bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phenotypic and Molecular Characterization of Plasmid Mediated AmpCβ-Lactamases amongEscherichia coli,Klebsiellaspp., andProteus mirabilisIsolated from Urinary Tract Infections in Egyptian Hospitals
Authors: Helmy Mai M. , Wasfi Reham
Published: June 2014

The incidence of resistance by Enterobacteriaceae toβ-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitors combination is increasing in Egypt. Three phenotypic techniques, comprising AmpC disk diffusion and inhibition dependent methods using phenylboronic acid (PBA) and cloxacillin, were compared to PCR based method for detection of plasmid mediated AmpCβ-lactamase in common urinary tract isolates. A total of 143 isolates, includingE. coli,Klebsiella pneumonia, andProteus mirabilis, were collected from urinary tract infections cases in Egyptian hospitals. Plasmid encoded AmpC genes were detected by PCR in 88.46% of cefoxitin resistant isolates. The most prevalent AmpC gene family was CIT including CMY-2, CMY-4, and two CMY-2 variants. The second prevalent gene was DHA-1 which was detected inE. coliandKlebsiella pneumonia. The genes EBC, FOX, and MOX were also detected but in small percentage. Some isolates were identified as having more than onepAmpCgene. The overall sensitivity and specificity of phenotypic tests for detection of AmpCβ-lactamase showed that AmpC disk diffusion and inhibition dependent method by cloxacillin were the most sensitive and the most specific disk tests. PCR remains the gold standard for detection of AmpCβ-lactamases. This study represents the first report of CMY-2 variants of CMY-42 and CMY-102β-lactamase-producingE. coli,Klebsiella pneumonia, andProteus mirabilisisolates in Egypt.
Fabrication and Characterization of Regenerated Cellulose Films Using Different Ionic Liquids
Authors: Pang Jin-Hui , Liu Xin , Wu Miao , Wu Yu-Ying , Zhang Xue-Ming , Sun Run-Cang
Published: June 2014

The demand for substitution of fossil-based materials by renewable bio-based materials is increasing with the fossil resources reduction and its negative impacts on the environment. In this study, environmentally friendly regenerated cellulose films were successfully prepared using 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride (AmimCl), 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride (BmimCl), 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride (EmimCl), and 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate (EmimAc) as solvents, respectively. The results of morphology from scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) showed that all the cellulose films possessed smooth, highly uniform, and dense surface. The solid-state cross-polarization/magic angle spinning (CP/MAS)13C NMR spectra and X-ray diffraction (XRD) corroborated that the transition from cellulose I to II had occurred after preparation. Moreover, it was shown that the ionic liquid EmimAc possessed much stronger dissolubility for cellulose as compared with other ionic liquids and the cellulose film regenerated from EmimCl exhibited the most excellent tensile strength (119 Mpa). The notable properties of regenerated cellulose films are promising for applications in transparent biodegradable packaging and agricultural purpose as a substitute for PP and PE.
Analysis of the Response Speed of Musculature of the Knee in Professional Male and Female Volleyball Players
Authors: Rodríguez-Ruiz D. , Diez-Vega I. , Rodríguez-Matoso D. , Fernandez-del-Valle M. , Sagastume R. , Molina J. J.
Published: June 2014

The aim of this study was to evaluate the normalized response speed (Vrn) of the knee musculature (flexor and extensor) in high competitive level volleyball players using tensiomyography (TMG) and to analyze the muscular response of the vastus medialis (VM), rectus femoris (RF), vastus lateralis (VL), and biceps femoris (BF) in accordance with the specific position they play in their teams. One hundred and sixty-six players (83 women and 83 men) were evaluated. They belonged to eight teams in the Spanish women’s superleague and eight in the Spanish men’s superleague. The use of Vrn allows avoiding possible sample imbalances due to anatomical and functional differences and demands. We found differences between Vrn in each of the muscles responsible for extension (VM, RF, and VL) and flexion (BF) regardless of the sex. Normalized response speed differences seem to be larger in setters, liberos and outside players compared to middle blockers and larger in males when compared to females. These results of Vrn might respond to the differences in the physical and technical demands of each specific position, showing an improved balance response of the knee extensor and flexor musculature in male professional volleyball players.
A One-Class Classification-Based Control Chart Using the K-Means Data Description Algorithm
Authors: Gani Walid , Limam Mohamed
Published: June 2014

This paper aims to enlarge the family of one-class classification-based control charts,
referred to as OC-charts, and extend their applications. We propose a new OC-chart using the K-means data description (KMDD) algorithm, referred to as KM-chart. The proposed KM-chart gives the minimum closed spherical boundary around the in-control process data. It measures the distance between the center of KMDD-based sphere and the new incoming sample to be monitored. Any sample having a distance greater than the radius of KMDD-based sphere is considered as an out-of-control sample. Phase I and II analysis of KM-chart was evaluated through a real industrial application. In a comparative study based on the average run length (ARL) criterion, KM-chart was compared with the kernel-distance based control chart, referred to as K-chart, and the k-nearest neighbor data description-based control chart, referred to as KNN-chart. Results revealed that, in terms of ARL, KM-chart performed better than KNN-chart in detecting small shifts in mean vector. Furthermore, the paper provides the MATLAB code for KM-chart, developed by the authors.
Developing eThread Pipeline Using SAGA-Pilot Abstraction for Large-Scale Structural Bioinformatics
Authors: Ragothaman Anjani , Boddu Sairam Chowdary , Kim Nayong , Feinstein Wei , Brylinski Michal , Jha Shantenu , Kim Joohyun
Published: June 2014

While most of computational annotation approaches are sequence-based, threading methods are becoming increasingly attractive because of predicted structural information that could uncover the underlying function. However, threading tools are generally compute-intensive and the number of protein sequences from even small genomes such as prokaryotes is large typically containing many thousands, prohibiting their application as a genome-wide structural systems biology tool. To leverage its utility, we have developed a pipeline for eThread—a meta-threading protein structure modeling tool, that can use computational resources efficiently and effectively. We employ a pilot-based approach that supports seamless data and task-level parallelism and manages large variation in workload and computational requirements. Our scalable pipeline is deployed on Amazon EC2 and can efficiently select resources based upon task requirements. We present runtime analysis to characterize computational complexity of eThread and EC2 infrastructure. Based on results, we suggest a pathway to an optimized solution with respect to metrics such as time-to-solution or cost-to-solution. Our eThread pipeline can scale to support a large number of sequences and is expected to be a viable solution for genome-scale structural bioinformatics and structure-based annotation, particularly, amenable for small genomes such as prokaryotes. The developed pipeline is easily extensible to other types of distributed cyberinfrastructure.
Glial Cell Line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Family Members Reduce Microglial Activation via Inhibiting p38MAPKs-Mediated Inflammatory Responses
Authors: Rickert Uta , Grampp Steffen , Wilms Henrik , Spreu Jessica , Knerlich-Lukoschus Friederike , Held-Feindt Janka , Lucius Ralph
Published: June 2014

Previous studies have shown that glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) family ligands (GFL) are potent survival factors for dopaminergic neurons and motoneurons with therapeutic potential for Parkinson’s disease. However, little is known about direct influences of the GFL on microglia function, which are known to express part of the GDNF receptor system. Using RT-PCR and immunohistochemistrym we investigated the expression of the GDNF family receptor alpha 1 (GFR alpha) and the coreceptor transmembrane receptor tyrosine kinase (RET) in rat microglia in vitro as well as the effect of GFL on the expression of proinflammatory molecules in LPS activated microglia. We could show that GFL are able to regulate microglia functions and suggest that part of the well known neuroprotective action may be related to the suppression of microglial activation. We further elucidated the functional significance and pathophysiological implications of these findings and demonstrate that microglia are target cells of members of the GFL (GDNF and the structurally related neurotrophic factors neurturin (NRTN), artemin (ARTN), and persephin (PSPN)).
InvestigatinghspGene Expression in Liver ofChanna striatusunder Heat Stress for Understanding the Upper Thermal Acclimation
Authors: Purohit Gopal Krishna , Mahanty Arabinda , Suar Mrutyunjay , Sharma Anil Prakash , Mohanty Bimal Prasanna , Mohanty Sasmita
Published: June 2014

Changes inhspgene expression profiles in murrelChanna striatusexperimentally exposed to temperature stress (36°C) for 4, 15, and 30 days were investigated; fish collected from aquaculture ponds and maintained in laboratory at the pond temperature (25 ± 1°C) served as control.Channacollected from a hot spring runoff (36°C) was included in the study to examine thehspprofiles beyond 30 days of exposure. Gene expression analyses of a battery ofhspsin liver tissues were carried out by quantitative RT-PCR and protein expressions were analyzed by immunoblotting.hspscould be grouped into three clusters based on similarity in response to heat stress:hsp70, hsp78,andhsp60, whose transcript level continued to increase with duration of exposure;hsp90andhsp110that increased to a much higher level and then decreased;hsp27andhsp47that did not significantly vary as compared to control. The results suggest that Hsp70, Hsp78, and Hsp60 are involved in thermal acclimation and long term survival at high temperature. Fish living in the hot spring runoff appears to continuously expresshspsthat can be approximated by long term induction ofhspsin farmed fish if temperature of their environment is raised to 36°C.
Stereoscopic Media Art That Changes Based on Gender Classification Using a Depth Sensor
Authors: Kim YoungEun , Nam SangHun , Park JinWan
Published: June 2014

Physical and psychological characteristics of people vary depending on gender and are used in various fields including the arts such as media art. An interface that provides different interaction results based on the gender of the users enhances participant satisfaction. For gender classification in a dark environment such as an exhibition hall, a depth sensor that discerned between the human head and the body and a support vector machine (SVM) that classified internal factors were used. In terms of the stereoscopic media art, factors that influenced the audience were set to be color, depth, and velocity in a certain direction, and a survey was conducted to examine the preferences of men and women. After gender classification, the preference factors of men and women were applied to produce interactive media art that showed different results depending on the interaction. The possibility of the interface based on gender classification was identified through the survey on preferences between a conventional interactive system and an interactive system based on gender classification.
The Effects of Topical Antiglaucoma Drugs as Monotherapy on the Ocular Surface: A Prospective Study
Authors: Aydin Kurna Sevda , Acikgoz Semih , Altun Ahmet , Ozbay Nurver , Sengor Tomris , Olcaysu Osman Okan
Published: June 2014

Purpose. The aim was to compare the effects of antiglaucoma eye drops on the tear functions and ocular surface.Method. Eighty-five eyes of 43 patients with glaucoma were included into this randomized prospective study. Timolol without preservative (1), timolol with benzododecinium bromide (2), latanoprost (3), bimatoprost (4), travoprost with benzalkonium chloride (5), and brimonidine with purite (6) were given to 6 groups. Schirmer I, tear film breakup time (TBUT), staining scores, and impression cytology samples were evaluated before and during 12-month-follow-up period.Results. At the end of 12 months, there was no detected change in Schirmer I and TBUT tests indicating dry eye. Corneal staining scores were higher in groups 1 and 2, while conjunctival staining scores were higher in group 6. Goblet cell count decreased in groups 1 and 5 in superior and inferior, group 2 in superior, and groups 3 and 6 in inferior conjunctiva. Squamous metaplasia grades showed a significant increase in groups 1 and 2 at 3rd, 6th, and 12th month controls (P<0.05).Conclusion. We observed nonserious impact on tear functions and ocular surface with antiglaucoma monotherapy. Beta blockers induced more damage on the ocular surface suggesting the role of the dosing and active substances beside preservatives.
Microfluidic Method of Pig Oocyte Quality Assessment in relation to Different Follicular Size Based on Lab-on-Chip Technology
Authors: Kempisty Bartosz , Walczak Rafał , Antosik Paweł , Sniadek Patrycja , Rybska Marta , Piotrowska Hanna , Bukowska Dorota , Dziuban Jan , Nowicki Michał , Jaśkowski Jędrzej M. , Zabel Maciej , Brüssow Klaus-Peter
Published: June 2014

Since microfollicular environment and the size of the follicle are important markers influencing oocyte quality, the aim of this study is to present the spectral characterization of oocytes isolated from follicles of various sizes using lab-on-chip (LOC) technology and to demonstrate how follicle size may affect oocyte quality. Porcine oocytes (each,n=100) recovered from follicles of different sizes, for example, from large (>5 mm), medium (3–5 mm), and small (<3 mm), were analyzed after precedingin vitromaturation (IVM). The LOC analysis was performed using a silicon-glass sandwich with two glass optical fibers positioned “face-to-face.” Oocytes collected from follicles of different size classes revealed specific and distinguishable spectral characteristics. The absorbance spectra (microspectrometric specificity) for oocytes isolated from large, medium, and small follicles differ significantly (P<0.05) and the absorbance wavelengths were between 626 and 628 nm, between 618 and 620 nm, and less than 618 nm, respectively. The present study offers a parametric and objective method of porcine oocyte assessment. However, up to now this study has been used to evidence spectral markers associated with follicular size in pigs, only. Further investigations with functional-biological assays and comparing LOC analyses with fertilization and pregnancy success and the outcome of healthy offspring must be performed.
Toxicity Profile of a Nutraceutical Formulation Derived from Green MusselPerna viridis
Authors: Chakraborty Kajal , Joseph Deepu , Chakkalakal Selsa J.
Published: June 2014

The short-term (acute) and long-term (subchronic) toxicity profile, mean lethal dose 50 (LD50), and no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) of a nutraceutical formulation developed from green musselPerna viridis, which showedin vitroandin vivoanti-inflammatory properties, were evaluated in the present study. The formulation was administered to the male and female Wistar rats at graded doses (0.5, 1.0, and 2.5 g/kg body weight) for two weeks of acute toxicity study and 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 g/kg body weight for 90 days in subchronic toxicity study. The LD50, variations in clinical signs, changes in body weight, body weight, food/water consumption, organ weight (liver, kidney, spleen, and brain), hematology, serum chemistry, and histopathological changes were evaluated. The LD50of the formulation was 5,000 mg/kg BW. No test article related mortalities as well as change in body weight, and food and water consumption were observed. No toxicity related significant changes were noted in renal/hepatic function, hematological indices, and serum biochemical parameters between the control and treated groups. Histopathological alterations were not observed in the vital organs of rats. The subchronic NOAEL for the formulation in rats is greater than 2000 mg/kg. This study demonstrated that the green mussel formulation is safe to consume without any adverse effects in the body.
New Oscillatory Behavior of Second-Order Nonlinear Dynamic Equations with Damping on Time Scales
Authors: Liu Shouhua , Zhang Quanxin
Published: June 2014

We establish four new oscillation criteria of Grace-type for the second-order nonlinear dynamic equations with damping. These criteria extend known criteria for corresponding dynamic equations. Our results are new even in the continuous and the discrete cases.
Marked Multiple Tendinitis at the Onset of Rheumatoid Arthritis in a Patient with Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia: Ultrasonographic Observation
Authors: Suzuki Takeshi , Okamoto Akiko
Published: June 2014

A 59-year-old woman who had been diagnosed with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia developed rheumatoid arthritis (RA). She presented with marked tendinitis of the Achilles tendons, patellar tendons, and finger extensor tendons at the onset of RA. Ultrasonographic examination revealed that tendon lesions were predominantly tendinitis rather than paratenonitis, and that the tendinitis was of the noninsertional variety, rather than the insertional variety. Preexisting tendon xanthomas might have contributed to the unusually dominant noninsertional tendinitis of multiple tendons.
Strontium Promotes Cementoblasts Differentiation through Inhibiting Sclerostin ExpressionIn Vitro
Authors: Bao Xingfu , Liu Xianjun , Zhang Yi , Cui Yue , Yao Jindan , Hu Min
Published: June 2014

Cementogenesis, performed by cementoblasts, is important for the repair of root resorption caused by orthodontic treatment. Based on recent studies, strontium has been applied for osteoporosis treatment due to its positive effect on osteoblasts. Although promising, the effect of strontium on cementoblasts is still unclear. So the aim of this research was to clarify and investigate the effect of strontium on cementogenesis via employing cementoblasts as model. A series of experiments including MTT, alkaline phosphatase activity, gene analysis, alizarin red staining, and western blot were carried out to evaluate the proliferation and differentiation of cementoblasts. In addition, expression of sclerostin was checked to analyze the possible mechanism. Our results show that strontium inhibits the proliferation of cementoblasts with a dose dependent manner; however, it can promote the differentiation of cementoblasts via downregulating sclerostin expression. Taking together, strontium may facilitate cementogenesis and benefit the treatment of root resorption at a low dose.
Delayed Upper-Airway Injury after Accidental Alkaline Ingestion
Authors: Ryan Matthew F. , Fernandez Mindy , Laauwe Karen
Published: June 2014

A 62-year-old man presented to the emergency department one week after accidentally drinking an alkaline cleaning agent stored in unlabeled bottle. The day of the incident the patient presented to an outside hospital where he was admitted for an upper endoscopy of the esophagus which was found to be negative for acute injury. An initial chest X-ray taken the day of the incident was also found to be normal. After discharge the patient continued to have a sore throat and marked dysphagia which caused him to vomit repeatedly. Moreover, the patient began to develop chest pain with associated shortness of breath. We present a case of delayed airway injury and tracheal thickening and associated chest pain after alkaline ingestion and we discuss herein the pathophysiology and management of alkaline ingestions.
The Role of 3 Tesla Diffusion-Weighted Imaging in the Differential Diagnosis of Benign versus Malignant Cervical Lymph Nodes in Patients with Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Barchetti Flavio , Pranno Nicola , Giraldi Guglielmo , Sartori Alessandro , Gigli Silvia , Barchetti Giovanni , Lo Mele Luigi , Marsella Luigi Tonino
Published: June 2014

Objective. The aim of this study was to validate the role of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) at 3 Tesla in the differential diagnosis between benign and malignant laterocervical lymph nodes in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).Materials and Methods. Before undergoing surgery, 80 patients, with biopsy proven HNSCC, underwent a magnetic resonance exam. Sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Spe) of conventional criteria and DWI in detecting laterocervical lymph node metastases were calculated. Histological results from neck dissection were used as standard of reference.Results. In the 239 histologically proven metastatic lymphadenopathies, the mean apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) value was 0.903 × 10−3 mm2/sec. In the 412 pathologically confirmed benign lymph nodes, an average ADC value of 1.650 × 10−3 mm2/sec was found. For differentiating between benign versus metastatic lymph nodes, DWI showed Se of 97% and Spe of 93%, whereas morphological criteria displayed Se of 61% and Spe of 98%. DWI showed an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.964, while morphological criteria displayed an AUC of 0.715.Conclusions. In a DWI negative neck for malignant lymph nodes, the planned dissection could be converted to a wait-and-scan policy, whereas DWI positive neck would support the decision to perform a neck dissection.
Early Invasive Cancer and Partial Intraoperative Electron Radiation Therapy of the Breast: Experience of the Jules Bordet Institute
Authors: Philippson C. , Simon S. , Vandekerkhove C. , Hertens D. , Veys I. , Noterman D. , De Neubourg F. , Larsimont D. , Bourgeois P. , Van Houtte P. , Nogaret J. M.
Published: June 2014

Objectives. The aim of this prospective phase II study is to evaluate the treatment of early-stage breast cancer (T1 N0) with intraoperative electron radiation therapy (IOERT) in terms of local control, early complications, and cosmesis.Patients and Methods. From February 2010 to February 2012, 200 patients underwent partial IOERT of the breast. Inclusion criteria were unifocal invasive ductal carcinoma, age ≥40 years, histological tumour size ≤20 mm, and no lymph node involvement. A 21 Gy dose was prescribed over the 90% isodose line in the tumour bed. Median follow-up is 23.3 months (7–37).Results. Acute toxicity was not frequent (Grade 1: 4.5%, Grade 2: 1%). The cosmetic result was considered to be very good or good in 92.5%. One ipsi lateral out-quadrant recurrence at 18 months was observed. The crude and actuarial local recurrence rates after median follow-up were 0.5% and 0.9%, respectively.Conclusion. The preoperative diagnostic work-up must be comprehensive and the selection process must be rigorous for this therapeutic approach reserved for small ductal unifocal cancers. After a 23.3-month median follow-up time, the clinical results of IOERT for selected patients are encouraging for the locoregional recurrence and the toxicity rates. The satisfaction of our patients in terms of quality of life was extremely high.
Inference of SNP-Gene Regulatory Networks by Integrating Gene Expressions and Genetic Perturbations
Authors: Kim Dong-Chul , Wang Jiao , Liu Chunyu , Gao Jean
Published: June 2014

In order to elucidate the overall relationships between gene expressions and genetic perturbations, we propose a network inference method to infer gene regulatory network where single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) is involved as a regulator of genes. In the most of the network inferences named as SNP-gene regulatory network (SGRN) inference, pairs of SNP-gene are given by separately performing expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) mappings. In this paper, we propose a SGRN inference method without predefined eQTL information assuming a gene is regulated by a single SNP at most. To evaluate the performance, the proposed method was applied to random data generated from synthetic networks and parameters. There are three main contributions. First, the proposed method provides both the gene regulatory inference and the eQTL identification. Second, the experimental results demonstrated that integration of multiple methods can produce competitive performances. Lastly, the proposed method was also applied to psychiatric disorder data in order to explore how the method works with real data.
Free Medial Meniscal Fragment Which Mimics the Dislocated Bucket-Handle Tear on MRI
Authors: Türkmen Faik , Korucu İsmail Hakkı , Sever Cem , Demirayak Mehmet , Goncü Gani , Toker Serdar
Published: June 2014

The bucket-handle meniscal tear is a specific type of meniscal injuries which has specific signs on MRI. An attached fragment displaced away from the meniscus with any type of tear causes bucket-handle tear of the meniscus. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most commonly used diagnostic tool for meniscal injuries. We present a case of free medial meniscal fragment which mimics the dislocated bucket-handle tear on MRI. The presence of “fragment within the intercondylar notch sign” and “the absence of the bow tie sign” may be an indication of a free meniscal fragment. This should be considered during diagnosis.
Pamidronate Disodium for Palliative Therapy of Feline Bone-Invasive Tumors
Authors: Wypij Jackie M. , Heller David A.
Published: June 2014

This study sought to quantifyin vitroantiproliferative effects of pamidronate in feline cancer cells and assess feasibility of use of pamidronate in cats by assessing short-term toxicity and dosing schedule in cats with bone-invasive cancer. A retrospective pilot study included eight cats with bone invasive cancer treated with intravenous pamidronate.In vitro, pamidronate reduced proliferation in feline cancer cells (P<0.05). One cat treated with pamidronate in combination with chemotherapy and two cats treated with pamidronate as a single agent after failing prior therapy had subjective clinically stable disease; median progression free interval in these cats from initial pamidronate treatment was 81 days. Three cats developed azotemia while undergoing various treatment modalities including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and pamidronate. Median overall survival was 116.5 days for all cats and 170 days for cats with oral squamous cell carcinoma. Median progression free survival was 55 days for all cats and 71 days for cats with oral squamous cell carcinoma. Pamidronate therapy appears feasible for administration in cancer bearing cats with aggressive bone lesions in the dose range of 1-2 mg/kg every 21–28 days for multiple treatments. No acute or short-term toxicity was directly attributable to pamidronate.
Necrotizing Myositis in a Neutropenic Patient: The Use of Ultrasound in the Diagnosis of Atypical Presentations
Authors: Torrejón Maria Del Carmen , Celi Edgardo , Cancho David , Knox Ailie , Henriquez-Camacho Cesar
Published: June 2014

We report a case of fatal necrotizing soft tissue infection (NSTI) due toClostridium perfringens(CP) in a neutropenic patient with diabetes mellitus. As in many cases, by the time a diagnosis was made, the condition had rapidly progressed to its late stages, resulting in a fatal outcome. The emergency physician should be aware of NSTI as a complication when patients present with pain out of proportion to physical findings and/or signs of soft tissue compromise. Negative prognostic factors for survival are diabetes mellitus, immunosuppression, age, and toxic shock syndrome. A bedside ultrasound scan allows for rapid evaluation in time-sensitive critically ill patients and can promote prompt treatment without the need to delay for further imaging studies.
Risk Factors for Central and Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion: A Meta-Analysis of Published Clinical Data
Authors: Kolar Petr
Published: June 2014

Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is a major cause of vision loss. Of the two main types of RVO, branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) is 4 to 6 times more prevalent than central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO). A basic risk factor for RVO is advancing age. Further risk factors include systemic conditions like hypertension, arteriosclerosis, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, vascular cerebral stroke, blood hyperviscosity, and thrombophilia. A strong risk factor for RVO is the metabolic syndrome (hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hyperlipidemia). Individuals with end-organ damage caused by diabetes mellitus and hypertension have greatly increased risk for RVO. Socioeconomic status seems to be a risk factor too. American blacks are more often diagnosed with RVO than non-Hispanic whites. Females are, according to some studies, at lower risk than men. The role of thrombophilic risk factors in RVO is still controversial. Congenital thrombophilic diseases like factor V Leiden mutation, hyperhomocysteinemia and anticardiolipin antibodies increase the risk of RVO. Cigarette smoking also increases the risk of RVO as do systemic inflammatory conditions like vasculitis and Behcet disease. Ophthalmic risk factors for RVO are ocular hypertension and glaucoma, higher ocular perfusion pressure, and changes in the retinal arteries.
Statistical Optimization of Fibrinolytic Enzyme Production Using Agroresidues byBacillus cereusIND1 and Its Thrombolytic ActivityIn Vitro
Authors: Vijayaraghavan Ponnuswamy , Prakash Vincent Samuel Gnana
Published: June 2014

A potent fibrinolytic enzyme-producingBacillus cereusIND1 was isolated from the Indian food, rice. Solid-state fermentation was carried out using agroresidues for the production of fibrinolytic enzyme. Among the substrates, wheat bran supported more enzyme production and has been used for the optimized enzyme production by statistical approach. Two-level full-factorial design demonstrated that moisture, supplementation of beef extract, and sodium dihydrogen phosphate have significantly influenced enzyme production (P<0.05). A central composite design resulted in the production of 3699 U/mL of enzyme in the presence of 0.3% (w/w) beef extract and 0.05% (w/w) sodium dihydrogen phosphate, at 100% (v/w) moisture after 72 h of fermentation. The enzyme production increased fourfold compared to the original medium. This enzyme was purified to homogeneity by ammonium sulfate precipitation, diethylaminoethyl-cellulose ion-exchange chromatography, Sephadex G-75 gel filtration chromatography, and casein-agarose affinity chromatography and had an apparent molecular mass of 29.5 kDa. The optimum pH and temperature for the activity of fibrinolytic enzyme were found to be 8.0 and 60°C, respectively. This enzyme was highly stable at wide pH range (7.0–9.0) and showed 27% ± 6% enzyme activity after initial denaturation at 60°C for 1 h.In vitroassays revealed that the enzyme could activate plasminogen and significantly degraded the fibrin net of blood clot, which suggests its potential as an effective thrombolytic agent.
Solution of Radiative Transfer Equation with a Continuous and Stochastic Varying Refractive Index by Legendre Transform Method
Authors: Gantri M.
Published: June 2014

The present paper gives a new computational framework within which radiative transfer in a varying refractive index biological tissue can be studied. In our previous works, Legendre transform was used as an innovative view to handle the angular derivative terms in the case of uniform refractive index spherical medium. In biomedical optics, our analysis can be considered as a forward problem solution in a diffuse optical tomography imaging scheme. We consider a rectangular biological tissue-like domain with spatially varying refractive index submitted to a near infrared continuous light source. Interaction of radiation with the biological material into the medium is handled by a radiative transfer model. In the studied situation, the model displays two angular redistribution terms that are treated with Legendre integral transform. The model is used to study a possible detection of abnormalities in a general biological tissue. The effect of the embedded nonhomogeneous objects on the transmitted signal is studied. Particularly, detection of targets of localized heterogeneous inclusions within the tissue is discussed. Results show that models accounting for variation of refractive index can yield useful predictions about the target and the location of abnormal inclusions within the tissue.
A Critical Role for ZDHHC2 in Metastasis and Recurrence in Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Peng Chuanhui , Zhang Zhijun , Wu Jian , Lv Zhen , Tang Jie , Xie Haiyang , Zhou Lin , Zheng Shusen
Published: June 2014

It has been demonstrated that loss of heterozygosity (LOH) was frequently observed on chromosomes 8p22-p23 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and was associated with metastasis and prognosis of HCC. However, putative genes functioning on this chromosomal region remain unknown. In this study, we evaluated LOH status of four genes on 8p22-p23 (MCPH1, TUSC3, KIAA1456, and ZDHHC2). LOH on ZDHHC2 was associated with early metastatic recurrence of HCC following liver transplantation and was correlated with tumor size and portal vein tumor thrombi. Furthermore, our results indicate that ZDHHC2 expression was frequently decreased in HCC. Overexpression of ZDHHC2 could inhibit proliferation, migration, and invasion of HCC cell line Bel-7402in vitro. These results suggest an important role for ZDHHC2 as a tumor suppressor in metastasis and recurrence of HCC.
Hopf Bifurcations of a Stochastic Fractional-Order Van der Pol System
Authors: Liu Xiaojun , Hong Ling , Yang Lixin
Published: June 2014

The Hopf bifurcation of a fractional-order Van der Pol (VDP for short) system with a random parameter is investigated. Firstly, the Chebyshev polynomial approximation is applied to study the stochastic fractional-order system. Based on the method, the stochastic system is reduced to the equivalent deterministic one, and then the responses of the stochastic system can be obtained by numerical methods. Then, according to the existence conditions of Hopf bifurcation, the critical parameter value of the bifurcation is obtained by theoretical analysis. Then, numerical simulations are carried out to verify the theoretical results.
Parasitic Pneumonia and Lung Involvement
Authors: Cheepsattayakorn Attapon , Cheepsattayakorn Ruangrong
Published: June 2014

Parasitic infestations demonstrated a decline in the past decade as a result of better hygiene practices and improved socioeconomic conditions. Nevertheless, global immigration, increased numbers of the immunocompromised people, international traveling, global warming, and rapid urbanization of the cities have increased the susceptibility of the world population to parasitic diseases. A number of new human parasites, such asPlasmodium knowlesi, in addition to many potential parasites, have urged the interest of scientific community. A broad spectrum of protozoal parasites frequently affects the respiratory system, particularly the lungs. The diagnosis of parasitic diseases of airway is challenging due to their wide varieties of clinical and roentgenographic presentations. So detailed interrogations of travel history to endemic areas are critical for clinicians or pulmonologists to manage this entity. The migrating adult worms can cause mechanical airway obstruction, while the larvae can cause airway inflammation. This paper provides a comprehensive review of both protozoal and helminthic infestations that affect the airway system, particularly the lungs, including clinical and roentgenographic presentations, diagnostic tests, and therapeutic approaches.
Histoplasmosis Presenting as Granulomatous Hepatitis: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Rihana Nancy A. , Kandula Manasa , Velez Ana , Dahal Kumud , O’Neill Edward B.
Published: June 2014

Background.Histoplasma capsulatumis the most common endemic mycosis in the United States and is a frequent cause of opportunistic infection in immunodeficient hosts. Histoplasmosis is most often self-limiting and goes unrecognized in the immunocompetent population but can progress to disseminated histoplasmosis in patients with an impaired immune system. Liver involvement as a part of disseminated histoplasmosis which usually originates in the lung is well known. However, extrapulmonary hepatic histoplasmosis as a primary manifestation is extremely rare.Case Presentation. We report a rare case of histoplasmosis that presented as persistent fever and abnormal liver function tests in a 66-year-old female with rheumatoid arthritis, receiving infliximab.Conclusion. Emphasizing histoplasmosis as a major cause of acute granulomatous hepatitis and fever of unknown origin in cell mediated immunodeficient population, this case highlights the need for high index of suspicion and the importance of prompt diagnosis since any delay of treatment can be life threatening in this population.
Analysis of Age as a Possible Prognostic Factor for Transcanalicular Multidiode Laser Dacryocystorhinostomy
Authors: Ayintap Emre , Buttanri Ibrahim Bulent , Sadıgov Fariz , Serin Didem , Ozsutcu Mustafa , Umurhan Akkan Julide Canan , Tuncer Kemal
Published: June 2014

Purpose. To assess the prognostic value of age on the outcome of transcanalicular multidiode laser dacryocystorhinostomy (TCL-DCR) in patients with acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO).Methods. The medical records of TCL-DCR performed between March 2009 and September 2013 were reviewed retrospectively. Inclusion criteria include over 20 years of age, similar mean follow-up period, and similar mean duration of stenting. The main outcome is surgical success. The effect of age on success rate is also evaluated.Results. The anatomical success was 52% in Group 1 (20–30 years), 56% in Group 2 (31–40 years), 64% in Group 3 (41–50 years), 76% in Group 4 (51–60 years), and 88% in Group 5 (over 60 years). The statistical difference among Group 1 and Group 5, in terms of surgical success rate, was found to be significant (P=0.009). Additionally, the 20–30-year-old patients had a failure rate 6.76 times higher than that of the over-60-year-old patients (P=0.009; 95% CI, 1.605–28.542).Conclusion. TCL-DCR is a surgical treatment option for NLDO for which a skin incision can be avoided. The success rate of TCL-DCR for younger population is lower when compared with elderly population.
The Role of Genetic Factors and Kidney and Liver Function in Glycemic Control in Type 2 Diabetes Patients on Long-Term Metformin and Sulphonylurea Cotreatment
Authors: Klen Jasna , Goričar Katja , Janež Andrej , Dolžan Vita
Published: June 2014

This study investigated the influence of genetic polymorphisms of metformin transporters on long-term glycemic control and lipid status in type 2 diabetes patients in the everyday clinical setting. In total 135 patients treated with combination of metformin and sulphonylurea for at least 6 months were genotyped forSLC22A1rs628031 andSLC47A1rs2289669 polymorphisms. Relatively good blood glucose control with median HbA1c 6.9 (6.4–7.6) % was achieved on prescribed metformin dosage of 2550 (2000–2550) mg per day. Only 28 (20.7%) patients experienced mild hypoglycemia events, while no severe hypoglycemia events were observed. Most patients had normal or mildly impaired renal function. Parameters indicating renal function were not correlated with fasting glucose, HbA1c, or lipid parameters. Rs628031 and rs2289669 had minor allele frequencies of 0.385 and 0.355, respectively, and were not associated with HbA1c levels. Rs628031 was marginally associated with risk for hypoglycemia events (P=0.046; OR = 0.51; 95% CI 0.26–0.99), while significant correlation was observed between rs2289669 and total cholesterol levels (P=0.018). In conclusion, in patients on long-term metformin and sulphonylurea combination treatment, metformin transporters polymorphisms do not play a major role in glycemic control; however, they may influence lipid status.
Pleurodesis Induction in Rats by Copaiba (Copaifera multijugaHayne) Oil
Authors: Westphal Fernando Luiz , Canzian Mauro , Pieri Fabio Alessandro , Reichl Alfredo Coimbra , Pêgo-Fernandes Paulo Manuel , Lima Luis Carlos , Veiga-Junior Valdir F.
Published: June 2014

This study aims to assess and compare copaiba oleoresin ofCopaifera multijugaand 0.5% silver nitrate for the induction of pleurodesis in an experimental model. Ninety-six male Wistar rats were divided into three groups: control (0.9% saline solution), copaiba (copaiba oil), and silver nitrate (0.5% silver nitrate). The substances were injected into the right pleural cavity and the alterations were observed macroscopically and microscopically at 24, 48, 72, and 504 h. The value of macroscopic alterations grade and acute inflammatory reaction grade means was higher in the 24 h copaiba group in relation to silver nitrate. Fibrosis and neovascularization means in the visceral pleura were higher in 504 h copaiba group in relation to the silver nitrate group. The grade of the alveolar edema mean was higher in the silver nitrate group in relation to the copaiba group, in which this alteration was not observed. The presence of bronchopneumonia was higher in the 24 h silver nitrate group (n = 4) in relation to the copaiba group (n = 0). In conclusion, both groups promoted pleurodesis, with better results in copaiba group and the silver nitrate group presented greater aggression to the pulmonary parenchyma.
Choquet Integral of Fuzzy-Number-Valued Functions: The Differentiability of the Primitive with respect to Fuzzy Measures and Choquet Integral Equations
Authors: Gong Zengtai , Chen Li , Duan Gang
Published: June 2014

This paper deals with the Choquet integral of fuzzy-number-valued functions based on the nonnegative real line. We firstly give the definitions and the characterizations of the Choquet integrals of interval-valued functions and fuzzy-number-valued functions based on the nonadditive measure. Furthermore, the operational schemes of above several classes of integrals on a discrete set are investigated which enable us to calculate Choquet integrals in some applications. Secondly, we give a representation of the Choquet integral of a nonnegative, continuous, and increasing fuzzy-number-valued function with respect to a fuzzy measure. In addition, in order to solve Choquet integral equations of fuzzy-number-valued functions, a concept of the Laplace transformation for the fuzzy-number-valued functions in the sense of Choquet integral is introduced. For distorted Lebesgue measures, it is shown that Choquet integral equations of fuzzy-number-valued functions can be solved by the Laplace transformation. Finally, an example is given to illustrate the main results at the end of the paper.
Prevalence of Anti-Neu5Gc Antibodies in Patients with Hypothyroidism
Authors: Eleftheriou Phaedra , Kynigopoulos Stavros , Giovou Alexandra , Mazmanidi Alexandra , Yovos John , Skepastianos Petros , Vagdatli Eleni , Petrou Christos , Papara Dafni , Efterpiou Maria
Published: June 2014

Background. N-Glycolylneuraminic acid (Neu5Gc) is a sialic acid synthesized by animals, but not by humans or birds. However, it can be incorporated in human cells and can trigger immune response. In the present study, we detected anti-Neu5Gc antibodies in samples of the general population and of patients suffering from hypothyroidism/Hashimoto’s disease, which is known to have autoimmune origin.Methods. Antibodies were measured using enzyme-immunosorbent techniques.Results. Serum anti-Neu5Gc IgG antibodies were higher in patients with hypothyroidism (mean: 14.8±15.9 μg/mL, median: 10.0 μg/mL,P=0.0003, Mann-Whitney) and even higher in the group with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (mean: 31.1±16.3 μg/mL, median: 27.2 μg/mL,P=0.0000, Mann-Whitney) compared to the general population (mean: 5.3±4.7 μg/mL, median : 4 μg/mL). All anti-TPO positive samples had anti-Neu5Gc antibody concentration higher than the mean value of the general population while anti-TPO concentration was increased as anti-Neu5Gc concentration increased. Low concentrations of IgA and IgM antibodies were measured in both general population and patient groups.Conclusion. The increased values of anti-Neu5Gc antibodies in patients with hypothyroidism/Hashimoto’s disease and the correlation of anti-TPO incidence with increased anti-Neu5Gc concentration raise the possibility of an association between anti-Neu5Gc antibody development and autoimmune hypothyroidism.
East German Military Aid to the Sandinista Government of Nicaragua, 1979–1990
Authors: Storkmann Klaus
Published: June 2014

The East German regime provided extensive military assistance to developing countries and armed guerrilla movements in Africa, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Latin America. In the 1980s, the pro-Soviet Marxist government in Nicaragua was one of the major recipients of East German military assistance. This article focuses on contacts at the level of the ministries of defense, on Nicaraguan requests to the East German military command, and on political and military decision-making processes in East Germany. The article examines the provision of weaponry and training as well as other forms of cooperation and support. Research for the article was conducted in the formerly closed archives of the East German Ministry for National Defense regarding military supplies to the Third World as well as the voluminous declassified files of the Socialist Unity Party of Germany (the ruling Communist party).
Entering the Era of +30-Year Satellite Cloud Climatologies: A North American Case Study
Authors: Foster Michael J. , Heidinger Andrew
Published: June 2014

The emergence of satellite-based cloud records of climate length and quality hold tremendous potential for climate model development, climate monitoring, and studies on global water cycling and its subsequent energetics. This article examines the more than 30-yr Pathfinder Atmospheres–Extended (PATMOS-x) Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) cloudiness record over North America and assesses its suitability as a climate-quality data record. A loss of ~4.2% total cloudiness is observed between 1982 and 2012 over a North American domain centered over the contiguous United States. While ENSO can explain some of the observed change, a weather state clustering analysis identifies shifts in weather patterns that result in loss of water cloud over the Great Lakes and cirrus over southern portions of the United States. The radiative properties of the shifting weather states are characterized, and the results suggest that extended cloud satellite records may prove useful tools for increasing knowledge of cloud feedbacks, a long-standing issue in the climate change community.