bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Cauchy Problem for the b‐Family Equations with a Strong Dispersive Term
Authors: Liu Xuefei , Zhu Mingxuan , Jiang Zaihong
Published: October 2011

In this paper, we consider b‐family equations with a strong dispersive term. First, we present a criterion on blow‐up. Then global existence and persistence property of the solution are also established. Finally, we discuss infinite propagation speed of this equation.
An Alternative Surgical Procedure for a Patient with Critically Restenosed and Kinked Carotid Artery: Graft Interposition
Authors: Yaşa Haydar , Aslan Övünç , Özcem Barçın , Akyuz Muhammet , Gürbüz Ali , Akhan Galip
Published: October 2011

According to the literature data, the prevalence of restenosis after carotid endarterectomy ranges between 6 and 36%. The etiological factor is intimal hyperplasia for early period, whereas it is atherosclerosis for late period. A 67-year-old male patient admitted to our clinic with a history of headache and minor stroke. His medical history was significant for right carotid endarterectomy 8 years ago. Recent Doppler ultrasound and digital substraction angiography revealed 75% stenosis and kinking corresponding to the segment distal to the endarterectomy region. Surgical endarterectomy is the treatment of choice in critical carotid stenosis. Endovascular therapy is primarily considered for patients if there is restenosis after carotid endarterectomy. However, the treatment modality is controversial in cases with concomitant carotid stenosis and kinking of internal carotid artery. We present our surgical approach to a case with significant stenosis and kinking of internal carotid artery. We performed a 6-mm-PTFE graft interposition between common and internal carotid artery and resection of the kinking segment.
Electrocardiogram Acquisition Errors or Myocardial Infarct
Authors: Vanninen Sari U. M. , Nikus Kjell C.
Published: October 2011

Incorrect lead placement may result in unnecessary therapeutic interventions. We present a case report of 53-year-old man with new inferior T-wave inversions in the 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) noted during routine followup of hypertension without any cardiovascular symptoms.
Estimating Prevalence Using an Imperfect Test
Authors: Diggle Peter J.
Published: October 2011

The standard estimate of prevalence is the proportion of positive results obtained from the application of a diagnostic test to a random sample of individuals drawn from the population of interest. When the diagnostic test is imperfect, this estimate is biased. We give simple formulae, previously described by Greenland (1996) for correcting the bias and for calculating confidence intervals for the prevalence when the sensitivity and specificity of the test are known. We suggest a Bayesian method for constructing credible intervals for the prevalence when sensitivity and specificity are unknown. We provide R code to implement the method.
Direct Immunosensor Design Based on the Electrochemical Reduction of 4-((4-Nitrophenyl)ethynyl)benzenethiol Monolayers
Authors: Williams Dwight A. , Williams Wraegen A. M. , Rhoten Melissa C. , Crawley Charlene D. , Ruder Suzanne
Published: October 2011

The synthesis and characterization of novel N-arylhydroxylamine-based molecular wires are described for use in the site-directed covalent immobilization of whole IgG antibodies onto gold electrode surfaces. The hydroxylamine, electrochemically generated in situ from reduction of the corresponding nitrobenzene, is stable under a wide range of solution conditions and reacts selectively with carbohydrate away from the antibody-binding site to allow the development of immunosensors with maximal activity. Cyclic voltammetric responses have shown a direct correlation between the structure and length of the molecular wire and its stability and concentration at the electrode surface.
Intermediate Frequency AC Signal Analysis for Bionanosensor
Authors: Desai Vishal , Sanisetty Srisowmya , Steber Benjamin , Sapi Eva , Aliane Bouzid , Sinha Saion , Patra Prabir
Published: October 2011

Nanobiosensors are devices which incorporate nanomaterials to detect miniscule quantities of biological and chemical agents. The authors have already developed a novel bionanosensor (BNS) for quick, efficient, and precise detection of bacterial pathogens using the principles of CNT-DNA interaction and DNA hybridization. The detection ability of the (BNS) was observed to be independent of the device resistance. Two new methods (low-pass filter (LPF) and curve fitting (CF)) were developed for better analysis of the BNS. These methods successfully model the BNS. Evidence is provided to elucidate the success of the model, which can explain the DNA hybridization on the sensor surface. These models successfully demonstrated the detection of DNA hybridization versus nonhybridization. Thus, the models can not only help in better and efficient design and operation of the BNS, but can also be used to analyze other similar nanoscale devices.
Fast Random Permutation Tests Enable Objective Evaluation of Methods for Single-Subject fMRI Analysis
Authors: Eklund Anders , Andersson Mats , Knutsson Hans
Published: October 2011

Parametric statistical methods, such asZ-,t-, andF-values, are traditionally employed in functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) for identifying areas in the brain that are active with a certain degree of statistical significance. These parametric methods, however, have two major drawbacks. First, it is assumed that the observed data are Gaussian distributed and independent; assumptions that generally are not valid for fMRI data. Second, the statistical test distribution can be derived theoretically only for very simple linear detection statistics. With nonparametric statistical methods, the two limitations described above can be overcome. The major drawback of non-parametric methods is the computational burden with processing times ranging from hours to days, which so far have made them impractical for routine use in single-subject fMRI analysis. In this work, it is shown how the computational power of cost-efficient graphics processing units (GPUs) can be used to speed up random permutation tests. A test with 10000 permutations takes less than a minute, making statistical analysis of advanced detection methods in fMRI practically feasible. To exemplify the permutation-based approach, brain activity maps generated by the general linear model (GLM) and canonical correlation analysis (CCA) are compared at the same significance level.
Cavity Solitons in VCSEL Devices
Authors: Barbay S. , Kuszelewicz R. , Tredicce J. R.
Published: October 2011

We review advances on the experimental study of cavity solitons in VCSELs in the past decade. We emphasize on the design and fabrication of electrically or optically pumped broad-area VCSELs used for CSs formation and review different experimental configurations. Potential applications of CSs in the field of photonics are discussed, in particular the use of CSs for all-optical processing of information and for VCSELs characterization. Prospects on self-localization studies based on vertical cavity devices involving new physical mechanisms are also given.
Novel Dual-Band Design of Planar Dipole Array for 4G LTE/WiMAX Access Points
Authors: Lu Jui-Han , You Shi-Wei
Published: October 2011

A novel planar dipole array with dual-band operation for LTE/WiMAX access points is proposed. The impedance bandwidths, determined from , can reach about 525/747 MHz (20.2/21.3%) for the 2.6/3.5 GHz operating bands, respectively, which are covering the required bandwidth for LTE (2.5 ~ 2.7 GHz) and WiMAX (3.3 ~ 3.7 GHz) system. This proposed dual-band dipole array also provides maximum peak antenna gains and efficiencies of 7.3/7.5 dBi and 89/75% across 2.6/3.5 GHz bands, respectively, with good omnidirectional radiation pattern in XY-plane.
Efficacy of ProTaper Retreatment System in Root Canals Obturated with Gutta-Percha Using Two Different Sealers and GuttaFlow
Authors: Siotia Jaya , Acharya Shashi Rashmi , Gupta Sunil Kumar
Published: October 2011

Objective. To compare the efficacy of ProTaper retreatment files in removing three different obturating materials.Study Design. Forty-five human, single-rooted premolars were divided into three experimental groups. Group 1 was obturated with gutta-percha and AH Plus sealer, Group 2 was obturated with gutta-percha and zinc oxide eugenol sealer, and Group 3 was obturated with GuttaFlow. Retreatment was done using the ProTaper universal rotary retreatment files. Root halves were visualized using magnifying loops at 3X magnification and optical stereomicroscope at 10X magnification. Images were analyzed using AutoCAD 2004 software to calculate area of the remaining debris in the canal. For statistical analysis were used variance test and ANOVA.Results. Total debris/canal area ratio between the three groups showed a statistically significant difference (P<0.001).Conclusion. ProTaper retreatment system did not produce completely clean canals in any of the groups. However, it had the best efficacy towards removing silicon based obturating material GuttaFlow.
Relativistic Spinning Particle without Grassmann Variables and the Dirac Equation
Authors: Deriglazov A. A.
Published: October 2011

We present the relativistic particle model without Grassmann variables which, being canonically quantized, leads to the Dirac equation. Classical dynamics of the model is in correspondence with the dynamics of mean
values of the corresponding operators in the Dirac theory. Classical equations for the spin tensor are the same as those of the Barut‐Zanghi model of spinning particle.
Identification of Binding Mode of a Platinum (II) Complex, (DIP), and Calf Thymus DNA
Authors: Shahabadi Nahid , Kashanian Soheila , Fatahi Azadeh
Published: October 2011

The Pt(II) complex, PtCl2(DIP) (DIP = chelating dinitrogen ligand: 4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline), was synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis (CHN) and NMR and UV-vis techniques. The binding of this complex to calf thymus DNA was investigated using various physicochemical methods such as spectrophotometric, circular dichroism, spectrofluorometric, melting temperature, and viscosimetric techniques. Upon addition of the complex, important changes were observed in the characteristic UV-Vis bands (hyperchromism) of calf thymus DNA (CT-DNA): increase in melting temperature, sharp increase in specific viscosity of DNA, and induced CD spectral changes. Also the fluorescence spectral characteristics and interaction of Pt complex with DNA have been studied. Pt bound to DNA showed a marked decrease in the fluorescence intensity. The results show that both the complex and the NR molecules can intercalate competitively into the DNA double-helix structure. The experimental results show that the mode of binding of the this complex to DNA is classical intercalation.
On Existence and Uniqueness of Solutions of a Nonlinear Integral Equation
Authors: Gordji M. Eshaghi , Baghani H. , Baghani O.
Published: October 2011

The purpose of this paper is to study the existence of fixed point for a nonlinear
integral operator in the framework of Banach space X : = C([a, b], ℝn). Later on,
we give some examples of applications of this type of results.
Connecting Hospitalized Patients with Their Families: Case Series and Commentary
Authors: Parsapour Kourosh , Kon Alexander A. , Dharmar Madan , McCarthy Amy K. , Yang Hsuan-Hui , Smith Anthony C. , Carpenter Janice , Sadorra Candace K. , Farbstein Aron D. , Hojman Nayla M. , Wold Gary L. , Marcin James P.
Published: October 2011

The overall aim of this project was to ascertain the utilization of a custom-designed telemedicine service for patients to maintain close contact (via videoconference) with family and friends during hospitalization. We conducted a retrospective chart review of hospitalized patients (primarily children) with extended hospital length of stays. Telecommunication equipment was used to provide videoconference links from the patient's bedside to friends and family in the community. Thirty-six cases were managed during a five-year period (2006 to 2010). The most common reasons for using Family-Link were related to the logistical challenges of traveling to and from the hospital—principally due to distance, time, family commitments, and/or personal cost. We conclude that videoconferencing provides a solution to some barriers that may limit family presence and participation in care for hospitalized patients, and as a patient-centered innovation is likely to enhance patient and family satisfaction.
Nano Ag-DopedIn2O3Thick Film: A Low-TemperatureH2SGas Sensor
Authors: Chavan D. N. , Patil G. E. , Kajale D. D. , Gaikwad V. B. , Khanna P. K. , Jain G. H.
Published: October 2011

Thick films of AR grade In2O3were prepared by standard screen-printing technique. The gas sensing performances of thick films were tested for various gases. It showed maximum sensitivity to ethanol vapour at 350°C for 80 ppm concentration. To improve the sensitivity and selectivity of the film towards a particular gas, In2O3sensors were surface-modified by dipping them in a solution of 2% nanosilver for different intervals of time. Obtained results indicated that spherical nano-Ag grains are highly dispersed on the surface of In2O3sensor. The surface area of the nano-Ag/ In2O3sensor is several times larger than that of pure In2O3sensor. In comparison with pure In2O3sensor, all of the nano-Ag-doped sensors showed better sensing performance in respect of response, selectivity, and optimum operating temperature. The surface-modified (30 min) In2O3sensor showed larger sensitivity to H2S gas (10 ppm) at 100°C. Nano silver on the surface of the film shifts the reactivity of film from ethanol vapour to H2S gas. A systematic study of gas sensing performance of the sensor indicates the key role played by the nano silver species on the surface. The sensitivity, selectivity, response, and recovery time of the sensor were measured and presented.
Inhibition of Germinal Centre Apoptotic Programmes by Epstein-Barr Virus
Authors: Spender Lindsay C. , Inman Gareth J.
Published: October 2011

To establish a persistent latent infection, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) faces a challenge in that the virus-infected host cell must transit through the germinal centre reaction. This is a site of B cell differentiation where antibody responses are optimised, and the selection criteria for B cells are stringent. The germinal centre environment is harsh, and the vast majority of B cells here die by apoptosis. Only cells receiving adequate survival signals will differentiate fully to be released into the periphery as long-term memory B cells (the site of persistence). In this review, we detail the apoptotic pathways potentially encountered by EBV-infected B cells during the process of infection, and we describe the functions of those EBV-regulated cellular and viral genes that help promote survival of the host B cell.
Decomposition of Topologies Which Characterize the Upper and Lower Semicontinuous Limits of Functions
Authors: Caserta Agata
Published: October 2011

We present a decomposition of two topologies which characterize the upper and lower semicontinuity of the limit function to visualize their hidden and opposite roles with respect to the upper and lower semicontinuity and consequently the continuity of the limit. We show that (from the statistical point of view) there is an asymmetric role of the upper and lower decomposition of the pointwise convergence with respect to the upper and lower decomposition of the sticking convergence and the semicontinuity of the limit. This role is completely hidden if we use the whole pointwise convergence. Moreover, thanks to this mirror effect played by these decompositions, the statistical pointwise convergence of a sequence of continuous functions to a continuous function in one of the two symmetric topologies, which are the decomposition of the sticking topology, automatically ensures the convergence in the whole sticking topology.
Deafferentation-Induced Redistribution of MMP-2, but Not of MMP-9, Depends on the Emergence of GAP-43 Positive Axons in the Adult Rat Cochlear Nucleus
Authors: Fredrich Michaela , Illing Robert-Benjamin
Published: October 2011

The matrix metalloproteinases MMP-9 and MMP-2, major modulators of the extracellular matrix (ECM), were changed in amount and distribution in the rat anteroventral cochlear nucleus (AVCN) following its sensory deafferentation by cochlear ablation. To determine what causal relationships exist between the redistribution of MMP-9 and MMP-2 and deafferentation-induced reinnervation, kainic acid was stereotaxically injected into the ventral nucleus of the trapezoid body (VNTB) prior to cochlear ablation, killing cells that deliver the growth associated protein 43 (GAP-43) into AVCN. Deafferentation-induced changes in the pattern of MMP-9 staining remained unaffected by VNTB lesions. By contrast, changes in the distribution of MMP-2 normally evoked by sensory deafferentation were reversed if GAP-43 positive axons were prevented to grow in AVCN. In conclusion, GAP-43-containing axons emerging in AVCN after cochlear ablation seem to be causal for the maintenance of MMP-2-mediated ECM remodeling.
A Reinforcement Learning Framework for Spiking Networks with Dynamic Synapses
Authors: El-Laithy Karim , Bogdan Martin
Published: October 2011

An integration of both the Hebbian-based and reinforcement learning (RL) rules is presented for dynamic synapses. The proposed framework permits the Hebbian rule to update the hidden synaptic model parameters regulating the synaptic response rather than the synaptic weights. This is performed using both the value and the sign of the temporal difference in the reward signal after each trial. Applying this framework, a spiking network with spike-timing-dependent synapses is tested to learn the exclusive-OR computation on a temporally coded basis. Reward values are calculated with the distance between the output spike train of the network and a reference target one. Results show that the network is able to capture the required dynamics and that the proposed framework can reveal indeed an integrated version of Hebbian and RL. The proposed framework is tractable and less computationally expensive. The framework is applicable to a wide class of synaptic models and is not restricted to the used neural representation. This generality, along with the reported results, supports adopting the introduced approach to benefit from the biologically plausible synaptic models in a wide range of intuitive signal processing.
Structure Identification‐Based Clustering According to Density Consistency
Authors: Li Chunzhong , Xu Zongben
Published: October 2011

Structure of data set is of critical importance in identifying clusters, especially
the density difference feature. In this paper, we present a clustering algorithm
based on density consistency, which is a filtering process to identify same
structure feature and classify them into same cluster. This method is not
restricted by the shapes and high dimension data set, and meanwhile it is
robust to noises and outliers. Extensive experiments on synthetic and real
world data sets validate the proposed the new clustering algorithm.
Role of Heparan Sulfate 2-O-Sulfotransferase in Prostate Cancer Cell Proliferation, Invasion, and Growth Factor Signaling
Authors: Ferguson Brent W. , Datta Sumana
Published: October 2011

Heparan-sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) are required for maximal growth factor signaling in prostate cancer progression. The degree of sulfate modification on the covalently attached heparan sulfate (HS) chains is one of the determining factors of growth factor-HSPG interactions. Sulfate groups are transferred to HS chains via a series of O-sulfotransferases. In the present study, we demonstrate that Heparan sulfate 2-O-sulfotransferase (2OST) is essential for maximal proliferation and invasion of prostate cancer cells in the LNCaP-C4-2B model. We also show that a decrease in invasion due to 2OST siRNA is associated with an increase in actin and E-cadherin accumulation at the cell surface. 2OST expression correlates with increasing metastatic potential in this model. We demonstrate that 2OST expression is upregulated by the stress-inducible transcription factors HIF1α, ATF2, and NFκB. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis suggests that HIF1αand ATF2 act directly on the 2OST promoter, while NFκB acts indirectly.
Antioxidant Activities of Plumbagin and Its Cu (II) Complex
Authors: Tan Mingxiong , Liu Yancheng , Luo Xujian , Chen Zhenfeng , Liang Hong
Published: October 2011

Plumbagin and its Cu (II) complex [Cu (plumbagin)2]·H2O have been synthesized, and their antioxidant activities towards the inhibitory effect on DPPH free radical, reducing power, total antioxidant capacity, and inhibition on lipid peroxidation were investigated. Plumbagin and its Cu (II) complex were found to exhibit scavenging activities on DPPH radical with the inhibitory rate of 41% and 24%, respectively. The reducing power of plumbagin was outstanding at the concentrations of 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 mg/mL, compared to Cu (II) complex and synthetic antioxidant 2,6-di-ter-butyl-4-methylphenol (BHT); the highest level reached 1.333 for plumbagin and 0.581 for Cu (II) complex. Also, the inhibition on lipid peroxidation of plumbagin was higher than that of Cu (II) complex and BHT, 46.4% for plumbagin and 24.5% for Cu (II) complex. The results give a strong impact for designing anticancer drugs, combined with their potential cytotoxic and antioxidant activities, which can be targeted selectively against cancer cells and increase their therapeutic index and additional advantages over other anticancer drugs.
Naturally Occurring Polymorphisms of the Mouse Gammaretrovirus Receptors CAT-1 and XPR1 Alter Virus Tropism and Pathogenicity
Authors: Kozak Christine A.
Published: October 2011

Gammaretroviruses of several different host range subgroups have been isolated from laboratory mice. The ecotropic viruses infect mouse cells and rely on the host CAT-1 receptor. The xenotropic/polytropic viruses, and the related human-derived XMRV, can infect cells of other mammalian species and use the XPR1 receptor for entry. The coevolution of these viruses and their receptors in infected mouse populations provides a good example of how genetic conflicts can drive diversifying selection. Genetic and epigenetic variations in the virus envelope glycoproteins can result in altered host range and pathogenicity, and changes in the virus binding sites of the receptors are responsible for host restrictions that reduce virus entry or block it altogether. These battleground regions are marked by mutational changes that have produced 2 functionally distinct variants of the CAT-1 receptor and 5 variants of the XPR1 receptor in mice, as well as a diverse set of infectious viruses, and several endogenous retroviruses coopted by the host to interfere with entry.
Ipilimumab, a Promising Immunotherapy with Increased Overall Survival in Metastatic Melanoma?
Authors: Piérard Gérald E. , Aubin François , Humbert Philippe
Published: October 2011

Malignant melanoma (MM) is one of the most aggressive skin cancer. The therapeutic options remain limited for advanced MM, and those directed to the neoplastic cells have not brought major survival advantage so far. Immunotherapy is another targeted option. Ipilimumab, a monoclonal antibody directed to CTLA-4 present on cytotoxic T cells boosts immunity, particularly its anti-MM activity. Under treatment, the overall survival of patients with MM metastases is moderately but significantly increased. The immuno-related adverse effects may be severe and life threatening.
Hydrogen Charging Effects in Pd/Ti/TiO2/Ti Thin Films Deposited on Si(111) Studied by Ion Beam Analysis Methods
Authors: Drogowska K. , Flege S. , Schmitt C. , Rogalla D. , Becker H.-W. , Kim-Ngan Nhu-T. H. , Brudnik A. , Tarnawski Z. , Zakrzewska K. , Marszałek M. , Balogh A. G.
Published: October 2011

Titanium and titanium dioxide thin films were deposited onto Si(111) substrates by magnetron sputtering from a metallic Ti target in a reactive Ar+O2atmosphere, the composition of which was controlled by precision gas controllers. For some samples, 1/3 of the surface was covered with palladium using molecular beam epitaxy. Chemical composition, density, and layer thickness of the layers were determined by Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) and Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS). The surface morphology was studied using high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HRSEM). After deposition, smooth, homogenous sample surfaces were observed. Hydrogen charging for 5 hours under pressure of 1 bar and at temperature of 300°C results in granulation of the surface. Hydrogen depth profile was determined using secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) and nuclear Reaction Analysis (N-15 method), using a15N beam at and above the resonance energy of 6.417 MeV. NRA measurements proved a higher hydrogen concentration in samples with partially covered top layers, than in samples without palladium. The highest value of H concentration after charging was about 50% (in the palladium-covered part) and about 40% in titanium that was not covered by Pd. These values are in good agreement with the results of SIMS measurements.
Evaluation of Trace Metal Levels in Tissues of Two Commercial Fish Species in Kapar and Mersing Coastal Waters, Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Bashir Fathi Alhashmi , Shuhaimi-Othman Mohammad , Mazlan A. G.
Published: October 2011

This study is focused on evaluating the trace metal levels in water and tissues of two commercial fish species Arius thalassinus and Pennahia anea that were collected from Kapar and Mersing coastal waters. The concentrations of Fe, Zn, Al, As, Cd and Pb in these coastal waters and muscle, liver and gills tissues of the fishes were quantified. The relationship among the metal concentrations and the height and weight of the two species were also examined. Generally, the iron has the highest concentrations in both water and the fish species. However, Cd in both coastal waters showed high levels exceeding the international standards. The metal level concentration in the sample fishes are in the descending order livers > gills > muscles. A positive association between the trace metal concentrations and weight and length of the sample fishes was investigated. Fortunately the level of these metal concentrations in fish has not exceeded the permitted level of Malaysian and international standards.
The Tumor Necrosis Factor Superfamily of Cytokines in the Inflammatory Myopathies: Potential Targets for Therapy
Authors: De Paepe Boel , Creus Kim K. , De Bleecker Jan L.
Published: October 2011

The idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IM) represent a heterogeneous group of autoimmune diseases, of which dermatomyositis (DM), polymyositis (PM), and sporadic inclusion body myositis (IBM) are the most common. The crucial role played by tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) in the IM has long been recognized. However, so far, 18 other members of the TNF superfamily have been characterized, and many of these have not yet received the attention they deserve. In this paper, we summarize current findings for all TNF cytokines in IM, pinpointing what we know already and where current knowledge fails. For each TNF family member, possibilities for treating inflammatory diseases in general and the IM in particular are explored.
Alcohol Activates TGF-Beta but Inhibits BMP Receptor-Mediated Smad Signaling and Smad4 Binding to Hepcidin Promoter in the Liver
Authors: Gerjevic Lisa Nicole , Liu Na , Lu Sizhao , Harrison-Findik Duygu Dee
Published: October 2011

Hepcidin, a key regulator of iron metabolism, is activated by bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). Mice pair-fed with regular and ethanol-containing L. De Carli diets were employed to study the effect of alcohol on BMP signaling and hepcidin transcription in the liver. Alcohol induced steatosis and TGF-beta expression. Liver BMP2, but not BMP4 or BMP6, expression was significantly elevated. Despite increased BMP expression, the BMP receptor, and transcription factors, Smad1 and Smad5, were not activated. In contrast, alcohol stimulated Smad2 phosphorylation. However, Smad4 DNA-binding activity and the binding of Smad4 to hepcidin promoter were attenuated. In summary, alcohol stimulates TGF-beta and BMP2 expression, and Smad2 phosphorylation but inhibits BMP receptor, and Smad1 and Smad5 activation. Smad signaling pathway in the liver may therefore be involved in the regulation of hepcidin transcription and iron metabolism by alcohol. These findings may help to further understand the mechanisms of alcohol and iron-induced liver injury.
Imaging Assessment of Cardiovascular Disease in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Croca Sara C. , Rahman Anisur
Published: October 2011

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a multisystem, autoimmune disease known to be one of the strongest risk factors for atherosclerosis. Patients with SLE have an excess cardiovascular risk compared with the general population, leading to increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Although the precise explanation for this is yet to be established, it seems to be associated with the presence of an accelerated atherosclerotic process, arising from the combination of traditional and lupus-specific risk factors. Moreover, cardiovascular-disease associated mortality in patients with SLE has not improved over time. One of the main reasons for this is the poor performance of standard risk stratification tools on assessing the cardiovascular risk of patients with SLE. Therefore, establishing alternative ways to identify patients at increased risk efficiently is essential. With recent developments in several imaging techniques, the ultimate goal of cardiovascular assessment will shift from assessing symptomatic patients to diagnosing early cardiovascular disease in asymptomatic patients which will hopefully help us to prevent its progression. This review will focus on the current status of the imaging tools available to assess cardiac and vascular function in patients with SLE.
Optimal Debulking Surgery Followed by Paclitaxel/Platinum Chemotherapy Is Very Effective in Treating Ovarian Carcinosarcomas: A Single Center Experience
Authors: Chun Kyoung-Chul , Kim Jae-Joon , Kim Dae-Yeon , Kim Jong-Hyeok , Kim Yong-Man , Nam Joo-Hyun , Kim Young-Tak
Published: October 2011

Background: There have been only a few reports on the survival and management of patients with ovarian carcinosarcomas. We evaluated the clinical characteristics, outcomes and prognostic factors of ovarian carcinosarcomas. Methods: Retrospective analysis of data obtained from medical records of 40 patients treated at the Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea, between January 1989 and January 2008. Results: Median survival was significantly longer in patients <60 years of age than in those ≧60 (p = 0.001), patients with early-stage compared to advanced tumors (p = 0.035), those with optimally debulked tumors compared to suboptimally (p < 0.001) in the advanced stage, and patients treated with paclitaxel/platinum compared to patients treated with other chemotherapies (p < 0.001). The progression-free interval was longer in patients with early-stage (p = 0.003) and optimally debulked tumors (p = 0.001), as well as in those treated with paclitaxel/platinum (p = 0.049). Multivariate analysis showed that advanced-stage, non-optimal debulking and non-paclitaxel/platinum chemotherapy were significant independent predictors of a shorter progression-free interval, and that non-optimal debulking and non-paclitaxel/platinum chemotherapy were significant independent predictors of shorter overall survival. Conclusions: Early-stage optimal debulking and adequate chemotherapy can influence time to progression and survival, indicating that the most effective treatment for patients with ovarian carcinosarcomas consists of optimal debulking surgery followed by paclitaxel/platinum chemotherapy.
CHD5 Downregulation Associated with Poor Prognosis in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Wong Raymond R.Y. , Chan Loucia K.Y. , Tsang Teresa P.T. , Lee Coral W.S. , Cheung T.H. , Yim S.F. , Siu Nelson S.S. , Lee Sophia N.C. , Yu M.Y. , Chim Stephen S.C. , Wong Y.F. , Chung Tony K.H.
Published: October 2011

Background: The CHD5 gene located on 1p36 encodes a protein – chromodomain helicase DNA-binding protein 5. CHD5 has been shown to be a tumor suppressor gene candidate. This study investigated the involvement of CHD5 in ovarian cancer and its clinicopathological significance. Methods: CHD5 expression in ovarian cancer and its counterpart were determined by quantitative RT-PCR. The correlation of CHD5 expression to clinicopathological features of the tumor was analyzed. Results: CHD5 expression was downregulated by at least twofold in 32 of 72 (41%) invasive epithelial ovarian carcinomas when compared to 12 controls in Hong Kong Chinese women. CHD5 downregulation was correlated to clinical status (p < 0.05), but not to patient age, tumor type and grade, recurrence and clinical stage (p > 0.05). Survival analysis showed that patients with CHD5 downregulation in their tumors were associated with shorter disease-free and total survival times compared to those without CHD5 downregulation (p < 0.05). Cox proportional-hazards regression analysis indicated that downregulation of CHD5 is an independent adverse prognostic factor in ovarian cancer. Conclusion: This study shows that CHD5 is downregulated in a certain number of ovarian cancers and appears to be an adverse predictor candidate of ovarian cancer disease-free and total survival.
Metastatic Mucinous Adenocarcinoma of the Ovary Is Characterized by Advanced Patient Age, Small Tumor Size, and Elevated Serum CA125
Authors: Maeda-Taniguchi Makiko , Ueda Yutaka , Miyake Takahito , Miyatake Takashi , Kimura Toshihiro , Yoshino Kiyoshi , Fujita Masami , Wakasa Tomoko , Ohashi Hiroshi , Morii Eiichi , Enomoto Takayuki , Kimura Tadashi
Published: October 2011

Background/Aims: An intraoperative diagnosis in cases with primary and metastatic ovarian carcinomas is important for adequate treatment. The aim of the present study was to find a reliable method to discriminate primary from metastatic mucinous adenocarcinomas (MACs) of the ovary intraoperatively. Methods: Clinical features of all primary and metastatic mucinous ovarian carcinomas diagnosed from 1994 to 2008 at the Osaka University and Osaka Rosai Hospitals, Osaka, Japan, were reviewed retrospectively. Results: Among the 73 MACs, 51 (70%) and 22 cases (30%) were diagnosed as primary and metastatic ovarian carcinomas, respectively. The distributions of tumor size, patient age, and serum CA125 level were significantly different between primary and metastatic cases. Our algorithm that categorizes patients ≧50 years whose tumor size was <10 cm into metastatic cases, and patients <50 years, or the ones whose tumor size was ≧10 cm, into primary tumors, provided an 84% accuracy in our population. Conclusions: A more reliable method to discriminate primary from metastatic MACs of the ovary by patient age and serum tumor markers was derived from our study population.
Interpregnancy Body Mass Index Changes and Risk of Stillbirth
Authors: Whiteman Valerie E. , Crisan Luminita , McIntosh Cheri , Alio A.P. , Duan Jingyi , Marty Phillip J. , Salihu Hamisu M.
Published: October 2011

Background/Aims: To examine the association between interpregnancy body mass index (BMI) change and stillbirth. Methods: Retrospective study using Missouri maternally linked cohort files (1978–2005). A total of 218,389 women were used in the analysis. BMI was classified as: underweight (<18.5), normal (18.5–24.9), overweight (25–29.9), or obese (≧30.0). Weight change was defined based on BMI category (i.e. normal-normal, normal-obese, etc.). Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to generate adjusted hazard ratios (HR) and 95% CI for the risk of stillbirth in the second pregnancy. Results: Significant findings were associated with interpregnancy BMI changes involving overweight mothers becoming obese (HR = 1.4, 95% CI 1.1–1.7), normal-weight mothers becoming overweight (HR = 1.2, 95% CI 1.0–1.4) or obese (HR = 1.5, 95% CI 1.1–2.1), or obese mothers maintaining their obesity status across the two pregnancies (HR = 1.4, 95% CI 1.2–1.7). Other weight change categories did not show significant risk elevation for stillbirth. Conclusions: BMI change appears to play an important role in subsequent stillbirth risk.
Robotic Radical Parametrectomy in Cervical Cancer
Authors: Zapardiel Ignacio , Zanagnolo Vanna , Magrina Javier F. , Magtibay Paul M.
Published: October 2011

Radical parametrectomy is indicated in cases of undiagnosed early-stage invasive cervical carcinoma discovered after simple hysterectomy performed for a presumed benign disease process. This radical surgical procedure is rarely performed for benign disease; however, there are some benign conditions such as endometriosis or ovarian remnant syndrome which may require wide excision, including parametria. Traditionally, radical parametrectomy has been performed via laparotomy; however, a minimally invasive approach via laparoscopy has been reported to be feasible and safe. Here we describe the robotic surgical approach to radical parametrectomy.
Isolation of a Cancer-Associated Microchromosome in the Sperm-Dependent Parthenogen Poecilia formosa
Authors: Lamatsch D.K. , Trifonov V. , Schories S. , Epplen J.T. , Schmid M. , Schartl M.
Published: October 2011

In the asexual all-female fish species Poecilia formosa, the Amazon molly, supernumerary chromosomes have frequently been found in both laboratory-reared and wild-caught individuals. While wild-caught individuals with B chromosomes are phenotypically indifferent from conspecifics, individuals carrying B chromosomes from recent introgression events in the laboratory show phenotypic changes. Former analyses showed that the expression of a pigment cell locus is associated with the presence of these B chromosomes. In addition, they contain a so far unidentified locus that confers a higher susceptibility to tumor formation in the presence of pigmentation pattern. Isolation by microdissection and hybridization to metaphase chromosomes revealed that they contain one or several sequences with similarity to a highly repetitive pericentromeric and subtelomeric sequence in A chromosomes. Isolation of one particular sequence by AFLP showed that the B chromosomes contain at least 1 copy of an A-chromosomal region which is highly conserved in the whole genus Poecilia, i.e. more than 5 million years old. We propose it to be a single copy sequence.
First Day of Life Reference Values for Pleth Variability Index in Spontaneously Breathing Term Newborns
Authors: Latini Giuseppe , Dipaola Lucia , De Felice Claudio
Published: October 2011

Background: The perfusion index (PI), derived from the pulse oximetry signal, has been shown to be an accurate predictor for identifying high illness severity in neonates. The plethysmographic variability index (PVI) is a measure of the dynamic change in PI occurring during a complete respiratory cycle. Objectives: The aim of this study was to establish the reference range of PVI in spontaneously breathing term newborns. Methods: PI and PVI values were assessed in 242 term newborns during the first day of life. Results: The median PVI value on the first day of life was 20% [95% confidence interval (CI) for the mean 19–20%; inter-quartile range 15 (95% CI 15–16) – 24 (95% CI 23–24)]. The 10th and 90th percentile cutoff values were 12% (95% CI 11–12) and 28% (95% CI 27–29), respectively, with the 97.5th percentile of 35% (95% CI 34–38). PVI was also significantly influenced by the behavioral status of the newborn, and was positively correlated with PI and pulse rate, while it was inversely correlated with oxygen saturation (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Our findings suggest: (1) evaluation of PVI values is an easily applicable, noninvasive procedure for monitoring early postnatal respiratory changes in newborns, and (2) the feasibility of a noninvasive pulse-oximeter postnatal screening for early identification of adverse neonatal cardiorespiratory outcomes.
Compensatory Thrombopoietin Production from the Liver and Bone Marrow Stimulates Thrombopoiesis of Living Rat Megakaryocytes in Chronic Renal Failure
Authors: Kazama Itsuro , Endo Yasuhiro , Toyama Hiroaki , Ejima Yutaka , Kurosawa Shin , Murata Yoshimichi , Matsubara Mitsunobu , Maruyama Yoshio
Published: October 2011

Background/Aims: Decreased thrombopoiesis has been ascribed a role in the pathogenesis of uremic bleeding in chronic renal failure (CRF). However, serum thrombopoietin (TPO) levels are usually elevated in CRF patients, suggesting increased thrombopoiesis. The aim of this study was to determine the thrombopoietic activity in CRF. Methods: Male Sprague-Dawley rats that underwent 5/6 nephrectomy were used as the model of CRF. Age-matched sham-operated rats were used as controls. Single megakaryocytes were isolated from the rat bone marrow, and their size distribution was examined. Megakaryocyte membrane invaginations were monitored by confocal imaging of di-8-ANEPPS staining, and patch clamp whole-cell recordings of membrane capacitance. TPO gene expression was assessed in various tissues. Results: Circulating platelet counts and the number of large megakaryocytes were increased in the bone marrow of CRF rats. Massive di-8-ANEPPS staining and increased membrane capacitance in large megakaryocytes demonstrated increased membrane invaginations. Unaffected Kv1.3-channel currents per cell surface area demonstrated unaltered channel densities. TPO transcription was decreased in the renal cortex but increased in the liver and bone marrow of CRF rats. Conclusion: Increased thrombopoiesis in CRF was thought to be a reactive mechanism to platelet dysfunction. Increased TPO production from the liver and bone marrow compensated for decreased production from damaged kidneys.
Interactions of Excitatory and Inhibitory Feedback Topologies in Facilitating Pattern Separation and Retrieval
Authors: Wang Jane X. , Zochowski Michal
Published: October 2011

Within the brain, the interplay between connectivity patterns of neurons and their spatiotemporal dynamics is believed to be intricately linked to the bases of behavior, such as the process of storing, consolidating, and retrieving memory traces. Memory is believed to be stored in the synaptic patterns of anatomical circuitry in the form of increased connectivity densities within subpopulations of neurons. At the same time, memory recall is thought to correspond to activation of discrete areas of the brain corresponding to those memories. Such regional subpopulations can selectively activate during memory recall or retrieval, signifying the process of accessing a single memory or concept. It has been shown previously that recovery of single memory activity patterns is mediated by global neuromodulation signifying transition into different cognitive states such as sleep or awake exploration. We examine how underlying topology can affect memory awake activation and sleep reactivation when such memories share increasing proportions of neurons. The results show that while single memory activation is diminished with increased overlap, pattern separation can be recovered by offsetting excitatory associations between two memories with targeted and heterogeneous inhibitory feedback. Such findings point to the importance of excitatory-to-inhibitory current balance at both the global and local levels in the context of memory retrieval and replay, and highlight the role of network topology in memory management processes.
Higher-Order Approximations for Testing Neglected Nonlinearity
Authors: White Halbert , Cho Jin Seo
Published: October 2011

We illustrate the need to use higher-order (specifically sixth-order) expansions in order to properly determine the asymptotic distribution of a standard artificial neural network test for neglected nonlinearity. The test statistic is a quasi-likelihood ratio (QLR) statistic designed to test whether the mean square prediction error improves by including an additional hidden unit with an activation function violating the no-zero condition in Cho, Ishida, and White ( 2011 ). This statistic is also shown to be asymptotically equivalent under the null to the Lagrange multiplier (LM) statistic of Luukkonen, Saikkonen, and Teräsvirta ( 1988 ) and Teräsvirta ( 1994 ). In addition, we compare the power properties of our QLR test to one satisfying the no-zero condition and find that the latter is not consistent for detecting a DGP with neglected nonlinearity violating an analogous no-zero condition, whereas our QLR test is consistent.
Transmission of Population-Coded Information
Authors: Renart Alfonso , van Rossum Mark C. W.
Published: October 2011

As neural activity is transmitted through the nervous system, neuronal noise degrades the encoded information and limits performance. It is therefore important to know how information loss can be prevented. We study this question in the context of neural population codes. Using Fisher information, we show how information loss in a layered network depends on the connectivity between the layers. We introduce an algorithm, reminiscent of the water filling algorithm for Shannon information that minimizes the loss. The optimal connection profile has a center-surround structure with a spatial extent closely matching the neurons’ tuning curves. In addition, we show how the optimal connectivity depends on the correlation structure of the trial-to-trial variability in the neuronal responses. Our results explain how optimal communication of population codes requires the center-surround architectures found in the nervous system and provide explicit predictions on the connectivity parameters.
The Aesthetics of Control
Authors: Murakami Wood David , Abe Kiyoshi
Published: October 2011

This paper examines the changing ‘style’ of urban order in Japan through the example of mega events, drawing on the architectural critique of Taro Igarashi and the historical sociological analysis of Masachi Ohsawa. It argues that construction for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics was typical of a ‘concrete aesthetic’ that reflected a Japanese version of ‘control society’, at once modern and post-modern. Ironically, this period has since been re-imagined through ‘Showa nostalgia’ as shown in the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics and the 2005 Aichi Expo. This nostalgia has been a resource for a globalising form of urban order, seen in more recent mega events like the FIFA World Cup 2002, the 2005 World Expo in Aichi and the 2007 World Athletics Championship in Osaka. This order combines a new aesthetics of visibility through technocratic surveillance with authoritarian governance that seeks to render invisible the marginal, particularly homeless people and foreign migrant workers.