bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid regulation of tonic GABA currents in cultured rat hippocampal neurons
Authors: Ransom Christopher B. , Tao Wucheng , Wu Yuanming , Spain William J. , Richerson George B.
Published: November 2012

Subacute and chronic changes in tonic GABAergic inhibition occur in human and experimental epilepsy. Less is known about how tonic inhibition is modulated over shorter time frames (seconds). We measured endogenous tonic GABA currents from cultured rat hippocampal neurons to evaluate how they are affected by 1) transient increases in extracellular GABA concentration ([GABA]), 2) transient postsynaptic depolarization, and 3) depolarization of presynaptic cells. Transient increases in [GABA] (1 μM) reduced tonic currents; this reduction resulted from GABA-induced shifts in the reversal potential for GABA currents ( EGABA). Transient depolarization of postsynaptic neurons reversed the effects of exogenous GABA and potentiated tonic currents. The voltage-dependent potentiation of tonic GABA currents was independent of EGABA shifts and represented postdepolarization potentiation (PDP), an intrinsic GABAA receptor property (Ransom CB, Wu Y, Richerson GB. J Neurosci 30: 7672–7684, 2010). Inhibition of vesicular GABA release with concanamycin A (ConA) did not affect tonic currents. In ConA-treated cells, transient application of 12 mM K+ to depolarize presynaptic neurons and glia produced a persistent increase in tonic current amplitude. The K+-induced increase in tonic current was reversibly inhibited by SKF89976a (40 μM), indicating that this was caused by nonvesicular GABA release from GABA transporter type 1 (GAT1). Nonvesicular GABA release due to GAT1 reversal also occurred in acute hippocampal brain slices. Our results indicate that tonic GABA currents are rapidly regulated by GABA-induced changes in intracellular Cl− concentration, PDP of extrasynaptic GABAA receptors, and nonvesicular GABA release. These mechanisms may influence tonic inhibition during seizures when neurons are robustly depolarized and extracellular GABA and K+ concentrations are elevated.
Torticollis as the Main Presentation in a Child with Russell-Silver Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Javadzadeh Mohsen , Saneifard Hedieh , Hosseini Amir Hossein
Published: November 2012

Russell-Silver syndrome is a genetic disorder the inheritance pattern of which is mostly sporadic. Some of the features of the syndrome are present at birth, and others appear in later years. The main clinical features include low birth weight, poor growth postnatally, short height, and discrepancies in size between the two sides of the body Abu-Amera et al. (2008), Binder et al. (2011). There is no statistical significant difference in prevalence between males and females. We report a case of Russell-Silver syndrome with intrauterine and postnatal growth retardation, triangular face, and body asymmetry, in addition to torticollis as a novel manifestation. In neck sonography, we found asymmetry of sternocleidomastoid muscles. In conclusion, we describe torticollis as a presentation of Russell-Silver syndrome.
Comparison of ox-LDL Levels in Diabetic Patients with Normo-, Micro-, and Macroalbuminuria with Their First Degree Relatives and the Healthy Control Group
Authors: Behzadi Parisa , Torabi Firouzeh , Amini Massoud , Aminorroaya Ashraf
Published: November 2012

Oxidized low density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) is a product of oxidative stress. In this cross-sectional study, we compared the ox-LDL concentrations in diabetic patients with normoalbuminuria (n=28), microalbuminuria (n=28), and macroalbuminuria (n=28) with their first degree relatives (n=28) and healthy control people (n=31). They were selected by consecutive patient selection method. The ox-LDL level was assayed using ELISA. We measured blood pressure, lipid profile, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), and HbA1c in all groups. There was no significant difference in ox-LDL concentrations among normoalbuminuric, microalbuminuric, and macroalbuminuric diabetic groups. In diabetic patients with micro- and macroalbuminuria, ox-LDL concentration was higher than their first degree relatives (P=0.04andP=0.03) and control group (P=0.001andP=0.03, resp.). In normoalbuminuric diabetic persons, ox-LDL concentration was just higher than that of healthy people (P=0.02). There was no statistically significant difference in ox-LDL levels between normoalbuminuric diabetic patients and their first degree relatives. In conclusion, the presence and progression of albuminuria in diabetic patients are not related to ox-LDL concentration and genetic predisposition influences the plasma OX-LDL level. Larger sample size is needed to confirm this conclusion in future studies.
How FPGAs Can Help Create Self-Recoverable Antenna Arrays
Authors: Joler Miroslav
Published: November 2012

An approach to utilize Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) technology to control antenna arrays is presented based on the scenario of sensing a failure of any array element, analyzing degradation of the radiation pattern due to that failure, and finding a new set of excitations to the array elements in order to recover the radiation pattern as close to the original state as possible, thus creating aself-recoverable antenna array(SRA). The challenges of the SRA concept and embodiment of the recovery algorithm(s) are discussed. The results of the radiation recovery are presented on a few array cases, followed by a discussion on the advantages and possible limitations of the FPGA-based array control.
Are Cosmetics Used in Developing Countries Safe? Use and Dermal Irritation of Body Care Products in Jimma Town, Southwestern Ethiopia
Authors: Amasa Wayessa , Santiago Dante , Mekonen Seblework , Ambelu Argaw
Published: November 2012

Background. Rabbit skin model was used to test skin irritation of the most commonly used cosmetic products in Jimma town, southwestern Ethiopia. The most commonly used cosmetics were Dove, Glysolid, College, Top Society, Fair and Lovely, Nivea, Lux, Magic fruit world, Solea, Body talk, Kris, Holly, Victoria, and Sweet Heart.Methods. Intact and abraded rabbit skins were tested for erythema and edema under shade and under sun exposure. Draize Primary Irritation Index (PII) was used to calculate skin irritation of each cosmetic. Cosmetic ingredients were analyzed from the labels.Results and Discussion. Only Dove cream caused no skin irritation except for an abraded skin under sun exposure for five consecutive days. It has been identified that application of cosmetics on abraded skin under sunny condition worsens the irritation. Cosmetic labels revealed that most ingredients used in all products were those restricted chemicals due to their adverse health effects.Conclusion. This study has concluded that use of cosmetics under sunshine and also on abraded skin increases skin irritation. Hence, those users who have abraded skin are advised not to apply those cosmetics on continuous basis specifically under sun exposure.
New Iterative Manner Involving Sunny Nonexpansive Retractions for Pseudocontractive Mappings
Authors: Zheng Yaqin , Shi Jinwei
Published: November 2012

Iterative methods for pseudocontractions have been studied by many authors in the literature. In the present paper, we firstly propose a new iterative method involving sunny nonexpansive retractions for pseudocontractions in Banach spaces. Consequently, we show that the suggested algorithm converges strongly to a fixed point of the pseudocontractive mapping which also solves some variational inequality.
Sarcandra glabraExtract Reduces the Susceptibility and Severity of Influenza in Restraint-Stressed Mice
Authors: Cao Hui-Juan , Tan Rui-Rong , He Rong-Rong , Tang Lu-Ping , Wang Xin-Luan , Yao Nan , Duan Wen-Jun , Hu Yuan-Ao , Yao Xin-Sheng , Kurihara Hiroshi
Published: November 2012

Sarcandra glabra, as a type of “antipyretic-detoxicate drugs”, has always been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). TheSarcandra glabraextract (SGE) is applied frequently as anti-inflammatory and anti-infectious drug in folk medicine. However, relative experiment data supporting this effective clinical consequence was limited. In order to mimic the physiological conditions of the susceptible population, we employed restraint stress mouse model to investigate the effect of SGE against influenza. Mice were infected with influenza virus three days after restraint, while SGE was orally administrated for 10 consecutive days. Body weight, morbidity, and mortality were recorded daily. Histopathologic changes, susceptibility genes expressions and inflammatory markers in lungs were determined. Our results showed that restraint stress significantly increased susceptibility and severity of influenza virus. However, oral administration of SGE could reduce morbidity, mortality and significantly prolonged survival time. The results further showed that SGE had a crucial effect on improving susceptibility markers levels to recover the balance of host defense system and inhibiting inflammatory cytokines levels through down-regulation of NF-κB protein expression to ameliorate the lung injury. These data showed that SGE reduced the susceptibility and severity of influenza.
Use of Condition-Specific Patient-Reported Outcome Measures in Clinical Trials among Patients with Wrist Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review
Authors: McPhail Steven M. , Bagraith Karl S. , Schippers Mandy , Wells Paula J. , Hatton Anna
Published: November 2012

Background. This paper aimed to identify condition-specific patient-reported outcome measures used in clinical trials among people with wrist osteoarthritis and summarise empirical peer-reviewed evidence supporting their reliability, validity, and responsiveness to change.Methods. A systematic review of randomised controlled trials among people with wrist osteoarthritis was undertaken. Studies reporting reliability, validity, or responsiveness were identified using a systematic reverse citation trail audit procedure. Psychometric properties of the instruments were examined against predefined criteria and summarised.Results. Thirteen clinical trials met inclusion criteria. The most common patient-reported outcome was the disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand questionnaire (DASH). The DASH, the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ), the Patient Evaluation Measure (PEM), and the Patient-Reported Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) had evidence supporting their reliability, validity, and responsiveness. A post-hoc review of excluded studies revealed the AUSCAN Osteoarthritis Hand Index as another suitable instrument that had favourable reliability, validity, and responsiveness.Conclusions.The DASH, MHQ, and AUSCAN Osteoarthritis Hand Index instruments were supported by the most favourable empirical evidence for validity, reliability, and responsiveness. The PEM and PRWE also had favourable empirical evidence reported for these elements. Further psychometric testing of these instruments among people with wrist osteoarthritis is warranted.
Hepatobiliary Cystadenocarcinoma
Authors: Wilkinson Neal
Published: November 2012

Biliary cystadenocarcinomas are rare tumors that are poorly understood. Preoperative imaging is imprecise and treatment is not standardized. We describe the presentation and treatment of one of these rare tumors and review the limited published literature.
Morphological Characterization of Nanofibers: Methods and Application in Practice
Authors: Širc Jakub , Hobzová Radka , Kostina Nina , Munzarová Marcela , Juklíčková Martina , Lhotka Miloslav , Kubinová Šárka , Zajícová Alena , Michálek Jiří
Published: November 2012

Biomedical applications such as wound dressing for skin regeneration, stem cell transplantation, or drug delivery require special demands on the three‐dimensional porous scaffolds. Besides the biocompatibility and mechanical properties, the morphology is the most important attribute of the scaffold. Specific surface area, volume, and size of the pores have considerable effect on cell adhesion, growth, and proliferation. In the case of incorporated biologically active substances, their release is also influenced by the internal structure of nanofibers. Although many scientific papers are focused on the preparation of nanofibers and evaluation of biological tests, the morphological characterization was described just briefly as service methods. The aim of this paper is to summarize the methods applicable for morphological characterization of nanofibers and supplement it by the results of our research. Needleless electrospinning technique was used to prepare nanofibers from polylactide, poly(ε‐caprolactone), gelatin, and polyamide. Scanning electron microscopy was used to evaluate the fiber diameters and to reveal eventual artifacts in the nanofibrous structure. Nitrogen adsorption/desorption measurements were employed to measure the specific surface areas. Mercury porosimetry was used to determine total porosities and compare pore size distributions of the prepared samples.
Memory-Enhancing Activity of Palmatine in Mice Using Elevated Plus Maze and Morris Water Maze
Authors: Dhingra Dinesh , Kumar Varun
Published: November 2012

The present study was designed to evaluate the effect of palmatine on memory of Swiss young male albino mice. Palmatine (0.1, 0.5, 1 mg/kg,i.p.) and physostigmine (0.1 mg/kg,i.p.) per se were administered for 10 successive days to separate groups of mice. Effect of drugs on learning and memory of mice was evaluated using elevated plus maze and Morris water maze. Brain acetylcholinesterase activity was also estimated. Effect of palmatine on scopolamine- and diazepam-induced amnesia was also investigated. Palmatine (0.5 and 1 mg/kg) and physostigmine significantly improved learning and memory of mice, as indicated by decrease in transfer latency using elevated plus maze, and decrease in escape latency during training and increase in time spent in target quadrant during retrieval using Morris water maze. The drugs did not show any significant effect on locomotor activity of the mice. Memory-enhancing activity of palmatine (1 mg/kg) was comparable to physostigmine. Palmatine (1 mg/kg) significantly reversed scopolamine- and diazepam-induced amnesia in mice. Palmatine and physostigmine also significantly reduced brain acetylcholinesterase activity of mice. Thus, palmatine showed memory-enhancing activity in mice probably by inhibiting brain acetylcholinesterase activity, through involvement of GABA-benzodiazepine pathway, and due to its antioxidant activity.
Randomized Clinical Trial on the Use of PHYSTA Freeze-Dried Water Extract ofEurycoma longifoliafor the Improvement of Quality of Life and Sexual Well-Being in Men
Authors: Ismail Shaiful Bahari , Wan Mohammad Wan Mohd Zahiruddin , George Annie , Nik Hussain Nik Hazlina , Musthapa Kamal Zatul Mufiza , Liske Eckehard
Published: November 2012

Eurycoma longifoliais reputed as an aphrodisiac and remedy for decreased male libido. A randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled, parallel group study was carried out to investigate the clinical evidence ofE. longifoliain men. The 12-week study in 109 men between 30 and 55 years of age consisted of either treatment of 300 mg of water extract ofE. longifolia(Physta) or placebo. Primary endpoints were the Quality of Life investigated by SF-36 questionnaire and Sexual Well-Being investigated by International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) and Sexual Health Questionnaires (SHQ); Seminal Fluid Analysis (SFA), fat mass and safety profiles. Repeated measures ANOVA analysis was used to compare changes in the endpoints. TheE. longifolia(EL) group significantly improved in the domain Physical Functioning of SF-36, from baseline to week 12 compared to placebo (P=0.006) and in between group at week 12 (P=0.028). The EL group showed higher scores in the overall Erectile Function domain in IIEF (P<0.001), sexual libido (14% by week 12), SFA- with sperm motility at 44.4%, and semen volume at 18.2% at the end of treatment. Subjects with BMI≥25 kg/m2significantly improved in fat mass lost (P=0.008). All safety parameters were comparable to placebo.
Vulval Elephantiasis: A Case Report
Authors: Mohan Harsh , Bisht Bhumika , Goel Poonam , Garg Geeta
Published: November 2012

Introduction. Elephantiasis is a chronic manifestation of filariasis; it commonly affects limbs, scrotum, and trunk. Females have lower incidence of filarial infection. Vulval elephantiasis due to filariasis is still rarer. It is difficult to make the diagnosis on histopathology alone, more so in view of the fact that the parasite is usually not identified in tissue sections. Identification of microfilariae in night samples of peripheral blood or seropositivity for filarial antigen is requisite for the correct diagnosis.Case Presentation. A young female presented with progressively increasing vulval swelling over a period of two years. The swelling was soft and measured5×6 cm. Other possible differential diagnoses were excluded, and ancillary tests were performed to reach a conclusive diagnosis of vulval elephantiasis on histopathology.Conclusion. Vulval elephantiasis due to filariasis is rare. Its diagnosis on histopathology is more often by exclusion. High index of suspicion on microscopic findings and corelation with relevant diagnostic tests are required to reach the correct diagnosis.
The Average IFN-γSecreting Capacity of Specific CD8+T Cells Is Compromised While Increasing Copies of a Single T Cell Epitope Encoded by DNA Vaccine
Authors: Wan Yanmin , Wang Jing , Zhou Haizhu , Hu Zhidong , Ren Xiaonan , Xu Jianqing
Published: November 2012

Previous studies suggested that both the frequency and the mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) of cytokine secreting T cells could be of great value for immunogenicity evaluation of a vaccine. In this study, by constructing epitope-based DNA vaccines encoding a previously identified CD8+T cell epitope, we investigated the influence of multiplying epitope copies on both the frequency and the MFI of specific IFN-γsecreting CD8+T cells. We found that frequencies of specific CD8+T cell could be improved by multiplying epitope copies, while the MFI of IFN-γsecreted by epitope-specific CD8+T cells decreased synchronously. And further analysis showed that the decrease of MFI was not caused by the functional avidity variation of CD8+T cell receptor.
Reproducibility of Scleral Spur Identification and Angle Measurements Using Fourier Domain Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Cumba Ricardo J. , Radhakrishnan Sunita , Bell Nicholas P. , Nagi Kundandeep S. , Chuang Alice Z. , Lin Shan C. , Mankiewicz Kimberly A. , Feldman Robert M.
Published: November 2012

Purpose. To evaluate intraobserver and interobserver agreement in locating the scleral spur landmark (SSL) and anterior chamber angle measurements obtained using Fourier Domain Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography (ASOCT) images.Methods. Two independent, masked observers (SR and AZC) identified SSLs on ASOCT images from 31 eyes with open and nonopen angles. A third independent reader, NPB, adjudicated SSL placement if identifications differed by more than 80 μm. Nine months later, SR reidentified SSLs. Intraobserver and interobserver agreement in SSL placement, trabecular-iris space area (TISA750), and angle opening distance (AOD750) were calculated.Results. In 84% of quadrants, SR’s SSL placements during 2 sessions were within 80 μm in both theX- andY-axes, and in 77% of quadrants, SR and AZC were within 80 μm in both axes. In adjudicated images, 90% of all quadrants were within 80 μm, 88% in nonopen-angle eyes, and 92% in open-angle eyes. The intraobserver and interobserver correlation coefficients (with and without adjudication) were above 0.9 for TISA750 and AOD750 for all quadrants.Conclusions. Reproducible identification of the SSL from images obtained with FD-ASOCT is possible. The ability to identify the SSL allows reproducible measurement of the anterior chamber angle using TISA750 and AOD750.
Transdiaphragmatic Intercostal Herniation following Blunt Trauma
Authors: Sarkar Debkumar , Warta Melissa , Solomon Jason
Published: November 2012

Intercostal herniation is very rarely and sporadically reported in the literature. Intercostal hernia can occur following blunt trauma and may be associated with rib fractures. We present a case of a patient who presented with rib fractures, diaphragmatic rupture, and intrathoracic herniation of abdominal contents with subsequent herniation of both lung and abdominal contents through an intercostal defect. The patient was successfully treated with primary surgical repair of the diaphragm and intercostal hernia. The presentation, pathophysiology, and management of this rare clinical entity are discussed.
Suprascapular Nerve: Is It Important in Cuff Pathology?
Authors: Shi Lewis L. , Freehill Michael T. , Yannopoulos Paul , Warner Jon J. P.
Published: November 2012

Suprascapular nerve and rotator cuff function are intimately connected. The incidence of suprascapular neuropathy has been increasing due to improved understanding of the disease entity and detection methods. The nerve dysfunction often results from a traction injury or compression, and a common cause is increased tension on the nerve from retracted rotator cuff tears. Suprascapular neuropathy should be considered as a diagnosis if patients exhibit posterosuperior shoulder pain, atrophy or weakness of supraspinatus and infraspinatus without rotator cuff tear, or massive rotator cuff with retraction. Magnetic resonance imaging and electromyography studies are indicated to evaluate the rotator cuff and function of the nerve. Fluoroscopically guided injections to the suprascapular notch can also be considered as a diagnostic option. Nonoperative treatment of suprascapular neuropathy can be successful, but in the recent decade there is increasing evidence espousing the success of surgical treatment, in particular arthroscopic suprascapular nerve decompression. There is often reliable improvement in shoulder pain, but muscle atrophy recovery is less predictable. More clinical data are needed to determine the role of rotator cuff repair and nerve decompression in the same setting.
Living with Uncertainty: Acting in the Best Interests of Women
Authors: Gollub Erica , Stein Zena
Published: November 2012

A recent multi-country study on hormonal contraceptives (HC) and HIV acquisition and transmission among African HIV-serodiscordant couples reported a statistically significant doubling of risk for HIV acquisition among women as well as transmission from women to men for injectable contraceptives. Together with a prior cohort study on African women seeking health services, these data are the strongest yet to appear on the HC-HIV risk. This paper will briefly review the Heffron study strengths and relevant biological and epidemiologic evidence; address the futility of further trials; and propose instead an alternative framework for next steps. The weight of the evidence calls for a discontinuation of progestin-dominant methods. We propose here five types of productive activities: (1) scaling injectable hormones down and out of the contraceptive mix; (2) strengthening and introducing public health strategies with proven potential to reduce HIV spread; (3) providing maximal choice to reduce unplanned pregnancy, starting with quality sexuality education through to safe abortion access; (4) expanding provider training, end-user counseling and access to male and female barriers, with a special renewed focus on female condom; (5) initiating a serious research agenda to determine anti-STI/HIV potential of the contraceptive cervical cap. Trusting women to make informed choices is critical to achieve real progress in dual protection.
Clinical Application of Development of Nonantibiotic Macrolides That Correct Inflammation-Driven Immune Dysfunction in Inflammatory Skin Diseases
Authors: Rodriguez-Cerdeira Carmen , Sanchez-Blanco Elena , Molares-Vila Alberto
Published: November 2012

Background. Inflammation-driven immune dysfunction supports the development of several chronic human disorders including skin diseases. Nonantibiotic macrolides have anti-inflammatory and/or immunomodulatory activity that suggests the exploitation of these in the treatment of skin diseases characterized by inflammatory disorders.Materials and Methods. We performed an extensive review of the nonantibiotic macrolide literature published between 2005 and 2012, including cross-references of any retrieved articles. We also included some data from our own experience.Results. Calcineurin antagonists such as tacrolimus and ascomycins (e.g., pimecrolimus) act by inhibiting the activation of the nuclear factor for activated T cells (NFAT). There are new applications for these macrolides that have been available for several years and have been applied to skin and hair disorders such as atopic dermatitis, oral lichen planus, vitiligo, chronic autoimmune urticaria, rosacea, alopecia areata, pyoderma gangrenosum, Behcet’s disease, neutrophilic dermatosis, and lupus erythematosus. We also reviewed new macrolides, like rapamycin, everolimus, and temsirolimus. In addition to the literature review, we report a novel class of nonantibiotic 14-member macrocycle with anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects.Conclusions. This paper summarizes the most important clinical studies and case reports dealing with the potential benefits of nonantibiotic macrolides which have opened new avenues in the development of anti-inflammatory strategies in the treatment of cutaneous disorders.
Stability Analysis and Optimal Control of a Vector‐Borne Disease with Nonlinear Incidence
Authors: Ozair Muhammad , Lashari Abid Ali , Jung Il Hyo , Okosun Kazeem Oare
Published: November 2012

The paper considers a model for the transmission dynamics of a vector‐borne disease with
nonlinear incidence rate. It is proved that the global dynamics of the disease are completely
determined by the basic reproduction number. In order to assess the effectiveness of disease
control measures, the sensitivity analysis of the basic reproductive number R0 and the endemic
proportions with respect to epidemiological and demographic parameters are provided. From the
results of the sensitivity analysis, the model is modified to assess the impact of three control
measures; the preventive control to minimize vector human contacts, the treatment control to the
infected human, and the insecticide control to the vector. Analytically the existence of the optimal
control is established by the use of an optimal control technique and numerically it is solved by an
iterative method. Numerical simulations and optimal analysis of the model show that restricted
and proper use of control measures might considerably decrease the number of infected humans
in a viable way.
KU-32, a Novel Drug for Diabetic Neuropathy, Is Safe for Human Islets and ImprovesIn VitroInsulin Secretion and Viability
Authors: Farmer Kevin , Williams S. Janette , Novikova Lesya , Ramachandran Karthik , Rawal Sonia , Blagg Brian S. J. , Dobrowsky Rick , Stehno-Bittel Lisa
Published: November 2012

KU-32 is a novel, novobiocin-based Hsp90 inhibitor that protects against neuronal glucotoxicity and reverses multiple clinical indices of diabetic peripheral neuropathy in a rodent model. However, any drug with potential for treating diabetic complications must also have no adverse effects on the function of pancreatic islets. Thus, the goal of the current study was to assess the effect of KU-32 on thein vitroviability and function of human islets. Treating human islets with KU-32 for 24 hours showed no toxicity as assessed using the alamarBlue assay. Confocal microscopy confirmed that with a minimum of 2-day exposure, KU-32 improved cellular viability by blocking apoptosis. Functionally, isolated human islets released more glucose-stimulated insulin when preincubated in KU-32. However, diabetic BKS-db/db mice, a model for type 2 diabetes, administered KU-32 for 10 weeks did not show any significant changes in blood glucose and insulin levels, despite having greater insulin staining/beta cell in the pancreas compared to untreated BKS db/db mice. In summary, KU-32 did not harm isolated human islets and may even be protective. However, the effect does not appear significant enough to alter thein vivometabolic parameters of diabetic mice.
Supported Nanosizedα-FeOOH Improves Efficiency of Photoelectro-Fenton Process with Reaction-Controlled pH Adjustment for Sustainable Water Treatment
Authors: Wang Chuan , Liu Hong , Sun Zhimin , Huang Jian , Liao Yang
Published: November 2012

The overall photoelectro-Fenton (PE-Fenton) process for water treatment with neutral initial pH includes three steps of pH reduction, PE-Fenton reaction, and pH elevation. Reaction-controlled pH adjustment (RCpA), which utilizes the intrinsic electrochemical reactions instead of chemical addition, has been employed to lower the pH, maintain the lowered pH for the Fenton reaction, and recover the pH for final effluent discharge. This study demonstrated that the overall efficiency of this sustainable PE-Fenton process was improved by rapidly recycling the iron substance. Nanosized iron oxide was prepared and employed to ensure such rapid recycling. SEM and XRD results showed that the as-prepared iron oxide wasα-FeOOH with 20 nm in size. The experimental results of dimethyl phthalate (DMP) degradation showed that diatomite-supportedα-FeOOH (N-α-FeOOH/diatomite) could efficiently reduce the DMP concentration and total organic carbon. Furthermore, compared with Fe3+, the N-α-FeOOH/diatomite saved 160 min for iron settlement at 20 mg L−1DMP concentration. Also, with the increment in the initial DMP concentration, extra energy consumed by the individual step of PE-Fenton reaction using the N-α-FeOOH/diatomite became negligible compared with that using free iron ions with the increment in the initial DMP concentration. This development is expected to be a major step of the PE-Fenton process with RCpA towards actual water treatment.
Late Occurrence of Transient Advanced Second Degree Atrioventricular Block after Successful Transcatheter Cryoablation of Atrioventricular Nodal Reentry Tachycardia
Authors: Dorotan-Guevara Maria Malaya C. , Crapanzano Michael S. , Snyder Christopher S.
Published: November 2012

Late occurrence of atrioventricular nodal block is an extremely rare occurrence after radiofrequency catheter modification of the slow pathway and has yet to be reported after cryoablation. We report a case of late transient advanced second degree atrioventriuclar block after cryomodification of the slow pathway.
Vein of Galen Aneurysmal Malformations: An Ultrasonographic Incidental Finding—A Case Report
Authors: Stephan S. , Rodesch G. , Elolf E. , Wiemann D. , Jorch G.
Published: November 2012

Background. The Vein of Galen aneurysmal malformation (VGAM) is a rare congenital, cerebral, arteriovenous deformity. Good cross-discipline cooperation is in demand because of associated complications and high mortality. The recognition of the optimal therapeutic window is useful to allow proper management.Case Report. We report on the successful treatment of a 2-week-old, healthy girl with a VGAM, which came across in the context of the newborn ultrasonographic screening. After interdisciplinary discussion, 2 embolizations of the VGAM followed without complications—the first in the age of 6 months and the second at 12 months of life. Before and after the intervention, the patient had an age-appropriate development without neurological deficits.Conclusion. The endovascular transarterial embolization is described as the treatment of choice. Time and method of intervention depend on clinical signs of the patient. In our case the patient was asymptomatic. So the arteriovenous abnormality was an incidental finding by ultrasound. Because of the natural history of the disease, and the potential severe neurocognitive consequences at long-term followup if left untreated, it was decided to embolize the lesion. Thanks to embolization with glue, good therapeutical and clinical results could be obtained with normal neurological development.
Relationship of Sahel Precipitation and Atmospheric Centers of Action
Authors: Hameed Sultan , Riemer Nicole
Published: November 2012

The dynamics associated with drought in the Sahel have attracted considerable attention in the recent literature. This paper evaluates Sahel precipitation using the paradigm of the atmospheric centers of action, that is, the extended semipermanent highs and lows that dominate regional circulations and are evident in sea level pressure patterns. We find that Sahel precipitation is significantly influenced by changes in the Azores High and the South Asia Low. Specifically, about 50 percent of the variance of July to September rainfall over the Sahel is explained by changes in the Azores High Longitude position and South Asia Low pressure. In contrast, the contribution of the Southern Oscillation to Sahel precipitation is smaller in comparison. Results presented in this paper suggest that a key test for a climate model in simulating variability of Sahel rainfall is the accuracy with which the model simulates the dynamics of South Asia Low and the Azores High.
Metacognitive Strategies and Test Performance: An Experience Sampling Analysis of Students' Learning Behavior
Authors: Nett Ulrike E. , Goetz Thomas , Hall Nathan C. , Frenzel Anne C.
Published: November 2012

The aim of the present study was to explore students’ learning-related cognitions prior to an in-class achievement test, with a focus on metacognitive strategy use. A sample of 70 students in grade 11 (58.6% female,Mage=17.09years) completed a series of structured, state-based measures over a two-week period via the experience sampling method until the day before a class test. Results illustrated students’ self-regulatory ability to preserve their motivational and cognitive resources, with test-related cognitions evidenced significantly more often in learning-related as opposed leisure settings. Metacognitive strategy use was also found to significantly increase as the test date approached underscoring the goal-oriented nature of situated learning behaviors. Higher intercepts and increases in frequency of test-related cognitions over time positively corresponded to test performance. Of the three metacognitive strategies assessed, monitoring was found to positively correspond with test performance. Implications for future practice as well as implications for future research employing the experience sampling method are discussed.
A Simple and Selective Nanocatalytic Resonance Rayleigh Scattering Spectral Method for the Determination of Trace Re
Authors: Wang Shengmian , Wen Guiqing , Li Tingsheng , Liao Xianjiu , Liang Aihui , Jiang Zhiliang
Published: November 2012

In the HCl medium, rhenium (VII) or Re nanoparticles exhibited strong catalytic effect on the slow Te particle reaction between Te(VI) and Sn(II) at 70°C. The product of formed Te particles shows two strong resonance Rayleigh scattering peaks at 778 nm and 540 nm. The RS intensity at 778 nm enhanced linearly with Re concentration. The enhanced RS intensity was linear Re concentration in the range of 0.01–2.0 nmol·L−1, with a detection limit of 0.005 nmol·L−1Re. This method was applied to the analysis of Re in ore sample, and the results were in agreement with that of the spectrophotometry.
Trapping of PARP1 and PARP2 by Clinical PARP Inhibitors
Authors: Murai Junko , Huang Shar-yin N. , Das Benu Brata , Renaud Amelie , Zhang Yiping , Doroshow James H. , Ji Jiuping , Takeda Shunichi , Pommier Yves
Published: November 2012

Small-molecule inhibitors of PARP are thought to mediate their antitumor effects as catalytic inhibitors that block repair of DNA single-strand breaks (SSB). However, the mechanism of action of PARP inhibitors with regard to their effects in cancer cells is not fully understood. In this study, we show that PARP inhibitors trap the PARP1 and PARP2 enzymes at damaged DNA. Trapped PARP–DNA complexes were more cytotoxic than unrepaired SSBs caused by PARP inactivation, arguing that PARP inhibitors act in part as poisons that trap PARP enzyme on DNA. Moreover, the potency in trapping PARP differed markedly among inhibitors with niraparib (MK-4827) > olaparib (AZD-2281) >> veliparib (ABT-888), a pattern not correlated with the catalytic inhibitory properties for each drug. We also analyzed repair pathways for PARP–DNA complexes using 30 genetically altered avian DT40 cell lines with preestablished deletions in specific DNA repair genes. This analysis revealed that, in addition to homologous recombination, postreplication repair, the Fanconi anemia pathway, polymerase β, and FEN1 are critical for repairing trapped PARP–DNA complexes. In summary, our study provides a new mechanistic foundation for the rational application of PARP inhibitors in cancer therapy. Cancer Res; 72(21); 5588–99. ©2012 AACR.
Combined Administration of Rituximab and ON 013105 Induces Apoptosis in Mantle Cell Lymphoma Cells and Reduces Tumor Burden in a Mouse Model of Mantle Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Prasad Anil , Shrivastava Ashutosh , Papadopoulos Evangelos , Kuzontkoski Paula M. , Reddy M.V. Ramana , Gillum Amanda M. , Kumar Ramesh , Reddy E. Premkumar , Groopman Jerome E.
Published: November 2012

Purpose: Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is an incurable B-cell lymphoma, and new therapeutic strategies are urgently needed.

Experimental Design: The effects of ON 013105, a novel benzylstyryl sulfone kinase inhibitor, alone or with doxorubicin or rituximab, were examined in Granta 519 and Z138C cells. For in vivo studies, CB17/SCID mice were implanted subcutaneously with Z138C cells and treated with various combinations of ON 013105, doxorubicin, and rituximab. Tumor burden and body weight were monitored for 28 days.

Results: ON 013105 induced mitochondria-mediated apoptosis in MCL cells. Death was preceded by translocation of tBid to the mitochondria and cytochrome c release. In addition, ON 013105–treated cells exhibited reduced levels of cyclin D1, c-Myc, Mcl-1, and Bcl-xL. Using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, we showed specific binding of ON 013105 to eIF4E, a critical factor for the initiation of protein translation. We proffer that this drug–protein interaction preferentially prevents the translation of the aforementioned proteins and may be the mechanism by which ON 013105 induces apoptosis in MCL cells. Efficacy studies in a mouse xenograft model showed that ON 013105 inhibited MCL tumor growth and that combining ON 013105 with rituximab reduced tumor burden further with negligible unwanted effects.

Conclusions: Our findings suggest that ON 013105, alone or in combination with rituximab, may be a potent therapeutic agent to treat MCLs. Clin Cancer Res; 19(1); 85–95. ©2012 AACR.
Serum Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Nerve Growth Factor Concentrations Change after Alcohol Withdrawal: Preliminary Data of a Case-Control Comparison
Authors: Köhler Stephan , Klimke Sebastian , Hellweg Rainer , Lang Undine E.
Published: November 2012

Background: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) are involved in neuroadaptation and foster survival of central and peripheral neurons. In this study, we addressed the question whether BDNF and NGF serum concentrations change during subacute alcohol withdrawal in patients with alcohol dependence compared to healthy controls. Methods: Fifteen patients (age 48.6 ± 7 years) and 15 healthy age-matched controls (age 48.8 ± 7 years) participated consecutively in a 2-week withdrawal study. Results: Mean BDNF levels (7.8 ng/ml, IQR = 4.4–10.7 vs. 16.5 ng/ml, IQR = 13.9–25.6; Z = –3.8, p < 0.0001) and NGF levels (5.8 pg/ml, IQR = 3.8–13.0 vs. 18.4 pg/ml, IQR = 10.9–25.1; Z = –2.5, p = 0.012) were significantly decreased in alcohol-dependent subjects when compared to healthy matched controls. NGF concentrations decreased significantly from day 3 to day 14 (Z = –2.36; p = 0.019). Mean BDNF concentrations showed a tendency to increase after withdrawal from day 3 to day 14 (Z = 1.7; p = 0.078). Conclusion: Decreased NGF and BDNF concentrations in patients suffering from alcohol dependence, which stabilize after physical withdrawal, are in line with withdrawal symptoms and neurological risk factors. In turn, increase of BDNF after acute withdrawal might be connected to neurobiological and behavioral stabilization.
Is Bilateral Ureterorenoscopy the First Choice for the Treatment of Bilateral Ureteral Stones? An Updated Study
Authors: Gunlusoy Bulent , Degirmenci Tansu , Arslan Murat , Kozacıoglu Zafer , Koras Omer , Ceylan Yasin , Ors Bumin
Published: November 2012

Introduction: We analyze our recent results and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of bilateral single-session ureterorenoscopy (URS) for bilateral ureteral stones. Patients and Methods: 55 patients underwent URS with pneumatic lithotripsy (PL) for bilateral stones. 61 (55.5%), 28 (25.4%) and 21 (19.1%) stones were located in the lower, middle and upper ureter, respectively. Results: Of the 110 stones, 99 (90.0%) were fragmented in a single procedure. The stone clearance rate was 94.5% after the second session. The stone clearance rates with regard to stone location were 71.4, 89.3 and 96.7% for the upper, middle and lower ureter, respectively. An analysis of the clearance rates based on location demonstrated that lower ureteric stones were more successfully removed than upper ureteric stones (96.7 vs.71.4%, p = 0.003). Conclusion: Bilateral single-session URS with PL is a highly effective treatment modality for bilateral ureteral stones. The success rate of PL is affected by stone size and location.
Aging-Related Changes in Blood-Brain Barrier Integrity and the Effect of Dietary Fat
Authors: Takechi R. , Pallebage-Gamarallage M.M. , Lam V. , Giles C. , Mamo J.C.
Published: November 2012

Background: Disturbances in blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity contribute to the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VaD). Aging is positively associated with AD and VaD risk, but this may reflect comorbidities or the effects of other chronic modulators of vascular function such as diet. Objective: To explore putative synergistic effects of aging with diet, in this study genetically unmanipulated mice were maintained on diets enriched in saturated fatty acids (SFA) or cholesterol and compared to mice provided with low-fat (LF) feed formula. Methods: The functional integrity of the BBB was assessed following 3, 6 and 12 months of dietary intervention commenced at 6 weeks of age, by determining the brain parenchymal extravasation of immunoglobulin G (IgG). Results: Mice maintained on the SFA- or cholesterol-enriched diet showed significant parenchymal IgG abundance following 3 months of feeding, concomitant with diminished expression of the tight junction protein occludin. LF control mice had essentially no evidence of BBB disturbances. Six months of SFA feeding exacerbated the difference in IgG abundance compared to the LF mice. At 12 months of feeding, the control LF mice also had significant parenchymal IgG that was comparable to mice fed the SFA- or cholesterol-enriched diet for 3 months. However, there may have been an adaptation to the fat-enriched diets because SFA and cholesterol did not exacerbate IgG parenchymal accumulation beyond 6 months of feeding. Conclusion: Collectively, the study suggests that diets enriched in SFA or cholesterol accelerate the onset of BBB dysfunction that otherwise occurs with aging.
Association between Nonalcoholic Liver Disease and Chronic Kidney Disease: An Ultrasound Analysis from NHANES 1988–1994
Authors: Sirota Jeffrey C. , McFann Kim , Targher Giovanni , Chonchol Michel , Jalal Diana I.
Published: November 2012

Background/ Aims: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been proposed to contribute to chronic kidney disease (CKD) independently of traditional cardiometabolic risk factors. We hypothesized that NAFLD is associated with CKD and that greater severity of NAFLD is associated with higher odds of CKD. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of 11,469 adults who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1988–1994. NAFLD was defined by ultrasonographic detection of steatosis in the absence of other liver diseases. CKD was defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate of ≤60 ml/min/1.73 m2 or the presence of albuminuria in subjects with an estimated glomerular filtration rate of >60 ml/min/1.73 m2. Results: 2,891 (25.4%) patients in the cohort had CKD. The prevalence of NAFLD was higher in individuals with CKD compared to those without CKD (42.2 vs. 34.5%, p < 0.0001). NAFLD was associated with CKD in unadjusted logistic regression analysis (OR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.29–1.67, p < 0.0001). Adjustment for demographics and components of metabolic syndrome attenuated this relationship (OR = 1.04, 95% CI: 0.88–1.23, p = 0.64). Moderate and severe NAFLD on ultrasound were increasingly associated with prevalent CKD in unadjusted analysis, but not after adjustment for metabolic syndrome components. Conclusion: After adjusting for features of metabolic syndrome, ultrasound-diagnosed NAFLD is not associated with prevalent CKD among US adults. Aggressive public health efforts are needed to prevent and treat metabolic syndrome.
A Comparison of Stent Implant versus Medical Treatment for Severe Symptomatic Intracranial Stenosis: A Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Mohammadian Rezao , Pashapour Ali , Sharifipour Ehsan , Mansourizadeh Reza , Mohammadian Farideh , Taher Aghdam Ali Akbar , Mousavi Mohammad , Dadras Farhad
Published: November 2012

Background: Atherosclerotic stenosis of the major intracranial arteries is the most common cause of ischemic stroke. There are limited treatments for severe intracranial stenosis, and stent placement versus medical treatment remains controversial. The aim of this study was to compare functional outcomes of these two modalities in patients with severe symptomatic intracranial stenosis. Methods: At a single center, between 2008 and 2011, patients with angiographically demonstrated severe (70–90%) symptomatic intracranial atherosclerosis were divided into two groups: group A, which received only medical treatment, and group B, which underwent endovascular stent implant treatment. The severity and location of the stenosis was determined by digital subtraction angiography and the Warfarin-Aspirin Symptomatic Intracranial Disease (WASID) trial criteria in all patients. The exclusion criteria were: specific causes other than atherosclerosis, such as artery dissection, fibromuscular dysplasia, vasculitis, radiation and intracranial hemorrhage, focal neurological deficit that did not correlate to internal carotid artery or middle cerebral artery stenosis. All procedures were done under light anesthesia. Technical success was defined as the reduction of stenosis to <30% with complete enveloping of the lesion after the procedure. Early and late adverse events and functional outcomes were compared between the groups using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS). Results: Overall, 63 patients (29 in group A and 34 in group B) were evaluated and followed for a mean period of 15.22 months (range 6–25). The technical success rate was 97% in a total of 34 stents in 34 patients. There was no difference between the early (within 30 days) adverse event rates of the two groups. The median follow-up duration for the stent implant patients was 15 months (range 6–25), and for the medically treated cohort it was 14 months (range 8–25). The re-stenosis rate was 5.8% and the total number of late (>30 days) adverse events, including stroke, myocardial infarction and death, was 1 (2.9%) and 6 (20.7%) in the stent implant and medical groups, respectively (p = 0.042). The stent implant group had significantly better favorable functional outcomes according to the mRS than the medical group (93.9 vs. 63.0%). The cumulative secondary adverse event-free survival was significantly lower in the stent implant group. Conclusion: Stent implants can be considered more durable and safe for patients with symptomatic severe stenosis of the internal carotid artery or middle cerebral artery, despite optimal medical therapy. Randomized, multicenter trials are required to confirm these results.