bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Susceptibility to 5‐Aminolevulinic Acid Based Photodynamic Therapy in WHO I Meningioma Cells Corresponds to Ferrochelatase Activity
Authors: Hefti Martin , Holenstein Fabian , Albert Ina , Looser Herbert , Luginbuehl Vera
Published: September 2010

5‐Aminolevulinic acid (5‐ALA) is a natural precursor of protoporphyrin IX (PpIX), which can be used as a photosensitizer in photodynamic therapy (PDT). Accumulation of PpIX in benign meningioma cells has been observed previously, its exploitation for PDT, however, was discouraged by inconsistent results. To evaluate PDT for benign meningiomas, we investigated PpIX synthesis in two human meningioma cell lines (HBL‐52 and BEN‐MEN‐1), their respective extracellular loss of PpIX and corresponding ferrochelatase (FECH) activity as well as their susceptibility to PDT. We demonstrated PpIX production after 5‐ALA administration and minor loss to the extracellular space in both cell lines. However, significantly more (up to five times) PpIX was accumulated in BEN‐MEN‐1 as compared with HBL‐52 cells. FECH activity was 2.7‐fold higher in HBL‐52 compared with BEN‐MEN‐1 cells and accordingly higher FECH levels could be shown in HBL‐52 cells by Western blot analysis. BEN‐MEN‐1 cells were much more sensitive to PDT and cells could be almost completely killed by irradiation doses of 2 J cm−2, whereas HBL‐52 showed only an insufficient response at this irradiation dose. We conclude that differences in intracellular PpIX concentrations between HBL‐52 and BEN‐MEN‐1 benign meningioma cells were mainly due to differences in FECH activity and that these differences correspond to their susceptibility to 5‐ALA‐induced PDT.
Acetate Versus Sulfur Deprivation Role in Creating Anaerobiosis in Light for Hydrogen Production by Chlamydomonas reinhardtii and Spirulina platensis: Two Different Organisms and Two Different Mechanisms
Authors: Morsy Fatthy Mohamed
Published: September 2010

This work was devoted to separate acetate role in creating anaerobiosis from that of sulfur deprivation. Chlamydomonas reinhardtii grown in TAP (Tris–acetate–phosphate) medium was resuspended in sulfur‐replete or ‐deprived medium in sealed or nonsealed cultures. Sulfur deprivation was substantial for starch accumulation and hydrogen evolution; however, acetate induced anaerobiosis in the presence or absence of sulfur in only sealed cultures. In nonsealed cultures, Chlamydomonas did not lose its photosynthetic activity; however, it was arrested in anoxia with no photosynthetic activity as long as the culture was sealed. The sealed cultures resumed photosynthesis upon unsealing overnight unless the cells died by anoxia at late stage of the experiment. These results indicate that the enhanced oxygen consumption for the enormous acetate respiration and inhibition of the external oxygen supply in sealed cultures of Chlamydomonas are the main reasons for the steady anaerobic conditions. Although acetate was substantial for creating anaerobiosis in Chlamydomonas, sulfur deprivation alone could create anaerobiosis in Spirulina platensis grown autotrophically. Hydrogen evolution and glycogen accumulation were induced under such conditions. Severely reduced phycocyanin, chlorophyll and photosynthesis, while respiration had increased, induced anaerobiosis in Spirulina. This study reports for the first time anaerobiosis under autotrophic conditions in a cyanobacterium.
XRCC1 downregulated through promoter hypermethylation is involved in human gastric carcinogenesis
Authors: WANG Ping , TANG Jie Ting , PENG Yan Shen , CHEN Xiao Yu , ZHANG Yan Jie , FANG Jing Yuan
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE:  To analyze the expression and aberrant methylation of X‐ray repair cross‐complementing gene 1 (XRCC1) in gastric carcinogenesis, and identify the molecular mechanism of gastric carcinogenesis.

METHODS:  The method based on methyl binding domain protein (MBD) immuno‐precipitation and promoter microarray was employed to screen the gastric cancer‐related methylation‐sensitive gene. An immunohistochemistry assay was applied to detect the protein expression of XRCC1 in the multistep progression of gastric carcinogenesis. The mRNA expression of XRCC1 was determined by real‐time PCR in tumor tissues and their corresponding non‐tumorous tissues. The methylation status and Arg194Trp and Arg399Gln polymorphisms of XRCC1 in gastric cancer and gastritis tissues were analyzed by methylation‐specific PCR, bisulfite genomic sequencing and direct DNA sequencing, respectively.

RESULTS:  Promoter microarray screening and identification suggested that XRCC1 was a methylation‐sensitive gene. Immunochemistry results showed that XRCC1 protein expression gradually decreased with progression of gastric mucosal lesions (P < 0.05). The positive rate of XRCC1 in patients with well/moderately differentiated gastric cancer was significantly higher than patients with poorly differentiated gastric cancer (P < 0.05). The mRNA expression of XRCC1 in gastric cancer tissues was significantly lower than that in the non‐tumorous tissues (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, XRCC1 methylation in gastric cancer tissues was more frequent than that in the gastritis tissues (P < 0.05), and the downregulation of XRCC1 expression was relevant to methylation (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION:  The expression of XRCC1 is downregulated in gastric carcinogenesis, and promoter hypermethylation may be one of the mechanisms contributing to its downregulation.
Evaluating human liver reserve function by measuring serum concentrations of phenacetin and its metabolites
Authors: XIONG Wen Jian , JIN Hui , LI Shui Jun , JIN Jia Chen , JI Bei Na , YU Chen
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate human liver reserve function (LRF) by a simple and efficient method for measuring serum concentrations of phenacetin and its metabolites.

METHODS: Overall 20 patients with liver cirrhosis (Child–Pugh score ≥ 7, aged 48–79 years), 30 healthy young volunteers (aged 18–40 years), and 20 healthy elderly volunteers (aged 61–80 years) were enrolled. All participants received a single oral dose of 0.5 g phenacetin. Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry was used to determine the serum concentrations of phenacetin and its metabolites, including acetaminophen, acetaminophen glucuronide and acetaminophen sulfate.

RESULTS: The serum concentration of phenacetin was significantly higher in cirrhotic patients than those in either of the healthy volunteer groups (P < 0.001). It was higher in healthy elderly volunteers than that in healthy young ones but there was no statistically significant difference (P > 0.05) between them. The serum concentrations of acetaminophen, acetaminophen glucuronide and acetaminophen sulfate were significantly lower in cirrhotic patients than in the healthy controls (P < 0.001). The serum concentrations of these three metabolites in healthy elderly volunteers were lower than those in healthy younger volunteers but again, there was no statistical significant difference (P > 0.05). The serum concentration of acetaminophen in healthy male volunteers was significantly higher than that in the women (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: Monitoring cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP450 1A2)‐mediated phenacetin metabolism is a simple and efficient method for evaluating human LRF. This method would warrant further validation in a large cohort clinical study.
The mouse pink‐eyed dilution allele of the P‐gene greatly inhibits eumelanin but not pheomelanin synthesis
Authors: Hirobe Tomohisa , Ito Shosuke , Wakamatsu Kazumasa
Published: September 2010

The mouse pink‐eyed dilution (p) locus is known to control eumelanin synthesis, melanosome morphology, and tyrosinase activity in melanocytes. However, it has not been fully determined whether the mutant allele, p affects pheomelanin synthesis. Effects of the p allele on eumelanin and phemelanin synthesis were investigated by chemical analysis of dorsal hairs of 5‐week‐old mice obtained from the F2 generations (black, pink‐eyed black, recessive yellow, pink‐eyed recessive yellow, agouti, and pink‐eyed agouti) between C57BL/10JHir (B10)‐congenic pink‐eyed black mice (B10‐p/p) and recessive yellow (B10‐Mc1re/Mc1re) or agouti (B10‐A/A) mice. The eumelanin content was dramatically (>20‐fold) decreased in pink‐eyed black and pink‐eyed agouti mice, whereas the pheomelanin content did not decrease in pink‐eyed black, pink‐eyed recessive yellow, or pink‐eyed agouti mice compared to the corresponding P/‐ mice. These results suggest that the pink‐eyed dilution allele greatly inhibits eumelanin synthesis, but not pheomelanin synthesis.
Additions to the lichen family Pannariaceae in Ecuador
Authors: Jørgensen Per M. , Palice Zdeněk
Published: September 2010

Collections from high altitudes (3840–5100 m a.s.l.) have added several species to the Pannariaceae of Ecuador: Fuscopannaria praetermissa, Pannaria hookeri, Psoroma paleaceum and Psoroma tenue are new to the Andes, and phytogeographic consequences of these are discussed. The following new taxa are described: Parmeliella corallina P. M. Jørg. & Palice, Parmeliella psoromoides P. M. Jørg. & Palice, Psoroma cinnamomeum ssp. andinum P. M. Jørg. & Palice and Santessoniella macrospora P. M. Jørg. & Palice. They are part of a high‐andean element which is not well known and is indicative of a migration route between the polar regions. In addition, two species with associated cyanobacteria, as the primary or secondary symbiont, are reported for the first time from South America: Thelignya lignyota (Wahlenb.) P. M. Jørg. & Henssen and Pilophorus cereolus (Ach.) Th. Fr, both originating from the Northern Hemisphere.
Dendrobium shixingense sp. nov. (Orchidaceae) from Guangdong, China
Authors: Chen Zhi‐Lin , Zeng Song‐Jun , Wu Kun‐Lin , Duan Jun
Published: September 2010

Dendrobium shixingense Z.‐L. Chen, S.‐J. Zeng et J. Duan sp. nov. (Orchidaceae), is described and illustrated from Guangdong, China; it is compared with its nearest allies, D. scoriarum, D. flexicaule and D. officinale.
Vangueriopsis shimbaensis sp. nov. (Rubiaceae) from Kenya
Authors: Davis Aaron P. , Luke Quentin W. R.
Published: September 2010

A new species of Vangueriopsis from Kenya, V. shimbaensis, is described and illustrated. Notes on distribution, phenology and conservation are provided.
Risk Factors forCampylobacterColonization in Broiler Flocks in Japan
Authors: Sasaki Y. , Tsujiyama Y. , Tanaka H. , Yoshida S. , Goshima T. , Oshima K. , Katayama S. , Yamada Y.
Published: September 2010

The present study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of and to identify the risk factors forCampylobactercolonization in broiler flocks in Japan.Camplylobactercolonization status in flock was evaluated by culturing pooled caecal excrement from 124 broiler flocks. Potential exposure to risk factors was evaluated with a questionnaire for the broiler producers. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated using a multivariable logistic regression analysis. The prevalence ofCampylobacter‐positive flocks was 43.5% (upper and lower limits of 95% confidence interval (CI95%): 34.8, 52.3). Multivariable logistic regression model identified two variables as risk factors forCampylobactercolonization. The ORs ofCampylobactercolonization were higher in flocks in western Japan (OR = 2.68; CI95%: 1.04, 6.91) than in eastern Japan, and in flocks supplied with undisinfected drinking water (OR = 7.41; CI95%: 3.11, 17.66) than in those supplied with disinfected drinking water. These findings indicate that water may play an important role inCampylobactercolonization in broiler flocks in Japan and the use of disinfected water may reduce the risk ofCampylobactercolonization.
Recent progress in the management of hepatocellular carcinoma detected during a surveillance program in Japan
Authors: Nakano Masahito , Ando Eiji , Kuromatsu Ryoko , Torimura Takuji , Sumie Shuji , Takata Akio , Fukushima Nobuyoshi , Kurogi Junichi , Niizeki Takashi , Iwamoto Hideki , Tanaka Masatoshi , Sata Michio
Published: September 2010

Aim:  This study explored recent improvements in the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) diagnosed during surveillance.

Methods:  The subjects were 1074 patients with HCC, subdivided into three groups. Group A comprised 211 patients for whom HCC was detected during periodic follow‐up examinations at Kurume University School of Medicine, Group B comprised 544 patients diagnosed with HCC during periodic follow‐up examinations at other institutions, and, Group C comprised 319 patients with HCC detected incidentally or because of symptoms.

Results:  In 1995–2000 and 2001–2006, 91% and 91% of group A, 68% and 70% of group B, and 27% and 26% of group C patients with HCC, respectively, met the Milan criteria. For groups A and B, the proportions of patients with Child–Pugh class A and use of promising treatment increased in the later periods compared to those diagnosed during the earlier periods (group A, Child–Pugh class A, 72% vs 58% [P = 0.040], receiving treatment, 90% vs 70% [P < 0.0001]; group B, Child–Pugh class A, 71% vs 62% [P = 0.031]; receiving treatment, 72% vs 52% [P < 0.0001], respectively). The cumulative survival rates of the 405 patients with HCC detected in the latter 6 years tended to be better than those for patients diagnosed in the former 6 years (350 patients) (4 years, 58% vs 50% [P = 0.0349]).

Conclusion:  The use of promising treatment and prognosis have improved in the last 6 years for patients with HCC diagnosed through surveillance relative to those identified in 1995–2000.
Clinical features of liver dysfunction in collagen diseases
Authors: Takahashi Atsushi , Abe Kazumichi , Yokokawa Junko , Iwadate Haruyo , Kobayashi Hiroko , Watanabe Hiroshi , Irisawa Atsushi , Ohira Hiromasa
Published: September 2010

Aim:  Liver dysfunction is not rare in patients with collagen disease. We sought to elucidate the clinical features of liver dysfunction in the presence of collagen disease.

Methods:  We analyzed the frequency and causes of liver dysfunction in 607 patients (rheumatoid arthritis [RA], n = 220; systemic lupus erythematosus [SLE], n = 164; systemic sclerosis [SSc], n = 47; Sjögren's syndrome [SjS], n = 44; Behçet's disease, n = 43; polymyositis/dermatomyositis [PM/DM], n = 27; vasculitis syndrome, n = 25; mixed connective tissue disease [MCTD], n = 21; and adult‐onset Still's disease [AOSD], n = 16).

Results:  Liver dysfunction was observed in 238 (39.2%) of 607 patients showing collagen disease. Patients with AOSD (81.3%), PM/DM (51.9%) and vasculitis syndrome (48.0%) frequently displayed liver dysfunction. Liver dysfunction in collagen diseases results from many causes; drug‐induced liver injury (26.1%), fatty liver (7.6%), viral hepatitis (1.3%), autoimmune hepatitis (4.2%), primary biliary cirrhosis (15.9%) and the collagen disease itself (15.5%). Conversely, primary biliary cirrhosis was a leading cause in SSc (76.1%) and SjS (70.0%). Liver dysfunction in collagen disease tended to be mild. In addition, alanine aminotransferase levels correlated positively with ferritin levels in AOSD (R = 0.708, P < 0.05). Moreover, alkaline phosphatase levels correlated positively with C reactive protein levels in vasculitis syndrome (R = 0.833, P < 0.05).

Conclusion:  Liver dysfunction in the presence of collagen disease has various causes, and dysfunction associated with collagen disease reflects the activity of the collagen disease itself.
Postoperative adjuvant transarterial chemoembolization for participants with hepatocellular carcinoma: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhong Jian‐Hong , Li Le‐Qun
Published: September 2010

Aim:  The efficacy of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) for inoperable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is positive, but for postoperative HCC, many studies have reported controversial results. The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of postoperative adjuvant TACE for participants with HCC.

Methods:  Electronic and manual searches were conducted to identify randomized controlled trials (RCT) evaluating postoperative adjuvant TACE for participants with HCC.

Results:  Six RCT totaling 659 participants, of whom almost all were of stage IIIA HCC, were included. For the 1‐year tumor recurrence rate, hepatectomy plus TACE showed statistically significant less incidence of recurrence, with a pooled risk ratio (RR) of 0.68 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.55–0.84, P = 0.0003). For 1‐year mortality, the trials were favorable for TACE with a pooled risk ratio of 0.48 (95% CI = 0.35–0.65, P < 0.00001). For 3‐year mortality, the trials also revealed statistically significant less incidence, with a pooled risk ratio of 0.76 (95% CI = 0.64–0.90, P = 0.002). However, for 5‐year mortality, TACE did not demonstrate statistically significant less incidence (RR = 0.94, 95% CI = 0.81–1.08, P = 0.36). Transient fever and nausea/vomiting were reported as side‐effects of TACE but were well tolerated by most participants.

Conclusion:  Postoperative adjuvant TACE seems promising for participants with HCC with risk factors (multiple nodules of >5 cm or vascular invasion) but requires further trial.
Hepatitis B virus/hepatitis C virus upregulate angiopoietin‐2 expression through mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathway
Authors: Li Yanmei , Chen Jizheng , Wu Chunchen , Wang Linding , Lu Mengji , Chen Xinwen
Published: September 2010

Aim:  To explore the molecular mechanism of hepatitis B virus (HBV)/hepatitis C virus (HCV) upregulate angiopoietin‐2 (Ang‐2) expression.

Methods:  Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR), quantitative real‐time (qRT)–PCR and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) analysis were used to measure the Ang‐2 transcription and expression level. Reporter gene assays were used to determine the cis‐element of the Ang‐2 promoter. The specific inhibitors assay, immunofluorescence and western blot analysis were conducted to verify the signal pathway involved in the upregulation of Ang‐2 expression.

Results:  The level of transcription and expression of Ang‐2 increased in the HepG2.2.15 and Con‐1 cells. Reporter gene assays in HepG2.2.15 and Con‐1 cells revealed that HBV/HCV could enhance Ang‐2 promoter expression by activating AP‐1 and Ets1. Analysis with specific inhibitors indicated that HBV/HCV upregulated the expression of Ang‐2 through mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways.

Conclusion:  This study illustrates a distinct mechanism by which a tumor virus modulates vasculature to promote tumorigenesis.
Anti‐PDGF‐B monoclonal antibody reduces liver fibrosis development
Authors: Ogawa Shinji , Ochi Takashi , Shimada Hideaki , Inagaki Kazuyuki , Fujita Isami , Nii Aisuke , Moffat Mark A. , Katragadda Madan , Violand Bernard N. , Arch Robert H. , Masferrer Jaime L.
Published: September 2010

Aim: To evaluate the usefulness of a platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF)‐B specific monoclonal antibody (mAb) as a therapeutic agent to treat chronic liver fibrosis.

Methods: Liver fibrosis was induced in ICR mice by bile duct ligation (BDL) or BALB/c mice by weekly injection of concanavalin A (ConA) for 4 or 8 weeks. A mAb specific for mouse and human PDGF‐B chain, AbyD3263, was generated, testedin vitroand administered twice a week throughout the experimental period.

Results: AbyD3263 showed neutralizing activity against mouse and human PDGF‐B chain in cell‐based assays, as measuredin vitroby inhibition of phosphorylation of PDGF receptor β and proliferation of hepatic stellate cells induced by PDGF‐BB. The half life of AbyD3263 in mice exceeded 7 days and dosing of animals twice a week resulted in constant plasma levels of the mAb. Induction of liver fibrosis by BDL and ConA resulted in elevated levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in plasma and hydroxyproline in the liver. Treatment with AbyD3263 did not modify ALT levels, but significantly reduced hydroxyproline content in the liver with a maximum reduction of 39% and 54% in the BDL and ConA models, respectively, compared to controls.

Conclusios: Consistent with the notion that PDGF‐BB plays an important role in the progression of liver fibrosis, AbyD3263 exhibits efficacy in pre‐clinical disease models suggesting that pharmacological inhibition of PDGF‐B chain may be a therapeutic approach to treat liver fibrosis.
Prognostic significance of co‐expression of nm23 and p57 protein in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Guo Hui , Nan Kejun , Hu Tinghua , Meng Jie , Hui Wentao , Zhang Xiaozhan , Qin Haixia , Sui Chenguang
Published: September 2010

Aim:  To investigate the unbalance of proliferation and apoptosis and the functions of cell‐cycle proteins and apoptotic factor in metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and their effect in prognosis.

Methods:  Proliferation index and apoptosis index, as well as seven relatively molecular markers, namely p15, p34, p53, p57, p73, survivin and nm23, were evaluated by immunohistochemistry and TUNEL in HCC tissues and compared to adjacent non‐cancerous tissues and normal liver tissues. Furthermore, the prognostic significance by follow‐up and mutual relationships for each clinicopathologic factor and molecular marker were analysed.

Results:  The dysregulation between proliferation and apoptosis and the abnormal expression of seven molecular markers were observed in HCC tissues. The unbalance of proliferation and apoptosis and abnormal expressions of p15, p34, p57 and nm23 were correlated with TNM stage and extrahepatic metastasis. In particular, the abnormal co‐expression of nm23/p57 correlated with advanced TNM stage and bigger tumor size and was an independent prognostic factor of HCC.

Conclusion:  The unbalance of proliferation and apoptosis and abnormal expression of cell‐cycle proteins promote metastasis of HCC. Moreover, the abnormal co‐expression of nm23/p57 may be a useful molecular marker for metastasis and unfavourable prognosis for HCC.
Role of dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase and thymidylate synthase expression in immunohistochemistry of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Nishi Masaaki , Shimada Mitsuo , Utsunomiya Tohru , Morine Yuji , Imura Satoru , Ikemoto Tetsuya , Mori Hiroki , Hanaoka Jun , Bando Yoshimi
Published: September 2010

Aims:  Dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) and thymidylate synthase (TS) are key enzymes in the metabolism of 5‐fluorouracil and have been implicated as possible prognostic markers for cancer patients. However, the clinical roles of DPD and TS in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (IHCC) have not been investigated. The aim of this study was to clarify the clinicopathological role of DPD and TS expressions in IHCC.

Methods:  Twenty‐nine patients who had undergone hepatic resection for IHCC were enrolled in this study. Expressions of DPD and TS in the resected IHCC specimens were examined using anti‐DPD or anti‐TS antibody. The patients were divided into positive and negative groups according to DPD/TS expressions: DPD‐positive group (n = 18) and DPD‐negative group (n = 11)/TS‐positive group (n = 14) and TS‐negative group (n = 15). Clinicopathological factors were compared between the two groups.

Results:  The overall survival rate was significantly lower in the DPD‐negative group than in the DPD‐positive group (1‐year 36.4% vs. 77.4%, 3‐year 18.2% vs. 43.0%; P < 0.05). The disease‐free survival rate in the DPD‐negative group tended to be lower than that in the DPD‐positive group. The overall survival rate or disease‐free survival rate did not appear to be associated with the TS‐expression status. The Ki‐67 labeling index in the DPD‐negative group was significantly higher than that in the DPD‐positive group (16.9 ± 3.2% vs.13.2 ± 3.3%; P < 0.05).

Conclusions:  The negative DPD expression was significantly associated with the enhanced tumor cell proliferation and poorer prognosis in patients with IHCC. DPD expression is a potential prognostic indicator for IHCC.
Restriction of calorie and iron intake results in reduction of visceral fat and serum alanine aminotransferase and ferritin levels in patients with chronic liver disease
Authors: Iwasa Motoh , Hara Nagisa , Iwata Kazuko , Ishidome Masumi , Sugimoto Ryosuke , Tanaka Hideaki , Fujita Naoki , Kobayashi Yoshinao , Takei Yoshiyuki
Published: September 2010

Aim:  To clarify the impact of visceral fat on chronic liver diseases such as non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and hepatitis C, we investigated the effects of lifestyle modifications on the amount of visceral fat, liver biochemistry and serum ferritin levels in patients with liver disease.

Methods:  Eighty‐two patients (NAFLD, n = 37; hepatitis C, n = 45) were advised to adopt lifestyle modifications, including dietary changes and exercise, and these were maintained for 6 months. Bodyweight, percentage of body fat, visceral fat area (VFA) and serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and ferritin were measured before and after intervention.

Results:  In NAFLD, the mean VFA of 134.5 cm2 was significantly reduced to 125.3 cm2 after 6 months (P < 0.001). ALT levels improved significantly between the values measured before and after intervention (P = 0.039). The VFA prior to intervention was 100 cm2 in hepatitis C patients and it was reduced significantly after 6 months to 95.6 cm2 (P < 0.001). ALT levels also improved significantly in the hepatitis C patients (P < 0.001). The serum ferritin levels also reduced in these patients. Improvements in serum ALT and ferritin levels correlated with the amount of visceral fat reduction in both groups (P = 0.046, P = 0.008, respectively).

Conclusion:  These findings demonstrate that restriction of calorie and iron intake results in reduction of visceral fat, liver enzymes and ferritin in patients with chronic liver disease. Visceral fat may be a central target for future interventions, not only in NAFLD but also in hepatitis C.
Automated Maximum Sensitivity And Phase Margin Specification Attainment In Pi Control
Authors: Crowe J. , Johnson M. A.
Published: September 2010

The prevailing industrial and academic autotune paradigm uses the relay experiment to find the ultimate data of an unknown system, followed by the use of this data in PI (D) tuning rules. This paper firstly reviews a novel method of obtaining desired frequency response data‐points of an unknown system which is more accurate and flexible than the relay experiment. The paper then demonstrates how this new identification module can be used in closed loop to automate PI controller tuning to achieve classical robustness specifications. The new algorithm is given along with details of MATLAB/SIMULINK simulation results. The non‐parametric identification method developed by the authors and used in this work is termed the Phase Locked Loop method (PLL). The classical robustness specification to be achieved by the PI controller is a pair of desired maximum sensitivity and phase margin specifications. Conclusions and future research directions close the paper.
Managing Experience Design for an Internet Company
Authors: Kim Bo Young , Lee Ji Hyun
Published: September 2010

NHN is Korea's premier Internet company, operating the country's leading search engine and its top online game portal. Its huge new design center has unprecedented authority and is run by the company's design director. No wonder NHN has gone into user experience design in such a big way.
Stepping Up: Design Thinking Has Uncovered Real Opportunities
Authors: McCullagh Kevin
Published: September 2010

Here's some cold water for that hot topic: Why is design thinking such a hit with executives, yet leaves so many designers shrugging? Does the demand for design thinking actually represent more of an opportunity than the thinking itself?
The Trans‐Generational Workplace: Balancing Wisdom and Knowledge
Authors: Vogel Craig M.
Published: September 2010

Thoughts on ageism and how best to use the skill and knowledge of all our colleagues.
Design Thinking in Legal Practice Management
Authors: Szabo Mark
Published: September 2010

What if law offices ran more like creative communications firms? Sure, there would be a few glitches to get over—like abandoning the traditional leverage‐the‐low‐cost‐talent model in favor of a more collaborative use of billable hours—but this writer thinks a little design thinking would benefit the legal profession.
Cultivating Creative Equity in Scandinavian Design Brands
Authors: Person Oscar , Schoormans Jan
Published: September 2010

Scandinavia is famous throughout the world for its design savvy. But the flip side of this enviable situation is the inevitable commoditization of design. How do companies like Marimekko and Kosta Boda manage to hang on to their premium brands? The answer: creative equity.
The Influence of Design Thinking in Business: Some Preliminary Observations
Authors: Carr Sean D. , Halliday Amy , King Andrew C. , Liedtka Jeanne , Lockwood Thomas
Published: September 2010

It's all over the business press, but how prevalent really is design thinking in today's organizations? The Design Management Institute and researchers at UVA's Darden School of Business decided to find out. Here is an interim report.
Right‐Wing Customers—The Enemy of Innovation
Authors: Beverland Michael
Published: September 2010

The customer is not always right. The customer is not always king. The customer wants more of what he or she already has—until somebody comes out with a product that's irresistible. Market immersion is one way of seeing past what the customer has to what the customer wants.
Reporting Bias and Information Discrepancy, and Consequences for Volatility in Financial Markets*
Authors: Han Jae Joon
Published: September 2010

This paper presents an analytical explanation of price volatility and mispricing in a rational financial market. In the proposed model, specialists might have private interest in manipulating their reports, which can affect the security price. Additionally, traders differ in terms of both rationality and available information. The present study shows that mispricing and price volatility occurs in a rational financial market when specialist reports are incorporated under different trader types. Also analyzed are comparative statics of the magnitude of misreports, the informativeness of the price, and price volatility when the ratio of superior traders to ordinary traders changes. Both price volatility and the potential for extra profit gain by superior traders might increase when they are dominant.
On the Determination of Contract Price in Credit Sales Transaction: Exchange Option Approach*
Authors: Choi Jong Yeon
Published: September 2010

Conditions for credit sales transactions vary to a great degree depending upon characteristics of the commodity, the buyer, and the seller. In this paper, we analyzed the buyer’s right to return purchased commodities and void his or her financial obligations as an exchange option written by the seller and held by the credit buyer. The value of this exchange option is determined by the value of supplied goods and their volatility, the value of bonds and their volatility, and the correlation between the values of the commodity and the bonds. As a result, this paper was able to derive a model that could explain the impact of: (i) characteristics of the commodities; (ii) characteristics of the buyer; (iii) characteristics of the seller; and (iv) changes in market conditions. Besides the progress stated above, we also derived the necessary condition for both the buyer and the seller to be satisfied in a credit sales transaction. Based on this model, a number of empirical hypotheses were made.
External infiltrating lipoma in a two‐week‐old foal: Computed tomographic evaluation for the assessment of the extension and invasiveness of the tumour
Authors: Rebsamen E. , Gygax D. , Dennler M. , Jud R. , Kummer M.
Published: September 2010

External lipoma is a benign subcutaneous and submucosal tumour and usually is of little clinical concern. Occasionally, the lipoma may invade muscles, the infiltrating lipoma. Complete surgical excision is mandatory because of the infiltrative nature and potentially high incidence of recurrence after inadequate surgery. In order to assess the extension of the tumour accurately, computed tomographic examination is indicated.
Sensing Creep Evolution in 410 Stainless Steel by Magnetic Measurements
Authors: Polar Alberto , Indacochea J. E. , Wang M. L.
Published: September 2010

The creep evolution was followed by conducting magnetic measurements on ferromagnetic steel samples exposed to different creep strains at a constant temperature. 410 stainless steel (410 SS) rods were submitted to creep at 625°C applying a constant stress of 124 MPa for different creep times. A magnetic hysteresis curve was generated for every sample. It was found that the shape of the hysteresis curves varied with creep time. The extent of creep was assessed by measuring magnetic saturation, coercivity, and remanence. The changes in microstructure due to creep are related to variations in magnetic properties, which are explained in terms of possible magnetic domain pinning. It was observed that the microstructural changes due to creep are better correlated with the coercivity of the material. In summary, it is feasible to use a magnetoelastic sensor to detect the partial level of creep in a ferromagnetic material by nondestructive examination.
Constitutive Modeling of Shape Memory Effects in Semicrystalline Polymers With Stretch Induced Crystallization
Authors: Westbrook Kristofer K. , Parakh Vikas , Chung Taekwoong , Mather Patrick T. , Wan Logan C. , Dunn Martin L. , Qi H. Jerry
Published: September 2010

Polymers can demonstrate shape memory (SM) effects by being temporarily fixed in a nonequilibrium shape and then recover their permanent shape when exposed to heat, light, or other external stimuli. Many previously developed shape memory polymers (SMPs) use the dramatic molecular chain mobility change around the glass transition temperature Tg to realize the SM effect. In these materials, the temporary shape cannot be repeated unless it is reprogramed, and therefore the SM effect is one way. Recently, a semicrystalline SMP, which can demonstrate both one- and two-way SM effects, was developed by one of our groups (Chung, T., Rorno-Uribe, A., and Mather, P. T., 2008, “Two-Way Reversible Shape Memory in a Semicrystalline Network,” Macromolecules, 41(1), pp. 184–192). The main mechanism of the observed SM effects is due to stretch induced crystallization. This paper develops a one-dimensional constitutive model to describe the SM effect due to stretch induced crystallization. The model accurately describes the complex thermomechanical SM effect and can be used for the future development of three-dimensional constitutive models.
Statistical Characterization of Ultrasonic Additive Manufacturing Ti/Al Composites
Authors: Hopkins C. D. , Dapino M. J. , Fernandez S. A.
Published: September 2010

Ultrasonic additive manufacturing (UAM) is an emerging solid-state fabrication process that can be used for layered creation of solid metal structures. In UAM, ultrasonic energy is used to induce plastic deformation and nascent surface formation at the interface between layers of metal foil, thus creating bonding between the layers. UAM is an inherently stochastic process with a number of unknown facets that can affect the bond quality. In order to take advantage of the unique benefits of UAM, it is necessary to understand the relationship between manufacturing parameters (machine settings) and bond quality by quantifying the mechanical strength of UAM builds. This research identifies the optimum combination of processing parameters, including normal force, oscillation amplitude, weld speed, and number of bilayers for the manufacture of commercially pure, grade 1 titanium+1100-O aluminum composites. A multifactorial experiment was designed to study the effect of the above factors on the outcome measures ultimate shear strength and ultimate transverse tensile strength. Generalized linear models were used to study the statistical significance of each factor. For a given factor, the operating levels were selected to cover the full range of machine capabilities. Transverse shear and transverse tensile experiments were conducted to quantify the bond strength of the builds. Optimum levels of each parameter were established based on statistical contrast trend analyses. The results from these analyses indicate that high mechanical strength can be achieved with a process window bounded by a 1500 N normal force, 30 μm oscillation amplitude, about 42 mm/s weld speed, and two bilayers. The effects of each process parameter on bond strength are discussed and explained.
Enhancing Uniform, Nonuniform, and Total Failure Strain of Aluminum by Using SiC at Nanolength Scale
Authors: Thakur Sanjay Kumar , Tun Khin Sandar , Gupta Manoj
Published: September 2010

The present study reports a unique tensile response of pure aluminum triggered due to the presence of SiC particles at nanolength scale. Al/SiC nanocomposites were synthesized by using energy efficient microwave assisted powder metallurgy route. Characterization studies conducted on the extruded samples revealed that the increasing presence of SiC particles at nanolength scale did not affect the 0.2% yield strength but increased ultimate tensile strength and work of fracture. Most interestingly, the presence of SiC nanoparticles increased the uniform, nonuniform, and total strain of aluminum when compared with pure aluminum. An attempt has been made in this study to inter-relate the enhanced tensile response of aluminum with the ability of SiC nanoparticles to homogenize the slip process and to delay void initiation and coalescence during tensile loading.
Constitutive Modeling of Damage Evolution in Semicrystalline Polyethylene
Authors: Alvarado-Contreras José A. , Polak Maria A. , Penlidis Alexander
Published: September 2010

In this article, the description of a novel damage-coupled constitutive formulation for the mechanical behavior of semicrystalline polyethylene is presented. The model attempts to describe the deformation and degradation processes in polyethylene considering the interplay between the amorphous and crystalline phases and following a continuum damage mechanics approach from a microstructural viewpoint. For the amorphous phase, the model is developed within a thermodynamic framework able to describe the features of the material behavior. Amorphous phase hardening is considered into the model and associated with the molecular configurations arising during the deformation process. The equation governing damage evolution is obtained by choosing a particular form based on internal energy and entropy. For the crystalline phase, the proposed model considers the deformation mechanisms by the theory of crystallographic slip and incorporates the effects of intracrystalline debonding and fragmentation. The model generated within this framework is used to simulate uniaxial tension and simple shear of high density polyethylene. The predicted stress-strain behavior and texture evolution are compared with experimental results and numerical simulations obtained from the literature. By incorporating a damage mechanics approach, the proposed model predicts the progressive loss of material stiffness attributed to the crystal fragmentation and molecular debonding of the crystal-amorphous interfaces.
The Impact of Glenoid Labrum Thickness and Modulus on Labrum and Glenohumeral Capsule Function
Authors: Drury Nicholas J. , Ellis Benjamin J. , Weiss Jeffrey A. , McMahon Patrick J. , Debski Richard E.
Published: September 2010

The glenoid labrum is an integral component of the glenohumeral capsule’s insertion into the glenoid, and changes in labrum geometry and mechanical properties may lead to the development of glenohumeral joint pathology. The objective of this research was to determine the effect that changes in labrum thickness and modulus have on strains in the labrum and glenohumeral capsule during a simulated physical examination for anterior instability. A labrum was incorporated into a validated, subject-specific finite element model of the glenohumeral joint, and experimental kinematics were applied simulating application of an anterior load at 0 deg, 30 deg, and 60 deg of external rotation and 60 deg of glenohumeral abduction. The radial thickness of the labrum was varied to simulate thinning tissue, and the tensile modulus of the labrum was varied to simulate degenerating tissue. At 60 deg of external rotation, a thinning labrum increased the average and peak strains in the labrum, particularly in the labrum regions of the axillary pouch (increased 10.5% average strain) and anterior band (increased 7.5% average strain). These results suggest a cause-and-effect relationship between age-related decreases in labrum thickness and increases in labrum pathology. A degenerating labrum also increased the average and peak strains in the labrum, particularly in the labrum regions of the axillary pouch (increased 15.5% strain) and anterior band (increased 10.4% strain). This supports the concept that age-related labrum pathology may result from tissue degeneration. This work suggests that a shift in capsule reparative techniques may be needed in order to include the labrum, especially as activity levels in the aging population continue to increase. In the future validated, finite element models of the glenohumeral joint can be used to explore the efficacy of new repair techniques for glenoid labrum pathology.
Multiple‐stepped Zeeman field offset method applied in acquiring enhanced resolution spin‐echo electron paramagnetic resonance images
Authors: Seifi Payam , Epel Boris , Mailer Colin , Halpern Howard J.
Published: September 2010

Purpose: Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) imaging techniques provide quantitative in vivo oxygen distribution images. Time‐domain techniques including electron spin echo (ESE) imaging have been under study in recent years for their robustness and promising new features. One of the limitations of ESE imaging addressed here is the finite acquisition frequency bandwidth, which imposes limits on applied magnetic field gradients and the resulting image spatial resolution. In order to improve the image spatial resolution, we have extended the effective frequency bandwidth of the imaging system by acquiring projections at multiple Zeeman magnetic field offsets and combining them to restore complete projections obtained with more uniform frequency response, resulting in higher quality images.

Methods: In multiple‐stepped magnetic field or multi‐B scheme, every projection of the three dimensional object is acquired at different main or Zeeman magnetic field (B) offset values. The data from field offset steps are combined, normalizing to the imaging system frequency acquisition window function, a sensitivity profile, to restore the complete projection. A multipurpose pulse EPR imager and phantoms containing the same type of spin probe (OX063H) used in routine animal imaging were also used in this study.

Results: Using the multi‐B method, we were able to acquire images of our phantoms with enhanced spatial resolution compared to the conventional ESE approach. Compared to standard single‐B ESE images, the resolutions of multi‐B images were superior using a high spatial‐resolution regime. Image artifacts present in high‐gradient single‐B ESE images are also substantially reduced using in the multi‐B scheme.

Conclusions: The multi‐B method is less susceptible to instrumental limitations for larger gradient fields and acquiring images with higher spatial resolution better overall quality, without the need to alter the existing pulse ESE image acquisition hardware.
Deformable left‐ventricle mesh model for motion‐compensated filtering in cardiac gated SPECT
Authors: Marin Thibault , Brankov Jovan G.
Published: September 2010

Purpose:

In this article, the authors present a motion‐compensated spatiotemporal processing algorithm to reduce noise in cardiac gated SPECT. Cardiac gated SPECT data are particularly noisy because the acquired photon data are divided among a number of time frames (gates). Classical spatial reconstruction and processing techniques offer noise reduction but they are usually applied on each frame separately and fail to utilize temporal correlation between frames.

Methods:

In this work, the authors present a motion‐compensated spatiotemporal postreconstruction filter offering noise reduction while minimizing motion‐blur artifacts. The proposed method can be used regardless of the type of image‐reconstruction method (analytical or iterative). The between‐frame volumetric myocardium motion is estimated using a deformable mesh model based on the model of the myocardial surfaces. The estimated motion is then used to perform spatiotemporal filtering along the motion trajectories. Both the motion‐estimation and spatiotemporal filtering methods seek to maintain the wall brightening seen during cardiac contraction. Wall brightening is caused by the partial volume effect, which is usually viewed as an artifact; however, wall brightening is a useful signature in clinical practice because it allows the clinician to visualize wall thickening. Therefore, the authors seek in their method to preserve the brightening effect.

Results:

The authors find that the proposed method offers better noise reduction than several existing methods as quantitatively evaluated by signal‐to‐noise ratio, bias‐variance plots, and ejection fraction analysis as well as on tested clinical data.

Conclusions:

The proposed method mitigates for noise in cardiac gated SPECT images using a postreconstruction motion‐compensated filtering approach. Visual as well as quantitative evaluation show considerable improvement in image quality.
Monte Carlo simulation of the effect of miniphantom on in‐air output ratio
Authors: Li Jun , Zhu Timothy C.
Published: September 2010

Purpose:

The aim of the study was to quantify the effect of miniphantoms on in‐air output ratio measurements, i.e., to determine correction factors for in‐air output ratio.

Methods:

Monte Carlo (MC) simulations were performed to simulate in‐air output ratio measurements by using miniphantoms made of various materials (PMMA, graphite, copper, brass, and lead) and with different longitudinal thicknesses or depths in photon beams of 6 and 15 MV, respectively, and with collimator settings ranging from to . EGSnrc and BEAMnrc (2007) software packages were used. Photon energy spectra corresponding to the collimator settings were obtained from BEAMnrc code simulations on a linear accelerator and were used to quantify the components of in‐air output ratio correction factors, i.e., attenuation, mass energy absorption, and phantom scatter correction factors. In‐air output ratio correction factors as functions of miniphantom material, miniphantom longitudinal thickness, and collimator setting were calculated and compared to a previous experimental study.

Results:

The in‐air output ratio correction factors increase with collimator opening and miniphantom longitudinal thickness for all the materials and for both energies. At small longitudinal thicknesses, the in‐air output ratio correction factors for PMMA and graphite are close to 1. The maximum magnitudes of the in‐air output ratio correction factors occur at the largest collimator setting and the largest miniphantom longitudinal thickness : for 6 MV and for 15 MV, respectively. The MC simulations of the in‐air output ratio correction factor confirm the previous experimental study.

Conclusions:

The study has verified that a correction factor for in‐air output ratio can be obtained as a product of attenuation correction factor, mass energy absorption correction factor, and phantom scatter correction factor. The correction factors obtained in the present study can be used in studies involving in‐air output ratio measurements using miniphantoms.