bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resveratrol Suppresses PAI-1 Gene Expression in a HumanIn VitroModel of Inflamed Adipose Tissue
Authors: Zagotta Ivana , Dimova Elitsa Y. , Funcke Jan-Bernd , Wabitsch Martin , Kietzmann Thomas , Fischer-Posovszky Pamela
Published: June 2013

Increased plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) levels are associated with a number of pathophysiological complications; among them is obesity. Resveratrol was proposed to improve obesity-related health problems, but the effect of resveratrol on PAI-1 gene expression in obesity is not completely understood. In this study, we used SGBS adipocytes and a model of human adipose tissue inflammation to examine the effects of resveratrol on the production of PAI-1. Treatment of SGBS adipocytes with resveratrol reduced PAI-1 mRNA and protein in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. Further experiments showed that obesity-associated inflammatory conditions lead to the upregulation of PAI-1 gene expression which was antagonized by resveratrol. Although signaling via PI3K, Sirt1, AMPK, ROS, and Nrf2 appeared to play a significant role in the modulation of PAI-1 gene expression under noninflammatory conditions, those signaling components were not involved in mediating the resveratrol effects on PAI-1 production under inflammatory conditions. Instead, we demonstrate that the resveratrol effects on PAI-1 induction under inflammatory conditions were mediated via inhibition of the NFκB pathway. Together, resveratrol can act as NFκB inhibitor in adipocytes and thus the subsequently reduced PAI-1 expression in inflamed adipose tissue might provide a new insight towards novel treatment options of obesity.
A Fragile Zero Watermarking Scheme to Detect and Characterize Malicious Modifications in Database Relations
Authors: Khan Aihab , Husain Syed Afaq
Published: June 2013

We put forward a fragile zero watermarking scheme to detect and characterize malicious modifications made to a database relation. Most of the existing watermarking schemes for relational databases introduce intentional errors or permanent distortions as marks into the database original content. These distortions inevitably degrade the data quality and data usability as the integrity of a relational database is violated. Moreover, these fragile schemes can detect malicious data modifications but do not characterize the tempering attack, that is, the nature of tempering. The proposed fragile scheme is based on zero watermarking approach to detect malicious modifications made to a database relation. In zero watermarking, the watermark is generated (constructed) from the contents of the original data rather than introduction of permanent distortions as marks into the data. As a result, the proposed scheme is distortion‐free; thus, it also resolves the inherent conflict between security and imperceptibility. The proposed scheme also characterizes the malicious data modifications to quantify the nature of tempering attacks. Experimental results show that even minor malicious modifications made to a database relation can be detected and characterized successfully.
Exploring the Ligand-Protein Networks in Traditional Chinese Medicine: Current Databases, Methods, and Applications
Authors: Zhao Mingzhu , Zhou Qiang , Ma Wanghao , Wei Dong-Qing
Published: June 2013

The traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), which has thousands of years of clinical application among China and other Asian countries, is the pioneer of the “multicomponent-multitarget” and network pharmacology. Although there is no doubt of the efficacy, it is difficult to elucidate convincing underlying mechanism of TCM due to its complex composition and unclear pharmacology. The use of ligand-protein networks has been gaining significant value in the history of drug discovery while its application in TCM is still in its early stage. This paper firstly surveys TCM databases for virtual screening that have been greatly expanded in size and data diversity in recent years. On that basis, different screening methods and strategies for identifying active ingredients and targets of TCM are outlined based on the amount of network information available, both on sides of ligand bioactivity and the protein structures. Furthermore, applications of successfulin silicotarget identification attempts are discussed in detail along with experiments in exploring the ligand-protein networks of TCM. Finally, it will be concluded that the prospective application of ligand-protein networks can be used not only to predict protein targets of a small molecule, but also to explore the mode of action of TCM.
A New Approach to Fault Diagnosis of Power Systems Using Fuzzy Reasoning Spiking Neural P Systems
Authors: Xiong Guojiang , Shi Dongyuan , Zhu Lin , Duan Xianzhong
Published: June 2013

Fault diagnosis of power systems is an important task in power system operation. In this paper, fuzzy reasoning spiking neural P systems (FRSN P systems) are implemented for fault diagnosis of power systems for the first time. As a graphical modeling tool, FRSN P systems are able to represent fuzzy knowledge and perform fuzzy reasoning well. When the cause-effect relationship between candidate faulted section and protective devices is represented by the FRSN P systems, the diagnostic conclusion can be drawn by means of a simple parallel matrix based reasoning algorithm. Three different power systems are used to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed fault diagnosis approach. The simulations show that the developed FRSN P systems based diagnostic model has notable characteristics of easiness in implementation, rapidity in parallel reasoning, and capability in handling uncertainties. In addition, it is independent of the scale of power system and can be used as a reliable tool for fault diagnosis of power systems.
Functionality Evaluation of a Novel Smart Expandable Pedicle Screw to Mitigate Osteoporosis Effect in Bone Fixation: Modeling and Experimentation
Authors: Eshghinejad Ahmadreza , Elahinia Mohammad , Goel Vijay K.
Published: June 2013

This paper proposes a novel expandable-retractable pedicle screw and analyzes its functionality. A specially designed pedicle screw is described which has the ability to expand and retract using nitinol elements. The screw is designed to expand in body temperature and retract by cooling the screw. This expansion-retraction function is verified in an experiment designed in larger scale using a nitinol antagonistic assembly. The results of this experiment are compared to the results of a finite element model developed in Abaqus in combination with a user material subroutine (UMAT). This code has been developed to analyze the nonlinear thermomechanical behavior of shape memory alloy materials. The functionality of the proposed screw is evaluated with simulation and experimentation in a pullout test as well. The pullout force of a normal screw inserted in a normal bone was simulated, and the result is compared with the results of the expandable screw in osteoporotic bone. Lastly, strength of the designed pedicle screw in a foam block is also verified with experiment. The reported finite element simulations and experiments are the proof for the concept of nitinol expandable-retractable elements on a pedicle screw which validate the functionality in a pullout test.
Affine Differential Invariants of Functions on the Plane
Authors: Wang Yuanbin , Wang Xingwei , Zhang Bin
Published: June 2013

A differential invariant is a function defined on the jet space of functions that remains the same under a group action. It is an important concept to solve the equivalence problem. This paper presents an effective method to derive a special type of affine differential invariants. Given some functions defined on the plane and an affine group acting on the plane, there are induced actions of the group on the functions and on the derivative functions of the functions. Affine differential invariants of these functions are useful in many applications. However, there has been little systematic study of this problem at present. No clear and simple results are available for application users to use directly. We propose a direct and simple method to construct affine differential invariants in this situation. Some useful explicit formulas of affine differential invariants of 2D functions are presented.
On the Honesty in Nonlocal and Discrete Fragmentation Dynamics in Size and Random Position
Authors: Oukouomi Noutchie S. C. , Doungmo Goufo E. F.
Published: June 2013

A discrete initial-value problem describing multiple fragmentation processes, where the fragmentation rate is size and position dependent and where new particles are spatially randomly distributed according to some probabilistic law, is investigated by means of parameter-dependent operators together with the theory of substochastic semigroups with a parameter. The existence of semigroups is established for each parameter and “glued” together so as to obtain a semigroup to the full space. Under certain conditions on each fragmentation rate, we used Kato’s Theorem in to show the existence of the generator and we provide sufficient conditions for honesty.
A Convex Adaptive Total Variation Model Based on the Gray Level Indicator for Multiplicative Noise Removal
Authors: Dong Gang , Guo Zhichang , Wu Boying
Published: June 2013

This paper focuses on the problem of multiplicative noise removal. Using a gray level indicator, we derive a new functional which consists of the adaptive total variation term and the global convex fidelity term. We prove the existence, uniqueness, and comparison principle of the minimizer for the variational problem. The existence, uniqueness, and long-time behavior of the associated evolution equation are established. Finally, experimental results illustrate the effectiveness of the model in multiplicative noise reduction. Different from the other methods, the parameters in the proposed algorithms are found dynamically.
Image Watermarking Algorithm Based on Multiobjective Ant Colony Optimization and Singular Value Decomposition in Wavelet Domain
Authors: Loukhaoukha Khaled
Published: June 2013

We present a new optimal watermarking scheme based on discrete wavelet transform (DWT) and singular value decomposition (SVD) using multiobjective ant colony optimization (MOACO). A binary watermark is decomposed using a singular value decomposition. Then, the singular values are embedded in a detailed subband of host image. The trade-off between watermark transparency and robustness is controlled by multiple scaling factors (MSFs) instead of a single scaling factor (SSF). Determining the optimal values of the multiple scaling factors (MSFs) is a difficult problem. However, a multiobjective ant colony optimization is used to determine these values. Experimental results show much improved performances of the proposed scheme in terms of transparency and robustness compared to other watermarking schemes. Furthermore, it does not suffer from the problem of high probability of false positive detection of the watermarks.
Combinatorial Mutagenesis and Selection to Understand and Improve Yeast Promoters
Authors: Berg Laila , Strand Trine Aakvik , Valla Svein , Brautaset Trygve
Published: June 2013

Microbial promoters are important targets both for understanding the global gene expression and developing genetic tools for heterologous expression of proteins and complex biosynthetic pathways. Previously, we have developed and used combinatorial mutagenesis methods to analyse and improve bacterial expression systems. Here, we present for the first time an analogous strategy for yeast. Our model promoter is the strong and inducible promoter in methylotrophicPichia pastoris. The Zeocin resistance gene was applied as a valuable reporter for mutant promoter activity, and we used an episomal plasmid vector to ensure a constant reporter gene dosage in the yeast host cells. This novel design enabled direct selection for colonies of recombinant cells with altered Zeocin tolerance levels originating solely from randomly introduced point mutations in the promoter DNA sequence. We demonstrate that this approach can be used to select for promoter variants with abolished glucose repression in large mutant libraries. We also selected promoter variants with elevated expression level under induced conditions. The properties of the selected promoter variants were confirmed by expressing luciferase as an alternative reporter gene. The tools developed here should be useful for effective screening, characterization, and improvement of any yeast promoters.
Effect of Wrapped Carbon Nanotubes on Optical Properties, Morphology, and Thermal Stability of Electrospun Poly(vinyl alcohol) Composite Nanofibers
Authors: Diouri Naoual , Baitoul Mimouna , Maaza Malik
Published: June 2013

Electrospinning was used to elaborate poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanofibers in the presence of embedded multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in surfactant and polymer. MWCNTs were dispersed in aqueous solution using both sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) as surfactant and Poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP). Changing the surfactant and polymer concentration reveals that the maximum dispersion achievable is corresponding to the mass ratios MWCNTs : SDS—1 : 5 and MWCNTs : SDS : PVP—1 : 5 : 0.6 in the presence of the PVP. After the optimization of the dispersion process, the SEM image of the PVA/PVP/SDS/MWCNTs electrospun fibers presents high stability of the fibers with diameter around 224 nm. Infrared spectroscopy and thermal gravimetric analysis elucidate the type of interaction between the PVA and the coated carbon nanotube. The presence of PVP wrapped carbon nanotubes reduced slightly the onset of the degradation temperature of the electrospun nanofibers.
Hierarchical Models of Self-Concept across Genders and Sciences/Humanities for College Students in Taiwan
Authors: Chiu Mei-Shiu
Published: June 2013

The aim of this study is to examine the hierarchical model of self-concept (SC) using two operations (Models A and B). In Model A, global self-concept (GSC) is the higher-order factor of field-specific self-concepts (FSCs). In Model B, GSC is the predictor of the correlated FSCs. The data of 28,824 college students are obtained from the national database for higher education in Taiwan. The two models are examined by the use of total-group hierarchical confirmatory factor analysis (HCFA) and structural equation modeling (SEM), respectively. Multigroup HCFA and SEM are used to test whether the two models demonstrate measurement equivalence and structural invariance across female and male college students and across college students coming from different fields of study. The results of the analysis reveal three major findings. (1) The data fit Models A-B well for all the students as a whole. (2) Females and males are found not to be equivalent in the structure of both models. (3) Females from female-dominated humanities fields (education and business) are different from those in male-dominated sciences fields (engineering and natural sciences), while males from the four fields are similar in both models.
Ear Infection and Its Associated Risk Factors, Comorbidity, and Health Service Use in Australian Children
Authors: Yiengprugsawan Vasoontara , Hogan Anthony
Published: June 2013

This study investigates and identifies risk factors, comorbidity, and health service use related to ear infection in Australian children. Two cross-sectional analyses of the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (LSAC) involved 4,983 children aged 4 to 5 years in 2004 and aged 10 to 11 years in 2010. Odds ratios (ORs) were analysed using bivariate logistic regression. The prevalence of parent-reported ear infection was 7.9% (394) among children aged 4 to 5 years and 3.3% (139) at 10 to 11 years. Our study found that risk factors associated with ear infection were indigenous status, not being breastfed, mother or father smoking at least once a day, and father’s school completion at year 9 or lower. By age 10 to 11 years significantly reported comorbidities were tonsillitis (OR 4.67;P<0.001), headache (OR 2.13;P=0.006), and asthma (OR 1.67;P=0.003) and ear infection was found to be associated with the use of pediatrician (OR 1.83;P=0.031), other specialist (OR 2.12;P<0.001), and early intervention services (OR 3.08;P=0.010). This empirical evidence can be used to inform the development of intervention and management programs for ear infection.
Architecture and Implementation of Fading Compensation for Dynamic Spectrum Access Wireless Communication Systems
Authors: Hatanaka Masahide , Homemoto Toru , Onoye Takao
Published: June 2013

This paper proposes an efficient architecture and implementation of
fading compensation dedicated to dynamic spectrum access (DSA)
wireless communication.
Since pilot subcarrier arrangements are adaptively determined in wireless
communication systems with DSA, the proposed architecture employs
piecewise linear interpolation to the channel response estimation for data
subcarriers in order to increase the channel estimation accuracy.
The fading compensation for an orthogonal frequency-division
multiplexing (OFDM) symbol is performed within the time for one OFDM
symbol to make increase of latency smaller.
The proposed architecture guarantees real-time processing with 76 MHz
or higher clock frequency. The FPGA implementation of the proposed
architecture occupies 1,577 slices and works up to 121 MHz.
In VitroPrevention ofSalmonellaLipopolysaccharide-Induced Damages in Epithelial Barrier Function by VariousLactobacillusStrains
Authors: Yeung Chun-Yan , Chiang Chiau Jen-Shiu , Chan Wai-Tao , Jiang Chun-Bin , Cheng Mei-Lien , Liu Hsuan-Liang , Lee Hung-Chang
Published: June 2013

Background.Lactobacillusshows beneficial anti-inflammatory effects onSalmonellainfection. The maintenance of the tight junction (TJ) integrity plays an importance role in avoiding bacterial invasion. WhetherLactobacilluscould be used to regulate the TJ protein expression and distribution in inflamed intestinal epithelial cells was determined.Methods. Using the transwell coculture model,Salmonellalipopolysaccharide (LPS) was apically added to polarized Caco-2 cells cocultured with peripheral blood mononuclear cells in the basolateral compartment. LPS-stimulated Caco-2 cells were incubated with variousLactobacillusstrains. TJ integrity was determined by measuring transepithelial electrical resistance across Caco-2 monolayer. Expression and localization of TJ proteins (zonula-occludens- (ZO-) 1) were determined by Western blot and immunofluorescence microscopy.Results. Various strains ofLactobacilluswere responsible for the different modulations of cell layer integrity. LPS was specifically able to disrupt epithelial barrier and change the location of ZO-1. Our data demonstrate thatLactobacilluscould attenuate the barrier disruption of intestinal epithelial cells caused bySalmonellaLPS administration. We showed thatLactobacillusstrains are associated with the maintenance of the tight junction integrity and appearance.Conclusion. In this study we provide insight that live probiotics could improve epithelial barrier properties and this may explain the potential mechanism behind their beneficial effectin vivo.
A Distributed Flow Rate Control Algorithm for Networked Agent System with Multiple Coding Rates to Optimize Multimedia Data Transmission
Authors: Zeng Shuai , Li Lemin , Liao Dan
Published: June 2013

With the development of wireless technologies, mobile communication applies more and more extensively in the various walks of life. The social network of both fixed and mobile users can be seen as networked agent system. At present, kinds of devices and access network technology are widely used. Different users in this networked agent system may need different coding rates multimedia data due to their heterogeneous demand. This paper proposes a distributed flow rate control algorithm to optimize multimedia data transmission of the networked agent system with the coexisting various coding rates. In this proposed algorithm, transmission path and upload bandwidth of different coding rate data between source node, fixed and mobile nodes are appropriately arranged and controlled. On the one hand, this algorithm can provide user nodes with differentiated coding rate data and corresponding flow rate. On the other hand, it makes the different coding rate data and user nodes networked, which realizes the sharing of upload bandwidth of user nodes which require different coding rate data. The study conducts mathematical modeling on the proposed algorithm and compares the system that adopts the proposed algorithm with the existing system based on the simulation experiment and mathematical analysis. The results show that the system that adopts the proposed algorithm achieves higher upload bandwidth utilization of user nodes and lower upload bandwidth consumption of source node.
Measurements of Gasification Characteristics of Coal and Char in CO2-Rich Gas Flow by TG-DTA
Authors: Li Zhigang , Zhang Xiaoming , Sugai Yuichi , Wang Jiren , Sasaki Kyuro
Published: June 2013

Pyrolysis, combustion, and gasification properties of pulverized coal and char in CO2-rich gas flow were investigated by using gravimetric-differential thermal analysis (TG-DTA) with changing O2%, heating temperature gradient, and flow rate of CO2-rich gases provided. Together with TG-DTA, flue gas generated from the heated coal, such as CO, CO2, and hydrocarbons (HCs), was analyzed simultaneously on the heating process. The optimum O2% in CO2-rich gas for combustion and gasification of coal or char was discussed by analyzing flue gas with changing O2from 0 to 5%. The experimental results indicate that O2% has an especially large effect on carbon oxidation at temperature less than 1100°C, and lower O2concentration promotes gasification reaction by producing CO gas over 1100°C in temperature. The TG-DTA results with gas analyses have presented basic reference data that show the effects of O2concentration and heating rate on coal physical and chemical behaviors for the expected technologies on coal gasification in CO2-rich gas and oxygen combustion and underground coal gasification.
Somatic Profiling of the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Pathway in Tumors from Patients with Advanced Colorectal Cancer Treated with Chemotherapy ± Cetuximab
Authors: Smith Christopher G. , Fisher David , Claes Bart , Maughan Timothy S. , Idziaszczyk Shelley , Peuteman Gilian , Harris Rebecca , James Michelle D. , Meade Angela , Jasani Bharat , Adams Richard A. , Kenny Sarah , Kaplan Richard , Lambrechts Diether , Cheadle Jeremy P.
Published: June 2013

Purpose: To study the somatic molecular profile of the EGF receptor (EGFR) pathway in advanced colorectal cancer, its relationship to prognosis, the site of the primary and metastases, and response to cetuximab.

Experimental Design: We used Sequenom and Pyrosequencing for high-throughput somatic profiling of the EGFR pathway in 1,976 tumors from patients with advanced colorectal cancer from the COIN trial (oxaliplatin and fluoropyrimidine chemotherapy ± cetuximab). Correlations between mutations, clinicopathologic, response, and survival data were carried out.

Results: Sequenom and Pyrosequencing had 99.0% (9,961/10,063) genotype concordance. We identified 13 different KRAS mutations in 42.3% of advanced colorectal cancers, 2 BRAF mutations in 9.0%, 4 NRAS mutations in 3.6%, and 5 PIK3CA mutations in 12.7%. 4.2% of advanced colorectal cancers had microsatellite instability (MSI). KRAS and PIK3CA exon 9, but not exon 20, mutations cooccurred (P = 8.9 × 10−4) as did MSI and BRAF mutations (P = 5.3 × 10−10). KRAS mutations were associated with right colon cancers (P = 5.2 × 10−5) and BRAF mutations with right (P = 7.2 × 10−5) and transverse colon (P = 9.8 × 10−6) cancers. KRAS mutations were associated with lung-only metastases (P = 2.3 × 10−4), BRAF mutations with peritoneal (P = 9.2 × 10−4) and nodal-only (P = 3.7 × 10−5) metastases, and MSI (BRAFWT) with nodal-only metastases (P = 2.9 × 10−4). MSI (BRAFWT) was associated with worse survival (HR = 1.89, 95% CI 1.30–2.76, P = 8.5 × 10−4). No mutations, subsets of mutations, or MSI status were associated with response to cetuximab.

Conclusions: Our data support a functional cooperation between KRAS and PIK3CA in colorectal tumorigenesis and link somatic profiles to the sites of metastases. MSI was associated with poor prognosis in advanced disease, and no individual somatic profile was associated with response to cetuximab in COIN. Clin Cancer Res; 19(15); 4104–13. ©2013 AACR.
Is Conflict of Interest Becoming a Challenge for Institution-Based Institutional Review Boards?
Authors: Freedman Ralph S. , McKinney Ross
Published: June 2013

Expansion of business relationships between academic institutions and their leaders and industry have become a reality, whereas media attention regarding conflict of interest (COI) at academic institutions has raised concerns about possible erosion of public trust. The Institutional Review Board (IRB) should collaborate with institutional COI committees to ensure that research with human subjects is in compliance with various applicable federal regulations. The IRB and COI committee should take additional independent action as necessary under their separate mandates to protect the welfare, safety, and rights of human subjects and to include limits on protocols affected by significant financial interests of the institution or its decision makers. If unable to review research due to an intrainstitutional conflict, the local IRB should consider transferring the study review and oversight to an external unaffiliated institutional or central IRB. A process for involvement of an executive institutional IRB is proposed. Clin Cancer Res; 19(15); 4034–9. ©2013 AACR.
Epithelial-Specific Deletion of 11β-HSD2 Hinders Apcmin/+ Mouse Tumorigenesis
Authors: Jiang Li , Yang Shilin , Yin Huiyong , Fan Xiaofeng , Wang Suwan , Yao Bing , Pozzi Ambra , Chen Xiaoping , Harris Raymond C. , Zhang Ming-Zhi
Published: June 2013

Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)–derived prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) promotes colorectal tumorigenesis. Glucocorticoids are endogenous and potent COX-2 inhibitors, and their local actions are downregulated by 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type II (11β-HSD2)-mediated metabolism. Previously, it was reported that 11β-HSD2 is increased in human colonic and Apcmin/+ mouse intestinal adenomas and correlated with increased COX-2, and 11β-HSD2 inhibition suppressed the COX-2 pathway and decreased tumorigenesis. Because 11β-HSD2 is expressed in Apcmin/+ mouse intestinal adenoma stromal and epithelial cells, Apcmin/+ mice were generated with selective deletion of 11β-HSD2 in intestinal epithelial cells (Vil-Cre-HSD2−/− Apcmin/+). Deletion of 11β-HSD2 in intestinal epithelia led to marked inhibition of Apcmin/+ mouse intestinal tumorigenesis. Immunostaining indicated decreased 11β-HSD2 and COX-2 expression in adenoma epithelia, whereas stromal COX-2 expression was intact in Vil-Cre-HSD2−/− Apcmin/+ mice. In Vil-Cre-HSD2−/− Apcmin/+ mouse intestinal adenomas, both p53 and p21 mRNA and protein were increased, with a concomitant decrease in pRb, indicating glucocorticoid-mediated G1-arrest. Further study revealed that REDD1 (regulated in development and DNA damage responses 1), a novel stress-induced gene that inhibits mTOR signaling, was increased, whereas the mTOR signaling pathway was inhibited. Therefore, in Vil-Cre-HSD2−/− Apcmin/+ mice, epithelial cell 11β-HSD2 deficiency leads to inhibition of adenoma initiation and growth by attenuation of COX-2 expression, increased cell-cycle arrest, and inhibition of mTOR signaling as a result of increased tumor intracellular active glucocorticoids.

Implications:Inhibition of 11β-HSD2 may represent a novel approach for colorectal cancer chemoprevention by increasing tumor glucocorticoid activity, which in turn inhibits tumor growth by multiple pathways. Mol Cancer Res; 11(9); 1040–50. ©2013 AACR.
Effect of Selected Dietary Compounds on Extracellular Superoxide Dismutase in the Vitreous of Chinchillas
Authors: Rokicki Wojciech , Zalejska-Fiolka Jolanta , Mrukwa-Kominek Ewa , Majewski Wojciech , Birkner Ewa
Published: June 2013

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of diet on the extracellular superoxide dismutase (EC-SOD) activity in the vitreous of chinchillas. Methods: Seventy-eight male chinchillas were randomly divided into 7 subgroups: controls, receiving a standard basal diet, and 6 experimental groups additionally receiving 10% nonoxidized and 10% oxidized olive oil, a garlic extract and lipoic acid in their diet. The activities of EC-SOD were measured. Results: The highest EC-SOD activity was similar in the controls [2.17 ± 0.27 nitric units (NU)/mg protein] and in rabbits fed oxidized olive oil (2.29 ± 0.31 NU/mg protein; p = 0.519). Nonoxidized olive oil appeared to be the strongest antioxidant component of diet (1.58 ± 0.20 NU/mg protein) as compared with the subgroups above (p = 0.008 and p = 0.012, respectively). Administration of garlic and lipoic acid decreased the SOD activity only inthe groups fed oxidized olive oil (p = 0.014). Conclusions: The SOD activity in laboratory animals is possibly modulated by diet. Work will be continued to extrapolate these results to humans.
Role of Tramadol in Premature Ejaculation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yang Lu , Qian Shengqiang , Liu Huawei , Liu Liangren , Pu Chunxiao , Han Ping , Wei Qiang
Published: June 2013

Objective: This systematic review was performed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of tramadol in patients with premature ejaculation (PE). Methods: A systematic search of PubMed®, Embase® and the Cochrane Library was performed to identify all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared the effects of tramadol with placebo or no drug for patients with PE. The outcomes included post-therapeutic intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT), increases in IELT, satisfaction with sexual intercourse, control over ejaculation and side effects (SEs). The Cochrane Collaboration Review Manager software (RevMan 5.1.4) was used for statistical analysis. Results: A total of 5 trials, involving 715 patients, met the inclusion criteria. The synthesized data from these RCTs indicated that compared with the control, tramadol significantly increased IELT values post-therapeutically (SMD 3.51, 95% CI 2.14-4.88, p < 0.00001) and changes in IELT values were more pronounced in the tramadol group (SMD 2.87, 95% CI 2.63-3.10, p < 0.00001). Satisfaction with sexual intercourse and the ability to control ejaculation were both improved in patients in the tramadol group (p < 0.05). The incidence of SEs in the tramadol group were significantly higher than in the control group (RR 3.55, 95% CI 1.34-9.40, p = 0.01), however most SEs were mild or moderate and transient. Conclusions: Tramadol may be effective in PE treatment, especially when patients have failed therapies, like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. However, the possibility of drug addiction and SEs should still be considered before initial use or after chronic use of this agent. More high-quality (clear randomization sequences, allocation concealment and blinding introduction), long-term, RCTs with a large number of PE patients are expected.
Inadequate Nutrient Intake in Patients with Celiac Disease: Results from a German Dietary Survey
Authors: Martin Julia , Geisel Tabea , Maresch Constanze , Krieger Kathrin , Stein Jürgen
Published: June 2013

Background: Currently, the only treatment for celiac disease (CD) is a lifelong gluten-free diet (GFD). Research has been carried out in various countries into the nutritional adequacy of the GFD in terms of macro- and micronutrients, mostly presenting conflicting results. However, no data for Germany are available to date. Aim: To elucidate the nutritional composition of a GFD and to compare it with non-GFD in a representative German non-CD population. Methods and Patients: A total of 1,000 patients who were members of the German Celiac Society (DZG) were invited to fill out a prospective 7-day food diary and a questionnaire. Data from 88 patients aged 14-80 years were analyzed and compared to the DACH reference values and to data from the German National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NVS II). Results: No significant difference was observed for the intake of energy and macronutrients in male celiac patients compared to the NVS II. Only the fiber intake of male patients was significantly lower than that of the general population. Female patients, however, showed a significantly higher fat intake, but lower carbohydrate consumption. The average daily micronutrient intake of male and female patients, specifically of vitamin B1, B2, B6, folic acid, magnesium and iron, was significantly lower in celiac patients compared to the NVS II. Conclusion: This study reveals inadequate nutrient intake by male and female celiac patients in Germany. Based on our findings, regular (laboratory) monitoring of celiac patients should be recommended.
Management Strategy for Small Duodenal Carcinoid Tumors: Does Conservative Management with Close Follow-Up Represent an Alternative to Endoscopic Treatment?
Authors: Min Byung-Hoon , Kim Eun Ran , Lee Jun Haeng , Kim Kyoung-Mee , Min Yang Won , Rhee Poong-Lyul , Kim Jae J. , Rhee Jong Chul
Published: June 2013

Background/Aims: Limited data exist regarding the natural history of duodenal carcinoid tumors and the efficacy of endoscopic treatment. Methods: A total of 27 patients with duodenal carcinoid tumors were enrolled. All tumors were located outside the periampullary region and were ≤10 mm in size. 11 patients underwent endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and argon plasma coagulation (APC). 13 patients did not undergo any specific procedure for tumor removal and were followed clinically. Results: Of 13 patients not undergoing treatment, tumors disappeared in 5 cases during follow-up with diagnostic forceps biopsy. Endoscopically visible lesions remained in the last follow-up endoscopy in 8 patients (61.5%). No lymph node or distant metastases or tumor-related deaths occurred during a median follow-up of 37 months. Of 11 cases treated with EMR, tumor-free resection margins were achieved in 10 cases and no local recurrence occurred after treatment. Two perforations occurred during EMR. Of the 3 cases treated with APC, local recurrence occurred in 1 case. Conclusions: Given the risks associated with EMR and the likely favorable natural history of small duodenal carcinoid tumors, conservative management with close follow-up may represent a viable alternative to endoscopic treatment, especially in patients with a high risk of perioperative complications.
Early Prenatal Diagnosis of Orofacial Clefts: Evaluation of the Retronasal Triangle Using a New Three-Dimensional Reslicing Technique
Authors: Tonni Gabriele , Grisolia Gianpaolo , Sepulveda Waldo
Published: June 2013

Background: The role of three-dimensional ultrasound in the prenatal diagnosis of orofacial clefts is increasing in recent time. Materials and Methods: We obtained three-dimensional data sets of the fetal face from 100 low-risk and 50 high-risk first-trimester fetuses to evaluate the offline reformatting accuracy of the retronasal triangle (RNT) using a novel reslicing technique. Results: Adequate volume data sets for offline analysis were captured in 98% of cases. The RNT view was reformatted in 96% of cases by offline analysis. The secondary palate could be assessed in 93% by offline analysis and an abnormal RNT in the coronal plane was detected in 2 cases of lethal aneuploidy. The false-positive rate was 1.33% in the two studied groups. Conclusion: Abnormal RNT seems to be a valuable ultrasound marker for the early diagnosis of facial clefting. This novel reslicing technique has proven to be easy, fast and accurate, which suggest that this technology could be included in daily practice and integrated with other applications such as multiplanar mode and volume NT. Prospective studies are needed to confirm these promising results and to demonstrate if these diagnostic armamentarium tools will lead to a diagnostic enhancement of cleft lip and palate in early pregnancy.
Selecting Endovascular Treatment Strategy according to the Location of Intracranial Occlusion in Acute Stroke
Authors: Pagola Jorge , Rubiera Marta , Flores Alan , Rodríguez-Luna David , Piñeiro Socorro , Muchada Mari A. , Quintana Manolo , Alvarez-Sabin Jose , Molina Carlos A. , Ribo Marc
Published: June 2013

Background: Selection of endovascular approaches for acute stroke patients remains unclear. The efficacy of intra-arterial therapy (IAT) has been demonstrated in the past. However, in the last years, the use of mechanical thrombectomy by retrievers (RET) is increasing at the expense of IAT. We aimed to compare several clinical outcomes between patients treated with IAT or RET. Methods: In a 6-year period, acute stroke patients (<8 h) with confirmed internal carotid artery (ICA) occlusion or middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion undergoing endovascular therapy were prospectively included in our database. Patients who underwent intra-arterial tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) ± microguidewire mechanical clot disruption (IAT group) were compared with those who underwent thrombectomy with the Solitaire® or Trevo® retrievers (RET group). Recanalization (REC) was considered if at the end of the endovascular procedure thrombolysis in cerebral infarction score was 2a-3. Dramatic clinical improvement (DCI) was defined as a decrease of ≥10 NIHSSS points from baseline to discharge or 7 days. Results: One hundred and eighty patients were included, 100 (55.6%) patients in the IAT group and 80 patients (44.4%) in the RET group. There were no differences in baseline characteristics (age, gender, risk factors profile, previous treatment with i.v. tPA, baseline NIHSS, extracranial ICA angioplasty and time to REC). Rates of REC, DCI and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage were also similar between groups. Among patients with ICA occlusions (41 IAT, 34 RET), REC was significantly higher with RET (83.9 vs. 61%; p = 0.04).There was a trend towards a higher DCI rate in the RET group (32.3%) compared with the IAT group (14.6%; p = 0.06). According to MCA occlusions, there were no major differences in the main outcome variables. The number needed to treat to achieve one additional DCI with RET compared with IAT was 12 for MCA occlusions, and only 5 for ICA occlusions. Conclusions: Among acute stroke patients undergoing endovascular therapies, the benefits of RET over IAT are greater in ICA occlusions. Retrievers may be considered as the first therapeutic option in these patients.
Brain Diffusion Changes in Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Syndrome
Authors: Emin Akkoyunlu Muhammed , Kart Levent , Kılıçarslan Rukiye , Bayram Mehmet , Aralasmak Ayşe , Sharifov Rasul , Alkan Alpay
Published: June 2013

Background: Obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) is a disorder characterized by repeated apnoeic episodes during sleep. Neurocognitive changes secondary to OSAS are likely to occur due to hypoxia in certain brain locations. Advances in magnetic resonance imaging technology, such as diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), enable non-invasive and accurate identification of OSAS-induced changes. Objective: We aimed to use DWI to investigate changes in the brain secondary to hypoxia in OSAS. Methods: Eighty-eight patients underwent polysomnography and were classified as non-OSAS, mild-moderate OSAS and severe OSAS sufferers. DWI was used to evaluate 14 areas of the brain, and apparent diffusion coefficients (ADCs) were calculated. We investigated whether there were differences in the ADC values in specific areas of the brain between the non-OSAS and OSAS patients. Results: We measured the ADC values of the 68 newly diagnosed OSAS patients (21 mild, 15 moderate and 32 severe) and of 20 healthy controls. There were significant increases in the ADC values in the hippocampus, amygdala and putamen in OSAS patients. Compared to the non-OSAS subjects, the ADC values of the putamen in severe OSAS patients, those of the hippocampus in moderate or severe OSAS patients and those of the amygdala in moderate OSAS patients were significantly increased. A negative correlation between the lowest oxygen saturation during sleep and the ADC values of the hippocampus and amygdala was found. Conclusions: Increased ADC levels in the hippocampus, amygdala and putamen in OSAS patients indicate hypoxia and likely cause vasogenic oedema in specific regions of the brain.
Frontomaxillary Facial Angle Measurement at 11-14 Weeks: Assessment of Interobserver and Intraobserver Agreement in 2D and 3D Imaging
Authors: Alphonse Jennifer , Cox Jenny , Clarke Jillian L. , Robinson Catherine L. , Schluter Philip J. , McLennan Andrew
Published: June 2013

Introduction: The primary aim of this study was to assess the interobserver and intraobserver reproducibility of the first-trimester frontomaxillary facial angle (FMFA) measurement using both 2D and 3D ultrasound. Assessment of the relationship between crown-to-rump length (CRL) and FMFA measurement was also reviewed. Materials and Methods: Two experienced operators imaged the same 30 patients over a 1-month period collecting both 2D static images and 3D volumes during nuchal translucency assessment at 11-14 weeks' gestation. The operators were blinded to each other's images and results. Results: The mean 2D FMFA measurement was 88.0° and 88.4° for observer 1 and 2, respectively; while the mean 3D FMFA measurement was 87.8° and 88.0°, respectively. Intraclass correlation suggests good intraobserver and interobserver agreement with no statistically significant difference between operators in either 2D (p = 0.14) or 3D (p = 0.11) measurements. The FMFA was unchanged with increasing CRL. Discussion: Both 2D and 3D FMFA measurements have been demonstrated to be equivalent and reliable. Strict image acquisition criteria must be followed for accurate and reproducible FMFA measurements. There was no change demonstrated in FMFA measurement with increasing CRL.
Postmortem High-Resolution Fetal Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Three Cases of Lower Urinary Tract Obstruction
Authors: Lefere Mathieu , Sandaite Inga , Hindryckx An , Devlieger Roland , De Catte Luc , Moerman Philippe , Claus Filip
Published: June 2013

In this manuscript we report 3 cases of severe lower urinary tract obstruction diagnosed before 20 weeks of pregnancy. All cases had a very similar prenatal presentation with a megacystis, bilateral hydro-ureteronephrosis and increased echogenicity of the kidneys. High-resolution postmortem magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), following termination of pregnancy, enabled accurate investigation of the underlying cause of the urinary tract obstruction, by depicting the presence of an urethral valve, urethral atresia and cloacal dysgenesis. Postmortem fetal MRI provides high anatomical detail and is very suitable to investigate congenital anomalies of the lower urinary tract. In case (timely or consented) conventional autopsy is not possible, MRI is an excellent alternative.
Inequalities in Transplant Waiting List Activation across Italian Dialysis Centers
Authors: Neri Luca , Gallieni Maurizio , Rocca Rey Lisa Allegra , Bertoli Silvio Volmer , Andreucci Vittorio , Brancaccio Diego ,   the MigliorDialisi Study Group
Published: June 2013

Background: The demand for kidney transplant exceeds organ supply; therefore, understanding patient-related and contextual factors associated with waiting list activation is key in ensuring that organ allocation is efficient and equitable. We sought to assess whether inequalities in wait-listing probability exist across centers and evaluate correlates of wait-listing in Italy. Methods: We linked the MigliorDialisi dataset (1,238 patients enrolled in 54 Italian hemodialysis centers) to administrative data concerning the activity of each participating center and contextual information abstracted from the Italian Institute of Statistics. We modeled the odds of waiting list activation for patients on dialysis by the subjects' sociodemographic, biomedical and psychosocial factors along with center-related and contextual factors. Results: The crude enlistment rate was 26% (95% CI 9-54) distributed as follows: 21, 34 and 33% in northern, central, and southern Italy, respectively (p < 0.01). Older patients with poorer health conditions and lower expectations toward transplantation outcomes were less likely to be wait-listed in multilevel multivariable logistic regression. In the fully adjusted model there was not a statistically significant variation in wait-listing across northern, central, and southern regions. However, the variance explained by center-related factors accounted for 12% (p < 0.01) of total variability in enlistment likelihood (20% in patients >65 years, p < 0.01). Conclusions: Our results showed that inter-center variation exists after adjusting for case mix. Additionally, we identified individual modifiable factors associated with wait-listing inequalities.
Chronic Kidney Disease and the Foot in Diabetes - Is Inflammation the Missing Link?
Authors: Game F.L. , Selby N.M. , McIntyre C.W.
Published: June 2013

Diabetes is commonly complicated by the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Equally prevalent is the development of diabetic foot disease and it is now recognised that there is a higher risk of the development of foot disease and major amputation in those patients with CKD. This is particularly marked in those patients with end-stage kidney disease receiving renal replacement therapy for which there are many possible mechanisms, including the effect of dialysis on tissue hypoxia. What has been recognised recently is that the risk of the development of foot disease appears to start prior to the onset of renal replacement therapy. Whilst this may be due to the fact that the emphasis of care shifts towards the requirements of the patients' renal disease, here we discuss the possibility that the presence of a foot ulcer itself may contribute to the development or progression of CKD through repeated episodes of sepsis or chronic inflammation, or both.
A novel fibrinogen B beta chain frameshift mutation causes congenital afibrinogenaemia
Authors: Yu Ziqiang , Cao Lijuan , Zhang Wei , Bai Xia , Ruan Changgeng , Zhang Jian , Zhao Xiaojuan , Wang Zhaoyue
Published: June 2013

Congenital afibrinogenaemia is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by various mutations within the fibrinogen genes FGA, FGB and FGG. Ins/del mutations in FGB are extremely rare. We report a patient with afibrinogenaemia who suffered from umbilical cord bleeding and repeated bleeding episodes. His plasma fibrinogen levels could not be detected using the Clauss method and immunological methods. Molecular analyses revealed homozygosity in a novel four bases insertion in codon 40 of FGB exon 2 (g. 2833_2834 ins GTTT), which resulted in a truncated 50-residue polypeptide that contained 11 exceptional abnormal residues. In the transient expression experiments, mutant fibrinogen could be detected at higher level than wild-type fibrinogen in COS-7 cell lysates but not in culture media. These results suggest that the homozygous mutation in FGB could be responsible for congenital afibrinogenaemia in this patient. This frameshift mutation could impair fibrinogen assembly and secretion without influencing the protein synthesis.