bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of intensified training on muscle ion kinetics, fatigue development, and repeated short-term performance in endurance-trained cyclists
Authors: Gunnarsson Thomas P. , Christensen Peter M. , Thomassen Martin , Nielsen Lars R. , Bangsbo Jens
Published: July 2013

The effects of intensified training in combination with a reduced training volume on muscle ion kinetics, transporters, and work capacity were examined. Eight well-trained cyclists replaced their regular training with speed-endurance training (12 × 30 s sprints) 2–3 times per week and aerobic high-intensity training (4–5 × 3–4 min at 90–100% of maximal heart rate) 1–2 times per week for 7 wk and reduced training volume by 70% (intervention period; IP). The duration of an intense exhaustive cycling bout (EX2; 368 ± 6 W), performed 2.5 min after a 2-min intense cycle bout (EX1), was longer ( P < 0.05) after than before IP (4:16 ± 0:34 vs. 3:37 ± 0:28 min:s), and mean and peak power during a repeated sprint test improved ( P < 0.05) by 4% and 3%, respectively. Femoral venous K+ concentration in recovery from EX1 and EX2 was lowered ( P < 0.05) after compared with before IP, whereas muscle interstitial K+ concentration and net muscle K+ release during exercise was unaltered. No changes in muscle lactate and H+ release during and after EX1 and EX2 were observed, but the in vivo buffer capacity was higher ( P < 0.05) after IP. Expression of the ATP-sensitive K+ (KATP) channel (Kir6.2) decreased by IP, with no change in the strong inward rectifying K+ channel (Kir2.1), muscle Na+-K+ pump subunits, monocarboxylate transporters 1 and 4 (MCT1 and MCT4), and Na+/H+ exchanger 1 (NHE1). In conclusion, 7 wk of intensified training with a reduced training volume improved performance during repeated intense exercise, which was associated with a greater muscle reuptake of K+ and muscle buffer capacity but not with the amount of muscle ion transporters.
Albuminuria induces a proinflammatory and profibrotic response in cortical collecting ducts via the 24p3 receptor
Authors: Dizin Eva , Hasler Udo , Nlandu-Khodo Stellor , Fila Marc , Roth Isabelle , Ernandez Thomas , Doucet Alain , Martin Pierre-Yves , Feraille Eric , de Seigneux Sophie
Published: July 2013

Albuminuria is strongly associated with progressive kidney tubulo-interstitial damage and chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression. In proteinuric nephropathies, albumin reabsorption by the proximal tubule is saturated and the distal nephron is exposed to high concentrations of luminal albumin that may produce adverse effects. Since proximal tubular cells exposed to albuminuria exhibit a proinflammatory and profibrotic response, we assessed the effect of albuminuria in the collecting duct (CD). With the use of kidney sections and isolated cortical CDs (CCDs) from puromycin-aminonucleoside-induced nephrotic rats (PAN rats) exhibiting proteinuria, immunofluorescence microscopy revealed internalized albumin in CD cells. In these proteinuric rats, increased expression levels of cytokines and profibrotic signaling markers were detected in isolated CCDs and bands of inflammatory fibrosis could be observed around CDs. Albumin endocytosis was confirmed by FITC-albumin uptake in cultured murine CCD (mCCDcl1) cells. Exposure of mCCDcl1cells to albumin induced NF-κB activation as assessed by luciferase reporter gene assay, nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 subunit, and increased NF-κB target gene expression. Moreover, albuminuria-like condition results in transforming growth factor-β1(TGF-β1) overexpression and the upregulation of profibrotic signaling markers such as Snail or vimentin via an autocrine mechanism. In mCCDcl1cells, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL)/lipocalin-2/24p3 receptor (24p3R) mediates albumin endocytosis as well as activation of NF-κB and TGF-β1signaling pathways. Therefore, CD may play a key role in initiation and/or progression of inflammation and fibrosis in response to proteinuria.
Rapamycin inhibition of mTORC1 reverses lithium-induced proliferation of renal collecting duct cells
Authors: Gao Yang , Romero-Aleshire Melissa J. , Cai Qi , Price Theodore J. , Brooks Heddwen L.
Published: July 2013

Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (NDI) is the most common renal side effect in patients undergoing lithium therapy for bipolar affective disorders. Approximately 2 million US patients take lithium of whom ∼50% will have altered renal function and develop NDI ( 2 , 37 ). Lithium-induced NDI is a defect in the urinary concentrating mechanism. Lithium therapy also leads to proliferation and abundant renal cysts (microcysts), commonly in the collecting ducts of the cortico-medullary region. The mTOR pathway integrates nutrient and mitogen signals to control cell proliferation and cell growth (size) via the mTOR Complex 1 (mTORC1). To address our hypothesis that mTOR activation may be responsible for lithium-induced proliferation of collecting ducts, we fed mice lithium chronically and assessed mTORC1 signaling in the renal medulla. We demonstrate that mTOR signaling is activated in the renal collecting ducts of lithium-treated mice; lithium increased the phosphorylation of rS6 (Ser240/Ser244), p-TSC2 (Thr1462), and p-mTOR (Ser2448). Consistent with our hypothesis, treatment with rapamycin, an allosteric inhibitor of mTOR, reversed lithium-induced proliferation of medullary collecting duct cells and reduced levels of p-rS6 and p-mTOR. Medullary levels of p-GSK3β were increased in the renal medullas of lithium-treated mice and remained elevated following rapamycin treatment. However, mTOR inhibition did not improve lithium-induced NDI and did not restore the expression of collecting duct proteins aquaporin-2 or UT-A1.
Renal anemia: from incurable to curable
Authors: Sato Yuki , Yanagita Motoko
Published: July 2013

Renal anemia has been recognized as a characteristic complication of chronic kidney disease. Although many factors are involved in renal anemia, the predominant cause of renal anemia is a relative deficiency in erythropoietin (EPO) production. To date, exogenous recombinant human (rh)EPO has been widely used as a powerful drug for the treatment of patients with renal anemia. Despite its clinical effectiveness, a potential risk for increased mortality has been suggested in patients who receive rhEPO, in addition to the economic burden of rhEPO administration. The induction of endogenous EPO is another therapeutic approach that might have advantages over rhEPO administration. However, the physiological and pathophysiological regulation of EPO are not fully understood, and this lack of understanding has hindered the development of an endogenous EPO inducer. In this review, we will discuss the current treatment for renal anemia and its drawbacks, provide an overview of EPO regulation in healthy and diseased conditions, and propose future directions for therapeutic trials that more directly target the underlying pathophysiology of renal anemia.
Muscimol inactivation of caudal fastigial nucleus and posterior interposed nucleus in monkeys with strabismus
Authors: Joshi Anand C. , Das Vallabh E.
Published: July 2013

Previously, we showed that neurons in the supraoculomotor area (SOA), known to encode vergence angle in normal monkeys, encode the horizontal eye misalignment in strabismic monkeys. The SOA receives afferent projections from the caudal fastigial nucleus (cFN) and the posterior interposed nucleus (PIN) in the cerebellum. The objectives of the present study were to investigate the potential roles of the cFN and PIN in 1) conjugate eye movements and 2) binocular eye alignment in strabismic monkeys. We used unilateral injections of the GABAA agonist muscimol to reversibly inactivate the cFN (4 injections in exotropic monkey S1 with ∼4° of exotropia; 5 injections in esotropic monkey S2 with ∼34° of esotropia) and the PIN (3 injections in monkey S1). cFN inactivation induced horizontal saccade dysmetria in all experiments (mean 39% increase in ipsilesional saccade gain and 26% decrease in contralesional gain). Also, mean contralesional smooth-pursuit gain was decreased by 31%. cFN inactivation induced a divergent change in eye alignment in both monkeys, with exotropia increasing by an average of 9.8° in monkey S1 and esotropia decreasing by an average of 11.2° in monkey S2 ( P < 0.001). Unilateral PIN inactivation in monkey S1 resulted in a mean increase in the gain of upward saccades by 13% and also induced a convergent change in eye alignment, reducing exotropia by an average of 2.7° ( P < 0.001). We conclude that cFN/PIN influences on conjugate eye movements in strabismic monkeys are similar to those postulated in normal monkeys and cFN/PIN play important and complementary roles in maintaining the steady-state misalignment in strabismus.
Neuropeptide S: a novel regulator of pain-related amygdala plasticity and behaviors
Authors: Ren Wenjie , Kiritoshi Takaki , Grégoire Stéphanie , Ji Guangchen , Guerrini Remo , Calo Girolamo , Neugebauer Volker
Published: July 2013

Amygdala plasticity is an important contributor to the emotional-affective dimension of pain. Recently discovered neuropeptide S (NPS) has anxiolytic properties through actions in the amygdala. Behavioral data also suggest antinociceptive effects of centrally acting NPS, but site and mechanism of action remain to be determined. This is the first electrophysiological analysis of pain-related NPS effects in the brain. We combined whole cell patch-clamp recordings in brain slices and behavioral assays to test the hypothesis that NPS activates synaptic inhibition of amygdala output to suppress pain behavior in an arthritis pain model. Recordings of neurons in the laterocapsular division of the central nucleus (CeLC), which serves pain-related amygdala output functions, show that NPS inhibited the enhanced excitatory drive [monosynaptic excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs)] from the basolateral amygdala (BLA) in the pain state. As shown by miniature EPSC analysis, the inhibitory effect of NPS did not involve direct postsynaptic action on CeLC neurons but rather a presynaptic, action potential-dependent network mechanism. Indeed, NPS increased external capsule (EC)-driven synaptic inhibition of CeLC neurons through PKA-dependent facilitatory postsynaptic action on a cluster of inhibitory intercalated (ITC) cells. NPS had no effect on BLA neurons. High-frequency stimulation (HFS) of excitatory EC inputs to ITC cells also inhibited synaptic activation of CeLC neurons, providing further evidence that ITC activation can control amygdala output. The cellular mechanisms by which EC-driven synaptic inhibition controls CeLC output remain to be determined. Administration of NPS into ITC, but not CeLC, also inhibited vocalizations and anxiety-like behavior in arthritic rats. A selective NPS receptor antagonist ([d-Cys(tBu)5]NPS) blocked electrophysiological and behavioral effects of NPS. Thus NPS is a novel tool to control amygdala output and pain-related affective behaviors through a direct action on inhibitory ITC cells.
Positive Solutions for Discrete Boundary Value Problems to One-Dimensionalp-Laplacian with Delay
Authors: Wang Linjun , Chen Xumei
Published: July 2013

We study the existence of positive solutions for discrete boundary value problems to one-dimensionalp-Laplacian with delay. The proof is based on the Guo-Krasnoselskii fixed-point theorem in cones. Two numerical examples are also provided to illustrate the theoretical results.
MicroRNAs as Novel Regulators of Neuroinflammation
Authors: Ksiazek-Winiarek Dominika Justyna , Kacperska Magdalena Justyna , Glabinski Andrzej
Published: July 2013

MicroRNAs are relatively recently discovered class of small noncoding RNAs, which function as important regulators of gene expression. They fine-tune protein expression either by translational inhibition or mRNA degradation. MicroRNAs act as regulators of diverse cellular processes, such as cell differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis. Their defective biogenesis or function has been identified in various pathological conditions, like inflammation, neurodegeneration, or autoimmunity. Multiple sclerosis is one of the predominated debilitating neurological diseases affecting mainly young adults. It is a multifactorial disorder of as yet unknown aetiology. As far, it is suggested that interplay between genetic and environmental factors is responsible for MS pathogenesis. The role of microRNAs in this pathology is now extensively studied. Here, we want to review the current knowledge of microRNAs role in multiple sclerosis.
New Morphological Features for Grading Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinomas
Authors: Song Jae-Won , Lee Ju-Hong
Published: July 2013

Pathological diagnosis is influenced by subjective factors such as the individual experience and knowledge of doctors. Therefore, it may be interpreted in different ways for the same symptoms. The appearance of digital pathology has created good foundation for objective diagnoses based on quantitative feature analysis. Recently, numerous studies are being done to develop automated diagnosis based on the digital pathology. But there are as of yet no general automated methods for pathological diagnosis due to its specific nature. Therefore, specific methods according to a type of disease and a lesion could be designed. This study proposes quantitative features that are designed to diagnose pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas. In the diagnosis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas, the region of interest is a duct that consists of lumen and epithelium. Therefore, we first segment the lumen and epithelial nuclei from a tissue image. Then, we extract the specific features to diagnose the pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma from the segmented objects. The experiment evaluated the classification performance of the SVM learned by the proposed features. The results showed an accuracy of 94.38% in the experiment distinguishing between pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas and normal tissue and a classification accuracy of 77.03% distinguishing between the stages of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas.
Effects of Resveratrol on Daily Rhythms of Locomotor Activity and Body Temperature in Young and Aged Grey Mouse Lemurs
Authors: Pifferi Fabien , Dal-Pan Alexandre , Languille Solène , Aujard Fabienne
Published: July 2013

In several species, resveratrol, a polyphenolic compound, activates sirtuin proteins implicated in the regulation of energy balance and biological clock processes. To demonstrate the effect of resveratrol on clock function in an aged primate, young and aged mouse lemurs(Microcebus murinus)were studied over a 4-week dietary supplementation with resveratrol. Spontaneous locomotor activity and daily variations in body temperature were continuously recorded. Reduction in locomotor activity onset and changes in body temperature rhythm in resveratrol-supplemented aged animals suggest an improved synchronisation on the light-dark cycle. Resveratrol could be a good candidate to restore the circadian rhythms in the elderly.
CdTe Quantum Dots Embedded in Multidentate Biopolymer Based on Salep: Characterization and Optical Properties
Authors: Rezanejade Bardajee Ghasem , Hooshyar Zari
Published: July 2013

This paper describes a novel method for surface modification of water soluble CdTe quantum dots (QDs) by using poly(acrylic acid) grafted onto salep (salep‐g‐PAA) as a biopolymer. As‐prepared CdTe‐salep‐g‐PAA QDs were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectrum, thermogravimetric (TG) analysis, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The absorption and fluorescence emission spectra were measured to investigate the effect of salep‐g‐PAA biopolymer on the optical properties of CdTe QDs. The results showed that the optical properties of CdTe QDs were significantly enhanced by using salep‐g‐PAA‐based biopolymer.
Adverse Effects of Androgen Deprivation Therapy for Prostate Cancer: Prevention and Management
Authors: Sountoulides Petros , Rountos Thomas
Published: July 2013

The prostate is an androgen-dependent organ. The increase, growth, homeostasis, and function of the prostate largely depend upon the intraprostatic and serum concentrations of androgens. Therefore, androgens are essential for the physiologic growth of prostatic epithelium. Prostate cancer, the second leading cause of death for men, is also androgen dependent, and androgen suppression is the mainstay of treatment for advanced and metastatic disease. In the state of metastatic disease, androgen suppression is a palliative treatment leading to a median progression-free survival of 18–20 months and an overall survival of 24–36 months. Theoretically, the majority of patients will develop hormone-refractory disease provided that they will not die from other causes. Although androgen suppression therapy may be associated with significant and sometimes durable responses, it is not considered a cure, and its potential efficacy is further limited by an array of significant and bothersome adverse effects caused by the suppression of androgens. These effects have potentially significant consequences on a variety of parameters of everyday living and may further decrease health-related quality of life. This review focuses on the aetiology of these adverse effects and provides information on their prevention and management.
Relationship between Pulsatility Index and Clinical Course of Acute Ischemic Stroke after Thrombolytic Treatment
Authors: Uzuner Nevzat , Özdemir Özcan , Tekgöl Uzuner Gülnur
Published: July 2013

Background. The relationship between the arterial recanalization after intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA) and outcomes is still uncertain. The aim of our study was to evaluate whether there is an association between the pulsatility indexes (PI) of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) measured by transcranial Doppler (TCD) after iv rtPA treatment and short- and long-term outcomes in ischemic stroke patients.Methods. Forty-eight patients with acute ischemia in the MCA territory who achieved complete recanalization after the administration of intravenous thrombolytic treatment were included in the study. The TCD was applied to patients after the iv rtPA treatment. Clinical and functional outcomes were assessed by National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores and modified Rankin Scores (mRS), respectively.Results. Significant positive correlations were found between the PI value and NIHSS score at 24 hours, NIHSS score at 3 months, and mRS at 3 months ( for all). The cut-off value for PI in predicting a favorable prognosis and a good prognosis might be less than or equal to 1.1 and less than or equal to 1.4, respectively.Conclusions. PI may play a role in predicting the functional and clinical outcome after thrombolytic therapy in acute ischemic stroke patients.
Identifying the Association Rules between Clinicopathologic Factors and Higher Survival Performance in Operation-Centric Oral Cancer Patients Using the Apriori Algorithm
Authors: Tang Jen-Yang , Chuang Li-Yeh , Hsi Edward , Lin Yu-Da , Yang Cheng-Hong , Chang Hsueh-Wei
Published: July 2013

This study computationally determines the contribution of clinicopathologic factors correlated with 5-year survival in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) patients primarily treated by surgical operation (OP) followed by other treatments. From 2004 to 2010, the program enrolled 493 OSCC patients at the Kaohsiung Medical Hospital University. The clinicopathologic records were retrospectively reviewed and compared for survival analysis. The Apriori algorithm was applied to mine the association rules between these factors and improved survival. Univariate analysis of demographic data showed that grade/differentiation, clinical tumor size, pathology tumor size, and OP grouping were associated with survival longer than 36 months. Using the Apriori algorithm, multivariate correlation analysis identified the factors that coexistently provide good survival rates with higher lift values, such as grade/differentiation = 2, clinical stage group = early, primary site = tongue, and group = OP. Without the OP, the lift values are lower. In conclusion, this hospital-based analysis suggests that early OP and other treatments starting from OP are the key to improving the survival of OSCC patients, especially for early stage tongue cancer with moderate differentiation, having a better survival (>36 months) with varied OP approaches.
Positional Error Analysis of PCB Rogowski Coil for High Accuracy Current Measurement
Authors: Zhang Gang , Liu Yi
Published: July 2013

Geometrical, physical, and electrical parameters have influences on the precision of printed circuit board Rogowski coils (PCBRCs). This paper outlined operating principles and properties of PCBRCs. Two kinds of positional sensitivities between current conductor and PCBRC are analyzed, and mathematical models and formulas for error computing are established and derived. The roles of some critical geometrical parameters are characterized and verified by experiment. These methods can be used to define structure parameters of PCBRC for precise current measurement applications.
Magnetic Resonance Sialography Findings of Submandibular Ducts Imaging
Authors: Karaca Erdoğan Nezahat , Altay Canan , Özenler Nesibe , Bozkurt Tuğba , Uluç Engin , Dirim Mete Berna , Özdemir İsmail
Published: July 2013

Purpose. We aimed to assess the problem solving capability of magnetic resonance sialography (MR sialography), a noninvasive method for imaging submandibular gland ducts and determining duct-related pathologies, by comparing diseased and healthy cases.Materials and Methods. We conducted radiological assessment on a total of 60 submandibular glands (mean age 44.7) in 20 cases and 10 volunteers. MR sialography examinations were conducted with single-shot fast spin-echo sequence by using a surface coil placed on the submandibular gland. Each gland was evaluated in terms of the length, width and stricture of the main duct, as well as the difference between the intraparenchymal duct width, and the main duct width. Statistical analysis was performed.Results. In the MR sialography the primary duct mean length was determined as 51 mm (40–57 mm) in all submandibular glands. On the MR sialography imaging, the visualization ratio of the ductal system of submandibular gland was evaluated in the cases and volunteers.Conclusion. MR sialography is an effective and a noninvasive method in imaging submandibular gland ducts, demonstrating the presence, location and degree of stricture/dilatation, and elucidating the disease etiology.
Aorta Structural Alterations in Term Neonates: The Role of Birth and Maternal Characteristics
Authors: Ciccone Marco Matteo , Scicchitano Pietro , Salerno Christian , Gesualdo Michele , Fornarelli Fara , Zito Annapaola , Filippucci Lucia , Riccardi Roberta , Cortese Francesca , Pini Francesca , Angrisani Lucia , Di Mauro Antonio , Schettini Federico , Laforgia Nicola
Published: July 2013

Aim. To evaluate the influence of selected maternal and neonatal characteristics on aorta walls in term, appropriately grown-for-gestational age newborns.Methods. Age, parity, previous abortions, weight, height, body mass index before and after delivery, smoking, and history of hypertension, of diabetes, of cardiovascular diseases, and of dyslipidemia were all assessed in seventy mothers. They delivered 34 males and 36 females healthy term newborns who underwent ultrasound evaluation of the anteroposterior infrarenal abdominal aorta diameter (APAO), biochemical profile (glucose, insulin, total cholesterol, HDL and LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, fibrinogen, and D-dimers homeostasis model assessment [HOMAIR]index), and biometric parameters.Results. APAO was related to newborn length (r=+0.36;P=0.001), head circumference (r=+0.37;P=0.001), gestational age (r=+0.40,P=0.0005), HOMA index (r=+0.24;P=0.04), and D-dimers (r=+0.33,P=0.004). Smoke influenced APAO values (odds ratio: 1.80; confidence interval 95%: 1.05–3.30), as well as diabetes during pregnancy (r=+0.42,P=0.0002). Maternal height influenced neonatal APAO (r=+0.47,P=0.00003). Multiple regression analysis outlined neonatal D-dimers as still significantly related to neonatal APAO values.Conclusions. Many maternal and neonatal characteristics could influence aorta structures. Neonatal D-dimers are independently related to APAO.
Ascorbic Acid and BSA Protein in Solution and Films: Interaction and Surface Morphological Structure
Authors: Maciel Rafael R. G. , de Almeida Adriele A. , Godinho Odin G. C. , Gorza Filipe D. S. , Pedro Graciela C. , Trescher Tarquin F. , Silva Josmary R. , de Souza Nara C.
Published: July 2013

This paper reports on the study of the interactions between ascorbic acid (AA) and bovine serum albumin (BSA) in aqueous solution as well as in films (BSA/AA films) prepared by the layer-by-layer technique. Regarding to solution studies, a hyperchromism (in the range of ultraviolet) was found as a function of AA concentration, which suggested the formation of aggregates from AA and BSA. Binding constant, , determined for aggregates from BSA and AA was found to be about 102 M−1, which indicated low affinity of AA with BSA. For the BSA/AA films, it was also noted that the AA adsorption process and surface morphological structures depended on AA concentration. By changing the contact time between the AA and BSA, a hypochromism was revealed, which was associated to decrease of accessibility of solvent to tryptophan due to formation of aggregates. Furthermore, different morphological structures of aggregates were observed, which were attributed to the diffusion-limited aggregation. Since most of studies of interactions of drugs and proteins are performed in solution, the analysis of these processes by using films can be very valuable because this kind of system is able to employ several techniques of investigation in solid state.
Effects of anAgaricus blazeiAqueous Extract Pretreatment on Paracetamol-Induced Brain and Liver Injury in Rats
Authors: Soares Andréia A. , de Oliveira Andrea L. , Sá-Nakanishi Anacharis B. , Comar Jurandir F. , Rampazzo Ana P. S. , Vicentini Fernando A. , Natali Maria R. M. , Gomes da Costa Sandra M. , Bracht Adelar , Peralta Rosane M.
Published: July 2013

The action of anAgaricus blazeiaqueous extract pretreatment on paracetamol injury in rats was examined not only in terms of the classical indicators (e.g., levels of hepatic enzymes in the plasma) but also in terms of functional and metabolic parameters (e.g., gluconeogenesis). Considering solely the classical indicators for tissue damage, the results can be regarded as an indication that theA. blazeiextract is able to provide a reasonable degree of protection against the paracetamol injury in both the hepatic and brain tissues. TheA. blazeipretreatment largely prevented the increased levels of hepatic enzymes in the plasma (ASP, ALT, LDH, and ALP) and practically normalized the TBARS levels in both liver and brain tissues. With respect to the functional and metabolic parameters of the liver, however, the extract provided little or no protection. This includes morphological signs of inflammation and the especially important functional parameter gluconeogenesis, which was impaired by paracetamol. Considering these results and the long list of extracts and substances that are said to have hepatoprotective effects, it would be useful to incorporate evaluations of functional parameters into the experimental protocols of studies aiming to attribute or refute effective hepatoprotective actions to natural products.
On a New Space of Double Sequences
Authors: Duyar Cenap , Oğur Oğuz
Published: July 2013

We introduce a new space of double sequences related to -absolute convergent double sequence space, combining an Orlicz function and an infinity double matrix. We study some properties of and obtain some inclusion relations involving .
Vitamin-Responsive Epileptic Encephalopathies in Children
Authors: Agadi Satish , Quach Michael M. , Haneef Zulfi
Published: July 2013

Untreated epileptic encephalopathies in children may potentially have disastrous outcomes. Treatment with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) often may not control the seizures, and even if they do, this measure is only symptomatic and not specific. It is especially valuable to identify potential underlying conditions that have specific treatments. Only a few conditions have definitive treatments that can potentially modify the natural course of disease. In this paper, we discuss the few such conditions that are responsive to vitamin or vitamin derivatives.
Rupture of the Left External Iliac Artery and Right Groin Pseudoaneurysm Formation following Angioplasty in a Patient with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 and Undiagnosed Bilateral Phaeochromocytoma
Authors: Doleman Brett , Kaushal Sushila , Patel Asha , Kirk James , Quarmby John
Published: July 2013

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a genetic condition, which affects 1 in every 3000 births. Patients with NF1 are at increased risk of a variety of vascular abnormalities. This report presents the case of a 60-year-old male with NF1 who suffered a left external iliac rupture and a right pseudoaneurysm following angioplasty. In addition, these were further complicated by previously undiagnosed, bilateral phaeochromocytomas. The inherent weakness in vessel wall architecture found in NF1 coupled with the hypertension evident during and after the procedure contributed to haemorrhage and pseudoaneurysm formation. Caution must be taken in such patients when considering vascular intervention.
Genital Schistosomiasis Leading to Ectopic Pregnancy and Subfertility: A Case for Parasitic Evaluation of Gynaecologic Patients in Schistosomiasis Endemic Areas
Authors: Owusu-Bempah Atta , Odoi Alexander Tawiah , Dassah Edward Tieru
Published: July 2013

Female genital schistosomiasis is a significant risk factor for ectopic pregnancy and infertility in schistosomiasis-endemic areas. A case of one previous ectopic pregnancy and subsequent obstruction of the contralateral tube in a secondary subfertility patient with chronic genital schistosomiasis is presented, emphasizing the need for a detailed history and parasitic evaluation of patients presenting with ectopic pregnancy or subfertility in areas where the disease is endemic.
Purity and Enrichment of Laser-Microdissected Midbrain Dopamine Neurons
Authors: Brown Amanda L. , Day Trevor A. , Dayas Christopher V. , Smith Doug W.
Published: July 2013

The ability to microdissect individual cells from the nervous system has enormous potential, as it can allow for the study of gene expression in phenotypically identified cells. However, if the resultant gene expression profiles are to be accurately ascribed, it is necessary to determine the extent of contamination by nontarget cells in the microdissected sample. Here, we show that midbrain dopamine neurons can be laser-microdissected to a high degree of enrichment and purity. The average enrichment for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) gene expression in the microdissected sample relative to midbrain sections was approximately 200-fold. For the dopamine transporter (DAT) and the vesicular monoamine transporter type 2 (Vmat2), average enrichments were approximately 100- and 60-fold, respectively. Glutamic acid decarboxylase (Gad65) expression, a marker for GABAergic neurons, was several hundredfold lower than dopamine neuron-specific genes. Glial cell and glutamatergic neuron gene expression were not detected in microdissected samples. Additionally, SN and VTA dopamine neurons had significantly different expression levels of dopamine neuron-specific genes, which likely reflects functional differences between the two cell groups. This study demonstrates that it is possible to laser-microdissect dopamine neurons to a high degree of cell purity. Therefore gene expression profiles can be precisely attributed to the targeted microdissected cells.
An Initial Boundary Value Problem for the Zakharov Equation
Authors: Yang Quankang , Bu Charles
Published: July 2013

This paper studies an inhomogeneous initial boundary value problem for the one-dimensional Zakharov equation. Existence and uniqueness of the global strong solution are proved by Galerkin’s method and integral estimates.
Hemoglobin Concentration and Pregnancy Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sukrat Bunyarit , Wilasrusmee Chumpon , Siribumrungwong Boonying , McEvoy Mark , Okascharoen Chusak , Attia John , Thakkinstian Ammarin
Published: July 2013

Objective. To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of hemoglobin effect on the pregnancy outcomes.Methods. We searched MEDLINE and SCOPUS from January 1, 1990 to April 10, 2011. Observational studies addressing association between hemoglobin and adverse pregnancy outcomes were selected. Two reviewers independently extracted data. A mixed logistic regression was applied to assess the effects of hemoglobin on preterm birth, low birth weight, and small for gestational age.Results. Seventeen studies were included in poolings. Hemoglobin below 11 g/dL was, respectively, 1.10 (95% CI: 1.02–1.19), 1.17 (95% CI: 1.03–1.32), and 1.14 (95% CI: 1.05–1.24) times higher risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and small for gestational age than normal hemoglobin in the first trimester. In the third trimester, hemoglobin below 11 g/dL was 1.30 (95% CI: 1.08–1.58) times higher risk of low birth weight. Hemoglobin above 14 g/dL in third trimester decreased the risk of preterm term with ORs of 0.50 (95% CI: 0.26–0.97), but it might be affected by publication bias.Conclusions. Our review suggests that hemoglobin below 11 g/dl increases the risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and small gestational age in the first trimester and the risk of low birth weight in the third trimester.
Complete Controllability of Impulsive Stochastic Integrodifferential Systems in Hilbert Space
Authors: Dai Xisheng , Yang Feng
Published: July 2013

This paper concerns the complete controllability of the impulsive stochastic integrodifferential systems in Hilbert space. Based on the semigroup theory and Burkholder-Davis-Gundy's inequality, sufficient conditions of the complete controllability for impulsive stochastic integro-differential systems are established by using the Banach fixed point theorem. An example for the stochastic wave equation with impulsive effects is presented to illustrate the utility of the proposed result.
Double Discontinuous Inverse Problems for Sturm-Liouville Operator with Parameter-Dependent Conditions
Authors: Ozkan A. S. , Keskin B. , Cakmak Y.
Published: July 2013

The purpose of this paper is to solve the inverse spectral problems for Sturm-Liouville operator with boundary conditions depending on spectral parameter and double discontinuities inside the interval. It is proven that the coefficients of the problem can be uniquely determined by either Weyl function or given two different spectral sequences.
Change of Electrophysical Properties of Nanocrystalline SiC Films by Laser Treatment at Applied Electric Field
Authors: Semenov A. V. , Puzikov V. M. , Mateichenko P. V. , Romano V.
Published: July 2013

Studied are peculiarities of the changes in the structure and electrophysical properties of nanocrystalline silicon carbide films of 3C-SiC polytype subjected to the action of picosecond laser pulses with λ = 355 nm and a pulse power up to 1.5 W. It is established that laser processing of the films with an energy density of 3 × 10−2−30 J/cm2 leads to ablation without decomposition of SiC. During the laser processing the electrical resistance of the films rises due to diminution of the film thickness. While measuring the PL properties of nc-SiC films under the influence of the applied electric field with intensity 3 × 103 V/cm, the effect of a single triple enhancement of the luminescence maximum is revealed. Repeated PL measurements at the same area of the film under the applied electric field with the intensity ranging from 0 to 1 × 104 V/cm show that the PL emission intensity diminishes at the short-wavelength boundary of the maximum and rises at the long-wavelength boundary. Thereat the spectral position of the PL maximum remains unchanged.
Mild Solutions of Neutral Semilinear Stochastic Functional Dynamic Systems with Local Non-Lipschitz Coefficients
Authors: Jiang Feng
Published: July 2013

Semilinear stochastic dynamic systems in a separable Hilbert space often model some evolution phenomena arising in physics and engineering. In this paper, we study the existence and uniqueness of mild solutions to neutral semilinear stochastic functional dynamic systems under local non-Lipschitz conditions on the coefficients by means of the stopping time technique. We especially generalize and improve the results that appeared in Govinadan (2005), Bao and Hou (2010), and Jiang and Shen (2011).
Intraoperative Pachymetry Using Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography during Accelerated Corneal Collagen Crosslinking
Authors: Chow Vanissa W. S. , Biswas Sayantan , Yu Marco , Wong Victoria W. Y. , Jhanji Vishal
Published: July 2013

Purpose. To evaluate the role of spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SDOCT) to measure corneal thickness during accelerated corneal crosslinking (CXL).Methods. Intraoperative pachymetry was performed using SDOCT and ultrasound pachymetry (USP) in 6 eyes of 6 patients with keratoconus. Pachymetry readings were obtained at baseline, after epithelium removal and after 30 minutes of riboflavin instillation. SDOCT measurements of eyes with and without lid speculum during riboflavin instillation were compared.Results. There was no statistically significant difference in central corneal thickness (CCT) measurements between SDOCT and USP (P>0.05for all). A significant decrease in both CCT (P=0.031) and the thinnest corneal thickness (TCT) (P=0.031) was observed during CXL. There was a greater reduction in CCT (38 ± 6%) with the use of lid speculum as compared to the no-speculum eyes (18 ± 9%) (P=0.100). TCT was also reduced by a greater extent with the use of lid speculum (40 ± 5% versus 26 ± 7%;P=0.100).Conclusion. SDOCT can be successfully used to measure intraoperative corneal pachymetry during corneal CXL. SDOCT measurements demonstrated corneal thinning intraoperatively during CXL, which was further accentuated by the use of a lid speculum during the procedure.
Ibuprofen-Induced Hypokalemia and Distal Renal Tubular Acidosis: A Patient’s Perceptions of Over-the-Counter Medications and Their Adverse Effects
Authors: Salter Mark D.
Published: July 2013

We highlight a case of distal renal tubular acidosis secondary to ibuprofen and codeine use. Of particular interest in this case are the patient’s perception of over-the-counter (OTC) medication use, her own OTC use prior to admission, and her knowledge of adverse reactions or side effects of these medications prior to taking them.
Isolation and Characterisation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells from Different Regions of the Human Umbilical Cord
Authors: Mennan Claire , Wright Karina , Bhattacharjee Atanu , Balain Birender , Richardson James , Roberts Sally
Published: July 2013

Umbilical cords as a source of stem cells are of increasing interest for cell therapies as they present little ethical consideration and are reported to contain immune privileged cells which may be suitable for allogeneic based therapies. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) sourced from several different cord regions, including artery, vein, cord lining, and Wharton’s jelly, are described in the literature. However, no one study has yet isolated and characterised MSCs from all regions of the same cord to determine the most suitable cells for cell based therapeutics.
Sarcoidosis: Immunopathogenesis and Immunological Markers
Authors: Loke Wei Sheng Joshua , Herbert Cristan , Thomas Paul S.
Published: July 2013

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous disorder invariably affecting the lungs. It is a disease with noteworthy variations in clinical manifestation and disease outcome and has been described as an “immune paradox” with peripheral anergy despite exaggerated inflammation at disease sites. Despite extensive research, sarcoidosis remains a disease with undetermined aetiology. Current evidence supports the notion that the immune response in sarcoidosis is driven by a putative antigen in a genetically susceptible individual. Unfortunately, there currently exists no reliable biomarker to delineate the disease severity and prognosis. As such, the diagnosis of sarcoidosis remains a vexing clinical challenge. In this review, we outline the immunological features of sarcoidosis, discuss the evidence for and against various candidate etiological agents (infective and noninfective), describe the exhaled breath condensate, a novel method of identifying immunological biomarkers, and suggest other possible immunological biomarkers to better characterise the immunopathogenesis of sarcoidosis.
IL-17 Expression in Dermatitis Herpetiformis and Bullous Pemphigoid
Authors: Zebrowska Agnieszka , Wagrowska-Danilewicz Malgorzata , Danilewicz Marian , Stasikowska-Kanicka Olga , Cynkier Anna , Sysa-Jedrzejowska Anna , Waszczykowska Elzbieta
Published: July 2013

Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) and bullous pemphigoid (BP) are skin diseases associated with eosinophilic and neutrophilic infiltrations. Although cytokines are critical for the inflammatory process, there are single findings concerning concentration of IL-17 in bullous diseases. The goal of this study was to assess IL-17 expression in DH and BP patients. Skin biopsies were taken from 10 DH, 14 BP patients and from 10 healthy subjects. The localization and expression of IL-17 was studied by immunohistochemistry and the serum concentration was measured by immunoassays. Expression of IL-17 in the epidermis and in influxed cells in dermis was detected in skin biopsies. Expression of IL-17 was statistically higher in epidermis and infiltration cells in specimens from BP than from DH patients. Examined interleukin expression was detected in perilesional skin of all patients but it was much lower than in lesional skin. The expression of IL-17 was not observed in biopsies from healthy people. Serum level of IL-17 was statistically higher in BP and DH groups as compared to control group. Our results provide the evidence that IL-17 may play an essential role in activating and recruiting eosinophils and neutrophils, which ultimately contribute to the tissue damage in DH and BP.
Existence and Iterative Approximation Methods for Generalized Mixed Vector Equilibrium Problems with Relaxed Monotone Mappings
Authors: Wangkeeree Rabian , Yimmuang Panu
Published: July 2013

We first consider an auxiliary problem for the generalized mixed vector equilibrium problem with a relaxed monotone mapping and prove the existence and uniqueness of the solution for the auxiliary problem. We then introduce a new iterative scheme for approximating a common element of the set of solutions of a generalized mixed vector equilibrium problem with a relaxed monotone mapping and the set of common fixed points of a countable family of nonexpansive mappings. The results presented in this paper can be considered as a generalization of some known results due to Wang et al. (2010).
Glycolysis Inhibition Sensitizes Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer with T790M Mutation to Irreversible EGFR Inhibitors via Translational Suppression of Mcl-1 by AMPK Activation
Authors: Kim Sun Mi , Yun Mi Ran , Hong Yun Kyoung , Solca Flavio , Kim Joo-Hang , Kim Hyun-Jung , Cho Byoung Chul
Published: July 2013

The secondary EGF receptor (EGFR) T790M is the most common mechanism of resistance to reversible EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) in patients with non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with activating EGFR mutations. Although afatinib (BIBW2992), a second-generation irreversible EGFR-TKI, was expected to overcome the acquired resistance, it showed limited efficacy in a recent phase III clinical study. In this study, we found that the inhibition of glycolysis using 2-deoxy-d-glucose (2DG) improves the efficacy of afatinib in H1975 and PC9-GR NSCLC cells with EGFR T790M. Treatment with the combination of 2DG and afatinib induced intracellular ATP depletion in both H1975 and PC9-GR cells, resulting in activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). AMPK activation played a central role in the cytotoxicity of the combined treatment with 2DG and afatinib through the inhibition of mTOR. The alteration of the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway by the inhibition of glucose metabolism induced specific downregulation of Mcl-1, a member of the antiapoptotic Bcl-2 family, through translational control. The enhancement of afatinib sensitivity by 2DG was confirmed in the in vivo PC9-GR xenograft model. In conclusion, this study examined whether the inhibition of glucose metabolism using 2DG enhances sensitivity to afatinib in NSCLC cells with EGFR T790M through the regulation of the AMPK/mTOR/Mcl-1 signaling pathway. These data suggest that the combined use of an inhibitor of glucose metabolism and afatinib is a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of patients with acquired resistance to reversible EGFR-TKIs due to secondary EGFR T790M. Mol Cancer Ther; 12(10); 2145–56. ©2013 AACR.
Pyocalycosis: A Report of Two Cases of Complicated Hydrocalycosis
Authors: Taşkınlar Hakan , Avlan Dinçer , Yiğit Doğakan , Naycı Ali
Published: July 2013

Hydrocalycosis is defined as cystic dilatation of a major calyx with a demonstrable connection to the renal pelvis and an epithelial lining of the cyst wall. Although this condition has long been known, there are no sufficient data concerning this pathology in the literature. In this study, we present two complicated hydrocalycosis - ‘pyocalycosis' - and discussed the therapeutic approaches.
Morphological and Functional Outcome after Brilliant Blue G-Assisted Macular Hole Surgery
Authors: Lüke Julia , Lüdeke Inger , Acksteiner Alina , Nassar Khaled , Hoerauf Hans , Grisanti Salvatore , Lüke Matthias
Published: July 2013

Purpose of the Study: To investigate the outcome of brilliant blue G (BBG)-assisted internal limiting membrane peeling in macular hole surgery after a follow-up of 6 months. Procedures: In this retrospective study 20 eyes have been treated with BBG-assisted macular hole surgery. After a follow-up of 6 months, the functional and anatomical outcomes have been analyzed. Results: The mean preoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.7 logMAR units (mean ± SD 0.66 ± 0.27). After 3 months, the mean BCVA increased not significantly to 0.4 (0.54 ± 0.30), but a significant improvement to 0.2 logMAR units (0.28 ± 0.23) could be detected after 6 months compared to baseline (p < 0.01). Primary macular hole closure after a single surgery was found in 17 of 20 eyes. Conclusion and Message: BBG exhibits sufficient staining qualities and safety profile leading to a significant functional improvement after successful macular hole surgery.