bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beta2-Microglobulin as a Diagnostic Marker in Cerebrospinal Fluid: A Follow-Up Study
Authors: Svatoňová Jana , Bořecká Klára , Adam Pavel , Lánská Věra
Published: May 2014

Beta2-Microglobulin (β2-m) is a low molecular weight protein occurring in all body fluids. Its concentration increases in various pathologies. Increased values in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) are ascribed to an activation of immune system. Using immunoturbidimetry, we examined concentrations of beta2-microglobulin in cerebrospinal fluid in a large group of 6274 patients with defined neurological diseases. Cell counts, total protein, albumin, glucose, lactic acid, immunoglobulins concentrations, and isofocusing (IEF) were also evaluated. We found substantial changes of CSFβ2-m concentrations in purulent meningitis, leptomeningeal metastasis, viral meningitis/encephalitis, and neuroborreliosis, while in multiple sclerosis these changes were not significant. Intrathecal synthesis and immune activation were present in these clinical entities. A new normative study enables better understanding of beta2-microglobulin behavior in CSF.
A Modified Groundwater Flow Model Using the Space Time Riemann-Liouville Fractional Derivatives Approximation
Authors: Atangana Abdon , Noutchie S. C. Oukouomi
Published: May 2014

The notion of uncertainty in groundwater hydrology is of great importance as it is known to result in misleading output when neglected or not properly accounted for. In this paper we examine this effect in groundwater flow models. To achieve this, we first introduce the uncertainties functionsuas function of time and space. The functionuaccounts for the lack of knowledge or variability of the geological formations in which flow occur (aquifer) in time and space. We next make use of Riemann-Liouville fractional derivatives that were introduced by Kobelev and Romano in 2000 and its approximation to modify the standard version of groundwater flow equation. Some properties of the modified Riemann-Liouville fractional derivative approximation are presented. The classical model for groundwater flow, in the case of density-independent flow in a uniform homogeneous aquifer is reformulated by replacing the classical derivative by the Riemann-Liouville fractional derivatives approximations. The modified equation is solved via the technique of green function and the variational iteration method.
Endodontic and Clinical Considerations in the Management of Variable Anatomy in Mandibular Premolars: A Literature Review
Authors: Albuquerque Denzil , Kottoor Jojo , Hammo Mohammad
Published: May 2014

Mandibular premolars are known to have numerous anatomic variations of their roots and root canals, which are a challenge to treat endodontically. The paper reviews literature to detail the various clinically relevant anatomic considerations with detailed techniques and methods to successfully manage these anomalies. An emphasis and detailed description of every step of treatment including preoperative diagnosis, intraoperative identification and management, and surgical endodontic considerations for the successful management of these complex cases have been included.
Research on Overconfidence in Decision-Making for the Capacity Recovery of Damaged Power Systems
Authors: Bao Xing
Published: May 2014

This paper studies the influence of two types of overconfident behavior, overestimation and overprecision, on decision of capacity recovery when power system’s critical capacity is seriously damaged. A newsvendor model is used to prove that increasing regulatory punishment for electricity shortage and providing subsidy for capacity recovery are conducive measures to calibrate insufficient service level caused by an overconfident manager. The research also finds that the manager’s overprecision behavior both negatively and positively influences the decision of capacity recovery, and a calibration method could motivate manager to recover more capacity by tuning up the ratio of punishment and subsidy. However, the effectiveness of the calibration mentioned above is inevitably weakened due to the less capacity recovery given by an overestimated manager. This research also indicates that the manager should pay close attention to the random disturbance whose distribution peak is left skewed, and correspondingly more capacity recovery should be given to improve the service level of power system during the disruption.
188W/188Re Generator System and Its Therapeutic Applications
Authors: Boschi A. , Uccelli L. , Pasquali M. , Duatti A. , Taibi A. , Pupillo G. , Esposito J.
Published: May 2014

The188Re radioisotope represents a useful radioisotope for the preparation of radiopharmaceuticals for therapeutic applications, particularly because of its favorable nuclear properties. The nuclide decay pattern is through the emission of a principle beta particle having 2.12 MeV maximum energy, which is enough to penetrate and destroy abnormal tissues, and principle gamma rays (Eγ=155 keV), which can efficiently be used for imaging and calculations of radiation dose.188Re may be conveniently produced by188W/188Re generator systems. The challenges related to the double neutron capture reaction route to provide only modest yield of the parent188W radionuclide indeed have been one of the major issues about the use of188Re in nuclear medicine. Since the specific activity of188W used in the generator is relatively low (<185 GBq/g), the elutedRe188O4-can have a low radioactive concentration, often ineffective for radiopharmaceutical preparation. However, several efficient postelution concentration techniques have been developed, which yield clinically usefulRe188O4-solutions. This review summarizes the technologies developed for the preparation of188W/188Re generators, postelution concentration of the188Re perrhenate eluate, and a brief discussion of new chemical strategies available for the very high yield preparation of188Re radiopharmaceuticals.
Living at the Limits: Evidence for Microbial Eukaryotes Thriving under Pressure in Deep Anoxic, Hypersaline Habitats
Authors: Stoeck Thorsten , Filker Sabine , Edgcomb Virginia , Orsi William , Yakimov Michail M. , Pachiadaki Maria , Breiner Hans-Werner , LaCono Violetta , Stock Alexandra
Published: May 2014

The advent of molecular tools in microbial ecology paved the way to exploit the diversity of microbes in extreme environments. Here, we review these tools as applied in one of the most polyextreme habitats known on our planet, namely, deep hypersaline anoxic basins (DHABs), located at ca. 3000–3500 m depth in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. Molecular gene signatures amplified from environmental DHAB samples identified a high degree of genetic novelty, as well as distinct communities in the DHABs. Canonical correspondence analyses provided strong evidence that salinity, ion composition, and anoxia were the strongest selection factors shaping protistan community structures, largely preventing cross-colonization among the individual basins. Thus, each investigated basin represents a unique habitat (“isolated islands of evolution”), making DHABs ideal model sites to test evolutionary hypotheses. Fluorescence in situ hybridization assays using specifically designed probes revealed that the obtained genetic signatures indeed originated from indigenous polyextremophiles. Electron microscopy imaging revealed unknown ciliates densely covered with prokaryote ectosymbionts, which may enable adaptations of eukaryotes to DHAB conditions. The research reviewed here significantly advanced our knowledge on polyextremophile eukaryotes, which are excellent models for a number of biological research areas, including ecology, diversity, biotechnology, evolutionary research, physiology, and astrobiology.
Association between eNOS 4b/a Polymorphism and the Risk of Diabetic Retinopathy in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ma Ze-jun , Chen Rui , Ren Hui-Zhu , Guo Xin , Guo Jun , Chen Li-ming
Published: May 2014

Many studies have assessed the association between eNOS-4b/a polymorphism and the risk of diabetic retinopathy (DR) among type 2 diabetic subjects. However, the results are inconsistent. In order to derive a more precise estimation of the association, a meta-analysis was conducted. Fifteen studies with 3, 183 cases and 3, 410 controls were enrolled by searching the databases of Pubmed, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Chinese Wanfang Database. Summary odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. The main analysis indicated no significant association between eNOS-4b/a polymorphism and the risk of DR in overall population [allelic model:OR=0.94(0.79–1.11); additive model:OR=0.91(0.73–1.14); recessive model:OR=1.01(0.81–1.25); dominant model:OR=0.91(0.75–1.09)]. Subgroup analysis by ethnicity also indicated no significant association. In conclusion, the current meta-analysis did not observe any association between the polymorphism of eNOS 4b/a and the risk of DR among type 2 diabetic subjects. However, larger well-designed studies are required to confirm this finding.
Distributed Optimal Power and Rate Control in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Tang Meiqin , Bai Jianyong , Li Jing , Xin Yalin
Published: May 2014

With the rapid development of wireless sensor networks, reducing energy consumption is becoming one of the important factors to extend node lifetime, and it is necessary to adjust the launching power of each node because of the limited energy available to the sensor nodes in the networks. This paper proposes a power and rate control model based on the network utility maximization (NUM) framework, where a weighting factor is used to reflect the influence degree of the sending power and transmission rate to the utility function. In real networks, nodes interfere with each other in the procedure of transmitting signal, which may lead to signal transmission failure and may negatively have impacts on networks throughput. Using dual decomposition techniques, the NUM problem is decomposed into two distributed subproblems, and then the conjugate gradient method is applied to solve the optimization problem with the calculation of the Hessian matrix and its inverse in order to guarantee fast convergence of the algorithm. The convergence proof is also provided in this paper. Numerical examples show that the proposed solution achieves significant throughput compared with exiting approaches.
Regenerative Medicine for the Kidney: Renotropic Factors, Renal Stem/Progenitor Cells, and Stem Cell Therapy
Authors: Maeshima Akito , Nakasatomi Masao , Nojima Yoshihisa
Published: May 2014

The kidney has the capacity for regeneration and repair after a variety of insults. Over the past few decades, factors that promote repair of the injured kidney have been extensively investigated. By using kidney injury animal models, the role of intrinsic and extrinsic growth factors, transcription factors, and extracellular matrix in this process has been examined. The identification of renal stem cells in the adult kidney as well as in the embryonic kidney is an active area of research. Cell populations expressing putative stem cell markers or possessing stem cell properties have been found in the tubules, interstitium, and glomeruli of the normal kidney. Cell therapies with bone marrow-derived hematopoietic stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells, endothelial progenitor cells, and amniotic fluid-derived stem cells have been highly effective for the treatment of acute or chronic renal failure in animals. Embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells are also utilized for the construction of artificial kidneys or renal components. In this review, we highlight the advances in regenerative medicine for the kidney from the perspective of renotropic factors, renal stem/progenitor cells, and stem cell therapies and discuss the issues to be solved to realize regenerative therapy for kidney diseases in humans.
Optical Response of Metakaolin after Ultraviolet and High Energy Electron Exposure
Authors: Cesul B. T. , Mall S. , Matson L.
Published: May 2014

Metakaolin, which is part of a class of inorganic polymers called geopolymers, is being tested currently for its use as a lightweight mirror material in spacecraft applications. Metakaolin, as with most geopolymers, has the advantages of low initial coefficient of thermal expansion, easy preparation at room temperature and pressure, and high specific strength. Even though metakaolin has been known as a structural material for millennia, it has not been properly vetted for use as a material in spacecraft applications, especially with respect to exposure to its environments. This research highlights one particular aspect of response to the space environment; that is, how do the optical properties of metakaolin change after subjugation to bombardment by ultraviolet and high energy electron radiation? These two radiation sources are common in low earth orbit and a primary cause of degradation of organic polymers in space. Photospectroscopic analysis showed that ultraviolet in combination with high energy electrons causes changes in the metakaolin which need to be accounted for due to their potential impacts on the thermal management of a spacecraft and during application in composite mirror structures.
A Six-Point Variant on the Lane-Riesenfeld Algorithm
Authors: Ashraf Pakeeza , Mustafa Ghulam , Deng Jiansong
Published: May 2014

We apply six-point variant on the Lane-Riesenfeld algorithm to obtain a new family of subdivision schemes. We also determine the support, smoothness, Hölder regularity, magnitude of the artifact, and the shrinkage effect due to the change of integer smoothing parameter that characterizes the members of the family. The degree of polynomial reproduction also has been discussed. It is observed that the proposed schemes have less shrinkage effect and as a result better preserve the shape of control polygon.
On the Solutions of Fractional Burgers-Fisher and Generalized Fisher’s Equations Using Two Reliable Methods
Authors: Gupta A. K. , Ray S. Saha
Published: May 2014

Two reliable techniques, Haar wavelet method and optimal homotopy asymptotic method (OHAM), are presented. Haar wavelet method is an efficient numerical method for the numerical solution of arbitrary order partial differential equations like Burgers-Fisher and generalized Fisher equations. The approximate solutions thus obtained for the fractional Burgers-Fisher and generalized Fisher equations are compared with the optimal homotopy asymptotic method as well as with the exact solutions. Comparison between the obtained solutions with the exact solutions exhibits that both the featured methods are effective and efficient in solving nonlinear problems. The obtained results justify the applicability of the proposed methods for fractional order Burgers-Fisher and generalized Fisher’s equations.
Three Consecutive Days of Interval Runs to Exhaustion Affects Lymphocyte Subset Apoptosis and Migration
Authors: Navalta James W. , Tibana Ramires Alsamir , Fedor Elizabeth A. , Vieira Amilton , Prestes Jonato
Published: May 2014

This investigation assessed the lymphocyte subset response to three days of intermittent run exercise to exhaustion. Twelve healthy college-aged males (n=8) and females (n=4) (age = 26 ± 4 years; height = 170.2 ± 10 cm; body mass = 75 ± 18 kg) completed an exertion test (maximal running speed and VO2max) and later performed three consecutive days of an intermittent run protocol to exhaustion (30 sec at maximal running speed and 30 sec at half of the maximal running speed). Blood was collected before exercise (PRE) and immediately following the treadmill bout (POST) each day. When the absolute change from baseline was evaluated (i. e., Δ baseline), a significant change in CD4+ and CD8+ for CX3CR1 cells was observed by completion of the third day. Significant changes in both apoptosis and migration were observed following two consecutive days in CD19+ lymphocytes, and the influence of apoptosis persisted following the third day. Given these lymphocyte responses, it is recommended that a rest day be incorporated following two consecutive days of a high-intensity intermittent run program to minimize immune cell modulations and reduce potential susceptibility.
Alveolar Macrophage Polarisation in Lung Cancer
Authors: Almatroodi Saleh A. , McDonald Christine F. , Pouniotis Dodie S.
Published: May 2014

The role of alveolar macrophages in lung cancer is multifaceted and conflicting. Alveolar macrophage secretion of proinflammatory cytokines has been found to enhance antitumour functions, cytostasis (inhibition of tumour growth), and cytotoxicity (macrophage-mediated killing). In contrast, protumour functions of alveolar macrophages in lung cancer have also been indicated. Inhibition of antitumour function via secretion of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 as well as reduced secretion of proinflammatory cytokines and reduction of mannose receptor expression on alveolar macrophages may contribute to lung cancer progression and metastasis. Alveolar macrophages have also been found to contribute to angiogenesis and tumour growth via the secretion of IL-8 and VEGF. This paper reviews the evidence for a dual role of alveolar macrophages in lung cancer progression.
In SilicoDesign of BACE1 Inhibitor for Alzheimer’s Disease by Traditional Chinese Medicine
Authors: Huang Hung-Jin , Lee Cheng-Chun , Chen Calvin Yu-Chian
Published: May 2014

Theβ-site APP cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1) is an important target for causing Alzheimer’s disease (AD), due to the brain deposition peptide amyloid beta (Aβ) require cleavages of amyloid precursor protein (APP) by BACE1 andγ-secretase, but treatments of AD still have side effect in recent therapy. This study utilizes the world largest traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) database and database screening to provide potential BACE1 inhibited compound. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation was carried out to observe the dynamics structure after ligand binding. We found that Triptofordin B1 has less toxicity than pyrimidine analogue, which has more potent binding affinity with BACE1. For trajectory analysis, all conformations are tending to be stable during 5000 ps simulation time. In dynamic protein validation, the residues of binding region are still stable after MD simulation. For snapshot comparison, we found that Triptofordin B1 could reduce the binding cavity; the results reveal that Triptofordin B1 could bind to BACE1 and better than control, which could be used as potential lead drug to design novel BACE1 inhibitor for AD therapy.
Cervicofacial Surgical Emphysema following Tonsillectomy
Authors: Yelnoorkar Samir , Issing Wolfgang
Published: May 2014

We report the case of a patient who developed cervicofacial subcutaneous emphysema following a routine tonsillectomy. An 18-year-old male with swallowing difficulties underwent a tonsillectomy and developed swelling of the right side of his neck and face 36 hours after surgery. A neck X-ray revealed subcutaneous emphysema. Unlike similar previously published cases, there were no postoperative issues of coughing, straining, or use of positive pressure ventilation. The complication also occurred after a considerable length of time. Further complications may include pneumothorax and pneumomediastinum and these should be excluded.
Does Repeated Ticking Maintain Tic Behavior? An Experimental Study of Eye Blinking in Healthy Individuals
Authors: Beetsma Daniel J. V. , van den Hout Marcel A. , Engelhard Iris M. , Rijkeboer Marleen M. , Cath Danielle C.
Published: May 2014

Tics in Tourette syndrome (TS) are often preceded by “premonitory urges”: annoying feelings or bodily sensations. We hypothesized that, by reducing annoyance of premonitory urges, tic behaviour may be reinforced. In a2×2experimental design in healthy participants, we studied the effects of premonitory urges (operationalized as air puffs on the eye) and tic behaviour (deliberate eye blinking after a puff or a sound) on changes in subjective evaluation of air puffs and EMG responses on the m. orbicularis oculi. The experimental group with air puffs + blinking experienced a decrease in subjective annoyance of the air puff, but habituation of the EMG response was blocked and length of EMG response increased. In the control groups (air puffs without instruction to blink, no air puffs), these effects were absent. When extrapolating to the situation in TS patients, these findings suggest that performance of tics is reinforced by reducing the subjective annoyance of premonitory urges, while simultaneously preventing habituation or even inducing sensitisation of the physiological motor response.
Multidisciplinary Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Clinical Practice
Authors: Bruera Gemma , Cannita Katia , Giordano Aldo Victor , Manetta Rosa , Vicentini Roberto , Carducci Sergio , Saltarelli Patrizia , Iapadre Nerio , Coletti Gino , Ficorella Corrado , Ricevuto Enrico
Published: May 2014

Background. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients require different treatment strategies according to disease extension, liver function, and patient’s fitness. We evaluated HCC multidisciplinary management in clinical practice.Methods. Consecutive patients were followed and treated with tailored medical, locoregional, and surgical treatments, according to disease stage and patient’s fitness (age, Cumulative Illness Rating Scale (CIRS)). Activity, efficacy, and safety were evaluated.Results. Thirty-eight patients were evaluated: median age, 74; elderly 92%; CIRS secondary 28 (74%); Child-Pugh A 20 (53%), B 11 (29%); and Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) 0 2 (5%), A 9 (24%), B 10 (26%), C 13 (34%), and D 4 (11%). Overall survival (OS) was 30 months. At 9 months median follow-up, among 25 unresectable HCC, OS was 10 months; BCLC B–D unfit for sorafenib showed OS 3 months. Ten patients (40%) received sorafenib: Child-Pugh A 5 (50%) and B 5 (50%) and disease control rate 89%, progression-free survival 7 months, and OS 9 months. G3-4 toxicities: anorexia, hypertransaminaemia, hyperbilirubinemia, and hypercreatininemia. Limiting toxicity syndromes were 40%, all multiple sites.Conclusion. HCC patients require multidisciplinary clinical management to properly select tailored treatments according to disease stage, fitness, and liver function. Patients suitable for sorafenib should be carefully selected, monitored for individual safety, and prevalently characterized by limiting toxicity syndromes multiple sites.
No Evidence for an Association of Vitamin D Deficiency and Migraine: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Lippi Giuseppe , Cervellin Gianfranco , Mattiuzzi Camilla
Published: May 2014

Vitamin D deficiency is associated with a number of human disorders, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, frailty, and infections. Since an association between vitamin D and migraine has also been recently speculated, we performed an electronic search on Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science using the keywords “migraine” and “vitamin D,” “25OH-D” “cholecalciferol,” “ergocalciferol,” with no language or date restriction. The electronic search allowed identifying seven studies (3 observational, 2 cross-sectional, and 2 case reports). The two case reports, including four women, showed favourable effects of vitamin D supplementation on migraine severity, but these studies were small and not placebo controlled. As regards the three observational studies, vitamin D deficiency was observed in 13.2 to 14.8% of migraine patients, and these rates do not differ from those reported in the general population (i.e., vitamin D deficiency between 22 and 42%). The results of the two cross-sectional studies are even more controversial, since no association was found between vitamin D status and migraine in both trials. In conclusion, the current evidence suggests that the association between migraine and vitamin D lacks reliable scientific support.
Application of Optimum Compaction Energy in the Development of Bricks Made with Construction Trash Soils
Authors: Lopez-Lara T. , Gonzalez-Vega C. L. , Hernandez-Zaragoza J. B. , Rojas-Gonzalez E. , Carreón-Freyre D. , Salgado-Delgado R. , Garcia-Hernandez E. , Cerca M.
Published: May 2014

In general, bricks frequently show different densities and therefore different resistances because the compaction energy is not considered in their production. Expansive soils represent a problem for light buildings over them because of volumetric instability. A generalized solution has been to extract them and substitute them by inert soil; thus they become construction trash. So, in this work the compaction energy aspect and the use of construction trash soils in the elaboration of resistant masonry bricks of homogeneous and controlled density are a new contribution in the production of bricks of better quality. First, the soil was stabilized with CaOH which leads to a decrease in its volumetric changes. Then, they were compacted with a specific energy for obtaining an optimal and maximum controlled density to ensure an increase in strength. Our results show that two optimal compaction energies can be considered with respect to the variation of optimum moisture in masonry bricks of expansive soil stabilized with lime. The first is when the optimal humidity reaches its smallest value (integrated soil lumps) and the second is when humidity increases (disintegrated soil lumps), after reaching its lowest value. We also conclude that high compaction energy does not improve density values.
Time-Related Alteration in Flow- (Shear Stress-) Mediated Remodeling in Resistance Arteries from Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Dumont Odile , Kauffenstein Gilles , Guihot Anne-Laure , Guérineau Nathalie C. , Abraham Pierre , Loufrani Laurent , Henrion Daniel
Published: May 2014

Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disorders. As flow-mediated outward remodeling has a key role in postischemic revascularization, we investigated this remodeling in mesenteric resistance arteries of normotensive (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) aged 3 to 9 months. Sequential ligation of mesenteric resistance arteries allowed modifying blood flowin vivo, thus exposing arteries to low, normal, or high flow. After 1, 3, 8, or 24 weeks, arteries were isolated forin vitrostudy. High flow (HF) induced outward hypertrophic remodeling in WKY rats after 1 week and persisted until 24 weeks without change in wall to lumen ratio. In SHRs, diameter increase was delayed, occurring only after 3 weeks. Nevertheless, it was reduced at 8 weeks and no longer significant after 24 weeks. In parallel, media cross-section area increased more with time in SHRs than in WKY rats and this was associated with increased contractility and oxidative stress with decreased NO-dependent relaxation. Low flow induced progressive inward remodeling until 24 weeks in both strains with excessive hypertrophy in SHRs. Thus, a chronic increase in flow induced transitory diameter expansion and long-lasting hypertrophy in SHRs. This could contribute to the higher susceptibility of hypertensive subjects to ischemic diseases.
Analysis of an M/M/cQueueing System with Impatient Customers and Synchronous Vacations
Authors: Yue Dequan , Yue Wuyi , Zhao Guoxi
Published: May 2014

We consider an M/M/cqueueing system with impatient customers and a synchronous vacation policy, where customer impatience is due to the servers’ vacation. Whenever a system becomes empty, all the servers take a vacation. If the system is still empty, when the vacation ends, all the servers take another vacation; otherwise, they return to serve the queue. We develop the balance equations for the steady-state probabilities and solve the equations by using the probability generating function method. We obtain explicit expressions of some important performance measures by means of the two indexes. Based on these, we obtain some results about limiting behavior for some performance measures. We derive closed-form expressions of some important performance measures for two special cases. Finally, some numerical results are also presented.
The Graph of Equivalence Classes of Zero Divisors
Authors: Joshi Vinayak , Waphare B. N. , Pourali H. Y.
Published: May 2014

We introduce a graph GE(L) of equivalence classes of zero divisors of a meet semilattice L with 0. The set of vertices of GE(L) are the equivalence classes of nonzero zero divisors of L and two vertices [x] and [y] are adjacent if and only if [x]∧[y]=[0]. It is proved that GE(L) is connected and either it contains a cycle of length 3 or GE(L)≅K2. It is known that two Boolean lattices L1 and L2 have isomorphic zero divisor graphs if and only if L1≅L2. This result is extended to the class of SSC meet semilattices. Finally, we show that Beck's Conjecture is true for GE(L)
.
Protective Effects of Lipoxin A4 in Testis Injury following Testicular Torsion and Detorsion in Rats
Authors: Zhou Xian-Long , Yang Qi-Sheng , Ni Shao-Zhou , Tu Xiao-Peng , Zhao Yan , Xu Bing , Pan Zheng-Qi , Shen Jun
Published: May 2014

Purpose. To investigate the protective effects of lipoxin A4 (LXA4) in rat testis injury following testicular torsion/detorsion.Methods. A rat testicular torsion model has been established as described. Rats were randomly divided into 6 groups: sham group, torsion group, torsion/detorsion (T/D) group, and T/D plus LXA4-pretreated groups (3 subgroups). Rats in LXA4-pretreated groups received LXA4 injection (0.1, 1.0, and 10 μg/kg body weight in LXA4-pretreated subgroups 1–3, resp.) at a single dose 1 h before detorsion. Biochemical analysis, apoptosis assessment, and morphologic evaluation were carried out after orchiectomies.Results. GPx and SOD levels significantly increased and MDA levels significantly reduced in LXA4-pretreated groups compared to T/D group. LXA4 also reverted IL-2 and TNF-αto basal levels and improved the expression of IL-4 and IL-10 in LXA4-pretreated groups. Moreover, the expression of NF-κB was downregulated in LXA4-pretreated groups. LXA4 treatment also showed an improved testicular morphology and decreased apoptosis in testes.Conclusion. Lipoxin A4 protects rats against testes injury after torsion/detorsion via modulation of cytokines, oxidative stress, and NF-κB activity.
Gallbladder Torsion: A Diagnostic Challenge
Authors: Gabizon Sharon , Bradshaw Kimberley , Jeyarajan Eshwarshanker , Alzubaidy Rafid , Liew Victor
Published: May 2014

80-year-old female presented with clinical findings suggestive of acute cholecystitis. Intraoperatively we discovered a dusky gallbladder with gangrenous patches and gallbladder torsion with 270 degrees clockwise rotation along the longitudinal axis. Gallbladder torsion is a rare cause of acute cholecystitis with less than 500 cases published in the literature. Gallbladder torsion should be included in the list of differential diagnoses in patients suspected of having acute cholecystitis especially when there are inconsistencies between clinical features and imaging. It is worth noting that 3-dimensional reconstructed CT may be useful in preoperative diagnosis of gallbladder torsion.
Piperlongumine Induces Apoptosis and Synergizes with Cisplatin or Paclitaxel in Human Ovarian Cancer Cells
Authors: Gong Li-Hua , Chen Xiu-Xiu , Wang Huan , Jiang Qi-Wei , Pan Shi-Shi , Qiu Jian-Ge , Mei Xiao-Long , Xue You-Qiu , Qin Wu-Ming , Zheng Fei-Yun , Shi Zhi , Yan Xiao-Jian
Published: May 2014

Piperlongumine (PL), a natural alkaloid fromPiper longum L., possesses the highly selective and effective anticancer property. However, the effect of PL on ovarian cancer cells is still unknown. In this study, we firstly demonstrate that PL selectively inhibited cell growth of human ovarian cancer cells. Furthermore, PL notably induced cell apoptosis, G2/M phase arrest, and accumulation of the intracellular reactive oxidative species (ROS) in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Pretreatment with antioxidant N-acety-L-cysteine could totally reverse the PL-induced ROS accumulation and cell apoptosis. In addition, low dose of PL/cisplatin or paclitaxel combination therapies had a synergistic antigrowth effect on human ovarian cancer cells. Collectively, our study provides new therapeutic potential of PL on human ovarian cancer.
Magnetic Flux Leakage Sensing-Based Steel Cable NDE Technique
Authors: Park Seunghee , Kim Ju-Won , Lee Changgil , Lee Jong-Jae
Published: May 2014

Nondestructive evaluation (NDE) of steel cables in long span bridges is necessary to prevent structural failure. Thus, an automated cable monitoring system is proposed that uses a suitable NDE technique and a cable-climbing robot. A magnetic flux leakage- (MFL-) based inspection system was applied to monitor the condition of cables. This inspection system measures magnetic flux to detect the local faults (LF) of steel cable. To verify the feasibility of the proposed damage detection technique, an 8-channel MFL sensor head prototype was designed and fabricated. A steel cable bunch specimen with several types of damage was fabricated and scanned by the MFL sensor head to measure the magnetic flux density of the specimen. To interpret the condition of the steel cable, magnetic flux signals were used to determine the locations of the flaws and the levels of damage. Measured signals from the damaged specimen were compared with thresholds that were set for objective decision-making. In addition, the measured magnetic flux signals were visualized as a 3D MFL map for intuitive cable monitoring. Finally, the results were compared with information on actual inflicted damages, to confirm the accuracy and effectiveness of the proposed cable monitoring method.
Validation of Methylation Biomarkers that Distinguish Normal Colon Mucosa of Cancer Patients from Normal Colon Mucosa of Patients without Cancer
Authors: Cesaroni Matteo , Powell Jasmine , Sapienza Carmen
Published: May 2014

We have validated differences in DNA methylation levels of candidate genes previously reported to discriminate between normal colon mucosa of patients with colon cancer and normal colon mucosa of individuals without cancer. Here, we report that CpG sites in 16 of the 30 candidate genes selected show significant differences in mean methylation level in normal colon mucosa of 24 patients with cancer and 24 controls. A support vector machine trained on these data and data for an additional 66 CpGs yielded an 18-gene signature, composed of ten of the validated candidate genes plus eight additional candidates. This model exhibited 96% sensitivity and 100% specificity in a 40-sample training set and classified all eight samples in the test set correctly. Moreover, we found a moderate–strong correlation (Pearson coefficients r = 0.253–0.722) between methylation levels in colon mucosa and methylation levels in peripheral blood for seven of the 18 genes in the support vector model. These seven genes, alone, classified 44 of the 48 patients in the validation set correctly and five CpGs selected from only two of the seven genes classified 41 of the 48 patients in the discovery set correctly. These results suggest that methylation biomarkers may be developed that will, at minimum, serve as useful objective and quantitative diagnostic complements to colonoscopy as a cancer-screening tool. These data also suggest that it may be possible to monitor biomarker methylation levels in tissues collected much less invasively than by colonoscopy. Cancer Prev Res; 7(7); 717–26. ©2014 AACR.
It Is Time to Regulate Carcinogenic Tobacco-Specific Nitrosamines in Cigarette Tobacco
Authors: Hecht Stephen S.
Published: May 2014

The Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act gives the U.S. Food and Drug Administration power to regulate tobacco products. This commentary calls for immediate regulation of the carcinogenic tobacco-specific nitrosamines 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK) and N′-nitrosonornicotine (NNN) in cigarette tobacco as a logical path to cancer prevention. NNK and NNN, powerful carcinogens in laboratory animals, have been evaluated as “carcinogenic to humans” by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. NNK and NNN are present in the tobacco of virtually all marketed cigarettes; levels in cigarette smoke are directly proportional to the amounts in tobacco. The NNK metabolite NNAL, itself a strong carcinogen, is present in the urine of smokers and nonsmokers exposed to secondhand smoke. Some of the highest levels of NNK and NNN are found in U.S. products. It is well established that factors such as choice of tobacco blend, agricultural conditions, and processing methods influence levels of NNK and NNN in cigarette tobacco and cigarette smoke. Therefore, it is time to control these factors and produce cigarettes with 100 ppb or less each of NNK and NNN in tobacco, which would result in an approximate 15- to 20-fold reduction of these carcinogens in the mainstream smoke of popular cigarettes sold in the United States. Cancer Prev Res; 7(7); 639–47. ©2014 AACR.
Diagnosis of Pathologically Early HCC with EOB-MRI: Experiences and Current Consensus
Authors: Ichikawa Tomoaki , Sano Katsuhiro , Morisaka Hiroyuki
Published: May 2014

Objective: After much debate, the International Consensus Group for Hepatocellular Neoplasia (ICGHN) has recently arrived at a conclusion regarding the pathological criteria for early hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). They have stated that stromal invasion should be recognized as the most important pathological finding for precisely diagnosing and differentiating early HCC from dysplastic nodules (DN). Methods: We conducted a review of the imaging findings from multi-imaging modalities of early HCC cases diagnosed according to the pathological criteria of the ICGHN. The multi-imaging modalities included gadoxetic acid (Gd-EOB-DTPA) enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), abbreviated as EOB-MRI, contrast-enhanced CT (CE-CT), CT during arterioportography (CTAP), and CT during hepatic arteriography (CTHA). It has been shown that EOB-MRI is the only imaging modality that has sufficient resolution for the detection and classification of early HCC. Results: The most significant imaging feature for diagnosing early HCC was hypointensity on hepatobiliary-phase (HP) images of EOB-MRI; all of the cases of early HCC that were detected on HP images of EOB-MRI showed hypointensity, while all of the images of DN showed isointensity or hyperintensity compared with the liver parenchyma. The results of the diagnostic performance analysis showed that EOB-MRI had excellent sensitivity (97%) for detecting early HCC and outstanding specificity (100%) for distinguishing early HCC from DN. Conclusions: Considering the results from imaging-pathologic correlations and follow-up studies indicating that many early-stage hepatocellular nodules showing hypointensity on HP images of EOB-MRI tend to develop hypervascularization during a relatively short follow-up period, it is beginning to be accepted that such nodules may be treated as early HCC. However, hepatologists and radiologists should also recognize that some cases of early HCC may show isointensity or hyperintensity on HP images of EOB-MRI, making it impossible to differentiate early HCC from DN, although the low prevalence of such nodules may be unlikely to affect the generally accepted follow-up protocols for cirrhotic patients. Our results and other recent reports have indicated that signal-intensity patterns on HP images of EOB-MRI for DN and early HCC directly correlate with the degree of expression of the organic anion transporting polypeptide (OATP) 1B3 in the nodules. Thus, the diagnostic performance of pathological analyses for early HCC cases may be dramatically improved, nearly up to that of EOB-MRI, by incorporating an OATP1B3 staining method.
Physiological Mechanisms behind Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery
Authors: Lutz Thomas A. , Bueter Marco
Published: May 2014

Obesity and its related comorbidities can be detrimental for the affected individual and challenge public health systems worldwide. Currently, the only available treatment options leading to clinically significant and maintained body weight loss and reduction in obesity-related morbidity and mortality are based on surgical interventions. Apart from the ‘gold standard' Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), the vertical sleeve gastrectomy and gastric banding are two frequently performed procedures. This review will discuss animal experiments designed to understand the underlying mechanisms of body weight loss after bariatric surgery. While caloric malabsorption and mechanical restriction are no major factors in this respect, alterations in gut hormone levels are invariably found after RYGB. However, their causal role in RYGB effects on eating and body weight has recently been challenged. Other potential factors contributing to the RYGB effects include increased bile acid concentrations and an altered composition of gut microbiota. RYGB is further associated with remarkable changes in the preference for different dietary components such as a decrease in the preference for high fat or sugar; it is important to note that the contribution of altered food preferences to the RYGB effects on body weight is not clear.
Neurotrophic Keratitis
Authors: Semeraro F. , Forbice E. , Romano V. , Angi M. , Romano M.R. , Filippelli M.E. , Di Iorio R. , Costagliola C.
Published: May 2014

Neurotrophic keratitis (NK) is a rare degenerative corneal disease that occurs as a result of partial or total impairment of trigeminal innervations, leading to a reduction (hypoesthesia) in or loss (anaesthesia) of corneal sensitivity. The impairment of sensory innervation causes a reduction in the lacrimation reflex and the vitality, metabolism and mitosis of epithelial cells, with subsequent deficiency in epithelial repair, stromal and intracellular oedema, loss of microvilli, and abnormal development of the basal lamina. Several recent studies have proposed different therapies based on different aetiopathogenetic theories. The aim of the therapy is to treat aetiopathogenesis and, at the same time, promote corneal healing. In this paper, we report the aetiology, diagnosis, management, and medical and surgical treatment of NK, also indicating future treatments based on the most recent studies.
Postnatal Maturation of Skin Barrier Function in Premature Infants
Authors: Kanti V. , Bonzel A. , Stroux A. , Proquitté H. , Bührer C. , Blume-Peytavi U. , Garcia Bartels N.
Published: May 2014

Background: In preterm infants, skin barrier maturation entails regional variability. Objectives: To characterize postnatal skin barrier development in covered, uncovered and diapered regions in healthy premature infants over a longitudinal observation period. Methods: Transepidermal water loss (TEWL), stratum corneum hydration (SCH), pH and sebum were measured at postnatal ages of 1-7 days and 2-7 weeks on the forehead, abdomen, thigh and buttock of preterm infants (gestational age 30-37 weeks; n = 48) under monitored ambient conditions. A standard minimal skin care regimen was practised. Results: TEWL increased significantly on the buttock (p = 0.007), while remaining stable on the forehead, abdomen and thigh. SCH and sebum remained stable in all studied body regions with increasing age. On the buttock, pH increased (p = 0.049), while other body regions exhibited a significant decrease (p ≤ 0.019). TEWL (p < 0.001) and SCH (p ≤ 0.002) revealed significantly higher values on the buttock, compared to other body regions. Conclusions: Stable TEWL, SCH and sebum values may indicate a lack of skin barrier maturation. Postnatal decrease in skin pH suggests an adaptation process with acid mantle formation. Differences in skin barrier development were observed between anatomical regions. SCH, TEWL and pH values demonstrated a distinct course in the diaper area, indicating an impaired skin barrier function in this region.
Geographical Analysis of the Sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease Distribution in the Autonomous Community of the Basque Country for the Period 1995-2008
Authors: Chamosa Saioa , Tamayo Ibon , Arteagoitia-Axpe José M. , Juste Ramón A. , Rodríguez-Martínez Ana Belén , Zarranz-Imirizaldu Juan J. , Arriola Larraitz
Published: May 2014

Background: The Basque Country, in Spain, shows one of the highest sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (sCJD) incidence rates in Europe. The purpose is to analyse a possible focus of unidentified external or environmental factors which could trigger the high incidence rates of sCJD in the Basque Country. Methods: We estimated the relative risk and the posterior relative risk distribution of sCJD cases for each town of the Basque Country and for the period 1995-2008. Results: 58 sCJD cases (44 definite and 14 probable) were selected for the geographic cluster analysis. In a first approach, referring to the relative risk, several municipalities in the Autonomous Community of the Basque Country showed more sCJD cases than expected. However, the posterior relative risk distribution showed no excess risk areas. Conclusions: Results from this survey indicate that a possible common source of development of the disease does not seem to be the reason of the high sCJD incidence.
Successful Endoscopic Management of Gastrointestinal Leakages after Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery
Authors: Schiesser Marc , Kressig Patricia , Bueter Marco , Nocito Antonio , Bauerfeind Peter , Gubler Christoph
Published: May 2014

Background: Management of leakages of the gastrojejunal anastomosis after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) can be complex. New endoscopic techniques such as covered stents and over-the-scope clips (OTCs) have been developed and are valuable alternative therapeutic options to reoperation and drainage. The aim of this study was to compare the value of stents and OTCs with surgical treatment options for the therapy of anastomotic leakages after LRYGB. Methods: Results of patients who were treated surgically with reoperation, local irrigation and drain placement (n = 9) were compared with results of patients who were treated endoscopically with stent and/or OTC placement (n = 5). Success rate, length of hospital stay, mortality, number of OTC applications/stent placement and percutaneous drainage placements were analyzed. Results: Overall, 14 of 1,046 patients (1.34%) developed a leakage of their gastrojejunal anastomosis after LRYGB between 2000 and 2012. While the success rate in surgically treated patients was 88%, the endoscopic treatment using a sequential approach with stenting, OTC application and percutaneous placement of drainages resulted in a 100% closure rate. The mortality rate and length of stay were not substantially different after both treatment regimens. Conclusion: Endoscopic management of anastomotic leakages after LRYGB may constitute a valuable alternative therapeutic option to surgical reoperation and drainage placement.