bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Avantgarde Carbostent in Patients Scheduled for Undelayable Noncardiac Surgery
Authors: Briguori Carlo , Visconti Gabriella , De Micco Francesca , Focaccio Amelia
Published: February 2012

Background. Treatment of patients who need coronary revascularization before undelayable non-cardiac surgery is challenging. Methods. We assessed the safety and efficacy of percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) using the AvantgardeTM Carbostent (CID, Italy) in patients undergoing PCI before undelayable non-cardiac surgery. The Multiplate analyzer point-of-care was used to assess residual platelet reactivity. One major cardiac events (MACE, defined as death, myocardial infarction, and stent thrombosis and major bleeding) were assessed. Results. 42 consecutive patients were analyzed. Total stent length ≥25 mm was observed in 16 (37%) patients. Multivessel stenting was performed in 11 (31.5%) patients. Clopidogrel was interrupted 5 days before surgery in 35 patients, whereas it was stopped the day of the surgery in 7 patients. Surgery was performed after (7–42) days from PCI. MACE occurred in one patient (2.4%; 95% confidence interval: 0.01–13%), who had fatal acute myocardial infarction 3 days after abdominal aortic aneurysm surgery and 12 days after stent implantation. No case of major bleeding in the postoperative phase was observed. Conclusions. The present pilot study suggests that, although at least 10–14 days of dual antiplatelet therapy remain mandatory, the AvantgardeTM stent seems to have a role in patients requiring undelayable surgery.
Ethanol Extracts of Fruiting Bodies ofAntrodia cinnamomeaSuppress CL1-5 Human Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells Migration by Inhibiting Matrix Metalloproteinase-2/9 through ERK, JNK, p38, and PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathways
Authors: Chen Ying-Yi , Liu Fon-Chang , Chou Pei-Yu , Chien Yi-Chung , Chang Wun-Shaing Wayne , Huang Guang-Jhong , Wu Chieh-Hsi , Sheu Ming-Jyh
Published: February 2012

Cancer metastasis is a primary cause of cancer death.Antrodia cinnamomea(A. cinnamomea), a medicinal mushroom in Taiwan, has shown antioxidant and anticancer activities. In this study, we first observed that ethanol extract of fruiting bodies ofA. cinnamomea(EEAC) exerted a concentration-dependent inhibitory effect on migration and motility of the highly metastatic CL1-5 cells in the absence of cytotoxicity. The results of a gelatin zymography assay showed thatA. cinnamomeasuppressed the activities of matrix metalloproteinase-(MMP-) 2 and MMP-9 in a concentration-dependent manner. Western blot results demonstrated that treatment withA. cinnamomeadecreased the expression of MMP-9 and MMP-2; while the expression of the endogenous inhibitors of these proteins, that is, tissue inhibitors of MMP (TIMP-1 and TIMP-2) increased. Further investigation revealed thatA. cinnamomeasuppressed the phosphorylation of ERK1/2, p38, and JNK1/2.A. cinnamomeaalso suppressed the expressions of PI3K and phosphorylation of Akt. Furthermore, treatment of CL1-5 cells with inhibitors specific for PI3K (LY 294002), ERK1/2 (PD98059), JNK (SP600125), and p38 MAPK (SB203580) decreased the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9. This is the first paper confirming the antimigration activity of this potentially beneficial mushroom against human lung adenocarcinoma CL1-5 cancer cells.
Ontogenetic Survey of Histone Modifications in an Annelid
Authors: Gibson Glenys , Hart Corban , Pierce Robyn , Lloyd Vett
Published: February 2012

Histone modifications are widely recognized for their fundamental importance in regulating gene expression in embryonic development in a wide range of eukaryotes, but they have received relatively little attention in the development of marine invertebrates. We surveyed histone modifications throughout the development of a marine annelid, Polydora cornuta, to determine if modifications could be detected immunohistochemically and if there were characteristic changes in modifications throughout ontogeny (surveyed at representative stages from oocyte to adult). We found a common time of onset for three histone modifications in early cleavage (H3K14ac, H3K9me, and H3K4me2), some differences in the distribution of modifications among germ layers, differences in epifluorescence intensity in specific cell lineages suggesting that hyperacetylation (H3K14ac) and hypermethylation (H3K9me) occur during differentiation, and an overall decrease in the distribution of modifications from larvae to adults. Although preliminary, these results suggest that histone modifications are involved in activating early development and differentiation in a marine invertebrate.
Pharmacological Evaluation of the SCID T Cell Transfer Model of Colitis: As a Model of Crohn's Disease
Authors: Lindebo Holm Thomas , Poulsen Steen Seier , Markholst Helle , Reedtz-Runge Stine
Published: February 2012

Animal models are important tools in the development of new drug candidates against the inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. In order to increase the translational value of these models, it is important to increase knowledge relating to standard drugs. Using the SCID adoptive transfer colitis model, we have evaluated the effect of currently used IBD drugs and IBD drug candidates, that is, anti-TNF-α, TNFR-Fc, anti-IL-12p40, anti-IL-6, CTLA4-Ig, anti-α4β7 integrin, enrofloxacin/metronidazole, and cyclosporine. We found that anti-TNF-α, antibiotics, anti-IL-12p40, anti-α4β7 integrin, CTLA4-Ig, and anti-IL-6 effectively prevented onset of colitis, whereas TNFR-Fc and cyclosporine did not. In intervention studies, antibiotics, anti-IL-12p40, and CTLA4-Ig induced remission, whereas the other compounds did not. The data suggest that the adoptive transfer model and the inflammatory bowel diseases have some main inflammatory pathways in common. The finding that some well-established IBD therapeutics do not have any effect in the model highlights important differences between the experimental model and the human disease.
Chemical Analysis and Study of Phenolics, Antioxidant Activity, and Antibacterial Effect of the Wood and Bark ofMaclura tinctoria(L.) D. Don ex Steud.
Authors: Lamounier K. C. , Cunha L. C. S. , de Morais S. A. L. , de Aquino F. J. T. , Chang R. , do Nascimento E. A. , de Souza M. G. M. , Martins C. H. G. , Cunha W. R.
Published: February 2012

Maclura tinctoria(L.) D. Don ex Steud. has one of the highest qualities among the coefficients for Brazilian woods (up to 9.6) and resistance rates equivalent to Indian teak (Tectona grandis). In this study, the macromolecular constituents and total phenols compounds as well as the antioxidant and antibacterial activities of this wood were evaluated. Total phenols and proanthocyanidin levels were higher in wood when compared with bark levels. The antioxidant activity of wood extracts (IC50= 18.7 μg/mL) was more effective than that of bark extracts (IC50= 20.9 μg/mL). Wood and bark extracts revealed a high potential for inhibition of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. The bark extracts were the most active (MIC from 20 to 60 μg/mL). Both antioxidant activity and high potential for bacteria inhibition turn these extracts promising for drug formulations, especially as antibacterial agent.
Altered Peroxisome-Proliferator Activated Receptors Expression in Human Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Knapp Paweł , Chabowski Adrian , Błachnio-Zabielska Agnieszka , Jarząbek Katarzyna , Wołczyński Sławomir
Published: February 2012

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) belong to a family of nuclear hormone receptors acting as transcriptional factors, recently involved also in carcinogenesis. Present study was undertaken to evaluate the presence and subcellular localization of different PPAR isoforms (α,β,γ) in healthy endometrial tissue (n=10) and endometrial carcinoma (FIGO I, endometrioides type, G1,n=35). We sought to analyze PPARs mRNA content as well as protein immunohistochemical expression that was further quantified by Western Blot technique. For both PPARαand PPARβ, protein expression was significantly higher in endometrial cancers compared to normal endometrial mucosa. In opposite, PPARγprotein expression was lower in endometrial cancer cells. In each case, immunohistochemical reaction was confined to the perinuclear and/or nuclear region. At the transcriptional level, the content of mRNA of all PPAR subunits did not follow the protein pattern of changes. These results provide evidence for altered PPAR's protein expression and disregulation of posttranslational processes in endometrial cancers.
Circulating Unmetabolized Folic Acid: Relationship to Folate Status and Effect of Supplementation
Authors: Tam Carolyn , O'Connor Deborah , Koren Gideon
Published: February 2012

There are increasing concerns that exposure to unmetabolized folic acid, which results from folic acid intakes that overwhelm the liver's metabolic capacity, may be associated with adverse effects. In this paper, we examined the folic acid status of women of reproductive age in relation to dietary intake and the effect of folic acid supplementation (1.1 mg or 5 mg). Plasma unmetabolized folic acid was not significantly correlated with folate intake estimated by food frequency questionnaire or biomarkers. The proportion of women with detectable levels of unmetabolized folic acid increased from 65% to 100% after twelve weeks of supplementation (P<0.05); however, the increase in concentrations did not reach statistical significance and the effect was not sustained. Moreover, there were no significant differences between the two doses. This suggests that there are mechanisms by which the body adapts to high folic acid intakes to limit exposure to unmetabolized folic acid.
Immunophenotyping of Posttraumatic Neutrophils on a Routine Haematology Analyser
Authors: Groeneveld Kathelijne Maaike , Heeres Marjolein , Leenen Loek Petrus Hendrikus , Huisman Albert , Koenderman Leo
Published: February 2012

Introduction.Flow cytometry markers have been proposed as useful predictors for the occurrence of posttraumatic inflammatory complications. However, currently the need for a dedicated laboratory and the labour-intensive analytical procedures make these markers less suitable for clinical practice. We tested an approach to overcome these limitations.Material and Methods.Neutrophils of healthy donors were incubated with antibodies commonly used in trauma research: CD11b (MAC-1), L-selectin (CD62L), FcγRIII (CD16), and FcγRII (CD32) in active form (MoPhab A27). Flow cytometric analysis was performed both on a FACSCalibur, a standard flow cytometer, and on a Cell-Dyn Sapphire, a routine haematology analyser.Results.There was a high level of agreement between the two types of analysers, with 41% for FcγRIII, 80% for L-selectin, 98% for CD11b, and even a 100% agreement for active FcγRII. Moreover, analysis on the routine haematology analyser was possible in less than a quarter of the time in comparison to the flow cytometer.Conclusion.Analysis of neutrophil phenotype on the Cell-Dyn Sapphire leads to the same conclusion compared to a standard flow cytometer. The markedly reduced time necessary for analysis and reduced labour intensity constitutes a step forward in implementation of this type of analysis in clinical diagnostics in trauma research.
Evaluation of Plant and Fungal Extracts for Their Potential Antigingivitis and Anticaries Activity
Authors: Spratt D. A. , Daglia M. , Papetti A. , Stauder M. , O'Donnell D. , Ciric L. , Tymon A. , Repetto B. , Signoretto C. , Houri-Haddad Y. , Feldman M. , Steinberg D. , Lawton S. , Lingström P. , Pratten J. , Zaura E. , Gazzani G. , Pruzzo C. , Wilson M.
Published: February 2012

The link between diet and health has lead to the promotion of functional foods which can enhance health. In this study, the oral health benefits of a number of food homogenates and high molecular mass and low molecular mass fractions were investigated. A comprehensive range of assays were performed to assess the action of these foods on the development of gingivitis and caries using bacterial species associated with these diseases. Both antigingivitis and anticaries effects were investigated by assays examining the prevention of biofilm formation and coaggregation, disruption of preexisting biofilms, and the foods' antibacterial effects. Assays investigating interactions with gingival epithelial cells and cytokine production were carried out to assess the foods' anti- gingivitis properties. Anti-caries properties such as interactions with hydroxyapatite, disruption of signal transduction, and the inhibition of acid production were investigated. The mushroom and chicory homogenates and low molecular mass fractions show promise as anti-caries and anti-gingivitis agents, and further testing and clinical trials will need to be performed to evaluate their true effectiveness in humans.
The Anti-Inflammatory Cytokine, Interleukin-10, Inhibits Inflammatory Mediators in Human Epithelial Cells and Mouse Macrophages Exposed to Live and UV-InactivatedChlamydia trachomatis
Authors: Yilma Abebayehu N. , Singh Shree R. , Fairley Stacie J. , Taha Murtada A. , Dennis Vida A.
Published: February 2012

Chlamydia trachomatisinfects macrophages and epithelial cells evoking acute and chronic inflammatory conditions, which, if not controlled, may put patients at risk for major health issues such as pelvic inflammatory disease, chronic abdominal pain, and infertility. Here we hypothesized that IL-10, with anti-inflammatory properties, will inhibit inflammatory mediators that are produced by innate immune cells exposed toC. trachomatis. We used human epithelial (HeLa) cells and mouse J774 macrophages as target cells along with live and UV-inactivatedC. trachomatismouse pneumonitis (MoPn) as stimulants. Confocal microscopy employing an anti-Chlamydiaantibody confirmed cells infectivity by day 1, which persisted up to day 3. Kinetics studies revealed that liveC. trachomatisinduced TNF, IL-6, and IL-8, as a function of time, with day-2 infection inducing the highest cytokine levels. Exogenous IL-10 inhibited TNF, IL-6, and IL-8 as secreted by day-2 infected cells. Similarly, IL-10 diminished cytokine levels as produced by macrophages exposed to UV-inactivatedChlamydia, suggesting the IL-10-mediated inhibition of cytokines is not restricted to live organisms. Our data imply that IL-10 is an important regulator of the initial inflammatory response toC. trachomatisinfection and that further investigations be made into IL-10 use to combat inflammation induced by this bacterium.
Adaptive Control and Synchronization of the Shallow Water Model
Authors: Sangapate P.
Published: February 2012

The shallow water model is one of the important models in dynamical systems. This paper investigates the adaptive chaos control and synchronization of the shallow water model. First, adaptive control laws are designed to stabilize the shallow water model. Then adaptive control laws are derived to chaos synchronization of the shallow water model. The sufficient conditions for the adaptive control and synchronization have been analyzed theoretically, and the results are proved using a Barbalat′s Lemma.
The Role of Oestrogen and Other Hormones in the Pathophysiology and Treatment of Schizophrenia
Authors: Hayes Emily , Gavrilidis Emorfia , Kulkarni Jayashri
Published: February 2012

The theory that many serious mental illnesses, in particular psychoses such as schizophrenia, may have a significant hormonal aetiological component is fast gaining popularity and the support of scientific evidence. Oestrogen in particular has been substantially investigated as a potential mediator of brain function in schizophrenia. Epidemiological and life-cycle data point to significant differences in the incidence and course of schizophrenia between men and women suggests a protective role of oestrogen.In vitroandin vivopreclinical research confirms oestradiol’s interactions with central neurotransmitter systems implicated in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia, while results from randomised controlled trials investigating the antipsychotic potential of oestrogen have been positive. Research into other neuroactive hormones with possible effects on mental state is a rapidly evolving field that may hold new promise. Given that schizophrenia and related psychoses are pervasive and debilitating conditions for which currently available treatments are often only partially effective and entail a high risk of serious side-effects, novel therapeutic strategies are needed. The literature reviewed in this paper suggests that hormones such as oestrogen could be a viable option, and it is hoped that with further research and larger trials, the oestrogen hypothesis can be translated into effective clinical practice.
Active Roles of Tumor Stroma in Breast Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Khamis Zahraa I. , Sahab Ziad J. , Sang Qing-Xiang Amy
Published: February 2012

Metastasis is the major cause of death for breast cancer patients. Tumors are heterogenous cellular entities composed of cancer cells and cells of the microenvironment in which they reside. A reciprocal dynamic interaction occurs between the tumor cells and their surrounding stroma under physiological and pathological conditions. This tumor-host communication interface mediates the escape of tumor cells at the primary site, survival of circulating cancer cells in the vasculature, and growth of metastatic cancer at secondary site. Each step of the metastatic process is accompanied by recruitment of stromal cells from the microenvironment and production of unique array of growth factors and chemokines. Stromal microenvironment may play active roles in breast cancer metastasis. Elucidating the types of cells recruited and signal pathways involved in the crosstalk between tumor cells and stromal cells will help identify novel strategies for cotargeting cancer cells and tumor stromal cells to suppress metastasis and improve patient outcome.
Recent Advances in the Use ofDrosophila melanogasteras a Model to Study Immunopathogenesis of Medically Important Filamentous Fungi
Authors: Hamilos Georgios , Samonis George , Kontoyiannis Dimitrios P.
Published: February 2012

Airborne opportunistic fungi, includingAspergillusand other less common saprophytic molds, have recently emerged as important causes of mortality in immunocompromised individuals. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of host-fungal interplay in robust experimental pathosystems is becoming a research priority for development of novel therapeutics to combat these devastating infections. Over the past decade, invertebrate hosts with evolutionarily conserved innate immune signaling pathways and powerful genetics, such asDrosophila melanogaster, have been employed as a means to overcome logistic restrains associated with the use mammalian models of fungal infections. Recent studies inDrosophilamodels of filamentous fungi demonstrated that several genes implicated in fungal virulence in mammals also play a similarly important pathogenic role in fruit flies, and important host-related aspects in fungal pathogenesis are evolutionarily conserved. In view of recent advances inDrosophilagenetics, fruit flies will become an invaluable surrogate model to study immunopathogenesis of fungal diseases.
A Novel Antihepatitis Drug, Bicyclol, Prevents Liver Carcinogenesis in Diethylnitrosamine-Initiated and Phenobarbital-Promoted Mice Tumor Model
Authors: Sun Hua , Yu Linghong , Wei Huailing , Liu Gengtao
Published: February 2012

Bicyclol, an antihepatitis drug developed by Chinese scientists, has been shown to prevent the malignant transformation induced by 3-methylcholanthrene and 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate in WB-F344 rat liver epithelial cells. This study provides further evidence on its role as a chemopreventive agent in experimental mice with diethylnitrosamine- (DEN-) initiated and phenobarbital- (PB-) promoted liver carcinoma. Liver tissue and serum were collected. In the two-stage model of hepatocarcinogenesis in mice, oral administration of bicyclol (100, 200 mg/kg) before DEN injection showed significant reduction in the incidence of hepatocellular foci, nodules, or carcinoma. Histopathological examination revealed that there was no hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and hepatoma formation in the mice pretreated with bicyclol (200 mg/kg) at week 20, while the mice treated with DEN/PB developed 33.3% HCC and 55.6% hepatoma. Furthermore, the serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and α-fetal protein (AFP) in serum significantly increased in the DEN/PB model group in comparison with the control group. Pretreatment with bicyclol showed a marked reduction in the above condition. Bicyclol also decreased the expression of AFP and proliferating cell nuclear antigen level in the liver tissue and attenuated the decrease in body weight. In this study, we also found that 10 weeks after stopping the administration of PB and drugs, the control and bicyclol-treated (200 mg/kg) animals showed no HCC and hepatoma formation at the time of termination whereas DEN/PB-induced mice developed 100% hepatoma and 50% HCC. These results further indicate that bicyclol has the chemopreventive potential for liver carcinogenesis induced by carcinogens.
An Analog of the Adjugate Matrix for the Outer Inverse AT,S(2)
Authors: Liu Xiaoji , Zhu Guangyan , Zhou Guangping , Yu Yaoming
Published: February 2012

We investigate the determinantal representation by exploiting the limiting expression for the generalized inverse . We show the equivalent relationship between the existence
and limiting expression of and some limiting processes of matrices and deduce the new determinantal
representations of , based on some analog of the classical adjoint matrix. Using the
analog of the classical adjoint matrix, we present Cramer rules for the restricted matrix equation .
KSHV-Encoded MicroRNAs: Lessons for Viral Cancer Pathogenesis and Emerging Concepts
Authors: Qin Zhiqiang , Jakymiw Andrew , Findlay Victoria , Parsons Chris
Published: February 2012

The human genome contains microRNAs (miRNAs), small noncoding RNAs that orchestrate a number of physiologic processes through regulation of gene expression. Burgeoning evidence suggests that dysregulation of miRNAs may promote disease progression and cancer pathogenesis. Virus-encoded miRNAs, exhibiting unique molecular signatures and functions, have been increasingly recognized as contributors to viral cancer pathogenesis. A large segment of the existing knowledge in this area has been generated through characterization of miRNAs encoded by the human gamma-herpesviruses, including the Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV). Recent studies focusing on KSHV miRNAs have led to a better understanding of viral miRNA expression in human tumors, the identification of novel pathologic check points regulated by viral miRNAs, and new insights for viral miRNA interactions with cellular (“human”) miRNAs. Elucidating the functional effects of inhibiting KSHV miRNAs has also provided a foundation for further translational efforts and consideration of clinical applications. This paper summarizes recent literature outlining mechanisms for KSHV miRNA regulation of cellular function and cancer-associated pathogenesis, as well as implications for interactions between KSHV and human miRNAs that may facilitate cancer progression. Finally, insights are offered for the clinical feasibility of targeting miRNAs as a therapeutic approach for viral cancers.
A Subclass of Harmonic Univalent Functions with Varying Arguments Defined by Generalized Derivative Operator
Authors: Eljamal E. A. , Darus M.
Published: February 2012

Making use of the generalized derivative operator, we introduce a new class of complex valued harmonic functions which are orientation preserving and univalent in the open unit disc and are related to uniformly convex functions. We investigate the coefficient bounds, neighborhood, and extreme points for this generalized class of functions.
Finite‐Time H∞ Filtering for Singular Stochastic Systems
Authors: Liu Caixia , Zhang Yingqi , Sun Huixia
Published: February 2012

This paper addresses the problem of finite‐time H∞ filtering for one family of singular stochastic systems with parametric uncertainties and time‐varying norm‐bounded disturbance. Initially, the definitions of singular stochastic finite‐time boundedness and singular stochastic H∞ finite‐time boundedness are presented. Then, the H∞ filtering is designed for the class of singular stochastic systems with or without uncertain parameters to ensure singular stochastic finite‐time boundedness of the filtering error system and satisfy a prescribed H∞ performance level in some given finite‐time interval. Furthermore, sufficient criteria are presented for the solvability of the filtering problems by employing the linear matrix inequality technique. Finally, numerical examples are given to illustrate the validity of the proposed methodology.
The LOX-1 Scavenger Receptor and Its Implications in the Treatment of Vascular Disease
Authors: Twigg M. W , Freestone K. , Homer-Vanniasinkam S. , Ponnambalam S.
Published: February 2012

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death. The disease is due to atherosclerosis which is characterized by lipid and fat accumulation in arterial blood vessel walls. A key causative event is the accumulation of oxidised low density lipoprotein particles within vascular cells, and this is mediated by scavenger receptors. One such molecule is the LOX-1 scavenger receptor that is expressed on endothelial, vascular smooth muscle, and lymphoid cells including macrophages. LOX-1 interaction with OxLDL particles stimulates atherosclerosis. LOX-1 mediates OxLDL endocytosis via a clathrin-independent internalization pathway. Transgenic animal model studies show that LOX-1 plays a significant role in atherosclerotic plaque initiation and progression. Administration of LOX-1 antibodies in cellular and animal models suggest that such intervention inhibits atherosclerosis. Antiatherogenic strategies that target LOX-1 function using gene therapy or small molecule inhibitors would be new ways to address the increasing incidence of vascular disease in many countries.
Evidence for T Cell Help in the IgG Response against Tandemly RepetitiveTrypanosoma cruziB13 Protein in Chronic Chagas Disease Patients
Authors: Duranti Marcia , Camargo Ludmila , Victora Gabriel , Ianni Barbara , Buck Paula , Mady Charles , Kalil Jorge , Zingales Bianca , Cunha-Neto Edecio
Published: February 2012

The tandemly repetitiveTrypanosoma cruziB13 protein is an immunodominant antigen among Chagas disease patients. Such repetitive domains may behave as T-independent antigens. However, T cells can recognize B13 epitopes in an HLA class II-restricted fashion and could potentially provide cognate T cell help and boost antibody titers. We assessed whether the presence of HLA class II molecules able to present B13 epitopes to T cells could affect anti-B13 IgG levels in a cognate fashion, in both major clinical forms of chronic Chagas disease. We found no difference between anti-B13 IgG antibody levels between patients carrying HLA class II molecules associated to T cell responses or other alleles. The predominant anti-B13 IgG subclass was IgG1, with negligible IgG2, suggesting a T-dependent, noncognate help for antibody production. In addition, the finding of increased anti-B13 IgG levels in sera from CCC patients indicates that clinical presentation is associated with increased anti-B13 antibody levels.
From Brain to Behavior: Hypertension's Modulation of Cognition and Affect
Authors: Jennings J. Richard , Heim Alicia F.
Published: February 2012

Accumulating evidence from animal models and human studies of essential hypertension suggest that brain regulation of the vasculature is impacted by the disease. Human neuroimaging findings suggest that the brain may be an early target of the disease. This observation reinforces earlier research suggesting that psychological factors may be one of the many contributory factors to the initiation of the disease. Alternatively or in addition, initial blood pressure increases may impact cognitive and/or affective function. Evidence for an impact of blood pressure on the perception and experience of affect is reviewed vis-a-vis brain imaging findings suggesting that such involvement in hypertensive individuals is likely.
Neuroticism in Young Women with Fibromyalgia Links to Key Clinical Features
Authors: Malin Katrina , Littlejohn Geoffrey Owen
Published: February 2012

Objective. We examined personality traits in young women with FM, in order to seek associations with key psychological processes and clinical symptoms.Methods. Twenty-seven women with FM and 29 age-matched female healthy controls [HC] completed a series of questionnaires examining FM symptoms, personality and psychological variables.Results. Significant differences between characteristic FM symptoms (sleep, pain, fatigue, and confusion) as well as for the psychological variables of depression, anxiety, and stress were found between FM and HC (P<0.001). Neuroticism was the only subscale of the Big Five Inventory that showed a significant difference between the FM group and HC group [P<0.05]. Within the FM group, there was a significant association between the level of the neuroticism and each of pain, sleep, fatigue, and confusion, depression, anxiety, and stress (P<0.05–0.01). The association between the level of neuroticism and the level of stress was the strongest of all variables tested (P<0.001).Conclusion. The personality trait of neuroticism significantly associates with the key FM characteristics of pain, sleep, fatigue and confusion as well as the common co-morbidities of depression, anxiety and stress. Personality appears to be an important modulator of FM clinical symptoms.
New Bouguer Gravity Maps of Venezuela: Representation and Analysis of Free-Air and Bouguer Anomalies with Emphasis on Spectral Analyses and Elastic Thickness
Authors: Sanchez-Rojas Javier
Published: February 2012

A new gravity data compilation for Venezuela was processed and homogenized. Gravity was measured in reference to the International Gravity Standardization Net 1971, and the complete Bouguer anomaly was calculated by using the Geodetic Reference System 1980 and 2.67 Mg/m3. A regional gravity map was computed by removing wavelengths higher than 200 km from the Bouguer anomaly. After the anomaly separation, regional and residual Bouguer gravity fields were then critically discussed in term of the regional tectonic features. Results were compared with the previous geological and tectonic information obtained from former studies. Gravity and topography data in the spectral domain were used to examine the elastic thickness and depths of the structures of the causative measured anomaly. According to the power spectrum analysis results of the gravity data, the averaged Moho depths for the massif, plains, and mountainous areas in Venezuela are 42, 35, and 40 km, respectively. The averaged admittance function computed from the topography and Free-Air anomaly profiles across Mérida Andes showed a good fit for a regional compensation model with an effective elastic thickness of 15 km.
Photoresponse of Visible Light Active CM-n-TiO2, HM-n-TiO2, CM-n-Fe2O3, and CM-p-WO3towards Water Splitting Reaction
Authors: Shaban Yasser A. , Khan Shahed U. M.
Published: February 2012

Photoresponses of visible light active carbon modified titanium oxide (CM-n-TiO2), hydrogen modified titanium oxide (HM-n-TiO2), carbon modified iron oxide (CM-n-Fe2O3), carbon modified tungsten oxide (CM-p-WO3) towards water splitting reaction are reported in this article. Carbon and hydrogen in titanium oxide were found to be responsible for red shift from UV region to visible region which in turn enhanced the photoconversion efficiency by an order of magnitude for water splitting reaction. Photocurrent densities and photoconversion efficiencies of regular n-TiO2and CM-n-TiO2towards water splitting reaction under monochromatic light illumination from a xenon lamp and sunlight were compared and found in reasonable agreement. These oxides were characterized by photocurrent measurements,UV-Visspectra, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and x-ray diffraction (XRD) studies and these results are also reported in this article.
Signaling Mechanisms in the Regulation of Renal Matrix Metabolism in Diabetes
Authors: Mariappan Meenalakshmi M.
Published: February 2012

Renal hypertrophy and accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins are among cardinal manifestations of diabetic nephropathy. TGF beta system has been implicated in the pathogenesis of these manifestations. Among signaling pathways activated in the kidney in diabetes, mTOR- (mammalian target of rapamycin-)regulated pathways are pivotal in orchestrating high glucose-induced production of ECM proteins leading to functional and structural changes in the kidney culminating in adverse outcomes. Understanding signaling pathways that influence individual matrix protein expression could lead to the development of new interventional strategies. This paper will highlight some of the diverse components of the signaling network stimulated by hyperglycemia with an emphasis on extracellular matrix protein metabolism in the kidney in diabetes.
The Biology and Natural History ofAphaenogaster rudis
Authors: Lubertazzi David
Published: February 2012

Workers from the genusAphaenogasterare among the most abundant ants in the hardwood forests of eastern North America. The biology of these so-calledrudis-group ant species, including details about their sociometry, productivity, natural history, and behavior, are synthesized here using published and newly collected data. The latter was collected, in part, using an artificial field nest, and its construction and use are explained. Ants of therudisgroup occur in high densities in forest habitats (0.5–1.3 nests m2), have moderate sized colonies (population means from 266 to 613 workers per nest), and are keystone seed dispersers. Many aspects of their life history and behavior follow an annual cycle that tracks seasonal changes. These include foraging, reproduction, the production of new workers and nest migrations. This synthesis highlights what is known about these ants and reveals gaps in our knowledge that require further study.
Permanent Pacing in Patients with Recurrence of Symptoms and Relapse of Left Ventricular Obstruction at Midcavity Level after Alcohol Septal Ablation
Authors: Velchev Vasil , Postadzhiyan Arman , Hazarbasanov Dobri , Finkov Bojidar
Published: February 2012

Treatment of symptom recurrence after initially successful alcohol septal ablation (ASA) in hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) when accompanied by relapse of intracavitary left ventricular pressure gradient (LVG) is guided by the underlying mechanism. We describe our experience with permanent pacing in three patients with relapse of both LVG and symptoms 7 to 12 months after successful ASA. Even though pressure gradient recurrence was observed at midventricular level, we were able to achieve symptomatic improvement and LVG reduction after right ventricular apex pacing in all three cases. The effect on symptoms was long lasting—the 6-month followup echo-stress tests confirmed good exercise capacity and lack of provocable LVG. We found pacing to be a safe and effective treatment option in this clinical scenario. Based on our overall observations, we propose pacing as a niche treatment for patients with recurrence of LVG at midventricular level after ASA.
Gigant Transethmoidal Meningoencephalocele Operated by Full Endonasal Endoscopic Approach: Case Report
Authors: Lopez Arbolay Omar , Rojas Manresa Jorge , Gonzalez Gonzalez Justo , Bretón Rosario Jose Luis
Published: February 2012

Intranasal meningoencephaloceles have historically been managed by neurosurgeons, although their main clinical manifestations are rhinological. Recent advances in endoscopic skull base surgery has significantly improved the treatment of these lesions and consequently diminished appreciable surgical morbidity. We report an ethmoidal meningoencephalocele case operated on by endonasal endoscopic approach for removal of the lesion and reconstructing the associated skull base. From this experience, we conclude that removal of the lesion and watertight closure of the skull base irrespective of the size of the mass and anterior skull base defect are the operation’s most important aspects.
The Adverse Effects of Air Pollution on the Nervous System
Authors: Genc Sermin , Zadeoglulari Zeynep , Fuss Stefan H. , Genc Kursad
Published: February 2012

Exposure to ambient air pollution is a serious and common public health concern associated with growing morbidity and mortality worldwide. In the last decades, the adverse effects of air pollution on the pulmonary and cardiovascular systems have been well established in a series of major epidemiological and observational studies. In the recent past, air pollution has also been associated with diseases of the central nervous system (CNS), including stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and neurodevelopmental disorders. It has been demonstrated that various components of air pollution, such as nanosized particles, can easily translocate to the CNS where they can activate innate immune responses. Furthermore, systemic inflammation arising from the pulmonary or cardiovascular system can affect CNS health. Despite intense studies on the health effects of ambient air pollution, the underlying molecular mechanisms of susceptibility and disease remain largely elusive. However, emerging evidence suggests that air pollution-induced neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, microglial activation, cerebrovascular dysfunction, and alterations in the blood-brain barrier contribute to CNS pathology. A better understanding of the mediators and mechanisms will enable the development of new strategies to protect individuals at risk and to reduce detrimental effects of air pollution on the nervous system and mental health.
Hemodynamics of Cerebral Aneurysms: Computational Analyses of Aneurysm Progress and Treatment
Authors: Jeong Woowon , Rhee Kyehan
Published: February 2012

The progression of a cerebral aneurysm involves degenerative arterial wall remodeling. Various hemodynamic parameters are suspected to be major mechanical factors related to the genesis and progression of vascular diseases. Flow alterations caused by the insertion of coils and stents for interventional aneurysm treatment may affect the aneurysm embolization process. Therefore, knowledge of hemodynamic parameters may provide physicians with an advanced understanding of aneurysm progression and rupture, as well as the effectiveness of endovascular treatments. Progress in medical imaging and information technology has enabled the prediction of flow fields in the patient-specific blood vessels using computational analysis. In this paper, recent computational hemodynamic studies on cerebral aneurysm initiation, progress, and rupture are reviewed. State-of-the-art computational aneurysmal flow analyses after coiling and stenting are also summarized. We expect the computational analysis of hemodynamics in cerebral aneurysms to provide valuable information for planning and follow-up decisions for treatment.
Exponential Time Integration and Second‐Order Difference Scheme for a Generalized Black‐Scholes Equation
Authors: Cen Zhongdi , Le Anbo , Xu Aimin
Published: February 2012

We apply an exponential time integration scheme
combined with a central difference scheme on a piecewise uniform mesh with
respect to the spatial variable to evaluate a generalized Black‐Scholes equation. We show that the scheme is second‐order convergent for both time
and spatial variables. It is proved that the scheme is unconditionally stable.
Numerical results support the theoretical results.
Thermodynamic Properties of Real Porous Combustion Reactor under Diesel Engine-Like Conditions
Authors: Weclas M. , Cypris J. , Maksoud T. M. A.
Published: February 2012

Thermodynamic conditions of the heat release process under Diesel engine-like conditions in a real porous combustion reactor simulated in a special combustion chamber were analyzed. The same analyses were performed for a free volume combustion chamber, that is, no porous reactor is applied. A common rail Diesel injection system was used for simulation of real engine fuel injection process and mixture formation conditions. The results show that thermodynamic of the heat release process depends on reactor heat capacity, pore density, specific surface area, and pore structure, that is, on heat accumulation in solid phase of porous reactor. In real reactor, the gas temperature and porous reactor temperature are not equal influenced by initial pressure and temperature and by reactor parameters. It was found that the temperature of gas trapped in porous reactor volume during the heat release process is less dependent on air-to-fuel-ratio than that observed for free volume combustion chamber, while the maximum combustion temperature in porous reactor is significantly low. As found this temperature depends on reactor heat capacity, mixture formation conditions and on initial pressure. Qualitative behavior of heat release process in porous reactors and in free volume combustion chamber is similar, also the time scale of the process.
Hypertension-Related Gene Polymorphisms of G-Protein-Coupled Receptor Kinase 4 Are Associated with NT-proBNP Concentration in Normotensive Healthy Adults
Authors: Yatabe Junichi , Yatabe Midori S. , Yoneda Minoru , Felder Robin A. , Jose Pedro A. , Sanada Hironobu
Published: February 2012

G protein-coupled receptor kinase 4 (GRK4) with activating polymorphisms desensitize the natriuric renal tubular D1 dopamine receptor, and these GRK4 polymorphisms are strongly associated with salt sensitivity and hypertension. Meanwhile, N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) may be useful in detecting slight volume expansion. However, relations between hypertension-related gene polymorphisms including GRK4 and cardiovascular indices such as NT-proBNP are not clear, especially in healthy subjects. Therefore, various hypertension-related polymorphisms and cardiovascular indices were analyzed in 97 normotensive, healthy Japanese adults. NT-proBNP levels were significantly higher in subjects with two or more GRK4 polymorphic alleles. Other hypertension-related gene polymorphisms, such as those of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system genes, did not correlate with NT-proBNP. There was no significant association between any of the hypertension-related gene polymorphisms and central systolic blood pressure, cardioankle vascular index, augmentation index, plasma aldosterone concentration, or an oxidative stress marker, urinary 8-OHdG. Normotensive individuals with GRK4 polymorphisms show increased serum NT-proBNP concentration and may be at a greater risk of developing hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
Smoking and Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Oh Chad K. , Murray Lynne A. , Molfino Nestor A.
Published: February 2012

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a disease of unknown etiology with considerable morbidity and mortality. Cigarette smoking is one of the most recognized risk factors for development of IPF. Furthermore, recent work suggests that smoking may have a detrimental effect on survival of patients with IPF. The mechanism by which smoking may contribute to the pathogenesis of IPF is largely unknown. However, accumulating evidence suggests that increased oxidative stress might promote disease progression in IPF patients who are current and former smokers. In this review, potential mechanisms by which cigarette smoking affects IPF, the effects of cigarette smoking on accelerated loss of lung function in patients with IPF, key genetic studies evaluating the potential candidate genes and gene-environment (smoking) interaction, diagnosis, and treatment with emphasis on recently closed and ongoing clinical trials are presented.
Perinatal Cerebellar Injury in Human and Animal Models
Authors: Biran Valerie , Verney Catherine , Ferriero Donna M.
Published: February 2012

Cerebellar injury is increasingly recognized through advanced neonatal brain imaging as a complication of premature birth. Survivors of preterm birth demonstrate a constellation of long-term neurodevelopmental deficits, many of which are potentially referable to cerebellar injury, including impaired motor functions such as fine motor incoordination, impaired motor sequencing and also cognitive, behavioral dysfunction among older patients. This paper reviews the morphogenesis and histogenesis of the human and rodent developing cerebellum, and its more frequent injuries in preterm. Most cerebellar lesions are cerebellar hemorrhage and infarction usually leading to cerebellar abnormalities and/or atrophy, but the exact pathogenesis of lesions of the cerebellum is unknown. The different mechanisms involved have been investigated with animal models and are primarily hypoxia, ischemia, infection, and inflammation Exposure to drugs and undernutrition can also induce cerebellar abnormalities. Different models are detailed to analyze these various disturbances of cerebellar development around birth.
The Interface between Inflammation and Coagulation in Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Demetz Gabriele , Ott Ilka
Published: February 2012

The intimate connection between coagulation and inflammation in the pathogenesis of vascular disease has moved more and more into focus of clinical research. This paper focuses on the essential components of this interplay in the settings of cardiovascular disease and acute coronary syndrome. Tissue factor, the main initiator of the extrinsic coagulation pathway, plays a central role via causing a proinflammatory response through activation of coagulation factors and thereby initiating coagulation and downstream cellular signalling pathways. Regarding activated clotting factors II, X, and VII, protease-activated receptors provide the molecular link between coagulation and inflammation. Hereby, PAR-1 displays deleterious as well as beneficial properties. Unravelling these interrelations may help developing new strategies to ameliorate the detrimental reciprocal aggravation of inflammation and coagulation.
Genetics of Temporal Lobe Epilepsy: A Review
Authors: Salzmann Annick , Malafosse Alain
Published: February 2012

Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is usually regarded as a polygenic and complex disorder. To understand its genetic component, numerous linkage analyses of familial forms and association studies of cases versus controls have been conducted since the middle of the nineties. The present paper lists genetic findings for TLE from the initial segregation analysis to the most recent results published in May 2011. To date, no genes have been clearly related to TLE despite many efforts to do so. However, it is vital to continue replication studies and collaborative attempts to find significant results and thus determine which gene variant combination plays a definitive role in the aetiology of TLE.
Exploring Self-Concept for Students with Emotional and/or Behavioral Disorders as They Transition from Elementary to Middle School and High School
Authors: Gage Nicholas A. , Lierheimer Kristin
Published: February 2012

Although significant research has been conducted around assessment and intervention for students with emotional and/or behavioral disorders (EBDs), few have investigated specifically how students with EBD self-report on their academic and social competence, or self-concept. Using a national longitudinal database, this study explored how students with EBD reported their self-concept in elementary school, how their reported self-concept changed as they transitioned to middle and high school, and, what factors influenced this change. Using latent growth modeling procedures, the study found that students with EBD reported high self-concept across time and that reported self-concept was most impacted by ethnicity (β=−.174) and urbanicity (β=−.113).