mariana R. , Gerez Juan , Fuertes Mariana , Giacomini Damiana , Páez-Pereda Marcelo , Labeur Marta , Renner Ulrich , Stalla Gunter K. , Arzt Eduardo
Published: October 2009

Research performed on the pituitary has proven that cytokines play an important role in maintaining pituitary physiology, affecting not only cell proliferation but also hormone secretion. The effects of cytokines can be autocrine or paracrine. This review gives an overview on the effects of the most studied cytokines in the pituitary. Special interest is focused on interleukin-6 (IL-6) because it has the distinctive characteristic of stimulating pituitary tumor cell growth, but has the opposite effect on normal pituitary cells. On the other hand, IL-6 is a cytokine of interest in the pituitary because recent work has shown that it promotes and maintains senescence in certain types of tumors. Given that the majority of pituitary adenomas are microadenomas and the fact that clinically inapparent pituitary tumors are quite common, senescence, perhaps mediated by IL-6, is an attractive mechanism for explaining the benign nature of pituitary tumors.
Deposition of Nidogens and Other Basement Membrane Proteins in the Young and Aging Mouse Retina
Authors: Kunze Alexander , Abari Elizabeth , Semkova Irina , Paulsson Mats , Hartmann Ursula
Published: October 2009

Aim: To determine the distribution of major basement membrane constituents, particularly nidogen 1 and 2, in young and aging mouse retinae. Methods: The specificity of antibodies against basement membrane proteins was ascertained by immunoblotting with proteins extracted from mouse retinae. The same antibodies were used in indirect immunofluorescence microscopy to localize basement membrane proteins in paraffin sections of retinae from 1-, 12- and 18-month-old C57BL/6 mice. Results: At a young age, laminin, perlecan and collagen IV were most abundant in Bruch’s membrane. Later, the proteins were clearly detected in capillary basement membranes and the inner limiting membrane. In both of these basement membranes, a massive increase in protein amount was seen upon aging, whereas in Bruch’s membrane the staining intensity was less drastically changed. Both nidogen 1 and 2 were present in vascular basement membranes and Bruch’s membrane throughout the age periods studied. In the inner limiting membrane, the nidogens were more strongly expressed at higher ages, with an earlier and more extensive deposition of nidogen 1. Conclusions: All major basement membrane constituents are present in the mouse retina, but the onset of deposition differs among the different proteins and between the various retinal basement membranes. In general, basement membrane protein deposition increases with age.
Gender Differences in Mortality after Hospital Admission for Stroke
Authors: Vaartjes I. , Reitsma J.B. , Berger-van Sijl M. , Bots M.L.
Published: October 2009

Background: Differences between men and women in stroke symptoms, management and disability have been reported to be unfavorable for women. Yet, studies into differences between men and women in survival after a stroke yielded inconsistent results. We investigated whether gender was associated with all-cause mortality after hospital admission for stroke. Methods: A nationwide cohort of patients with a first admission for stroke and stroke subtypes was identified through linkage of national registers. Age- and gender-specific mortality risks were quantified for 28-day case-fatality, 1-year and 5-year periods. Cox regression models were used to adjust for potential confounding factors. Results: We identified 30,675 stroke patients (15,925 women, 14,750 men). In ischemic-stroke patients, 28-day case-fatality, 1-year and 5-year mortality risk (hazard ratio (HR) 0.90; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.85 to 0.95, HR 0.88; 95% CI 0.84 to 0.92, HR 0.84; 95% CI 0.81 to 0.88, respectively) and in intracerebral-hemorrhage patients, 1-year and 5-year mortality risks (HR 0.92; 95% CI 0.86 to 0.99) were lower for women compared to men after adjustment for age and previous admissions for cardiovascular diseases or diabetes mellitus. In subarachnoid hemorrhage patients, no differences between men and women in crude and adjusted mortality risks were observed. When all stroke types were combined, differences in mortality risk between men and women were seen, and appeared to differ by age (increased risk in young women, lower risk in older women). Conclusions: Women have lower 28-day case-fatality and long-term mortality risks after an ischemic stroke and lower 1-year and 5-year mortality risks after an intracerebral hemorrhage compared to men, whereas no differences in mortality risks were found for subarachnoid hemorrhage.
Nocardia asteroides Septicemia in a Pemphigus Patient
Authors: Chosidow O. , Wolkenstein P. , Bagot M. , Girard-Pipau F. , Brun-Buisson C. , Fraitag S. , Roujeau J.C. , Revuz J.
Published: October 2009

We report the case of a patient with pemphigus who presented Nocardia asteroides septicemia. The infection was controlled with an original association of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and amikacin.
Volume Therapy and Cardiocircular Function during Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy
Authors: Raue W. , Tsilimparis N. , Bloch A. , Menenakos C. , Hartmann J.
Published: October 2009

Background: Surgical cytoreduction and simultaneous hyperthermic intraoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) for peritoneal carcinomatosis is afflicted with a high incidence of postoperative complications. The knowledge of intraoperative volume therapy during surgery and chemotherapy is limited. On the other hand, the choice of a ‘liberal’ or ‘restrictive’ regimen of fluid administration has a deep impact on the postoperative morbidity. The aim of this observational trial was to report detailed data on volume replacement and cardiocircular function during the HIPEC procedure. Methods: Eighteen consecutive patients undergoing cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC for peritoneal carcinomatosis were enrolled. The intraoperative volume administration was observed as well as the postoperative morbidity and mortality. Cardiofunctional data were assessed by the invasive transthoracic thermodilution technique. Results: The study showed that large amounts of volume (1,240 ml h–1; range: 810–1,570 ml h–1) are given during the HIPEC procedure to replace fluid loss and maintain a stable circulatory function. Signs of a hyperdynamic status during intraoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy were not found. Conclusions: During surgical cytoreduction and simultaneous HIPEC, large amounts of volume were administered. HIPEC in itself did not lead to an increased fluid requirement. Further prospective studies with larger populations are needed to investigate whether goal-oriented therapies and a restricted volume regimen can contribute to decrease the postoperative morbidity.
Role of Lipoxygenases and Lipoxin A4/Annexin-1 Receptor in Gastric Protection Induced by 20% Ethanol or Sodium Salicylate in Rats
Authors: Peskar Brigitta M. , Ehrlich Karlheinz , Schuligoi Rufina , Peskar Bernhard A.
Published: October 2009

The role of cyclooxygenases and prostaglandins in experimental models of gastroprotection is well established. We investigated the effects of the 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor A63162, the 12-lipoxygenase inhibitor baicalein and the 15-lipoxygenase inhibitor PD146176 as well as the nonspecific lipoxin A4/annexin-1 antagonist Boc1 on adaptive protection induced by 20% ethanol against 70% ethanol, and on protection induced by sodium salicylate against the mucosal-damage-aggravating effects of celecoxib and dexamethasone during local ischemia-reperfusion in rats. It was found that both types of gastroprotection were antagonized by the lipoxygenase inhibitors and the lipoxin A4/annexin-1 antagonist in doses that have no direct damaging effect on gastric mucosa. The results suggest that not only cyclooxygenases, but also active lipoxygenases and, possibly, annexin-1 are required for these types of gastroprotection to occur.
Quantitative Time Course Study of the Skin Response to Histamine and the Effect of H1 Blockers
Authors: Rihoux J.P , van Neste D.J.J.
Published: October 2009

A controlled, randomized, double-blind, crossover study was performed in 10 healthy volunteers to compare changes of cutaneous blood flow values (CBFV) determined by laser Doppler flowmetry before and after intake of a capsule containing either 10 mg cetirizine or 60 mg terfenadine. After the determination of the initial response to the anti-H1 agents, drugs were taken daily (cetirizine 10 mg, terfenadine 120 mg) over a 3-week period and the cutaneous response to histamine and saline was evaluated weekly, exactly 4 h after the last drug intake.The following significant variations were observed (analysis of variance for repeated measurements, p < 0.05): (1) there is a decrease of histamine-induced wheal and flare under antihistamines (anti-H1), cetirizine being more potent than terfenadine; (2) CBFV, measured on the usual flare area, i.e. at 1 cm of the site of agonist injection, decreased after drug intake. There was a gradual increase of the CBFV inhibition over the 3-week follow-up, cetirizine being more effective than terfenadine, and (3) at the site of agonist injection, reduction of the edematous wheal was associated with significant increases of CBFV after drug intake. This quantitative pharmacologic in vivo assay on the agonist action indicates that at lower doses, cetirizine has a significantly higher anti-H1 activity than terfenadine and that this effect is maintained over a 3-week period. There was no tachyphylaxis.
Linear Pemphigus vulgaris after X-Ray Irradiation
Authors: Crovato Franco , Desirello Giovanni , Nazzari Guido , De Marchi Roberto
Published: October 2009

The authors report the case of a 64-year-old female with a pemphigus vulgaris that relapsed on her left cheek following X-irradiation. The lesion developed not only on the irradiated area but also along a linear streak. Blaschko lines seem to represent the linear systematization pattern more likely to account for this unusual distribution.
Herpes simplex Virus Infections: New Concepts in an Old Disease
Authors: Rüdlinger Rene , Norval Mary
Published: October 2009

This paper reviews recent clinical and laboratory investigations on herpes simplex viruses (HSV). New findings add to our knowledge about factors influencing HSV infection such as site of infection, virus type and they also point to the importance of the immune system for the outcome of infection. It appears that circumstances at the time of primary infection can modify the type of immune response generated and affect the likelihood of later recrudescence. One of these factors is UV light which seems to act via a photoisomer [cis(Z-)urocanic acid] on the immune system.
Oral Hairy Leukoplakia in a HIV-Negative Renal Transplant Patient: A Marker for Immunosuppression?
Authors: Itin Peter , Rufli Theo , Rüdlinger René , Cathomas Gieri , Huser Beat , Podvinec Michael , Gudat Fred
Published: October 2009

We report the case of a 58-year-old renal transplant patient who developed oral hairy leukoplakia. Examination for HIV-1 and HIV-2 infection was negative. Biopsy of the lateral tongue showed ballooned prickle cells and electron microscopy revealed herpes-type viruses. In situ hybridization and examinations with the Southern blot technique yielded Epstein-Barr virus. Serology for Epstein-Barr virus was reactive. Immunological investigation of the patient showed a marked decrease of T-helper and T-suppressor cells as the result of immunosuppressive regimen. Oral hairy leukoplakia may be a marker for severe immunosuppression but is not necessarily associated with HIV infection.
Calcium Antagonist in the Treatment of Symptomatic Dermographism
Authors: Lawlor Frances , Ormerod A.D. , Greaves M.W.
Published: October 2009

The effect of nifedipine on subjective symptoms and objective dermographometer induced whealing was assessed independently in two double-blind crossover trials in which active drug or placebo were taken for 2 weeks. The lower dose study used nifedipine 5 mg 3 times daily and gave rise to symptomatic improvement as assessed by diary card and visual analogue scale in 5 of 11 patients. This was not statistically significant and was not accompanied by a reduction in dermographometer-induced wheal and flare responses except at highest pressures. In a separate study 7 patients were treated with nifedipine 10 mg 3 times daily. No change in whealing occured, 3 patients’ symptoms became worse and only 1 showed symptomatic improvement on nifedipine. Side effects were frequent at this dose. The reasons for the unfavourable response despite in vitro evidence for inhibition of mast cell degranulation by this drug are discussed.
Minor Clinical Features of Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Mevorah Barukh , Frenk Edgar , Wietlisbach Vincent , Carrel Claude-France
Published: October 2009

The diagnostic significance of 8 previously proposed minor features of atopic dermatitis (AD) was evaluated. The minor features studied were: nipple eczema, cheilitis, Dennie-Morgan infraorbital fold, pityriasis alba, anterior neck folds, wool intolerance, white dermographism and infraauricular fissuring. The incidence of these features was appreciated in 105 patients with typical AD (median age 8.5 years) and compared to that in 113 control subjects (median age 16 years). The ages of all studied individuals ranged from 7 months to 24 years. Two of these signs, anterior neck folds and the Dennie-Morgan infraorbital fold as defined by us, were shown to be of no diagnostic significance. The other 6 features were confirmed to be valuable diagnostic clues in AD.
Anti-Ro-Positive Lupus and Hereditary Angioneurotic Edema
Authors: Guillet G. , Sassolas B. , Plantin P. , Cledes J. , Youinou P. , Masse R.
Published: October 2009

A 24-year-old woman, having familial hereditary angioneurotic edema (HAE) treated with danazol, developed an anti-Ro-positive lupus featured by a mild erythematous eruption that seemed initially to decrease and then worsened under danazol, and dramatically improved after danazol was withdrawn. The relationship between lupus and HAE is discussed with special reference to the hormonal sensitivity of autoimmune diseases. It is possible that the responsibility of danazol as well as the immunogenetic background can explain the clinical course of this association.
Self-Healing Epitheliomata of Ferguson-Smith: Cytogenetic and Histological Studies, and the Therapeutic Effect of Etretinate
Authors: Wright Andrew L. , Gawkrodger David J. , Branford William A. , McLaren Kathryn , Hunter John A.A.
Published: October 2009

212 epitheliomata developed in two unrelated women with self-healing epitheliomata of Ferguson-Smith. Most of the lesions appear on the face, often in crops; they enlarge over 4 weeks and, without treatment, resolve over 4 months to leave a ragged scar. One of the patients developed an unusual syringoma, a papillary carcinoma of the thyroid and a mucosal squamous cell carcinoma which failed to involute spontaneously. Cytogenetic studies did not reveal any abnormality of DNA repair. Surgical excision of the epitheliomata is successful but time consuming. X-irradiation should not be used, but cryotherapy of early lesions is helpful. One patient, treated with etretinate for 24 months, has developed only 8 epitheliomata over this time, compared with 23 in the previous 24 months. Etretinate therefore appears to prevent new lesions from developing.
Multiple Familial Seborrheic Keratoses
Authors: Rongioletti Franco , Corbella Luigi , Rebora Alfredo
Published: October 2009

The early occurrence of seborrheic keratoses is described in 3 members of a family. The autosomal dominant transmission of seborrheic keratoses in this family provides further evidence for a genetic (polygenic) predisposition to seborrheic keratoses.
One Daily Application of Oxiconazole Cream Is Sufficient for Treating Dermatomycoses
Authors: Ramelet A.-A. , Walker-Nasir E.
Published: October 2009

A single daily application of oxiconazole cream was shown, in a double-blind, randomized, multicentric study, to be effective in treating various dermatomycoses as well as erythrasma. Tolerance was excellent and side effects were negligible.
Inhibition of Lipoxygenase Products by Retinoids in Human Blood Cells
Authors: Nigam Santosh
Published: October 2009

Arotinoids, third generation retinoids, inhibited significantly 12-lipoxygenase in platelets and 5-lipoxygenase in human neutrophils. The doses required for inhibition of 12-lipoxygenase in platelets were as low as 1 pM and of 5-lipoxygenase in neutrophils as low as 100 pM. No cytotoxicity was observed in neutrophils at concentrations used, as assayed by exclusion of trypan blue dye. In contrast to various studies reported in the literature, arotinoids used inhibited ionophore-induced arachidonic acid (AA) release in platelets and neutrophils of humans. The doses required for 50% inhibition of AA release were between 10 pM and 75 nM for platelets and between 1 and 50 nM for neutrophils. The data suggest that arotinoids are excellent dual inhibitors of cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase pathways of AA metabolism. The mechanism for inhibition of eicosanoids lies apparently in the inhibition of AA deacylation from phospholipid membrane. It cannot, however, be ruled out that the accumulation of AA results from arotinoid-induced stimulation of reacylation of AA into the phospholipid membrane.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Synthetic Retinoids May Be Related to Their Immunomodulatory Action
Authors: Ney Ursula M. , Ball Ian J. , Hill Roger P. , Westmacott Donald , Bloxham David P.
Published: October 2009

The effects of retinoids have been studied in a model of delayed-type hypersensitivity using the T-cell-dependent antigen, methylated bovine serum albumin to elicit inflammation in the hind paws of mice. A number of synthetic retinoids, including etretinate and arotinoids, showed a marked anti-inflammatory action in this model. Using differential dosing schedules, the anti-inflammatory effect of retinoids was clearly distinguished from conventional cyclooxygenase inhibitors. By screening a number of synthetic retinoids, structure-activity relationships for this effect can be deduced.
Association of Acrodermatitis chronica atrophicans and Morphea
Authors: Ramelet A.-A.
Published: October 2009

A patient developed successively acrodermatitis chronica atrophicans (ACA) and localized scleroderma. ACA was demonstrated to be a tick-borne disease, whereas morphea is only suspected to be one. As morphea appeared after successful treatment of ACA, it suggests that localized scleroderma is not directly an infectious disease but might be rather the consequence of spirochetal infection.